November 19, 2015 • Volume 7 • Issue 15
715 Kirby St. Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 Fax: 337-990-0262
On Cover: Joe Heinen, owner of Honey B Ham
COVER STORY 14 Honey B Ham: The Gift of Taste
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www.thejambalayanews.com Publisher/Executive Editor Lauren Abate de Albuquerque lauren@thejambalayanews.com
Contributors Nicole Shuff Arabie George Cline Angie Kay Dilmore Lauren Nunez Davis Dan Ellender Braylin Jenkins Stephanie Kestel Karpovs Jason Machulski Mike McHugh Roger Miller Justin Morris Russell Pawlowski Terri Schlichenmeyer Sales sales@thejambalayanews.com
REGULARS 4 We Are SWLA! 6 The Dang Yankee 6 Adoption Corner 7 Tips From Tip 8 Huntin’ Tales 10 Tales of the Bayou Pickers 12 Soul Matters 13 The Pirate’s Platter
Business Office Manager Jeanie Rourk
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FEATURES 16 A Tough Wound to Heal
THE SPICE OF SWLA 16 Christmas Under the Oaks and Holiday House 18 Event Guide 19 Holiday Event Guide
Graphics Art/Production Director Burn Rourk
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23 Coppelia 24 Family Fun Night at The Movies
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25 Bookworm Sez… 26 Nightlife Guide 28 Lake City Beat! 30 Justin Morris’s Lake Charles 33 Funbolaya 34 Society Spice
Legal Disclaimer The views expressed by The Jambalaya News columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Jambalaya News, its editors or staff. The Jambalaya News is solely owned, published by Jambalaya Media, LLC, 715 Kirby Street, Lake Charles Louisiana 70601. Phone (337) 436-7800. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. The Jambalaya News cannot be held responsible for the return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations, even if they are sent to us accompanied by a self-addressed envelope. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Copyright 2014 The Jambalaya News all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited.
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So it’s turkey time again. I can tell because of the Christmas decorations covering every inch of every store, which I believed happened right after Labor Day. The pumpkins and the Halloween costumes came out after July 4. The Thanksgiving decorations never came out because there aren’t any. The only way you can tell if Thanksgiving is coming is by visiting your local supermarket. If there are lots of turkeys for sale, along with displays of sweet potatoes and pumpkin pie mixes, that’s a pretty good sign. Unless they are marked down. In which case, you missed it.
Vol. 7 • No. 15
Thankful
Holidays are no longer the same for me since my mother died. She was my home, and when I lost her, I lost my home. Not only the physical house that she lived in, but everything that meant home to me. She was someone who was always there; someone I could rely on. The place where my heart lived. Now there’s a void that will never be filled. But I am so thankful to have had so many Thanksgivings— and all the other holidays--with her. I never missed one. Never. She always made them special and fun, with her good food and entertaining, in spite of the family shenanigans going on around her. There was my aunt Jeanette
picking at her food and only drinking hot water and sighing that she simply couldn’t eat anything because of her health issues—and then loading up her plate with pies, cakes and sweets. And my aunt Gloria, complaining about something, anything, because all she did was complain. If she couldn’t find anything specific to gripe about, she’d expand her horizons and start yelling about immigrants or welfare. Uncle Ricky, who always carved the turkey, spent so much time talking that his food always got cold and he would still be eating his dinner when everyone else was enjoying dessert. While my cousin Richard tried his best to ignore his parents, my rightwing, conservative father and I would be arguing about politics. Frankie and Frances would just dig in and enjoy the food—unless there was something wrong with the dessert, in which case Frankie would make it clear he didn’t approve. Don’t mess with his Italian pastries. I’m thankful for my family memories since that’s all I have now. Some people don’t even have that. I was lucky to have my mother for 78 years; to have a close-knit family that cared about me and what I did. I went to Barnes Ave. almost every
Sunday, visited all three floors and listened to everyone’s old stories, even though I must have heard them a hundred times. It didn’t matter. Those stories belonged to my family, and I wish I had written them down. And the ones I remember will die with me, since I have no one to pass them on to. Such is life. A cherished memory is sleeping at my mother’s house as an adult over a holiday weekend. That was her favorite thing in the world, I think—to have me safe under her roof, if only for one or two nights. I moved out at a young age, and she always worried about me. For me, there was nothing more comforting than waking up in the middle of the night in the house I was born and raised in, knowing my mother was in the next room. Security. Peace. Love. Happy Thanksgiving!
Lauren Abate de Albuquerque
November 19, 2015 3
Fisher Named WCCH Employee of the Month West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital recently named Fallon Fisher as its Employee of the Month for October 2015. As a senior representative in the admissions department, Fisher serves as the right hand to the admissions director as she oversees the daily operations of the department, supervises the admissions representatives and audits patient accounts for accuracy in registration. Fisher has been with the organization for more than two years.
Fallon Fisher
SOWELA Ranked as Best in Workforce Training Mistletoe and Moss Named SE Tourism Top 20 Event The Southeast Tourism Society recently honored the Mistletoe and Moss Holiday Market as a Top 20 Event for the fourth quarter of 2015. Each year, Christmas shoppers get a jump on the holiday rush with a vast array of selections from approximately 80 specialty shops from SWLA and around the nation at the Mistletoe and Moss Holiday Market, held this year at the Lake Charles Civic Center Nov. 19-21. For more information, contact the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau at (337) 436-9588, or visit www.visitlakecharles.org.
SOWELA Technical Community College has been ranked as one of Louisiana’s Best Community Colleges for Workforce Training by the Southern Business & Development Magazine in its Summer 2015 issue. SOWELA was selected for recognition by members of the Southern Economic Development Roundtable, an invitation-only group of economic developers, educators, economists, site consultants and CEOs that discusses issues relative to economic development in the American South.
Pinnacle Donates to Family & Youth Family & Youth received $5,000 from Pinnacle Entertainment Foundation for sponsorship of the Pinnacle Light of Hope Breakfast and Awards Presentation, held at L’Auberge Casino Resort on September 29. During the awards presentation Ward 3 Marshal Joey Alcede, SWLA SANE at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, Rotary Club of Greater Lake Charles, and Kiwanis Club of South Lake Charles were honored with the Light of Hope award for their dedication to abused and neglected children in SWLA.
McDonald’s SWLA Supports March of Dimes
Gary Cooper, chairman of the board of directors of the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau, presents the Top 20 Event Southeast Tourism Society award to Beth Melancon, Mistletoe and Moss chairman.
CHRISTUS St. Patrick Earns ‘A’ for Patient Safety The independent hospital watchdog The Leapfrog Group announced that CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital earned an A in this elite national ratings program, recognizing its strong commitment to patient safety. The report showed key shifts among many hospitals on the A, B, C, D and F grades, rating them on errors, injuries, accidents and infections. The Hospital Safety Score is the gold standard rating for patient safety, compiled under the guidance of the nation’s leading patient safety experts and administered by The Leapfrog Group, a national, independent nonprofit. 4 November 19, 2015
March of Dimes was recently presented with a $1,000 donation from McDonald’s of SWLA as part of “McCafe® Coffee for a Cause,” which was launched earlier this year and dedicates coffee sales from Calcasieu Parish McDonald’s locations to local nonprofits. The donation will help March of Dimes expand its mission to reduce premature birth in Louisiana by McDonald’s of SWLA owner and operator Doug Gehrig more than 4 perand March of Dimes State Director Frankie Robertson. cent by 2020. For more information about McDonald’s of SWLA, call (337) 436-3368 or visit www.mcdswla.com.
Foundation Honors Investors and Economic Leaders Southern states are leading America’s manufacturing renaissance Vol. 7 • No. 15
and SWLA will be the epicenter of the economic expansion according to the publisher of an economic development magazine. Michael Randle, owner and publisher of Southern Business & Development Magazine, explained that reasonable building costs are enticing companies in America and around the world to invest in the Southern states following years of manufacturing decline. Randle was the keynote speaker during the 2015 Southwest Louisiana Alliance Foundation lunch that was held recently. During the event, Entergy Louisiana’s Eduardo Jimenez was awarded the 2015 Achievement Award from the Alliance.
City’s 4th Annual Business Summit/Showcase a Success The City of Lake Charles hosted the 2015 Business Summit and Showcase at the Lake Charles Civic Center recently. The event consisted of a Business Certification Training and a Business Summit and Showcase. The Summit provided a great opportunity for small and emerging contractors to improve their businesses in the area of credit, capital, capacity, and credibility, which are four major areas of focus highly considered by project owners, banks, insurance, and surety companies. Various Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) programs were also highlighted for attendees. For more information, visit www.cityoflakecharles.com.
L’auberge Offers Complimentary Meals to Vets L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles offered complimentary meals on Nov. 11 in honor of Veterans Day. The resort’s awardwinning Le Beaucoup Buffet served 779 veterans and active duty military personnel a free breakfast or lunch as a show of gratitude for their service. The annual event is part of the L’Auberge Cares community initiative and is a source of great pride and enjoyment for team members. To view a complete photo album of the Veterans Day gratitude meal, log on to www.facebook.com/laubergelc.
L to R: Michael Randle, publisher of Southern Business & Development; Tom Chamberlain, Entergy-Louisiana, Senior Project Manager; Eduardo “Ed” Jimenez, Entergy-Louisiana, Director of Business and Economic Development; Celia Broussard, SWLA Economic Development Alliance 2015 Chair; and George Swift, Alliance President/CEO.
Manuel Receives Tracy Beaugh Rising Star Award Christine Manuel, a graphic arts student attending SOWELA Technical Community College, recently received the “Tracy Beaugh Rising Star Award” presented by the Krewe of Athena. The award was created by the Krewe in honor and remembrance of former SOWELA graphic arts faculty member Tracy Beaugh. The Krewe awards $500 each semester to a graphic arts student with award recipients chosen based on a competitive process. Tracy was a founding member of the Krewe of Athena, as well as the VP of PR for nine years and the Captain in 2009. She was a graduate of LaGrange High School and SOWELA and resided in Sulphur for many years.
Memorial Physicians Make List of Top Doctors The Memorial Medical Group recently had five physicians make the list of Louisiana’s top doctors in a recent survey of their peers conducted for Louisiana Life magazine for 2015: Dr. J. King White (Cardiology), Dr. Alan LeBato (Family Medicine), Dr. Nathan Cohen (Orthopedic Surgery), Dr. Ben F. Thompson, III (Critical Care Medicine and Pulmonology), and Dr. R. Craig Broussard (Pulmonology). Louisiana Life utilized the services of Best Doctors, Inc. to gather ratings from a database of professionals who are highly regarded by their peers. Those professionals are in turn interviewed for their recommendations.
L to R: Erik Jessen, Graphic Arts Program Coordinator; Christine Manuel, Award Recipient and Ramona Landry, Krewe member Vol. 7 • No. 15
November 19, 2015 5
A Sheep at the Wheel You hear a lot these days about how divided we are as a country, about how people hold widely different opinions on the critical issues we face and how we seem unwilling to compromise or try to understand the other side’s point of view. Well, I’m happy to report that, having talked to people from all over—North and South, big cities and small towns—I’ve found one subject on which there is unanimous agreement. Everybody, no matter where they live, thinks that they have the world’s absolute worst drivers. Well, I hate to burst the bubble on you Southern folks, but let me say that there is no way that the South has the worst drivers. Your drivers are way too polite to each other for you to
lay claim to that dishonor. If you’ve ever driven in Yankee Land, you should know what I mean. Drivers there act as if the highway is some sort of post-apocalyptic world, where the second you stop to let another car in get in front of you, zombies will swarm upon you and devour your flesh. This is why, when I first came here, I was unprepared to share the road with people who seem to behave like Boy Scouts working on their driving merit badge. The first time that someone stopped to let me into traffic while exiting a parking lot, I thought his car had broken down. I got out to see if he needed a lift to the service station. So why is it that Southern drivers are so much more courteous to each other than
their Northern counterparts? It might be that if you’re driving too slowly in the left lane, you have to consider that the person behind you who wants to pass just might have a firearm. I, for one, always try to be cognizant of this possibility, and so I’ve learned to temper my aggressive Yankee habits and be downright sheepish when I’m on the road. This is especially the case if I’m driving past the Civic Center when a gun show is letting out. Not only do I stop and let cars in off the parking lot, I’m inclined to get out and direct traffic for them. Concern over coming home with one more hole in your body than you left with can be powerful motivation, but that’s not the only thing that leads Southern drivers to be so considerate. I also
have to give credit to the professionals whose tireless efforts influence us to remain safe and accident-free— namely, the lawyers. You can count on their Mercedes descending upon the scene of an accident well before the first emergency vehicle arrives. But regardless of the reasons, I find the politeness of Southern drivers to be a real joy. I’m amazed at how other drivers here seem to bend over backwards to show me courtesy, this despite the fact that I don’t have a firearm, just a bumper sticker that reads, “Smith and Wesson Are In My Carpool.” Mike McHugh’s column has appeared in “The Jambalaya News” since 2009. You can read more from the Dang Yankee on his website, thedangyankee.com.
Reagan is a 3-year-old, medium-size Lab mix. She is our “survivor!” When she lost a leg in an accident, no one told her she has a disability. She runs like the wind and loves it. Friendly and active, she will be a terrific addition to a family with children. Obedience class would be a real plus, too. For more information about this outstanding girl, call or email (337) 478-7294; lapaw@ bellsouth.net. Vet check and home visit required prior to all adoptions. 6 November 19, 2015
Vol. 7 • No. 15
they don’t want. If you make a habit of locking your vehicle every time you leave it, there is a good chance you won’t forget to lock it anytime or anywhere. Whether it is in your driveway or on the street, a locked car is less likely to be victimized than one that is unlocked. Leaving the keys in the vehicle is a temptation to a car thief and none of us want that unpleasant interference in our lives.
Supermarket Roundup We want to wish all of our readers a Happy Thanksgiving and hope you and your family have a wonderful get-together. We shall make a traditional Thanksgiving turkey dinner the theme for the shopping survey this issue. This survey was taken on Sunday, November 15 at the following locations: Albertsons-Country Club Road, Market Basket-Ryan Street, Kroger-12th Street and Walmart-Nelson Road. The prices listed here are those posted on the shelf where the product was placed for sale. Iceberg lettuce, per head: Albertsons $1.59, Market Basket $1.69, Kroger $1.18, Walmart $.98. Turkey, frozen, store brand, per pound: Albertsons $1.69, Market Basket $.59, Kroger $.59, Walmart $.73.
More Roundabouts Coming Last issue, we wrote about the new roundabout located at Cove Lane, exiting I-210 from both directions and connecting the casino area. There are plans for several more roundabouts on the Ham Reid corridor, all the way to Lake Street with new construction from Elliot Road to Big Lake Road. They are the wave of the future and reduce accidents. The ones that do occur are side impact with less severe damage and injuries. They are more efficient as less time is wasted waiting for a light to change or traffic to clear (a bonus for fuel mileage as there is less time idling and not moving). For those of us that are not familiar with the flow of a roundabout, there is video available to show how they are designed to work. Just Google “How to use a roundabout” and watch for yourself. For those uninitiated, pick an off hour to try one out, a time when there is less traffic and you can spend a little time learning and experiencing the flow and go.
Stove Top Stuffing Mix for turkey, 6-ounce box: Albertsons $1.99, Market Basket $1.69, Kroger $1.49, Walmart $1.25. Ocean Spray Cranberry Jellied Sauce, 14-ounce can: Albertsons $1.50 (2/$3), Market Basket $1.79, Kroger $1.79, Walmart $1.38. Broccoli crowns, per pound: Albertsons $1.99, Market Basket $1.99, Kroger $1.49, Walmart $1.34.
Beach and Boat Launch Still in Limbo In conjunction with the construction of the I-210 interchange at Cove Lane, the adjacent beach and boat launch facilities are still not available, as we had mentioned in our column last April. A slatted fence currently keeps the entire beach area off limits and the “Temporarily Closed” signs are still at the boat launch. Many of us are anxiously awaiting access to our old standbys. Apparently, the Department of Transportation and Development has not released the area from its hold, as the proposed I-210 bridgework may need utilization of the launch area. The DOTD has indicated that it will not need the area, but so far, there is no formal statement of release. Boaters and anglers have not been happy for a long time, and now the situation is in limbo for the spring. The parish has some work to do to make the boat launch usable, and there are still questions about ever having the beach available.
Lock Your Car! Our area has been beset by a series of car burglaries lately. There have been some perpetrators arrested, but there are still evildoers out there. Locking your vehicles and removing the keys is a big step in preventing an incident. Yes, they still can bust out a window but that can be noisy, which is something Vol. 7 • No. 15
November 19, 2015 7
Photos by Chris Romero
Bucket List Red Heads Scratch number six off my Ducks Unlimited Top Ten Waterfowl Bucket List items: Red Head waterfowl hunting off Matagorda Bay, Texas. Actually, I was southwest of Matagorda Bay near Rockport, some three hours south/southwest of Houston. George Crady (aka Ned) had invited me, his brother Charlie (aka Santa) and their nephew Crady Newton (aka Tippy, Jr.) to the St. Charles Bay Hunting and Fishing Club. Established in 1923, the St. Charles Bay Club with its five divided guest cabins can accommodate up to 40 people, but this weekend there were but 20 of us. Family-oriented, there was a good mixture of kids, wives, young men and older hunting companions. After the late afternoon drive down, the four of us, along with Ned’s Yellow Lab Rio gathered on the porch for the usual relaxing and imbibing session, coffee for me. Directly across from our cabin was the T-shaped wharf with underwater lighting to attract bait fish that brought the speckled trout and redfish. Crady and Charlie made the trek to the top of the T and were soon practicing the fine art of catch and release speck fishing. Meanwhile, Ned and I caught up on the 30 years that had passed since we were last afield together. After six hours on the road from Lake Charles, 8 November 19, 2015
this old Cajun settled in early, as the 4 a.m. wake-up knock was now just six short hours away. Breakfast was a delight and soon afterwards, we loaded our gear into carts and headed down the pier where our air boats awaited. That’s right, AIR BOATS! We life-jacketed, donned our ear protectors and settled in our seats. I’ve been in air boats before but never in the pitch dark roaring across an open bay, past occasional marsh, following Q-beam lighted markers that seemed way too far apart for this mud boat driver navigating the trail marked with close-together white PVC pipe. Then we arrived at our Motel 6 blinds. I mean those branchcovered three-man platforms with dog hide were just too much for this pit-blind-oriented Coonass. Then, there were the four dozen decoys hanging from corner post nails. My companion extraordinaire, Crady Newton, gestured for me to pass these to him. No problem. Let the 32-year-old youngster wade the bay, I was happily blind bound. Fortunately the water is only just over the knee with a hard sandy bottom. Whippersnapper Crady wasn’t even winded when he returned. Decoys and Mojo ducks in place, we awaited dawn and the vaunted Red Heads in our damn Motel. Then the Red
Head flocks came and came and came driven by a brisk north wind. We soon had our limit of four and easily could have had 12. “We leave a Mojo Decoy On For You” at Crady’s
Motel 6 could have been our slogan; they flew so close to us. So much for my vaunted wisdom. The air boat came for us and we traversed not only the bay,
Crady Newton, Roger Miller, Charlie "Santa" Crady, Ned Crady, Rio(Yellow Lab) Vol. 7 • No. 15
Ned Crady & Rio at the cabin
but we also wound down marsh trails lighted in hews of golden brown that played against the green bay water turning aqua. Back at the main lodge, a gourmet meal awaited us. We then gathered to flick between Baylor, U of H, Texas A&M and LSU football games. A gathering afterward on our cabin porch by our foursome brought tales of what was and what is now, as Crady and Ned had grown up fishing and hunting the St. Charles Bay Club. Both lamented the demise of rice farming in the area as cotton has replaced rice just as sugar cane has overtaken Southwest Louisiana. Neither attract nor hold ducks.
A truly fine supper raised our spirits and we readied for the next day’s hunt. This time I was to hunt with Ned and Charlie with nephew Crady. The same process ensued except Charlie and Crady went in the launch while Ned and I air-boated it again to yet another Motel 6. I guarded the blind against assault, foreign or domestic, puffed on my pipe, drank coffee and petted Rio as 54-year-old Ned waded about placing decoys and Mojos. Like the day before with Crady, Ned and I soon had our four Red Heads. On one long retrieve, Rio began to use his nose to scent a lowriding downed bird, a sure sign of promise for a young retriever. Meanwhile Ned and I awaited yesterday’s flights of Pintail and Teal. Today they flew high and far away. No matter, I’d been out two days and limited out on Red Heads both days. There are few hunting lodges that make a very complicated job appear seamless. Velma Rodales served chef Steve Mason’s delightful meals with an always welcoming smile and anticipated our every need. Head Guide Ronnie Goodwin made the days afield hunting or fishing a marvelous experience. I’ve had over 3,000 hunts in a lot of places but the St. Charles Bay experience is in my top five ever. That and I kicked the Red Head bucket into my gumbo pot a bemused Crady Newton of experiences afield. at Charlie’s shooting
Vol. 7 • No. 15
Shane, Roger, Jeanette & Glenn
November 19, 2015 9
Bed and breakfasts are on the top of my list when I’m away on an adventure or just need a little R&R. What makes them so interesting is that you are surrounded by art, history and culture while you are relaxing. I will be talking about them in this article. I chose them since they are all within driving distance of SWLA. The B&B arrangement is a very old one. The concept has existed in one form or another since the beginning of man. Monasteries served as bed and
breakfasts for travelers, and in some cases still do. Before the 20th century, it was quite normal for country travelers to spend the night at a private house rather than an inn, and this custom persists in many parts of the world. However, prior to the 19th century, this was strictly an informal arrangement constrained by acquaintance and social rank; a doctor might stay with a doctor or pharmacist, while a nobleman would stay with the local gentry.
Bed and breakfasts have been very popular with the traveling public in Europe for years. The abbreviation of “B&B” on roadside signs first became popular in the British Isles - typically with a detachable “Vacancies” sign swinging below. Tourists will see B&B signs in many windows there. The term “bed and breakfast” is not used in many other countries. Terms such as paradors, pensions, gasthaus, minskukus, shukukos and pousados are used to describe what Americans and Englishspeaking Europeans think of as a bed and breakfast. New Orleans has one B&B that stands out more than others. The Lanaux Mansion, located just a few feet away from the Historic French Quarter and the old New Orleans Mint is an 1879 Renaissance Revival Victorian Mansion. You will love the historic charm and antique atmosphere of each private room and suite. From
the cast-iron filigree balconies and cypress wood shutters to the Victorian courtyard garden, Lanaux Mansion is an heirloom that reflects its fascinating past. The Mansion was one of the locations for the movie The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and has also been a featured setting for the movies Cat People and The Unholy and for television features including The Hauntings of Louisiana, If Walls Could Talk and The John Folse Cooking Show. A truly amazing, must-see experience. Next, my journey brings us to an unusual B&B in Natchitoches. The Greek Revival Guy House was built in 1850 by Samuel Eldridge Guy. The two-story house was the centerpiece of a working plantation and was located in Mansfield, Louisiana, remaining in the Guy family for 150 years. Now in its new location, it can be just the place to
The Lanaux Mansion, New Orleans
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create your own memories. Just outside the door, the steps lead to The American Cemetery, considered by many historians to be the oldest cemetery in the Louisiana Purchase. Definitely worth a trip to stay here (they filmed a scene here from Steel Magnolias) and also take a stroll around this historic cemetery. The last leg of my journey brings us to Baton Rouge. The Stockade is a great B&B for any Civil War enthusiast. It’s located on the original site of the Highland Stockade, a strongpoint built by Union troops to protect the southern entrance into Baton Rouge. The Highland Stockade remains an important historic site and is listed on the National Register of Historical Places. It is an amazing place to relax and unwind. The B&B experience is one of a kind. I’ve only listed several, but there are thousands located all across America. For the same price of a hotel, you can stay in a B&B. The friendly staff at each location is more than happy to answer any questions about the property and also guide you in your adventures. Each B&B is small museum that you can call your own for the duration of your stay. Next time you are looking for a place to stay, try booking a B&B. It is worth every penny!
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The Greek Revival Guy House,
Natchitoches
November 19, 2015 11
Pursuing My Own Truth Why do I always run away from those who want to love me? Over the past six weeks, I needed to step away and examine my own inner truth. Let’s just say it wasn’t pretty or easy. I feel as if God reached down inside the darkest hidden area inside my heart and cracked it open. Then He asked me to see and feel my truth. I needed to become aware of the destruction and harm I keep doing to myself. It was time for me to wake up and see what’s real. To stop pushing the truth away and turning from discomfort by running or distracting myself from my pain. I have hurt others by not saying what I should say. Because I truly didn’t want to hurt anyone, I would keep my mouth shut. Looking back with truthful eyes, I saw that I really was hurting them more by holding back. I would find myself doing anything that dulled or distracted me from uncovering my truth for so many years. It’s the thing that the people who actually cared about me noticed. This time, it was different. I myself was able to see myself pushing someone away. And this person really went away, carrying the pain that I had caused. Usually, I would simply turn my attention away from the damage I had inflicted 12 November 19, 2015
by further dulling myself with distractions. In the past, I may have filled their absence with new people—people who didn’t make me look at myself uncomfortably, people with the same painful patterns as my own. Instead, I was shown every part of this relationship. I was shown that all the damage within my own heart blinded me from seeing this person’s heart as I should have, along with the ways that they showed me how much they loved and cared for me. And now that the shell of my heart was cracked open, all that I had numbed and ignored was exposed. My heart began to ache in ways that I had never felt before. I finally had enough. What do I do with all of this pain? I looked in the mirror and into my own eyes and realized that I was running away from love. I was starving because of the lack of real intimacy and affection in my life. When was it that I stopped loving myself ? I began to cry and asked what had happened to me. Then, I told that woman looking back at me that I loved her. Yes, it might sound a bit crazy when you’re not used to it, but how often do you say, “I just love you?” When I stepped back, I saw that God has blessed me with so much to be
thankful for. And then I asked, “What do I really want?” “What life do I see for myself ?” “What direction am I going?” It was time for me to fix what I’d broken. Your truth is a part of what helps you to be the best version of yourself, and holds you up when you want to fall back on old ways. There are many tools within this infrastructure that your soul calls home, but first, begin by examining yourself honestly. It takes courage to ask for help. My normal routine would have been to reach out to others. This time, God reached out His hands to help me. He placed me in a Bible study that involves learning to pray deeper. He placed angels (people) in my life to surround me here on earth to help me better understand. Forget about appearing tough and having all the answers. Most of us grew up in families that swept all the problems under the rugs, such as teaching us, “No one talks about those things.” This belief no longer works. Learn to be okay knowing that every single family has its “stuff ” and sadly, most of us have some feelings of being unworthy. God shines a bright light into those feelings. You have to be honest and willing to be vulnerable. This takes a whole lot of courage.
Declutter what damages you. Throw it away. Release it. Don’t allow the devil to drag you away. To crush your spirit. To dull your light. Don’t let him steal your joy. Your body is a temple. If your body is the dwelling place for the Holy Spirit, wouldn’t the devil be delighted to desecrate what is sacred and of God? Did you know that he fears your beauty most of all? He knows the beauty that you are will lead others to God. Your beauty is the image to him of everything he lost. He will take aim at your beauty and make every attempt to destroy it or hide it from you. Your beauty, which is your beautiful light, is all part of God’s plan. Remember to always be true and shine brightly. We must remind each other of our own value and beauty. When you choose to love, you will find joy. The joy you discover will make your light shine even brighter. Speak truth and love always. Know who you are and what you are not. Do not withhold or run away from love. Change begins in your own heart. Allow God to speak to your heart and encourage you. To book a Soul Matters Session with Nicole Shuff Arabie, call (337) 540-6573. You can also go to her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/DeclutteringYourSoul Vol. 7 • No. 15
Heart Healthy Red Head
Chili
The pirate has set out to find out where chili came from, but there may not be an answer. There are, however, certain facts that cannot be overlooked. The mixture of meat, beans, peppers, and herbs was known to the Incas, Aztecs, and Mayan Indians long before Columbus and the conquistadores. We do know that chile peppers were used in Cervantes’s Spain and show up in great ancient cuisines of China, India, Indonesia, Italy, the Caribbean, France, and the Arab states. We also know that Don Juan de Onate entered what is now New Mexico in 1598 and brought with him the green chile pepper. Since then, it has grown there for the nearly 400 years. Finally, Canary Islanders, transplanted in San Antonio as early as 1723, used local peppers, wild onions, garlic, and other spices to concoct pungent meat dishes - improvising upon ones they had cooked for generations in their native land, where the chile pepper also grew. This recipe will be great on those cold winter months.
Ingredients 1.2 lbs. extra lean ground turkey 1 medium yellow onion 3 cloves of garlic 2 reduced sodium red kidney beans cans (16 ounces) 1 diced tomatoes 14.5 ounce can (no salt added) 14 oz. water 1 whole peeled tomatoes 28 ounce can (no salt added) 1 tbsp. chili powder 1/2 tbsp. black pepper 2 tbsp. Cajun Red Head seasoning or low sodium Cajun seasoning 1 teaspoon ground cumin Juice of 2 limes 1 small bunch of fresh cilantro, chopped
Directions Brown turkey, chop onion and garlic and cook in olive oil until soft. Add all ingredients into a large pot and simmer for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Break up whole tomatoes to desired consistency. I use whole tomatoes because it makes a chunkier chili but two more cans of diced tomatoes can be easily substituted if you don’t want to bother with breaking them up later on. Makes 11 one-cup servings. Enjoy!
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By Angie Kay Dilmore This holiday season, Joe Heinen celebrates 20 years of providing high-quality meats and side dishes for Southwest Louisiana families’ festive gatherings. A honey-glazed ham or fresh roasted turkey from Honey-B Ham to highlight the holiday table has become a tradition for many families who want to spend more quality time together and less time in the kitchen. “People rely on me to make their holiday meal a success,” says Heinen. “They rely on me to make sure their food is the best it can be, that it looks good and tastes good. The ham is the centerpiece. Keep Mom out of the kitchen and let us do the cooking for you! She’s been raising kids all these years and getting up at 3 a.m. to cook a turkey and casseroles. I can make that all go away.” While Honey-B Ham may be known for their hams, they also offer smoked or Cajun whole turkeys, brisket, sausage, or chopped beef. To compliment the main course, customers can choose from several delicious side dishes such as sweet potato casserole, baked potato casserole, cornbread dressing, broccoli cheese rice, and the ever-popular green bean casserole.
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Don’t forget the turkey gravy and cranberry relish! For parties, consider sandwich trays and meat and cheese trays. Tempting desserts include pumpkin, apple, and pecan pies. They also sell homemade fudge – a big seller during the holidays.
Updated Menu Items Reflect Customers’ Tastes Heinen now offers a new line of Cajun specialties on the menu. “We have our own seasoning now. We make boudin, boudin balls, and cracklins, all in-house. We put some Cajun dishes on the plate lunch menu, like chicken fricassee, red beans and rice, crawfish etouffee, and more traditional Cajun-type items,” he says. Watch for daily specials. He introduced hearty menu items and generous plate lunches to appeal to the many blue collar and construction workers who patronize his establishment. “They work hard and they need calories,” he says. “They’re not worried about nutritional information. They’re just hungry!” Heinen sees many of these workers stopping in for lunch. Honey-B Ham’s deli offers a great selection of sandwiches and plate lunches for those looking for an af-
fordable alternative to fast food. Big sellers include brisket, ham and cheese sandwiches and poboys, but patrons can also opt for Cajun roast beef, smoked turkey breast, chicken, tuna and ham salads. For those with smaller appetites, choose one of four different salads. Heinen also now offers both seafood and chicken and sausage gumbo every day, and they’re open Sundays for barbeque. While Heinen may tweak his menu every now and then, historically he prefers to keep the menu simple. He knows why he has a legion of loyal customers. “Hams brought us to the dance,” he says with confidence. Of all the items on Heinen’s menu, his favorite by far is the ham. Honey-B Hams are hickory smoked, spiral sliced for convenient serving, and baked with a thick, rich honey spiced glaze. Heinen touts the versatility of a ham. “You can have it for the holiday meal, you can snack on it later that night. Next morning, you can have ham and eggs, then ham sandwiches the next two or three days. Pack the rest in one pound Ziploc bags and freeze it. Then, use the
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bone for soups and beans. It doesn’t go to waste, and it’s easy to store,” says this 62-year-old businessman. Heinen believes in the quality of his product 100 percent. He takes pride in the business he has built and his reputation for having a superior product.
There’s a New Cook in the Kitchen Heinen has recently semi-retired and taken a step back from the day-to-day operations of the business. He has successfully recovered from open heart surgery a year ago and feels good. But he’s still a hands-on manager, especially during the peak holiday season. He’s onsite regularly from November 1 to January 1 (which is when he says he does about 85 percent of his yearly business), and again around Easter. But otherwise, he prefers the country life, relaxing and working on his crawfish farm north of Jennings. Heinen has a terrific trustworthy crew with Lake Charles native Gordon Abbott at the helm. Heinen brought Abbott aboard six months ago because Abbott has been in the restaurant business most of his life and he’s an authentic Cajun who knows how to cook the traditional dishes. He was born and raised in Lake Charles, but his family is from Lacassine and his mama is an Ardoin. “I was raised on chicken fricassee and I thought everyone ate chicken fricassee (a one-pot Cajun chicken dish over rice), but it’s something you don’t see on restaurant menus anymore,” Abbot says. “Some of the Cajun recipes are being forgotten and I want to keep them alive.” On a recent Wednesday morning, Abbott cooked sausage and red gravy for the day’s plate lunches. Then, he mixed up about 40 pounds of jambalaya, 20 pounds of fried catfish, and a sandwich tray for catering jobs. After taking several customer phone orders, the lunch rush swelled and staff members stayed busy
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until almost 2 p.m. “Our lunch business has really picked up since we started offering plate lunches,” Abbott says. “I enjoy cooking because I want to see the look on their faces when people eat my food. I’m like any other entertainer. A chef is like an artist or musician. A painter paints, a musician makes music, a chef makes good food. I excite the sense of taste. I just want to make people happy.”
Crawfish Season Coming Up! Crawfish season is right around the corner, though for many, not soon enough! Plan now to stop by Honey-B Ham and take a sack home, either live or boiled. Consider having Honey-B-Ham cater your next crawfish boil. Crawfish is a passion for Heinen, who’s been raising and selling them since 1978.
Corporate Connections Much of Heinen’s holiday sales come from businesses and industries that reward their employees with hams and turkeys. “A business has to keep its employees,” Heinen says. “A ham benefits both the employee and the employee’s family.” Some companies give hams to loyal clients. “What better way to show customer appreciation than to say thank you with a gift of ham?”
New Extended Hours As part of his ongoing business and marketing plan, Heinen looks for unique ways to meet the needs of his customers. Honey-B Ham now opens for business at 8 a.m., but not for traditional breakfast. Heinen says he wants to be available for people on the go who might come into the store for a convenient snack. “Workers will
stop on their way to work or in between jobs and grab some boudin balls or a bag of cracklins and a coke.”
Supporting Community Charity Organizations What happens to restaurant food that is still good to eat, but is not sellable? For example, Heinen says he simply cannot sell a sweet potato casserole after the holidays, but there may still be some in his freezer. Heinen donates overstocked food to local charities such as Abraham’s Tent, the Potter’s House, and the Salvation Army. “That’s my way of helping the community,” he says.
Doing What He Does Best “I won’t tell you I make the best cornbread dressing or the best yams or the best pie,” Heinen explains. “Somewhere, there’s somebody’s aunt or grandmother or mama who makes stuff I can’t even imagine. My grandma’s thing was banana puddin’. That’s what we were raised on. My aunt made red velvet cake. I can’t compete against all that. Now hams . . . I’m gonna tell you hands down – I got ham. I got good ham. That’s what I sell: gifts of good taste, whether for the family, employees, or customers.”
Honey-B Ham is located at 506 E Prien Lake Rd, Lake Charles. Hours 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., Monday – Friday. Saturday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. (this time of year), Sunday 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. To place an order, call (337) 477-8335. For more information, see their website, honeybham.net or find them on Facebook.
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Come to Sulphur for Christmas Under the Oaks/Holiday House! Twinkling lights, holly wreaths and winding oak branches mingled with a soft glow from falling snowflakes in…Louisiana? Yes, it snows every year at Sulphur’s Christmas Under the Oaks Festival, located at the Brimstone Museum Complex, 923 Ruth Street, in the heart of Sulphur at Heritage Square, where music, carnival rides and holiday shopping are at their height! Festival dates are Fri.-Sat., Dec. 4-5, with shopping available at the Holiday House on both days from 10 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Holiday House will also feature a preview party on Thurs., Dec. 3, from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $40 and are available for advance purchase. Carnival rides start at 4 p.m. on Friday, and run from noon - 10 p.m. on Saturday. On Friday, enjoy Louisiana’s only lighted balloon parade at 6 p.m. down Cypress St. “We expect the festival to be the success it has always been, and we are extremely excited about the lighted Christmas Parade on Friday night,” said Sulphur Mayor Chris Duncan.
This year’s Christmas Under the Oaks headline act is Dion Pride, performing live on stage at 8 p.m.! Also returning this year will be the live nativity at the Grove, brought to you by Houston River Baptist Church. For a complete schedule of events including live entertainment, the annual Spectacle of Lights, and more, visit www.brimstonemuseum.org! This event takes place at Heritage Square, which is located at 923 South Ruth Street in Sulphur. For more information on Sulphur’s Christmas events, contact the Henning Cultural Center at (337) 527-0357. For details on entertainment, contact the City of Sulphur at (337) 527-4500 or visit www.sulphur.org.
More Sulphur Christmas! Christmas in Sulphur this year will begin on Nov. 27 with The Mines Theatre’s production of It’s a Wonderful Life at W.W. Lewis Auditorium. Tickets start at $15 and are available
online and at the Brimstone Museum’s office. Showtimes are: 7 p.m. on Nov. 27-28, and 2 p.m. on Nov. 29. On Dec. 1, Jody Barrilleaux, community relations with Hixson Funeral Homes, will host the Old Tyme Christmas Brunch for area senior adults at Our Lady of Prompt Succor’s Fellowship Hall from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Entertainment will be provided by Sulphur area schools including Life Christian Academy, Maplewood Elementary, and Our Lady’s School. Admission is free and brunch will be provided, and along with an abundance of door prizes! For food preparation purposes, please RSVP by calling Jody Barrilleaux at (337) 794-3113. On Dec, 5, The Brimstone Historical Society is hosting its annual Breakfast with Santa at 9 a.m. Tickets are limited, and can be purchased at the Brimstone Museum in the weeks leading up the event. For only $5, visitors will receive a pancake breakfast with sausage and milk or juice (sponsored by Pitt Grill), and a photo with Santa!
A Tough Wound to Heal By Lauren Nunez Davis The holidays can be a very tricky time for anyone trying to stick to a healthy lifestyle or diet plan, but perhaps those that have the most trouble this time of year (especially in this geographical area of culinary
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decadence) are those with type two diabetes. In addition to putting people at a higher risk for developing other chronic conditions such as heart and peripheral arterial disease, blood clots and strokes and even
certain types of cancer, diabetes can also increase the risk of infections and seriously impede the healing process. A simple, small wound can become a big problem for those who suffer from type two diabetes, which is exactly what happened to Donny Myers. Myers, 60, a Lake Charles native and Marine Corps veteran, was diagnosed with diabetes in 2008 after painful kidney stones led to further testing. He ended up having to have one kidney removed, which was just the beginning of his medical struggles. In 2014, Myers had what likely began as a very small wound on the bottom of his foot. His wife, Julie, explained, “In only about three days, it went from nothing there to a big wound. That’s when we loaded him up and took him to the hospital.” After his hospital stay, Myers was referred to the Lake Charles Memorial Wound Care Center, an outpatient facility that specializes in the treatment of wounds that don’t easily heal. “Mr. Myers’s treatment was intensive,” said Dr. George Barnes, Jr., Medical Director of Memorial Wound Care. “He saw us for two hours a day, five days a week, for six weeks. He was a good candidate for hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which, for those who meet the medical requirements, can be a very successful treatment to stimulate the
growth process of new cells. When hyperbaric oxygen therapy is used in combination with local wound care, it can be very effective.” Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) consists of the patient entering a pressurecontrolled, total body oxygen chamber (which Myers affectionately dubbed the “Star Wars tank”) and breathing in the pure oxygen for an extended period of time in order to promote cell growth. For Myers, the treatment was a success, and his wound healed nicely. In fact, he’s doing so well that he and Julie are planning to go on a cruise of the Yucatan – a vacation they had to postpone when he developed the wound. Myers says he now sees a nurse weekly, walks more, and wears diabetic shoes and socks in order to stay healthy and prevent future wounds. “You’ve got to want to get better,” Myers said when asked what he learned from his ordeal. “Check your feet daily, don’t ignore any wound or change. It’s not going to go away on its own or because you’re on insulin treatment.” And his biggest piece of advice about treatment? “You have to follow directions.” For more information, visit lcmh.com/woundcare or call the Lake Charles Memorial Wound Care Center at (337) 494-6700. Vol. 7 • No. 15
The Elephant Man November 19 Join with a community of suicide loss survivors to find comfort and healing at Treasures of Marilyn’s, 3510 5th Ave., Lake Charles from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Sat., Nov. 21. Presentations, round table discussions and more. Lunch will be provided. Please register at survivorday.org or call 529-3784.
Coppelia Ballet November 20-21 The Lake Area Ballet Theatre (LABT) will present the full-length comical classic ballet, Coppelia: The Girl With the Enamel Eyes, on Fri., Nov. 20 (for schools) at 9 a.m. and Sat., Nov. 21 at 7 p.m. The Saturday evening gala performance is open to the public and is appropriate for all ages. Tickets are $25 and are available at the Civic Center Box Office (337 491-1257), or via ticketmaster.com. www.lakeareaballettheatre.com.
Survivor of Suicide Loss November 21 Join with a community of suicide loss survivors to find comfort and healing at Treasures of Marilyn’s, 3510 5th Ave., Lake Charles from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Sat., Nov. 21. Presentations, round table discussions and more. Lunch will be provided. Please register at survivorday.org or call 529-3784.
Full Throttle Wrestling November 21 On Sat., Nov. 21, hard-hitting action returns when Full Throttle Wrestling invades the Habibi Shrine Temple, 2928 Pack Rd, Lake Charles. Doors open at 6 p.m.; first bell at 7 p.m. Admission: $10 adults, $5 kids; free for kids under 6. Beer, soft drinks and concessions. Bring the family and enjoy!
Bayou Classic Christian Fellowship November 21-22 The 10th Annual Bayou Classic Christian Fellowship of Southwest Louisiana will be held Nov. 21-22 at Zion Tabernacle Baptist Church, 910 North Shattuck St. Parade is Sat. at 11 a.m. starting at the east side of the MLK Jr. Community Center and ending at the ZTBC campus, followed by a career/college fair with Grambling State University, McNeese and other universities. There will be military recruiters, organizations and businesses, along with vendor booths, a performing arts stage, a kids’ zone, tae kwon do demonstrations, health fair, free Bibles and more. On Sunday, there will be Sunday school classes at 9:30 a.m., followed by an 11 a.m. worship service. (337) 513-2924 or (337) 436-3224.
Jazz in the Arts December 4 Jazz in the Arts presents “Some Enchanted Evening” on Dec. 4 starting at 6 p.m. at Treasures of Marilyn’s featuring jazz vocalist Erica Papillion-Posey with Chester and Jarius Daigle. Doors open at 5 p.m. General admission tickets are $50 per person, reserved tables $500, VIP tables $750. Cash bar available. For information, go to www.jazzinthearts.com.
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2015 Holiday Events in the Lake Area Jack Frost may not actually be nipping at our noses, but the holiday season has arrived—with all of its magic and excitement! What is there to do in the Lake Area? Read on and find out! And Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Decking the Halls in DeQuincy Lighting the Depot at the Railroad Museum December 1-31 The Dequincy Railroad Museum housed in the 1923 Kansas City Southern Railroad Depot will be decorated inside and out with Christmas trees, lights, and ornaments relating to the railroad Dec. 1-31. 400 Lake Charles Ave, Dequincy (337) 786-2823.
Christmas Parade, Fireworks and More! December 5 The streets will be filled with joy and festive cheer for the annual Christmas lighted parade sponsored by the DeQuincy Chamber of Commerce at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 4, followed by Christmas in the Park at 6:30 p.m. and fireworks at 7:30 p.m.
Holiday Inspiration in Iowa Iowa Christmas Parade December 12 The Iowa Women’s League presents the Christmas in the Park
Saturday, Dec. 12 kicking off with a parade at 4 p.m. The parade will begin at the Iowa VF Mall and travel along Thomson Avenue ending at the Iowa City Park. The annual Christmas in the Park will be held at the Lawrence Toups Memorial Park Pavilion, 115 N. Thomson Avenue, at 5 p.m. with area churches and schools participating. Cookies and soft drinks will be served along with a chili cook-off. The program will include a Christmas concert with performances by local choirs, the lighting of the Christmas tree, and Santa will make an appearance. (337) 582-3535.
Light Up Lake Charles Mistletoe and Moss November 19-21 Jump-start your Christmas spirit at the Junior League of Lake Charles’ annual Mistletoe & Moss Holiday Market, which will be held Thurs-Sat., Nov. 19-21 at the Lake Charles Civic Center. This year, more than 85 vendors from all over the United States will set up shop, and 40 of these are new to Mistletoe & Moss. Booths will feature items for everyone. Organizers are expecting about 12,000 shoppers at this year’s market! To purchase tickets, call the Junior League at (337) 436-4025 or visit www.jllc.net.
Little Theatre Presents Christmas Belles November 20-22, 26-29 It’s Christmas-time in the small town of Fayro, Texas, and the Futrelle sisters are not exactly in a festive mood. Their hilarious holiday journey through a misadventure-filled Christmas Eve is guaranteed to bring joy to your world! Performances are 7:30 p.m. Friday/Saturday and 2 p.m. Sundays. For ticket info, go to www. thelclt.com
St. Paul Lutheran Church Christmas Craft Fair November 20-21 The Christmas Fair and Bake Sale will be held Fri., Nov. 20 from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and on Sat. Nov. 21 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1601 East Prien Lake Road, Lake Charles. There will be handcrafted and collectible gifts, Christmas items, baked goods and so much more! Buy a raffle for a fabulous quilt! For more information, email dkmumm@yahoo.com.
Cinderella’s Holiday Dining December 5 Children will join their favorite storybook characters for an unforgettable experience. Character meals include pizza, dessert and a drink. The seating incorporates a visit, photos and autoVol. 7 • No. 15
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graphs from each of these famous characters. Children are encouraged to wear their favorite costume. Seating is at noon, cost is $25 per person (everyone must have a ticket including adults and infants). Seating is limited and reservations must be made by calling the theatre box office at (337) 433-7323.
Sunday, Dec. 6
LC Community Band Christmas Concert December 5
Handel’s Messiah December 6
Enjoy your holiday favorites while sipping on a warm cup of hot chocolate. The Lake Charles Community Band is proud to present its annual Christmas Concert, Sat., Dec. 5, 2015 at 3:30 p.m., on the 2nd floor Mezzanine at the Lake Charles Civic Center ****FREE TO THE PUBLIC***
A moving experience for the entire family, this is the 75th Jubilee production of The Messiah and it continues to be a beautiful reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. One of the longest running productions of the Messiah in the world, this 75th Jubilee performance will include over 100 voices and soloists who are all McNeese students. There will also be historical exhibits of the event throughout the hallways of Bulber Auditorium. Performance is at 3 p.m. at the Bulber Auditorium, McNeese State University, 4205 Ryan St. (337) 477-0662.
Light Up the Lake December 5-6 City of Lake Charles officials announced that they have adjusted the annual Christmas lighting ceremony and street parade schedule to accommodate the McNeese football game. The new schedule of events is as follows:
Saturday, Dec. 5: Street Parade: Downtown Lake Charles 11 a.m. Santa’s Workshop: LC Civic Center, 2-5 p.m. Community Band Concert: Civic Center, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Lighting Ceremony: Front steps of Civic Center 5 - 6:20 p.m. Mickey Smith: Founder’s Landing (Civic Center Lakefront Promenade) 6:30 - 7:00 p.m. Fireworks over Lake Charles 7 p.m.
Very Merry Christmas Party for Seniors December 10 A festive day for seniors 60+ who reside in Calcasieu Parish begins with a continental breakfast at 9 a.m. at the Lake Charles Civic Center. Music will be provided by Ed Jardell & the Louisiana Scramble Band. A nutritious lunch will be served and bingo will be played for prizes until 1 p.m. (337) 474-2583 (ext. 1050).
Central School’s Holiday Art Market December 11-13 The City of Lake Charles and the Arts Council invite the public to visit the Central School Arts and Humanities Center for a festive Holiday Art Market on Dec. 11 from 3- 7 p.m., Dec. 12 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Dec. 13 from 1-5 p.m. There will be an array of fine and handmade items by local artists, with 10 percent of the proceeds benefitting the Francis G. Bulber Youth Orchestra, and A Spoonful of Sugar will be serving holiday treats. For more details, call (337) 439-2787.
LCCB Presents Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer December 12 This beautiful story told through the wonder of classical dance and music is a Lake Charles tradition. The current production is directed by Lady Holly Hathaway Kaough, Artistic Director of the Lake Charles Civic Ballet. Children of all ages will delight as they experience Santa and his elves working furiously to finish all the toys and the triumph of Rudolph as he saves Christmas! Matinee and gala performances Dec. 12 at the Rosa Hart Theatre. (11 a.m. and 6 p.m.) www.lakecharlescivicballet.com. 20 November 19, 2015
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LC Symphony Holiday Homes Tour December 13 Visit four homes in Graywood delightfully decorated for the holiday season with docents on hand to offer interesting and/or fun facts about each home. $35 per person, 1 -4 p.m. (337) 4331611 or info@lcsymphony.org.
Merry in Moss Bluff Christmas Parade December 12 The Ward One Economic Development Board and the Moss Bluff Civic Club will sponsor the Moss Bluff Christmas Parade on Sat., Dec. 12 at 2 p.m. The parade will begin at Sam Houston High School and follow the route for Homecoming, behind the high school to Telephone Road, Parish Road and will end back at Sam Houston High School. Line-up will begin at 1 p.m. at the school.For applications and more information, visit www.mossbluff.webs.com or www.mossbluffcivicclub.webs.com
Seasons Greetings from Starks Christmas Parade and Gumbo December 5
Calling for Christmas Parade Entries by Land or by Sea The City of Lake Charles is calling for entries in two annual parades slated for Saturday, December 5 as part of the Light up the Lake Christmas Celebration. At 1 p.m., local groups, including schools, businesses, civic groups, performing groups and neighborhood kids will join Santa for a journey through Downtown Lake Charles. The parade will travel south on Ryan Street from Mill Street to Dr. Michael DeBakey Drive. Trophies will be awarded in several categories. Everyone in the community is invited to join as a participant or a spectator. The lighted boat parade will begin at 6:30 p.m. along
the Lakefront Promenade. Each boat will be judged on originality, creativity, decorations, presentation and enthusiasm. Prizes will be awarded. Afterwards, the sky will explode into a kaleidoscope of color with the fireworks extravaganza. Additional Light up the Lake events held at the Civic Center includes Santa’s Workshop, the Community Band Concert and the lighting ceremony on the front lawn. All events are free for attendees as well as participants. For entry forms or more information, contact the City of Lake Charles at 491-1201 katie. harrington@cityoflc.us or www.cityoflakecharles.com.
The community of Starks will spring into the Christmas spirit with the annual Starks Christmas Parade to be held on Sat., Dec. 5, at 2 p.m. The parade starts and ends at VFW Post #4759 on Hwy.12 in Starks. Following the parade at 3:30 p.m., there will be Christmas gumbo hosted by the Ladies Auxiliary. For more information, call (337) 743-6409
Silver Bells in Sulphur Christmas Under the Oaks December 4-5 Twinkling lights, holly wreathes and winding oak branches mingled with a soft glow from falling snowflakes in…Louisiana? Yes, it snows every year at Sulphur’s Christmas Under the Oaks Festival, located at the Brimstone Museum Complex, 923 Ruth Street, in the heart of Sulphur at Heritage Square where music, carnival rides and holiday shopping are at their height! The colorful, giant balloons and Kiwanis Christmas light parade begins at 6 p.m. on Cypress St. in Sulphur on Dec. 4.
A Very Merry Vinton Christmas Vinton Christmas Parade December 11 Christmas is coming to Vinton with a variety of holiday events scheduled for Friday, Dec. 11. The Christmas Parade kicks off the festivities at 5 p.m. There will also be pictures with Santa, food, beverages, and other holiday activities after the parade at Vinton High School. For more information, call (337) 589-7453. Vol. 7 • No. 15
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Lake Area Ballet Theatre Presents
Coppelia: The Girl With The Enamel Eyes By Stephanie Kestel Karpovs Introducing The Lake Area Ballet Theatre Under the artistic direction of Colleen Cannon Benoit, the faculty and Board of Lake Area Ballet Theatre (LABT) are dedicated to staging full-scale ballet performances, producing new and innovative works, and providing a strong and diverse curriculum for the next generation of dancers. The LABT is in its first season as a non-profit performance company, and the inaugural season promises to transport you into an enchanted world of dance theatre. Two performances are planned for Coppelia: Friday, November 20 at 9 a.m. for schools and a gala performance on Saturday, November 21 at 7 p.m. for the public. Plans are also underway for a spring gala in March 2016 and a winter 2016 Nutcracker. All
performances will take place in the Rosa Hart Theatre of the Lake Charles Civic Center.
The History of Coppelia: The Girl With The Enamel Eyes A classic ballet in three acts, Coppelia, is taken from a story by E.T.A. Hoffman, who also wrote The Nutcracker. It was first presented in 1870 at the Theatre Imperial de I’Opera in Paris. Just as Giselle is ballet’s great tragedy, Coppelia is its great comedy. Set in a Polish village, Coppelia is a classic comical ballet about a love triangle between Swanilda, her sweetheart, Franz, and a lifelike doll, Coppelia. The musical score for Coppelia has infectious charm and delightful melodies. It was Leo Delibes’ first fulllength ballet, and is a first-class family affair.
Combined Efforts of Professional and Local Talent Colleen Cannon Benoit, the LABT’s Artistic Director, spent much of her career studying and teaching at the Clarke Dance Center under the direction of the late Ida Winter Clarke and Cissie Clarke. The legacy now lives on at her studio, Lake Charles Dance Academy. She is thrilled to revive this ballet, in which many of the LABT Board and faculty performed years ago. She says, “There are over 80 dancers from the Lake Charles Dance Academy—ages 2nd grade and up—who are participating in this first production. Our studio’s goal is to provide professional classical ballet/dance performance opportunities for our dancers that are similar to those offered in Houston and New York. This performance is perfect for dancers of all ages, families, a date night, or for anyone wanting to support the local arts.” The role of Franz will be performed by a phenomenal guest artist, Shea Johnson. He performs exclusively throughout the United States, Europe and Asia and is currently with Ballet Arizona. Local dancers will perform in various roles, and their technique and stage presence is impressive.
Show Your Support This performance is funded solely by contributions through local, state, and federal grants and also through sponsorship by local supporters. Sponsorship packages can be customized to fit your unique philanthropic and marketing needs in the community. Show your dancer their future and support local artists by attending one of these performances! Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at www.lakeareaballettheatre.com, Ticketmaster, or the Civic Center Box Office: (337) 491-1257. For more information, contact the Lake Area Ballet Theatre: www.lakeareaballettheatre.com.
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Bridge of Spies (Amblin, DreamWorks, 2015) But Donovan has other In 1957, America was plans. He thinks Abel should coming to grips with the fact be properly defended and that a nuclear war (the Atom starts to poke holes in the Bomb) could destroy the Earth. Spying between Russia prosecutor’s case. Part of his argument is that the US may (the USSR) and America (the just need a spy to trade someUS) was the order of the day as school children were taught day. Wouldn’t you know it; one what to do in case of a Rusof the US pilots taking picsian attack. tures over Russia, Francis More than any movie I’ve seen, Bridge of Spies puts you back into that time. Men dominate the workforce, they smoke incessantly at work, and everything is in its place. Plotwise, a secret program of aerial spying on Russia is about to begin, and a Russian spy has been arrested in the United States. This spy is quiet, older man, an artist (and in this movie a really nice guy) who needs a lawyer. Insurance lawyer James Donovan (Tom Hanks) fits right into the American Dream of the 5’0s. Two kids, a loving wife, a good job. All of that changes when he gets picked to defend the Russian spy, Rudolf Abel. Abel deserves a fair trial, and who would be better to defend him than an insurance lawyer? Do you get the feeling that maybe the plan was for him to be convicted without any problems? 24 November 19, 2015
Gary Powers, gets hit by a Russian missile. In a scene reminiscent of Slim Pickens in Dr. Strangelove, the pilot is hanging onto his plane as it goes down. He’s supposed to blow himself up so the Russians can’t capture him, but capture him they do. So now the Americans have a pilot imprisoned in Russia and a Russian spy to trade for him. Lawyer Donovan is sent to Europe to negotiate the trade. This part of the story is on Wikipedia. It really happened, between 1957 and 1960. But Bridge of Spies takes the story and weaves it into a tale of human nature, in a way only Stephen Spielberg can do. You see, every one of the characters here is a real person, and Spielberg treats them as such. Even the people on Donovan’s bus into work, seeing his picture in the paper as the spy lawyer, just radiate their hatred of him. Another event we get to see is the building of the Berlin Wall in Germany, as people
are trapped on one side from loved ones on the other. Even the East German politicians get involved, playing games as intermediaries with the Americans and the Russians. Spielberg is known for his cinematic treatments of period history, including Schindler’s List and Catch Me if You Can, but in my opinion, Bridge of Spies tops even these. The immersion in the story is remarkable, and Tom Hanks is perfect at capturing the confusion and conflict of an American lawyer. As a result, we share his emotions and live the events with him. Such moviemaking is basic, even elementary to making a good film. But this is so rare today, in an age of car chases and shootouts, that when an actual masterpiece comes along, we truly remember why we go to the movies. Bridge of Spies is rate PG-13 for a four-letter word. Older kids on up to the grandparents should see this film. Enjoy!
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After Alice Minding your own business. That’s what you were doing…well, mostly. You weren’t bothering anybody, it’s true, but you were contemplating mischief, just to keep things interesting but not enough to get yourself in trouble. And yet, that’s what happened – to you, and to Ada in the new adult novel After Alice by Gregory Maguire. Fifteen-year-old Lydia Clowd, not-quite-grown-up, not-quite-child, hated it when her widowed father told her to mind her younger sister, Alice. Alice was such a strange child. Once, Lydia found her beneath the bed their mother died in, lying still as marble, staring at the underside of the mattress. She was an odd little girl, so it was no surprise to Lydia when Miss Armstrong, the vicar’s family governess, came looking for Alice near the river. Actually, Miss Armstrong was looking for Ada, her charge, who’d never been beyond the Vicarage walls alone but had somehow gotten away from Miss Armstrong and was now missing. Ada and Alice were friends, so it stood to Vol. 7 • No. 15
reason that if Miss Armstrong could find Alice, Ada would be nearby. But both girls were gone. Lydia knew that Alice hadn’t snuck home; she’d know because, well, she just would. Her father’s kitchen help hadn’t seen Alice, either. Mr. Clowd was entertaining Mr. Charles Darwin and an American visitor, so he couldn’t help in the search. And Miss Armstrong was simply beside herself with worry. And then the little dark boy, a former slave who was traveling with the American, went missing, too. Surely, the children were together. They’d be found soon. Escaping from the Vicarage was a delicious thrill for Ada Boyce. Never had she gone so far alone, not with the problems she had with her spine and her legs. Miss Armstrong was always around – except this time, when a hiding Ada accidentally slipped into a hole and fell and fell and fell to another world where caterpillars talked, cats grinned, and playing cards battled. It was a world where Queens threatened beheadings, and where Ada was certain
she’d find Alice. But Ada was not alone… I have to admit, I was intrigued by After Alice – before I got so thoroughly lost that I had absolutely no clue what was going on. It’s obvious that this is a re-imagining of the famous Lewis Carroll tale, but author Gregory Maguire also mashes in other fairy tales and nursery rhymes. It was befuddling, but I persevered. There had to be a pay-off to sticking around. Boy, was there. Maguire tweaks Carroll’s story here and there, creates a whole other subplot, and throws in a heartbreaking turning point that Carroll would never have seen coming that
changes the tone of this book completely. Indeed, once I relaxed into the nonsense (and isn’t that what Alice Through the Looking Glass mostly is?), I enjoyed it a lot. I think you will, too, particularly if you’re a Maguire fan or if you love Alice, too. My advice is to start After Alice, stick with it--and the blended plot? You won’t mind.
“After Alice” by Gregory Maguire ©2015, William Morrow $26.99/$33.50 Canada 273 pages November 19, 2015 25
Thursday, Nov. 19 Amanda Walker 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Charles Mann 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
AM PUSH 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
26 November 19, 2015
After Party
Friday, Nov. 20
9 p.m. – 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Amanda Walker 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Reed Planchard 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC
Karaoke Night 9 p.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
Friday Nite Live Jerry Dee, Rockin’ Randy & Charles Mann 8 p.m. @ Mary’s Lounge
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4017 E Broad St. Broad St. LC
So Suede Variety Show 9 p.m. @ The Center Stage 3426 Ryan St. LC After Party 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
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The Tricky Dickies 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Neal Smith 9 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd. Isis 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Dance Night 9 p.m.- 4 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
Killawatts 9:30 @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Mantra Love Midnight @ Luna Live 719 Ryan St. LC
Aaron Istre and Under the Influence Noon-until @ Mary’s Lounge 4017 E Broad St. Broad St. LC Amanda Walker 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Lady of the Lake Moonlight River Cruise Performance by 3-Hour Tour
Saturday, Nov. 21
5:30-8:30 board at Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC
Free Food/cochon de lait
LA Bayou Band 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar
Cracklin’ Fest and Cajun Day
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3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC Special Event Night 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
RKW Acoustic Show 9 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd. After Party 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
The Tricky Dickies 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Sunday, Nov. 22 Street Side Jazz Band
Isis 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Clint Faulk 4-8 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC
Ice Man Special 10 p.m. @ Luna Live 719 Ryan St. LC
DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
By Braylin Jenkins Midtown Openings We’re at that oddly enjoyable time of year that could mean a coat or windbreaker one day and shorts and a T-shirt the next. Now that the holidays are coming, there are even more events and gatherings where we can network and build new relationships while re-establishing older ones. While I am a diehard supporter of the downtown/lakefront district, midtown is probably my favorite district at the moment. After advocating for downtown for so long and seeing its revitalization proc28 November 19, 2015
11 a.m. @ Luna Bar and Grill 710 Ryan St., LC
Dirt Road 5 p.m. @ Mary’s Lounge 4017 E Broad St. Broad St. LC
5:20 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Open Mic Night 9-midnight @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St., LC
Tuesday, Nov. 24 Mark Henry 5:20 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
ess, I knew that it would be possible to take midtown to another level. Businesses along Ryan and neighboring streets are taking new pride in the city and making investments that are bringing a much-needed appeal to the city. The area from Ryan and 18th to Ryan and Sale Road has seen an aesthetic change. A new coffee shop is bringing more options and just two doors down, Rikenjaks Brewing Company is returning as a restaurant and microbrewery. Rikenjaks was often referred to as the anchor for downtown during its heyday, responsible for an infinite number of live music nights, community gatherings and amazing beer. From what I have been told, the new Rikenjaks location will bring about a new sophistication and quality of music that will serve as a bold role model for the midtown district. It will be located at 3716 Ryan Street, once home to the well-known Italian Villa. Across the street from Rikenjaks
Monday, Nov. 23 Stacy Bearden
Jazz Night with Clint Faulk
is Raja’s Curry Kitchen & Grill. The folks there have been working tirelessly to open their doors. By the time this column comes out, it could very well be open, along with some other establishments who are putting the final touches on their businesses. While the quality and consistency that an establishment delivers postopening is more important than the hype of an opening, I feel that these two businesses will be a major success. I cannot stress how important customer service and quality is. I have experienced many disappointing moments at various establishments recently and I hope that will change. Something exciting is emerging across town on Dr. Michael DeBakey Drive near Lake Street. City Market & Deli is utilizing a building that was in great need of some love and attention. We’ll keep our eyes open to see what happens next, but until then, know that great things are in the works and it’s up to you and our community to show support. Vol. 7 • No. 15
6:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC
6:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC
Kris Harper 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Mark Reeves Acoustic 8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Thursday, Nov. 26
Orphan Annie Two for Tuesday on Everything! 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC
8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Wednesday, Nov. 25
Talent Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC
Chester Daigle 5:20 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Chris Miller & Bayou Roots
The Children’s Advocacy Center Speaking of showing support, I’d like to shine a light on a great organization in our area. Family & Youth Counseling Center has been providing life-changing resources to the Southwest Louisiana region for years. A division of their organization, the Children’s Advocacy Center, has been doing all they can to ensure that they can properly accommodate over 600 children who benefit from their services. I was honored to attend their annual Tasting on the Terrace fundraising event sponsored by L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles. While attendees had a great night on the terrace, they knew they were supporting little ones who have been sexuVol. 7 • No. 15
Thanksgiving Day Free dinner for all Noon @ Mary’s Lounge 4017 E Broad St. Broad St. LC
Kay Miller & Aaron Horne 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Thanksgiving Eve ‘80s Party
Leroy Thomas & Zydeco Roadrunners
LA ROXX/DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort
7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
out. Note: these names cover a wide variety of genres and as usual, I want you to do some discovery on your own: Jessie Taylor, Tony James, Brittany Pfantz, Team Theory, Justin Martindale, Ukulady’s Man, Dy’Jah, AEP, Tim Norris, Inner Gee, sinners, Jarvis Jacob and Watchers are some of the talent who call our region home and often perform in some area The Music Scene of the Lake City on any In closing, I would like given night of the week. to once again make mention of the music scene and There are dozens more and hopefully you will come its progress. Great things to know and enjoy them. are unfolding here and I You can hear many of these challenge you to choose some local music artists to music artists on 88.3 KBYS follow. We cover just about and www.kbys.fm throughevery music genre you can out the day and especially imagine, even though some on Thursday nights at 7 p.m. during Hey Bray J – may be a bit more hidden than others. I’m a support- Live in Studio. As always, make it a great one, Souther of many local artists, but here are a few to check west Louisiana! ally or severely physically abused. As difficult as it is to even think about this, Family & Youth ensures that children in need are not forgotten and they have qualified professionals in our region to assist them. More information may be found at www.fyca. org/childrens-advocacycenter/.
November 19, 2015 29
Orphan Annie 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Karaoke Night 9 p.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
Rapture 9 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
ENCORE 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Friday, Nov. 27
ENCORE 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Kay Miller & Aaron Horne 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Kory Fontenot 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC
It’s The Eye of The Tiger, It’s The Thrill of The Fight... I’ve never considered myself a huge sports fan, but there are a couple that I have found myself getting into as the years go by, namely, football and MMA. If you know anything about MMA, then you probably know what has prompted me to start off this usually artistically driven missive by talking about sports at this particular point in time. Of course, I’m talking about the big loss by UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champ Rhonda Rousey to now Champion Holly Holm. Rousey is a six-time international judo medalist and Olympic medalist who became the first woman signed to the UFC and its first female champion in 2012. With an undefeated 12-0 run up to the Holm fight, Rhonda was not only winning all of her fights, but she was almost always doing so in the first round, and more often than not in a short enough amount of time to start an online joke 30 November 19, 2015
DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
that she was the fighter who didn’t deliver videos of her fights, but gifs instead, usually using her Olympic judo skills to fling most of her opponents around like a rag doll at least once or twice per fight and ending five round fights in as little as 14 seconds. She is easily the single most impressive professional female fighter we’ve ever seen. Her loss, however, has stirred the fandom up quite intensely over the last few days, with many fans casting Rousey to the dogs and others standing up for the longtime champ. I found myself in the midst of such a conversation with fans who just so happened to be actors and musicians of various backgrounds. One friend (pianist Brian Trahan) commented that he was happy with the result due to the fact that Holm has come off as down to earth and humble while Rousey has been a bit of a braggart. Another friend, Charles “Skeeter” Lyons of Sinners, responded, “Wait a minute. You kinda have to be a bit of a braggart, don’t you?” With football, sure, you have your big stars, but at the end of the day, it’s not
Triggerproof 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Dance Night 9 p.m. – 4 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
Reece Sullivan 9 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd.
as much about the individual as it is the team. For fighters, it’s all about them and that bravado goes a long way in developing the kind of fan bases those fighters need. Honestly, it’s no different than musicians or performers. Just stepping on that stage, BY YOURSELF, means that you at least have to be arrogant enough to think that those people out there give a crap about what you are doing on that stage.
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Larry Tillery 9:30 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Saturday, Nov. 28 Kay Miller & Aaron Horne 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort
777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Flashback 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC Special Event Night 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
Jody James and Clay Parker 9 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd.
See The Man With The Stage Fright. Just Standin’ Up There To Give it all His Might...
Of course I’m paraphrasing here. I didn’t imagine that this conversation amongst a few buddies was going to lead to actual content, but what Skeeter said actually hit me with such a level of profundity that I knew that this was something that I was going to write about. As a performer, I personally know the struggle with the balance of ego vs. humility. Being brought up educationally in the world of opera, I know that attitude, self-perception and self-selling are huge in that sphere. That was the part of that genre that I didn’t feel comfortable with and, quite likely, one of the reasons I didn’t try to follow that path any further than what I did. But it is an ever-present part of that and any another musical arena: you have to believe that you’re good enough, you’re smart enough and doggone it people like you, even if you feel that you are completely out of your league, you have no clue what’s going on and you feel that everyone either outright hates or completely doesn’t care about what you do. As much as you need the confidence to perform well, you need the balance of humility to keep yourself grounded. It’s part of the great dynamic that is performance, which I think most consumVol. 7 • No. 15
ers often miss out on without having a real life connection to that process. Any good musical instructor will tell you that the first step in being good is learning what is bad. You must have the humility to know that it’s going to happen, but
ENCORE 9 p.m.– 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Rapture 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
the confidence to move right through it as if it never did. The same goes for fighters, or for musicians, or actors, or business owners, or sales people, or pretty much anyone, anywhere, doing anything. Everything we do that we do
Triggerproof 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Sinners and the Oddfellows 10 p.m. @ Luna Live 719 Ryan St. LC DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
well has to have its own sense of confidence and courtesy. If my musical and artistic training over the years has taught me nothing else, it taught me this, and it’s something that I treasure as one of the greatest lessons of my life.
Something’s Happening Here... There’s always something happening here and I wish I had the room to tell you about all of it. This time, I’m going to tell you about “WHO” is happening, and it seemed appropriate to start with everyone involved in the above-mentioned conversation and “WHERE” these cats can been seen and heard in the days to come. Charles “Skeeter” Lyons – Sinners: If you are an avid follower of JMLC, his name will be not be unknown to you. Sinners have been spotted at this years “Live at The Lakefront,” “Arts and Crabs Fest,” “Chuck Fest” and many more places around town and beyond. These Country, Soul and Rock N Roll” Swamp pop-ish Louisiana boys will be tearing it down at Luna Live, joined by Justin Martindale and Lafayette’s own Odd Fellows on Saturday, November 28. GO SEE THIS SHOW!!! Mark Henry - Solo Pianist /Accompanist: Every week, Mark can be heard playing organ at any number of area churches but will also make his way to Cigar Club and to Ember, who will be welcoming him again to the piano Tuesday, November 24 for happy hour starting at 5:30. GO SEE THIS SHOW!!! Brian Trahan - Solo Pianist: Though you will also see Bryan playing at Ember’s Happy Hour (his most recent gig was 11-16) he is also the house pianist at Mazen’s and can be heard there at least every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. If haute cuisine and elegant music are what’s on YOUR menu, GO SEE THIS SHOW!!! Joseph Boyette - Singer and Actor: While a talented pianist in his own right, Jo spends more time these days on the boards taking his years of California theater experience to the SWLA stages, most recently as the one and only Dr. Frankenfurter in the K.C. Productions’ The Rocky Horror Show that was performed last month at Central School. Though he has nothing upcoming at the moment, you are sure to see this talented fella cast in another great show very soon. When you do.... GO SEE THAT SHOW!!!!
Don’t You Know That You Are A Shooting Star... And this is by no means a comprehensive list of all such area musicians. There are plenty more that I hope to tell you about someday. Until then, follow your venues on social media and follow your favorite local artists to see when and where they will be playing. Help give that venue every reason in the world to bring your favorite artists back again. It’s good for the artist, it’s good for the venue and it’s good for your heart and spirit. Go be a part of the musicians and the music you love. Much love, all. I’ll See YOU at the show! November 19, 2015 31
Sunday, Nov. 29 Street Side Jazz Band 11 a.m. @ Luna Bar and Grill 710 Ryan St., LC Reed Planchard 3:30-7:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC
Lil’ Late Abe and The Little Chenier Band
2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
5 p.m. @ Mary’s Lounge 4017 E Broad St. Broad St. LC
Monday, Nov. 30
DJ Jose Mata 10 p.m.- 2a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort
Bryan Trahan 5:20 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Open Mic Night 9-midnight @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St., LC
Tuesday, Dec. 1 Chip Radford 5:20 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Tribute to the King 6 & 8 p.m. @ The Pavilion Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC David Joel 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Tribute to the King 7:30 p.m. @ The Pavilion Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Karaoke Night 9 p.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
Jazz Night with Mickey Smith 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 305, LC Dancing 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC
Friday, Dec. 4
Wednesday, Dec. 2
Faulk Brothers
Chester Daigle 5:20 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Tribute to the King 6 & 8 p.m. @ The Pavilion Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Rusty Yates 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC Tribute to the King 7:30 p.m. @ The Pavilion Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Chris Miller & Bayou Roots 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC
DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Talent Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC
Dance Night 9 p.m.- 4 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
Republiq Killawatts Acoustic Red 9:30 @ Jack After Dark Nightclub 9:30 @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Thursday, Dec. 3
Hank & the Cupcakes Midnight @ Luna Live 719 Ryan St. LC
Rusty Yates 32 November 19, 2015
Vol. 7 • No. 15
Vol. 7 • No. 15
November 19, 2015 33
CITY OF LAKE CHARLES VETERANS DAY CEREMONY It was a day of brotherhood and remembrance at the Lake Charles Civic Center on Saturday, November 7th as veterans and civilians alike gathered to thank those who served and remember those servants who have fallen. It was a heartfelt event from start to stop with a nod to our service men and women to truly be proud of!
1st Lt. Erik Carlson and Staff Sgt. James Ruiz
SP4 Clint Welch (U.S.A. ret) and Navy C.P.O. (ret) Harry Cormier
Dewey Fontenot 773rd Armored Division WWII and Nikki Perkins
Katelyn McCartney and 2nd Lt. Michael Northcutt
Abigail Fruge, Maggie Mott, Mayor Randy Roach, Sherry Kendrick and Kerrigan Vincent
2015 LOUISIANA THEATER FESTIVAL Young theater enthusiasts descended on the Central School for The Arts and Humanities for a day of workshops, study and performances led by theater professionals. Kudos to all the teachers and organizers that make this event happen here in the Lake City year after year. Bravo!
Madeline Furman, Greanna Bellard and Anna Fitkin
Jack Griswold and Leslie Israel 34 November 19, 2015
Korie Pennino and Kerry Onxley
Aaliyah Durga, Isiah Ruffin and Christian Able
Thomas Hadzeriga, Dr. Vicki Parish, Payton Hartwick and Phillip Moran Vol. 7 • No. 15
TASTING ON THE TERRACE The spread was nothing less than palatial at this classy, tannin-fueled fundraiser that took over L’Auberge Casino Resort’s Ballroom Terrace recently. Hosted by Family and Youth Counseling to benefit their Children’s Advocacy Center, these folk do outstanding work for our community!
Bob And Trish Phillips
Rhonda and Pat Thibodeaux
The Thrive Crew: Kristy Armand, Barbara VanGossen, Shonda Manuel and Haley Armand
Lesa Higgenbotham and Greg Ratliff
Pam Logan, Alison Jones and John Fear
AL ALLEMOND’S ‘PLACES” OPENING RECEPTION A world of colors awaits at Stellar Beans, where “Places,” a collection of works by local artist Al Allemond, is currently displayed. Attendees met Allemond and viewed the inspired pieces that are part of this showing. Stop by, pick up a Stellar Iced Latte and check out some of his beautiful work.
Tell ‘em Society Spice sent ya!
Christine Manuel, Madison Hartley and Bella Rose
Brenda and Jordan Polito, Artist Al Allemond and Joe Polito Vol. 7 • No. 15
Mike and Becky Benoit
Devini Doga and Shelby Parisey
Joseph and Michael Polito November 19, 2015 35