2 December 3, 2015
Vol. 7 • No. 16
December 3, 2015 • Volume 7 • Issue 16
715 Kirby St. Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 Fax: 337-990-0262
On Cover: Kathie Hanchey Krielow, owner of K.K. Jewelry Concepts
COVER STORY 20 Kathie Krielow Jewelry Concepts
www.thejambalayanews.com Publisher/Executive Editor Lauren Abate de Albuquerque lauren@thejambalayanews.com
Contributors Lisa Addison George Cline Mike McHugh Roger Miller Justin Morris Britney Blanchette Pitre Terri Schlichenmeyer David Yantis Sales sales@thejambalayanews.com
Graphics Art/Production Director Burn Rourk Business Office Manager Jeanie Rourk
REGULARS 6 We Are SWLA! 8
The Dang Yankee
8
Adoption Corner
8
Tips From Tip
8 10
10 Huntin’ Tales 13 A Ruff Life 14 This Functional Family 15 Stir Dat Pot FEATURES 5 And the Angels Sang ‘Nan’ 16 Be Safe When Decking the Halls
15 22
17 Healthy Holiday Eating 18 Take the Stress Out of Holiday Travel
THE SPICE OF SWLA 22 Delta Downs’ 8th Annual Trees of Hope 24 Event Guide 27 Bookworm Sez…
27
28 Nightlife Guide Legal Disclaimer The views expressed by The Jambalaya News columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Jambalaya News, its editors or staff. The Jambalaya News is solely owned, published by Jambalaya Media, LLC, 715 Kirby Street, Lake Charles Louisiana 70601. Phone (337) 436-7800. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. The Jambalaya News cannot be held responsible for the return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations, even if they are sent to us accompanied by a self-addressed envelope. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Copyright 2014 The Jambalaya News all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited.
Vol. 7 • No. 16
32 Justin Morris’s Lake Charles 36 Winter Beer Fest 37 Funbolaya
36
38 Society Spice
December 3, 2015 3
Christmas Vacation
Christmas vacation. It was a dream come true growing up. Not only did we have all the excitement of the holidays, we also had a whole lot of time off. No tests or homework to worry about (and believe me, I worried about them. I was an anxious kid). No getting up early in the morning in the bitter cold to walk to school. Instead, I could sleep late and Mom would have hot cocoa and honey and butter on toast waiting for me. The Christmas tree would still be up, and it smelled heavenly. All our gifts were probably still under the tree. There were leftovers in the fridge and an abundance of Italian sweets. And an
4 December 3, 2015
unfortunate quantity of fruitcake. Everybody made fruitcake back then, or sent it by mail in those tins. The only fruitcake I ever liked was my mother’s. That’s because she made it with chocolate chips and walnuts and cherries. None of that nasty citron and whatever else normally went into it. I think my Aunt Jeanette was the only person who ate it because she never met a sweet she didn’t like. We always did certain things on school vacation. Like going to the Kowloon, a huge Chinese restaurant on Route 1 in Saugus that’s still around, believe it or not. It was our School Vacation Restaurant. We’d always order
the PuPu Platter and Chicken Chow Mein with noodles and fried rice, because that’s what everyone ordered back then. These were the days before Thai food and sushi made the scene. But we loved it. My cousin Richard and I would grab the drink menu and read off the names of all the exotic cocktails: Blue Hawaii, Fog Cutter, Zombie. The bar was in another room and before we left we’d always sneak in. It was wildly tropical as most Chinese restaurant bars were, and we didn’t want to leave. The other thing we always did was visit our cousins Amy and Carrie who lived way out in the suburbs. There was a hill behind their house where we would go sledding. Their mother Gilda was our relative. She married a non-Catholic and Left the Church and it was rumored that they didn’t even believe in God. The girls never went to any kind of church and never had CCD classes. We’d go down to their basement to play Twister and listen to records and then we’d start to grill them with questions from our catechism. For example: “Who made you?” I asked Amy. “Beats me,” was her answer. You get the picture. Richard and I, the products of Catholic school,
were mortified and couldn’t wait to tell the family, who were already scandalized about the whole Lack of Religion Thing. We joked about it for years, but Amy was always a good sport about it. Another school vacation perk was staying up later than usual to watch TV. Three channels plus PBS and we still found something we wanted to watch. I don’t remember what time I had to be in bed as a kid, but 9 p.m. kind of sticks in my mind. I loved movies and there usually was one on every night, but it ended at 10. It was a big deal to be able to see the end of the movie. And then maybe get in bed and read a little. Pure joy. I loved those simple times, and when I talk to Richard we always reminisce about those days. They stand out clearer every year, it seems, and I remember more things that I have forgotten. The older I get, the bigger the little things become.
Lauren Abate de Albuquerque
Vol. 7 • No. 16
By Roger Miller Who is this Nan woman? Why do all her friends, family, and even the angels call her that? Why did I add Nan to what is my mother’s epitaph, “And The Angels Sang?” It’s simple. She earned it and she is my Angel. Nan, as her friends and family call her, was born Lorena Rideaux on April 23, 1912 to Octave and Naomi Rideaux. She’s 103 now and I made it to her 102nd birthday in Jennings, my hometown. Everyone in her community seeks her counsel, guidance, and political views. Her home is still a gathering place for coffee, homemade pies and her gracious Southern manner. In her house there is always warmth, laughter and fun. There is also consolation in the worst of times. Somehow, she makes each visitor feel so very special. She was also quite the dancer in her day. Miss Lorena has 12 children, 52 grandchildren and 80-plus great-great and great-great great grandchildren. Multiple generations ages two to 78 years of age that adore her. What could possibly be special then about an ole white boy and his girlfriend Rue making her birthday fete some 40 years after he’d seen her last? Again, it’s simple. She saved my life and my soul. How, you say? Let me explain. Back in 1966 I was in a horrendous car wreck. I went from a signed ready-togo-to West Point 220-pound athlete to a 137-pound wheelchair-bound mess who couldn’t even wipe himself. Miss Lorena had worked for our family as long as I could remember. She was not just some maid, she was on my country Doc Dad’s (my MD father) payroll as an assistant. Hell, my sister and I had to make our rooms immaculate every day before she ever appeared. She was chef, youthful adviser and most of all, mother’s confidant and friend. It broke my mother’s heart to just look at what was left of her son. She tried to help but the emotional pain in her big blue eyes surpassed my physical pain and that took some doing. So it fell to Miss Lorena to wheel me about, get me to the bathroom and even help bathe me. She obtained books off the shelf for me to read, changed the records I listened to that soothed my soul, even opened the shades for me to let sunlight in. Better yet, as I improved, she’d wheel me out onto the sun porch and then down the Vol. 7 • No. 16
three steps to the driveway so I could sit in in the sun. I cannot tell you how much sitting outside in the sun meant to this cripple. Then, there was the arduous journey back up and over steps to my room. For two years she did this without complaint. As I healed she helped me learn to walk again, her arm steadying me. From her arm, to a cane, to unsteady unassisted steps Miss Lorena was there. With every healthy step I take now, I hear her “Steady now,” and my mother Ruth’s “Pick up your feet, Roger,” “Stand up straight, Roger.” But enough of me. Miss Lorena Rideaux married Edward Pete, Sr.. He already had six children and they went on to have six kids of their own. After they had been married 65 years, Mr. Pete passed away. Judy Pete Antoine is one of the later six children. I taught with her at LaGrange Senior High School and she went on to become a guidance counselor at Oak Park Middle School. From her I learned that Miss Lorena was now the matriarch not only of her expansive family but everyone she comes in contact with. Known for her kindness, wisdom, and sound advice, Miss
Lorena is simply being our Nan. When we pulled up to her house last year it was as it has always been; a neat, well-kept home just a few houses down from the corner. It was as if I had entered a time capsule. I was so overwhelmed by emotion I almost forgot the white Easter Lily and gift card I brought her. Entering the house, there she was. She sure didn’t look 102 and damn sure didn’t act like it. And she was so much smaller, frail almost. She has never been a big woman, yet she was oh so very tall and strong to me back when I was infirm. As I entered her home we locked eyes and she said, “Ooh, Ooh, Ooh my Baby, my Baby, my Roger,” in her soft strong voice. That did it. Just look at the pic that goes with this article. I got down on my knees and she wrapped those frail arms around me with the strength of love they always held. In Nan’s arms again I was ashamed it had taken me 40 years to come and say thanks for saving me. I glanced up and those loving eyes melted me. I knew I was forgiven. Lesson learned again from someone I now call my Nan. Miss Lorena has four surviving children, Geraldine Watson of Jennings, Edward Pete of Beaumont, Melvin Pete of Vallejo, California and of course Judy Pete Antoine of Lake Charles. They all, in some way, retain the style, grace and continuous search for knowledge their mother instilled in them. Despite having little formal education Miss Lorena watches television with a view to improving her mind and is forever seeking new knowledge. She’s even in touch with the new technology. God and family have been the center of her life. Miss Lorena being a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church seems especially appropriate for her since she was my angel when I needed one so desperately. Love and thanks Nan, this Tale is for you. December 3, 2015 5
Reid Re-elected LAMP Board Richard Reid, VP for university advancement at McNeese State University and executive vice president for the McNeese Foundation, has been re-elected to a one-year term on the Board of Directors of Louisiana Asset Management Pool, Inc. and appointed to the investment advisory panel at the group’s annual meeting in Houma. LAMP was created in 1994 as a cooperative endeavor to assist local Louisiana governmental entities in the investment of their cash balances.
Northrop Grumman Donates $15,000 to SWLA On the Move Campaign Northrop Grumman Corporation presented a check in the amount of $15,000 to the SWLA Alliance. This donation is the most recent investment to the SWLA Alliance Foundation’s SWLA on the Move economic development campaign. The current plan of work for the campaign is to address the critical issues facing our region: workforce development, business recruitment, business retention and expansion, regional marketing, and enhancing the regional partnership.
Golden Nugget Chef Wins Landry’s Award
Charles Reed
Landry’s, Inc. has announced the winners of its 10th Annual Iron Chef Competition, an annual culinary contest in which the company’s most talented executive chefs from coast to coast competed for the title of “Landry’s Iron Chef.” Out of 31 chefs and 65 unique dishes that were presented to a panel of Landry’s executive judges, Lake Charles’ own Charles Reed of Golden Nugget Lake Charles Country Club was awarded “Best Overall Dish” and “Best Dessert” for his exceptional Chocolate Butterscotch Cake. Chef Reed is a 36-year member of the American Culinary Federation.
Entergy Supports Lake Charles Events Frank Shannon and Ron Childress presented Mayor Randy Roach with a check for $10,000 on behalf of Entergy in support of several of the City’s community events. Programs such as Downtown at Sundown, Red White Blue & You, and the Light up the Lake Christmas Celebration rely strictly on corporate sponsorships such as Entergy’s. For more information on community events go to www. cityoflakecharles.com.
Marty Thompson (2nd from left) and Michael Flatt (far right) of Northrop Grumman Corporation presented a check in the amount of $15,000 to George Swift, President/CEO of the SWLA Economic Development Alliance (far left) and Celia Case, 2015 Chair.
Lake Charles LNG Partners with SOWELA Lake Charles LNG and SOWELA Technical Community College announced a partnership that will make a difference by directly investing in technical education, preparing high school students for well-paying jobs in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) and related industries. Lake Charles LNG has provided a $250,000 grant to SOWELA that will be used to purchase equipment for the Calcasieu Parish School Board’s Lake Charles Boston Academy of Learning, which will introduce new classes required for industry-based qualifications in Process Technology and Industrial Instrumentation.
LAMC Physicians Recognized as 2015 Best Doctors
L to R: Frank Shannon, Mayor Randy Roach, Ron Childress 6 December 3, 2015
Lake Area Medical Center is proud to acknowledge 16 members and independent members of their medical staff who recently were recognized in the Louisiana Life magazine by their peers as a Best Doctors for 2015. Cardiovascular Disease: Carl Fastabend, M.D., Richard Gilmore, M.D. & Michael Turner, M.D. Family Medicine: Thomas Le Beau, M.D. & Arthur Primeaux, M.D. Obstetrics/ Gynecology: Eugene Fontenot, M.D. & Stanley Kordisch, M.D. Orthopaedic Surgery: Alan Hinton, M.D. & Thomas Ford, M.D. Otolaryngology (ENT): Keith De Sonier, M.D. & Mark Williams, M.D. Pathology: Reginia Burton, M.D., Stephanie Richard, M.D. & John Van Hoose, M.D.Pediatrics/Neonatal Medicine: Juan Bossano, M.D. Plastic Surgery: Ralph Colpitts, M.D. Vol. 7 • No. 16
Walnut Grove Donates to Noland Episcopal Day School Walnut Grove hosted the 3rd annual Walnut Grove 5K and Nutty Fun Color Run recently. The event raised $5,970 to benefit the Bishop Nolan Episcopal Day School’s Eagle Fund, which is dedicated to enriching the educational experience for EDS students and faculty.
G2X Energy Donates to Family & Youth Family & Youth Counseling Agency received $50,000 from G2X Energy. The funds were raised at Nora Popillion, Board Member; Julio Galan, President/CEO the 3rd Annual G2X FISH- of Family & Youth; Ann Barrilleaux, Family and Youth Board Chair; Tim Vail, CEO of G2X Energy; and Russell Pawlowski, O-RAMA, which was held Member of Family & Youth’s Board of Trustees. October 17 at Calcasieu Point Landing. Over 150 individuals participated in the tournament and enjoyed great food, fun, and entertainment while supporting the divisions of Family & Youth. Several participants graciously donated their winnings from the tournament back to Family & Youth. L to R: Candace Scroggs, Rev. Frances “Boo” Kay and Nikki Alston
McNeese Continues to Rank High in Louisiana McNeese State University ranks second among public and private schools in Louisiana for affordable tuition, fourth in the state for the best average starting salary for its graduates and fifth for the best college education value, according to SmartAsset, a New York City financial technology company. In ranking tuition in Louisiana, SmartAsset had LSU-Shreveport as No. 1, with McNeese, Southeastern Louisiana University, Grambling State University and the University of Louisiana of Lafayette rounding out the top five. In ranking the best average starting salaries in the state, Louisiana Tech was No. 1 with $49, 400, followed by LSU at $47,300, Xavier University of Louisiana at $44,600, McNeese at $43,600 and Tulane University at $43,100. In ranking the best college education values in Louisiana, SmartAsset again had Louisiana Tech at No. 1 followed by Tulane
Vol. 7 • No. 16
University, University of Louisiana at Monroe, University of Louisiana at Lafayette and McNeese.
SOWELA Honors Phillips66 The SOWELA Technical Community College Foundation recently honored Phillips66 at the Association of Fundraising Professionals – Southwest Chapter’s Philanthropy Day® celebration. Process Technology is SOWELA’s fastest growing program and due to the generosity of Phillips66 in donating $2 million to construct an education and training facility, the College can accommodate both student needs and employer demands.
KPLC-TV News Anchor Britney Glaser to be Recognized at Hector San Miguel Memorial Award Luncheon The Hector San Miguel Memorial Fund will honor KPLCTV morning news anchor and health reporter Britney Glaser at a luncheon to be held Dec. 8 at 11:30 a.m. in the L’Auberge Casino Resort Event Center. Former Louisiana Governor Kathleen Babineaux Blanco will deliver the keynote address. Fraser started her news career at KPLC in 2006 and currently serves as co-anchor of the highly rated 7News Sunrise show in addition to producing health segments for the station. In addition to bestowing the award on Glaser, the Hector San Miguel Memorial Fund has selected Jillian Corder as the recipient of this year’s Professional Conference Award. The fund will reimburse Corder, a KPLC-TV reporter, for her expenses to attend the 2016 Excellence in Journalism Conference to be held in New Orleans. As we mark the 10-year anniversary of these transformational storms, Gov. Blanco will provide a unique “behind the scenes’’ perspective of the international media circus during the chaotic days following Hurricanes
Britney Glaser
Katrina and Rita, and the state’s response in the wake of such unprecedented devastation. Hector San Miguel lost his battle with leukemia in December 2009 at the age of 51. Through hard-hitting investigative pieces, he earned numerous state and regional awards and the position of City Editor at the American Press. Each year, outstanding journalism is recognized in his name. Anyone wishing to donate to the award fund may do so by contacting the Community Foundation of SWLA (www. FoundationSWLA.org ) at (337) 491-6688 or dvaughan@foundationswla.org. December 3, 2015 7
All the Tees in China As the weather cools and the leaves fall, I am, as always, faced with a stunning realization. I have way too many T-shirts. It’s something I become painfully aware of as I unload them, one by one, from my dresser to make room for the winter clothes. It’s an annual ritual for me, just like bears hibernating, only longer in duration. I pack them into a giant bin where they will sit until spring, at which time I put then back into the dresser, where they will sit until fall— all, that is, except for the top shirt on each stack. Those are the only ones I ever end up wearing. The thought of deciding which out of over 100 T-shirts to wear on any given day is daunting to me, and so I just take the easy way out, grabbing whatever is on top. Once, I wore a Cinco de Mayo T-shirt on the Fourth of July, just because that’s what
happened to be on top. When my wife launders them, she puts these same shirts right back on top of the other shirts. One year, every Thursday was Cinco de Mayo. I seem to be stowing away more and more T-shirts every fall, this despite the fact that I tell myself, “No more!” each time I go through the ritual. “Why don’t you give some of them to Goodwill?” my wife asked one time as she overheard me complain. “After all, you couldn’t wear all of those in a single summer even if you changed shirts every hour.” It seemed like a good idea, but as I started going through them, there wasn’t one that I could bear the thought of giving away. This included any of the 17 “Sanitation Nation” shirts that I was given for each weekend that I volunteered to clean the potties at the Kerrville Folk Festival.
“They’re all exactly the same,” my wife commented. “Yes, but they’re proud mementos of my service to the festival,” I replied. “For cleaning potties?” she asked. “What, are you afraid someone might actually buy one and go around pretending he was on the Kerrville Potty Patrol? Better chance Goodwill uses them to clean their own bathrooms.” It was the same with my two St. Patrick’s Day shirts, this despite the fact that the day only comes once a year, and last year I wore a Mardi Gras shirt on the occasion. And then there are the tiedyes. For these, I had dedicated an entire dresser drawer. “The one that looks like you lost a battle with a chili cheese dog,” my wife chided. “Surely you could do without it.” But she was wrong. I did find one tee that I
could get rid of. It was one that paid homage to Ray Rice, the ex-running back that went down in flames over a domestic abuse scandal. Once among my most prized possessions, it had suddenly taken on the appeal of one of those self-depreciating “Old Fart” shirts, the kind that makes you wonder what institution left its gate open when you see someone on the street in one. And so I’m left with enough T-shirts to outfit the entire populace of a large Asian country. (Too bad if they don’t like the same bands and sports teams as me.) I’ll probably have twice as many by the time I die. I’ll let my wife pick out which one to bury me in. Mike McHugh is a syndicated columnist from Lake Charles. You can follow him on his blog at thedangyankee.com or on Twitter @ dang_yankee.
Norm is a beagle mix that is approximately a year old and weighs 25 pounds. He is looking for a forever home of his own. He is a playful puppy and loves to play with his human or other dogs. He is trained in basic commands, is crate-trained, house-trained, is fine with cats and loves children. Norm is neutered, microchipped, up to date on shots, is heartworm negative and on heartworm prevention. If you are interested in meeting this sweet boy, then please call Cyndi at (337) 496-9911 or email c.gwatney@yahoo. com. A vet reference and a home visit are required. 8 December 3, 2015
Vol. 7 • No. 16
keep the Christmas shopping season as safe as possible for patrons of Prien Lake Mall, the Target Shopping Center and other retail areas. This is the time of year when the evildoers relish in taking advantage of unwary shoppers whose minds are not focused on personal safety. We wholeheartedly salute these officers and deputies for the diligent work of keeping the unpleasantness of the bad guys to a minimum. It would make their jobs easier if we do our part. Take a look when exiting the building, check to see if anything looks suspicious or irregular and report things that just don’t look right. It is far better to be a little extra cautious than to be regretful for something that may have been easily avoided. Pay attention because there are those out there that are paying attention to you.
Suprmarket Roundup
New Restaurants! Having celebrated another wonderful Thanksgiving that included a warm family gathering with too much good food, we should now be focusing our thoughts on what we all should be thankful for. The south end of Lake Charles is developing some new and exciting restaurants. We had mentioned Jean’s Creole Cooking on Elliot Road in a previous column, but since then we have the much-needed La Voglia (Italian) open on Nelson Road and the sports bar Walk-Ons Bistreaux start-up on the Gulf Highway. There are always problems associated with new openings, but both of these locations have been working diligently on keeping them to an absolute minimum. We have made several visits to each and welcome adding them to our dining experiences. Downtowners are currently blessed with the new Blue Dog Café booming away and Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp bringing in the crowds on Ryan Street. Looks like Lake Charles is gastronomically doing very well.
Try ‘The Big Easy’ This year, I had to replace my oil-less Infrared deep fryer after a goodly number of turkeys, chickens and assorted roasts were deliciously prepared in the gadget. Finally, the well-used piece of equipment was ready for the trash heap. My new unit seems to work even better than the old one, even though they were exactly the same as far as I could discern. Not having to deal with the cooking oil and the hazards associated with hot oil, (not to mention the disposal of several gallons of the stuff and a potential visit from the fire department) makes this a no-brainer for me. They were priced around $150 when I first came upon them and now you see them on sale for $80 or so. They are called “The Big Easy” and manufactured by Char Broil, if you want to research them for yourself.
We have fully moved into the holiday season and many of our gatherings feature adult beverages. We have checked the pricing on several liquid favorites for our survey this issue. Prices were obtained on Sunday, November 29 and reflect the posted price on the shelf where the product was placed for sale. The stores we checked were Albertsons-Ryan Street, Market Basket-Lake Street, Kroger-McNeese Street and Walmart-Nelson Road. Pennsylvania Dutch Eggnog, 750 ml bottle and 1.75 ml bottle: Albertsons $9.99/$16.99, Market Basket $9.39/$16.95, Kroger $8.99/$15.99, Walmart $9.97/ could not find 1.75 ml. Crown Royal, Canadian Whisky, 80 proof, 750 ml bottle & 1.75 ml bottle: Albertsons $29.99/$45.99, Market Basket $28.99/$54.45, Kroger $30.99/$51.99, Walmart $26.64/$49.64. Smirnoff Vodka, 80 proof, 750 ml & 1.75 ml bottle: Albertsons $13.49/$19.99, Market Basket $12.99/$20.15, Kroger $12.99/$18.99, Walmart $12.97/$19.97. Bacardi Superior Rum, 80 proof, 750 ml & 1.75 ml bottle: Albertsons $12.99/$20.99, Market Basket $13.19/$21.99, Kroger $16.49/$19.99, Walmart $11.97/$19.97. Coors Light Beer, 12-pack, 12-ounce bottles: Albertsons $9.99, Market Basket $10.89, Kroger $9.99, Walmart $9.99.
Holiday Shopping Safety Again this year, both the Ward 3 Marshal’s office and the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff Department are helping to Vol. 7 • No. 16
December 3, 2015 9
Photos by Chris Romero
The Golden Rules All the ill omens were in place. There was a full moon, high water, a waterfowl migration stuck in the Dakotas and no duck-pushing cold front anywhere near. Despite the duck sirens calling in chorus “Stay home, Stay home,” my former student, LaGrange High School Class of ‘91 and now CPA Greg Naquin, extended an invite to me to hunt with him, his teenage son Brandon and Golden Retriever Candy. I truly love to hunt with former students or teenagers or my beloved Goldens. Since I now had all three in one package, the ill-omened chorus fell on deaf ears. We left Lake Charles, headed south through the Cameron Prairie National Reserve, east past Rockefeller Reserve and turned south off Highway 82 into the Cameron Parish School Board section Greg leased. That the end of the road and launch was under a foot of water showed me just how high the water was. The bateau was secured by winch and up on PVC pipe or it would have been afloat. It appeared we had to shift our focus from puddle to diving ducks. We loaded up and boated down the trail to Greg’s blind. 10 December 3, 2015
He got points here from this old guide as the boat hide and blind was hidden by local natural brush and had as low a silhouette as it could have. With Candy on the dog hide and us tucked away into the pit blind, we were ready for the hunt to begin. Candy wasn’t much at first sight. My vision of Golden Retrievers was that of my Prez or Cal, lean, sleek fieldhardened dogs. Candy appeared to be a squat couch potato version despite her days afield. She had to be helped up into and out of the boat and was even attached by leash to the dog hide. Worse yet, there was her shock collar that I knew full well was only used on the most disobedient of dogs, or so I thought. But hey, we were there to hunt and the distancesoftened shotgun blasts from other blinds announced shooting time. Greg agreed on the pre-hunt ill omens. We both thought we were in for a long, uneventful morning. Then, a flock of ducks (scaup) swooped in so low over the water they had to rise up over the levee to surprise us. Six shots later there were three scaup down, no thanks to the old pro who
just plain missed twice. Greg unleashed the “couch potato” and sent her out to fetch. She had to swim the whole way out and back twice, but she returned with the two birds unwinded. Then she topped it off with that happy Golden smile I knew so well from my two re-
trievers. One wounded scaup had swum off about a hundred yards from us despite what seemed like a hundred shots from us to finish the bird. He fell into that “we’ll check for him on the way out” category. Soon five teal screamed by behind us but youth prevailed
Candy, Brandon & I Vol. 7 • No. 16
as Brandon deftly dropped one about 30 yards out. He sent Candy “The Couch” for another swim out and back with the bird. Waggly tail happy on her dog hide she smiled again to the atta-girls from us. Three swims out and three ducks retrieved with little direction from Brandon or Greg. Maybe she was more than just a Chow Hound. What ensued next was a rather long who, what, when, where and why on “The Couch Potato.” Seems I had evaluated Candy, whom I kept calling Sandy, as well as I shot so far that morning. She came out of the Beaumont area from a hunting line that required a test of the owner. If and only if he passed was Greg allowed to actually become Candy’s owner and partner afield. I’m from the Richard Wolters’ Water Dog school of retriever owners. Hunting dogs aren’t just pets, they’re family and are treated as such. Greg and Brandon obviously agreed as we chatted about Candy. Educated now on Candy, I was anxious to see just how wrong I had been. Soon, another flock of low ridding scaup swung through and almost out of the decoys before we could react. Five shots later there were three down. Brandon had two, Greg one. Roger his usual none. No problem as an unleashed Candy quickly swam out two times and back with the birds. The problem was the third scaup. Despite a barrage from us to end it, the surely flack vested bird swam off and by the time Candy could head out the duck was a hundred yards away. Greg was reluctant to risk such a long retrieve but Candy wasn’t. She headed out with the gusty SE winds across her so she had to sight not scent the Vol. 7 • No. 16
bird. She caught up with the scaup but not before it dove, swam and then surfaced yards away several times before Candy finally captured the bird. Now came the equally hard part: Swimming with just her head above the water, she had to travel the 150 yards back to us with the duck in her mouth. She had her chance to dump the bird on the levee or the whip grass island. She didn’t drop the bird until Brandon held out his hand for it. With a 100-plus yards swim out, a frantic chase and the 150 yards back with the bird in mouth Candy had made the best retrieve I’ve seen in the last 25 years. She just smiled that un-winded golden smile. We continually watched for the flocks of gadwall, pintail, and teal that had been so abundant before the deluge. The sky was unusually empty of high birds; our hope was in something, anything low. Then a flock of levee high teal snuck in and once more we blasted away almost too late. We managed to take out two. I think I hit one of them. Maybe. The only sure thing was Candy. She retrieved. The shock collar was there simply to assure Greg he could get her back if she was out of whistle range. He had lost a dog once because the retriever couldn’t hear the come-back whistle. The dog returned to the blind some ten days later on Christmas Eve to a relieved Greg and an even more elated retriever. Never again would Greg lose his retriever. I’d had my once-in-a lifetime retriever, Prez. Greg and the Naquin family have theirs. And Candy is no “Couch Potato,” she’s the Golden who made a very special day afield truly exceptional. Candy rules.
Shane, Roger, Jeanette & Glenn
December 3, 2015 11
12 December 3, 2015
Vol. 7 • No. 16
Keep Your Dogs Safe This Holiday Season Keeping your dogs safe during the holiday season can be “ruff.” There’s a big tree inside your home, lots of shiny ornaments, wrapped gifts and lights that all resemble toys; lots of food that can be harmful to dogs if consumed, fireworks, etc. The following tips can keep your fur babies safe this season. I’ve said this before, but always remember that you can’t stop unwanted behavior unless you catch it. So, if you’re not able to watch your dogs 100 percent, set them up for success. Placing your tree in the corner of a room, with a barrier around it (such as a Pet Yard) will deter your dog from attempting to chew gifts, ornaments, lights, etc.--which can all cause dangerous injuries if ingested. When you’re not able to supervise your dogs, keep them in a separate room or in a kennel. Also, be sure they have plenty of interactive toys to play with, and that you’re walking them daily to prevent boredom and/or anxiety. When it comes to food, there are lots of things that we eat that are beneficial to dogs. However, there are some that are quite dangerous. We all know that chocolate and alcohol can be harmful if your dogs consume them, but did you know that grapes and raisins can cause acute renal failure? That’s right. Keep the grapes and raisins away from your pups. Vol. 7 • No. 16
Raw onions, raw garlic, xylitol, macadamia nuts, avocados, and bones (especially poultry bones) should be kept from your dogs as well. Be sure to be mindful of ingredients in prepared dishes. For instance, nutmeg can cause hallucinations when ingested by a dog, so don’t share your apple pie, gingerbread cookies, etc. Also, many steak sauces use raisin paste, so keep meat with certain sauces away, too. When it comes to decorations, holly, poinsettia, and mistletoe are all toxic to dogs. So, be sure to keep decorations using these plants out of your dogs’ reach. So, what do you do when the New Year rolls around, and all the loud fireworks come with it? If your dogs are fearful of fireworks (or any loud noise), there are plenty of things you can do to help them feel safe and secure. First, be proactive, rather than reactive. You can find plenty of videos and audio recordings of fireworks online. Play them a few times a day (starting at a low volume and short duration) while giving your dogs really good tasting treats (boiled chicken, all-natural hot dog wieners, etc.). The entire time the video or sound clip is playing, keep administering the treats. The moment the recording stops, immediately stop giving the treats. Every few days, gradually increase the duration and volume. If you’re consistent, and patient, over
time your dogs’ perception of firework noises will be changed because they’ve associated the noises with great stuff ! It is VERY important to move at a very slow pace. If your dog won’t eat the food, she could be too afraid due to the noise playing at too high of a volume or too long of a duration. Also, vary your treats. Sometimes use chicken, other times, string cheese, and then, maybe wieners. Mixing it up will add more positive associations with the noise. When the actual fireworks begin firing off on New Year’s Eve, do the same thing. Make it as fun as possible by distracting Fido with lots of treats, toys, and games. There are a few other things you can do to help ease their anxiety during the fireworks. Anxiety Wraps and Thundershirts calm dogs by the swad-
dling action they provide, and by hitting key pressure points. Pheromone collars, diffusers, and sprays also help, and can be found at your local pet stores. You can order aromatherapy collars online, and many pet owners actually claim that they’ve experienced great results with them. Last, don’t forget about the importance of a daily walk! Physical and mental stimulation will ease a tremendous amount of anxiety. A tired dog is not a stressed dog. Happy Holidays, everyone! I hope you and your pets have a great time, and stay safe!! Happy Training! Britney (Blanchette) Pitre, CPDT-KA BONS CHIENS Dog Training, LLC. 337.422.4703 www.bonschiens.com Facebook.com/BonsChiensDogTraining
December 3, 2015 13
Memories: My Grandparents The older I get, the more I seem to reminisce and feel deep appreciation for all the years that I had with my grandparents. Not everybody gets to grow up with grandparents in their lives so I know how fortunate I was. We didn’t use all of the cutesy or fancy names back then. You know, like Pop-Pop or Grams or Pa-Paw or Grammy. I simply called them Grandmother and Granddad, and they were just wonderful people! My grandmother, Elise,
Elise and George
14 December 3, 2015
had some mad sewing skills and she made my two sisters and I lots of clothes when we were growing up. Things like adorable tops, dresses, and even tennis outfits. She was a great cook and always had something going on the stove. When you walked in their house, you would usually find her in the kitchen. And make no mistake; it was her kitchen. If any of us would try to help, she would shoo us away. When we would have a big get-together at their home,
nothing made her happier than whipping up favorite dishes. I would ask her what the secret was to some of her specialties and she would say, “I guess it’s just all of that extra love I put into them for my family!” She loved tending to my grandfather, cooking for him, and keeping a lovely home. It was a different era back then and she never even got a driver’s license; she would always say she really had no need to drive. Each afternoon, she would
start preparing a delicious menu so that she could put a hot meal on the table shortly after my grandfather walked in the door from work. His favorite meal was her roast and rice and gravy. Before he got home, she would fix her hair, and put on some lipstick and perfume and be ready to greet the love of her life when he arrived. He was always appreciative of all that she did for him, their family, and their home. My grandfather, George, was on the quiet side and I never heard him speak ill of anyone. He got up every day and faithfully went to the same job for years and years. The happiest I ever saw him was when, after talking about it for a few years, he and my grandmother finally added a patio to the back of their home. In the years after it was completed, we had many happy family get-togethers in that spot. When we were kids, just about every time we left their home, my grandfather would slip a dollar in each of our hands on the way out and say, “Here’s a little mad money!” Even as a child, I loved getting mail and my grandmother would send me lovely postcards from places where they traveled for my grandfather’s job and I really looked forward to them. Although they lived in Sulphur, the summer that I was 9 years old, I spent several magical weeks with them in Alabama and another summer I enjoyed spending time Vol. 7 • No. 16
with them in Florida. My grandparents were modest people who grew up during the Great Depression. They enjoyed traveling, playing dominoes and cards together, and spending time with family. They proudly raised two daughters and two sons, and had 10 grandchildren, and 12 greatgrandchildren. Three of their great-granddaughters, including my daughter, have my grandmother’s name, Elise, as their middle names in her honor. My grandfather died at 72 years old in 1985. But my grandmother confided in me not long after his death that she still talked to him every day of her life and would tell him things about her day and share what was going on with the grandchildren as well as other things in her life. We were blessed to have many more years with my grandmother who passed at the age of 91 in 2002. She was so proud of all of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and had a special relationship with each of us. From the time that I made her a plaster apple and painted it a shiny red when I was in first grade, until after her death, it hung in her cheerful kitchen. Oh, the memories I have of the people I was fortunate enough to have as grandparents! I wouldn’t trade those priceless memories and the years we had with those two treasures for anything in this world. Lisa Addison wrote her first short story when she was 7 years old and hasn’t stopped writing since. She has two young children, enjoys trying new recipes, and loves going on adventures with her kids. She blogs at: http://swlamama.wordpress. com. Vol. 7 • No. 16
4 cups peeled chopped apples 1 cup chopped pecans
What You’ll Do
Apple Pecan Cake Hello Everybody! Happy Holidays! When I’m invited to a Christmas party, the host usually has the main dishes and sides taken care of. That’s why I like to arrive with a yummy dessert in one hand and a good bottle of wine in the other. This cake we’re about to get into was one of my Dad’s all-time favorites. He loved Christmas, mainly because his birthday was two days later. I think it was his way of getting more desserts (Dad had developed quite a
“healthy” sweet tooth). This is a really a good one to have in your recipe box. First thing you are going to need is a 10-inch tube pan or bundt pan. Once you’ve secured that, let the fun begin!
What You’ll Need 3 eggs 1 ½ cups sugar ½ cup brown sugar 1 cup vegetable oil 2 teaspoons vanilla 2 ¾ cups flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking soda 2 teaspoons cinnamon
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and then slowly add the sugars, beating until well blended. Add the oil and vanilla and beat well. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon, and then add to the egg mixture, stirring until well blended. Next, stir in the apples and pecans. Pour into a greased and floured 10-inch tube or bundt pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour and 20-30 minutes. Remove to a wire rack to cool for about 5 minutes, and then transfer out of the pan onto the rack to cool completely. There is no need of an icing or frosting with this cake, but feel free to serve with cool whip or whipped topping. It’s great with a nice cup of coffee spiked with a little of your favorite Bourbon. Enjoy with friends and family and don’t forget to... Stir Dat Pot!!
December 3, 2015 15
Don’t Take a ‘Vacation’ when Decking the Halls! When Clark Griswold sets out to create a festive holiday atmosphere in the movie classic, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, all havoc breaks loose. He staples his sleeve to the gutter, loses his balance on the ladder, slides off the roof and can’t get the 25,000 twinkling lights to work due to faulty wiring. Once the lights do work, he causes a power shortage due to the amount of electricity they use. Don’t take a “vacation” when decking the halls! Entergy reminds you to be safe and save energy when lighting up the season. Check out these important tips:
OUTDOORS
•Make sure the lights used are designated for outdoor use and the cords are not worn or frayed. •Use a non-conducting fiberglass or wooden ladder when working with strings of lights, and stay clear of all overhead wires. •Do not replace bulbs when the electricity is on. •Never let light bulbs touch flammable materials such as plastic or dry grass and leaves.
16 December 3, 2015
•For outside use, work only with three-wire grounded extension cords. •Use rubber gaskets in light sockets or hang sockets downward to keep water out. •Keep connections and lights off the ground by hanging them over wooden stakes.
INDOORS
•If using a live tree, make sure it is fresh and green, with needles that are hard to pull from the branches. •Place the tree in a stand with water, well away from heaters or the fireplace. Check water daily. •Examine all lights before putting them on the tree or using them in other home decorations. Do not use lights with frayed wiring or loose sockets, and make sure they have been tested for safety by an independent testing laboratory. •For greater efficiency and safety, use smaller LED lights, which burn cooler and use about 75 percent less energy than traditional bulbs. •Make sure all light sockets have bulbs in them. Children are fascinated by lights and could put their fingers in empty sockets. •Keep bulbs from touching tree branches. Never burn candles on or near the tree and never use flammable decorations. •Never use lights on a metallic tree. If the lights become faulty, the entire tree could be electrified. •Be careful not to overload extension cords, outlets or even whole circuits in the house. •Turn off decorative lighting when you leave the room. •Place wires where they cannot trip anyone. Do not run them under rugs. “Our most important message to you is to respect electricity at all times,” said Sheila Pounders, director of customer service. “Following safety guidelines can make sure you and your family stays safe and gets to enjoy this time with those you care about.”
Vol. 7 • No. 16
Healthy Holiday Eating
‘Tis the season to overindulge. Everyone is celebrating, and there are parties and dinners to attend. Enjoy yourself, but don’t go overboard. These tips can help: If you are going to a big party or dinner, snack on healthy food throughout the day. By doing this, you’ll be less likely to overeat when you go out. Don’t fill your plate with rich foods only. Try a little of bit everything, including fruit and vegetables. This way, you’ll still get to indulge while receiving valuable nutrients and vitamins. Limit sugary foods. They make us crave yet more rich and sugary foods. Know when to walk away from the sweet table. And don’t forget that alcohol is fattening ,too. It contains calories and lots of them. If you know you’re going to have a few cocktails at an upcoming party, abstain during the week. Don’t feel as though you have to say yes to everyone that offers you food and drink. If you are not hungry, then simply say so. And leave what you don’t want. You are not obligated to clean your plate. When you feel full, stop eating. Simple.
Vol. 7 • No. 16
December 3, 2015 17
Take the Stress Out of Holiday Travel
Travel is stressful enough. Throw in the craziness of the holidays and your tension level can go through the roof. The following tips will help:
Avoid peak travel dates You can generally guess which dates will be the most expensive for travel (consider which travel days would allow you to maximize long weekends without taking too many days off work -- and that’s probably when everyone will want to go). If you’re not sure, use a search engine that lets you put in flexible travel dates; these will show you which date combinations will give you the best deal.
Shop around Whether you’re using sites like Travelocity, Priceline or
Kayak, comparison shopping has never been easier than it is right now. During peak travel season, make sure you understand all of your options. For many of us, price isn’t the only or even the most important factor, especially during the holidays. You may also find improved fares and travel times using the “search adjacent days or airports” features found on many websites
Know your airports At this time of year, checking alternate airports can really make a difference. You will save both time and money with parking, rental cars, traffic and nearby hotels
. Remember that smaller airports see fewer flights and, typically, fewer delays – which is very important during the holiday travel season.
Plot connections carefully When booking flights, check your search results carefully for sufficient time during layovers, and build in some time for flight delays and weather issues. The winter months can bring peak travel delays, and your connection is more likely to
be jeopardized. Really tight connections are disasters waiting to happen. If possible, see if you can connect in airports in warmer climates— where there is much less of a chance of weather delays.
Pack wisely In the past, you may have been able to fit everything into your carry-on without having to check any baggage, However, the TSA rules about liquids and gels make this more difficult. You can bring liquids and gels in 3.4-ounce or smaller containers, packed within a single, quart-size, ziptop, clear plastic bag. If you want to bring more than the 3.4-ounce amount, you’ll have to pack the items in your checked luggage. And remember, most airlines are now charging travelers a fee for checking any bags on domestic flights.
Use the web Whenever possible, print your boarding passes at home, use check-in kiosks or even pull up your boarding pass on your smartphone. And speaking of packing, if you buy most of your gifts online, have them shipped directly to your destination. Even if you don’t, ship them ahead anyway. This will cut down on luggage and the risk of them getting lost.
Travel early or late As a rule, airports are least congested at “off ” times. Delays are far less likely for morning flights, and the crowds at airports usually lessen as the afternoon and evening peak passes. 18 December 3, 2015
Vol. 7 • No. 16
CPSO Implements Annual
Robbery Prevention Mobilization at Prien Lake Mall The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff ’s Office has implemented the
Annual Robbery Prevention Mobilization in an effort to deter crime and assist shoppers in the parking lot at the Prien Lake Mall during the holiday season now through December 26, seven days a week from noon until one hour past mall closing. The deputies will be in marked ATVs and patrol cars in the parking lot, as well as manning the CPSO Mobile Command Center located in the front parking lot of the mall on Prien Lake Road. Deputies, who will be wearing orange Sheriff ’s Office traffic vests during the evening hours, will be available to assist shoppers with such things as helping them find their car, jump starting their car if the battery is dead, changing a flat, assisting employees and shoppers by walking them to their car after dark, or any other assistance they can provide. “The CPSO Robbery Prevention Mobilization has always been instrumental in not only assisting shoppers with their problems and concerns, but keeping crime to a minimum at a time of year when it is usually on the rise,” says Sheriff Tony Mancuso. “We are very pleased to be able to offer this service to the public.” CPSO deputies are working this special detail to provide assistance to the public during the busy holiday season. They are not hired by the mall or nor will they be doing security for the mall. However, the presence of law enforcement on the premises is expected to deter crime in the parking lot. This is the twelfth year the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff ’s Office has provided this service to the shoppers in the parking lot at the mall. Deputies will also be conducting regular visits to all convenience stores in the parish during the holiday season to check with store clerks to see if they are experiencing any problems or if they have any special needs. Also, deputies will be conducting these same checks with store clerks at businesses in the Southgate Shopping Center on Ryan Street, the Power Center on Highway 14, and the Target Shopping Center on Prien Lake Road in Lake Charles.
Vol. 7 • No. 16
December 3, 2015 19
I am consistently amazed by the talent just overflowing in our little city. Artists, writers, musicians…so many people, young and old, with something wonderful to contribute to our part of the world— and beyond. Kathie Krielow is one of these exceptional people. A whirlwind of creativity, she’s been crafting her distinctive jewelry for 26 years. A former hair stylist, Krielow has Shreveport roots, where she owned and operated a hair salon. In 1990, she divorced and moved to Lake Charles, where she remarried. She soon found that she needed something meaningful to do. “I had too much time on my hands, which forced my creative juices to take busted, outdated ‘stuff ’ from the jewelry boxes of locals and return a 5-strand custom one-of-a-kind piece for $35,” she says. “But that’s how it got started— through boredom. I needed to be productive.” But she soon learned that there were some drawbacks to her new endeavor. “This was a very expensive hobby if you wanted to learn metal work, which was a long-term goal of mine,” she continues. “Everything that is available now that makes jewelry-making so simplistic was not afforded to me 26 years ago.” Discouraged by what was available to work with at the time, Krielow actually pioneered a product called PMC—precious metals clay—that is now used
20 December 3, 2015
worldwide. As she jumped into “Earthworks Jewelry by Kathie Krielow,” she got the word out by doing craft shows. “I had a my own showroom in the Dallas Market Center and sold all over the country,” she recalls. “My husband, who was my early backer, was a huge believer in a worldwide conquest of Earthworks, but my gypsy roots couldn’t take four cities in one week. Sometimes, it was a harsh ride.” After completely losing two studios within a year and a half due to Hurricanes Rita and Ike, Krielow eventually bought 525 12th St. in 2010. It’s the former site of Doctor Jolly’s veterinarian clinic—and she is thrilled with her decision. “There was a turf war going on between people who were not contributing to the Historic District and people who were trying to reinvest in it, so I took a chance and bought the building,” she smiles. “I love the location and I love my building. I’m so happy here.” Along the way, her business ultimately became Kathie Krielow Jewelry Concepts. Her studio is a sanctuary filled with plants, crystals, artwork and a mellow dog--a perfect backdrop to
her unique items. In the back is her workroom, which looks a bit like the laboratory of a mad scientist, if the mad scientist worked with metal and clay and glittering objects. “Inspiration comes from everywhere and everyone,” she says. “I was born artistic, so I see the world in patterns, colors, smells and feelings. I heard Lisa Marie Presley once say she that needed to be in a place of sorrow and sadness to write her songs. Total opposite for me. I need to be up and happy and be surrounded with good energy, so it’s real important to keep myself that way so I can continue to create. When I’m sad I’m just useless.” Krielow says that while inspiration totally comes from spontaneous bursts “that just blow my brain up on some days” other times, nothing comes. “On those days, I jump in the car with James, my travel friend, and spend time in God’s studio hiking, digging rocks and trespassing,” she laughs. “I come back creatively rejuvenated. It’s hard to explain. Laughter and nature can really recharge me.”
Vol. 7 • No. 16
Her Amazing Work Since 2005, Krielow has been creating the initial signature-style Kathie Krielow Concept Medallion. “Vicky Arceneaux, a friend and longtime supporter asked me to do a big round medallion with a V on it. It was like a medallion I had done, but she wanted a V on it and I just didn’t connect with it. But I adored her, so I did it.” This special request started the Initial Collection. “After months of pondering how to make this special and fun for me, I was passing my grandmother’s graveyard thinking of her, and I looked at the letters on old headstones and it clicked,” she recalls. “Some days, I’d walk three hours and find four letters that worked. So that’s how the initial thing started. An extremely large silver loop (that you can interchange with other necklaces) with a large bronze chunky relief initial from Louisiana graveyards.” After a year in the field developing the collection, Krielow took initial orders once a year. But its popularity has grown into an epidemic of copycats claiming this idea as theirs, so she’s retiring her initials. “Dealing with copycats on a legal level is only worth it if they have anything worth suing over. Usually they don’t, so I move on,” she shrugs. I’ve seen some KK knock-offs, and trust me, she has nothing to worry about. “I have some initials left, but they are moving fast,” she says. “I’m proud of the collection. There is much more inside me that can be created, so with beautiful respect I say goodbye to this wonderful concept. I totally appreciate all the loyal support and the people that bought my original initials.” Krielow rarely does special requests. “After a hairdressing career of taking special orders 12 hours a day, I just want
Vol. 7 • No. 16
to release what’s inside me and create,” she enthuses. “It just makes me free. It makes me happy to do what I want to do and if somebody doesn’t want it or like it, it’s a risk I’m willing to take. As it is, I’m taking a risk on a special order. The customer may be unhappy and so will I. I would certainly make a lot more money if I did take special orders, but I just don’t operate that way. I’ve got to be passionate about it first.” Of course, there are pros and cons in owning a business. “My businesses have allowed me to connect with some gifted people since 1980,” Krielow says. “I truly have met some amazing people from all over the world from hairdressing (Martina Navratilova used to come to the salon in Dallas) to doing jewelry, so that’s been fantastic. Some of the people whose hair I cut in the ‘80s collect my jewelry, so the connection just keeps going on for decades. I’m just really blessed.” But some days, Krielow says she lacks patience for an important aspect of her business. “I’d rather be creating all the time than standing in front selling,” she admits. “My weak point is my sales ability, quite honestly. But without being in front selling, I don’t meet the amazing people, so you know it’s a Catch 22. But that’s the struggle with every artist -- trust me!” This talented woman has a zest for life that’s catching. I can’t wait to see what she’s going to create next. “My formula is simple: Inspiration first, then passion, then creation. If it sells, I’m blessed. If it doesn’t, I enjoyed the ride crafting it and learning from it.” Kathie Krielow Jewelry Concepts 525 12th St, Lake Charles, La 70601 Wed-Fri 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Sat. 11 a.m.- 1-30 p.m. (337) 491-0637 kathiekrielow@yahoo.com Check out her Facebook page, which displays recent and vintage handcrafted works from 1991-to date. Random discounts are posted on impromptu sales that are run regularly.
December 3, 2015 21
Delta Downs’ 8th Annual Trees of Hope Set to Light Up the Holiday Season
A popular holiday tradition has returned to Delta Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel, as the Vinton, Louisiana property hosts the 8th Annual “Trees of Hope” display. Each year, nonprofit organizations from across Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas are invited to decorate 12-foot trees displayed in the Promenade at Delta Downs. Members of the public then have the opportunity to visit the display and vote for their favorite charity. Delta Downs will award a total of $10,000 to the participating nonprofits, including a first-place prize of $5,000. “While it’s always great to help out many worthwhile charities in our community, Trees of Hope provides something else as well: A beautiful display that the entire community can enjoy,” said Steve Kuypers, Vice President and General Manager of Delta Downs. This year, the trees will be on display from December 5 22 December 3, 2015
through December 28. The public is invited to view the trees and vote for their favorite until December 17. The annual awards ceremony will be held in the Delta Downs Promenade at 7 p.m. on December 18. In addition to Trees of Hope, guests also have the opportunity to check in on the exciting $45 million enhancement project, which includes the addition of 167 guest rooms and suites, a complete redesign of the property’s existing 200 rooms, an expansion of the Delta Downs events center, reimagined dining options, and a unique outdoor pool and entertainment area. “Trees of Hope have quickly become a tradition here at Delta Downs. Thousands of people come through our doors each December, looking forward to seeing displays that grow more creative and festive each year,” said Kuypers. “This year we have the added excitement of the expansion.” Vol. 7 • No. 16
Exhibits at Historic City Hall “Christmas Greetings from the Whitehouse” will hang through January 9. The exhibition features Christmas cards sent by the Presidents and first families from Roosevelt through the Obama administration. Information panels detail Christmas traditions practiced at the Whitehouse as well as those practiced by the American public from the Civil War through modern day. In the third floor gallery, The 35 Annual Summer Arts Camp will feature a multimedia collection of art from students who participated in the annual art camp presented by the Calcasieu Parish School System and the Arts and Humanities Council. Historic City Hall is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are gladly accepted. (337) 491-9147 or www.cityoflakecharles.com.
Vintage Carriage Company Christmas Light Tours Through Jan. 6 Make this a holiday season to remember! Ride along the beautifully decorated Shell Beach in Downtown Lake Charles in a Vintage Carriage Company horse-drawn carriage. These carriages are large and can seat up to 20 people--PERFECT for a big family get-together. So bring the hot cocoa and carols and let’s deck the halls. Email or call to make your reservation! (337) 794-5591, vintagecarriagecompany@yahoo. com.
Rory Partin’s LCLT Big Band Concert Dec. 6 Rory Partin will be performing his Big Band Concert at Central School Auditorium on Dec. 6 at 6 p.m. Alli Vilines - “UkulAlli” will be opening for the event .General Admission - Adults $15; Senior Adults $10; Students / Children $5. www.thelclt.com.
Way Down in Louisiana Book Signing and Music Dec. 8 On Tues., Dec. 8, author Todd Mouton of Lafayette will sign copies of his new book about Clifton Chenier, the pioneering King of Zydeco, underneath artist George Rodrigue’s portrait of the King, and special guests Brandon Ledet and Rusty Metoyer will play a few Zydeco tunes in tribute to Chenier’s guiding influence. The event will be held at the Blue Dog Café from 5-7 p.m. at the Blue Dog Café, Lake Charles, 609 Ryan St. Cash bar available.
Very Merry Christmas Party for Seniors Dec. 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)
Barbe Baseball Dinner and Auction Dec. 10 The 2015 State 5A Champion BARBE Buccaneers are gearing up for another title run by hosting their 15th Annual Dinner and Auction on Thurs, Dec. 10 at the Lake Charles Civic Center, Buccaneer Room, starting at 5:30 p.m. with Celebrity Auctioneer, Hal McMillin. Tickets are $15 each and on sale now from any BARBE baseball player or by calling (337) 912-9524 or (337) 540-3055. Tickets will also be available at the door.
Glad Tidings Christmas Concert Dec. 11 The “Francesca Battistelli Christmas Concert” will be held Fri., Dec. 11 at 7:30 p.m. at Glad Tidings Church, 3400 Texas Street, Lake Charles. Come and celebrate the Christmas season with a great family concert. (337) 477-7774.
24 December 3, 2015
Vol. 7 • No. 16
December 4 Lake Charles Cinema Presents The Polar Express December 5 Santa’s Workshop Community Band International Club Christmas Gala
DECEMBER
December 6 Christmas Lightning Ceremony Mickey Smith Sax on the Lakefront Fireworks Extravaganza December 10 Calcasieu Council on Aging
Winterfest Dec. 11 A free community-wide Christmas event hosted by Life Church at the West-Cal Arena in Sulphur. There will be free food, fun jumps, music, and more! Come join the fun at Winterfest 2015! West Calcasieu Arena & Events Center, 401 Arena Road, (337) 527-5433.
The SantaLand Diaries Dec. 11-20 This outrageous holiday comedy, written by NPR comic genius David Sedaris, stars Crumpet, a rebel without a Clause who recounts the true-life tale of an out-of-work writers’ stint as a Macys’ Department Store elf. This adult theme show will add laughter and jolliness to your Christmas Season. Lake Charles Little Theatre, 813 Enterprise Blvd. (337) 433-7988.
Central School’s Holiday Market Dec. 11-13 The City of Lake Charles and the Arts Council invite the public to visit the Cen-
The Children’s Museum has activities and workshops planned for children of all ages. Saturday, December 5: Story Time with Elves OFF the Shelf Join us for story time at 11:30 a.m. The Elves OFF the Shelf will be here to read Elf on a Shelf and visit! Saturday, December 12: Sasol’s Second Saturday Science Show Sasol continues its 5S Project with “Light Optics” at 11:30 a.m. Learn how the properties of light interact with different substances to create the familiar appearance of colored sunsets, rainbows and even optical illusions. Saturday, December 19: Beaded Jingle Bell Necklace Make your own beaded jingle bell necklace to wear for the holidays! Classes begin at 11:30 a.m. and noon. and are limited to 20 children, ages 4 and up.
Christmas Party Barbe Baseball 15th Annual Dinner and Auction Junior League presents Kids and Candy Canes Speed Mingle December 11 Lake Charles Civic Ballet presents Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer (Matinee) December 12 Bishop’s Gala Lake Charles Civic Ballet presents
Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer Buccaneer Christmas Party Swamp Stomp Half Marathon December 13 Compassionate Friends Candlelight Vigil December 18 David Phelps Christmas Concert December 20 The Aching Book Event December 21 Toys for Tots
tral 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.
Bishop’s Gala Dec. 12 The Fourth Annual Bishop’s Gala will be held from 6:30-11:30 p.m. in the Lake Charles Civic Center on Dec. 12. Tickets are $125 each and special sponsorship opportunities are available. Come out and enjoy “Big Band” sounds, wonderful food, and dancing along with other fun events. A silent auction with marvelous items will also be held. (337) 439-7400.
LCCB Presents Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Dec. 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
Monday, December 21: Holiday Fun 3-D Foam Gingerbread House Create a 3-D foam gingerbread house using stickers and foam cutouts. Classes begin at 11 a.m. and noon. and are limited to 20 children, ages 4 and up. There is a $1 additional workshop fee for non-members. Story Time with Dan Ellender At 11:45 a.m., Executive Director Dan Ellender will read Twas the Night Before Christmas! Movie Time At 1 p.m., we will have popcorn and watch Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town, The Little Drummer Boy and Mr. Magoo’s Christmas Carol. Tuesday, December 22: Holiday Fun Gingerbread House Foam Frames Create gingerbread house picture from using stickers and foam cutouts. Class begins at 11 a.m. and is limited to 20 children, ages 4 and up. O’ Christmas Tree
Decorate your foam Christmas tree with Santa’s Workshop stickers and glitter. Classes begin at noon and 12:30 p.m. and are limited to 14 children, ages 3 and up. Movie Time At 12:30 p.m., we will have popcorn and watch Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman and Frosty Returns! Wednesday, December 23: Christmas Eve Eve Christmas Pasta Necklaces Come dressed in your favorite Christmas pajamas and make a red and green pasta necklace in the ArtSpace from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Story Time with Nana and Pappy Elf At 11 a.m., we will have one of Santa’s elves read the classic story of Rudolph! Kids will receive a candy cane after the story. Movie Time At 12:30 p.m., we will have popcorn and watch The Santa Clause!
The Children’s Museum is located at 327 Broad Street downtown Lake Charles. Museum hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Admission is $7.50 for children and adults. Call 337-433-9420 or visit www.swlakids.org Vol. 7 • No. 16
December 3, 2015 25
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.
LCF Presents Baby’s Breath Dec. 13 and 17 Louisiana Choral Foundation will present its annual Christmas Concert “Baby’s Breath”. The concerts will be offered in two venues at Immaculate Conception Church in Sulphur at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13 and at Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Lake Charles at 7:30 p.m. on Thurs., Dec. 17. Season memberships ranging from a $36 season pass to a $1,000 patron membership are available at Swicegood’s Music, from any Chorale member, or by contacting LCF at PO Box 403, Lake Charles, LA 70602. Tickets($15 Adults) are available at the door of each performance. Children and students with ID are admitted free of charge. For more information, call 491-9348.
Christmas Concert by Bulber Youth Orchestra Dec. 14 The concert will be held at 6 p.m. at the McNeese State University Shearman Fine Arts Center. 4205 Ryan St. It will feature pieces mastered by youth musicians age 7-18 through the fall semester. Door prizes will be drawn as well as a drawing for a full-size student violin. Admission is $5. (337) 5822466.
26 December 3, 2015
Vol. 7 • No. 16
Rosemary: The Hidden Kennedy Daughter The King has spoken. And in pretty much every fairy tale, that’s all it takes for a Happy (or not-so-Happy) Ending: he decrees, and it is so. And in the new book Rosemary: The Hidden Kennedy Daughter by Kate Clifford Larson, you’ll see how that affected the oldest girl in what many say was America’s Royal Family. When Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy went into labor on the 13th of September, 1918, she figured her third baby’s birth would be as uneventful as that of her first two children. Alas, the doctor was delayed in caring for Boston’s Spanish Flu victims so the nurse, unauthorized to deliver the child, held the baby in place in the birth canal for two excruciating hours. By the time little Rosemary Kennedy was a year old, it was obvious that something was amiss. Compared to her older brothers, “Rosie” was delayed in all milestones, which her mother blamed on “gender and temperament.” Still, hoping her daughter would catch up, Rose vowed to spend more time with Rosemary. No matter how much parenVol. 7 • No. 16
tal attention she had, however, Rosemary would never be a rough-and-tumble Kennedy. As younger siblings were born and quickly overtook her both physically and mentally, it became apparent that she was going to need more than the family could offer. Doctors diagnosed her as “mentally retarded”; she might also have suffered from epilepsy. Inwardly, she struggled; outwardly, she was charming and fun-loving. Many thought she was just “shy.” Desperate for a cure that would never come, Joseph and Rose Kennedy sent Rosemary to a succession of schools until, in 1938, a good fit was found in Great Britain but World War II intervened. Nineteen-year-old Rosemary was pulled from that school for her safety, and her stateside return sent her into a tailspin. By 1941, Joseph Kennedy was searching for new methods of treatment for his daughter, and had considered lobotomy (a radical brain surgery). Family members recommended against it, but he’d been “assured” it would work and so, sometime in early November
1941, without telling his wife or children, he authorized the surgery… Stunned. Absolutely stunned. That was me, as I read this sit-still book. Yes, I was aware that Rosemary lived until relatively recently, tucked away in small-town Wisconsin, but the rest? I had no idea…. That story, however, isn’t all that lies inside Rosemary: The Hidden Kennedy Daughter: author Kate Clifford Larson also lays out plenty of history, both of the family as a whole, and of the world. She reaches back to the earliest Kennedy years and, as she pulls us forward, she puts into context each phase of Rosemary’s life, plunging us into the way things
were early in the last century. Then, believe it or not, in Larson’s hands, this tragic tale culminates in an oddly happy ending. I couldn’t get enough of this astounding book and, especially if you like a splash of historical biography in your scandal, you’ll love it, too. Rosemary: The Hidden Kennedy Daughter is a book I can’t speak enough about. “Rosemary: The Hidden Kennedy Daughter” by Kate Clifford Larson ©2015, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt $27/$35 Canada 302 pages December 3, 2015 27
Thursday, Dec. 3 Rusty Yates 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
Friday Nites Live Frayed Soul
Gino Speight & Tight Noise 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton
Flashback 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC
Ryan Bunch
St. Jude Benefit Dance
9 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd.
Friday, Dec. 4
Dance Night 9 p.m.- 4 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC
St. Jude Benefit Dance Featuring Jamie Bergeron & the Kickin’ Cajuns Silent auction and gumbo 7:30-11 p.m. @ The Carriage House, Daigle Farms, 379 Hwy 165, Iowa $10 per person
Tribute to the King 3 p.m. & 7:30 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
DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Faulk Brothers
Saturday, Dec. 5
8-midnight @ Mary’s Lounge 4017 E. Broad St. Broad St. LC
Karaoke Night 9 p.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
Rusty Yates 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
28 December 3, 2015
Tribute to the King 7:30 p.m. @ The Pavilion Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Red Republiq 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
Hank & the Cupcakes 10 p.m. @ Luna Live 719 Ryan St. LC
Featuring Geno Delsfose & French Rockin’ Boogie 7:30-midnight. @ The Carriage House, Daigle Farms, 379 Hwy 165, Iowa, $10 per person Gino Speight & Tight Noise 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton RKW Acoustic Show 9 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd. Special Event Night 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub Vol. 7 • No. 16
L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Sunday, Dec. 6
Monday, Dec. 7 Stacy Bearden
Street Side Jazz Band 11 a.m. @ Luna Bar and Grill 710 Ryan St., LC Reed Planchard 4-8 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC Brad Brinkley & Comfort Zone 5 p.m. @ Mary’s Lounge 4017 E Broad St. Broad St. LC DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini
Vol. 7 • No. 16
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
Tribute to the King 6 & 8 p.m. @ The Pavilion Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Jazz Night with Clint Faulk 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC
Wednesday, Dec. 9 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
Chris Miller & Bayou Roots
Tuesday, Dec. 8
Angel Garcia 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Mark Henry 5:20 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Two for Tuesday on Everything! 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC
William Christian 8 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd.
6:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC
December 3, 2015 29
Shelbone Acoustic 8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC AM PUSH 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Talent Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC
Tribute to the King 7:30 p.m. @ The Pavilion 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
30 December 3, 2015
9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Karaoke Night 9 p.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
Electric Circus
Friday, Dec. 11
9 p.m. – 1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Julie Williams 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Thursday, Dec. 10 Julie Williams 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Willie Tee, Warren Storm and Cypress
DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 2 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Mike Fulmer 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
Friday Nites Live Lil Abe Manuel, Jeff Leblanc and The Little Chenier Band 8 p.m. @ Mary’s Lounge 4017 E. Broad St., LC
Ronnie Milsap 8:30 p.m. @ L’Auberge Event Center L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC Tickets ($45) may be purchased at the Business Center, ticketmaster. com or by calling (800) 745-3000.
Vol. 7 • No. 16
Bernie Alan Band
Saturday, Dec. 12
9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton
Swamp Pop Christmas at The Pavilion
Lindsey Cardinale 9 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Electric Circus 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 Mustang Sally 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
Acoustic Pie 9 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd. Brad Brinkley 9:30 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Hazy Ray 10 p.m. @ Luna Live 719 Ryan St. LC DJ San-D 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Vol. 7 • No. 16
Doors open noon • Music starts at 1 p.m. • Enjoy non-stop music on two stages from 1-9:30 p.m. Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Admission $20 with your Advantage Club card ($30 without). Tickets on sale now at Ticketmaster. com and at Coushatta Box Office. Tribute to the King 3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. @ The Pavilion Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Julie Williams 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Lindsey Cardinale 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Mustang Sally 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Thieves of Sunrise
Sunday, Dec. 13 Street Side Jazz Band 11 a.m. @ Luna Bar and Grill 710 Ryan St., LC David Joel 3:30-7:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC
TJ Gautreaux and LA Soul
10 p.m. @ Luna Live 719 Ryan St. LC
5 p.m. @ Mary’s Lounge 4017 E Broad St. Broad St. LC
DJ San-D 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
DJ Jose Mata 10 p.m.- 2a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Blues Tonic 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
Luke Cooper 9 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd. Bernie Alan Band 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton Electric Circus 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 December 3, 2015 31
Monday, Dec. 14 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. 15 Chip Radford 5:20 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Chris Miller & Bayou Roots 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC Reece Sullivan 8 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd. Perkins Road 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Talent Night 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC
Streetside Jazz Band 9:30 @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Thursday, Dec. 17
L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
Bernie Alan 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Tribute to the King
Katie Whitney 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar
7:30 p.m. @ The Pavilion Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
the South. I walk into the lobby of this downtown nightclub, get my obligatory armband and walk into a space that I had not entered in many years. This was Crystal’s: swirling black and neon lights and the electro-dance beat that has pulsed downtown for almost 30 years. I will say that it’s never been exactly my “scene.” I’ve just never been a nightclub kinda guy. I’m not a dancer and the dance/techno/electronica world just isn’t my jam like a good ol’ fashioned rock show, or even something of a folksy acoustic nature, but does that meant that I have not passed many long, crazy nights dancing and partying there? It certainly does not. This night was a bit calmer than most I’d seen but then again, it was only 10 o’clock, and that’s practically sunset to this party crowd, which was good for my
intents and purposes. I was looking to see an old friend and talk a bit about comedy, life and the endless pursuit of an artistically gratifying and profitable performance career without him shouting over the den of a packed-up driving club crowd. After all, he did have a show to perform. Instead, we sat at the nearly empty bar while longtime staple Keisha kept us in drink (his, some preshow shots and mine, some tasty Bayou Spiced Rum and Coke) and two old college buddies got to catch up a bit. As it turns out, He’s been pretty busy. Not only is he frequently doing stand-up in and around the Crescent City, he also added to his IMDB page with the completion of a TV pilot this past spring. The show is called In The Bag and is about a young store manager who arrives at his new store to find it a rather
Tribute to the King 6 & 8 p.m. @ The Pavilion Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Jazz Night with Clint Faulk 6:30 p.m. @ Loggerheads 3748 Hwy 305, LC
John Guidroz 8 p.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Dancing 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC
Wednesday, Dec. 16 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 32 December 3, 2015
To the Courtyard of the Jester, Which is Hidden From the Sun...
Perspective. It’s a funny thing and it can crop up on you in the strangest of places. I found myself looking for some on a hazy post-Thanksgiving Saturday evening walking down the streets of downtown Lake Charles. I was headed to see an old friend and one that I haven’t seen in quite some time. His name is Jeff DeRouen, or Jeff D, in stand-up circles. Jeff is an actor and comic and for those of you who don’t know, he’s from right here in good ol’ Lake Chuck. Now a resident of NOLA for seven years after almost five years in L.A., Jeff still looks for a good, honest laugh and likes to find them in the vast array of people that he has played for across
Vol. 7 • No. 16
Perkins Road 8 p.m.- 1 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Safira 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
Tribute to the King 7:30 p.m. @ The Pavilion Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
Safira 9 p.m.-1 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Friday, Dec. 18 Katie Whitney
Friday Nite Live
5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
8 p.m. @ Mary’s Lounge 4017 E Broad St., LC
DJ Jose Mata 9 p.m.- 3 a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Joe Harmon 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton
Perkins Road 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Karaoke Night 9 p.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
Kory Fontenot 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC
madcap place. (The official Facebook page with trailer www. facebook.com/inthebagseries will show you DeRouen speaking calmly into a store intercom and then shouting violently into same said intercom about a need for more cake.) Not only that, but he can also be seen as the anesthesiologist in Joe Dirt II: Beautiful Loser currently available on Crackle and due for DVD and Blu Ray release on January 5. I mentioned that working with David Spade was a long way from doing shows in ol Lake Chuck… “Yeah, but Lake Charles provided a lot for me, many opportunities that I wouldn’t have anywhere else,” he said. “For example, most comics start by doing 3 to 5 minute sets at open mics. By the time I moved to L.A. and was having to do those type of sets, I’d been doing hour long shows of my own material here in Lake Charles for a while. If anything, it was an interesting challenge having to perform in that short amount of time instead of being used to that and then moving into bigger sets.” And it’s true. At the time Jeff was performing in town, he was about the only indeVol. 7 • No. 16
pendent comic that hadn’t already headed off to L.A. So he self-produced. He collaborated with fellow MSU actor and guitarist Jeff Morrow and did his own shows around town for a number of years--always fresh, always fun and always with that big goofy smile. Not only did he get the benefit of starting in a larger format, he says he also benefitted greatly from being able to perform for the audiences he was able to while he was here. “Look, Lake Charles is not New York City but it’s not some dumbass place,” he told me. “The people here are smart, conservative, normal, regular people. These people are NBC’s target audience. In big cities and certainly amongst comedy circles you can find yourself often playing to mostly other actors and comics, which is great, but I know that if I tell a joke to a Lake Charles audience and they laugh, it’s a real laugh. It’s REAL. And if a joke gets that laugh and isn’t regional humor then I know I can tell it anywhere
Katelyn Johnson Band
and it will get a laugh. Those kinds of things will absolutely make you better at your craft.” Better certainly does seem to be the case for Jeff D. Not only is he playing NOLA regularly, Lake Charles frequently and in front of a camera often enough, he’s also taking his comedy on the road playing rooms from Texas to Alabama, and all of it enough so that he is expected to leave many years of teaching perform-
ance arts to inner city New Orleans teens within the next year or two. “The day job had a lot to do with the decision to move from L.A. to NOLA. Getting to do that was a very artistically gratifying way to sustain myself while I continued to perform. Teaching is the hardest
December 3, 2015 33
Clay Parker and Jodi James 9 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd. LC Troy Laz Band 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
job that you can have. It’s given me such an appreciation for the amount of passion that it takes to become a teacher. To go after that kind of job, right out of school for as hard as it is, for what it pays…. you have to be crazy!” he laughs. “That, or really passionate. Like, artistically passionate.” If he is nothing else, he’s that: a passionate, talented and all together funny guy who dropped some of that good ol’ perspective on me. He showed me that a performer that can leave this place and live, work and play on a bigger scene in a bigger city can still not only appreciate these kind of things about their hometown but genuinely be grateful and inspired by the circumstances this place created and for the impact that those circumstances continue have on them as a performer today. That’s not just something good for 34 December 3, 2015
Killawatts 9:30 @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Saturday, Dec. 19 Tribute to the King 3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. @ The Pavilion Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder
The Watchers
Katie Whitney 5:30 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC
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
Lake Charles, That’s something great for Lake Charles, and if she is capable of turning out good and talented men like this guy, then I am excited to see what she turns out next.
Frayed Soul 7 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC
Please follow Jeff D on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ jeffdcomedy and on his website at http://www.jeffdcomedy.com/ and remember to check out Joe Dirt II: Beauti-
Something’s Happening Here... You know, I love good comedy. I’ve been lucky enough to work with Everybody Loves Raymond’s Brad Garrett, my childhood favorite Gallagher and the legendary Vicki Lawrence, all of whose stories I’d love to share with you one day. I’d really love this edition of “Something Is Happening Here” to be telling you about some great comedy coming up in the Lake City but, sadly, none of that is hitting the radar at the moment. Fear not, though! My diligence will hold fast and I will be sure to let you know of such good things coming up that you should GO SEE!!! So stay tuned, I’ll find some good laughs out there for you yet! So, we’re going to do something a little different this issue. This issue, something is happening HERE... in JMLC... and you have a chance to win! Since I got a great response to my E.L.O. related write-up (JMLC #17,Jambalaya Vol. 7 #11, 9-1715), I am giving away a vinyl copy (complete with digital download) of the brand new Jeff Lynne’s E.L.O. album “Alone In the Universe.” Take my bias for what you will, but I think it’s a killer record and with the E.L.O. love I saw a few issues ago, I thought this would be fun! So, how do you win said album? Well, that’s easy! All it takes is an email! If you have been following the ol’ JMLC you may have noticed a bit of a pattern. Each section of my column is broken up by various titles that all are a song lyric of some persuasion. The only consistent one is this
LA Express 9 p.m. @ The Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack Casino 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton
Special Event Night 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 W. Broad St., LC
Brian Moore 9 p.m. @ Cigar Club 1700 E. Prien Lake Rd.
ful Loser on Crackle now and on DVD or Blu Ray on January 5. Thanks for the laughs, brother. Can’t wait til next time!
very section here. But where does “Something Is Happening Here” come from? Email your answers (or any other questions, comments or what have yous) to JMLC@justinmorrisentertainment. com between now and midnight New Year’s Eve night and one reader will pick up the first new E.L.O. album in nearly 15 years. Multiple correct answers will result in a drawing amongst correct answers and should no one get it right, a drawing will be held amongst all entries. IN FACT, if you reference a friend to the contest and they include your email address as a reference, you’ll get a bonus entry for everyone you send this way! So share our digital edition (at www.lakecharles. com) or email your friends to get in on it if they would like a shot at a proper piece of vinyl!
Your sunny, funny face… That’s you, Jeffy boy! Thanks so much for the talent and the time to sit and talk with me about all the crazy artsy things. It’s was great to catch up and encouraging to hear that this ol’ burgh has done ya so well. Keep it comin’, brother! As for the rest of the faithful out there thanks for sticking with me so far as we close in on one full year of JMLC! The feedback’s been great and I really hope I’m helping some of you find the cool things are right here in our home town. Keep supporting your local artists, keep supporting local venues and, by all means, keep reading! Until next time, I’ll see YOU at the show! Vol. 7 • No. 16
Safira 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
Vol. 7 • No. 16
Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Perkins Road 9 p.m.- 2:30 a.m. @ Rush Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Troy Laz Band 9 p.m. @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder DJ Crush 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Nightclub L’Auberge Casino Resort
777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC
Sunday, Dec. 20
Street Side Jazz Band 11 a.m. @ Luna Bar and Grill 710 Ryan St., LC
December 3, 2015 35
Clint Faulk 3:30-7:30 p.m. @ Loggerhead’s Bar 3748 Hwy. 3059 (Old Town Rd.) LC Dirt Road 5 p.m. @ Mary’s Lounge 4017 E Broad St.. LC
DJ Jose Mata 10 p.m.- 2a.m. @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC
Monday, Dec. 21 Stacy Bearden 5:20 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar
L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC Open Mic Night 9-midnight @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St., LC
Tuesday, Dec. 22
Tribute to the King 6 & 8 p.m. @ The Pavilion Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Two for Tuesday on Everything! 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s 112 Broad St., LC
Louisiana Winter Beer Festival Tickets on Sale Now The 2016 Louisiana Winter Beer Festival will be held on Saturday, March 5, 2016 from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Historic Calcasieu Marine National Bank Building (844 Ryan St.) in Downtown Lake Charles, LA. Tickets for the festival are now on sale and can be purchased at www. lawinterbeerfest. com. This will be the second year for the Craft Beer Festival, benefiting the Lake Charles Symphony, and the event organizers are expecting a selection of well over 100 Louisiana and American craft beers, meads and ciders for attendees to sample. In addition to beer tastings, attendees will be able to meet the brewers from Louisiana and National breweries, sample local food offerings from area restaurants and food trucks and enjoy local live music. “The success of last year’s event has attracted a lot more brewers to the festival and we are able to double the size of attendance as well as the beer selection. This will be a great chance to meet brewers from around the South and sample their beers in a classic and intimate setting,” said Nick Villaume, event chair. 36 December 3, 2015
Regular admission tickets are $50 per person, which grants the attendee admission to the festival at 1 p.m. on Saturday, a commemorative tasting glass and unlimited samplings of the regular festival beer offerings. VIP tickets will also be available for $100 per person. The VIP ticket grants early admission to the festival at noon on Saturday; an express VIP entry gate; access to exclusive beer selections; a special commemorative VIP tasting snifter; access to a VIP restroom; and a token for food from one of the festival food vendors. VIP tickets are limited. Designated drivers will receive access to the festival, free water and soft drinks, and a commemorative tasting glass for $15. In addition to Saturday’s festival, L’Auberge Casino Resort will once again host a Brewers Dinner on Friday, March 4, which will feature Louisiana beer selections paired with unique menu items prepared by award-winning Chef Lyle Broussard of Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill. The dinner is an opportunity to dine with brewers and beer industry professionals
in an intimate setting. Tickets are extremely limited to this event and will be available at www.lawinterbeerfest.com for $100 per seat. Presenting sponsors for this year’s festival are Empire of the Seed Historic Properties and L’Auberge Casino Resort. Beer sponsors will be Crescent Crown Distributing and Southwest Beverage. For more information, contact Nick Villaume, event chair, at (404) 822-5847 or visit www.lawinterbeerfest.com.
Vol. 7 • No. 16
Vol. 7 • No. 16
December 3, 2015 37
Raeley and Charlotte McCann, Beth Melancon and Stacie Abell Brittany Vincent and Julie McMillin
Ella and Misty Walker with Karen Harrington
MISTLETOE AND MOSS Mistletoe and Moss took over the Lake Charles Civic Center for a weekend of shopping from vendors and artisans. This Junior League event also offered an exclusive preview party and dinner for event patrons on Thursday night and featured local musicians all weekend long. Make sure you’re there next year!
Loretta Greenleaf and Denise Veuleman
Brooke Bertrand and Nell Cormier
Nikka LeBeouf, Ashley Miller, Kristen LeBoeuf, Jodi Pesson and Melanie LaFleur
SINNERS, ODDFELLOWS AND JUSTIN MARTINDALE AT LUNA LIVE An excess of turkey and dressing didn’t stop folks from turning out to Luna Live as they welcomed local musicians sinners and Justin Martindale as well as Crowley Louisiana’s own Oddfellows. Keep your eyes open. You’re sure to see this bill again...
Aaron Lasher, Marliee Rogers and Robert Armelin
Tate Ferguson, Patrick Bartholomew and Amber Reese 38 December 3, 2015
Katherine Cardone and Sadie Reed
Blair and Chris Brennen with Alyssa Laughlin
The Oddfellows Vol. 7 • No. 16
Shelby Huffman, Tayler Case and Alyssa Crook
MINES THEATER PRESENTS IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE Mallory and Pam Nicholson
Donnie Martin and Kathi Cogen
Faye O’Neil and and Ken and Sue Molitar
This American holiday staple came to life on the stage of the W.W. Lewis Auditorium to kick off the holiday season right in West-Cal! The Mines Community Theater saw good crowds for all three performance of this timeless classic. Bravo!
Thom and Alice Trahan
Anna Gardner and Kristy Broughton
BLACK FRIDAY SHOPPING For some, shopping is more than just a necessity… it’s a sport. Well, those folks can consider it “Game On” as the Thanksgiving Weekend shopping wave hit the Prien Lake Mall. If you haven’t made it out yourselves yet, don’t wait too long. Only three weeks left till the big day!!
Jennifer Myers, Claire Atherton and Jaidyn Savant
Chance Boudreaux, Raylee Ductoe and Wendy and Callie Dronet Vol. 7 • No. 16
Katie Lyons and Brody Farnum
Abby Tarver and Cydney Derrick
Brian, Keria and Arrkiliez Rodriguez December 3, 2015 39