The Louisiana Jam - 12/05/13, Vol. 1, No. 13

December 5, 2013 • Volume 1 • Issue 13

On cover: Left to right, Libby Richards, Colleen Cannon Benoit, Libby Looney and Amy Sonnier

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

COVER STORY 18 The Lake Charles Nutcracker Returns!

Publisher Phil de Albuquerque phil@louisianajam.com

REGULARS 4 We Are SWLA! 8

The Dang Yankee

Executive Editor Lauren de Albuquerque lauren@louisianajam.com

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Adoption Corner

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Tips from Tip

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Huntin’ Tales

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Stir Dat Pot!

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Soul Matters

Contributors Nicole Shuff Arabie Dori Bell George Cline Dan Ellender Jordan Gribble Braylin Jenkins Mike McHugh Roger Miller Mary Louise Ruehr Karla Tullos David Yantis Sales sales@louisianajam.com Graphics Art/Production Director Burn Rourk Art Assistant Sarah Bercier Associate Photographer Johnny Owens Cajun Pirate Photgraphy

Business Office Manager Jeanie Taggart

Louisiana Jam 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. Louisiana Jam 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 2013 Louisiana Jam all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited.

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FEATURES 6 The Pinnacle of Hope Awards 13

Holidays and Heart Attacks

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Safety First when Decking the Halls

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Top Ten Christmas Movies of All Time

THE SPICE OF SWLA 20 LCCB Presents Rudolph 22 Event Guide 23 Lake City Beat 25 Family Fun Night at the Movies 26 The Illustrated City 27 Arts & Culture Guide 28 Red Hot Books

Legal Disclaimer The views expressed by Louisiana Jam columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position of Louisiana Jam, its editors or staff.

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30 Nightlife Guide 32 Society Spice 35 Funbolaya

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A Note From Lauren Santa Baby So, the holidays are here.

Little boys and girls are hoping they haven’t been too naughty so Santa can slide down their chimney with the greatest of ease on Christmas Eve and leave them all kinds of fabulous presents under their tree.

I actually don’t remember when I stopped believing in Santa Claus, or even how old I was, which means it wasn’t very traumatic. I assume I suspected for awhile before I was told the truth. I certainly didn’t have an evil older neighborhood kid rain on my parade by telling me that the jolly fat man did not exist. I know that happened to some kids and was pretty traumatic.

But, I wonder what went through my head all those years that I believed. I remember trying to figure out how he came into our house, since we didn’t have a fireplace. I think my cousin Richard and I decided he came through the heat register in the wall. He’d go to my apartment first, because we were on the third floor. It

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was probably the only time I was excited to be on the top floor. Santa would obviously have to park his sleigh on the roof—right over my head! We had a flat roof, too, which made it more believable. So Rudolph and company were pawing and neighing above me AND I got my presents first! I always envied Richard his first-floor status, but this one night a year, he envied me.

After Santa left my presents, he’d bypass the middle floor, where Uncle Frank and Aunt Frances and the infamous Aunt Jeanette lived. There was no reason to stop there; they did not have any children and Aunt Jeanette would probably scream and call the police if she found a fat man in her bedroom, especially one with big muddy boots getting her floor all dirty.

Then, he’d end up on the first floor where Karen and Richard would get their presents. Eventually, he’d squeeze himself up through the heat register and be on his way. Made sense to me, at the time.

I guess I never stopped to wonder why Santa gave more

to some children than others, or why so many children got no gifts at all; probably because in our neighborhood, we more or less received the same amount and type of gifts. We were all lower-middle-class, blue collar, but all the fathers had jobs, there were no broken homes and no one went without. I didn’t know anyone who didn’t make it on Santa’s list.

When you’re a child, you’re all wrapped up in yourself, anyway. The nuns tried with us, soliciting donations and telling us stories about impoverished orphans overseas, but if it’s not in front of you, there isn’t much impact.

I also never wondered why no one ever got coal when there were so many kids who deserved it. Mark Tescione and Robert Alioto, for example, should have each gotten an 18-wheeler full of it. Instead, they got good stuff, just like everyone else. And it never occurred to me to ask why.

I was fascinated by my father’s stories about Befana.

There is no Santa Claus in Italy. Instead, on the Eve of the

Epiphany (January 5), an old witch comes down the chimney and leaves gifts (or coal) to the children of the house. I never liked that concept. Witches were for Halloween. A jolly man in red represents the spirit of Christmas so much better. I was glad I wasn’t born in Italy.

I did wonder why Santa just didn’t go all over the world, and why he wasn’t welcome in certain countries. And what would happen if he made a mistake and went to Italy? Would Befana get mad? I never got a good answer.

It doesn’t matter. The feeling I would get on Christmas Eve, all snuggled in bed, knowing that somehow, something magical would happen in the middle of the night, was priceless. And will never come again.

Lauren de Albuquerque

DECEMBER 5, 2013 PAGE 3

CITGO Earth Keepers Launch New Recycling Program CITGO Petroleum Corporation and its community partners launched the CITGO Earth Keepers recycling program on Nov. 15 in conjunction with America Recycles Day. In celebration of the launch, residents were invited to drop-off recyclable paper, plastic, aluminum and cardboard items in new recycling bins at Stine in Sulphur from 7-10 a.m. Stine will keep these bins in place so that community members will have a permanent place to take their recyclables. CITGO Earth Keepers was created by CITGO, partnering with the City of Sulphur, Calcasieu Parish School Board, Waste Management and Stine to promote recycling throughout the Sulphur community, including the schools.

Prien Lake Elementary Dares to Be Healthy!

Dare to be Healthy and the Partnership for a Healthier Southwest Louisiana recently paired with Calcasieu Parish School System, challenging teachers, staffers and their families to train for and participate in a 5K. As part of their recently launched Employee Wellness Program, nearly 1,200 CPSB employees and family members came out to participate in the “From the Classroom to 5K” walk/run held at the Lake Charles Civic Center. As a reward for having the highest percentage of employees participating in the event, Prien Elementary staffers won a catered healthy lunch.

Waste Management representative Beverly Gilchrist, Sulphur Mayor Chris Duncan, Stine Co-Owner Dennis Stine, CITGO VP&GM Tomeu Vadell and CITGO G&PA Manager Dana Keel.

DeQuincy Railroad Museum Receives CVB Grant The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau board of directors recently approved a grant for $15,000 to restore and preserve artifacts for the DeQuincy Railroad Museum. Over the past three years, the museum has undergone several phases of preservation and renovation including exterior lighting, highway signs, new display cases and improving landscaping. The next phase will include projects such as cleaning and repainting the exterior exhibits, which showcase a 1914 steam locomotive, two cabooses and a 1945 Pullman Passenger Coach. For more information on the museum, go to www. dequincyrailroadmuseum.com.

Susan Sullivan, Prien Elementary Assistant Principal; Paula Bruchhaus, Prien Elementary P.E. Teacher and Wellness Warrior, Skylar Giardiana, CPSB Risk Manager and Employee Wellness Program Leader, and Irene Greathouse, Prien Elementary Principal.

Turkey Trot 5K and Kid-K Draws 176 Runners The Greater Lake Charles Rotary Club promoted health and wellness while raising funds to support scholarships at the club’s second annual Turkey Trot 5K and Kid-K recently. One-hundred and seventysix runners braved the frigid temperatures to participate in the fun run and walk at Enos Derbonne Sports Complex on Lake Street. Winners in 16 categories received custom-designed medallions and frozen turkeys for their achievements. Geoff Landry and Ariel Harrington were the overall male and female winners of the 5K race. Jules Hardy of the Lake Charles Charter Academy finished first among the boys and Sydney Manuel of Immaculate Conception Cathedral School outran all girls in the Turkey Trot Kid-K. PAGE 4 DECEMBER 5, 2013

Gary Cooper, vice chairman of the CVB’s board of directors (far left) and Mike Dees, chairman of the CVB’s board of directors (far right) present the grant to members of the DeQuincy Railroad Museum’s board of directors (left to right): Carla Robertson, vice president; Jolene Constance, secretary; and Evalin Hester, treasurer.

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McNeese Radio Station Receives Donation

Memorial Welcomes Dr. Samuel E. Sprehe

The McNeese State University Mavericks donated $5,000 to the McNeese Foundation for the McNeese radio station KBYS located at 88.3 FM that will be launched in 2014.

Memorial Medical Group welcomes otolaryngologist and allergist, Samuel E. Sprehe, MD, to its staff.

His office will be located at Southwest Louisiana Ear, Nose and Throat, 1890 W. Gauthier Road, Suite 205.

He will begin seeing patients in early December. With 25 years of experience, Dr. Sprehe provides comprehensive care for all ages in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the ear, nose and throat. His office will Dr. Samuel E. Sprehe also provide full allergy services, including inhalant and food testing for asthma, headaches and skin conditions. To schedule an appointment, call Southwest Louisiana Ear, Nose and Throat at (337) 480-5595.

WCCH Earns ACR Accreditation West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology. The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety.

Alan Dickerson and Chad Thibodeaux, KBYS planning committee members; and Rollenda McCown, McNeese Mavericks chairman. McNeese Photo

SOWELA Receives Gold MarCom Award SOWELA Technical Community College was awarded a Gold MarCom Award for its 2013-2018 Strategic Plan brochure. The MarCom Awards is an international creative competition that recognizes outstanding achievement by marketing and communication professionals.

Winners in this competition range in size from individual communicators to media conglomerates and Fortune 500 companies. The MarCom Awards competition is administered and judged by the Association of Marketing and Communications Professionals. The Gold Award is presented to those entries judged to exceed the high standards of the industry norm. For more information about SOWELA and its programs visit www.sowela.edu.

McNeese Junior Wins Holiday Card Contest Kenyonna Moses, a junior with a double major in nursing and art, has won the annual McNeese President’s Holiday Card Contest. Moses’ winning design appears on the front of McNeese’s official holiday card.

She received a $100 McNeese bookstore gift card for her winning design.

Her entry--a McNeese Cowboy riding a reindeer through a winter wonderland of blue and gold snowflakes--incorporates both the joy and school spirit of the holidays. The contest was open to all students and entries were reviewed by a panel of judges selected by the Office of the President.

McNeese State University president Dr. Philip Williams with Kenyonna Moses Volume 1 • Issue 13

DECEMBER 5, 2013 PAGE 5

Pinnacle of Light Hope Awards Congratulations to the 2013 Winners!

The Light of Hope Breakfast and Awards, presented by Pinnacle Entertainment Foundation, honors individuals who serve as advocates for children in our community through Family & Youth Counseling Agency’s Children’s Advocacy Center, Court Appointed Special Advocates and Children & Families Action Network.

Kohl’s Associates in Action, Lake Charles Police DepartmentSex Crimes Unit and Amanda McElveen were honored as recipients of the 2013 Pinnacle Light of Hope awards for their outstanding work in advocating for the welfare and well-being of children and youth in Southwest Louisiana.

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Kohl’s Associates in Action Since 2009, Kohl’s Associates in Action have participated in numerous events benefitting Family & Youth programs, including decorating Christmas trees for Trees of Hope at Delta Downs, serving meals during Dinner at Mi Casa and helping to serve volunteers and workers during Family & Youth’s annual Festival. They also lend their support to many other organizations and foundations in Southwest Louisiana. This year, Kohl’s Associates in Action have participated in over 65 events and hope to make it to 100 by the end of the year! In addition to the man-hours provided by Kohl’s associates, their organization also

makes a financial contribution to each project to support Family and Youth’s services.

Lake Charles Police Department--Juvenile and Sex Crimes Division The LCPD Juvenile and Sex Crimes Division has been active participants in the Multi Disciplinary Team since the inception of the Children’s Advocacy Center in 1996. In addition to investigating numerous cases of child sexual and severe physical abuse, members of the Juveniles and Sex Crimes Division also support the CAC by volunteering to participate in awareness and fundraising events. Through their investigations and their participation in the Multi Disciplinary Team, they have made an impact in the lives

of abused children. For these men and women, it is clear that working with these children is not just a job, it’s a passion. They sincerely care about the children they work with and about getting the best possible outcomes for them.

Amanda McElveen Raised in Baton Rouge, Amanda McElveen graduated from Parkview Baptist High School and attended Louisiana State University where she obtained a Bachelor’s degree in business. While she credits her parents, Bob and Susan Bush, for her volunteer spirit, explaining that her mother had her volunteering for “everything and anything” for as long as she can remember, her years at LSU nurtured her passion for volunteering and serving children, specially those who are less fortu-

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nate than others.

While a member of the Delta Delta Delta Sorority at LSU, McElveen participated in numerous service projects. She helped start a math tutoring program for a Baton Rouge school, raised money to purchase computers for local schools and was also able to help get a charter school started in the area.

A Lake Charles resident for over 12 years, McElveen has dedicated her time and energy by spearheading and implementing projects for the betterment of the community, specially the children of Southwest Louisiana.

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She is past president of the Junior League of Lake Charles, a board member of KidsCan of SWLA and Episcopal Day School, and serves on the steering committee of First Methodist Church in Lake Charles. As Junior League president, she collaborated with area leaders to promote nonprofit sector development, promote civic engagement for young people and adults alike and raise awareness of CASA and CAC services. A great community leader, she inspires others to do their part in working for the betterment of the community, while still keeping a smile on her face.

DECEMBER 5, 2013 PAGE 7

The Curse of the Yankee A long time ago, on a baseball team far, far away, the Boston Red Sox traded slugger Babe Ruth—arguably the greatest to have ever played the game in a hung-over condition—to the New York Yankees.

Following that action, the Red Sox failed to win a World Series for longer than it took the Social Security system to go broke. It’s called “The Curse of the Bambino.”

That curse ended in 2004 when the Sox won it all, and they went on to win the series twice more, including this year. It lends hope that another curse—one that hits closer to home—might soon be broken.

I certainly hope so, for this one’s totally on me. I’m talking about The Curse of the Yankee.

Here in Lake Charles, the McNeese State Cowboys won their last playoff game in 2002.

The very next year, I was traded here from Baltimore for a bushel of blue crabs. The Pokes haven’t won a playoff game since.

Granted, there’s no consensus that I am the sole cause for their post-season malaise over the past decade. Some tell me that it’s vain to think that one person can have this kind of effect on a football team, particularly if he’s not a member of the Cowboy Club.

Others want to fire me from the cannon that’s situated behind the north end zone.

For the record, I would gladly comply with their wish, provided the shot is in celebration of a winning touchdown in this year’s playoffs.

Still others say that the curse is a result of my mooching activity in the tailgate area. “Can’t you at least bring a few Slim

Jims with you in return for all the beer and babyback ribs?” they ask. “Or better still, I hear they have a killer tailgate over at Southeastern U.” I’m not sure where Coach Viator stands on the issue, but I have heard he’s considering an offer to the Mayor of Baltimore of another bushel of crabs on the condition that they take me back. If so, there’s little chance of her honor accepting, as Baltimore County’s own Towson U. is also playoff-bound.

Believe me, nobody feels worse about the Curse than I do. I’ve done my dangdest to break it. In 2007, when the Pokes went 11-0 in the regular season, I wore the same socks the entire time for luck. What happened as a result? The team got blown out in the first round, and the EPA classified the socks as a hazardous waste. It cost me

ten grand to have them incinerated at a licensed facility.

This year, hopes are high that the Cowboys will make a run deep into the post-season.

Coach Viator and the boys have certainly done their part, and so also must I do mine. To that end, I’ve gone to Sam’s Club and bought an extra large box of Slim Jims.

My next order of business is to get a helmet and report to the Buccaneers behind the north end zone for cannon duty.

Mike McHugh’s column has appeared in the JAM for nearly five years. He also contributes stories to the “Not Your Mother’s Book” anthology series and makes public speaking appearances. To inquire about having him speak to your group, contact Mike at thedangyankee@ gmail.com.

Lake Charles Pit Pull Rescure • Contact us at lakecharlespitbullrescue.org Anant came to Lake Charles Pit Bull Rescue badly burned on most of his body in March 2013. The name “Anant” is Celtic for “from the stream” and we chose that name because “water fights fire” and since he was burned, this name would be meaningful for him.

Throughout the healing process he never PAGE 8 DECEMBER 5, 2013

stopped wagging his tail and showed us daily how sweet his spirit is. The burns were so bad, he will have permanent scar on his back where the hair doesn’t grow back, but we don’t think it takes away from his wonderful soul at all. He is about three years old, neutered, heartworm negative, up to date on all vaccines, and is microchipped.

Anant loves people and we

want you to be lucky enough to experience it. To meet this magnificent boy or to receive an adoption application, email meganlcpbr@yahoo.com.

Anant’s adoption fee is $200 to help cover his vet care, and a vet reference and home visit are part of the adoption process.

Please adopt your next furry family member. So many like Anant are waiting for your love.

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Another Money Grab in Welsh In the interest of public safety (ahem), the powersthat-be in our neighboring city of Welsh have decided that traversing the three-mile stretch of I-10 that falls into their hands will now generate photographic revenue.

Yes, our good friends will equip off-duty police and pay them $25 an hour to use camera-equipped radar guns to photograph the vicious violators passing through their hallowed ground, another enhancement of their “Traffic Enforcement Detail.”

Even more interesting, the Blue Line Solution company, providers of the equipment, will get half the proceeds generated in this relentless pursuit of justice. It is a mystery to many of us why this municipal jurisdiction believes this already well-patrolled stretch of Interstate needs so much more protection in the name of public safety. It must be a slap in the face to the Louisiana State Police and Jeff Davis Sheriff ’s Department for Welsh to have such little faith in their ability to provide adequate public safety for those three miles. We understand that it is necessary to generate Volume 1 • Issue 13

revenue to fulfill the needs of government at all levels, but photo speed traps are an undisguised money grab. Alert your friends and family to this new attempt to lighten your wallet in the name of “public safety.”

pace during busy traffic hours, much worse than usual. He suggested that the timing of traffic lights, specifically those on McNeese Street be studied and adjusted for the maximum efficiency of traffic flow. Emphasis on turning lane green light time, caution yellow adjustments and the sensitivity of the sensors could make for more pleasant motoring.

Morning Call Program a Great Idea In the defense of the Welsh Police Department, a real program to protect and serve has been instituted. Welsh Senior citizens can voluntarily choose to register so they can be contacted each morning to assure their well-being.

The “Morning Call” program contacts the participants by phone between the hours of 7 and 9 a.m. every day. Should there be no answer, a second call will be made. If there is no response to the follow-up, an officer will be dispatched to the residence or an emergency contact will be notified. This program is praiseworthy and we hope the elder citizens of Welsh will participate, thereby gaining an additional measure of comfort knowing that they are being looked after. For more information, call 734-2626.

Supermarket Roundup In light of the recent miserably cold and wet weather, we shall check on the prices of some favorite hot beverages. The prices listed here were obtained on Wednesday, November 27 and reflect the posted price on the shelf where the product was placed for sale. The stores surveyed were: Albertsons-Country Club

Road, Market Basket-Ryan Street, Kroger-McNeese Street and Walmart-Nelson Road.

Hershey’s Cocoa, 8-ounce container: Albertsons $3.79, Market Basket $3.47, Kroger $3.19, Walmart $2.98.

Lipton Tea, 48-count box of bags: Albertsons $3.29, Market Basket $2.95, Kroger $2.99, Walmart $2.78.

Community Coffee, Dark Roast, 12-ounce bag (whole beans): Albertsons $3.34 (3 for $9.99), Market Basket $3.50 (2 for $7), Kroger $3.99, Walmart $5.98.

Milk, store brand, 1 gallon: Albertsons $4.19. Market Basket $3.99, Kroger $4.19, Walmart $4.10.

Traffic Light Study?

A faithful reader approached me with thoughts of how to make traversing our fair city to and from its southwestern portion more expedient. In the wake of all the road construction on Nelson Road, Sale Road and the Cove Lane roundabout/Interstate overpass installation, traffic moves at a frustrating snail’s DECEMBER 5, 2013 PAGE 9

Trophy Buck My friend Bobby invited me to hunt deer and quail at his place in South Carolina. Since I’d never been there, I had to find it. This was before the common use of GPS and Google search, so I consulted an archaic paper device--a map. It was a mere 680-plus miles via Interstates 10 and 97.

I had once driven to Chesapeake Bay, Maryland to hunt waterfowl and it had only taken forever. This trek was going to be a mere eon or so. I loaded up

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the trusty gas-guzzling Jeep and began my journey. Once past the Atchafalaya Swamp and the Lake Pontchartrain Basin, it’s coma-inducing pines all the way to South Cadillaci with a wakeup “we serve grits here” breakfast and coffee pit stop in Waycross, Georgia. I was to meet Bobby at Bolan Hall Plantation’s brick-pillared entrance. Despite taking farm roads to get there, I was still in the damn pines. Yet there was Bobby, leaning against his dinged-up red Ford 150

with the quail dog kennels in the back. He resembled a middle-aged Winston Churchill but in rumpled khakis.

“Hallo, Roger,” Robert Phipps III said, sounding like Churchill.

“Where’s the camp?” I asked.

“Over there,” he said in his English boarding school accent as he pointed beyond to a copse of oaks. Twenty ancient moss-dripping oaks stood like sentinels, ten on each side of the road. At their end was a plantation home. My thoughts, as I gazed back to my host’s bashful grin, were just plain this side of “Huh?” “Bolan Hall,” Bobby said with humble pride.

“Well, hell,” I finally replied.

Bolan Hall is 11,500 acres that serve one purpose: hunting and fishing. Quail over pointers, snipe in the slew, doves in corn, and deer all over the damn place. This was to be my first deer hunt. I had neglected to mention that little detail to Bobby.

He assumed, I hoped, that since I had hunted so much I knew deer hunting. I knew Sports Afield, Field and Stream, and Louisiana Outdoors but had zero field experience.

After a delightful venison supper I curled up in my bed, the amber glow from my guest room’s fireplace soothing me to sleep.

Jeff, the gamekeeper, picked me up early the next morning. We wound around on dirt roads, and then stopped at a long straightaway. I got out, quietly closed the truck door and nodded a silent goodbye. In the still, dark morning I tread softly toward the tree stand some two hundred yards away.

Rifle strapped over my shoulder, I hand over handed my way up the ladder and ended high up in an old oak tree, river to my back, a grove of pine to my front. Deer stand perched, borrowed rifle in hand, safari hat shading my eyes, Abercrombie & Fitch safari jacketed, and Cabala’s booted, I resembled page 96 in the deer hunting section of the Cabala catalogue.

At the first blush of dawn, I scanned the road that ran north/ south. I could see one, then two, then three does crossing from the pine nesting forest Bobby keep as a preserve for deer. I waited, as I’d been told to do, for the buck to step out. His tawny nose appeared and then he stepped warily out of the thicket. He was about 50 yards away and I counted him as an 8-pointer. I slowly edged the borrowed double barreled rifle up.

With a bound and a leap, he disappeared and me with my rifle yet to my shoulder.

Frustrated but still intent, I perused the road alert for any appearing rack. A bobcat with three kittens scurried across the road.

Two more does grazed their way across. Wood ducks “yek yeeked” and sailed across the river. Squirrels scrambled and played in the water oaks behind me. I packed, then lit my pipe, opened the thermos and poured a cup of coffee to sooth the chill morning wind in my face. Leaning my back against the oak, I was enthralled with the rustic beauty.

Then, there he was, 14 points!

Count ‘em, 14! And not 30 yards away. I froze and then moved my head ever so slowly. He glanced up and peered at me. Then fed again.

Setting my coffee cup and pipe down quietly on the seat’s edge, I grasped my rifle and slowly eased it up and set it on the stand’s edge.

I carefully lowered my cheek to the stock. He glanced up and I froze, not yet sighted in. The trophy buck lowered his head and began to graze again. I carefully moved the rifle into place. As I sighted my buck in, my broad-brimmed hat fluttered down and hit the ground with a leaf-crunching crash. With a leap and snort he was gone. I stayed still and waited. Then I heard a scraping sound and then a noise beneath me. There he was, all 14 points of him, nosing my hat. With a sniff, then a disgusted snort, he white-tailed it off.

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“Damn it,” I said under a breath that wanted to scream profanities.

So I watched and waited.

Watched and waited. Watched and waited. As expected, Jeff drove up at the road’s end. Ten o’clock pick up time. I knocked the ashes out of my pipe, packed and relit it. I screwed the coffee thermos lid in place. Then I carefully climbed down the steps. Once down, I was careful not to step where I’d peed earlier and headed for Jeff. It was a marvelous day with a sky so blue it almost hurt your eyes and a briskness now instead of a chill.

Jeff had his arms folded across his chest, head up expectantly, with the features and blue black hair of a Cajun.

“Where’s the buck?” he said.

“Thought I heard a shot. Everybody gets a deer from that stand.”

“No buck,” I mumbled softly, puffing on my pipe.

The sun had come up over the trees and light spread across us, the oak copse, and the road. Jeff uncrossed his arms, looked kind of puzzled, and then glanced up.

“You smoke that pipe in the stand?“ Jeff asked.

“Well yeah,” I replied.

“Drank coffee?”

“Uh Huh.” “Took a leak out the stand?”

“Well yeah. I always do all that when I hunt.” I said defensively.

“Figures,” Jeff said with a disgusted-turning-to-bemused grin.

We strolled back to the truck.

Jeff moved around the hood, then stopped and glanced back at me and did his best to hide his smile.

I pretended I didn’t notice and slunk in on my side. It was a very quiet drive back as the realization that smoking, drinking coffee, and peeing out of the blind was probably not in the deer-hunting lexicon.

Jeff told Bobby all about that buck and for nine more years they put me in places where the deer always were, in fields where quail flushed, doves flashed in, and snipe zigzagged. But most of all, Bobby loved to tell any guests who came for coffee, supper or to hunt about the Cajun guide whose safari hat scared off a 14-point buck.

I shared his delight but not the joy he felt in retelling the tale of my trophy buck.

Volume 1 • Issue 13

Syrup Cake So, I’m with Toni-Lyn Mhire sitting in her chair getting my hair cut, when all of the sudden she stops and says, “You know what I’m in the mood for?”

Not really knowing what to say I answer, “Zumba?

“No, silly,” she says “Syrup Cake.”

It has been some time since I made Syrup Cake and it sounded equally good to me. So, later that week when I had a little down time at the lodge I whipped up a few.

For those of you, or should I say “for ya’ll” who aren’t familiar with Syrup Cake, it isn’t found at your grocery store. It’s one of those things you either have to make yourself, get from family or buy at a local bake sale. When I make them, I always make a few extra, wrap them well and stick them in the freezer. Plus, leftover slices make an awesome French toast. Topped with--what else?

More syrup.

Here’s What You’ll Need 1 egg 2 tablespoons sugar 1 cup cane syrup (I only use Steen’s) 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 tablespoon vanilla ¼ teaspoon baking soda 1/3 cup vegetable oil ½ cup milk 2 cups flour

a little Louisiana Spiced Rum. Just cut the syrup down to ¾ cup and add ¼ cup of rum.

I hope all of ya’ll enjoy this.

It’s always a welcome treat around the holidays.

And don’t forget to Stir Dat Pot!

Here’s What You’ll Do Combine the flour, baking soda and powder and set aside. Beat egg and sugar with a whisk until creamy. Add the syrup and mix together, then add the oil and mix some more.

Add the flour, baking soda and powder and mix well--about 100 strokes. Then add the milk and vanilla and mix some more.

Don’t whip, just mix (I know, that’s a lot of mixing). Pour into a small greased loaf pan, and bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

I also do a version of this with

DECEMBER 5, 2013 PAGE 11

Forgiveness, Part Two In the last issue, I talked about how difficult it is to forgive myself.

I asked God to help me write a forgiveness letter, written in my hand, from His compassionate heart.

This is my letter: I hear your words and they cut deeply. Oh, the horrible things you say about My creation.... YOU. Life is not about your mistakes, failings, and poor choices. Life is about experiencing, learning, growing and moving through the good, the bad and the devastating. I see that it is

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often in the darkness you’ve turned to Me and learned to trust My guidance and voice. So why do you question that it is My voice?

I’ve seen you flourish with little light, and grow beyond your perceptions of your limitations. It’s time now to walk into the Light and see that for yourself. No human being enters into this material world all knowing. I placed you into this classroom to learn, grow and recognize your true spiritual nature. I gave you life and

experiences to be your teacher.

You learned the importance of forgiving others, but why do you diminish MY gift to you? Do you realize that when you do that, you block the power I give you to live in abundance, peace, and joy?

You must recognize, my love, when you know better, you do better. Your self-talk is so vicious about many of your life choices.

My precious one, don’t you see, it has been your choices that have helped you to grow and evolve into your spiritual skin. The choices you have made, while you may see them as negative, have cultivated your intuition, compassion, loving spirit, and many other spiritual gifts that I placed in you.

How would you know what sacred love looks like without seeing what it isn’t? I have shown you the kind of love you have craved, so you can now pick people that respect and honor you as I do. I see you focus so often on your perception of what you haven’t achieved.

Why do you not celebrate all you have achieved? I do. Everyday I give you breath, I celebrate a

woman who has overcome many obstacles and turned her life into one of hope and possibility. I see a woman who is strong, loving, capable, kind, generous and deserving of all that she already offers to others. I see a woman whose needs, desires, hopes and dreams have a right to be acknowledged.

You just have to speak up, my dear, and claim them.

I see a woman who yes, has sometimes fallen, but always picks herself back up, wiser and more compassionate to the human condition. Let Me help you put away the blame stick. It doesn’t honor either one of us for you to continue to reject My perfect Grace. I forgave you for every sin before your sins were even manifested. Today, I am asking you to forgive yourself and remove all of it. Today I am asking you to take My hand and the two of us will wipe your slate clean. Can I hear you say “I forgive myself…I am forgiven?”

Thank you, Your Biggest Fan, God

Volume 1 • Issue 13

Holidays and Heart Attacks: a Not-so-Jolly Link The holiday season is full of surprises – that’s part of the magic of the season. But the unwelcome surprise of a “Merry Christmas Coronary” or a “Happy New Year Heart Attack” are something no one would ever expect.

Both phrases were coined by researchers from Vanderbilt Medical Center in Nashville who studied national death rates from a nearly 30-year period. They found that deaths related to heart disease spike in December and January, reaching their peak on Christmas and New Year’s Day. Similar results were found in a national study conducted at the University of California in San Diego. These researchers found that the number of cardiac deaths is higher on Christmas Day than on any other day of the year; with the second highest on December 26 and third highest on January 1.

Cardiologist Thomas Mulhearn, MD, with Cardiovascular Specialists, an affiliate of Imperial Health, says there are many reasons for

The holiday season wouldn’t be quite as jolly without the sparkling glow of lights both inside and outside our homes and businesses.

And as the festivities get into full swing, Entergy reminds you to keep safety first and foremost when decking the halls. Check out these important safety and energy-saving tips as you light up the season.

this phenomenon. “People with symptoms of heart trouble prior to the holidays tend to delay going to the doctor, partly from denial and partly from procrastination because it’s such a busy time. They have extra obligations at home and work, and don’t want to spoil the festivities of the season. As a result, they are less likely to see their physicians when they first notice symptoms, mistakenly thinking they can just deal with it after the holidays are over.”

Even when they recognize their symptoms as signs of heart problems, research has found that people are more reluctant to go to an emergency room if they are at a holiday gathering, or if they’ve traveled to a strange city during the holidays. “This delay in seeking treatment means they are in more critical condition when they do finally get medical assistance, and every minute matters when it comes to treating a heart attack,” stresses Dr. Mulhearn.

He adds that there are other

holiday-related factors, including too much food, too little exercise and added stress that may contribute to heart problems during the holiday period. “This is a hectic, busy time. People get busy, and either don’t have time to follow their regular diet and exercise program, or choose to take a break. Parties, shopping, guests and other activities provide the perfect excuse for skipping a workout or indulging in foods that are higher in fat, sodium and calories – all things that are not good for your heart.”

Although there is some evidence that suggests red wine in moderation may have some health benefits, overindulging in alcohol– which is more common during the holidays – can lead to problems. Dr. Mulhearn says consuming too much alcohol makes your heart pump harder to get blood to peripheral arteries. Even more dangerous is what is referred to as “holiday heart syndrome.” This occurs when alcohol literally irritates the heart muscle to trigger an irregular heartbeat

called atrial fibrillation. If a-fib goes unchecked for too long, it in turn can cause a stroke.”

The hectic pace of the holiday season can cause people to forget to take medications such as blood thinners and pills for high blood pressure. Those who are traveling may forget to pack their prescription and be unable to get refills during the time they are gone.

“While certainly understandable, these are the types of things that contribute to the higher rate of heart problems we see during the holidays,” adds Dr. Mulhearn.

“It’s important to keep in mind that you can’t take a holiday from cardiovascular health, particularly if you have had cardiac problems.

This doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the festive season, but be sensible about your choices and keep healthy lifestyle factors in mind.”

For more information on heart health or to schedule an evaluation, call Cardiovascular Specialists at (337) 436-3813 or visit www.csswla.com.

service manager in SWLA. “If you’re putting up outdoor lights, stay away from overhead power lines and the line that brings service to your home. Use a fiberglass or wooden ladder that doesn’t conduct electricity, and never, ever replace bulbs when the electricity is on.”

When outdoors, also make sure that the lights used are designated for outdoor use and keep connections and lights off the ground by hanging them over wooden stakes.

For outside use, work only with three-wire grounded extension cords.

are worn or frayed, throw them away. Make sure the lights have been tested for safety by an independent testing laboratory.

Always make sure all of the light sockets have bulbs in them,” said Arnould. “Children are fascinated by lights and could put their fingers in empty sockets. Better yet, for greater efficiency and safety, use smaller, cool-burning LED lights. LED bulbs use up to 90 percent less energy than a traditional bulb to produce the same amount of light.”

Whichever type of lights you choose, be especially careful not to overload extension cords, outlets or even whole circuits in the house.

deadly.

“A heat source close to the tree causes one in every five of the fires,” Arnould said. “Other causes are candles, electrical malfunctions and decorative lights.”

When decorating with live trees, keep your family safe by following these tips: •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.

•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.

“Finally, whether your holiday lighting is indoors, outside or both, always turn holiday lights off when away from home or asleep,” Arnould said. “You’ll save money and help ensure a safe and happy holiday season.”

Keep Your Distance Complete Your “Respect electricity at all times,” said Chip Arnould Entergy Gulf States Louisiana customer Volume 1 • Issue 13

Inspection

Always inspect your lights before you use them – if the cords

Watch the Tree One of every three home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems. That’s according to the National Fire Protection Association, which notes that while Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they have a higher chance to be

DECEMBER 5, 2013 PAGE 13

By using a highly non-scientific formula, most of which consisted of Internet searches and the opinions of friends and strangers, I’ve created a less-than-objective list of the Top Ten Christmas Movies of All Time.

Let’s face it; sentimentality goes a long way in forming lists such as these, but critical acceptance is also important. I’ve also only included movies that had an actual theatrical release date, so that’s why one of my personal favorites, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, is not on the list, as it was a television special, much like A Charlie Brown Christmas. Good

PAGE 14 DECEMBER 5, 2013

grief. Even though there’s no Charlie Brown or Santa-chasing Pink Panther (which was fantastic, by the way), there are still enough unique characters on this list to entertain even the most Scroogiest of Scrooges. Merry Christmas, everyone!

Gremlins, 1984

Rotten Tomato Rating: 83%

Nothing says Christmas quite like the malevolent and deranged actions of the oh-so-creepy Gremlins. It’s not your typical Christmas

movie, but a cult favorite nonetheless. The story, which centers around characters Billy and Kate, who are of course involved in a love story of sorts, holds a special place in the hearts of 80s kids for one very obvious reason, a mogwai named Gizmo. I mean; how cute was this little guy? Therein lies the appeal of Gremlins, the gift of something innocent that could spawn something so evil.

I know I dreamed many a dream of having my own Gizmo, and I made promise after promise to myself that I would not get it wet, nor feed it after midnight, all

the while shielding it from bright light. I know now that I was kidding myself. One look at those big ears and enormous otherworldly eyes, and that little critter would’ve gotten any Christmas gift he wanted, even if it meant the end of the world.

The Santa Clause, 1994

Rotten Tomato Rating: 80%

Tim Allen’s classic anti-hero story about an average middle-

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class divorced dad is about as lovable a Christmas movie as you can get. I mean really, who doesn’t like this movie? After a chance encounter with the big man in red, Allen’s character is forced to fill the role of the holly jolly Christmas man. Along the way, he learns that being Santa is not only a full-time job, but also a lifetime commitment, and we get to share his process of learning that he must be a better father.

Full of hilarity and heartwarming moments made all the better by Allen’s likeability, it’s no wonder that this movie holds such a special place in people’s hearts.

Holiday Inn, 1942

Rotten Tomato Rating: 100%

Everyone knows and remembers White Christmas, but not everyone remembers Holiday

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Inn, which is the first movie that actually featured Bing Crosby singing the archetypal Christmas carol.

This film is far superior to White Christmas, perhaps not in plot, but most assuredly in spirit. With the addition of Fred Astaire’s dancing and Irving Berlin’s music, the movie becomes a visual and auditory delight. If you like sing-a-long movies, there aren’t many that are better than this.

Scrooged, 1988

Rotten Tomato Rating: 66%

The wonderfully original and cynical take on Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol stars the adorably curmudgeonly Bill Murray as the titular title character. As network TV executive Frank Cross, Murray delights in this tale of redemp-

tion and woe. Truth be told, the movie is substantially better thanks to strong supporting roles from BobCat Goldthwait and Carol Kane, who use their offbeat humor to offset Murray’s deadpan style. Also, the ghost of Christmas future is quite scary. God bless us, everyone.

The Nightmare Before Christmas, 1993 Rotten Tomato Rating: 96%

When Tim Burton created a story about a talking skeleton who had a ghost dog named Zero, lived in a place called Halloweentown and wanted to swap jobs with Santa Claus, it’s no wonder Disney didn’t jump at the chance to produce the film. Twenty years later, this now iconic stop-motion animated film is nearly always on the short list of greatest holiday films. Burton was able to capture the spectacle of Halloween and merge that with the innocence and

joy of Christmas. A truly moving and deeply poetic film about the roles we are given in life and how our choices shape who we are.

Miracle on 34th Street, 1947

Rotten Tomato Rating: 94%

Centered on Macy’s department store in New York City, Miracle on 34th Street is the perennial Christmas movie. Full of wonder and warmth, it remains a constant mainstay on the Holiday TV lineup guide. Not only a movie for the holidays, but an outstanding film in its own right.

Featuring a beyond gorgeous Maureen O’Hara and a pre-James Dean Natalie Wood, the film also allowed Edmund Gwenn, who played the best Santa ever, to win an Oscar. A certain reverence should be held for a film such as this one, as it truly lends itself to the meaning of the holiday, and of life.

DECEMBER 5, 2013 PAGE 15

Elf, 2003

Rotten Tomato Rating: 84%

“SANTA!” With the shouting of those words, Will Ferrell and more important, Buddy the Elf solidified his place in pop culture. Elf is one of the most laugh-out-loud, funny, ridiculously quotable, beloved Christmas movies of the last ten years. With a supporting cast chock full of seasoned veterans like, James Caan, who plays Buddy’s lost-long father, Ed Asner as the tenderhearted Santa, and the incomparable Bob Newhart as Papa Elf, the film has a strong foundation to lift Will Ferrell to soaring comedic heights.

Go watch it…and don’t forget the syrup.

A Christmas Story, 1983 Rotten Tomato Rating: 89%

And now, ladies and

PAGE 16 DECEMBER 5, 2013

gentlemen, I present to you, the movie that has kept the production of leg-lamps and Red Rider BB Guns alive and well! Every year that I can remember, this movie has played on a 24-hour loop on TBS on Christmas day. And it probably will forever. It is so very funny and even more quotable.

The film is so uniquely American and Ralphie is the underdog in all of us. It’s also the movie that taught all of us to NEVER lick something’s that frozen, and that advice, my friends, might be the greatest gift of all.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, 1989 Rating: 63%

Rotten Tomato

Nearly everyone I’ve talked to about their favorite holiday movies mentioned this film. There is something so universal about it.

It’s a Wonderful Life, 1946

Rotten Tomato Rating: 93%

Perhaps it’s the family exploits, the need to put up Christmas lights that can blind your neighbors, the crazy relatives, the longing to have a pool? Maybe it’s a combination of those factors and the comfortable chemistry between Chevy Chase and Beverly D’Angelo that make this movie such a favorite.

The wit comes at you fast and the laughs are continuous. Cousin Eddie, played with greasy excellence by Randy Quaid, is a oneman laugh factory, and the antics of one errant squirrel are the stuff of comedy legend. If you’ve only ever seen it on basic cable, watch the unedited version. Seriously, it’s worth it.

Jimmy Stewart can do no wrong.

That may just be my opinion, but it may as well be fact. This film, this darling of American cinema, would not the staple that is without the worthy performance of one James Stewart. This most perfect Christmas movie centers on Stewart’s George Bailey and his attempt to take his own life. Divine intervention and a walk down realization road lead to an emotionally fulfilling ending for George and the audience alike. The holidays are meant to be about family and friends and happiness and this film does a fine job of reminding us what is really important. I dare you not to cry at the end when George finally comes full circle and realizes the profound effect he has had on the people that surround him. A wonderful movie about the wonder of life.

And with that, I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!

Volume 1 • Issue 13

J&J Exterminating Hosts Toy and Food Drive J&J Exterminating is collecting new, unwrapped toys and non-perishable food items through Saturday, December 14.

All 10 locations throughout the state are participating, including the Lake Charles office at 1717 W. Prien Lake Rd. and the DeRidder office at 514 N. Pine Street. All donations will be given to organizations in each area. The Lake Charles and DeRidder offices will give the food items to Abraham’s Tent. In Lake Charles, the toys will go to KPLC’s Community Christmas and in DeRidder, they’ll be donated to the Angel Tree organization.

“We encourage Southwest Louisiana residents to include a few extra food items the next time they’re shopping and add a toy or two. Together, we can make the holidays brighter for those in need. We’ll take any donation, large or small,” said Robert Soileau, manager of the Lake Charles location. For details, call (337) 474-7377 in Lake Charles or (337) 463-4574 in DeRidder.

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DECEMBER 5, 2013 PAGE 17

By Jordan Gribble There are a lot of things to be excited about during the holiday season: being with family and friends, some who will travel far and wide to see us; the eyes of our little ones as they light up at the thought of Santa’s arrival. And more than anything, we dream of being able to continue the traditions that make the season such a special one.

Colleen Benoit understands holiday traditions. There is one in particular that she participated in throughout her youth and well into adulthood. While most kids were lying in their beds dreaming of sugar plum fairies, she spent much of her holiday season bringing them to life.

Every year, she would slip into her ballet shoes, step into her tutu, put her hair up into a bun and dance en pointe across the stage in the Lake Charles Ballet Society’s annual production of The Nutcracker.

The beloved Russian ballet, set to Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s

PAGE 18 DECEMBER 5, 2013

lush orchestration, has been an American holiday tradition for decades. What many people don’t realize is that Lake Charles was only the third city in the nation to originally stage a production, after it made its stateside premieres in New York and Atlanta.

Lake Charles native Ida Winter Clarke brought the show to the Lake Area in 1963. The ballet was put on every couple of years and eventually became an enduring local holiday tradition.

The story of young Clara who falls in love with a nutcracker toy only to be transported to a candy-coated dreamland where the nutcracker is a prince and she his princess delighted scores of local families for years.

The show was put on for the last time in 2003. Two years later, Hurricane Rita hit and the Lake Charles Ballet Society was forced to close its doors. With its costumes and sets ravaged by flood waters, and its monetary support dwindled down to almost nothing. it looked

as though the tradition was dead.

Luckily, that didn’t happen.

Two years ago, when Colleen Benoit opened up the Lake Charles Dance Academy, she began to dream of one day having The Nutcracker return to the Lake Charles stage.

Now, she and a host of performers from the ballet’s past have made this dream a reality, bringing a tradition back to life on the 50th anniversary of the original production.

Those who saw the ballet years ago will be thrilled to see that not much has changed in the past 50 years.

The costumes and sets are all either originals or reproductions based on the original design sketches of Emily Coleman. The choreography is largely based on Clarke’s original dances.

“What many people don’t realize is that The Nutcracker is based on specific music, not a specific dance,” Benoit said. “Everybody’s ver-

sion is a little different. Ours is modeled on the original choreography. Even though it’s been years since many of us have danced to these songs, it was a matter of turning on the music and it all came back.

We’ve done other staging, we’ve done other choreography, but this particular version of the show stayed with us all of these years.”

In bringing The Nutcracker back to town, Benoit had to first

Volume 1 • Issue 13

ensure the city of Lake Charles would be prepared for it.

“First, we needed a studio, so two years ago I opened my own,” she explained. “We had to worry about costuming and sets and we had to get enough people to volunteer because a production like this requires a lot of volunteers. Back in the day when this show was first put on, most women didn’t work, so they dedicated their time to non-profits like ours.

Now, people don’t have the time, so it took a while for us to get started.”

After the organizing came the rehearsals, which started in September.

“My goal was to make sure that our students would be able to perform in a production like this. We had to get enough dancers to fill the roles. This is a huge commitment for them because they have to give up ten to 12 weekends for rehearsals,” Benoit said.

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She’s been amazed at the support she received as soon as she announced that she was going to mount the production.

“Former Nutcracker supporters and dancers are reaching out, lending a hand, offering to sew, paint or dance,” she said.

“It has been amazing.

Anybody who was involved in the show in years past has been involved this time around. We have prior cast members who danced in the show all those years ago now dancing in this year’s show as grandfathers and parents. We even have several kids in the show whose parents were in it. It’s a generational rite of passage that people want to be involved in.”

The Nutcracker will enchant local audiences at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, December 13 and 14, and at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15 at

the Shearman Fine Arts Auditorium located at McNeese State University. Tickets can be purchased online at www. mcneese.edu/ theatre, with proceeds to benefit the scholarship fund for the McNeese State University Performing Arts Department.

DECEMBER 5, 2013 PAGE 19

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer hits the stage of Rosa Hart Theatre Thursday, December 12 and Saturday, December 14 under the direction of Lake Charles Civic Ballet (LCCB) artistic director Lady Holly Hathaway Kaough and presented by L’Auberge Lake Charles and KVHP Fox 29/CW. Originally choreographed by Lady Leah Lafargue Hathaway, artistic director emeritus, Rudolph is the most beloved holiday classic from the LCCB repertoire. In fact, Rudolph was first staged 45 years ago in 1968!

The lavish sets and beautiful costumes will delight audiences as over 200 local dancers take the stage to tell the joyous story of how Rudolph saved Christmas.

Performing the title role of Rudolph is LCCB Principal dancer Julia Basone, whose endearing charm and character will warm the hearts of every audience member.

Julia has a vibrant stage presence and shines as the loveable outcast.

Her easy transition from quick, lively jumps to slow, controlled positions demonstrates her athletic ability as a dancer. Audiences will

PAGE 20 DECEMBER 5, 2013

be moved by her poignant portrayal of the shy little reindeer.

The program opens with a solo performance by LCCB Principal dancer Gabrielle Saucier, playing the role of Mary in this year’s production. The feeling with which she internalizes the fears of the young mother of Christ is evident in each step performed. Gabby’s long lines and controlled movements represent the worry and concern Mary feels for her child. As a LCCB Principal, Gabby once again displays her versatility of character and reminds us of the true beauty and meaning of why we celebrate Christmas.

The scene then shifts: LCCB dancers bring to life the sheer excitement of Santa’s workshop!

Imagine the energy: busy, bustling elves hammering, painting, nailing and creating all of the toys for Santa! Toys come to life! Children will delight in becoming a part of Santa’s joyous journey!

The Around the World segment of the ballet is always a favorite for audiences as they join Santa to see how children in other countries celebrate Christmas. Principal dancer Grace Helms dances the role of the Swiss girl.

Her fiery footwork and ability to remain en pointe for significant lengths of time are remarkable to see! Principal dancer Graceanne LaCombe is cast in the role of the Arabian girl. Her mysterious character, coupled with her incredible adagio

work and flexibility will certainly engage audience members. Other highlights include a visit to Japan, Mexico and Russia!

Part of the beauty of Rudolph’s story on stage is the snowstorm that almost ruins Christmas created by dozens of dancing snowflakes. They are led by the powerful partnering and beautiful lines of Snow Queen Annabelle Bang, an LCCB Principal dancer. From her regal entrance to her explosive exit, Annabelle brings both strength and frailty to the role, and therefore provides an incredible physical embodiment of the fragile snow that develops into the powerful storm that almost ruins Christmas.

Performing the role of Snow King, LCCB Principal Adrian Durham accompanies Annabelle. Adrian’s jumps and turns add thrill to the violence of the storm. The couple performs several partnered steps, demonstrating their ability to work in unison on steps that require cooperation and exact timing.

School group matinee performances are Thursday, December 12 and Friday, December 13 at 9 AM and 11 AM. Tickets for the school matinees are just $5 per student.

Reservations may be made via the LCCB website at www.lakecharlescivicballet.com or by contacting group reservations chair, Kelly Gifford, at (337) 802-5779.

On Saturday, December 14, there will be an 11 AM Matinee and 6 PM Gala. Tickets for these

performances are $10 for students and $15 for adults. Tickets may be purchased at the door or via the LCCB website. You may also find them on Facebook and Twitter.

About the Company Lake Charles Civic Ballet is a 501c3 non-profit organization supported by grants from the Louisiana state Arts Council through the Louisiana Division of the Arts, City of Lake Charles, Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau as Administered by the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana.

Contests!

This year, LCCB is offering two exciting contests to motivate our young Lake Area artists and spark their creativity!

Especially for school groups: Name Santa’s Dog! The first 20 teachers to complete reservations for their class qualify to submit a name for Santa’s snow dog. This loveable pup will make his debut performance on stage in Rudolph! The best part about this contest is that the winning name of Santa’s snow dog becomes a permanent part of the Rudolph story that has been performed since 1968.

LCCB is also introducing an Art Contest for individual students. Details about contests as well as access to fantastic lesson plans assembled by professional educators, including anti-bullying materials, are available at www.lakecharlescivicballet.com.

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Holiday Open House & Art Market Dec. 5-6 Visit the Central School Arts and Humanities Center on Dec. 5 from 5-8 p.m. and Dec. 6 from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. for a festive Holiday Open House. Central School will glow with the joy of the season with extensive Christmas lighting, hors d’oeuvres, music, and holiday ornamentation. The open house will also feature an Art Market with an array of fine and handmade items by local artists, with 10 percent of the proceeds helping to fund area art scholarships. (337) 439-2787.

Christmas Under the Oaks Dec. 5-7 Yes, it snows every year at

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Sulphur’s Christmas Under the Oaks Festival, located at the Brimstone Museum Complex in the heart of Sulphur at Heritage Square. Festival dates are Thurs.-Sat., Dec. 5-7, with shopping available at the Holiday House Fri. and Sat. The Holiday House will also feature a preview party, Dec. 5 from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. with tickets at $35. Festival hours are Fri., 4 – 9 p.m.; and Sat., 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Saturday is also the Spectacle of Lights with the traditional lighting of the tree, 100 percent chance of snow and fireworks starting at 6 p.m. (337) 527-0357.

ACTS Presents White Christmas Dec. 6-8, 13-15 Artists Civic Theatre and

Studio present Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Based on the Paramount Pictures classic film, it will open at ACTS ‘s 1 Reid Street Theatre Dec. 6, continuing with performances on Dec. 7, 13 and 14 with curtain rising at 7:30 p.m., and matinees on Dec. 8 and 15 at 3 p.m. Reserved seating tickets are priced at $25 for adults, $15 for students, and $20 for seniors 65+ and may be purchased online at www.actstheatre.com.

Cinderella’s Holiday Dining Dec. 7 Children will join their favorite storybook characters for an unforgettable experience. Character meals

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include pizza, dessert and a drink. The seating incorporates a visit, photos and autographs from each of these famous characters as they make their way around the dinner table. Children are encouraged to wear their favorite costume. Seating is at noon. The cost is $25 per person (everyone must have a ticket including adults and infants). Seating is limited and

reservations must be made by calling (337) 433-7323 or visiting www.childrenstheatre.cc.

PurpleStride Dec. 7 Pancreatic Cancer Action Network’s PurpleStride event takes place on Sat., Dec. 7 at Prien Lake Park at 7 a.m. This year marks the ninth and final year of the walk and serves as an opportunity to raise aware-

the event, which was quite comical.

Let me give you an overview of what this event is like. The overall experience is fun, light and the perfect way to overcome any social awkwardness you may have while attempting to meet and establish a new relationship with someone on your own. The setting is controlled, so any worry or hesitation you ladies might have regarding some guy taking advantage of you or going too far too quickly is dispelled.

You have a number of respectable gentlemen who have your back to prevent situations from going the wrong way. How safe is that?

What amazes me is the number of people who are unfamiliar with the concept of speed dating. It began in 1998 and has increased in popularity through the years.

It’s also been in some movies, such as Hitch starring Will Smith and Eva Mendes or The 40-YearOld Virgin with Steve Carell and Catherine Keener.

I decided to observe from a distance to bring you an outsider’s point of view, but I plan to participate in the next event and follow up with my experience.

Be sure to mark your calendar for the next Speed Dating Event, which will be held on Tuesday,

Speed Dating Comes to Lake Charles!

When you see a post like this on your Facebook feed, it has to catch your attention: “It’s finally here! Second 3topia Speed Dating Event! Tonight at 7 PM. You will fall in love!” How can you not be curious? 3topia and The Louisiana Jam recently collaborated to present their second Speed Dating Night event. The first event brought out a few more women than men, but it was just the opposite for the second event, which led to me posting on my own encouraging all the single ladies in Southwest Louisiana to come out to 3topia to meet some eligible bachelors. My post got quite a few likes and some interesting comments. One guy even tagged what I assume was single lady he thought needed to know about Volume 1 • Issue 13

ness and money for pancreatic cancer research. The event features a raffle, silent auction, children’s activities, a sweets shop and food and refreshments. To register, go to www.purplestride.org/ lakearea.

Vanity L.Y.F.E. Red Carpet Soiree Benefit Dec. 7 Vanity L.Y.F.E. will host the

December 17 at 7 p.m. As you’re reading this, open your Facebook page and “like” 3topia. You will then receive the update in your feed for the next event. I look forward to seeing you there, and even if we don’t find someone, we will walk away having had a great time mingling in a cool and comfortable setting.

This and That I would like to congratulate On the Rocks for hosting “Neon In November Part II Trapsgiving” recently. I’m a fan of most genres of music and like to see them all represented throughout the Lake City. Trap music is an art form all its own. The laser/neon style light show that typically accompanies such music makes the event more appealing and attractive, in my opinion. Kudos to the guys who approached the owners and made it happen, including Colton Schexneider, Paws Cat, Herban Cyantist, Winn Lavorgna and Stevie Allen. Thanks to Jason Holloway for the spectacular lighting along with the 400-plus attendees and the owners, staff and security of On the Rocks. The event was so successful I was told there’s a possibility that there may be more in the near future.

For all of you who love discounts, deals, bargains and more, you’ll have the opportunity to support local and walk away with a few items on Sunday, December 8. Dharma will be hosting their Rummage Sale from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Stop by and check it out!

All proceeds will go to improving Dharma.

Speaking of Dharma, I’m look-

2nd annual “Red Carpet Soiree” on Sat., Dec. 7 from 7-11 p.m. at 3Topia Ultra Lounge, 409 W. Prien Lake Rd.. This fundraiser will benefit the Southwest Louisiana AIDS Council (SLAC). Events will include a silent auction, live entertainment and SLAC will speak about the agency and why support and funding are so critical. (337) 263-8828 or (337) 263-5769.

ing forward to the return of Open Mic Night. They were iconic and showcased all types of talent. I am very honored to serve as your host once again. You can get more details on Open Mike Night on upcoming editions of LA On Air with Bray on LouisianaIndieRadio.com or www.spreaker.com/ user/braylin_jenkins.

Still waiting for Heist, a new wine bar located at 700 Ryan St. to open. Now they’re indicating it will happen around the holidays.

They’ve posted the positions available on their Facebook page and at last word were still hiring. If you’re interested, contact them by e-mail at info@heistwinebar.com.

The Holiday Season Get ready for the “Light Up The Lake” ceremony set to take place on the Civic Center grounds in downtown Lake Charles on Saturday, December 7. If you plan on attending the big McNeese playoff game, be sure to spend the first portion of your day visiting the Lake Charles/SWLA Convention and Visitor’s Bureau and check out the grand street parade planned. For more details, visit www.cityoflakecharles.com.

As we enter the heart of this holiday season, be sure to enjoy each moment, cherish those around you and be the best you that you can possibly be. Also, keep shopping local so that more comes to our area. Thanks so much for all the support. I appreciate The Louisiana Jam for allowing me the opportunity to support the Lake City through print. Make it a great one, Southwest Louisiana!

DECEMBER 5, 2013 PAGE 23

A Very Merry Christmas Party for Seniors Dec. 12 A festive day for seniors 60+ begins with a continental breakfast for all. Enjoy a live band, caroling children and a full lunch followed by Bingo.

The event will be held at the Lake Charles Civic Center from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (337) 474-2583.

The Nutcracker Dec. 13-15 The Nutcracker is returning to the Lake Area to celebrate its 50th anniversary and to raise funds for the McNeese State University Department of Performing Arts. Performances will be held Dec. 13-15 in the style of Ida Winter Clarke, with a student performance scheduled Dec. 12, in the McNeese Shearman Fine Arts Performing Arts Theatre. Tickets are now available for the general public.

(337) 475-5027.

LC Civic Ballet’s Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer Dec. 14 Bring the family to this Christmas classic from the LCCB repertoire. Created in 1969 by Lady Leah Lafargue Hathaway, Rudolph has delighted audiences ever since!

It is the classic Christmas story of the young reindeer that learns that he is important and needed. It will be held at the Rosa Hart Theatre, Lake Charles Civic Center, with performances at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. For tickets, go to www. lakecharlescivicballet.com.

PAGE 24 DECEMBER 5, 2013

Village of the Nativity Dec. 14-15 The entire family is invited to come out on Dec. 14 and 15 from 6-8 p.m. to walk through a nativity experience at the North Orange Baptist Church. The reenactment is complete with animals, music, and structured facades. Finish up the evening with a cup of hot cocoa, cookies, and Christmas carols. North Orange Baptist Church is located just one mile north of I-10 on 16th Street (Highway 87) and is free to the community. More information is available at www.nobcfamily.com.

Jazz in the Arts Concert Dec. 22 The Jazz in the Arts concert will be held at the Ben Mount Auditorium at Central School in downtown Lake Charles on Sunday, December 22 at 5 p.m. The concert features Carl Richardson and Jarius Daigle, along with vocalist Lindsey Papion and the Jazz in the Arts Rhythm Section. Silent auction begins at 4 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door and $12 in advance. For tickets, call 439-2787.

Great Russian Nutcracker Dec. 27 Celebrate the beauty of the holidays and the best of Russian ballet in the Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker!

The performance will be held at the Rosa Hart Theatre at the Lake Charles Civic Center on Dec. 27 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets start at $28 from Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.

Volume 1 • Issue 13

Catching Fire (Lionsgate, 2013) Last year, we saw The Hunger Games, in which young Katniss Everdeen copes in a future world where children are forced fight to the death. In this year’s amazing sequel, we see our heroine forced to fight to the death with adults.

OK, maybe that’s not fair. To be honest, I thought that The Hunger Games felt low budget and didn’t live up to the book. But Catching Fire is excellent, surpassing the previous movie and maybe the whole series of books. Here’s why: Jennifer Lawrence, who plays Katniss. She acts her role next to veterans like Philip Seymour Hoffman and Donald Sutherland, coming out very strong. (When Lawrence aims a bow and arrow, you start wondering if she is just as good an archer as Katniss seems to be.)

Plotwise, Katniss is going through what is now standard Twilight fare: Two handsome young men love her and she’s confused. But now, people in the 12 districts of Panem are getting killed because of her. It seems her performance in her first Hunger Games was seen as an act of defiance, and rebellion is catching fire.

(See how subtly I work the names of the movies into the review?)

The government is brutally coming down on defiant citizens and Katniss, an accidental symbol of the rebellion, sees this as her fault.

At the head of the country is President Snow, and he’s prepared to crush anyone who threatens the nation. In this role, Donald Sutherland has never been more ominous. The older he gets the shaggier his eyebrows become, Volume 1 • Issue 13

and he’s starting to resemble an evil Santa Claus. (There’s a horror movie in here somewhere.)

Adding to Catching Fire, the other contestants in this year’s Hunger Games (the 75th anniversary of the games) are really interesting people. In order to force Katniss back into the games, President Snow changes the rules and

pulls contestants from previous winners. This includes some tough fighters as well as old people and a couple of serious geeks. Some really cool alliances are formed and the action is well paced.

For ardent fans, the movie keeps pretty well to the book, even though some details are left out. For those who haven’t read the books, I’d say the first movie is pretty much required for knowing what is going on. But like The Empire Strikes Back, the second installment here is darker, more complicated, and better than part one.

As movies about the future go, you’re not going to find any that are as well executed as Catching Fire. Every detail works, from Stanley Tucci’s arresting voice as Caesar the Game Host to Effie Trinket’s hair. (Orange hair. Effie is the chaperone for District Twelve contestants. She’s from wealthy

District One, where everyone is in the latest style, which is downright strange.) There’s just enough humor in these side roles, mixed with glimmerings of real concern for Katniss, that we ride a fence on how people can be so inhumane to others.

But that’s the intriguing thing about Catching Fire. It holds a mirror up to us, watching people fight to the death for our idle entertainment and betting on the outcome. We are just like the people in District One. Be warned, Catching Fire is more violent than The Hunger Games, although I think the rating of PG-13 is about right. In any case, you aren’t going to keep kids who are fans of the books away.

Full of complex relationships and a wrenching future of our society, Catching Fire is an excellent movie for the holidays.

DECEMBER 5, 2013 PAGE 25

The Yarnstormers The Soft Side of Graffiti There is a unique movement that goes by many names: yarnbombing, guerilla knitting, urban knitting, or fiber graffiti, and it uses colorful displays of knitted or crocheted yarn as street art.

Large, cosmopolitan cities around the country have seen the boom in yarnbombing, most notably in Austin, Chicago, and Pittsburgh.

Now, Lake Charles can count itself as the first Louisiana city to see large-scale yarnbombing.

It is intended to provide a surprising bit of warmth to other-

PAGE 26 DECEMBER 5, 2013

wise sterile public spaces and has seen a huge surge in popularity worldwide. The effect can be surreal. Earlier this year in Mexico City, Magda Sayeg, who is often called the “mother of yarnbombing,” knitted over an entire city bus. Other displays are much smaller, such as the crocheted spider webs seen throughout London this year for Halloween.

On March 15, 2013, the Lake Charles Civic Center hosted “Beyond Grandma’s Quilts,” sponsored by the Calcasieu Cut-Ups

Quilt Guild.

The exhibit featured over 300 artfully made quilts, and offered networking opportunities for the artists who spent so much time planning and constructing them.

A group of exhibitors was discussing the phenomenon of yarnbombing that had begun to spring up around the world and thought, “Why not Lake Charles?” And

with that question, the SWLA Yarnstormers were born.

The Yarnstormers are a loosely organized group of women who enjoy crocheting, knitting, quilting, and graffiti. They range in age from teens to octogenarians. They include schoolteachers, small business owners, students and re-

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tirees. They’re from Lake Charles, Sulphur, Westlake, Jennings, Cameron, and other communities all across Southwest Louisiana. The one commonality they all share is that they want to do something fun and inspiring for the area while sharing their art.

“Quilting, or fiber art, was becoming a lost art. Displays such as these are encouraging folks of all ages to think about creating a work of art as well as something that is useful,” says Debbie Russell, an original Yarnstormer.

Yarnbombing is typically done under the cover of anonymous darkness, just as a graffiti artist would tag a building or railway car with spray paint. Recently, however, more of these artists are reaching out to their elected leaders for support. In fact, the City of Denver recently hired a group of artists to decorate eyesore hurricane fencing surrounding construction sites around the city.

The group uses leftover and donated yarn and crochets long strips in a variety of colors and patterns. They are then sewn onto whatever object they would like to cover. The graffiti is nonpermanent, non-damaging, and easy to remove.

Where the yarnbombing phenomenon first began is something of a mystery (some say Houston) but Lake Charles got its first dose during the Spring Art Walk in April of this year.

Yarnbombing hadn’t been seen before in this area, and no one really understood what it was all about, but the Yarnstormers didn’t want to do anything without an official approval. They approached area officials with a huge amount of enthusiasm, armed with loads of photographs of similar projects in cities across the nation, It was the very impermanence of the art that got the attention of Lake Area officials who gave them the green light, although it was understandably tentative.

On a bright morning in April, a dozen or so ladies spent a little under two hours wrapping the knitting around the new light posts and benches along the downtown strip using zip-ties Volume 1 • Issue 13

to keep them firmly in place. A small crowd had gathered, asking questions and taking photos by the time the Yarnstormers began wrapping a 20-foot long knitted scarf around the commemorative cannon. Each piece was accompanied by a small card asking the public to enjoy and respect the handmade artwork. The response at the Art Walk was overwhelmingly positive and they knew they were on to something. They wanted to do more.

“We want to build on what we have already made,” says Russell.

“These do take time to make, and we’d like to get to the point where we can have a huge display, something that would really be fun.”

A little over a week later, with a few quick snips from a pair of scissors, the display was removed as if it had never been there, and stored for later use.

As summer waned, they began thinking of doing a holiday display using both old and new pieces. They approached officials with the Downtown Development Authority about the possibility of having a display that would coincide with a city event, and this time, the response was an immediate yes.

The Yarnstormers have been working for several months on a display that will be installed for the entire month of December at the new Transit Center on Ryan Street. The large brick columns will be wrapped in the brightly colored “scarves,” along with the benches surrounding the outdoor fountain beginning the week of December 5.

“This type of partnership fits so well with the creative culture initiatives in downtown,” says Lori Marinovich with the Downtown Development Authority.

“We are so excited about this.”

The Yarnstormers are inviting the public to participate with the installation process, which requires no knitting skill, only a sense of fun and creativity. They hope to see these types of projects grow ever larger with more community support, and hope to expand on what they consider to be a love letter, written in yarn, to their community.

Some Thoughts About Perception Heather Kelly Exhibit October 18 - January 4 Children in Motion with Nancy Melton through Jan. 4 The Curious World of Patent Models through Dec. 28 Historic City Hall 1001 Ryan St., Lake Charles Mon.-Fri. 10 am- 5 pm Sat 10 am - 2 pm 337-491-9147 Black Heritage Gallery @Central School 809 Kirby St., Lake Charles Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

337-488-8567 Henning Cultural Center 923 Ruth St., Sulphur Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-noon and 1 p.m.-5 p.m.

Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

337-527-0357 DeQuincy Railroad Museum 400 Lake Charles Ave. DeQuincy Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

337-786-2823 DeQuincy Town Hall Museum 218 E. Fourth St., DeQuincy Mon.-Thurs. 9 a.m.-noon and 1 p.m.-4 p.m.

337-786-8241 Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu 809 Kirby St.,Lake Charles Tues.-Fri. 1 p.m.-5 p.m.

337-430-0043 USS Orleck Naval Museum 604 N. Enterprise Blvd.

Lake Charles Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Sat. 10 a.m. -4 p.m.

337-214-7447

W.H. Tupper General Merchandise Museum 311 N. Main St. Jennings Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

337-821-5532 Tales and Travels Through Jan. 12 @Stark Museum of Art Tues.-Sat. 10 am-5 pm Orange, TX 409-886-2787 Open Art Splurgery Through Dec. 31 Members have opened their hearts to allow shoppers to come and splurge on art for Christmas gifts of good culture. Many items in the gallery and gift shop will be discounted.

Prices are wholesale and tax free. Associated La. Artists @Gallery by the Lake 106 W. Pryce St. Lake Charles 337-436-1008 Judy Baggett: “As I See It” Exhibit Nov. 15-Jan. 4 The exhibit will showcase new paintings by the artist in the Annex Gallery. Sally & Ned Cappel: “Images: Real and Imaginary” Exhibit Nov. 15-Jan. 4 The exhibit will showcase recent paintings by both artists in the Gibson Barham Gallery. @Imperial Calcasieu Museum 204 W. Sallier St. Lake Charles 337-439-3797

DECEMBER 5, 2013 PAGE 27

A Trip to China Let’s take a trip to China in two books that really set the reader in a different place and time.

In The Valley of Amazement, author Amy Tan continues her familiar theme of mother-daughter relationships.

Tan takes us to Shanghai in 1905, where an American woman, Lulu Minturn, is the “only white woman who owned a first-class courtesan house in Shanghai.” She doesn’t call it a house of prostitution, but rather a social club for both Chinese and Western men.

Lulu’s young daughter, Violet, is growing up surrounded by courtesans. She thinks of herself as an American, not realizing that

PAGE 28 DECEMBER 5, 2013

she is half Chinese, and believes that her father is dead — which is not the last lie she will hear.

When Violet becomes a teenager, she is separated from her mother and tricked into becoming a courtesan herself. (The plot here is pretty predictable.) Violet tells us, “There was no single moment when I accepted that I had become a courtesan. I simply fought less against it. I was like someone in prison who was about to be executed.” She says, “I was a kidnapped American girl caught in an adventure story in which the latter chapters had been ripped out.”

Violet is instructed in the

ways of a courtesan — in sexual, romantic and fantasy behavior and in being subservient. “Over the next few years, I discovered that men are alike in many ways.

They enjoy flattery of their character. ... Most needed a continual stream of flattery from many women.” Violet finds and loses love and experiences great tragedy. There are odd coincidences and strange twists of fate. Will she see her mother again? Will she ever meet her father?

At this point, I have to tell you that Tan, who never used to write sex scenes, has made a complete about-face here. The book has a lot of sex in it. There are adult situations and language — often

explicit — describing the behavior of the courtesans and the men in the houses, as well as the equipment they use. Let’s just say there’s a lot of detail about life in the houses. I have to call much of this book erotica. Indeed, it reminded me of a certain bestseller, and in a recent interview, Tan admitted that the book is rather 50 Shades of Grey-ish.

Ah, but then Tan gives us Vio-

Volume 1 • Issue 13

let’s mother’s back story. She tells us how Lulu met a Chinese artist in America and how the rebellious American girl found herself pregnant and followed her lover back to his homeland. I like this second story much more than the first because of the more genuine emotions and because the Lulu and the artist were equals.

The book is very much about women and their relationships and how they are affected by tradition, betrayal, racism, family demands and even international laws.

Tan did a lot of research into the history of the time period and the life of a courtesan, and it shows in the details of the novel.

I adore Amy Tan’s earlier work, and I was looking forward to her new book. However, I think this one suffers from the syndrome I’m always writing about: when an author becomes so well loved, people are afraid to edit his/her work and it ends up being too long and unfocused. I give it a mixed review; some parts were great, some disappointing.

Daughter of the Bamboo Forest by Sheng-Shih Lin came out last year in paperback, but was just recently published as an ebook. The story takes place in the countryside of northern China and begins in the summer of 1941. It is a time of chaos, of war, of revolution.

Little Jade is 7, a little girl without a mother. She wants to know what happened to her. It is said that her mother just disappeared, but “No one mentioned Little Jade’s mother. It was a forbidden subject.”

The girl loves to spend time in the bamboo forest, which the author describes poetically: “There is a place where time stops and eternity survives under a shade of green. Even shadows come with a green tinge. In the deep of the bamboo forest, the Volume 1 • Issue 13

land is damp and dark. A velvety layer of moss covers the earth.

No sunlight or moonlight penetrates the thick layers of bamboo leaves, and the wind vibrates to the secret rhythms of the forest.

When the wind touches the leaves they whisper to one another, and the entire forest sighs and sighs with the soothing gentleness of a lullaby.”

The girl’s grandmother “had been the ideal woman who obeyed the traditional ‘Three-to-follow Rule’: ‘A woman should follow her father’s wishes before she is married; after she is married, she follows her husband’s wishes; after her husband dies, she follows the wishes of her son.’”

But in this time of change, her greatgrandfather muses, “The world is strange to me now.

I can no longer understand how things work and this new idea of a Republic is confusing. There has always been chaos before a great turn in history. I’m old, and I won’t live to see what will come out of all the changes. … Everything will be different.”

Little Jade’s father takes a new wife, and the little girl and the new wife do not get along. But Little Jade’s new stepfamily embraces her. Because of the violent chaos around them, the family is separated. She and her step-grandfather must keep each other alive during a “nightmare” time, listening to horror stories about the bandits roaming the countryside, and they must overcome fear, hunger, ghostly encounters, and even the plague.

This is the story

of a young girl growing up in a time of war, a tale of family and survival.

Through her adventures, the girl suffers abandonment and loss, but

she also finds acceptance and even love.

Copyright © 2013 Mary Louise Ruehr.

DECEMBER 5, 2013 PAGE 29

Thursday, Dec. 5 Free Live Music w/ Kory Fontentot Service Industry Night Happy Hour 5 - 7 p.m.

8 p.m. @ Dharma 329 Broad St., Lake Charles Karaoke with $3 Cover 9 p.m. @ Frosty Factory 4688 Common St., Lake Charles Thursday Dollar Night 9 p.m. @ Cowboys Night Club $1 Beer & Bar all night!

5329 Common St., Lake Charles 5th Annual Chesson Christmas Party!

10 p.m. @ Luna Live 710 Ryan St, Lake Charles DJ Eric Scott 10 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill 777 Avenue L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Friday, Dec. 6 Karaoke with $3 Cover 9 p.m. @ Frosty Factory 4688 Common St. Lake Charles Zydecane 9 p.m. @ Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton DJ Eric Scott 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill 777 Avenue L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Saturday, Dec. 7 Dharma Rummage Sale!

(FUNDRAISER) 4 p.m. - midnight @ Dharma 329 Broad St., Lake Charles PAGE 30 DECEMBER 5, 2013

Kory Fontenot (Acoustic) 7 p.m. @ Luna Bar & Grill 719 Ryan Street, Lake Charles Karaoke with $3 Cover 9 p.m. @ Frosty Factory 4688 Common St., Lake Charles Zydecane 9 p.m. @ Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton Saturday Night Party Time 9 p.m. @ Cowboys Night Club $1 Beer & Bar 12 - 2 a.m.

5329 Common St., Lake Charles DJ Eric Scott 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill 777 Avenue L’Auberge, Lake Charles No Good Dirty Liars, Certain Satellites & Large Marge MyPlace American Pub 630 W. Prien Lake Rd. Ste. G Lake Charles

Tuesday, Dec. 10 BLAKCARD ATM

w/ Tony James & Dakota Harp 3 - 6 p.m. @ Dharma 329 Broad St., Lake Charles Karaoke w/ David Verrett 8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill 777 Avenue L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Wednesday, Dec. 11 Vinyl Night 1/2 price drafts for folks that bring records!

Happy Hour 5 - 7 p.m.

2 - 8 p.m. @ Dharma 329 Broad St., Lake Charles Karaoke 2013 @ Mikko Live 8 p.m. @ Coushatta Casino Resort

777 Coushatta Dr., Kinder City Heat 8 p.m. @ The Caribbean Cove Lady’s Night 5 p.m. - Midnight Free drinks for ladies only! @ Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave, Westlake Comedy Night 10-12 Comedians Josh Hessier, Leo Morgan, & Nick Cronan 8:30 p.m. @ Frosty Factory 4688 Common St., Lake Charles

Thursday, Dec. 12 Joe Harmon & the Harmonics Block Party w/ Cajun, Zydeco Swamp Pop, R&B, & Country 7 p.m. @ Mikko Live 777 Coushatta Dr., Kinder Karaoke with $3 Cover 9 p.m. @ Frosty Factory 4688 Common St., Lake Charles Thursday Dollar Night 9 p.m. @ Cowboys Night Club $1 Beer & Bar all night!

5329 Common St., Lake Charles DJ San-D 10 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill 777 Avenue L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Friday, Dec. 13 Karaoke with $3 Cover 9 p.m. @ Frosty Factory 4688 Common St., Lake Charles LA Express 9 p.m. @ Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton DJ San-D 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Friday’s Fireside Lounge 7 - 10 p.m @ Adult Pool Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill 777 Avenue L’Auberge, Volume 1 • Issue 13

Lake Charles

Saturday, Dec. 14 Karaoke with $3 Cover 9 p.m. @ Frosty Factory 4688 Common St., Lake Charles Brian Moore 7 p.m. @ Luna Bar & Grill 719 Ryan Street, Lake Charles LA Express 9 p.m. @ Gator Lounge Delta Downs Racetrack 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton DJ San-D 11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill 777 Avenue L’Auberge, Lake Charles Saturday Night Party Time 9 p.m. @ Cowboys Night Club $1 Beer & Bar 12 - 2 a.m.

5329 Common St., Lake Charles

Tuesday, Dec. 17 Karaoke w/ David Verrett

8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill 777 Avenue L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Karaoke 2013 @ Mikko Live 8 p.m. @ Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Dr., Kinder City Heat 8 p.m. @ The Caribbean Cove Ladies’ Night 5 p.m. - Midnight Free drinks for ladies only! @ Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave, Westlake Comedy Night 10-12 Comedians Josh Hessier, Leo Morgan, & Nick Cronan 8:30 p.m. @ Frosty Factory 4688 Common St. Lake Charles

Thursday, Dec. 19 Bernie Alan @ Mikko Live Block Party w/ Cajun, Zydeco Swamp Pop, R&B, & Country 7 p.m. @ Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Dr., Kinder Karaoke with $3 Cover 9 p.m. @ Frosty Factory 4688 Common St. Lake Charles

Wednesday, Dec. 18

Thursday Dollar Night 9 p.m. @ Cowboys Night Club $1 Beer & Bar all night!

5329 Common St., Lake Charles

Vinyl Night w/ Daniel Castro 1/2 price drafts for folks who bring records!

Happy Hour 5 - 7 p.m.

2 - 8 p.m. @ Dharma 329 Broad St., Lake Charles

DJ Cage 10 p.m. @ Jack After Dark Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill 777 Avenue L’Auberge, Lake Charles

Volume 1 • Issue 13

Blake Rogers to Perform at Lake Charles Lighting Ceremony Recording artist Blake Rogers will perform her new single “It’s Finally Here, Christmas Time” during the Lake Charles Lighting Ceremony from 5-6 p.m. as part of the Light up the Lake Christmas Celebration on December 7.

The 12-year-old Lake Charles resident is set to take the music world by storm. She has recently released the highly anticipated video for “Pretty Girl Swag”, a pop/hip hop inspired track, about a pop princess going on a shopping spree. She attended the Teen Choice Awards in Los Angeles along with several red carpet events including the “No Bull Awards” and also performed “Be a Buddy not a Bully” at Brand UR. On the local scene, Blake is a two-time pageant queen, gymnast and also a competition winning high-flyer cheerleader.

Other entertainment for the lighting ceremony will include the St. Louis Show Band which performs a variety of

music, including rock and pop, at many school and community functions. Gumbeaux Gator will recite the traditional “Cajun Night Before Christmas” and the Girl Scouts will sing Christmas carols. Eight-year-old Christian White, a J.J. Johnson student, has been invited to assist Mayor Roach with flipping the switch at 6 p.m. to light up many brilliant ornaments.

For more information, go to www.visitlakecharles.org.

DECEMBER 5, 2013 PAGE 31

BLACK FRIDAY MADNESS

Jeremy Stevens and Sylvia Dugas

Meghan and Johnnavan Watts with Kelsie and Kaitlyn Richardson

Cheyenne Butler, Joel Smith and Lanie Medina

Lake Charles early birds and night owls were out and about, scurrying around town to find, fight and conquer those Christmas deals on Black Friday. Small businesses, big businesses and anything in between had their doors open for convenience as early as 5 a.m. and as late as 1 a.m. All in all, the day brought big sales, but more important, excitement, fun and the continuation of a yearly shopping tradition for many local families.

Maria Metoyer and Kay Johnwell

Marlena Pappillion and Autumn Jones

MOVEMBER CHALLENGE PARTY Let’s give a round of applause to the men sporting facial hair in support of the No Shave Movember movement in support of men’s health. Friends, family and peeps came out for a good time at the Movember Challenge Party Finals. There were prizes, live music with Elms District and fake mustaches for all to enjoy. You can shave now, guys!

Sicily and Salem Arceneaux with Zoe Hood and Kate Kerwin

Michael Krajicek and Andrew Kohler PAGE 32 DECEMBER 5, 2013

Kade Flanagan and Lauri Ellender

Nick Vallaume and Harry Methvin

Heather, John, Anderson and Gambrel Ieyoub Volume 1 • Issue 13

BEAUJOLAIS SOIREE Talented and inspired young people from all over the state were in for an unforgettable experience at the Louisiana Theatre Festival held at the Central School in downtown Lake Charles. After a day immersed in acting and technical theatre training, the students excitedly took to the stage to show us what they learned.

Bravo!

Heather Clayton-Kingham and Jada Cannon

Denise Walker, Kelly Meche and Perky Janese

Volume 1 • Issue 13

Cherie Traham, Pam Soileau and Catherine Schram

Kathy and Chris Owen

John and Rachel Lafleur with Janet Kline

DECEMBER 5, 2013 PAGE 33

A VISIT WITH SANTA Santa was busy at the Prien Lake Mall making his list, checking it twice and asking the children if they’d been naughty or nice!There was quite the crowd lined up, all eagerly awaiting their turn to tell Santa what they wanted for Christmas and posing for a keepsake photo.

A great start to the holiday season!

Madi and Madison Leger

Jacqueline Baca with Katherine and Julia Swain

PAGE 34 DECEMBER 5, 2013

Harbor and Marsh Devall Brown

Quiana, Michal and Quion Martin

CJ and Alyssa Borel with Jaden Fontenot

Volume 1 • Issue 13

MERRY S!!

CHRISTMA Advent Baby Jesus Candy cane Christmas Eggnog

Holly Mistletoe Nativity Noel North Pole

Peace on Earth Rudolph Santa Claus Sleigh Bells Frosty

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. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Players take turns connecting two dots.

When you make a square, put your initials in the box and take another turn. When all dots are connected, the player with the most boxes wins.

Volume 1 • Issue 13

DECEMBER 5, 2013 PAGE 35