Thrive August Issue by Thrive Magazine

AUGUST 2009

Also:

Freshmen Finance

for the COLLEGE BOUND page 17

Improve Your Game

with Chiropractice Medicine page 42

Straight Talk About Neck Pain page 54

Soothe

Hidden Household HAZARDS page 62

August 2009

Back to School Worries page 67 Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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I t has been proven that having your home’s air conditioning system properly maintained by a qualified technician will greatly increase its reliability, which in turn will decrease the risk of costly repairs. Don’t wait ‘til it breaks. C hoosing the right contractor for homes’ Air Conditioning and IAQ needs is a big decision and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Choose a company you can trust for reliable products, service, installation and peace of mind on one of your biggest investments—Your Home. Choose Air Conduit.

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R educe your energy cost and get up to $1,500 Tax Credit from the 2009 Stimulus Package with qualified Air Conditioning and Heating Systems. C all today to schedule an appointment with one of our comfort system specialists.

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the heaLing power oF hoMe Living with Low vision shouLdn’t be a hardship. Does your vision affect your ability to read, get around independently, identify medications, prepare meals, and take care of your home? Have you been diagnosed with Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy, Glaucoma, Cataracts or Diabetes Mellitus? Let southern home health and our occupational therapists with over 50 years combined experience help you cope with low vision.

our speciaLized services incLude: • Coping strategies • Instruction on diagnosis and treatment of vision loss • Self-care home management training • Functional visual assessment • Home safety assessment and instruction • Assistive device training • Modification of home environment • Organization and item identification

For more information, or to ask a question about your Home Health needs, call Southern Home Health at 479-2233.

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August 2009

Battling

Breakouts It’s caused embarrassment for pretty much everyone at one time or another. Acne can scar more than skin; it also causes emotional discomfort for many people. The little, and not-so-little, bumps can seem like a bright red flag waving high for all to see. Casual glances are suddenly suspicious and cover-up attempts only manage to draw more attention. It’s a vicious cycle and one that feeds on itself, according to Maureen Olivier, MD, dermatologist with Lake Charles Medical and Surgcical Clinic. “Oil production increases in the teen years, acne starts and then we use a myriad of remedies to try to soak up the oil and dry out the pimples. This causes the oil glands to work overtime, making everything worse.” Both hormones and oil production are in over-drive during the teen years, and the combination of the two results in the formation of a pimple.“An abundance of oily secretions clog the pores of the skin and produce the breakout,” explained Dr. Olivier.“Pimples occur on the oiliest areas of the body, such as the face, back, and chest.” by Christine Fisher

Oil-clogged pores aren’t the only acne trigger, other culprits include: • Dirt • Makeup • Tight-fitting hats and helmets • Backpack straps rubbing against the shoulders and back • Stress • Hormones • Medications

night with a gentle cleanser.

• Avoid rough exfoliants; choose exfoliating lotions or gels with smooth,

“One of the worst things teenage girls can do is try to cover acne with a lot of makeup. Some of the makeup available has pore-clogging ingredients in it already, and when it’s combined with oily skin, it only makes matters worse,” said Dr. Olivier.“Smarter makeup choices include mineral makeup containing natural ingredients that generally do well on most skin types, including sensitive skin. Also, using a small amount is best. Putting on too much makeup not only looks bad, it can cause pores to clog even more. Teen girls may not be as careful as they should to remove makeup each night, further compounding the problem.” Acne may start in the teen years, but it often lingers into adulthood. Nearly 30 percent of women and 20 percent of men ages 20 to 60 battle breakouts. Hormonal cycles in women are a frequent culprit, as oil production is increased a few days before a period, and some women notice more breakouts during pregnancy. “Even though battling acne during the teen years is difficult, dealing with adult acne can be much harder. Despite the fact that many adults fight the occasional breakout and even regular eruptions, many see breakouts as a sign that you don’t have your act together. When you’re a business person needing to project a professional image, trying to cover a pimple doesn’t convey confidence,” Dr. Olivier said. Because over-cleaning and vigorous scrubbing can cause more damage, Dr. Olivier recommends stepping back and re-evaluating the way to clean the skin. • Clean the face and any other acne-prone areas of the skin both morning and August 2009

rounded beads and use no more than once or twice a week, if at all. Be very careful on and around inflamed areas. • Use a topical treatment containing benzoyl peroxide to kill bacteria. To prevent discoloration and fade acne scars, products containing salicylic and glycolic acids usually have good results. Moderate to severe acne responds well to prescription treatments. Retin-A, Renova and Differin are topical prescription-strength products derived from vitamin A. Topical antibiotics are also available with a prescription and they combat excess skin bacteria. A qualified dermatologist can determine the best approach to successfully fighting breakouts. Once acne is under control, occasional flare-ups may still occur. To minimize, these hygiene and lifestyle tips can help: • Be careful of too much sun exposure, as this can increase oil production and make acne worse. Also, some acne medications can make you more susceptible to the sun, so check with your doctor if you’re on any medication. • Avoid touching your face as much as possible. • Wash your hands frequently. • If you do have a blemish, don’t pick at it; it can cause an infection or scarring. Mild acne is usually controlled with a gentle cleanser and topical treatments. Moderate to severe acne, especially occurring in adults, is best treated by working with a dermatologist who can pinpoint the cause and recommend products to work with individual skin types. For more information, call Dr. Olivier’s office at 474-1386.

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Thrive is designed for people focused on living a happy, healthy life, one that is balanced, full of energy and contentment. Thrive readers want to make the most of every day and be successful in all areas of their lives – family, health, home and career.

You. The TV. And The RemoTe.

Don’t just live, thrive! Editors and Publishers Kristy Armand Christine Fisher Creative Director

Barbara VanGossen

Layout

Tony Lee

The Lake Area’s New Exercise Show

Assistant Editor Erin K. Cormier Advertising Sales

Danielle Granger Ashley Gatte 337.310.2099

Submissions

edit@thriveswla.com or fax to 337.312.0976

Saturday, August 1 & 8 9:00Am Suddenlink Channel 8 www.dWoLouisiana.com

Submitted articles and photos are welcome. Thrive assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials and does not guarantee any submissions.

It’s time for your business to Thrive!

Thanks to our full color pages, high quality printing and fun, informative format, Thrive is the perfect place to showcase your business through advertising. We’d love to spend a few minutes with you to put together an advertising plan that works for your business.

Patient centered care through telemonitoring

Danielle Granger, Sales Manager 310-2099

Ashley Gatte, Sales Representative 310-2099

danielle@thriveswla.com

ashley@thriveswla.com

What is it?

Benefits of home Telemonitoring

By using voice prompts and visual cues, our telehealth monitor will guide the patient through a quick and easy-to-use interface and process to collect their vital signs. The patient data collected is transmitted to our VitalPartners365 Clinical Coaches for assessment and intervention.

• Improved clinical outcomes • Reduction of emergency room visits and re-hospitalizations • Improved quality of care delivery • Improved compliance • A sense of security for the patient and the patient’s family

Jennings 824-5453 • Lake CharLes 491-1117 919 North Lake Arthur Avenue Unit 1 • Jennings, LA 70546 1625 Ryan Street, Suite D • Lake Charles, LA 70601

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August 2009

1 in 6 men will have prostate cancer da Vinci Surgery is the #1 treatment choice for precise surgical removal ®

Dr. Siddiq is board-certified in urology. He is fellowship trained in endourology, laparoscopy and robotic surgery and has extensive experience in the surgical management of prostate cancer. Dr. Siddiq’s outcomes and compassion for patients have earned him a reputation for excellence as a minimally invasive surgeon. Minimize potential side-effects such as incontinence and impotence by choosing da Vinci Surgery. More men choose da Vinci Surgery than any other prostate cancer treatment. If you have been considering treatment options for prostate cancer, ask Farjaad Siddiq, MD, FACS about da Vinci Surgery.

Visit our website www.RoboticUrologyMD.com to learn more.

234 Dr. Michael DeBakey Drive Lake Charles, LA • 337-433-5282 While clinical studies support the use of the da Vinci System as an effective tool for minimally invasive surgery, individual outcomes may vary. © 2008 Intuitive Surgical. All rights reserved. Intuitive, Intuitive Surgical, da Vinci and EndoWrist are registered trademarks of Intuitive Surgical. All other product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. c PN 871883 Rev. A 6/2008 August 2009

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The Anti-Aging

Power of Flexibility is Within Reach by Christine Fisher

Nothing says “young” like a limber, graceful body. You can’t fake it, inject it, or buy it. With all of the cosmetic treatment options to erase wrinkles and sagging skin, to the image consultants dressing people in young, hip fashions, the body’s ability to move with ease can speak louder than anything. We’ve all witnessed someone struggling to get out of a chair, pick something up from the floor or stand up after sitting for a long period of time; the difficulties are usually blamed on age. One of the biggest tell-tale signs of aging is often overlooked: flexibility.

No one wants to lose their agility. While some people are blessed with naturally flexible bodies, by far the majority of people who maintain their graceful movements do so because they exercise and stretch, achieving good balance, improved posture and greater range of motion. In fact, health experts agree that only 30 percent of flexibility is attributed to hereditary. Which means a whopping 70 percent comes from personal choices and daily habits. “People of virtually any age can increase their flexibility,” said Tressie Bares, exercise specialist with Dynamic Dimensions.“Muscles naturally lose their strength and suppleness as we age, so a steady routine of exercising that incorporates aerobics, strength training and stretching is important to maintain flexibility.” One of the key reasons muscles lose their natural elasticity is due to being inactive.“Use it or lose it” applies perfectly to flexibility. Because our society has evolved into mostly sedentary lifestyles, bodies aren’t in motion for daily tasks like they were just a few generations ago. For most people, exercise has to be a conscious decision that is worked into a daily schedule. The payoff is being able to stay limber and agile.

those who exercised regularly were five years “medically younger” than the ones who were more sedentary. This was measured by greater muscle mass, better cardiovascular endurance and increased flexibility.“Chronological age doesn’t necessarily correlate to the age someone feels. A person can feel a lot younger than they are if they’ve adopted a healthy lifestyle and a positive outlook,” said Bares. “And, we know the opposite is true; someone who doesn’t exercise regularly is going to have a much higher increased risk of having joint pain, problems with balance and poor flexibility.” In case more inspiration is needed, consider these benefits of being flexible: • It helps decrease the risk of injury and improve physical performance. Flexible joints require less energy to move through a greater range of motion. • Flexibility helps increase blood and nutrients to tissues, which results in improved circulation. • Back pain is lessened. The more flexible the pelvic muscles, hamstrings, hip flexors and quadriceps, the less stress to the lower back. • Stretching improves balance and posture, giving a taller, more slender appearance. “The best way to improve flexibility is to incorporate stretching into your workout routine. Warming up and cooling down do utilize some flexibility movements, but working on flexibility is more than that. It’s a few more minutes spent of concentrating on holding stretches for a longer period, utilizing movements that work on balance with gentle motions that are slow and intentional; no jarring or bouncing,” explained Bares. “Stretches should be held until resistance is felt, but not pain. Aim to hold for about 20 to 60 seconds, then release. One long stretch is more effective than several shorter ones.” She offers these recommended flexibility and balance exercises to keep you steady on your feet:

In a recent study of 250 Japanese women ages 20 to 70,

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• Stand on one leg. Use a chair for balance in

the beginning. Slowly bring one foot up and grasp behind you with one hand. Use your opposite hand

August 2009

outstretched to the side for balance, if needed. Goal is to hold for 30 seconds, then switch to other leg and repeat.

• Walk heel to toe. The

Not Just Your Average Pony Party Celebrate with a little Equestrian Magic

Does your child love ponies? Let the Stables at LeBocage host their next dream party. Come out to our brand new facility where our friendly staff and blue ribbon show ponies will certainly create the party every child dreams of.

test police use to check for sobriety is done because it checks for balance. Take 20 steps forward, heel to toe. Then walk backward, with toe to heel, in a straight line.

• Squats. Strong legs

provide steady support. Build your quadriceps by squatting: With feet hipwidth apart, bend knees and hips and slowly lower as if to sit on a chair behind you. Keep arms straight out, back straight and knees above the shoulders. Stop when thighs are parallel to the floor, then slowly stand up. Aim for three sets of 10.

• Leap ahead. Build muscle

force in your legs by leaping out of a sitting position, so much so that you need to take a few running steps after doing so. This kind of force helps get legs in the right place in a split-second, and can help catch you from falling should you stumble. Playing tennis or basketball also builds muscle force from the quick side-to-side and back-andforth movements.

“Any age can see an increase in flexibility after a few short weeks. It can help provide stability and maybe even prevent an accidental fall. At the very least, flexibility will give increased confidence and help you move with more fluidity and ease – a great addition to any anti-aging toolkit!” said Bares.

We customize each party to your specifications and offer a variety of options to meet everyone’s needs. Call today and start planning your child’s dream party.

4550 South Park Road, Lake Charles, LA 70607 • (337) 905-PONY (7669) • thestablesatlebocage.com

Make the Best Choice for You and Your Family One of the finest Outpatient Day Surgery centers in the nation has been right here in the Lake Area for over 30 years…Surgicare of Lake Charles With our state-of-the-art facilities and our experienced, friendly staff, it’s no wonder we’re known as the comfortable surgical alternative that’s affordable as well. • Ophthalmology • Orthopedics • ENT • Pain Management • Gynecology • Laser • Podiatry • General Surgery • Plastics

Dynamic Dimensions offers personal training sessions at both locations. Call Sulphur at 527-5459 or Moss Bluff at 855-7708.

2100 Lake Street, Lake Charles • (337) 436-6941 • 1-800-782-0336 August 2009

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Additional Vaccines Are Now Required

For 2009 - 2010 School Year

wo additional vaccines are now required for the upcoming 2009 – 2010 school year in Louisiana. In addition to the shots already required by law, two doses of the chicken pox vaccine are now required for children four years old and older. Children who are 11 years old or entering the sixth grade must have proof of the newly required meningitis vaccine. “These two vaccines have

by Christine Fisher

been recommended for years,” according to Christa O’Neal, RN, with West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital and the hospital’s coordinator of the national Shots for Tots program,“but they are now required for public school attendance beginning with this coming school year.” State law already requires standard immunizations for diseases like hepatitis B, polio, measles, mumps and rubella for all children, depending on their age. “Parents should make sure their child is current on all immunizations. They can do that by checking their shot record, checking with their physician’s office, or any parish health unit,” said O’Neal. The immunization records are now in a database provided by the Department of Health and Hospitals Louisiana Immunization Network for Kids Statewide, or LINKS. This system allows health care providers to track the immunization status of children, regardless of where the shots were received. The database helps to ensure that all children are properly vaccinated and, should a public health emergency occur, it allows health officials to easily identify who has been immunized against a specific disease. “Many of the diseases our parents and grandparents endured are making a comeback because of

Join us for the

1st Annual CCOA Meals-On-Wheels Senior Prom Fund-Raiser Saturday, September 19th • 2–6pm Lake Charles Civic Center Exhibition Hall Antique Food, Music Cars & More Court & Pictures Presentations All proceeds from this event support Calcasieu Parish Meals on Wheels program.

TickeTs $5.00 To Purchase Tickets call Angie with CCOA at 337-474-2583 or Melissa with Southern Home Health at 337-479-2233. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor or would like to make a donation, please contact Robin Abshire at 337-309-6861 or Jackie Hebert at 337-302-6960. 8

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decreased immunization rates,” O’Neal explained.“Polio, rubella, mumps, measles and pertussis, amongst other vaccine preventable diseases, cause disabilities and death. Properly immunizing one’s child will help reduce the likelihood of contracting one of these diseases.” Vaccinations work by introducing a small amount of the weakened or dead bacteria from disease-causing germs into the body. Antibodies are then formed to fight the germs. If the same germs infect the body again, they are recognized and fought even quicker the second time around. A child receiving a measles vaccine would be just as immune to further exposure as a child who actually suffered through the illness. Minor side-effects do occur, such as fever, muscle aches and redness or soreness at the site of the shot. There have been reports from parents of more severe reactions that they attribute to vaccines.“If you have any doubt or questions about giving a vaccine to your child, you should discuss it with your child’s pediatrician. They have your child’s best health in mind and can give factual information so you can make an informed decision,” O’Neal said. West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital is a provider of the Shots for Tots program. The schedule is as follows: • First Saturday of each month, 8:30 a.m. – 12 noon, West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, 701 Cypress Street, Sulphur • First Saturday of odd months, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m., Vinton Medical Clinic, 1611 Hampton Street, Vinton • Second Thursday of each month, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m., Dynamic Dimensions East, 602 Sam Houston Jones Parkway, Moss Bluff There is a $10 fee for shots. Program is open to children, teens and adults. For more information, or for schedule changes, call (337) 527-4361 or visit www.wcch.com.

August 2009

Choosing a Guide for Your

Financial

Journey by Kristy Armand

inancial matters can seem, and often are, complicated. If you are in doubt as to your ability to make the most of what you have for your future, then it may be time to consult a professional. But deciding who to call can be almost as complicated as managing your finances. There are several choices: asset managers, investment counselors, stockbrokers, accountants, bankers, financial advisers, planners, and many other categories of financial service providers. How do you know which option is best for you? The key, according to Denise Rau, Certified Financial Planner and President of Rau Financial Group, is determining what your needs are and then choosing someone you can trust. “If you just have one aspect of your finances you need help with, then the service you need can guide your choice. Although all of these professionals understand parts of your needs, none of them have the whole picture. If you are looking for someone to help guide you to look at the big picture, and help you get your finances aligned with your life goals, then a true financial planner is the professional with the training and resources you need.” “If you’ve hired a financial professional and asked them for a plan, that is what you should get. If their ‘plan’ is a list of products you should purchase, you may be dealing with someone who is more focused on his/her sales goals than your life goals,” says Rau. She explains that financial planners are trained to use the financial planning process to help clients crystallize their goals and effectively manage their personal finances to achieve their goals and financial independence. This may or may not involve the purchase of securities, insurance or other financial products. While many financial planners are also licensed to sell certain financial products or registered as investment advisors to help put a financial life plan into action, true financial planners put the interests of the client first, not the sale of products. “Because financial planners deal with one of the most personal and sensitive aspects of your life -- your personal financial security -- trust is at the heart of the financial planning relationship,” says Rau. “Many financial service providers include the word ‘planner’ or ‘financial planning’ in their service descriptions, so it is easy to get confused. Even within the financial planning profession, it’s important to evaluate your options and choose a professional who can give you comprehensive and unbiased planning advice.”

August 2009

To help consumers clearly identify financial planning professionals, the Financial Planners Standards Council (FPSC) was established in 1995. This is a not-for-profit, standard setting, professional regulatory organization that licenses qualified individuals to use the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certification marks. To earn the CFP, an individual must meet rigorous standards in education, examination, experience and ethics. A minimum of two years’ work experience in a financial planning is required before an application for CFP can be submitted. Successful completion of an FPSC registered education program and a comprehensive examination is then required, along with fulfillment of annual continuing education requirements to keep abreast of current planning strategies and financial trends. Adherence to a professional code of ethics is the final requirement for CFPs. A properly trained financial planner will work to integrate your entire financial life into one that focuses on current and long-term personal and financial goals. They examine and explore all your needs and can help with every aspect of finances, including budgeting and saving; cash flow, investments, insurance, college funding, business planning, tax planning, retirement and estate planning. “While they may work with you on a single financial issue, such as developing a realistic budget,” says Rau, “it is always within the context of your overall financial situation -- with the focus on your ultimate goals. It is this global approach to your financial life that sets financial planners apart from all other financial advisors who may have been trained to focus on only one aspect of your finances, such as investments or insurance. Before we talk about money at all, I ask my clients to tell me what is important to them, in their lives, now and for the future. What are their personal values? Is it spending time with their family? Buying a home? Sending their four kids to a good college? Traveling after retirement? Then I take a close look at their current finances to see if their current money management matches their values. In most cases, it doesn’t, which always comes as a big surprise to the individuals. Then I work with them to develop a plan that will help them use their money for the things that are most important in their lives. That’s what financial planning is to me: putting your money where your heart is.” For more information about financial planning, call Rau Financial Group at 480-3835.

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When Your Doctor Says ICD Research Emphasizes Importance of Specialized Practice in ICD Implantations

Cardiac Electrophysiologist William Bailey, MD, of Louisiana Heart Rhythm Specialists, participated in the National Cardiovascular Data Registry Implantable Cardioverter Debfibrillator Registry, as did all other U.S. implanting physicians. The results were published in a recent issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association. Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) are small devices that continuously monitor the heart’s rhythm and deliver an electric shock to the heart when a life threatening arrhythmia is present. ICDs also can act as pacemakers when a heart beat that is too slow is detected.

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The study, which reviewed ICD implantations submitted over an 18-month period, found that implantations performed by nonelectrophysiologists are associated with a higher rate of procedural complications. In addition, nonelectrophysiologists were less likely to implant a device capable of treating heart failure when the patient needed one. A cardiac electrophysiologist is specially trained in the science of diagnosing, clarifying, and treating the electrical activities of the heart. Although implantations can be conducted by non-EP cardiologists, thoracic surgeons and other specialists, the study indicates that whenever possible, a board-certified electrophysiologist should be implanting ICDs. “Cardiac electrophysiologists have specific, specialized training that can benefit the patient tremendously during an ICD procedure,” Dr. Bailey said. According to lead investigator Jeptha Curtis, MD, of the Yale University School of Medicine, there were statistically significant differences in the complication rates across the groups of cardiac electrophysiologists and nonelectrophysiologists, with the most striking being the contrast between risk levels between electrophysiologists and thoracic surgeons. They also point out that geographic access to electrophysiologists is not the issue driving the non-electrophysiologist implanters. Dr. Bailey is recognized nationally and internationally as a leading expert in the field of cardiac electrophysiology. He has served as a principle investigator for numerous clinical device trials and has been instrumental in the development of new pacemaker and ICD technology. For more information about heart rhythm conditions and treatment options, call Louisiana Heart Rhythm Specialists at (337) 233-PACE.

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August 2009

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NEW NON-SURGICAL TECHNIQUE NOW AVAILABLE

Breaking the Pain of ARTHRITIS and SpORTS INjURIES

Do you need a joint replacement or

suffer from arthritis or sports injuries? FINALLY ... a non-surgical treatment with no downtime that's We offer a non-surgical solution. designed to help you fight against arthritis and sports injuries!

First, the physician introduces medicines damaged, arthritic cells FINALLY... a non-surgical treatment with natural no downtime that’sinto designed to help you fight by means of a precise injection. This is followed by infrared laser, and other against arthritis and sports injuries! modalities in order to accelerate the process. It usually only takes 1 to 6 treatThis is how it works: The physician introduces natural medicines into damaged, arthritic cells ments for you to improve, depending upon tissue damage, severity and joint size. by means of a precise injection. This is followed by infrared laser, and other modalities in order to There is usually no downtime, and you can resume your usual activities accelerate the process. It usually only takes 1 to 6 treatments for you to improve, depending upon immediately. tissue damage, severity and joint size. you suffer from muscoskeletal problems knee or shoulder pain, There If is usually no downtime, and you can resume yoursuch usualas activities immediately. whiplash, tendonitis, torn ligaments, cartilage damage or sprains and strains, give If you suffer from muscoskeletal problems such as knee or shoulder pain, whiplash, tendonitis, a call today for more information! tornus ligaments, cartilage damage or sprains and strains, give us a call today for more information!

4150 Nelson Rd., Bldg. D, Ste. 1 Lake Charles, LA 70605

R. Dale Bernauer, M.D. Stephen J. Flood, M.D.

For more information call 337-474-6960

Pure Foods Expands Cooking Classes Pure Foods and Health on West Prien Lake Road in Lake Charles will offer several cooking classes in August and September for those interested in preparing healthy and nutritious meals without sacrificing flavor. The classes will feature dishes influenced by cuisines around the world. Desserts, snacks and main courses will be on the menu. Recipes prepared in previous classes have included lasagna, vegetable curry, stew, hummus, and desserts – all of which have been focused on healthy and holistic eating habits. Instructors have included raw foods chefs, as well as photojournalist Brad Puckett and food writer Eric Cormier of the American Press. Cormier, who writes the weekly “Spice of Life” food column in the Press, has written for several local and regional magazines, including Louisiana Cookin’. For more information on upcoming cooking classes, visit the store at 138 W. Prien Lake Road, online at www. purefoodsandhealth.com, or call 905-9893.

Memorial Hospital’s Home Health Receives Gold Quality Award Call Today for our Summer MoveIn Specials!

Lake Charles Memorial Hospital’s Home Health department has received a Gold 2008 Louisiana Home Health Agency Quality Award presented by Louisiana Health Care Review, Inc. (LHCR), the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization for Louisiana. The award was announced at the second Louisiana Health Care Quality Summit hosted by LHCR in Baton Rouge in May 2009. With this award, Memorial’s Home Health is one of eight home health agencies in the state to receive a Gold 2008 Louisiana Home Health Agency Quality Award. The award is presented to home health agencies that have achieved defined levels of health care quality improvement by December 31, 2008. The awards were given for excellent performance and improvement in home health care. For more information about Louisiana Home Health Quality Awards, please visit www.lhcr.org or contact Memorial’s Home Health at 494-6444.

New Wrinkle Treatment Available at Aesthetic Center Dysport was recently approved by the FDA for the cosmetic treatment of moderate to severe glabellar lines in the forehead and it is now available at the Aesthetic Center. Dysport is made from the same active ingredient, clostridium botulinum toxin type A, as Botox and is only the second drug to be approved by the FDA as a wrinkle treatment According to Mark Crawford, MD, facial cosmetic specialist and medical director of the Aesthetic Center, Dysport has been safely used in other countries for over a decade and has undergone vigorous clinical testing in the United States in studies involving nearly 3000 patients and over 80 clinical sites. Dysport works by immobilizing the muscles you use to frown, smoothing out the lines and restoring a more youthful, less-stressed expression. Dr. Crawford says treatment with Dysport takes just a few minutes and results become apparent within a few days. Studies show that the effect can last up to five months. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call the Aesthetic Center at 478-3810. 12

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August 2009

Keep Your Heels Happy A common misconception about heel pain is that it can only be caused by any single injury such as a fall or twist. This is simply not true. Heel pain is most frequently a result of plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of a band of tissues called the fascia, which extends from the heel to the toes. According to Robert Arango, MD, podiatrist with Lake Area Foot Center,“Plantar fasciitis is usually caused by poor foot mechanics. If the band is too short, it can cause a high arched foot. If too long, it can cause an overly flat foot.” People with high arched feet or overly flat feet are more prone to developing plantar fasciitis. Common symptoms of plantar fasciitis can include pain on the bottom of the heel, pain that lessens after continuous movement but comes back after rest and an increase in pain over time. Most patients with this condition often complain that the pain is worse when they get up in the morning and also when they spend long periods of time on their feet.“During sleep, the fascia becomes stiff without movement which can cause more intense pain in the morning. Prolonged movement can also cause a more intense pain by overstretching and inflaming the fascia,” says Dr. Arango. Dr. Arango offers the following tips to help treat heel pain:

August 2009

• A change

in footwear can make a big difference. Buy shoes by Katie McDaniel with cushioning or place a heel cup or pad in an existing pair of shoes. • Soak your foot in warm water for 30 seconds and then soak it in cool water for another 30 seconds. Going back and forth between warm and cool water for 20 minutes a day can help relieve pain. • Wear a night splint. This maintains an extended stretch while sleeping which can help reduce the morning pain. • Relieve heel pressure by doing foot and heel stretches. • Resist the urge to go barefoot. Heel pain occurs when the feet are not properly supported. If these treatments do not achieve any success, it may be time to call your doctor. “Plantar fasciitis is irritating and painful, but it does not have to control your life,” says Dr. Arango.“With the right care, relief can be found.” For more information, call Dr. Arango with Lake Area Foot Center at (337) 479-2200.

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Get more mileaGe out of your garage.

CFO Expands Physician Staff with Addition of Dr. Steven Hale Orthopaedic Surgeon Steven Hale, MD, has joined the physician staff of Center for Orthopaedics. Dr. Hale is originally from Lake Charles and received his undergraduate degree in Biochemistry from Louisiana State University. He earned his Medical Degree from Tulane University School of Medicine Steven Hale, MD in New Orleans and completed his Orthopaedic Residency at The Campbell Clinic in Memphis, Tennessee, which is recognized as one of the premier practicing and teaching orthopaedic centers in the world. Dr. Hale specializes in joint replacement, sports medicine, knee surgery, shoulder surgery, hip surgery, fracture care, children’s orthopaedic care and arthritis treatment. He will be seeing patients in the Lake Charles and Sulphur offices of Center for Orthopaedics. Call 721-7236 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Stephen Castleberry, MD, joins West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital

Whatever Your Taste... We’ve Got Your # We really do have something for everyone! On a special diet or counting carbs? We’ve added Specialty Salads and Low Carb Tortillas. Fat Free Cheeses, dressings and spreads add an even lighter dimension to our menu. Not just delicious, but healthy and hearty too. We’re not just the original rolled sandwich, we’re the original healthy sandwich too!

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West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital welcomes the addition of Stephen Castleberry, MD, general surgeon, to its medical staff. Castleberry, a graduate of Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans, recently completed his residency at Scott & White Medical Stephen Castleberry, MD Center/Texas A&M Health Sciences Center in Temple, Texas. A Sulphur native, Castleberry joins Drs. Walter Ledet, Kent Seale and Joseph O’Donnell with Sulphur Surgical Clinic in providing surgical care to patients in Southwest Louisiana. Dr. Castleberry is a resident member of the American Medical Association, the Texas Medical Association and the American College of Surgeons. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 527-6363.

Memorial Physician Receives Award of Excellence

3100 Ryan Street • (337) 433-3130

Thanks for five years of business! 14

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Jody George, MD presents a crystal memorial to Patrick Unkel, MD.

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Patrick J. Unkel, MD, a pediatrician on staff at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital and a part-time faculty member at the Memorial/LSUHSC Family Medicine Residency Program, was the first recipient of the William Perry George Memorial Award of Excellence. The George Family Foundation recognized Dr. Unkel for his ethics, a life-long dedication to learning, and his

August 2009

many acts of kindness in both his personal and professional life. Designed to recognize an outstanding faculty or staff member, resident, or physician associated directly with the residency program, the award was presented recently during a ceremony for the residency programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s graduates. Jody George, MD, a 2007 graduate of the residency program, presented Dr. Unkel with a crystal memorial on behalf of the family foundation. In addition, the West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital Foundation donated $500 to the residency program in Dr. Unkelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s honor.

Memorial Family Medicine Graduates The graduates of the Memorial/LSUHSC Family Medicine Residency Program for 2009 are (left to right): Brian Harrell, MD, Phillip Ehlers, MD, Leslie Powell, MD, Pearre Davenport, III, MD, Angel Ho, MD, Jeffrey Combetta, MD, Andy Quebedeaux, MD, and Jason Egloff, MD. The Family Medicine Residency Program began in January 1995, with a mission to promote and provide the highest quality physician education through patient care by utilizing the most up-to-date educational methods and information systems.

West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital Welcomes Two Family Practice Physicians

Kelly Fuqua, MD

West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital is pleased to announce that Kelly Fuqua, MD, and Jason Fuqua, MD, family medicine physicians, are now seeing patients in their new clinic, Calcasieu Family Physicians. The office is located inside the Grimball and Richert Clinic building, 920 First Avenue in Sulphur. Dr. Grimball and Dr. Richert will continue to provide family practice care in the Grimball and Richert Clinic. Both physicians are graduates of the LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans. Dr. Kelly Fuqua is board certified in family medicine. Dr. Jason Fuqua is currently completing his residency. For new patient appointments with Calcasieu Family Physicians, call 528-7472.

Jason Fuqua, MD

August 2009

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Quality Commercial and Residential Construction

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August 2009

Fre$hman

by Erin K. Cormier

Finance

for the College-Bound With the real world comes a real set of responsibilities, and chief among them are those that pertain to your pocketbook. If you’re college-bound, you’ve probably gone through orientation designed to introduce you to dorm life, time management skills, and the campus layout, while one of life’s most important lessons – how to manage your money – is left untouched. Credit card companies and aggressive lenders are privy to the fact that young college students are prone to spend more freely than their parents, so they take action quickly. You’ll find that becoming a college freshman makes you a soughtafter customer for “pre-approved” and “pre-qualified” offers. You may even receive a check in the mail that proves to be quick cash in your hands – at a cost, of course. According to a Sallie Mae study released in April, 84 percent of undergraduates have at least one credit card, up from 76 percent in 2004. The research found that, on average, students have five credit cards, with half holding four or more. The average balance was more than $3,000. “In most cases, one credit card is enough for a young college student. There is no magic number as to how many cards each consumer should hold, but a good rule is to only have credit cards that you can afford to pay off each month. If you find that you usually pay the minimum balance and all your cards are maxed out, that’s a red flag that you have too many. A new college student simply won’t have enough earning power to pay that balance down most of the time,” said Lyles McDaniel, Senior Vice President with Cameron State Bank. McDaniel offered the following guide for college-bound freshmen as they wade through the financial responsibilities of adulthood: • Don’t be swayed by big-print credit offers that come in the mail.“Pay less attention to the big letters that promise zero-percent interest and pay more attention to the fine print, which is where the real information is,” McDaniel said. “Reading fine print should become a habit of anyone who applies for credit.” • Some financial lenders send legitimate checks in the mail, made out in your name. It’s understandably tempting to cash these checks, but “once again, look at the fine print,” stresses McDaniel.“These checks usually carry hefty interest rates that make cashing them less worthwhile.” • Use your credit card for emergencies only, and don’t carry more cards than you can afford. • Make sure you have a clear understanding of the interest rates on your lines of credit. If you pay the minimum amount due each month, you’re usually only paying off the additional expenses tacked on to owning a credit card. If you can’t afford to pay more than the minimum balance, don’t have credit cards. • Open a checking account at a local bank and learn how to balance your checkbook. A financial professional at your bank of choice can help you decide August 2009

which checking account plan is best for you and give you a crash-course on how to balance it every month. If possible, open a savings account as well. • In addition to balancing your checkbook, make sure you keep track of your credit purchases. Sixty percent of students surveyed by Sallie Mae were surprised at how high their balance went and how quickly it skyrocketed. • Save money by spending wisely.“One of the greatest benefits of college life is access to free or low-cost entertainment. Pay attention to those opportunities as much as possible,” McDaniel said. If you’re fortunate enough to be on a meal plan, be sure to take advantage. Eat on campus instead of fast food. It may seem cheap to spend three bucks on hamburgers, but those three bucks add up quickly. Also, learn how to grocery shop wisely. Buy generic brands, use coupons, and comparison shop whenever possible.” • Have a budget, and stick to it. It’s easy to lose control of your finances, especially when you’re in college and busy with so many other things. Before you get in full semester swing, develop a budget with estimated costs in various categories, such as entertainment, supplies, and other expenses. Try to stay within that budget as much as possible.“Making a budget often requires a lot of guesswork, so it’s understandable that you may spend a little more than you planned from time to time, but usually you can get within a reasonable ballpark. Just make sure you don’t hit too many fouls,” McDaniel said. Having a budget can greatly reduce stress because you have a general idea of what to expect financially each month, and “the less stress you can muster during college, the better.” • Understand the consequences of poor financial choices. If you stick to minimum payments, open or apply for too many lines of credit, or don’t pay bills on time, your FICO score will be affected. The FICO score determines what your interest rates will be on future purchases.“A low credit score costs you money and sometimes can prevent you from making future purchases, like a car or a home,” McDaniel said. According to McDaniel, discipline is the key to financial management for consumers of any age:“If you can master the art of discipline, you will do well financially. That is where most of us fall short, in finances and in life.”

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Summer was fun while it lasted, but it had to end sometime. Now it’s back to school season and time to rack up on those rulers, notebooks, uniforms, and pencils! The first day of school is just around the corner, so visit these local businesses to make sure your child enters the classroom with all the necessary tools for a memorable 20092010 school year.

Largest Selection of School Uniforms Year Round Toddler thru men’s sizes

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back to school time! Uniforms available year round.

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60 days 20% Down 706 Ryan St., Lake Charles, LA 337-433-3670 www.facebook.com/socialdenim

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the uniform shop

The Lake Area’s Only “Complete” Uniform Shop 2708 Kirkman St., Lake Charles, LA • 337-439-2476

August 2009

LOOK, FEEL, & PERFORM YOUR BEST It’s the prep that counts. Sylvan understands the pressure and challenges students face in making the most of their college entrance exams. Sylvan’s prep course can reduce your stress and increase your score. Real results—3 out of 4 Sylvan students increase their ACT® score by 5 points

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Are Your Child’s Math Skills Ready for the New School Year?

Pre-K thru Pre-Calculus Schedule an Assessment Call 478-0550 TodAy! 2744 Country Club Road Lake Charles, LA 70605 www.mathnasium.com Next to Albertson’s

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August 2009

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Did you know… …that poor or inadequate sleep in children can lead to mood swings, behavioral problems—such as hyperactivity —and cognitive problems that hinder a child’s ability to learn. The National Sleep Foundation states that children age 5–12 need 10–11 hours of sleep each night and teens need 8 1/2 –9 1/2 hours.

Kids need sleep too! Jana P. Kaimal, MD • Phillip Conner, MD • Michelle Zimmerman, NP

4820 Lake Street • Lake Charles • (337) 310-7378 www.sleepdisordercenterofla.com Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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n w o t n w o D o t n w o D t Ge AugusAut gu4st-94

-1612 Augdnesusdaty,10 August

Saturday, August 22 val – Family & Youth Family Festi @ Lake Charles Civic Center, 9am-4pm – Cheater Pipe, 2nd Party @ Program & We Were Wolves AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10pm – Mynameisjohnmichael @ Giveres @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9pm – BREATHE - Circular Connections @ Rosa Hart Theatre, 8-10pm

We ck Tuesday, – Alvin Touchet @ The Blue Du – Tidbits of History: History Café, 7:30-9:30pm of Theatre in Lake Charles Friday, August 14 @ SWLA Genealogical & @ Research Turtles & The Gills – jo Pu 1 (41 y rar Lib Historical Luna Bar & Grill, 9pm St.), 10-11am @ – Last November & In Liquid & r Ba ’s AJ @ ar Ye e Th Of – Rookie AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10pm pm 10 Grill, tro, Saturday, August 15 – Gervis Guidry @ Sylvia’s Bis – Beginning Genealogy 7pm Workshop: Hands-On 5 st gu Au y, da es dn We Computer Workshop @ 411 , – Mike Zito @ Sylvia’s Bistro Pujo St., 10am-12pm 8:30pm Live Oak Decline (Austin) @ – ck Du e Blu e Th @ t he – Alvin Touc Luna Bar & Grill, 9pm Café, 7:30-9:30pm & – Crooks Carnival @ AJ’s Bar 6 st gu Au , Thursday Grill, 10pm Von – The In And Outlaws w/The la @ Lake m – Jamaica Me Crazy Ga 9p ill, Gr & r Ba na Lu @ s ke Du Charles Civic Center, 7pm , tro Bis a’s lvi Sy @ s rri No – Tim 7pm Friday, August 7 ill, Tuesday, August 18 – Butt Roxx!! @ AJ’s Bar & Gr & – Magnolia Sons @ AJ’s Bar 10pm Grill, 10pm – Magnolia Sons & The Last ill, Wednesday, August 19 Chalaron @ Luna Bar & Gr ck – Alvin Touchet @ The Blue Du 9pm , 9pm Café, 7:30-9:30pm – City Heat @ Sylvia’s Bistro Friday, August 21 Saturday, August 8 r & – 6 Pack Deep & more (Baton – Plump (Houston) @ Luna Ba Rouge) @ Luna Bar & Grill, Grill, 9pm en 9pm – Choke, Broken By The Burd r – BREATHE - Circular and Slow The Knife @ AJ’s Ba Connections @ Rosa Hart & Grill, 10pm Theatre, 8-10pm

August 17-23

Looking to add some culture into your life this Summer? Head downtown for these exciting events!

Augdnesusdaty,2Au4gu-3st 260

We ck – Alvin Touchet @ The Blue Du Café, 7:30-9:30pm Friday, August 28 en – Goatwhore, Choke & Brok By The Burden @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10pm Bar – Susan Cowill Band @ Luna & Grill, 9pm Saturday, August 29 Grill, – DU LAC LIVE @ Luna Bar & 9pm – Spoiled Royals & The Von Dukes @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10pm

thriveswla.com. @ lle nie da to les du he sc nd ba or t en ev nd downtown To be included in this calendar, please se 20

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August 2009

Whether you are dining in or calling in for takeout, let The Luna Bar and Grill do all the work.

Coffee D Breakfast D Deli D Wi-fi 319 Broad Street Next door to the Yoga Center

Come in today for one of our specialty salads, stellar sandwiches, or exceptional entreés. We offer many choices for the health conscious individual. We’re locally owned and the best place in town for live entertainment, food, and drinks.

Donuts • Kolaches • Croissants And Much More! Plate Lunches (on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday)

Family Owned and Operated!

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(337) 494-LUNA

1004 Broad Street • Lake Charles, LA • 433-8139

Wachovia Securities is now Wells Fargo Advisors

Monday

1/2 price domestic pitchers 9pm-midnight

Tuesday

2 for 1 wells & domestic pints all day

Wednesday

$3 Jager bombs & $3 import draft pints 9pm12am

Thursday

Ladies Night 3 free drinks (well, draft, or wine) 9pm-12am

Dustin R. Granger, CFP® Financial Advisor One Lakeshore Dr. Suite 1500 Lake Charles, LA 70629 337-439-9081 · 800-256-5800 dustin.granger@wfadvisors.com www.wfadvisors.com/dustin.granger

Friday and saTurday – Live Music Glenn R. Granger Vice President – Investment Oﬃcer

Investment and Insurance Products: X NOT FDIC Insured X NO Bank Guarantee X MAY Lose Value Wells Fargo Advisors is the trade name used by two separate registered broker-dealers: Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, and Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, Members SIPC, non-bank aﬃliates of Wells Fargo & Company. ©2009 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. All rights reserved. 0409-3012 [76148-v1] 5/08

August 2009

C o u p o n

Buy any 2 Burgers, sandWiches or WhoLe poBoys & geT 1 Free appeTizer. –––––––– expires 08-31-09 ––––––––

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noW serving Lunch – Monday - Friday 11am - 2:30pm dinner – Monday - Friday 5pm-9pm catering now available. call us today for AJ’s Venue pricing!

710 Ryan St. • (337) 433-4388 www.myspace.com/ajslakecharles

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Local Dance Company Takes the Stage with

Circular Connections By Erin K. Cormier

As a young girl, Jillian Ardoin performed with local dance companies on the stage of the Rosa Hart Theatre, a venue that seats more than 2,000 and is celebrated as a local landmark for dance and theatre. When she was able to secure the stage for her own dance group later this month, it held a special significance. Ardoin is founder, artistic director and choreographer for Breathe, a local dance and performance collective best known for their performances of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” during the Poor Pony Monster Bash Celebrations. The group held its debut performance last year at the Central School Arts and Humanities Center with “Choreography,” a modern dance show. “We received such a tremendous amount of positive feedback from our audience that we decided to do it again this year, but better, and in a bigger venue. With the help of a grant, we are able to hold our second annual show at the Rosa Hart,” Ardoin said. The show,“Circular Connections,” features original scores, modern dance and props, such as ropes, harnesses, and swinging hammocks.

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Lindsey Ardoin, Tracy LeMieux and Colleen Locklin rehearse for the upcoming performance of “Circular Connections” at the Rosa Hart Theatre. Ardoin said the show was inspired by her own life journey.“The show has six pieces, each about eight or ten minutes long, that demonstrate things I’ve learned about relationships over the years – not just romantic relationships, but those between mother and daughter, friends, and all the other types of connections people make throughout their life journey. Each piece resembles something about honesty, trust, strength, and other elements of having relationships with others.” “Circular Connections” will take advantage of the benefits of the Rosa Hart Theatre by performing aerial dance and utilizing the various props required to tell the

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2009

Linsay Quebedeaux, Colleen Locklin, Lindsey Ardoin, Frances Fazzio and Tracy LeMieux rehearse for the upcoming performance of “Circular Connections” at the Rosa Hart Theatre. narrative. According to Ardoin, the show will have more depth and technical aspects than last year’s performance at Central School. Show times for “Circular Connections” are 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, August 21 and 22. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 and available at Gordon’s Drug Store and Expressions. The performance is supported in part by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development of Culture, Recreation and Tourism in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council as administered by the Arts & Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana.

s n i a P d n a s e For Ach s n i a r d e t t c S e p x and Une t Care Center en rg U ’s ic n li C e h T it Vis s Bluff Lake Charles and Mos The Clinic

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August 2009

Terrebonne Retires as Hospital Administrator after 32 Years

hen Terry Terrebonne graduated from Nicholls State University in 1968 with a degree in medical technology, he didn’t have dreams to move to a big city or work for a big-city hospital. Terrebonne, a native of Golden Meadow, was accustomed to small-town life and instead took a job as administrator of East Ascension General Hospital in Gonzales. Seven years later, he moved to Jennings American Legion Hospital. He will retire from the hospital in August, leaving behind a substantial legacy. Under his tenure, patient revenue at the hospital has grown from $1.8 million to $33.7 million, payroll and benefits have jumped from $782,560 to $16 million, and the hospital is now fully accredited by the Joint Commission. “Mr. Terrebonne has played an integral role in the development and maintenance of healthcare resources in Jennings,” said Dana Williams, his successor.“His strong leadership, coupled with activism in state agencies, such as the Louisiana Hospital Association and Rural Health Coalition, have ensured that our hospital has had a voice in shaping policies that have impacted our citizens and community.” Terrebonne said he has tried to be an effective leader who demonstrates compassion, empathy and respect.

“When you work in a community hospital like this, you have to deal with all kinds of people with different types of education, position, and experience. That includes patients and staff. It’s important to treat people right, and in this business, it’s especially important that you show a certain amount of compassion – not only for the community, but for your employees,” Terrebonne said.“This place has been like my second family, and that’s how I treat them.” He noted that Jennings American Legion Hospital has had only two CEOs since 1952,“which says a lot about the stability of this hospital, not just at the board level but at the management levels as well.” The hospital has grown substantially over the years to meet the needs of the Jennings community, whose population has remained fairly stable. The medical staff in 1977 consisted of 10 physicians specializing in general practice and general surgery. The current staff includes 23 physicians with specialties in family practice, internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics/gynecology, orthopedics, general and vascular surgery and radiology. In 1997, one of Terrebonne’s proudest years, the hospital was one of only a handful in the country that was in 100 percent compliance with the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. “I have always admired Mr. Terrebonne’s ability to navigate the constantly changing landscape of healthcare technology, reimbursement methodologies and regulatory requirements, while implementing the strategies set by our governing board and the patient care priorities established by our medical staff,” Williams said. Because community hospitals have fewer financial and human resources, Terrebonne said there are daily challenges to face, but it’s the daily challenges that he will miss most.“When you wake up in the morning and walk through the doors of a hospital, you never know what’s going to happen that day or what kind of problems you’ll have to tackle. It’s a challenge, and I’ll miss that.” Terrebonne plans on staying active in the community by continuing to serve on local boards and offering continued service to the hospital as needed. “His commitment to our hospital and employees has been evidenced by his 32year tenure, and though he will be missed, we are happy that he will be able to enjoy his well-deserved retirement,” Williams said.

Terry Terrebonne August 2009

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We help your loved ones keep their dIgnIty. Saint Paul Companion Care offers personalized in-home care services for elderly & disabled members of your family. In-home services include: Meal Preparation • Light Housekeeping Transportation Arrangements Laundry & Linen Washing Grooming & Dressing • Organizing Mail Periodic Reviews with Client or Family Bathing • Mobility Assistance Incontinence Care • Medication Reminders Oral Hygiene • Feeding • Toileting

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Let’s talk about cats. At some point in the history of the animal world, someone decided that society consisted of two groups – the Dog People and the Cat People. (There are also the People Who Don’t Like Animals, but we won’t concern ourselves with them). We all placed ourselves into the appropriate categories and quickly gave our reasons for doing so. Dog people insisted that cats had no personality. Cat people insisted that dogs weren’t all that bright. Meanwhile, there existed the underrepresented third group – the folks who like them both. Unfortunately, my cat allergy has become so substantial that just typing the word “cat” makes me sneeze. But once upon a time, I was able to interact with felines without launching into an asthma attack, so my parents relented and allowed me to have a cat. They relented three times during my childhood, actually, which is how we got Whiskers, Pepper, and Chaplin.

Sponsored by Misha’s Pets of Sulphur.

Dog People vs. Cat People – and Those of Us In Between

I can understand why someone would prefer dogs to cats (or vice versa), but what I can’t understand is the utter disdain that I’ve witnessed against the latter. Years ago, when I was a reporter at the American Press, a stray kitten wandered into the newsroom and one of my colleagues threw a stapler at it and shrieked. My reaction was much more animated than the kitten’s. I said “What did you do that for!,” while the kitten took two swift steps out of the way and continued sauntering down the hall.“Those things are evil,” my colleague responded. I looked down at the meowing kitten, which weighed about three pounds and was barely taller than my ankle. Think about it, though. How many times have you heard someone say that they hated cats? If someone says “I hate dogs,” we think they’ve gone completely mad. Hate dogs? What? What kind of insane person doesn’t like dogs? So, what is it about cats that have given them this bad reputation over the years? Is it because of their dodgy ancient history? Because of the old wives’ tales about how cats smother babies for their milk (which has been proven untrue, by the way)? Is it because they seem a little too self-absorbed and disinterested? Maybe it’s because they make too many of us sneeze and wheeze, I’m not sure. All I know is, don’t say you don’t like cats if you’re in the presence of a Cat Person. Sneezing and wheezing might be the least of your worries.

Misha’s Pets of Sulphur Specializing in Reptiles, Birds & Fish 307 W. Napoleon Street • Sulphur

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Present coupon for a FREE can of Doggie Dessert or a bakery item with purchase of dog food

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Erin Kelly Cormier is a board member of the Lake Charles chapter of the Humane Society of Louisiana. Email her at erin@ehealthyimage.com. She urges all cat lovers to visit www. hobohotelforcats. com to make a donation, volunteer time, or just get educated about our feline friends.

August 2009

Heartburn can lead to Esophageal Cancer.

One in 10 people suffering from chronic heartburn will develop Barrett’s Esophagus, which can lead to esophageal cancer.

FREE SEMINAR Join gastroenterologist Ricardo McCall, M.D., for a FREE seminar on heartburn and Barrett’s Esophagus. Dr. McCall will discuss the causes and symptoms, and also share the latest information on available treatments and your options for staying active and pain-free.

Thursday, August 13th · 6:00 p.m. Garber Auditorium 430 Dr. Michael DeBakey Drive Ricardo M. McCall, M.D., is a gastroenterologist serving in the internal medicine department at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital. Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine/Gastroenterology, he has been practicing medicine in Lake Charles since 1999.

Reserve your seat today – August 2009

491-7577 Thrive Magazine for Better Living

– it could save your life. www.thriveswla.com

Tennis, Any Tired of trying to sort through all the racket about the best way to get and stay fit? Maybe you should try picking up a racket instead. According to a research from Consumer Reports, tennis ranks among the top five activities for most calories burned per workout. One hour of tennis will burn more calories than virtually any other traditional sport. For example, an averagesized woman playing one hour of tennis can burn approximately 420 calories, and an average-sized man can burn about 600 calories. “More and more people are starting to realize that head to toe, tennis is the ultimate workout,” says Ronnie Walters, Director of the Sports Club at Graywood. “There aren’t many sports that involve every part of your body in one activity at the same time. And tennis does that. It requires agility, speed, core strength, stamina and mental focus.” Numerous research reports support the health benefits of tennis. A recent study at Johns Hopkins University showed that middle-aged men who stayed active in tennis, more than any other activity, had a significantly lower incidence of cardiovascular disease as they aged. The Cleveland Clinic, the nation’s topranked heart care facility, has called tennis “an ideal sport for a healthy heart.” Another study, reported in Tennis Week, found that people who participate in tennis at a moderate pace for at least three hours a week reduced their risk of death by any cause in half.

ne? by Kristy Armand

Walters says the growing recognition of tennis as a great sport for fitness, combined with the fun and social aspects of the game, have led to a huge jump in the popularity of the sport. In fact, the 2008 national survey report from the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association shows that tennis is the fastest growing traditional sport in the United States. Participation is up 43% since 2000, with 9% of this growth occurring in 2008. “I’m also proud to report that in Louisiana, Lake Charles has seen the largest membership growth of all the state’s Community Tennis Associations. These numbers illustrate the universal appeal of the sport,” says Walters. “Tennis is one of the few sports that can be enjoyed at every age and ability level. You are never too old or too young to play tennis.” Whether you’re a beginner wondering where to start, or a slightly experienced player looking to improve, Walters says there are simple steps you can take to get the most out of the sport, and the good news is you don’t have to invest a lot in equipment or time to get started. “If you’re new to the game, or if you’ve never really played enough to learn the basics, I recommend taking a few lessons. This is the best way to learn, or to refresh your skills. Research shows that a much higher percentage of people who take tennis lessons stay with the game than those who try to learn on their own.” He says when it comes to equipment, all you need is a tennis racquet and some tennis balls. “If you are just starting to play, there’s no need to spend a lot of money on your equipment. As your game improves you can upgrade your racquet to maximize your abilities.” Compared to many other sports, Walters says tennis does not require a big time commitment. “Tennis is an easy sport to catch onto. A few lessons can have virtually anyone on the fast track to enjoying the game.” Once you get started, he says practice is about skill repetition and just playing as often as you can. “And with tennis, you can easily practice on your own. Bouncing the ball on your racquet and volleying against a wall are proven methods to improve your ability to handle the racket.” Walters says another big plus with tennis is that the more you play, the more fitness benefits you realize, and the more your game improves. “Tennis is also a social game. It also allows you to meet new people and connect with them for life. It’s a sport the whole family can enjoy together. ” So if you’re looking for an activity that offers, fitness, fun and friendship, tennis may be the perfect match for you. For more information about tennis lesions and junior development programs at the Sports Club, call 477-1114 or visit www.graywoodllc.com.

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August 2009

Photodynamic ALA Therapy Offers Viable Option for Acne Treatment Despite over-the-counter medications, prescription antibiotics and pharmaceutical supplies, many still suffer from acne conditions ranging from mild to severe. For patients who want more definite results, photodynamic therapy – considered one of the most effective methods for treating acne, acne scars and pre-cancerous skin lesions – could be a viable option.

According to Todd Gaddis, MD, also of Oak Pointe, the procedure is a safe alternative to other options offered to acne patients. Although most patients experience few side effects after photodynamic therapy, some experience temporary burning on the skin or change in skin color,“but these are temporary and gradual improvement occurs,” Gaddis said.

Through photodynamic therapy, lasers shrink the skin’s oil-producing glands to reduce sebum production. The lasers have also been shown to diminish the appearance of acne scars and, in some cases, improve collagen formation.

ALA is considered an effective treatment for precancerous skin lesions, pigmentation minimization, treatment of sebaceous hyperplasia, improvement of wrinkles, and improvement in skin texture, including scars left by acne.

Amino-levulinic acid, or ALA, is used in conjunction with the laser treatment. “ALA is applied topically and is converted into a photosynethizer. When the laser interacts with the photosynthesizer, targeted cells, such as acne lesions, are destroyed,” said Christina Lord, MD, with Oak Pointe Aesthetics in Leesville. “Improvement is often achieved in as little as two treatments.”

In addition to body sculpting, Oak Pointe Aesthetics provides several aesthetic procedures such as Botox, injectable fillers, and laser treatments for hair removal, acne, and skin rejuvenation. For more information, contact the clinic at (337) 423-4304.

Look

for Cool

School The Eye Clinic and Optics Unlimited can help give your kids a new and improved point of view this school year. Your child’s vision is the most important tool for school success. That’s why it’s important that children have an eye exam before they start school and on a regular basis after that. Beat the back-to-school rush and schedule your child’s eye exam now. We’re making it easy with these special offers:

50 routine eye exams 20% savings on children’s frames

for children ages four to twelve

This offer is available on routine vision exams* at all locations of The Eye Clinic through September 30, 2009. Call the location nearest you for more information or 1-800-826-5223. *Contact lens exams and fittings require additional fees.

1 (800) 826-5223 FOUR CONVENIENT LOCATIONS IN SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA

Lake Charles, 1717 Oak Park Blvd., 478-3810 • DeRidder, 801 S. Pine, 462-3937 • Sulphur. 2100 Maplewood Dr., 625-8948 • Jennings, 1219 Elton Rd., 824-0040 August 2009

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Voted #1 Gift Shop! 30

Bungalow Bags

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Change Your Look, Not Your Sole! greek supplies

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August 2009

This monthly series follows Leah and James Verret as they experience the surprises and challenges of pregnancy, the second time around. Photo by Ben Verret

by Erin K. Cormier

Healthy Pregnancy Ends with a Healthy Baby

n the morning of Sunday, July 19, after hours of strengthening contractions in the hospital, expectant mother Leah Verret was asked the million-dollar question: Do you want an epidural?

Leah, having her second child with her husband James, planned on having a natural delivery this time around. Even though the pain was uncomfortable, she turned down the first offer for an epidural. “Hours later, with severe contractions, very little progress, and exhaustion setting in, the nurse asked me again if I was sure about that epidural,” Leah says.“I was very tempted to just go ahead and get it, but there was no turning back at this point. I decided to go without. I really had no idea what to expect. That was the scariest part. Toward the end, I started to seriously doubt my decision, but in the end, it was very much worth it. It was an amazing experience.” Walter Guth, MD, a gynecologist and obstetrician with OBG-1 in Lake Charles, said he has a “healthy respect” for women who choose to endure natural childbirth. According to Dr. Guth, labor drugs like epidural are typically safe and widely utilized, but some women feel that they want to fully experience the birth without the effects of regional sedation.

According to the American Pregnancy Association, more than 50 percent of women giving birth at hospitals use epidural anesthesia, which is designed to block pain in a particular region of the body. The epidural injection works by blocking nerve impulses from the lower spinal segments, which results in decrease sensation across the lower half of the body, according to the APA. It is the most popular method of medicinal pain relief for women in labor. “It’s a personal decision for a woman or couple to make on their own,” Dr. Guth said.“For women who choose not to take advantage of the epidural, there are other pain management methods available. I recommend that pregnant women learn as much as they can about the birthing process and pain relief options, even if they think they’ll want an epidural. It’s best to be equipped and ready to make decisions during the process.” The physical challenge of natural birth wasn’t the only surprise for Leah that day. After nine months, she, James, and their toddler Jack were going to learn whether they had a boy or a girl. They’d resisted the temptation to learn the gender of their baby early in the pregnancy and described it as an “amazing moment” to hear the doctor tell them they had a girl. According to Dr. Guth, it has become increasingly more common for couples to learn the gender of their baby. Today, modern technology not only allows parents to learn their baby’s sex, it also allows them to see what their baby looks like. The days of fuzzy, hard-to-interpret ultrasound images are gone and have been replaced with three-dimensional photo images. “For the Verrets to endure nine months without knowing their baby’s gender is certainly an exercise in patience,” Dr. Guth said.“Couples often want to find out as soon as they can. Others hold out until the third trimester, but eventually give in. Then there are those like the Verrets, who find that they can go for the long-haul. It adds another emotional element to the delivery, to be sure.” The Verrets named their daughter Madison. She weighed seven pounds, twelve ounces, and was 21 inches long. “She came out pink, screaming and beautiful,” Leah says.“Jack is very proud of his sister, though the reality of having a baby at home is still sinking in. He’s not quite sure what to do with her.”

Photo by Ben Verret August 2009

James described his reaction to the entire labor and delivery process in three words:“I am excited, relieved, and happy.” Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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by Katie McDaniel

Pr Es E n Ts Free expo

Thursday August 27, 2009 Lake Charles Civic Center 8am to 3pm

Recently, social networking sites such as Facebook, Myspace and Twitter have emerged as popular forms of business advertisement and fan based pages. To help decide if social networking is right for your business, we asked five local businesses:

What are the advantages to using social networking sites for your business and do you have any tips for other businesses that are considering social networking? Kimberly Dellafosse, co-owner of Glam-N-Gloss Day Spa, says they utilize several of the social networking sites, but “favorites are Facebook and Twitter. The advantages of utilizing social networks vary from business to business, but I believe the most obvious is the fact that you can connect with hundreds even thousands of people and potential clients without paying a single penny for advertising. My advice to any business owner who desires to utilize social networks as an advertising or marketing tool is to identify your audience and to stay true to your brand.”

The Young at Heart Expo is an event focusing on healthcare, education, leisure and useful information for seniors and their caregivers. There will also be guest speakers, activities, entertainment and food presentations, all geared toward the everchanging lifestyles of people 50 and over. Contact KPLC at 337.437.7551 to reserve a booth.

“We use it regularly to connect with our customers and friends,” said Rebekah Dressler, co-owner of 505 Imports. “I’ve enjoyed getting to share updates, news and events, and promotions with our fans; it’s a great networking tool. It’s a quick and easy way for businesses to keep the community informed…and it’s free as well. What could be better?” Wendy McCown, owner of Signatures Salon, uses Facebook as a social network source. “It helps us share the high-energy buzz that is inside the salon with everyone. We use it as a way to share current events, fashion tips, and client appreciation.” “Having a site on Facebook has helped reach customers faster and more efficiently than traditional advertisements,” said Susie Book, owner of Expressions. “It has also made us more aware of the large number of out-of-town customers not currently on our mailing list. The response from our fans has been surprising, exciting and very flattering, definitely worth trying for any business. Although this site has proven to be a very effective tool in advertising, we have no plans of discontinuing our old-fashioned mail outs that have proven successful for 19 years.” Lindsay Labove, public relations coordinator at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital says, “Having just begun the social networking avenues, we are finding them to be fun, interactive and an easy way to provide the public with up to the minute updates on what’s happening at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital. Facebook, Twitter, and You Tube are great tools that allow us additional ways to self manage our messages to the community. For those of you who are considering social networking, just dive right in, look at how other companies use social media and adapt your own unique style and create a page.”

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August 2009

Take a Closer Look at

Cataracts by Kristy Armand

August is Cataract Awareness Month

ge brings many changes to the body, and the eyes are no exception. When vision becomes blurry for older adults, many assume new glasses and a stronger prescription are all they need to recapture the clearer vision of their youth. However, the fact is that cataracts may be the cause for the decline in vision.

Although cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide, vision loss from cataracts is nearly always reversible.“New techniques developed over the past decade have made cataract surgery one of the safest and most successful procedures available in terms of restoring quality of life to patients,” says Dr. Yokubaitis.

More than 20 million Americans age 40 and older have cataracts. Cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss among adults 55 and older, and one-half of the over-65 population has some degree of cataract development.

In fact, cataract surgery is the most frequently performed surgery in the United States, with an estimated 3 million procedures taking place each year.

These statistics show how common cataracts are, but fortunately, according to Jon Yokubaitis, MD, board certified ophthalmologist with The Eye Clinic, this is one of the most curable causes of vision loss. He explains that a cataract is the clouding of the eye’s normally clear lens, the part of the eye that focuses light and produces clear images. Inside the eye, the lens is contained in a sealed bag, or capsule. As old cells die they become trapped within the capsule. Over time, more cells die and accumulate, causing the lens to cloud, and making images look blurred or fuzzy. For most people, cataracts are a natural result of aging. But, eye injuries, certain medications, and diseases such as diabetes and alcoholism have also been known to cause cataracts. Symptoms of cataracts can vary from patient to patient. “Some people notice a gradual painless blurring of vision, double vision in one eye, or fading or yellowing of colors,” says Dr. Yokubaitis.“When older patients mention sensitivity to glare and/or bright light or trouble driving at night, this may be caused by cataracts. Or, if a patient needs frequent changes to his or her glasses or contact lens prescriptions, they should be evaluated for a cataract.” Cataracts form slowly and cause no pain. Some stay small and have minimal effect on vision, but Dr. Yokubaitis says if the cataract does grow and starts to affect your vision, it can be removed with surgery in most cases. August 2009

Cataract surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. The cloudy natural lens can be replaced with an artificial lens to give the eye proper focusing power.“In most cases, the improvement in the patient’s vision is profound, even more so with the latest advances in lens implants that have become available in recent years,” says Dr. Yokubaitis. “With these newer, premium lenses, many patients are able to see clearly without glasses of any kind after surgery.” “There are no drugs or exercises that will make a cataract disappear, and contrary to popular belief, cataracts are not removed using lasers. Lasers are used in followup procedures, if needed,” says Dr. Yokubaitis. He also wants to dispel the myth that a cataract has to be “ripe” before it’s removed.“That’s just not true. The best time to have a cataract removed is when it starts to interfere with your vision to the point that you are unable to do the things you need and like to do.” He cautions that cataract surgery, although quite safe, is still surgery.“If cataracts are not affecting your quality of life, you may feel that surgery is not needed. The only person who can really decide when it’s time to have them removed is you, under the care of a qualified ophthalmologist.” For more information about cataracts, cataract surgery and premium lens implant options, call The Eye Clinic at (337) 478-3810.

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Coming to America tells the story of local residents who left their native country to make a new home in the United States. Watch for a new story each issue. To nominate someone for this series, send a brief description to: edit@thriveswla.com

by Erin K. Cormier

Ram Nileshwar: Off to a Stormy Start In the winter of 1978, one of the worst blizzards in U.S. history blew through the upper Midwest. Flights were grounded, so airline passengers bound for southern Michigan from Chicago were accommodated by bus. One of the bus passengers was 23-year-old Ram Nileshwar, a native of Bombay, India, where the coolest winter temperatures average about 60 degrees. Nileshwar, who was enrolled in graduate school at Western Michigan University, was experiencing his first day in America. When the bus ultimately stalled on Interstate 94, he admits he had second thoughts.

plan was to return to India after graduation, but Nileshwar’s drive to enhance his professional skill trumped those plans and instead, he accepted a job working with the developmentally disabled in Michigan.

“I was ready to pack my bags and go home. Actually, my bags were already packed, so all I needed to do was go home,” he says, laughing.“That was rough. The whole first month was rough.”

In 1980, he received a phone call from an administrator with the Calcasieu Parish School Board, who asked if he would be interested in moving to the Lake Area.

After settling into college, however, Nileshwar had little time for homesickness. He received special permission to pack up to 21 graduate hours into his semesters so he could graduate early – which he did, with a master’s degree in audiology. His

“I wanted more and more experience, and I knew that wasn’t available to me back home. The more experience I received, the more challenges I faced. Those challenges are what kept me here,” he said.

“I said, ‘I’m already living in the Lake Area,’” Nileshwar said, thinking they were talking about Michigan. The administrator explained that the Louisiana school district was interested in developing audiological services for its students, and they wanted him to spearhead. Nileshwar accepted and, after 29 years, is an official Southerner. Today,

Ram Nileshwar with his wife and daughters. 34

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August 2009

Raising the Bar for Dry Cleaning

This tiny bar code adds a digital

he operates The Hearing Center of Lake Charles on Oak Park Boulevard.

dimension to customer service

“The warmth of the people in Southwest Louisiana was so welcoming when I got here,” he said.“I was welcomed with open arms and everyone I met wanted to help me assimilate into the local culture.”

at AAA drive through cleaners.

Nileshwar has assimilated so well that he now considers Lake Charles home, although he maintains his native pride and still feels pulled, spiritually and nostalgically, to his home country. He believes that more knowledge about countries outside of the Western world, like India, will certainly help foster improved relations between people from different parts of the world.

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“Even today, with information so readily available, education about the rest of the world is lacking. There are many misconceptions about India’s culture, economics, and religious beliefs,” Nileshwar said.“With a population in excess of one billion, the number of people under the age of 25 is vast, and our talent pool for math and science is huge. It will be interesting to see what kind of head-start this gives India.” Nileshwar said the most common question he’s been asked over the years concern his religious beliefs – a subject that he considers personal. The majority of Indians, 81 percent, are Hindu, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, followed by Muslim, Christian, and Sikh. The fact that India has had a Sikh Prime Minister, despite the religion comprising less than 2 percent of the population, is just one example of India’s progressiveness, Nileshwar said. He notes that a woman has also held the office of prime minister. “India is a progressive country with remarkable entrepreneurship and economic growth. It’s not just about snake charmers and turbans,” he said.

This heat-sealed bar code holds preferences -- whether it’s heavy on the starch, hold the pleats or press the cuffs. It’s part of our automated assembly conveyor system that helps us track and process your dry cleaning order more quickly, carefully and efficiently. If you’re looking for the highest quality, most convenient dry cleaning service available, AAA has your number.

Every region of India has a unique and diverse culture. While 41 percent of Indians speak Hindi, the country boasts 13 other official languages, including Bengali, Telugu, Urdu, and Punjabi. The rich ethnic texture of the country has not only resulted in diversity of language; it is also the foundation for one of the world’s most beloved cuisines.

(Across from Albertsons) FE

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tu te

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2713 Country Club Rd. • 562-9508

tio n

s ti

August 2009

(Across from McDonalds)

I n te

“India has the best food in the world, in my opinion,” Nileshwar said.“But then again, I guess that’s how most people would feel about food and culture from their own country.”

622 E. Prien Lake Rd. • 477-3548

PR O

Although Nileshwar and his wife often cook their native dishes, he says he misses having easy access to Indian restaurants. The closest hub of Indian cuisine is Houston.

al Fabricare

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Status Update: Connected by Erin K. Cormier

How Online Social Networking Has Changed the Way We Communicate For decades we relied on pens, paper, and the U.S. Postal Service to communicate with faraway friends. After the introduction of the Internet in the 1990s, we put all that away and shot off e-mails instead. As our modems buzzed and connected through phone lines to the rest of the world, we marveled at the speed of online communication and opened accounts through AOL, Yahoo and Hotmail. The ability to communicate with friends in five minutes seemed a technological miracle. Those five minutes have now become an eternity. Gone are the buzzing phone modems of yesteryear. It is now the age of the cable modem, which connects us immediately to social networking sites like Facebook, Myspace and Twitter, where we keep tabs on hundreds of friends simultaneously. Instead of writing letters to Aunt Jane and Uncle Joe and waiting two weeks for a reply, we find Aunt Jane and Uncle Joe on Facebook and read their status updates throughout the day, as well as those for 100 others. Forget about five minutes to hear from one friend. Today, it’s five seconds and 200 friends. Social networker Chastity Fontenot Kratzer, 36, has 254 friends on Facebook. With the click of her mouse, she can read updates about any and all of them. She uses all three of the top-notch social networking sites – Facebook, MySpace and Twitter – but says she spends most of her time on Facebook, which was originally designed as a socializing vehicle for college students and has since grown to more than 200 million active users. 36

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“In the beginning it was just for fun, but now I enjoy keeping up with old and new friends and getting updates on what’s going on in the community,” Kratzer said. “I have several friends who I haven’t spoken to since high school and college who found me on Facebook. It’s great to get updates on them and see pictures of their families. The greatest appeal of these sites is feeling connected to people who I may not speak to on a daily basis otherwise.” As social networking sites continue to soar in popularity, mental health professionals have emerged with divergent theories about the lasting effects these sites will have on its users. Some foresee growing generations of Americans with an insatiable need for immediate gratification – a socially unproductive group that fails to adequately empathize with others. Others view online communication as an inevitable tool that will adhere appropriately to modern society, just as the radio and television did in the mid-part of the century.

Local psychiatrist Dale Archer, founder of TellDrD.com (an online advice site) and a regular consultant on mental health issues for CNN Headline News and FoxNews.Com, says online networking isn’t about gaining or losing something in society – it’s about change. “One thing that is clear is that this isn’t going away. The form that it takes may vary, but it’s here to stay. It’s not realistic to think we need to get back to purely face-to-face communication, because it won’t happen. Years ago, when radio came out, people thought it was the end of civilized society. Same thing with television and cellphones. Well, we’re still here, and those things are a part of our everyday life,” Dr. Archer said. “There will be those who always think the sky is falling when some new technology comes out, but that’s just not the case. Some say online networking isn’t ‘real’ interaction. Just because it’s not face-to-face doesn’t mean it’s not real. It’s just different.” The appeal of online networking sites has lured businesses as well as individuals. Kara Coyne works as the social networking assistant for Social Denim, a boutique at 706 Ryan Street. She described social networking sites as a “relationship management tool that helps increase communication with our target audience.” “I’ve heard it referred to as ‘marketing intimacy.’ Facebook allows Social Denim to gain exposure and

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increase awareness of our brands, possibly leading to future sales,” Coyne said, noting that sites like Facebook offer unique marketing opportunities for locally owned businesses. “It doesn’t cost money to advertise events, in-store sales, or new merchandise. It sparks interactions and creates relationships that wouldn’t have existed otherwise.” Social Denim Owner Juli Wilson said Facebook has allowed her to make sales to people in other states. “They see our inventory online and sometimes popular items sell out before they even arrive to shop,” she said. Jason Barnes, cultural affairs director for the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, said social media provides a personal connection that previously didn’t exist. Networking sites allow organizations, such as local government, an opportunity to communicate on a more personal level, according to Barnes. “I think that social media has confirmed what many of us have been thinking for quite some time, and that is that people want a more personal connection with their local government agencies. When the Police Jury uses Twitter and Facebook, we tend to write in a more personalized style, as opposed to what we usually send out when we issue press releases,” Barnes said. “Technology has provided applications and software that has made the spread of news faster over the past decade. But with the introduction of social media, the spread of news is at a near-instant status.” August 2009

That’s So Yesterday!

Talking on the Phone?

According to Barnes, “the Police Jury has found that there’s a certain audience in our community who get most of their news from social media.” That doesn’t just include traditional news, like what’s happening in government; today, it also includes news on what friends and family are doing, thinking, and believing. Sites like Facebook and MySpace give users an opportunity to openly share their thoughts on topics that were once considered off-limits in casual conversation. “These profiles allow you to really express all of your opinions on once taboo topics, like politics and religion. Our culture is radically changing the way we once verbalized our beliefs. If people don’t like what you have to say, it’s much easier to disagree over an Internet post than in person. This year I have seen my fair share of Facebook debating over politics,” Kratzer said. According to Dr. Archer, the shorthand, easy way people communicate when they’re not dealing with face-to-face interaction could be considered one of the greatest appeals of networking sites. “A different protocol is accepted among personal interaction verses phone interaction, and phone interaction versus Internet interaction. That’s one of the appeals of using sites like these; they are to the point and easy to access with very little need for formality” Dr. Archer said. “Another obvious appeal is the ability to get/give information quickly. Most of us are juggling five balls in the air and it can be difficult to keep up with everyone/everything that is in our life. These sites allow us to do that.” Although he considers online networking to be just another aspect of the ever-evolving world of communication, he noted that “it is important to have balance in your life. Obviously the Internet shouldn’t be your only form of interaction.” “I believe that social networking sites allow us to reconnect and stay August 2009

enot. | | Aubrenee Font

connected with old friends, as well as allowing for more business networking, but at the same time I don’t think that we need to get so out of touch with friends and loved ones that this is the only way we communicate,” Kratzer said. “Social networking is convenient, but faceto-face communication is much more fulfilling.” Thrive Magazine is one of dozens of local businesses who utilize Facebook to stay connected with their fan base. So if you’re on Facebook, friend us. You’ll be the first to know about upcoming stories, be able to give us input on future topics, and have the chance to win great prizes.

ARE YOU

OVER-

CONNECTED?

Take our Quiz on the following page to find out if it’s time for you to unplug. Thrive

Aubrenee Fontenot has 172 contacts in her phone and sends and receives hundreds of text messages each day – sometimes more than 1,000 a week. For pre-teens like her, talking on the phone has gone out of style, along with traditional emails. “It’s so much easier to say what you want on a text than over the phone,” Aubrenee explains, as she responds to one of her texts. “Normally we just use email for photos and stuff.” The seventh-grader also maintains a Facebook page, for which her mother, Chastity Fontenot Kratzer, has the username and password. “There has to be limitations set for everything from cell phone usage to social networking. I check Aubrenee’s Facebook page frequently. With this new technology comes new worries for parents,” Chastity said. “We want to give them the freedom to use these social networks, but at the same time, it’s our job to protect them from the negative aspects of it.” That’s exactly the attitude parents should have, according to licensed professional counselor Scott Riviere of Kidz Inc. Riviere, who has nearly 20 years experience with children and families, said parents first need to understand that their own limitations, as well as the limitations that they should put on their children. “Much has been talked about regarding the negative aspects of technology, but it’ll happen whether we like it or not,” Riviere said. “No matter how many changes there are in society, the rules of parenting have never changed. We still need to watch over our children, check on them, and provide rules and limitations. That’s the role we play, as parents.” Riviere notes that creating rules is only the first step toward good parenting; once rules are established, consequences should be understood as well. “You can’t have rules without any consequences. That’s like a speed limit on a road without cops,” he said. It can be disconcerting for parents to admit that there are certain aspects of young behavior that can’t be controlled, yet Riviere said the role of a parent is to make sure their children are exposed to good behavior at home, and that includes a clear understanding that there are consequences to poor decisions. He uses the current phenomenon known as “sexting” as an example. Sexting is the act of sending sexually explicit messages or photos through a cell phone. According to the National Campaign to Support Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy, about 20 percent of teens have participated in some form of sexting. Adults have no trouble comprehending the potential repercussions of sexting; most are perplexed as to why teens would engage in behavior that has such obvious damaging consequences. But for a teenager, sexting is no big deal if all their friends are doing it, Riviere said. “Teenagers don’t think like adults. Let’s get that straight right now. They can’t think like adults because their brain isn’t fully developed yet. Most teens can’t see the big picture. That’s why it’s important that they understand there are rules and consequences to bad decisions – even if they can’t see the long-term damage of their decisions, they can certainly see the immediate damage that would happen at home,” Riviere said. “You can’t control everything your teenager does, but you can certainly show them where the fence is what will happen if they step outside of it.” He added that a teenager’s privacy should never take precedence over their safety. Responsible parents should and will review their child’s cell phone bill and keep track of their Internet behavior as much as possible. “If you do your job as a parent, you can’t prevent bad decisions, but you can help shape them to make good ones,” he said. “They need to be exposed to good behavior and wise decision-making at home. They need to know that their parents are checking up on them and watching over their shoulders. They need to understand the values of their family, and what happens when those values are compromised.” Despite the widely reported negative aspects of the role of modern technology in the life of teens, Riviere noted that online networking and texting has its benefits, especially for youth who are shy or intimidated by face-to-face interaction. Although he admits that not all interaction should be limited to texting or online Web sites, he accepts that this mode of communication could help youth in other forms of interaction. Magazine Better Living by Erin K.forCormier

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Connection Quiz

Mostly D’s – Unplug immediately! You need a serious break from technology. It’s still acceptable to meet people face-to-face, you know. And you don’t need your phone all the time. The world won’t come to an end if you disconnect yourself for a while. Log off Facebook, stop Twittering, and get back into the un-connected world.

Is it time to unplug?

When using social media sites, how often do you update your status? A. I don’t use social media sites. B. 1-2 times. C. 3-4 times. D. 4 or more.

What is your primary source of social interaction? A. Getting together with friends. B. Chatting on the phone. C. Online networking sites, like Facebook. D. Texting, email, Facebook, IM.

YOUR

CONNECTION Results

How many text messages do you send each day? A. What is texting? B. 0-2 C. 3-5 D. 6 or more.

Mostly A’s – You are really underconnected. This is the 21st century, after all! Don’t be afraid to try the Internet; it won’t bite you. You can even get an email account and send messages to your family. A cell phone would be nice, too. No texting required. And did you know that more than 200 million people are on Facebook? You are sure to find some longlost friends.

How many hours a day do you spend on social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, or MySpace? A. 0-1 hour. B. 1-2 hours. C. 3-4 hours. D. More than 4 hours a day.

Interpret the following: @susan omg :-|| ruok dbl8 A. I can’t interpret something that isn’t in an actual language. B. Someone is sending a message to Susan beginning with “Oh My Gosh.” C. Someone is sending a message to Susan beginning with “Oh My Gosh,” and followed by a straight faced emoticon. D. Duh. This person is reminding Susan not to be late, because “Oh My Gosh” she is ready to go and tired of waiting (this is obvious through the frustrated emoticon), but she’s also checking to make sure Susan is okay.

Mostly B’s – You’ve got it together. You know what emails, texting, and Twitter are, but your life doesn’t depend on them. You still know how to unplug and relax. Don’t be lured by fancy gadgets and fancier apps. Keep doing what you’re doing so you don’t fall over the edge.

How easy is it for people to contact you on your cell phone? A. I prefer to use my rotary. B. I don’t answer all calls, but I will return messages at my earliest convenience. C. It’s fairly easy to contact me by cell phone, but I turn it off or silence it from time to time. D. I never turn off my phone and it’s always in arm’s reach.

Mostly C’s – You’re teetering on the edge! Your existence doesn’t depend on being connected, but it definitely plays an important role in your life. Monitor your hours online or you may find that you can’t unplug. Remember: Online interaction is okay, but real interaction is even better. Also, don’t forget to take an occasional walk or read a book.

How often do you check your personal email? A. 0-2 times a day. B. I work in an office, so I check my work and personal email throughout the day, but I rarely check it during off-hours. C. Regularly throughout the day and night. D. My phone alerts me to all emails as soon as they come in.

Calling all

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August 2009

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Bored? Not Anymore!

Just because you’re a hard worker doesn’t mean you don’t get bored from time to time. To combat work boredom, try these tips: • Don’t wait for your supervisor to motivate you. Come up with some new work goals and challenge yourself. • Clean up your workspace. If you’re overwhelmed by a project or trying to fill a lull in time, this is a great way to do it. Working in a nice, clean environment helps deflate stress levels. • Pursue a new hobby outside of work. Energizing your brain away from the office helps keep it energized in the office. • Learn and research a new skill that pertains to your job. • Take a break from work and step outside. If possible, take a walk. • Take advantage of personal days! The office won’t fall apart. • Clean out your emails. Emails tend to pile up pretty quickly. Why not trash some of the old ones? • Listen to music while you work, if possible. • Take a few minutes of each day to chat with co-workers and make rounds through the office. Sometimes we need to get out of “the zone.”

The staff at Brighton Bridge Hospice would like to congratulate their Medical Director, Dr. W. Gerry Hebert, of Lake Charles Memorial Hospital Internal Medicine, on his recent award of Platinum Level 2008 Physician Office Quality Award. This award was presented to him by the Louisiana Health Care Review for his numerous levels of achievement. Way to go Dr. Hebert!

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August 2009

“

They are more than 99 percent effective. It’s hard to get more reliable than that.

”

– Farjaad Siddiq, MD, with the Urology Center of Southwest Louisiana

Vasectomy is the Most Reliable Form

Couples who decide they don’t want to grow their family have several options in modern medicine, including oral contraceptives, injections and spermicide, but according to the New England Journal of Medicine, vasectomy is the most reliable form of birth control, with a failure rate of less than one percent; some studies have shown failure rates as low as 0.02.

by Erin K. Cormier

of Family Planning

a week; pain is minimal and there is no long-term effect on sexual drive or ability. The procedure is also much simpler and less expensive than the woman “getting her tubes tied,” Dr. Siddiq said.

“They are more than 99 percent effective,” said urologist Farjaad Siddiq, MD, with the Urology Center of Southwest Louisiana. “It’s hard to get more reliable than that.”

According to the National Institute on Child Health and Development, there’s a greater chance of surgical complications during a female sterilization versus a vasectomy because “vasectomies are fairly simple, whereas female sterilization is more involved,” Dr. Siddiq said. About one in six men over the age of 35 in the U.S. have been vasectomized, according to the NICHD.

Oral contraceptives continue to be the most popular form of birth control. The failure rate of oral contraceptives is about 5 percent, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Common forms of birth control, such as pills or injections, can be effective for couples who may want children in the future, but for those who want a long-term family planning approach, undergoing a vasectomy is a viable option.

“The sperm moves through a tube called the vas deferens. A vasectomy blocks the vans deferens so the sperm can no longer be released. Although the other components that form semen are expelled from the body, the sperm is not included, therefore preventing pregnancy,” Dr. Siddiq said. He emphasized that vasectomy in no way affects the male testosterone hormone, which influences masculine traits.

“It’s the closest you can get to etching your decision in stone, and for many couples, that is its greatest appeal,” Dr. Siddiq said. “Vasectomies are reversible, but we advise patients not to go through with the procedure if they have doubt about it. Reversals are much more complicated than the original procedure.”

The permanence of a vasectomy is considered its greatest benefit, but for those who decide later that they want children, it can also be its greatest disadvantage. The only other downfall is that it does not prevent against sexually transmitted diseases, Dr. Siddiq said.

According to Dr. Siddiq, many men are uncomfortable with the thought of having a vasectomy because they’re concerned about side effects, but he noted that the physical discomfort following the surgery lasts less than

August 2009

“To determine whether or not vasectomy is a logical option for you and your family, it’s best to consult with a trained physician,” Dr. Siddiq said. For more information on vasectomy or to schedule an appointment with a physician at the Urology Center of Southwest Louisiana, call 439-8857.

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n e a m C a s e G t e r i l e h t h T A e v o r p Im her

tine Fis

is by Chr

e n i c i d e M c i t c a r p o r i h C with

thletic injuries sideline players every day. Whether it’s school athletics, recreational sports or professional players, sitting out isn’t part of the thrill of the game. The use of chiropractic in sports medicine is beneficial to keeping players doing what they do best: playing.

Among the specialties in health care, chiropractic is one of the few that relates well to athletics. Most sports involve quick movements, body contact and unusual positioning; moves that place a heavy strain on the body’s musculoskeletal system. A chiropractor’s approach to health and wellness is centered around the viewpoint that the body is an integrated being and that the spine’s health is central to the rest of the body’s health. Many athletes, famous and yet-to-be-discovered, rely on chiropractic to keep them in the game. Well-known ones include Tiger Woods, Lance Armstrong, Joe Montana and Evander Holyfield. Some athletes get an adjustment prior to a game to enhance their range of motion. Chiropractic Economics reports that over 95 percent of NFL teams frequently use chiropractors. In fact, the Players Association of the NFL has officially incorporated sports chiropractors as a regular part of care. Chiropractors have been selected as attending doctors

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at the Olympic Games and at national and world championships in track and field, cycling, volleyball, power lifting and triathlons. The Journal of Chiropractic Research and Clinical Investigation reported that chiropractic care can increase athletic performance by as much as 16.7 percent. “Chiropractic is geared towards restoring normal function to the spine and other components of the musculoskeletal system,” explained Donald Thigpen, DC, with the Chiropractic Center. “If problems occur due to spinal misalignments or dysfunction, or if an athlete experiences sprains, strains or extremity joint dysfunctions, we can administer joint manipulation along with other physiotherapies and exercises to help the athlete recovery from his or her injuries.” Weekend athletes and younger players can benefit from chiropractic, too. Chiropractic physicians can work with developing athletes on body mechanics and ways to prevent injuries. In fact, because a chiropractor’s education focuses on biomechanical and neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction, they are well prepared to work with other doctors and therapists on dealing with athletic injuries. “Many chiropractic physicians work as part of the health care team for athletes; we can work along with physical therapists or medical doctors on

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2009

certain types of injuries. Chiropractic is heavily involved in sports medicine all over the world,” said Dr. Thigpen. Athletes get several benefits with chiropractic: injury management and prevention as well as enhancement of physical performance. The role of nutrition is widely viewed as a key component for optimum athletic performance. Nutritionists often work with athletes on the appropriate number of calories, the right combinations of foods, as well as vitamins and minerals to enhance performance. Along those same lines, chiropractic also approaches sports medicine from a holistic angle. Athletes are looking for healthy ways to enhance performance, speed, injury rehabilitation and increase endurance. Chiropractic can ensure the body is at its best for performance in a game or competition. Strength and conditioning is a major part of any good athlete’s playbook. Coaches and sports medicine experts are looking to the field of chiropractic for input on tailoring conditioning programs because of their knowledge in biomechanics. “We work well with other athletic health experts, and together, we can design a customized program for an athlete as well as a good, well-rounded program for a whole team,” Dr. Thigpen said. “It’s not just limited to team sports. I work with many patients who are interested in fitness. They may enjoy jogging regularly, or have steady tennis matches lined up, and I’ll assist them in making sure their body is up to the challenge and they understand how to avoid injuries.” Chiropractic medicine is one more way athletes can excel in their game. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call Dr. Thigpen at (337) 562-0817.

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Blood Type 101:

Do you get an A, B, or O?

When it comes to understanding blood typing of As, Bs, ABs or Os, most folks would probably get an “F.” Twentieth century popular science has touted blood type as everything from an indicator of personality – in Japan, for instance, it was long believed that personality was based on your blood type – to a reliable element in weight loss plans. However, blood type has little to do with fad dieting and is everything to do with science. Under the traditional blood typing process, a person’s blood type is A, B, AB or O. Blood type is determined in the womb, when the child receives separate sources of genetic code from each parent. Blood typing is determined primarily by the presence or absence of certain antigens – a substance that triggers the production of antibodies, which are used by the immune system to identify and neutralize foreign objects like bacteria and viruses. The reason O-type blood is vital to blood banks is because it has A and B antibodies in the plasma, but no antigens for A or B. “Donors with O-negative blood are considered the most coveted group of all, because their blood is compatible with all other blood types, which is just another reason why it’s important to know your type,” said John VanHoose, MD, with the Pathology Laboratory at 830 Bayou Pines East.“If you have type O blood, I would highly recommend that you consider becoming a regular blood donor.” While type O blood donors are universal providers, they are not universal receivers and can only receive blood from another type O. Those with type AB, however, are universal receivers, VanHoose said. Because blood transfusions require that blood types are compatible, precautions must be taken before transfusions are administered. When incompatible blood is exchanged, the existing blood type assumes the incoming blood cells are infectious, and reacts accordingly. The results can be fatal. “Blood typing is simple and it’s good information to know in an emergency. Even if you don’t need it in a clinical situation, however, the information can still prove useful, especially if you decide to become a donor,” VanHoose said.

I Had Cancer.

And now I don’t.

When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, the one thought that comforted me is that I’d had regular mammograms for years, so the cancer that was found was in the early stages. I went through the treatment and today I’m cancer-free. That small lump could have resulted in big problems. Early detection is a key in cancer survival. Sometimes I wonder what would have happened if I hadn’t gotten that mammogram? The chances of getting cancer here are about the same as nationwide - approximately 1 in 3 will be diagnosed*. But, here in Southwest Louisiana, the survival rate is lower. One reason is because many people don’t see their doctor until the cancer is in later stages. Early detection gives more time to beat cancer. Take control of your cancer risk: get screened, get active and learn the facts. *American Cancer Society

Fight Cancer with Facts.

A community partnership between: Virgie Hughes, winning the battle against cancer 44

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2009

Is Your

iDentity on Your iPod? The importance of family is measured every day in a small community like ours. At Jennings American Legion Hospital, the daily health of your family isn’t just your priority – it’s ours, too.

hen it comes to pinpointing the cornerstones of a person’s personality, their iPod might be able to tell you just as much as their bookshelf. According to a 2003 study by researchers at the University of Texas at Austin, music preference may reveal more about personality than we realize. Researchers found that most musical choices fall into one of four broad categories: Reflective and Complex, Intense and Rebellious, Upbeat and Conventional, or Energetic and Rhythmic. Dr. Samuel Gosling and Peter Rentfrow concluded that “personality plays a significant role in determining what type of music we prefer.”

You may have to travel for some things, but quality healthcare isn’t one of them. With Jennings American Legion Hospital, the healing touch for your family is right here at home. Make an appointment today and meet our team of family physicians. Pictured from L to R: Christopher Achee, MD; Michael Benoit, MD; Mark Clawson, MD; Young Kang, MD; Amanda LaComb, MD; Richard McGregor, MD; James McNally, MD

Listeners of classical, jazz, folk and blues tend to be inventive, have active imaginations, value aesthetic experiences, and are tolerant and politically liberal, the researchers found. This would be the Reflective and Complex category. Listeners of alternative, heavy metal and rock music fall into the Intense and Rebellious group. These rock-n-roll fans tend to be curious risk-takers who are physically active and intelligent. The traditional sounds of country, religious and pop music generally appeal to the Upbeat and Conventional group – people who are outgoing, cheerful, and helpful of others, with conservative politics and a strong physical self-image – while those who enjoy the energetic and rhythmic sounds of funk, hip-hop, soul and electronic are talkative, energetic, forgiving, and resistant to conservative ideals.

1634 Elton Rd. 616-7000 • www.jalh.com

The study was published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. August 2009

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The

Fifties: by Christine Fisher

Your Health is Showing

“

If a healthy lifestyle has been followed, chances are the fifties will feel much like the forties.

”

– Jason Fuqua, MD, with Calcasieu Family Physicians in Sulphur

Living through your 50s isn’t as easy as it may look. Most people in this age bracket are dealing with significant health changes. Seeing a friend or acquaintance of the same age listed in the obituaries doesn’t help matters. Watching television coverage recently of the deaths of Michael Jackson, age 50, Billy Mays, age 50 and Farrah Fawcett, age 62 but diagnosed with cancer in her 50s, has caused many fifty-somethings to think twice about their own health and well-being. Even though dealing with aches, pains and a little stiffness isn’t new – those things probably started years ago – going through the fifties can often bring news of major health problems, either for the individual or people they know. Heart attacks may occur within a circle of friends, a diagnosis of cancer or diabetes isn’t far-fetched, knees or hips may begin to really give problems, and menopause signals the end of the childbearing years in women. Basically, if a healthy lifestyle wasn’t followed, the evidence will start to show. But, before doom and gloom sets in, some fifty-somethings are seeing the fruits of their healthy lifestyles. Those who have put in the time at the gym, who maintained a healthy weight without yo-yo dieting too much, who tried to reduce stress and find balance in their lives are seeing their hard work pay off. “From a health standpoint, the fifties is like an apex; a turning point based on how healthy they’ve been up to this point,” explained Jason Fuqua, MD, family medicine physician with Calcasieu Family Physicians in Sulphur. “If a healthy lifestyle has been followed, chances are the fifties will feel much like the forties. But, if the body has been abused with weight gain, a diet of too much salt and sugar, little to no regular exercise and dealing with stress on a regular basis, it’s going to begin to show serious signs of wear and tear. Bodies aren’t meant to deal with poor health indefinitely.” Cancer and heart disease are the first and second leading causes of death among people ages 50 to 60 in the United States. There are risk factors beyond control, such as age, gender and family history; but in both of these health conditions, lifestyle plays a significant role in whether or not they occur. Some of the major risk factors for heart disease are ones that can be controlled; 46

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including blood pressure, weight gain, whether or not to smoke, and the level of physical activity. Lifestyle factors influence about one-third of cancers in the United States. The American Cancer Society has said diet, exercise and health screenings make an impact on overall health and cancer risk. Dr. Fuqua suggests people in their fifties evaluate their lifestyle to see if they’re on the right track or if changes should be made.“Chances are, small changes here and there are all that’s needed to make a big difference. If bad habits have been the norm for a while, it’ll take some effort to change course, but longevity and quality of life are good motivators!” he said. “If it’s been a while since seeing a doctor, that’s the first step. Schedule an appointment for a physical, get blood work done to evaluate cholesterol levels, check hormone and blood sugar levels. If you have any health concerns, talk them over with your doctor. A family doctor is the first line of defense in health care. If a specialist is needed, the family doctor can guide you in the right direction.” The recommended health screenings for people in their 50s include: • Bone density test • Mammogram for women • Skin cancer check • Colorectal cancer tests • Prostate cancer screening for men The fifties can bring new freedoms as children are grown and on their own, careers are established, friendships have deepened and a person has a solid sense of themselves. Good health ensures you’ll be around a long time to enjoy the years to come.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2009

The Wheres and Hows of Successful Local Fishing Southwest Louisiana has one of the most productive speckled trout fisheries on the Gulf Coast, and August is one of the most productive months, according to Capt. Scott Ritchey, owner and operator of Louisiana Outfitters. August generally means light winds, clear water and high salinity levels – the three most important factors in catching fish on the Calcasieu estuary system. “These waters from Lake Charles proper all the way south to the beach rigs should be loaded with trout and redfish. This abundance of fish offers anglers many choices of where and how to fish,” he noted. When fishing in the Lake Charles and Prien Lake areas, a good place to start is on the edges and ledges along the Calcasieu ship channel, according to Ritchey. These areas tend to hold lots of bait, which means the fish won’t be far away. These fish are usually suspended in five to twenty feet of water off the edge of the channel. Smaller soft plastics, such as Sparkle Beatles rigged on ¼ once lead heads are a good choice for these areas. Live pogies and live shrimp also work real well fished tight line or under a cork. Moving further south into the Moss Lake and Turners Bay, similar tactics such as targeting the flats near the channel will be productive, Ritchey said. These areas are three to seven feet deep and can be fished similarly with soft plastics.“You can start getting more adventurous with bait choices such as top waters & hard baits and bigger soft plastics such as Saltwater Assassins. The majority of the really big trout are caught from these areas on south,” he said.

A Growing Commitment to

Quality Healthcare West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital is pleased to announce the recent addition of three new physicians to its medical staff. The hospital’s experienced team of medical practitioners welcomes these physicians as they will join in providing exceptional patient care to the residents of Southwest Louisiana.

Stephen Castleberry, MD

“This brings us down to Calcasieu Lake itself. There are many oyster reefs in the Lake. Several of these areas are listed on Hot Spot maps along with G.P.S. coordinates. These reefs can be drifted with aid of a trolling motor,” Ritchey said.“On the topic of drifting, one of the many mistakes I see people make is fishing and trolling into the wind. Not only does your boat noise increase exponentially, your casting distance is cut in half. These two things added together equal very few fish. So use the wind to your advantage, and set up your drift with the wind at your back.”

Dr. Stephen Castleberry, General Surgeon, is a graduate of LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. A Sulphur native, Dr. Castleberry will practice at Sulphur Surgical Clinic, alongside Drs. Walter Ledet, Kent Seale and Joseph O’Donnell in providing surgical care to area residents.

Ritchey says that when you catch a fish, you should ease your anchor or Power Pole down and fish that area to see if there are more fish there.

Dr. Kelly Fuqua, Family Medicine Physician, is a graduate of LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans and is board certified in family medicine. A Sulphur native, Dr. Fuqua will practice at the newly opened Calcasieu Family Physicians in Sulphur.

Kelly Fuqua, MD

His suggested techniques for drifting reefs also apply to fishing birds. Trout and reds push schools of shrimp up to the surface, and the gulls pick the shrimp that are fleeing the fish, so when you spot birds working, make sure there isn’t another boat nearby -- putting two boats on working birds will spook the fish and kill the bite 90 percent of the time, according to Ritchey – and if there isn’t, set your drift upward and shut down your outboard at least 100 yards out. “Use your trolling motor and wind at your back to approach. Try to fish the edges, getting right on top the fish will get you some quick bites, but staying out and not spooking these fish will allow you to catch many more. Another tip is not to run your trolling motor on high near these fish, try to get by with the least amount of noise as possible,” he said, noting that there are many spots along the southern end of the ship channel that should be holding trout and reds. These spots are fished similarly to northern channel spots, according to Ritchey, with live bait working well.

Jason Fuqua, MD

Dr. Jason Fuqua, Family Medicine Physician, is also a graduate of LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans. Dr. Fuqua will join his wife in practicing family medicine at Calcasieu Family Physicians in Sulphur. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Stephen Castleberry, please call (337) 527-6363. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kelly Fuqua or Dr. Jason Fuqua, please call (337) 528-7472.

“This is a great month to get out on the water and catch lots of fish,” Ritchey said. “Remember to be courteous to other fishermen, and everyone will have fun.” Capt. Scott Ritchey is the owner/operator of Louisiana Outfitters L.L.C. 337-302-2320 or www.louisianaoutfitters.net. August 2009

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701 Cypress St., Sulphur (337) 527-7034

www.wcch.com

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Skin Care Through the Ages by Kristy Armand

It’s no secret that you don’t look the same at 38 as you do at 19. Many things about your appearance change as you age and your skin is one of the most visible. “Throughout the different stages of your life, your skin goes through many changes. Teen-aged skin is much different than thirty-something skin, and what worked in your twenties, may not be what you need in your forties,” says Leann Widcamp, medical aesthetician with the Aesthetic Center of Southwest Louisiana. “You have to modify your skin care habits as you age to ensure that your skin is always in the best possible condition.” Widcamp provides the highlights of skin care needs over time, and advice on how to give your skin what it needs to look healthy at every stage:

13+ 20 30 Teens

This is the best time to establish your priorities. Tan sensibly and use a sunscreen. The action you take now to protect your face from the harmful effects of sunlight will pay huge dividends in 15 or 20 years’ time. Avoid crash dieting and don’t be tempted to start smoking. After sunlight, smoking is one of the leading causes of early wrinkles and dull skin. If you suffer from acne and/or oily, shiny skin, a major teenage problem which affects boys and girls, your best bet is good hygiene and regular cleansing. See a skin care specialist for chronic acne.

Twenties

In your twenties, your complexion should be at its best, simply because it’s stabilized from all the hormonal changes of the teen years. If you want that peachy complexion to last through your 40s and beyond, now is the time to establish good skin care habits. Make sure that your skin is always hydrated. The skin underneath your eyes becomes drier now, so start using an eye cream. Remember to use a sunscreen regularly. This is also a good time to start exfoliating to keep your skin smooth and even in color, and to remove signs of sun damage that occurred in your teens.

Thirties

In your thirties, oil production decreases and you may see lines and wrinkles becoming more apparent, especially if you did not – or do not – use sunscreen. Skin is drier and thinner, pores may appear larger, and you will notice a decrease in your skin’s elasticity. This is a good time to start

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using products which contain glycolic acid, which is proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and make your skin smoother. Masks may be used more frequently for exfoliating or moisturizing purposes. If you have never used an eye cream before, it is essential that you start using one to reduce puffiness, fine lines and dark circles.

40 Forties

In your forties, you will experience more dryness because your skin continues to lose its ability to retain moisture . Elasticity will decrease even more, skin tone will be uneven and lines may be more pronounced. Your skin also doesn’t heal as well as it once did. If you’ve never needed moisturizer before, you will definitely need it now. Even if your skin was oily in the past, you may now find yourself having to deal with dry skin. Apply moisturizer day and night, and you may also want to apply firming cream to keep your skin looking tight and firm. If your skin is still oily at this age, you should still moisturize, but with products that are oil-free. You may also notice age spots, which can be easily treated with skin lightening products, microdermabrasion or chemical peels. An investment in regular facial treatments can help address many of these skin care concerns.

50+ Fifties and Up

In your fifties, all the damage that you have done to your skin over the years becomes visible. Hopefully by now, you have a skin care routine that includes an exfoliating product and sunscreen. However, you may notice more wrinkles and more uneven discoloration. Skin is thinner now, so it will burn easier. Just because your skin is more mature in appearance now, doesn’t mean that you can’t still take care of it to keep it looking its best. Be sure to focus on keeping your skin tone even and moisturized. Stay out of the sun as much as possible, and use a higher protection sunscreen. Routine facials, microdermabrasion and chemical peels can help smooth and freshen the skin. As with anything, Widcamp says the key to great looking skin is consistency. “The secret to a lifetime of beautiful skin is taking the time to take care of it through the years,” says Widcamp. For more information about skin care treatments, call the Aesthetic Center at 310-1070 to schedule a consultation.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2009

How to Keep Yourself and

Your Pocketbook Cool

The summer of 2009 has been a hot one, with heat indexes reaching over 100 degrees. It’s hard to imagine things sizzling up any more than that, but get ready: August tends to be the hottest month of the year. Hot months typically translate into hot utility bills, but by taking a few simple and low-cost steps in your home, you can reduce your cooling costs by dollars and cents. Here are a few tips:

• Set the thermostat to 80 degrees or higher when possible. Leaving the thermostat at 78 degrees – just two notches lower – can increase your electricity bill by up to 6 percent.

• Use a programmable thermostat, which adjusts indoor temperature automatically when you’re not home.

• Install ceiling fans to supplement the AC breezes. Ceiling fans are known to cut down on cooling costs. • Pay attention to the natural light in your home. Open curtains and blinds let in sunlight, which

LaserCenter

consequently warms your house. Keep curtains and blinds drawn.

A T T H E E• Y E clothes C L inI N C Wash coldI water.

• If you have rooms in your house that are rarely used, seal off the AC ducts. • Don’t use appliances during the day, if possible. • Keep AC filters and ducts clean for maximum system efficiency.

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Summertime Blues Banishing

by Christine Fisher

Does it seem as though everyone else is frolicking along the beach during summer, throwing a Frisbee in the park every afternoon and enjoying delicious bar-b-que’s each evening? Do you find yourself wondering why everyone else’s summer is filled with fun trips each week and endless lazy days while you’re sweating through another pressure-filled day at work? Magazines, movies and television play up summer to be stress-free, full of fun and frivolity: but in reality, it’s just three more months of the same routine for most Americans, with maybe a quick get-away for a few days, if they’re lucky.“Many people have unrealistic expectations and set themselves up for scenarios that aren’t reality,” explained Dale Archer, MD, psychiatrist and founder of The Institute for Neuropsychiatry.“This can lead to feelings of depression when people feel summer should be one big party.” Although it’s typically known as a wintertime occurrence, a syndrome related to seasonal affective disorder affects people during the long summer days. Known as reversal seasonal affective disorder, it affects thousands of people who experience depression-like symptoms through the hotter months. Most of the people who deal with this syndrome live in a hot climate, have other depressive disorders and are likely to be female and have experienced seasonal affective disorder during the winter months. Specific symptoms of summer depression often include loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, weight loss and anxiety. One of the causes for summertime depression is a disruption in schedules. For people who are prone to depressive symptoms, maintaining a reliable routine helps to control mood swings. During summer, children are home from school with little to keep them busy, college kids who were living in dorms may be home, also, with all of their laundry, boxes and appetites. At work, employees may take up the slack for vacationing co-workers. If you’re lucky enough to get away for a few days, coming 50

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back to the pile up of work isn’t a picnic. These things can upset a delicate balance of routine. Body issue is another issue. As the temperature rises, the layers of clothes fall away causing feelings of self-consciousness about body shape, weight and overall image. It can be awkward for some individuals if the days of fitting into the yellow polka-dot bikini are a vague memory. Rising temperatures can also be the final straw. Weeks of weather in the upper-90s can take its toll becoming truly oppressive.“To avoid the heat, some people may hide out at home on the weekends. In some cases, this isolation can cause a downward spiral in mood,” said Dr. Archer. Wrapping up the list of common summertime depression triggers is financial stress. “Recession news is everywhere, people are having a difficult time right now; this causes tremendous anxiety. It can increase tension at home if one spouse wants to go on vacation, but the other spouse doesn’t want to spend the money. There are hundreds of scenarios like this that are playing out in homes across the country,” Dr. Archer said. Dealing with summertime depression involves assessing the symptoms. Is this just a bad mood that tends to correct itself in a day or two? “If the symptoms linger for two weeks or more and it affects your quality of life and ability to handle tasks, it’s time to seek professional help,” he said.“Never take the signs of depression lightly. If treated early, you might avoid a long-term bout with depression.” He suggested these techniques to take control of summertime mood disorders: Avoid unnecessary pressure. If you dread hosting the family Labor Day get-together, then don’t. Someone else may enjoy hosting duties, or it just may not happen; either

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2009

way, you’re relieved of the burden and avoid the hassle of yet another commitment. If other family members want to get together, they’ll organize it. Scaling back on things that cause stress is a major step toward reclaiming your happiness.

with everything else going on,” he said.“That doesn’t mean you have to be a priority all the time, but for your own mental health, you need to focus on yourself from time to time.”

Exercise daily. If the heat makes your normal exercise routine difficult, investigate other ways to get in a regular workout. Can you join a gym just during the hottest months? Is there an indoor track you can use? Maybe it’s time to dust off the stationary bike or treadmill that’s been acting like an extra clothes rack for the past few months! “Whatever you need to do, getting regular exercise is worth it,” Dr. Archer emphasized.“It’s a natural mood booster, it relieves stress, results in a stronger heart and helps maintain weight. It’s one of the keys to good mental and physical health.”

Dial down your expectations. Recognize that the Hollywood-hype about summer could be feeding the depression.

You: a priority. If taking care of other people’s needs is causing yours to take a back seat, Dr. Archer says it’s time to add your needs to the calendar – ink ink.“Everyone has needs and the right to have those needs met. Ensure that your needs are in the mix

Understanding the symptoms of reversal seasonal disorder can bring relief.“This syndrome has responded well to antidepressant medications in most people,” said Dr. Archer,“by altering levels of neurotransmitters; serotonin is one that is familiar to many people. Anyone who thinks they may have some type of seasonal disorder should seek professional help starting with their own family doctor, a therapist or psychiatrist.” For more information, call The Institute of Neuropsychiatry at (337) 477-7091.

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Back to Breakfast

The importance of starting school with a meal The most important meal of the day is even more important when it’s followed by a seven-hour school day, so if your school-aged kids have been skimping on breakfast this summer, it’s time to get back on track. According to the School Nutrition Association, “breakfast provides the necessary fuel to start a day of learning and achievement.” Research has shown that children who eat breakfast before school score better on standardized tests, have fewer health issues and behave better in class. Why? Because children with bellies full of healthy food (healthy being the operative word) are energized and focused – not distracted by hunger or falling victim to mid-morning sugar crashes. The benefits of breakfast aren’t limited to mental sharpness, however. According to the American Dietetic Association, breakfast is important for weight loss and weight management because it curbs hunger and prevents binge eating. Breakfast also gives the body a boost of energy because it is the first chance the body has to refuel its glucose levels, and glucose is essential for an energetic brain, the ADA said. The key to getting the most out of breakfast is to make sure it’s healthy and satisfying – in other words, sugary cereals won’t do. Instead, try whole-grain cereal, fruit, wholegrain waffles, warm oatmeal topped with cinnamon, breakfast smoothies, or a vegetable omelet. It’s not just time to get back-to-school … it’s also time to get back to breakfast!

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Straight Talk about

Neck Pain People often joke about something being a “pain in the neck,” but when neck pain is real, it’s not funny at all. Fortunately, neck pain is rarely a serious problem and will usually disappear within a few days.

“However, for some people, neck pain is a chronic problem that severely limits their daily activities,” says Craig Morton, MD, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist with the Center for Orthopaedics. “Neck pain affects all of us, whether it’s the occasional ‘crick’ or something serious like a herniated disc,” says Dr. Morton.“In fact, neck pain is one of the most common reasons people see their physician. Research has shown that the majority of both men and women report having neck pain at some point in their life, and a recent study found that one in 20 sufferers said their neck pain had led to major disability.” While everyone may experience neck pain from time to time, most people don’t understand why. Dr. Morton says,“It’s simple really. Your neck has a hard job — holding up your head.” He says leaning into your computer, hunching over your workbench, or bending your head to hold your phone against your shoulder just makes its job more difficult. “Poor posture certainly contributes to neck pain, but the design of the neck makes it vulnerable in the first place. All the interconnected structures that give your neck its incredible range of motion are subject to the wear-and-tear damage of arthritis and overextension injuries like whiplash. When your neck hurts, there are many possible causes.”

by Kristy Armand Neck pain includes pain occurring anywhere from the bottom of your head to the top of your shoulders. It may spread to the upper back or arms and may cause limited neck and head movement. Most neck pain is caused by activities that result in repeated or prolonged movements of the neck’s muscles, ligaments, tendons, bones or joints. This can result in a strain (an overstretched or overused muscle), sprain (injury to a ligament), spasm of the neck muscles, or inflammation of the neck joints. Things like painting a ceiling, sleeping with your neck twisted, slouching, or staying in one position for a long period of time, are all possible causes of neck pain, according to Dr. Morton. He says neck pain can also be caused by injury, such as in a car accident, a fall, during sports activities, or by another medical condition, such as infection in the neck area, a narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck (cervical spinal stenosis), or rheumatoid arthritis. Neck pain can range from a “kink” or stiffness to severe, debilitating pain. The pain may spread to your shoulders, upper back, or arms, or it may cause a headache. You may not be able to move or turn your head and neck normally. If there is pressure on a spinal nerve root, you may have pain that shoots down the arm or numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arm. “If your neck pain is chronic, it may be difficult to continue doing all the things you need to do every day – both at home and at work,” says Dr. Morton. “This can lead to the common side effects of chronic pain including fatigue, depression and anxiety.” Neck pain is usually diagnosed through a medical history and physical 54

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2009

examination.“We’ll ask about symptoms, injuries or illnesses, any previous treatment, and habits and activities that may be causing or contributing to the neck pain,” says Dr. Morton. “We check the neck’s range of motion and look for areas of tenderness and any nerve-related changes, such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or hands.” If the pain starts after an injury, such as a severe fall or blow to the head, or if your pain does not improve with conservative care, Dr. Morton says further testing such as an X-ray, MRI, CT, or other diagnostic tests may be needed to check the neck bones, spinal discs, spinal nerve roots, and the spinal cord. Dr. Morton says most minor neck pain caused by everyday activities usually goes away within four to six weeks. These steps can help: • Reducing the pain with ice and NSAIDS (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). • Improving neck movement and flexibility with exercises or physical therapy.

• Using a good pillow when sleeping, one that does not cause excessive flexion. • Avoiding further neck injury by changing activities and body mechanics, such as how you sit or sleep, adjusting the height of your computer, etc.

Chronic neck pain is first treated the same way as acute neck pain, says Dr. Morton. In some cases, stronger pain medication, such as muscle relaxers or antidepressants may be prescribed. Stress management and relaxation techniques such as massage or yoga may also be recommended. Dr. Morton says surgery is rarely required to treat neck pain. It may be considered if neck pain is caused by pressure on the spinal nerve roots, a severe injury that has broken a vertebra in the spine, a tumor, or a condition such as cervical spinal stenosis. For more information about neck pain diagnosis and treatment, call the Center for Orthopaedics at 721-7236.

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August 2009

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Arts Council Plans 70s Night The Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana will host a 70s-themed fund-raiser at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21, at the Brick House. Free soft drinks and refreshments will be provided, along with a cash bar. Anyone wearing 70s attire will be entered in door prize drawing. Music will be provided by Boomerang. Tickets are $15 each. Tables for six are available for $125. Proceeds go to the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana. For more information, call 4392787 or email director@artsandhumanitiesswla.org.

Zion Tabernacle Women’s Conference on August 14-15 Zion Tabernacle Baptist Church Women’s Ministry is hosting its annual Women’s Conference from 6-9 p.m. Friday, August 14 and 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, August 15. Dr. Debra B. Morton, pastor of the Greater St. Stephen Full Gospel Baptist Church in New Orleans, will lead the conference theme,“Leading Women to the Heart of God.” Registration is $25. For more information contact Zion Tabernacle Baptist Church at 436-6627, Gisele Williams at 526-1118, or email at ziontbc@aol.com.

Jeff Davis Tourism Commission Plans Events Lorio Serves as Faculty at Defense Trial Academy Local attorney Yul D. Lorio, partner in the law firm of Doucet Lorio, LLC, participated as a faculty member of the 25th Anniversary Louisiana Association of Defense Counsel Trial Academy at Loyola Law School in New Orleans last month. The Academy trains young lawyers in the proper techniques of opening statement, Yul D. Lorio closing argument, direct and cross examination of witnesses. Lorio has served on the faculty for nine years and is a member of the Academy Board of Directors. He has been practicing in Southwest Louisiana for 20 years and specializes in personal injury and business-related litigation.

Rapid Response Restoration Names Business Development Manager Jennifer Trowell is the new Business Development Manager for Rapid Response Restoration, the area’s leading water damage restoration company. Originally from Georgia, Trowell earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Public Relations from Valdosta State University in Valdosta, Georgia. She has worked in the management, Jennifer Trowell communication and public relations field for four years. In her new position, Trowell will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies focused on the continued expansion of the company. Rapid Response Restoration provides comprehensive water damage, mold remediation, and fire restoration services.

Raichel Receives NAMI Award John Bleich, left, president of NAMI Louisiana, looks on as Kevin Sullivan of the NAMI National Board of Directors presents Clarice Raichel with the Phillip and Sarah Francouer Award, which honors outstanding achievement in providing housing or other needed services to people with mental illness. Raichel is Southwest Louisiana Executive Director for NAMI. 56

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The Jeff Davis Economic Development and Tourism Commission will host a Festival Wine Tasting from 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20. Tickets are $50. The commission will also host the 2nd Annual Roastin’ with Rosie BBQ Festival Friday, September 11, and Saturday, September 12, at the Grand Marais Courtyard in Jennings. The gates open at 4 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. on Saturday. Admission is $5. Live entertainment will be provided. For more information, call (337) 821-5534.

Sports Club Expands Professional Tennis Staff Ryan Hess has joined the staff of the Sports Club at Graywood as a tennis instructor. Originally from Westlake, Hess played on the Westlake High School tennis team for four years, where he was a regional champion and state semi-finalist multiple years. He was ranked fifth in the state for males 18 and under, singles. Ryan Hess Hess then played for four years on the Ragin’ Cajun men’s tennis team at University of Louisiana-Lafayette. He was a member of the 2005 Sun Belt Conference runner up team, and was a member of the 2006 Sun Belt Conference championship team in 2006. He competed in the 2005 and 2006 NCAA Championships for team competition, and doubles competition in 2005. In addition to his four years of college-level playing experience, Hess has worked as a tennis instructor for six years.

Imperial Calcasieu Surgical Center Appoints Administrator Beverly Kirchner, RN, BSN, CNOR, CASC, recognized in Becker’s Review as an authority in the ambulatory surgery field, has been named Administrator of Imperial Calcasieu Surgical Center, a free-standing, physicianowned day surgery facility scheduled to open this month in Lake Charles. Beverly Kirchner, RN, Originally from Waco, Texas, Kirchner earned a BSN, CNOR, CASC Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Texas Woman’s University in Denton. She has over 28 years of experience as a surgical nurse and 23 years of experience in ambulatory surgery management. Kirchner has developed, managed or consulted on more than 60 surgery centers in 10 states over the past 23 years, and is the Owner and President/CEO of Genesee Associates, an ambulatory surgery center development and management company based in Dallas. Kirchner is a Certified Nurse in the Operating Room and is certified as an Administrator by the Board of Ambulatory Surgery Certification. She

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2009

is a champion of patient and nurse safety. She works actively on national committees sponsored by the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN), as well as other regional and national healthcare organizations. Kirchner’s work is frequently published in professional journals and she has contributed to several books. She is also a guest lecturer at nursing and surgery center management conferences throughout the world, focusing on eliminating violence in the healthcare workplace.

Memorial Hospital Announces Bi-Monthly Rosie Thompson Award Winner

Jeff Garrett, director of human resources for Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic, recently earned certification as a senior professional in human resources. The certification, awarded by the HR Certification Institute, signifies that Garrett possesses the theoretical knowledge and practical experience in human resource Jeff Garrett management necessary to pass a rigorous examination demonstrating a mastery of the body of knowledge in the field. To become certified, an applicant must pass a comprehensive examination and demonstrate a strong background of professional human resource experience.

Officer Raymond Laughlin was the recipient of Lake Charles Memorial Hospital’s bi-monthly Rosie Thompson Award for May/June 2009. Laughlin was nominated by fellow employees for his outstanding examples of service excellence as a security officer at Memorial. “Officer Laughlin demonstrates a calm and compassionate demeanor at all times, is always willing to assist when needed, and treats all employees, visitors and coworkers with dignity and respect,” said Tim Coffey, Memorial’s chief operating officer, who presented Officer Laughlin with the award. “He never allows anyone to feel unimportant, and he does not hesitate to take control of situations that require him to go above the call of duty.” In addition to the recognition, Officer Laughlin received several prizes including free lunch tokens for two months and a small cash award.

Cameron State Bank Named Top National Performer by ICBA

Northwestern Mutual Holds Local Ribbon Cutting

Garret Earns Professional Certification in Human Resources

ICBA Independent Banker, the national magazine of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA), highlighted Cameron State Bank as an “ICBA 400 Top Performer,” the magazine’s annual listing of top earning ICBA member community banks. The trade magazine recognized Cameron State Bank for posting one of the best year-end earnings performances in 2008 for ICBA member banks with more than $500 million in assets. Cameron State Bank was identified in the year-end ranking of ICBA members based on the standard industry performance measures of return on average assets and return on average equity. The magazine compiles its annual member rankings in its June issue from year-end FDIC call report data. Separate performance rankings are listed for Subchapter S corporation community banks and Subchapter C corporation community banks among five asset categories.

Ramsey Completes Management Training Paula Ramsey, the Chamber SWLA’s membership sales representative, recently completed her first year at Institute for Organization Management, a four-year nonprofit leadership training program at the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia. Graduates of Institute receive the IOM recognition, signifying completion of 96 hours of course instruction in nonprofit management. In addition, participants can Paula Ramsey earn points toward the Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) or Certified Association Executive (CAE) certifications. Nearly 1,000 individuals attend Institute annually.

City Savings Bank Receives Highest Bank Ratings City Savings Bank recently received the highest bank ratings from four leading financial resources, Independent Banker, TheStreet.com, Bankrate.com and BauerFinancial. Independent Banker, a publication of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA), named City Savings Bank in its list of the 400 Top Performing Community Banks of 2008. BauerFinancial, Inc., one of the nation’s leading bank rating and research firms, awarded City Savings Bank its highest rating of five stars. BauerFinancial, a main financial resource to the press, reviews all U.S. banks and thrifts. August 2009

Northwestern Mutual and the Southwest Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the new Northwestern Mutual office located on the sixth floor of the downtown Chase Bank building. Northwestern Mutual has been a reputable member of the Lake Charles life insurance and financial services landscape for more than 30 years. Ted P. Harless Jr. serves as managing director.

Poker Run Scheduled to Benefit WCCH’s Genesis Therapeutic Riding Center A Poker Run is scheduled for Saturday, August 15, benefitting West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital’s Genesis Therapeutic Riding Center. The event is organized by the Krewe de Karoline in memory of Carol Breaux. Registration and breakfast will be held from 8:30 a.m. until 10 a.m. and final check in point is at 5 p.m. The starting and finishing point is Bab’s Pub (formerly Karoline’s) on Maplewood Drive in Sulphur. Registration fee is $20 for riders and $15 for passengers. After the ride, a bar-b-que, and live auction will be held along with live music by the Mike Taylor band. Plates are $5. For more information, contact Karen Campbell, (337) 274-9155 or Roland LeJeune, (337) 842-0010.

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Early Detection Buys Time When Dealing with Cancer P

ain and swelling after eating a meal was Randy Veillon’s first clue that something was wrong. Unexplained weight gain soon followed. Initially thinking it was an ulcer, he saw his doctor in January, had some medical tests and discovered he had a more serious condition: cancer. The diagnosis was large B-cell lymphoma, part of the non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma group of cancers. “As with anyone on the receiving end of that kind of news, hearing the diagnosis took me by surprise. I wasn’t expecting anything like that,” Veillon said. An MRI confirmed the diagnosis and Veillon was advised to see Dr. Goolsby, a local oncologist. “B-cell lymphoma is a type of cancer made up of lymphocytes. These are the white blood cells in our bodies that produce antibodies to fight infections and create our immune memory. These T and B lymphocyte cells are crucial to building and maintaining a strong immune system,” explained Henry Goolsby, III, MD, oncologist with The Clinic. “Unfortunately, they can mutate and become cancerous, creating a clone of cancerous B or T-cells that spread through the lymphatic system and the organs of the body.” Until this point, Veillon said he hadn’t seen a doctor for much more than blood pressure checks. He knew that exercise and nutrition were key components for good health and his job as an appliance service technician, along with his hobby of hunting and fishing, kept him pretty active. “I like a good meal as much as anyone, but didn’t have a significant weight problem,” he said. “I’d say I was moderately health conscious before all of this happened.”

There have been recent findings of a possible link between Helicobacter pylori infection, or H. pylori and some lymphomas of the stomach, but it is in the infancy stage of research and many more studies must be done to even verify the connection. “Prompt attention to any health concern is the best preventive medicine,” said Dr. Goolsby. The Clinic is one of the sponsors of the Fight Cancer with Facts educational campaign. For more information, check with your doctor or visit www.cancer.org.

“

If we can catch the cancer before it spreads, we have a much higher chance of treating or removing it, as in the case of Mr. Veillon.

Veillon has had six chemotherapy treatments and his latest report is that the tumor, which was initially the size of a nerf football, has dissolved. Surgery isn’t recommended since the tumor is responding well to the treatment.

”

– Henry Goolsby, III, MD, oncologist with The Clinic

“If we can catch the cancer before it spreads, we have a much higher chance of treating or removing it, as in the case of Mr. Veillon,” said Dr. Goolsby. “Checking with your primary care doctor about any unusual lumps, pain or discomfort is best. Nine times out of 10, there’s nothing to worry about. If there is, you’ve done yourself a favor by catching it early.” A resident of Moss Bluff, Veillon considered going to Houston to get treatment. “I know there are quite a few people who choose to go out of town and I considered it for a little while. Dr. Goolsby said he’d work with me however I wanted to do it, but after I looked into it, I decided to stay right here,” he said. “I’m really glad I did. Not just for the convenience factor, but also because I have confidence in the health care workers in our area that are providing my treatment.” As far as prevention is concerned, researchers and scientists are working to narrow down the possible causes of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Studying how normal cells grow, divide and die is crucial in understanding how they might mutate. August 2009

Randy Veillon Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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Information provided by Robert Guilott, owner of AAA Drive-In Cleaners, a Certifed Garment Care Professional.

Don’t Over Dry Over drying will cause bright and dark colors to fade. Set a timer and remove clothes from the dryer immediately.

Fight the

Add Vinegar Vinegar doesn’t have the most pleasant smell, but adding a cup to your washing machine will not only give you a natural fabric softener, but also help prevent colors from fading. The good news? The vinegar smell goes away in the wash.

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When in doubt, ask a professional dry cleaner for their advice. Some items are best cleaned professionally to maintain their appearance.

WELCOME

Bright, bold colors are always popular in clothing. They look great and you feel good wearing them – until they fade. Your favorite bright red shirt quickly falls out of favor and is tossed aside after it fades to a washed out pink. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to protect your clothes from fading, and it all relates to how you care for them: Read the Care Label Check for instructions regarding wash temperature or recommendations for washing with like colors. Don’t forget to check for drying instructions as well. The label may indicate that the clothing needs to be dried on low, or drip dried. Wash Dark Colors Together Anyone who has ever washed one red sock with an entire load of whites can attest to the need to wash colors separately. Sorting also provides a great opportunity for checking the care label and combining clothes with similar wash/dry instructions. Wash in Cold Colors last longer when washed in cold water. Detergents have come a long way in the last several years, and most do as well in cold water as they do in hot or warm. Turn Clothes Inside Out Washing and drying clothing is rough on the outside of your clothing, and some of this wear and tear can be prevented by turning your clothing inside out. Doing so will reduce pilling which dulls the look of the fabric. Be sure to also turn clothing inside out when you hang clothes outside to dry. While the sun is an excellent and efficient drying tool, it will also cause fading.

TO OUR

NEWEST PHYSICIAN Center for Orthopaedics introduces

Steven Hale, MD Orthopaedic Surgeon

Dr. Hale was born and raised in Lake Charles and received his undergraduate degree in Biochemistry from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. He earned his Medical Degree from Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans and completed his Orthopaedic Residency in Memphis, Tennessee, at The Campbell Clinic, which is recognized as one the premier practicing and teaching orthopaedic centers in the world. Dr. Hale specializes in joint replacement surgery, sports medicine, knee surgery, shoulder surgery, hip surgery, fracture care, children’s orthopaedic care and arthritis treatment. Dr. Hale will be seeing patients in the Lake Charles and Sulphur offices of Center for Orthopaedics. Call 721-7236 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Use the Gentle Cycle or a Gentle Detergent Washing on your machine’s gentle cycle or hand washing will help prevent fading. There are also several detergents on the market that are formulated to prevent fading and color loss. Don’t Overload Stuffing the washer is a tempting way to cut down on time spent doing laundry. And while you may save some time, you’ll pay a high price for every corner you cut. Overloading the washer makes the machine work harder and it is tougher on clothes. Clothing can’t come clean or have soap evenly deposited when it is packed into a washing machine. Similarly, clothing takes a lot longer to dry when a dryer is overloaded with wet cloths. Clothes need to move freely to dry efficiently. August 2009

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OUR PHYSICIAN STAFF: James Perry, MD John Noble, Jr., MD Geoffrey Collins, MD Craig Morton, MD Tyson Green, DPM Steven Hale, MD

(337) 721-7CFO

www.centerforortho.com

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Hidden Household

Hazards While most adults are well aware of the need for covering outlets, keeping poisonous household cleaning products locked away, and preventing interaction with toys that could present a choking risk, there are many other, less obvious, safety hazards in most homes that could have deadly results for children. The accidental death of Mike Tyson’s 4-year-old daughter earlier this summer from a treadmill cord provides a tragic example of how a seemingly non-threatening object can pose a life-threatening risk in certain circumstances. Each year, over 33 million people are injured by consumer products in the home. According to Joni Fontenot, spokesperson for the Safety Council of Southwest Louisiana, some hazards are from products consumers have been warned about for years. Others result from new products and technologies, or from everyday objects that are hazardous to unsupervised – and curious -- children. “The home is where people feel safe and comfortable, but when it comes to toddlers and young children, parents often overestimate their child’s intelligence, and underestimate their abilities,” says Fontenot.“Constant awareness is needed to prevent injuries from hidden hazards in the home.” Exercise equipment is a leading cause of home accidents, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. More than 25,000 children suffer injuries related to this type of equipment each year, most frequently from stationary bicycles, treadmills and stair climbers. Many of these injuries are related to power cords, as was the case with Tyson’s daughter, who was strangled by a cord connected to a treadmill. It is believed that she was playing with the machine.“While it may be unpractical to unplug a piece of exercise equipment after each and every use, parental supervision is the primary means of eliminating such avoidable accidents if you have these types of machines in your home,” says Fontenot. “If you have a home gym, limit your child’s access to that room. Never leave them alone with the machines, and if possible, lock the door to the room the equipment is in.”

by Kristy Armand

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Windows are another potential hazard that doesn’t make the home safety check list. “It seems obvious, but that’s probably why the risk is ignored,” says Fontenot. “Though a parent might not regularly open windows in the house, it does not mean a child can’t or won’t.” She says placing furniture close to windows is a commonly ignore overlooked safety hazard. Children can easily climb up and out of the opening. Relying on screens to protect against falls is an inadequate solution – these are designed to keeps bugs out, not kids in. Most screens will not hold the weight of a child. Window guards or stops are recommended to keep children safe.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2009

“

The home is where people feel safe and comfortable, but when it comes to toddlers and young children, parents often overestimate their child’s intelligence, and underestimate their abilities.

”

– Joni Fontenot, spokesperson for the Safety Council of SWLA Another window-related risk is window treatments, and the cords attached to them. Fontenot says to prevent accidents, parents should use cordless blinds or keep cords and chains permanently out of reach of children by tying them up out of reach or by using tie-down devices. “Again, furniture should not be placed close enough to cords to invite children to climb. And you should never place changing tables or cribs within reach of window coverings.” Along those same lines, power cords throughout the home are a source of danger for children. They can cause electrical burns, strangulation, tripping, and serious head trauma from appliances being pulled down by little hands or feet. Fontenot says parents should unplug and secure power cords whenever possible, and move appliances out of the way. Furniture tip-overs are another potential pitfall for children in the home. In May of 2009, the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital reported that tipped over furniture sent roughly 15,000 children a year to the emergency room. Deaths and injuries occur when children climb onto, fall against or pull themselves up on television stands, shelves bookcases, dressers, desks and chests. Fontenot says many children will pull out a dresser drawer and use that as a “ladder” to climb and reach for something up above. “Parents should verify that all furniture is stable on its own, and for added security, furniture can be securely anchored to the floor or wall. Free-standing ranges and stoves can be installed with anti-tip brackets.” Parents should also keep tabs on toy and product recalls, in case any purchases are found to be potential hazards. A simple method to stay aware is to sign up for recall alerts via email from the Consumer Product Safety Commission at www.cpsc.gov.

RELAX! We’ve Got a New Weapon in the War Against Wrinkles: Dysport Cosmetic Injections

Dysport is now available at the Aesthetic Center. It is only the second drug to be approved by the FDA as a wrinkle treatment and its use is supported by over a decade of clinical experience. Dysport is made from the same active ingredient as Botox and is proven to be very successful at treating moderate to severe glabellar lines of the forehead. These are the unattractive vertical lines between the brows that make you look tired, angry, and let’s face it – old. Treatment with Dysport takes just a few minutes and within a few days, you’ll look younger, refreshed and more relaxed. Injections given by an experienced cosmetic specialist provide natural-looking results that last for months for both men and women. Take a fresh approach to wrinkle treatment today, with Dysport at the Aesthetic Center. Call 478-3810 for more information or to schedule an appointment. The Aesthetic Center offers a comprehensive range of skin treatments, home care products, cosmetic injections and cosmetic eye surgery.

Medical Director: Dr. Mark Crawford, Facial and Cosmetic Eye Surgery Specialist

Fontenot says a child’s ability to get into certain types of trouble varies with the age and developmental stage of each individual child. “And obviously parents know their child. What’s important is for parents to be aware of both potential risks and how this relates to their particular child’s abilities and level of curiosity. A well-informed parent can take the steps necessary to eliminate hazards for their own child.” For more home safety information, call the Safety Council at 436-3354 or visit www.safetycouncilswla.org.

August 2009

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facehealth.net • 478-3810 1717 Oak Park Blvd., Lake Charles (in The Eye Clinic)

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Teaching Swimming is All We DO… and We’re the BEST in Town.

Summer Swim CampS and CliniCS

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I choose Women & Children’s Hospital

because after six healthy babies, they’ve earned my trust. After having six healthy babies delivered here, Genne Queenan says that Women & Children’s Hospital has “earned my trust. I always received excellent care and they were thoroughly professional.” Trust is something we’ve been earning since our inception in 1982. And it’s why more doctors and women in this area count on us today. Through experience and leadership,

Genne Queenan – mother of six

Women & Children’s H O S P I T A L

we deliver. Visit www.women-childrens.com or call (337) 474-6370 for more information.

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August 2009 7/27/09 2:08 PM

Advanced Cardiac Treatment Option Now Available at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital

n the past, a patient with peripheral vascular disease (PVD) and arterial plaque buildup was offered only one option to correct the problem – surgery. Thanks to advanced technology and specialized medicine, minimally invasive procedures are now available at WCCH for these patients as alternatives to conventional, surgical procedures. John Winterton, MD, staff Cardiologist at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, has proven instrumental in expanding the treatment options available to those suffering from PVD, specifically Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), in the Lake Area. In the United States, approximately 12 million people suffer from PAD, a disease caused by plaque buildup in the arteries of the peripheral vascular system, often resulting in pain and discomfort in the legs, and limited mobility. While aches and pains increase as we age, Dr. Winterton says that continuous, dull, cramping pains in the hips and legs when walking or climbing stairs may indicate an underlying problem. “If a patient begins to experience pain, numbness or tingling in the legs, feet and toes, they should contact their physician immediately.” Dr. Winterton says that if a patient also notices a change in the color or temperature of the legs, this indicates a decreased blood flow to that area of the body and if not treated, can lead to amputation of the limb. But, he stresses that these two symptoms, discoloration and pain, may not always accompany one another. That’s why it is important to contact a physician for any type of abnormal pain. “Of the estimated 14 million people in the U.S. with diabetes, 1/3 suffer from PVD,” said Dr. Winteron. “And the rate for amputation for people with diabetes is 10 times higher than for those without diabetes.” It is also estimated that approximately 12 million people in the United States suffer from PVD, and Dr. Winterton states that while some individuals, such as diabetics, are more susceptible than others to PVD or PAD, those with a history of smoking, obesity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol are also at risk.

alternative, peripheral intervention, is also available. “Peripheral intervention is a minimally invasive procedure that allows us to remove plaque by gently cutting it out. It is an alternative to surgical intervention, such as leg artery bypass surgery.” Most patients undergoing the procedure, also known as a percutaneous atherectomy, are allowed to go home either the same day or the next day after surgery. “Offering this type of procedure at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital gives patients an alternative to the procedures we may have used 10 years ago,” says Dr. Winterton,“and speaks volumes for types of procedures that the hospital’s Cardiology department can now perform.”

Learn more about Peripheral Vascular Disease and treatment options at a FREE seminar on Tuesday, September 15, at 6pm, at Dynamic Dimensions in Sulphur. Call 527-5459 to pre-register.

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Dr. Winterton says that while conventional treatments such as exercise therapy, medication and leg artery bypass surgery are still viable, a new Dr. John Winterton and Christi Watson, RN, discuss the SilverHawk Atherectomy device.

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August 2009

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August at the Mall Get Geared Up For

Football Season! New Styles Arriving Daily! • Exclusive T-Shirts & Caps • Polos and Fishing Shirts • Ladies Apparel • Infant/Toddler Gear

• Belts, Wallets & Ties • Auto Accessories • Tailgating Gear • Home & Patio Decor • Much More

Largest Selection of School Uniforms Year Round Toddler thru men’s sizes

Official LSU.com TigerTailer

French Toast • Dickies • Classroom Prien Lake Mall (near Cinemark) • www.GeauxTigerNation.com

542 W. Prien Lake Rd • 337-439-5484

The Prien Lake Mall has announced the following events for August: • The 2009 La Leche League World Breastfeeding

Week celebration will kick-off at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 8, at Prien Lake Mall’s Sears court. A raffle will be held and a walk will begin at 1 p.m. The event is designed to raise awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding, which includes allergy prevention, mother-child bonding, quality nutrition and easier infant digestion. For more information on the walk and raffle, call 263-6774, 529-0802, or email breastisbestlc@yahoo.com.

• Professional photo shoots will be

available from Thursday-Saturday, Aug. 27-30, in Prien Lake Mall’s Sears court for candidates interested in being named Southwest Louisiana’s Cutest Kid. The Cute Kids Contest is sponsored by the Children’s Miracle Network and is open to infants through 5 years old. The professional photos will be displayed and open to public voting in the mall from Friday-Sunday, Sept. 25-27. For more information on the Cute Kids Contest, call the Children’s Miracle Network at 491-7750.

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August 2009

Going Back to School… Shouldn’t Mean Going Back to Worrying

As kids head back to the classroom, parents brace themselves for the inevitable battles about earlier bedtime, school uniforms, homework and the general grumbling that accompanies the new school year. But for some kids, emotions about going back to school go beyond complaints about rules and routine and can develop into more serious feelings of real stress and anxiety. Anxiety over making new friends, being in a new school, facing bullies, feeling “uncool” or coping with academic pressure can make even a well-adjusted child anxious. According to experts, that anxiety or fear can build up in a child’s mind, affecting their behavior in many ways. “Going back to school can be a very exciting time for children, or it can be a time of great anxiety, apprehension and uncertainty,” says Michelle Trenton, MS, LPC, LMFT, therapist with Samaritan Counseling Center.“With any change that we experience in our lives, natural emotions such as anxiety can emerge. For children, this becomes more pronounced because every year they have this new experience of returning to school or starting at a new school.” She says parents sometimes minimize how stressful the return to school can be for kids.“Imagine yourself in this scenario: You’ve been away from your job for over a couple of months, and now you have to go back to work full-time after all these weeks of relaxing and doing whatever you wanted to do. And, you have new supervisors, new co-workers, a new office and a full list of new assignments. That would be stressful for anyone, and that’s basically what kids face at the start of a new school year.” Return-to-school anxiety is more common in younger children, particular those starting school for the first time or those entering a new school.“It’s also important for parents to express both empathy and confidence. Make it clear you understand that going back to school can be scary, but show that you are confident your child will do okay. Kids pick up anxiety from parents, so if you’re anxious, they probably will be too.” Trenton says kids are typically very resilient, and once school is underway, most kids will adapt to the new situation. However, some children may exhibit signs of anxiety over a longer period.“Whatever it is about school that is worrying them becomes a bigger issue over time, building up and often leading them to act out on many ways –

August 2009

by Kristy Armand

from sleep problems, headaches and stomach problems, to disobedience and even an outright refusal to go to school.” The good news is most kids can overcome their fears with the help of a parent, according to Trenton.“Kids need to know there’s a stable place for them to talk about all the stresses that they’ve had. Research shows that there are certain times of day the drive to school, dinner time, or just before going to bed when children tend to open up. Kids whose parents are consistently around at one or more of those times tend to function better. If they can’t count on those consistent connections, we know they typically don’t do as well.” Of course, kids won’t always want or need to talk. But Trenton says having a meal together creates that opportunity. And busy parents don’t have to be available every moment of day: Even establishing just one consistent, scheduled time for potential conversation can have remarkable benefits. For children who show signs of anxiety over a longer period, or intense fears, Trenton says parents should seek professional help. “I’ve had many parents realize that it would have been so much easier if they had sought professional help sooner.” It’s estimated that that as many as 5 percent of children have some type of prolonged “school refusal.” School anxiety may also have its roots in other situations, such as stressful home events, learning problems or bullying, that need prompt attention. And serious untreated anxiety in childhood can put a child at risk for problems later in life.” If kids and parents don’t deal with the anxiety and its causes, Trenton says it can get out of control very easily.“A vicious cycle develops, where a child will feel anxious about going to school, the parent will feel badly for the child and allow them to stay home. The next day, it becomes even more difficult for that child to go to school.” In most cases, the best answer is that parents shouldn’t let anxiety keep kids away from school, she says. Talk to school counselors and teachers, and mental health professionals if need be, to figure out what might be done. And most important of all, work hard to talk openly with your child about what’s worrying them, and how they might deal with it.” Samaritan Counseling Center provides counseling services for subsidized fees based on income, family size and fund availability. For more information call 433-4357 or visit www. samaritanswla.org.

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When Death Parts Us

s I write this, Michael Jackson’s roller coaster life has just ended. He was such a gifted and talented artist, but I think we all knew he would die like this – too early and with lots of drama. Now there are so many questions to be answered: Who will raise his children? Who will handle his debts? How will his estate fare in all of this? Of course, one of the questions taking over the news is,“Who’s fault is this?” It’s in our nature, I think, to blame and punish others when we are hurting. Which leads me to today’s topic: the aftermath of death. I’ve written about death before, and have discussed how uncomfortable the topic of death is for most people. It’s so unnerving that many people don’t properly prepare for it. We have this subconscious thought that if we don’t look at death square in the eye, then it won’t come for us. This is what leads to lots of problems for those left behind. Another issue I’ve been dealing a lot with lately, personally and professionally, is how very often the death of a loved one tears families apart. I’ve watched too many family members turn on each other during the process of dealing with death. It’s so sad to see that at the very time they need to be supporting and comforting each other, they are allowing their pain and grief to take over. We get very selfish when we are in pain – no one else could possibly be hurting as much as I am, how could the person have left me like this, why did God do this to me, etc. When we are in

this “it’s all about me” mode, our focus is so narrowed that we tend to make poor decisions. My husband is an attorney and one of his least favorite things to do is a succession, particularly if there is a chance of discord. He’s seen too much of exactly what I’m referring to: siblings fighting over possessions and property; spouses and children irreparably damaging their relationships because the pain is guiding them; family members with a lifetime of history and memories no longer speaking to each other. People who allow themselves to reach these points very often lack the self actualization to be willing and able to repair the relationships. As usual, I have some suggestions for these situations. If you’re the one who is dying (which, by the way, is each and every one of us), you need to get prepared. Beyond the requisite will, you need to think and talk about what will be left behind when you go. Ask family members if there is anything in particular they would like to have. Tell family members what you would like them to have and why. Then, write a list of these important possessions and who is to receive them. Do it now, while you have the time and energy to explain the significance of the item, its history within the family, etc. The goal is to decrease the amount of items that could be argued over after you are gone. If you have your wishes written down, and everyone knows you have done this because of previous discussions with you, then there is less reason for them to be upset. Remember, after you are gone, everyone left behind is going to be devastated (because you are such a fabulous person!) and is going to be so busy grieving that it will be very difficult to make sound decisions. The fewer decisions for them to make, the more likely they will all still be speaking to each other after things are settled. You make as many decisions as possible – down to the details of your funeral. Not only will there be less arguing, everyone will feel better knowing your wishes were met. I know that talking about “when you’re gone” is uncomfortable. I also know that the more we talk about uncomfortable things, the better we deal with them. Be brave. Bring up the topic. I’ve had many clients over the years who were very ill. Talking with them about the possibility of their death and how they wanted to be remembered have been some of the most rewarding sessions, according to those clients. And many of them have told me that I was the first person to encourage them to talk about the subject. Their families and friends had never brought it up. Now, what if you’re on the other end of this deal? You’re the one who was deserted by someone so special in your life that it hurts to breathe. Remember that your grief clouds your ability to be logical. Remember that you love the other members of your family and that they are hurting too, so they may not be making the best decisions either. Remember that things cannot in any way make that loved one more real for you, so even if you do not get a particular thing you wanted, that loved one is just as present in your life as ever.

(337) 480-1975 • 133 JEFFERSON DRIVE www.raufinancialgroup.com

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Take your time on dividing the estate, if you’re able. Have lots of family meetings, and remember to include many “walks down memory lane” so you remind yourselves of your history together and your strong connection. Commit, out loud, to one another that you will get through this painful process and still be connected at the end of it. People, have the hurricanes taught us nothing? At the end of the day, it’s just stuff. Stuff is not important. Stuff has no special power and cannot represent people. Health, family and relationships are what are important. Let’s do our best to preserve the really important things in life. Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2009

It’s never too late for a second opinion The ﬁnancial advice you’ll receive comes with:

by Rose Klein

Q: Recently you answered a question about how long after a graduation it was appropriate to send a gift. Could you, please, give time limit guidelines for giving wedding gifts and baby gifts? A: For a wedding, it is a myth that guests have up to a year to send a gift. One should send a gift as soon as the invitation arrives or sooner if one learns of the impending marriage. As for baby gifts, although technically to make it a baby gift the child should still be a baby, I would say that a gift would be appreciated before the arrival or after.

• Personalized ﬁnancial strategies with a broad range of investment choices • A Financial Advisor who takes the time to listen and understand your individual needs • Support from a talented force of market analysts, investment planning specialists and portfolio managers One Lakeshore Dr. Suite 1500 Lake Charles, LA 70629 337-439-9081 Dustin Granger, CFP® Financial Advisor dustin.granger@wfadvisors.com www.wfadvisors.com/dustin.granger

Glenn R. Granger Vice President-Investment Oﬃcer glenn.granger@wfadvisors.com www.wfadvisors.com/glenn.granger

Q: My friend’s young son is on the hyper side and the last time they were over, he knocked a decorative plate off of a shelf and it broke. She apologized but did not offer to replace it. It was one of a series of collectible plates and without it, the collection has lost its value. Should my friend be responsible for replacing it and how do I approach her about it? A: First, is it replaceable? Can one actually purchase a replacement plate? If not, then this is a moot point. If so, then I would suggest obtaining the replacement information and approaching your friend in person with that information. If it is a very expensive piece, you might offer to split the cost with her to make it less awkward.

Questions for Best Impressions can be submitted to edit@thriveswla.com.

August 2009

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medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, emergency medicine, and geriatric medicine. Sometimes, PA students serve one or more of these rotations under the supervision of a physician who wants to hire a PA. The rotations often lead to permanent employment. from the Calcasieu Parish Medical Society

The Valuable Service of Physician Assistants Medicine is currently experiencing a shortage of primary care providers. These are family practice doctors, internal medicine doctors, and even obstetricians. Two providers of medical care have become critical to primary care in areas with shortage of doctors. These are nurse practitioners (NP) and physician assistants (PA). Physician assistants practice medicine under the supervision of physicians and surgeons. They should not be confused with medical assistants, who perform routine clinical and clerical tasks. PAs are formally trained to provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive health care services, as delegated by a physician. Working as members of the health care team, PAs take medical histories, examine and treat patients, order and interpret laboratory tests and x-rays, and make diagnoses. They also treat minor injuries, by suturing, splinting, and casting. PAs record progress notes, instruct and counsel patients, and order or carry out therapy. Physician assistants may prescribe some medications and they work under the supervision of a physician. However, PAs may also be the principal care providers in rural or inner city clinics where a physician is present for only one or two days each week. In those cases, the PA maintains close contact with the supervising physician and other medical professionals as needed and as required by law. PAs also may make house calls or go to hospitals and nursing care facilities to check on patients, after which they report back to the physician. Physician assistant education programs usually last at least two years. Admission requirements vary, but many programs require 2 years of college and some work experience in the health care field. Because PAs are going to be in a close working relationship with physicians, they are educated in a medical model similar to physician training. Once candidates have been accepted to a PA program, the average curriculum stretches over 108 weeks (two years) of intensive medical study, compared with four years for medical school. During that time PA students share many classes and rotations in clinical medicine with medical students who are going for an M.D., and the work is stressful and difficult. The education itself consists of classroom and laboratory instruction in basic medical and behavioral sciences (such as anatomy, pharmacology, and clinical medicine). This is followed by rotations in internal medicine, family 70

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After completing the coursework required in a PA program, graduates must pass a national certification exam. Graduation from an accredited physician assistant program and passage of the certifying exam are required for state licensure. After licensure, PAs are required to take ongoing medical education classes (at least 100 hours of classroom time every two years) and must retake the certification test every six years to maintain their national certification. It can be difficult for some to differentiate between PAs and nurse practitioners because like PAs, nurse practitioners also complete specific advanced training and have the authority to prescribe medicine and carry out other health care tasks under the direction of a physician. The biggest difference between the two is the type of training, formal education and required certifications. Both PA s and NPs are physician extenders because they work under the supervision of a physician providing much needed care, but neither is a physician. You will most likely be seeing more of both these professionals as our population ages and requires more medical care, particularly with the current shortage of primary care physicians.

Bon Temps Express Ride along for the fabulous food, chic shopping and wild nightlife of

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August 2009

Playtime Doesn’t End with Adulthood Two key qualities of strong families are that they spend positive time together and share fun and laughter. What better way to combine these qualities than by playing with your children?

Adults often sink into a treadmill-like existence and forget what it’s like to play. It’s easier to let children play by themselves or with each other than to make time to play with them. But when family fun always takes a back seat to the demands of everyday living, something important is missing from family life. Children will soon learn to look elsewhere for fun and appreciation. According to Dr. Rebecca White, an associate professor in the LSU Ag Center’s School of Human Ecology, parents who play regularly with their children influence their development in positive ways. Healthy family play builds self-confidence and social skills as children learn to interact with others. In addition, most games teach some type of academic skill - such as recognition of numbers, colors, shapes and letters - that will benefit children in school. An important

caution here is a reminder that games are played for fun, not to teach. Let the skill development be a byproduct, not the sole reason for engaging in play with your children. White notes that playing with your kids does not need to include an outlay of cash for toys and games. Many household objects are excellent play materials just waiting to be discovered. With a little imagination and an eye for safety, parents can rival the best lineup of commercial playthings. Making toys for your children will help spark their imaginations and teach them their play is worth your attention. Homemade toys may not last forever, but they’ll probably last as long as a child’s attention span and are easily replaced if they don’t.

If you’re not getting your Botox at Skin Deep, you’re paying too much! $9 BOTOX! The best price in Lake Charles. No doctor or administration fee! Skin Deep’s services include: • Remove sunspots, age spots, rosacea and spider veins – IPL Photofacials • Improve skin tone and texture on face, chest, arms and hands. Also reduces scars and stretch marks – Laser Skin Resurfacing • Tighten loose skin on face, neck and chest – Infrared Skin Tightening • Permanent hair reduction on face, neck, underarms, bikini line, legs, chest or back • Wrinkle reversal – Botox® • Fill in laugh lines, fuller lips or under eye hollowing – Restylane®, Perlane® or Juvéderm™

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ifica Gift Cert AvA I L A B

Jason R. Morris MD 337.855.5300 277 N Hwy 171, Suite 8 Moss Bluff, LA (Located next to The Clinic)

www.thriveswla.com

Caring for You, As You Care forThem As a woman, your job description often gets blurred between the family room, the board room, and all points in between. You nurture, comfort, protect, provide for, guide, discipline, delegate and advise every day. The physicians, nurses and staff of OBG-1 know how hard you work to juggle it all. For over 30 years, we have provided excellence in women’s health care. We pledge to continue providing you with the care you need so you can continue to care for those you love.

Physicians: Ben Darby, MD Scott Bergstedt, MD Walter Guth, MD Brad Forsyth, MD

OBG-1 Services Include:

• Pregnancy and Delivery • Menopause Management • Pelvic Pain Diagnosis and Treatment • Birth Control • Well Women Screenings • Infertility Diagnosis and Treatment • Osteoporosis Screening • Midwifery

Nurse Practitioners: Tammy Gillett, APRN, NP Marilyn Watson, APRN, NP Certified Nurse Midwife: Bonnie Leger, CNM

1.866.312.OBG1 • 312-1000 • obg-1.com

LAKE CHARLES: 1890 W. GAUTHIER ROAD, SUITE 110 • SULPHUR: 1200 STELLY LANE Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

August 2009