Thrive December Issue by Thrive Magazine

DECEMBER 2009

Good News for

Determined Women | 6 Economics of |8 High Cost of Back Pain | 30 Money Moves to Make Now | 44

Environmentalism

Merry Makeovers | 60 Healthy, Happy Holidays - special section December 2009

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Invest Time Now for Better Investment Performance Next Year As part of your long list of year-end tasks, you’re probably putting your investment portfolio under the microscope, trying to determine its strengths and weaknesses. You want to pinpoint where your strategy went wrong, which investments are costing you money, and which should follow you into 2010. “The end of the year is an ideal time to review your financial decisions and map out your investment strategy for the future,” said Denise Rau, Certified Financial Planner and President of Rau Financial Group. “Some investors have a very simple year-end strategy – they drop under-performing funds and keep the ones that are making them money. But a well-rounded investment plan is usually a bit more complicated.”

• Some investors choose to sell short-term loss funds for the tax deduction, but that might not always be the best decision. Even funds with shortterm losses could be solid long-term investments. “Remember,” says Rau, “the goal is to maximize wealth and focus on long-term goals. Sure, you can always buy the investment back, but at what cost? “

According to Rau, if you want to ring in the New Year with a solid financial strategy, you should follow these tips:

• Set investment goals for 2010. How have your goals changed over the past year? Does your portfolio reflect what you want to accomplish financially?

• Instead of looking at the performance of funds alone, take a moment to recall what compelled you to purchase those funds in the first place. Was it a knee-jerk purchase, or a knowledgeable buy? If it was a knowledgeable buy, do your reasons still stand? Have you given the fund time to develop and perform?

“When in doubt, meet with a trusted financial advisor. Although many people today are handling their own investments, there are often many important decisions to be made at the end of the year that could require a professional opinion – decisions that could affect your future bottom line and security,” Rau said. “You have to consider all the decisions you’ve made throughout 2009, for better or worse, and find out how you can capitalize on your successes and correct mistakes for 2010.”

• Use your year-end review to determine what your strengths and weaknesses are as an investor. Develop a plan to improve upon those for next year. • Determine if your portfolio still correlates with your risk tolerance level. Are you taking enough risks? Are you taking too many? Rau says there are several things to consider in making this determination, such as age, portfolio diversification, and tolerance.

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• Make sure your portfolio is well-diversified. Do you own too much or too little in one area? Are your investments well-balanced, or heavy in a specific financial sector, such as international investments? Rau explains that a good investment strategy is one that doesn’t rely too much on one sector for good financial performance.

For more information or to schedule a free consultation, call Rau Financial Group at 480-3835. by Erin K. Cormier

All this only an hour drive from Lake Charles.

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December 2009

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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.

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Good News

determination

for Determined Women As the number of people dealing with depression grows, a new way of looking at it has created renewed interest.

“We’ve known for some time that emotional reliance, particularly in women, tends to make them more vulnerable to depression,” said Dale Archer, Jr., president and founder of the Institute for Neuropsychiatry and nationally recognized speaker on mental health topics. “Studies show that girls who grow up trying to please others can develop an unhealthy emotional dependency.” Conversely, women who are determined to follow their own path may do themselves more of a favor than they realize. Being determined – some may say stubborn – has been shown to help insulate some women from depression. “Having personal goals, working hard to achieve them, and forging your own way helps cultivate internal strength. This fortitude can create a sort of barrier against depression,” Dr. Archer said.

The link between emotional reliance and depression is more than double in women than men. Women who have low levels of education and low-status jobs were most vulnerable to depression. “There are many reasons that play into this reasoning. The cycle of not having a good job feeds into not having enough money to pay bills, leading to lack of control. Getting caught in this vicious cycle is detrimental to one’s self-esteem, fostering a dependence on other people for basic needs,” said Dr. Archer. In contrast, women with advanced degrees were much more insulated from depression. They were similar to men in terms of emotional reliance.

Obtaining advanced education and better-paying jobs requires the ability to process information in a reasonable manner, determination to succeed and enough tenacity to stick with an often difficult task and seeing it through to completion. These characteristics build self-esteem and help ward off depression. “Achievement increases self-worth,” Dr. Archer explained. “Whether the task is small or large, accomplishing a goal makes people feel empowered.”

Women are twice as likely as men to experience depression; more than 6 million women are diagnosed each year. “A chemical imbalance in the brain makes it difficult for the cells to communicate with one another. A stressful life event may trigger depression in some people, or certain medications or abusing drugs or alcohol may cause it, also,” said Dr. Archer. “We’re still learning about depression, and how it affects people, but it is clear that women are more prone to experiencing it.” Symptoms of depression vary between individuals, but most mental health experts agree that they must be present consistently for at least two weeks to be diagnosed as depression. Common symptoms include loss of appetite, feeling guilty, hopeless, sad, or worthless, difficulty paying attention and making decisions, thoughts of death or suicide, and loss of interest in hobbies previously enjoyed, among others.

strength

Coping skills during adolescence play a role in one’s vulnerability to depression. Forming an identity, separating from parents, and making decisions are teenage milestones that occur while hormones are raging, causing stress. Handling these tumultuous times depends on the strength of the individual. Girls, especially, tend to view themselves in light of how others view them. If they are well-liked and accepted in their peer group, they tend to handle difficult situations better than girls who don’t have as many friends or are more isolated.

Depression can be treated with counseling, medications, or sometimes a combination of both. Obtaining more control in their lives has helped many women change the course of their thought patterns and feel better about themselves. Often, treatment is a combination of therapy, medications and a new direction, resulting in a new sense of one’s own abilities. by Christine Fisher

BusinessWeek Named Lake Charles the

Best City in Louisiana to Raise Kids.

photo by Victor Monsour 6

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To calculate their findings, the magazine teamed up with OnBoard Informatics, a New York-based provider of real estate analysis. Factors taken into considerations were city size; median income; school performance; number of schools; household expenditures; crime rates; air quality; job growth; family income; cultural amenities; and diversity, according to the magazine. Factors that were given the greatest weight: affordability, safety and schools. Lake Charles was selected as the best city in Louisiana, beating out Metairie and Alexandria, its closest contenders. The magazine noted that the economy in Lake Charles “has been bolstered by its strong petrochemical industry and building projects,” and that the area is “known for casinos and multiple music, culture and food festivals.” The population of the city was noted as 68,338, with the median family income at $47,755. Other notable national recognition in 2009, according to the Chamber SWLA: · In the November 2009, Greenstreet Partners and the Milken Institute BestPerforming Cities Report, Lake Charles Thrive Magazine for Better Living

jumped up 22 spots to rank as the 52nd Best-Performing Small City out of 124. · A Southwest Louisiana profile in the March 2009 edition of Site Selection magazine ranks as one of its top ten most viewed stories of 2009. (It was also one of the top ten for October 2009.) Site Selection Magazine is read by over 440,000 site selection and facility planning executives around the world. The feature “Diversity Drives a Region,” highlighted Southwest Louisiana’s resources and economic culture. · In the “25 Most Powerful People on the Corridor” featured in the Spring 2009 issue of 10/12 Magazine, SWLA Alliance Foundation board member and Lake Charles mayor, Randy Roach, and SWLA on the Move supporter Dennis Stine were both recognized. Bill Dore, Jack Lawton, Adam McBride, Gray Stream and the SWLA Alliance’s own George Swift were listed as regional power brokers for SWLA.

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December 2009

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Industry and the Economics of

Environmentalism Years ago, the relationship between environmental advocacy and industry was much different, and the strenuous nature of that relationship was often recognized locally. However, as governmental regulations become increasingly more stringent and communities and industries become more educated about the effects of personal behavior on the environment, the tension that once existed has gradually ebbed into a unified goal: Environmentally responsible operations to benefit their communities and, ultimately, to benefit their bottom lines. The health, safety, and environmental (HS&E) budgets for local industry have played a much more critical role over the past several years. Projects dedicated to HS&E now comprise about 25 percent of a manufacturing facility’s operating budget. This regulatory-driven aspect of a business’ operating budget also drives a number of HS&E capital projects.

pollution, according to DeRoussel. Greenhouse gases are atmospheric gases that absorb and emit radiation, which affects the temperature of the Earth. Certain natural phenomena contribute to greenhouse gases, but many believe that manmade contributions have had a considerable effect on how greenhouse gases interact with the atmosphere. Industry has been encouraged, through governmental regulations, to purchase equipment that prevents or reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Some companies have purchased infrared cameras to detect leaks that can otherwise not be seen. Although the cameras are not required by regulatory agencies, it’s considered an investment to avoid potential fines and utilize preventative maintenance to prevent additional releases. Other industries utilize their own leak detection control programs and avoidance and prevention measures. Each facility has a health

For example, the 21 industries that comprise the Lake Area Industry Alliance spent approximately $73 million in 2009 on environmental improvements and $30 million on energy reduction. In 2010, those industries expect to spend an additional $60 million on environmental improvements and $39 million in energy reduction projects, which also have a beneficially environmental return. “If an industrial company wants to expand operations or increase production, that company is held accountable for the potential environmental effects of the project. If regulators find that the plant site has not been as responsible as it should have been in recent years, that capital project would likely be put on hold, at a financial loss to the company,” said Larry DeRoussel, executive director of the Lake Area Industry Alliance. “As far as industry is concerned, it pays to be environmentally responsible, especially if you want to expand and become more productive.”

and safety department and each employee who works at the facility has environmental responsibilities. “You’ll find that each industrial site has independent companies contracted to monitor for leaks, equipment failures and other potential environmental hazards. These are not company employees with a vested interest in the monitoring results,” DeRoussel said. “Industry officials realize that the regulatory agencies and their fellow residents want the lowest emission numbers possible, but what most people don’t understand is that industry officials want the same thing, because it means they are being more profitable and more productive.” Industry ultimately reduces, reuses, or recycles 97 percent of what the waste they produce, DeRoussel said. “Certainly, industry is motivated by governmental regulations to operate at the highest level of efficiency possible as it relates to the environment. However, it should be recognized that this relationship is not one-sided. It’s mutually beneficial,” DeRoussel said. “Environmental advocates want to keep the products inside the pipeline as much as possible because unnecessary emissions could contribute to the formation of air pollution. Industry officials also want to keep the product inside the pipeline as much as possible, not only to reduce unnecessary emissions, but because they make products to sell, not to emit. There are no longer any benefits for being environmentally irresponsible.” Although industrial emissions are heavily regulated, the majority of greenhouse gas emissions come from non-industrial processes, according to the Emission Database for Global Atmospheric Research. Recent findings concluded that 17 percent of emissions were the result of industrial processes. The largest contributor was power stations at 21 percent. Transportation fuels accounted for 14 percent, followed by agricultural byproducts (13 percent). by Erin K. Cormier

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Recently, a big focus of HS&E has been energy reduction and the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Increased attention on greenhouse gases has occurred as a direct result of continued research into emissions, both industrial and residential, that contribute to air 8

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An Effective

Whereas most women utilize some flexibility when applying

things like blush and eye shadow, there are some make-up steps that quickly become repetitive. For Elaine Westlund, it was brow application. Every morning she would wake up and, in a monotonous and timeconsuming process, shape her brows with an eye pencil.

Alternative

“It was something I hated doing,” said Westlund, a resident of Carlyss. “I considered getting permanent brows for years, but would never go through with it.”

to Traditional Lipo

When she finally did, she joined an estimated 8.4 million American women who have received permanent cosmetics. Her procedure, performed by medical aesthetician Leann Widcamp with the Aesthetic Center, took about two hours.

As a growing number of clients seek body contouring procedures in the United States, the procedures themselves have become simpler and less invasive than more traditional methods, opening the door for patients who would have otherwise opted out of enhancement procedures. The potential trauma and dangers typically associated with conventional liposuction have now been offset by a refined procedure known as Body Jet Lipo, a procedure that is less invasive, more effective and safer, according to Tina Shannon, director of Nouriche Wellness & Medical Aesthetics in Lafayette.

According to Widcamp, Westlund, whose eyebrows had become faint as she aged, was an ideal candidate for the procedure.

Lasting Make a

“The service provides a long-awaited solution for those with faint, partial or nonexistent brows, those who suffer from arthritis or don’t have a steady hand, women or men experiencing hair loss, and those who are allergic to traditional make-up,” Widcamp said. “The popularity of permanent make-up has increased tremendously in recent years as more and more women seek an attractive, convenient alternative to daily make-up application.” Westlund said that in addition to the appearance of her manicured brows, she appreciates the daily convenience it provides. “It’s so nice not to have to worry about it. Before I would have to spend a lot of time on my brows before I left the house. Now I can just get up and go,” she said. She expected the procedure to be painful, so was pleasantly surprised when all she experienced was mild discomfort. “I thought it would be painful, so I prepared myself for it, but it wasn’t painful at all. The area was deadened. I hardly felt a thing.” Widcamp provides permanent cosmetic applications for the brows as well as the lash lines. The method used is known as SofTap. According to Widcamp, it is one of the most gentle and sterile methods in permanent cosmetic application offered today.

Impression with Permanent Cosmetics

“It is less invasive, less painful and heals quickly. Another benefit is that SofTap is a manual technique. Because no machines are used, I can carefully customize the application for each client,” Widcamp said. With SofTap, the pigment is deposited with a set of fine needles grouped in an “in-line” or “round” configuration. Unlike traditional machines that push pigment into the skin, Widcamp says SofTap gently lifts the skin to deposit the pigment, providing a very natural, longlasting look. There are over 60 beautiful pre-mixed SofTap pigments to choose from, and the pigments are hypoallergenic, made with the purest ingredients. “SofTap pigments are thick, creamy and stay true to color,” says Widcamp. “There is no more mixing or guess work on your color choice.”

Meet Our Newest Wound Specialist Wound healing in Southwest Louisiana is taking a giant step forward. In December, Tyson Green, DPM, will join the clinical professionals at the Wound Healing Center of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. Dr. Green will see patients each Thursday at the center where he will utilize the latest technology, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy, in treating hard-to-heal wounds. If you have a wound that won't heal, give us a call. Healing wounds is what we do.

by Erin K. Cormier

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foot and ankle specialist

701 Cypress Street Sulphur, LA 70663 (337) 528-4708 www.wcch.com

For more information about permanent cosmetic application at the Aesthetic Center, call 310-1070.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

December 2009

Other benefits include less required anesthesia, a shorter recovery period, shorter operating times, reduced pain, reduced swelling, and more effective results. “Body Jet Liposuction sculpts your shape with minimal downtime and discomfort. Most patients are back to work and resume to daily activity in just days. Patients are able to walk out of their body contouring procedure and usually continue on with their normal schedule,” Shannon said. “The gentle method of the procedure provides results with minimal bruising and offers an alternative to traditional liposuction or full-blown surgery.”

Tyson Green, DPM,

Widcamp says because the pigment is applied to the dermis (middle layer of the skin), it is considered “permanent,” meaning it can’t be washed off. However, she explains that the color will fade over time. Repeat sessions will be required to maintain or “freshen” your look after several years. Darker colors, like black, tend to have lasting effects, as opposed to more delicate colors.

During a Body Jet Lipo procedure, a thin water jet breaks down the structure of fat tissue, which is then released and removed with far less manual force than seen with traditional liposuction. Body Jet Lipo also introduces less excessive fluid to the body. Both of these factors lessen the risks associated with the procedure. A study published in Dermatologic Surgery found the complication rate for Body Jet Lipo was about 0.15 percent.

According to Shannon, the typical Body Jet Lipo customer is someone who has “challenging trouble spots” that seem unaffected by diet or exercise. “The ideal candidate would be someone who currently exercises and is close to their ideal weight,” she said. For more information on Body Jet Lipo, call Nouriche Med Spa at (337) 456-7300. The clinic is located at 605 Silverstone in Lafayette.

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Bright Wishes for your Holiday

n the midst of uncertainty and change,

Not a Sweet Deal | soda offers lots of hazards, but no nutrition

the commitment and vision of West

The scales under the nation’s feet aren’t the only thing that’s rising as Americans struggle with obesity. Soft drink consumption is also on the upswing – and some claim that the correlation is not a coincidence.

Calcasieu Cameron Hospital is more

evident than ever before. It’s clear in our growing physician staff, the near completion of the first phase of a multi-million dollar expansion project and

In the middle of the 20th century, Americans drank four times as much milk as soda, but today, that ratio has completely reversed, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It has been estimated that Americans drink an average of 576 soft drinks every year. Unfortunately, these soft drinks offer virtually no nutritional value, according to Jody George, MD, family medicine physician with the Family Care Center of SWLA in Westlake.

our ongoing community education initiatives. During our time of immense growth, we remain committed to providing you and your family with the quality healthcare resources, technology and experience you’ve come to expect from us.

“They do offer a lot of potential health problems, however,” Dr. George said. “In addition to providing more than the recommended daily amount of sugar, soft drinks have been directly linked to obesity. Even diet drinks, which use artificial sweeteners and have no calories, have been found to contribute to weight gain.”

From our family to yours, we wish you a holiday season that is bright with the warmth and blessings of the season.

A 2001 study by a Harvard endocrinologist found that sweetened drinks were the only specific food that clinical research has directly linked to weight gain. It has been found that these elements trigger overeating because of the way the sweeteners interact with the body. The link between soda consumption and obesity gained even more steam in April 2009, when the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published a study by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, which found that when it comes to weight loss, what consumers drank may be more important than what they ate.

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

www.wcch.com

Earlier studies by Bloomberg School researchers project that 75 percent of U.S. adults could be overweight or obese by 2015 and have linked the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages to the obesity epidemic, which affects two-thirds of adults and increases the risk for adverse health conditions such as type 2 diabetes. “When you overindulge in simple sugars, it can cause your insulin levels to rise. If those levels rise beyond an appropriate amount, it can adversely affect the immune system,” Dr. George said. “The excess sugar in your body is then stored as fat which has obvious consequences, such as weight gain, obesity, and associated problems and complications.”

FROM THE S TA F F O F. . .

2770 Third Avenue, Suite 125 Lake Charles, LA Phone 494-AMRI (2674) Fax 494-2694 wwww.advanced-mri.net

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

December 2009

by Erin K. Cormier

Soft drinks don’t just wreak havoc on your midsection, either. They also target your teeth. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, exposing teeth to soft drinks, even for a brief period, can lead to significant loss of enamel. Sugar alone isn’t the problem. Just the acidity of the drinks is enough to damage your teeth, according to Dr. Harry Castle of Oak Park Dental. “Dental erosion involves loss of tooth structure and isn’t exactly the same as cavities, which generally occur in sensitive areas, such as between the teeth,” Dr. Castle

December 2009

The

said. “The dental enamel of the tooth protects the tooth from decay and the acidity of soft drinks can erode this enamel. Longterm consumption of these beverages can adversely affect tooth structure, shape, and overall health of the teeth.” To protect your teeth from the ill effects of soda consumption, Dr. Castle suggested drinking through a straw, rather than directly from the can or bottle. Also, don’t drink soda before bed, brush in a circular motion, and reduce overall consumption. “Ideally, consumers would choose water over soft drinks. Although an occasional soda isn’t likely to break down the enamel on your teeth, your best bet is to avoid soft drinks altogether if possible,” Dr. Castle said. Dr. George agreed, saying that giving up soft drinks is an important step toward optimal preventative health. “Water is always a better alternative. Our bodies need water to thrive, but few Americans drink enough of it. Water has been shown to contribute to weight maintenance, healthy skin, and many other benefits,” Dr. George said. “If you just can’t swallow water on a regular basis and crave the sweetness of soda, try fruit juices. If possible, cut the fruit juice with some water to reduce the sugar content.” According to the Center of Science for Public Interest, Americans spend $54 billion a year on soft drinks – twice the amount they spend on books.

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Who Says You Need Eggs, Butter, and Milk?

Healthy, Happy Holidays

Parents, Don’t Be Surprised by Holiday Safety Hazards Parents of young children invest a lot of time in helping their children experience the magic of the holiday season. There’s so much to do and see, it can be easy to overlook the potential safety risks that may be hidden in various aspects of holiday décor and festivities. Conscientious parents double-check space heaters, lit candles and strings of Christmas lights to make sure they aren’t in the path of energetic children, and snatch small toys and empty plastic bags out of arm’s reach, but there are other potential hazards lurking around the Yuletide that might not be as obvious. “In the hustle-and-bustle of the holiday season, it’s easy to overlook little things. Unfortunately, it’s the little things that can prove to be dangerous sometimes,” says Joni Fontenot, spokesperson for the Safety Council of Southwest Louisiana.” She says things like plastic berries on mistletoe decorations or plastic candies for Christmas décor can look very appealing to a young child who doesn’t know the difference. Both are obvious choking hazards. Candy dishes and other treats should also be strategically placed to avoid potential disaster. When baking your holiday sweets, Fontenot also reminds parents to keep ingredients out of the way, particularly those that could sicken a young child, such as almond or vanilla extract, which contain alcohol. “There are even some holiday plants that could make a child sick. Poinsettas are extremely popular during this time of year. Although they aren’t poisonous, they can cause skin irritation and could certainly create a stomach ache if accidentally ingested,” Fontenot says, noting that parents should research any holiday household plants to be aware of potential dangers. Fontenot also cautions that artificial snow can irritate the lungs if inhaled, so parents should be sure to watch children carefully if this is used.

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Whole Food Holiday Treats It’s the holiday season and Shively Lampson, owner of Pure Foods and Health on West Prien Lake Road, has been busy preparing delectable desserts. To the naked eye, her kitchen looks like any other holiday sweets feast – creamy chocolate tarts, pudding topped with a sprig of mint and a raspberry, whipped cream toppings, and strawberry cheesecakes with buttery crust. But this is a whole foods and wellness shop, so although the naked eye indicates that Shively spent an afternoon cracking eggs, measuring cupfuls of white sugar, and pouring cups of processed oil, such is not the case. All the desserts are made from raw whole foods.

by Kristy Armand

“Raw food generally refers to a vegan diet where there’s no cooking in the traditional sense. There are absolutely no animal products and nothing is heated above about 118 degrees Fahrenheit. Ingredients are not chemically processed, pasteurized, homogenized, genetically modified, hybridized, or otherwise compromised,” Lampson said. “The basic premise behind a raw food diet is that cooking and processing foods generally decreases their digestibility and vitamin and mineral density, as well as their overall health-promoting qualities. The creativity in raw foods as a type of cuisine comes from blending, soaking, marinating, slicing, dicing, drying at low temperatures and incorporating fresh herbs and spices.”

Christmas trees create fairly obvious safety red flags – protruding branches and fire risks, for example. Parents who decide to display a real Christmas tree should use common sense, Fontenot says. “Don’t place the tree near the fireplace or space heaters, keep the branches trimmed, and take good care of it.” To make tree care a family event, assign your children certain tree duties. For example, checking the water levels, cleaning up fallen twigs, unplugging the lights every night at bedtime.

The concept, Lampson said, is to eat foods that are as close to their natural state as possible. Although she doesn’t follow a strictly raw food diet in everyday life, she prefers raw food recipes for desserts to avoid white sugar.

The Safety Council provides these additional tips for holiday safety in the home: • Never use electric lights on a metallic tree, as this creates an electrocution hazard. • Make sure you read labels of your Christmas lights. If the label says “outdoor use,” don’t use them indoors, and vice versa. • Never leave lights on unattended. • Avoid decorations that are sharp or breakable or those that resemble candy or food. • After gifts are opened, be sure to remove wrapping paper, bags, ribbons and other items out of harm’s way. Make sure these items aren’t near the fireplace. • Follow age restrictions on toys that you buy for your children. • Beware of pull toys with strings more than 12 inches in length. For babies, this presents a danger of strangulation. • Keep hot liquids and other foods away from counter ledges. • Clean up immediately after a holiday party to prevent a young child from choking on leftover food or accidentally drinking a forgotten alcoholic beverage. • Know which parts of your house aren’t “childproofed,” and keep a mental note of it during holiday festivities. • Have emergency numbers readily available.

“Think about what sugarcane looks like, and then look at the table sugar you have at home. There is almost no resemblance whatsoever. That sugarcane has been through so much processing that it’s lost its nutritional value,” Lampson said. Rather than rely on white sugar, which has been linked to obesity, diabetes, and a myriad of other adverse health conditions, Lampson uses whole food ingredients like organic coconut oil, agave, grade B maple syrup (which is not a complete raw food because it does require limited processing, Shively notes), dates and stevia, a sweet herb. She said fruit is an obvious healthy choice for holiday desserts. Lampson tops seasonal fruits with whipped cashew topping made from cashews, dates, and vanilla extract. “One taste of it and you will never go back to dairy,” she claims.

Strawberr y Cheeseca

Buttery Crust: th the In the food processor wi S blade, add: ts. Blend 2 cups pecans or walnu ces into small pie : Then add the following t sal n oo sp 1/4 tea 1/4 teaspoon vanilla t 5 minutes to soften 1 cup dates, soak abou ds 1/4 cup ground flax see blend too long. a ball. Be careful not to o int ns tur it Blend until any pie pan will do. h ug orm pan altho g-f rin sp a o int st cru Place the Cheese filling: d for at least 1 hour 3 cups cashews, soake 1/2 cup lemon juice 3/4 cup agave 1/4 cup coconut butter 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 teaspoon sea salt ce, agave, coconut r the cashews, lemon jui to be thick. Blend in a food processo re xtu salt. You want this mi lp in the butter, vanilla and sea he to ter a small amount of wa t sometimes However, you can add bu , ter wa the stay away from to y Tr ss. oce pr g xin lp. mi le he Blend until the machine needs a litt crust. Remove the mixture is so thick the mixture on top of the extremely smooth. Pour . top the pan on the counter air bubbles by tapping Strawberr y Topping: es 2 cups frozen strawberri 10 minutes for k soa , tes 1 cup pitted da Pour topping 1/4 cup almond milk processor until smooth. d foo in ts ien red ing Blend all til firm. Remove e for several hours or un eez Fr . ing fill e ees ch over slightly frozen. m the pan. Serve while the whole cheesecake fro

Recipes continued on

page 16

She also touts the nutritional benefit of the chia seed. Chia pudding is one of her favorite desserts. Chia is 6 percent protein, 31 percent fat, and 38 percent fiber, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Most of the chia’s fat is essential omega-3 fatty acids that have tremendous health benefits. “It’s one of the biggest and best superfoods out there,” she said. “There are so many nutrients.” Although her whole-food holiday treats are far more guiltless than traditional cheesecakes and tarts, Shively noted that they still need to be consumed in moderation because nuts, which are used in large quantities in many of her recipes, are high in calories.

For more information about holiday safety, call the Safety Council at 436-3354, or visit their website at www.safetycouncilswla.org.

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ier

by Erin K. Corm

All the desserts featured here can be ordered through Pure Foods and Health by calling the store, 905-7873, or visiting 138 W. Prien Lake Road. Whole-food cheesecakes are available in various flavors.

December 2009

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Healthy, Happy Holidays

Whole Food Holiday Treats, cont. Chocolate Avocado Pudding , add: In a food processor with the S-blade

Cinnamon Stewed Fruitsliced

4 ripe apples, pears or peaches, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1/2 cup apple juice pie spice 1 tablespoon cinnamon or pumpkin up (optional) syr le map or ve aga e 1 tablespoon pur or nuts (optional) 1/4 cup chopped or ground pecans inate for at least an hour, mar Toss all ingredients and allow to the fruit. Top with the Whipped allowing the lemon juice to soften ension of flavor. Cashew Cream for an additional dim

os) 2 large avocados (or 3 small avocad ) der pow b caro (or 1 cup cocoa powder up syr le 1 cup pure map or until smooth. Blend all ingredients in food process

Plain Chia Pudding

1 cup chia seeds p milk 3 cups nut milk, coconut milk or hem tar nec ve aga s oon 3 to 5 tablesp al) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (option al) 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (option pinch of sea salt salt in a bowl (add the Place the chia seeds, milk, agave and and stir vanilla and cinnamon, if desired) ps clum no are e ther well, so and all the chia seeds are coated in milk. Let thus sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes, or cover and refrigerate. This pudding will keep well in the refrigerator for days.

Resisting the Most

Tempting

Whipped Cashew Cream

minutes 1-1/2 cups raw cashews, soaked 30 1/2 cup water 4-5 dates, soaked 30 minutes act 1 teaspoon vanilla or almond extr water first. Blend until and s nut the bine In a blender, com s, two at a time, and then the smooth and creamy. Add the date to scrape the sides of the tula remaining ingredients. Use a spa . Be patient, and make sure it blender a few times during blending topping for any dessert, or to gets real smooth. This is a healthy bananas. compliment fresh berries or sliced

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“This is an especially challenging time of year for those who are trying to maintain healthy habits such as working out and eating a well-balanced diet, It’s very easy to succumb to the temptations of the season, indulging in extra helpings, snacking on holiday treats, having an extra glass of wine and skipping exercise in favor of shopping or holiday preparations,” says Tressie Bares, Exercise Specialist with Dynamic Dimensions of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. “It’s no surprise that nearly everyone gains a little weight between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. The key is to make sure you don’t gain a lot, and to get back on track after the holidays are over.” It may be challenging, but Bares says it is not impossible to keep your health and fitness goals during the holidays. “Don’t worry, complete deprivation is not the answer. The holidays are meant to be enjoyed. We just encourage you to keep health and fitness in the mix of festivities. With a little planning, you can avoid wandering too far off of the wellness path.”

433-3611

The holiday season is approaching and with it, lots of temptation and less time to exercise. For many people regular exercise and good eating habits tend to go on a vacation of their own.

Continued on page 18

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December 2009

by Kristy Armand

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Healthy, Happy Holidays

Wrap Up A Healthy Holiday Gift

Resisting the Most Tempting Time of Year, cont. Bares offers the following food and fitness tips for getting through the busy, tempting holidays while still enjoying the fun of the season:

Food

• Prepare. If you arrive “starving” at a party, you’ve already lost the battle. Eat a small, healthy meal before you go so that you don’t find yourself eating big servings of rich food that you will later regret. • Prioritize. Fill your plate with fruits and vegetables first. Once you’ve had your low-cal, high-fiber fruits and veggies, you are more likely to enjoy the rest of the foods without overindulging. • Be picky. Boxes of candy sit on the corner of every office desk at work, and baked goods abound for weeks on end at family gatherings. If you choose to indulge, just be very selective. Decide which foods are deserving of the calories that you have to spend. • Drink lots of water throughout the day. It suppresses the appetite and is something you should be doing all the time. • Limit alcohol consumption. Remember that alcohol contains almost as many calories per gram as fat. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or club soda while you’re at a party.

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Fitness

• Schedule your workouts. Mark them on the calendar and consider them as important as other events on your schedule. This will help you workout more than just thinking there is no way you’re going to make it to the gym. • On the days that you really lack motivation or simply do not have time for your complete exercise routine, commit to do just 10 minutes of exercise. Chances are once you start, you’ll actually exercise longer, but even if you don’t, 10 minutes is still much better than zero. • Acknowledge that you’re probably going to miss some workouts during this time and plan now to work around it. Schedule different times or substitute another activity, even if it’s at home. For example, use the commercial break. Make it a goal to do 10 jumping jacks during the commercials of every television program you watch. Then, bump it up to 15 or 20 the next day. • Shop till you drop. During the holidays, and for days after, the malls are packed. Instead of circling around to find the closest space, make your goal to find the farthest parking space you can. Better yet, if you plan to shop at a specific store, park on the other side of the mall. Then, continue this new habit when the shopping season is slow. When grocery shopping, park far away and use a shopping cart. Once you’ve unpacked the groceries in your car, take the cart back to the store. Every extra step burns extra calories.

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Thinking of giving cookies, chocolates, or some other edible treat as a holiday gift this year? If so, then maybe it’s time to make a healthier list and check it twice. Maureen Kaough, MD, primary care physician, suggests gifts that promote healthy living for those on your gift list. • Mix it up. If you’re in a fitness rut when the holiday season begins, you won’t be enthusiastic about making your workout, and it will be that much easier to make excuses skipping. This would be a good time to change your routine. Take a group fitness class, schedule a personal training session or add strength training to your regular cardiovascular workout. Bares stresses it’s important to remember that balance, variety and moderation apply to the holiday season as well as to most other things in life, so don’t be too hard on yourself if you slip up. “With a moderate approach to what you eat and how much you exercise, you can actually use the holidays to get a good head start on your New Year’s resolutions.” For more information on fitness and wellness programs available at Dynamic Dimensions, call (337) 527-5459 in Sulphur or (337) 855-7708 in Moss Bluff, or visit www.wcch.com/dynamicdimensions.

December 2009

• • •

“Everyone thinks about their own personal struggle to stay healthy by eating right and getting regular exercise, but this is something most everyone is worried about on some level, whether they are doing something about it right now or not,” says Dr. Kaough. “Helping out by getting someone a gift that will help them eat healthier, become more active, relax or feel better is a wonderful thing to do during the holidays for your loved ones, friends or co-workers.”

• • • • • • •

As an added bonus, your gift shopping will be easier. “If you’re like most people, one reason your holiday shopping such a chore is because you don’t know what to get the people you buy for year after year,” says Dr. Kaough. “Changing the focus to health-related items opens up a whole new realm of ideas, which means less stress and a more enjoyable holiday season for you.”

•

Dr. Kaough offers some suggestions for your new healthy gift list: • Session with a nutritional counselor (most fitness centers or health food stores offer this service) • A healthy-eating book or cookbook • Gift certificate for a wellness exam and health screenings • A crock pot, rice cooker, steamer or small countertop grill to

December 2009

•

help prepare food in a healthier way. Throw a few recipes in the package. A massage gift certificate Fitness club membership Lessons or sessions to group exercise programs that may be new to someone: pilates, yoga, spinning, kick boxing, dancing, etc. Session(s) with a personal trainer Heart rate monitor Pedometer Subscription to health or fitness magazine Exercise dvds Blender or juicer Hand weights or exercise bands for easy, at-home exercise Gift certificate to health food or exercise equipment store Healthy foods: a gourmet basket of fruit, an assortment of nuts, bottles of almond or olive oil or balsamic vinegar

“Once you start thinking along these lines, it really isn’t that difficult to come up with great ideas that are not only good gifts, but good for the recipient too,” says Dr. Kaough. “Best of all, these are the types of gifts that can be enjoyed long after the holidays are over.” by Kristy Armand

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Healthy, Happy Holidays

Healthy Holiday Substitutions Ask just about anyone what they like most about the holidays, and “good food” will probably make the top five list for most people. Even the most disciplined health conscious individual can be swayed by the tempting aromas and flavors of the season, which make it seem impossible to stick to healthy eating goals.

Keep in mind that low in fat doesn’t always mean low in calories, so Harrigill stresses that you have to consider both when your goal is making holiday meals healthier. She says reduced or non-fat dairy products can be substituted for higher-fat counterparts, while evaporated milk can be used as a substitute for cream.

But it can be done. You don’t have to be a Scrooge with flavor in order to eat healthy for the holidays, and Registered Dietitian Kristy Harrigill, Director of Nutritional Services at Jennings American Legion Hospital, says it’s not as difficult as you might fear. “You can eat healthier this holiday season by making simple alterations to recipes and being a little more careful about food choices.”

You don’t have to be a Scrooge with flavor in order to eat healthy for the holidays.

She says one of the easiest ways to start is by a simply reducing the amount of certain ingredients. “You can reduce the sugar, fat or salt content of almost any holiday recipe without a noticeable difference in taste. For example, if a recipe calls for a cup of sugar, use two-thirds of a cup. If it calls for a half-cup of oil, shortening or other fat, use one-third cup. And if a recipe says to use one-half teaspoon of salt, use one-quarter teaspoon or omit the salt entirely. No one will even know the difference.” Another way to make holiday recipes more healthful is to substitute whole-grain or bran flours for recipes calling for all-purpose flour, Harrigill says, suggesting that one-quarter to one-half the amount of all purpose flour required in holiday recipes be replaced with healthier whole-wheat flour, oat bran or oatmeal in most cases.

“

”

– Kristy Harrigill, Registered Dietitian, Director of Nutritional Services at Jennings American Legion Hospital As a main course, turkey -- especially turkey breast -- provides the lowest fat and highest protein, with baking being the healthiest cooking method, according to Harrigill. “If you’re cooking a turkey, leave the skin on to contain the flavor, but remove it after cooking to reduce fat before serving. Try basting it in its own juice or use a defatted broth instead of butter. Be sure to make the stuffing outside the turkey because stuffing placed inside absorbs more oil.” For side dishes, Harrigill suggests steaming or roasting vegetables with low-fat margarine or sprays on them instead of butter. Defatted broth also works

in place of butter in mashed potato recipes to reduce fat and calorie content. “For holiday-favorites like candied sweet potatoes and green bean casserole, a few substitutions can really reduce the calorie and fat content. Top sweet potatoes with a little brown sugar and butter substitute instead of marshmallows. Try reduced-fat mushroom, chicken soup or defatted broth in the green bean casserole, use low-fat or skim milk, and leave off the fried onion topping.” When baking desserts, Harrigill says one easy substitution is to use the same amount of canola or vegetable oil for the amount of butter called for in the recipe. Substitute three tablespoons of cocoa plus one tablespoon of canola oil for one ounce of baking chocolate to lower the saturated fat. “You can use applesauce instead of oil in cakes and cookies to cut down on fat, and use less sugar than called for, or a sugar substitute instead of table sugar.” Harrigill advises modifying more complicated recipes yourself before serving them, to test any impact the changes you have made may have had on flavor. “Remember, your goal is to make the dishes you are serving more healthy, not to remove all the flavor. Fine-tune your changes until you are happy with the results, and then enjoy your holidays knowing that you’ve given yourself a healthier holiday.”

‘Tis the Season for

Health Myths by Kristy Armand

With the winter holidays approaching, you may have already heard seasonal warnings about weight gain or making sure you bundle up so you don’t catch a cold. This is the time of year for family, friends and some very un-merry health myths. Upon closer investigation, many of widely held health risks are actually not accurate, according to medical research. We asked Dr. Jason Ramm, family physician with the Cypress Clinic in Sulphur, to provide the facts regarding several of the most pervasive festive fears. Holiday weight gain is unavoidable. Office parties, social gatherings, family celebrations, edible gifts and seasonal snacks seem to provide dietary temptations everywhere you turn between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. So much so that “the average American gains at least five pounds during the holiday season,” has become an accepted fact. Believing this might make you feel a little less guilty when you reach for that piece of fudge or hit the holiday buffet for a second time, but it’s not necessarily true. Several recent studies have disproven the holiday weight gain myth after finding that the average American only gains one-half to one pound during the end-of-the-year holiday season. “The bad news is that most people never lose this weight,” says Dr. Ramm. “Gaining an extra pound or two each year and hanging onto it, means that over time, holiday weight gain can add up to a much bigger problem. So it still pays to be disciplined about diet and exercise over the holidays.”

Suicides increase over the holidays. Experts say this myth likely began by one person linking dreary winter weather with a depressed mood and higher risk of suicide. However, suicides are actually more common during warmer, sunnier seasons. In addition, a recent 35-year study conducted in the United States found that holidays including Christmas, the Fourth of July and birthdays – do not have higher suicide rates. You lose most of your body heat through your head. This myth probably originated from a long-ago military study in which scientists put subjects in Arctic survival suits (but no hats) in extremely cold temperatures, and found that they did indeed lose a great deal of heat through their heads. However, experts say that had this experiment been performed with subjects wearing swimsuits, they would have lost heat evenly across all exposed body surfaces, and no more than 10 percent from the head specifically. Dr. Ramm says body heat leaves from any skin surface in proportion to the area exposed, your head is no exception. Continued on page 23

Sugar makes kids hyperactive. Parents may think their kids become more rowdy after eating candy and other treats, but there is no scientific evidence to back this up. In fact, there have been more studies on the possible link between sugar and hyperactivity than conducted on many prescription drugs, according to Dr. Ramm. Sweets have never been proven to change a child’s behavior, even when children who are sugar sensitive or who have ADHD have been studied. This is one of those myths that is so entrenched that it actually influences a parent’s perception. For example, in one study, parents were told their child was drinking a sugar-loaded beverage, when the drink instead was essentially water. The parents reported the child becoming extremely excitable, but objective observers did not notice a change.

by Kristy Armand

Eating turkey makes you sleepy. Turkey may be most associated with Thanksgiving, but it’s also a popular centerpiece for many Christmas dinners. Most people have heard that tryptophan overload from eating turkey makes a person sleepy. You might be surprised to learn that the amount of tryptophan in a typical turkey is much less than the levels found in many other foods, including chicken, pork and cheese. Dr. Ramm says the urge to take a nap after consuming a holiday turkey dinner probably comes from a combination of other factors. “It takes a great deal of energy to digest a large meal. When your stomach is full, blood is directed away from other organ systems, including your nervous system. You’ll feel drowsy after any big meal, particularly if it is high in fats and carbohydrates. In addition, the days leading up to a holiday can be pretty stressful. The most relaxing part of the festivities is likely to be the meal, a feeling that can carry over after the meal – and all the work – is finally done.”

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December 2009

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Healthy, Happy Holidays

You BetterWatch Out for Seasonal Health Risks

The cheer and warm wishes of season can lighten the heart and lift the spirit, but they can bring about some not-so-jolly health problems. The reason? All the things we love about the holidays – shopping, parties, visiting with family and friends, eating and drinking – are what may cause the adverse effects on your health.

about your normal routine. Dr. Belenchia advises requesting seats away from the bathrooms on a flight. “Reports have been made of E.coli present on every airplane bathroom surface. The faucet in an airplane bathroom usually doesn’t produce much water, so after washing your hands as thoroughly as possible, use an antibacterial gel.”

But hark! There’s no reason to be a Grinch and skip all the fun. Johnny Belenchia, MD, Pulmonologist with Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic (The Clinic), says that by being aware of the risks and taking a few precautions, you can stay healthy and enjoy the holiday season.

If a hotel is your destination away from home, it’s best to fold down the comforter and don’t touch it during your stay. Most hotels do not wash the comforter in hot water, if at all, and most people have seen germ reports showing all kinds of germs and bacteria present on the comforters. Most hotels, especially three stars or better, are vigilant about washing bed linens and towels in hot water. Also, it wouldn’t hurt to wipe down the bathroom with an antibacterial wipe.

Here’s a list of some of the more unwelcome gifts the season can bring and how you can avoid them:

Germs

Between the parties, stores, food, handshakes, airports and hotels, germs are the unseen and unwelcome party-crashers that unfortunately show up in droves during the holiday season. “Washing your hands is by far the best thing anyone can do, at any time of the year, to keep germs in check,” says Dr. Belenchia. “Use soap and running water if possible. If you aren’t near soap and water, antibacterial gels are a good second choice. Keep some with you on your desk, in your purse or bag, in your vehicle, and in as many places as you can so you’ll remember to use them.” In addition to germs, bacteria are another predator that can cause stomach problems and other discomforts. With all of the cooking and baking that goes on during the holidays, keeping a clean kitchen takes effort. Mishandling food is a major cause of foodborne illness. Food experts say it’s best to wipe down counters, cabinet handles, cutting boards and sinks frequently. “Sponges and dishcloths should not be used more than a day in a kitchen that is heavily used, and in kitchens with moderate use, change them after two or three days. Wash the dishcloths in hot water with bleach and soak the sponges in a mixture of hot water and bleach,” says Dr. Belenchia Traveling is one of the most common ways to pick up germs. In fact, a study in the Journal of Environmental Health Research reports that people are 100% more likely to catch a cold while flying than when going

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During the colder months, when more people stay indoors, cold germs and viruses are simply passed around more frequently. High risk areas include check-out lines, bank machines, escalator handrails and shopping cart handles. “Again, this doesn’t mean you have to avoid these things, just that you need to be cautious, and wash your hands frequently,” stresses Dr. Belenchia. “In addition, some of the new immune boosting medications can be a good idea, especially before traveling or when you know you’ll be around a lot of people,” said Dr. Belenchia. “Check with your doctor if you take any other medication, or if you have concerns, but in most cases, these can add a small measure of protection against germs.”

Allergies

People with asthma and allergies face unique health challenges during the winter holidays, says Eugene Louviere, MD, ENT & Allergy Specialist with The Clinic. The variety of foods available increases the risk for those with food allergies. “For those with food allergies, extra care is needed during the holidays when so many different people are preparing foods,” says Dr. Louviere. If you aren’t sure of the ingredients, and that they don’t contain whatever you are allergic to, ask, or if you can’t find out, don’t eat it. Also, take time to check restaurant menus before eating out and always have an epinephrine injection kit available in case of a reaction.” “Molds are not usually a problem in the winter, as their counts are lower, but the greenery many

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people bring into their homes, including Christmas trees, can harbor mold spores, which could cause a flare-up,” says Dr. Louviere. “Dust mites and molds also can be a problem for those spending a lot of time on the floor and moving around on carpeted surfaces indoors.” He advises using an artificial tree or greenery if you are prone to indoor allergies, and dusting off old or used decorations and ornaments. Clean or replace home air filters, as well as those in portable air cleaners. Limit or remove scented candles, potpourri and similar items than can cause discomfort for asthmatics. Dr. Louviere adds that caution should be used when using spray-on “snow,” and popular pine-scented sprays or oils, which can cause allergic reactions in some people. “If you have an established patterns for allergy and asthma flare ups at this time of year, then be sure to take treatment precautions to prevent those symptoms,” says Dr. Louviere, “and if you are traveling, be sure to pack any medications you may need.”

Year’s Day. Cardiologist Richard Gilmore, MD, with The Clinic, says there are many reasons for this phenomenon. “People with symptoms of heart trouble prior to the holidays tend to delay going to the doctor, partly from denial and partly from procrastination because it’s such a busy time. They have extra obligations at home and work, and don’t want to spoil the festivities of the season. As a result, they are less likely to see their physicians when they first notice symptoms, mistakenly thinking they can just deal with it after the holidays are over.” Other holiday-related factors, include too much food, too little exercise, added stress, and alcohol according to Dr. Gilmore. “During the holidays, many people get busy, and either don’t have time to follow their regular diet and exercise program, or choose to take a break. Parties, shopping, guests and other activities provide the perfect excuse for skipping a workout or indulging in foods that are higher in fat, sodium and calories – all things that are not good for your heart.” And although there is some evidence that suggests

red wine in moderation may have some health benefits, Dr. Gilmore says that over-indulging during the holidays can make your heart pump harder to get blood to peripheral arteries. Even more dangerous is what is referred to as “holiday heart syndrome.” This occurs when alcohol literally irritates the heart muscle to trigger an irregular heartbeat called atrial fibrillation. If a-fib goes unchecked for too long, it in turn can cause a stroke.” The hectic pace of the holiday season can cause people to forget to take medications such as blood thinners and pills for high blood pressure. Those who are traveling may forget to pack their prescription and be unable to get refills during the time they are gone. “While certainly understandable, these are the types of things that contribute to the higher rate of heart problems we see during the holidays,” adds Dr. Gilmore. “Keep in mind that you can’t take a holiday from cardiovascular health, particularly if you have had cardiac problems. It’s important to make sure your heart health is always on the top of your holiday checklist.”

‘Tis the Season for Healthy Myths, cont. If you get cold, you’ll catch a cold Mom was wrong. “Getting cold, or going out in the cold without a coat or with wet hair does not cause a cold,” says Dr. Ramm. “The only way you catch a cold is by being exposed to a virus that causes a cold. People do get more colds in the winter, but it is not directly caused by the temperature. Colder weather is responsible for more people staying inside, in confined spaces, increasing the chances of the cold virus being spread from person to person. You’re also more likely to spend time in crowded places – malls, parties, airports, community events – during the holiday season, which also means more germ exposure.” Feed a cold, starve a fever This old wives’ tale has been a repeated through the generations since the 1500s when a dictionary printed, “Fasting is a great remedie of feuer.” Dr. Ramm says colds are caused by viruses that tend to last seven to 10 days, no matter what you do. “Keep in mind, the other old cliché is still true: There’s no cure for the common cold. You’ll usually feel better if you treat some of the symptoms that accompany a cold, but there is no evidence that diet has any effect on a cold or fever. And even if you don’t feel like eating, if you are running a fever, you need plenty of fluids.” Now that we’ve shined some light on these holiday myths, you’ll have a few less things to worry about this holiday season.

by Kristy Armand

Toys

Last year, an estimated 152,400 children under age 15 were treated for toy-related injuries in emergency rooms, reports the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. A lot of toys have moveable and detachable parts, and the smaller the child, the bigger the risk. Toys with small parts that can cause choking should be avoided for children under age three, and children under eight should not have toys with sharp edges or electric toys with heating parts. Child safety experts recommend picking toys suitable for the child’s age, abilities, skills and interest level. Look for labels with age and safety advice, and discard plastic packaging wrap immediately, which can suffocate a child. Much of toy safety is common sense, and adult supervision is also critical. In addition, make sure toys appropriate for older siblings but not young children are kept out of reach.

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he Humane Society of Southwest Louisiana has a program known as New Leash on Life, which pairs rescued dogs with youth at the Juvenile Detention Center. As a reward for good behavior, the youth at the JDC are given an opportunity to work as dog trainers; they teach the dogs basic obedience skills to make them adoptable pets. It’s an amazing program and the SWLA Humane Society is proud that all of their dogs trained through the program have been adopted. All but one.

The Plight of John the Black Dog

His name is John. He’s a small-ish Lab mix, about one year old. According to SWLA Humane Society President Beth Zilbert, who helped train him, John is “a bit shy, very gentle, and truly smart.” He has passed his basic obedience test, but despite his adoptable personality, he’s been left behind.

Peace Prosperity Generosity

PPG is proud to be a part of the Southwest Louisiana community. Our employees give back by reaching out throughout the year in countless ways. Thousands of dollars are donated and even more volunteer hours are willingly spent in support of community organizations, fundraisers, educational initiatives and environmental programs. During this holiday season, we ask everyone to focus on the blessings of the season, and carry the generous spirit of the holidays with them into the New Year.

Happy Holidays from all of us at PPG

I’d never met John before, so when I heard about his plight, I asked Beth why he was having so much trouble. She replied quite simply: “He’s a black Lab mix.” Unlike most of my dog-loving friends who have two, three, four or more animals living with them, I have only one. Although I’ve picked up enough strays to elicit stern glares from my husband, I’m not active in rescue work like my friends at Four Paws Society, the Hobo Hotel, and other such groups. But even I, living on the fringes of animal-loving society, understand the sad ills of Black Dog Syndrome. It’s a well-known fact in the animal world that black dogs are the hardest to adopt out. They live in shelters the longest and are euthanized far more frequently than their counterdogs. “Same with cats,” said Rita Cavenaugh, director of Calcasieu Parish Animal Services. “Animals with special patterns adopt easier than solid dark colors.” Although it’s difficult to pinpoint where this doggie discrimination comes from, there are several theories. Some say that black dogs and cats have a negative connotation because of silly folklore (the whole dark-is-scary phenomenon). Others claim that black dogs simply don’t look interesting enough, appear meaner than other dogs, or seem older because their bits of gray and white are more noticeable in their coats. Some pet owners may steer clear of black dogs because they don’t want black fur on their furniture. Whatever the reason, I know one thing for certain: John understands as much about American folklore as he does about being scary and mean. He doesn’t know that his coat isn’t as appealing as Jancie, the sand-colored Boxer mix who was adopted before him, or Max, the white-and-spotted Great Dane who hasn’t even graduated from the program and already has pending inquiries. John doesn’t know a thing about Black Dog Syndrome, but he knows quite a bit about spending his days in a kennel, waiting for something interesting to happen.

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Maybe you can be that something. If you’re interested in John, send an email to me (erin@ehealthyimage.com) or Beth Zilbert (bethemma@yahoo.com).

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Erin K. Cormier is on the board of the local chapter of the Humane Society of Louisiana. Email her at erin@ehealthyimage.com.

LAKE CHARLES • MOSS BLUFF • JENNINGS 24

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Community Contributor$ Lake Charles Coca-Cola to McNeese Foundation

Building Walls With Alcoa

Lake Charles Coca-Cola Bottling Company has donated $10,000 to the McNeese State University Foundation for endowed scholarships for students. The company currently has six established scholarships endowed through the McNeese Foundation. Lake Charles Coca-Cola Bottling Company representatives, from left, Blaine Royer, cold drink sales manager, and Larry Stout, vice president, present the donation to Aubrey White, McNeese Foundation Board of Directors member.

On Saturday, September 12, 2009, twenty-two volunteers including seventeen ALCOANS brought their carpentry skills to the Children’s Museum. The volunteer work required the construction of several exhibits including the building of the actual wall structures and the hanging and floating of sheet rock. This is part of the ongoing efforts to enable The Children’s Museum to reopen after the devastating fire earlier this year. The ALCOA foundation was able to donate a $3,000 Action Grant to the museum due to the seventeen ALCOANS volunteering their time. Participants included Mark and Holly Struble, Louis Sweet, John Sonnier, Jerry Sonnier, Jean-Yves Marcotte, Nicole Coutu, Jacques LePage, Donna Doucette, David and Maria Head, Russell Autin, Arthur Babineaux, Daniel Wetzel, Roger and Beth Vachon, Wade Cormier, David Ritchie, Randy and Melissa Naylor, Matt Brumwell and Kevin Boll. Pictured left to right: Nicole Coutu, ALCOA Plant Manager; Dan Ellender, Children’s Museum; and Connie Parker, ALCOA Community Relations Rep.

Whitney to Rouge et Blanc Whitney National Bank is one of several area corporate sponsors that made a $5,000 donation to support Rouge et Blanc, the annual fall wine and food tasting event in Lake Charles sponsored by the McNeese Foundation and the Downtown Development Authority. All proceeds from this fundraiser benefit the McNeese Banners Cultural Series. Stephen Lacy, left, Whitney National Bank city president, accepts the framed 2009 Rouge et Blanc poster from Lori Marinovich, executive director of the Downtown Development Authority.

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Although men are more eager to try new technological gadgets and are more likely to be avid consumers of online information, women appear to be far more enthusiastic about email than their male counterparts, according to a recent study by the American Life Project. The study found that women are “enthusiastic online communicators.” Not only do they write more emails, they use them to convey a boatload of information. When it comes to emails, women are more likely than men to share news and worries; plan events; and forward jokes or funny stories. While women utilize email to nurture their relationships and get more personal, men typically use it more for formal reasons, the study found. More findings: Men spend more time online than women; men are more likely to use the Internet to pay bills, trade stocks, or pay for digital content; and men are more likely to use the Internet to explore their hobbies.

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Lake Charles Coca-Cola Bottling Company has donated $70,000 to McNeese State University for athletics. Lake Charles Coca-Cola Bottling Company representatives, from left, Blaine Royer, cold drink sales manager, and Larry Stout, vice president, present the donation to McNeese

Thank You for Trusting Us to Care for You The physicians at Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic are among the most experienced in the region and are backed by the resources of the area's largest multi-specialty practice. We appreciate the confidence you place in us by choosing us for your healthcare needs throughout the year.

Athletics Director Tommy McClelland.

ALCOA Helps Protects Louisiana Coastline Volunteers with the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana and the nearby Alcoa Carbon plant planted 75-hunded smooth grass tracks in terraces along the Grand Lake coastline to prevent future storm surge from eating away more land. The project was funded by a federal government action grant. Alcoa also donated three thousand dollars to the cause.

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ALCOA Supports the Whistle Stop Alcoa Carbon Products recently donated $3,000 to the Whistle Stop, whose primary focus is to give children access to their non-residential parents. In 2008, the visitation program completed over 2,100 hours of visits. The Whistle Stop also sponsors “Dancing Classrooms,” an arts in education, life skills program offered to private and public fifth grade students. The program utilizes ballroom dancing as a vehicle to teach children respect, teamwork and self-esteem. Earlier this year, 314 students from six schools participated in the program. Alcoa volunteers were, Nicole Coutu, Jean-Yves Marcotte, Peter Guillory, Sean Smith, Stu Ehrenreich, and Jessica Glodd. From left to right: Nicole Coutu, ALCOA Plant Manager; Nancy Vallee, Executive Director of the Whistle Stop; Peter Guillory, United Steel Workers Local 211-A; and Connie Parker, ALCOA Community Relations Representative.

Women

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1Text in 3 teens While Driving Forty percent of teens have been in a car with a driver who texted on the road in a dangerous way, a new study finds. The research, gathered by Pew Research Center and the University of Michigan, was collected over the summer of 2009. One in three (34 percent) of teens ages 16-17 said that they texted while driving. Fifty-two percent of cell-owning tens said they have talked on a cell phone while driving, and 40 percent say they have been in a car when the driver used a cell phone in a way that put themselves or others in danger. The results could be concerning when considering the risks of texting while driving. A study conducted by AAA found that 46 percent of teens admitted being distracted while driving; a 2009 experiment by Car and Driver magazine found that texting and driving was just as hazardous – perhaps more so – than drinking and driving.

Investing In a United Future CITGO employees are rooted in our community, providing a foundation for growth. We’re proud of the ways we’re able to make a difference for Southwest Louisiana. This year, CITGO employees gave more than $500,000 to the local United Way. By investing in our future, we touch the lives of our neighbors. We’re local and we live united.

Let’s Prevent ATHEROSCLEROSIS Atherosclerosis is the process in which deposits of fatty substances, cholesterol, calcium and other substances build up in the inner lining of an artery. This buildup, called “plaque,” can eventually cause reduction of blood flow, resulting in heart attack, stroke, and other debilitating health conditions. Atherosclerosis progresses with age, and research has shown that those with a family history of heart disease are at greater risk. Lifestyle factors you control also play a role in individual risk including: • High cholesterol • Diabetes mellitus • Cigarette smoking and exposure • Obesity to tobacco smoke • Physical inactivity • High blood pressure

Get smart about your health – make an appointment today to determine your risk of atherosclerosis and what you can do to prevent it. It’s Your Health. It’s Your Life.

Get Involved.

“By getting involved in your own health care – having regular medical checkups, understanding risks, and maintaining healthy lifestyles – you can focus on what you can change and greatly lower your risks of serious health conditions.”

Maureen Kaough, MD Member of

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High Cost Experts have long known that back pain – injuries, bad discs, spine disorders – account for a major portion of US health-care dollars. Numerous studies have attached price tags with most estimates exceeding the $90 billion mark.

Another study, this one in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found that chronic pain conditions, including arthritis, back problems and other ailments, drain more than $61.2 billion a year from the U.S. economy. Back pain also accounted for about a quarter of the lost or unproductive work in US businesses, second only to headaches as the most frequent pain complaint of workers. This study didn’t include the costs associated with people who dropped out of the work force due to chronic pain. “Back pain’s cost to society is enormous,” says Craig Morton, MD, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist with Center for Orthopaedics. “It’s not surprising that people with back pain account for more health-care dollars than those without back problems. It’s a very common problem.” He says statistics show that about eight in 10 Americans will suffer an episode of back pain in their lifetime. At any given time, between 15 and 20 percent of the country is complaining of the problem and this group consumes about 60 percent more healthcare resources among all categories of healthcare expenditures, from inpatient care to prescription drugs to emergency room visits. Interestingly, it is a relatively small segment of this back-pain population that consumes the vast bulk of treatment resources, according to the Duke study. Researchers found that a quarter of people with back pain account for 75 percent of the costs, with 10 percent of these patients responsible for more than half of the patient spending. Dr. Morton says this is something most spine specialists experience in their own practices. “It’s always a small percentage of back pain patients that we spend the most time with. Chronic back pain is usually the reason. These patients make more appointments, receive more prescriptions, need more direct treatment and consume more of other health services.” Dr. Morton explains that because back pain is notoriously difficult to pinpoint and treat, there is no simple solution. “What’s severe pain for one patient may be tolerable for another. Psychosocial factors such as work environment, income level, and mental state play big roles in how a patient copes with back pain. Right now there is no clear evidence regarding which treatment is good and cost-effective across the board, for all patients with certain symptoms. We have to work on a case-by-case basis,” he said.

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• Hard labor. Back pain often comes with any job that requires a lot of hard physical labor, heavy lifting, bending, twisting, or whole-body vibration. Jobs that require people to stay in the same position for hours at end can also be hard on the back.

But Dr. Morton says the news for backs is not all bad. “The future for back pain treatment actually looks quite promising. Less-invasive, non-surgical treatments have shown great success in treating certain types of back conditions, as well as programs of physical therapy and rehabilitation that are allowing more people to safely return to their normal activities. In addition, corporations are realizing that by implementing programs to reduce the risk of injury, they can help workers return to work sooner.”

• Previous injuries from accidents or sports. Just as repetitive injuries from work can make you vulnerable to back pain, so can repetitive injuries from play. Years of playing or training for sports can lead to back pain. Even children who play sports or practice dance rigorously can get back pain, just like middle-aged adults.

Sooner or later, most Americans will suffer from back pain. So what’s the secret of the 10 to 20 percent who never do? Are they just lucky? Dr. Morton says it is more likely that they simply don’t fit the profile of a typical back pain sufferer. “Nobody has any guarantees against back pain, but some people, for a variety of reasons, are less vulnerable than others,” he said.

• The easy life. While some people work their backs too hard, others don’t work them hard enough. People who rarely get exercise are prime targets for back pain. After years of neglect, the muscles that support the back can grow weak, stiff, and prone to injury. Weak back muscles put more pressure on the spine and increase the risk of compressing discs. Weak stomach muscles mean the back must bear a bigger load.

Take a look at some common risk factors for back pain on the following page. Some of them you can work to change; others, like your age, you can’t. Dr. Morton says that either way, if you understand your risk, you may be able to form a prevention plan to keep your back as healthy and pain-free as possible. For more information about back pain, call the Center for Orthopaedics at 721-7236 or visit www.centerforortho.com.

“

• The way you move and sit. Lifting, twisting or bending with your back, instead of your legs, can lead to back injury. In addition, holding or lifting objects too far away from your body can tear or strain back muscles, ligaments, or tendons. Slouching in a chair makes it easier to injure your back, and tucking a phone between your ear and shoulder in order to talk while using the keyboard can cause neck pain.

At any given time, between 15 and 20 percent of the country is complaining of back pain. It’s a very common problem.

”

• A troubled mind. Some types of back pain may be tied to emotions. Anxiety, anger, emotional stress, and depression all seem to make people more vulnerable to pain. People suffering from emotional turmoil are more likely than others to develop back pain in the first place, and their pain is more likely to become chronic and disabling.

– Craig Morton, MD, Physical Medcine and Rehabilitation Specialist with Center for Orthopaedics

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Back Pain Risk Factors

December 2009

• Smoking. Researchers have uncovered a surprising association between smoking and back pain. Researchers speculate that nicotine might make the body more sensitive to pain. It’s also possible that smoking damages the structures in the lower back by slowing down circulation. • Obesity. Extreme obesity puts extra strain on the back. • Age. Relatively few people suffer back pain before they reach 30. But as the years go by, the muscles, ligaments, and disks in the back can show signs of wear. Eventually, activities that would have been harmless in your teens can leave you hunched over in pain. • Genetics. If you notice that your relatives have a predisposition for back pain, you may have a higher risk for problems. • Pregnancy. About half of pregnant women have bouts of back pain during their pregnancies. The weight of a growing baby tends to weaken abdominal muscles and alter a woman’s posture, putting a strain on her back. After the baby is born and the extra weight disappears, back problems usually do too.

Individual

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center conducted an in-depth study of the heavy burden back pain places on the nation’s health-care budget, and according to their report, published in the medical journal Spine, more than $26 billion of the medical costs of back pain in this country come from direct treatment of the condition. However, even the study authors admit their work is incomplete. Their figures didn’t include information about back pain in nursing home patients, nor did the study include non-medical costs of back pain, such as lost productivity.

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If you’ve had back pain in the past, or just want to avoid it in the future, Dr. Morton says there are many ways to improve your chances of staying pain-free: If you don’t get much exercise, there’s no better time to start. If your job is literally “breaking your back,” it’s time to find another line of work, or talk to your employer about adding preventive programs. If you developed your back pain as a result of exercising, it may be time to revise your routine, such as doing stretches before exercising or checking your technique with a doctor or with an exercise trainer. If you suffer from stress, depression, or anxiety, seek professional help. If you smoke, try to quit. “Remember, there’s no guaranteed way to prevent back pain, but you can put the odds on your side.”

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Early Signs of Gum Disease Are Often Ignored Cavities are a big worry when it comes to proper care of teeth, but gum disease is one of the top problems in oral health today. As an infection of the tissues supporting the teeth, gum disease can cause big problems. The American Dental Hygienists’ Association reports that nearly 75 percent of American adults have some form of periodontal disease. Local dentist James McGee with Oak Park Dental South said the symptoms can be so mild that some people don’t know they have it. “They may think that bleeding gums during brushing is normal. It’s not.” As gum disease progresses, it causes more problems and is known by different names. “In the beginning, the disease is called gingivitis and only affects the gums. In more advanced phases, the disease is known as periodontitis. The bacteria go under the gum line, eventually attacking the tissues and bone around the teeth.” Dr. McGee explained.

by Christine Fisher

fewer than 500 milligrams, or about half the recommended dietary allowance, were almost twice as likely to have periodontal disease, as measured by the loss of attachment of the gums from the teeth. The association was particularly evident for people in their 20s and 30s. “This study emphasizes that gum disease isn’t just for retirees,” Dr. McGee said. “Taking good care of teeth is important no matter what your age.” Regular checkups can help detect, prevent and treat gum disease and the disorders that go along with it. The often-repeated joke of “Only brush the teeth you want to keep” is not far from the truth. Regular brushing and flossing is the best maintenance program to prevent gum disease. “We encourage patients to brush and floss so much, that it often goes ignored; but it needs to be given the attention it deserves,” Dr. McGee emphasized. “Most people brush for a quick 45 seconds, or so; but a thorough brushing should take about three minutes.”

Early signs of gum disease include: • Gums that bleed easily • Red, swollen, tender gums • Gums that have pulled away from the teeth • Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth • Any change in the way teeth fit together when biting • Permanent teeth that are loose or separating

For clean teeth and healthy mouth, the American Dental Association recommends: • Brushing teeth twice a day • Flossing between teeth daily • Eating a balanced mix of foods • Seeing your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams

Studies have shown a correlation between high calcium intake and low gum disease. Researchers found that men and women who had calcium intakes or

For more information on the prevention and treatment of gum disease, call Oak Park Dental South at 478-3232.

McNeese Corral

People Briefs

Dr. Albert C. Ringelstein, assistant professor of government at McNeese, and Dr. Henry B. Sirgo, professor of political science, recently attended the Lincoln Without Borders Conference held at the Louisiana State University in Shreveport International Lincoln Center for American Studies. Ringelstein chaired the Latin America/Middle East/Africa and European Legacy sessions, while Sirgo chaired the Presidential Legacies II and Africa and Latin America sessions. Dr. Rathnam Indurthy, professor of government at McNeese, has had an article titled “The Obama Administration’s Approach to Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: The Opportunities and Constraints” accepted for publication in the Strategic Analysis journal published by the Institute for Defense and Analysis, a think tank in New Delhi, India. Marcy Misik, director of the McNeese Ann Rosteet Hurley Center for Economic Education, and Dr. Sue Lynn Sasser, an associate professor at the University of Central Oklahoma and executive director of the Oklahoma Council on Economic Education, made a recent presentation, at the Louisiana Council on Social Studies Conference in Baton Rouge. The presentation was sponsored by the McNeese center and the Louisiana Council on Economic Education. Sasser is the primary author and editor of the new personal financial literacy curriculum for the Oklahoma State Department of Education titled “Making $en$e: Financial Success for Oklahoma Students.” Melonie Duhon, assistant professor of nursing at McNeese, has earned the designation Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) after meeting strict eligibility criteria and successfully completing a rigorous certification examination developed and administered by the National League for Nursing.

Senior Art Exhibition through Dec. 11

A fall senior exhibition will be on display through December 11 in the Abercrombie Gallery of the Shearman Fine Arts Center. The students featured are: Sasha Baldwin, Lake Charles; Jenna Fazende, Lake Charles; James Jessen, Lake Charles; Talissa Johnson, Lake Charles; Megan Marcantel, Kinder; Bethany Stefinsky, Gonzales, Texas; Leslie Thomas, Fenton; Hannah Vincent, Dry Creek; Kelly Chambers Webb, Savannah, Ga.; and Alyssa Young, Lake Charles. The Abercrombie Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. For more information about the exhibit, call the McNeese Visual Arts Department at (337) 475-5060.

PTA Charge Plans Available

An interest-free student charge plan is available to students enrolled for the spring 2010 semester to assist with the purchase of books and supplies through the McNeese bookstore. The Personal Touch Account (PTA) allows students with a valid ID and a current paid fee receipt to establish a student charge account at the bookstore, which can be used at the beginning of the semester for one month for the purchase of up to $600 in books and supplies. At the close of the purchase deadline, each student is billed for purchases made and the amount is split into two payments. PTA accounts for the spring will open Jan. 4 and close Feb. 12. The first payment will be due March 15 and the second payment will be due April 15. For more information, call the McNeese bookstore at (337) 475-5494.

Rodeo Team Results

The McNeese State University Rodeo Team competed at the Stephen F. Austin rodeo Nov. 6-7 in Nacogdoches, Texas. Dean Wadsworth finished in first place in the saddle bronc riding competition, while Kobyn Williams finished in third place. In bareback riding, Winn Ratliff finished in third place and in the bull riding category, Brendon Averett finished in fifth place.

For the women’s team Ashley White placed second in the barrel racing category, while Danielle LeJeune finished in fifth place overall. In the goat tying category Kayla Wagnon placed third overall and Allie McDaniel finished in the Top 10. In break away roping Carlie Huffman finished in ninth place.

Chemistry Excellence Awards

The department of chemistry recently recognized chemistry students at its annual awards ceremony. This year’s recipients of the Chemistry Excellence Awards for undergraduates are: Yingna Li, China, Colby Cryar and Leslie Clark, both of Moss Bluff, sophomores; Leah LaFleur, Sulphur, Lauren LeBert, Lake Charles, and Elisabeth Conley, Moss Bluff, juniors; Anisha Shakya, Nepal, Ashley Quebodeaux, Scott, and Quintin Broussard, Jennings, seniors. Chemistry Undergraduate Research Awards went to: Broussard, Conley and Shakya. Broussard was also awarded the J. David Tauber Chemistry Scholarship. Shilpa Vootla, India, was named the Outstanding Graduate Teaching Assistant, while John Craig Moss, Sulphur and Venkata Machha, India, were named the Outstanding Graduate Research Assistants. Rebecca White, Natchitoches, is the recipient of a Louisiana Education Quality Science Fund – Board of Regents Teaching Fellowship, while Pratap Machavaram Siva, India, is the recipient of the Mark Delaney Summer Graduate Research award.

Alumni Recognized with Awards

Two McNeese alumni have been named recipients of two McNeese Alumni Association awards— the Distinguished Alumnus Award and the Distinguished Service Award. Michael A. “Mike” Creel, president, chief executive officer and a director of Enterprise Debi Pruitt Cade Marze Products Partners LP of Houston, Texas, a leading North American provider of midstream energy services, has been named the 2009 Distinguished Alumnus, while Damain A. Sullivan, vice president and team leader in the Energy Finance/Global Corporate Banking Unit at the Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ Ltd. in Houston, has been named the recipient of the 2009 Distinguished Service Award. Creel, a native of Lake Charles, received his bachelor’s degree in accounting in 1975 from McNeese and was licensed in Texas as a certified public accountant in 1978. Creel worked for seven years in the financial industry prior to beginning his energy career in 1980. He previously held management positions with the Coastal Corporation and Enron Corp. and served as treasurer of EOG Resources Inc., vice president and treasurer of NorAm Energy Corp. and senior vice president and chief financial officer of Tejas Energy Corp. Creel is also director of Duncan Energy Partners LP, a publicly traded partnership that owns and operates midstream energy assets, and is a group vice chairman of privately held EPCO Inc. Sullivan received his Bachelor of Science degree in finance in 1992 and his Master of Business Administration degree in 1996, both from McNeese. He began his banking career at Calcasieu Marine National Bank in 1994. He held several positions as part of a training program, including credit underwriting and marketing. In 1996 he joined Hibernia National Bank in New Orleans, where he held positions in underwriting and marketing. While there, he also served on a merger due diligence team for the bank. He joined Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi in 1997. He is also a member of the Houston Downtown Organization. Sullivan is a founding member of the McNeese Greater Houston Alumni Chapter and served as chapter president from 2004-2007 and currently serves as a member of the board of directors. He has supported the College of Business Student Investment Team and he has initiated an internship program at the bank that includes the recruiting of McNeese business students to interview for these positions. Two students were hired as summer interns in 2008 and one was later hired full-time after graduation. Continued on page 34

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McNeese Corral, cont.

The service award recognizes an alumnus who has given years of personal and professional service to the alumni association and the university.

Agreement Signed with Bangladesh University

McNeese has signed a memorandum of understanding with North-South University in Bangladesh that will allow the two schools to collaborate in business education beginning as early as the fall semester of 2010, according to Dr. Mitchell Adrian, dean of the McNeese College of Business. “The areas of collaboration will include student and faculty exchange, research, publication, internships and workshops between the McNeese College of Business and the NSU School of Business,” said Adrian. The College of Business pursued the opportunity to work with NSU as a way of increasing international ties, according to Adrian. “We recognize the importance of global trade and seek every opportunity to help our students learn about new cultures and connect with international markets,” he said.

Accreditation Awarded for Athletic Training

The undergraduate athletic training education program has been awarded initial accreditation for a five-year period by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education. The recent peer review recognizes the program’s compliance with the nationally established standards for athletic training education. The standards are established by CAATE as well as the American Academy of Family Physicians, The American Academy of Pediatrics, The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine and The National Athletic Trainers’ Association Inc. The on-campus accreditation process included meetings with faculty, students and administrators along with a review of the curriculum for the program. The findings are then reported to the national board for approval of accreditation.

The 12 Deals of Christmas

Cameron State Bank Opens Cowboy-Themed Banking Center

from The Eye Clinic, Optics Unlimited and Aesthetic Center

Cameron State Bank, the official bank of McNeese athletics, has completely redesigned the interior of its branch at 135 W. McNeese Street to reflect their support for the university. The location now features Cowboy-themed décor, images of McNeese athletes in action and displays of MSU sports memorabilia.

We’re wrapping up great looks for the holidays with bigger-than-ever savings offers in celebration of The Eye Clinic’s 50th Anniversary! We’ve got something to help everyone on your list see and look their best this holiday season. Call or stop by soon – these offers are only available through December 31.

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“This Banking Center is our tribute to the university’s sports teams,” said Cameron State Bank President and CEO Roy Raftery, Jr. “We are proud to be the official bank of McNeese athletics and wanted to illustrate and celebrate the proud tradition of MSU sports within this location. We also wanted to provide McNeese students and faculty with a banking center close to campus that reflects their own Cowboy pride.”

Cameron State Bank has been a long-time supporter of McNeese sports, according to Director of Athletics Tommy McClelland. In July, the bank presented its fifth installment of a $1 million dollar commitment to the department, and in August, the bank entered into a $6 million bond purchase agreement with the University of Louisiana System’s Board of Supervisors to fund the university’s new field house project.

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Some exclusions may apply.

December 2009

“Cameron State Bank continues to be a big factor in helping McNeese athletics reach new levels of success. The effort they have put into making this banking center so completely ‘Cowboy’ is indicative of the level of support and community spirit this bank is known for,” McClelland said. “What you have created here is an amazing visual monument that represents the spirit of Cowboy athletics. We are honored to help you celebrate it, and we thank you for your hard work and creativity on our behalf. It means so much to our athletes, the administration and the entire university community.”

McNeese cheerleaders and Rowdy get the crowd excited during the grand re-opening.

Christmas

of two cities

H E AV E N and Nature

Sing

Saturday & Sunday Sunday, Dec 6 Dec 5 &6 7PM 10:30AM & 3:00PM

The McNeese Banking Center’s lobby hours are Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm, and weekday drive-thru hours are 8:30am – 6pm. Saturday drive-thru hours are 9am – 12pm. Cameron State Bank is also the exclusive provider of specially-designed Cowboy Checks, with Free Cowboy Checking accounts for students. For more information, call 312-7160. December 2009

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Coming to America tells the stories 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

The Journey of Marcelo Fanelli:

Argentina to U.S. – From One Melting Pot To Another According to Marcelo Fanelli, it’s difficult to accurately define what it means to be Argentinean. The country, much like the United States, served as a lucrative destination for millions of immigrants from the nineteenth century to the twentieth, taking in hopeful residents from countries like Italy, Poland, Germany, France, Denmark, and many others. It is a country of diversity, in both its demographics and its topography. As the eighth largest country in the world, its scenery includes immense plains of agricultural wealth, as well as the impressive Andes mountain range and subtropical forest and wetlands. “I’ve had many guys here ask me about the hunting in Argentina, but I don’t know anything about it. The hunting is done so far away from my hometown, it might as well be in another country. Argentina is huge and vast. There are many things going on in many different parts that seem like the other side of the world,” said Fanelli, 45. Fanelli is a product of Argentina’s longtime melting pot. He is of Italian and Polish descent, but was born in South America and speaks Spanish, the official language of his home country. His diverse background makes him an enigma to most people he meets. “No one can ever figure out where I’m from,” he said. “People usually think I’m from Spain or some other western European country. No one ever thinks of South America. Although I consider myself Latino and am proud to call myself Latino, I know that Argentina is different from the other countries in Latin America.” Whereas much of Latin America is populated by those of mixed descent, particularly Amerindian and Spanish, the vast majority of the population in Argentina is Caucasian. This could be largely attributed to three facts, Fanelli said: the abolishment of slavery in 1813 – many years before other countries in the region; waves of western European immigrants from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries; and the disappearance of indigenous peoples as a result of violent colonialism.

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“Argentina is like the United States. It has a very special mix of groups living there and has been influenced by all kinds of immigrants. It’s hard to find things that are exclusively Argentinean because we are all a combination of so many cultures,” Fanelli said.“Just about the only things I can think of that are unique to Argentina is our meat and the Tango.” Argentina, the third largest beef exporter in the world, also has the world’s highest consumption rate of beef. It is often considered high quality meat because the majority of cattle in the country are grass-fed, which means they are less likely to have hormone implants. Fanelli said it’s traditional to prepare steaks with as little additional spice and flavor as possible – “maybe a pinch of salt and that’s it,” he said. Even when he’s not eating Argentinean beef, he still prefers it with just a pinch of salt and little else. He said the adjustment to Southwest Louisiana cuisine has been challenging; equally difficult, he says, is the adjustment to the slow pace of Southern life. When he left the long-suffering economy of Argentina for Marcelo Fa nelli of Arg entina the United States in 1999, he moved to San and his wif e, Katsie, a Sulphur Diego. Living in the area surrounding Buenos native. Aires – population: 13 million – was crowded and hurried, so life in San Diego wasn’t much of a culture shock. It was in California that he met his wife, Katsie, a native of Sulphur who’d lived in San Diego for several years. They moved to Southwest Louisiana in 2006 to be closer to Katsie’s family. In many ways, Fanelli said, the move to Lake Charles from California was more of a culture shock than the move from Argentina to the States. “It’s a little harder for me. Where I come from and where I lived in California, I was so used to having many things to do and there were so many different people from all parts of the world. It was crowded and busy,” Fanelli said.“It’s different here, of course, but I like the people and I always try to take the best of wherever I am.”

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

December 2009

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Boutiques

on the Bayou

Wondering where to find one-of-a-kind items without traveling out of town? Boutiques on the Bayou is your answer! From unique home decor choices, gift ideas and fashion and jewelry selections that are as individual as you are, the perfect options are right here.

Check them out today.

LaBelle Femme Dress shop

Reaching a younger generation of shoppers!

We are expanding our boutique. Now offering misses sizes 0–16.

Mother-of-the-Bride Gowns x Formals purses x Lingerie x Jewelry 426 N. Main St., Jennings, LA 70546 (337) 824-7272 • Monday–Saturday 9–5 Visit us on the web @ www.ishopsocial.com

Stop by for a special holiday shopping experience.

Women’s Apparel & Accessories

Stacey would like to wish everyone

a Merry Christmas!

Treat Yourself...and Him This Holiday Season The perfect personal gift

Stacey Vezinot

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201 W. College St. Ste. C • (337) 562-8191 Lake Charles, LA 70605 Monday–Friday 10–6 • Saturday 10–4

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(337) 477-1804 38

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Better Options Available with

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Laparoscopic Surgery by Christine Fisher

Surgeons are finding new ways to resolve health problems and the benefits are easy to see. Laparoscopic surgery is showing positive results and is being used to treat a wide variety of conditions. By using sophisticated imaging technology, the surgeon guides the instruments through small openings in the body. A special camera, or laparoscope, helps the surgeon see to perform the operation. Because these instruments are small, the incisions needed are small, which reduces blood loss, pain, and recovery time. “Laparoscopic surgery is an established medical alternative to traditional surgery that delivers excellent results,” explained Farjaad Siddiq, MD, urologist with the Urology Center of Southwest Louisiana. Dr. Siddiq specializes in laparoscopic surgery for urologic diseases, such as kidney cancer and blockage, as well as prostate cancer and bladder diseases. He is the only urologic surgeon in this area who is fellowship trained to do these advanced procedures. Dr. Siddiq explained that in a traditional surgery to remove a person’s kidney, for example, a large painful incision would be required near the rib cage resulting in a lengthy recovery period. “Laparoscopic surgery eliminates the need for this long incision. As a result, scarring is reduced, and the patient has a more rapid recovery,” explained Dr. Siddiq. “Often, the patient can drive in a week and be back to work in three to four weeks.” Advanced kidney tumor surgery where the kidney is not removed can also be done laparoscopically. Laparoscopic surgery has significant advantages over traditional “open” surgery:

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· There is less bleeding during the operation. · The need for prescription painkillers is reduced. · Less time is spent in the hospital · Patients can return to their normal activities much more quickly, usually within three to four weeks, versus six to eight weeks with traditional surgery.

Free in-home consultation and installation

Mo Tuesd Sat

One of the few criticisms of laparoscopic surgery is that because the operation requires high precision, it may take slightly longer than traditional surgery. “The time spent in the operating room is greatly offset by the benefits to the patient. Most often, however, laparoscopic surgery can be done just as fast as open surgery in experienced hands,” said Dr. Siddiq. Certain requirements need to be met to be eligible for laparoscopic surgery. The patient’s overall health and previous surgeries must be taken into consideration. Virtually all “open” urologic procedures can now be done laparoscopically. “The decision to perform a laparoscopic procedure is individualized to each patient’s needs and there are no arbitrary exclusionary criteria,” he said. “Indeed, the technological advancements that are occurring in the surgical realm are providing patients with more options, better care and reduced pain.” For more information on laparoscopic surgery for urological conditions, call the Urology Center of Southwest Louisiana at 433-5282.

WWW

337.436.2323

Happy Holidays From All of Us!

A Gift with a

Special Touch!

Come in and get a gift package of 5 massages or facials or a combination of both and get 1 free. 25% off all gift merchandise. Other gift packages available!

337 • 480 • 1100 1737 W. Sale Road, Suite 103 Lake Charles, LA www.specialtouchlcla.com Thrive Magazine for Better Living

EO422 December 2009

December 2009

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Outer Turmoil, Inner Serenity.

Achieving Calm in the

Midst of Chaos

If you’re having trouble finding your happy place, it could be because you’re searching in the wrong areas. According to “Stress in America,” an annual study conducted by the American Psychological Association, 75 percent of adults reported feeling moderate to high levels of stress in 2009. Forty-three percent said they turned to food to relieve stress, 44 percent said they exercised, 49 percent read, and still others watch television, play video games, listen to music, or turn to more dangerous coping methods, like alcohol. While some may suffer from a diagnosable illness, such as clinical depression, many others are simply overloaded by the hectic pace of a busy world. For the frazzled and frustrated, the power of true serenity isn’t found in books, bubble baths, wine glasses, or gyms, according to Chelsea Boudreaux. Instead, it comes from a place much closer to home: your mind.

“For me, inner peace is about finding calmness from the inside. Everyone has stresses. Some have more than others, but no matter what they are, they are personal and unique,” said Boudreaux, director of the Yoga Center of Lake Charles. Yoga, aimed at uniting the mind and body, is one of the most ancient and refined health systems in the world. “We live in a goal-oriented, active world that pulls us in different directions. What we have to realize is that all that matters is this moment. Ideally, we’d be able to say, ‘I am happy at this moment, right now.’” Easier said than done, but that’s part of the journey, Boudreaux said. The importance of mental well-being has become increasingly apparent in recent years, according to studies conducted by the American Psychological Association. Their research shows that at least 58 percent of Americans understand that a person cannot have optimal physical health without good mental health. A vast majority – 93 percent – agreed that perceptions, thoughts and choices affect us mentally, causing increased stress. Those perceptions and thoughts are often influenced by the things happening around us, including those that affect us directly, such as professional or personal obligations, and those that are more indirect, such as national news stories.

Photo by Jason Hardesty

“Let’s face it – we are a multi-tasking, overscheduled society. We find it necessary to be constantly plugged in,” said Danielle Caraway, a local aromatherapist who also works as a program director at Family & Youth Counseling Center. The overwhelming weight of everyday life can make us feel just as topsy-turvy on the inside as the world seems on the outside. “We are quick to rely on outside forces to make us feel better about ourselves and our lives. Many times we grasp at straws, trying to find anything we can hold onto that will make us feel more at ease, but that will never truly happen until it comes from the inside,” Boudreaux said. “And once that happens, it has a positive effect on everything else.” It’s unlikely that the world will ever slow down so we can catch up. How, then, can we find calm in the storm?

Chelsea Boudreaux, Director of The Yoga Center of Lake Charles

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December 2009

Disconnect to Reconnect.

If you want to reconnect with yourself, you may need to disconnect your cell phone and laptop. “I recommend that people reduce their negative news intake,” Boudreaux said. “Nowadays we’ve got TVs, newspapers, Internet and cell phones giving us negative news all day long, and we’re checking it multiple times a day. Unless there is something truly pressing that you need to follow, I’d say check it once and just let it go.” Having constant and instant access to the outside world “allows us to be in touch with so many around us, but it often takes away from us being in touch with ourselves,” Caraway said.

Focus on things that are truly necessary.

This is especially important during the holiday season, when daily tasks grow and become potentially overwhelming. While it’s true that life requires the completion of tedious chores – dishes, laundry, housecleaning – those menial tasks should never take precedence over what’s truly important. “Sharing a laugh with your child will always be more important than doing the dishes,” Boudreaux said. When you’re faced with a choice between the two, choose wisely.

Keep your life wellbalanced.

It’s difficult to keep your inner self maintained if your outer self is in chaos. “This may sound strange, but when I have outer peace, I find inner peace as well,” Caraway said. “What I mean is, when I am maintaining things in my life consistently – my work, my relationships, my spirituality, my home environment – I feel most at ease within myself.”

Smile.

According to Boudreaux, you should never underestimate the power of smiling. “A smile can change the entire emotional make-up of your body,” she said. “When you smile at someone and get a smile in return, that is something truly positive.”

Appreciate the moment.

When you find your mind buckling under pressure, take a moment to stop and breathe. Even if it’s just five seconds at a red light or five minutes on the sofa, let go of life’s pressures. “Close your eyes and get rid of the junk,” Boudreaux said. “Focus on breathing.”

The Yoga Center hosts free community meditation every week, which can mean different things for different people, she said. Some use meditation to pray; others focus simply on breathing; and still others use the quietness to reaffirm positive thinking.

No replays.

Nighttime is when many people replay the day behind them and plan the day ahead. When you find yourself getting restless about what you should have done or what you’re going to do, close your eyes and breathe steadily. Make a conscious effort to relax.

Replace your thoughts.

Many of us think negative thoughts without even realizing we’re doing it. Take a moment each day to consider your outlook on things. Do you make negative comments, even jokingly, about how someone looks? Do you complain often about your home life or work? Do you speak ill about people behind their backs – or even in front of their faces? Instead of allowing that negativity into your life, replace those thoughts with something good. “Negativity puts such a weight on your shoulders and pulls everything down with it,” Boudreaux said. “There’s always another way to look at a situation. If you choose the positive way, you can feel peace about it.” According to the APA, research supports the idea that having a positive outlook can extend one’s life. by Erin K. Cormier

QUIZ: HOW STRESSED ARE YOU?

Adults continue to report high levels of stress. Many say that their stress has increased in the past year. How stressed are you? Rate yourself as to how you typically react in each of the situations listed below, then add your total. 4 = Always 3 = Frequently 2 = Sometimes 1 = Never 1. Do you try to do as much as possible in the least amount of time? 2. Do you become impatient with delays or interruptions? 3. Do you always have to win at games to enjoy yourself? 4. Do you find yourself speeding up the car to beat the red light? 5. Are you unlikely to ask for or indicate you need help with a problem? 6. Do you constantly seek the respect and admiration of others? 7. Are you overly critical of the way others do their work? 8. Do you have the habit of looking at your watch or clock often? 9. Do you constantly strive to better your position and achievements? 10. Do you spread yourself “too thin” in terms of your time? 11. Do you have the habit of doing more than one thing at a time? 12. Do you frequently get angry or irritable? 13. Do you have little time for hobbies or time by yourself? 14. Do you have a tendency to talk quickly or hasten conversations? 15. Do you consider yourself hard-driving? 16. Do your friends or relatives consider you hard-driving? 17. Do you have a tendency to get involved in multiple projects? 18. Do you have a lot of deadlines in your work? 19. Do you feel vaguely guilty if you relax and do nothing during leisure? 20. Do you take on too many responsibilities?

Answer Key: If your score is between 20 and 30, chances are you are

non-productive or your life lacks stimulation. A score between 31 and 50 designates a good balance in your ability to handle and control stress. If you tallied up a score ranging between 51 and 60, your stress level is likely marginal and you are probably bordering on being excessively tense. If your total number of points exceeds 60, you may be experiencing excessive levels of stress. Source: Academic Resource Center, Sweet Briar College, Sweet Briar, VA

December 2009

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Money Moves to Make now Not to burst anyone’s holiday bubble, but December is actually prime time for financial navigation to put you in a better place when that other wonderful time of the year rolls around – tax season. “Until the clock strikes midnight on December 31, 2009, it’s a good time to review your finances and take advantage of a few end-of-the year opportunities,” said Mike Harmison, executive vice president with Cameron State Bank.

OOR D NTURE UT E V

Charitable Donations.

Whether you contribute to a community food bank, homeless shelter, your church, donate gently worn clothes, or United Way, make the donation before the end of this year. In addition, be sure to get a receipt for the value of your contribution.

OAD

For cash donations, you must have a bank record or a written communication from the charity that shows the charity’s name, the date, and the amount of the contribution. Canceled checks, bank or credit union statements are valid.

Flexible Spending Accounts.

This isn’t technically a step to improve your tax standing, but it is an area where you’ll lose if you don’t use. Those who utilize a flexible spending account through their employer set aside money up front that is used for medical expenses. In some years, you don’t reach the threshold; for example, you set aside $1000 for health care expenses but only used $600. You have to use that leftover money or you lose it. Check with your employer on what qualifies for a legitimate expense. In some cases, nonprescription drugs qualify, which means over-the-counter medications like aspirin, heartburn medicine or contact lens solution may be covered. The IRS allows purchases made up through March 15, 2010 to count.

Capital Gains.

During this rough economic year, there were a few bright spots and some investors did quite well. For those who happened to have a high performing stock, you should look at the taxable gains in your portfolio. Consider selling the underperformers to reduce your tax liability.

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Retirement.

Max out your allowable contribution to your 401(k) or retirement account. Those dollars reduce your overall tax burden and put you in a better position for the future. Watch out that you don’t go over the limit.

A DV E N T U R E

“As you’re looking into these financial matters and gathering documents to make these decisions, take time to organize them into a system that allows you to find them easily,” said Harmison. “If you don’t already have one, set up a binder so that your investments, your flexible spending account information, your donations, insurance and retirement information are in one place. It will make your life much easier in the future.”

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A DV E N T U R E GIVEAWAY

! R E N N I W E Z I GRAND PR

. r J , n o s i d d DOoug A R agley O UTDOR E

of R

ADVENTU Giveaway “I don’t know who likes this boat more: my son, my wife or me!” Doug Addison, Jr. of Ragley won the Grand Prize in Cameron State Bank’s Outdoor Adventure Giveaway. Now, he’s the proud owner of a 17-foot fishing boat, motor and trailer – thanks to his wife! She registered for the prize a few times at both CSB Moss Bluff banking locations. In addition to the boat, the Addison’s won a signed and numbered print by Elton Louviere, a guided fishing trip for two with overnight accommodations at Toledo Bend and five life vests.The prize package value totals approximately $20,000.

Harmison emphasizes that the best advice for each individual comes from their own banker and investment manager. “They know your unique situation, your background and your goals and can advise you on the best strategy to help position you in the best place financially.” by Christine Fisher

DOOR T U O

Congratulations!

Personal Banking At Its Best!

301 West Prien Lake Road • Lake Charles, La • (377) 477-7977 Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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The Safety Council of Southwest Louisiana reminds you that safety never takes a holiday. We wish everyone in our community a joyous and safe Christmas and New Year.

Sparkling Display A

Oh, what fun it is to ride!

This year’s Christmas display at Prien Lake Park lines both sides of the road with about 11 displays in LED colored lights. About 69 parts were assembled together, along with a 35-foot Christmas tree situated in the main fountain. The lights will remain lit from 5-11 p.m. daily through Monday, January 4.

Give the gift that will last a lifetime. Riding Lessons • Gift Certificates Holiday Horsemanship Camp

1201 Ryan Street, Lake Charles (337) 436-3354

safetycouncilswla.org

4550 South Park Road, Lake Charles, LA 70607

(337) 905-JUMP (5867) • thestablesatlebocage.com

Holid a Check y Safety list

Be Bold. Be Glamorous. Be You.

• Buy fresh tree, a • Plac nd kee e tree p wate a w r in sta ay from • Use nd bas indoo firepl e. aces a r light outdo s only nd oth ors. indoo er hea • Che rs, and t sourc ck ligh outdo es. t s for fra or ligh • Turn y ts only ed wir lights es, loo off be • Exti s e plug fore g nguish o s and b ing to a or goi bed o roken ng to bll lighted ca plugs r l e a v ndles ed. ing the . • Ensu b efore house re toy l eaving . s are a • Do the ro pprop not ov o r m iate fo erload r child electr • At p ’ s age. ical ou arties, tlets. p rides a re pro rovide nonvided a for int lcoholic be oxicat ed gueverage opti ons an sts. d be su re

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Approved for ages 9-26, Gardasil was the first vaccine specifically designed to prevent cancer. It’s proven effective in preventing the high-risk strains of human papaloma virus, which accounts for the majority of cervical cancers. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the vaccine for girls between the ages of 11 and 12, but those over this age do receive benefit. “Giving it early allows the body’s immune system to activate long before she may encounter HPV. Early vaccination allows for the highest antibody levels. The higher the antibody level, the greater the protection,” Leger said.

Facing a teenage pregnancy.

A teenage pregnancy can shelve future plans for the mother and often, for the father. From a health

perspective, teen pregnancies can be difficult. “Teenagers are still growing themselves,” Leger said. “To include a growing baby into the mix and giving it the best chance for a healthy start can be a lot to ask of some teenage girls.” Growing a baby inside of a still-developing body takes a lot out of the teen mother and the baby may not get all of the growth opportunities it needs.

formation. Being in good health before a pregnancy is the best way to ensure continuing good health during the pregnancy.”

Low birth weight is the most immediate problem of pregnancies for girls ages 15 through 17. They may not have fully developed organ systems, which include their brains, hearts and lungs.

Tackling these tough teen issues requires compassion, love and the desire to do everything possible to ensure your teen has all of the benefits you can provide. In short, it requires a loving parent. Ensuring your teenage daughter’s health is an important aspect of good parenting.

Expectant teen mothers should pay close attention to their nutrition and getting regular prenatal care. “Babies are actually most vulnerable before the mother realizes she is pregnant. The first few weeks after conception are critical for a baby’s organ

“With good care, a good support system and by accepting responsibility, teenage girls can deliver a healthy baby, but it requires a good deal of maturity,” Leger said.

To schedule a consultation for more information, call OBG-1 at 312-1000.

Teenage Daughter Topics by Christine Fisher

Tackling

If you thought the terrible twos were a challenge, then you haven’t raised a teenage daughter. While it can be daunting to navigate through those early childhood years, it’s often downright scary to guide a teenager these days. Developing a close relationship now is more important than ever. Teenage girls, in particular, are maturing faster than previous generations. Keeping up with these changes requires perceptive parenting. One minute, your daughter is carefree and only thinking of her immediate needs; then before you know it, you get a glimpse of her adult persona as she handles a situation with more maturity than you thought she possessed. “Young women have a lot of choices available to them, and their health care needs should be given careful thought,” said Bonnie Leger, certified nurse midwife with OBG-1. “As they develop, they’ll take their cues from their mother on how they approach healthcare. It’s important that they understand the value of regular checkups, talking about contraception, learning how to take care of their bodies, and understanding the consequences when they don’t care for them as they should.”

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A recent, informal poll showed the following topics should be on a parent’s radar when it comes to their teenage daughter.

When should she see an ob/gyn?

Part of a parent’s responsibility is to ensure their child is healthy. When an adolescent or teenage girl complains of pelvic pain, itching or burning in their pelvic area, it’s a good idea to get answers. Reasons can be as simple as taking too many bubble baths, using a different type of toilet paper, scented feminine products or more serious issues such as a hormonal imbalance. “Any time a female, regardless of age, is experiencing problems that are breast or vaginal-related, such as irritation, unusual discharge that doesn’t go away, or pain that does not seem to be related to any other cause, she should be examined either by her own physician or it may be time to begin seeing a gynecologist,” Leger said. The initial visit should include a consultation, before an exam is done, to give the teen the opportunity to Thrive Magazine for Better Living

meet the doctor and feel a little more comfortable. A consultation allows them to ask questions and get accurate information. Menstruation is one of the most common gynecological problems with teenage girls. “Some girls are dealing with severe cramping every month, heavy bleeding or highly irregular periods,” explained Leger. Periods usually begin between the ages of 12 and 14. A gynecological visit is recommended if it hasn’t happened by the age of 16.

Each year Sasol employees make nearly two billion pounds of products used to manufacture detergents, shampoos and personal care products.

Usually around the age of 18, it’s a good idea to begin having annual pelvic checkups, including a Pap smear.

The same employees dedicate thousands of volunteer hours to area non-profit organizations annually through projects like: Inland Waterways Cleanup, Chemistry Expo,

Should she get vaccinated from cervical cancer?

Rebuilding Together, Block Walks, Habitat for Humanity, Special Olympics, Partners in Education, United Way and many, many more. We’re Coaches, Mentors, Tutors, Teachers, Painters, Fund-raisers and Troop Leaders—and that’s after work!Helping SWLA is a pleasure for Sasol Volunteers!

One of the recent developments is a vaccination from cervical cancer. Over 10,000 women in the United States are diagnosed each year with this disease and close to 4,000 women die from it. It’s usually diagnosed when a woman is in her early adulthood and can make fertility impossible. Even with treatment, cervical cancer is a leading cause of death in women.

December 2009

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Years

Visionary Care

Fifty years ago, surgery to treat cataract – a clouding of the crystalline lens of the eye – required a two-week hospital stay, oversized lenses, a large incision, and temporary immobilization of the head. Today, patients get more medicine when they have a tooth pulled. The required length of time in the care of a health professional for this very common condition has dwindled from 14 days to one hour, and patients no longer have to view the world through cokebottle glasses.

D. Dale Archer, Sr.

“Most adults remember their grandparents wearing glasses with really thick lenses after surgery. Today, cataract surgery is the most performed surgical procedure in the United States, and most patients are able to see clearly with no glasses at all afterward, with the possible exception of reading glasses,” said Alan Lacoste, MD, ophthalmologist and President of The Eye Clinic. The rapid evolution and improvement in cataract surgery is just one of many that The Eye Clinic has witnessed and participated in over the past 50 years. The Eye Clinic team has seen first-hand how eye care has become more sophisticated and informed – and they’ve brought these advances to patients in Southwest Louisiana. This was, in fact, the premise on which D. Dale Archer, Sr., founded The Eye Clinic in 1959. Originally from Tennessee, he earned his medical degree from the University of Tennessee, completed an

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internship at Baylor University, and his residency at Tulane University. He then stayed in New Orleans to teach at the university and joined an ophthalmology group there. His experience with this group’s business practices was not a good one, and he moved to Lake Charles with his wife Valerie and formed The Eye Clinic. He says his first office in the Hannie building on Oak Park Boulevard was a far cry from the medical offices people are familiar with today. “We had just one exam room and a small waiting area, but that was all we needed to get started. I took care of the patients and Val managed the office for me.” Dr. Archer set out to “bring to Lake Charles the same kind of quality eye care found in Houston, New Orleans, New York or anywhere else. I just felt very strongly that when someone is worried about their vision, or losing their sight, they shouldn’t have to wait months, or travel hundreds of miles, to get the specialized care they need.” In 1963, Dr. Archer implemented another novel idea to the area, and at that time, to the state as well: the first all-inclusive eye clinic where a patient could receive medical care and have their prescription for eyewear filled at the same location. Although his original idea was to remain a solopractitioner, he added more

Their dedication to seeking out the newest treatments has led to many “firsts” for The Eye Clinic along the way. They were the first to offer modern cataract surgery with phaco emulsification in the early 70s, which provided a never-before available “no-anesthetic shot, no-stitch, no-hospital-stay” procedure. In 1976, still a pioneer, Dr. Archer traveled to the Netherlands to study intraocular lens implants under the physician who invented this technique. Dr. Lacoste, who joined the group in 1978, says Dr. Archer blazed a trail in the pursuit of innovative care that has provided a roadmap for all The Eye Clinic doctors to follow. “To say we had big shoes to fill would be an understatement, but the foundation he and Drs. Emerson and Blocker gave us is what has led to our continued growth and success.” In 1979, Dr. Lacoste spearheaded what was a “first” not only for Southwest Louisiana, but also for the United States. It was the arrival of a third-generation argon laser from Finland. It was the only one of its kind in the country for the treatment of diabetic retinopathy. “It’s safe to say that we were ahead of the rest of the country with this technology, and for many years after that, we had the first active ophthalmic laser program between New Orleans and Houston.” The “firsts” continued, with the first laser vision correction procedure in 1997, the first use of nerve fiber analysis for the diagnosis of glaucoma in 2000, and the first implant of a multifocal lens for cataract surgery in 2005, among others. While technological advances in medicine continue to take place at a seemingly exponential rate, Dr. Lacoste says patient care today has also been greatly improved by the significantly increased knowledge doctors have about the eye and the visual system. “Not only do we have the ability to correct problems we wouldn’t have

dreamed of correcting just five or ten years ago, but, for example, we also have a new understanding of the impact nutrition has on eye health, and discussions about this often play an integral role in the treatment of patients,” he said. The concept of “commitment” is one that works on many levels when looking at The Eye Clinic’s first 50 years. In addition to the ongoing focus of seeking out the latest technology, Dr. Archer’s original selective process of choosing doctors to join group is still upheld today. The medical staff now totals 14 doctors, with three of them joining in the last two years. “During our 50-year history, we’ve never had any doctors leave to form their own group, and only one or two doctors have left us for reasons other than retirement. That’s a precedent almost unheard of in the medical field today,” Dr. Lacoste said. Denise Davis, COE, CMPE, Chief Operating Officer for the group, says the same can be said for The Eye Clinic’s support staff. “We have many staff members who have more than 20 years of services, a rare accomplishment in today’s modern era of short job tenure,” Davis said. “The Eye Clinic also has 23 certified staff members, a percentage significantly higher than most ophthalmology practices across the country. This demonstrates our dedication to continuing education for our employees, which ultimately benefits our patients.”

“More than 95 percent of eye conditions can be treated in our community,” Dr. Lacoste says. “That was Dr. Archer’s intention when he founded the practice and it remains our primary guiding principle today.” As The Eye Clinic looks toward the future, continued advancements – both within the group and in the ophthalmology field – is a certainty. A new satellite office will open early in 2010 in Moss Bluff, and the site work has been completed on what will eventually be the new main office in Lake Charles, just off of Nelson Road on Imperial Boulevard. On the treatment technology horizon: microchips to reverse blindness, continued improvements in lens implants and developments in biotech medications are not far away. With the way technology continues to develop, nothing is out of reach, and we’ll continue to make those advances within easy reach of our patients,” Dr. Lacoste said. “It’s been said that from humble beginnings come great things. In the case of The Eye Clinic, humble beginnings have led to a 50-year legacy of care and commitment.” by Kristy Armand

“It’s our mission to make lifelong eye care available for local residents,” adds Davis. “We pride ourselves on providing family care, including specialized services for infants and sub-specialty services for more serious eye conditions.”

The Eye Clinic’s current staff of 14 doctors, along with founder Dr. Dale Archer, Sr., Dr. Don Blocker, and COO Denise Davis, are shown here at the 50th anniversary celebration of the practice.

Dr. Lacoste, president of The Eye Clinic, and Denise Davis, COO, present The Eye Clinic’s founder, Dr. Dale Archer, Sr., and his wife Val with a plaque commemorating the new nursing scholarship The Eye Clinic has endowed in his name at McNeese State University in honor of The Eye Clinic’s 50th Anniversary.

Sam Emerson, MD

doctors as his practice grew. “I was sure glad to see Sam Emerson, MD, come along, and then Don Blocker, MD, right after him. I learned early on that there was no better way to honor my Don Blocker, MD commitment of delivering the latest advances in eye care to my patients than to bring in young, well-trained, Board Certified, equally committed doctors to help me.” The late Dr. Emerson joined The Eye Clinic in 1965, and Dr. Blocker soon after in 1967. By that time the group had moved to bigger offices on 18th Street. In 1972, they moved to an even larger office on Aster Street, where the practice would remain for 20 years, before moving to its current location on Oak Park Boulevard in 1993. Over the years, additional doctors joined the group, capabilities continued to improve and satellite offices were opened in Sulphur, DeRidder and Jennings.

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December 2009

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What’s In Your Carpet?

Pre-Ho Carpet liday Cleani Specia ng 2 room l: s for jus

$89

Chances are, your carpet is loaded with dust, allergens and bacteria. It’s time to make a clean sweep of these uninvited inhabitants and restore your carpet to like-new condition. Rapid Response Restoration’s carpet cleaning experts can deep clean your carpets, getting rid of stains, odor, dirt and allergens with our 12-step professional treatment system. With over 15 years of experience, we’ve left a trail of thoroughly clean carpeting all over Southwest Louisiana.

Welcoming Your Bundle of

Joy to the World What a magical moment! Even after all the deliveries we’ve been part of, seeing a mother hold her newborn for the first time is awe-

inspiring. This tiny person, who has turned your world

upside down, is finally here. It’s a moment like no other, and it reinforces why we chose this field of

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All of us at OBG-1 – the physicians,

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and your family peace and joy this holiday season.

You’ll go ape when you walk inside our joint and get the royal treatment by the chicks at our counter. The service at AAA Cleaners is outta sight. We know you can spend your bread other places, but we work hard to give you the primo service you deserve. Swing by our place next time you need your threads cleaned and see for yourself. It’s groovy, man. Peace out.

622 E. Prien Lake Rd. • 477-3548 (Across from McDonalds)

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tio n

s ti

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tu te

PR O

(Across from Albertsons)

al Fabricare

December 2009

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Drips and Spills and Spots,

Oh My!

Holiday gatherings are great, but they can leave their mark – literally – on your carpet. Everything from cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie, chocolate, coffee, red wine and more can find its way onto your rugs and carpet, not to mention all the extra dirt and mud tracked in by guests.

The carpet cleaning experts at Rapid Response Restoration stress that quick action is important to prevent permanent stains. “Most carpet available today has been treated with a stain-resist treatment, so many spills can be removed if immediate action is taken,” says technician Shane Boyett “However, the longer the delay, the more difficult it will be to remove. And keep in mind that staining is influenced by many factors, and no carpet is completely stain proof.” He offers these additional tips: • Blot liquids with a dry, white, absorbent cloth or or plain, white paper towel. • Do not scrub the area! Scrubbing may cause pile distortion in the affected area. Continue to use a dry cloth or paper towels until the area is completely dry. • For semi-solids, gently scrape up with a rounded spoon. Solids should be broken up and vacuumed until completely removed. • Whenever you are not sure how to get out carpet stains, try water first. If water does not work, use a high quality cleaning solution. • Pretest any spot removal agent in an inconspicuous area to be certain the solution will not damage the fiber or the dye. After applying several drops to the testing area, hold a white cloth on the wet area for 10 seconds. Examine the carpet and cloth for color transfer, color change, or damage to the carpet. If a change occurs, another cleaning solution should be selected. • Apply a small amount of the selected cleaning solution to a white cloth and work in gently. Do not apply the cleaning solution directly to the carpet. • Work from the edges of the spill to the center to prevent the spill from spreading. Again, don’t scrub. Blot in order to absorb as much as possible, and repeat if necessary. • The procedure is to apply the cleaner, extract (blot), rinse, extract, and repeat until you can’t get out more of the stain. Always extract solvents completely, and dry the carpet quickly when you are done. If there is any stain remaining deeper down in the carpet, quick drying prevents it from wicking up to the surface.

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• Be patient. Complete removal of the spill may require repeating the same step several times. • After the spill has been completely removed, rinse the affected area thoroughly with cold water, and blot with a dry cloth until all of the solution has been removed. Some cleaning solutions will cause rapid soiling of the area if the solution is not completely removed, often leaving behind a bigger problem than the one you are trying to clean. • To ensure complete removal of all moisture, apply a one-half inch layer of white paper towels to the affected area, and weigh down with a flat, heavy object. Continue to change paper towels as until they remain dry.

Hair • Wrinkles • Scars • Birthmarks Rosacea • Spider Veins • Warts Acne Scarring • Tattoos • Brown Spots Stretch Marks • Acne • Cellulite

additional services: Laser Facial Rejuvenation Laser Photo Rejuvenation Rejuvi Skin Products SilkPeel™ Microdermabrasion Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup Revitabrite Teeth Whitening Revitalight Hand Spa

Boyett says a shop-vac can also be very useful for stain removal. “With a wet/dry vacuum cleaner you can quickly suck up spills, but more importantly, you can repeatedly flush the area with water and vac it back out. This is much more efficient than blotting with a cloth, and less likely to cause damage to the carpet.”

Bronwen Darbonne, CLT Stephen R. Cannon, MD

717 N. Eastern Ave., Crowley, LA • (337) 783-2426

HOW

If you know the brand and/or manufacturer of your carpet or rug, Boyett says many fiber manufacturers provide toll-free or website cleaning assistance and advice regarding spot cleaning. “If your attempt to remove a stain does not work, or if it seems to be making the problem worse, call a qualified, professional service,” advises Boyett. “Your carpet represents a big portion of your investment in your home; one you should take care to protect.”

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C H ATT E R • E V E R Y B O D Y ’ S T A L K I N ’ • D I D YO U H E A R T H AT ? • W O W - W H O K N E W ! • C H ATT E R • E V E R Y B O D Y ’ S T A L K I N ’ •

D I D YO U H E A R T H AT ? • W O W - W H O K N E W ! • C H ATT E R • E V E R Y B O D Y ’ S T A L K I N • D I D YO U H E A R T H AT ? • W O W - W H O

Hardesty Joins Healthy Image

Healthy Image, a Lake Charles-based marketing and public relations firm, has hired Jason Hardesty as a graphic designer. He will assist with graphic design, photography and video production. Hardesty has a bachelor’s degree in advertising design from McNeese State University. He was most recently self-employed as a freelance commercial artist and has previously been employed at Media Post and KVHP Fox 29. He has experience in graphic design, multimedia, photography, commercial production, and promotions. Healthy Image is owned by Kristy Armand, Jason Hardesty Christine Fisher and Barbara VanGossen. The agency has been in business for more than seven years and provides comprehensive marketing services including strategic planning, advertising, media relations, graphic design, creative writing, and more.

The Porch Opens on Common Street SWLA Mardi Gras Named Top Event

Shelley Johnson presents certificate to Anne Monlezun

Shelley Johnson, executive director of the Lake Charles/ Southwest Convention and Visitors Bureau, presents a certificate to Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana board member Anne Monlezun. The American Bus Association recently announced that Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana was designated as a Top 100 Event in North America for 2010 by a tourism industry selection committee.

LA Fitness Announces New Ownership

LA Fitness Health Club has announced that it is under new ownership and management effective October 2009. The 24-hour health club, located at 4324 Lake Street, currently offers water aerobics, spin and body sculpture classes in addition to cardiovascular and weight training equipment. LA Fitness is also the only facility in the area to offer an indoor heated pool, dry sauna, steam New owners, Al Prebula and Adam Veron room, whirlpool, and outdoor pool. New owners are Al Prebula, Adam Veron, Richard Baggett, Tony Perot and Jim Ingram. The acquisition of the health club will have no impact on current operations; however, several positive enhancements will be made to the facility, including renovations and the addition of new services and classes. Besides the necessary construction, the new owners plan to implement a variety of programs designed to create a balanced approach to health and wellness, resulting in a more enjoyable and less intimidating workout and fitness experience. For more information, call 478-8686 or stop by for a tour.

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The Porch Coffee House and Café has opened at 4710 Common Street. Hours are 6 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 6 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with live music every Thursday and Saturday. For more information, call 564-5769.

Creation Station Opens in Lake Charles

Creation Station, a scrapbook and craft store, has opened at 4920 Lake Street. Services include a tool room and ongoing classes in scrapbooking, cake design, card making, gift making, smocking, and cookie decorating. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more information, contact owner Paula Stevens at 474-0102, email creationstationlc@yahoo.com or visit creationstationlc.com.

City Savings Bank Announces Promotions

City Savings Bank has announced the promotions of Debi Pruitt to Branch Manager of City Savings Bank’s Main Office in DeRidder, Cade Marze to Branch Manager of City Savings Bank’s Debi Pruitt Cade Marze Countryside Branch in DeRidder, Trevor Cooley to Assistant Branch Manager of the Main Office Branch and Lending Officer and Mickey Atkinson to Assistant Manager and Lending Officer at the Countryside Branch. Pruitt has worked with City Savings Bank since 2005 as an assistant cashier of operations and recently as assistant vice president and accounting and human resource manager. Marze has worked with City Savings Bank since 2007 as assistant manager of the Main Office and recently as branch Manager of the Main Office. Cooley has worked with City Savings Bank since 2008 as assistant branch manager of the Countryside Branch. Atkinson has worked with City Savings Bank since 2008 as a lending officer at the Main Office branch. He is also a licensed Realtor and specializes in home mortgages.

central School. For more information, call 433-1611.

West Calcasieu Association of Commerce Brings Sought After Comedian to 60th Annual Banquet and Fundraiser

The West Calcasieu Association of Commerce will host their 60th Annual Banquet and Fundraiser on Thursday, December 10 at the new Holiday Inn in Sulphur on Arena Road. Entertainment will be provided by “The Cajun AmbassadorTM”, Jonathan Perry. Major sponsors of the event are Citgo Petroleum Company, Capital One Bank, Entergy, the Lousiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living, and AT&T. The 2009 Citizen of the Year Award will be presented and the WCAC will also be unveiling its new logo and Membership Campaign for 2010. Tickets for two are $100 and tables for 10 people are $500. The event is open to the public, but seating is limited. Call the WCAC office at 533-1040 member to purchase tickets.

u o y h s i W We y h t l a e H a ! s a m t s i r Ch

Tour of Sacred Spaces

The Lake Charles Symphony will present a Tour of Sacred Spaces from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 26, in downtown Lake Charles. Places of worship to be featured are the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, First United Methodist Church, and Temple Sinai. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased from the Lake Charles Symphony Office in

Addison Wins CSB Grand Prize

Mike Harmison, executive vice president with Cameron State Bank presents Doug Addison, Jr., the keys to his new boat. Addison, a native of Ragley, is the grand prize winner in Cameron State Bank’s Outdoor Adventure Giveaway. Addison won a 17-foot fishing boat, motor and trailer, as well as a Mark Harmison presents boat keys to grand prize winner, signed and numbered print by Doug Addison, Jr. Elton Louviere, and a guided fishing trip for two at Toledo Bend. The prize package is valued at approximately $20,000.

hill, c , r e v e f a t ge But if you e a nasty spill; or tak he, pain or feel ac develop anexpected strain; an un iffles, wheezes have the snoppable sneezes, and unst en visit th ters. n e C e r a C ent g r U s hout ’ c g i n u i l o r C h e Th rs t ed hou

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Rosalis and Springer Receive Certification

Renew Medical Spa Director Kristin Rosalis and co-owner Amy Springer, RN, are now certified Colorescientists. They recently attended an intensive masters level Colorescience training in Houston. Colorescience is a leading pure mineral make-up line. For more information, call 436-3840.

-2273 0 1 3 • , e Street0 • 217-7762 k a L 0 2 es: 43 71 N, Suite 1 l r a h C Lake 77 Hwy. 1 :2 ss Bluﬀ

Kristin Rosalis and Amy Springer, RN

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December 2009

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Natural Beauty Treatments by Katie McDaniel

Looking for a gift that is

perfectly fabulous, very merry, surprisingly unexpected, just the right size,

and guaranteed to generate tidings of

joy?

Then look no further.

Holiday Gift Certificates

from the Aesthetic Center are here and are sure to dazzle everyone on your list. Our gift certificates can be used for pampering facials, rejuvenating treatments, cosmetic injections, and our elite skin care and mineral make-up products. And it gets even better – for a limited time, the more you buy, the more you save!

Buy 2 and save 10%, buy 3 or more and save 20% They’ll thank you all year long! Call 310-1070 to purchase your Gift Certificate today. 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

facehealth.net 1717 Oak Park Blvd. (in The Eye Clinic) Lake Charles 58

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It seems that everyone is going green these days and switching to environmentally friendly products. In an effort to keep our planet green, Renew Medical Spa in Lake Charles, is pleased to offer Eminence Organic Skin Care Products and Spa Treatments. These products and treatments are all-natural chemical peels and facials, which are a comparable alternative to medically based treatments. Since skin is the largest organ, many consumers are now becoming more aware of the products they are exposed to in their everyday lives. According to Amy Springer, RN, co-owner of Renew Medical Spa, “If you are one of the growing population of environmentally conscious consumers, you’ll like knowing more about Eminence Organic Skin Care.” These products and treatments contain vitamins and the highest possible levels of all-natural organically farmed herbs, fruits and vegetables, all hand-selected to guarantee their highest quality. Springer believes that all products labeled “organic,” are not created equally. “When doing research for an organic product line, we were amazed at Eminence’s commitment to products labeled organic, natural and green.” Eminence’s purpose is to stay as green as possible by using recycled materials for packaging, solar and geothermal energy for green production, wind power for company offices, and hybrid vehicles for transportation. “Guidelines concerning organic manufacturing and labeling are very strict but there are other terms producers use to make their product more appealing,” says Springer. “’Green’, ‘natural,’ and ‘hormone-free’ are all terms that should not be used interchangeably with ‘organic.’” Eminence Organic Skin Care Products are not only going to clean and improve the skin, but they are also safe to release into the environment. This line of European beauty basics, which were introduced after over 40 years of extensive research, offers dramatic results as actual seeds, pulps and peels begin the regenerative and healing powers that nature produces so well. “Your skin will be left feeling radiant and rejuvenated, with an indescribable glow,” said Springer. For more information or to set up an appointment, visit Renew Medical Spa’s website at www. renewmedicalspaswla.com or contact Kristin Rosalis, Medical Esthetician at Renew Medical Spa at (337) 436-3840. December 2009

December 2009

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Merry

Makeovers Ahh, the holiday season. Time for family gatherings, dinner with friends, office parties and New Year celebrations. You want to look your best, but with everything else you have to do during the hectic holiday rush, who has time to shop or get a new hairstyle? Well, you may not need to. We’ve asked area style experts to share some of their best tricks of the trade for kicking your regular look up a few notches so you’re ready for all the holiday festivities ahead.

Holiday Wardrobe

What would the holidays be without parties? Wardrobe consultant Whitney Manns provides some examples of how you can add fashionable versatility to your wardrobe during the holiday party season without breaking your budget. Go from casual to party-ready in a flash with the right accessories. Casual basic jeans and black top are transformed into a fun party outfit by adding a trendy ruffled satin top, chunky bronze beaded necklace and black clutch.

Holiday Hair

One of the quickest ways to change your look is to change your hairstyle, and it doesn’t have to be complicated. Stylists with Signatures Salon in Lake Charles provided some quick tips for achieving party-ready hair without a lot of fuss.

When there’s no time to go home between work and a party, you can plan ahead and take business attire straight to a holiday party. Wearing a two piece business suit and adding a fun satin cami underneath will allow you to pull off the suit jacket, add a strand of pearls and throw on your cute winter coat.

Smooth and sleek are always in style. This look starts with a rich base color topped with fresh, warm highlights. A round brush was used during blow drying to smooth and add volume at the crown. For additional height, hair was teased in the crown area, before being smoothed into shape around the face with a flatiron.

Long, razored layers with full bangs provided the foundation for this style, which was blow-dried with a medium round brush to add extra body to the ends, followed by a flat iron to accentuate natural waves and add movement. Pewter shimmery shadow, which is hot this holiday season, is shown here, along with black liner for definition. Rose and gold gloss on the lips completed the look. Here’s how you can go from serious to party-ready with just a few, quick changes. A basic black pencil skirt with a button up top is transformed by swapping the shirt for a popular cami and cardigan. Piling on the pearls helps make day wear more elegant for evening. Trade the boots for pumps with black tights for one of the season’s trendiest looks. Remember, when wearing pearls as accessories, only wear two pieces, not all three: either a necklace and bracelet and diamond studs or pearl studs, pearl necklace and silver bangles.

You can go from flat to fabulous by using medium and small round brushes while blow drying to smooth hair into a slight curl around the face. Sweep bangs to the side and secure with bobby pins. A vintage hair pin added style to this finished look, along with rose-colored cheeks and lips, and brown liner and shadow to define bright, blue eyes. Holiday Hair Credits: Styling products: Bumble and bumble Hair : stylists at Signatures Salon Make-up artist: Heather Babineaux 60 42

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Wardrobe Credits: Whitney Manns, wardrobe consultant Hair, make-up, and photoshoot location: Salon Lindsay Jewelry: Silpada from Ellen Carter, Stella and Dot from Nicole Arabie Thrive Thrive Magazine Magazinefor forBetter BetterLiving Living

December December2009 2009

December December 2009 2009

Thrive Thrive Magazine Magazinefor forBetter BetterLiving Living

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61 43

Galmore Receives Certification

Broken Bone? We Can Set You Straight.

Tomika Galmore, a hyperbaric technologist with the Wound Healing Center of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, recently completed the National Board of Diving and Hyperbaric Medical Technology’s certification process for hyperbaric technology. Over the years, the certification has become increasingly sought by healthcare professionals working with hyperbaric oxygen. Courses required to gain certification address the fundamentals of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, its benefits Tomika Galmore as well as possible side effects and complications. Before joining the Wound Healing Center at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital in July 2008, Galmore worked as an Emergency Medical Technician at WCCH for 1 ½ years. To maintain the certification, Galmore must complete a minimum of 12 education credits every two years, with a number of credits specific to undersea, hyperbaric or aviation medicine.

If you or a loved one has a broken bone, the last thing you need is a long wait.

With Fracture Express, the waiting is OVER. Fracture Express at Center for Orthopaedics provides immediate appointments for broken bones, and your fracture will be assessed and cared for by an experienced orthopaedic specialist. After all, taking care of bones is what we do best, giving you the added reassurance of knowing access to the expertise and resources of the region’s largest, independent musculoskeletal group is within arm’s reach. Patient-focused care for broken bones. It’s about time. Give us a call anytime you have a break: 721-7236

Moss Bluff Urgent Care Lab Earns Accreditation

The medical laboratory at Moss Bluff Urgent Care, a service of Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic, recently completed an inspection by COLA (Commission on Office Laboratory Accreditation) and was awarded accreditation. The inspection

includes a review of personnel qualifications, facility management, specimen and test controls, quality control and quality assurance measures. Accreditation is also based on standards for day-to-day operations that demonstrate continued accuracy of proficiency testing. Moss Bluff Urgent Care opened in January of this year and is located at 277 Hwy. 171 N., Suite 10. Walk-in care for illnesses and minor injuries is provided.

United Home Care Receives Awards

United Home Health Care has been named to the 2009 HomeCare Elite, a compilation of the top-performing home health agencies in the United States. The annual review identifies the top 25 percent of agencies and further highlights the top 100 and top 500 agencies overall. Winners are ranked by an analysis of performance measures in quality outcomes, quality improvement and financial performance. The 2009 HomeCare Elite is the only performance recognition of its kind in the industry. Earlier in the year United Home Care also received a Platinum 2008 Louisiana Home Health Agency Quality Award presented by Louisiana Health Care Review Inc., the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization for Louisiana. The award is presented to home health agencies that achieve defined levels of health care quality improvement. Louisiana Home Health Quality Awards were given for excellent performance and improvement in Acute Care Hospitalization and other outcomes.

St. Pat’s Named Consumer Choice

National Research Corporation (NRC), in its Healthcare Market Guide Ticker® study, has named CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital as Lake Charles’ Most Preferred Hospital for overall quality and image. In addition Lake Charles named CHRISTUS St. Patrick as having the best doctors and the best nurses. The Ticker® study is widely known as the nation’s most comprehensive consumer assessment of the health care industry. NRC polled more than 250,000 consumers to determine which hospitals would join the ranks of the 2009/2010 Consumer Choice Award winners. The list of the 2009/2010 Consumer Choice Award winners was published in the Oct. 12, 2009, edition of Modern Healthcare.

Boudreaux Earns Clinical Densitometry Certification

Staci Boudreaux, PA-C, Coordinator for Bone Health Central at Center for Orthopaedics, has received has received certification as a Clinical Densitometrist from the International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD). In order to earn this recognition, Boudreaux was required to pass a rigorous exam on bone density testing for osteoporosis. Certification in bone densitometry is a demonstration of proficiency and is a requirement for Staci Boudreaux, PA-C some insurance companies and HMOs. ISCD is a nonprofit professional society of over 4,000 clinician and technologists members from more than 40 countries. Bone Health Central is a new program designed to provide prevention, diagnosis and treatment services for bone health conditions such as osteoporosis, osteopenia, and osteomalacia, as well as identifying potential underlying causes. In addition to her new CCD certification, Boudreaux is also certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants and licensed by the state of Louisiana as a Physician Assistant. For more information or to schedule an assessment at Bone Health Central, call 721-7270.

Brighton Bridge wishes you a

Merry Christmas & Happy Holiday Season!

Nouriche Opens Med Spa Practice

1747 Imperial Blvd., Lake Charles 337-721-7236 • www.centerforortho.com 62

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Nouriche Wellness & Medical Aesthetics has opened a practice at 605 Silverstone Road in Lafayette’s River Ranch district. Nouriche has developed a comprehensive approach to aesthetic medicine, integrating cosmetic dermatology, laser surgery, spa treatments and preventative medicine to provide clients with holistic solutions to improve their appearance and reduce the signs of aging. In addition to a medical practice that offers traditional internal medicine services, Nouriche also offers nutritional consultations, traditional spa procedures, and a laser center for laser and chemical peels. The aesthetic center also provides body contouring services, such as Body Jet Lipo, Suture Sustension Lifts, and SkinTyte. In all, the center offers more than 25 procedures in spa, weight loss, body contouring, medicine and laser services. For more information, call (337) 456-7300.

H1N1 Vaccines Available

The H1N1 vaccine is now available at the Lakeside Wellness Medical Clinic at 1908 Maplewood Drive, Suite B, in Sulphur. Hours of operation are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Thrive Magazine for Better Living

December 2009

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www.brightonbridge.com December 2009

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The Fuquas: A Professional Union Get your holiday pies, cakes, candy & treats here.

by Erin K. Cormier

337-437-9884

Most married couples rely on text messages, cell phones and sticky notes to remind each other of the kids’ dance recitals, schoolrelated functions, and other spousal duties, but for Drs. Kelly and Jason Fuqua, all it takes is a quick reminder when they pass each other in the halls of their clinic.

2711 Hodges Street • Lake Charles

“A lot of people tell me that they would never want to work in the same field as their spouse, much less work with them, but it works for us. Even in college we would get the same summer jobs. We work very well together,” said Kelly, a native of Sulphur.“I don’t think we would have it any other way.” The Fuquas’ practice, Calcasieu Family Physicians, is the result of a dual lifelong dream to work in medicine. When the couple met, Kelly was a junior in high school with plans on becoming a pediatrician. Jason, a freshman at McNeese, was considering a career in pharmacy. Eventually, however, their career tracks aligned. Halfway through his undergraduate program, Jason toyed with the idea of becoming a family medicine physician. Kelly decided on family medicine after a couple years at LSU-New Orleans, where both of them attended medical school. The Fuquas married six months after Jason’s graduation from McNeese. Their first daughter, Taylor, was born while they were in med school and their second, Audrey, came along while they were in residency. Although the family enjoyed their time in New Orleans, they always planned to come back home. “This is home for us. It’s just the right size, city-wise, and the pace is comfortable,” Kelly said.“At first we thought it would be too overwhelming to have a solo practice, but pretty soon we realized that we wanted to be involved in all aspects of the clinic and patient care.” According to Jason, the partnership has proven to be beneficial not only for their family, but for their patients.

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Nice? Naughty or

“There are many different ways to treat the same thing, and there isn’t necessarily one way that’s better than the other. I know how Kelly treats her patients, and she knows how I treat mine. If she’s out sick, I know exactly what she would want to do for her patients, and she knows what to do for mine,” Jason said.

Kelly Fuqua, MD

The Perfect Gift for someone you love!

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“Every person that comes to a physician is looking for something different in their interaction,” she said.

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Working together also allows them to bounce ideas off each other and seek advice when needed. Once they leave the clinic they have a “no shop talk” rule, but they admit that the rule often gets broken. When it does, their daughters are quick to remind them that they aren’t supposed to talk about work at home.

Wine and appetizers served 5pm–9pm.

According to Jason, the inability to separate work from home is the only challenge to sharing a practice as a married couple.

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Kelly said they each have a different approach to patient care and are able to refer patients to each other if they feel that the other physician’s approach would benefit the patient.

“If I have a bad day at work, it’s not like I can say,‘Let me just go home and unwind,’ because the clinic is home in a lot of ways,” he said. After a pause, he added,“But now that I think about it, that never happens. So I guess it’s not a challenge after all.”

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PHOTOS OF PETS, PEOPLE AND HOUSES TURNED INTO ONE-OF-A-KIND WORKS OF ART! Place orders and see work at Jon Margeaux Give a gif t cer tificate for a por trait! nancymelton.photoreflect.com Nancy Melton, 4770 E. Cypress Landing Dr., Lake Charles, L A 70605

December 2009

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Natural A

Complement to the Body’s Immune System

Modern conventional medicine battles disease directly, but true preventative health is fueled by a healthy, functioning immune system. It is the immune system that fights off disease-causing micro-organisms and engineers the healing process.

Interferon is a powerful component of the immune system that supports the system’s ability to attack cells and activate their resistance mechanisms. After Interferon was first identified in 1954, scientists genetically engineered a complement to its natural counterpart, but according to Landreneau, the man-made interferon had “devastating side effects,” including depression, fatigue, fever, muscle aches, nausea, diarrhea, skin irritation at the injection site, significant weight loss, irritability, headaches, hair loss and thyroid disease. “Clearly, a better solution is to stimulate the body to produce more interferon naturally,” said Landreneau, who promotes Nutriferon as part of his array of Shaklee nutritional products. Nutriferon is an exclusive, clinically proven, patented formula created by immunologist Dr. Yasuhiko Kohima. According to Landreneau, it increases the production of natural interferon, works on the cellular level to optimize natural immune response, and stimulates the immune system to more effectively respond to foreign invaders. For more information, contact Landreneau at the Shaklee Nutrition Center at 230-3598 or visit www.shaklee. net/patsnc.

From our Managers and Marketing Staff LHC Group would like to congratulate one of our Top 500 Agencies:

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Hamtastic

You’ve got enough to do this season without worrying about the Holiday dinner gone wrong. Let us lighten your load with a gourmetprepared delicious, juicy honey glazed ham from Honey-B Ham. Turkeys and party trays available, too. PERFECT FOR GIFTS & OFFICE PARTIES

Q: We go out to dinner from time to time with some friends who always insist on splitting the check at the end of the meal. That would be acceptable to us if we even came close to spending the same amount; however, we don’t drink and they do. They not only order cocktails but usually a bottle of wine. In addition, they sometimes order a meal to take with them for their teenage son. Is not going to dinner with them the only way to cease this inequality? A: : Try stating when the waiter arrives and introduces him/herself that it will be separate checks and indicate who is paired with whom.

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

337-462-7188 December 2009

A: Whether it is cold and flu season or not, one should always, ALWAYS cover one’s nose and mouth preferably with a tissue. If one uses one’s hands, then one should immediately wash them. Health experts also advise sneezing into the crook of your elbow in the absence of a tissue. It is rude, gross and an easy way to spread germs.

Make Your Holidays

The HomeCare Elite™ is the definitive compilation of the most successful Medicare-certified home health care providers in the U.S. This review recognizes the Top25 percent of agencies based on an analysis of quality outcomes, quality improvement, and financial performance. In addition, the HomeCare Elite Top 100 and Top 500 agencies receive special recognition.

337-479-2233

Q: How can I tactfully tell some friends of ours who insist on bringing their small children when we invite them to dinner or for a gathering of friends that their children are not included in the invitation?

Q: What is the proper way to sneeze when in the presence of others?

Southern Home Health!

From L to R: Diane Johnson, Stephanie Hyatt, Jenny Barrow, Randy Dartez, Christa Puckett, Chris Baggett, John Rudd, Patty Williamson, Robin Abshire, Jackie Hebert, Dodie Bellard

by Rose Klein

A: A friend of mine came up with the best way to handle just such a situation after it happened to her once. When she would invite a couple with children, small or not, to dinner or a party where the children were not included, she would simply extend the invitation and then say, “I hope I have given you enough time to find a sitter.” Did the trick every time! Good luck!

“A healthy immune system is the key to fighting all kinds of insults to the body, from a small scratch to the myriad of viruses we’re exposed to every day,” said retired pharmacist Pat Landreneau with the Shaklee Nutrition Center. “One way to keep our immune system healthy and strong is to boost the system’s interferon levels.”

Happy Holidays! H

506 East Prien Lake Rd. • 478-3354 December 2009

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These sites were the most popular and most visited worldwide in 2009.

How many times did you hit them up?

1 Google.com

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2 Yahoo.com

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4 Live.com

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5 Facebook.com

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6 Msn.com

7 Wikipedia.org

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8 Blogger.com

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9 Myspace.com

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10 Yahoo.co.jp

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Call Mallard Investments today to schedule a free consultation.

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May Lose Value Not a Bank Deposit

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Stacey Corbello,

Investment Executive/Wealth Consultant

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Securities and insurance products offered by UVEST Financial Services and its affiliates, member FINRA/SIPC. UVEST and Mallard Investments are independent entities. Not FDIC Insured Not Bank Guaranteed Not Guaranteed by any Government Agency

May Lose Value Not a Bank Deposit

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David Drez, Jr., M.D., a board certified orthopedic surgeon on staff at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, is co-editor of the third edition textbook “DeLee & Drez’s Orthopaedic Sports Medicine: Principles and Practice.” Published by Saunders Elsevier, Orthopaedic Sports Medicine provides expanded coverage of key topics, including arthroscopic principles, allograft tissue, complications, nutrition, pharmacology, and psychology, as well as complete updates on surgical David Drez, Jr., MD procedures from ACL reconstruction to cartilage transplantation to the latest arthroscopic shoulder techniques, including labral and rotator cuff repairs. In addition to serving as associate medical director of Memorial’s Sports Medicine, Dr. Drez is a team physician for McNeese State University’s sports program; is co-author of Orthopedic Sports Medicine, the highly acclaimed guidebook for sports medicine physicians, physical therapists and athletic trainers; and is co-editor of Operative Techniques in Sports Medicine, a concise and practical guide for medical students, residents, and clinicians at every level of practice. Dr. Drez is also a clinical professor of orthopedics at LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans and a clinical assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Drez, call Orthopaedic Specialists at (337) 494-4900. The office is located at 1717 Oak Park Boulevard, adjacent to Memorial Hospital on the third floor.

Top Docs from LCMH Named

Tyson Green, DPM, has joined the Wound Healing Center at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. Green will see patients at the center which specializes in the outpatient treatment of chronic wounds and non-responsive conditions. He also practices at the Center for Orthopaedics and is a member of the West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital medical staff. Tyson Green, DPM Green earned a degree in Podiatric Medicine from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. As part of his work with the Wound Healing Center, Green underwent specialized training and updates on new wound care therapies at the National Healing Institute at Ohio State University. A resident of Lake Charles, Green is a member of the American Podriatric Medical Association, American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, the American Diabetes Association and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes.

Drez Co-Edits Sports Medicine Textbook

www.msn.com

Mallard Investments, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cameron State Bank, is expanding to better meet the needs of our clients. We’re very proud of the new staff of Investment Executives/ Wealth Consultants. Stacey Corbello and Mike Allen offer the experience you need to assist you with all of your investment needs.

Green Joins the WCCH Wound Healing Center

Mike Allen,

Investment Executive/Wealth Consultant

December 2009

Louisiana Life magazine recently announced Louisiana’s Top Docs for 2009, which is compiled from a survey of their peers. Among those are a number of physicians on staff at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, including William R. Condos Jr., MD, who was named one of Louisiana’s top cardiologists; Alan L. LeBato, MD, Thomas E. LeBeau, MD; and Arthur W. Primeaux, who were among Louisiana’s top Family Medicine physicians; Cynthia J. Scott, who was named among Louisiana’s top gynecologists; James P. Gaharan, MD, who was named one of Louisiana’s top hematologists / oncologists; Brian D. Clements, MD, W. Gerry Hebert, MD, Susan B. Ieyoub, MD, and Peter Karam, MD, and Ronald M. Lewis Jr., MD, who were among Louisiana’s top Internal Medicine physicians; Juan M. Bossano, MD, and Chih Hao Lin, MD, who were among Louisiana’s top neonatologists; Nathan Cohen, MD, M. Alan Hinton, MD, and Dennis Walker, MD, who were among Louisiana’s top orthopedists; Stuart G. Landry, MD, Bruce M. Thompson, MD, and David R. Wallace, MD, who were among

December 2009

Louisiana’s top pediatricians; R. Craig Broussard, MD, Gary Kohler, MD, and Ben F. Thompson, III, MD, who were among Louisiana’s top pulmonologists; Charles J. Brdlik, MD, who was named one of Louisiana’s top radiologists; William C. Moss, MD, who was among Louisiana’s top surgeons; and Kevin E. Mocklin, MD, who was named one of Louisiana’s top endocrinologists. Louisiana Life utilized the services of Best Doctors, Inc. to gather ratings from a database of professionals who are highly regarded by their peers. Those professionals are in turn interviewed for their recommendations.

The Eye Clinic Introduces New Doctor

Donovan LaFleur, OD

The Eye Clinic has announced the addition of optometrist Donavon LaFleur, OD, to their staff of doctors. Originally from Ville Platte, Louisiana, Dr. LaFleur received a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology from Louisiana State University in New Orleans, and a Doctor of Optometry Degree from Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tennessee. He completed clinical externships at Bossier Family Eye Care and Steen-Hall Eye Institute in Shreveport. He then worked for three years in private

practice in Ville Platte. In addition to general optometry, Dr. LaFleur has a special interest in ocular disease management. He is licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Optometry and a member of the American Optometric Association and the Optometric Association of Louisiana. He is also a certified Medical Technologist. With the addition of Dr. LaFleur, The Eye Clinic medical staff now includes 14 doctors. Appointments can be scheduled with Dr. LaFleur by calling 478-3810 or 1-800-826-5223.

Green Presents Research at International Diabetes Conference

Foot and ankle specialist Tyson Green, DPM, with Center for Orthopaedics, was a featured presenter at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes Annual Conference in Slovenia, September 29 – October 2. This event represents the world’s largest gathering of medical professionals to examine all facets of the study of diabetes. Over 600 physicians and medical professional from around the world submitted presentation applications, and Dr. Green was one of only 52 chosen to speak. He presented research findings from one of the most extensive research projects to date evaluating diabetics’ higher incidence of healing problems after foot and ankle fractures. Dr. Green’s study was the first to look at diabetic bone health and the impact it has on the healing process for both surgical and nonsurgical fracture treatment. Dr. Green has a special interest in diabetic foot care and is available to speak to area groups on this or any other foot and ankle topic. Appointments can be scheduled with Dr. Green in the Center for Orthopaedics’ Sulphur or Lake Charles office by calling 721-7236.

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

Keep Your Wool Wearable • Enhanced Skin Rejuvenation • Laser Hair Removal • Acne Laser Treatments • Leg Vein Treatments • Skin Resurfacing “Laser Peel” Rhonda Salvador, LPN, LT 4150 Nelson Road, Building C, Suite 11 Lake Charles

337-660-1214 Fax: 337-474-0277 • rhonda2002w@aol.com

Wool is a fabric that has kept its popularity for hundreds of years. Caring for wool is a bit more time consuming than other articles of clothing you own, but when properly cared for, it can keep you warm and look great winter after winter. Most wool is labeled “dry clean only,” but may only need to be cleaned once or twice a year if appropriate home care is provided in between wearings: • Never apply make-up, hair spray, or colognes and perfumes while wearing your woolens as these things can cause stains. • Soil and dust can be removed from wool fabric by brushing lengthwise with a garment brush. • If a wool garment gets damp, hang it out of direct sunlight and brush after it is dry. • Allow wool clothing to rest at least 24 hours before repeat wearing to prolong garment life. The natural resiliency of wool fabric will allow wrinkles to fall out and the original shape to bounce back. • Use padded hangers and space wool clothing when hanging. • Wool clothing can be refreshed by hanging in a steamy bathroom. • Empty pockets when hanging woven garments and fold knit garments flat to prevent shape distortion. • Rinse stains immediately with cool water. Spot clean with water or a spot cleaning agent approved for use on wool. Blot, don’t scrub. Take garments with stubborn stains to the dry cleaner as soon as possible. • When spot cleaning, test the method on an inconspicuous area first to avoid an expensive mistake.

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Some wool garments are designed to be washable. Use an appropriate mild detergent and hand wash. Be gentle and never wring out moisture. Towel and air dry only. Place on a flat surface to dry. Using a hanger will distort the shape of the wool. When ironing wool fabric, set iron to “wool” setting, and always use steam heat when pressing. Press garment on the inside avoid surface shine, and use a pressing cloth for areas pressed on the outside. When pressing napped fabrics, place a piece of the same fabric or a thick terry cloth towel on the ironing board to prevent crushing. The cuffs, sides of a sweater or jacket where the arms touch, and around the collar are all places that can develop tiny wool fuzz balls over time. Special small battery powered devices are sold to remove these. Some people recommend using a small razor to cut the balls from the wool, but this should be left to a professional, since it is easy to cut into the wool fabric underneath. When winter is over, you should take care to store wool garments properly. Larva or insects often damage wool when it is exposed to air. Store wool sweaters in light, cloth storage bags. A cedar chest is an excellent place to store wool clothing. If you do not have space for a cedar chest, consider a cedarsided clothing bag for the closet, or fold wool clothing and place a mesh bag of cedar chips in the closed container. Some hangers are designed for wool storage with a padded section filled with cedar chips.

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December 2009

There’s No Place Like

Home for the Holidays

At Jennings American Legion Hospital, we understand the comforts of being home, not only during the holidays, but also when it comes to your healthcare. That’s why we offer a wide range of health services, including: • Emergency Medicine • Cardiology • Surgery • Labor and Delivery • Orthopedics • Respiratory Therapy • Radiology • Laboratory • Intensive Care Unit Traveling for the holidays may be necessary, but hitting the road for quality healthcare never is. With Jennings American Legion Hospital, the healing touch is right here at home.

Jennings

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Hospital

1634 Elton Rd., Jennings, LA (337) 616-7000 • www.jalh.com www.thriveswla.com

Cardiac Alert Service Brings More Rapid Life-Saving Treatment CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital and Acadian Ambulance today announced that they have introduced “Cardiac Alert” to the region. Cardiac Alert is designed to provide rapid life-saving emergency treatment for people who suffer certain heart attack. With the new technology, Acadian transports heart attack patients by ambulance directly to CHRISTUS St. Patrick. While en route, highly trained EMS paramedics connect the patient to a sophisticated 12-lead electrocardiogram and transmits a copy to the Emergency Department. Tressy Bergeron, RN, BSN, Director of the Emergency Department says that if the Emergency Department Physician determines the patient is having a heart attack, the St. Patrick heart team is alerted and they begin preparation for rapid intervention in the cardiac catheterization lab. This is done even before the patient arrives to the Emergency Department.

Cardiac Alert will help save critical time in the patient’s treatment thereby promoting healthy heart muscle and improving patient outcomes. Studies show that the ability to prepare a patient for intervention prior to arrival to the hospital decreases the amount of time the heart goes without oxygen. “Time is critical,” Dr. Turner said. “The sooner we can open a blocked artery, the better off the patient will be.” Dr. Turner said that in order for Cardiac Alert to be effective, several things need to be in place:

Sophisticated equipment, a high level of paramedic expertise, streamlined processes and advanced preparation, and a commitment to quick response from cardiologists and catheterization staff. The CHRISTUS St. Patrick heart and emergency teams already exceed national benchmarks for their ability to rapidly diagnose and treat heart attack patients. The national benchmark is less than 90 minutes, and St. Patrick on average is less than 55 minutes.

Cardiac Alert represents a change in philosophy nationwide within the medical industry. For many years the traditional standard of care for heart attack patients was to be treated with clot-busting drugs until a catheterization procedure could be scheduled. In the late 1990s, medical studies found that patients treated immediately by catheterization tend to have fewer complications, less heart damage and were less likely to suffer a related stroke. As a result of the studies, hospitals around the nation have begun to implement procedures to minimize the time it takes for heart attack patients to receive the life saving angioplasty procedure. Cardiac Alert is one of those procedures and CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital is the only facility in the Lake Charles area to offer it.

Etch Shaheen, M.D., CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital’s Emergency Department Medical Director, said “this is great news for our patients and our community. Cardiac Alert enables us to provide more timely care than would otherwise be available in our community.” Dr. Shaheen adds, “Until now, this technological advancement was unavailable to patients in Lake Charles. But through the joint efforts of CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital and Acadian Ambulance, Cardiac Alert is now a reality and should translate into better care and better outcomes. The Emergency Physicians and staff at St. Patrick Hospital are excited to be involved with the Cardiac Alert program.”

“The time it takes to diagnose and begin treatment of a heart attack is significantly reduced even more – saving precious time. And that saves heart muscle, Dr. Turner added.

“The time saved by this process could be the difference between a good outcome and a bad outcome,” Bergeron says. “We know the sooner a blockage in the heart is opened, the better the chances are for a good outcome.”

Have a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season

Jerry Romero, Vice President of Operations for Acadian Ambulance, agrees that an important benefit of Cardiac Alert is that it begins in the field where paramedics connect the patient to a 12-lead ECG. The ECG information is interpreted by the paramedic and transmitted to the Emergency Room physician who then initiates a Cardiac Alert, if appropriate. This sets off a chain of events that prepares physicians and staff to receive the patient. “The strategy is to identify the acute myocardial infarction in the field so we can alert the hospital to be ready when the ambulance arrives,” Romero said. Bergeron adds, “Now that we are able to receive the EKG prior to patient arrival, we can give the same quality heart care as always, only faster.” The standard treatment for a heart attack is angioplasty. This is performed in the Cardiac Catheterization Lab by inserting a tiny, specialized catheter that can be inflated at the point of the blockage in order to reopen the artery.

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December 2009

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A Program of Recovery for

Compulsive Overeaters There was a time when 43-year-old Lisa S. of Lake Charles would eat every available snack in her kitchen before moving onto butter and sugar, a homemade mix that she would eat by the spoonfuls. Compulsivity toward binging, overeating, and crash dieting had been part of her life for as long as she could remember. “The first time I remember overeating was when I was about five years old. There were eight kids, so my mom rationed out all our snacks. I remember finding her stash and stealing everyone else’s food,” Lisa said. “From that point on, I engaged in very compulsive eating behaviors and developed an obsession with food.” Most days, she would wake up thinking about food and go to sleep thinking about it, with little relief in between. She struggled with the urge to eat versus

the knowledge that she shouldn’t, and that struggle dominated her thoughts until she finally gave in, only to see the cycle repeat itself the next day. Her obsession with food wasn’t physically apparent – at least not right away. As a youngster, she controlled her weight by crash dieting. She soon became skilled at dropping up to fifty pounds in a short period of time, only to gain it back just as quickly. “I always knew I could lose the weight and go right back to eating the way I was before, but being on a diet eventually became unbearable. It caused me so much anxiety that I never felt at peace. Pretty soon I couldn’t even stay on a diet for one day, so I decided that instead of being skinny and miserable, I’d be fat and happy,” Lisa said. She gave up dieting and gained weight quickly. At 230 pounds, she realized that she was far from “fat

Are You a Compulsive Overeater? and happy.” In fact, she was more miserable than ever – until she heard about gastric bypass surgery. She underwent the procedure at 37, convinced it would solve all her problems. Not only would she lose the weight, the drastically reduced size of her stomach would prevent her from being able to overeat. In her mind, the problem was solved. She lost 100 pounds within six months. The surgery made her insensitive to sugar, so she assumed that her bingeing days were over, since most of her binges centered on things like cheesecake, Oreos, and her homemade butter and sugar mix. “I was wrong,” Lisa said. “All I did was change the things I binged on. Instead of cheesecake, it was Cheetos. Instead of Oreos, it was vanilla wafers.” Because of the gastric bypass surgery, however, her stomach was no longer suited for such large servings. But rather than follow post-surgery guidelines, Lisa, a registered nurse, decided to work around the limitations – she’d plan binges late in the day and swallow a pain pill before starting. Not only was Lisa still bingeing, she was also compulsively overeating. As a home health nurse, she spent a lot of time on the road, stopping for food between all her patient visits. Three years after the surgery, the weight crept back and she was falling toward rockbottom. “I felt hopeless,” she said. “I’d heard about Overeaters Anonymous, but I was convinced that they could never help me. But I figured, why not? I had nowhere else to go.” For Lisa, it was the beginning of a new life. OA, which is modeled after the twelve-step program originated by Alcoholics Anonymous, is a program of recovery that focuses on physical, emotional and spiritual well-being, rather than weight loss or weight maintenance. OA charges no dues or fees.

Welcome to Overeaters Anonymous. This series of questions may help you determine if you are a compulsive eater.

1. Do you eat when you’re not hungry? 2. Do you go on eating binges for no apparent reason? 3. Do you have feelings of guilt and remorse after overeating? 4. Do you give too much time and thought to food? 5. Do you look forward with pleasure and anticipation to the time when you can eat alone? 6. Do you plan these secret binges ahead of time? 7. Do you eat sensibly before others and make up for it alone? 8. Is your weight affecting the way you live your life? 9. Have you tried to diet for a week (or longer), only to fall short of your goal? 10. Do you resent others telling you to “use a little willpower” to stop overeating? 11. Despite evidence to the contrary, have you continued to assert that you can diet “on your own” whenever you wish? 12. Do you crave to eat at a definite time, day or night, other than mealtime? 13. Do you eat to escape from worries or trouble? 14. Have you ever been treated for obesity or a foodrelated condition? 15. Does your eating behavior make you or others unhappy?

“It’s amazing to be able to talk to people who understand exactly where you’re coming from. When I tell people I used to mix butter and sugar together and eat it, most people make a face and say, ‘Ew, gross,’ but when I tell people in OA, they just nod and understand. There are people who have eaten food out of the trash and mayonnaise out of the jar,” Lisa said. “They understand the compulsion and obsession with food.” Lisa discovered that her issues with food had nothing to do with weight loss and dieting – it was a “life problem.”“There was an emptiness in my soul and rather than deal with it in a healthy way, I tried to fill it with something, and that something was food,” Lisa said. “All of us have some emptiness in our souls that we try to fill in different ways. For some, it’s drugs and alcohol. For others, it’s something healthy. For me, it was this.” Instead of trying to control what she ate, she worked on the obsession of her mind. The twelve steps gave relief from her compulsion; she discovered that the more she threw her energy toward helping others through OA, the less food thoughts she had. For the most part, she now has her compulsions under some control. “My husband put a piece of cake in the fridge earlier today. There was a time when I wouldn’t be able to hold a conversation or keep a thought in my head because I would be obsessed with that cake,” Lisa said. “But I haven’t even thought about it until now. As a matter of fact, I’m not even sure it’s still there. He may have eaten it.” The holidays can be particularly difficult for those who suffer from compulsive overeating, according to Overeaters Anonymous. For more information about the local chapter, call 475-4466. Editor’s Note: Overeaters Anonymous insists on anonymity for its members. Therefore, Lisa’s last name has been withheld.

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by Erin K. Cormier

December 2009

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We’ve Got Lots of Great Holiday Gift Ideas! by Katie McDaniel

bareMinerals Get Started Eyes $49.00

Paul Mitchell Duos $14.95

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During the holiday season, family traditions are a great way to keep family and friends bonded. Traditions can also help shape future memories that will continue to be passed down every year. We decided to ask five of our local readers to tell us:

“What holiday traditions do you hold near and dear?”

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Heather Hidalgo-LaFleur

Pam McGough

“My favorite holiday tradition, other than getting together with family, is when my husband and I ride around town looking at Christmas lights and listening to Christmas music,” says Heather Hidalgo-LaFleur. “It’s a great night with no stress. We get comfortable, drive around Lake Charles and talk. I also love sending Christmas cards, and already have them addressed to mail after Thanksgiving!”

Pam McGough’s favorite holiday tradition is spending time with her family. “I love to be around my dad, siblings, nieces and nephews, especially when it is time to open presents on Christmas day. Watching the joy on their faces is fun and usually entertaining. I am blessed to have such a wonderful and loving family to share this time with each year.”

Patricia Lowry

Kristine Alcantara-Duplechin Being with loved ones is Patricia Lowry’s favorite holiday tradition. “The day after Thanksgiving, I decorate the Christmas tree with my boys while listening to Christmas music and sipping egg nog.”

Mary Beth Conner

“My favorite holiday tradition is actually a new one that my family instated last year,” says Kristine Alcantara-Duplechin. “On Thanksgiving, we line up all seven of my parents’ grandchildren to pick out of a bucket of all their names. The cousin they choose will be who they buy a big Christmas gift for. On Christmas Eve, we all go to Church and then to my parent’s house for dinner, where we all exchange gifts. Not only is this a fun game for the kids to play, but it’s also a great money saver for my siblings and me.”

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40,000 readers!

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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

“Every year, right after we finish decorating for Christmas, my two kids (who are now 22 and 20) look at me and say, “So where’s our nutcrackers for this year?” We now have so many nutcrackers that we have to place them on the floor, shelves, and mantle, and not one of them is the same,” says Mary Beth Conner. “I also have a snowball collection, which my husband adds to every year. All of these are displayed and have become a focal point for our decorations.” 76

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

December 2009

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Imperial Calcasieu Surgical Center

Awarded Joint Commission Accreditation

Unlike hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers are not required to participate in the Joint Commission review process. According to Alan Lacoste, MD, member of the Board of Directors for the Center, Imperial Calcasieu Surgical Center voluntarily sought this independent evaluation of their compliance with national performance standards as part of their mission of providing patients with surgical care that meets the highest possible standards of medical excellence, safety, and comfort. “Our goal is to be the best, and we view this achievement as validation of the high level of quality care we are providing to our patients.” The Joint Commission’s accreditation standards address the ambulatory care organization’s performance in specific areas, including environment of care, emergency management, infection prevention and control, information management, leadership, medication management and performance improvement, among others. Joint Commission-accredited ambulatory surgical centers can also request “deemed status” in order to be eligible to participate in the Medicare program, which is what Imperial Calcasieu Surgical Center did and earned. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) officially recognize the Joint Commission’s Ambulatory Care “deemed status” accreditation requirements for surgical centers. Imperial Calcasieu Surgical Center is the only Joint-Commissionaccredited surgery center in the region, and one of only a handful in the state of Louisiana. “I am very proud of our staff. It is their hard work and commitment to our goals that enabled us to achieve this recognition so soon after opening,” said Center Administrator, Beverly Kirchner, RN, BSN, CNOR, CASC.

We’ll Give you one More Reason to Smile this Holiday Season We offer orthondontic options that provide: increased comfort advanced technology faster results And braces aren’t just for kids. With the wide range of convenient orthodontic options available, more and more adults are able to have the smile they’ve always wanted. The end of the year is a great time to begin orthodontic treatment, allowing you to take advantage of flexible benefit account deadlines as well as annual insurance deductibles that have been met. We also offer affordable, convenient payment plans to fit any budget. Remember, A healthy, beautiful smile is one of the most important investments you can make.

The free-standing Surgical Center is owned by a group of community surgeons and opened in August. The facility features six surgical suites, two minor procedure rooms, state-of-the-art surgical equipment, integrated technology, electronic medical records, and a wide variety of waiting area amenities. Surgical services are provided for patients of all ages, and surgical specialties available include cosmetic, ENT, ophthalmology, orthopaedics, pain management, podiatry and spine. Imperial Calcasieu Surgical Center is located at 1757 Imperial Blvd. in Lake Charles. The phone number is 310-2832.

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(That You Can Use All Year Long)! I think I’ve finally convinced the people closest to me

that I don’t want Christmas presents this year. I have enough stuff. And if I want more stuff, I’ll go get it. So this year, I’m going for different types of gifts. Gifts you can’t hold, but gifts that will impact your life. Gifts that don’t cost anything, but can enrich your journey. The gifts I will share with you today are a result of working with some wonderful people over the last several months. This past year, I have found myself in a pattern of saying certain things over and over – because they were appropriate for so many of my clients. Then I found myself saying those same things to my friends. Then I realized I was using them on a personal level. Here are the 3 gifts I want to share with you: You teach people how to treat you. Really, you do. You are constantly sending messages to others about what you will and will not tolerate. Don’t ever wonder why people are treating you certain ways. You “taught” them it was okay. Here’s the deal: a certain portion of the human population will take advantage of situations when allowed. Yes, it would be nice if everyone could just be ethical and get along, but that’s not the way the world works. There are those among us who are only interested in themselves and getting whatever they can. And, when you teach them that you will not be the source of whatever it is they are looking for, they will quickly move on to their next victim.

certain levels we already have the answer. We just need to have the supportive environment to go through the process. “How are you going to handle that?” This goes hand-in-hand with the previous point. When you are listening to someone supportively, and it appears they want something more from you, use the above question. Again, the goal is to allow others to solve their own problems. Here are some other versions: • “Wow, this is difficult. What would you like to see happen?” • “What do you think you need to do about this?” • “What are you thinking you’d like to do about this?” • “What do you think your next step is?” I’ve honestly never asked those questions without the person having at least some idea of an answer. The benefit of this is two-fold: It keeps you out of the “rescue everyone and fix everything” game, and it helps others learn to think for themselves. It’s a win-win! These gifts are truly secrets, because so many people have never heard of them or have never thought about them. Use the gifts wisely – no need to go around sharing them willy-nilly. Just start incorporating them into your own life, and others will pick up on the difference. When someone asks why you are so calm, cool and collected, you will know they are ready for the gifts. Have a wonderful, mentally healthy holiday season!

If you don’t like being yelled at, say so to the person who is doing the yelling. If you feel taken advantage of, say so to the person you feel is taking advantage of you. If addressing things directly does not do the trick, begin to remove yourself from that person’s life. (And remember, just because you are related to a person does not mean you are stuck – you can still control where and when you see them.) “Wow, really.” My next gift is the gift of not having to have all the answers. The next time someone brings a problem to you, try just listening. You can empathize (recognize how difficult this must be for them), but you don’t have to fix it. Very often, what the person really needs is to process whatever is going on. Verbal cues (“wow,” “really,” “this is difficult”) show them you are interested, but you are not going to jump in and make “it” go away. This is particularly important if you have children. When siblings are arguing, resist the urge to get in there and sort it out. Let them sort it out themselves. And when one comes to tell you about it, just listen. Don’t give advice, and don’t say, “You go tell him that I said to stop it right now.” (If you really need to step in, then get up and go step in. Don’t give one child your authority – I promise they won’t use it wisely.) I’m amazed at the number of times people have solved their own problems once they are allowed to talk themselves through it. So many times in life we know what we “should” do, and on

(337) 478-7590 701 West College Street, Lake Charles www.drcrawfordorthodontics.com 78

Holiday Gifts for You

Imperial Calcasieu Surgical Center has achieved accreditation from the Joint Commission, signifying demonstrated compliance with the Joint Commission’s nationally recognized health care standards.

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December 2009

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n w o t n w o D o t n w o D t Ge Dec 2-5

Dec 10th ustin) @ Luna -David Newbould (A Bar & Grill, 9pm Dec 11th r Karma and In -Five Star Fiasco, Fo Bar & Grill, Red Letters @ Luna 10pm @ AJ’s Bar & -Colorcast Veteran Grill, 9:30pm Dec 12th r & Grill, -Kill Icarus @ AJ’s Ba 9:30pm rt Theatre, -Rudolph @ Rosa Ha nter, 6pm c Lake Charles Civi Ce

Dec 19th erly Better Off -ELLEohELLE (form @ AJ’s Bar & Dead) and Starluck Grill, 9:30pm Oblige, 9am-Brunch @ Nobless 1pm obless Oblige, -Music & Poetry @ N 6pm

Dec 2nd-Jan 9th Contemporary -The Light Fantastic aveling (tr Irish Stained Glass oric City st exhibition) @ The Hi nter, M-F Ce l Hall Arts & Cultura -2pm 10am-5pm; Sat 10am Dec 3rd on Rouge) @ Dec 20th-Jan 9th ntemporary -Dash Rip Rock (Bat Co m -The Light Fantastic aveling Luna Bar & Grill, 9p (tr s Irish Stained Glas Dec 4th e Th storic City ed Hi pe e ds exhibition) @ Th -Barisal Guns & Go pm 10 nter, M-F , ill Ce l Gr ra & ts & Cultu Ar ll Ha Jackal @ Luna Bar -2pm & Grill, 9:30pm 10am-5pm; Sat 10am -The 94’s @ AJ’s Bar Dec 26th Dec 5th as tm ris Ch Luna Bar & a an isi ou t L es w -Research Turtles @ -South th 13 e Dec ak e L Th Fantastic Grill, 10pm Lighting Festival @ id @ -Jan 9th-The Light m 2p , er nt d Ce ne c ai vi Whiplash and In Liqu St Ci s ey sh le dl Iri ni ry -S Char ra po em nt Co @ James @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10pm -Santa’s Workshop aveling exhibition) (tr s as Gl 00 (9 m ll Arts & E. Sudduth Coliseu pm The Historic City Ha am-5pm; -8 m 5p .), Dr e 10 or -F sh M Lake Cultural Center, Bar & Grill, na Lu @ e or m & ’s -The 94 Sat 10am-2pm vic Center Ci @ il ig 10pm V ht ig el dl -Can @ AJ’s Bar & Dec 27th-Jan 9th ntemporary -Dead Earth Politics raband Room nt Co Co and -The Light Fantastic aveling Grill, 9:30pm ival of Nine Lessons st Fe -A (tr e, s ig as n bl Gl tio O e Concep Irish Stained -Brunch @ Nobless Carols @ Immaculat lbo St. storic City Hi e Th @ Bi hibition) 35 ex (9 ch 9am-1pm ur Ch ic ol th Ca l Center, M-F Hall Arts & Cultura -2pm Dec 17th am-5pm; Sat 10am e 10 or m & Us ith W -Come On And Go 9pm Dec 31st @ Luna Bar & Grill, Luna Bar & e, ig bl O Dec 6th ss le er Plains & more @ ob ap N -P @ ic us tic M as & r nt ne Fa -Din -Jan 9th-The Light Grill, 9pm Stained sh Iri 6pm-9pm ry ra po em nt Co bition) @ Glass (traveling exhi ts & Dec 18th y & The Ar ll Ha ty Ci ic or ether, Parallel The Sk ill, st Hi iw e er Th -M ; Bar & Gr 10am-5pm Silent Planet @ AJ’s Cultural Center, M-F 8pm Sat 10am-2pm Cutting @ Anniversary Ribbon st -1 h 9t Dec m essons and Nobless Oblige, 3p -A Festival of Nine L e Conception Carols @ Immaculat lbo St.) Bi Catholic Church (935

Experience the Good life! DECEMBER EVENTS December 5

Brunch at Nobless Oblige

December 17

Dinner & Music

December 18

1st Anniversary Ribbon Cutting

December 19

Brunch at Nobless Oblige

December 19

Music & Poetry

9:00am–1:00pm

6:00pm–9:00pm 3:00pm

Tea House & Catering OPEN FOR LUNCH

9:00am–1:00pm

Doors open at 6:00pm

10:00 am–4:30 pm

316 Iris Street • Lake Charles, LA • 337-433-8094 • www.noblessobligeteas.com

Dec 20-26

Dec 27-Jan 2

Looking to add Dec 6-12 some culture into your life this Winter? Head downtown for these exciting events!

719 RYAN STREET • DOWNTOWN – LAKE CHARLES

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

(337) 494-LUNA E V E N T S

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4

It’s never too late for a second opinion

The 94’s@9:30pm

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 Dead Earth Politics@9:30pm

The ﬁnancial advice you’ll receive comes with: • Personalized ﬁnancial strategies with a broad range of investment choices

Colorcast Veteran@9:30pm

TUESDAY

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12

2 for 1 wells & domestic pints all day

WEDNESDAY

• Support from a talented force of market analysts, investment planning specialists and portfolio managers

$3 Jager bombs & $3 import draft pints 9pm-12am LADIES NIGHT 3 free drinks (well, draft, or wine) 9pm-12am

FRIDAY and SATURDAY – LIVE MUSIC One Lakeshore Dr. Suite 1500 Lake Charles, LA 70629 337-439-9081

SERVING LUNCH – Monday-Friday 11am-2:30pm DINNER – Monday-Friday 5pm-9pm Glenn R. Granger Vice President-Investment Oﬃcer glenn.granger@wfadvisors.com www.wfadvisors.com/glenn.granger

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11

MONDAY

1/2 price domestic pitchers 9pm-midnight

• A Financial Advisor who takes the time to listen and understand your individual needs

Dustin Granger, CFP® Financial Advisor dustin.granger@wfadvisors.com www.wfadvisors.com/dustin.granger

schedules to danielle@ nd ba or t en ev wn to wn do nd se e as To be included in this calendar, ple part by the LakeCharles.com community calendar. thriveswla.com. Sponsored in www.thriveswla.com

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.

Dec 13-19

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

Catering Now Available. Call us today for AJ’s Venue pricing!

Kill Icarus@9:30pm

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18 Meriwether, Parallel The Sky & The Silent Planet@8pm

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 ELLEohELLE (formerly Better Off Dead) and Starluck@9:30pm

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26 Snidley Whiplash and In Liquid@10pm

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

December 2009

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SHAKLEE IS COMMITTED TO

Baby’s Holiday Travel and Safe Sleep Checklist

PREVENTION!

Many families have to consider travel needs in addition to preparing for shopping, cooking and entertaining during the holidays. While the holiday season is often synonymous with chaos and frenzy, it is important to remain focused when considering the needs of a baby, especially when traveling.

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Nutritional Consultant with 40 years professional health care experience

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Creating a safe sleep environment is the first step toward reducing accidental suffocation and infant deaths related to unsafe sleep practices. Creating a safe sleep environment can be as easy as ensuring that a baby has a firm place to rest, in a crib or portable crib. Also, there should be no items such as stuffed animals, blankets, or pillows inside the sleeping area. At no time should a baby share the bed with another infant or even the mother. It is recommended that the baby’s crib be in the same room as the parents.

Safe Sleep Checklist for Baby:

• Crib, portable crib, or bassinet (great for travel) • Sleep Sack (if traveling to a cold environment, but be careful not to over-bundle) • Pacifiers to use during nap and sleep time • Try to keep the baby away from smoke or smokers “Infant deaths related to unsafe sleeping environments are preventable,” says Dr. Hosea Doucet, Louisiana State SIDS Medical Director, “Our goal is to reduce infant sleep deaths through educating parents and anyone who may have day-to-day contact with infants.”

Take a Good Look at our

The Greenest Treatment in Town!

New Doctor

Buy a gift card for an organic microdermabrasion, organic facial, organic chemical peel or massage and receive one for yourself at half price!

Donavon LaFleur, OD The Eye Clinic proudly welcomes optometrist Donavon LaFleur, OD, as the newest addition to our staff. Dr. LaFleur is originally from Ville Platte, Louisiana, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology from Louisiana State University in New Orleans. He received his Doctor of Optometry Degree from Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tennessee. He completed clinical externships at Bossier Family Eye Care and Steen-Hall Eye Institute in Shreveport. He then worked for three years in private practice in Ville Platte.

The Eye Clinic offers the region’s most comprehensive family eye care, with 4 locations, 14 doctors and a 50 -year history of excellence. Appointments can be scheduled with Dr. LaFleur by calling 478-3810 or 1-800-826-5223. 82

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December 2009

601 Dr. Michael DeBakey Drive | Lake Charles, LA 70601 | 337-436-3840 December 2009

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skill

Strong Medicine

experience

Just got stronger.

sports injuries & rehabilitation Memorial Hospital is changing the face of sports medicine in southwest Louisiana. We’re raising the bar with cutting-edge techniques that go between the muscles, tendons and ligaments rather than cutting through them. Tiny cameras and surgical instruments are inserted via one or two incisions, minimizing trauma and prolonging an athlete’s career by preventing injuries, decreasing healing time, reducing pain and shortening rehabilitation.

Less Injuries • Healthier Athletes • Longer Careers Memorial's Sports Medicine Medical Director Brett Cascio, MD, orthopedic surgeon and regional expert on hip arthroscopy, is fellowship-trained in sports medicine and has served as assistant professor of orthopedics and sports medicine at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. His experience also includes physician for collegiate and professional football and baseball teams, and the U.S. ski team. Associate Medical Director David Drez, MD, orthopedic surgeon and Memorial's Sports Medicine Medical Director for the past 27 years, is nationally recognized as the author of the guidebook for sports medicine physicians, physical therapists and athletic trainers and the pioneer for sports medicine in southwest Louisiana.

technology

knowledge

Working alongside these sports medicine experts are orthopedic specialists, athletic trainers, physical therapists and coaches who play an integral role in the careers of some of our area’s top athletes, both amateur and professional.

www.lcmh.com/sports-medicine

We are Sports Medicine. We are Memorial. We are the official sports medicine provider for McNeese State Athletics and 22 area high schools.

George Ange Athletic Trainer

John Boudreaux Athletic Trainer

Stephanie Boudreaux Athletic Trainer

Jim Murphy, PT, ATC Sports Medicine Athletic Trainer & Director

Dr. Brett Cascio Sports Medicine Medical Director

Dr. David Drez Sports Medicine Associate Medical Director

Malia Garza Athletic Trainer

Jamey Rasberry Athletic Trainer

Jason Rodriguez Athletic Trainer

bone & joint • hand & shoulder • knee, hipThrive & ankle • back • sports injury • physical rehabilitation www.thriveswla.com Magazine for Better Living December 2009