Thrive February 2016 Issue

FEBRUARY 2016

SINGLE LIFE

THE GOOD, THE BAD, & THE MISUNDERSTOOD SWLA

Restaurant Guide p12

February 2016

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

HOME SHOW

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Rehabilitation Hospital

of Jennings

DIAgNOSeS THAT we TReAT

• Brain Injury

• Hip Fractures

• Strokes

• Osteoarthritis/DJD

• Amputations

• Neurological Disorders

• Burns

• Spinal Cord Injury

• Major Multiple Trauma

• Congenital Deformities

• Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Systemic Vasculidities

• Joint Replacements

Others who can benefit from inpatient rehabilitation are postoperative patients, accident victims and cancer patients.

24 Hour Nursing Care • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy • Nutritional Counseling and Monitoring Case Management Call for a free assessment today.

One Hospital Drive, Ste. 101 • Jennings, LA 70546 • Phone: (337) 821-5353 • Fax: (337) 821-5355 or 5366 jenningsrehab@yahoo.com • www.jenningsrehab.com 2 www.thriveswla.com

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February 2016

WE’VE

RAISED THE BAR

IN CARDIAC CARE

CHRISTUS St. Patrick Regional Heart Center and Imperial Health are proud to announce that our two highly respected organizations have chosen to join together to ensure our community receives the highest level of comprehensive cardiac care.

We’ve raised the bar so that you can have the utmost confidence placing your heart in our hands, right here at home.

ADVANCED HEART CARE CLOSE TO HOME

PREDICT YOUR

10-YEAR RISK FOR A HEART ATTACK IN MINUTES Cardiac CT scanning is a noninvasive scan of your heart that detects calcium in the walls of arteries which is a leading indicator of heart disease.

By determining your calcium score, this heart scan can diagnose coronary artery disease with astounding accuracy, so that you can take the necessary steps toward preventing a heart attack, living a healthier life and having peace of mind.

Call 888-996-4862 to schedule your heart scan today for just $75 – it could save your life.

DO YOU NEED A HEART SCAN?

If you meet one or more of these risk factors, this test is right for you.

• Males 40-65 and females 45-70 • Family history of heart attack or stroke • LDL cholesterol greater than 130 • Blood pressure greater than 140/90 • Current smoker • Obesity • Diabetes February 2016

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Contents

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Restaurant52 Guide Regular Features

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22 First Person with FEATURED RESTAURANTS Kelly Green

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DON’T JUST LIVE, THRIVE!

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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Spoonful of Sugar

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P. Pujo St. Café

60 Closing the Heart Disease Gap 63 Everyday Steps Toward Diabetes Management

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Dr.

O. Botsky’s

Style & Beauty 52 4 Red Rules You Need to Break 54 New Hope for Hair Loss

Mind & Body 56 So What if You’re Grown-Up?

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N. Mama Reta’s

46 5 Steps to Better Financial Health 48 Work Smarter, Not Harder

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Money & Career 42 In Business, Your Emotional IQ Matters

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Gill St.

J. Sweets & Treats Cover Story: Single Life K. Blue Dog Café 38 5 Ways to Encourage Emotional Well-Being inL.your Children Cotten’s Downtown 40 Get a Fresh Look with Easy Furniture UpdatesM. Stellar Beans

Pujo

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Pitho

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Kirby

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Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp

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A. MacFarlane’s Celtic Pub

26 Who’s News 32 By the Numbers C. Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp 50 Business Buzz D. 1910 Restaurant E. Charleston 64 Bistro Happenings 24 Tuxedo Junction: A Musical Ballroom Dance Extravaganza F. Spoonful of68 Sugar McNeese Corral 25 A Heart for Dance G. 121 Artisan Bistro 70 Solutions for Life

Home & Family

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6 Win Back Weeknight Cooking 8 Craft Beer Takes Over the Beer Scene 12 – 20 SPECIAL SECTION:

\ Restaurant Places & Faces

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Wining & Dining

MacFarlane’s Celtic Pub

Bilbo St.

Lake Charles, Louisiana

W. Pine St.

Ryan St.

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In This Issue

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Editors and Publishers

Kristy Armand Christine Fisher

Advertising Sales ads@thriveswla.com 337.310.2099

Creative Director

Barbara VanGossen

Submissions edit@thriveswla.com

Managing Editor

Erin Kelly

Business Manager

Katie McDaniel Stevenson

Assistant Designers

Shonda Manuel Kris Roy Mandy Gilmore

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

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February 2016

NOTHING AS SWEET AS A SENIOR DOG Call 287-3552 for more information and to learn about other programs that are available.

All of these precious pups are looking for loving furever homes.

They are all in good health, spunky and love to chill.

Do you have room in your heart and home for one of these seniors?

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All our wonderful dogs are available for adoption through 4Paws Society.

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Angel

Poodle

Audi Joe

Tessa

Your Kid. Your Choice.

Make the right one.

Your young athlete is one-of-a-kind. And you should know, you’re their biggest fan, behind them all the way. So when they have a sports injury, don’t stay on the sidelines. Take an active role in getting them back in the game and choose the region’s most experienced orthopaedic and sports medicine team: Center for Orthopaedics.

www.centerforortho.com Lake Charles • Sulphur • DeRidder

February 2016

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Team Physicians: McNEESE ATHLETICS & 14 AREA HIGH SCHOOLS

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Wining & Dining Parents pride themselves on serving their families wholesome, homemade meals. But here’s the reality: 60 percent of moms think that coming up with dinner ideas is more difficult than getting their children to go to bed on time. Moreover, 61 percent of moms frequently order takeout or go out to eat because they don’t have the ingredients on-hand to make dinner.

It’s time for a new strategy.

Weeknight Cooking

When it comes to mealtime, a well-stocked pantry can be the difference between culinary success and a dinner failure. With a pantry full of canned foods, a delicious and nutritious homemade meal is just minutes away.

It’s no secret that canned foods are convenient, but did you know that cans are also one of the best ways to get food from the farm to your family’s table? Canned fruits and vegetables are picked and packed when

Chicken Burrito Salad

Curried Pumpkin Soup

Prep time: 15 minutes • Serves: 6

Prep time: 5 minutes • Cook time: 25 minutes • Serves: 4

Salad Ingredients: 1 small head romaine lettuce, torn into small pieces 1 cup cooked brown rice 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes 1 can (10 ounces) chicken breast chunks, drained and flaked 1 can (10 ounces) corn kernels, drained 1 can (4.25 ounces) diced green chilies, drained 1 can (2.2 ounces) sliced ripe black olives, drained

Soup Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter 1 medium onion, chopped 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder 1 can (14 ounces) chicken or vegetable broth 2 cans (15 ounces) 100% pumpkin 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk 1 teaspoon salt pumpkin seeds

Dressing Ingredients: 2 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lime juice 1 tablespoon fresh chopped cilantro 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil salt and ground black pepper, to taste Salad: In large platter or individual bowls, place lettuce leaves. Top with brown rice, black beans, diced tomatoes, chicken, corn, green chilies and black olives.

Dressing: In small bowl, combine lime juice and cilantro; whisk in olive oil. Add salt and pepper, to taste. Drizzle dressing over salad.

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In large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, garlic, ginger and curry powder. Cook until carrots are almost soft, 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add broth and bring to boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low; cover and simmer until carrots are very soft, 10 minutes.

Transfer to blender or food processor and puree until very smooth. Return to pan and stir in pumpkin, coconut milk and salt. Cook over medium-low heat until heated through, 2-3 minutes. Garnish with pumpkin seeds, if desired, and serve.

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February 2016

they’re at their peak of ripeness and nutrition, sealing in their freshness and flavor. Just like home canning, the canning process locks in foods’ natural goodness so it’s at arm’s reach whenever you’re ready to get cooking.

A pantry stocked with canned ingredients is also a source of recipe inspiration. Staples such as canned chicken, corn, green chilies, olives, beans and tomatoes atop lettuce combine to create a wholesome Chicken Burrito Salad the whole family will enjoy. And in less than 30 minutes, a box of fettuccine and a can of spinach transform into a hearty Pasta with Spinach Pesto.

For more information, recipe inspiration and the benefits of canned foods, visit CansGetYouCooking.com.

February 2016

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Wining & Dining

Takes Over America’s Beer Scene

by Emily Alford

Why Are There So Many Different Types of Craft Beer?

If it seems like there are more beers on the shelves at your favorite supermarket or on tap in your neighborhood bar, you’re probably right. Craft brewing is taking over America’s beer scene, and while a few die-hard brew-and-ballgame types may grouse about the gentrification of good old American beer, many newcomers are beginning to appreciate exciting innovations on the American beer scene.

So What Is Craft Beer?

“Craft beer” is just a fancy name for a beer that comes from a small, independent or traditional brewery, according to the Brewer’s Association. A “small” brewery produces 6 million or less barrels of beer each year. An “independent” means that less than 25 percent of the craft brewery is owned or controlled by an member of the alcoholic beverage industry who is not also a craft brewer.

A “traditional” brewer makes beer from traditional or innovative brewing techniques along with fermentation. A true craft brewery can abide by one or all of these definitions, but the most important characteristic, according to Andy Sparhawk, craft beer program coordinator for the Brewer’s Association, is authenticity.

“I believe that small and independent craft brewers are part of a larger cultural shift in the United States towards products with character and authenticity,” Sparhawk says. “Just as Americans have expanded their horizons on different foods, such as cheese, chocolate and coffee, so to have they expanded their understanding and tastes for beer.”

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If you’ve ever been lost in the beer aisle holding up a bottle of IPA against a bottle of stout and trying to make sense of how one is different from the other, you’re not alone. Craft brews are a whole new world of beer, and they often taste very different from the beer our grandparents kept in the fridge. The reason the taste varies so much, according to Sparhawk, comes down to ingredients.

“Often times, beer categories are split between the type of yeast that is used to ferment them,” Sparhawk says. “For instance, ale yeast ferments best at relatively warmer temperature than its lager yeast counterpart does.” This difference means that ales, like India Pale Ale (IPA) and many German and Belgian styles, will have more intense flavors.

Lagers, on the other hand, like pilsners, are often defined by their clean taste, and for Americans, are often the most similar to classic brands, since most large breweries in America brew lagers.

But you shouldn’t spend too much time trying to decide if you’re drinking a “good” craft beer or not. “If you’re just trying to get into craft beer, I think one can decide whether a beer is good or not by whether they are enjoying it or not,” Sparhawk says. “One of the reasons why craft beer has become so popular is because it can be enjoyed by almost anyone; the simplicity is probably one of the factors that draws people to the beverage.”

Is Craft Beer Just a Fad? Probably not. There are more breweries in America than ever before. In fact, you’re probably closer to craft beer than you think.

“The average American lives within 10 miles of a brewery, and the United States is now home to more than 4,000 breweries, which is the most in history,” Sparhawk says. “You really can’t go anywhere in this country without being able to find a brewery or at least a strong craft beer culture.”

There’s never been a better time for beer in America that then present, so get out and get drinking!

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Pass the Cheese, Please:

What to Serve With Your Craft Beer Wine and cheese parties are the past. Beer and cheese is the future!

Here are a few common craft brews and the best cheeses to pair with them.

American Pale Ale (APA), Stout, India Pale Ale (IPA) These beers are all crowd pleasers and should be served alongside people pleasing cheese. Since these ales often feature nutty flavors, pair them with nutty, aged cheeses, like Gouda or aged cheddar; the salty cheese and cold beer is sure to be a hit.

Wheat Beers If you’re serving a light, citrusy beer (think summer patio party) pair it with an equally light cheese. A tangy chevre or even a soft burrata plated with a few crackers and some dried fruit or fresh berries tastes as fun and breezy as a summer afternoon.

Belgian Ales and Lambics Belgian beers often feature both fruity and sour notes, so they’re the perfect match for slightly funky, creamy cheese. Serve them with brie or camembert and an assortment of fruit, like grapes and figs.

Chocolate Stout or Barleywine These rich, decadent beers taste like dessert, which can make them the perfect after dinner drink. Pair them with strong cheeses, like blue cheese or Stilton. The sharpness of the cheese will offset the sweetness of the beer, making for a lovely end to any meal.

February 2016

Speaking of Beer …

The 2nd Annual Louisiana Winter Beer Festival will be held on March 5, 2016 at the Historic Calcasieu Marine National Bank building in Downtown Lake Charles. With a list of more than 100 beers and growing fast, this festival will be a destination for Craft Beer lovers across the South as well as snow birds who are looking for a break. For more information, visit http://www.lawinterbeerfest.com/.

Photos by Daniel P. Edwards

Make Your Reservations Now 4 Course Meal | Couples Pricing $150 ( includes a bottle of wine )

Located in Oak Crossing 5656 Nelson Road, Suite B2 • Lake Charles, LA 70605 (337) 602-6310 • www.lavoglia.net February 2016

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Wining & Dining

Industry transitions as wine becomes more mainstream Whether it’s relaxing at home, dining out at a restaurant or celebrating with friends and family, Americans are enjoying wine at a wider variety of occasions than ever before. In fact, 85 percent of frequent wine drinkers now believe that wine is equally appropriate for casual and formal settings alike.

Today’s attitudes and behaviors toward wine drinking were recently captured in the second Gallo Consumer Wine Trends Survey, commissioned by E. & J. Gallo Winery. The survey of 1,000 frequent wine drinkers found that 82 percent enjoy between one and five glasses per week, which they enjoy at a wide range of occasions.

“We are always glad to see Americans’ love of wine expand each year as they experiment with flavors, varietals and packaging formats,” said Stephanie Gallo, third generation family member and vice president of marketing at E. & J. Gallo Winery. “For more than 80 years, Gallo has strived for excellence and will continue its family tradition of crafting innovative wines that cater to Americans’ evolving wine preferences.”

A more casual approach to wine suggests that shoppers are more likely to try new wines across a range of prices. In fact, more than one-third of survey respondents classified themselves as a “wine adventurer,” while only 3 percent of those surveyed self-identified as “wine snobs.”

Exploring and experimenting More sipping occasions means more opportunities to try new wines. The top factors that inspire a frequent wine drinker to try something new are recommendations from friends, family members and coworkers. Additionally, 86 percent of wine drinkers would be encouraged by a server, bartender or sommelier recommendation, followed closely by a recommendation from a wine store employee.

Not surprisingly, millennials are more influenced by the digital world than older generations. Survey data shows that millennials are more likely to be encouraged to try a new wine if it is featured prominently and positively in the media or if it is recommended on social media.

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Selecting your sips The occasion itself still influences the wine choice for many. While wine drinkers identified Chardonnay as the most popular choice for casual get-togethers, Cabernet Sauvignon was most often the front-runner for formal environments.

At the same time, sparkling wines are breaking out of formal occasions and becoming more popular for everyday moments. Interest in Rosé is also expanding beyond the peak summer months of June, July and August as more wine drinkers reach for blush wines in April and September.

However, looks still matter in the wine aisle.

Millennials are four times more likely than baby boomers to select a bottle of wine based on its label, frequently looking for personality and originality. Baby Boomers, by contrast, look for region of origin and tasting notes on the label.

Thinking inside the box Mirroring the changes in wine drinkers’ shopping habits, the wine industry is thinking “inside the box” these days. Boxed wine has evolved considerably in the minds of consumers, thanks in large part to its convenience. The extended freshness of boxed wine allows wine drinkers to enjoy it at their own pace and the box’s portability allows for easy transport to all types of occasions. In fact, 1 in 4 surveyed agree that boxed wine is best for large social gatherings and is becoming higher quality.

February 2016

Overcoming wine fears As wine culture becomes more approachable, common fears among wine drinkers are less prevalent. The survey found that fears, such as mispronouncing a wine’s name or being judged for wine choices, are still on the minds of some wine drinkers, but those who enjoy it regularly are not dramatically affected by these concerns.

“As an industry, we must continue working to remove these barriers in order to nurture wine’s expansion into everyday occasions,” Gallo said. “By exploring the more emotional implications of wine culture and sharing these findings broadly, we hope to welcome more people into wine.”

Wine in a can is a relatively new concept that more than one-fourth of frequent wine drinkers expressed interest in trying – particularly for outdoor excursions. Among fans of alternative packaging, outdoor events remained the primary occasion for the use of these products, which also include mini bottles and tetra packs.

“The increase in popularity of these new packaging options is undeniably making wine more portable, practical and possible to enjoy anywhere,” Gallo said. “A single-serve package, in particular, offers a convenient option for those who reluctantly grab a beer simply because it is easier.”

Amazing Food. no Attitude.

Lunch: Tu – Fri, 11am – 2pm Happy Hour: Tu – Fri, 4 – 6pm Dinner: Tu – Sat, 5 – 10pm

restaurantcalla.com February 2016

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Wining & Dining

Bon Appetit en Louisiane Southwest Louisiana has long been known as a hallmark of good seafood, delicious rice dishes, sinful desserts (bread pudding, anyone?) and succulent boudin, but the area has stretched its culinary wings in recent years and has ushered in a flood of new restaurants and fusion food. This is no longer just a stop for the old staples—although those still abound—but has now become a legitimate place to test your palate, whether it’s fusion from Calla, authentic rustic Italian from LaVoglia, or gourmet hot dogs from Botsky’s.

Thrive’s 2016 Restaurant Guide celebrates this burgeoning era. Our guide is designed to show you where to go, what to eat, and how the food scene has changed—and stayed the same—in our state and region.

Southwest Louisiana has turned a new corner in its culinary lifestyle--and it’s time for you to make reservations. Bon Appetit!

3475 Nelson Rd. Lake Charles 337.430.4672

Monday - Sunday: 6:30 am - 9:30 pm Cuisine: Breakfast, International, Sandwich Price Range: $

Locally Owned • Est. 2011 12 www.thriveswla.com

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When owner, Josh Priola, started the restaurant in his hometown, he wanted to do something unique. He approached the Culinary Institute of America in New York and asked five master chefs to create a cutting-edge menu, both in terms of ingredients and flavor. These top chefs came up with bold, new sandwich recipes reminiscent of street foods from around the world. The menu now has fourteen signature sandwiches as well as salads, pizzas, and quesadillas.

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Wining & Dining |

Restaurant Guide

Rise of Ethnic Cuisine

Each region of the US has its own “food personality.” New York and Chicago each lay claim to the nation’s best pizza. Philadelphia boasts of its cheesesteak. The West Coast does things with vegetables and tofu that Southerners could scarcely imagine years ago.

Meanwhile, Louisiana has been the proud cradle of seafood; a sportsman’s paradise of fried catfish, boiled crawfish, and shucked oysters.

That hasn’t changed. But it’s become much more.

The US melting pot has become richer and more complex in the past several years, and tools like the Internet and social media have made our world smaller. Evidence of our multicultural roots can now be found around every corner—including in our restaurants.

The vast majority of Americans—77 percent—eat ethnic foods while dining out at least once a month, according to Technomic, a Chicago-based research firm. About 38 percent eat ethnic food weekly.

The most enthusiastic group? Millennials.

People are increasingly anxious to try new flavors, especially once they’ve experimented with something new, according to Technomic. The company says increased exposure to ethnic cuisines is the catalyst for this new attitude toward ethnic flavor—not just social media, but the increased amount of food and travel shows.

Technomic predicts that the next big wave of ethnic eatery will be an increased interest and enthusiasm toward Moroccan, Southeast Asian, Vietnam, Cuban, Korean, and Peruvian—all of which have seen an increase lately. Typically, ethnic restaurants appear on the Coasts before finding their way to other areas of the country, like Southwest Louisiana.

But this region is certainly no stranger to ethnic cuisine. The area boasts popular Vietnamese, Mediterranean, and Southeast Asian restaurants, and certainly has its share of Chinese restaurants—which is currently the most popular ethnic cuisine in America, according to Technomic.

Below are the most popular types of ethnic cuisine in the United States, based on the Technomic survey.

Chinese. This region offers many Chinese options, from the ever-popular Chinese buffet to bistro-style cuisine. You can get an order to-go, delight in a Mongolian grill, or stand in line at one of many Chinese buffets. You decide.

Mexican. Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp, located downtown, is one of the area’s newest and most popular Mexican restaurants. Southwest Louisiana has had mainstay Mexican-restaurant staples for decades (Cancun and Casa Manana being the most obvious), and Tia Juanita’s seeks to join them. What makes Tia Juanita’s unique? Well, there’s boudin quesadillas on the menu, for one.

Italian. Ah, Italian. Who doesn’t love rich, decadent Italian? If you’re one of the many who love to sit in front an authentic dish of pasta, you’re in the right place. On the surface, this region may not seem like a hotbed for delicious Italian, but no worries—it’s here. La Voglia on Nelson Road is one such place. According to the LaVoglia family, they plan to “bring the story Our menu is based on fresh ingredients and homemade pastas and evolution of Italian food with filled with love and desire for the Italian food. We take pride in the the taste of all the legions of Italy” dishes we prepare as our family has to Southwest Louisiana. And by all been doing this for generations.

5656 Nelson Rd., Ste. B2 • Lake Charles We brought our family traditions accounts, they’ve done so.

337.602.6310 • lavoglia.net

Daily: 11 am - 10 pm Cuisine: Italian, Pizza, Greek | Price Range: $$

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and story to Southwest Louisiana, and the community has embraced us with open arms.

Japanese. Are you a sushi lover? Fan of the hibachi? You don’t have to go far. Your favorite roll is just a drive away. Wasabi on Ryan Street is one of the newest restaurants to join the ranks.

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February 2016

Love Affair Our

with

Make no mistake: Americans love beef. And Louisianans are no different. We may not be known as the meat-and-potatoes palace of America, but we love a cut of steak as much as the next person.

It’s a universal love affair. Something to be shared across the nation. According to the Beef Checkoff Program, Americans would rather have a nice meal than a card—61 percent versus 25 percent, to be exact. And 62 percent of those respondents said they want their meal to include a nice, delicious steak. A ribeye or T-bone was chosen as the best meal to share with your special someone—more so than, say, a chicken breast or pork chop. (Although there’s certainly nothing wrong with poultry and pork).

The BCP included these further odes to cattle: • As far as the most romantic type of beef?

Filet mignon, according to 53 percent of Americans. Add candles and you increase the romance factor substantially.

• Steak is the number-one choice for grilling.

Fifty-five percent of Americans prefer filet, ribeye or T-bone as their preferred protein.

• When asked for their hypothetical first meal of choice after being rescued from a deserted island after one-month, 61 percent of Americans chose a “high-end steak.”

Only 18 percent associated chicken with celebrations, followed by pork (17 percent) and fish (15 percent).

HOW TO ORDER IT Steaks can be prepared at various levels of “doneness.” The easy way to interpret “doneness” is by the level of pinkness or blood that you’ll see when you first cut a slice. Many people believe that ordering a steak “well done” is a travesty, as it takes away from the meat’s intended flavor. But at the end of the day, you should order what you like best.

Medium Well. The meat will be pinkish brown and slightly moist, but not too juicy, with an internal temperature of around 160 to 170 degrees.

Well Done. The inside will be brown. No pink. And there won’t be much moisture, so the meat will be fairly dry. Well-done meat has an internal temperate of around 170 to 180 degrees.

Here’s a guide: Rare. The inside will be red and very juicy.

Typically, rare meat has an internal temperature of about 130 to 140 degrees.

Medium Rare. The inside will be bright pink and juicy, at an internal temperature of around 140 to 150 degrees.

Medium. The inside will be light pink and somewhat juicy. Typically, “medium” steak has an internal temperate of about 150 to 160 degrees.

• Fifty percent of Americans consider beef to be the most celebratory of the meats.

EST. 2004

719 Ryan Street Downtown Lake Charles lunabarandgrill.com 337.494.5862

Monday - Saturday: 11 am - 10 pm Sunday: 10 am - 2 pm Jazz Brunch Cuisine: American (New), American (Traditional), Burgers, Cajun/Creole, French, Sandwiches, Seafood, Southern, Steakhouses and Vegetarian Price Range: $$

Steller Food, Music & Service!

417 Ann Street Lake Charles 337.433.5992

macfarlanescelticpub.com

Monday: 11 am - 9:30 pm Tuesday - Thursday: 11 am - 10 pm Friday & Saturday: 11 am - 12 am Cuisine: Pub & Seafood Price Range: $$

We have over 140 imported and craft beers and a large selection of scotch whiskey.

Happy Hour from 2-6pm, Monday through Saturday!

Locally owned & operated

by Dave & Nan Evans

February 2016

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Wining & Dining |

Restaurant Guide

Hot

What’s

in 2016

Fasten your seat belts. It’s going to be a locally sourced, craft-spirited, and diverse ride through the culinary delights of the coming year.

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The National Restaurant Association recently surveyed more than 1,600 professional chefs—members of the American Culinary Federation—to find out which foods, beverages, and themes will be hot on the restaurant scene in 2016. Some of these trends are those we’ve seen in years past, which isn’t surprising, since continuity is what develops a trend in the first place.

“True trends evolve over time, especially when it comes to lifestyle-based choices that extend into other areas of our everyday life,” said Hudson Riehle, senior vice president of research for the National Restaurant Association. “Chefs and restaurateurs are in tune with over-arching consumer trends when it comes to menu planning, but add their own twist of culinary creativity to drive those trends in new directions. No one has a better view into the window of the future of food trends than the culinary professionals who lead our industry.”

Locally sourced food is a key trend for this year that continues from last year. But food isn’t the only area where regional is hot, according to the survey results.

The top trends in food also extend to the bar, with the hottest alcohol trends including locally produced and craft beer, wine and spirits.

February 2016

When asked which current food trend has grown the most over that last decade, 44 percent of the chefs surveyed said local sourcing. Looking forward, 41 percent said the trend that will grow the most in the next 10 years is environmental sustainability.

Locally Owned

est. 2015

Menu items that gained in trendiness since last year’s survey include African flavors, authentic ethnic cuisine, ethnic condiments/spices, house-made/artisan soft drinks, Middle Eastern flavors and non-traditional liquors. Items that lost momentum include underutilized fish, kale salads, fresh beans/peas, gluten-free cuisine, quinoa and flower essence in cocktails.

1155 Ryan Street Lake Charles 337.488.9315

Monday - Friday: 10 am - 5 pm Saturday: 10 am - 2 pm Cuisine: Bakery, Deli Price Range: $

Bakery

Cupcakes Cakes Cookies Pies Specialty items

Deli

Homemade chicken salad Ham, turkey, or roast beef sandwiches and wraps Garden salad Soup of the day

723 Ryan Street • Lake Charles | 337.602.6243

Monday - Thursday: 11 am - 9 pm | Friday - Saturday: 11 am - 10 pm Cuisine: Mexican, Seafood, Cajun | Price Range: $$

Come by and Enjoy one of our

Famous Boudin Quesadillas!

February 2016

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Wining & Dining |

Dine

Restaurant Guide

DARE TO

by Erin Kelly

We all fall into our patterns. It’s only a matter of time. We have our favorite television shows and radio stations.

We watch the same nostalgic movies on repeat. We use the same catchphrases, pack the same lunch. And, in many cases, we visit the same restaurants.

You know the one. It’s your failsafe. It’s your comfort zone. You know the wait staff—if not by name, then by face. And you have your preferred dish, the same one you get every time because nothing else seems as appetizing on the menu and besides, you know what you like—right?

While there’s nothing wrong with sitting comfy at your favorite table and biting into your hundredth slice of favored lasagna, it’s possible to approach that same old restaurant in a whole new way.

Kick up your dining game. Take it to another level.

There’s a lot to be said for experiencing something new and unexpected in a familiar and repetitive atmosphere.

Here’s how: Get down with dessert.

People often overlook dessert. By the time your finish your meal, you no longer have the dessert menu at your fingertips and you’re already

full. Or maybe you’re watching your calories or pocketbook. Or maybe it just never occurred to you to end the night with something sweet. Throw caution to the wind. When you review the menu, take a long and pensive look at the desserts and have a pre-game plan on which one you’ll want to order. Better yet—forget the dinner menu altogether and just get dessert. You’re a grown-up now. You have permission.

Order something unexpected.

Ok, you don’t like beets. So don’t order the beet salad. But look elsewhere on the menu for the opportunity to venture out. Try noodles instead of rice. Try that dish whose name you can’t pronounce, even if you’re not sure what it is.

Have a bean feast! Not actual beans, though. (Unless that’s your thing). “Bean feast” simply means “plentiful food and drink.” You may not have the means or the appetite to order five entrees, but no matter—you can still have a bean

949 Ryan St., Lake Charles 337.602.6278 • www.1910.la Est. 2015 • Locally Owned

Monday - Thursday • 10:30am - 9pm Friday • 10:30am - 10:30pm Saturday • 4pm - 10:30pm Sunday • 10:30am - 2pm Cuisine: American (New), Cajun/Creole & French Price Range: $$

The name of the restaurant is an ode to the great fire of Lake Charles, which burned the city’s downtown in 1910, but was also something of a rebirth. It’s that kind of care and planning that Chef Andrew Green applies to his menu, hoping to make 1910 as much a rebirth for downtown dining as the fire was to Lake Charles’ city center.

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feast by ordering a variety of small and affordable dishes. Instead of your usual dinner, get three appetizers instead. Or get two appetizers and two desserts. Or get four appetizers and one side dish.

You have control over what your order. Step out of the box—or the booth, as the case may be.

Have a signature cocktail.

Does your restaurant have a signature drink? Have you ever tried it? No? Now’s the time. It’s their signature drink for a reason: They make it well, and they want people to order it. Same goes for the special of the day. Speaking of which …

Order the special. Stop blanking out when the waiter or waitress rattles off the specials of the day. Chances are, that’s going to be the best dish served during their shift. Chefs create specials because they know how to make it well, and they usually take particular time and care with it because it’s a “limited edition.” Take advantage!

Amazing Food.

No Attitude.

1400 Market Street, Lake Charles restaurantcalla.com

Lunch: Tuesday - Friday: 11 am - 2 pm Happy Hour: Tuesday - Friday: 4 pm - 6 pm Dinner: Tuesday - Saturday: 5 pm - 10 pm Cuisine: Gastropub Reservations: No We celebrate foods that are fresh, seasonal and local. By creating a fun, casual atmosphere in our dining room and bar, we put the focus on our amazing food and drinks.

February 2016

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February 2016

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Wining & Dining |

Restaurant Guide

FOREVER NO MATTER how many new restaurants arrive or the variety of ethnic cuisines made available, Louisiana will forever be a seafood paradise. We’re known for the unique and exclusive way we approach our seafood—whether it’s in a rich and creamy etouffee or a thick gumbo, there is no other place on Earth that plates seafood the way we do. The way we prepare and spice our seafood is a long-held symbol of pride that isn’t likely to diminish any time soon.

Louisiana seafood is known for its superior quality, but our ongoing hunger for crabs, shrimp, and crawfish doesn’t just feed our appetites. It also feeds our economy. According to the Louisiana Seafood Board, Louisiana is the number-one provider of shrimp, oysters, crabs, crawfish and alligator in the nation. One out of every 70 jobs in the state is related to

a

the seafood industry, which has an economic impact of more than $2.4 billion every year.

SEAFOOD

Paradise

Consider these tidbits from the LSB: • The shrimp industry accounts for 15,000 jobs and an annual impact of $1.3 billion for Louisiana.

• Seventy percent of the oysters caught in the U.S. are from the Gulf Coast.

• Crabs from Louisiana generate an annual economic impact of $293 million and more than 3,000 jobs.

• Louisiana has more than 1,000 crawfish farmers, plus more than 800 commercial

fishermen who catch wild crawfish.

• The 110 million pounds of crawfish harvested each year have an annual economic impact of $120 million.

The LSB puts it best: When you choose Louisiana seafood, you’re not only getting a superior product, but you’re also ensuring that your purchase benefits the state’s way of life.

Locally Owned 121 Dr. Michael DeBakey Drive Lake Charles, Louisiana 337.310.7499 121artisanbistro.com Monday - Thursday: 11am - 9:30pm Friday & Saturday: 11am - 10pm Happy Hour: 4pm - 6pm

Monday’s “Burger & Beer” $10 all day Wednesday’s “Martini Madness” 4pm - close

Cuisine: American, Italian comfort food with a SWLA flair Price Range: $$ 121 Artisan Bistro is voted...

2015 “Top 20 Restaurants in SWLA” 2015 “Best Romantic Dinner” and “Best Italian Dinner”

2218 Enterprise Blvd. • Lake Charles • 337.433.9293

Monday - Saturday: 10:30 am - 9 pm • Cuisine: Seafood, Cajun/Creole • Price Range: $$

Locally Owned

Reserve your place for Valentine’s Day. Our new “Private Dining Room” is the perfect setting for your next event.

Call us to plan your customized, special occasion.

Locally Owned

900 Ryan Street Lake Charles 337.602.6304

2510 Ryan Street • Lake Charles 337.433.4112 • casamanana.net Cuisine: Mexican Price Range: $$

Tuesday - Friday: 10 am - 6 pm Saturday: 10 am - 2 pm Cuisine: Deli, Bakery Price Range: $

Lake Charles’ Favorite Since 1976!

Serving plate lunches, sandwiches, wraps, soups, salad bar, sandwich trays, large dessert assortment, gift wrapped dessert boxes, sweet trays, Lavazza coffee and more!

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February 2016

February 2016

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21

Places & Faces T

wo years ago, 42-year-old Kelly Green found herself sandwiched between Ed Norton and Alex Rodriguez in a restaurant booth at Leonardo DiCaprio’s 39th birthday party. It was her first night out as a single woman after a heart-wrenching divorce. She was wearing strappy stilettos and an insecurity complex. After ten years of marriage and monogamy, she wasn’t sure how to act as a single woman—much less a single woman who just took a private jet to party with A-list celebrities. After swapping slow-cooker recipes and kid pictures with Rodriguez, they shared a brief dance of mixed signals before parting ways. Later, as Green made her way back to the Maritime Hotel an hour before dawn, the missed opportunity weighed on her. It wasn’t about swapping numbers with A-Rod. It was the reality that she hadn’t been able to ask for it—or give out hers—because her uneasiness about sudden singledom prevented her from knowing herself and taking control.

DiCaprio’s birthday party, which Green calls her “coming out” into the new dating scene, set the tone for what was to come in 2014—a year that’s documented in Green’s upcoming memoir, Back in the Game: My Year of Living Dangerously.

Green is quick to point out that she isn’t your everyday jet-setting blonde bombshell who rubs elbows with the likes of Kanye West and Brad Pitt. She describes herself as the girl-next-door.

Green took time to answer questions for Thrive.

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first person with Kelly Green

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

by Jen Breen

February 2016

How does a suburban Texas mom find herself in the company of celebrities, at exotic locales, and other “daring dating adventures”?

This may sound a bit simple, but say yes to all invitations. You never know what new friend is around the corner. You may be looking for a new love, but building a strong support system of friends is most important. After a divorce it is vital to get back on your feet and expand your social circles. If you have the means to visit a friend in another city then do so! Breaking your regular weekend routine will give you a fresh perspective on meeting new people. Most of my adventures took place while visiting friends in other cities. If you are interested in a particular social circle, do a bit of research and visit on a weekend that an event such as a horse race, concert or sports event is taking place.

Once you’re there, keep your mind open to meeting all people – not just your idea of Mr. Right.

While Leonardo Di Caprio’s party was fun, the lessons of the evening were something we can all relate to and could even happen anywhere.

People often equate divorce with experiencing a death. What are your thoughts?

Divorce is stifling. If you haven’t gone through it, it is challenging to truly understand the fear that can consume you. Prior to my own experience, I could not understand the full range of emotions brought on by the tragic untangling of a dream. At that time, my only response to someone getting divorced is simply to say, “I’m so sorry.” Divorce brings questions most people have the luxury of already knowing, such as: Where will I live? How often will I see my children? Will I be judged as a failure? Which of my friends will stay by my side? One of the saddest and least acknowledged aspects of divorce is that you don’t take the time to mourn the loss of a love, or appreciate the good things that you had together. Like death, we should try and push February 2016

past the negativity and blame, allowing ourselves to mourn the loss love during a divorce.

You and your ex-husband chose the “nesting” approach to custody, in which the children stay in the house and the parents take turns living with them. How did you make this work?

The nesting approach was a more natural choice for us because we had four young children, our youngest still in a crib. We both felt it would be easier on the children if I left the home

on yourself. I was determined not to become involved in a similar relationship or repeat mistakes.

I had a number of lessons to learn after divorce and did so by putting myself in dating situations where I could observe my own behavior rather than the person I am involved with. Taking simple steps like asking yourself: Does this situation feel good to me?

How does this person make me feel? Not every date will be perfect, but each date is an opportunity to learn something about you. Divorce taught me that I needed to learn who I was

“I’m an urban mother of four young children with a full-time job, who happens to be presented with the occasional tantalizing social opportunity,” she says. “More often than not, I like to take a chance by saying ‘yes.’ Maybe it’s my big Texas spirit. I grew up in Dallas as a fifth-generation Texan. It’s certainly true that you can take the girl out of Dallas, but you can’t take Dallas out of the girl.” rather than moving them around.

Nesting tests your limits of compromise just as the marriage did. Sometimes your co-parenting partner will leave the refrigerator empty and you will have to be ok with that. Rules and boundaries are important. This is no longer an emotional partnership, but an arrangement, and you should treat it as such. Don’t be afraid to outline dos and don’ts. You must have a level of mutual respect for privacy. It will be tempting to dive into your ex’s dating and social life, but this should be a hard limit boundary for nesting to work.

What did divorce teach you about yourself?

Although tragic, divorce is an incredible time for growth and self-reflecting. It is healthy to stop focusing on what your partner did wrong and gently shine the light

again. What did I desire? I spent a year of self-discovery that eventually brought me to a solid understanding of what I need to be happy in a relationship.

What were the greatest lessons you learned during your “year of dating dangerously”?

My year of dating touched on a number of critical lessons that I think most divorced women will relate to. My most important lesson was learning to be present.

An unhealthy relationship that leads to divorce can leave us numb and void of being in touch with our own desires and ourselves.

Women prioritize other things: children, career, physical health and even men. It is easy to get caught up in daily responsibilities and tasks. If you are just surviving, then you aren’t living. You can’t numb one emotion without

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numbing all of them. I had to learn to listen to my own wants and open myself to feeling again. I did this by slowly testing the waters of love in extreme situations that were outside my normal life. To an outsider it may appear erratic. After divorce it is common to see men date to the extreme: multiple partners, rapid dating, or extremely younger partners. They give themselves permission to experiment. You should give yourself permission to experiment on the terms that are right for you. Opening myself back up to love and desire not only made me a better partner, but also a better mother. Being present and living in the moment is truly the key to happiness.

What advice would you give to women—and men, for that matter—who are about to enter their first year as a single person after a divorce?

Date dangerously! What I mean by that is date outside your comfort zone. Don’t say no to an opportunity because you think they are too young or too old. Stay open minded. Every experience is a gift and you should be grateful, even if things don’t work out.

Taking the first steps and gaining your confidence is the most difficult part. Once you are past the awkwardness of understanding the “single” world, things will open up for you. You can also expect an emotional roller coaster. Take things slowly and keep your emotions in perspective. It is easy to think you will fall in love with the first person you meet. Perhaps you will – just look at Gwen Stefanie and Blake Shelton. However, for most of us, that “first love” may be a case feeling safe in a relationship.

Take your time being single and enjoy the journey. There is glory in freedom and being single; there is no rush to jump into another relationship. Give yourself permission to live and take risks.

Give us an adventure we want to read about next!

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Places & Faces

Tuxedo Junction: A Musical Ballroom Dance Extravaganza!

by Angie Kay Dilmore

In 2006, actor Antonio Banderas starred in the movie Take the Lead, based the true story of Pierre Dulaine and Yvonne Marceau, who introduced ballroom dancing to fifth-graders in the New York City public school system in 1994. The 2005 documentary Mad Hot Ballroom also brought national attention to the advantages of their program, Dancing Classrooms. This program proved to be such a success, they franchised Dancing Classrooms in 2005. Their mission is “to build social awareness, confidence, and self-esteem in children through the practice of social dance.”

Nancy Vallee founded The Whistle Stop, a Lake Charles non-profit advocacy group for children. In 2008, with a generous donation from CITGO, Vallee brought Dancing Classrooms to Louisiana. She began the program with six schools, including three in Lake Charles. Currently twenty schools in the state include Dancing Classrooms in their fifth grade curriculum. Vallee estimates approximately 55,000 children are involved

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with Dancing Classrooms worldwide. Each class meets with a dance instructor twice a week for ten weeks. Upon completion, the children participate in a competition. Total cost of a class is $3,000. Schools pay a fee of $950. The Whistle Stop funds the balance through grants and the organization’s primary annual fundraiser, Mad Hot Ballroom Celebrity Dancing Gala.

Vallee recognized the value of ballroom dance for children and wished to provide a dance outlet for middle and high school children. In 2011, she started the program DanceSport Academy. The goal of this program is to develop competitive dance teams while fostering character growth in the dancers. Training includes more than dance technique. “There are certain criteria expected in a dance competition,” says Vallee. “Participants have to learn to converse and interact in social situations with adults. They must act and dress like ladies and gentlemen. The benefits of attending such a competition are huge. Children are

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never the same after that experience.”

Students who excel in the Dancing Classrooms program are invited to join DanceSport Academy. Around forty students meet every Tuesday and Thursday evening for ballroom practice. They attend dance competitions around the country. Currently, two pairs of dancers are preparing to go to the national competition in Baltimore, April 1-3. Reginald Larkins, an 11th grader at Sam Houston, and his partner 15-year-old Caitlyn Wilson at LaGrange High School, are considered to be the two best youth ballroom dancers in the state and will compete for a national title. Victoria Self and Walter Joubert will also participate in this national competition.

DanceSport Academy will hold a fundraiser at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 5, at Central School in the Ben Mount Theatre. Tuxedo Junction, a musical dance production, features Larkins and Wilson, as well as all the dancers at DanceSport Academy. “No one who sees this show will be disappointed,” says Vallee.

February 2016

A Heart for Dance

Rare heart defect doesn’t stop this young performer

by Angie Kay Dilmore

On Tuesdays and Thursdays, it’s all dance all evening for 13-year-old Chancey Guidry. After school, Chancey attends Colt Kickers practice from 3:10 – 4:15. At 4:30, she meets her dance partner Dedrick Johnson at SportDance Academy where she practices ballroom dance until 6 p.m.

Then she heads to Elite Danceline Studio at 6:30 for more practice. And that’s before she can even start her homework.

Chancey’s mother, Oraneka Guidry, says her daughter has a passion for dance. When she was in fifth grade, Chancey participated in the nationallyacclaimed program Dancing Classrooms.

She performed well and was one of the few dancers asked to continue ballroom dancing at SportDance Academy in Lake Charles. This program has provided Chancey the opportunity to travel to New York, Alabama, Florida, and throughout Louisiana for ballroom dance competitions. Now in eighth grade at S. J. Welsh, she and Dedrick have won numerous awards, including first place for their age group at a regional event in Florida last year.

Remarkably, Chancey has battled a rare heart defect called chaotic tachycardia (rapid heartbeats) since before birth. Throughout her life, she has undergone five cardiac ablations—a non-surgical procedure done via cardiac catheterization to stop the irregular heart rhythm—and is scheduled for a

February 2016

sixth procedure on February 17. Ablation is widely used and generally safe, but during Chancey’s last procedure, the catheter became lodged in her heart muscle. She required emergency open heart surgery to correct the problem and the tachycardia was not corrected. Three months later, Chancey returned to the dance floor.

Her friendships at SportDance Academy played a role in Chancey’s recovery from surgery. Guidry marvels at the camaraderie between the dancers.

“Chancey is an only child so it’s a dream come true for her to be around children who have the same interest. I sit back and watch them and they are so close. Their bond is truly beautiful,” Guidry says.

Dedrick is like a brother to Chancey.

The pair will perform three routines in Tuxedo Junction, the March 5 SportDance Academy fundraiser at Central School.

Dancing Classrooms and SportDance Academy have helped Chancey in numerous ways. Ballroom dance has bolstered her self-esteem and confidence, fostered friendships, taught her poise and interpersonal skills, how to work with a partner, and the importance of perseverance.

Chancey says, “Your desire to reach your goal is a reflection of the amount of hard work you’re willing to put in.”

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Places & Faces

Movers and Shakers in Southwest News? You tell us! Send press releases to Louisiana... Who’s edit@thriveswla.com with the subject line “Who’s News.”

Russell Benoit Named WCCH Safety Award Recipient West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital (WCCH) has named Russell Benoit, director of WCCH’s housekeeping and laundry departments, the recipient of its safety Russell Benoit award. The award, which honors employees for their promotion of safety and safety awareness in and around the hospital, is distributed to those employees who demonstrate extraordinary awareness and action in minimizing potential safety risks.

Stacey Corbello Named Chair of the 2016 SWLA Heart Ball Stacey Dion Corbello, Financial Advisor with JD Prime Investments a subsidiary of JD Bank, will serve as chair for the American Heart Association’s 2016 Stacey Corbello Southwest Louisiana Heart Ball. The gala will be held on April 16 at the Lake Charles Civic Center and will begin at 6pm.

The event will generate funds to support education, research and awareness to prevent heart disease in The Southwest Louisiana community. For more information, call (337) 377-5840.

Cardiologist Clay Hammett, MD Joins Memorial Medical Group Memorial Medical Group welcomes Clay Hammett, MD, a fellowship-trained cardiologist to its staff.

A native of Ferriday, Louisiana, Dr. Hammett is Clay Hammett, MD a graduate of Louisiana Tech University in Ruston. He received his medical degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans. Dr. Hammett’s expertise includes cardiovascular disease, heart disease, hypertension, peripheral arterial disease, preventive cardiology, interventional cardiology, implantable 26 www.thriveswla.com

defibrillators and pacemakers. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hammett, call the Heart and Vascular Center at (337) 494-3278.

IBERIABANK Names Martinez Senior Vice President IBERIABANK has announced the recent promotion of Jason Martinez as Senior Vice President and Business Banking Group Manager for Southwest Louisiana.

Jason Martinez Martinez brings over 18 years of financial and commercial lending experience. He has been a Vice President with IBERIABANK for four years. His office is located at 4440 Nelson Road in Lake Charles. He can be reached by phone at (337) 312-7023.

McDonald’s of SWLA Recognizes Local Team Members

L to R: McDonald’s of SWLA award recipients Yolanda Snell, Tracey Fontenot, Maire O’Brien and Janella Wilson.

McDonald’s of SWLA recently recognized four team members who have displayed exemplary leadership skills and have made positive impacts on Calcasieu Parish McDonald’s restaurants.

Doug Gehrig, owner and operator of McDonald’s of SWLA, and Gerard Mack, director of operations, presented the awards.

Maire O’Brien, who is the General Manager of the Nelson Road restaurant, was awarded Contributor of the Year. O’Brien has worked for McDonald’s for the past seven years.

Tracey Fontenot was presented with the Department Manager of the Year award for her work as Department Manager at the Nelson Road restaurant, and she has been with McDonald’s for almost 21 years.

The Hourly Manager of the Year award was presented to Yolanda Snell, who is the Hourly Manager of the DeQuincy McDonald’s. Snell has been with the company for 22 years.

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Janella Wilson was awarded Crew Person of the Year for her leadership as Crew Trainer at the Prien Lake Road restaurant. Wilson has been a part of the McDonald’s family for almost 25 years.

For more information, call (337) 436-3368 or visit www.mcdswla.com.

Lake Area Medical Center Announces Employees of the Year

Debra Ford

Tracie Young

Lake Area Medical Center (LAMC) has announced their employee and managers of the year for 2015 as Debra Ford, Tracie Young and Tracy Mayeaux.

Debra Lynn Ford, Phlebotomist, won Employee of the Year.

Tracy Mayeaux Debra Ford has worked in the healthcare field for the past 27 years, with the last 13 of those years working in the laboratory at Lake Area Medical Center. Debra’s overflowing compassion and genuine care she shares with patients has earned her incredible respect among her peers.

Tracie Young, business office director and Tracy Mayeaux, MSN, RN and director of educational services won Managers of the Year for non-clinical and clinical services. Young has been in the business office leadership role for almost four years at Lake Area Medical Center, yet has worked in the medical business arena for 29 years.

Tracy Mayeaux has worked at Lake Area Medical Center for nine-and-one-half years and coordinates the required education for all LAMC employees, as well as oversight of the bariatric weight loss surgery program, diabetes education and prenatal education.

February 2016

Lake Charles Financial Representative Received Certification David Girola, CFP®, Financial Advisor with Northwestern Mutual has met requirements set out by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards David Girola, CFP Inc. Girola passed the CFP® Certification Examination covering the following areas: the financial planning process, risk management, investments, tax planning and management, retirement and employee benefits, and estate planning.

Dr. Brad LeBert Joins Imperial Health’s Physician Team Dr. Brad LeBert, an ENT (ear, nose and throat) and allergy specialist who has practiced in Lake Charles for more than 5 years, has joined the physician team at Imperial Health, Dr. Brad LeBert Southwest Louisiana’s largest, physician-owned multispecialty medical group. Dr. LeBert founded the ENT & Allergy Clinic in 2013, where he practices with Imperial Health ENT physicians Dr. Bridget Loehn and Dr. Blake LeBlanc. Dr. LeBert specializes in the medical and

surgical treatment of a variety of diseases and disorders of the ear, nose and throat, as well as related structures of the head and neck. Dr. LeBert offers minimally invasive sinus procedures and also provides specialized allergy treatment. Dr. LeBert sees patients at the ENT & Allergy Clinic, which is located at 1920 W. Sale Road, F3. To schedule an appointment, call (337) 312-8564.

Myers Joins Todd Clemons and Associates Law Firm

Marcus Myers

Marcus Myers has joined the law firm of Todd Clemons and Associates.

Myers specializes in criminal defense and family law. A graduate of Barbe High School and Louisiana State University, he earned his law degree from Southern University Law Center. Myers is a former prosecutor with the Calcasieu Parish District Attorney’s Office and was a criminal law instructor with the Calcasieu Regional Law Enforcement Training Academy. Currently, he is a board member with Crime Stoppers of Lake Charles.

Todd Clemons and Associates practice areas include criminal defense, civil litigation, personal injury and family law. For more information, call 477-0000 or visit www.toddclemons.com.

LAKE CHARLES DERIDDER 474-7377 463-4574 1717 Prien Lake Rd. 514 N. Pine St.

jjext.com February 2016

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27

Home & Family

SINGLE

L I FE

T H E G O O D, T H E B A D, & T H E M I S U N D E R S T O O D

by Erin Kelly

Crystal Cooper, 30

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Crystal Cooper is thirty and single and she doesn’t get what all the fuss is about.

“People say dating is hard. I say dating is easy—relationships are hard,” says Cooper, an Atlanta-based public relations professional who has a blog called I Think We Should See Other People. “Relationships require compromise, give-and-take, understanding. Why people are in such a hurry to jump into them is beyond me.”

She clarifies that she’s not anti-relationship; she’s just not in a hurry to couple-up with anyone. Maybe she will, eventually. “I just don’t get the rush,” she says.

Cooper is one of more than 100 million single adults in America—and she’s perfectly fine with that.

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February 2016

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

THE JOYS OF SINGLEHOOD

THE PRESSURE OF COUPLEDOM Being single in our society is tough for many reasons, but it all boils down to pressure, according to relationship therapist Larry Shushansky. He says peer pressure to couple-up comes from many different places.

“The pressure that comes from others who give advice (can) stem from their own psychological baggage. For example, someone who was lonely when they were single will identify with what they perceive to be a single person’s loneliness, when in fact; being single may be perfectly fine,” he says.

“People will also try to justify their own choices they’ve made in life by pushing these same choices on others. It secretly gives us justification for what we’ve done in life by ‘going on the band wagon.’”

Seattle-based therapist Kristen Martinez says we live in a society that legitimizes couples more than single people — even the term ‘single’ is pretty loaded, in that it signifies an identity that rests solely on whether you have a partner or not.

“As we’ve constructed society to revolve around pairs and couples, we tend to feel pity, sympathy, and loneliness when we see a ‘single’ person—a person outside of the societal constructions we’ve viewed as important. We believe that there is something wrong with them, that they’re flawed or even lacking in some way if they’re by themselves,” says Martinez, who specializes in women’s issues.

Many of these misperceptions are supported by what we’ve been taught growing up, Shushansky says. We’re constantly bombarded with the joys of coupledom from movies, TV shows, books, magazines, the Internet, how we see our parents behave, what friends tell us, and the ever-impactful Cinderella stories of what true love and happiness looks like.

“Think about it,” Shushansky says.“The only way Cinderella can be happy is if she is rescued by Prince Charming who leads her off into a wonderful relationship. This message is directed at both women and men. And the message? You will be happiest in a relationship. The problem is we really don’t see the rest of the story—I’m still waiting for that one.”

It’s unfair to assume that the single people in our lives are unhappy, desperate for love, or aching to be set up. Are some of them looking for love? Certainly.

But many others live full, rich lives, and don’t need to be rescued.

February 2016

Many people choose to be single because it’s right for them, Shushansky says. “They can have rich lives without having the constraints or demands of being with another person. They are satisfied with themselves. They have a community of friends and colleagues who that they refer to as their family. They have more flexibility in their lives. They can wake up, eat breakfast, have lunch and dinner, spend their evenings without worrying about what someone else expects them to do and go to sleep when they want.”

If society has trouble grasping the concept of the single life—particularly after a certain age, whatever that may be—then they certainly grapple with the idea of a person who both single and happy, according to Martinez.

“Our society really doesn’t understand that too well. Some people get uncomfortable with that idea, perhaps because it sheds light on our well-kept notion that we are not ‘whole’ until we meet our ‘soulmate’ and, furthermore, that an identity carved out for oneself is not possible—or at least, not easy and definitely not healthy—outside of a relationship. It can show uncomfortable truths to people who feel that their identity rests within their partnership/relationship alone, and they don’t feel a wholeness or completeness when they are by themselves,” Martinez says.

If you’re quick to assume that being single automatically equates to a lonely existence, it’s possible that you haven’t worked on your own issues of “being okay with being alone,” she adds.

Bottom line: People do not need other people to “complete” them.

According to marriage and family therapist Dr. Jane Greer, host of the radio show “Shrink Wrap” and author of What About Me?, people who are enamored of the “happily ever after” assume that singles are “missing out on all that magic,” when in truth, there’s much magic to be had by living the single life.

“You’re free to do whatever you want, whenever you want, without having to consider how your partner’s preferences and plans will impact you. You can also travel wherever you want without regard for another person’s schedule. You don’t have to deal with spending time with your partner’s friends that you may not like. You can go to sleep and wake up whenever you want. You can decorate your home however you like. Your money is your own,” says Dr. Greer. “There are a million joys.”

Relax, Renew & Rekindle

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29

Home & Family

“ It’s not about finding the right person … it’s about being the right person.”

It’s the day of wine and chocolates; the day when men carry armloads of flowers out of supermarkets, women receive glorious bouquets in their cubicles, and red cards shout at you from the Hallmark aisle.

February 14 is a day for lovers, they say. Couples are everywhere. It’s as if they’ve emerged full-force from a secret bat cave. They’re having dinner at fancy restaurants. They’re walking into jewelry stores. They’re swapping cards and flowers like there’s no tomorrow.

Maybe you’re in a couple. Maybe not. Either way, there are ways to get through the deluge and embrace Valentine’s Day in new and fun ways. Donna Arp Weitzman, author of Cinderella Has Cellulite offers these tips for pampering yourself this Valentine’s Day:

Larry Shushansky, Relationship Therapist

T A K E Y O U R S E L F O U T . Do something that feeds your soul. Take yourself

out to a glorious brunch. Buy yourself something special—something you’ve always wanted but made excuses to avoid. It doesn’t just have to be Valentine’s Day. It can be You Day. K E E P Y O U R S E L F I N . Okay, so maybe you don’t feel like being part of the

WHAT MATTERS MOST When it comes to the status of your love life, there’s only one thing that truly matters: Your happiness.

“You define what’s going to make you happy—no one else,” Shushansky says.

If being single doesn’t sit well with you and you aren’t sure why, it might be a good idea to self-reflect. What do you think about being single? What does it mean to you? How do you feel about yourself being single? What are your values and perspectives on relationships in general? Who are you as a single person? How do you perceive yourself and then how do you feel about what others think of you?

“The answers to these kinds of questions will give you your truth—not what others think you ought to be, not what others think you should feel about being single, but your thoughts and feelings about being single,” Shushansky says.

You may find that the outside pressures are what bother you most, not the fact that you haven’t found your “soul mate”—which is largely an impractical task.

According to Shushansky, it’s not about finding your perfect match. Chalk that up with the Cinderella myth.

“It’s not about finding the right person … it’s about being the right person,” he says.

30 www.thriveswla.com

world today. If that’s the case, celebrate on your couch, in your pajamas—with or without a partner. Nothing wrong with that. Watch something hilarious on television. Eat delicious and nutritious take-out that won’t make you feel guilty in the morning. Relax with a nice book. Take a luxurious bubble bath. Use the whole bottle if you want to. Spring out a few extra dollars for some bath salts, if you want.

C E L E B R A T E W I T H F R I E N D S . Do you have friends who don’t see what all the fuss is about? Celebrate together! Make it a night out.

M A K E G O A L S . Doesn’t sound very exciting or romantic, but goals can actually feed your soul and spirit. Sit down and make a list of what you want out of life—again, this is something you can do with or without a partner. What do you want out of life?

C E L E B R A T I N G S I N G L E ? Y O U A R E N O T A L O N E . Yes, it may seem like the entire universe sprouted significant others when you weren’t paying attention. But the truth is, there’s a large contingent of people out there who dread this day just as much as you—people who are going through relationship troubles; couples going through divorce; bachelors and bachelorettes. There are a great many people who aren’t holding hands with anyone on February 14. You may or may not want to find a new special someone. Either way, it’s okay. Don’t fall into the trap of what’s supposed to be. Celebrate what is. Seek out that silver lining. It’s there. You just have to be looking for it.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2016

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas Maybe it’s your first Valentine’s Day together.

Maybe it’s your fifteenth, and you’re at a loss for gift ideas. No matter where you are in the relationship, the gift-masters at The Shops at L’Auberge have you covered. Here are their top gift recommendations for February 14.

Why It’s Fabulous to be Single Over Forty

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Single men and women with a few extra decades under their belts – and perhaps a little grey in their hair – also are in the market for romance, and they likely have a better understanding of how to turn a first date into a rewarding experience.

That’s because the over-40 crowd knows something about dating that only the wisdom of experience can teach, says Barbara Foster, a women’s studies professor at the City University of New York.

“It’s nice to enjoy a candlelight dinner with someone who gazes into your eyes instead of into a smartphone screen,” Foster says. “It’s wonderful to engage in a conversation with someone whose life experience provides a seemingly endless supply of captivating topics to discuss.”

Many older singles, out of the dating scene for a while, might be reluctant at first to venture back into the world of romance. They may just recently have become single again after being divorced or widowed, and may not appreciate the advantages their years of experience give them, Foster says.

“I understand the hesitancy some people have,” she says. “They may have had one partner for years, and never expected to be unattached and available again. It could be that the last time they were on a first date, Gerald Ford was president. It’s natural that there might be some nervousness at first, but that will pass.”

She says there are several reasons why dating is more rewarding among the older set:

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• A man who is experienced with women should be less anxious or competitive.

He’s likely to be more at ease and can focus on his romantic partner as a person.

• Mature people have spent time traveling, seeking out adventures and becoming educated. They have memories and feelings to share about their experiences and can converse about a much wider range of topics than the plot twists in the latest “Star Wars” movie. (Although they possibly can discuss that, too.)

• A woman who has been married or involved is likely to know how to entertain because she’s had the opportunity to play hostess, probably many times over. If you’re lucky, she may even cook, Foster says.

• Mature people know how to speak in affectionate sentences longer than “lol.”

They also are more accustomed to working for what they want, which includes showing you a good time.

“They say youth is wasted on the young, and sometimes maybe romance is, too,” Foster says. “Certainly, young love is wonderful. But romance for older folks can be even better.”

February 2016

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

(337) 522-1211 • sbennett@mossisboss.com www.thriveswla.com

31

Home & Family

SING LES

by the numbers 53

Percentage of adult singles who are women • • • • • • • • •

107,000,000 Number of unmarried people in America 18 and older in 2014

47

Percentage of adult singles who are men.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

63

Percentage of unmarried US residents 18 and older in 2014 who had never been married

24

Percentage of unmarried US residents 18 and older who are divorced

88

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Number of unmarried men 18 and older for every 100 unmarried women in the US

18,000,000 Number of unmarried US residents 65 and older

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

58,000,000

Number of households maintained by unmarried men and women

32 www.thriveswla.com

34,000,000 Number of adults who live alone

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

SOURCE: US CENSUS BUREAU February 2016

Achieving Success with

ADHD Students

by Christine Fisher

Most environments that are set up for studying are quiet and focused with distractions kept to a minimum. In other words, opposite of what stimulates a student with ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

For students with ADHD, school can present a challenge. Staying on task, listening to the teacher, reading the assigned chapter, focusing on a test, and turning in homework—these may not come naturally to most students with ADHD, but there are strategies parents can use so that their child achieves success in the classroom.

“First of all, we recognize that some tasks are difficult, such as sitting still, concentrating and listening quietly,” said Albert Richert, Jr, MD, pediatrician with The Pediatric Center of Southwest Louisiana and medical staff member of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. “Most of the time the child wants to do well and it’s frustrating for them to get reprimanded over and over. It’s important for parents and teachers to understand that a neurological deficit, not unwillingness, is what hinders a student from learning in a traditional way.”

ADHD is a common disorder among children. Louisiana has one of the highest rates, as 14 percent of school-aged children are diagnosed with it; boys are more likely than girls to receive the diagnosis.

“Parents need to know that there are many strategies for success with an ADHD child. A structured environment with supportive parents along with a pediatrician who will address the symptoms with both lifestyle modifications as well as medication, when indicated, can produce a competent, well-adjusted child, who happens to have ADHD,” explained Dr. Richert.

Teachers often do their best to guide a classroom full of students, but parental support is crucial for success; especially with an ADHD student. A parent can dramatically improve a child’s odds for learning successfully.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • STAY ORGANIZED. Chaos can run rampant unless the parent reigns in the disorder. Buy brightly colored folders and label them clearly, “Homework”,“Signed Papers”, etc. Use these throughout the year for transporting paperwork to and from school. The child will become used to looking for the yellow homework folder, or the orange signed papers folder. “Establishing routines will help them be more structured,” said Dr. Richert.

Set up one place for homework each night. It can be the dining room table, or a desk, but have it be a quiet place with few distractions. Choose a place where a parent can easily check on progress. Keep the television off and conversations to a minimum.

PROVIDE SUPPORT. Praise is important to all children, but especially to those with ADHD. It is an excellent motivator to help students focus and pay attention. “If your child is competitive, work that to your advantage by offering small incentives for successfully finishing a task,” offered Dr. Richert.

February 2016

ALLOW FUN.

WORK WITH TEACHERS.

Children with ADHD are spontaneous; go with it and let their imagination free. Let them act out stories, come up with alternative endings to familiar stories, or make up their own story.“Give them a break from having to fit into a structured environment. Allow them to express themselves, within reason, without hearing ‘It’s time to be quiet’ or ‘Settle down’. Everyone needs a little time each day to just be themselves,” explained Dr. Richert.

Staying in contact with the teacher is an important key for parents of a student with ADHD. Your child may forget to let you know of an assignment, or you may need to let the teacher know if medications get adjusted. Establishing an easy way of communicating, whether it’s a quick phone call or email, will be beneficial throughout the school year.

Meet with your child’s teacher at the beginning of the school year. Let them know you’re providing strong support for success at home. Attend school functions and special events as often as possible so that you can observe your child in the school setting.

ENCOURAGE PREPARATION. If you haven’t already, begin to implement the schedule your child will use throughout school.

Wake up at the appropriate time, eat breakfast and get ready at the same time each day, have a quiet time for getting homework done, then bath time and bedtime.

If you use the folder idea for their school papers, talk about it with them and show them the folders and how they’ll be used. “Get them comfortable with routines ahead of time so that they have a better idea of what is expected of them,” said Dr. Richert.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

STAY POSITIVE. Teach your child how good it feels to achieve a goal; let them feel successful. Look for ways to be an encouragement, even if it is celebrating small successes.

Plan for your child’s success by looking ahead to potential obstacles and finding ways to overcome them. There will always be challenges that arise, but handling many things ahead of time will keep anxiety to a minimum for both the parent and the student. www.thriveswla.com

33

Home & Family

Consider Monthly Utility Costs when Purchasing New Appliances FIND YOUR

Home in

Home is more than the place you rest your head at night, it’s the comfort and warmth you feel among neighbors. Walnut Grove celebrates the best things in life, but more importantly, it brings people together. Our traditional neighborhood development seamlessly blends Louisiana architecture, modern amenities, and the natural landscape of our green spaces. It’s a place where businesses, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of homes, creating a more connected community. This connectivity is the reason those who live, work, or simply visit here call Walnut Grove home.

Learn more about Walnut Grove -- a place where community is more than just a word, it’s a way of life.

Call our sales office today at 497-0825 and ask for Abby Cagle, Community Sales Director.

West Sallier Street, Lake Charles www.walnutgrovetnd.com

Call (337) 497-0825 for information on residential or commercial property in Walnut Grove.

34 www.thriveswla.com

Visit us at the Home Show: Booths 71 & 72 Thrive Magazine for Better Living

2070 Jabez Drive

call for an appointment February 2016

Whether you are in the market for a new home or thinking about upgrading your current one, be sure to factor in monthly utility costs, and not just initial purchase price, when choosing your appliances.

“It is important to make informed decisions about the appliances you use in your home,” said Ann Barilleaux, marketing consultant, CenterPoint Energy. “When buying a new home, many potential homeowners fail to take utility costs into account and only think about principle and interest.”

On the surface, electricity may seem like the inexpensive way to go, that is, until you do the math.

For example, for water heating, the initial cost difference in purchasing a natural gas water heater versus an electric unit is approximately $500, however: • The operating cost for a natural gas water heater is about $14.50 per month/$176 per year.

• The operating cost for an electric water heater is about $35 per month/$421 per year.

• The net savings with the natural gas water heater is $19.50 per month/$245 per year.

“Over time, those dollars really add up,” said Byron Hardy, senior marketing consultant, CenterPoint Energy. “In a new home, you could consider taking the monthly savings you earn with natural gas and add upgrades such as granite

countertops, a natural gas fireplace, or outdoor living space – all of which will increase the value of your home without increasing your net monthly expenses.”

Overall, when you compare potential electric and natural gas bills, natural gas appliances offer significantly lower energy bills than homes with electric appliances.

Even though cost savings are very important, also consider the performance of your appliances: Water heating – Natural gas water heaters heat water twice as fast as electricity, which means you do not have to wait as long for the system to recover before you can use more hot water.

Clothes drying – A natural gas dryer heats up faster than an electric one.

In fact, you can dry two loads of laundry with a gas dryer for about the same cost as drying one load with an electric dryer. Plus, since the dry time is shorter, it is much gentler on fabrics.

Cooking – Ninety-six percent of chefs prefer cooking with the precision and control of a natural gas range. Precise temperature control and even heat distribution mean better-prepared, better-tasting and healthier food.

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We’ll make one decision a simple one. Choose Lakeside Bank for your personal or home equity loan to finance your renovations. Our low, competitive rates, experienced lenders and our ability to make quick, local decisions will help you get the financing you need stop waiting and start improving.

Give us a call today to learn more, and join the migration to Lakeside, the region’s fastest growing bank.

Visit the Lakeside Bank booth #52 at the Home Show

Before purchasing your next appliance, check for local utility rebates too.

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35

Home & Family

We Have the Keys You Need

The Time is

NOW THERE IS NO TIME BETTER THAN THE PRESENT TO START LOOKING TO BUY A NEW HOME. WITH OUR GROWING ECONOMY, THE SUPPLY OF HOUSING WILL START TO DIMINISH, CAUSING PRICES AND RATES TO SOAR. CONSIDER BUYING IN A BUYER’S MARKET.

Whether you are buying or selling your home, there are questions around every corner.

CENTURY 21 Bessette Realty and our staff of experienced agents have the answers.

We’ve won numerous awards for superior service, sales excellence and community involvement. That’s what we’ve built our reputation on for over 20 years.

Bessette Realty, Inc. Come see us at the Home Show at Booth #73.

474-2185 • century21-bessette.com Each office independently owned and operated.

36 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2016

Why should you start looking into home ownership? For many, it offers stability. It is rewarding to have a place to settle down in and call your own. And according to CSE, the value of your home will appreciate, causing its worth to increase. Mortgage payments also help you build equity and you can usually deduct mortgage interest on your tax return. Buying a home may also give you borrowing power, adds CSE. And with great power comes great responsibility.

Once you are a home owner, large purchases will feel less daunting. You are earning equity which may help you with all other future loans.

Buying a home can be the most stressful and trying time of your life. Do you prefer brick or stucco, one story or two, an acre of land with a privacy fence or land with no upkeep at all? These are a few of the million questions home buyers are faced with every day.

According to CSE, failed offers and falling in love with the “perfect” house that happens to have just gone under contract “two hours ago” can be a devastating venture. Choosing the mortgage that fits you should not be a devastation. Whether it is a first mortgage, a refinance or a vacation home, there are mortgage options.

If you are planning to build, there are several ways your financial institution can help. CSE assists clients with securing land and financing construction costs.

Once complete, they also set up longterm financing. For customers who choose a different route for financing, CSE can loan up to 80 percent of the appraised value of the house on interim construction loans.

According to CSE, one of the benefits of a federal credit union is that you are a member-owner, so you are part of the organization’s family.

Talk to your financial institution to find out what options are available to you.

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February 2016

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37

Home & Family

5 Ways to Encourage Emotional Well-Being in Your Children The New Year is a time of reflection on many areas of life. As 2016 gains momentum, we might find ourselves thinking about how we can better parent our children. More than ever, it feels important to help our children develop tools that will allow them to grow into conscientious, healthy adults.

Here are five tips.

Encouraging gratitude in our children from a young age will help them develop lifelong skills that support their emotional well-being and happiness. – Monisha Vasa, M.D.

38 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2016

Engage in random acts of kindness.

Engage in meal time mindfulness.

Children will often spontaneously share a toy or friendly words with a teacher, friend, or relative. Notice when children are acting or speaking in a kind manner, and say out loud how much you value their kindness. Similarly, allow children to witness you modeling being helpful and kind to others in small or big ways.

“Children will often model our behavior,” said Monisha Vasa, MD, board certified general and addition psychiatrist and author of My Dearest One and Saying Thank You. “Noticing and participating in acts of kindness as a family allows for more connection and positive experiences, which we can all be grateful for.”

Encourage children to be mindful at mealtimes. Removing toys, electronics, and books from the table can help children focus on their food, and use all of their senses to enjoy and appreciate their food as they eat. While eating, consider asking children to reflect on how their food came to be on their plate. For example, a strawberry didn’t just magically appear. There needed to be fertile soil, wind, sun, water, a farmer, a truck, a market, just to get the strawberry from the field to the plate. Allowing children to reflect on all that had to happen in order for the strawberry to grow and be eaten, affords a greater sense of wonder and appreciation for food.

Spend time in nature.

Nature allows children and adults alike to slow down from the constant stimulation of day to day life. At a slower pace, we can become more mindful and use our senses to notice all of the beauty in the world around. We can feel grateful for the cool shady trees or the colors of a vivid sunset.

Create a nightly reflection ritual.

After a meal, bath time, and a story, children are often more relaxed and open to connection with parents. Use this time as an opportunity to reflect on the “highs” and “lows” of the day. Parents can start by sharing their own joys and challenges, which opens up the lines of communication and encourages children to reflect and share as well. “Taking time on a daily basis to think about the day and consciously focus on big and small things that went well encourages gratitude from a young age,”Vasa explained.

Volunteer in age appropriate ways.

Volunteering can help children realize how fortunate they are, by giving them the opportunity to help those less fortunate. Children may have an inherent compassion for a particular cause—some might feel strongly about protecting the environment, others may feel strongly towards protecting animals. Consider your children’s natural interests, and discover ways of helping that are age appropriate.

Ideas include raising money for a local animal shelter, helping out at a food bank or soup kitchen, or even running in a 5K to raise money for a particular cause that touches your child’s heart.

Encouraging gratitude in our children from a young age will help them develop lifelong skills that support their emotional well-being and happiness. Activities that support thankfulness need not be expensive or time consuming.“When we make gratitude a daily part of our own life, children will naturally follow suit,” Vasa said.

Now Enrolling James A. Leithead, Jr., D.D.S. Leithead Orthodontics, the office of ABO-certified Dr. James A. Leithead, Jr., has been serving the Lake Charles and Jennings communities for over twenty years! We pride ourselves on providing the highest quality orthodontic care to our patients and their families, and have made it our mission to create beautiful, healthy smiles of which our patients can be proud. We offer the best of today’s orthodontic technologies and techniques, and we strive to ensure all our patients achieve the smile of their dreams in a comfortable, friendly environment.

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Great Reasons to be a

family

at Bishop Noland Episcopal Day School

Academic Excellence Safe, Nurturing Environment Competitive Athletics

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39

Home & Family

Get a Fresh Look with Easy Furniture Updates

Chalk Acrylic Paint Desk Crafting time: Weekend project Skill level: Beginner

When you grow bored with your furnishings or want to change up the look and feel of a room, you may find yourself trying to put off redecorating until you have a bigger budget.

Instead, you can give the furniture you already have a unique, fresh look at a fraction of the cost.

Supplies and Tools: Painter’s tape FolkArt Home Decor Chalk: Imperial or color of choice 2-inch paintbrush Hand sander and 80 grit sandpaper Soft cloth Dark wax

It can be easy to transform a tired old desk or a basic dining chair into one-of-a-kind pieces that complement your space perfectly. Here are two quick and easy ideas.

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Sitting Pretty Painted Chair Crafting time: 1-2 hours Skill level: Intermediate

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Supplies and Tools: White cotton canvas to cover seat and back of chair masking tape in a variety of widths Tulip Soft Fabric Paint in Ebony, Crimson Red, Royal Blue and Sunshine Yellow Foil or foam plate for palette Paintbrushes Spray paint in coordinating color Scissors Aleene’s Fast Grab Tacky Spray Aleene’s Fast Grab Tacky Glue Staple gun and staples Craft knife Black trim fabric Glam-It-Up! Iron-On Crystals in Clear Tulip Cordless Heat Setting Tool

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Using painter’s tape, tape off areas not to be painted. Paint desk. Allow to dry and recoat as needed.

When dry, distress edges with hand sander until desired look is achieved.

Using soft cloth, wipe on dark wax and buff.

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Lay canvas flat on work surface. Randomly place a variety of tape strips on canvas, intersecting strips to create abstract lines and shapes.

Fill in open areas between tape strips with fabric colors, using one dominant shade for majority of sections, with other colors as occasional accents. Remove tape and allow fabric to dry.

Remove old upholstery from chair. Reserve it to use as a pattern for cutting painted fabric.

Spray paint chair base; allow to dry.

Cut out painted canvas to fit chair backing and base. Apply tacky spray to chair base and position painted fabric over base. This will help to hold new fabric in place while gluing and stapling edges.

Repeat for chair back.

Use tacky glue around the edges of fabric to secure it to chair base and back. Use staple gun to secure fabric edges on the base and back for additional security. Trim excess fabric around edges with craft knife. Cover edges of fabric and staples with black trim, secured with tacky glue. Allow glue to dry completely.

Cut out heart shape from scrap of painted canvas. Cover heart with clear crystals and use heat-setting tool to set crystals in place, following instructions on packaging. Use tacky glue to secure crystal heart to chair back. Allow to dry.

For more information or ideas, visit www.joann.com.

40 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2016

Home Remedies and Over-the-Counter Meds for your Pets?

Ask your Vet First!

by Robin Barton

When Fido or Fluffy is in pain, has an upset stomach, or gets a cut or scrape, we want to make them feel better as quickly as possible. But what if it’s after-hours for your vet or the weekend?

In some cases, household and over-the-counter remedies can be used to help an ailing pet.

“Anytime there is something wrong with your pet, the first thing you should do is call a veterinarian,” says Dr. Jae Chang, with Farr Veterinary Hospital. In some circumstances, however, there are household remedies that can be used to help an ailing pet.

You should have a conversation with your vet about safe overthe-counter and home remedies for your pet before giving them any kind of medication.

Here are a few household and over-the-counter remedies that Dr. Chang says are typically safe for pets:

Pain Management: Sometimes a little pain is okay for our pets - it helps to protect them from hurting themselves even further,” says Dr. Chang. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pets are available and are often used for arthritis. Common dog-specific NSAIDs include Rimadyl, Novocox, Vetprofen, and Deramaxx and are available from your vet. “Just like in humans, NSAIDs can cause side effects in our pets, too, such as vomiting, decreased appetite, and diarrhea,” cautions Dr. Chang. Also, popular human NSAIDs like ibuprofen are not recommended for pets due to toxicity.

Aspirin and acetaminophen should always be prescribed and administered by your vet due to stomach sensitivity and toxicity. Aspirin can be lethal to cats.

Allergies: Benadryl can be used in dogs and cats for allergies, and for motion sickness in dogs; however, check with your vet to get the okay and the right dosage.

Dr. Chang advises, “Be careful not to use oral diphenhydramine liquids containing alcohol, or combination products that contain cold or flu medications like phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine or other drugs - these should never be given to pets, so check the labels.” Zyrtec and Claritin can be used in dogs, too; check with your vet for doses.

Some antihistamines can cause drowsiness in pets, so be sure to be alert for this and protect them from injury.

Stomach Troubles: Heartburn isn’t just a common human condition.

February 2016

Our pet’s stomach acid can shift into overdrive, too. “Over-the-counter human acid controllers, like Pepcid AC or Zantac can be useful for pets.

These acid controllers bind to histamine receptors in the stomach and help block acid production,” says Dr. Chang. Your vet might use these drugs for treatment of acid reflux, canine parvovirus, or vomiting.

Some over-the-counter stomach medicines can be used in dogs for problems such as diarrhea and poor digestion. “Imodium, for diarrhea, slows down the movement of the bowel and reduces the fluid in the stool which leads to less diarrhea. Pets whose diarrhea is caused by a bacteria or toxin should not be given Imodium, so it is important to see your vet and ask for advice and dosing on this OTC medication,” says Dr. Chang. These drugs should not be used in cats, as they contain salicylates (aspirin-like agents) which can be fatal. Oftentimes the best thing one can do for the animal is cut back on a few meals. Dr. Chang suggests trying out a few unexpected natural food combinations that may help stabilize your dog. “A bland meal of boiled potato or boiled rice with a little flavoring, like bouillon or chicken stock, can help an upset stomach.”

Glucosamine: This joint protective supplement is commonly used for arthritis and hip dysplasia in both dogs and cats. “Naturally occurring substances called nutraceuticals fall in the same class as vitamins, but no supplement can reverse structural joint damage. The quality of commercially available glucosamine or chondroitin can vary, too, so ask Thrive Magazine for Better Living

your vet to recommend a product. The sulfate form of glucosamine seems to be absorbed the best. It can take several weeks before the benefits are seen in your pet from taking these joint supplements,” says Dr. Chang. Glucosamine is available at most pet supply stores and is now even found in some pet foods.

Mild Cuts or Scrapes: These can be treated with over-the-counter triple antibiotic ointment, such as Neosporin, to help prevent infection. “Pets will try to lick it off, so cover the area, if possible, or use an Elizabethan collar to prevent licking. And, owners should also make sure that the antibiotic ointments they use do not include ‘caines’, like lidocaine, or other pain relief formulas. Saline solutions or hydrogen peroxide can be used to clean wounds,” explains Dr. Chang.

You should contact your vet or find an emergency clinic for serious bleeding, deep wounds, or a red or swollen surface wound.

Ultimately, your pet relies on you to make the right decisions about drug treatments and to prevent medication errors. “Human medications are not always safe for pets and owners should keep human medicines away from pets. Always consult with your vet about over-the-counter use of drugs for pets, and keep emergency contact numbers including emergency night clinics and the Animal Poison Control Center close-by,” says Dr. Chang.

Farr Veterinary Hospital is located at 3216 Enterprise Blvd., in Lake Charles. For more information visit www.farrvet.com, or call 337-474-1526. www.thriveswla.com

41

Money & Career

In Business, Your Emotional IQ Matters Here’s How to Increase Yours

Leadership development programs designed to increase emotional intelligence have matured during the last 15 years. So why haven’t we seen a big change in the way executives relate to one other? “Despite reading books and articles, taking assessments and attending seminars, leaders still lean toward old habits,” according to Kevin McHugh, president of JKM Management Development and author of The Honest Executive.

Emotional Intelligence scores typically climb with titles, but peak with middle management, according to Travis Bradberry, author of Emotional Intelligence 2.0. Any higher up the ladder, and the scores plummet. CEOs rank at the bottom.

Poison Still Exists in the Boardroom Toxic behaviors from leaders are still prevalent, from the warehouse to the boardroom. Leaders openly yell at, embarrass and publicly criticize subordinates.

Tempers flare, anger surfaces, and emotions are unchecked or mismanaged. “In toxic work cultures, passive aggressiveness is the rule, not the exception,” Hugh said.

McHugh says this happens for two reasons: one, leaders simply don’t have sufficient desire to be better—i.e., they don’t care. The other is lack of self-awareness.

All models of emotional intelligence start with a foundation of self-awareness.

Most coaching time should be spent on self-awareness because that is where the gold is still to be found. There are two ways to gain self-awareness: • Listen to and honestly examine the stories you are telling yourself in your head. Are they true? How do you know? This simply requires quiet time for selfreflection and to practice mindfulness.

• Seek feedback from others. This requires you to identify people who feel safe with you, who you would freely invite to tell you how they react to you, and how they think others react to you. It requires honesty and, of course, the right time and environment where the conversation can occur without interruption.

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February 2016

Easy right? No, of course not. These steps take time and commitment to change.

1. If Business is Good, Why Should You Care?

Coming face-to-face with your flaws, defects of character, pride, ego, distrust, fear – being vulnerable – does not come easily. Further, if business is booming, deadlines are met, and stock value is going up, why go through this exercise? Why dig deeper when all is well on the surface?

You dig because you can always up your leadership game and because it will make a difference in how you engage with your team, your vendors and clients.

2. Listen to Your Own Stories Force some quiet time every day, turn your cell phone off and shut your door for 10 minutes. Breathe deeply and slowly, and see what surfaces. Let the thoughts roll through your brain like a digital ticker tape. Notice what is happening and see if you can articulate how that experience feels. Pay special attention to anything that feels difficult or sparks negative emotions, as these feelings point to something larger underneath. When you take the time to look below the surface, you can see a glimpse of the source.

February 2016

3. Listen to Stories of Others Pick one person who you trust to tell you the complete truth about how you look to them. Ask them to find something they believe you do that causes others to disconnect from you – to avoid you, to shut down around you, to be less the honest. This is tough stuff. It requires both courage to take this feedback and a desire to hear it. If you are doing something like this now, keep at it - do it more.

Following these three simple steps will put you well on your way to better self-awareness – not only as a leader, but also as a person. And that is good for everyone.

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43

Money & Career

in the U.S. Today What makes for a good job? It depends on who you ask. Some might say money. Others might want freedom.

There are those who seek creative fulfillment. But for US News & World Report, the ingredients that make for a good job—actually, the “best,” according to their rankings—are: money, a challenging work environment that isn’t overly stressful, room to grow and advance, and (perhaps most importantly) job security.

These were the top 10 jobs of 2015, according to their recipe for success: 1. Dentist. Good pay, comfortable work-life balance, and increased need.

2. Nurse Practitioner. This position will be in high demand through 2022. Nurse practitioners often have the option of working independently, if they choose.

3. Software Developer. Technology’s always changing, so there’s lots of challenge with room to grow. Plus there will be nearly 140,000 brand new jobs before 2022, according to the Labor Department.

4. Physician. Abundant job growth, excellent pay, and room for growth.

Some physicians are able to maintain a decent work-life balance. It all depends on how you practice.

5. Dental Hygienist. This job is expected to grow 33 percent through 2022. Dental hygienists make a comfortable living and many have the choice of working full- or part-time.

6. Physical Therapist. This profession is expected to grow 36 percent; high demand often equates to flexibility and broader options.

7. Computer Systems Analyst. The Labor Department expects this to grow nearly 25 percent. To excel, you need to be goal-focused and process-oriented.

8. Information Security Analyst. Yet another tech job makes the top 10.

Not surprisingly, job security is expected to skyrocket for those wellversed in IS. The Labor Department anticipates a 37 percent increase through 2022 as we become more reliant on technology.

9. Registered Nurse. Although this job can be highly stressful, it has its perks: Always in demand, nurses often have their pick of work environment—doctor’s offices, hospitals, nursing homes. Depending on where you work, the job can provide a comfortable work-life balance and comfortable salary.

10. Physician Assistant. Physician assistants have one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, yet they’re in demand. Their job typically requires working under a physician and performing such tasks as interpreting X-rays and blood tests and conducting routine patient exams.

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February 2016

Never mind that we confused the makeup of French aristocracy in the 1770s with the face paint of a rock band from the 1970s. The important thing to remember is that for over 25 years LCI has worked alongside Louisiana business owners in virtually every industry—providing the expert guidance, personalized service, and custom programs they’ve come to rely on. So put our team to work for your company. :: lciwc.com :: 985-612-1230

Put us to work for you.

February 2016

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45

Money & Career

Better Financial Health Budgeting, saving and investing, oh my!

Where to begin?

Financial Expert Pam Friedman, CFP, CDFA, advises starting with your goals and objectives.

Do you want to reduce debt, pay less taxes, save more for retirement or simply understand your resources and debts? If you are married, discuss your goals with your spouse and listen to their hopes and concerns. Friedman is the author of I Now Pronounce You Financially Fit: How to Protect Money in Marriage and Divorce. She says that once you have some ideas, then take these steps.

Step #1: Make a list of all your resources, debt and insurance including their value and/or cost.

Gather all your statements including your tax returns, payroll statements, 401k statement, investment account statements, mortgage statement and loans, credit card statements, as well as auto, homeowners and life insurance.

Make a list and discuss what’s mine, yours and ours.

Step #2: Budget for your financial goals – but also for the unexpected.

Prepare a budget that includes all your expenses. Many of us pay our bills online through our bank accounts or by credit card so gather or download those statements for the past 12 months. And don’t forget to look at that payroll statement again. These will show spending on benefits such as life insurance and retirement contributions. Use those statements to objectively review your ongoing monthly and annual costs as well as one-time expenses such a vacations and large purchases.

• Do you have a high deductible health plan?

Did you know that you can contribute to a tax deductible health savings account? You can pay your health care deductible with pretax dollars which, in turn, saves money on health care expenses.

• Have you reviewed your insurance? Our insurance needs change as our lives change. A life insurance plan at work may not be enough.

You may want to consider a plan that doesn’t depend on your employment. The same is true to disability insurance. A review of your auto or homeowner’s insurance may reveal gaps in your coverage.

• Couples, especially newly married couples who work, may want to segregate costs into joint and individual expenses. Rent, insurance, food and pets might be joint expenses but nail appointments and Xbox games may not be.

Talk about contributing to a joint account for joint expenses in proportion to your income.

For example, Jim earns twice as much as Joan so he contributes $1,000 and she contributes $500 towards their $1,500 of joint expenses.

Keep your own individual account and your own credit card for individual expenses.

Step #3: Take a look at your credit.

Many bank and credit card issuers now offer scores but you also need to review your report for errors. Download yours by logging onto www.AnnualCreditReport.com.

Do you know what goes into a credit score?

Your payment history is important but so are the amount you owe, the length of your credit history and the type of credit you use. For example, missing just one mortgage payment can set your score back over 100 points! Your score determines not only the interest you’ll pay on debt but could impact whether or not you’ll be hired.

If you are considering a home loan, car loan or even a job change, it’s time to get this score back into shape. The amount of credit used should be less than 30 percent of the amount of available credit (called the utilization rate). This will keep your score on track.

Last, a joint credit card might seem like a good idea but it is more likely not. If your spouse fails to pay, you are responsible and your credit is negatively impacted. If you ever divorce or if your spouse dies, the balance will be your responsibility in the eyes of the bank. Have your own card and add your spouse as an authorized

• Do you have enough in your emergency savings? If possible, you should have at least six months of income available in savings should you leave your job.

• Is there room in you budget to increase retirement contributions? Ideally you should be making a contribution large enough to get your employer’s maximum matching contribution. Increase that contribution as your wages increase.

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February 2016

signatory if needed. If one of you needs to build credit, start with a secured card at your bank to build a credit history.

Step #4: Review your investments.

When was the last time you opened your investment or 401k statements?

Are your investments in line with your tolerance for risk? Get educated about your investments and review your statements with your advisor. If you have an advisor, ask how he or she views 2016 and how your portfolio is positioned for that outcome. Ask how your investments protected and what are is the tax impact if you were to sell them. Also be sure to ask about fees and expenses.

Investing without an advisor, but need one? Ask friends and family for references. Research online.

Step #5: Prepare a will (and other agreements).

You’ll be happier when you can look forward to your financial future with confidence and certainty. What would your financial future look like if you or your spouse was no longer alive to share that future, or your marriage ended in divorce?

Financial planning for these outcomes requires not only money know-how but legal smarts. Educate yourself about Louisiana laws regarding wills and marital agreements. Create a strategy with your spouse that works best for your unique financial goals as a couple and as an individual.

Just because you plan your financial future with these risks in mind doesn’t mean they will occur. It’s just smart financial planning. If divorce or an untimely death happens, you’ll be glad you planned ahead. Start today.

IndustryInsider

Straight Answers to Your Questions on Industry and the Environment

Q:

How safe is it to work at an industrial plant?

A:

Safety is the priority at every industrial plant.

Because of the safety mindset within the plant, an employee’s risk of injury decreases significantly once he or she enters the plant. According to research, a person is safer working in a plant than driving on the highway.

Before any job begins, multiple safety checks occur and continue throughout the job, daily. If anything seems unsafe, employees have the right and responsibility to stop the job. If an incident should occur, highly skilled and specialized emergency response teams are in place onsite and are ready to work with area first responders.

Safety is our culture, and it’s built into every job we do. The goal is to protect ourselves, our co-workers, our families and our community, because this is our home too.

Mary Burns

safety representative with area industry

Visit www.laia.com to learn more and submit your question about local industry and the environment.

February 2016

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47

Money & Career

Americans are overworked, overstressed, and overstretched. We seem to exist in an endless cycle of working hard then harder without an equal return on our investment. In a perfect world, we’d jet off to an island in the Caribbean and leave all our troubles behind. But in the real world, how can we work smarter instead of harder?

Say no. Do you find yourself compelled to insert yourself into every team project? Do you say yes when you should say no? You’re only hurting yourself. It’s not fair to you or your team if you take on more than you can handle. Learn to say no, and don’t feel like you have to apologize for it. If you’re overwhelmed, be diplomatic and honest. Say, “I have a lot on my plate, so I’m not sure I can give this project the attention it deserves.”

Here are a few tips.

Take a look at your calendar. Is this the best use of my time? If it isn’t, reconsider.

Make lists. If you’re not a fan of to-do lists, it’s time to start. You’d be surprised how much more efficiently your day will move if you know exactly what you need to get done and when. But you don’t need to just focus on what you need to do—you can also make a list of what you don’t need to do. What items can you push to tomorrow, or cancel altogether? Are there pointless meetings that you can decline or reschedule? Remember: Your time is valuable. Lists will help you use each hour wisely.

Take breaks. We all get caught up in the workday and forget to give ourselves a break. We think taking a break will put us behind, but the opposite is true. If you don’t take breaks, you could experience burnout.

Strong mental health is the key to surviving an overwhelming work day.

Feed your brain and soul by allowing it to rest.

Sleep. Speaking of resting, you need to make sure you’re getting a good night’s sleep. Studies have shown that poor sleeping habits contribute directly to decreased productivity and a decline in work performance.

Move on. When a project is over, move on—even if it didn’t go the way you planned. Don’t get hung up on perceived failures or mistakes. Learn from them, but keep on trucking. Forward is the way when your plate is full.

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February 2016

“Designing a good retirement plan is like designing a house: you can’t plan one room without consideration of the entire structure,” says Certified Financial Planner Travis Chance, president and founder of South Carolina-based CFG Wealth Management and CFG Insurance Planning. “But that’s exactly what people do when they make changes in one aspect of retirement funding without consideration of other sources. The morethe-merrier approach for money in retirement is too simplistic.

That would be like saying ‘the bigger the house, the better.’ At some point a huge house becomes a burden that becomes a burden for many. Likewise, maximizing money with one source can cost you elsewhere.”

While most Baby Boomers are concerned over the soundness of their retirement income plan, many do not acquire professional help. Chance explains what to look for and avoid when crafting a reliable funding strategy.

Hope for the best, but plan for the worst. There are three major sources funding the average retirement: Social Security, pension/IRA income and profit savings. Much of the time, when you decide to alter how you receive money in one area, it changes conditions elsewhere.

Avoid the ostrich response. Many pre-retirees are not fully confident in the robustness of their portfolio. Rather than taking a comprehensive approach to understanding and building a strategy, many decide to make a short-sighted decision or nothing at all. However, if it turns out that you need to work until 70, wouldn’t you want to learn this well in advance? According to the 2013 Risks and Process of Retirement Survey Report, just 52 percent of pre-retirees and 44 percent of retirees consult a financial planner or adviser. Professional support may not only help an individual’s money go further, but also adjust to changing laws, protect wealth and know when a safe age may be to receive Social Security benefits. Each portfolio is unique.

Know your risk power. In today’s volatile market, it’s crucial to know what you’re risking in retirement.

The 60/40 stock/bond portfolio is often used as a simple benchmark for a balanced asset allocation, but depending on your goals and resources, that may not be a great ratio. Also, in your accumulation phase, you may have saved more than you could have imagined – $500,000 or more in some cases!

Contingent upon the other moving parts of your plan, that may not be too much.

February 2016

We’re GROWING Strong $170 $160 Assets

$140

Deposits Gross Loans

$120 Millions

Are Your Retirement Resources Working Together?

$100 $80 $60 $40 $20 $0 2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

Our annual numbers are in and once again show continued growth and financial stability for Lakeside customers.

Lakeside’s performance since our 2010 opening demonstrates the soundness of our management practices and the continued expansion of the Southwest Louisiana economy. We’re proud to be part of the unprecedented growth in our region.

We sincerely appreciate the trust our customers have placed in us, and assure you that we are positioned for even stronger growth in the future.

We invite you to Join the Migration to Lakeside.

The way banking should be.

4735 Nelson Rd. 474-3766 • 2132 Oak Park Blvd. 502-4314 2203 Sampson St.,Westlake 437-3861 LakesideBanking.com Ask us about our high interest rates for deposits and IRAs, and our FREE checking.

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49

Money & Career All you need to know to stay in the know!

Memorial Specialty Hospital Opens Inside CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital

Homestead Exemption and Special Assessment Level Freeze Available

Lake Charles Memorial Health System’s long-term acute care hospital (LTACH) is now located on the third floor of CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital.

The Memorial Specialty Hospital was previously located at a facility on Ernest Street, but Memorial leadership decided to move the facility in order to provide a higher level of care, expanded clinical services and an enhanced patient experience.

Since most Memorial Specialty Hospital patients have traditionally been referred by both CHRISTUS St. Patrick and Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, a decision was made to relocate Memorial Specialty Hospital into available space at CHRISTUS St. Patrick. Memorial Specialty Hospital is leasing approximately 30,000 square feet on the third floor of CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital and will purchase ancillary clinical, therapeutic and support services from the host hospital.

Memorial Specialty Hospital is a freestanding 29-bed LTACH that is part of the Memorial Health System. The majority of patients are admitted after a stay in a short-term hospital, often from an intensive care unit (ICU) or a critical care unit (CCU) and have LTACH stays of 25 days or longer.

Calcasieu Parish Assessor, Wendy Curphy Aguillard, reminds veterans of the additional Homestead Exemption and Special Assessment Level Freeze that is available to them.

If a veteran has a 50% or more serviceconnected disability rating, and has a household income of less than $71,563, they may be eligible to freeze the valuation of their homesteaded property.

If a Veteran has a 100% service-connected disability rating, or 100% unemployability rating, they may be eligible to have an additional $7500 of Homestead exemption.

To apply for the Double Exemption and/or the Special Assessment Level Freeze, please bring your award letter or summary of benefits from the US Veteran Affairs and your current tax return to the Calcasieu Parish Assessor’s Office at 1011 Lakeshore Dr #101.

For more information, call (337) 721-3000.

SOWELA Foundation Announces 2016 Board Members and Officers The SOWELA Foundation Board of Directors welcomes the newly elected executive officers including: • Bill Hankins, President • Stuart Moss, Vice President • Nicholas Langley, Secretary/Treasurer The Foundation’s newly-elected board members for 2016 include: • Joseph “Joe” Bonita • Filmore “Fil” Bordelon • Ryan Bourriaque • Michael Flatt • Martin Guillory • Etta Pete • James Sudduth, III Continuing board members are Ann Knapp, Claude “Buddy” Leach, Don Morris, and Patricia Philmon.

The SOWELA Foundation promotes community stewardship, empowering students to launch their careers, through scholarships, professorships, staff development, technological advancements, program improvements, and capital expansion.

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Tilman Fertitta Announces Expansion of Golden Nugget Lake Charles Tilman Fertitta has announced Golden Nugget Lake Charles will add 300 rooms to the luxury resort and casino by end of 2016. The adjacent hotel tower will offer 300 additional rooms over 500 square feet each and containing a five-fixture bathroom with two sinks, walk-in shower, oversized tub and a separate toilet room. The new hotel tower will be consistent in design and look of the original tower, which opened in December 2014. The general contractor is Whiting Turner Construction.

For more information or to book your stay, visit www.goldennuggetlc.com.

WCCH Home Health Receives Recognition The Home Health Agency of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital has been named a 2015 Home Health Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems Honors Elite Recipient.

This was based on a set of nineteen satisfaction indicator measures. WCCH Home Health scored above the company’s national average in all areas.

Phillips 66 Awards $35,000 grant to Westlake High School The Phillips 66 Lake Charles Manufacturing Complex recently awarded a $35,000 educational grant to Westlake High School to enhance classroom technology. The money will be used to purchase Promethean Boards for 22 classrooms.

Now all classrooms are equipped with the interactive whiteboards that engage students in the learning experience.

“We truly appreciate the financial donation, but also the continued partnership that Phillips 66 has had with Westlake High School. We are blessed to have such a generous community Partner in Education,” stated Principal Jason VanMetre.

Refinery Manager Steve Geiger (left) presented the check to Principal VanMetre.

SURVEY: Lake Charles Ranks High Among Debt-Savvy Debt is one of the most common financial realities in America, but where are people best at managing it? A recent study from SmartAsset, a New York financial technology company, determines which cities are the most debt-savvy—and Lake Charles ranks among the top places in the state.

Smart Asset’s analysis measures credit score, average personal loan debt, credit utilization, and mortgage foreclosure rates at the city level to see where debt is managed best.

Lafayette was the only metro area to rank higher than Lake Charles.

According to Smart Asset, Lake Charles has an average credit score of 650.1 and average debt of $29,419. The amount at which residents use the credit available to them—also known as “credit utilization”—is 30 percent.

The area’s foreclosure rate was 4.05 percent, compared to Lafayette’s 2.59 percent. Altogether, the region was awarded a debt-savvy score of 34.14.

Alexandria came out at the bottom, with a debt-savvy score of only 4.93, an average credit score of 633.8, and a foreclosure rate of 6.18 percent.

The highest foreclosure rate overall was seen in Shreveport, at 7.35 percent. Highest debt overall went to Lafayette, with $30,079—although Acadiana residents managed to get the highest debt-savvy score of 37.63, thanks to an average credit score of 651.4 and its low foreclosure rate.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2016

The Real Deal JOSHUA FLOYD jfloyd@inglesafari.com Licensed & Insured Realtor Cell: 337.263.5954

PAIGE VIDRINE pvidrine@inglesafari.com Licensed & Insured Realtor Cell 337.660.4567

Office 337.478.1601 765 Bayou Pines East | Lake Charles, La 70601

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51

Style & Beauty

4

RED RULES YOU NEED TO BREAK

by Emily Alford

Is there any color that causes more commotion than red? As striking as a woman in a red dress can be, the color also comes with a lot of caveats and little warnings for how to wear red the “right” way. But in the spirit of February, why not throw some of those red rules out the window and wear it your way?

And don’t forget the most important red rule: Wear what makes you feel good!

1 234 Redheads CAN Wear Red

Red and Pink Totally Match

Drink That Red Wine

Most gingers grew up with dire warnings to avoid wearing the color red for fear of “clashing” or looking washed out. However, celebrities from Jessica Chastain to Christina Hendricks prove that tired old line is hogwash.

The trick is to choose a warm red and avoid overly orange hues. Also, keep accessories to a minimum to let your red(s) shine!

This may get many traditionalists up in arms, but color blocking red and pink can look incredibly fashion forward.

The most important trick for doing this don’t is to keep it simple. Choose clear, bright shades and avoid patterns. A solid pink top with a red A-line skirt or hot pink shoes with a bright red dress can make you look bold and confident.

If you want a glass of merlot but are worried about wine stains on your teeth and lips, brush your teeth before you go out and sip water alongside your wine. Brushing will remove any plaque red wine might cling to and water will wash residue away. You could also invest in some red wine wipes, which instantly remove any stains.

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Wear Red Lipstick in the Daytime Who says a crimson lip has to wait until the sun goes down?

A red lip in the a.m. adds some vintage glamour to an otherwise regular workday. If you’re worried about smudging, pick a matte, long-wear shade. Line and fill lips with a neutral pencil, apply the lipstick, blot, reapply, and then blot again. You can also top your lipstick with a dab of translucent powder for even more staying power.

February 2016

Blue Eye Shadow is Back for Spring 2016

THINK COBALT OR AQUA

YOU DON’T HAVE TO GO FULL LID

The brighter, the better, seemed to be the trend at shows from Missoni to Chanel. But don’t go glittery or frosted with your blue eye shadow or you’re going to look a bit too Studio 54. Stick with hyper pigmented, matte shadows like MAC’s Marine Ultra or NYC East River Romance.

Some of the most interesting looks relied on bright blue eyeliners instead of using blues for the crease or full eyelid. And the best blues of the 2016 runways didn’t even line the whole eye. For example, Phillip Lim used just a touch of blue/green eye showdow on the outer and inner corners of his model’s otherwise naked eyelid for a look that was striking, yet understated.

BRIGHTEN UP YOUR BLUE WITH WHITE

by Emily Alford

GO NAKED (ON YOUR FACE)

Blue eye shadow looks best when it’s left to stand If your shadow looks bold in alone. If you’re looking the packaging but dull on your eye, apply white eyeliner to try out the trend, pair your pop of color with and then use a shadow understated foundation, brush to cover it with your nude lips, and subtle blue eye shadow. You’ll pink cheeks to make immediately double the your bright eyes a real intensity of the pigment. knockout.

by Emily Alford

Lately, make-up colors have been a little bit of a bummer. The vampy purple lips and sultry black kitten eyeliner that seemed super cool in spring 2014 have started to feel a bit…heavy. But lovers of color can rejoice!

According to the runways at New York and Paris fashion weeks, bright blue shadows and liners are going to be the next big thing come spring.

However, if you’re worried about going full Helen Roper, don’t be. The blues are anything but 1970s gaudy. Here’s how to update your blue for the 21st century.

Say

Bye Bye To Dry

Dry, cold winter air and indoor heat can take a toll on your skin, leading to chapping, flaking, and redness. The Aesthetic Center can help you refresh and revive dry winter skin with nourishing, rejuvenating facial treatments.

We offer: • • • •

Chemical Peels Microdermabrasion Cosmetic Injections Dermapen

• • • •

Targeted Skin Care Treatments PCA Home Care Products Jane Iredale Mineral Make-up Facial Cosmetic Surgery

Don’t hibernate, luxuriate!

Call 310-1070 for more information or to schedule your appointment.

Treatments are provided under the medical direction of facial cosmetic specialist, Mark Crawford, MD.

facehealth.net •

310-1070 • 1717 Oak Park Blvd.

February 2016

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53

Style & Beauty

New Hope for Hair Loss

by Kristy Armand

Harnessing the body’s own growth factor

Everyone loses hair. In fact, it’s normal to lose about 50-100 hairs every day – a loss most people typically do not even notice as it is quickly replaced with regrowth. But if you see bald patches or excessive thinning, you may be among the 80 million adults (50 million men and 30 million women) in the United States who struggle with the effects of hereditary hair loss. Other names for this type of hair loss are male-pattern baldness, female-pattern baldness and androgenetic alopecia. These numbers do not include the millions more who experience thinning hair because of pregnancy, menopause, stress and other health conditions.

Fortunately, there are more treatment options available today than ever before to treat thinning hair. The effectiveness of different options depends on why the hair loss has occurred, the extent of loss, and the individual response to treatment. Generally, experts agree that treatment is less effective if hair loss is severe. Treatment is most effective when a correct diagnosis is done to evaluate the underlying condition.

One exciting new advance in the field of hair loss treatment is Platelet-Rich Plasma, or PRP, therapy. Locally, Dr. Steve Springer, family medicine physician with Imperial Health, medical staff physician with CHRISTUS Wound Care Center, and Medical Director and owner of Renew Medical Spa, is using PRP to reverse hair loss with impressive results. “Many people think of platelets as the component of blood that coagulates wounds. However, the function of platelets is for more than just forming clots,” he explains. “When activated, they produce special proteins and growth factors, acting as an integral part of wound healing.

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It’s this function of platelets that have led to their use in a variety of medical applications, including wound healing, sports injuries, cosmetic treatments, and now, for hair loss.”

He explains that if the hair follicles or hair roots are healthy, the growth of the hair is healthy. Hair follicles survive on the nutrition they get from blood supply. “If we introduce platelets by administering PRP in the area of damaged hair follicles, it amplifies the body’s naturally occurring wound healing mechanism.”

PRP therapy for hair loss is a simple, nonsurgical procedure. Dr. Springer says the patient’s blood is drawn and put into a centrifuge to separate the PRP from the normal whole blood.

Once this is done, it’s formed into a gel that that contains abundant growth factors and stem cells and placed into a syringe. Topical anesthesia is applied to numb the area to be treated. The scalp is then stimulated with a microneedling device to activate the wound healing process. Immediately, the highly concentrated PRP is injected in the areas of the scape where hair loss is a concern.

The complete treatment time is 60 to 90 minutes, and will vary based on the area(s) being treated. PRP treatments are completely natural, with no side effects. They can be repeated as often as every two weeks until the desired results have been achieved. Regular treatments may be needed to maintain the results. For many people, this may just be once or twice a year, says Dr. Springer.

As with any medical treatment, PRP is not an option for everyone, according to Dr. Springer. To find out if this procedure can work for you, call Renew for a free consultation at (337)-436-3840.

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BEFORE AND AFTERS

February 2016

Blue: the World’s Favorite Color Q

uick, what do Facebook and Twitter have in common? Don’t worry, this isn’t a test of your social media knowledge. The most basic trait the two sites share is the color of their logos: blue.

In fact, nearly 60 percent of Fortune 500 companies feature blue logos. Blue may even be the most popular color in the world, according to one survey across ten countries, including the US, China, Britain and Australia. In each, the color was the most popular regardless of gender, age or race. But why do we love the color blue so much? The answer could lie in our art.

According to Martin Bellander, a doctoral candidate in psychology at Sweden's Karolinska Institutet, the color blue has been the most popular in art since around the early 20th century. After comparing the dominant colors in 130,000 fine art images from 1800-2000, Bellander found that, while orange was by far the most dominant color for nearly 100 years, its use dropped off sometime around the years of WWI and never really recovered.

One reason could be a drop in the price of indigo, once used as currency and traditionally a dye used exclusively for the garments of European royalty, which probably adds to its reputation as rich and classic. Another could be growing awareness in the 20th century of the dangers of cadmium, a pigment used to make orange hues. Contamination from the pigment released into the water from artists’ brushes increases the risk of cancer and weakens bones.

Whatever the reason for the shift in our allegiances from orange to blue, preferences could be shifting again. New studies have found that red, pink and purple images are the most likely to be shared across social media, which could be an indication that blue finally has some competition for the world’s best loved color.

February 2016

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55

Mind & Body So What if You’re a Grown-Up?

That doesn’t mean you have to stop coloring, creating, or learning

by Angie Kay Dilmore and Adam Gianforcaro

Somewhere along the way—after we left school, maybe, or once we got jobs—we got this crazy idea that we no longer needed to give ourselves new lessons to learn. And we figured it was time to put away the crayons and coloring books. Education was left behind in the classrooms, Crayola went in the trash, and the world of adulthood shadowed our imaginative, curious, and colorful natures.

That trend is starting to change. Numerous studies have revealed the many benefits of lifelong learning. Research has shown that the ability to ask questions, find out new information, or adopt new skills later in life can subvert the symptoms of dementia, add to quality of life, and contribute to positive physical and mental health.

And the recent adult coloring craze has basis in research, as well. According to research in Psychology Today, coloring has been shown to reduce stress, decrease symptoms related to anxiety and PTSD, and nurturing greater brain functions.

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Get Your Crayons

A curious phenomenon crept into books shops, corner drug stores, and Amazon wish lists early last year – coloring books for adults. That’s right, coloring is not just for kids anymore.

This coloring craze has caught on quicker than you can open a box of Crayola crayons.

The trend began when British publishing house Laurence King released Johanna Basford’s “Secret Garden: An Inky Treasure Hunt and Coloring Book.” Since then, millions of adult coloring books have been sold.

Basford’s book alone has sold over two million copies. According to a recent Amazon ranking, five of the top ten best sellers in 2015 were adult coloring books.

Grown-ups have discovered (and studies have shown) that coloring can be good for both mind and body.

Coloring exercises fine motor skills, trains the brain to focus, promotes logical thinking, increases creativity, and decreases anxiety. Psychiatrist Carl Jung described these benefits in the early 1900s. Most coloring enthusiasts enjoy the pastime simply to relax and reduce stress. It’s a way for adults to unplug Thrive Magazine for Better Living

from the digital world, escape from the rigors of work, and unwind. Who doesn’t want to feel like a kid again!

Coloring can be a social as well as a solitary activity. Stellar Beans Coffee Shop in Lake Charles recently hosted an Adult Coloring Camp. Clubs are popping up in communities around the country for “coloring and cocktails.” The phenomenon has been fueled in part by social media. Enthusiasts post their coloring creations on Facebook and Instagram. Pinterest offers tips on craft and opens debates over gel-tip markers or Prismacolor pencils. The adult coloring book fad is primarily geared to women, but men enjoy coloring, too; there are coloring books designed with masculine themes such as cars, planes, history, and of course, sex.

If you’re looking for a new way to relax and decrease stress this year, pick up a coloring book and a 24-pack of colored pencils. And no worries. It’s okay to color outside the lines.

AND LEARN NEW THINGS

Going back to school can seem like a fantastic idea, but for working-class adults, the return on investment isn’t always there. Luckily, we live in a world where information is at our fingertips— February 2016

literally. Most of us have smartphones with the power to research and relay information. And our cell phones can actually talk to us. We also have the tremendously vast Internet, which seems ever-expanding with information and topics that never end. Instead of using these technologies to impulsively and senselessly pass the time, we can utilize their capabilities to learn new skills, gain knowledge, and inspire creativity.

Self-education can be as impactful and fulfilling as a formal education.

Get empowered by your drive to exercise your mind. It feels good to learn something new. Use these tools and tips to begin your self-education journey: Use your smartphone wisely. Instead of wasting time going through friends’ posts multiple times a day, we can download apps designed to teach us new things. Explore the education section of your app store, or check out other apps listed under the medical, productivity, or reference categories.

Many of these insightful apps are free or low-cost. But don’t be afraid to splurge if you find one you think will be particularly helpful. Read the reviews and see which app is right for your learning journey.

Listen up. Podcasts are the audiobook of the 21st century, and a convenient way to learn on the go. Podcasts are free and updated regularly with a wide range of topics. Teach yourself a new language or learn how to effectively navigate the stock market. Make youR commute to work worthwhile, or take your podcast with you on leisurely walks.

The Internet is your friend. Believe it or not, the Internet has more to offer than cat videos. There is a plethora of smart and valuable information online.

Even YouTube has educational channels. For a long but comprehensive list of many online resources, check out Kyle Pearce’s “100+ Self-Education Resources For Lifelong Learners” at www.diygenius.com/100-self-educationresources-for-lifelong-learners.

Visit your local library. If you don’t already have a library card, do yourself a favor and sign up for one. Not only will you have access to plenty of books, movies, and CDs, but many libraries offer special services, classes, and resources to further learning—all for free. Ask your librarian for a list and schedule of all the offerings in your area.

Learn from others. Leverage the knowledge of friends, family, and other people in your community or workplace. Check out community message boards and see what’s happening locally. You may find people right in your parish looking to broaden their educational horizons, as well. Meet online or at a local coffee shop to create an informal study/discussion group.

Since birth, we have all had a natural will to learn. But as adults, it’s hard to find the time and resources to teach ourselves new things. But quality resources have been there all along, hiding in plain sight. Once you decide to apply yourself and dedicate time to learning, the hardest part will be deciding what to focus on! Pick something you love, or choose something you’ve always wanted to learn. You now have the tools available for effective and practical self-education. Expand your mind, get creative, and enjoy learning something new.

Aging is inevitable.

30 - 40 years old

looking your age shouldn’t be

Your face reflects your active lifestyle. Time spent outdoors and the pressures of a work/life balance leave their mark. But, they don’t have to.

An experienced board certified facial plastic specialist can effectively address fine lines, crows feet and loss of volume by using advanced surgical and non-surgical procedures. The result is a more youthful, more relaxed, and more confident you.

Choose to age more gracefully by selecting the specialist with the eye of an artist and the hands of a surgeon. Call Dr. Jeffrey Joseph today for a consultation – 337-237-0650.

Jeffrey J. Joseph, MD, FACS 1000 W. Pinhook rd, suite 201 • lafayette

February 2016

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57

Mind & Body

EYES Your eyes may be your windows to the world, but they also give doctors a glimpse inside, at your health, including diseases and conditions of which you may be unaware.

Signs and symptoms of conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, stroke and heart disease, just to name a few, are often visible in, on, or around the eyes long before other symptoms are apparent.

That’s why having regular eye exams is so important. “During a fully dilated eye exam, we’re checking your vision and eye health, and we’re also able to see small changes in the blood vessels and tissue in the back of the eye,” explains ophthalmologist Charles Thompson, MD, with The Eye Clinic. “In fact, the eyes are actually the only place in the body where doctors can directly visualize nerves and blood vessels without an incision, providing us with a clear, unobstructed view.”

Recent advancements such as digital retinal imaging allow eye doctors to more easily detect and monitor changes in the eye that look suspicious. “If we see areas of bleeding, swelling or blockages in the eye, this can be an accurate reflection of changes occurring throughout the entire body,” says Dr. Thompson. “Identifying early signs of certain conditions can lead to earlier, more successful treatment in many cases.”

This is one reason the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends a complete medical eye examination for healthy adults at least once between age 19 and 29; at least twice between age 30 and 39; and every two to four years between age 40 and 64. “People who have a family history of eye problems should be seen earlier, and anyone who is having eye trouble should see a doctor right away,” says Dr. Thompson. He stresses that you shouldn’t wait until you experience symptoms to see a doctor. “Many conditions are ‘silent,’ and have no noticeable symptoms until the disease is advanced.”

Here are some of the most common symptoms an ophthalmologist could identify during an exam, and what they might reflect about your health: Arterial plaques. Atherosclerosis is the disease process that causes cholesterol plaque to form in arteries, including the carotid arteries in the neck and the coronary arteries. Bits of cholesterol can break away from these plaques and travel through the bloodstream to the eye, where they lodge in small arteries in the retina, the delicate network of blood vessels and nerve cells at the back of the eye.

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Reveal Health Secrets

These minute yellowish blockages can be evidence of severe atherosclerosis.

Optic nerve abnormalities. The optic nerve, which transmits visual information from the retina to the brain, is visible at the rear of the eye. A healthy optic nerve should be pink. If an optic nerve is swollen, it could be a sign of a brain tumor or aneurysm. A pale optic nerve can be a sign of a previous stroke or multiple sclerosis.

Retinal defects. Various medical conditions, most commonly diabetes and high blood pressure, can damage the blood vessels and nerves in the retina.

This retinal damage -- which can cause blindness -can take several forms, including tiny hemorrhages, leaks of yellowish fluid, and puffy-looking whitish patches known as cotton wool spots.

Skin cancer. There are some signs of skin cancer that can’t be caught during a routine skin scan.

The surface of the eye can be affected by the same types of cancer as the skin: squamous cell cancer, nevi (moles) and melanoma. Some types require a closer look. A retinal nevus is a freckle on the back of the eye, just like you’d have a freckle on your skin.

These are fairly common, but if the freckles grows larger, it could be a sign of a melanoma.

by Kristy Armand

Bulging eyes. Though prominent eyes may simply be a family trait, eyes that appear to bulge may be evidence of thyroid disease. Abnormal levels of thyroid hormone cause tissues surrounding the eye to swell, making it appear that the eye is bulging.

Dry eyes. When symptoms of dry, burning, irritated eyes occur in combination with a dry mouth, that’s indicative of Sjogren syndrome. Dry eye and dry mouth, along with joint pain, could be rheumatoid arthritis.

Dr. Thompson says if you notice any of these signs in your own eyes, see your eye doctor right away. “The worst thing you can do is ignore one of these signs, or any other change in your eyes. Your vision – and your health – could depend on a quick response.”

For more information about eye health, call The Eye Clinic nearest you or visit theeyeclinic.net.

Pupil abnormalities. The pupils of healthy people are usually (but not always) symmetrical. They’re usually of the same size, and show the same reaction upon exposure to light. If one pupil is bigger than the other, or if one pupil shrinks less, or more slowly, on exposure to light, there could be an underlying medical problem. Possibilities include stroke, brain, or optic nerve tumor, brain aneurysm and multiple sclerosis.

Droopy eyelid. This condition, called ptosis, can be a sign of aging, but in rare cases, it can be evidence of a brain tumor or a neuromuscular disease known as myasthenia gravis (MG), an autoimmune disorder that weakens muscles throughout the body.

Yellow eyes. Diseases of the liver, including hepatitis and cirrhosis, can turn the white portion of the eyes yellow. The color is caused by the buildup of bilirubin, a compound created by the breakdown of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying molecule inside red blood cells.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2016

Tips for Watching Your

Change your sleep.

First things first: Speak with your doctor before starting a lowcarb diet. Whether you’re interested in weight loss or have a medical condition that requires a diet low in carbohydrates, there is no set number for carb intake. It’s based on individual needs. Too little or too much can be damaging to your health.

A low-carb diet—as opposed to a no-carb diet, which can be threatening to overall health—focuses on managing the intake of carbohydrates to maintain the body’s level of glucose, or blood sugar. The body uses the sugar contained in carbohydrates to produce energy; however, for people with certain medical conditions, like diabetes, consuming too much sugar can be dangerous and, depending on the severity of the disease, life-threatening. The key to a successful low-carb diet is knowing the difference between “good carbs”—those with a low glycemic index—over “bad carbs,” which are high in sugar.

The first foods that come to mind when we think of “bad carbs” are grain-based foods, such as breads, cereal, crackers and other snack foods, sweets, soda and pasta. However, there are a number of other foods known for their health benefits that also contain high-levels of sugar. Some of the most surprising include: • Milk and yogurt • Oatmeal • Vegetables high in starch: corn, peas and potatoes • Fruit • Juice • Dried beans • Soy products Not all fruits and vegetables are high in carbohydrates. Fruits with a low glycemic index include apricots and sweet tasting fruits such as, berries. peaches, pears and cantaloupe. Non-starchy vegetables include broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, lettuce and cucumbers.

Carb counting is easier when food labels are available. The two most important lines to review are serving size and the total grams of carbohydrates. If you’re trying to lose weight, also check out the number of calories per serving.

It can get complicated when there are no labels, whether buying fresh foods or eating at a restaurant or party.

Ask your doctor or nutritionist for other resources and help in determining serving sizes for your favorite foods.

February 2016

Change your day.

Change your life.

When you don’t sleep well, it’s a struggle to make it through the day. Staying focused at work, finding the energy to get up and get moving and even making healthy food choices can be a challenge.

The sleep specialists at the Sleep Disorder Center of Louisiana can prescribe a sleep regime for your sleep problems and help you turn good nights into great days.

Make a change. Call us today!

Sleep Specialists Jana P. Kaimal, MD Phillip Conner, MD Michelle Zimmerman, NP

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4820 Lake St., Lake Charles (337) 310-REST sleepdisordercenterofla.com

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59

Mind & Body

Closing the Heart Disease Gap

“Think Again” About American Heart Month February is American Heart Month, and since its inception in 1964, this annual observance has done much to increase awareness about cardiovascular disease and how to prevent it. As a result, improvements in heart disease prevalence and mortality rates are being made each year. For example, 2014 statistics from the American Heart Association report that on average, one person dies every 40 seconds from heart disease, an improvement from 39 seconds in 2012. However, heart disease is still the number one killer in the United States, responsible for 1 in every 3 deaths, or 787,650 American live lost each year.

According to cardiologist Corey Foster, MD, with Cardiovascular Specialists, heart disease causes more deaths in Americans of both genders and all racial and ethnic groups than any other disease. “Unfortunately, many Americans believe that the highest rates of heart disease affect only older, white men, which can lead to a false sense of security. The truth is that heart disease takes a greater toll on certain racial and ethnic groups. And more women than men die of heart disease each year, although more men have heart attacks.”

In addition, Dr. Foster says women, Black Americans and Hispanic Americans who are at a

high risk for heart disease are less likely to receive lifesaving treatments than Caucasian males. Even when they have insurance and are of the same social class, minority groups often receive a lower quality of care than their Caucasian counterparts.

These disparities in heart disease prevalence and treatment are what medical researchers call "the gap" in heart care, and efforts are underway across the country to help close it, through awareness, research, education and treatment programs.

Here are just a few examples that illustrate “the gap” in heart care: • Black Americans are at greater risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke than White Americans.

• Black Americans are 2 times more likely than White Americans to be diagnosed with diabetes and 1.5 times more likely to be diagnosed with hypertension-important risk factors for heart disease.

• An estimated 30% of adult Hispanics have diabetes, but nearly half don’t realize it.

Untreated, diabetes can lead to serious complications, including cardiovascular disease and renal failure.

by Kristy Armand

• Among Latino Americans age 20 and older, 77.5% of men and 75.1% of women are overweight - an important risk factor for heart disease.

• Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, killing more women than all cancers combined. However, only 42% of women aged 35 and older are concerned about heart disease.

• Almost two-thirds (64%) of women who die suddenly of coronary heart disease have no previous symptoms.

• At age 45, the lifetime risk for cardiovascular disease is more than 1 in 2 women.

• Some diagnostic tests and procedures, including the exercise stress test, might be less accurate in women then men.

“The prevalence of heart disease and related conditions in minority groups is compounded by the fact that these populations are also less likely to receive life-saving treatments than Caucasian males,” says Dr. Foster. “That’s why awareness and education are so important.”

Minorities and Heart Disease In the US, members of ethnic and racial minorities, especially African-Americans, have higher rates of death from heart attacks, strokes, heart failure and kidney failure than the majority white population.

Is skin color, race, or ethnicity a cause of diseases of the heart and blood vessels? “Not directly,” explains Dr. Foster.

“The major causes of diseases of the heart and blood vessels are high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cigarette smoking and diabetes. However, it is also true that AfricanAmericans with high blood pressure and diabetes are less likely to receive early and sustained medical care.”

Much of the difference in the frequency of risk factors and behaviors that contribute to higher risk for African-Americans is related to lower levels of education, social and economic status, the ability to buy healthy foods and to obtain medical care that would protect against early death. Those with less than 12 years of education (high school graduation) are more likely to have one or more of these risk factors: high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, cigarette smoking and diabetes. They are also less likely to engage in regular physical activity.

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Latinos now make up 16.7 percent of the U.S. population and are likely to make up more than 30 percent by the year 2050. A particular problem among Latinos is diabetes mellitus, which is related partly to diet and obesity.

Awareness of high blood pressure among those who have it, the frequency of treatment and adequate control, are also lower among Latinos than among African-Americans and Non-Hispanic whites. Abnormal cholesterol profiles are also much more frequent among Hispanics.

Biological factors and lifestyle factors that contribute to higher rates of high blood pressure in African-Americans include lower potassium intake from fruits and vegetables, and weight gain. Among Latinos, especially those of Mexican origin, and among African-Americans, weight gain and obesity lead to the development of diabetes in adults, and in recent years, even in children.

What’s the solution? “Reducing the impact of risk factors on premature death from cardiovascular disease among Latinos and African-Americans will require a combination of approaches,” says Dr. Foster. “For African-Americans, it will require attempts to improve control of blood pressure, to bring about smoking cessation, and to reduce the rapid increase in obesity and diabetes by bringing about dietary change and increasing physical activity. Among Latinos, it will require increased outreach and education across language and cultural barriers to change the lifestyles that contribute to obesity and diabetes, and to ensure adequate care to control and manage risk factors. The risk for minorities are susceptible to change. Increased mortality does not have to be linked to ethnicity.”

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continued on p62

February 2016

Heart Health

We Don’t Miss A Beat.

CARDIOLOGISTS

In 2015, West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital averaged treating heart attack patients 19 minutes faster than the American Heart Association recommends.

Our cardiology team is committed to providing advanced cardiac care for Southwest Louisiana. When it comes to treating arrhythmia, peripheral arterial disease, heart disease and heart attack, we don’t miss a beat.

For more information on our cardiology services, please call (337) 527-4189.

701 Cypress Street, Sulphur

wcch.com

February 2016

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61

Mind & Body | Closing the Heart Disease Gap

Women and Heart Disease Think that breast cancer is the #1 killer of women? “Think again,” says Dr. Foster. “Heart disease is more deadly by far.”

As with men, for women the most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But Dr. Foster says women are somewhat more likely than men to experience signs and symptoms unrelated to chest pain, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/ vomiting, and back or jaw pain. “It’s important for women to be aware of these types of symptoms and to pay attention to them.”

For more information about heart disease risk, or to schedule an appointment, call Cardiovascular Specialists, an affiliate of Imperial Health, at (337) 436-3813.

Risk Factors & Prevention for Everyone Once you know the facts, take steps to reduce your risk for developing heart disease: Learn about risk factors. Understand the risk factors for heart disease you can and can’t control.

LaserCenter

Assess your risk. Find out what’s putting you at risk.

AT T H E E Y E C L I N I C

Reduce your risk. Learn how to take control of lifestyle factors that contribute to heart disease.

Talk to your doctor. Talk to your doctor about your risk factors; ask pointed questions and be honest about your risk factors to develop a plan to reduce your overall risk.

Source: Boston Scientific

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February 2016

Everyday Steps Toward Diabetes Management

High-risk populations have unmet basic needs, but you can take practical steps toward a healthier life by Erin Kelly and Adam Gianforcaro Diabetes is a growing national concern, and Louisiana is no stranger to the disease.

Approximately 10 percent of Louisianans have been diagnosed with diabetes and there are still many people living with the condition who do not know they have it.

Those who live at or below poverty level are at highest risk for complications because they have more difficulty paying for appropriate food, medicine, and other basic needs, according to a study by Harvard Medical School. When diabetes is mismanaged, patients suffer from higher blood sugar, higher cholesterol and higher blood pressure than normal—all of which have adverse effects on the condition.

Unmet basic needs are common among highrisk populations, including those who are covered by insurance, researchers found. A diet of fresh organic fruits and vegetables can be difficult for those in neighborhoods with limited access, and even more challenging for those without daily transportation. Studies have shown that this creates a socioeconomic barrier to eating foods that may help

lower cholesterol and manage sugar levels more easily. When options are limited, there’s a higher risk of buying foods that put patients at risk for diabetes and hypertension or further complications.

“Diabetes is a concerning and complex disease for anyone living with the diagnosis, but it’s certainly more difficult to manage when you have additional practical challenges, such as transportation issues, immediate access to care or medications, financial limitations, and so forth,” said Timothy Haman, MD, internal medicine and infectious disease specialist with CHRISTUS Internal Medicine – Moss Bluff. “But, there are fairly simple steps that can be taken every day to help high-risk populations—all populations, actually—manage diabetes in a healthy and proactive way.”

Here’s how: Manage portions. If you must opt for the drivethrough, choose a healthier option. Don’t get the fries. Choose water instead of soda. Cut down on portions. Same goes for home-cooked meals.

Pay attention to portion size. If you have meat on your plate— particularly red meat— it shouldn’t be any bigger than your fist.

Can’t buy fresh? Buy frozen. If you can’t buy fresh fruits and veggies each week, buy bags of frozen fruits and vegetables. No need to worry about them spoiling in your fruit basket or refrigerator.

Exercise, no matter how small the steps. In addition to eating right, another important factor to managing diabetes is daily exercise. Physical activity helps control blood glucose levels, weight, and blood pressure. Talk a walk around the block.

Play a game of basketball or catch with the kids.

If you drive to the supermarket, park further away from the door than usual so you have to take a few extra steps. Take steps toward physical activity, no matter how small.

Cut the soda. Soda is packed with calories and sugar—and diet soda isn’t the solution; studies have shown that artificial sweeteners can actually cause weight gain. Opt for water instead of the soft drink.

Have consistent habits. Try to eat at the same times every day, and don’t skip meals.

Focus on your sleep. A good night’s sleep goes a long way. Make sure you’re practicing healthy sleeping habits. Don’t sleep too much or too little, and go to bed at the same time every night. Try not to eat or drink any alcohol or caffeine before bedtime.

For more information about diabetes management, call CHRISTUS Internal Medicine – Moss Bluff at (337) 430-4262.

February 2016

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Mark Your Calendar!

GOLDEN NUGGET PERFORMANCES EDDIE MONEY Eddie Money will perform in the Grand Event Center at Golden Nugget Lake Charles on February 12 at 8:30pm. Eddie Money burst onto the music scene in the late 1970s with his double platinum debut album.

Money is best known for hits such as “Two Tickets to Paradise”,“Baby Hold On”,“I Wanna Go Back” and “Take Me Home Tonight”. For more information and tickets, visit www.ticketmaster.com.

LOU GRAMM Lou Gramm, best known as the original lead singer of Foreigner, will perform in the Grand Event Center at Golden Nugget Lake Charles on February 13 at 8pm. Gramm was a founding member of the band Foreigner and later launched a successful solo career. His unique vocals and hits songs have placed Foreigner among Billboard’s Top Artists of all time. For more information and tickets, visit www.ticketmaster.com.

Young Band Nation to Perform at Jazz and Heritage Festival

MELISSA ETHRIDGE Golden Nugget Lake Charles welcomes Grammy winning singer-songwriter Melissa Ethridge on February 26 at 8pm. Known for her mixture of “confessional lyrics, pop-based folk-rock and raspy, smoky vocals,” Ethridge will perform her best known songs such as “Come to My Window” and “I’m the Only One.” For more information and tickets, visit www.ticketmaster.com.

CTC Announces The Addam’s Family School Performances The Addam’s Family performance launches The Children’s Theatre Company’s 2015-2016 Season.

Directed by Kerry A. Onxley, this family musical will play for area schools on February 25 at 10am.

Seating is limited to 400 Guests.

The school performance will be held at the Central School of the Arts & Humanities Center.

Ticket prices are $7.00 per person including students, teachers, chaperons, parents and bus drivers. Schools interested in booking should contact the theatre at (337) 433-7323.

SWLA Music Studios has announced that the students of Lake Charles Young Band Nation’s Advanced Industry Training Program (AITP) will perform at the 2016 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival on April 24. This is the first year that these students have had the opportunity to perform at this prestigious and legendary festival.

Check out Lake Charles Young Band Nation on Facebook to see where these and all of our other talented students will be performing throughout 2016. For more information on this and all of our programs, call the studio at (337) 513-7905 or email lakecharlesyoungbandnation@gmail.com.

Registration Now Open For Beautiful You Life Event Beautiful You, a life-coaching event for 5th to 8th grade girls, is now offering registration for the upcoming half-day conference on February 20, at 1pm at the Lake Charles Country Club.

The event will roll out a real red carpet for girls and offer interactive group discussions, live DJ music, short films on important issues and more— all while delivering powerful messages for young women.

Dress code is casual. Registration fee is $170.

To register for Beautiful You or to learn more, visit www.BeautifulYouProgram.com or www.facebook. com/macifest or email nikkifontenot@yahoo.com.

Beautiful You is sponsored by Shayne M. Laughlin State Farm Agent, Interview For Life, MaciFest, Dove and the Investors Group.

O.A.R. O.A.R. will perform in the Grand Event Center at Golden Nugget Lake Charles on February 19 at 8:30pm. Known for vibrant and intense live shows, O.A. R. is short for “Of A Revolution” and was founded in 1996 by Maryland High School classmates as a rock, jam band and will perform the band’s hits “Peace”,“Shattered” and “This Town” along with many others. For more information and tickets, visit www.ticketmaster.com.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2016

Tickets on Sale Now!

Let us Entertain You! Broaden your mind, learn something new, and experience unique events with Banners at McNeese.

Season Preview Party

Jill McCorkle

featuring Larry Gatlin (Members Only) Friday, February 19 5:30pm Reception; 7pm Performance Isle of Capri Hotel & Casino

Ada Vincent Visiting Writer Saturday, February 27 | 7pm Venue TBA

Paul Taylor Dance Company

Cirque Zuma Zuma

Tuesday, February 23 | 7pm Rosa Hart Theatre

Thursday, March 3 | 7pm Burton Coliseum

SELMA

The Princess Bride

(PG-13; 122 minutes; 2015) Saturday, February 27 | 6pm Cinemark Movie Theater

February 2016

(PG; 97 minutes; 1987) Saturday, March 5 | 6pm Cinemark Movie Theater

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Season Membership Available www.thriveswla.com

65

Please Welcome to the Stage: Banners at McNeese the Annual Cultural Season Begins Banners at McNeese is proud to provide Southwest Louisiana easy access to exceptional arts and humanities programming and education that is unique to our area, creating an environment that supports lifelong learning and an appreciation for cultural diversity. Banners also seeks to enhance the quality of life in our community, while making our region more attractive to people and businesses relocating to Southwest Louisiana.

Banners was established in 1992, “when many of the events staged by the McNeese School of Liberal Arts were being presented at the same general time,” says Banners Director, Patricia Prudhomme.

“The idea was to organize these events into a series so more people could experience each event. A committee was then formed, consisting of one representative from each department of the College of Liberal Arts. Their first task was to develop a name and a format – and soon Banners was born. Now, 24 years later, Banners continues to successfully fulfill its rich history of cultural diversity and initial mission: bringing the best of arts and humanities to Southwest Louisiana.”

The multiple aspects and functions of Banners includes: Banners Engages: Engaging area students in educational programming designed to develop creativity, innovation and entrepreneurial thinking.

Prudhomme says, “This year’s cultural season includes some incredible acts and performances, from rescue animals doing skills and stunts, to a Cirque du Soleil-style performance, to local and nationally-known artists displaying their talents.

This season brings cultural treasures not to be missed.”

The Banners Cultural Season runs February 19 – April 24.

For more information about the season, membership and tickets, visit banners.org.

Banners Presents: Providing one-time opportunities to experience unique performances in our community.

Banners Collaborates: Creating alliances to plan and present cultural programs in partnership with other organizations for the enjoyment of our community.

Banners Suggests: Spreading the word about arts and humanities in Southwest Louisiana.

Banners Cultural Season: Providing more than 20 arts and humanities performances, from lectures and readings to music and dance.

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February 2016

SAVE THE DATE Saturday, February 27, 2016

Registration Fee: $25 Registration 7am-8am Warm up/Introduction 8-8:30am Race Begins 8:30am

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All proceeds benefitting

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67

Entergy Donation to Banners at McNeese

Vallee Donation to McNeese

Gray Memorial Scholarship Established

The McNeese State University Foundation has received a $7,000 donation from Joan E. Vallee to establish the Joan E. Vallee Honors College Scholarship to be awarded to students in the McNeese Honors College program, which was designed for highly motivated students with strong academic backgrounds. Vallee was the first Honors College director.

Dr. Rosemary Gray and her son, William S. Bundy II, have donated $10,000 to establish the Janie Vincent Turner Gray Memorial Scholarship through the McNeese State University Foundation.

The scholarship will be open to freshmen and sophomores majoring in education who are active members of the McNeese Student Government Association and who are committed to promoting inclusion, diversity and equal opportunity. The scholarship honors Gray’s mother and Bundy’s grandmother. Gray retired from McNeese in 2011 as the vice president for special services and equity.

Banners at McNeese State University is annually supported by donations from area corporate sponsors. Entergy has donated $10,000 for the spring 2016 Banners program. Frank Shannon left, Entergy senior region manager, presents the donation to Patricia Prudhomme, Banners director.

CITGO Donation to McNeese Citgo Petroleum Corp. has presented a $35,000 donation to the McNeese State University Foundation for the Citgo Petroleum Professorship in Engineering No. 9.

L to R: Dr. Scott Goins, current director of the Honors College and head of the Department of English and Foreign Languages, Vallee and Dr. Jeanne Daboval, provost and vice president for academic and student affairs.

Westlake Chemical Donation to McNeese Westlake Chemical has donated $10,000 to the McNeese State University College of Engineering and Computer Science through the McNeese Foundation for the college’s engineering endowment.

L to R: Richard H. Reid, vice president for university advancement and executive vice president for the McNeese Foundation, Tomeu Vadell, Citgo’s vice president and general manager for the Lake Charles manufacturing complex, and Dr. Jacob Borden, assistant professor of chemical engineering at McNeese.

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L to R: Richard H. Reid, vice president for university advancement and executive vice president for the McNeese Foundation, Bundy, Gray and McNeese President Dr. Philip Williams.

L to R: Richard H. Reid, vice president for university advancement and executive vice president of the foundation, Joe Andrepont, senior community affairs representative at Westlake Chemical, Wayne Ahrens, plant manager at Westlake Chemical, and Dr. Nikos Kiritsis, dean of the college.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2016

Care starts here, and spreads through a whole community.

LakeAreaMC.com

medical care to d Neighbors, Dear Friends an r provides quality te en s C al ic ed M Area re we offer extend Every year, Lake unity. But the ca m m e w co r at ou th m le fro u know thousands of peop to our hospital, yo en be e er w ev ed st ve ve u’ ly in s. If yo just how personal beyond our door ow kn u yo , w no k. ly. And e to live and wor take care personal unity a better plac m m co is th g in are in mak

nt 2015 StatemeCare:

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Providing Qualit ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ..........49,295 ions ...... .............................. ...

Inpatient Admiss ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ......... 28,222 ............ .............................. ...

Outpatient Visits. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...........5,069 ............... .............................. ...

ER Visits ............ ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...............

Surgeries ............ s: ....$24,125,559 fit ne ..............................

Financial Be ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...$1,461,404 ployees) .............................. ...

Payroll (398 Em ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ..$1,062,413 Taxes... .............................. ...

Property & Sales ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ts.........

Capital Investmen ..$11,680,932 ommunity: C ur O ..............................

Caring for ... ... ... ... e ar C ed ..........$47,159* pensat ..............................

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Charitable Contr ... ... ... ... t en m st ity Inve total Commun . are approximate *Dollar amounts

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The information contained in this publication is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice.

If you have medical concerns, please consult your healthcare provider.

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69

!

Solutions for Life

from Solutions Counseling & EAP

by Keri Forbess-McCorquodale, MS, LPC, LMFT, CEAP

Let Go of Unfulfilling Relationships I have dubbed 2016 “The Year of Letting Go,” and each month I am writing about a different area that I think you need to let go of! In January, we talked about letting go of low self-esteem. Since February is the month of love, I thought we’d talk about how to improve your romantic relationship by letting go of some bad relationship habits.

When I became a therapist, I had no idea how much time I would spend on relationship issues. Don’t get me wrong, I wanted to work with couples and families. I just didn’t realize how large of a market I was going into!

Over the years, I have noticed some things about people who seem to “get it” in relationships and people who don’t. If you’re struggling, or have ever struggled, with relationships, take a look and see if you can connect with the following: It really IS all about you! (Who knew?)

Your healthiness level when you enter a relationship determines the healthiness of the relationship. So, if you want a healthy relationship, you must be healthy.

Interestingly, we tend to be attracted to people who are about equal with us on the healthiness scale. We also know that every relationship can only be as healthy as the parts of the relationship.

This explains the many times I have seen couples split as one person grows to become healthier and the other person chooses not to make that journey.

So, what is “healthy?” Well, here is my definition: “being” the way you know you need to be no matter what is going on around you. To me, it’s all about refusing to spend your life reacting.

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Many people don’t know who they are, so they just spend all their time “trying on” the feelings of everyone else. Next time someone comes at you angrily, try refusing to match that emotion by becoming angry back. Instead, choose not to allow their anger to infect you.

So many couples spend all their time reacting to each other, they don’t even know what they are reacting to!

It really ISN’T all about you!

(I know, confusing isn’t it?)

Here, I am referring to the tendency to take things personally. I spend much of my time in relationship therapy helping people put emotions where they actually go instead of on their partner.

Partners tend to get the garbage of the day because there is nowhere else to put it. You can’t be ugly to your boss.

You shouldn’t really say what you are thinking to the kid’s teacher/coach/ caretaker. You wouldn’t want to tell that customer what a pain he’s being. So, it’s the people we love the most who get all the yucky stuff. The next time your partner is ugly to you, try saying, “You know, when you talk to me like that it makes me think you are unhappy with me. Is that the case, or is something else going on?” Even if an acknowledgement is not forthcoming, I’ll bet at least the thought process will have started.

Stop the standoff madness! Most people know what to do to make things better.

However, because their feelings have been hurt, and they are too busy pouting, they choose not to. Here’s the deal: the only person in this world you have any control over is yourself. Begin handling things the way you need to. Stop waiting on the other person to make the first move. It’s not about who blinks first.

It’s about who gets focused on fixing the problem REGARDLESS of who started

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

it. If you’re unhappy, try to make things better – go to counseling, read selfhelp books, talk to others who seem to be doing well. If your true efforts are unsuccessful, then leave. If you choose to stay, then stop griping and get happy about it.

If it were easy, everyone would be doing it! So many couples have told me, “This is too hard,” or “It’s too much work.” Well, I don’t know of anything worth having that came easily to me.

Remember how much more the “A” meant when you studied hard, as opposed to the “B” you got without studying at all? I remember thinking, “I wonder what I would have made if I had just studied?” (OK, I was a geek).

Realistically, the harder you work for something, the more it means.

Relationships are hard work. It takes energy to think about what your partner would like, and to follow through with action. It takes effort to talk to each other about the important things (and about nothing) instead of staying inside yourself. When the children come along, it would be much easier to parent the way you personally want to instead of working as a team.

Oh, but the rewards are great. We are social creatures. We need to connect to others. If you are currently not in a relationship, you can apply these principles to your friendships – they will make you a better partner when the time comes. If you are in a relationship, get to work!

February 2016

MORE DOCTORS • MORE SPECIALTIES Anesthesiology

William Gabbard, MD

William Moss, MD Thomas Strong, MD Richard Shimer, MD

Cardiology

Peter Angelopoulos, MD Clay Hammett, MD Christopher Thompson, MD J. King White, MD John Winterton, MD Kevin Young, MD Charles Woodard, MD

Cardiovascular-Thoracic Surgery Stephen F. Laga, MD

Ear, Nose & Throat

Samuel E. Sprehe, MD Hope Bueller, MD

Family Medicine

Rodney Acuna, MD Stewart Greathouse, MD Ashley Greenman, MD Carolyn Hutchinson, MD Percival Kane, MD Ameer Khan, MD George Kohatsu, MD Micah LeLeux, MD Mark Samii, MD Michael Seep, MD

Neurology

Murali Bogavalli, MD, MPH

Trauma/General Surgery

Neurosurgery

Maria Escano, MD

Robert Abramson, MD Gregory Rubino, MD

Infectious Disease

Carlos Choucino, MD

Obstetrics & Gynecology

Internal Medicine

Brad Forsyth, MD Linda Huynh, MD Gisele McKinney, MD Matthew Scroggs, MD Joseph Semien, Jr., MD

Louise M. Becnel, MD Craig V. Broussard, MD Brian D. Clements, MD Jarmon C. Comeaux, MD W. Gerry Hebert, MD Edward V. Hebert, MD Susan B. Ieyoub, MD Mir Akbar Khan, MD Mark D. Lafuria, MD Jason K. Langhofer, DO Ron M. Lewis, Jr., MD Cristian Romero, MD Lynn Speight, MD

Oncology

Michael Bergeron, MD Michael Broussard, MD Leroy Fredericks, MD

Orthopaedics

Thomas Axelrad, MD, PhD Brett Cascio, MD Nathan Cohen, MD Robert Duarte, MD Paul Fenn, MD Lawrence Weber, MD, PhD

Interventional Pain Medicine Seth Billiodeaux, MD

Moss Memorial Primary Care

Family Medicine/LSU Family Medicine Residency Program Bryan G. Barootes, MD Caroline Courville, MD Brian Gamborg, MD Alan LeBato, MD Bradley Loewer, MD Danette Null, MD Tuananh Pham, MD E. J. Soileau, MD

Nephrology

General Surgery

Lemuel Newton, MD

Physical Rehabilitation

Harpal Benipal, MD Tariq Khan, MD Albert Lie, MD Muhammad Nazim, MD Mohammed Sarwar, MD Muhammad Shaikh, MD

Michael Lane, MD

Pulmonology & Critical Care

Robert Craig Broussard, MD Clifford Courville, MD Gary Kohler, MD Ben Thompson, III, MD

Rheumatology

Gurjot Basra, MD

Urology

Gastroenterology

Stacy McBroom, DO John Upshaw, MD

Sarpreet Basra, MD Frank Marrero, MD Khaled Nour, MD

call

1-800-494-LCMH (5264)

click

www.lcmmg.com

Expert Care Starts Here.

February 2016

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February 2016