Thrive February 2017 Issue by Thrive Magazine

FEBRUARY 2017

Career Couples

Special Section:

DENTAL SECTION Show Us that Smile!

February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

MARDI GRAS TIME www.thriveswla.com

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

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

Celebrate National Heart Month

LOVE YOUR HEART

90% of Americans have one or more risk factors for heart disease. Some, such as age and family history, cannot be controlled. Others can be decreased by changes in lifestyle or behavior. Love your heart? Know your heart. Get your numbers, learn your risk and understand what you can do to reduce your chance of heart disease.

Take your FREE Heart Risk Assessment at ChristusStPatrick.org/heartrisk

Regional Heart Center Call 888-996-4862 for appointments within 24 hours or to schedule your heart calcium scan today for just $75*. *$75 self-referral cash price does not require a physician order. Medicare or insurance may cover this service with a physician order.

February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Contents

22 In This Issue

Regular Features

Wining & Dining

12 First Person with Wendy Colonna 23 Who’s News 56 Business Buzz 64 Happenings 66 McNeese Corral 67 Solutions for Life

6 – 15

Special Section:

Places & Faces

Hodges Gardens State Park 20 Delta Downs Completes Expansion 22 Grove St. Press Beating the Odds and Thriving

Mind & Body 24 – 27 Special Section: DENTAL HEALTH MONTH

28 2017 Heart Ball Chairs Announced 32 Overcoming Loneliness

Home & Family 34 Mardi Gras, SWLA Style 38 Socially Responsible Valentine’s Gifts 40 Online Dating Money & Career

Next Month:

Be the Best YOU

Riding the Wave of Economic Growth

COVER STORY: Career Couples 52 6 Key Character Traits of People Who Win with Money 54 Financial Solvency - There’s an App for That

44 – 51

Style & Beauty 60 Makeup Bag Bargains 62 Nailed It! Mani/Pedi Trends to Take You into Spring

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. 4 www.thriveswla.com

Editors and Publishers

Kristy Como Armand Christine Fisher

Advertising Sales ads@thriveswla.com 337.310.2099

Creative Director

Barbara VanGossen

Submissions edit@thriveswla.com

Managing Editor

Angie Kay Dilmore

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.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

All our wonderful dogs are available for adoption through 4Paws Society. Call 287-3552 for more information and to learn about other programs that are available.

Dolly

Frannie

This little girl is a 3-year-old chiweenie that would love to be an only child. She also would love long walks to spend as much time with her human as possible.

Frannie is a young adult wire-haired terrier who adores children. She has really big ears to hear them with.

Matilda

Mavis

Matilda would best be suited in a quiet home. Too much noise gets her a bit nervous, but she is very loving and affectionate.

Mavis is a reall gogetter. The more activity the better for this girl. Lots of walks and fun playtime

Big Box Banks donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know the difference between Krewe and Crew. Bank Local. Bank February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Wining & Dining

Americans dine out on average 4.5 times a week. Since 2015, Americans spend more dollars dining out than on grocery shopping. Needless to say, restaurants play an important role in the average American’s life. The biggest question for any given lunch break or evening meal may likely be,“Where do we want to eat?” All across Southwest Louisiana, new dining venues continue to open while well-established restaurants keep pace to please their patrons’ palates. The long list of options can be a confusing mix of ethnic, American, and traditional Southern cuisines. Take a look and allow our 2017 Restaurant Guide to make your choices a bit easier. You’ll read about the latest restaurant trends, new foods to try, and ways to make healthier menu decisions.

6 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

Ten Tips to Make Smart Healthy

MENU CHOICES by Angie Kay Dilmore

Dining out can derail even the most dedicated dieter. According to a University of Toronto study, the average restaurant meal packs a whopping 1,128 calories -- 56 percent of the average daily 2,000-calorie intake recommended by the Food and Drug Administration for a healthy adult. But dining and dieting need not be at odds. The secret is to make smart menu choices. In 2010, the FDA and health care legislation required chain restaurants to post calorie counts on their menus. Due to opposition from lobbyists and glitches in the law, the full enactment of that legislation has been delayed until sometime this year, maybe. Fortunately, several chains have voluntarily complied with the law, making it considerably easier to make healthy menu decisions. But whether or not a restaurant provides nutritional information, consumers can make healthy choices. Consider the following tips and keep your healthy eating commitment intact. Eat half. Restaurants are notorious for supersized portions. When your meal arrives, divide the entrée and eat only half. Take the other half home for a meal later on. Ask for a to-go container up front and put half in the box before you start eating, if you think you’ll be tempted to eat it all.

Share an entrée. If you and your dining partner can agree, order one entrée and ask for two plates. You save calories AND money. Avoid the grease. When you have the choice between baked/broiled/grilled OR fried, always choose the former. If the menu doesn’t offer the healthier options, ask your server if the chef can accommodate your request. Control the calorie count by asking for salad dressings, sauces, and butter on the side and use them sparingly. Opt for an appetizer. If you can’t resist those tempting starters, go ahead and order one in lieu of an entrée. Appetizer portions are generally smaller than entrees. Vote for veggies. When choosing side dishes, go for green, as in steamed broccoli, spinach, or salad. A steamed or raw vegetable is always a better choice than fat-laden fries or onion rings. If you absolutely must have a potato, select a baked spud and ask for toppings on the side. Use butter, cheese, and sour cream in moderation.

Limit pre-meal noshing. Be careful not to fill up on bread, tortilla chips, or peanuts before your meal arrives at the table. If you don’t trust yourself, simply ask the server to leave the basket in the kitchen. Shun liquid sugar. When it comes to beverages, water will always be your healthiest choice. Avoid soft drinks and high calorie cocktails. Ditch dessert. Decide before you arrive at the restaurant to forego this last unnecessary course. But if it’s a super special occasion or your sweet tooth bests your best constraint, here again, you can make smart choices. Order a dessert as close to fresh fruit as possible. Or if you absolutely must indulge in that triple chocolate mousse monstrosity, allow yourself three fabulously satisfying bites, then push the plate away. Eat slowly. Savor each morsel. Make meals a reason to celebrate. If you take time to relish and appreciate every bite, you’ll recognize when you are comfortably sated and naturally eat less.

We feature a turf driving range and golf shop, delicious Po’ Boys and a friendly bar atmosphere. Listen to live music and keep us open late to party with you!

Appetizers • Pizza • Po’ Boys February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Wining & Dining | Restaurant Guide 2017

What’s New at the Meat Market? by Sylvia Ney

Charcuterie (pronounced SHärˈko͞odərē ) may seem like a new trend in meat options. However, it’s not really new at all, but rather a popular resurgence of earlier meat preservation techniques. “Charcuterie is a branch of cooking devoted to prepared meat products, such as bacon, ham, sausage, terrines, gelatins, and pates,” said Justin East, Executive Chef at Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse at Golden Nugget Lake Charles. “Primarily from pork, it was originally intended as a way to preserve meats before there was refrigeration.” East suggests several menu options to enjoy a variety of charcuterie. This type of meat features prominently in the Italian staple, antipasto, available at the Grotto Restaurant at Golden Nugget. The appetizer includes cured meats, cheeses, pickled vegetables, and house made breads. Or opt for a Meat and Cheese Board at Vic and Anthony’s for a gourmet selection of cured meats, artisan cheeses, marcona almonds, quince paste, and house made crackers. Their Dessert Board offers an intriguing mix of meats, cheeses, assorted chocolate truffles, fresh fruits, and berries. “Charcuterie Boards can be an easy, crowd pleasing hors d'oeuvre,” East said. “They are tasty and low maintenance.” If you are new to these latest trends, East recommends using a good butcher or specialty foods shop where you

can ask questions and try samples to help you make your selections. In Southwest Louisiana, popular forms of charcuterie include boudin, smoked sausage, and hog head cheese. Charcuterie is not the only new item at the meat market. Several interesting cuts of beef are becoming popular. Look for these at upscale steak restaurants or try them at home. Coulotte steak - Ideal for providing the full sirloin experience at a lower cost, this cap of sirloin has been popular in South America for years. To prepare, sear it fat side down, render some of the fat, flip it, and brown the lean side before roasting in the oven. Serve sliced or cubed. Ribeye cap - For the ultimate steak lover, this is the cut of meat that sits on top of the ribeye. If you pull the cap off, you have a nice piece of beef -- cook it as a steak or perhaps roll it into a roulade. It’s the piece everyone fights over, and if you didn’t order it, you wish you had. With its buttery rich flavor, you don’t need to do a lot to make the ribeye cap special. Try it fanned out -- a nice pink medium rare. Strip filet - This cut provide the New York strip flavor with the presentation of a filet mignon. Cut the strip roast crossway into 1-2 inch portions for round, right-sized steaks that maintain their juicy tenderness even at high temperatures.

To make your own charcuterie board, serve boudin, sausage, salami, or ham with pickled vegetables such as okra, baby corn, olives, roasted peppers and fresh or dried fruits, nuts, and specialty breads. Pairs well with wine.

SERVING UP FINGER-LICKING FOOD FOR THREE DECADES Conveniently located, locally owned and operated deli, meat market and specialty grocery store. • Traditional & Specialty Sandwiches • Fresh Salad Bar • Premium Cuts of Meat • Homemade Soups • Specialty Goods and Produce • Wine & Beer

Since 1985, we’ve been satisfying the appetites of Louisiana folks with po-boys, chips and libations. Let Darrell’s put a smile on your face and give you delicious food you’ll love. We pride ourselves on serving enticing po-boys that include surf and turf, Darrell’s Special and BBQ. At Darrell’s, we make all of our gravy, BBQ sauce, jalapeno mayonnaise and butter sauce in-house daily because we believe in giving you the best.

710 Dr. Michael Debakey Drive, Lake Charles

337. 602.6415

Monday - Friday • 9:30am - 7pm Saturday • 9:30am - 6:30pm Sunday • Closed

8 www.thriveswla.com

119 West College Street, Lake Charles | (337) 474-3651 | darrellspoboys.com Monday – Thursday: 11am–10pm | Friday & Saturday: 11am-11pm Closed Sunday | Happy Hour 4–7pm

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

100s of Local Restaurants Delivered to Your Door Lake Charles • Lafayette • Beaumont • Jennings And Surrounding Areas

Download Today waitrapp.com

February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Wining & Dining | Restaurant Guide 2017

by Frank DiCesare

It seems most people have at least one kind of food they dislike. But it’s hard to find someone who doesn’t like cheese. Perhaps it’s the variety. There are dozens of cheeses readily available at your local supermarket. When you consider the number of specialty cheeses sold worldwide, that number spikes to more than 1,700. With cheese, there’s a flavor for everyone. If you’re looking to expand your taste in cheese, you might want to consider artisan cheeses. Artisan cheese is small batch handmade cheese

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.

Est. 2015 • Locally Owned

using old-world craftsmanship by skilled cheese makers. These cheeses are often aged and more complex in flavor and variety. They can be bought at most supermarkets and few will bust your budget. “Start with your comfort level,” said Brock Granger, room chef at L’Auberge’s Ember Grille and Wine Bar. “Don’t go too far out of your comfort zone. I would start with cheese that you’re familiar with, so you can learn the textures and tastes. That way you can see what you’re comfortable with. Maybe start with a young cheddar, and then get an older cheddar.” If a mild cheddar pleases your palette, try an artisan cheese like Brie, a soft French cheese made from cow’s milk that is typically aged between five and six weeks. For those who seek a little more flavor, brie also comes in a smoked variety. If a sharper cheddar gets your mouth watering, an artisan bleu cheese like Stilton may pack the flavorful punch you’re seeking. A crumbly bleu cheese from the town of the same name in the county of Cambridgeshire, England, Stilton’s strong flavor will hit your taste buds immediately and lead them right to the back finish. Granger said for some people, bleu cheeses take time to develop a taste for. “When I first started cooking, I wasn’t a fan of bleu cheese,” he said. “But now, ten years later, I’ve come around and I like that strong flavor.” If you’re craving the tang of cream cheese, a good goat cheese may be in order. Some goat cheeses are spreadable and go well with crackers. Granger said its tart flavor pairs nicely with dessert wines. They’re also perfect for appetizers. “Goat cheese is tart; it’s sour; makes your mouth water just a little bit,” he added. “It gets you primed for the meal.” The price of artisan cheeses vary greatly, much of which has to do with age. “That’s why Parmesan is so expensive -- because it has to age for a minimum of 24 months,” Granger said. “Location on where the cheese is made and the size of the creamery also affects price. A small creamery where everything is handcrafted will definitely be reflected in the price. A more commercialized cheese will be less expensive.” Granger said people should not “blow the bank” when getting to know their artisan cheeses. Start small, learn about where the cheese was made, its properties, and how they differ from one another. “It all comes down to product,” Granger said. “You can’t have good cheese without good milk. If you have good cows eating what they’re supposed to eat, good grass, they make good milk, and you’ll make good cheese. You can’t buy a gallon of milk out of the store and make good cheese out of it.”

949 Ryan St., Lake Charles 337.602.6278 • www.1910.la

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: $$

Enjoy downtown Lake Charles with us in high fashion with great food, great drinks, and hot tracks. We promise you’ll have a night to remember!

10 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

Farm-to-Table says on the Plate by Danny Garrett

The Farm-to-Table movement continues to rise in the U.S., according to Travel + Leisure magazine. In the restaurant world, farm-to-table means a chef buys food from a local market or farmer for the freshest menu ingredients possible. Here in Southwest Louisiana, many restaurant chefs seek just-picked produce from area farmers. In order to serve their clientele the freshest ingredients, some grow vegetables in their own backyards. For example, Heather Wade and Daemion Bailey of Tasterite Jamaican Restaurant grow much of the food they serve in their Westlake home garden – herbs, peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, and something called callaloo, a vegetable similar to mustard greens. Andrew Green, chef and owner at 1910 in Lake Charles, grows herbs such as mint and dill a step or two outside the restaurant door. Is buying local worth the effort? Absolutely, and for many reasons. Local means fresher. The average commute for fruits and vegetables in the U.S. is 1,500 miles. Some foods can preserve their fresh taste after hours or days of travel; others not so much. The answer? Buy local. Nearby farmers pick crops at their peak ripeness, and their products commonly go to market within 24 hours of harvest. Local foods = great marketing. Today’s savvy consumers know farm-to-table means good fresh food. They will patronize establishments that offer these ingredients in their meals. The dishes at 1910 are near 40% farm-to-table, including Gulf-caught shrimp, JT’s Seafood crabs, and Inglewood mixed greens. Local ingredients inspire creative menus. Most restaurants prefer not to be too predictable. When chefs buy local and offer seasonal dishes, they create menus that keep their clients guessing and coming back for more. The magic emanates from anticipation. When in season, diners crave crawfish bisques and etouffees. In late spring, they anticipate cakes and pies made with Ponchatoula strawberries. Smart chefs surprise their customers with creative recipes made with locallysourced ingredients. Local foods are economical. According to a Northeast Organic Farming Association study, produce raised conventionally is, on average, priced equally at both supermarkets and farmers’ markets. For organic products, however, farmers’ markets typically charge less.

It’s not just any bakery. We stonegrind the highest quality wheat from family farmers in Montana. That scratch made, farm-to-table method is what makes our bread & goodies truly healthy AND taste different from anything else. The same approach makes its way into our cafe sandwiches and salads. We also make our spreads and dressings in house also from the freshest ingredients. Our bread on our sandwiches makes the “outside” as good as the “inside!” Our people embrace that purpose and passion. We are locally owned and we care. We want you to sit with us and enjoy the freshest, most flavorful bakery and cafe foods you can find. This is bread heaven. Bread...The Way It Ought To Be.

Mon – Fri | 7am – 6pm Sat | 7am – 4pm Sun | Closed 4112 Lake Street, Suite 100 | Lake Charles greatharvestlakecharlesla.com

Farm-to-table supports local farmers. Some restaurant owners participate in Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs. CSAs protect farmers from financial downturns due to weather. The plan requires members, ie restaurant owners, chefs, or consumers, to buy a share of a farm’s produce prior to harvest. When the bounty has been harvested each week, a member picks up the food at a pre-arranged location. If the week’s yield is sparse due to inclement weather, the member still pays the same fee. But when weather cooperates and the harvest is plentiful, a chef scores bushels of fresh, seasonal, diverse foods for a great price, and their diners reap the benefits. The farmer is your friend. A consumer or chef can drive to a local farm or visit a farmers’ market and ask a farmer about his growing, harvesting, and washing practices, or learn if the farmer uses synthetic chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides. A cook can ask the farmer for recommendations on how to store and prepare an item. This builds trust and loyalty between both parties. At its core, farm-to-table is a simple notion that promotes fresher food, fresher taste, and a closer relationship between farmer and buyer. It’s a win-win-win for the farmer, the restaurant owner, and the customer.

Your little taste of New Orleans right around the corner! Mention this add for a free beignet!

LOCALLY OWNED.

1600 W. McNeese St., Lake Charles (337) 474.6462 www.ninapscafe.com Tuesday - Saturday • 11am - 9pm

February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Wining & Dining | Restaurant Guide 2017

– Trending Cocktails to Look for in 2017 Ordering a cocktail used to be so simple. “Vodka and tonic with lemon, please.” Those days are essentially gone. Over the past several years, craft cocktails have become complex, sophisticated, and oh so delightful. This year, look for several continuing trends, such as the popularity of classic cocktails from the Prohibition Era, as well as some newcomers to the bar scene. Jason Labove, head bartender at Calla, focuses on seasonally-based cocktails. “Cooler months call for darker liquors, though I do have a couple vodka cocktails I run year around. I usually base the drink specials around what fruits and spices are available at the time. In November and December, we featured eggnog with almond, cloves, and vanilla syrup. In warmer months, we run lighter refreshing cocktails with lots of citrus. Trey Litel, co-founder of LA Spirits/Bayou Rum, sees a resurgence in the tiki bar trend. “With ingredients like orgeat and falernum, the focus is on fresh new takes on tropical drinks, as well as more tiki-inspired drinks on classic bar menus.” How about a Mai-tai or the Bayou Rum Runner, a tiki-inspired cocktail updated with premium Bayou Silver and Bayou Select rums. “This recipe is simple, easy-to-execute, and uses

12 www.thriveswla.com

ingredients that are pretty straightforward and easy to source,” says Litel. Other cocktail trends to look for this year include: Culinary-based cocktails, where barkeeps borrow ingredients such as fruits, herbs, vegetables, even meats from the house kitchen. Bacon-infused bourbon, anyone? South American-inspired cocktails with spicy jalapeño-infused cachaca (a Brazilian rum used in their signature Caipirinha), Serrano chili syrup, and mezcal, tequila’s lesser known but more engaging cousin, made from agave. Boilermakers, still rough and tumble, but with a refined edge, for example, a high-end whiskey paired with a porter stout. Cocktails developed from fermented beverages like Kombucha, ginger beer, and coconut kefir. Tea-infused cocktails, for example chamomile and tequila, jasmine tea and ginger beer, or green tea and gin. Hot toddies are so old-school. Flavored vodkas. Gone are the days when vodka was colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Try Pinnacle Caramel Apple, Absolut Berri Açaí, Smirnoff Pomegranate, and Grey Goose Le Melon.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

by Angie Kay Dilmore

The type of ice in a drink can be as trendy as the drink itself. Cracked, cubed, crushed, handchipped, spherical, or flaming – ice plays a major role in the overall experience of a cocktail. Whiskeys continue to be in demand. “Whiskey is probably the most popular thing going on right now,” says Labove. “Since around 2010, the consumption of whiskey has gone through the roof.” Labove likes to take traditional cocktail recipes and put a fresh spin on them. Even if the ingredients are the same, he’ll play with the balance of the ingredients in order to make the cocktail unique to Calla. According to Labove, orders for Old Fashioneds at Calla have tripled in the past two months.

February 2017

Island Inspirati

To revisit the tik i bar days, try th ese recipes, compliments of Bayou Rum Dis tillery.

Tiki Strikes Bac

1 oz Bayou Spi ced 1 oz Bayou Sat suma 2 dashes of tiki bitters 1/2 oz honey 1/2 oz orgeat

Top with Liliko’I

Kepolo Avery be

Bayou Rum Ru

er.

er 3/4 oz Bayou S ilver 3/4 oz Bayou S elect 4 oz pineapple ju ice ½ oz fresh lime 3 dashes Peycha uds Bitters

**Shake all ingr edients WITHO UT ice and pour over ice in highball or Colli ns glass

LOCALLY OWNED

817 E McNeese St. Lake Charles 337.990.5029 ontherockslakecharles.com

Pizza • Poboys • Munchies Happy Hour Specials After Hour Entertainment

Happy Hour Specials After Hour Entertainment HAPPY HOUR: Monday - Saturday: 4-7pm

OB S Bar & Grill Serving Lake Charles with Food and Entertainment Since the 80’s.

LOCALLY OWNED

1301 Ryan Street, Lake Charles

337.494.7336

Burgers • Po’ Boys • Wings Happy Hour Monday - Friday: 2 - 7pm

TUESDAYS • TEAM TRIVIA February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Wining & Dining | Restaurant Guide 2017

SWLA Restaurant Trends by Olivia Heinen

Southwest Louisiana has experienced a significant population increase over the past several years. The more people who come here, the more resources we need; new neighborhoods, new roads, new stores . . . and new restaurants! The Lake Area is following several new food and restaurant trends, especially when it comes to ethnic foods. Seventy seven percent of Americans eat ethnic foods while dining out at least once a month, and more than 38% order ethnic food weekly, according to Chicago-based research firm, Technomic. Locally, diners have numerous ethnic choices – Asian, Italian, Middle Eastern, Mexican, even Irish. Several other dining trends can be spotted around town – bakeries, breakfast shops, breweries . . . it’s an exciting time of growth in Southwest Louisiana!

Mama Mia! Italian Dining - When it comes to ethnic food in America, no other cuisine is as popular as Italian, according to a recent National Restaurant Association report. And Lake Charles has recently opened several new Italian establishments. Mike Sperandeo has reinvented his family’s beloved restaurant and opened The Villa on Pujo St. He’s kept several of the traditional favorites and added plenty of new twists to his menu. LaVoglia on Nelson Rd. has been delighting patrons with authentic Italian cuisine for just over a year. For more casual dining, Pizza Artista opened at Prien Lake Mall, offering made to order pizzas with a wide variety of ingredients and friendly service. Coming soon, Romacelli Bistro, out of Lafayette, plans to open a new venue in the up and coming Morganfield neighborhood.

Lunch Mon - Fri 11am-2pm Dinner Tue - Thurs 5-9:30pm Fri - Sat 5-10pm Closed Sundays

Bakeries, Breads, and Coffee - According to US.Foods, Americans are seeing several new trends in breads. Eight of ten consumers say the quality of the bread is key to creating a

Biscuits • Cakes • Cinnamon Rolls Cookies • Daily Soups • Gelato King Cakes • Muffins

Twelve years after closing the Italian Villa, Mike Sperandeo is reviving his family’s restaurant in a new downtown Lake Charles location. He has named it, simply, The Villa. At The Villa Restaurant, we’re devoted to celebrating the hearty goodness of authentic Italian food. We believe that what’s worked in the past can work again – and we’re out to prove it! Featuring Italian cuisine with a twist, a full bar, an exquisite wine selection and a beautiful dining space, we’re bound to become your favorite Lake Charles restaurant. Let us save you a seat!

Baguettes, Croissants & Chicken Salad featured on Saturdays! We have King Cakes, baked from scratch daily!

206 W. 11th Street, Lake Charles

Tuesday - Friday • 7am - 4:30pm Saturday • 8am - 2:30pm | Sunday - Monday • Closed

324 Pujo Street, Lake Charles | (337) 436-6251 | TheVillaOnPujo.com 14 www.thriveswla.com

Tex-Mex on the Map - The Tex-Mex craze has spilled over the border into SWLA in recent years. Newer on the scene are Taco Mel Taqueria on Country Club Rd. and On Go Mex on Nelson Rd. for casual dining. El Paso Mexicano Grill will open soon on Derek Dr. The popular Sloppy Taco Food Truck gang has opened a brand new place on Broad St. called Sloppy’s Downtown, and they sell more than tacos! Tex-Mex isn’t the only Texas-inspired restaurant new to Lake Charles. Dickey’s Barbecue Pitt on W. Prien Lake Rd. came to the area via Dallas. They are known for their authentic, slow-smoked Texan barbecue.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

great sandwich. They’re looking for artisan breads, in-house baking, whole grains, focaccias, ciabattas, and creative seasonal breads. No surprise here, but pastries and desserts never go out of style. Rising to meet local consumer needs, new establishments include The Bekery and Great Harvest Bread Company. The Bekery on 11th St. is privately owned and offers a variety of breads and treats such as cookies, muffins, cinnamon rolls, scones, and during Mardi Gras, King Cake. Patrons also enjoy homemade quiches, soups, and sandwiches. Great Harvest Bread Company, on the corner of Lake and Sale Sts., is a franchise out of Montana. Their menu includes many tempting breads, sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. Speaking of coffee, national trends show an increase in consumption of espresso and gourmet/specialty coffee beverages, including iced and frozen drinks. Cold brew infused with nitrogen for a stout-like effect came on the scene. Organic and fair trade coffees have increased in popularity. Approximately 80% of adult Americans drink coffee. SWLA is no exception. And we have plenty of coffee shops to sustain the addiction, with more on the

way. Stellar Beans opened back in 2010 and continues to serve its downtown customers. Panera Bread and PJ’s Coffee on Nelson cater to coffee connoisseurs in South Lake Charles. Starbuck’s currently has four Lake Charles locations, with a fifth to open soon on Country Club Rd. CC’s Coffee also plans to open a new shop on Country Club. There is no lack of places to get your java fix. Breweries - Over the past decade, the nation has witnessed a surge in the craft beer movement. Lake Charles caught onto the microbrew trend last year with the opening of two new businesses. Rikenjaks Brewing Company is a brew pub on Ryan St. with an exciting food menu, a vibrant patio, live music, and an outdoor bar and game area. Crying Eagle Brewing on McNeese St. offers tours of their brewery. They do not serve food but often host food trucks in their parking lot. Considering our love of all things food-related, you can be sure Southwest Louisiana will be on the forefront of what’s cooking in the restaurant world. With cutting edge chefs across the city, we likely may even start a few trends of our own!

723 Ryan Street • Lake Charles | 337.602.6243 Monday - Thursday • 11am - 9pm | Friday - Saturday • 11am - 10pm Sunday Brunch • 10:30am - 3pm Cuisine: Mexican, Seafood, Cajun | Price Range: $$$

Come by and Enjoy one of our Famous Boudin Quesadillas!

Live Music Wednesday - Sunday 3716 Ryan Street • Lake Charles | 337.602.6635

www.rikenjaks.com | Price Range: $$ New Late Night Lower Bar Prices • Late Night Food Menu • Daily Specials Louisiana Comfort Food | Louisiana Craft Beers

SERVING LUNCH AND DINNER! GLOBAL STREET FOOD Sloppy’s Downtown has a mission to provide SWLA with a unique dining, drinking, and entertainment experience. Globally-inspired street foods, craft cocktails in a restored Downtown venue.

329 Broad Street, Lake Charles | (337) 602-6365 | sloppysdowntown.com February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Places & Faces

endy Colonna grew up in Lake Charles and looks back fondly on those formative years. From the time she was in elementary school, her life revolved around music. At Bishop Noland Episcopal Day School, she sang in the choir and took piano lessons. Around 8th grade, she started playing guitar. In high school, she sang in the Barbe Choir and Show Choir. She played folk music with friends and discovered she liked to write poetry and songs. She attended Louisiana Scholarsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; College in Natchitoches, where she further developed her musical talent. Her first record deal came during college while she lived in Holland through a study abroad program. In 2000, a year after she graduated, Wendy moved to Austin for the vibrant music scene -- where itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cool to be quirky.

first person with

Wendy Colonna

by Angie Kay Dilmore

Singer, Songwriter, and Soon-To-Be Mom 16 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

“I always felt a little too weird for Lake Charles,” she says. She has successfully been growing her business as a musician since then. She’s recorded seven albums. In 2013, she wrote and recorded a sweet little ditty for a Coca Cola television ad. The following year, she wrote and recorded “My Southwest Louisiana Home,” a promotional video for the Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau, which won four Addy awards, including Best of Show. Last year, Wendy was selected to receive a $17,000 grant from Black Fret, a nonprofit charity that supports the Austin music scene. But 2016 was significant for more than winning a grant. Wendy married her long-time friend Ryan Doty, became a step-mom, and discovered she will soon have a baby of her own! I sat down with Wendy recently, over tea and cinnamon scones, where she talked about pourquoi pas, the positive power of music, and her thoughts on pending parenthood.

Tell me about your relationship with music. I’ve been trying to break up with music for a long time. I’ve always loved it. It’s always called to me. I witnessed what it has done for me, in terms of healing really dark places. It comforted me in times when I didn’t have anywhere else to turn. And I see what music does for other people. It’s like medicine. The vibrational experience of a choir, the way a bunch of people who may not get along under any other circumstances, get together and create something so sonically and spiritually and deeply physically resonant that it transcends everything. That is power! It is one of the only things that unites us, as a species, as a people who see things differently. There are few things that speak to our humanity and level of compassion and empathy more than music. So I feel a great responsibility in that. In all my travels, because I’m an ambassador for music, people greet me with open arms. What I do touches people, no matter what their race, religion, creed, gender, age – it’s universally touching. I’m committed to the service of music. So, even though we’ve been trying to break up for a long time, and several times it has tried to kill me, we’re on good terms!

Besides a new husband and baby, what are you currently passionate about? My new record, “No Moment But Now,” will be released in April. Everyone’s new record is their favorite record. But my new one is really cool. It’s more contemporary than my previous work. A lot of my older work has a rootsy throwback vibe to it. I wanted this one to be on level with what other artists are doing. It has a lot of soul to it, like all my music – it has blues scales and rootsbased stuff. It doesn’t meander so far away that it doesn’t sound like me. But I like to think it is edgier, with more mature issues that I never had the confidence to sing about. Songs about not fitting in, losing a loved one, or having to give up love when you find it. It’s deeper and darker.

How would you describe your music, in terms of style or genre? I don’t like labels. I don’t fit into any label. I’ve made some records that are folky. I made records with an R&B flavor. I’ve done some that are more swampy – definitely paying homage to Louisiana. I’m a songwriter! I don’t try to limit myself by genre. I have a love and appreciation for lots of different styles of music.

You’re expecting a baby early June. What are your thoughts on pending parenthood? I’m psyched! I’ve been playing music professionally for 20 years, have traveled all over the world, and loved it. I’ve lived so fully all these years, and now I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to become a mother. I feel good about the transition. I’ve learned so much about slowing down, what’s really important, and how to be a lot more flexible with my type-A time-management patterns.

The music industry can be a crazy lifestyle. How do you stay grounded? I surround myself with a community of sane, honest people. I do yoga. And I live by some basic guidelines, namely not being attached to outcome, doing my absolute best, and trusting my gut.

February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Places & Faces

HODGES GARDENS S TAT E PA R K

by Frank DiCesare

If the natural world beckons you this year, take Highway 171 north to Hodges Gardens, a veritable emerald among Louisianaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s state parks, where beauty and serenity blend on a 900-acre slice of tranquility.

18 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

Tucked away amid Florien’s forests, midway between Lake Charles and Shreveport, Hodges Gardens is the former estate of oil and timber magnate A.J. Hodges and his wife, Nona. Recognizing their home’s sprawling beauty, the Hodges opened it to the public in 1956. When A.J Hodges died in 1966, 4,700 acres of his 100,000-acre property were turned over to the A.J. and Nona Trigg Hodges Foundation. In 2007, the Hodges family donated the interior 900 acres to the state of Louisiana for the purpose of adding it to the state's park system. Today, visitors can tour and photograph 25 acres of plants, flowers and trees on walking trails that meander through the gardens' three levels. Camellias currently dot the park’s landscape in vibrant red, pink, and white. In early spring, azaleas bloom through mid April. Springtime is also the blooming season for the park’s roses, tulip trees, Loropetalums, Bridalwreaths, redbuds, and the pink and white dogwood trees. Hodges Gardens is also home to crape myrtles and eucalyptus trees. As the weather begins to cool off in October, the park's roses flower once more; the nandinas and Camellia sasanqua are also in bloom. Situated atop the park’s highest point is its most prominent feature – the observation deck, a circle of brickwork topped by a towering spire. Constructed in the early 1950s, the spire fans out into a canopy under which visitors can sit and enjoy a 360-degree view of the area. The spire's design, like the park’s visitor’s center, typifies the futuristic, space age architecture that dominated mid-century America. It is from the observation deck where visitors get a sight of something they cannot see from the ground. On Hodges Gardens' second level sits a large boxwood hedge into which a yellow viburnum shrub was planted. When these plants are viewed from the observation deck, the boxwood's green leaves and viburnum's yellow flowers combine to spell out the initials HG. For outdoorsmen, Hodges Gardens offers a 225-acre lake in which visitors can fish for bass, bream, and white perch. Visitors can also rent one of the park's canoes for an excursion around the lake area. Runners, walkers, and cyclists can tackle the park's challenging 5.3-mile loop. Those who attempt the trek are known as "loopers"; those who complete it are "super loopers." Hodges Gardens is also home to beautiful camping grounds. Visitors can make camp in the park's tent camping area or in its big group camp, a new facility that provides room for 54 people. For weekend guests who prefer a bed to a sleeping bag, the park offers 13 rustic one or two bedroom cabins. Hodges Gardens is worth a visit. If you’re lucky, you might get a glimpse of a bald eagle nesting in a pine.

February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Places & Faces

DELTA DOWNS

Completes $45 Million Expansion 167-Room Hotel Tower, Rosewater Grill & Tavern Further Enhance the Delta Downs Experience

20 www.thriveswla.com

Boyd Gaming recently announced the completion of its $45 million expansion project at Delta Downs Racetrack Casino Hotel. “Throughout Boyd Gaming’s 16 years of ownership, Delta Downs has consistently been one of our most successful and popular properties,” said Keith Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer of Boyd Gaming. “This ambitious expansion is a reinvestment in our customers and this community, one that will elevate and enhance the Delta Downs experience while allowing us to host more customers than ever before.” The centerpiece of the expansion project is an allnew, 167-room hotel tower, completed in late 2016. The property’s original 203-room hotel tower also received a complete redesign. All 370 rooms feature a luxurious modern feel, with dark wood textures, chocolate and smoky grey color palettes, and abstract modern art. Also located in the new hotel tower, a 5,000-square-foot fitness center is wellappointed with a broad range of exercise equipment, studio space for fitness classes and locker rooms with wet and dry steam treatment areas. Outside, guests can relax by the pool in a wellappointed cabana or day bed, enjoying an entertaining atmosphere enhanced by a state-of-the-art sound system, outdoor bar, and barbeque pit. Earlier last year, Delta Downs also premiered a new dining concept – Rosewater Grill & Tavern – enhancing the property’s dining offerings with a sleek, sophisticated new steakhouse experience. Rosewater offers incomparable views of the Delta Downs racetrack, a unique menu of steak and seafood delivered with Louisiana flair.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

Alliance for Positive Growth Receives Positive Response at Launch Meeting

A standing-room-only crowd of over 200 developers, realtors, contractors, business professionals and community leaders attended the first meeting of the Alliance for Positive Growth (APG) last month at Majestic Hall at Walnut Grove to provide details on their mission and goals. The organization, a product of four months of planning, will work with municipalities in Southwest Louisiana to “overcome longstanding obstacles to development and create ordinances in favor of and supporting growth,” said founding member Matt Redd, an associate broker at NAI Latter & Blum. He says developers, landowners, and contractors frequently encounter city or parish ordinances that conflict with development projects, causing delays and increasing costs. “Our goal is to address concerns and craft favorable policies through collaboration between all professionals involved in local development. We’re here to unite – not fight – to make good things happen in our region.” The group raised about $60,000 to support its launch from founding members, opened an office in the SEED Center, and hired a director, Jeannie Weise. Weise, a McNeese State University graduate with governmental affairs experience and a sales and marketing background, will

attend municipal meetings across the five-parish region and provide updates to board members. APG will then use its planned $200,000 annual budget to employ attorneys and engineers to analyze municipal proposals and advocate for solutions that positively affect local development. To sustain the group’s budget, members make five-year pledges at four different levels, which range from “500 to $5,000 annually. All are welcome, including large corporations and individual entrepreneurs. “Positive growth benefits us all – not just those of us involved in real estate and development,” added Redd. While an initial board was chosen to guide the alliance through its launch, a new board will be elected in this year to represent APG’s full membership. “The response we received at the launch meeting and since then confirms that our effort is needed and that our timing is right,” said Tim Flavin, president of Flavin Realty, and another founding member. “Southwest Louisiana is poised for unprecedented growth, but we all need to work together to ensure that this growth is good for our community today and in the long-term.” For more information, visit apgrowth.org or call Weise at 337-602-6789.

“Because of their lifesaving heart care, I have a second chance.” --- Brice Perrin, heart attack survivor “I got to the ER at Lake Area Medical Center just in time,” explained Brice Perrin. “My chest was hurting and I had pain down the back of both arms. It was a heart attack! They took me to the cath lab and immediately opened my blocked artery. I wouldn’t be here without the staff’s prompt care and attention. They gave me a second chance at life! And I’m making the most of it.” For more information on Lake Area Medical Center’s cardiac services, visit LakeAreaMC.com.

In a medical emergency, call 911.

February 2017

93426_LAMC_CARDBrice_8x4_875c.indd 1

4200 Nelson Road • Lake Charles, LA • LakeAreaMC.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

8/26/16 5:15 PM

et - l

terpress ha

c ft

Places & Faces

THE

g ROV E ST R EET P R E S S louisiana, usa gr

estr

eetpress

.co

GROVE ST. PRESS Beating the Odds and Thriving by Deborah Hacker Serra

A daunting statistic from Forbes contributor Neil Patel advises that 90% of business startups fail. Fortunately, cousins Anna Boyer and Kate Wyman Reuther didn’t see Patel’s article. With an English degree and Graphic Arts degree between them, they launched a studio printing business in New Orleans in 2013. Today, their efforts have evolved into a growing lifestyle print design business with a robust social media following and an inviting drop-in boutique. 22 www.thriveswla.com

Growing up in Lake Charles, these first cousins spent a childhood forging their friendship and most importantly, shopping with their mothers who are sisters. It’s those shopping trips that honed Kate and Anna’s interest in product presentation, ideas that would sell, and the notion they could have a business together. “I think it was at Hamilton House in Sulphur where we saw a line of bracelets that had a tag that read something like ‘we’re sisters but now we’re business partners,’” said Anna. “And I said we could do this!” added Kate. After graduating from University of Dallas, Kate returned to Lake Charles with an interest in letter press printing. The family veterinarian, Dr. Jay Carter, just happened to have a 1910 Chandler and Price platen printing press in a storage area; an heirloom from the family’s printing business. Dr. Carter gave the press to Kate who spent a summer refurbishing it and learning to use it. She then went to Chicago to apprentice with a letterpress printer. Cousin Anna was busy finishing a graphic arts degree at LSU, after which she moved to New Orleans. After a soft start with printing and design work taking place in their apartments, the Grove Street Press opened on St. Joseph St. in New Orleans in a gentrifying part of town near the WWII museum. The Grove Street name pays homage to the Lake Charles home where the 1910 Chandler press that started it all proudly resides. A ‘newer’ 1940 Chandler & Price Press traveled nearly 1,400 miles to its new home on St. Joseph St. and is quite prominently visible when you enter the store. It’s the Grove Street Press work horse, one print at a time. The store itself is part of the ‘learn as you go’ experience the two entrepreneurs have developed. Originally Grove Street Press was a studio where designing and printing took place; orders were completed and mailed out. But then the charm of the brick paved street brought foot traffic from the Warehouse district and area museums resulting in people coming in to see what was happening. As a result, a charming retail area featuring seating, a stack

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

of totes and pennants, as well as beautiful displays of cards and jotters impels visitors to see what’s inside. Oh, and there’s Mildred. She’s the shop labradoodle who graces the Oriental rug and manages to open one eye when anyone walks into the store. The 1940 Chandler press is quite visible among the antique touches, leather bound books, and other bits of southern ephemera, but you really need to look beyond the press to see there are actual computers that help marry the analog process to the digital design work. Fortune magazine recently offered a list of why business startups fail based on interviews with owners of recently closed businesses. Among the reasons: not the right team, poor product, lack of passion, product mis-timed, bad location, and ignoring customers. The Grove Street Press cousins have successfully factored these predictors into their business plan. Best friends from childhood, Kate and Anna are so close they finish one another’s sentences. They have a strong sense of where they’re going and what it takes to get there. Passion for their product resonates through their store, and on their social media platforms. The time for individually hand printed cards and other specialty items appears to be now, with demand growing. Reading their Instagram and Facebook responses is like a love-fest. Customers adore Grove Street Press and its creators. While it works now, location could be a consideration in the future. “I like our walk-ins,” said Kate. “It gives us a break from printing and designing.” But both owners agree a long term dream is to have employees. “We do it all now between the two of us,” said Kate. “We might like to hand a little of it off to others.” And this is a conundrum for those in business -- when to take the business to the next level. Grove Street Press cards are available locally at Papersmith on Ernest Street. Their complete line is available at grovestreetpress.com. To truly appreciate the craftsmanship and passion of these two ladies from Lake Charles, stop in their shop next time you’re in New Orleans. Let them know you’re hometown folks!

February 2017

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.”

City Savings Banks Announces Promotions

Karen Hatch

Lori Mitchell

City Savings Bank has announced the recent promotions for Karen Spiller Hatch as Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager of the DeQuincy branch and Lori Mitchell as Commercial Lender. Karen Spiller Hatch has been with City Savings Bank for 12 years, and in her new position she manages consumer loans, oversees branch operations and supervises customer service needs. Lori Mitchell has been with City Savings Bank for three years, and in her new position as Commercial Lender she serves clients across Southwest Louisiana in any type of commercial lending requests. She will continue to be housed at the DeQuincy branch. For more information, call 337-463-8661 or visit www.CitySavingsBank.com.

Nursing from Algonquin College, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. She went on to achieve a Bachelor in Science in Nursing from Loyola University in New Orleans, then a Master of Science in Nursing from Southern University in Baton Rouge. Cazes also holds a Doctorate in Nursing Science from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. Prior to joining Memorial, Cazes worked at Baton Rouge General Medical Center where she served as the Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Patient Care Services.

CSE Board Chairman Inducted to the Louisiana Credit Union 2016 Hall of Fame CSE Federal Credit Union Board Chairman, Ken Gardner was inducted into the Louisiana Credit Union Hall of Ken Gardener Fame. Sponsored by the Louisiana Credit Union Foundation, the Hall of Fame recognizes the valuable leadership, commitment, dedication, and contributions of credit union professionals and volunteers throughout the state. For more information, call (337) 562-3130.

Memorial Welcomes New Chief Operating Officer

Anna Cazes

Anna Cazes, DSN, RN has joined Lake Charles Memorial Health System as its new Senior Vice President/Chief Operating Officer. Cazes received an Associates Degree in

Drewett’s new position includes overseeing all functions of Credit Analysis, Loan Analysis and Mortgages, including Commercial Lending. She has over three decades of experience in banking, including serving as Executive Vice President-Chief Lending Officer of JD Bank since June.

JD Bank Promotes Leonards JD Bank has announced the promotion of Carly Leonards to the newly created position of Sr. Executive Vice President and Chief Banking Officer. She had served as Executive Vice PresidentCarly Leonards Chief Operating Officer since 2012, successfully leading many significant projects and teams as JD Bank has continued to expand its services across Acadiana and Southwest Louisiana. As Sr. Executive Vice President and Chief Banking Officer, Leonards will be responsible for operating, directing and administering JD Bank’s retail network, commercial deposit and loan products, assets and fee-based services. She will also develop strategies, policies and procedures.

JD Bank Promotes Drewett

Karen Drewett

JD Bank has announced the promotion of Karen Drewett to Executive Vice President-Chief Credit Officer. She had previously served as Executive Vice President-Chief Lending Officer.

WALK AWARE safetycouncilswla.org February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Mind & Body N AT I O N A L D E N TA L H E A LT H M O N T H

Tips for Getting Kids to Brush their Teeth Regularly

24 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. Parents often struggle with how to get their children to brush their teeth regularly. The good news is that for those parents who put in the effort, their kids will usually develop good oral hygiene habits. “It’s important for parents to start good oral hygiene habits with their children at a young age,” says Michelle Swift Corcoran, D.D.S. “It may seem like a difficult task, but it’s important enough to keep working on. I recommend they use an electric toothbrush and time it for two minutes. I have my two year old using a Spiderman electric tooth brush and that makes it a fun routine for him. Older kids can use an app on their phone to track how long they have brushed which keeps them entertained while they are brushing.” Follow these tips to help your children learn good oral hygiene habits: • Teach your children why it is so important. Discuss the reasons why they need to brush regularly, so they know why they are doing it. Picture books on the subject can support the lessons. • Make it fun. When parents make brushing time fun, little kids are more likely to want to participate. Have a brushing song or fun routine that goes along with getting the job done each day. • Give them rewards. Kids love to get rewards, even if it’s a sticker added to their sticker chart. Once they meet their brushing goals, take them to the store to pick out a book. This will help reinforce the habit. • P raise their efforts. Rather than focus on where they fall short, keep it positive and congratulate them for their efforts. They can always go back and improve areas missed, but positive reinforcement goes a long way. • K eep them accountable. Up until kids are around 8-9 years old, parents may need to go into the bathroom with children to ensure proper brushing is being done. While it may be inconvenient, establishing lifelong habits will benefit them greatly in the long run.

“The last thing parents want to do every morning and evening is argue with their kids about brushing their teeth,” adds Dr. Corcoran. “When you make a plan and stick to it, you’ll generally be more successful in getting them to form the brushing habit.” For more information, visit www.michelleswiftdds.com or call (337) 478-2960.

Michelle Swift Corcoran, D.D.S. GENERAL DENTISTRY

Our office is designed to provide you and your family state-of-the-art dental care including: • Cosmetic Dentistry

• Dentures

• Teeth Whitening

• White Fillings

• Crown & Bridges

• Root Canals

• Restoring Implants Call (337) 478-2960 for an appointment.

N e Acc w ep Pa t i n tie g nt s February 2017

Michelle Swift Corcoran , DDS 1333 Oak Park Blvd. • Lake Charles, LA michelleswiftdds.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Mind & Body

The Changing Face of Braces

by Kristy Como Armand

When you think of the typical patient in an orthodontist’s office, an awkward middle schooler with a mouth full of metal brackets may come to mind, but things have changed. Not only are more adults seeking a straighter smile in record numbers, there are more choices than ever in materials for achieving the results they want. According to the American Association of Orthodontics, adults today make up nearly half of orthodontic patients hoping to get that perfect smile. “Braces have evolved considerably since the adults of today were teens,” says Dr. Craig Crawford with Crawford Orthodontics. “We have more convenient options that deliver quicker results for adults. And orthodontics can not only improve your appearance, it can also improve your oral health, which is of more concern for adults. Crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, abnormal wear of the tooth enamel and surfaces, headaches and jaw joint pain.” Dr. Crawford says there are a variety of reasons an adult may decide the time is right to seek

orthodontic treatment. Some are experiencing crowding, which can become more noticeable in adulthood. In some cases, gum disease has caused teeth to move, changing the person’s bite. “Many adults decide to get braces simply because they just want to look better,” explains Dr. Crawford. “Quite a few of our adult patients have wanted braces for years, but their family may not have been able to afford them when they were young. Now that they are adults, they can take care of this part of their appearance for themselves.” Also contributing to the rise in adult orthodontic patients is improvement in orthodontic technology, such as Invisalign transparent aligners, which make treatment much less noticeable. For mild to moderate cases of misaligned teeth these

GET SOCIAL

WITH A CONFIDENT

SMILE your smile again with Invisalign. Invisalign clear aligners are your first step towards sharing the radiant you’ve always wanted. This treatment can fit your budget and your lifestyle. We accept most insurance and flexible benefit plans, and offer affordable, convenient payment plans. Show off that smile!

(337) 478-7590 | 701 West College St. | Lake Charles drcrawfordorthodontics.com

Call Crawford Orthodontics today to schedule a free consultation. 26 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

removable appliances a very popular option for adults. Dr. Crawford says when traditional braces are required, newer clear, ceramic brackets, instead of shiny metal, are also appealing to adult patients. “Now, instead of separate bands of stainless steel being wrapped around each tooth like the old days, smaller translucent ceramic brackets are bonded directly to the front of the teeth. The ceramic brackets blend in with the teeth’s natural enamel.” The new brackets are also much more comfortable. Newer, space-age wires apply an even, gentle pressure over time, making it a much more comfortable process compared to the painful, vicelike adjustments many teens experienced in the past. Another big advance that adults appreciate: no more messy, chalky impressions. Crawford Orthodontics recently added a new intra-oral scanner to take a series of rapid digital photos of teeth that are used to create 3D models used by Dr. Crawford to produce a customized treatment plan. All of these advances have also led to shorter, and less painful treatment time, which is more appealing to adults considering braces. Dr. Crawford says that on average, adults can expect orthodontic treatment to last 12 to 20 months. This has been the experience for Shannon Pousson. She is nearing the end of her Invisalign treatment, which began last February. “I had never had braces before but had never liked the way my two front teeth overlapped a little,” she says. “As I got older, it seemed to be getting a little worse. My dentist recommended Dr. Crawford and I couldn’t be happier. The trays are easy to use and I don’t think many people even know I wear them. I was worried about the time commitment, but the appointments are quick and convenient. I can’t wait to see the final results.” If you are ready to look into braces for yourself, the first step toward a straighter smile is a consultation. “Once you are properly screened for periodontal and dental health, there really is no age limit for braces,” says Dr. Crawford. And that’s something to smile about. For more information about braces for adults, call Crawford Orthodontics at 478-7590. February 2017

Free Dental Care on Valentine’s Day Oak Park Dental makes people smile

Tuesday, February 14, 2017, will mark the 15th consecutive year Oak Park Dental will provide free dental care to area residents who are unemployed and without insurance. Oak Park Dental will provide free cleanings, fillings and extractions on a first-come-first-served basis to residents who are unable to pay for services. Dr. Harry Castle began offering the Valentine’s Day Free Dental Clinic in 2002 after learning that more people in the area than he expected were not getting the dental care they needed or going to the dentist as often as they should because they were unable to pay for services. The unique annual Valentine-theme began as a way for Oak Park Dental to give something back to the Lake Area residents. “The staff at Oak Park Dental considers this our Valentine’s Day gift to the community,” said Dr. Castle. “Being able to relieve someone’s pain or boost someone’s confidence by enhancing their smile are the small ways we strive to make our Valentine’s Day patients feel loved. This, to me, is the true meaning of Valentine’s Day.” As many patient’s as possible will be seen beginning at 8:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 14, at Oak Park Dental Family Practice and Specialty Clinic office, 1616 W. McNeese Street in Lake Charles. The event will end at 5:00 p.m. Participants are asked to arrive early to receive a number and secure a place in line. In order to be treated, patients must be present when their numbers are called.

February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Mind & Body

2017 SWLA

Heart Ball Chairs Announced Carla and Dr. Michael Turner will serve as co-chairs for the American Heart Association’s 2017 Southwest Louisiana Heart Ball. The gala will be held on Saturday, March 11th, at The Calcasieu Marine Bank Building and will begin at 6:00pm. The event will generate funds to support education, research, and awareness to prevent heart disease in the Southwest Louisiana community. For over 15 years, this annual event has promoted the American Heart Association’s mission on a local level and has helped increase education and awareness in the SWLA community about heart disease. The theme of the 2017 event is Masquerade Couture and the evening will feature a cocktail hour, pop-up boutiques, live auction, fashion show, and a special Open Your Heart presentation. The fashion show will feature local models and four clothing lines: Robert Graham, W by Worth, TeCi’s Ladies Apparel, and Rhinestone Runway. Southwest Louisiana has been fortunate to have world class care for heart disease. As part of the SWLA Heart Ball, local cardiologists who have contributed to the legacy will be honored. The contributions raised at the 2017 Heart Ball will directly benefit the SWLA community through the continued funding of biomedical research and ongoing educational programs, resulting in lives saved and enhanced health and wellness. The American Heart Association’s mission is to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular disease and stroke. For more information about heart disease and stroke or to find out more about the 2017 Southwest Louisiana Heart Ball, please call the American Heart Association at 770-612-6172 or SWLA Regional Director Susan Percle at 337-377-5840, susan.percle@heart.org.

28 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

American Heart Association’s 2017 Southwest Louisiana Heart Ball co-chairs Carla and Dr. Michael Turner.

2 0 17 S W L A H E A R T B A L L

Masquerade Couture Saturday, March 11 6-11pm Historical Calcasieu Marine National Bank An evening of signature cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, music, live auction, pop-up boutiques, cash bar and a fashion show featuring Robert Graham, W by Worth, TeCi’s Ladies Apparel and Rhinestone Runway! Black Tie Attire | Masks Required for Entry

heart.org/swlaheartball | (337) 377-5840

February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Mind & Body

Emotional Intel – The Smart Way to Process your Feelings

by Madelaine Brauner Landry

In 1995, communication theorist Daniel Goleman gave us the term emotional intelligence (EI). He posited EI was as critical for our success as cognitive ability. Goleman’s research set out to assess individual EI, as well as prove the value of emotional intelligence on our self-esteem, perceptions, and overall satisfaction with life. His work adds to prior research which examines how emotions affect human communication. What exactly are emotions? Yes, they are our feelings; but they are so much more. Emotions can be influenced by many factors, including personality, culture, gender, societal norms, and social roles. Recognizing they cause physiological changes as well as psychological proves emotions are not simply internal. Without our awareness, emotions can manifest themselves in non-verbal reactions. How we feel, what we say, and what our bodies say are all interconnected. We often hear what another is saying without their saying a word. However, our expressions, gestures, and overall body language can also betray our words. If emotions are anything, they are ambiguous, contagious, and leaky. EI is important to develop if we want to avoid making erroneous assumptions about how others feel solely by judging their nonverbal reactions. Our bodies do not always accurately indicate what we feel. Anger makes us sweat, tenses our muscles, and raises blood pressure, but so will excitement and extreme

happiness. We demonstrate both fatigue and sadness by slumped posture and sighing. If that weren’t confusing enough, we can use our non-verbal behavior to change our emotions. In anger, confusion, or pain, we can force a smile to make ourselves feel better. Likewise, change your expressions to indicate disgust, amusement, surprise or fear—slowly you start to feel the emotion! Developing our EI helps us listen to what our bodies are saying to us as we interpret our own emotions, too. It helps us to reappraise them from the distance of a few hours or days after we originally felt them. This can be beneficial in our relationships: we do not have to act on an emotion simply because we feel it. Being annoyed with a loved one can be exasperating, but walking away before saying something hurtful can be a relationship-saver. Words can be powerful tools to communicate how we feel without acting on the immediate raw emotion. Simply saying you are angry and prefer not to discuss things until you’ve cooled down makes sense. To allow another to use that technique is wise, as well. Emotionally intelligent communication means expressing and sharing our emotions appropriately, as well as being sensitive to the feelings of others. Being in touch with our feelings does not mean we need to be overwhelmed by them. Communication improves when we seek ways to further develop our emotional intelligence.

Louisiana Proud. Louisiana Strong. Lake Charles | Sulphur | DeRidder

CenterforOrtho.com

30 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

Blockages Discovered During Heart Scan “I had no idea I had heart disease. I felt fine,” says Trudy Wooten. Despite this, she ended up having three stents to clear blockages caused from coronary artery disease. It was discovered during a heart calcium scan offered by her employer, Turner Industries, as part of their employee health benefit package. The calcium scan is conducted by CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital. “Their nurse navigator, Kathy Haas, encouraged me to get the scan. I had no symptoms of heart disease, but I figured it couldn’t hurt, so I did it. Turns out, I had a high score indicating heart disease so I was referred to a cardiologist for follow-up.” At age 60, Trudy didn’t think much of her heart health since she didn’t have any symptoms of heart disease.

Thomas Mulhearn, MD, cardiologist, performed a nuclear stress test and found three blockages requiring three stents. The blockages, if left untreated, could have caused a heart attack or stroke. “The build up of plaque in the arteries eventually leads to coronary artery disease,” explains Dr. Mulhearn. “The blood flow becomes restricted causing the heart muscle to receive less blood. It can go unnoticed for many years, until a heart screening detects it, or in worst cases, when a heart attack occurs.” Because of Trudy’s success story, she began encouraging her oldest brother to have the scan. Robert “Clint” Morgan, 63, works at L’Auberge, another employer who offers the scan to its employees. His results showed significant heart problems;

he was also referred to a cardiologist for follow up testing. “It turns out, he ended up having a triple bypass,” Trudy says. “He was a walking time bomb. Both of us are amazed that we had significant heart disease and didn’t realize it.” Trudy says she encourages everyone to get screened. “When the option is there, you should take it. I don’t know where we would be if we had ignored the option to take the screening. I believe God led me to Kathy so that both me and my brother could get the help we needed,” Trudy says. To predict your 10-year risk for heart attack, call 888-996-4862 to schedule your Heart Calcium Scan today. CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital also offers an online heart assessment to find risk factors for heart disease. To take the HRA, go to www.christusstpatrick.org/heartcare.

Caring doctor. Louisiana roots. If you’re looking for convenient, quality care, you’ll find it right here at Lake Area Physicians. We are making it easier than ever to see a doctor quickly. Primary care physician Ben Palombo, M.D., a Louisiana native, is here to take care of you and your family members age 13 and older. Most insurance plans are accepted. Ask about same-day appointments. Call 337-562-3761.

Lake Area Family Medicine 4150 Nelson Rd., Bldg. G, Suite 5 Lake Charles Ben Palombo, M.D. Family Medicine

LakeAreaPhysicians.com Member of the Medical Staff at Lake Area Medical Center. February 2017

94799_LAMC_Palombo_8x4_875c.indd 1

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

1/13/17 12:32 PM

Mind & Body

Overcoming

loneliness by Lauren Atterbery Cesar

32 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

In this season of candy hearts and dozens of roses, the feeling of being alone can be magnified when set against the backdrop of coupledom. The empty ache of loneliness can take root within you and make simple daily tasks draining and unfulfilling. In fact, psychologists say that the pain of loneliness can be as real as the pain of thirst or hunger. If you are experiencing loneliness, have courage. With a little effort you can overcome your feelings of isolation. Cynthia Shrewsberry, Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Lake Charles, encourages people to remember they are not alone in their feelings of loneliness. “It may seem like you are the only person feeling this way. You may feel different and begin to isolate yourself from the world, but this only reinforces the problem. No matter how badly you feel, and as hard as it may be, try to talk to someone about how you are feeling. Try to connect with others. You will find that loneliness is a universal emotion that does not last forever.” Shrewsberry also reminds readers that loneliness and depression go hand-in-hand, and urges people to call on a professional if they are struggling to function with their daily activities or begin to feel suicidal. Psychotherapist, professional trainer, and author of “The Human Magnet Syndrome” Ross A. Rosenberg says loneliness is a problem caused by thoughts and feelings of inadequacy, imperfection, and shame. To overcome these thoughts and feelings, he suggests you identify your inner critic’s attempts to sabotage yourself. “Pay attention to self-degrading thoughts and replace negative self-talk with affirming messages like ‘I am perfectly lovable just the way I am.’” Reminding yourself you deserve to be treated well goes a long way with your self-esteem. Another healthy way to overcome the weighty feeling of loneliness is to find a supportive network of trusted friends or family you can interact with positively when you begin to feel isolated. It may also be helpful to focus on the needs of others around you. When you feel alone, your thoughts begin to center on yourself and your current state, which is a slippery slope and a very small piece of the large world surrounding you. Focusing on the needs of others will bring you a sense of purpose and accomplishment, and take your mind away from the feeling of loneliness you are combating and broaden your horizons. You might even meet new people in the process. Check out local organizations that need volunteers such as churches, food pantries, and shelters. Finally, don’t give up. Putting yourself out there to new people or opening yourself up to old friends requires courage. Some people may not understand you, and that is okay. There will be someone out there who does. Keep trying because all of the effort will be worth it. There are plenty of people out there worth getting to know!

February 2017

Heart Health

Number of chambers in the heart that contract to pump blood to the body

$207 billion

Total cost of heart disease (health care, medications, lost productivity) in US each year

By the Numbers Number of people in the US who suffer a heart attack each year

Approximately

720,000

23,000 Number of cardiologists in the US

Rank of heart disease (including stroke and other cardiovascular diseases) as cause of death in US

Frequency that someone in US dies of heart-related disease

every

Number of American women who die of heart disease each year

1 in 3

Average age for a first-time heart attack

66 for men 70 for women

February 2017

Source: www.theheartfoundation.org/heart-disease-facts/heart-disease-statistics/; www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/facts. htm; www.medaxiom.com/clientuploads/documents/Workforce_Analysis.pdf; www.health.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Home & Family

by Deborah Hacker Serra photos linseyjanies.com monsoursphotography.com

The season is here! Whether a joyous fan of the feathers and sequins or packing to leave for an annual ski or Disney trip, you really can’t escape Mardi Gras in Southwest Louisiana. Many newcomers and visitors are surprised to learn that Mardi Gras is not a single day or a weekend event. It really is an entire season. Fat Tuesday (literally Mardi – Tuesday, Gras – fat, in French) is the most celebrated day of the season, but the lead-up to the big event can be every bit as exciting, filled with tradition and revelry.

How to know which Tuesday is celebrated as Mardi Gras? Ash Wednesday is always 46 days before Easter. Fat Tuesday is always the day before Ash Wednesday. Easter can fall on any Sunday between March 23 to April 25. (Stay with me here!) The exact date coincides with the first Sunday after the full moon following the spring equinox. Simple, eh? The easiest way is to grab a calendar and find Ash Wednesday. Mardi Gras is always the day before. Mardi Gras festivities kick off on Twelfth Night, January 6. This is a nod to Epiphany or the Wise Men visiting the Christ Child. The Lake Area is unique in its Mardi Gras celebrations. Most events here are open to the public, combining both urban and rural traditions. Throngs attend the Twelfth Night Extravaganza at the Civic Center to see last year’s Krewe royalty strut their stuff for the last time in public. The 2017 royal courts will be presented at the Royal Gala on Lundi Gras (the Monday before Mardi Gras) at the Civic Center. This is an opportunity for the public to see all the Mardi Gras royalty in their finery, as well as experience the diversity of Mardi Gras groups in this area.

PARTY TIME YOUR

MARDI GRAS HEADQUARTERS!

Largest Selections in Southwest Louisiana CORNER OF LAKE & MCNEESE STREETS • LAKE CHARLES, LA

337-477-2789

BEADS • MASKS • COSTUMES • FLAGS • JEWELRY • MARDI GRAS DOLLS

STOCK UP ON SUPPLIES EARLY!

34 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

Parades, dances, galas and more! IT’S Party TIME! NOW - FEBRUARY 28 DOWNLOAD THE APP!

2017

Search for “Lake Charles Events.”

SPONSORED BY:

February 2017

swlamardigras.com | 800-456-7952 Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Home & Family SWLA KREWE DIVERSITY With over sixty unique krewes in Southwest Louisiana, there is truly something for everyone. From formal, traditional organizations to groups of friends who started their krewe during a pot luck dinner to the krewes who focus on artistry in costuming or those celebrating our outdoor sporting traditions, there are few limitations to organizing a krewe. Each organization celebrates its own set of Mardi Gras traditions, some with formal balls similar to those seen in New Orleans and Mobile (supposedly the oldest celebration in the country). Others have casual dances or cocktail parties. Over time, some of the veteran krewes have found the need to make a few changes to attract younger members as their charter members retire from revelry. Finding a band for the ball that satisfies different age groups is key to keeping original members happy and attracting new members. This challenge is expressed by several traditional krewes who seek younger members. After 26 years as captains, Lee J and Anne Monlezun, co-founders of Krewe de la Famille, chose new (and younger) captains to lead. “We found that our social gatherings and the parade worked well for all age groups, but for the ball, music preferences in the different age groups were the hardest thing to get around,” said Monlezun. “Mardi Gras is for everyone and it’s supposed to be fun. We do keep our traditions in our krewe even with changes in music, because if you let them go, you never get them back.”

NEW CHANGES FOR THE 2017 SWLA CELEBRATION Look for some changes and more inclusion in this year’s Lake Charles Mardi Gras celebration. Two new parades premier this year with ideas generated by the public. If you want to participate in a parade, grab your friends, dress up Mardi Gras style, and join the Second Line Stroll at 1p.m. on Fat Tuesday. It’s a walking parade down Ryan Street from Mill St. to Sallier. Talk about fun! Time to rock that purple, green and gold! At 2 p.m., Jeeps on ParadE will follow the same route. Check the website for registration info. Angie Manning, Communications Director for the Convention and Visitors Bureau, adds that Mardi Gras in SWLA is the most family friendly celebration in the area with something for all ages. “In order to have this type of celebration, it is a matter of partnerships among many organizations. And now it has grown to include a parade in Sulphur, events in Iowa, and beyond. From now through February 28th we’ll just be two-stepping into 2017!” And while we’re two-stepping, we might as well ‘let the good times roll!’

a Glossary of Good Times Mardi Gras Colors— Purple, green, and gold represent justice, faith, and power, respectively. Originally adopted in New Orleans to honor a Russian prince who participated in the first Rex parade, the colors are of the royal house of Romanov. King Cake—Named for the three kings who visited the Christ Child (Epiphany/Twelfth Night). The cake is shaped in a circle suggesting a crown. A plastic baby, a bean, or other trinket is inserted into the cake. The person who finds the baby in their piece of cake can be crowned king/queen of the party and brings a king cake to the next party. Second Line—Traditionally, the second section of a parade that follows the brass band. It’s a cultural outgrowth of the jazz funeral parades. In Lake Charles, Second Lines at balls and other events feature distinctive music and revelers stepping out with decorated umbrellas or twirling napkins in the air. Throws—Throws are tossed by revelers aboard floats to the cheering spectators lining the street. The joy of attending parades in Louisiana is coming home with loot! Be sure to bring a bag to the parades because you will catch plastic beads, stuffed toys, cups, and more. Always pay attention as floats go by because throws can come any time from any direction. Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler—Let the Good Times Roll, in French.

DOWNLOAD THE APP!

Search for “Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras”

36 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Visit swlamardigras.com or call 800-456-7952 for more information.

February 2017

“Nurturing All Children and Achieving Academic Success in the Spirit of Christ”

AMILY REGISTRATION OPEN NOW NEW F

Pre-K4 – 8th Grade • Excellent Student/Teacher Ratio Participant in Education in Virtues Program • Diverse Student Body Morning, Noon, Afternoon Prayer & Weekly Liturgy • Special Education Services

2510 Enterprise Blvd. | Lake Charles, La. 70601 (337) 436-7959 • www.stmcs.com • kfontenot@stmcs.com St. Margaret Catholic School welcomes all children regardless of race, creed, or nationality.

February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Home & Family

Socially Responsible

VALENTINE’S GIFTS by Lauren Atterbery Cesar

It is better to give than to receive, but how do you make your giftgiving twice as nice? Give a socially-conscious gift that supports fair trade around the world. This Valentine’s Day, instead of opting for that trusty old heart-shaped box of candy from Wally World that’s been on display since late December, plan ahead and give a gift that supports people in emerging nations. There are places you can shop online that effect positive change, making your gift an amazing gesture. The making of handcrafted goods is currently the secondlargest form of employment around he world, but many of these third world countries lack the resources to market their goods internationally. Some online companies like Ten Thousand Villages, The Little Market, and Serrv have found and partnered with artisans in poverty-stricken countries around the globe and pay fair wages for their products. This allows those artisans to feed their families, send their children to school, and change their futures forever. With the click of a mouse, you can be a part of that and give a gift that keeps on giving. Here are some suggestions sure to please your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day.

Divine Dark and Milk Belgian Chocolate Nothing says “I’m sweet on you,” like a box of caramel and praline chocolates. Don’t let the word “Belgian” fool you. These chocolates are made by Divine Chocolates in Ghana, and the beans are purchased from the Kuapa Kokoo farmer’s co-op. This organization receives above fair-market trade premiums for their cocoa beans which are used to fund community development projects like clean water wells and schools. $8.99

The Lovebirds Heart Dish Nara Maya Rai, a woman from Nepal, taught herself ceramics and is able to send her children to school and provide her family three meals a day by selling her beautiful works of art. This heart-shaped ceramic dish adorned with little birds would be a perfect complement to any home. Ten Thousand Villages. $12.00 Cha Cha Clutch in Pink This pink clutch is a perfectly unique accessory made by Mar Y Sol, a company that works with several communities of artisans and family businesses in Madagascar, eighty percent of which are women. It is woven from natural, organic, and sustainable materials like dyed sisal, inspired by Madagascar’s vibrant culture. The Little Market. $110.00

Brass Leaf Cuff Bracelet The artisans of the Bombolulu Workshop in Mombasa, Kenya are a group of disabled men and women who use their talents in jewelry making, screen printing, wood carving, and crafting, providing a dignified means of earning income. This beautiful brass bracelet is made of hammered, embossed, and textured brass wire that creates a leaf design to fit most wrists. $22.00

38 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

Men’s Weekender Shirt This hand woven cotton button down shirt has plaid lining on its collar, cuff, and placket to add a bit of interest and a pop of color. The buttons are made from coconuts by an organization called Mahaguthi, Craft with a Conscience. This organization supports socially and economically disadvantaged artisans in Nepal. Part of the income from sales of the crafts helps to run programs for women in the country, so each time you see your significant other in this shirt, you can know you’ve contributed to over 100 organizations in fifteen different regions of Nepal. $36.98 Embossed Silver-Plated Goblets This set of goblets has been created by brass workers of Noah’s Ark in Moradabad, India. The cost of metals has escalated in the past few years, having a devastating effect on the local economy and on the lives of individual artisans there. Noah’s Ark trains artisans to use alternative metals and materials. Ten Thousand Villages. $99.99

Sea Captain’s Compass Another fascinating item created by the talented hands of artisans from Noah’s Ark in Moradabad, India, this Sea Captain’s Compass has been crafted from designs stemming from surveying equipment for some of the oldest canals in the region. Ten Thousand Villages. $69.99

A Spoonful of Sugar What a Sweet Way to Say “I Love You!” Cupcake Bouquets • Cakes • Cookies • Pies Specialty Items • and MUCH More!

Party Trays & Catering Available! Acadian Coffee Roasters’ “Taste of Louisiana” Lake Charles’ own Acadian Coffee Roasters deal in organic fair trade coffees. This special assortment of their coffees includes morning blend Bonjour, chicory blend Café Creole, dark blend Black Bayou, king cake flavored Mardi Gras, and Pecan Pie. Purchase Acadian Coffee online, at the Tuesday Cash & Carry Farmers Market, or their shop at 2908 Hodges St., Lake Charles. $20.00 Let your giving this year be something you can feel great about. Shopping in stores that deal in fair trade goods is responsible, impactful, and one way you can make a positive change around the world this Valentine’s Day.

February 2017

1155 Ryan Street, Lake Charles • 337.488.9315 Tuesday - Friday: 10 am - 5 pm | Saturday: 10 am - 2 pm

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Home & Family

Have you contemplated sticking your toes into the water of the online dating pool? Heads up . . . the variety and sheer number of dating websites available can be overwhelming and downright scary. The good news is, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bound to be a site that meets your needs, no matter your interests. There are well-known sites such as Match.com and eHarmony that cater to a wide variety of users. And there are extremely specific sites like Gluten-Free Singles, clowndating.com, and farmersonly.com (Yes, those are real sites). So where and how do you get started? Match.com, eHarmony , Plenty of Fish, Ok Cupid, Our Time, and Zoosk are worth checking out if you are new to the wide wonderful world of online dating, but these are only a few of many. Most operate in a similar fashion. And you begin by putting yourself out there.

40 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

SET UP YOUR ONLINE PROFILE Setting up a dating profile requires you to answer basic questions about your appearance, your religious views, your profession, and hobbies you enjoy. You also have the option to attach one or more pictures to your profile for site members to view. It is important to be honest without revealing too many personal details. Don’t include your last name or information about where you live. Be open about your moral views and life goals. For instance, if you are extremely religious, you may not be open to dating someone who does not share your faith. Be sure to make that clear and save yourself and someone else heartache later on. Be careful when selecting a profile picture. It should be of you, not of multiple people, your dog, or the ducks you caught on a recent hunting trip. Make your profile an honest representation of who you are. Online dating can be intimidating enough without meeting someone who has completely misrepresented themselves. CATCH AND RELEASE When you ultimately meet people you’ve communicated with online, it can be difficult to determine whom to keep seeing, especially if you’ve dated more than one person you’re attracted to and get along with. At this point, remember your goals. Ask yourself these questions to determine with whom to take it to the next-level:

• • • • •

Do we share the same values? Do we have similar work ethics? Do we have the same family goals? Are we good for each other? How do they treat their own family members?

Looking to find the right place for your child to attend school? With leading Academics and Athletic programs Hamilton Christian Academy could be just the place for your family! We educate children Pre-K all the way to 12th grade. Visit us at hcawarriors.org and schedule a tour today! Visit our campus February 20 from 6-7:30pm as we open our doors to the public for a 2017 preview and refreshments!

If you don’t have the same values and goals now, you probably never will. If one of you believes in saving and retirement and the other is a free spender without a plan for the future, it probably isn’t a perfect match. If you want children and the person you’re dating does not, these are not things you can easily overcome. And if you have already gotten into a few arguments and find yourself falling into a toxic pattern, move on. The relationship is at its best during the dating stage, so keep that in mind. Observe how your date treats friends and family. This is a good indicator of how they will treat you later on.

1415 8th Street | Lake Charles, Louisiana (337) 439-1178 | hcawarriors.org

UNWRITTEN RULES OF ONLINE DATING With online dating, there are some things common sense should dictate. It’s okay to send the first email if you’re interested. It is not okay is to send more than one if you don’t get a positive response. There are plenty of fish in the sea, so don’t waste time and energy on uninterested parties. Do not send unsolicited pictures. No one wants to open up a message full of unwanted photos. It’s uncomfortable for you and for the person who receives them. Less is more. This is true in multiple facets of the online dating world, starting with the pictures you upload. You are going to attract what you put out there, so keep your profile pictures tasteful to attract the right kind of people. Let conversations happen naturally. When you make a connection with someone, you may be tempted to immediately tell them every single thing about yourself. This can lead to an instant relationship, which can often be unhealthy. Navigating the waters of online dating can be daunting, but follow these guidelines and you will have better chances for success in your modern romance.

February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Home & Family

by Angie Kay Dilmore

February is the month when Southern gardeners’ thoughts turn green with anticipation. They become eager to get in the dirt, plant seedlings, and watch them mature. Their secret to a successful gardening season is early preparation. Follow these steps and see how your garden grows this year. • The first step is to de-weed your garden space. There’s a reason for the expression, “grows like a weed.” These undesirable nuisance plants thrive anywhere and under any condition, including winter. Be sure to get the roots, to lessen the risk of their return. • Turn over the dirt with a shovel to aerate and loosen the dirt. Break up the clumps. • Work in a mixture of garden soil, top soil, manure, and compost. Add fertilizer according to package directions. • Consider having your soil tested for pH, nutrients, and composition. You can purchase a soil testing kit at a garden center or have it tested at the LSU Ag Center. For around $20 (more or less depending on level of testing) they will analyze your soil and make recommendations. • Add more life to your garden bed with the addition of soil enhancing critters such as earthworms. Worms tunnel through soil, adding air and keeping soil loose, allowing roots to grow deeper and more easily. • February is a good time to plan your garden. What will you plant and where will you put them? Drawing a schematic is helpful. Websites such as gardeners.com offer free pre-planned gardens that do the planning for you. • Once soil is prepared, seeds for cooler weather vegetables such as kale, lettuces, spinach, broccoli, cabbages, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts may be planted. Be sure to wait until the threat of frost has passed. Seeds for other plants such as tomatoes and peppers can be started indoors. • Ensure your plants have plenty of water, especially as temperatures soar throughout the spring. With some extra care and attention up front, your garden will nurture healthy plants and produce a harvest of natural goodness all season long.

42 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

Hori Hori The handy Hori Hori, besides being fun to say, is a cross between a trowel, a knife, and a saw. Three tools in one mean extra versatility. Prices and styles vary. The Only Unkinkable Garden Hose, 50 ft. This is the only garden hose with a unique double helix construction that will not kink. Made from pliable, ultra-lightweight polypropylene with intertwining helices that increase its strength and help maintain its shape, this hose is easier to handle than cumbersome ones constructed from thick, heavy rubber. $79.95 Black and Decker Garden Cultivator Ideal for cultivating garden beds, weeding, and more, this batterypowered cultivator can cultivate up to 325 feet on a single charge. Counteroscillating tines prevent weeds from tangling. $89.90

Garden Washbasin Clean up is a breeze when an outdoor sink is nearby. Prices and styles vary.

We’re the Perfect Fit

for Southwest Louisiana’s Real Estate Needs Whether you are buying or selling property, there are questions around every corner. CENTURY 21 Bessette Realty, Inc., and our staff of experienced agents have the answers. We’ve won numerous awards for superior service, sales excellence and community involvement.

Bessette Realty, Inc.

That’s what we’ve built our reputation on for over 20 years, and we’re ready to go to work for you.

3025 Lake Street, Lake Charles | 474-2185 February 2017

century21-bessette.com Each office independently owned and operated.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Money & Career

Career Couples â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

Making it Work when you are Together at Work by Angie Kay Dilmore

ay Z and Beyonce, Bill and Melinda Gates, Jada Pinkett and Will Smith . . . there are many examples of couples who are married AND work together, and do both successfully. Being partners in both love and work life surely has its ups and downs. But it can be done. A 2013 Forbes article suggests couples who work together should ideally share several commonalities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a unified vision, equal commitment to the company, individual roles, mutual respect for each other, and the ability to leave work at work at the end of the day.

Southwest Louisiana is home to numerous couples who both live and work together. Here, seven couples share their insight on how to succeed together, both personally and professionally.

44 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

Brian and Julie Arabie Brian and Julie Arabie, of Arabie Law Firm, met at Camp Pearl, a summer church camp, during middle school. Years later, while students at McNeese, they began dating. Skip forward to post law school and marriage. Brian hadn’t intended to start his own business, but the firm he had been working for closed. Not expecting it to be permanent, he went into practice for himself, and asked Julie, who had a background in banking, to help with bookkeeping. That was over nine years ago. The Arabies appreciate several benefits of being in business together. They spend a lot of time together, share the same goals and values, and there is a tremendous amount of trust between them. But both Brian and Julie agree there’s one downside. “Sometimes we don’t always agree on the decisions that we have to make at the office and we can’t go home and complain about it to our spouse,” Brian says. The Arabies also admit it is a struggle to find a balance between work and home life. They have a general rule – they try to discuss work matters at lunch, and home matters over dinner.

February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Money & Career | Career Couples Erich and Leslie Mansell Erich and Leslie Mansell met at work in 1991. After a whirlwird romance, they married within a year. Their jobs were eliminated after Hurricane Rita. Through an unlikely series of events, they became co-lay pastors at Westminster Presbyterian Church, where they have served together for the past ten years. Leslie cites several perks of working with her husband. “Being a pastor is often stressful. You’re carrying the load of so many others. It’s wonderful to have someone there to help when you don’t feel you can do it alone. We also get to share in the joys, the excitement, and the privileges of serving in ministry together.” But there are of course drawbacks, as well. Erich says it is difficult to break out of “work mode.” “We went on a retreat to help us reconnect. It was also designed to help us bring the Sabbath back into our lives; however, we still struggle taking that day of rest and personal time with each other. We attempt to establish time to ourselves, but it is almost impossible. The congregation and their needs are a priority for us.” Leslie adds they talk shop all the time. “I guess that’s why we make such a good team. We are always sharing ideas. It is so exciting to be in ministry together. We do get away occasionally, but we are always there for our Church Family.”

Drs. Jason and Kelly Fuqua Drs. Jason and Kelly Fuqua met in their hometown of Sulphur as teens. They married in 2000 and attended LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans. After the many years of medical school and residency, they both decided to pursue Family Medicine and returned to Sulphur to open their practice, Calcasieu Family Physicians of WCCH. They share the responsibilities of the practice and both are there full time. Kelly says they each have their own approach to practicing medicine, and that is helpful. “We can rely on each other if we are struggling with a particularly difficult patient case, and often can offer advice from a different perspective.” Kelly and Jason consider it a great advantage to be work partners. “I never hesitate to ask his advice when needed, and he does the same. We work very well together, and we work hard to try and keep a great work environment for our staff,” Kelly says. She adds they each are usually so busy with their patients, they really don’t talk much during the day. As the only two doctors in their practice, they do face challenges as a married couple. “It can be very difficult to be away from the office for any length of time together, whether for vacation or Continuing Medical Education activities,” says Kelly. They have three young children and they try not to talk about work at home or on those occasions when they go out just the two of them. But Kelly admits, it still happens quite often. “It is very difficult to separate your work from your home life when you are married to your work partner, but we work hard to find that balance.”

46 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

THERE’S SAFETY IN OUR NUMBERS $180 $170 Assets

$160

Deposits

$140

Gross Loans

Millions

$120 $100 $80 $60 $40 $20 $0 2010

2012

2014

2016

2016 was a record year of growth for Lakeside Bank and our customers. Our annual numbers are in and reflect strong financial stability. 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, and sincerely appreciate the trust our customers have placed in us. We are excited about the future and renew our commitment to keep growing strong. We invite you to Join the Migration to Lakeside.

The way banking should be. Ask us about our high interest rates for deposits and IRAs, and our FREE checking.

February 2017

4735 Nelson Rd. 474-3766 • 2132 Oak Park Blvd. 502-4314 2203 Sampson St.,Westlake 437-3861

LAKESIDEBANKING.COM

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Money & Career | Career Couples

Drs. Daniel and Stephanie Weaver Drs. Daniel and Stephanie Weaver met in 1995 at a picnic for the incoming class just before they started dental school. After graduation, they began working together at a large dental practice. They now own and work together at the Center for Restorative Dentistry. “Along the way, we purchased two offices which we have merged into our current location,” says Stephanie. After 18 years of being in business together, they appreciate the benefits of working together in the same occupation. “We perform the same procedures. So when we are explaining to one another how well a procedure went or how frustrating it was, the other knows exactly what it feels like,” Daniel says. One of the greatest challenges of working together for the Weavers is, according to Daniel, they both like to be in charge. But they have no problem leaving work at work at the end of the day. Daniel says, “We see each other all throughout the day so there is really no need to talk about work at home.”

GENERAL DENTISTRY Daniel Weaver, DDS • Stephanie Weaver, DDS

337.478.3123 www.smilelakecharles.com Insurance Accepted & Financing Available

Comprehensive Dental Care

Cosmetic Dentistry • Full Mouth Rehabilitation • Fillings Veneers & Crowns • Dentures • IV & Conscious Sedation

Implant Placement & Restoration

Replace Missing Teeth • Make Dentures Fit Securely Make Dentures Non-Removable Latest Technology Including “Same Day Crowns” “Not All Beautiful Smiles Were Born That Way - Some Had Our Help”

715 W. College Street (I-210 @ Lake Street) • Lake Charles, LA 70605 48 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

Pat and Barbara Diamond Pat and Barbara Diamond make up the “Diamond Difference Team” at RE/MAX Realty Pros. They met at McNeese State University in 1966, over a game of Bridge. The card table encounter led to a Homecoming date, and the rest is history. They’ve been married 45 years and have been in business together for 38 years. In the early years of marriage, Barbara was a math teacher and Pat became a real estate agent. Eventually, he convinced her to join him in the business. Each has their own general roles within the business, but both are capable of doing all real estate duties. Pat compares their working relationship to two locomotives. “I am like the one in the train yard. I work all day long getting a car here and a car there and putting together the train. But at the end of the day don’t ask me to take the train anywhere because I’m already putting the next train together. On the other hand, Barbara is like a long-distance locomotive. You give her the train and she’ll get it to its destination efficiently and on time, no matter what gets in her way!”

February 2017

Barbara admits they could use a break from one another now and then, but overall, they enjoy working together. “We get to see each other often, have lunch together, and travel together for business and pleasure,” she says. In the real estate business, they don’t have set business hours, so talking shop at home is commonplace. “However, we try to set aside time to watch movies or sports together and have “date nights” so we can have personal time together. We also have separate hobbies. I like wildlife and architectural photography while Barbara likes to design and make jewelry. Working together in business with your spouse is probably not for everyone, but for us it has worked very well.”

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Money & Career | Career Couples

Ethan and Michelle Miller Ethan and Michelle Miller met in 1995. When Ethan opened his business, Advanced Audio Video Technologies, he initially thought he could handle the workload himself. But as the company grew, he realized he needed a business partner. Michelle started in the business 15 years ago by keeping the books. She now is responsible for marketing, accounting, sales, and payroll. Ethan oversees the technical staff, system design, sales, and customer interactions. But their roles often overlap. Not all couples in business together see the perks and drawbacks equally. Ethan enjoys talking about work off the clock at home. Michelle prefers not to. When they moved the business out of their home and into an office building, it became easier to separate home life form work life. Both agree they enjoy traveling for business together, eating lunch together most every day, and attending evening networking events.

50 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

Sonny and Sandra Duplantis Sonny and Sandra Duplantis own and operate Holiday Travel together. They met in 2001 at Sale Street Baptist Church where Sandra worked. She retired from her job there in 2003 and joined Sonny in the travel business. Sonny says they enjoy working together, though admits he sometimes “gets on Sandra’s nerves.” But working tandem allows them to have lunch together regularly. They’re able to discuss matters as they arise, without needing to wait till the end of the day. They seldom talk about work once they are home. To make time for themselves, they each pursue their own activities, for example different roles with church involvement. And Sandra enjoys shopping alone.

Bring your world back into focus with the advanced iLASIK procedure. See life’s moments as they were meant to be seen—without the hassle of contacts or glasses. This iLASIK alllaser procedure combines custom vision-correcting technologies to correct the broadest range of vision imperfections, including mild to severe nearsightedness, farsightedness and all types of astigmatism. A Difference You Can See:

Call today to learn more at 877-95-FOCUS or visit TheEyeClinic.net to take our LASIK questionnaire.

• 100% of patients see 20/40 or better after iLASIK, the standard requirement to drive without prescription lenses. • Approved by NASA and the U.S. Military.

1-877-95 FOCUS | theeyeclinic.net | BOARD CERTIFIED PHYSICIANS l FINANCING AVAILABLE

February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Money & Career

Key

Character Traits

of People

Who Win With

Meet the Smith family. Both parents work, and they make good money. From the outside, life looks good—a new Tahoe, a big house, and private schools for the kids. But, in reality, the Smiths are barely scraping by. With the help of credit cards and car loans, they spend more money than they make, and they’re just one financial emergency away from being in serious trouble. Then there’s the Williams family. One parent works, and makes decent money, while the other stays at home and takes care of the kids. The Williams family lives on a tight budget—and even though they still have a lot of student loan debt, they’ve cut the balance in half during the last two years. They have a small emergency fund saved and expect to be out of debt completely in two more years. So what is the difference between the Smiths and the Williamses? Why is one family able to pay off thousands of dollars in debt on a tight budget, while another family barely gets by week after week? Why does one person succeed with money, while another person struggles?

52 www.thriveswla.com

According to Rachel Cruze, author of Love Your Life, Not Theirs, dozens of factors play a role. But often, it comes down to several key characteristics of people who manage money well. They’re patient. People who win with money are patient. They can delay a short-term pleasure for a long-term gain. In other words, they can walk right by the shoe section without blinking— because they know those $100 shoes would be nice, but they have bigger priorities. They’re confident. People in control of their money are confident. They don’t care when other people look down their noses at them because they’re cutting back on lifestyle costs. And keeping up with the Joneses? Forget about the Joneses! They’re goal-oriented. People who win with money approach goals with incredible passion. Save $1,000? Check. Get out of debt? Check. Build a full emergency fund? Check. For them, setting goals is fun. They’re responsible. They get it. They understand that, in order to get to where they

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

want to be financially, they might have to take a year off from vacation, skip dining out for a few months, or cut back on grocery spending. They’re willing to look at their money situation and make responsible decisions. They aren’t materialistic. They understand they can have a bunch of stuff without being wealthy and they can be wealthy without owning a bunch of stuff. Someone who wins with money understands that money doesn’t bring happiness, and they live their life with that in mind. They’re willing to sacrifice. They understand that budget cuts are only temporary. Five years from now, once they’re out of debt and winning with money, they’ll look back on these sacrifices with a smile. The great thing about these characteristics is you can develop them. Even if you aren’t naturally patient, or you aren’t a big goal setter, you can develop these character traits by simply creating new habits in your life. When these habits turn into character traits, you’ll be well on your way toward winning with money for good!

February 2017

Now Enrolling Two Years Through 8th Grade

• • • • •

Academic Excellence Safe, Nurturing Environment Competitive Athletics Global Citizenship Outstanding Technology Program

• • • • •

Vibrant Fine Arts Program Successful, Confident Graduates Individual Attention Spiritual Growth Leadership

EDS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, or gender in admission of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs and athletic and other school administered programs.

February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

803 North Division Street Lake Charles, LA 70601 337-433-5246 www.episcopaldayschool.org Bishop Noland Episcopal Day School provides academic excellence to a diverse student body in a Christian environment. www.thriveswla.com

Money & Career

Financial

Solvency – There’s an App for That

by Frank DiCesare

GETTING YOUR FINANCES IN ORDER IS NOW ONLY A TAP AWAY THANKS TO SEVERAL NEW APPS FOR SMARTPHONES. Qapital is a free mobile finance app that helps you save money every time you make a purchase. The app works on the gamification concept – rewarding participants for completing their tasks. Think of it as a points program for spending money. Available for iPhone and Android phones, Qapital can make a significant impact on your daily spending habits. First, Qapital directs you to establish savings goals. Every time you make a purchase, the app increases the amount by rounding up to the nearest dollar. Then, the app automatically withdraws the difference from a user’s checking account and deposits the money into a Qapital savings account. You can also set budgetary rules to your account. If you balance under budget during a period of time, Qapital will deposit more money into your account. For those who simply want to see where their money is going, there’s Spendee, another free app for iPhone. With Spendee, you simply key in the amount of a transaction into your “wallet” and tap the “Next” button. Spendee then brings up more detail for you to add to your transaction, such as the date on which it occurred and various categories under which to the amount can be listed. Both expenses and income can be keyed into the app. Spendee also has an advanced option that allows users to set reoccurring transactions. Users can also choose when these transactions occur, including every two days, every work day, every two weeks, every two or three months, and more.

54 www.thriveswla.com

Spendee Premium users can create multiple wallets, which can be shared with family and friends for $1.99 per month or $14.99 a year. Need to get your debts paid off? Pay Off Debt might be the answer. Available for $4.99 from the Apple App Store and Google Play, Pay Off Debt allows you to create your own debt repayment schedules. You can also decide how much extra money you want to put toward your debts each month to bring down their balances. You can also choose the order in which you pay off your debts. Pay Off Debt also helps you find the fastest way to get out of debt. The app features an amortization table for each debt entered, which shows you how your debt will be paid off over time. Pay Off Debt does not carry any hidden charges or locked features. The app also works with iCloud and provides subscribers with useful debt reduction resources, including tips sent via email. For those who have to split bills with housemates, there’s Unbill, a free app for iPhone and Andriod. With Unbill, bills are tracked, split, and paid securely, so there’s no more nagging and haggling among housemates. Instead, each person pays their own portion of a bill. The app does not require a checkbook. So if your financial situation needs some house keeping, check out one of these apps or other financial apps available for download. You’ll be on your way to financial solvency in no time.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

Here We Grow! Join Us. Join our initiative and be part of a united, grassroots effort to actively support sustained, progressive growth and development in our community. Our Mission The Alliance for Positive Growth is an organization of professionals in the fields of real estate, development, construction and all other interested parties working together to promote strong, beneficial growth in Southwest Louisiana. Our Goals • To be a positive voice for good growth in Southwest Louisiana. • To assist growth professionals involved in development in our region. • To provide fact-based information to the media and public about the economic benefit of positive growth. • To educate and advocate about the need for housing and commercial growth in our region. • To monitor and review municipal actions in order to work with area municipalities to complement public/private relationships. • To support civic initiatives that enhance quality of life. • To endorse and support projects that align with our pro-quality growth platform. Visit our website to learn more about membership opportunities.

APGrowth.org phone: (337) 602.6788 • fax: (337) 602.6789 February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Money & Career

All you need to know to stay in the know! Bayou Rum Distillery Named Best Largescale Visitor Center by Drinks International Bayou Rum Distillery, the largest private rum distillery in the U.S., was recently honored as the Best Large-scale Visitor Center through competition in Drinks International’s 2017 Distillery Experience Challenge. The Louisiana-based distillery, a frontrunner in the creation of awardwinning American rums, is continuing to bolster its reputation as a leading travel destination – not only for the Gulf South United States, but also the world. This is not the first time the Louisiana attraction has been recognized as a leading travel destination. In 2016, the Louisiana Travel Promotion Association named the Bayou Rum Distillery Attraction of the Year.

Southwest Louisiana Charter Academy Earns Five-Year Renewal through BESE The Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) has renewed Southwest Louisiana Charter Academy’s charter for five years through 2022. Unlike traditional district schools, charter

schools must undergo a rigorous state monitoring process annually. In order to be approved for five years, Southwest Louisiana Charter met or exceeded expectations in academics, operations, enrollment, finance and compliance with state charter law. Enrollment for Southwest Louisiana Charter Academy is underway. Those interested may apply online at www.swlouisianacharter.org.

Phillips 66 awards General Maintenance contract to the EXCEL Group EXCEL Group has been awarded a General Maintenance contract from Phillips 66 to support maintenance services for the company’s Midstream Gulf Coast Division. EXCEL acquired Ron Williams Construction (RWC) back in April of 2016, the collaborative and constructive working relationship previously formed between RWC and Phillips 66 during past projects proved vital in awarding this contract to EXCEL. Find out more at www.excelusa.com.

Business and Career Solutions Center Opens Vernon Branch The Calcasieu Business and Career Solutions Center now has a new branch in Leesville to empower residents searching for jobs and employers who need to hire employees with certain skills. The new Vernon Business and Career Solutions Center is located at 408 West Fertitta Blvd. To see the large variety of services offered visit www. laworks.net. For more information, call (337) 238-3321.

Oma’s

Classic Children’s Clothing

• Gift Wrapping • Gift Registry • • Hospital Delivery •

The Eye Clinic Opens Lake Charles Satellite Office The Eye Clinic, the region’s largest provider of comprehensive family eye care, has opened a new satellite office at 2800 1st Avenue in Lake Charles. This new office has opened in preparation for the move of the main office from Oak Park Blvd. to Imperial Blvd. off of Nelson Road in March. This satellite office will offer eye care appointments and retinal care, and will soon be adding optical and contact lens services. Most of The Eye Clinic doctors will have regularly scheduled hours at this through this location, just as they do in the group’s other satellite offices in Sulphur, DeRidder, Moss Bluff and Jennings. The Lake Charles satellite office is open Monday – Friday, from 8am – 5pm. Call (337) 310-0767 for additional information.

Better Day™ Health Named to CIOReview’s 50 Most Promising Healthcare Solution Providers Better Day™ Health, a provider of interoperable software and services for medical clinics, announced that it has been recognized as one of the Top 50 Healthcare Solution Providers 2016 by CIOReview. Better Day Health is a clinical operating system and an add-on documentation software solution that automates electronic health records data capture and data entry, significantly compressing the amount of time it takes physicians to document, code and complete the documentation and billing processes for their patients. Locally, Center for Orthopaedics, one of the largest orthopaedic clinics in the state, participated in the Beta testing of the software and recently signed a 10-year contract with Better Day Health. For more information, visit www.BetterDayHealth.com or call (504) 710-8564.

FREE Hospital Delivery through the month of February! Sizes: Girls’ Preemie – 14 & Boys’ Preemie – 8

OmasClassics.com • 337-602-6790 3830 Nelson Rd., Lake Charles 56 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

The Eye Clinic to Host Business After Hours at New Main Office The doctors and staff of The Eye Clinic are hosting the monthly Business After Hours for the Chamber Southwest Louisiana on Thursday, February 16, from 5:30 – 7:30 pm. The event will give the business community a sneak peek at the group’s newly completed main office located at 1767 Imperial Blvd., which will officially open in early March. The new office encompasses over 18,300 square feet and includes state-of-the-art LASIK suite, expanded retail optical shop, a dedicated Aesthetic Center with separate waiting area, and increased parking capacity with a covered patient drop-off. General admission to this business networking event is $5, or $1 for Chamber SWLA members. RSVP is requested by emailing croberson@allianceswla.org.

Advanced Cardiovascular Care:

We know it by heart. Meet the Cardiologists of Imperial Health Miguel DePuy, MD

Jake LeBeau, MD

Richard Gilmore, MD

Carl Fastabend, MD

Your life, your family and your heart are here in Southwest Louisiana. Ours are too. We have deep roots in this region and understand its people and culture. We are committed to improving the long-term heart health of our community. From early detection and prevention to advanced high-tech treatment—we have it all! Our areas of specialization include:

• Interventional Cardiology • Coronary Angiography • Coronary Angioplasty and Stents • Peripheral Vascular Disease • Cardiac Electrophysiology

• • • • •

Nuclear Cardiology Echocardiography Carotid Artery Disease Cardiac CT Vein Disease

Michael Turner, MD

Corey Foster, MD

Thomas Mulhearn, MD

Our physicians have been the first to bring many innovative cardiac care advances to patients in Southwest Louisiana. We will continue to be pioneers in heart care so that our patients can keep their hearts close to home.

World-Class Heart Care Here at Home.

www.csswla.com LAKE CHARLES • SULPHUR • DERIDDER • JENNINGS • KINDER • LAFAYETTE • DEQUINCY (337) 436-3813 • (337) 312-8247 • (337) 312-8281 February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Everyone considers facial plastic surgery at some time in their lives. Whatever the reason, facial plastic surgery is an opportunity to look at your face, not as it is, but as it could be. By enhancing the tone and texture of the skin, gently and carefully adjusting the overall balance and proportion, you create a more youthful, more rested appearance that still looks like youâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;only better. Jeffrey J. Joseph, md, facs

The hands of a surgeon. The eye of an artist.

1000 W. Pinhook Road â&#x20AC;˘ Lafayette 337-237-0650 www.acadianent.com

board-certified & fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon jeffrey j. joseph, md, facs

58 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

YOU ONLY GET 52 WEEKS IN A YEAR

MAKE them LEGENDARY A luxury casino resort located in the heart of Southwest Louisiana. For reservations, visit mylauberge.com or call 866.391.7333.

Play LegendaryTM

GAMBLING PROBLEM? PLEASE CALL 800.522.4700. February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Style & Beauty photo by Chris Brennan www.chrisbrennanphoto.com

in the Drugstore Cosmetic Aisle by Angie Kay Dilmore | photography by Shonda Manuel

3 4

6 1

60 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Lake Charles native Jessika See grew up participating in the pageant scene and has always been interested in make-up, beauty, and style. Two years ago, her Aunt Val, nearing the end of her battle with cancer, asked Jessika for a special favor. She wanted a makeover . . . hair, make-up, a new outfit. Jessika was glad to grant her aunt’s final request. “She was so happy, it was like a breath of fresh air had been breathed into her ailing body,” says Jessika. “She smiled from ear to ear and had a blast posing in front of the camera. She told me I have a gift for making women feel beautiful.” Soon after, Jessika decided to make a career as a professional make-up artist and started her business, J.See Make-Up. She is in high demand and works on location, specializing in weddings. Her business calendar is booked most every weekend of the year. “My goal is to help women feel beautiful from the inside out.” Jessika says you don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a winning makeup routine. Several of her personal everyday favorite cosmetics are inexpensive drugstore items. “There is so much affordable make-up out there that’s just as good as high-end products. Every woman wants to feel beautiful and should have that opportunity without having to break the bank.” But she does warn women that with make-up, you do often get what you pay for. “Sometimes the price tag does affect quality. Coverage and length of wear may be inadequate.” Jessika enjoys sharing tips and good deals on social media sites. Here’s a rundown of some of her favorite makeup bag bargains.

February 2017

1 L’oreal Telescopic Mascara

This mascara can make anyone look like they have long lashes. It has an odd narrow brush that grabs each lash from root to tip. Build upon the lashes as the day goes on without clumping and flaking. $6-9.

2 Maybelline Fit Me! Foundation

Comes in several shades and two finishes -- matte/poreless and dewy/smooth. To find your right shade, Jessika suggests taking your old foundation bottle with you to match color. $6-8.

3 Maybelline Age Rewind Concealer

5 Revlon Colorstay Eye Liner

This product works as a concealer and highlighter all in one and is great for skin of all ages. The soft built-in round tip makes concealing under the eyes easy and smooth. Gives a very natural finish and feels light-weight with zero creasing. Also use to highlight between eyebrows and forehead. Another tip is to always buy concealer a shade or two lighter than your foundation. $6-8.

4 NYX butter gloss This gloss is super soft and won’t leave your lips feeling sticky. $5

Whether you prefer a stick, gel, or liquid liner, Jessika says all the best can be found at drugstores, but she especially likes this Revlon gel liner. $6.

6 NYX Microbrow Pencils Full sharp brows are all the rage. But for those of us not blessed with them, we fill in! $10.

7 Elf matte lipstick This lipstick is highly pigmented and goes on smoothly. And with such a great price, you can try just about any color! $3.

Elf is one of Jessika’s favorite brands. She recommends their blushes, $3 and color-correcting powder, $6. For eyeshadows, Jessika suggests buying individual colors, rather than palettes. “They are packed with more pigment and you get more bang for your buck with individual shadows like the ones made by Wet n Wild for only .99 cents apiece! NYC Liquid Liner in black has the perfect brush for that desirable effortless wing. Under $3.

Do your research! “When you find an expensive product you love but don’t want to break the bank buying it, use your best friend Google to see if there is a popular drugstore dupe for that product.”

Email or Text Notification when your RX is ready!

ThriftyWay PHARMACY #2

Friendly service from your home town pharmacy. • Citywide Delivery Service • Drive-Thru Pick-Up Window • E-Mail and Call in RX Service

LAKE CHARLES' PREMIER CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE!

We offer the very best brands to meet every style and budget. Let us style your baby, toddler, & tween! Sizes from baby to tween - girls up to size 14/16 and boys up to size 8.

CHILDREN’S APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES BOUTIQUE 2506 Ryan Street, Lake Charles • 337.493.7005 Tuesday - Friday: 10am - 5pm • Saturday: 10am - 4pm

Tresjolieboutiquela.com

February 2017

601 S. Pine Street • DeRidder, LA 70634 • (337) 463-7442 www.thriftyway.com • thriftyway2@thriftyway.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Style & Beauty

NAILED IT!

MANI/PEDI TRENDS TO TAKE YOU INTO SPRING by Emily Alford

From inch-long, filed-to-apoint talons to glittering, bejeweled tips, these days, nail art has become a major part of beauty culture, and the mani/pedi boom years also mean that professional manicures have become more affordable than ever. Whether you’re a devoted nail salon customer or an at-home polisher, trying out new nail trends is a fun way to explore your wild side. “There are no rules to nails anymore,” says Jodi Richard, lead nail technician and spa manager at Scarborough’s Salon in Lake Charles. “Nail polish doesn’t have to match your lipstick. Your toes don’t have to match your fingernails, just as long as they coordinate.” Here are a few ways to incorporate some of the hottest trends from the 2017 runways into your own manicure. A new nail color is the easiest way to add a little pizazz to a standard, everyday look, according to Richard. “Having nicely manicured hands and feet can definitely elevate your style. Your color choices say who you are whether you are bold, sassy, or classy. Nails are just as important as a necklace and earrings. They complete the look.”

62 www.thriveswla.com

PATTERNS

From florals to plaids, even stripes and hearts, designers are obsessed with the patterned manicure for spring. Though it can be pricy to find a manicurist willing to etch tiny flowers into your fingernails, there are plenty of at-home products that give salon-quality results with a little practice. Websites like Amazon have a huge selection of nail stickers that can be worn alone or over polish and go on with minimal mess. For the more advanced home manicurist, nail art pens are fine-point pens with “ink” that dries like nail polish for more complicated designs.

METALLIC

Matte lipstick, foundation, and eye shadows have been all the rage for at least five years, but when it comes to nails, many designers seem to be getting bored with the low-shine look. Designers like Phillip Lim and Marchesa went with lightly metallic looks, giving nails just a touch of silver and gold glimmer. To give nails a metallic gleam without going full on heavy metal, try metallic nail powder, which is brushed on after a topcoat and dries to a gleaming finish.

ROUNDED TIPS

In recent years, celebrities like Katie Perry have sported some seriously sharp-looking fake nails filed to a pointed tip. By the looks of runway 2017, those talon-like tips seem to be over. More rounded nail tips are usually a better alternative, according to Richard. “In my experience, natural nail shapes will always be the classy way to go.”

GEOMETRIC FRENCH MANICURES

The 90s are back in full swing, style-wise, and that means the reemergence of the French manicure, in a manner of speaking. The updated version is more angular than the original using white strips to break up the “negative space” (or flesh-colored) part of the nail, so today’s French manicures may be overlaid with triangles at the tips or even squares. Designer Rebecca Minkoff took the trend one step further by opting for pink and red French manicures and alternating between pink and red tips in a random pattern.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

“MULTIMASKING” IS THE HOT NEW TREND IN SKINCARE:

Anyone who’s ever tried on a billion different shades and brands of foundation before finding a perfect match can tell you there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to cosmetics. But, weirdly enough, when it comes to skincare, many hope a single mask or treatment will solve all their facial woes. Multi-masking means applying multiple masks to different areas of the face to spottreat problems and get that “just back from the spa” glow from the comfort of home. It’s a new term, but the concept is a popular one among estheticians who do facials for a living. Different skin has different needs, even if sometimes those differences wind up on the same face! Luckily, multi-masking doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Many beauty brands sell single use masks targeted to different areas of the face for a fraction of the cost of traditional masks. Here are a few of the most common skin problems and the best masks for fixing them:

by Emily Alford

Problem: Oily T-Zone/Breakouts

People of all ages sometimes succumb to breakouts, especially around the nostrils and on the forehead. If you find yourself battling blackheads or midday shininess, an accumulation of oil on the forehead, nose, and chin is usually to blame. The best masks to take care of blackheads, breakouts and shininess contain zinc and charcoal. Zinc is proven to reduce swelling around inflamed areas, while charcoal is great for absorbing oil. But if you’re only oily in places, it’s best to only apply mud or charcoal masks to affected areas because it could cause dryness in skin that’s normal or already a bit dry.

Problem: Fine Lines and Under Eye Puffiness

Whether it’s lack of sleep, genetics, or simply smiling too much, fine lines around the mouth and eyes and puffiness under the lower eyelids are pretty common. Luckily, the answer could be as easy as taking your vitamins. Eye or lip masks containing 5-10 percent Vitamin C have been shown to temporarily boost collagen, which means fine lines will disappear (for awhile). Vitamin C also calms swelling that comes from staying up too late or overindulging in caffeine.

Problem: Dryness/Redness

Cheeks are often prone to becoming red and flaky in the wintertime, even if the rest of the face is fine. To treat occasional redness, look for a mask with the

same ingredients that might cool a sunburn, like aloe and chamomile. Both have soothing and hydrating properties that can add up to a more even skin tone and baby-soft cheeks to boot.

Problem: Flaky Lips

Many of us get parched-looking lips from cold weather or dehydration, and those scaly lips can feel painful when they crack and peel. Picking only intensifies the pain and can leave ugly scars, so next time you’re treating the rest of your face with a pampering mask, why not try a gentle sugar scrub followed by an antioxidant-packed lip mask? Sugar gently buffs away peeling skin, while antioxidants replenish lost moisture. While it may feel a little strange to sit in silence hiding lips under a mask, it’s worth it!

Don’t Mask Your Imperfections.

Transform them.

Let the Aesthetic Center be your fairy godmother. Our cosmetic injections and facial treatments can minimize fine lines, plump lips, and smooth away the years, leaving you looking more youthful, vibrant and ready for the ball.

Dr. Mark Crawford, Medical Director

(337)310-1070 facehealth.net

February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Mark Your Calendar! The Odd Couple Written by Neil Simon Performance Dates Set

ACTS Theatre to Present Carpenters Once More

New Groovin’ at the Grove Concert Series Announces Spring Line-up

Performance dates have been announced for The Odd Couple, written by Neil Simon. Directed by James Johnson and performed from the original script, James Johnson will direct this performance from the original script. Performance will be held at the Lake Charles Little Theatre on February 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25 and 26. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and $10 for students. For more information, call (337) 433-7988.

ACTS continues the celebration of its 50th season by presenting a special one-night performance, “Carpenters Once More” on February 8 at 7:30pm at the One Reid Street Theatre in the Nellie Lutcher Cultural District. This 90-minute show features a live musical tribute to the music of Karen and Richard Carpenter and is presented by Lynn and Preston from the Diamond Image in Branson, MO. Tickets are $20 for general admission seating and may be purchased online at www.actstheatre.com.

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority to Host Mayoral Political Forum

ACTS Theatre to Present The Miracle Worker

Groovin’ at the Grove, Lake Charles’ new, outdoor live music series, has announced their 2017 spring line-up. The concerts will be held at Walnut Grove, a traditional neighborhood development. Musicians will perform on Walnut Grove’s Great Lawn, overlooking the beautiful Contraband Bayou. The music series is family-friendly, free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets to put down. No ice chests please. The live performances will be held from 5:30-8:30pm. The schedule of dates and performers is: March 2, Jamie Bergeron & The Kickin’ Cajuns April 6, Louisiana Red May 4, Nik-L Beer For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ groovinatthegrove or call (337) 656-9602.

The Lake Charles Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. will host a Mayoral Political Forum on February 6 at 6pm in the Lake Charles Police Jury Room at 1015 Piton Street. The forum is open to the public and will allow each candidate to share their vision and perspective views with the constituents in which they will ultimately serve.

ACTS continues the celebration of its 50th season by presenting “The Miracle Worker” February 10, 11, 12, 17, 18 and 19 at the One Reid Street Theatre in the Nellie Lutcher Cultural District. This Tony award winning play is a three-act play by William Gibson and is based on Helen Keller’s autobiography “The Story of My Life”. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and $10 for students. They may be purchased online at www. actstheatre.com.

Mardi Gras Meets Fishing in Port Arthur Mardi Gras of Southeast Texas is a family affair, celebrating “25 Years of Enchantment” in downtown Port Arthur. The Elite Yellowfin Redfish Series Classic tournament will be held February 24-26 at Sabine Lake with energy-charged weigh ins daily at 4pm. The Elite series draws professional anglers to Sabine Lake to catch the best of the lake’s famed redfish. Elite weigh-ins will be filmed to air on Destination America TV. For more information about the Elite Series or to learn how to become an Elite angler, visit theredfishseries.com. For Mardi Gras info, call (409) 721-8717.

64 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Court Appointed Special Advocates to Hold Volunteer Training Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), a division of Family & Youth Counseling Agency Inc. (Family & Youth) will host volunteer training March 4, 11, 18 and 25 from 9am-4pm at Family & Youth in Lake Charles. Volunteers must attend all four training days. To find out more, contact courtney@fyca.org or call Family &Youth at (337) 436-9533.

2017 SWLA Heart Ball Masquerade Couture Date Set The 2017 SWLA Heart Ball Masquerade Couture is scheduled for March 11 from 6-11pm at the Historical Calcasieu Marine National Bank. An evening will be filled with signature cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, music, live auction, pop-up boutiques, cash bar and a fashion show. Black tie and masks are required for entry. To purchase tickets, tables or for sponsorship information, contact Susan Percle at (337) 377-5840 or susan.percle@heart.org.

Walnut Grove Hosts Special Student Art Exhibit Featuring St. Louis Catholic High School and Hamilton Christian Academy. The Walnut Grove Institute and the Arts & Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana hosted a gallery opening for their latest Art Exhibit on January 19. The exhibit is housed in the Walnut Grove Post Office, located at 2025 W. Walnut St, Suite 1B, in Lake Charles, will remain on display through February 10, 2017.

February 2017

music | performance | film | lecture

Broaden your mind, learn something new, and experience unique events with Banners at McNeese. The Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass is composed of some of America’s top brass musicians. Acrobats of Cirque-tacular is a heart-stopping, mindboggling display of artistry and athleticism. Shadow Theatre is an exciting journey into the world of shadows. In unexplored planets human shadows live different exciting lives.

ETIENNE CHARLES Tues. March 14 | 7pm Central School MATT MOGK: ZOMBIES, RUN!

WILLY WONKA AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY Sat. March 25 | 3pm CInemark Movie Theater CHURCHILL

Thurs. March 16 | 7pm Tritico Theatre: McNeese

Thurs. March 30 | 7pm Central School Theatre

THE RODNEY MARSALIS PHILADELPHIA BIG BRASS BAND

THE BEATLES: 8 DAYS A WEEK—THE TOURING YEARS

Fri. March 17 | 7pm Tritico Theatre: McNeese

Tues. April 4 | 6pm CInemark Movie Theater

SHADOW THEATRE FIREFLIES

ACROBATS OF CIRQUE-TACULAR

Tues. March 21 | 7pm Rosa Hart Theatre Lake Charles Civic Center

Fri. April 7 | 7pm Burton Coliseum

THE DOO WOP PROJECT

MYSTIC IRAN: THE UNSEEN WORLD

Fri. March 24 | 7pm Tritico Theatre: McNeese

Thurs. April 13 | 6pm Holbrook Student Union

FREE STATE OF JONES Sat. April 22 | 3pm Cinemark Movie Theater EXTREME KILLING: UNDERSTANDING SERIAL AND MASS MURDER Tues. April 25 | 7pm Tritico Theatre: McNeese TIEMPO LIBRE Thurs. April 27 | 7pm Rosa Hart Theatre Lake Charles Civic Center

Tickets and Memberships on Sale Now! February 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

McNeese President to Retire

McNeese State University President Dr. Philip Williams has announced that he will retire on June 30, 2017. Williams has served as president since July 1, 2010. According to ULS Board Policy, the ULS Board of Supervisors will conduct a national search for a new McNeese chief executive. During his time at McNeese, the university has been named one of the best regional universities in the nation in the U.S. News & World Report’s prominent annual “Best Colleges” list. It has been selected as a “Top School” in the 2017 Military Advanced Education and Transition Guide to Colleges and Universities, and in 2016, McNeese was also designated as a Military Friendly School by Victory Media and named a “Governor’s Military and Veteran Friendly Campus.”

66 www.thriveswla.com

McNeese Spring 2017 SAGE Set

High School Portfolio Day 2017

McNeese State University has kicked off its spring 2017 SAGE series. SAGE offers a series of short lectures and discussions on Monday afternoons in the SEED Center centered on a specific theme each fall and spring. Feb. 13 – “Furnishing Louisiana: Creole and Acadian Furniture, 1735-1835” - Jessica Dorman March 6 – “Jim Garrison’s Bourbon Street Brawl: The Making of a First Amendment Milestone” James A. Savage March 13 – “Ocean Exploration: Aboard the Nautilus” - Dr. Amber Hale March 27 – “Two Civil Wars: The Curious Shared Journal of a Baton Rouge Schoolgirl and Union Sailor on the USS Essex” - Katherine Jeffrey April 10 – “Louisiana Women: Dorothy Dix, Janet Mary Riley, the Baroness Pontalba,” – Dr. Janet Allured Lectures are open to the public and cost $65 for the series. For more information or to register, call (337) 475-5616 or visit www.mcneese.edu/leisure.

The McNeese State University Department of Visual Arts will host High School Portfolio Day 2017 for junior and senior art students from 9-11 am on February 18 in the Shearman Fine Arts Annex. Registration will begin at 8:30am in the Grand Gallery and department tours will be available for the students, parents and teachers. Students are invited to bring their art portfolios of no more than 10 images and/or their sketchbooks for visual arts faculty to review. Seniors are eligible for award recommendations at McNeese. Students can pre-register to receive assigned review appointments by contacting event coordinator Lisa Reinauer at lreinauer@mcneese.edu.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017

Solutions for Life

from Solutions Counseling & EAP by Keri Forbess-McCorquodale, MS, LPC, LMFT, CEAP

February is For Forgiving! February is typically thought of as the month of romantic “L-O-V-E,” but this year I want to challenge you to do something different. This February, I want you to think of someone you need to forgive. Who have you been holding a grudge against? Who brings up resentment and bitterness in you when you think of him or her? Got it? Now, let’s talk about what to do about this! I have seen so many people personally and professionally who refuse to let go of the hurt feelings from some past wound. Maybe a parent wasn’t nurturing enough. Maybe a coworker took credit for work that wasn’t theirs to take. Maybe a partner had an affair. This is not to say those things are not hurtful. Of course they are. But to never forgive and move forward with your life is much more hurtful – to you. Forgiveness is the decision to let go of resentment and thoughts of revenge. It is a choice. It doesn’t come naturally for most of us, and we really have to think about it. It’s okay if it is hard for you. Most worthwhile things in life are hard. How do we end up in the space of unforgiveness? Why do we hold on to grudges and resentment? Actually, it does serve a purpose. We’re simply trying to protect ourselves from being hurt. So, if we continuously make ourselves think about that past hurt, maybe we won’t get hurt again. The problem is we are so busy protecting ourselves and licking our wounds that it is damaging all our other relationships – even with those people who haven’t hurt us!

February 2017

I was talking with a group of people recently about this very topic, and we had an interesting discussion about “forgiving and forgetting.” I’m not overly convinced that “forgetting” is necessary in the forgiveness process. Forgetting would indicate that it doesn’t matter if the injuring party is remorseful and works on changing. I think that’s asking a bit much. I can forgive you, but I have also learned something about you. And I have to choose if I will put myself in the same position again with you. That’s a risk I probably wouldn’t be willing to take unless I felt remorse and change from you. “Forgiving and letting go” is probably a better goal. Letting go indicates that I am not going to spend negative time and energy on what has happened. (But it doesn’t mean I am oblivious!)

are on until we learn it. So, what is the lesson here for you? Are you supposed to be a better person than the person who hurt you? Are you supposed to slow your pace down in relationships and not be so vulnerable so soon? Do you need to not put all your time and energy into one relationship (which leaves you devastated when all doesn’t go well)?

Here are some suggestions for attaining your February goal:

Keep in mind my favorite quote about this topic of forgiveness from the late Carrie Fisher: “Resentment is the poison you swallow hoping the other person will die.” Stop drinking the poison of unforgiveness!

1. Wish him/her well. Instead of ruminating on how mad/hurt/angry you are, begin to wish the person who injured you well. Hope that this person finds happiness and peace so they no longer have the need to treat others as you have been treated. By doing this, you limit the amount of negative time and energy you spend on the person or situation.

3. Gain some perspective. Understand this: for the most part, people who know better do better. So, this person must not know better. Maybe they don’t have the tools to handle things appropriately. Maybe they are so miserable they want everyone else to be just as miserable. Maybe they were treated similarly and think this is normal. Choosing to “make excuses” for the person who hurt you, frees you up to let go and move forward.

2. Learn the lesson. If you’ve read my articles any time at all, you know I believe that life is a series of lessons. And we get to keep repeating the lesson we

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

This little piggy went to market, This little piggy stayed home, This little piggy had roast beef, This little piggy had none. And this little piggy went “Wee wee wee” all the way home...from

Lake Charles Memorial Hospital for Women, of course! Individualized, Family-Centered Birth Plans • Spacious Birthing Suites Online Family Birth Center Virtual Tour • New Mommy Pregnancy App New Parent Education Classes • Baby Gift Bag • Dinner Gift Certificate

Memorial. Where more little piggies go “wee wee wee” all the way home than any other birth center in Southwest Louisiana.

www.lcmh.com/obgyn

23,000+ special deliveries since 2003 68 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2017