Thrive Magazine - February 2022 Issue by Thrive Magazine

FEBRUARY 2022

Special Sections:

Black History Month National Cancer Prevention Awareness Retirement Planning

first person

Dr. William Emil Mayo, EdD

Dean of Transportation and Applied Technology, SOWELA Technical Community College

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

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Contents

This Issue

Style & Beauty

6 Bundle Up! Jacket Trends 8 Make-Up Tips that Won’t Age Us

Places & Faces

Regular Features

20 Who’s News 56 Business Buzz 67 Solutions for Life

10-19 SPECIAL SECTION:

Black History Month first person

18 - Dr. William Mayo

Wining & Dining 22-28 SPECIAL SECTION:

22 Recovery Spotlight: 1910

Mind & Body

30-35 SPECIAL SECTION:

36 38 40 44

National Cancer Prevention Awareness FDA Study of Hip Resurfacing Device Are you Hurting your Heart without Realizing It? With Heart Disease, Early Detection is Key Brushing Up on Children's Oral Health

Home & Family

46 48 50 51 52

Pest Control During New Construction Acadian Hearing Services Helps Local Man Hear Help your Child Disconnect from the Electronic World Simple Ways to Bring Calm into your Home Make your New Year Resolutions Stick

Money & Career 54 Family Works: -Flavin Realty

56-63 SPECIAL SECTION: Retirement

PL ANNING

@thriveswla | thriveswla.com 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 to be successful in all areas of their lives – family, health, home and career. Submitted articles and photos are welcome. Thrive assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials and does not guarantee any submissions. 4

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

Managing Editor Editors and Publishers Creative Director Design and Layout Business Manager Advertising Sales Submissions

Angie Kay Dilmore Kristy Como Armand Christine Fisher Barbara VanGossen Sarah Bercier Katie McDaniel Stevenson katie@thriveswla.com 337.310.2099 edit@thriveswla.com

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Style & Beauty

e l d n Bu up! S D N E R T T E K C JA

ersen

And by Kerry

Winter is especially exciting for southern ladies because we get to dig into the back of the closet, wayyy in the back, and pull out the coats, jackets, and boots we only get to wear a few months of the year (if that long). The outerwear fashion trends of 2022 are so stylish and cozy, no matter the groundhog’s prediction, we’ll be wishing for six more weeks to top outfits with these chic outerwear trends.

Furry & Fuzzy

We continue to lean into all things comfy and soft this season and coats are leading the way. Shearling and sherpa look jackets offer instant glam plus warmth and style. If you’re not ready to commit to a full-length fuzzy coat, grab something with a shearling type lining for a warm hug, while a coat with a furry collar and cuffs will deliver instant style in a more subtle way. Note: All-over winter white is having a dramatic moment in this category.

Puffy Fashion

Warmth partner up in a huge way this winter with the puffer jacket. Featuring stylings right off the ski slopes, the modern puffer jacket is oversized – exaggerated even – proving that you don’t have to suffer for style! The ‘duvet puffs’ this season are stuffed with down and are as cozy as a winter blanket. Choose trendy quilting and bright colors for a statement look.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

Oversized Trench

The iconic trench coat is back, but in 2022 this closet staple is oversized and bringing the excitement! Forget basic black, the trench has been reimagined in head-to-toe leather (or faux leather) in brighter, lighter tones. Kelly Green will be a standout shade this year. On the other end of the color spectrum, a more monochromatic herringbone pattern is also a popular choice this winter. Either way, long leather trench coats deliver drama to any look.

Distressed Denim

You could say denim is making a comeback this season, but Mia says it never left. Denim jackets have been retooled for the season to be oversized and distressed. Look for a comfy sherpa lining, unique patchwork styles and two-tone colors for a more modern twist on this American fashion staple. A distressed denim shirt jacket is a popular pick and will extend your wardrobe options by adding just the right touch to both a casual t-shirt day or a jeans and high heels night out on the town. It just works!

Shackets (still)

Mia says this shirt/jacket combo trend is still going strong and is here to stay for a while. It’s a great piece to bridge your wardrobe from winter into spring. Large block plaids, Santa Fe prints, and solids are trending. Look for lighter colors when temperatures start to rise, but the shacket will endure through 2022 as an effortless way to pull an outfit together.

The Big Blazer

This closet workhorse is back on the runways again. But Mia’s Downtown boutique owner Mia Mouton-Rene’ says this time, it’s oversized and making a statement! She says, “Blazers this season are true statement pieces. Look for bright colors, animal prints, florals and plaids. The most popular is the oversized and relaxed boyfriend blazer.” Choose one that is slightly boxy and falls to mid-thigh and pop it over leggings for a pulled together look that is right on trend. Other options to look for are military style with button accents or more structured (but longer) jackets. Mia says the blazer will still be in fashion this spring but with woven fabrics or a satin finish. This wardrobe staple is here to stay! Mia’s Downtown is located at 318 Pujo Street. Open Wednesday through Friday 10:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (closed Monday/Tuesday). thriveswla.com

Style & Beauty

p u e k a M s p Ti THAT WON’T AGE YOU by Kerry Andersen

If you’re a woman of a ‘certain’ age, go grab your trusty makeup bag and look inside. Are you seeing the same tried and true beauty products that have been your go-tos for years? If so, there’s a good chance your beauty routine is making you look older than you need to. Aging changes the texture of our skin, so beauty experts say our cosmetics need to change with time, too. The encouraging news is that as your skin has been clocking the effects of time, modern science has been infusing a new generation of beauty products with ingredients that do more than just add color; they fight the appearance of aging, too. Here are six things you can do TODAY to overhaul your beauty routine and take years off your face.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

Focus on skincare. The best beauty routine starts with great skin. As we age, our skin gets dry, and our makeup settles in fine lines and wrinkles. Beauty Pro Bobbi Brown teaches a Master Class on aging gracefully and recommends starting every makeup session by moisturizing your face, eyes, and neck. Look for products with hyaluronic acid that lock in moisture. Brown preaches that less is more for aging beauties and that starts with the best skin possible as a base for color. Pro tip: A blurring primer will smooth over surface wrinkles.

Make the switch from powder to cream. If you make one change to your beauty routine as your birthdays stack up, switch from powder to cream-based products that won’t settle in your fine lines. Swap out your old-school translucent powder for a modern setting spray to lock in your makeup. Ditch powder blush for a pop of creamy rouge on the center of your cheekbone, then sweep upwards towards the hairline. Pro tip: Avoid any blush with glitter or shimmer and place it higher on the cheekbone for a visual lift.

Bye-bye thin, dark brows. Nothing ages you faster than outdated thin, dark brows. Youthful brows are fluffy and gently shaped instead of harsh and drawn on. Switch out your old brow pencil for a lighter shade and avoid overplucking. Better yet, brush on a tinted brow gel using feathery strokes to fill in gaps and softly frame your face. While you’re at it, throw away those thick black eyeliners. Trading overdone, heavily lined eyes for a more subtle smudged brown or gray product will instantly update your look. Pro tip: Most makeup counters (MAC, Bobbi Brown, Sephora) offer a free brow consult. Let the experts help you choose a shade and shape that flatters your face and then replicate it at home with the products they recommend.

Lighten your lips.

Dark, matte lipstick shades can look harsh and creep into lip lines as we age. Swap them out for more neutral hydrating options or consider a brightly tinted lip balm instead. A lip brush will soften the application of any shade and gloss on top will keep you looking fresh (try Buxom Gloss or Marajuca Juicy Lip).

Create a glow. As we age, our skin loses luminosity. You can add back the glow with a sheer luminizer placed high on your cheekbones or brush a skin balm right on top of your makeup. More old habits to let go of now include heavy contouring and shading or using too much sparkly highlighter, especially on the brow bone.

Conceal redness.

Makeup should enhance, not disguise your natural skin. Instead of a full face of foundation, grab a brush or sponge and simply cover redness and age spots on your face, especially around the nose and mouth. Do the same for undereye darkness but dab concealer only on the inner corner of your eyes and blend outward to avoid ‘raccoon eyes’. Heavy foundation in a shade that’s too light is a common mistake that adds years to your face. Consider switching to a more sheer BB Cream or tinted moisturizer, but make sure to pick the right hue. Brands like IL Makiage offer an amazingly accurate quiz to help you choose foundation and concealer shades online with free returns until you get it right. Key takeaway: Update your foundation shade then use a brush or sponge like the pros for a flattering blended look.

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Places & Faces

We celebrate Black History Month each February as a way to remember and recognize important people and events in the history of the United States. The first Black History Month event took place in 1970 at Kent State University in Ohio. In 1976, our country’s Bicentennial, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month as a national observance. Ford urged Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

In this special section, Thrive magazine seizes the opportunity to honor Southwest Louisiana African Americans, both living and deceased, who have made positive impacts through their countless achievements and contributed to the betterment of our communities. We celebrate their legacy.

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Places & Faces | Black History Month

Notable African Americans in SWLA History compiled by Angie Kay Dilmore

Dr. Theophile Albert Combre Sr.

was one of Louisiana’s outstanding physicians and surgeons. Born in 1892, he graduated from New Orleans University and Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee. Dr. Combre practiced medicine in Oakdale until 1926, when he moved to Lake Charles. He devoted his time and energy to the welfare of his fellow man, often providing services free of charge and filling prescriptions for the needy. He attended and served at Warren Chapel M. E. Church and was president of the Southwestern Medical Association. Dr. Combre died of tuberculosis at age 45 on March 12, 1937, in Kerrville, Texas. His remains were brought back to Lake Charles and interred at the family cemetery.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

Doretha A. Combre (Dr. Combre’s wife) fought for better Black educational

opportunities. She was instrumental in opening McNeese State University (MSU) to Black students in 1954. When a few Black students struggled with enrollment, Combre made a call to her friend, Thurgood Marshall, an up-andcoming lawyer who went on to become the first Black man on the U.S. Supreme Court. Marshall and three other lawyers filed suit against MSU in September 1954. The plaintiffs — the students who were turned away — won the lawsuit, and the first Black students enrolled in McNeese later that year. Combre was an energetic visionary who was unafraid of opposition and was committed to the cause of better education. She and Dr. Combre met in New Orleans while she was in college; he in

medical school. They married in June, 1919 and had six children. After the death of her husband, Doretha sold insurance by day and taught school at night. She was a member of the NAACP, eventually becoming state president and serving on the national board. Besides her involvement with education, Doretha was also a faithful leader in her church, Warren United Methodist Church. She also spent time in the family’s funeral home and flower shop business. Doretha and her son T.A. Jr. opened Combre Funeral Home. In 1952, Combre became the first Black woman in Lake Charles to run for the School Board as a member-at- large. She lost, but after her death 21 years later, her son Warren was elected to the School Board and served for 14 years. D.A. Combre Elementary School on Fitzenreiter Road was named for Doretha Combre.

Judge Norma Holloway Johnson became

Reginald McWilliam Ball, Sr. was an entrepreneur who had his hand in a wide variety of business ventures, and he put his name on all of them! In 1947, he founded Ball’s Industrial Institute, the first Black trade school for WWII veterans, in a building he had erected on Lake Charles’ north side. When those services were no longer needed, he converted the school into an entertainment venue. During the 50s and 60s, Ball’s Auditorium became a regional mecca for top-notch Black entertainment. There was also Ball’s Cafe, the original Ball’s Fried Chicken, Ball’s Hotel, Ball’s Apartments, Ball’s Tropicana, and Ball’s Drive-Inn. Ball was born in 1918 in Winnfield, Louisiana. At age 19, he married Evelyn Walker and in 1941 they moved to Lake Charles. The couple had four children.

Ball began his career as an insurance salesman for Winnfield Burial Association and started to buy real estate with the idea of starting his own businesses. Between 1960 and 1965, Ball refined both the taste and the production of his spicy fried chicken. In 1968, he operated five fried chicken outlets in the Lake Charles area. In 1976, he and several investors opened additional outlets in Chicago, Detroit, Phoenix, Miami and Houston under the name Creole Fried Chicken. In 1977, he started Ball’s Creole Seasoning Company, which continues today with Ball’s Cajun Foods. In addition to managing his many companies, Ball was active in the community. He served the City of Lake Charles in several capacities, including the Mayors Advisory Board of LC. He died in 1983.

the court’s first black female chief judge, served more than two decades on the federal bench, and oversaw dozens of high-profile cases. Known as a no-nonsense jurist, she did not hesitate to lecture defendants about their conduct or lawyers who seemed ill-prepared for court. As chief judge from 1997 to 2001, Judge Johnson oversaw legal issues emanating from grand jury investigations. One of her most demanding assignments came when independent counsel Kenneth W. Starr began investigating Clinton’s relationship with White House intern Monica Lewinsky. In 1998, as Starr was attempting to use a grand jury to gather evidence against the president, Judge Johnson ruled that Clinton could not assert a privilege that would have blocked the independent counsel from questioning White House aides. That decision and others permitted Starr to move ahead with his obstruction-of-justice inquiry of the president. Born in 1932 in Lake Charles, Judge Normalie Holloway and her younger brother grew up in a wood-frame house with no indoor plumbing. Her mother, Beatrice, pushed her children to excel. At age 12, Judge Johnson worked as a soda shop clerk for $9 a week to help her family make ends meet. Concerned for her daughter’s education, Beatrice sent Normalie to live with an aunt in Washington, D.C. A 1950 graduate of Dunbar High School, Judge Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree from the District of Columbia Teachers College in 1955. Soon after, she considered becoming a lawyer. While teaching junior high, she attended Georgetown University’s law school, graduating in 1962. Two years later, she married Julius A. Johnson, who went on to become a federal administrative law judge. Judge Johnson was a civil trial lawyer for the Justice Department and then joined the District’s corporation counsel’s office, where she became chief of the juvenile division. In 1970, she was one of two women appointed as judges to the newly formed D.C. Superior Court and a decade later was tapped by Carter to join the federal bench. She and Julius never had children. After he died, Judge Johnson moved back to Lake Charles to live with her brother. She died in 2011. thriveswla.com

Places & Faces | Black History Month

Notable Historical SWLA African Americans continued...

Rev. Victor Elijah Washington

was one of the Lake Area’s first civil rights activists and the first Black person to serve on the Calcasieu Parish School Board. He attended McDonough 24 Elementary School and McDonough 35 High School in New Orleans and graduated from Leland High School in Baker but called Lake Charles home for nearly 50 years. This World Was II Army veteran earned his bachelor’s degree from Leland College in 1945. He earned a Master of Divinity degree from Virginia Union University School of Religion in 1948 and was awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Leland College in 1956. After serving as a supervisor of missions in Baton Rouge, Rev. Washington was elected pastor of New Sunlight Baptist Church in 1951 and was active in the desegregation of Lake Charles schools. 14

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

He led a march on the former all-white Melrose School, which became Fisherville School, after Black children in the Fisherville community were being bused to St. John School. Washington’s efforts led to the building of Carver Elementary School. Washington, along with other Black ministers, their wives and Black community leaders, sought the peaceful desegregation of lunch counters and buses in Lake Charles in the 1960s. He organized the first licensed day care in SWLA and served as vice president of Gulf Assistance, the first head start program in Lake Charles. Rev. Washington continued to be spiritually and politically active throughout his life, receiving many awards for his distinguished service. Rev. Washington died Oct. 4, 1999

Nellie Rose Lutcher (1912-2007) was

an American R&B and jazz singer and pianist who gained prominence in the late 1940s and early 1950s. She was most recognizable for her diction and exaggerated pronunciation and was credited as an influence by Nina Simone, among others. Lutcher was born in Lake Charles, the eldest daughter of the 15 children of Isaac and Suzie Lutcher. Nellie grew up on Enterprise Blvd. in a musically inclined family. At an early age she received piano lessons, and her father formed a family band with Lutcher on piano. She also played piano at her church. At age 12, she performed with Ma Rainey after Rainey’s regular pianist became ill. Lutcher went on to perform with many legendary musicians and enjoy her own solo career. In 2007 Lake Charles renamed a portion of Enterprise Boulevard the Nellie Lutcher Parkway, and in 2015, the Nellie Lutcher Cultural District was established. Lutcher died at age 94 in Los Angeles.

Dennis Ware was born in Texas in 1922.

He was honorably discharged from the Army after he serving as Regimental Sergeant Major of the 24th Infantry Regiment in the Western Pacific during World War II. He married Mildred Simon in 1947, and they raised six children. Ware graduated valedictorian from Second Ward Colored High School, earned his bachelor’s degree in Biology from Wiley College in 1948, and a Master of Arts in Educational Sociology from the University of Chicago in 1955. Ware started his career in 1949 teaching chemistry and coaching football at W.O. Boston High School during the time of Calcasieu Parish’s segregated school system. He also taught his students not to be intimidated, to help others, and be independent. Ware was the driving force of the Civil Rights Movement in Southwest Louisiana beginning in the 1940s. He stood up against the Jim Crow system, working tirelessly to integrate public education, the local petrochemical industry, and public housing. “The movement came long before Martin Luther King,” Ware said. “We were two races co-existing, separate but unequal.” Beginning in 1966, he served as a director with the Gulf Assistance Program, which helped underprivileged residents. He was a longtime member of the NAACP and served terms on the Lake Charles City Council. He longed for the world to be more peaceful, stable and equitable. Ware died in 2013 at age 90.

When 19-year-old Naomi Eleanor Figaro (1887-1953) stepped off the train in Lake Charles in September 1908, she could not have known the lasting impact she would have on the area’s Black community. She was the first teacher assigned to Black Catholics in Lake Charles. She founded Sacred Heart Academy after a group of religious men expressed a need for Christian schooling for their children to the Rev. Hubert Cramers, pastor of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. At the time, Immaculate Conception was the only Catholic church in the area. Blacks were forced to stand in the back, after traveling across town to celebrate Mass. Cramers heard their request and reached out to the pastor of St. John’s Church in Lafayette and to the Holy Family Sisters for help. The sisters had no nuns available at the time, but they suggested Figaro to come. They hoped her teaching of academic subjects and Catholic doctrine would grow the number of Black communicants and justify a resident priest for the community. Figaro began teaching the day after she arrived in Lake Charles, starting that first year with eighteen students in an abandoned dance hall on Enterprise Boulevard. In 1910, members of the Black Catholic community purchased property at the corner of Louisiana Avenue and Pine Street to build the first school building for Sacred Heart Academy. For the Black community in Lake Charles, Sacred Heart stood for more than just a Catholic education. It also served as their social center, and Figaro helped plan numerous dances. The number of children who attended Sacred Heart, along with the number of Black Catholics in the area, grew larger each year. After World War II, the school again saw a rise in enrollment and began to work on improving the school buildings and grounds. In 1949, a gymnasium, a cafeteria and more classrooms were built. A library and home economics building were added later that year. The next year, Figaro retired from teaching, but remained active in Sacred Heart parish affairs. By the time she died in 1953, more than 400 students had attended Sacred Heart. Figaro was the first person of color to receive the “Pro Ecclesia” papal medal for her service in education.

Many thanks to Trent Gremillion and Erica McCreedy for their assistance with content and photos.

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Places & Faces | Black History Month

Spotlight

on Black-Owned Businesses in SWLA by Stefanie Powers

As our region slowly recovers from the trials of the past two years, here’s a shout-out to a sample of the many SWLA Black-owned businesses that continue to strengthen and grow our community.

Todd Clemons and Associates, APLC Cruise Planners Famous Foods

Yes, they’re back! Darby Guillory has reopened in the same location after the hurricanes and is once again serving up goodness. Whether it’s cracklins, boudin, barbecued ribs, chicken, brisket . . . they’ve got you covered! 1475 Gerstner Memorial Blvd., Lake Charles. Their drive-thru hours are 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Dine-in is from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Closed Sundays. (337) 508-2833

Tina Higgins operates a Cruise Planners travel agency in Lake Charles. Specializing in both land, sea, and pre-planned vacations, she can help you plan your next adventure to destinations around the world. Open 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Mon. – Fri, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Sat. Go to www.destinationsbytina.com or call 337-405-7650.

King’s Funeral Home

Serving the Southwest Louisiana community since 1993, King’s Funeral Home delivers personalized services to honor your loved ones. There are various packages to choose from to fit every budget. Cremation services are also available. King’s facilities offer multiple indoor and outdoor spaces for safe socializing, including a park complete with a picnic area, an on-site chapel, and plenty of parking. Owned and operated by U.S. veteran Willie King. 1611 Gerstner Memorial Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601 (337) 439-7729

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

Todd S. Clemons is the founder of Todd Clemons and Associates, APLC in Lake Charles. His legal experience stems from his time as a public servant, working as an Assistant District Attorney in Calcasieu Parish, and also as a United States Attorney for the Department of Justice. Areas of practice at the firm include criminal defense, family law, personal injury and civil litigation. Based in Lake Charles, the firm serves clients throughout Louisiana. Attorneys Todd Clemons, Janet Madison and Tasina Gray have a total of 35 years combined legal experience. 1740 Ryan St., Lake Charles (337) 477-0000, intake@toddclemons.com, www.toddclemons.com

Carheel Consulting

Carheel Consulting is a workforce development solutions firm located in Westlake, LA. Established in 2007 by McDonald “Mac” Carheel, the company utilizes innovative concepts to design and develop workforce programs, manage workforce initiatives, and provide career development, counseling, and job placement services. The company has developed programs designed to help individuals enter the workforce and eliminate barriers that prevent them from securing career opportunities. Carheel counsels individuals seeking career paths, advancing in their employment, or transitioning to a new line of work, and consults with organizations on entry-level to executive searches for individuals or mass hires.

Lake City Trucking

AA Billiards & Game Room Supplies

5700 BJ Cement Rd., PO Box 16545, Lake Charles, LA 70616, www.lakecitytrucking.com, (337)494-6900.

Open Monday-Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. and 1:00 - 6:00 p.m.Sunday. 512 Enterprise Blvd. Lake Charles, www.aabilliardsupply.com, (337) 475-2331

Lake City Trucking, transportation company, has been serving customers since 1988. Owned and operated by James G. Gobert, they maintain a diversified fleet of trucks and trailers to service the oil, petro-chemical, steel, timber and construction industries. Their vehicles include flatbeds, vans, dump trucks, roll-off trailers and step decks. The company complies with all USDOT safety standards and maintains a Satisfactory Rating from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

This is the place to go for all your billiards and game room needs. Owner Mike Livings purchased the business in 2008 and expanded to a bigger location. They can re-felt your old pool table or you can buy a new one. Need to up the game in your game room? You’ll find lighting, pub tables and barstools, poker tables and artwork. From air hockey tables to board games and dartboards, they have whatever you need to make game time fun for everyone.

PO Box 592, Westlake, LA, 70669 (866) 936-0638 www.carheel.com, info@carheel.com

J. Walker & Company, APC

J. Walker & Company, APC is a certified public accounting firm, offering accounting, audit and advisory, tax and compliance and Quickbooks hosting services. Jonald Walker is managing principal of the company, which was organized in 2009. The firm works in multiple industries with a primary focus in governmental, construction, healthcare, and non-profit sectors offering accounting, auditing, and tax service. They have offices in Lake Charles and Houston.

Acco u nti n g • A s s u r a n ce • Au d iti n g Ta x • B u s i n e s s A c c o u n t i n g

Lake Charles: 2740 Rue de Jardin, Ste. 100, Lake Charles, LA 70605, (337) 478-7902. Houston: 7678 Woodway, Ste. 208, Houston, TX, 77063 (713) 588-4460. www.jwalker.com, contact@jwalkerco.com

Rita’s Family Creole Kitchen

Rita Fields operated Rita’s Family Creole Kitchen in Big Lake, La., but the structure was destroyed by Hurricane Laura. Not to be deterred, Rita moved her business to 3922 Ryan St. (the old Chastain’s location). Once again, Rita is serving up her best Creole cooking, including favorites like po’boys, burgers, baked potatoes, seafood, and other dinner entrees. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Mon. – Thurs., 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. Fri. – Sat., and 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Sundays. 337-429-5126

Providing clients with a wide range of accounting, tax and financial management services tailored to meet today’s challenging times. 2740 Rue de Jardin, Ste. 100 | Lake Charles, LA 70605 7670 Woodway Suite 208 | Houston, Texas 77063 3 3 7. 47 8 . 7 9 0 2 w w w. j w a l k e r c o . c o m thriveswla.com

Places & Faces | Black History Month Born in 1970 and a lifelong resident of Lake Charles, William Emil Mayo has spent his career helping other people succeed – first as a social worker, and now in the field of education. He was hired at SOWELA in 2008 as the Director of Workforce Development and moved from there to Dean of Workforce Solutions. Now as Dean of Transportation and Applied Technology, Mayo is responsible for nine certificate and two-year degree programs: Forest Technology, Electrical Construction Apprenticeship, Plumbing Construction Apprenticeship, Aviation Maintenance Tech, Automotive Maintenance and Repair Tech, Welding, Machine Tool Tech, Building Trades, and Horticulture.

first person with

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

Dr. William Emil Mayo, EdD

Dean of Transportation and Applied Technology, SOWELA Technical Community College by Angie Kay Dilmore

As a child, Mayo was diagnosed with several learning disabilities. He repeated the first and fourth grades; but he never allowed the challenges to hold him back. Mayo graduated from Washington High School and Grambling State University. Later in his career, he continued his education, earning a Master of Education from McNeese State University in 2002 and a Doctorate in Education and Educational Leadership from University of Louisiana Lafayette in 2018. Needless to say, Dr. Mayo is passionate about education. Thrive magazine caught up with Dr. Mayo where he shared his enthusiasm for encouraging people, promoting social justice, and the value of being raised by responsible, loving parents. Tell us about your childhood.

I was born the fourth of seven siblings. We were a typical family in a working-class neighborhood. People took care of their homes and their families. Our home was filled with love, and we were happy. My parents believed in the importance of reading and education. My mother worked as a maid for nearly 50 years and my father was a machine operator for Acme Brick Company. They worked hard so my siblings and I had access to education. We all went to college. We weren’t the Rockefellers, but we had everything we needed.

Mayo with colleague and friend Audrette Metoyer in 2019

Given your career choices, it’s clear you find joy in helping others. What drives that passion?

I’ve overcome learning disabilities my whole life. My mother taught me, no matter how difficult it was, a disability was not an excuse to not succeed. The words quit and can’t were not allowed. And there were many people who helped me along the way. I help others because people helped me. When I was in college, it was all about helping someone else have a better life, or change their situation, or be better than when they began. Now as a dean, I continue to have those opportunities.

As Dean of Transportation and Applied Technology, what are your responsibilities and what’s a typical day look like?

I oversee nine certificate and degree programs, all vastly different. I assist students, work with faculty to develop and review curriculum, set goals, encourage enrollment, and ensure students excel. We’re here to support the students from beginning to end. Sometimes a student is in a major that’s not a good fit, and I work to help that student get to where he or she needs to be as it relates as a career path. When we get them out into the workforce, we want them to be as happy as I am in my job. A typical day is usually me on roller skates. There’s always a new challenge, a new direction. We are constantly working to help the next generation and build the next workforce. Every day is different.

What do you love about your role at SOWELA?

I love everything about my role. I enjoy my work. I enjoy the people I work with. We respect each other. What I love most about my job is graduation. When we see two years of work come together in the awarding of a degree that allows a student to go into the workforce and be a productive citizen, that means we have done our job in preparing them. Education is key. Not everyone will go to a four-year college, and that’s okay. Every step of education is valid, whether one gets a high school diploma, an associate degree, it’s all important. If you are doing something you enjoy, it doesn’t matter whether you’re a plumber or a doctor, a janitor, or a CEO of a company; we want you to be happy.

What are the challenges of your role?

My greatest challenge is convincing people of the importance of education and the importance of preparing themselves for tomorrow. The real conversation is, yes, it’s beautiful today, but tomorrow is going to be stormy, and you need to be ready to weather the storms through preparation and that is getting an education that leads to a solid career in the workforce. Mayo speaks with artist Lloyd Wade at the Black Heritage Gallery, Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center

Your parents were politically active and part of the civil rights movement. How did that influence who you are today?

I have been going to the voting polls since I was seven years old. I remember saying to the poll workers, “We’re here to vote for President Carter.” My mother said, “You don’t say that.” But voting is important. When you have a right, you need to take advantage of it, you need to participate in the process, or your rights could be taken away.

What are your thoughts on how our nation can overcome racial bias and discrimination?

That’s a million-dollar question. My philosophy is “Love ye one another.” We’re all different. We’re a country of differences. And we all need to respect that. We don’t need to be fearful of each other. In North Louisiana, they put their beans on the side of the rice, and here in South Louisiana, we put our beans on top. We’re different. As a country, until we are ready to accept differences, we’re going to have problems. We need to all sit around the table and have honest conversations. Not the conversations we want to hear, about our biases. Sometimes if we can’t say Amen, we have to say Ouch. We need to deal with the Ouch. My faith is a part of me. Love ye one another. I would be a hypocrite if I said I like everyone. No, I don’t. But I love everybody. When someone walks in my door, I need to give them the same love and service I would expect from them.

How do you spend your free time?

I have some of the greatest sisters God could ever give a person – Deborah, Constance, and Latricia and I spend a lot of time with them. I love art and enjoying going to local art galleries. I love cars and can often be found perusing car lots. I also enjoy being with my fraternity brothers, Alpha Phi Alpha. We do a lot of education-related service projects.

What’s next for Dr. Mayo?

I’m just sitting here waiting to see what tomorrow brings. If God needs me somewhere else, that will be my vision. But for today, I’m focused on making sure we get students enrolled, working on our automotive accreditation, working on my fraternity’s programs and projects, and graduation in the spring. But my greatest goal is always helping that one person get to the next level. thriveswla.com

Places & Faces

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

Wendy Stine is named new president of Stine, LLC Stine Home and Yard is pleased to announce that Wendy Stine has been promoted to office of President of Stine, LLC. Stine CEO (and former president) Dennis Wendy Stine Stine is making the announcement and is pleased to see such an experienced member of the Stine team to step into this vital role. Wendy Stine began her career with Stine in 1988 working at the DeRidder store while in high school. She graduated from McNeese State University in 1994 where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Marketing. Throughout her 33 years with the company, she has held many roles: Manager of the DeRidder store from 2008-2012, Corporate Purchasing Buyer from 2012-2019 and most recently, Director of Merchandising from 2019-2021. Dennis Stine will continue to serve Stine as its CEO while Wendy Stine assumes the responsibilities of president. Following his position as Commissioner of Administration for the state of Louisiana under Gov. Charles “Buddy” Roemer, Dennis has served in several offices of Stine, including President and CEO since the late 1990s. OB/GYN Rafine’ Moreno-Jackson, MD, Joins Memorial Memorial Medical Group welcomes Rafine’ Moreno-Jackson, MD, a board-eligible obstetrics and gynecology physician to its staff. She joins fellow OB/ Rafine’ Moreno-Jackson, MD GYN’s Bradley Forsyth, MD, David McAlpine, MD, Gisele McKinney, MD, Matthew Scroggs, MD, Joseph Semien Jr., MD, and Norman Stewart, MD. Dr. Moreno-Jackson spent much of her youth traveling the world doing volunteer work. She has visited 48 countries to date and is fluent in both English and Spanish. Her professional interests include prenatal care, general gynecology and 20

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

gynecologic surgery, and has a keen desire to serve patients of Hispanic descent. Dr. Moreno-Jackson is accepting new patients at her office located at 1890 W. Gauthier Road, Suite 135 in Lake Charles. For more information or to make an appointment call 337.480. 5510 or go to www.lcmh.com/women.

David Murdock, MD

Psychiatrist David Murdock, MD, Joins Memorial Memorial Medical Group welcomes David Murdock, MD, a boardcertified and fellowshiptrained psychiatrist to its staff. He joins fellow psychiatrists Said Cantu, MD, Mario Valencia, MD,

and Michael Wright, MD. Dr. Murdock has been practicing psychiatry for more than 20 years. He has been a member of the American Medical Association, American Psychiatric Association, American Academy of Neurology, American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry and American Association of Emergency Psychiatry. Dr. Murdock is accepting new patients at his office located at 2829 4th Avenue in Lake Charles. For more information or to make an appointment call 337.480.7800 or go to www.lcmh.com. CSE Welcomes Member Mortgage Lender Quincy Gotte CSE Federal Credit Union (CSE) announces the addition of Quincy Gotte, Member Mortgage Lender. Gotte has held a variety of positions Quincy Gotte with over 15 years of experience in the financial industry, including branch management, business banking and consumer lending. Gotte will provide mortgage lending services for Members under the direction of Mortgage Lending Manager, Amy Hannon.

CSE is the largest credit union headquartered in Southwest Louisiana with assets over $470 million. If you would like more information about CSE, please contact Colleen Desselle, Director of Marketing & Business Development, at 337.562.3130 or email cdesselle@csefcu.org. CSE is federally insured by NCUA. Membership and Eligibility required. Cardiologist Dr. Prasanna Sugathan Joins Imperial Health Imperial Health has announced the addition of Prasanna Sugathan, MD, FACC, cardiologist, to the group’s medical staff. Dr. Sugathan brings over 30 years of Prasanna Sugathan, MD, FACC experience in her field to Imperial Health. She has been Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Diseases, Critical Care Medicine, Echocardiography and Nuclear Cardiology, and is currently maintaining Board Certification in Cardiology. Dr. Sugathan is a member of the American College of Cardiology and the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology. Dr. Sugathan’s medical practice is located on the third floor of Imperial Health’s main campus at 501 Dr. Michael DeBakey Drive in Lake Charles. For more information, or to make an appointment, call (337) 312-8281. JD Bank Expands Commercial Lending Team With the Addition of Andre Higginbotham JD Bank is pleased to announce the addition of Andre Higginbotham to our Commercial Lending Team. Andre Higginbotham Higginbotham will serve as VP Commercial Lender in our Lafayette market and will be located at our 300 Verot School Road location.

A native of Lake Charles, Higginbotham began his banking career in 2003 as a Retail Banking Officer while attending the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Over his 19-year career, he has held the role of Small Business Banker, Business Banker and Commercial Lender. He works with large and small business owners to help them better understand cash flow, lending opportunities, and new and existing bank services that will help streamline their businesses, allowing them to increase growth and profitability.

Matthew Devall

Caroline Hankins

ICCS Announces Students of the Year Caroline Hankins and Matthew Devall have been named the 2021-2022 Immaculate Conception Cathedral School Students of the Year. The students were selected for the honor based on grade point average, school organization participation, community service, a special essay writing assignment, and an interview with a panel of judges. Caroline Hankins, an 8th Grade honor roll student, currently serves as the ICCS Jr. Beta Club President and is a past member of the ICCS Girls Volleyball Team and ICCS Student Council. Caroline is a Duke Tip finalist and AR Superstar. She is a member of the Lake Area Ballet Theatre Junior Company and is an active parishioner of St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church. Caroline is the daughter of Kari and Michael Hankins of Lake Charles. Matthew Devall, a 5th Grade honor roll student, is a member of the ICCS 5th Grade Boys Basketball Team and Mighty Mu Math Team. Matthew is an AR Superstar and also serves as an Altar Server at school and church masses and religious ceremonies. He is an active member of the Boy Scouts, Spartan Swim Team and is a parishioner of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Matthew is the son of Katie and Matthew Devall of Lake Charles.

Kelly Fuqua, MD

Kelly Fuqua, MD, Elected 2022 President of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital Medical Staff Kelly Fuqua, MD, family medicine physician, was recently elected president of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital’s (WCCH) medical staff

at the December 2021 annual general medical staff meeting. As president, Fuqua will work with the medical staff and team members to ensure the quality and efficiency of clinical services and performance within the hospital. In her term, Dr. Fuqua will serve as chairman of the Medical Executive Committee and organized general medical staff, and will attend WCCH Board of Commissioners meetings. Dr. Fuqua practices alongside her husband, Jason Fuqua, MD, family medicine physician, at Calcasieu Family Physicians, located at 901 First Avenue in Sulphur.

CHRISTUS Ochsner Health Southwestern Louisiana Welcomes New Vice President of Mission Integration CHRISTUS Ochsner Health Southwestern Louisiana is excited to welcome the newest addition to its leadership Father Felix Okechukwu team. Father Felix Alaribe Okechukwu Alaribe, who is also known as Father Okey, recently accepted the Vice President of Mission Integration position for CHRISTUS Ochsner Health Southwestern Louisiana. Father Okey is new in service to the CHRISTUS Ochsner campuses, but he has served as part of the CHRISTUS family for more than 14 years. In his role, Father Okey assists in safeguarding the ethics and integrity of CHRISTUS Ochsner Health Southwestern Louisiana as a Catholic health system. He will work in the community to form relationships with faith leaders and organizations, while identifying key needs and developing strategies and resources to address each one. He will also work to ensure CHRISTUS Ochsner Associates, patients and the community have access to quality spiritual care.

Marceaux Named VP of Business Development Clair Hebert Marceaux, PCED, has been named Vice President of Business Development of Skeeter Contractors, a Broussard based construction and project management firm Clair Hebert Marceaux, PCED specializing in sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, education, financial institutions, office space, retail, multi-family housing, and tenant improvement. She brings a wealth of knowledge from her background in community and economic development, disaster YOUR management, electric utility project management and most recently directorship of the Cameron Parish Port, Harbor & Terminal District. Clair is a nationally certified Largest Selections in Southwest Louisiana community and economic CORNER OF LAKE & MCNEESE STREETS • LAKE CHARLES, LA developer.

PARTY TIME

MARDI GRAS HEADQUARTERS! 337-477-2789

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

STOCK UP ON SUPPLIES EARLY!

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Wining & Dining

We humans eat for a variety of reasons. Of course, we eat to survive, but we also eat for the pleasure of food flavors and textures. We often eat when we gather and socialize. Too often, we eat in response to stress or boredom. The variable becomes WHAT we eat, and that can change course over a lifetime. Most anyone can recall a food they disliked as a child, and now they love (or at least like) that same food. Take Brussels sprouts, for example. Just sayin’.

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Our culture plays a major role in what we eat. We tend to eat and enjoy the foods our parents fed us in our youth. Eating for good health became more of a focus around the 1980s, but every decade seems to have its own version of what that looks like. In Southwest Louisiana, 2020 ushered in a pandemic era followed by a series of federally declared natural disasters, resulting in major stress that has prompted us to crave comfort foods.

Foo & Re d, Drink s Trentaurant

by Angie Kay Dilmore

RESTAURANT TRENDS Few businesses have felt the fury of the pandemic and the storms quite like the SWLA restaurant industry. Starting with COVIDprompted closures, cautious re-openings with takeout only, storm damages and rebuilding obstacles, staffing shortages, food scarcities, rising staff and supply costs . . . numerous establishments will never return. The ones that have survived now need to rethink the way they do most everything. Some restaurants have opted to open fewer hours and fewer days per week. This is not strictly a staffing concern but also an intentional focus 22

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

The consequences of COVID-19 on the food industry continue, with shortages due to supply chain disruptions and staffing issues causing higher food prices. Whether for health concerns, taste preferences, food costs or availability, this special section gives an overview of what we might expect to see this year when we purchase food, both in restaurants and grocery stores.

on the mental health and well-being of the management and staff. Higher menu prices will continue due to weather issues, importing difficulties, higher labor and product prices. Patrons may discover fewer items on menus as owners and chefs make do with what supplies they can find and afford. We’ll see a greater farm-to-table concept driven by global supply chain disruptions and an increased focus on reducing carbon footprint for climate change. Local businessman Ben Herrera owns three of Lake Charles’ most popular dining establishments – 121 Artisan Bistro, Calla, and The James 710. He expects chefs will use what’s available with more efficiency and imagination. “I think we’ll see a shift in chefs getting creative with more affordable ingredients in order to create great dishes. Typical products like crab, snapper and other fish, beef tenderloins and rib eyes – the prices of those products are going through the roof! We’ll see chefs using alternative cuts of beef, more pork, lamb shanks instead of lollipops.”

BEVERAGE TRENDS The popularity of fruit and tea-based spiked seltzers – from companies like Truly, White Claw, Wild Basin, even Bud Light Seltzer – has

been on a steep upward trajectory since early in the pandemic, expecting $4.7 billion in sales by this month. When going out for cocktails, Herrera says imbibers are looking for the WOW factor; something creative, innovative, and visually stunning that they’ve never had before. “High end bourbons continue to be strong,” he adds. “People are moving away from Old Fashioneds to skipping the mixers and sipping a nice bourbon or whiskey neat or on the rocks.” Herrera also says high-end tequilas and mescals are dramatically on the rise, and craft beers continue to trend, especially IPAs. Non-alcoholic beverages continue to evolve as mocktails and non-alcoholic beers become more sophisticated. There’s a definite trend toward less alcohol consumption, especially among millennials and Gen Z-ers, and as evidenced by the “drysolation” and “DryJanuary” movements. Carbonated beverages aren’t generally known for their health benefits—at best there’s benign seltzer, at worst, sugary soda— but there’s another category emerging. Fizzy “functional beverages” include brands like Poppi and can be infused with prebiotics to benefit gut health, and boost immunity and heart health.

OTHER RESTAURANT TRENDS HERRERA EXPECTS IN 2022: •

Comfort food is in high demand when communities deal with hardships and times of stress. Patrons are looking for familiar menu items they can identify with; but they want to see new twists on their old favorites. They appreciate chef-inspired nuances that add an element of excitement. Calla and the James 710 are a bit more adventurous and trendy – comfort foods but with more twists. For example, The James 710 offers a Shrimp Remoulade, but pairs it with pico de gallo and fried plantains. It’s gluten-free and grain-free and an interesting twist on an old favorite. At 121 Artisan Bistro, comfort food is paired with consistency. Patrons know what they are getting and they go there for specific things, like a favorite pasta or steak.

•

Specific diet options, such as gluten free or more specifically, grain free, continue to trend. More and more people are looking for and appreciate vegan choices. The James 710 offers many of these options.

•

People want outdoor dining on climatecontrolled patios, available year-around, such as at The Calla and The James 710.

•

People enjoy upscale-casual dining. Patrons don’t always want to wear a jacket and slacks to go out to dinner. They want to feel comfortable coming in jeans and a button-down or even shorts and a nice t-shirt. They want a restaurant that can do it all – a lunch meeting, date night, a casual dinner.

ADD-INS & FLAVOR PROFILES Watch for trending superfoods such as moringa, a plant-based powder (akin to matcha) that is added to teas, smoothies, sauces, and desserts. It is incredibly nutritious, with seven times more vitamin C than oranges and fifteen times more potassium than bananas. You’ll also see more hibiscus-infused and turmeric-laced items and products enhanced with sunflower seeds. Yuzu is a sour fruit grown in Asia, and it’s taking the culinary world by storm. Yuzu can’t be eaten in its fruit form due to the tartness, but its zest and juice are great flavoring agents incorporated into cakes, soups, noodles, vegetable, and fish dishes. It can also be found in vinaigrettes, mayo, and hard seltzer. Mushrooms are having a moment this year – especially Cordyceps, Lion’s Mane, Maitake, Reishi, and Shiitake. Herrera says mushrooms can really attract people to a dish, but they can be pricey and hard to find. Herrera’s flavor profile predictions? Latin flavors with different peppers and chilis, curry, and the Pacific Rim flavor profiles, such as Vietnamese and Japanese. Bon appétit! thriveswla.com

Wining & Dining |

Recovery Spotlight

1910 by Angie Kay Dilmore

Andrew Green and his popular restaurant 1910 have endured much the same challenges as most dining establishments over the past two years – navigating a global pandemic, followed by a myriad of natural disasters, difficulties in recovery efforts, staffing shortages and supply chain issues. But Green persevered and now 1910, along with his other establishment, Fire & Oak, have reopened, much to the delight of SWLA diners.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

After COVID-19 restrictions were put into place, 1910 closed completely for a couple weeks. Lunch service ceased for a couple months! Green got on board with to-go food via delivery and curbside pickup to remain viable. “One thing that did work for us was to sell ‘family meals’ with sides and shareable proteins,” Green says. He sees one business positive that came from the COVID-19 experience. “It forced us to get lean. Before COVID, we were an ‘overweight business’, meaning 1910 had too much waste, too many menu items and too many wines, too high food and wine costs, too many employees, and open too many days of the week. COVID prompted us to trim the fat, lose the weight, and gave us the opportunity to operate in the leanest form possible.” Hurricane Laura blew a hood vent off 1910’s roof, allowing

rainwater to damage the building’s interior and equipment. Hurricane Delta inflicted further water damage. After waiting 12 months for a contractor to “finish” the repairs, 1910 was left with holes remaining in the walls and floor. Green “found a guy on the side’ to complete repairs and is still in a legal battle with his insurance company. But 1910 reopened for business late last month. Other than a new ceramic tiled floor, the place is much as it was before. The menu is the same, as well, minus the foie gras. Fire & Oak, a fine dining establishment in South Lake Charles, was still in the pre-startup stage when Hurricane Laura swept through, then Delta caused substantial water damage. Repairs were completed in three months. Green says he is happy to have both establishments reopened and invites patrons to come.

Thai Food in SWLA

Thai Cuisine

Healthy & Delicious Asian gastronomy has spread around the world and has become part of many people’s everyday diet. Though the most known dishes from Asian cuisines might come from Chinese and Japanese cultures, Thai cuisine has also crossed borders and oceans. Its variety of flavors and health benefits are two of the defining qualities found in Thai dishes. As in many cultures, food is an essential part of any social event, often the primary reason to gather and celebrate. Thais tend to eat slowly, calmly, and enjoy the pleasures served at the table. Family and friends gather to savor exquisite dishes and share their experiences, plans and dreams over pleasant dinner times. Thai cuisine is based on four fundamental flavors: sour, salty, spicy, and sweet. At each meal, citizens of this beautiful Asian country and connoisseurs of its gastronomy try to include each of the four flavors in every meal. Healthy ingredients such as garlic, peppers, lemon, fresh vegetables, and fruits are commonly used in Thai cuisine. Servings are light, with a balanced content of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, fiber, and minerals. These ingredients and the way they are prepared, make Thai food easy to digest. Other benefits include improving blood circulation and providing balanced doses of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, fiber, and minerals. Thai food makes abundant use of fish and rice, as in other culinary cultures of the Far East. Thai food provides big doses of antioxidants from the large variety of fresh vegetables in its dishes. It is anti-inflammatory, helps relieve arthritis, controls certain allergies, and strengthens our immune system conditions. Rice is king in Thai cuisine. It is a staple in almost every dish, and it is treated with respect. Thais take advantage of all properties of rice, and it is never wasted. Many varieties of rice are grown in Thailand, Jasmine rice being the most desired, but also pricy. Plain white

Peking Garden Lillie’s Asian Cuisine Jo Jo’s China Bistro Hi-Licious Street Kitchen Asia Yank Sing Chinese Restaurant Prayong Thai Food

flavors. Thais have adapted them to their taste rice is used more commonly and is equally with local ingredients. healthy and delicious. Thai chefs look for The gastronomy of this Southeast Asian high quality rice and have many techniques country also gathers influences from neighbors to prepare it. Correct cooking temperature, such as Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Indonesia, amount of water used, and time to cook the Burma, and Malaysia. These diverse influences rice are key to a perfect outcome. The Thai have all combined to create the delicious and government has been promoting its Thai Hom sophisticated flavors of today›s Thai cuisine, Mali Rice for decades. It grows into a long, one of the most popular around the world. slender grain as white as a jasmine flower, has a wonderful natural scent, and is harvested only Learn more at www.thinkricethinkthailand.com once a year. In addition to taste, food presentation is also very important in Thai cuisine. Chefs are very SERVING UP FINGER-LICKING FOOD FOR THREE DECADES particular about the appearance of the food they serve. Dishes are often decorated with carvings of vegetables, fruits, and flowers, so cooks are trained in the art of carving. The origin of Thai cuisine dates to ancient history. In & SPORTS BAR the 13th century, the foundations of modern Thai gastronomy already existed: evidence of various types of meat, fish, and shellfish, combined with rice, vegetables, fine herbs, and ingredients such as garlic and pepper has been found at We are now available on Eats 2 Go, Gubers & Waitr! archaeological sites. Soon after, the Chinese introduced noodles into Thai cuisine. India has also had a notable influence 119 West College Street, Lake Charles | (337) 474-3651 | darrellspoboys.com Monday – Thursday: 11am–10pm | Friday & Saturday: 11am-11pm on Thai cuisine, with Closed Sunday | Happy Hour 4–7pm its spices and strong

DARRELL’S TO-GO

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Wining & Dining |

Insane Sausages Serves Crazy Good Food by Matt Dye

It you’re ever driving down I-10 and suddenly get a fierce craving for insanely good sausages, there’s a fix for that itch. Exit the highway at Vinton and you’ll find a little gem called Insane Sausages. Owner Derek Gaspard opened the shop in 2015 and offers a humongous variety of homemade sausages, specialty meats, and tempting plate lunches. It’s important to know, Insane Sausages is only open FridaySunday, so you can’t just run out there with a wild hair on a Tuesday. Instead, it takes planning to get the most out of this experience, and the most you should, because their specialty meats more than live up to the name. Sure, you can get your regular variety of pork, green onion, or jalapeno sausage, as well as mighty fine boudin balls, but the reason to come is to see what wild inventions Gaspard has put out this week. From a Chili Cheese Dog sausage to a Southern Country Breakfast to a 4-Cheese Explosion, he claims he has anywhere up to 25 varieties of sausage at a given time. The Steen’s Syrup sausage will be an instant addition to your family grill outs, and the Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner sausage must be experienced to be believed. Gaspard also uses his creative nature on special menu items if you’re looking for more of a plate lunch meal. In addition to po’boys and pistolettes, Insane Sausages 26

offers items such as a Boudin Chimichanga, a Chicken Parm & Meatball Melt, and Pulled Pork Tacos. Note that everything tastes even better with some of their regionally famous house made condiment, Insanity Sauce – a creamy, spicy secret recipe. If you’re curious what their weekend special is, hit up their Facebook page, but it might be more fun to be surprised. And be sure to try some of their bread pudding! As the economy bounces back, Insane Sausages also hopes to get their food truck back into more of a regular rotation around Southwest Louisiana, so you may see them sooner than you think at a festival near you. If you’re craving something a little crazy to spice up your next party or family reunion, take a drive out to Vinton and witness the absurdity that Derek Gaspard has put together at Insane Sausages. And if you’ve got a weird flavor concoction of your own, don’t be afraid to pitch it to Derek while you’re there. He’s always open to new ideas.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

Mooving Moo-ving

BEEF from Farm to Table

by Katelynn Mouton

“If you can drive down the road and see cattle in pastures, then you should be able to buy it fresh and locally-sourced,” says Cheramie Clause. That belief is what led the Clause family down the path of turning their dream into the reality that is now Cross Bar C DeRidder. “When my husband and I got married, he told me we wanted to raise cows. I laughed it off,” says Clause, the ranch’s Cattle Coordinator, Beef Broker and Marketing Manager. “For me it was a future thing, something we would do during retirement.” Fast forward to 2017 when she and husband Chris purchased a camp on 32 acres of land and made the move to DeRidder. “My dad got involved and he is the king of ‘get er done.’ He joined forces with my husband and we went from 32 acres of forest to 32 acres of fenced pasture in less than a year,” explains Clause. The couple dedicated time to building the infrastructure to raise cattle and, in the evenings, they would look out over the pasture and picture what it would look like one day when their dreams became reality. “It was a beautiful sight to see 13 red Angus heifers and a bull arrive. I thought we would just raise and sell calves like most, but our business took a different path,” Clause adds.

The idea of selling beef directly to consumers began when they attended their first farmers market at the weekly Cash & Carry Market in Lake Charles. “At that time we were selling only wholesale, a side of beef or a whole beef,” Clause says. “At that market we were overwhelmed with requests for a chuck roast, a steak, ground beef, etc. It was then we realized there was a gap in the market.” The Clauses realized people wanted to buy individual retail cuts of beef, directly from farmers, something that just was not available in this area at the time. “I began researching the legalities of getting beef from our pasture to the market,” Clause adds. “Four months later we were able to sell our private label beef.” While they still have customers who buy in larger quantities to stock their freezers, they are also meeting the needs of customers who want to buy weekly. “We couldn’t believe with so many local cattle producers, there was no local beef for sale. In addition to selling beef, we raise the cattle and we buy from other local producers to bring their beef to market. This model helps everyone achieve success,” Clause says.

Cross Bar C DeRidder is a family affair. Clause says her dad works tirelessly at the ranch and her mother is her right hand. One sister oversees marketing and the other is the family taste tester. The recipes they recommend to customers are tested in their own kitchen. Consumers buy beef that goes straight from the pasture to the processors and to their table. “We grass feed, grain finish and dry age the beef for 21 days. We do not cut corners,” adds Clause. “Our customers know, from start to finish, this product is local. All of our processing and packaging is done at an inspected facility right here in Southwest Louisiana.” Clause says the taste often surprises customers. “We like to say it’s like the difference between a homegrown tomato and a store bought tomato. I love to see pictures of my customers’ creations with our product. My favorite is when they say it was so good they didn’t even get a picture!”

Cheramie Clause (R) and her mother, Laura Bellot

Cheramie and Christian Clause

Find Cross Bar C DeRidder at the Saturday morning Moss Bluff farmers market and the Tuesday afternoon Cash & Carry market. Visit www.crossbarcderidder.com to learn more about the ranch.

Locally Raised & Locally Processed

Est.

2017 “Putting Louisiana raised beef on Louisiana tables is our passion. Raising our own herd and sourcing cattle from neighbors, we are able to provide high quality beef to our customers who we like to call friends.” -Tuesday-

-Saturday-

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Ribeyes, T-bones, Filet, Chuck Roast, Brisket, Round Steaks, Ground Beef, Stew meat, Soup Bones & More…

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Wining & Dining |

Common Grounds Sit & Chill Coffee House Finds New Home at Lake Charles Regional Airport by Angie Kay Dilmore

In 2018, after 28 years with Southwest Airlines, Michelle Williams left her lucrative position as a flight attendant and pursued her long-time dream of owning and operating a coffee shop. She initially opened Common Grounds that August in a historic building along Hwy 171 in Gillis, La. That location wasn’t ideal, so when she was invited to relocate to the Berdon-Campbell Building in Downtown Lake Charles, Williams said “Yes!” and opened her relocated shop in September 2019. Common Grounds quickly became the darling of Ryan St., the “it” place to meet friends for coffee or enjoy a relaxing lunch. “For six months, it felt like a dream,” she says, “until the nightmare began.” In March 2020, COVID-19 forced Williams to close up shop for three months, prompting uncertainty about the future. But quitting simply is not in her DNA, she says. “I’d made up my mind long ago that I would take full responsibility for my success with the Lord leading the way.” 28

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

By mid-summer, Williams and her coffee shop rebounded somewhat; but then late August, Hurricane Laura, and Hurricane Delta six weeks later, stripped away even the faintest glimmers of hope. Her charming shop was utterly destroyed. “I was devastated. My heart was crushed right along with my desire to start over. Destruction was everywhere, homes were either gone or in horrible condition, including our own home.” Williams says she needed an escape from reality. “So, I did what felt good to my soul. I went cooking! I volunteered all over the place and it felt good to be a part of the community and give back in some way. Eating good food always makes people happy, and it brought me joy.” Williams credits her faith in God and prayer for getting her through those bleak months. “This journey of entrepreneurship has been a turbulent one. It tested my faith and stretched my mental capacity and my emotions daily.” Once Williams accepted that she would not be re-opening her downtown shop, she began thinking about other locations. Early January 2021, she received an email from Heath Allen,

Executive Director of Lake Charles Regional Airport, asking if she’d be interested in reopening her shop there. Again, she said “Yes!” Williams says she feels at home at the airport. “It has brought me full circle.” Williams once catered to busy downtown businesspersons and leisurely lunch patrons; now she serves airport and airline employees and on-the-go travelers. She’s added a fully-stocked bar and occasionally hosts evening events such as Open Mic nights. But not everything has changed. Scrumptious cinnamon rolls, bread puddings, homemade soups, and sandwiches are still on the menu. And something else has remained the same – Williams’ obvious joy and love of people. “I pride myself on making sure everyone feels special when they come to Common Grounds.” When you visit Common Grounds, find the door to the left of the counter that leads to a delightful balcony with seating. Williams also operates the fun gift shop in the airport. Open 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. and 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. Sat. Closed Sundays. For more information, call 337-416-0049.

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Mind & Body

National Cancer Prevention

Awareness Month The American Cancer Society has updated its guidelines on diet and physical activity for cancer prevention. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active throughout life, following a healthy eating pattern, and avoiding or limiting alcohol may greatly reduce a person’s lifetime risk of developing or dying from cancer. At least 18% of all cancer cases in the U.S. are related to a combination of these factors. These lifestyle habits are the most important behaviors after not smoking that people can control and change to help lower their cancer risk. The updated guidelines reflect the latest evidence published since the last update in 2012. It appears in the American Cancer Society’s peer-reviewed journal, CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians.

In this special section on cancer prevention, you’ll also find stories on the importance of your primary care physician in cancer prevention and how testing family members of cancer gene carriers can also help prevent cancer.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

Lifestyle Changes can Decrease Cancer Risks

The American Cancer Society’s Updated Guidelines DIET AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS Changes to the guidelines include recommendations for getting more physical activity, eating less (or no) processed and red meat, and avoiding alcohol or drinking less. It says:

• •

• • • • • •

Get to and stay at a healthy body weight throughout life. If you’re overweight or obese, losing even a few pounds can lower your risk for some types of cancer. Adults should get 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, or 75-150 minutes of vigorousintensity physical activity, or a combination. Getting 300 minutes or even more will give you the most health benefits. Children and teens should get at least one hour of moderate or vigorous intensity activity each day. Spend less time sitting or lying down. This includes time looking at your phone, tablet, computer, or TV. Eat a colorful variety of vegetables and fruits, and plenty of whole grains and brown rice. Avoid or limit eating red meats such as beef, pork, and lamb and processed meats such as bacon, sausage, deli meats, and hot dogs. Avoid or limit sugar-sweetened beverages, highly processed foods, and refined grain products. It is best not to drink alcohol. But if you do, women should have no more than one drink per day and men should have no more than two. A drink is 12 ounces of regular beer, five ounces of wine, or one and a half ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits.

According to Laura Makaroff, DO, American Cancer Society senior vice president, Prevention and Early Detection, the guidelines are based on current science that shows that how you eat, rather than specific foods or nutrients, is important in reducing the risk of cancer and boosting overall health. “There is no one food or even food group that is adequate to achieve a significant reduction in cancer risk,” Makaroff said. People should eat whole foods, not individual nutrients, she said, because evidence continues to suggest that healthy dietary patterns are associated with reduced risk for cancer, especially colorectal and breast cancers. COMMUNITY ACTION IS KEY Making healthy eating and exercise choices can be a challenge for many people. Social, economic, and cultural factors all play into the way people eat and get physical activity, and how easy or hard it is to make changes. Public, private, and community organizations should work together to increase access to affordable, healthy foods and provide safe, enjoyable and accessible opportunities for physical activity. Any change you try to make for a healthier lifestyle is easier when you live, work, play, or go to school in a community that supports healthy behaviors. Look for ways to make your community a healthier place to live: • Ask for healthier meal and snack choices at school or work. • Support stores and restaurants that sell or serve healthy options. • Speak up at city council and other community meetings about the need for sidewalks, bike lanes, parks, and playgrounds.

FAQS The updated guidelines also include answers to questions that commonly arise within the general public, including information on genetically modified crops, gluten-free diets, juicing/cleanses, and more.

•

Genetically modified crops are made by adding genes to plants to give them desired qualities such as being resistant to pests or having a better flavor. There is no evidence at this time that foods made with these crops are harmful to health, or that they affect cancer risk. Gluten is a protein in wheat, rye, and barley that is safe for most people. People with celiac disease should not eat gluten. For people without celiac disease, there is no evidence linking a gluten-free diet with a lower risk of cancer. There are many studies linking whole grains, including those with gluten, with a lower risk of colon cancer. There is no scientific evidence to support claims that drinking only juices for one or more days (a “juice cleanse”) reduces cancer risk or provides other health benefits. A diet limited to juice may lack some important nutrients and in some cases may even lead to health problems.

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Mind & Body | National Cancer Prevention Awareness

The Family Physician’s Role in Cancer Care More than 1.6 million patients are diagnosed with cancer every year in the United States, and a typical family physician is likely to have three to five patients each year who are given a new diagnosis of cancer.

Immediately in most cases, these patients and their families are thrown into a whirlwind of specialist consultations, medical tests, and treatments as they face a potentially lifethreatening disease. Fighting cancer becomes all-consuming and their primary care doctor can be shuffled to the sidelines as they take on this disease. “This isn’t intentional, but it’s unfortunate,” says Rebecca Braud, MD, family physician with West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. “Your primary care doctor can – and should – be an important member of your care team during your cancer treatment. They know your medical history and if you are receiving treatment out of town, they can respond more quickly if a need arises, often in consultation with your oncology specialists.” Even before a cancer diagnosis, Dr. Braud says primary care physicians play a central role in cancer prevention and education for their patients. “It’s part of the continuum of care we provide. We counsel our patients on their individual risk factors and steps they should take to lower their cancer risk. We look for warning signs of cancer during physical exams and schedule any needed follow-up tests, as well as cancer screenings based on recommended guidelines.” 32

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

by Kristy Como Armand

In fact, research shows that most cancers are detected in primary care settings. Primary care physicians often take the lead during this initial phase of the process, making referrals to the appropriate specialists and support resources. “It’s after this initial phase that primary care providers often fall out of the loop of care, but this can be avoided with effort from both the doctor, the patient, and the cancer care team,” says Dr. Braud. There are many ways a primary care physician can continue to care for their patient during his or her cancer treatment journey. This is a long-term relationship you should be able to rely on during this challenging time.

Dr. Braud says there are many benefits of having your primary care physician as part of your cancer care team:

• •

• • • •

Empathetic and credible source of information, support, and advice Knowledge of you and your medical history that will be invaluable if you have any chronic conditions that may impact your care or that could be affected by your cancer treatment Address ongoing health needs unrelated to cancer Knowledge of community resources that can help you Assist as needed with preoperative evaluation, postoperative care, and coordination of subspecialty care Translate and explain information given by your oncologist

• •

Available for urgent care and prescription refills Continued emphasis on healthy living, such as help with quitting smoking, following a healthy diet, and physical activity recommendations

With online technology, keeping your primary care doctor involved in your cancer care is easier than ever. Ask your oncologist to share your care notes with your primary care doctor, and vice versa. Many cancer centers provide patient portals for this that will also allow you to see these communications. “If you feel there is a communication breakdown between your doctor and your oncology specialist, just let them both know,” says Dr. Braud. “Expressing your wishes to your healthcare providers about how you want communication to flow between them is important. Remember, maintaining contact with your regular doctor will allow them to help and support you when you need it most.” Dr.Braud practices at Braud/Davies Family Medicine and can be contacted by calling 337-528-7316.

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Enhancing your face requires the skill of a surgeon and the eye of an artist. at Center for Orthopaedics

Enhancing the overall appearance of your face should be a gentle, carefully proportioned process. Considerably more than improving the tone and texture of the skin, or adjusting the width of the nose, it’s an opportunity to reveal a fresher more balanced, more perfected appearance. For that, you need not only a highly skilled surgeon, but also the keen eye of an experienced artist. Uncovering your beauty beneath demands a special touch.

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Mind & Body | National Cancer Prevention Awareness

Testing Family Members of Cancer Gene Carriers can Help Prevent Ovarian and Other Cancers

If your family member had cancer, would you want to know if you carried a gene mutation that increased your risk of the same cancer? This question is at the heart of three novel research projects underway to determine how best to connect with the family members of women with ovarian cancer so they can decide whether to get genetic testing and counseling about their own risk of cancer. The strongest risk factor for developing ovarian cancer is an inherited genetic mutation being passed from generation to generation, most often a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene. A family with an inherited gene mutation can have multiple first-degree relatives diagnosed with cancer. In the general population, a woman’s lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer is about 1.2% But if she carries hereditary mutations in either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, the risk for developing ovarian cancer before age 70 years jumps to 11% to 40%. Currently, the only preventive option available involves the removal of both ovaries and the fallopian tubes (salpingo-oopherectomy), a procedure which can decrease the risk of developing ovarian cancer by an estimated 98%. Gynecologic oncologists recommend that most women diagnosed with ovarian cancer be referred for risk assessment and genetic testing. If they are found to have an inherited 34

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

genetic mutation, testing their first-degree relatives provides an opportunity to reduce the risk of ovarian and other cancers in those who also may have inherited the mutations. Although current guidelines call for women diagnosed with ovarian cancer to undergo genetic testing, at least one national study suggests as few as 10% follow this recommendation. “What happens is women are getting diagnosed with ovarian cancer, but they’re not getting tested,” said Goli Samimi, Ph.D., M.P.H., program director in the Breast and Gynecologic Cancer Research Group in the NCI Division of Cancer Prevention. “Some succumb to their disease, others don’t want to be tested, so their daughters, nieces and sisters turn up in clinics later with a cancer diagnosis carrying BRCA mutations. It is a missed opportunity for cancer prevention.”

Testing a “Traceback” Strategy NCI released a funding opportunity to test a “traceback” strategy, where researchers are finding the women who were previously diagnosed with ovarian cancer, communicating with them (or with their family members if they have died), and offering genetic testing. Traceback is a unique approach to genetic testing because the idea is to work backwards and find previously diagnosed cases to test to improve the detection of families at risk.

Three grants using different approaches for traceback testing were funded for four years; projects are expected to be completed in 2023. The overall goal is to evaluate the best way to communicate sensitive genetic information to ovarian cancer patients and their immediate family members. Challenges associated with privacy laws and ethical concerns, differences in cultural traditions, and medical literacy are taken into account. The Kaiser Foundation Research Institute is analyzing medical records to identify previously diagnosed ovarian cancer cases within the past 10 years. They are selecting patients who have not had genetic testing or who have been tested only for BRCA1/2 mutations, but not the full panel of genes commonly associated with ovarian cancer. The project includes both living and deceased women—a strategy that potentially could inform close family members of their own risk, even when a relative has died. “The more families we can identify, the more that can be done to prevent or catch these cancers early” in at-risk individuals, said Jessica Hunter, Ph.D., a genetic epidemiologist and principal investigator of the Kaiser grant. So far, she said, medical records for 600 women have been identified through tumor registries at two sites, Kaiser Permanente Northwest and Kaiser Permanente Colorado. About half of them died of ovarian cancer.

Before contacting the relatives of those who died or survived ovarian cancer, the research team spent a year reviewing regulatory and legal issues surrounding whose permission might be needed to share private medical information. To date, no information has been imparted to the families of deceased patients, Dr. Hunter said, although responses have been “quite nice” from family members of ovarian cancer survivors who agreed to genetic testing and tested positive for BRCA1/2 mutations. “We contacted as many family members as possible—daughters, siblings, sons and even brothers,” Dr. Hunter said. “We included them (brothers) because they could be at risk for a cancer of their own, but also have daughters at risk for ovarian cancer.” Using another tactic, researchers at the Geisinger Clinic deal only with the medical records of ovarian cancer survivors. The project focuses on communication strategies that use culturally appropriate language to inform women about the availability of genetic testing. The long-term goal is to determine the feasibility of traceback testing as “both practical and sustainable in the real world.” Finally, researchers at Emory University are partnering with the Georgia Cancer Registry and community cancer organizations to identify ovarian cancer survivors and their relatives, and to conduct interviews to determine how best to communicate personal genetic information and the results of genetic testing. This type of messagebased outreach could eventually be compared in clinical studies with standard approaches for conveying personal cancer risk to determine which one is more effective.

Get Well. Live Well. Both men and women’s hormone levels decline naturally with age. Optimizing your hormones may help with libido, sleep, energy, mood, brain fog and more.

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YOUR LOVED ONES CARE. SO DO WE. February is Heart Month. Now is the time to see your cardiologist.

We all want to enjoy long and healthy lives.

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Dr. Jason Morris, Family Medicine Specialist

277 Hwy. 171, Suite 8, Moss Bluff thriveswla.com

Mind & Body

Dr. John Noble Co-Authors Report on

10-YEAR

FDA STUDY of

Hip Resurfacing Device by Kristy Como Armand

John Noble, Jr., MD, orthopaedic surgeon with the Center for Orthopaedics, served as one of five principal investigators in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) post-approval, 10-year study of the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing (BHR) procedure. Along with other participating surgeons, he co-authored a report of the study’s results recently published in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery-American. The journal is the most highly regarded journal for orthopaedic surgeons globally. The FDA approved BHR in the United States in 2006 without the usually stringent preapproval requirements for clinical outcome studies. The FDA made this rare exception to the usual approval process based on overwhelming data from Europe and Australia demonstrating outstanding results of the procedure. The FDA chose to approve the procedure so patients in the U.S. would not have to wait to benefit from the new technology. However, the regulatory agency required a post-approval clinical study to determine if the same favorable outcomes would be duplicated in the U.S. The 10-year study confirmed the same level of success in the U.S. 36

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

As one of the first surgeons in the U.S. to perform BHR, Dr. Noble was selected to participate in the multi-center clinical outcomes study. “The four other sites chosen were universities. We were the only community site. We each enrolled roughly 50 patients and tracked their progress for ten years. The patients who did best were men under 55, who wanted to remain active and did not have a metal allergy. A metal analysis test can now be done to determine the presence of a metal allergy. We didn’t have reliable testing at the beginning of the study.” Dr. Noble adds, “I am pleased to report that the results of our 10-year study demonstrated that BHR has a 96% survivorship of the implant at 10 years’ post-procedure, with particularly successful results in younger, active male patients. This procedure gives us an ideal solution for those patients with hip pain who would be considered too young and active for a traditional hip replacement.” Dr. Noble explains that rather than replacing the entire hip joint, as in a total hip replacement, BHR is a bone-conserving approach that preserves more of the patient’s natural bone structures. The all-metal implant resembles a cap on a tooth more closely than a hip implant. “This approach reduces the postoperative risks of dislocation and inaccurate leg length. The implant is made from tough, smooth cobalt chrome and has the potential

to last longer than traditional hip implants, which is why we are so excited about the results in younger patients. I’ve found that my BHR patients have experienced significant improvement in their overall quality of life, and they can remain very active if required by their occupation.” Not every patient needing a hip replacement is a candidate for BHR. Dr. Noble says the procedure is best suited for male patients under age 55 who suffer from hip pain due to osteoarthritis or dysplasia. Total hip replacement may not be appropriate due to their increased level of physical activity. Dr. Noble generally reserves this operation for law enforcement, firefighters, or individuals who have a strong desire to remain active. He adds that the surgery has better results for men than women because of the difference in femoral head size. “The ideal combination between socket size and head size works better with men because of the clearance in between. This clearance allows just enough joint fluid that the head can move without friction.” The research project was a landmark study for the worldwide orthopedic community. The Center for Orthopaedics is honored to have been a part of this study. For more information about hip replacement and BHR, call (337) 721-7236 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Noble.

Some superheroes wear capes…

SOME WEAR BANDAIDS.

Our kids deserve to be protected, too. THE COVID-19 VACCINE IS SAFE FOR CHILDREN. The CDC has recommended that all children ages 5 and up get vaccinated against COVID-19.

Additionally, the CDC recommends that moderately or severely immunocompromised children ages 5-11 receive an additional primary (third dose) of vaccine 28 days after their second shot. The vaccines protect children as young as 5 years old from severe COVID-19 outcomes like hospitalization and death, and the vaccine protects children from current circulating variants. When your child gets vaccinated against COVID-19, they have a better chance at staying in school and participating in the activities they enjoy.

“This vaccine for children has passed rigorous clinical trials and is safe – just like the other common vaccines we recommend our children receive.” DR. WANDA THOMAS PROFESSOR OF PEDIATRICS, LSU Health Shreveport

“These vaccines are as safe and as effective as any vaccines we’ve ever had for any disease.” DR. MARK KLINE PHYSICIAN-IN-CHIEF AND PEDIATRICIAN, Children’s Hospital New Orleans

GET THE FACTS: visit ldh.la.gov/kidsvax or call the Vaccine Hotline at 1-855-453-0774.

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Mind & Body

Are you Hurting your Heart

without Realizing It? by Kristy Como Armand

You know a bad diet, too little exercise, and smoking are bad for your heart, but there are other surprising ways you may be contributing to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease without even realizing it. Over time, the sneaky habits – or lack of them – can add up and take their toll on your heart health. “Research shows if you focus as early as possible on the heart disease risk factors you can control, you increase your chances of living a healthier, longer life. The key is being more aware of more of those things that impact your heart health and doing your best to manage those,” says Dr. Andrew Bradberry, family medicine doctor with Imperial Health. He offers a list of some of the most common misperceptions and habits many people have that could be adversely affecting their heart health, and how to modify these to help your heart: • Relying solely on your workout. If you exercise, that’s great – keep it up! But if you sit down for most of the rest of your day, that’s still a problem. Working out helps but does not make up for being

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

sedentary all day long. If you have a desk job, take a short walk every hour to boost your circulation, even if it’s just to your break room and back. Try standing while on the phone and walking in place if you can. Dr. Bradberry says the goal is to simply move more, more often.

•

Thinking you are too young. You’re never too young to take care of your heart and to be aware of your risk factors, particularly those you can’t control, such as family history. That may give you the motivation to make sure you are managing those risk factors you can control. One drink too many. For most people, moderate drinking (one a day for women, up to two daily for men) is okay. Some research has even found that a daily drink may even have some benefits for the heart, but this may not be true for everyone’s health situation. Always discuss this with your doctor. Drinking too much can raise levels of certain fats in the blood and blood pressure. This impact is more significant if you have several drinks at a time.

•

You don’t know your numbers. Most patients have no clue what their cholesterol level and blood pressure numbers are, and that can be risky. These could be too high without you knowing. You could feel just fine and have high cholesterol or high blood pressure. Both conditions often present without any symptoms. And if you don’t have a baseline of what your normal numbers are, you won’t know when there is a change that could indicate a problem that needs attention.

•

Ignoring stress and depression. When you feel low or have a lot going on in your life, it’s hard to do things that are good for you, like exercising and eating right. When stress is excessive, it can contribute to other conditions, such as high blood pressure. If you have felt down for more than a few weeks, Dr. Bradberry says you should talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. Talk therapy, exercise, and medication (if needed) can improve your mood, so you have more energy and motivation to take better care of yourself.

FEBRUARY

heart of the we get to the

matter. •

•

Snoring. If your partner says you regularly snore or you sound like you’re gasping for air while sleeping, see your doctor. You might have a serious condition called apnea, which occurs when your airway is partially blocked, causing you to have pauses in your breathing while sleeping. The condition is linked to high blood pressure, an irregular heartbeat, strokes, and even heart failure. Treatments can help you breathe easier and lower your risk for heart disease too. Ignoring belly fat. Any extra weight can increase your heart disease risk, but the kind around your midsection is especially dangerous. Excess belly fat may trigger your body to make hormones and other chemicals that can raise blood pressure and have a negative effect on your blood vessels and cholesterol levels. As a guideline, if you’re a woman and your waist is more than 35 inches around, or 40 inches if you’re a man, losing weight with a sensible diet and exercise plan will help you lower this risk factor.

“Patients have more power than they think to live a heart-healthy life,” says Dr. Bradberry. “Awareness is big part of it, along with modifying some behaviors and by having regular check-ups.”

Heart health is vital to your overall well-being. By exercising regularly, choosing healthy foods, controlling stress as much as possible, and monitoring your cholesterol and blood pressure numbers, you are on the right path for a strong, healthy heart. As we celebrate American Heart Month in February, West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital is committed to healthy hearts now, and all year long. From health and wellness checks to our own Dynamic Dimensions Fitness Centers, we’re your team for good heart health.

701 Cypress Street, Sulphur

wcch.com

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Mind & Body

With Heart Disease, Early Detection Is Key

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in every four deaths in the United States is caused by heart disease. Most of those can be attributed to coronary heart disease. Also known as coronary artery disease, or CAD, it’s caused by a buildup of cholesterol and other substances in the arteries that can eventually block blood flow. Unfortunately, many people don’t even know they have CAD until after they suffer a heart attack. But it is possible for CAD to be detected in an earlier stage. That’s crucial because early detection enables CAD patients to make lifestyle changes and start treatments that can control the disease and reduce their risk for complications. The key for early detection is to undergo regular screening tests — usually at your primary care doctor’s office — that detect CAD risk factors. There are multiple risk factors for CAD. That’s why it is important to have annual wellness exams even if you are not having any problems.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends these heart-health screenings: • Blood pressure. Your doctor should check your blood pressure at every regular visit or at least once every other year if your blood pressure is below 120/80. • Cholesterol. It’s reasonable to have your cholesterol checked once a year, though the AHA says every four to six years is okay if you aren’t at high risk for heart disease and stroke. • Weight/body mass index. This should be checked at your regular health care visits. • Waist circumference. Your waist circumference should be checked as needed (your doctor can make the call) if your BMI is at least 25. • Blood glucose test. At least once every three years. People who are at increased risk of developing CAD may be monitored more closely by their doctors. Those at higher risk include smokers and anyone with family members who’ve had the disease. Having high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol can also increase your risk. Many of those factors are controllable, however. The most important thing to do is minimize those risk factors. No smoking, get regular exercise, adhere to a healthy diet, and maintain a healthy weight. If you have diabetes, you should aggressively control it as well as high blood pressure and cholesterol.

But if screening tests indicate a problem and your doctor does suspect CAD, he or she may recommend any of several tests to confirm the diagnosis. These include: • An electrocardiogram, or EKG. This is a simple, painless test that records the heart’s electrical activity and can show signs of heart damage. • Stress testing. During a stress test, you exercise to increase your heart rate. The test can detect abnormal changes in your heart rate, heart rhythm, or blood pressure. • Echocardiography. Sometimes simply called echo, this test uses sound waves to create a moving picture of your heart that can reveal poor blood flow and areas of the heart that aren’t working correctly. • Chest X-ray. X-rays also provide pictures of your heart. • Blood tests. These will detect abnormal levels of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in your blood. • Coronary angiography and cardiac catheterization. During this test, a doctor will insert a thin tube into a blood vessel and thread it up to your coronary arteries. A dye is sent through the tube, and X-rays are taken while the dye is flowing through your arteries. This lets the doctor study the flow of blood in your heart and blood vessels. Just remember that although early detection of heart disease can protect your future health and maybe even save your life, preventing it in the first place should be the ultimate goal.

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To find a cardiologist, call 888.996.4862. And, complete your FREE heart health risk assessment at ChristusOchsner.org/HeartAware.

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Meet the Newest Member of our physician Team Dr. Prasanna Sugathan, Cardiologist

Imperial Health is proud to welcome Prasanna Sugathan, MD, FACC, board certified cardiologist, to our medical staff. Following undergraduate studies at University of Southern Mississippi as well as University of South Alabama, Dr. Sugathan earned her Doctor of Medicine degree at the University of Tennessee. She completed a residency in Internal Medicine as well as fellowship in Cardiovascular Diseases at the University of Tennessee-Memphis, followed by a fellowship in Critical Care Medicine at Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Sugathan brings over 30 years of experience in her field to Imperial Health. She will be joining Drs. Gilmore, LeBeau, Mulhearn, Turner, Foster, Goodwin and Fastabend in the group’s cardiology department. Dr. Sugathan is now accepting new patients, and will be seeing patients in our Lake Charles, Sulphur and Jennings offices. Call 312-8281 to schedule an appointment.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

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Mind & Body

BRUSHING UP ON Children’s

Oral Health

During National Children’s Dental Health Month

It’s Never Too Early What’s cuter than seeing your baby’s smile with that first tiny tooth peeking through? You may not have stopped to think about the health of that tooth, and those that will follow, but it’s important for parents to understand that healthy dental habits should begin before the first tooth cuts to prevent tooth decay. Tooth decay (dental caries or cavities) is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases in the United States. Tooth decay might first appear as white spots at the gum line. These spots are hard to see at first, even for a dentist without the proper equipment. According to Dr. Eric Sanders, pediatric dentist with Sanders Pediatric Dentistry, tooth decay in infants can develop in a few different ways. “One of the most common causes is when a baby’s teeth and gums are exposed to a liquid, other than water or food for an extended period of time. This typically occurs when an infant is put to bed with a bottle of formula, milk or juice. Another source of tooth decay is bacteria passed through saliva from parents and caregivers. This can happen by sharing spoons or cups, or if a parent cleans off a pacifier in their mouth and gives back to the child.” Dr. Sanders says preventing tooth decay should start as early as conception with the mother practicing good oral hygiene herself to prevent the risk of spreading bacteria— brushing twice a day, flossing daily and continuing with regular dental visits prior to delivery. 44

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

by Kristy Como Armand

Once the child is born, he recommends the following steps for your infant to provide a foundation for good oral health:

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Wipe their gums twice a day with a soft, clean cloth in the morning after the first feeding and right before bed. When teeth erupt, start brushing twice a day with a soft, small-bristled toothbrush. If they are under the age of 2, use a smear of toothpaste. If they are between 2 – 5 years old, use a peasize amount of toothpaste. Be sure and use an American Dental Association (ADA)-accepted fluoride toothpaste and that your child does not swallow it. Do not put your child to bed with a bottle or food. Do not use bottles or sippy cups as pacifiers. Begin flossing daily and gently when any two teeth touch. Limit the amount of sweet or sticky foods. Serve juice only during meals or not at all. When they are old enough, based on your pediatrician’s recommendation, encourage them to drink water. Visit the dentist by their first birthday.

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Talk to your child’s dentist if you see any signs of decay or have questions about your child’s teeth. “The good news is tooth decay in young children can be prevented,” says Dr. Sanders. “It’s worth the effort to help your children develop good dental health habits that will help them grow up with bright, healthy smiles.” To learn more about the services Sanders Pediatric Dentistry offers or to schedule your child’s first exam, please visit www.sanderspediatricdentistry.com or call 337-433-5437.

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Home & Family

PROTECT YOUR HOME from the Ground Up Pest Control During New Construction

by Angie Kay Dilmore

Many people assume that if they purchase a newly constructed home, they don’t need pest control services, but actually new houses can be just as susceptible to pests as older homes. New homes are not built in a clean, factory environment. Many materials used in home construction are stored in open, often damp, conditions prior to and during construction and may already be infested with insects even before the frame goes up. During home construction is the best time to consider pest control treatments. The process is significantly more effective when started before plumbing and floors are installed, walls are painted, and furniture moved in, especially when you’re talking about termites.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

“When a home is being built, we can do a pre-treatment,” says Robert Soileau, Lake Charles branch manager at J&J Exterminating. “We can treat the dirt under the home before the slab is poured, which provides protection underneath your home. Otherwise, if we wait until after the home is built, we can only treat around the perimeter of the home. We can also treat all the plumbing and slab protrusions, for example, electrical, before walls are put up.” For pests other than termites, construction is the best time to deal with them, as well. “As the home is being framed, we can treat areas before the walls go up so when rodents and insects such as ants, spiders, and roaches get inside, there is already something in place that can take care of the problem,” adds Soileau. “During construction, we have

access to areas we won’t have access to later on after the home is completed. Once the home is built, there are areas we can’t get to without opening walls or plumbing areas.” Consider treated attic insulation. A service called TAP (Thermal Acoustical Pest Control) is one of the best defenses against termites and it, too, is more easily installed during home construction. This newer attic insulation is energyefficient AND repels bugs. Soileau says TAP insulation – a loose-fill insulation made of cellulose and recycled newspaper – is affordable, soundproof, energy-efficient and fire retardant. “It also provides better protection against cold and heat – and insects.”

TAP is infused with boric acid that will kill all insects. This is an especially important line of defense for our area where we deal with Formosan termites that can enter the home through any crack or crevice when they are swarming in the spring. It is the only pest control product with an Energy Star Rating. Properly insulating your attic can reduce your heating and cooling bills by up to 30 percent. “Upgrading your insulation also adds value to your home,” Soileau advises. Establishing a proactive pest control service in your home while it is under construction will help prevent your home from experiencing an insect or pest infestation. Need more incentive? Soileau says treating your home during the construction phase gives you more protection in terms of the warranty, as well. For more information, call J&J Exterminating at 337-435-2878 or see their website, www.jjext.com/locations/lake-charles-pest-control. JJ-LC_Thrive-hlfpg,TAP_FEB_1-24-22_JJExt_LC-Thrive-hlf,TAP_FEB_1-24-22 1/24/2022 10:10 AM Page 1

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Home & Family

ACADIAN HEARING SERVICES helps Local Man Hear for the Holidays by Haley Armand Tarasiewicz

David Duplechian, Vice President at Family and Youth Counseling Agency in Lake Charles, was the 2021 winner of Acadian Hearing Services annual “Hear for the Holidays” giveaway. Duplechian is passionate about his career, where he primarily works with two programs—Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) and the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC)— both focused on different goals to help abused children. His daughter, Clarisse Koch, nominated her dad for the free premium hearing aids. “My dad is always putting others before himself, and he would never make a fuss to get hearing aids to help himself because that would take away from the limited time he has in a day,” said Koch on her nomination form for

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2020 2022

her dad. “But, he really needs a pair to be able to clearly hear the children he works with to continue the important interviews and processes his role requires.” Duplechian’s grandchildren joined in on the nomination process adding that they wanted ‘Pa’ to hear them. “This unique giveaway is our way of giving back to our community and helping one person enjoy the holidays without the isolation that occurs due to hearing loss,” said Dr. Heidi Sorrells, audiologist with Acadian Hearing Services. “We had so many incredible nominations, but after much consideration, we chose David for the impact he has on improving the lives of so many at-risk youth in our fiveparish area. We are honored to help and were proud to bring an extra gift to him and his family for the holidays and beyond.”

“I was really touched that Clarisse and the grandchildren nominated me,” said Duplechian. “The folks at Acadian Hearing Services are super professional and made the transition to hearing aids really easy. I didn’t realize how much I was missing before hearing aids, and I am amazed at what I am able to hear now. Thanks to Acadian Hearing Services for their generosity through Hear for the Holidays. They are much appreciated."

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Home & Family

4TIPS

Helping your Child Disconnect for

from the Electronic World

Ever since Nintendo made the Pokemon Go video-game app available, young people have been exploring their communities with their eyes firmly fixed on their smartphones rather than on the wonders of the world. If endless hours spent capturing imaginary creatures seems like an electronic addiction, it very well may be, but that’s nothing new. Many children have been plugged into electronic devices for a long time now, rarely looking up as they help virtual animals save the day, keep race cars on track, and watch endless loops of videos on YouTube. And that can be a concern, says Elaine Fogel Schneider, Ph.D., a therapist and author of 7 Strategies for Raising Calm, Inspired & Successful Children. “They are so attached to technology at such an early age and it’s changing their brain circuitry, ”Schneider says.“ They begin to lose the back and forth communication with their parents, and/or siblings, and the whole notion of empathy. For really young children, these devices have become the babysitter. I fully understand that parents need a break (as do grandparents), but there have to be limits.”

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

Schneider has tips for parents who worry about how they can control their child’s electronic pastime.

Set rules. Limit the amount of time your child can spend on an electronic device and be consistent in enforcing those rules. This way your child knows that when you say he or she only has two minutes left, then there really are only two minutes left, not three or four hours. Use a timer. A timer does not “lie” and can take the blame away from you when you’re limiting your child’s time on the device. Use the timer that measures down the time your child is spending on the tablet, smartphone, and/or technological game, so that your child knows the end for using that device is approaching, and it won’t be a surprise when time is up. You can even have your child select a tone on the smartphone that he or she likes. Be ready with another activity. Plan an alternative way of engaging your child so when the device is turned off, some other interest can be provided and take his or her mind off the electronic device. “Describe what you’re going to do so the child’s interest is piqued into doing something else that he or she enjoys,” Schneider says.

Use these tips in your home at first. As with everything, at first there’s a learning curve, so there may be tantrums, tears, melt downs and even depression. That’s why Schneider recommends following these tips at home first. “I wouldn’t think of trying this out in public right away since I don’t think you want to endure the wrath or glances of diners or shoppers as they hear your child scream,” Schneider says. In time, though, the child will know what is expected, she says, and will be able to disconnect from a smartphone, tablet, or other electronic device without major meltdowns.

“In the long run, you’re doing a service for your child by limiting the amount of time spent on an electronic device,” Schneider says. “I can remember hearing my own mother’s words, ‘I’m doing this for your own good!’ And that’s really true.” Find Schneider at www.askdrelaine.com.

Simple Ways Bring

When we get intentional about creating a calm home environment, we can better cope with the upheaval going on in the world. From the global devastation of COVID-19 to natural disasters and political division, the world is reeling with chaos. No wonder waves of fear, pain, and uncertainty infiltrate our thoughts and emotions. "We're witnessing the most disease the world has seen in our lifetimes," says Karen McGregor, author of The Tao of Influence: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Leaders and Entrepreneurs. “As individuals, we can’t be untouched by what we’re seeing and hearing and imagining. What we can do is make our home a haven from the worst of the chaos.” If we weren't impacted by the suffering caused the pandemic, racial injustices

Building those habits involves paying attention to your thoughts and emotions and getting intentional about your daily routines. Here are four tips to help you create a calmer home:

Start the day with a calming morning routine. Do you wake up a little early so you can enjoy some relaxing time to yourself? Or do you sleep as late as possible and then rush to get everything together for your family or work obligations? Try setting your alarm a half hour earlier (which may mean getting to bed earlier as well). In this bonus time, you can journal, sip a cup of coffee, pray, or meditate.

Decide what a “calm home” means to you, then express it through your surroundings. Is it happy, fun, joyful, out-of-the-box, connected, or something else? Find ways to start bringing that feeling into reality. “For me, a calm, peaceful home means I have lots of windows to let in the light, white walls, and no clutter,” says McGregor. “I intentionally don’t own a lot of stuff.”

Do some spring cleaning. A messy space contributes to a disorganized and chaotic mind. But if you can take small steps toward establishing stillness on the outside, such as straightening or organizing your home, you can experience more internal peace, wellness, and harmony within.

Fully feel your emotions. Your thoughts and emotions are meant to move through you like a wave that arrives and then dissipates, says McGregor. After you completely feel them, replace them with empowering thoughts that generate peace. For example: I am so thankful for the opportunity to practice letting go of this situation.

Calm into Your Home

(When the World is Full of Chaos)

and political strife, we’d hardly be human. Speaking out and taking action to create a better world is a healthful and productive response. But dwelling on fearful, negative, stressful thoughts and images isn’t. Not only does it make you miserable, it weakens your immune system, says McGregor. This is why bringing calm into your home is so important. When you take the steps needed to create a calmer home, you lead by example. You teach family members how to rise above stress and anxiety. This is what being a positive influencer (the central message of The Tao of Influence) is all about. “When you do the work needed to overcome your power patterns, you build spiritual habits that create an inner sense of calm,” notes McGregor. "That sense of calm will naturally permeate your home and impact the way your family experiences daily life.”

“Every time you are grateful and accept a situation, it calms your mind, thereby calming your body, impacting those around you and the energy of your home,” says McGregor. “It may be a mad world outside of your home, but choosing what you allow inside your living space is a radical act of love and empowerment for you and your family,” concludes McGregor. “Make your environment a place of nurture and safety, and you will feel more grounded and in control, even in these troubled times. And you’ll influence your family in a positive and meaningful way.” Karen McGregor is the author of The Tao of Influence: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Leaders and Entrepreneurs (Mango, September 2020, ISBN: 978-1-64250-275-6, $24.95; available for preorder at www.karenmcgregor.com.

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Home & Family

How to Make your

New Year’s Resolutions

STICK Remember those New Year resolutions you set on January 1? How’s that going for you? If you haven’t fully embraced those good intentions yet, don’t despair. You’re not alone. According to a report in Forbes, 80% of people admit to ditching their resolutions by February.

But it’s not too late to reset. Steve Siebold, a psychological performance coach and author of 177 Mental Toughness Secrets of The World Class, offers these ten tips to get back on track.

Expect the obstacles.

Most people run into a challenge or obstacle and seek immediate escape. Have a plan to push forward when this happens. If you’re not ready to suffer during adversity, you’re not going to be successful. You need to know going in that making a change is going to be hard work, not a walk in the park.

Don’t focus on how to do it, but rather, why you should do it.

Why do you want this goal to become a reality? The intensity of emotion with which this question is answered will determine whether the dream comes alive or dies. When you have a strong ‘why,’ you are much more likely to succeed.

Get really clear about what you want to change.

Vagueness doesn’t work with goal setting. Don’t just say “I want to lose weight,” but get really specific and say, “By May 1, I want to lose 15 pounds. I’m going to eat well, exercise each day and get really committed to doing this once and for all.”

It’s all or nothing.

It sounds harsh, but 99% compliance is failure. You either go after your goals with 100% effort, or don’t bother trying. Don’t have an ‘I’m going to try when I feel like it’ attitude. Instead, make your goal your passion every single day until you achieve it.

It’s not about winning, but wanting to win that counts.

Winners have a “whatever it takes” attitude. They’ve made the decision to pay any price and bear any burden in the name of victory.

Get an accountability buddy.

One of the biggest problems is that most people have no means of accountability or a support system in place. Go after your goals with a partner who really makes you push yourself. Even better, find someone who has already achieved what you are setting out after and have them coach you.

Focus on your self-talk.

Be careful what you say to yourself, because your thoughts dictate your behavior. In fact, 77% of what we say to ourselves is negative, so don’t give in to the negative thoughts that the goal is impossible. Keep asking yourself, “How can I make this happen?”

Set a timeline.

Setting a timeline helps avoid procrastination. The way the mind works, a timeline gives you something to strive for.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

Seeing is believing.

A vision board helps keep you motivated because it helps you see the end result of the goal you’re trying to achieve. If you want to lose weight, for example, cut out pictures of really fit people and tape them on a poster board. Hang the vision board in a very visible location. This will reinforce the goals into your subconscious and help you push forward on those tough days. You can also write a letter describing your life to a friend detailing the way you want things to be a year from now. Read the letter anytime you need a lift-me-up.

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Ignore the naysayers.

There will be people who say you can’t do it and that you should just leave well enough alone. Drop your addiction to the approval of others, ignore them and keep pushing forward. Achieving world-class success in anything means believing in yourself no matter what others think or say.

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Money & Career

Family

WORKS by Angie Kay Dilmore

Families in Southwest Louisiana and surrounding areas are close knit. Their bonds share deep roots that blend love, tradition, culture, food, music . . . and often, the family business. Our community is vibrant and seasoned with companies whose origins began generations ago and continue to be family-owned and operated today. Patronage is also often passed down from parents to children and grandchildren. This year, we’re starting a new regular feature called Family Works. Each month, we’ll share the stories of one or two of these multi-generational businesses and how their success stems from living, playing, and working together. At Flavin Realty, it’s been a family affair from the beginning. Owner Beau Flavin bought the company from his father and uncle in 2018, but the business had it’s start over four decades prior. “My grandparents, Bill and Marilyn Flavin, started the company in 1976,” says Beau. “Bill had been working as an engineer at Olin Chemical. Facing a transfer to Buffalo, N.Y., he decided instead to start his own business. My grandfather and my dad, Dan Flavin, worked together, and Dad eventually bought the business. When Dad decided to run for State Representative, he and his brother, Tim, became partners. Three years ago, I purchased the company from them.” Beau says his grandfather was a man of loyalty and integrity, always striving to treat others right. “In our family, it’s always been God first, then family, and business third. Those qualities were passed down from him to his sons, and now to me. When we say we’re going to do something, we do it.” Since assuming management of the business, Beau has grown the company to better serve their clients. They’ve added a development division, a property management division, a lawn and landscape division, and a home service division.

“Whether someone needs a small repair or new construction, we can manage that,” says Beau. “We’re a one-stop shop for anything real estate for our clients.” In addition, Flavin Realty has expanded to Baton Rouge. They have over 80 agents serving the Lake Charles and Baton Rouge communities. Growing up, Beau always imagined joining the family business one day. After graduation from LSU, he did exactly that. But a couple years later, an insurance company opportunity arose, and Beau saw it as a chance to spread his wings and gain more business experience. He still owns a State Farm office in Shreveport. When Tim and Dan were ready to step back from the day-to-day operations, they asked Beau if he’d return to keep the agency in the family.

L to R, Beau, Dan, and Tim Flavin

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

“So I bought the business,” Beau says. “Neither Dad nor Tim have actually retired. Tim focuses on the construction side. Dad is still in the mix every day on the real estate portion. They’ve both been wonderful mentors to me. My sister, Bonnie Flavin, is our office receptionist.” Beau and his wife Tricia have nine children, ranging in age from 1-15. “It would be awesome one day for one of them to be part of the team. Dad taught me nothing is ever handed to you. You have to work, prove yourself, earn it, and bring new ideas that can help grow the company. Maybe one day our kids will want to be part of it, but there’s no pressure.”

Beau is the oldest of 23 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren

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Meanwhile, Beau says their clients and the community are always foremost in the business. They work to make real estate processes easier for their clients, strive to help their agents be successful, and serve the community in any way they can. “For us, it’s all about family, and when someone works with us, whether as an employee or a client, we consider them part of the family. Faith, family, future . . . Flavin. That’s the Flavin way.”

Proudly Serving Southwest Louisiana since 1976! 3221 Ryan Street, Suite A, Lake Charles (337) 478-8530 l www.flavinrealty.com info@flavinrealty.com facebook.com/FlavinRealty Beau, Tricia, and their children

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Money & Career

Retirement PLANNING

As we age, our intentions regarding money evolve. When we’re young adults, we just want to earn money. Once we’re more established, we (hopefully) start thinking about saving money. In our later years, we get serious about wanting to ensure we have enough to live a comfortable retirement. Ideally that ‘saving money’ part should start much earlier, but the reality is, many

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

Americans are woefully financially unprepared for retirement. According to a 2019 bankrate.com survey, 69% of working adults save 10% or less of their income for retirement. A surprising 21% don’t save any money at all! Yet experts suggest workers put away at least 10-20% of their income for their golden years.

In this special section on retirement planning, you’ll find a series of articles on what you can do NOW that will help ensure you have adequate finances to enjoy your later years without worrying about money.

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Money & Career | Retirement PL ANNING

Unexpected Retirement Expenses YOU MAY NOT HAVE PLANNED FOR When you’re living off your savings, unexpected expenses can undo years of diligent planning. “Withdrawing an extra $10,000 for a new roof might not seem like much in the grand scheme of things, but it can really derail your plan— especially since those funds are no longer at work in the market,” says Rob Williams, managing director of financial planning at the Schwab Center for Financial Research. When every dollar counts, your retirement spending plan needs to anticipate obstacles as much as possible. To that end, here are five common—yet unexpected—setbacks that can upend your retirement plan and how to better prepare for them.

Hidden housing costs

Nearly 80% of those ages 65 and older own their homes, according to the Joint Center

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

for Housing Studies of Harvard University. However, many pre-retirees fail to look beyond their monthly mortgage payment when estimating their long-term housing costs. Research from the Society of Actuaries found that unanticipated home repairs are retirees’ single most common financial surprise. If you plan to remain in your home long-term, factor in potential costs or improvements such as creating wheelchair access or other disabilityrelated alterations.

Uncovered health care

Even with Medicare, it’s no secret that health care can be costly in retirement. Many retirees believe Medicare covers more than it actually does. Original Medicare Part A covers hospital stays and Part B covers doctor visits. Other expenses and services such as dental, hearing, and vision care, as well as copays and prescription drugs—are covered only

through supplemental plans, which cost extra. For more complete coverage, you can sign up for Medicare’s stand-alone prescription drug program (Part D); purchase a private Medigap policy to help cover deductibles, coinsurance, and copays; add private insurance to cover routine dental, hearing, and vision care; or buy a private Medicare Advantage plan, which bundles parts A and B and can include dental, hearing, and vision care.

Long-term care

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimates that close to 70% of today’s 65-year-olds will require some kind of long-term care for an average of about three years, and the costs can be exorbitant. The national average cost for an in-home health aide in 2020 was $54,912, whereas a private room in a nursing home facility was $105,850.

Some retirees may turn to their families for help, but others generally cover these expenses in one of two ways:

•

Out of pocket: One approach is to pay out of pocket if and when the need arises, in which case you’ll need significant savings to cover such costs. The benefit of this approach is that you pay for only what you need, which may be attractive to wealthier individuals who don’t want to pay for insurance they may not use. Remember, too, that there’s often a financial cost for loved ones tasked to provide care, even if there’s not an explicit cost for private inhome or other care. Long-term care insurance: For most people, coming up with an extra $100,000 or more isn’t realistic. Long-term care insurance may allow them to get the quality care they need without having to liquidate their assets to pay for it. It’s generally best to purchase a policy in your 50s or early 60s, assuming you’re still healthy and insurable, to lock in a more affordable premium.

A child in crisis

It’s natural to want to step in when your child needs financial help. But the older you are, the more difficult it can be to recover from such an unanticipated expenditure. In fact, half of all parents financially helping an adult child say it’s putting their retirement savings at risk. Before offering your support, think about how much help you’re able to provide—and for how long. “Are you willing to withdraw a large lump sum from your savings, or would you be more comfortable covering smaller expenses over a longer time frame while they get back on their feet?” Williams asks. If you do decide to dip into your retirement savings, be sure to have an honest

conversation with your child about the terms of the arrangement—including whether the money will be a gift or a loan—and be clear about the extent to which you’re willing to help.

Losing a spouse

There’s little you can do to prepare for the emotional shock of losing your spouse. But failing to prepare for it financially can leave you in a precarious position. Surviving wives, in particular, are more likely to face financial hardship, with about half reporting at least a 50% decrease in income after losing their spouses. Take steps now to mitigate future risk:

Life insurance:

The lump sum paid upon the insured’s death can help offset a loss of income—be it from a paycheck, a pension, or Social Security. Review your net worth statement, future cash flows, and goals to see if there are any significant gaps you may want to insure for your surviving spouse.

benefit by 8% (up to age 70, past which there is no incremental benefit). Not only does this increase your benefit during your lifetime, but it also ensures the surviving spouse—whether that’s you or your mate—is left with the biggest possible benefit. Once one spouse dies, the survivor can collect reduced benefits as early as age 60 (50 if disabled), but waiting until full retirement age will ensure the largest payout. Finally, make sure your estate plan is organized and up to date to help ensure a smooth transition of assets upon your passing. An estate-planning attorney can help you identify and correct any gaps in your plan.

Don’t stress

“Working with a financial planner can help you anticipate potential problems and prepare you for surprises when they arise,” Williams says. “And the more prepared you are, the more confident you’re likely to feel as you transition to life after work.” schwab.com

Pensions:

If you or your spouse is eligible for a pension, investigate survivorship options before you retire. Opting for survivor benefits may reduce your monthly benefit, but payments will persist even after you pass. Weigh your options with a financial planner to sort through how all your sources of income fit together—now and after a death.

Social Security:

Your surviving spouse is eligible to receive your Social Security benefit upon your death. If you’re the higher earner and not yet collecting benefits, it may make sense to delay doing so as long as possible. That’s because every year you delay past full retirement age (between 66 and 67 for today’s retirees) increases your

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Money & Career | Retirement PL ANNING

HOW TO SURVIVE

Retirement without a Pension

Map out a retirement strategy.

Often, even people who stash away money for retirement don’t have a firm handle on what they’re trying to accomplish. Slagle says it brings to mind the old saying: “If you don’t know where you’re going, how will you know when you get there?” Having a strategy helps you know your ultimate goal and what you need to do to accomplish it. Once you develop a strategy, you also need to remember that conditions don’t always remain the same. Changes in your income and expenses, along with fluctuating market conditions, can all have an impact on your plan. Slagle recommends that about every three years you review and, if necessary, update your strategy.

Live within your means. At one time, retirement rested on what financial professionals like to refer to as a three-legged stool – Social Security, savings, and a pension. That stool went wobbly though when most private-sector pensions began to disappear. “Years ago, the idea was that your employer and the government would take care of you,” says Chad Slagle, a Registered Investment Advisor and president of Slagle Financial, LLC. “But those days are gone. Now the burden is on each individual to make sure they’re prepared for their own retirement. That’s why it’s important to have a game plan.” Slagle suggests there are a few steps anyone can take to survive today’s pension-less retirement.

It’s difficult to save a comfortable retirement nest egg when you’re spending more than you earn and racking up debt. Create a budget and stick to it.

Don’t ignore the cost of health care in retirement.

Perhaps people just assume they will be healthy forever. Or maybe they just don’t think about this subject. Either way, too many don’t plan for or underestimate how much health care could end up costing them. So you need to work it into the equation.

Remember to account for inflation.

Just when you think you’ve saved enough – you haven’t saved enough. At least you didn’t if you failed to take inflation into account. The cost of living will go up. That means the value of the dollars you saved will go down. “You need to factor that in when you plan for your financial future,” Slagle says.

Prepare for the possibility of long-term care.

This is another cost that many people don’t plan for, but the necessity of long-term care is a reality at some point for 70 percent of people over 65. The average annual cost of a private nursing-home room is $77,000, so it’s unwise to overlook it, Slagle says. “You need to start thinking about all this now, whether retirement is decades away or a few years away,” Slagle says. “The sooner you begin saving and planning, the greater the odds are that you’ll have a happy and secure retirement.” www.slaglefinancial.com 60

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

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MORTGAGES | LOANS | CHECKING & SAVINGS | BUSINESS

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Money & Career | Retirement PL ANNING

SHOULD YOU PAY OFF YOUR MORTGAGE BEFORE YOU RETIRE?

Pros & Cons If you’re like most people, paying off your mortgage and entering retirement debt-free sounds pretty appealing. It’s a significant accomplishment and means the end of a major monthly expense. However, for some homeowners, their financial situation and goals might call for keeping a mortgage while attending to other priorities.

a similar term—such as a high-quality, taxfree municipal bond issued by your home state. While mortgage rates are currently low, they’re still higher than interest rates on most types of bonds—including municipal bonds. In this situation, you’d be better off paying down the mortgage.

Let’s look at the reasons why you might—or might not—decide to pay off a mortgage before you retire.

You might not want to pay off your mortgage early if . . .

You might want to pay off your mortgage early if . . . You’re trying to reduce your baseline expenses: If your monthly mortgage payment represents a substantial chunk of your expenses, you’ll be able to live on a lot less once the payment goes away. This can be particularly helpful if you have a limited income. You want to save on interest payments: Depending on a home loan’s size and term, the interest can cost tens of thousands of dollars over the long haul. Paying off your mortgage early frees up that future money for other uses. While it’s true you may lose the tax deduction on mortgage interest, you may still save a considerable amount on servicing the debt. You’ll have to reckon with a decreasing deduction anyway, as more of each monthly payment applies to the principal. Your mortgage rate is higher than the rate of risk-free returns: Paying off a debt that charges interest can be like earning a riskfree return equivalent to that interest rate. Compare your mortgage rate to the after-tax rate of return on a low-risk investment with

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

You prioritize peace of mind: Paying off a mortgage can create one less worry and increase flexibility in retirement.

You need to catch up on retirement savings: If you completed a retirement plan and find you aren’t contributing enough to your 401(k), IRA, or other retirement accounts, increasing those contributions should probably be your top priority. Savings in these accounts grow tax-deferred until you withdraw them. Your cash reserves are low: You don’t want to end up house rich and cash poor by paying off your home loan at the expense of your reserves. Keep a cash reserve of three to six months’ worth of living expenses in case of emergency. You carry higher-interest debt: Before you pay off your mortgage, first close out any higher-interest loans—especially nondeductible debt like that from credit cards. Create a habit of paying off credit card debt monthly rather than allowing the balance to build so that you’ll have fewer expenses when you retire. You might miss out on investment returns: If your mortgage rate is lower than what you’d earn on a low-risk investment with a similar term, you might consider keeping the mortgage and investing what extra you can.

You need to diversify: Your house is just as much of an investment as what’s in your portfolio. And overconcentration carries its own risks—even when it’s in something as historically stable as a home. Maintaining your mortgage allows you to fund other asset classes with possibly more growth potential.

If you decide to pay your mortgage off before you retire . . . Ideally, you would accomplish your goal through regular payments. However, if you need to use a lump sum to pay off your mortgage, try to tap taxable accounts first instead of retirement savings. If you withdraw money from a 401(k) or an individual retirement account (IRA) before 59½, you’ll likely pay ordinary income tax— plus a penalty—substantially offsetting any savings on your mortgage interest.

A middle ground If your mortgage has no prepayment penalty, an alternative to paying it off entirely is to chip away at the principal. You can do this by making an extra principal payment each month or by sending in a partial lump sum. This tactic can save a significant amount of interest and shorten the life of the loan while maintaining diversification and liquidity. But avoid being too aggressive about it lest you compromise your other saving and spending priorities. Have a plan where you can both invest and pay down principal on a mortgage before or early in retirement. You need not make an all-or-nothing decision. schwab.com

WHY RETIRED WOMEN ARE MORE PRONE TO

Financial Crisis Men and women both face obstacles and challenges in planning for retirement, but women often travel a thornier path. “In most cases, women have earned less than men over the years,” says Jeannette Bajalia, a retirement-income planner, president of Woman’s Worth® and author of Retirement Done Right and Wi$e Up Women. “They also have often stepped out of the workforce for several years for caregiving roles, whether to raise children or care for aging parents.” Those years out of the workforce can mean fewer years contributing to a company 401(k) account and also can affect Social Security earnings potential. Perhaps that’s why women feel less assured about how well they will fare in retirement than men. Just 55 percent of women are confident their retirement will be comfortable compared to 68 percent of men, according to an annual survey by the Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies. Bajalia says three things can cause women to plunge even further into financial difficulties after they reach retirement.

Longevity. People live longer these days and women on average outlive men. That’s the good news. It’s also the bad news, Bajalia says, because many women are unprepared financially for a retirement that could stretch into two, three or even four decades. “Even if a woman has substantial savings, if you want to hold onto your wealth you need to hold onto your health,” she says. “So you need to build into your retirement planning the cost of health care, and not just routine and preventive care, but long-term care. And the cost of long-term care is skyrocketing.” Widowhood. Because women live longer than men, odds are that most married women will reach a day when they become widows.

Beyond the emotional turmoil that can create, there’s also financial turmoil. If both are drawing Social Security, one of those checks is going away. If the husband had a pension, that check could also disappear or be reduced. Often, the husband handled the finances. The wife might not even have known about all the investments or where documents are stored. That’s why it’s important for a couple to take the time to review their assets together so that both have a good understanding of what’s there and what’s needed for a secure retirement.

Divorce. Just like

widowhood, divorce can cause a sudden drop in financial stability for older women. “When you’re in your 30s or early 40s, you have time to overcome some of the difficulties a divorce creates, but when you’re older that becomes more challenging,” Bajalia says. “I encourage women in this situation to get a ‘financial physical’ before a divorce is finalized to ensure they are protected with the strategies they need, and that those are included in the divorce decree.” Despite that dreary outlook, Bajalia say there is reason for optimism – but it takes planning and finding a retirement planner who

can help you with more than the money aspect of retirement. “For women, it’s not just about the money, it’s about total well being,” she says. Ideally, you need a team of experts in estate planning, tax planning, financial planning and health care planning. “All of us would like to age with grace, dignity and respect,” Bajalia says. “To do that, you need to make sure you have the tools in place at an emotional, physical, spiritual, and financial level.” www.womans-worth.com

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Money & Career

World LNG & Gas Series America’s Summit & Exhibition Slated to Return to Lake Charles/ Southwest Louisiana for 19th Edition in October 2022

The City of Lake Charles, Cameron Parish Port District, Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, Cameron Parish Police Jury, Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance, Port of Lake Charles and Visit Lake Charles are proud to announce that the World LNG & Gas Series: 19th Americas Summit & Exhibition will return to Lake Charles, October 18-21, 2022. Presented by DMG Events, the 18th edition of the Summit was held in Lake Charles in November 2021 and brought in 879 visitors from across the globe, including more than 400 C-Suite executives, generating a direct economic impact of $483,646 for the area. In its 19th year, the Summit is recognized for its unrivaled networking and commercially focused program to develop new and existing clients while also providing the latest updates on the region’s LNG and gas prospects. For more information on the Summit, log on to www.lngamericas.cwclng.com.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

CHRISTUS Ochsner St. Patrick Hospital is awarded Advanced Primary Stroke Center Certification from The Joint Commission

CHRISTUS Ochsner St. Patrick Hospital has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® and the American Stroke Association’s Heart-Check mark by achieving Advanced Primary Stroke Center (PSC) Certification. Certified PSCs collect monthly data that is submitted quarterly to The Joint Commission. The Gold Seal of Approval® from The Joint Commission, is given to organizations that successfully undergo an on-site survey by a Joint Commission survey team at least every three years. The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care. The American Stroke Association Heart-Check indicates an organization’s commitment to the unique and specialized needs of stroke patients.

CHRISTUS Ochsner St. Patrick Hospital underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite review recently by The Joint Commission. The Joint Commission is the nation’s oldest and largest independent, not-for-profit standard setting and accrediting organization in health care. During the visit, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with the Primary Stroke Center program processes and procedures currently in place including program management, supporting self-management, delivering and facilitating clinical care and improving patient outcomes. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. The reviewers also conducted onsite observations and interviews. For more information on Advanced Primary Stroke Center Certification, please visit The Joint Commission website.

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Solutions

for life

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

Making 2022 Better At Work Can we all agree that the last two years have really thrown us for a loop? Personally, professionally, socially – all a complete train wreck (there are so many other terms I am thinking of right now . . . ) As we make our way into 2022, I am talking to so many companies who are still trying to figure out what the workplace and the workforce is going to look like in the near future. I am also talking to a lot of employees who are looking at things differently as well. They are re-evaluating how they work, how much they work, and where they work. No doubt, there is much adjusting still to come as we navigate our way through this new work-world territory. In the meantime, what does this mean for you? What do you need to be working on as you make decisions about your work life? As I have always told you, I want you to be as happy and healthy as possible so you can make good, solid, well thought out decisions.

Consider these habits practiced by the happiest workers in organizations: Practice self-kindness. Most of us are much kinder to others than we are to ourselves. I have conversations often about self-care and self-kindness. It is difficult for many people to take care of themselves without a good reason, usually involving taking care of others. How many times have I said to an

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

exhausted care-giver, “You’re not going to be of use to anyone else if you don’t get some rest and eat properly”? My hope is that someday this person will take care of themselves just because they deserve it, not in order to take care of others. Being kind to yourself also includes self-talk. How do you speak to yourself? Are you supportive when you mess up? Do you build yourself up when you are having a rough day, or do you fuss at yourself? Begin asking yourself, “What would I say to my best friend in this situation?” and try talking to yourself the same way.

Practice gratefulness. I know I’ve told

you this so many times. I keep repeating myself because it is so important! Learning to be on the lookout for the good things in your life will help you be more content. According to research, positive people are 31% more productive, make 37% more sales, and are 40% more likely to get promoted. You NEED to become more grateful and positive if you are going to be happier at work. One of the best ways to shift your mindset is to daily write down (journal) three things for which you are grateful. Big things and little things add up to us generally becoming more grateful. Research shows if you do this for 21 straight days, you will literally retrain your brain to be more positive!

Practice forgiveness. This is a topic

rarely discussed in corporate America. But it is a topic I regularly discuss with clients. A co-worker wronged you in some way (stabbed you in the back, or threw you under the bus), and now you

are bitter and resentful. Which leads you to not want to work with or deal with this person, and as a result you are viewed as a bad team member. Maybe you have every reason in the world to be upset with someone you work with. Don’t let your feelings and actions negatively impact your reputation. What did you learn from what that co-worker did? Did you learn not to count on them or trust them as much? Fine. Act accordingly. “Forgive” does not mean “forget.” Forgiveness means letting go of your anger/bitterness/ resentment so it doesn’t weigh you down.

Practice patience. I know it’s counterintuitive, but the crazier things get at work the more you need to slow down. If you get sucked into a spiral of constant emergencies that you think require urgent decisions, you will see a trend of things getting worse, not better. Taking a break to regroup is extremely helpful in chaotic situations. Research has found that people who practice patience actually make more progress towards their goals and are more content when they reach those goals. Learning to be more patient is also associated with being less depressed and better able to cope with stress. As we cautiously continue moving into 2022, I hope you will evaluate which of these areas could use some attention from you. I promise, you’ll be a happier employee for it!

been set on gratitude. She strives to put people in your path that he knows you need ositive spin on these tragic events. “The at that time,” she adds. “I have met so many demic created an opportunity for me to get phenomenal people through these challenging now my clients on a more personal level,” circumstances. This community’s spirit is so very ya says. “It also allowed me to deepen my strong in helping one another. My husband and ionship with our clients by getting to know daughter returned to Lake Charles the day afte r e of their family members. Weathering the Laura came through. My daughter shared how demic has added a dynamic dimension to our neighborhood came together, cleared street business.” debris, cut trees off of one another ’s homes, and everal months after the hurricanes, Tonya just checked on one another. Helping Late 2020 otheand rs well into 2021 gave way to th Ma na en othe t | r offic Inv e gem personnel were ableest mernt Pla several more challenges, yet Tonya’s mindse is nn to ente whaing t helped | Re tirpers us to emeve enret andhasrem ain th lth th Ma Ma na na na gem been set on She strives to put gem gem en en en t t t | | | Inv Inv Inv offic est est est eMa me and me me nt obtain a few personal items from nt ntPla Pla Pla nn nn nn ing ing ing|||Re Re mot Retir tir ivat tirem em ed.” emen en enttt a positive spin ongratitude. these tragic events. “The was once their office in the tower. Her created an opportunity for me to g A year after Hurricane Laura, andpandemic the Grif fith on a more personal level, ces to know my clients sfu l as you are , we e also kno w. She suffered substantial damage there’s stil l mo re you Fina ncia l Gro up is Tonya says. “It still wait ing for a new officealso allowed me to deepen m cce cce ssf sfu ssf ul ul l ted as as asyou you you are are are , , we , we we kno kno kno w w w the the the lydo. re’s eva re’s re’s cua stil stil stil relationship with our clients by getting to kno oces l l l mo mo and mo re We re re you you you ’ve pora beetem rily relo n helping our cateclie ce. d ntsspa Wel ls tha Fargno Advisors provided for mo re yafamily members. Weathering th someTon of their orid o to odo. a do. do. whe We We We re’ve she ’ve ’ve bee stay bee bee n ed n n hel hel with hel pin pin rela pin g and g tive g our our our s offic and clie clie e clie pandemic has pers nts nts nts onn for for for ars el a mo mo , mo stor car re age facility in Lakeadded a dynamic dimension to retha ing tha tha for more than $1.4 trillion of theirre nnn har dined our business.” acc ess ible to clien ts. Charles, and she continues to capably ars ear ars ,s,,car car caring ing ing for for for mo mo mo re re re tha tha tha n andmonths after the hurricanes, Tonya n n $1.4 $1.4 $1.4 Several tril tril tril lion lion lion of of of the ass the the ir ets ir ir har har har . Fin dddd out s an advisor, I knew that whthe y so peo ple Wealth Management | Investme peoma st comtru ple ny our and other office personnel were able to enter pete I care ntly adv ise clien ts from her hom e. Yet ddial ass ass ass ets ets ets Wealth Management Investme Wealth Management |||Investme Wealth Management Investme . . Fin . Fin Fin d d d out out out wh wh wh y y y so the office and obtain a few personal items fro so so ma ma aboAd ma ny ny ut “We ny wer peo peo peo e ple dep ple ple end tru tru tru ing are a family-based team working side by side every day, and take pride st st st our our our visors to helon me,m eve herir n ifnage the focu salth p the rem ains on moving forward. ma what “Gri was once their office in the tower. Her we ffith oial talk .Ad I calle cia cia llAd Ashome successful as you are, wedamage. know She the in being Wells first African-American mother-daughter Ad d to to vis vis vis che ors ors ors ck on to toFargo them hel hel hel also suffered substantial ppAdvisors’ Fina ,m pthe to the them liste ncia m n Griffith l alth ma Gro ma ma up of Wellsteam. nag nag nag e e e the the the ir Fargo Adv ir e we car we we alth e alth it isor des s Tonya ,ir of the Griffith erv es. As successful as you are, we know th As successful as you are, we know As successful as you are, we know th initially evacuated and temporarily relocated want to do. We’ve been helping ourthe cl participa We known forr con our relationship approach based compassion teare in wha teve versatioFinancial will ns focused continu theyGroup e toonserv he he e car car car of Wells Fargo e our clients, want e e e it it it des des des erv to Florida where shebeen stayed with relatives an want to do. We’ve been helping our to do. We’ve helping our cl erv want to do. We’ve been helping our cc erv stre es. es. es. ngth en 125 years, caring for more than $1.4 tri andecandor, and for putting our clients first -our always. ” of experience ed to hav at that time .” remained accessible to clients. Advisors, offers a wealth rela tion ship s, and assist our clien 125years, years, caring for more thanmany $1.4tri 125 caring for more than $1.4 125 years, caring for more than $1.4 trt today. ts assets. and earned Find out why “As an advisor, I knew that the so people I ca in financial advising. She began her com earned assets. Find out why so many earned assets. Find out why so many earned assets. Find out why so many mun ity whil sstod tod today. e they get back onFinancial ay. ay. mostrabout were on them me, even if thei Advisors to help man feet .” depending career with A.G. Edwards and Sons

FINDING

The Griffith Financial Group Brightness is Embracing Change Despite the Clouds

just to talk. I called to to check on them them, toman liste Financial Advisors tohelp help them man Financial Advisors Financial Advisors to help them man

with the care it deserves. over 20 years ago. In 2007 Wachovia and participate in whatever conversations the with thecare careitititdeserves. deserves. with the with the care deserves. needed to have at that time.” Securities and A.G. Edwards & Sons Call us today. Call Callus ustoday. today. Call us today. merged and were acquired by Wells Fargo & Company in 2009. Until early 2020, Tonya and her staff enjoyed The Griffith Financial Group of Wells Fargo A Cour tney Griffith working and helping clients from TheGriffith Griffith Financial Group ofWells WellsFargo FargoA The Financial Group The Griffith Financial Group Wells Tony a Griff ith,ofofAAM S®Fargo Cour Cour Cour tney tney tney Griff Griff Griff ith ith their comfortable office in the Capital Finan Courtney Griffith cial Advis orith Tony Tony Tony aaaGriff Griff Griff ith, ith, Courtney Griffith Courtney Griffith Courtney Griffith ith, AAM AAM First S® S®S®tmen Vice Financial Advisor Presi dent -AAM Inves Finan Finan cial cial cialAdvis Advis Advis oror1500 One Building in Lake Charles. But 1Finan Lakes hore Dr orSte Financial Advisor Financial Advisor Financial Advisor 1 Lakeshore Dr Ste 1500 First First FirstVice Vice VicePresi Presi Presi dent dent -DrSte Accre -Ste Inves -SteInves Inves dited tme tm ushered in a global pandemic tdent Mana geme nt 11Lakes 1Lakeshore Lakeshore 1500tmen 1Asse 1500 1Lake Lakeshore DrDr 1500 1Lakes Lakes hore hore hore Charles, LA 70629 DrSte Ste Ste1500 Lake 1500 1500 Charl es,DrDr LA 7062 9 spring Accre Accre that shook our economy and the Accre dited Lake Charles, LA 70629 Lake Charles, LA 70629 Lake Charles, LA 70629 dited dited Asse Asse Asse t tMana tMana Office: (337) 439-9081 Mana One Lakeshore geme geme geme ntntn Drive , Suite 150 Lake Lake LakeCharl Charl es, es, LALALA7062 7062 7062 Office 999financial markets; late summer brought :Charl (337 )es, 4399081 Office:(337) (337)439-9081 439-9081 Office: (337) 439-9081 Office: Courtney.K.Griffith@wellsfargoa One One One Lakes Lakes hore hore hore Drive Drive Lake Lakes , ,Suite Suite150 Charl 150 15 es, LADrive 7062 9,Suite Courtney.K.Griffith@wellsfargo Courtney.K.Griffith@wellsfargoa Courtney.K.Griffith@wellsfargoa Office Office Office http://www.thegriffithfinancialg : :(337 :(337 (337 ))439)4394399081 9081 Cour 9081 tney. K.Gri Laura, ffith@ wellsHurricane fargoadvisors.c om a storm that broke the http://www.thegriffithfinanci http://www.thegriffithfinancia http://www.thegriffithfinancialg Lake Lake Lake Charl Charl es, es, es,LALALA7062 7062 7062 (337 999 )Charl 4399081 Cour Cour impressive windows Cour tney. tney. tney. K.Gri K.Gri K.Gri ffith@ ffith@ ffith@ http: wells wells //ww fargo fargo fargo w.the advis advis advis griffiwells ors.c ors.c ors.c thfin om om om of the fated Capital ancia lgrou p.com / (337 (337 (337 ).griff )439)4394399081 9081 9081 tonya One Building and threatened to break ith@ wellsfargoadviso http: http: http: //ww //ww //ww w.the w.the w.the griffi griffi griffi thfin thfin thfin ancia ancia ancia lgrou lgrou lgrou p.com p.com p.com / / / u NOT FDIC Insu Investment and Insurance Products: the spirits of Southwest Louisiana tonya tonya tonya .griff .griff .griff ith@ ith@ ith@ wells wells wells https fargo fargo fargo ://ho advis advis advi me.w o ellsfa rgoad visor u uu Investment andInsurance Insurance NOTFDIC FDIC In Investment and Products: NOT Insu Investment Insurance Products: NOT FDIC Ins Tonya Griffith, WellsCourtney John Faciane Fargo Advisors isGriffith aand trade name used byProducts: Wells Fargo Clearing Services, citizens. But Laura underestimated https https https ://ho ://ho ://ho me.w me.w me.w ellsfa ellsfa ellsfa AAMS® Financial Advisor Client Associate rgoad rgoad rgoad visor viso vis LLC. AllFargo rights reserved. Wells Wells Fargo Advisors Advisors isisaisatrade atrade trade name name used used bybyby Wells Wells Fargo Fargo Clearing Clearing Services, Service Wells Fargo Advisors name used Wells Fargo Clearing Services the drive and determination of these First Vice PresidentLLC. LLC. AllAllAll rights rights reserved. reserved. LLC. rights reserved. ment and Insurance Products: u NOT FDIC resilient officer Insuredpeople. u NO Bank Guarantee u MAYInvestment Lose Valu e stme tmen men t nt t and and Insur Insur Insur ance ance ance Prod Prod Prod uuu ucts: ucts: ucts: NOT NOT NOT FDIC FDIC FDIC Insur Insur Insur u u u ed ed ed isors is aand NO NO NO Bank Bank Bank trade Guar Guar name Guar ante ante u used ante u u e by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a ee MAY MAY MAY Lose Lose Lose Valu Valu Valu eee

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The Griffith Financial Group of Wells Fargo Advisors

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TheGriffithFinancialGroup.com

(337) 439-9081

1424 Ryan Street, Suite B, Lak

1424 Ryan Street, Suite B, Lake Charles, LA 70601 thriveswla.com

CLINICAL TRIAL FOR

ALZHEIMER S PREVENTION TRAILBLAZER-ALZ 3 The TRAILBLAZER-All 3 study, a new research study sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company, is testing whether a study drug can potentially prevent or slow down the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

Can I be part of this trial? ••••••••••• Yes, you may be able to join the research study if you: 0 Are aged 55-80 years old 0 Have normal memory and thinking 0 Have a reliable study partner 0 Pass study screening activities A study partner O is a person who is familiar with your day-to-day life and would notice any changes in your memory, thinking, mood and behavior. This could be your spouse, partner, friend, relative or caregiver. Your study partner would also consent to the trial.

EVENT DETAILS: Date: Time:

Monday - Friday 9AM - 4 PM

Location: 600 Bayou Pines East Dr. Suite B Lake Charles, LA 70601

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • February 2022

LEARN MORE: �

337-409-8383

TestforALZ.com/sw-la

Thrive Magazine - February 2022 Issue

Articles inside

Make your New Year Resolutions Stick

Acadian Hearing Services Helps Local Man Hear

Bundle Up! Jacket Trends

Simple Ways to Bring Calm into your Home

With Heart Disease, Early Detection is Key

FDA Study of Hip Resurfacing Device

Are you Hurting your Heart without Realizing It?