Thrive's July 2019 Issue

July 2019

Back Back to the the to Books: Books:

Back-to-School Guide

W

O

U

THE CAS E

Caring for Our Companions

YO

Cats AND Canines:

N

A & THE L

first person with Jennifer Jones

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Rehabilitation Hospital

of Jennings

DIAgNOSeS THAT we TReAT

• Brain Injury

• Hip Fractures

• Strokes

• Osteoarthritis/DJD

• Amputations

• Neurological Disorders

• Burns

• Spinal Cord Injury

• Major Multiple Trauma

• Congenital Deformities

• Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Systemic Vasculidities

• Joint Replacements

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

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

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

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

Office Awards WeHaveTheKeysYouNeed.com 337.474.2185

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Deborah Anderson Analee Dupuie Kimberlee Granger Sharel Hebert

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MASTER EMERALD PRODUCERS Suzanne McCoy

Jade Miles

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QUALITY SERVICE AWARD

Deborah Anderson

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2018 ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

Karen Barker

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Linda Moffett

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Contents In This Issue Wining & Dining

6 Secrets to Grilling the Best Burger 8 SWLA Farmers Market 10 Mr. Clint's

Places & Faces

12

14

16

18

20

Suzette Kent, U.S. Federal Chief Information Officer LC Symphony Summer Pops Better Block Sulphur High SCIP Family Promise

Regular Features

22 Who’s News 78 Happenings 80 Business Buzz 82 McNeese Corral 83 Solutions for Life

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Style & Beauty

24 Beauty Through the Decades 26 Spotting Signs of Sun Damage 28 Round-Up of Sunscreens

Mind & Body

30 Gym Alternatives

32 Protecting Young Eyes from the Sun

34 When your Child Requires Hospitalization

24

Home & Family

36 - 53 Special Section: Back to the

Books: Back-to-School Guide 54 - 61 Special Section: Cats and Canines: Caring for Our Companions

Money & Career

62 - 72 Special Section: On the Case: You and the Law 74 Investment Strategies for Non-Investment Types

76 Health Savings Account

@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.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

32 Managing Editor Angie Kay Dilmore Editors and Publishers Kristy Como Armand

Christine Fisher Creative Director Barbara VanGossen Design and Layout Sarah Bercier Business Manager Katie McDaniel Stevenson Advertising Sales katie@thriveswla.com 337.310.2099 Submissions edit@thriveswla.com

M E E T O U R AT TO R N E YS

Randall Hart

Aaron Broussard

Steven Broussard

Michael Williamson

Our Lake Charles personal injury attorneys and staff are focused on helping those who, like yourself, have suffered losses to catastrophic injuries or wrongful death, working to see that they recover the compensation they need and deserve. Our efforts stem from a genuine concern for those we serve.

We Never Settle For Less.

Neither Should You. Serving the Lake Charles area for over 40 years!

B RO U S S A R D - H A RT. C O M

(337) 439-2450

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5

Wining & Dining

5 THE BEST

SECRETS TO GRILLING

BURGER

by Sylvia Ney

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

July is National Grilling Month, and hamburgers are finding their way onto grills all over Southwest Louisiana!

However, the simple acts of picking a meat, choosing a grilling method, and mixing ingredients can all contribute to radically different flavors. For best results, keep these tips in mind.

1. Picking the Right Meat is Essential - If you want to grill a juicy, flavorful burger, skip the lean meat and go for the ground chuck. A little extra fat adds flavor. Specifically, opt for ground chuck or ground sirloin with at least 18% fat. Fat helps lock in the flavor.

2. Prep Your Meat - To help your patties stay together and remain nice and juicy, you’ll need to keep them cold until you’re ready to place them on the hot grill. Mix three tablespoons of water into a pound of ground beef to increase the juiciness of grilled burgers. Then add a teaspoon each of salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce into the mix, as well.

3. Handle Your Patties With Care - Once you’ve lightly seasoned your hamburger meat, handle it delicately.

Wet your hands a bit first to keep the meat from sticking to your hands and to help hold it together. When working the meat, pull it apart in small chunks to form it into patties. During cooking, the meat at the edges shrinks first, causing the center to bulge, which can give you a burger that looks more like a meatball than a patty. Pressing a slight dimple, or thumb print, into the center of each burger before cooking prevents, or at least lessens, the bulge.

4. Prep Your Grill – Scrub your grill before you fire it up. Any leftover debris can cause your meat to stick and alter the taste of your burgers. You should also oil your grill before you cook your patties. Preheat your grill for at least 15 minutes. Make sure the temperature is high so your burgers start sizzling as soon as they hit the grill. The intense heat of a grill creates a deeply browned crust, one of the hallmarks of a great

OUR LAKE CHARLES

ROOTS RUN DEEP

burger. If you’re using a charcoal grill, use ash-covered coals and leave the lid up to ensure they are evenly heated. With gas grills, you’ll want to keep the lid down while you’re cooking. If you use propane and prefer a wood-smoked flavor, add chips to the grill sides before placing meat on the grill.

Different types of wood offer different flavors.

5. Cook Carefully - Once you’ve got your burgers sizzling, resist the urge to press them with a spatula as they’re cooking. Pressing causes those flavorful juices to leak out.

Instead, allow the cooking process to shape your burgers. After a few minutes, you’ll start to see juices gathering at the top of your burger. This indicates that your meat has started cooking through the middle and that the juices inside have started moving to the top of the burger. When that happens, you’ll want to flip your burgers over and cook them for a few more minutes. Only flip your burgers once. Keep in mind that the juices in the patty move away from the heat while cooking, and too much flipping disrupts the juices inside the burger. While the length of time you’ll want to cook your burgers will depend on your grill and the thickness of the patties, there are a few hard and fast rules you can use. For a rare burger, cook it on each side for two minutes, three for medium-rare, four for medium and five for well-done. But again, timing may vary depending on your grill and how thick you make your burgers.

Now you can focus your attention on preparing the buns and condiments for your truly perfect burger!

From our Hospital Administrator to our doctors, nurses and staff, we are Lake Charles, born and raised.

We love serving the area that so many of us grew up in. That’s why we are dedicated to bringing you the best healthcare 24/7/365, because that’s what good neighbors do.

3 Other Things You Don’t Know About Avail:

1 2 3

No Membership Fees There’s no membership fee at Avail, but with service this great, we understand why you might think otherwise. It’s not a club; it’s a new level of healthcare.

Wait Time: 5 Minutes or Less We run on efficiency around here. That means that you’ll never wait more than five minutes to be seen. Period.

We’ll Honor Your Insurance At Avail Hospital, your out-of-pocket costs will be the same as they would be with any in-network provider.

3730 Nelson Rd. | Lake Charles | 337.656.7700 AvailHospitals.com thriveswla.com

7

Wining & Dining

Eat

Local!

A Round-up of Area Farmers Markets

by Angie Kay Dilmore

Summertime is peak season at area farmers markets.

Fresh produce, meats, jams and jellies, locally-roasted coffee, fresh milk, kombucha, herbs, fresh-made prepared foods, local honey, baked goods, meats, fresh-pressed juices, tamales, homemade candles and soaps, and other crafts comprise a short list of all the fantastic items you might find on market day. There are a multitude of reasons why you might want to shop at these bastions of bounty.

Freshness

Produce at a farmers market is often picked that very morning. You can’t find freshness like that at a chain grocery store. Freshly harvested fruits and vegetables have more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than produce picked who-knows-when, so they are naturally more nutritious. They are also generally safer. When was the last time you heard of a salmonella or e-coli breakout from a farmers market?

Eat Seasonally

Produce purchased at a farmers market is by nature in-season. And that means it will be delicious, as intended. Have you ever purchased a tomato in winter? Why bother!

Think Green

It’s the whole farm-to-table concept. Local produce travels only a short distance from the field to the market to your kitchen. Compare that to produce grown a state, a country, a continent, or an ocean away, harvested weeks (or more) ago, and shipped here via truck, train, plane, or boat. Not only is local produce fresher, it also has a smaller carbon footprint and thus is better for our environment.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

Here’s a list of area farmers markets. Find one near you!

Lake Charles

Oberlin

Charlestown Farmers Market Behind 1911 Historic City Hall, 1001 Ryan St. 8:00 – noon Saturdays

Oakdale

Moss Bluff

DeRidder

Cash and Carry 801 Enterprise Blvd.

4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Tuesdays

Shop Local

When you purchase items at a farmers market, you support local businesses and entrepreneurs. When you shop at a market week after week, you get to know the vendors. You can ask them questions, for example, how to prepare those greens or an oddly-shaped squash you’ve never seen before, or how long fresh eggs will keep in the fridge. The farmers and other vendors become like friends you look forward to seeing. Several markets provide live entertainment. It’s a win-win all around.

C E L E B R AT E

28 W. 6th Ave. 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Wednesdays

715 US 165 7:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Fridays

Between McDonald’s and Peto’s on Hwy. 378 8:00 – noon Saturdays

206 N. Washington Ave. 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Everyday

Sulphur

Farmers Market and Swap 340 West Cal Blvd.

Tractor Supply Parking Lot 2nd & 4th Saturday of each month 8:00 a.m. – noon

Coushatta Farmers -Market Hwy. 190 Koasati Plaza, Elton 8:00 – noon 1st Saturday of the month

Welsh

Jennings

Sportsman’s Park 913 S. Adams St. 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Tuesdays

Elton

Founder’s Park 300 block Main St. 7:00 – 10:00 a.m.

Saturdays

N A T I O N A L T E Q U I L A DAY !

Healthy Image Events is celebrating National Tequila Day by launching our inaugural Sips in the City event series with Tequila in the Treehouse. The evening will celebrate the agave-based spirit and its ability to not only get the party started, but also be sipped and savored at the end of a long day!

The event will include four-course tapas from Sloppy Taco that pairs nicely with eight (8) varieties of tequila.

Event Details: WEDNESDAY, JULY 24 - NATIONAL TEQUILA DAY TREEHOUSE AT OAK CROSSING 5:30 PM

Lake Street Liquor will provide attendees insights and background about each spirit. All tequilas featured will be available for purchase at a discounted price at Lake Street Liquor after the event.

Enjoy an evening of tequila, great food and music as we celebrate National Tequila Day in style.

Tickets: $65 per person (Must be 21 or older to attend) Tickets available at TequilaInTheTreehouse.EventBrite.com.

A portion of the proceeds will benefit Ainsley’s Angels of Southwest Louisiana.

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Wining & Dining

Mr. Clint’s Take a short drive down I-10 to Welsh, LA, and transport yourself back to your childhood in this cool retro confectionary.

Story and photos by Angie Kay Dilmore

Clint Hardy worked off-shore for most of his career until an illness prevented him from continuing in that line of work. Never one to sit around, he and his family decided to fast-track a life-long dream of his. Nowadays, Hardy tends bar, but not the type you’d imagine.

He owns and operates a sweets and soda bar! Hardy sells vintage candies and novelties, gourmet popcorn, and a large selection of unique sodas – over 75 in all.

More than that, Hardy ultimately sells nostalgia. “Everyone thinks candy shops are for the kids, but I love it when the adults get excited,” he says.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

Charles Granger, age 69 and one of Mr. Clint’s regulars, comes into the shop once or twice a week, mostly for the grandkids, he says.

“But when I come in, I treat myself, too.” On a recent visit, he bought a chilled Boylan Birch Beer to go.

Hardy opened his store on Halloween Day, 2018. He’s maintained a steady familyrun business since then. His sons, Taylor, age 17, and Cash, age 8, and his wife Sherry help out in their free time. Hardy is currently expanding his shop and plans to add a few working pinball machines, an old-fashioned carousel, vintage toys, t-shirts and caps, and of course, space for more candy.

Somewhat of a surprise, Hardy says his best-selling candy is candy cigarettes!

Likely two reasons; one, it’s hard to find them anywhere else, and two . . . nostalgia. His most popular soda is – wait for it – Martian Poop, which is actually blackberry flavored.

He says his most unusual item is chocolate-covered bacon.

Hardy says Mr. Clint’s is a happy place. “People walk in with a smile on their face.

That makes me feel like I’ve done something right.”

SERVING UP FINGER-LICKING FOOD FOR THREE DECADES

Located at 205 S. Adams St. within the Mercantile 54 Trading Company in Welsh, Louisiana. Find Mr. Clint’s on Facebook, @Mr.Clints.

& SPORTS BAR

N

DARRELL’S TO-GO

EW

LARGE AND SMALL PARTY TRAYS AVAILABLE! We’re now available on Waitr!

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

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Places & Faces

Suzette Kent

Leesville High School Alumna Details Journey to the White House If someone had told Leesville High School alumna Suzette Kent in high school that she would one day work in the White House, she said they would've had the biggest laugh. But now, she is the first woman to hold the prestigious role of serving as the U.S. Federal Chief Information Officer – having been appointed by President Donald Trump in January 2018.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

As Federal CIO, Kent decides and establishes policy relating to how all U.S. federal government agencies utilize technology to accomplish their missions. She also oversees how these agencies are meeting their goals for the executive and legislative branches.

"I work across all the agencies of the federal government," Kent said. "There are 24 major agencies and 100 plus after that. I work with them on how our federal government uses technology to better serve American citizens, and do it in a way that secures privacy of information of U.S. citizens."

She said her job is very complex and has many components. "[It] may sound simple, but each day is incredibly challenging," she said. "I've had the opportunity to help pass new laws. And across our technology in the federal government, we have 90,000 people who work to deliver those services every day. We spend almost $100 billion of our federal money delivering those services."

Kent spoke about her journey to Washington, D.C. during a speech in May to Vernon Parish high school seniors at the Vernon Parish Academic Achievement Awards Banquet in Leesville, Louisiana. Her journey began in Vernon Parish schools,

including her Alma mater – Leesville High School. "I take what I learned here with me every day," she said. "I had some of the influential learning experiences here in these schools and they've shaped my learning, my life, my career and my experiences around the world." Kent added that her learning experiences in Vernon Parish "fueled my curiosity, love of learning and [problem solving]. Those things got me moving forward on my path."

Kent attended Louisiana State University, initially majoring in biochemistry. She also tried out marketing and journalism majors before deciding to pursue a career in technology because she liked how much problem-solving it entailed.

Before moving into the government sector, Kent was an industry global leader in transforming large-scale businesses – working with the world's most complex organizations. Her experience ranges from technology development and product design to technology and risk policy.

She spent more than 29 years in the

financial services industry before becoming Federal CIO. She served as a principal at EY, partner at Accenture, consulting president at Carreker Corporation and Managing Director at JPMorgan.

She vividly recalls finding out she had been selected for her coveted White House position. "When I got the phone call the first time, I said, 'What? Are you kidding?

What a phenomenal opportunity and what an honor to work with world leaders.'

The opportunity to represent the U.S. in a global environment is an incredible honor."

And while Washington, D.C., is a long distance away from her Louisiana roots, Kent always remembers what an impact her education in Vernon Parish made in her life. "I've worked all over the world and met wonderful people everywhere. But my experiences here in the place that I call home shaped how [I] navigated [my] own journey in the world," Kent said. "It's been an amazing journey. There [have been] a lot of wonderful things, and they started right here."

"It's an incredible honor. It is a privilege to serve this country every day . . . in the technology space."

-Kent

Payroll and benefits of

$989 Source: Plant Manager Survey

million Over

10,000 jobs

Source: Plant Manager Survey

$270

million

in property taxes since 2014 Source: Calcasieu Parish Assessor’s Office

Local industries have a positive impact in Southwest Louisiana. The petrochemical industry brings good jobs, great benefits and security to thousands of residents in our region. Their tax dollars benefit our community through infrastructure, funding for our law enforcement agencies and schools as well as improvements to roads and parks to make our region better. They are among our most generous corporate citizens, volunteering thousands of hours for area organizations as well as giving millions in donations.

Area industries are producing opportunity right here at home.

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Places & Faces

Lake Charles Symphony Summer Pops Dancing Queen-The Music of

ABBA

2019

VisitLakeCharles.org

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

The Lake Charles Symphony will open its 62nd Season with Dancing Queen – The Music of ABBA, Saturday, July 13 at the Lake Charles Civic Center Coliseum. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m.; concert will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Take a chance on this ABBAtastic night as Jeans ‘n Classics joins the Lake Charles Symphony and pays tribute to these iconic disco pop sensations, featuring all the hits you know and love, from “Dancing Queen” to “Waterloo” and more. A variety of family food favorites, such as Gatti's Pizza, hotdogs, nachos, and Boombox Frozen Pops & Ice Cream will be available for purchase. Don your bell bottoms and your platforms and don’t miss this fabulous evening.

Summer Pops is an annual event that brings a fun and exciting introduction to those experiencing orchestral music for the first time and to those who look forward to Summer Pops year after year. The Summer Pops concert allows the Symphony to perform with

non-classical artists. Exposure to programs such as Summer Pops has proven effective in gaining new audiences for symphony orchestras across the country.

Riser seats are $35 for adults, $15 for students, and free for children six and under.

Reserved tables of eight and individual table seats are also available. Gold VIP tables are $1,250; silver premium tables are $1,000; bronze reserved tables are $600, and individual reserved table seats are $90.

Sponsors include presenting sponsor, First Federal Bank of Louisiana and event sponsors: Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau, Arts Council of SWLA, City of Lake Charles, Gatti’s Pizza, Kaough & Jones Electric, and Louisiana Lottery.

To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www.lcsymphony.com or call (337) 433-1611.

2019 Keynote Speaker

Taya Kyle

Widow of U.S. Navy SEAL Sniper, Chris Kyle

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17 LAKE CHARLES CIVIC CENTER

8:00am - 4:00pm

Featuring Various Inspirational Workshops Vendor Registration for MarketPlace Now Open!

WomensCommissionSWLA.com

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Places & Faces

s k c o l B r Bette Build Better Cities

by John O’Donnell

Just what exactly is a “Better Block” and why is someone painting bicycles in the street? That question has been a topic of controversy and at times contention in Lake Charles for months. Although it has the potential to be one of the best things to happen to our city in years, many residents don’t know what it is, why it matters, and how they will benefit from the temporary disruptions.

So, what is Better Block?

Better Block started with an idea that occurred to Jason Roberts, a resident of a Dallas, TX suburb, after a vacation to Europe. Roberts was captivated by the inviting community spaces in Italy where families and friends could gather in plazas near beautiful fountains and open areas designed centuries ago yet still used today. He was fascinated by the cities and towns in Scandinavia where residents rode their bicycles and safely shared the road with motor vehicle traffic as they traveled to small shops and cafes that lined the streets inviting people to meet and gather. On his return to Dallas, Roberts saw the concrete and freeways and knew

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

that was not the legacy he wanted to leave to future generations, and he set out to do something about it.

Better Block was born from his idea, his dream, and his passion to make it happen.

Roberts’ idea became a 501(c)3 organization to help people in any city wanting to improve the livability, safety, and beauty of their town and bring the community together in an inviting and sustainable environment. “Better Block” is an advocacy tool that educates, equips, and empowers communities and their leaders to reshape and reactivate existing environments to promote the growth of healthy and vibrant neighborhoods.

When a group of Lake Charles residents and city leaders began to look at ways to promote the great assets our area already has to attract new business and industry, something was missing. Lake Charles has great food, friendly people, wonderful music, and a gorgeous lake front but we were missing green space, safe walking and cycling spaces, and we had few community spaces to gather.

Using tools from Better Block and Complete Streets, our leaders reached out to the community to hear what locals identified as needs or desires. Temporary bike lanes were installed downtown to gauge community reaction and usage before making any costly permanent changes.

A transportation study was commissioned and completed to determine what residents needed and wanted in public transportation routes and what areas the public felt were underserved or not served at all.

The purpose of the study was to find ways to decrease traffic, provide a safe and efficient public transportation system to serve residents, tourists, and students in all areas of the city using community input and listening to both complaints and wish lists before investing funds in permanent changes.

Change is never easy. Change doesn’t happen overnight. But most importantly, meaningful change that is a success doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It takes input from the people who will benefit or be inconvenienced by the change. THAT is the purpose of Better Block. It is a way to seek your input, hear your comments, discuss your opinions and ultimately make Lake Charles a better home for our families and a destination highpoint for anyone visiting Louisiana. Speak up and when asked, complete a survey or attend an open community meeting to discuss feasibility or change. Stand up and let your voice be heard.

John O’Donnell is the Director of the Community Health Department at SWLAHEC and a passionate community activist.

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combined with any other offer. Contact a CSE Lender for more information. Membership and eligibility required. Insured by NCUA.

csefcu.org | 337.477.2000 thriveswla.com

17

Places & Faces

Left to right: Alex Gomez, Haley Denton, Samantha Ducote, Charity Celestine, Kyla Malbrough

Sulphur High SCIP Students Donate Radar Speed Signs to City of Sulphur The Sulphur High students selected to the 2018-19 Sulphur Community Impact Program (SCIP) recently donated two new radar speed signs to the City of Sulphur in an effort to increase pedestrian safety. This $7,402 donation is part of the annual $25,000 grant provided

by Tellurian Inc.’s Youth Community Impact Program to Sulphur High.

Each year, Tellurian’s Youth Community Impact Program challenges a select group of high school students to develop a sustainable, impactful community service project while building their leadership and team collaboration skills.

After a meeting with Sulphur Mayor Mike Danahay and Chief of Police Lewis Coats earlier this year to learn more about issues facing the city and its residents, the SCIP

18

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

students chose to address speeding and pedestrian safety as one of their projects.

The City of Sulphur had identified the need for radar speed signs and was in the process of researching grant opportunities when the SCIP students approached them.

“The SCIP program was the perfect partnership matching a city need with a unique funding opportunity at the exact time when it was most urgent,” said Mayor Danahay. “We thank Sulphur High, the SCIP students, and Tellurian for their support.”

As part of the partnership agreement, the City of Sulphur will install the donated signs and incorporate any ongoing maintenance into the city budget. The signs will be placed along Beglis Parkway.

According to Chief Coats, Beglis Parkway is the ideal location for the new speed

radar signs due to the amount of traffic and speeding that effects the safety of children in the surrounding area school zones.

“This has been an amazing opportunity to make a real difference in our community and help keep our children safe,” said Alejandra Gomez, a member of SCIP. Other Sulphur High students selected to the program include Samantha Ducote, Haley Denton, Charity Celestine, and Kyla Malbrough.

The SCIP students thank Theresa Crook, SCIP Sulphur High Teacher Sponsor, Mike Danahay, Mayor of Sulphur, Lewis Coats, Sulphur Chief of Police, Erica Martin, Sulphur Public Relations & Marketing Specialist, Kenneth Huval, Evangeline Specialties, and the Community Foundation of Southwest Louisiana for all of their support with the speed radar sign project.

They also thank Tellurian for the wonderful opportunity and Heather Hohensee, Manager of Government and Public Affairs, and Jason French, Vice President of Government and Public Affairs for Tellurian.

A new SCIP group for the 20192020 school year will be chosen at the start of the school year and Tellurian plans on expanding this program to other SWLA schools in the future.

We’re ready for the next storm.

And your safety is our priority.

ABOUT TELLURIAN’S YOUTH COMMUNITY IMPACT PROGRAM Tellurian Inc. is committed to investing in the SWLA community and its students. As part of its commitment to youth and education specifically, Tellurian launched its Youth Community Impact Program in 2017. The purpose of the program is to engage a diverse group of high school students and inspire them to become the community service leaders of tomorrow Tellurian’s Youth Community Impact Program grant is supported by the Community Foundation of Southwest Louisiana through a field of interest fund.

At Entergy, preparing for storm season is a year-round commitment. Over the past few years, we’ve invested billions to upgrade the power grid with more efficient and reliable technology, while keeping rates low. We’re ready for the next storm, and we want you to be, too.

Visit entergystormcenter.com to see how you can prepare.

For more information, please contact Terri Bachand with the Tellurian Government and Public Affairs team at terri.bachand@tellurianinc.com.

A message from Entergy Louisiana, LLC ©2019 Entergy Services, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

14809 Entergy ELL HurricanePrep 5.25x9.875.indd 1

5/8/19 4:20 PM

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19

Places & Faces

Family Promise of Calcasieu Parish Because Every Child Deserves a Home

by Angie Kay Dilmore

Nearly 1000 school-age children in Calcasieu Parish are part of families who are homeless, according to the Calcasieu Parish School Board.

This startling statistic prompted a group of concerned citizens in 2014 to initiate Family Promise of Calcasieu Parish, an affiliate of the national non-profit organization.

The mission of Family Promise is to help families experiencing homelessness and low-income families achieve sustainable independence through a community-based response. They focus on homeless families with children, regardless of what that family might look like; whether single parents or couples and with any number of children. 930,000 people have been helped nationally since the program’s inception in 1988.

Joe Wright is president of Family Promise of Calcasieu Parish. His wife Marty is a core board member. They say this mission is achieved on a local level by recruiting area churches of any denomination and faith to volunteer their time and space. Thirteen churches take turns housing participants for a week at a time, approximately four times a year. The families come to the church in the evening and the church provides a meal, activities and homework help for the children, and shelter for the night.

The next morning, the families return to 20

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

a day center where they shower, do laundry if needed, and start their day. A van transports them to school, work, interviews, etc.

Family Promise is not a solely a homeless shelter. It is a program that strives to help people who are highly motivated to get back on their feet, ie working families, or those seeking employment, who are temporarily down on their luck, but want to succeed on their own, obtain employment, and secure housing. The participants are vetted for suitability and screened for drug/alcohol abuse and mental illness, as these are issues the program does not have the resources to handle.

Family Promise does assist the participants with resume writing, attire for interviews, career advice, and financial counseling.

They help them find housing, or a car, if needed. “We try to teach them how to stay out of homelessness,” says Marty.

Because they can only accommodate 14 total persons at a time (limited by the van occupancy), there will likely be a waiting list.

Nationally, 82% of participants find housing within 63 days of being in the program, though Marty expects it may take longer for some in this region.

The local affiliate has been working hard since 2014, procuring funds and recruiting local churches and volunteers.

Joe and Marty say the Lake Charles program has been blessed during these planning and fundraising years. A van has been donated, and a property owner has offered a building at a reasonable rent.

Twelve of the 13 needed churches have signed on, plus they have two supporting churches. “We’re almost there,” says Joe.

They hope to have the program in operation by January 2020.

Board meetings are open to interested persons at University United Methodist Church.

The next meeting will be held August 5, 5:45 p.m. There are several different ways people can volunteer.

For more information, see the national and local websites, www.familypromise.org, familypromisecp.org, find them on Facebook @ familypromisecalcasieu, or email Joe Wright at joewright3708@gmail.com.

THE CITY OF LAKE CHARLES WATER DIVISION P.O. Box 1727, Lake Charles, LA 70602 | 337-491-1307 • June 2019

ANNUAL DRINKING WATER QUALITY REPORT We are pleased to present to you the Annual Water Quality Report for the reporting/monitoring period from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018. This report is designed to inform you about the quality of your water and the services we deliver to you every day. Our constant goal is to provide you with a safe and dependable supply of drinking water. We want you to understand the efforts we make to continually improve the water treatment process and protect our water resources. We are committed to ensuring the quality of your drinking water and its’ compliance with government standards.

In this report you will find information such as the quality of the local drinking water; likely sources of drinking water contamination; and information about your local services. The City of Lake Charles is going through some exciting times and unprecedented growth. The Water Division is dedicated to meeting that growth and continues to plan for the future needs of the water system and our customers. You can learn more about the Water Division and its’ facilities and services by visiting the City web site at www.cityoflakecharles.com. Under the Public Works department listing, click on the water tab. If you have any questions about this report, or simply want to learn more about your drinking water, please contact Russell Buckels at 337491-1479. *All information in this report has been collected and reported to you in accordance with water quality standards established by the USEPA. We are pleased to report our drinking water meets all Federal and State regulatory requirements.

CITY OF LAKE CHARLES WATER SOURCES The City of Lake Charles obtains water from wells that are drilled in the 500-foot and 700-foot sands of the Chicot Aquifer.

Groundwater or well water is found in saturated zones beneath the land’s surface. It fills the pores and fractures in underground material such as sand, gravel, or other rock. If the water can be removed from this material in useful amounts, these areas are called aquifers. At the present time the City of Lake Charles has 17 wells that provide a clean, sufficient water supply for all of our customers.

HEALTH INFORMATION The sources of drinking water (both tap and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over the surface of the land or through the ground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals, and in some cases radioactive material, and can pick up substances resulting from the presence of animals or from human activity.

Contaminants that may be present in untreated source water include: • Microbial Contaminants - such as viruses and bacteria, may come from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural livestock operations, and wildlife.

• Inorganic Contaminants - such as salts and metals, which

can be naturally-occurring or result from urban stormwater runoff, industrial, or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production, mining, or farming.

• Pesticides and Herbicides – may come from a variety of sources such as agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and residential uses.

• Organic Chemical Contaminants – Including synthetic and volatile organic chemicals, which are by-products of industrial processes and petroleum production, and can also come from gas stations, urban stormwater runoff, and septic systems.

• Radioactive Contaminants – can be naturally-occurring or be the result of oil and gas production and mining activities.

Our water system is required to test a minimum of 90 bacteriological samples per month in accordance with the Total Coliform Rule. Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, bacteria may be present. During the monitoring period covered by this report, we had no noted violations of drinking water regulations. In addition, the State of Louisiana also performs routine chemical analysis for regulated contaminants. Chemical sampling for regulated contaminants may not be required on an annual basis. The results furnished for testing are from the most recent sampling of our source water performed in December 2017 – April of 2018.

In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, the EPA prescribes regulations which limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. Food and Drug Administration regulations establish limits for contaminants in bottled water, which must provide the same protection for public health. PROTECT OUR RESOURCES, USE WATER WISELY !!!

Certain minerals are radioactive and may emit forms of radiation known as photons and beta radiation. Some people who drink water containing beta particle and photon radioactivity in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.

Some people may be more vulnerable SOURCE WATER ASSESSMENT to contaminants in drinking water A Source Water Assessment was than the general population. ImmunoGOT A QUESTION? performed on our water supply in April compromised persons such as persons NEED SOME ANSWERS 2003. The program emphasizes pollution with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, The numbers below are provided if you have prevention to ensure safe drinking water, persons who have undergone organ focusing on the protection of the water questions or problems with your water service. transplants, people with HIV / AIDS or sources. Personnel with the State of other immune system disorders, some Billing/New Service 491-1307 Louisiana performed this assessment. elderly and infants can be particularly Meter Problems 491-1522 The source water assessment consists at risk from infections. These people of three steps: 1) Delineation or outline should seek advice about drinking Main Breaks 491-1487 of the source water protection areas – in water from their health care providers.

Rusty Water/Odor 491-1554 our case a one mile radius around each EPA / CDC guidelines on appropriate Distribution Department 491-1494 well field; 2) Inventory of significant means to lessen the risk of infection by Production/Plant Info 491-1479 potential sources of contamination Cryptosporidium and other microbial 24 Hour Number 491-1483 within these areas; and 3) Analysis of the contaminants are available from the Safe system’s susceptibility to contamination Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

For Plant Tours 491-1487 from the potential sources identified.

If present, elevated levels of lead can This plan is now available in our office. cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women According to the Source Water Assessment Plan, our water system and young children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from had a susceptibility rating of ‘MEDIUM”. If you would like to materials and components associated with service lines and home review the plan, please feel free to contact our office. Information plumbing. The City Water Division seeks to provide high quality can be obtained by contacting Russell Buckels, Water Division drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used Superintendent at 491-1479. in plumbing components. When your water has been sitting for The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals - Office of Public several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure Health, routinely monitors for constituents in your drinking water. by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using Results of sampling by the State and contracted laboratories are water for drinking or cooking. If you are concerned about lead shown in the tables below. Drinking water, including bottled water, in your drinking water, information on lead in drinking water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of testing methods, and steps to minimize exposure is available some contaminants. The presence of these contaminants does not from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at http://www.epa.gov. necessarily indicate that the water poses a health risk. safewater/lead.

TEST RESULTS In the tables below are shown results of sampling on our source and treated water. The last chemical sampling of our source water was performed in Jan. – Dec. of 2018. This sampling was performed by a private laboratory certified by the State of Louisiana. Chemical sampling may not be required on an annual basis, therefore, information provided refers back to the most recent chemical sampling results. You will note that all of these contaminants were not detected or were well below the MCL. Terms and abbreviations you might not be familiar with are furnished with the following definitions: Not-Detected (ND) - laboratory analysis indicates that the constituent is not present.

Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) - The highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. MCL’s are set at very stringent levels.

Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG) - The level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLG’s allow for a margin of safety Action Level - The concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements which a water system must follow.

Treatment Technique (TT) - A treatment technique is a required process intended to reduce the level of a contaminant in drinking water. (ppm) = parts per million (ppb) = parts per billion (ppt) or (nanograms/l) = parts per trillion (ppq) or (picograms/l) =parts per quadrillion Picocuries per liter (pCi/L) – measure of radioactivity in water In the table below, we have shown the deficiencies that were identified during our latest survey done by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals. These are deficiencies we are currently working to resolve.

DATE IDENTIFIED 05/29/2014

FACILITY Distribution System

CATEGORY CODE

ACTIVITY NAME

DUE DATE

COMMENTS

CC17

GWR - Approved Corrective Action Plan

12/30/2018

LAC 51:XII.344 - LSPC Protection of Water Supply Containment Practices`

Below, are listed the regulated contaminants that were detected during sampling. While these contaminants were detected, you will note that all were BELOW their maximum contaminant level. Required sampling was performed at sites within the distribution system, and at each of our well sites. All sampling was performed either by the State of Louisiana or by private laboratories certified by the State of Louisiana.

REGULATED CONTAMINANT Fluoride

COLLECTION DATE

HIGHEST VALUE

RANGE

UNIT

2/5/2018

0.2

0.1-0.2

ppm

Radionuclides

Collection Date

Highest Value

Radium (-226 & -228)

2/5/2018

1.582

Gross Alpha Partical Activity

2/5/2018

Gross Beta Particle Activity Gross Alpha including Radon and U.

MCL MCLG 4

Range

Unit

Sites Over AL AL

0.268- 1.582

pCi/l

5

5.15

2.96-5.15

PCI/L

2/5/2018

4.14

1.48 – 4.14

pCi/l

3/23/2018

4

2.96-4.0

pCi/l

4

TYPICAL SOURCE Erosion of natural deposits; Water additive which promotes strong teeth. Discharge form fertilizer and aluminum factories

Typical Source

0

Erosion of natural deposits

15

0

Erosion of natural deposits

50

0

Decay of natural and man-made deposits. Note: The gross beta particle activity MCL is 4 millirems/year annual dose equivalent to the total body or any internal organ. 50 pCi/L is used as a screening level.

Date

90th Percentile

Range

Unit

AL

Sites Over AL

Typical Source

Copper, Free

2014-2016

0.1

0.1-0.4

ppm

1.3

0

Corrosion of household plumbing systems; Erosion of natural deposits;

Lead

2014-2016

1

1-16

ppb

15

0

Corrosion of household plumbing systems; Erosion of natural deposits

Lead and Copper

DISINFECTION BYPRODUCTS

SAMPLE POINT

Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5)

209 Helen Street 2437 Ory Road 4260 Indigo Pl. 4908 Desoto St. 209 Helen Street 2437 Ory Road 4260 Indigo Pl. 4908 Desoto St.

TTHM TTHM TTHM TTHM CONTAMINANT Chlorine

DATE 2018

PERIOD

HIGHEST LRAA

RANGE

UNIT

MCL

MCLG

TYPICAL SOURCE

2018

6

3.5-12.9

ppb

60

0

By-product of drinking water disinfection

2018

7

3.9-11.9

ppb

60

0

By-product of drinking water disinfection

2018

6

3.8-9.1

ppb

60

0

By-product of drinking water disinfection

2018

6

3.6-9.4

ppb

60

0

By-product of drinking water disinfection

2018

22

10.4-42.3 ppb

80

0

By-product of drinking water chlorination

2018

26

14.9-35.3 ppb

80

0

By-product of drinking water chlorination

2018

20

13.4-24.5 ppb

80

0

By-product of drinking water chlorination

2018

21

16.8-29.0 ppb

80

0

By-product of drinking water chlorination

RESULT

UNIT

RANGE MRDL MRDLG

1.52

ppm

0.8 – 2.8

4

4

TYPICAL SOURCE Water additive used to control microbes

COLLECTION DATE

HIGHEST VALUE

RANGE

UNIT

Aluminum

2/5/2018

0.06

0.01-0.06

ppm

0.2

Chloride

2/5/2018

252.9

24 – 252.9

ppm

250

Iron

1/22/2018

1.99

0.3 – 1.99

ppm

0.3

Manganese

2/5/2018

0.52

0.18 – 0.52

ppm

0.05

PH

2/5/2018

7.51

5.68 – 7.51

pH

8.5

Sulphate

1/22/2018

4.0

1.0 – 4.0

ppm

250

SECONDARY CONTAMINANT

SMCL

The City of Lake Charles fully complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Americans with Disabilities Act, and related statutes, executive orders, and regulations in all programs and activities. The City operates without regard to race, color, national origin, income, gender, age, and disability. Any person who believes him/herself or any specific class of persons, to be subjected to discrimination prohibited by Title VI/Americans with Disabilities Act may by him/herself or by representative file a written complaint with the City of Lake Charles. The City's Title VI Coordinator/ ADA Coordinator may be reached by phone at (337) 491-1440, the Mayor's Action Line at (337) 491-1346, or contact the appropriate Department Head.

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21

Places & Faces

Movers and Shakers in Southwest Louisiana...

Who’s News? You tell us! Send press releases to edit@thriveswla.com

Broussard & Hart Announce Addition of Michael Williamson Broussard & Hart is proud to announce the addition of Michael Williamson as their newest partner.

This partnership has Michael Williamson been a long time coming. Mike and Aaron Broussard grew up in Sulphur together playing soccer from an early age. They were in the same grade at the same schools from elementary in Maplewood through high school at Sulphur High. After college they went separate ways only to meet up again in the court room. After facing each other in court multiple times, they gained a respect for the other's hard work and legal talent. Now, after 13 years they are finally working on the same team.

Michael J. Williamson is a Top-Rated Attorney and has earned recognition as a Super Lawyer Rising Star in Civil Litigation since 2015. The Rising Star designation is reserved for the top 2.5% of practicing attorneys.

Mike graduated from LSU law school in 2006 and gained significant jury trial experience representing local and national companies. In 2018 Michael made the decision to follow his true passion – using his trial skills to represent everyday people in his hometown.

Michael believes most of the public have the wrong impression of jury trials and trial lawyers. It’s no secret that insurance companies do not pay every claim they should. When that happens, trials are the only way people can get what they are owed.

Without an experienced trial lawyer to help, most people do not stand a chance. Civil jury trials allow our community, not insurance companies, to decide what claims get paid and what claims do not.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Williamson, call (337) 439-2450.

22

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

CHRISTUS Ochsner Health Southwestern Louisiana Welcomes New CNO to Lead Growing Facility CHRISTUS Health is pleased to announce Ginger Disante, MSN, RN, as the new Chief Nursing Officer of Ginger Disante CHRISTUS Ochsner Health Southwestern Louisiana.

A graduate of Northwestern State University’s College of Nursing, Disante earned both her undergraduate and Master’s degrees in Nursing. She brings almost two decades of nursing experience to this leadership and management position for CHRISTUS Ochsner Health Southwestern Louisiana. Disante will oversee patient care delivery, nursing and nursing practice across the ministry.

Disante comes to Lake Charles from CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System, where she served as Chief Nursing Executive, providing round-the-clock administrative responsibility for all nursing functions. Disante has served in and led nursing units across a wide variety of departments including Cardiac Cath Labs, Case Management, ICU and Emergency departments, and staffing pools.

She is a member of the American Nurses’ Association and Sigma Theta Tau and is a 2014 graduate of CHRISTUS Academy.

Lake Charles Native Named Children’s Miracle Network Director at CHRISTUS Ochsner Southwestern Louisiana The CHRISTUS Ochsner Southwestern Louisiana Foundation Allison Schnake is pleased to announce Allison Schnake will be joining the team as the new Children’s Miracle Network Director. She brings more than 5 years’ experience in raising funds for the non-profit sector and most recently spearheaded a $10 million capital campaign.

As the CMN Director, Allison will raise funds for local children’s health initiatives, such as the Labor and Delivery Unit, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and the Kids Team Therapy program at CHRISTUS Ochsner Lake Area Hospital. She will also manage Foundation events, including the annual Dragon Boat Races, Green Hat Fun Run/Walk/Crawl and Charity Cook-off, and the CMN Radiothon.

Allison is a native of Lake Charles. She attended LSU and received her Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication. She then attended the College of Charleston in Charleston, SC and earned her Master of Science in Public Administration with a concentration in Non-profit Administration.

She is a member of the Arts Council Board of Directors, the Association of Fundraising Professionals and has served as the National Philanthropy Day chair for two consecutive years.

Local Travel Agent Tina Higgins Earns Certified Autism Travel Professional Certification from IBCCES Local Cruise Planners franchise owner, Tina Higgins recently earned the title of Tina Higgins Certified Autism Travel Professional from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). As a Cruise Planners travel agent, Higgins operates a full-service land and cruise travel agency based in the Lake Charles area and specializing in family travel, especially for autism families.

Cruise Planners, an American Express Travel Representative, is anchored to the success of its travel professionals and Higgins was recognized by The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards.

For more information, call (337) 405-7650.

Waldmeier Named Vice President Ken Hughes, President/CEO of Merchants & Farmers Bank has named Caleb Waldmeier Vice President of Commercial Lending for the Lake Charles/ Caleb Waldmeier Sulphur area market.

Waldmeier has been with Merchants & Farmers for over six years, earned a Bachelor of Science in Finance from McNeese State University and graduated from Graduate School of Banking at LSU. He is a member and past president of the Kiwanis Club of South Lake Charles and serves on the board of directors for the local young professional group, Fusion Five. Caleb is a life-long Calcasieu Parish resident currently residing in Lake Charles with his wife, Magan and two children-Isabelle (10) and Anderson (5).

In operation since 1928, Merchants & Farmers Bank is an independent community bank with eight full-service locations in seven cities. Among the first of Louisiana banks to establish online banking, Merchants & Farmers offers a variety of banking products and services.

Ryne Jackson

Robinson Dental Group Family Dentistry Welcomes Dr. Ryne Jackson Ryne Jackson, DMD, recently joined the staff of Robinson Dental Group Family Dentistry in Lake Charles.

Dr. Jackson received his bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University in Utah and his doctorate in dental medicine from the Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry in Pennsylvania, where he graduated summa cum laude. He was selected for Honors Endodontic and Honors Oral Surgery programs, and was awarded the Outstanding Student in Implant Dentistry award.

He is skilled in General Dentistry, Prosthodontics, Oral Surgery, Endodontics, Invisalign Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry.

For more information, visit www. robinsondentalgroup.net or call (337) 474-3636.

Lejeune Receives SOWELA’s Customer Service Star Award Debbie Lejeune, Professor and Program Coordinator at SOWELA Technical Community College, received the Customer Service Star Award Debbie Lejeune for the Spring 2019 semester at the Annual Employee Appreciation Luncheon. SOWELA’s Customer Service Committee selects award winners from nominations submitted by faculty and staff of the College.

Dr. David Shankle, School of Business & Applied Technology Dean, said, “working with Debbie Lejeune is truly a blessing. Her organizational skills coupled with her ability to educate students makes her one in a million.

She is not only an incredible worker, she is a friend. Debbie is someone I rely on for wise counsel at work, and her wisdom is shaped

by her years of experience at SOWELA. She is so deserving of the Customer Service Star Award!”

SOWELA Technical Community College provides traditional, distance, and lifelong learning experiences and awards associate degrees, technical diplomas, and certificates.

The College empowers learners in career and technical education and enables transfer students to pursue a four-year degree, so all learners excel as globally competitive citizens.

The College has been educating the region’s workforce for 80 years and has locations in Jennings, Lake Charles and Oakdale, LA. DeRouen, Girola & Associates Announce Promotion DeRouen Girola & Associates, a Nothwestern Mutual Wealth Management Firm, is proud to announce the promotion of Jacob Jacob Cooley Cooley to Associate Wealth Management Advisor. Jacob graduated from McNeese State University where he majored in Accounting and Finance with a concentration in Financial Analysis. His primary role in leading planning operations at DeRouen Girola & Associates is to analyze client data by creating models and illustrations that help the firm’s clients understand and visualize the complexities of personal finance.

Be a Sponsor & Purchase Tickets “Together We Grow” Awards Banquet L’Auberge Casino Resort THURSDAY, AUGUST 8, 2019, 6:00 PM Tickets, award nominations, and sponsorship opportunities available at apgrowth.org/awards.

337-602-6788 | APGrowth.org

Guest Speaker:

Gov. John Bel Edwards thriveswla.com

23

Style & Beauty

Beauty through the

Decades: How to Care for Your Skin at Every Age

by Emily Alford

The skincare section of any store with a beauty aisle is a labyrinth of oils, creams, and potions, each claiming borderline magical properties. But how do you know if you need a toner or an antioxidant cream? The answer could depend on your birth year.

We need different beauty products at different ages.

Here’s a handy guide to great skin at ever age:

20's

Your twenties are all about playing the prevention game, but all too often, we’re not thinking about what our skin will look like at 45 when we’re barely out of high school. Getting that perfect golden tan is of more concern than preventing dark spots later on.

However, most dermatologists agree that using a daily sunscreen for face and body is the most important measure people can take, not only for avoiding wrinkles and dark spots down the road, but to help prevent skin cancer, as well. Protecting skin from the sun doesn’t need to be super time consuming. Simply opt for a facial moisturizer that has SPF 30 or above and keep a bottle of spray sunscreen by the door or in the car.

30's

Many of the skin woes that plagued us in our twenties— acne, oiliness—clear up in our 30s. And while clear skin is great, the reason it’s clearing up is because skin is starting to dry out. So you might notices fewer blemishes and smaller pores alongside dark spots

24

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

(hyperpigmentation) and the appearance of fine lines. Washing your face twice a day and following up with a skin firming toner, as well as an SPF moisturizer in the morning and a night cream in the evening is an excellent way to give skin the moisture it needs to stay looking bright and fresh. Also, make hydration a priority; drinking enough water is an important part of keeping skin supple.

Great skin isn’t something that some of us were born with and some were born without.

Everyone can benefit from a skincare routine that protects, hydrates, and heals—at any age.

40's

For many, this decade brings a host of often contradictory skin issues. Dryness and loss of elasticity can be an issue, but menopause also wreaks havoc on hormones and causes a second coming of acne called perioral dermatitis.

Finding a dermatologist you trust, if you haven’t already, takes on extra importance in your forties. For many, a prescription Retin-A cream can help with both acne and wrinkles, but only a dermatologist can say if it’s right for you.

There are also plenty of over-thecounter remedies for skin problems that show up in your forties. Switching to oil-based cleansers can help retain moisture without clogging pores and serums containing aloe and chamomile can help reduce redness and irritation.

Night cream is more important than ever before, and if you haven’t found a brand you love, now’s the time.

50's

As skin gets more mature, production of collagen slows, which causes the sagging that many dread. In order to combat the loss of elasticity, oil, retinoids, and anti-oxidants are key. An ideal nighttime skin ritual for a person in their fifties is a moisturizing face wash, followed by prescription Retin-A, a facial oil, and a night cream. For daytime, look for a moisturizer rich in antioxidants that also contains the highest SPF you can find.

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25

Style & Beauty

Spotting the Signs of Sun Damage

by Kristy Como Armand

Age spots, freckles, liver spots – call them what you want, but when you spot them on your face, you call them “unsightly” and “unwanted,” among other things. Then you dedicate a large portion of your life trying to get rid of these areas of hyperpigmentation.

26

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

“Contrary to what most people think, age spots aren't caused by getting older,” explains licensed aesthetician Jennifer Lemons, owner of Dermalogix. “You can blame them – and nearly every other form of unwanted pigmentation – on the sun.

The sun’s rays basically attack the skin, and one way the skin defends itself is to make pigment. If you are skeptical, look at the skin that is never exposed to the sun. If the changes you are so unhappy with really came from aging, you'd have them all over."

Lemons says that aging does play one big role in the appearance of age spots. “The older a person gets, the greater the amount of sun damage they've accumulated, so the spots are more numerous and more visible.

That's why sunscreen and sun avoidance throughout your life are really key.”

Even though most spots are caused by the same source – the sun – they do take different forms. Here are the most common:

Freckles:

These are small tan spots that are usually less than half a centimeter. They may come and go, fading in the winter and darkening in the summertime.

Lentigines:

Known as age or liver spots, these smallto-medium brown areas multiply as you get older, popping up most often on the face, hands, and chest — all places with maximum exposure to sun.

Uneven skin tone:

Rather than a few specific spots, this involves larger areas of pigmentation that make your skin look darker in some areas, lighter in others.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: These are dark spots that develop after pimples, bug bites, or other flare-ups, and then stubbornly remain long after the initial inflammation has healed.

Melasma:

More patchy than spotty, these brown outbreaks are hormone related, so they are likeliest to appear (on the cheeks, forehead, and around the lips) when a woman is pregnant or taking hormone replacement or birth control pills.

So how do you make these spots fade away? Lemons cautions against over-thecounter brightening or lightening cleansers.

“They won't hurt you, but they also won't do anything more than wash your face.

They're not on the skin long enough to make a difference, and the amount of active ingredients they contain isn’t enough to be effective.”

She says hydroquinone is by far the most effective treatment for hyperpigmented skin. Hydroquinone is a bleaching agent available in higher grade cosmeceuticals or by prescription. “This product works by interfering with an enzyme that helps your skin produce melanin, the brown

additional therapies for pigmentation. They do not all directly inhibit the enzyme that produces melanin, but they can produce visible results.”

Lemons says there are several in-office skin care treatment options that can help eliminate hyperpigmentation, including chemical peels, microdermabrasion, Oxygen RX treatments and Hydrafacials with brightening agents, just to name a few options.

Home care is always recommended in conjunction with these treatments in order to achieve the results you want.

“And it just can’t be said enough: sunscreen is a must,” stresses Lemons. “Sun exposure can trigger production of the pigment you are trying to eliminate, and almost any treated dark spot can recur if exposed to UV light."

For more information about treating sun damaged skin, call Dermalogix at (337) 477-1195 or visit Dermalogixspa.com.

pigment that shows up as spots. The best products will contain two to four percent. Be careful to apply it only on the specific areas you want to lighten because hydroquinone is bleach. The product doesn’t distinguish the skin you want to bleach from the skin you don't.”

Kids & Men’s Haircuts If you are•sensitive • Black Mask to hydroquinone, • Pedicure you can improve the Hot shaves – We use the Blade! appearance• of spots somewhat with other E. PRIEN LAKE RD treatments,1331 explains LAKE CHARLES LA 70601 Lemons, including kojic acid, licorice extract, mulberry, vitamin C, and soy. "These are excellent alternative or

Gentlemen’s Barber Shop

337-541-1515

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27

Style & Beauty

Round-Up of

Sunscreens

by Emily Alford

Right now, summer is in full swing, which may or may not mean you’ve already suffered your first sunburn of the season.

And while turning pink from the sun can range from mildly annoying to incredibly painful, the real risk is skin cancer. In fact, Louisiana has the 47th highest incidence and 44th highest death rate of skin cancer in the U.S. To protect yourself, it’s probably best to apply a bit of sunscreen every day, but in the summertime, when we often spend hours in the sun, it’s especially important to stay covered. Dermatologists recommend adhering to the “shot glass” rule for sunscreen application, which means using one ounce (or a shot glass full) of sunscreen each time you apply.

But all sunscreen isn’t created equal.

Different activities (and skin types) require different sunscreens. Here is a handy roundup of some of the best sunscreens for every skin type and activity under the sun.

C'est Moi, Gentle, SPF30 sunscreen lives up to the “Gentle” right there in its name and is perfect for those who sometimes find themselves with a rash from fragrance and chemical-heavy sunscreens. C’est Moi is free of fragrance,

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

parabens, phthalates, sulfates, mineral oil, propylene glycol, and dyes, so really, all you’re getting is first-rate sun protection.

Belli Pure Radiance, SPF 30 is a broad-spectrum moisturizing shield free of artificial dyes, fragrances, phthalates, gluten, and paraben preservatives. Its active ingredients are titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, infused with cucumber, chamomile, and green tea.

Most dermatologists recommend wearing sunscreen every single day, all year round. But often, the sunscreen you pack for the beach is much too heavy to apply before work. La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Melt-in Sunscreen Milk, a French favorite, is light and moisturizing enough for everyday wear and was recently named by Consumer Reports as one of the best sunscreens for 2019.

Speaking of Consumer Reports, Trader Joe’s Spray SPF 50 sunscreen was the only formula to earn a perfect score in Consumer Report’s test, which evaluated the accuracy of the SPF claims, the length of time the formula offers protection, and how well the sunscreen blocks UVAs, which are responsible for those aging “sunspots.”

If you’re looking for sun protection on a budget, X-Treme Sports Spray Gel Sunscreen is an inexpensive brand that offers excellent protection and 80 minutes of water resistance. It’s also excellent for protecting during other outdoor activities where you might break a sweat.

If you’re planning on hitting the beach or pool, you need to grab a different sunscreen from the one you apply in the morning before work or even the one you slather on the kids before tee-ball.

SolRX Waterblock Formula is designed specifically for swimmers and is specifically designed and tested for water immersion, so you can be sure your sunblock doesn’t wash away during your time in the water.

If you’re concerned about oxybenzone, a chemical often found in sunscreen that the FDA warns is more easily absorbed through skin than previously thought, there are some excellent oxybenzone-free sunscreens out there. Consumer reports recommended Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Ultra Radiance Lotion SPF 50 Sunscreen, which reviewers say smells great and melts into skin nicely.

Formulated for Kids:

Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen for Kids, SPF 30 is touted as the number one pediatrician-recommended mineral-based brand. UVA/UVB protection, and water resistant for 80 minutes.

Mineral-based sunscreens are gentler on young skin.

California Kids #supersensitive SPF 30+, another mineralbased sunscreen, contains mostly titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which deflect the sun’s rays by absorbing into the top layers of the skin without any additives. California Kids is great for children but works just as well for adults. Amazon reviews say this sunscreen feels weightless and doesn’t leave that white residue that comes along with some mineral sunscreens. It’s also excellent for sensitive skin, which is probably why it’s one of Consumer Reports’s top picks for mineral sunscreens.

And just a reminder, the SPF number on your sunblock refers to how long you can stay in the sun without getting a burn.

Unfortunately, sunscreen isn’t set it and forget it. Even if you’re applying SPF 80, you’re still going to need to re-apply when your time is up.

Enjoy y o in the s ur fun un . . . safely!

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Mind & Body

No Excuses!

Exercise Alternatives for

People Who Dislike the Gym

by John O’Donnell

Need some fun ways to be active without feeling like it is exercise? Try these ideas: For some people, a trip to the gym for a workout is an enjoyable part of their daily routine and even a venue for social interaction. For others, going to the gym is torture for reasons that range from fear of body shaming to a fear of having a heart attack on the treadmill and dying of embarrassment. Or maybe dying of boredom on the treadmill? For those of you who have gym-phobia, there is good news and great news: The good news is that you can stay fit through exercise and the great news is that you don’t have to set foot in the gym to do it!

There is no disputing the benefits of regular exercise. Exercise has proven benefits for cardiovascular health, weight control, improved cognitive function, stress reduction, better sleep, and chronic disease prevention. However, just knowing the benefits often isn’t enough to motivate most people.

The mere mention of the word exercise brings visions of sweat, sore muscles, and the taunts of middle school gym class. But what if you don’t think of exercise as exercise?

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

There are many activities that provide both aerobic activity and strength training that are just plain fun and not traditional exercise at all. The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) updated exercise guidelines last year with new activity goals that are much easier to meet without ever setting foot in a gym!

To begin, the new guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic activity and muscle strengthening activity twice each week for adults. The HHS defines moderate intensity aerobic activity as any activity that gets your heart beating faster.

They suggest using the “talk test” to determine if an activity is moderate or vigorous activity. When you’re being active, just try talking: If you’re breathing hard but can still have a conversation easily, it’s moderate intensity activity.

If you can only say a few words before you have to take a breath, it’s vigorous intensity activity. The best news is that any amount of time five minutes or longer spent performing any activity counts! So, get moving!

• DANCING • WALKING • HULA HOOPING • DEEP CLEANING THE HOUSE • SWIMMING • PLAYING CHASE WITH THE KIDS • INTERACTIVE ROLE-PLAYING VIDEOGAMES • JUMPING ROPE

There you have it! No gym, no excuses. Just get up and move!

Your Place or Ours?

The first step in diagnosing sleep apnea is a sleep test.

It can be done in your own home or in our sleep lab.

Afterward, one of our sleep specialists will meet with you to review results and guide you on the path to sleeping well and waking up refreshed.

Call us today to get started.

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31

Mind & Body

Protecting Young Eyes from the Sun

by Kristy Como Armand

Kids are outside more than ever during the summer. Parents, cautious about the effects of the sun, pour on the sunscreen and encourage them to wear a cap or visor. But vulnerable parts of the body are still exposed: the eyes.

Sunglasses for kids are often seen as a novelty item, something bought at a five-and-dime store just for fun. But protecting your little ones’ eyes from UV rays is important to remember.

“Excessive exposure to sunlight anytime, including the childhood years, is harmful to the eyes,” said Dr. Chad East, optometrist with The Eye Clinic. “The risk for retinal damage from the sun’s rays is greatest in children younger than 10 years old, even though the consequences aren’t usually apparent until much later.”

Long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays has been linked to a host of eye diseases, including cataracts, age-

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

related macular degeneration, intraocular malignant melanoma (eye cancer) and photokeratitis (corneal burn).

Few kids will understand the importance of wearing sunglasses to protect their vision, but Dr. East said parents should encourage sun safety by wearing their own sunglasses and providing quality shades for their children.

Ball games, playing by the pool, going to the beach, and just being outside for a length of time can be rough on the eyes if they aren’t protected. Many experts believe eyes get 80 percent of their total lifetime exposure to the sun’s UV rays by age 18. And, Dr. East added that excessive lifetime exposure to UV radiation has been linked to the development of cataracts and other eye problems. A person’s lifestyle appears to be the most important factor in determining whose eyes will be most affected by UV damage.

“Frames come in a wide array of colors, shapes, styles, and are available in sleek, sporty, quirky and traditional options,” said Sandra Richard, optician with The Eye Clinic in Moss Bluff. “We have something to fit every personality.”

Richard advises parents to not get too swayed by the style of the sunglasses, and concentrate on the quality. “After all, the purpose is to protect the eyes. If they look great but don’t offer protection, they aren’t doing their job,” she said.

Choosing protective lenses can be confusing, as there are many options available. Richard said that polycarbonate lenses are a good choice for children and athletes as they shield the eyes from UV radiation as well as protect the eyes against impact injuries that may occur during play and sports.

She said wrap-around or close-fitting frames offer great protection against the sun. “Glasses that do not fit close to the face tend to allow light to penetrate the eyes by seeping in around the lenses. Polarized lenses tend to reduce reflection and glare, particularly useful while boating or near the water. “ Sunglass cords, or retainers, are often a good idea for kids. “These can be attached to the temples of the sunglasses so that when removed, or knocked off, the sunglasses can hang from the neck and not get misplaced,” Richard explained.

Selecting a pair of sunglasses with your child is a good opportunity to emphasize the importance of health and safety. “And by choosing frames they like,” said Dr. East, “they’ll be more likely to wear them.”

Expert Care Closer to Home.

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY.

CALL US AT 337.388.6200 NO REFERRALS NECESSARY

NOW ACCEPTING MEDICARE & MEDICAID

For more suggestions on choosing sunglasses for kids, call The Eye Clinic nearest you in Lake Charles, Sulphur, DeRidder, Moss Bluff or Jennings.

Fernando Ruiz, MD

Avinash Murthy, MD

Karen Golla, NP

CARDIO.COM thriveswla.com

33

Mind & Body

When Your Child Requires Hospitalization Having a sick child is one of the most difficult situations a family can go through. Being close to a good support network can help alleviate some of the stress and difficulty that goes along with it. Also, having a safe and reliable facility to turn to when your child becomes ill is imperative. Lake Charles Memorial Hospital (LCMH) has the only Acute Care Pediatric Unit and the only Pediatric Intensive Care Unit in our community.

“Having a sick child in the family is a very stressful situation,” says Dr. Saqer, Board Certified Pediatrician and Pediatric

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

Intensive Care Specialist at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital. “At that time, you need all the help you can get. We can do our part to reassure the parents when their kids are getting better, but you always need that family support around you.”

Dr. Saqer emphasizes that not every issue requires leaving town for solutions. “There is a lot of care we can provide outside of a big children’s hospital. Obviously, they are a great resource, but not everyone needs to go there. If we can provide the same level of care within our community and keep the patients within their extended family and community for support, that’s a win.”

“A lot of our care [at LCMH] is acute care, meaning that we’re dealing with infections, viral pneumonias which were very bad this year. We see a lot of gastroenteritis and dehydration. We also receive a lot of heart failure patients and acute respiratory failure patients,” says Saqer.

However, sometimes it may be necessary for a family to seek help at a larger children-specific facility.

Children with long term chronic

illnesses may have a specialized team at a larger hospital—but that doesn’t mean a local hospital isn’t involved.

Because LCMH has a good working relationship with tertiary children’s hospitals, it’s not difficult for both hospitals to communicate and establish care plans for children who are returning home. While the team of specialists oversees treatment plans, patients may need to turn to Memorial when in need of acute care. With a team of experienced nurses and staff, Dr. Saqer and the Pediatrics team are able to stabilize patients and ensure they are able to safely get to their specialists, if needed.

“At Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, your child is being taken care of in a comparable situation, and you still have access to your home and family,” adds Dr. Saqer.

For more information on pediatric care at LCMH, go to www.lcmh. com or call 337-494-3000.

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CENTER FOR REGENERATIVE MEDICINE

Harnessing the Healing Power of Your Body The Center for Regenerative Medicine is affiliated with iGenesis, a collaborative network of orthopedic providers who offer standardized biologic therapies that meet the FDA’s comprehensive regenerative medicine policy framework to treat specific musculosksletal conditions.

The Center for Orthopaedics proudly announces the opening of the Center for Regenerative Medicine.

Regenerative medicine is a revolutionary treatment approach that uses the the body’s own cells for accelerated healing of injuries and to reduce the pain and limitations of osteoarthritis.

Advanced biologic therapies allow our physicians to use a patient’s blood and bone marrow for the nonsurgical treatment of tendon and arthritic conditions of the knee, shoulder and hip.

To learn more or schedule a regenerative medicine consultation, call (337) 721-7236.

CenterforOrtho.com 1747 Imperial Blvd., Lake Charles thriveswla.com

35

Home & Family

Back to the Books: Back-to-School Guide

Ready or not, the first day of school is only a calendar page away. In between last minute road trips and shopping for school supplies and uniforms, take a few moments to read through our special back-to-school section. You’ll find tips on everything from test-taking, after-school snacking, health and safety, homework, and more.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

Coming Fall 2020

Bishop Noland Episcopal Day School South Campus Middle and Upper School

Providing academic excellence to a diverse student body in a Christian environment since 1953.

5665 North Gray Market Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70605 337-433-5246 episcopaldayschool.org

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Home & Family | Back to the Books: Back-to-School Guide

A Pediatrician’s

Back-to-School Advice for Parents As children prepare to head back to school, parents often ask what they can do to help their child navigate the challenges ahead and have a healthy and successful year. Dr. Albert W. Richert Jr, MD, with The Pediatric Center of Southwest Louisiana offers tips for parents to help their child prepare for the new school year.

First and foremost, parents should continue annual well-visits with their child’s pediatrician through the teen years. These visits ensure immunizations are up to date, screen for emerging health or developmental issues, and protect your child’s overall well-being.

LOWER ELEMENTARY GRADE STUDENTS (AGES 5-9) These students are often the most excited about returning to school to learn new things, make new friends, and share with each other.

Unfortunately, this sharing includes a multitude of germs. A good way to prepare your child for a healthy school year is to review proper handwashing hygiene. Demonstrate how to properly wash hands – fingers, tops, palms, and in-between fingers. Also, remind them to cough and sneeze into their elbow or shoulder instead of their hands. Limiting unhealthy hand-to-mouth behaviors like nail biting and asking to keep personal school supplies in your child’s desk instead of sharing can also keep germs at bay. Consider donating sanitizing wipes, tissues, and hand sanitizer to the classroom – the teacher will appreciate you! Dr. Richert also recommends parents meet with their child’s teachers to help facilitate good communication. “Ask the teacher if you think your child needs extra help with certain subjects.”

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

UPPER ELEMENTARY GRADE AND MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS (AGES 10-14) This age group is often at risk for peer pressure and self-esteem issues as they transition from childhood to their “tween” years. This time can be a breeding ground for unhealthy relationships and interactions.

To foster your child’s self-esteem, identify his or her interests and strengths (knowing they might have changed or be very different from their siblings’) and look for ways to encourage those interests. “Help your child find activities they are interested in, such as sports, band, or other groups,” says Dr. Richert. Be careful, however, not to over-commit your child to too many activities, especially as academic demands increase in the upper grades. Higher self-esteem lowers the risk of your child being subject to, or taking part in, bullying. Talk to your child regularly about their friendships and encourage peer time under your supervision so that you can get to know their friends.

Limit smartphone use unless you are an expert on parental controls and have the time to check their texting and social media accounts regularly. “Also, help your child with organization skills and encourage them to take more responsibility for their schoolwork,” Dr. Richert advises.

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS In high school, kids undergo increasing amounts of pressure in academics, athletics, and peer relationships as they pursue graduation. They often sacrifice healthy sleep and diet practices to keep up with those demands and are at higher risk of depression and anxiety. “A good sleep routine is important at all levels,” says Dr. Richert. “High school kids are more likely to have a good sleep routine if they were taught good sleep habits when they were

younger. Consistency is key.” Risky behaviors such as drinking, smoking and trying illicit drugs may be a way to cope with underlying mental illness, unstable home environments, or poor self-esteem. Dr. Richert recommends teens pursue fun, safe activities with friends, participate in positive after-school activities and/or sports, and do volunteer work in the community.

Talk to your teens daily about their life stressors and become familiar with early signs of depression such as change in behavior, withdrawing from social, extra-curricular, and home activities, and decreasing academic performance. Your teen may be closer to adulthood, but they still need you to set limits on bedtimes, curfews, driving privileges, etc. to be healthy and successful.

The Pediatric Center is located at 2800 Country Club Rd, Lake Charles. For more information or to make an appointment, call 337-477-0935

A. RICHERT, JR., MD

J. BABINEAUX, MD

A. RODGERS, MD

S. WHITE, MD

L. STEPHENSON, MD

M. HERNANDEZ, MD

J. THOMAS, MD

C. FONTENOT, MD

R. WALLER, CPNP

LAKE CHARLES 2800 Country Club Rd. (337) 477-0935

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Home & Family | Back to the Books: Back-to-School Guide

Pack it Up Trending Lunchboxes for the New School Year

by Lauren Atterbery Cesar

Lunch boxes have come a long way since the clunky metal rectangular boxes that boasted a favorite band or television show characters. Now, you are spoiled for choice when selecting a back-toschool lunchbox for your child. Do you go for a lunchbox that matches their backpack or find a functional design that will keep their food the perfect temperature until lunch time? Below are several options that your child is sure to love in the lunchroom. These lunch totes are available on Amazon.

Rubbermaid Lunchblox Lunch Bag: If you’re hoping to check all the boxes – best price, compact, cool design – then this lunch box is for you. Designed to work with Rubbermaid containers, it can fit multiple containers, an ice pack, and even has a side compartment to store a water bottle. It’s lightweight, has a comfortable grip handle, and a removable shoulder strap. It’s a great way to send your child to the lunchroom in style. $10

Lonecone Kids’ Insulated Fabric Lunchbox: With eighteen kid-friendly patterns, your child is sure to find something they love. These lunchboxes are designed with your child in mind. They have large zippers and a wide opening to make it easy for your child to maneuver during the hustle and bustle of lunch. Many of their designs have a matching backpack available. $16.99

East World Bento Box: Bento boxes for children are trending for so many reasons, but allowing parents to pack healthy food in perfect portions for their children has really helped solidify their place in the lunchroom. However, it can be hard to find a leak-proof bento box. East World has made leak proof bento boxes that come with a lunch box, a bento box, a plastic spork and spork-knife, and a reusable ice pack. Microwave and dishwasher-safe. $19.99

PackIt Freezable Lunch Bag: This lunch bag boasts PackIt’s patented cooling technology using freezable gel that is permanently built into the bag. Store this lunch bag flat in the freezer overnight, and it will keep your child’s food cool until lunch time the next day without worrying about separate ice packs. With 43 different designs, this is a great lunch bag to start the school year off with. $16.44

The Baloray Lunch Bag Tote: This stylish lunch bag looks more like a purse that your daughter could carry around than a traditional lunch bag. It's made of waterproof material and has an insulated interior, along with a side pocket. Available in thirteen different prints. $14.00

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

Splash Box from ECOlunchbox: Plastic baggies and commonly used containers can have a negative impact on both the environment and our health. Try the new 3-in-1 Splash Box from ECOlunchbox. This stainless-steel nesting lunchbox features an upstairs and downstairs compartment for storing food along with a snack container called the Mini Splash Pod. It is held together with a wavy-shaped latch and features leak-proof, silicone lids that will keep your bag mess-free. While other eco-friendly containers need to be hand washed, this convenient box is dishwasher safe, including the silicone lids. $35.99

Out of the Woods Boxed Lunch: If you're all about caring for the environment, try this eco-friendly bag. It's made of sturdy Supernatural Paper™, a renewable, lightweight material from paper that matches the strength and aesthetics of leather, but 100% animal-free.

And it's washable! It sports an interior zippered mesh pocket and an exterior side pocket. This bag is only available at Office Depot. $12.99

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Home & Family | Back to the Books: Back-to-School Guide

Healthy Snacks

to Welcome Kids Home from School

by Stephanie Kestel Karpovs, MCD, CCC-SLP

Summer has nearly come and gone and it’s time to prepare for the back-to-school routine. The truth is that many families struggle after school. Ballet lessons, soccer practice, music lessons, and homework sandwich tightly in between the last school bell and dinner. That’s where snacks come in to play. Most kids don’t drink enough water throughout the day, so having water available immediately after school is a winning strategy. Snacks with protein, fiber, and low to no added sugar can help boost energy for whatever their busy afternoon requires. Eating in the car can be a choking hazard, especially for young kids, so prep ahead and make time to pause and enjoy the snacks. Don’t forget to cut nuts and grapes into smaller chunks for young children (usually until the age of 4). An apple is one of the easiest healthy snacks, but here are some tips to give your kids good afterschool fuel:

• Grapes on a skewer—Have these quick and easy “hungry caterpillars” ready in advance—they taste great whether you store them in the fridge or freezer; frozen blueberries are also refreshing in the heat.

• Toasted nuts—Almonds or pumpkin seeds are a superior source of plant-based protein and almonds are high in Vitamin E and calcium; plus they are a great way to offer crunchy snacks which kids need to develop a strong jaw. Toss in some cashews, walnuts, dried fruit, or dark chocolate and make your own trail mix.

• Veggie slices with hummus or ranch dressing—Go “old school” and slice some red/yellow/orange bell peppers, celery, cucumbers, and carrots ahead of time; these make a quick, easy and nutritious snack that can easily be packed in to-go containers.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

• Apples slices with peanut/almond or sun butter—yum!

• Popcorn—It’s healthiest to air pop your own kernels on the stove. Drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil, sprinkle with nutritional yeast for a nutty cheese flavor, add a dash of sea salt, and let the kids shake it up.

• Edamame—Keep the pods in the freezer, then cook it on the stovetop. Add a dash of salt or pepper. These are a quick and easy and store well in the fridge for later.

• Toasted chickpeas—These are a terrific source of protein and fiber. Have the kids help pat them dry, season, and toss them in the bowl (Stephanie’s recipe in a sidebar) SNACKS TO SKIP • Fruit/veggie pouches—Although these seem great because of the less-mess package and promotion of fruits and vegetables, these pouches can promote an immature suckle pattern in toddlers and older kids which may result in tongue thrust— it’s much better to eat apple sauce with a spoon!

However, you can always bring a reusable bowl and spoon to serve these on-the-go.

• Sugary snacks & junk foods – Candy bars, chips, french fries, sodas, etc. These are high calorie, high sugar or salt, and very low on nutrition.

Healthy kids will thrive when provided with healthy snack options. Help them refuel with mindboosting foods and drinks to energize them after a long day. Start the new school year off right with successful snacking!

Stephanie Kestel Karpovs is a speech-language pathologist/pediatric feeding specialist and wellness coach. She enjoys helping families become happy, healthy, and adventurous eaters.

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7th Annual FILL THE

BACKPACK August 3 @ 10:00 am

Access of Louisiana is teaming up with Maplewood Middle School at Vinton Recreation Center to support Pick-A-Kid’s 7th Annual Fill The Backpack Event on August 3rd to provide school supplies for Calcasieu Parish students in need. Donations accepted year round at all our credit union offices.

Sulphur - Westlake - Lake Charles 337-533-1808 - www.access.coop Federally Insured by NCUA

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Home & Family | Back to the Books: Back-to-School Guide

Ready, Set .. .. .. Test!

How to Prepare Your Child for Standardized Testing

by Lauren Atterbery Cesar

Standardized testing is becoming increasingly important to students, teachers, and parents as a measurement tool for growth and a determining factor for many aspects of your child’s education. It may seem like times have changed and now teachers are simply “teaching to a test,” but that’s not what’s happening. The reality is that teachers don’t know what will be on the end-of-course test beyond the standards that they are required to teach, so it’s important to encourage your child to focus on their daily assignments which are standards-based in order to prepare them for the end of the year. However, when the words “high-stakes testing” are whispered in the PTO circles and throughout the bleachers at a volleyball game, many parents start quaking in their boots.

Renee Reina of Sylvan Learning explains how we should view these tests. “It is important to reinforce to your child that standardized tests are designed to indicate the skills and knowledge the students have learned. These tests can also indicate skills that need to be reviewed. They are not to be feared even though there is a lot of discussion that surround them.”

Using these measurement tools are a great way to gauge what your child is excelling in and in which areas they still need support. For those who want to get a jump start on preparation, there are positive habits and steps that you as a parent can incorporate into your child’s daily routine to support their growth.

Encourage literacy. Setting aside twenty minutes a day for your child to read a book close to their Lexile Level is a great way to prepare them for a standardized test. If you’re not sure what level they are on, email their English teacher or librarian. Most core subjects require students to be able to read complex texts on-grade-level. Boosting their literacy daily will only help them grow.

Practice writing. In all core subjects, students must be able to express their understanding of the standards being assessed. In English, Social Studies, and Science throughout most grade bands students must respond to questions using multi-paragraph response formats. If your student struggles with writing, have them practice this once a week at home. In some levels of math students are asked to respond in a constructed response format which is important to practice as all core subjects are more focused on literacy and written expression.

Combat test anxiety. Reina suggests teaching your child basic relaxation techniques like taking deep breaths if they become anxious during a test. Although these tests are timed, it is far better to have your student take a moment to calm themselves and refocus than feel anxious.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

Build their long-term memories.

Students generally have anxious feelings about testing when the format is something they have not seen before and they are not familiar with the way the questions are worded. Work with your child’s teacher on getting test practice materials that are worded like a standardized test. If your child will be taking the test on a computer, use websites like Edulastic to help your child practice interacting with something similar. If your child practices in the format the test will be given, you’re helping to support this format in their long-term memories. This means that when they see the real test, their body will not automatically go into panicmode because what they are seeing looks familiar. They are less likely to have issues with anxiety if they’re confident in the format and in their typing skills.

In addition to these pre-testing tips, also ensure your child gets enough sleep the night before a test and eats a nutritious breakfast.

Lauren Atterbery Cesar worked as a middle school English teacher for 13 years in Calcasieu Parish and is now assistant principal at Grand Lake High School in Cameron Parish.

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Home & Family | Back to the Books: Back-to-School Guide

Easy Steps to Avoid

Math Mistakes Mistakes Math

by Gena Latrell

The subject of math comes easily for some – not so much for others. All those decimals, fractions, and formulas can cause anxiety and a lot of incorrect answers on exams. Some missed problems occur because of students' miscalculations; however, others are due to simple, preventable errors. Here are some tips on how to help your child avoid common math mistakes.

There are some frequent mistakes made by students (and adults) in math. Martha Dalton, owner and director of Mathnasium, a math tutoring and learning center in Lake Charles, says most student error falls into three categories. "CARELESSNESS, CALCULATION, AND CONCEPT," says Dalton. "Careless mistakes include things like not reading the entire math problem, speeding through tests, copying the problem wrong, messy handwriting, etc. Calculation mistakes are getting incorrect answers for basic operations, and Concept mistakes include not interpreting or not understanding a concept that is to be applied to a problem."

Those are some of the most common mistakes – now on to fixing them. Here are three strategies to help improve your child's math skills.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

Pace

Speeding through a test almost guarantees errors. A child can miss the sign included in a math problem or miscalculate numbers simply by rushing. Encourage your child to pace himself/herself and concentrate on each problem – more than aiming to finish the test.

Proofr e a d

Tell your child to check and re-check the steps and solutions to every test problem, if time allows. One incorrect number – like a messy "3" mistaken for an "8” – can get carried through every step of a math problem, leading to a wrong answer. Simple mistakes can be caught during review.

Practice

Another problem is the long-held myth about math. Many people believe mathematics is something you either get or you don't; you're either a "math person" or you aren't. Not true, says Dalton.

Math skills can be improved. "Students need to practice math.

Problems need to be worked until students have mastered the concept presented. Students need to verbalize a concept by explaining it to someone else or writing down the explanation.

By building the foundation of recalling basic facts [and practice], children will become better and much more proficient."

It's true that stellar math skills garner better grades and higher scores on standardized tests. Dalton agrees but says conquering math affects something of more importance: a child's future. "If students don't have these skills, they will limit their career choices. Also, to be successful in life, students will need to apply the math skills they have learned to everyday situations. Things like balancing a checkbook, credit card interest, percents, making change, using a tape measure, and measuring ingredients in the kitchen all require math."

Math tests are hard enough. Add the stress of getting a good grade and a possible time factor, and it can be difficult for any child (or adult) to answer every problem correctly. However, trying to avoid preventable errors is worth the effort. Have your child study math as intensely as he/she would the vocabulary for a spelling test. Also, promote memorizing calculations and practicing math concepts. These steps can help improve your child's skills and facilitate true success at math.

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Home & Family | Back to the Books: Back-to-School Guide

Put a Halt to

Homework Hassles

by Carol Tuttle

When it comes to your child's homework, do you beg, plead, or bribe? Do you threaten consequences? You can make homework easier for both you and your children with some simple tips that honor their natural energy. Every child has a dominant Energy Type that determines the way they move through life. It affects everything they do—playing, talking, eating, sleeping. And yes, it even shows up in the way they do homework! Ready to take the struggle out of homework?

Here are homework tips for the four Types of children:

For the Fun-loving Type 1 Child.

These bright-minded children think quickly and like to move. Their thought process works like snapshots of ideas, so engaging in a linear experience can be challenging for them.

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For the Sensitive

Type 2 Child.

These subtle children work methodically and are great with details. They are naturally quieter, so speaking up about what they might need can be a challenge for them.

Pre-homework playtime.

If your child attends a traditional school, they need time to do something light and free before jumping into homework. Let them come up with ideas of what they’ll do—some thing to look forward to after the structured experience of school.

Planned routine (one that they plan).

These children do best when they have a plan they have made themselves. Which steps will they follow to get things done?

You can ask this of children as young as five or six years old as Type 2 children are already thinking this way.

Homework jumping.

Allow them to skip from one activity to another. That’s how their brain works anyway. Extra movement of things going on in the background is actually helpful for them because it allows them to disconnect from their homework and then connect again.

Invitation to connect.

Type 2 children often want their parents to recognize the work they’re doing without knowing how to ask for it. Take a second to connect with them while they’re working and invite them to share with you.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

For the Determined

For the More Serious

Type 3 Child.

These active children move swiftly and like getting things done. Their natural speed can be a challenge when it comes to detailed tasks they feel are tedious or pointless.

Help them see the point of it.

These children will do homework when they understand the reason why. If they don’t see it, they’ll try to get around it somehow. They’ll pick the grade they want and do as much as they must do to get it done. Help them see the practical purpose.

Make homework part of the extracurricular fund. Money is a great motivator in the Type 3 world. If you plan to pay for extracurricular activities, you could attach a money value to finishing homework and that money goes to a sport or lesson they really want. You’ll be spending the money anyway and they’ll enjoy the feeling of accomplishment as they work toward a special activity.

Type 4 Child.

These focused children are self-motivated.

But if they’re not respected for who they are at school, they’ll buck the system. It will look like rebellion, but it’s really only their attempt to stay true to their nature.

The respectful phrase.

These children feel offended when you tell them what to do because they’re aware of their responsibilities. Try this phrase: “Looks like you’re doing great. Let me know if you need help.” Let them come to you, which they will, if they think they need help.

Parents, here’s your homework assignment to end the homework struggle for good: Set the intention that you and your child will experience ease and enjoyment as you support them in their homework. It’s possible and you can start today.

Carol Tuttle is the CEO of Live Your Truth, LLC and author of the best-selling parenting book, The Child Whisperer: the Ultimate Handbook for Raising Happy, Successful, Cooperative Children. For more information, visit www.thechildwhisperer.com.

Ownership of a space.

Set aside one consistent place that they can take ownership of at the same time every day to do their homework—not the kitchen table. If possible, get them their own desk or a place that’s separate from where everyone is moving around.

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Home & Family | Back to the Books: Back-to-School Guide

Be Aware of

Sport-Specific Injuries for Young Athletes

by Kristy Como Armand

Eleven-year-old pitchers with sore shoulders, 13-year-old soccer players with aching ankles, basketball stars with throbbing heels – virtually every young adult sport has a risk of injury and statistics indicate those risks have been realized at an increasing rate. With an estimated 25 million scholastic, and another 20 million organized community-based youth programs in the United States, the opportunity for injury is enormous.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, more than 3.5 million athletes under the age of 15 seek medical treatment for sports-related injuries each year.

Sports injuries are the second leading cause of emergency room visits for children and adolescents, and the second leading cause of injuries in school.

“There are more children playing competitive sports and many of them are playing year-round. The benefits of sports are substantial, but so is the risk of injury if proper precautions aren’t taken,” says Alex Anderson, MD, primary care sports medicine specialist with Imperial Health Center for Orthopaedics. “Obviously, it’s important for coaches

and team staff to understand prevention and treatment of these injuries, but it is also extremely important for parents to understand the risks. When parents have a full understanding of this, it makes it much easier and more comfortable for them to enjoy the game. They feel educated and prepared.”

Sprains and strains are the most common injuries, making it crucial that parents and supervising adults have a full understanding of how to prevent and treat them. “A sprain involves the stretching or tearing of a ligament. A strain involves stretching or tearing of the muscle or tendon structures. Both can cause limited mobility, pain and swelling.

If minor, they often heal quickly using the RICE technique – rest, ice, compression and elevation,” Dr. Anderson said. “Early medical attention is wise when pain is severe or causes immobility, but in many cases, these youth injuries can be treated with adequate rest and home care.”

Although all youth sports present opportunities for sprains and strains, certain sports do carry specific risks at a higher rate than others, according to Dr. Anderson. Below are some typical injuries in the sports seen most among young athletes: Football Damage to the ACL – the anterior cruciate ligament in the knee – is a common injury in football. Although typically thought of as an injury that ends the careers of NFL superstars, Dr. Anderson says athletes as young as nine or ten have now become susceptible to ACL damage. Training drills that require balance, power and agility are crucial. Jumping and balance drills improve athletes’ muscular reactions, which has shown to cause a decrease in the risk of ACL damage.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

Cheerleading One of the more common injuries in this sport is to the wrist, because weight is constantly being put on the wrists to execute flips, lift other members of their squad, and other athletic demands. It’s easy to forget about the wrists during stretching exercises, but it’s crucial that both hands and wrists get conditioned during warm-up. If wrist pain becomes constant, seek the advice of a medical professional. If left untreated, Dr. Anderson says wrist injuries can worsen.

Basketball “Jammed fingers” are common because fingers and thumbs are constantly being utilized and hit by the ball. Symptoms include pain, swelling, discoloring and immobility.

Sometimes finger joints can become dislocated. If a joint becomes dislocated, do not allow anyone but a trained medical professional to restore it. In the case of a swollen or sore finger, ice should be applied as soon as possible and continued in 12-minute intervals with 20-minute breaks between ice applications. Elevate the injured finger. You can compress the finger also, but make sure the compression isn’t too tight and is not left on for too long.

Baseball/Softball There has been a rapid increase in arm injuries among young pitchers, which is usually the result of overuse and improper technique. Make sure the team adheres to pitching limits, preferably those set forth by the American Sports Medicine Institute. Dr. Anderson says parents of young pitchers should familiarize themselves with these limits and make sure the coaches follow them.

Young athletes should also make sure they learn and understand proper throwing techniques and condition themselves adequately before game play.

Soccer Not surprisingly, pain in the shins is very typical of soccer players.

Generalized shin pain that increases over time is often referred to as ‘shin splints,’ and is usually caused by improper stretching, overtraining, overuse, running or jumping, and inadequate cleats. Shin splits are marked by pain in the lower leg, which worsens while running or exercising, a lingering ache that continues even during rest, and tight or inflexible calves. The best thing that can be done is rest. The RICE method can also be used for immediate relief.

Dr. Anderson says early recognition and treatment of injuries is critical in returning athletes to their sport safely and quickly. “Any injury that involves obvious swelling, deformity, and/or loss of normal function in movement or strength should be seen by a physician immediately. If a minor injury does not heal on its own, and your child is not back to full participation without pain, it is best to have him/her evaluated by a physician,” he says. ”Nagging injuries that go untreated can turn into a more serious condition that could require a much longer time away from the sport to allow the injury to heal properly.”

Visit CenterForOrtho.com to learn more about sports injuries and prevention.

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Home & Family | Back to the Books: Back-to-School Guide

Back-to-School: Steps to Help Keep Kids Safe

PUT SAFETY AT THE TOP OF THE LIST WHEN GETTING KIDS READY FOR SCHOOL

It’s almost time for the school bells to ring again and the American Red Cross has steps everyone can follow to help make the trip back to the classroom a safe one. Preparing and reminding children of safety measures – whether they walk, bike, or ride to school – is key to their arriving and returning home safely.

SCHOOL BUS SAFETY

If children ride a bus to school, they should plan to get to their bus stop early and stand back from the curb while waiting for the bus to arrive. Other safety steps include: • Wait to board the bus until it has come to a complete stop and the driver or attendant has signaled to get on.

• Tell children they should only board their bus – never an alternate one.

• Always stay in clear view of the bus driver and never walk behind the bus.

• Cross the street at the corner, obey traffic signals and stay in the crosswalk.

• Never dart out into the street, or cross between parked cars.

GET TO SCHOOL SAFELY

If children ride in a car to get to school, they should always wear a seat belt.

• Younger children should use car seats or booster seats until the lap-shoulder belt fits properly (typically for children ages 8-12 and over 4’9”) and ride in the back seat until they are at least 13 years old.

• If a teenager is driving to school, parents should mandate that he or she use seat belts. Drivers should not use their cell phone to text or make calls, and should avoid eating or drinking while driving.

• Some students ride their bike to school. They should always wear a helmet and ride on the right in the same direction as traffic goes.

• When students walk to school, they should only cross the street at an intersection. If possible, use a route with crossing guards.

• Parents should walk young children to school, along with children taking new routes or attending new schools, for at least the first week to ensure they know how to get there safely. Arrange for the kids to walk to school with a friend or classmate.

WHAT DRIVERS SHOULD KNOW

Drivers should know what the yellow and red bus signals mean and be aware that children are out walking or biking to school and slow down – especially in residential areas and school zones. Yellow flashing lights indicate the bus is getting ready to stop and motorists should slow down and be prepared to stop. Red flashing lights and an extended stop sign indicate the bus is stopped and children are getting on or off. Drivers in both directions must stop their vehicles and wait until the lights go off, the stop sign is back in place, and the bus is moving before they can start driving again.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

Sheriff Tony Mancuso Announces

“Reality Check”

Life Readiness Academy for Teens The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office is offering a new life readiness program called “Reality Check” for teens age 14 and up. The goal of the program, according to Sheriff Tony Mancuso, is to prepare today’s youth for life tomorrow. It was developed to give teens experience and guidance for handling challenging, real-life situations they may encounter as they transition to adulthood.

“Being a teen today isn’t easy. There are more risks and threats to safety and well-being than ever before,” says Mancuso. “That’s why we created Reality Check – to equip our teens with the knowledge and resources they’ll need to be successful young adults.”

Reality Check will cover some of the most confusing situations that teens are likely to face: roadside safety; what to do when if they are pulled over by the police; understanding the

importance of their credit score; how to balance a check book; dealing with peer pressure; how to protect their identity online, and more. “We’ll even simulate driving under the influence so they’ll understand the true impact of alcohol on their capabilities,” says Mancuso.

The one-day program is free and open to Calcasieu Parish teens. Several sessions will be offered this year. For more information or to register, call (337) 491-3851.

FREE! Multiple sessions offered.

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Reality Check will give teens the knowledge and resources they need to successfully handle real-life challenges as they transition to adulthood. Each course is taught by deputies and experts in their respective fields. This one-day program will cover some of the most confusing situations teens are likely to face: roadside safety; understanding the importance of their credit score; dealing with peer pressure; protecting their identity online; and more. We’ll even simulate driving under the influence so they’ll understand the true impact of alcohol on their capabilities.

REGISTER NOW: (337) 491-3851

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Home & Family

Cats AND Canines:

Caring for Our Companions

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

Sixty-eight percent of U.S. households, or about 85 million families, own a pet, according to the 2017-2018 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association.

And because your pets are beloved members of the family, you want to take good care of them. Here in our special section on caring for pets, you’ll find articles that will help you keep your pets, both canine and feline, happy and healthy.

5

Reasons to Regularly Groom your Pet

G

rooming your pet offers perks beyond a cool canine haircut. Regular grooming provides several health benefits. For example:

Control Shedding

Shedding is also a major issue that can be remedied with regular grooming. While all shedding cannot be completely avoided, daily brushing and weekly baths with a conditioning shampoo will help cut back on the need to vacuum the carpet. A decrease in shedding will be noticed when you regularly use a pet brush, since the brush stimulates oil producing glands in the animal’s skin that help keep it healthy. Sometimes it is easier and more productive to have your pet groomed by a professional. A trained professional will know the proper way to groom your pet, specific to each breed and will be able to trim your pet’s hair, which is especially helpful for pets with thick coats.

Socialization

When it comes to dogs and cats, performing some grooming rituals helps the animal become accustomed to being touched.

Brushing your pet’s hair each evening can help relax you, as well as the animal. Your pet will get acquainted with you more as you teach it to lie down calmly while you lavish it with attention, de-tangle its fur, and remove any debris from its coat. This is especially true for clipping the nails of your dog or cat.

Performing the chore weekly, or at least every other week, will make it easier, in the long run, to care for your animal’s feet.

Avoid Medical Problems

Some actions, such as checking an animal’s eyes, teeth, and ears regularly, can help you avoid major medical bills. Many cat and dog breeds are susceptible to illnesses that can be caught early, simply by paying attention to your pet and thoroughly checking the animal’s entire body during daily grooming sessions.

Dental Health

Brushing a pet’s teeth is another ritual to perform regularly. A pet’s dental health can have tremendous effects on its overall physical well-being. By keeping your animal’s teeth clean, you will also help keep the animal well between vet check-ups and can also avoid expenses related to professional cleanings.

Appearance

A final benefit is all about looks. Animals feel better when they are groomed and also tend to look better. Avoid matted hair that is difficult to untangle, nails that are too long and curled, and other issues by paying attention to your pet each day. If you don’t have time to groom your pet yourself, make an appointment with a local groomer. Taking a little time for your animal regularly will help keep your pet healthy and happy!

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Home & Family | Cats and Canines: Caring for Our Companions

Protect your Pet from

COMMON DISEASES

by Nate Ellender

P

ets are a fixture of many American lives.

Just ask the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), who report that there are 75 million pet cats in the nation, and 70 million pet dogs; to say nothing of birds, snakes, mini-pigs, and fish. They provide benefits across the spectrum of mental health, provide lessons in socialization and responsibility for younger owners, and leave us with memories and stories that last a lifetime.

As much as we love them, these adorable friends can be a much less adorable drain on the wallet. The AVMA’s estimates put American veterinary spending at nearly 70 billion dollars in 2018 alone. If you would like to learn some ways to keep your hardearned dollars out of vet visits and securely invested in pet-sized leather jackets, read on for tips about keeping dogs and cats healthy and frisky.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

Take care of your pet’s home environment.

Be certain water bowls are clean and food is fresh and safe. Clean litter boxes and keep the yard as free as possible from Fido’s land mines. Bedding and living spaces, particularly for indoor pets, should be regularly cleaned. While it bears consideration as an Olympic event, bathing your pet is a necessary facet of disease prevention. It not only helps remove any present pathogens from their skin and fur, but can also kill fleas that may be hitching a ride, and lead to the discovery of any ticks that might have clambered aboard.

(To the cat owners reading: Godspeed.)

Doing these things will put the brakes on potential infections of giardia, hookworm, ringworm (which is technically a fungus, rather than a true worm), campylobacter, lyme disease, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, along with parvovirus in dogs.

Proactive Treatments.

Exposure control and scrupulous care of the pet’s body and environment will go a long way toward keeping cats and dogs healthy, but they are not foolproof. In the end, a squirrel will bring fleas to your yard.

Ticks will invade. A stray cat or raccoon may jump the fence, or any number of other unforeseen circumstances might occur. To cover your pet’s well-being against these, there are proactive medicinal measures that can be taken. Worming medicines guard against parasitic threats on the inside, while flea and tick treatments ward against them on the outside. Vaccines are available for serious ailments such as parvovirus, rabies, Feline Leukemia and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. These will require vet visits and cash, but an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Try as we might, it’s awfully tough not to end up part of that $70 billion. But after all, our fur-babies are worth it.

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Limit exposure to the pathogens that cause diseases.

PHARMACY #2

Like the flu, plague, or pop music; if you don’t want to deal with it, stay away. For pets, it’s much the same. Limit their movements and control their environments to minimize the chance that a random encounter will lead to infection. Only allow them to associate with healthy animals in a clean place. This will reduce the chances of a healthy animal contracting diseases like mange, rabies, kennel cough in dogs, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, and Feline Leukemia Virus in cats.

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Home & Family | Cats and Canines: Caring for Our Companions

DOG DAYS! Dog Parks for Your Canine Companion by Stefanie Powers Summer is here and with it comes longer days and the urge to get outside and have some fun. This goes for our four-legged friends, as well. They have a lot of energy to release, and what could be better than to run and play and socialize with other dogs?

Check out these great places where you can take your best buddy for a romp.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

LAKE CHARLES Bark du Lac Dog Park This fenced, off-leash park has two separate play areas: one for smaller dogs and one for larger breeds. They all must have current rabies shots and other vaccines and wear a visible license. There’s a two-dog maximum per visitor, and aggressive behavior is not allowed, so keep an eye on your buddy. No puppies under four months are allowed; nor are small children, for their protection. It goes without saying that no female dogs in heat should be at the park, and unneutered males must be closely supervised. And please, be responsible and clean up after your pet! Open 9:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. daily.

100-198 W. Pine St, Lake Charles.

Dog Park at Enos Derbonne Sports Complex This really cool place has all kinds of fun equipment to keep your pup busy, including the A-frame, agility walk, crawl tunnel, dog teeter totter, dog walk ramp, fire hydrant jump, hound hoops, hound hurdles, a tire jump, a wait table, a wall jump, and weave poles! The park is open from sunrise to sunset daily. Naturally, you are responsible for your pets while at the park including cleaning up after them. There are Mutt Mitt stations for waste pickup and disposal, so there’s no excuse! There’s also a dog-friendly water fountain, which comes in handy after all that exercise!

7903 Lake St., Lake Charles

Calcasieu Animal Control Dog Park This fenced dog park is open to the public every day from daylight to dusk, with free admission. The park offers three separate fenced areas where dogs can play, along with shade and tables. Make sure to bring your own water. This park was made possible by a grant from the ASPCA 5500-A Swift Plant Rd, Lake Charles

SULPHUR Fideaux Field Fideaux Field is open from dawn to dusk every day except for Monday, when the park is closed until noon for maintenance.

It features two separate enclosures: the Little League side for canines 30 pounds and under (including puppies over four months old) and the Big League side, for big dogs (along with little ones who like to run with the big ones). There’s some challenging, fun equipment in the Big League, too! Water fountains are available for both people and pets, and the usual dog park rules apply.

900 West Parish Road, Sulphur For the past few years, there’s been talk about a dog park in DeRidder with a tentative opening scheduled for 2019, but a call to City Hall revealed that it’s still in the planning stages and has a long way to go.

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Home & Family | Cats and Canines: Caring for Our Companions

JET-SETTING PETS

A Growing Number of Animals are Joining Us in the Friendly Skies

by Andrea Guthmann

A

ccording to the American Pet Products Association (APA) there are around 77 million pet dogs and 85 million pet cats in the United States. The APA’s National Pet Owners Survey showed 37 percent of pet owners travel with their pets every year, up from 19 percent a decade earlier. And a growing number of pet owners take them along even when they travel by air.

In 2017, the number of pets carried by U.S. airlines increased to 784,000. Although we love our furry, four-legged friends, traveling with a pet can be stressful.

Luckily, airports are catering to canine needs and responding to the pet-friendly travel trend by offering a growing list of animal amenities. Those include boarding, dog runs, even shops selling gourmet dog treats. If you travel with pets, here are some airports to have on your radar.

JOHN F. KENNEDY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

In a New York minute. That’s how quickly you’ll be able to find somewhere for your dog to let it go, since multiple terminals have pet relief areas. Terminal 5 even has a 4,000 square foot outdoor garden patio open to all passengers and their pets.

Another reason to say I love New York?

Last year, JFK became home to the world’s first privately-owned animal terminal.

The ARK, a 24/7 facility, provides care and veterinary services to all animals traveling via cargo or boarding.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

CHICAGO’S O’HARE AND MIDWAY AIRPORTS

The Windy City welcomes pets at both its airports. O’Hare has four pet relief areas, while smaller Midway has two.

Both airports have a convenient boarding option, Paradise for Paws, a chain of boarding facilities near airports. Paradise 4 Paws has facilities located near Chicago’s O’Hare and Midway Airports, along with Denver and Dallas/Fort Worth Airports.

Paradise for Paws allows you to drop off your beloved pet, park at the facility, then take a complimentary shuttle ride to your terminal for your flight.

ATLANTA’S HARTSFIELD JACKSON

Federal rules require airports serving more than 10,000 passengers per year to have pet relief stations. The world’s busiest airport, Hartsfield-Jackson, not only offers pet relief areas, but a 1,000-squarefoot dog park. Located in the Ground Transportation area at terminal south, the dog park is fully fencedin and offers benches and waste bags.

LOS ANGELES AIRPORT

Angelenos love pampering their pooches.

LAX has more pet reliefs stations than any other airport. Another special treat? The Dog Bakery in Terminal 5 caters to canines with all-natural specialty dog treats.

If you’re a cat or dog owner, you know that pet-friendly places rule. No bones about it. Do your homework before you travel, so that you and your feline or canine companion can peacefully enjoy the dog days of summer vacation together. That includes thinking about whether your animal is fit to travel.

If they are aggressive or overly shy, it’s best to leave them at home.

Remembering your Pet

by Haley Tarasiewicz Pets are considered valuable members of the family, making the loss of a beloved animal companion one of the most difficult things a pet parent can go through.

Whether it’s sudden or expected, the grief that comes with the passing of a pet is both intense and unpredictable, similar to how one might grieve with the passing of a dear friend or family member.

And, while it may seem unfair that our pets’ lives are often short in comparison to our own, the best way to honor a pet who has crossed the Rainbow Bridge is to celebrate their spirit and memory.

Before making any decisions on how to handle your pet’s remains, consider how you may want to honor the memory of your beloved fur friend. Whether you choose burial or cremation, it is important to remember that this is not only the final act of love but also an important means of closure.

The staff at Johnson’s Funeral Home understands the grief experienced with the loss of a beloved pet. Pet Angels, an affiliate of Johnson’s Funeral Home, is committed to ensuring your faithful companion and friend is treated with respect and compassion, and returned to you in a caring and timely manner.

Pet Angels offers pet owners dignified cremation services and remembrance products to help honor and cherish the memory of a pet. Their services also help alleviate the worry a pet owner may experience if they bury their family pet and must relocate in the future.

The process works like this: • Pet Angels is contacted by a veterinary clinic to request services on behalf of a pet owner.

• They pick up the pet and transport it to their facility.

• Each pet is assigned an identifying number used throughout the entire process, ensuring peace of mind that the remains received are those of the beloved pet.

• The pet’s remains are returned in a temporary urn to the veterinary clinic in a timely manner. Once the temporary urn is received, the pet owner can contact Johnson’s or stop by to view their selection of memorial products.

In almost all cases, Pet Angels works through local veterinary clinics; however, pet owners can also contact them directly to make arrangements.

There’s no right way to mourn the loss of a pet. Pet Angels is available to help you celebrate your pet’s life.

For more information about Pet Angels please visit www.johnsonfuneralhome. net or call 337-478-8687 to speak with a Pet Angels representative.

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Money & Career

YO

U

R

W

E

O

THE CAS N

A L & THE

etaining the services of a lawyer may not be something you think about every day, but there are times in everyone’s life when seeking legal counsel is advisable. In this special law section, you’ll find useful information on what the various types of lawyers specialize in and a breakdown of the top ten reasons to hire a lawyer.

Our July First Person features Jennifer Jones, Cameron Parish District Attorney – she has a fascinating and inspiring life story. And if you’ve ever wondered what our elected officials do day-to-day, read A Day in the Life of a Louisiana State Senator, featuring Senator Ronnie Johns.

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Money & Career | On the Case: You and the Law Jennifer A. Jones was born and raised in the quiet coastal town of Cameron, Louisiana. She passed the Bar Exam in 1981 and has been serving the people of Cameron Parish with their legal matters since then.

In 1991, she even took a case all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court . . . and won! Jones has been the Cameron Parish District Attorney since 2015. She’s hard-working and driven to success. She’s been active in numerous state and national law associations, and in 2015, Jones was selected as Distinguished Louisiana State University Law School Alumna.

Jones’ family on both her mother and father’s side has lived in Cameron Parish since before the Civil War. Her father, Jennings B. Jones, attended Law School at LSU on the GI bill after World War II and in 1949 became the first lawyer to practice law full-time in Cameron Parish.

first person

by Angie Kay Dilmore

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with

Jennifer Jones, Cameron Parish DA

In 1958, his brother Jerry joined the firm and Jerry’s son-in-law Glenn Alexander came on board in the mid70s. Jones’ sister Sallie also worked with the firm for several years. Jones says she wanted to be a part of her family’s law firm for as long as she can remember, “or at least until I figured out I would never be tall enough to be a Rockette at Radio City Music Hall.” Her natural sense of humor is noteworthy, considering the tragedies and heartbreak she has overcome during her life.

In 2004, Jones’ father passed away. The following year in May, her 28-year-old son Christopher died in a car accident caused by a drugged driver. He left behind a wife and three young children. Four months later, Hurricane Rita decimated Cameron Parish. 98% of the structures in lower Cameron Parish were gone.

Her and her family’s homes were lost. Her law office, serving Cameron residents since 1958, was destroyed. Needing to rebuild herself, she helped approximately 600 families fight insurance companies for hurricane damage coverage.

For Jones’ pro bono work postRita, she received several accolades: the first ever Public Service Award by the Louisiana Association for Justice (2006), the Women’s Commission of Southwest Louisiana Jack V. Doland Outstanding Community Service Award (2007), and the Southwest Louisiana Bar Association President’s Award for Outstanding Service

Describe your journey to becoming a lawyer.

I majored in Government at McNeese, with an eye towards going to law school, but a few things slowed me down. I married as a freshman at McNeese and my first child, Patrick Hebert, was born on Graduation Day, May 8, 1975, so law school had to wait. I had another son, Christopher Hebert, a year later. My first husband and I were divorced not long after and I finally got to law school [LSU] in 1978 with a two-year-old and a three-yearold. (Jones gave birth to a third son, Michael Bercier, in 1986.) My aunt, Sybil McCall, moved to Baton Rouge with us to help me. I could never have done it without her. After I graduated, I spent a year clerking with the late Judge Earl Veron, the federal district court judge in Lake Charles. I then returned to the family firm. We had a broad range of civil practice, with oil and gas work, family law, and business contracts, but we concentrated primarily on representing people who were injured in accidents, with a special emphasis on admiralty and maritime.

In other words, we had a lot of cases for people who were hurt offshore.

Tell us about your U. S. Supreme Court case.

Our client John Wilander was employed by McDermott International as a painting and sandblasting foreman on vessels and platforms in

(2007). And just when life started to settle down a bit, Hurricane Ike flooded the parish again in 2008.

Jones’ story of perseverance is inspiring, to say the least. She recently shared with Thrive the key turning points in her life, the challenges and obstacles she’s overcome, and the source of her triumph over adversity.

the Persian Gulf. He was injured in an explosion at work off the coast of Dubai. We tried his case in Lake Charles in federal court, and he obtained a verdict which was affirmed on appeal by the United States Fifth Circuit in New Orleans. McDermott then applied for writs of certiorari (a type of legal appeal) to the United States Supreme Court. McDermott argued that Mr. Wilander should not be covered by the Jones Act, which provides a claim for maritime employees against their employers for negligence, because he wasn’t part of the navigational crew.

There had been a case in Illinois where the court held that an employee must actually participate in navigation in order to be considered a seaman covered by the Jones Act, but this was not the rule in the Fifth Circuit, where many workers were employed in the oil field industry on jack-up rigs and were considered seaman. The Supreme Court granted writs, in other words, they decided to hear the case. My father insisted that I would argue the case in the Supreme Court, despite advice that we should hire an attorney with Supreme Count experience.

At that time, I had only been out of school for eight years. I spent a whole summer writing the brief (in those days we did not have electronic research) and we all went to Washington for the argument in 1989. We won the case in a unanimous opinion by Justice Sandra Day O’Conner.

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Money & Career | On the Case: You and the Law What do you do in your free time?

A couple years ago I took up painting, and I really enjoy this hobby, along with gardening. I live next door to my sister Margaret, who is a great cook! While most of our church congregation has moved away, I still take great comfort from our church, which is appropriately named Our Lady Star of the Sea.

What’s next for Jennifer Jones?

I will be 66 on my next birthday and I have no plans for retirement. I will be seeking another term as District Attorney in 2020.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Jones and her son Patrick Hebert on the campaign trail.

After the devastating life events in 2004-2005, where did you find the strength to go on?

Somehow, Hurricane Rita saved my life, because it gave me a lot of work to do. The pivotal moment in my career occurred on the day when I went to look at Cameron three days after Hurricane Rita. My house was gone, my sister’s house was gone, both my sons’ houses were gone. I eventually made my way down to Cameron and had to walk the last quarter mile or so because there was so much debris on the road that it was impassable. I got to the Courthouse Square and there were soldiers there operating machinery to try to clear the roads. One of them told me he had only seen something like this once before – in Baghdad. The shell of my office was there – it had been flooded with eight feet of water.

Everything was destroyed, including all my files. I met a man I had known for many years who asked me, “What are we going to do? Your daddy is gone and he can’t help us anymore!” I told him I would try. I became very involved in helping Cameron Parish residents with their claims against their homeowner’s insurers, which were almost all initially denied on the grounds that the loss of their homes was caused by flood and not windstorm, according to the

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insurers. We eventually mediated and settled about 600 claims over about a three-year period. I feel this was my greatest achievement as an attorney.

Detail one highlight of your career.

My favorite civil client is South Cameron Memorial Hospital. Our hospital was destroyed in Hurricane Rita, and we managed to put together enough grants and insurance money to rebuild, including a grant from the Bush/ Clinton Hurricane Katrina Fund. I had called and asked to be included in this fund but was originally told that it was only for losses incurred in Hurricane Katrina, not Rita, which certainly did not seem fair to me. The then-Parish Administrator, Tina Horn, and I managed to get a meeting with former-President George H. W. Bush in Houston, who agreed to help us. In December of 2006, President Bush came to Cameron and brought us a check for $2 million for our hospital! President Clinton could not come, but he sent a representative, George Clooney, the movie star and sexiest man alive, and trust me, he is hotter than a $2 pistol! What a great day that was! Our hospital reopened in late 2007, one of the first public buildings reconstructed after Hurricane Rita.

My greatest challenge as a lawyer, as a mother, as a person, was just getting out of bed and putting one foot in front of another after I lost my son Christopher.

I have lost my parents, my home, my business (twice) and I have been divorced twice. None of it can touch losing a child.

I survived by throwing myself into my work after Hurricane Rita. My father once told me “Hard work is the best medicine for a broken heart.” These were the truest words he ever spoke. I am grateful to the people of this wonderful community for giving me an opportunity to serve them, which gives my life great meaning.

A Day in the Life of a Louisiana Senator

by Kristy Como Armand

As the sun comes up in Baton Rouge, Senator Ronnie Johns has already had his first cup of coffee, logged into the legislative website and reviewed the calendar for the day to see what bills will be heard on the Senate floor and in the various committees on which he serves. By 7:30 a.m., he leaves the small townhouse he calls home while working in Baton Rouge and arrives at the State Capitol to start a 12 – 15 hour day of work.

Originally from Bunkie, Louisiana, Johns has called Southwest Louisiana home since 1982. A well-respected businessman and active community volunteer, he was elected without opposition to the open Senate in District 27 eight years ago. He previously served as a State Representative for three terms, the maximum allowed by the state, from 1995 – 2007.

Johns says he is often asked, “What does a State Senator do?” He says this is an understandable question, but one that is challenging to answer in a way that accurately reflects the work done on a day-to-day basis, simply because every day is different.

In Louisiana, legislative sessions run for 60 days in evennumbered years and for 45 days in odd-numbered years.

During session, a typical week for Johns is six or seven days of work, starting at the Capitol by 8:00 a.m. and usually continuing until 9:00 p.m. or later. “There really are no typical days,” he says. “There are many different important issues competing for my attention, as well the long-term work that needs to be done to ensure progress in our state.”

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Money & Career | On the Case: You and the Law

Early mornings at the legislature are filled with meetings.

Johns says the President of the Senate, John Alario, meets with the chairman and vice-chairman of each committee at least once each week to discuss their workload and to ensure they are moving their pieces of legislation forward. Other morning meetings are with groups or individuals who have an interest in pending legislation. These meetings take place in Johns’s office at the Capitol and several are typically completed by mid-morning.

Committee meetings come next. Johns serves on four committees, which is more than most senators sit on. He is the Vice-Chairman of the Judiciary B Committee which hears criminal code and gaming issues. He sits on the Insurance Committee, Labor Committee, and what he says is the most time-consuming, the Finance Committee, which is responsible for constructing the state’s annual $30 billion dollar budget. Committee hearings begin mid-morning and can last

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until late afternoon, depending on the workload.

Adding to the daily schedule is the work required to draft, present and debate legislation of his own. Once Johns’s sponsored legislation has cleared Senate committees, he then has to attend House committees to present and debate his bills there.

“The schedule each day is quite a juggling act, but my staff and the Senate staff do an incredible job of keeping the schedule running smoothly.”

Lunch is not usually part of the schedule. In fact, Johns says he rarely leaves the Capitol building most days. Meetings run through lunch and there is too much to do to go out.

In the afternoons, Johns says he moves to the Senate floor, depending on the workload and where they are in session. Once on the floor, bills are debated and votes are held. Most days, Johns says they are able to adjourn from the floor by 6:00 p.m., but by the end of the session, this is often much later in the evening.

After adjournment of the full senate, the 11 members of the Finance Committee reconvene to continue their work on the budget. “It’s not uncommon for us to work through 9:00 or 10:00 at night, reviewing any legislation that has what is called a ‘fiscal note’ on it. This means any proposed legislation that costs money, comes to this committee for our review and debate about whether or not we can fit it in the budget. When you consider that a session can have 2500 – 3000 pieces of legislation, you can see where the work of this committee is extensive.”

In between regularly scheduled meetings, Johns carves out any available time – often in short increments – to respond to calls and emails. “It’s important to me to be responsive, but it can be difficult to have a large block of time do this during session. I may return a call from the Senate floor during a break in debate, or I may respond to emails late at night.”

The goal is to end each workweek at the Capitol on Thursdays, allowing legislators to work in their home offices on Friday and have the weekend with their families. But Johns says there are often committee meetings scheduled over the weekend, especially for the Finance Committee. “This gets more intense as the session progresses. This year, I was only able to come home once during the last six weeks of the session.”

Once the session ends, Johns says his work as a Senator does not stop. “This is not a part-time job. I spend at least 90 percent of every workday on Senate business – in meetings, on the phone, online and attending events throughout the community. In addition, I still go to Baton Rouge at least one day a week to attend meetings related to state business.”

"Although most days aren’t easy, many are very rewarding. I have the unique opportunity – and responsibility – to address issues of specific concern to the community I serve, as well as other statewide issues as they arise.

However, working to help individuals I represent is what is most rewarding. I work very hard to understand and represent the best interests of our community, and that can certainly lead to long days, but I love this job and am honored to have it.” ”

-Johns

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Money & Career | On the Case: You and the Law

Who Does What : The Legal Edition

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When you need legal advice or council, it’s important to call a lawyer who has the expertise necessary for your particular circumstances. Whether it’s your first time venturing into the legal world or you’ve had some past experience, the process of seeking legal counsel to meet a specific need can be overwhelming. Law practices are divided into several overlapping categories that collectively form a representative framework for society’s civil justice system. From business and personal injury to bankruptcy and real estate law to family and divorce cases, each lawyer has a defined niche that offers a refined skillset to potential clients. Here are seven areas of the most common types of law practice.

Personal Injury

Property and Real Estate

Immigration

If you have suffered an injury and feel that another party is responsible, a personal injury attorney may be able to help you. Personal injury attorneys represent clients who have sustained either physical or emotional injuries when another party was responsible.

Common situations that require a personal injury attorney include botched surgeries, work-related injuries, traffic accidents, air pollution, and falling in public places. Personal injury attorneys usually charge based on contingency, which means the client pays nothing up front, and the attorney takes a percentage if the case wins.

Property and real estate lawyers provide a valuable service for clients who are purchasing homes and property.

The lawyer is typically retained to perform a title examination, which ensures that a title is clear and there are no liens or judgments against the property. They also review the buy/ sell agreement to ensure fairness for all parties. Transactional real estate attorneys are typically well-versed and up-to-date in current laws pertaining to property and zoning restrictions. Real estate attorneys also defend clients in litigation over property rights when a buy/sell agreement is violated or when a tenant or landlord breaks a law.

The process of bringing a family member, employee, or friend to the United States from another country can be very complicated and involves many applications and filings with multiple government agencies. Hiring an immigration attorney who has expertise in local, state, and federal immigration procedures can streamline the process for businesses and individuals who are attempting to immigrate to and from the United States. Many businesses seek the help of immigration attorneys since they oftentimes hire and relocate employees from outside the U.S.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

Nonprofit Nonprofit attorneys provide services for clients who cannot afford to pay for legal services. These law centers operate on a sliding scale for cases of family law, including custody child access disputes, child support, use and occupancy of home and car, spousal support, community and domestic violence, intra-family adoption, name changes, and successions; as well as landlord-tenant disputes and expungement cases.

Family Law The five basic areas of family law are divorce, child support, custody, spousal support, and community property partitions. Other issues that fall within the category are interdicting elderly people who can no longer care for themselves, name changes, and emancipation cases.

Corporate/Business Whether it’s for a small business starting out or a large corporate merger, business transactions often require the assistance of a business attorney. When it comes to business, the general rule is, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” and consulting a reliable attorney is crucial for businesses of all shapes and sizes.

In addition, retaining a business attorney can make a business more successful, stable, and profitable. A good business attorney will provide vital assistance in nearly every component of business including hiring compliance, copyright and trademark advice, business incorporation, and lawsuits/liability issues.

Admirality and Maritime Law Geographically located near the Gulf of Mexico and home to the Port of Lake Charles and the Calcasieu Ship Channel, Southwest Louisiana may have more need of maritime lawyers than in other land-locked areas.

This branch of law governs nautical issues and private maritime disputes. An example would be an injury dispute on an off-shore oil rig. Admiralty law consists of both domestic law on maritime activities, and private international law governing the relationships between private parties operating or using ocean-going ships.

Butch Ferdinandsen

CFP®, CLU®, ChFC®, CRPS, CRPC Investment Advisor Representative Securities and investment advisory services offered through Woodbury Financial Services, Inc. (WFS), member FINRA/SIPC. WFS is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of WFS.

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Money & Career | On the Case: You and the Law

Top Ten Reasons to Hire a Lawyer Not every legal matter requires the use of an attorney. Fighting a speeding ticket and going to small claims courts are two examples. However, in many other situations involving a legal dispute, challenge, or deal, you may not wish to chance the risks of going it alone without the advice of an experienced lawyer. In fact, while good legal representation may not be cheap, it can help get you out of several sticky situations, such as a bad divorce or lost job.

While each person's legal situation is different, there are times when you should hire a lawyer. Failing to work with an attorney in certain instances can lead to broken agreements, lost claims, or even prison time. Below are the top ten reasons to hire an attorney.

1. The Law is Complicated If you're not a lawyer you probably have no business acting like one in certain instances. Even experienced lawyers typically do not represent themselves in court. Also, attorneys tend to specialize in one or more legal practice areas, such as criminal defense or tax law.

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A solid case can quickly unravel without the help of a trained and emotionallydetached attorney. Similarly, failing to hire a lawyer when starting a business, reviewing a contract, or embarking on other endeavors with potential legal ramifications can result in otherwise avoidable pitfalls.

2. Not Having a Lawyer May Cost You More What's at stake? A criminal case may determine whether or not you spend time behind bars, while a civil case could hurt you financially. There are civil attorneys who don't collect a dime from you unless they win your case. Also, you may be able to claim legal fees as a plaintiff in a civil case, so hiring a lawyer can actually save or earn you money.

3. Lawyers Know How to Challenge Evidence Without the proper legal training, you may not know whether a key piece of evidence against you was improperly obtained or that the testimony of a witness contradicts

an earlier statement. And did the crime lab properly handle the evidence every step of the way? Your attorney will find out and possibly have that evidence suppressed.

4. Filing the Wrong Document or Following the Wrong Procedure Could Ruin Your Case If you're not an attorney, you may struggle with deadlines and protocol for properly filling out and filing certain legal documents. One late or incorrect filing could derail your case, delay a given legal procedure, or worse - have the case thrown out altogether (and not in your favor).

5. They Have Access to the Witnesses and Experts You'll Need on Your Side Attorneys depend on an extended network of professionals to help their clients' cases.

Most non-attorneys don't personally know the types of professionals who can help with discovery or challenge evidence or testimony by the opposing party.

6. A Lawyer Can Present Your Strongest Case Pleading guilty or admitting fault isn't the only choice, even if there's evidence pointing directly at you. When you hire a lawyer, they can explain all your options and help you avoid potentially severe penalties even before a trial begins.

7. It's Always Better to Avoid Problems Rather Than Fix Them Later You may have heard the saying, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."

Hiring a lawyer in many instances will help you avoid potential legal headaches down the road. Do you really understand the fine print of that contract you are signing and what it will mean for you down the road? A lawyer knows.

8. Lawyers Know How to Negotiate Settlements and Plea Bargains An experienced lawyer probably has seen cases similar to yours or at least knows enough to make a calculated

guess about how it might get resolved at trial. Sometimes a settlement is the best choice, while other times it makes more sense to see your case through to trial.

An attorney can also help negotiate a fair settlement with the opposing party.

9. The Other Party Probably Has Legal Representation Non-attorneys are generally at a disadvantage when squaring off against opposing counsel or doing business with another party that has legal counsel. As explained above, the law is complicated and an attorney representing your adversary (or even a non-adversarial party entering into a legal agreement with you) will take advantage of this inequity.

Ready to Hire an Attorney?

Find One Near You Whether you're staring down the potential of prison time, trying to get the best possible arrangement for your children after a divorce, need to defend yourself from a lawsuit, or have some other legal matter, it's good to know there are experienced attorneys just a click away. Meet with a qualified, local lawyer near you today to get confidential, personalized answers to your questions.

Source: findlaw.com

10. Lawyers Often Provide a Free Consultation Since many attorneys will meet with you for free during a face-to-face consultation, there is no harm in talking with one. Not only will a free consultation give you an idea of the type of case you have and its likely outcome, it will help you decide whether you truly need to hire a lawyer.

D G

DWIGHT & GARY, LLC ATTORNEYS AT LAW

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Business & Commercial Law Auto Accidents & Personal Injury Successions & Estate Planning Workers Compensation Property Damages & Insurance Claims Energy Law - Oil & Gas Pipelines as well as • Real Estate Closings & Property Law provided by our title company: continuing the tradition of providing prompt and proficient closings for buyers, sellers, lenders and real estate agents.

Attorneys Stephen C. Dwight & Jamie C. Gary

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Money & Career

Investing Tips for Non-Investing Types

The first step

is the hardest.

That’s certainly true when it comes to investing money. Where, how, when, for how long, what if I lose the little I have? These are some of the questions floating around, making many of us want to shelve the idea and go back to sipping our café au laits.

But wait! We’re adults. We want to retire one day. It’s up to us to figure out how we’ll finance our retirement and have money through the years. We want to our lives to be fulfilling and to be financially secure.

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“Diving in is the hardest thing to do,” says Denise Rau, Certified Financial Planner and President of Rau Financial Group. “There’s fear of the unknown and intimidation that other people know more and worry that you’ll get taken advantage of. Yet, you know investing will help you have solid financial growth over time. The sooner you begin, the more time you have on your side.”

If you hesitate because you’re not the money type, you don’t enjoy financial spreadsheets, or talking about percentages, net gains, and stocks, you may want to partner with a financial advisor.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

“My first step for anyone, and especially for someone new to investing, is to understand their goals, their vision for the future, and their concerns,” explains Rau. “I want to know what brings them joy and what worries them; then we can put a plan together to give them the financial means to maximize opportunities in line with their dreams and conquer their fears. My job is to help them put their money where their heart is.”

Rau adds that it’s important to remember, no matter how uninformed or fearful you are, there are consequences for sitting

by Christine Fisher

on the sidelines, too; including a smaller nest egg in the long run.

Investing is a tool for building wealth, but it’s not only for the wealthy. Anyone can get started on an investing program.

You’ll want to avoid putting all your eggs in one basket, which is another way of saying diversification is good. Stock market index funds are an easy, diversified, low-cost way to invest in the stock market.

“When investors buy an index fund, they get a well-rounded selection of many stocks in one package without having to buy each stock individually,” explains Rau.

One of the most well-known financial experts, Warren Buffett, who has a net worth of $89 billion, says the average investor need only invest in a broad stock market index to be properly diversified.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 index, you may have heard it as the S&P 500, is one of the bestknown indexes because the 500 companies it tracks include large, well-known U.S.-based businesses representing a wide range of industries.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is another index fund.

This one has a collection of 30 stocks the editors of the Wall Street Journal decide represent the U.S. economy.

“One of the key advantages of investing in index funds is they remove the challenge of trying to choose wise investments

individually; their broadness means several sectors are doing well, while others may dip low, but overall, your funds continue to grow,” Rau says.

Emotions are often a big obstacle to getting started with investing. When stocks fall, and they will fall, you’ll lose money and no one wants that. But, they will also gain, and you’ll feel like celebrating.

“The rise and fall of the stock market shouldn’t determine your attitude that day,” advises Rau. “I help my clients move beyond the daily numbers and encourage a broad, long-range perspective. Remember, my aim is to maximize their opportunities for joy and reduce the anxiety of money management. It helps to have an advisor with whom to bounce around ideas. Letting them handle the details allows

you to see the long-term growth.”

Investing takes time and patience. “Investing in the stock market to get rich quickly is absolutely the wrong approach,” Rau says.

Starting when you’re young is always a good idea. People in their 20s and 30s are able to take more risks because time is on their side. Unfortunately, many young people either don’t think about investing, or they think they don’t have enough money to invest.

“If you wait until you have a comfortable lifestyle, maybe in your late 40s or 50s, you’ve lost so many valuable years for growth.

Even if you have $100 a month in your 20s, put it into some kind of investment. A small start is still a start,” Rau says. “Over time, add to it. You’ll develop discipline for saving and you’ll see it increase

over the years. Consequently, if you’re in your 40s or 50s and haven’t invested, it’s not too late.

We can start wherever you are.”

Taking the first step is difficult, but it opens the door to opportunities for financial growth and stability. Think of how proud you’ll be years from now when you see the growth, not only in your finances, but also in yourself, because you faced uncertainty and conquered your fear.

Investment advice offered through GWM Advisors, dba Rau Financial Group, a registered investment advisor. GWM Advisors and Rau Financial Group are separate entities from LPL Financial. To begin planning for your financial future, visit www.raufinancialgroup.com or call 337-480-3835

Retirement Should be the best years of your life.

Rick Eisner, Senior Financial Advisor

4090 Nelson Road Lake Charles, LA 70605

Call us today for all of your retirement needs.

(337) 478-6464

Securities and insurance products are offered through Cetera Investment Services LLC, member of FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services are offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC. Investments are: *Not FDIC insured *May lose value *Not financial institution guaranteed *Not a deposit *Not insured by any federal government agency. Neither firm is affiliated with First Federal Bank of Louisiana.

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Money & Career

Health Savings Accounts Provide Medical Expense Relief

by Kristy Como Armand

A typical American family of four insured by the most common employer-sponsored health plan spent a minimum of $28,000 on healthcare in 2018, according to the annual Milliman Medical Index report.

This was an increase of $1,222 from 2017 and includes the average cost of health insurance, as well as deductibles and outof-pocket expenses.

“When you look at this number, which is just an average, it’s easy to understand why medical expenses are a big financial stress for most people,” says Renee Lassiter, Lakeside Bank Assistant Vice President. “Many health insurance policies today place more of a burden on the insured, with more exclusions and higher deductibles. Opening a Health Savings Account, or HSA, is a convenient strategy that can help you save for future medical costs to offset some of these expenses.”

Lassiter explains that contributions to an HSA are 100% deductible (up to the legal limit) — just like an IRA. Withdrawals to pay qualified medical expenses,

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

including dental and vision, are never taxed. Interest earnings accumulate taxdeferred, and if used to pay qualified medical expenses, are tax-free. “The money rolls over from year-to-year,” adds Lassiter, “so you can accumulate savings to pay for larger expenses that may occur as you age and have increased medical needs.”

HSAs can be one means of saving money for long term care needs, including qualified long term care costs and long term care insurance premiums.

To qualify for an HSA, Lassiter says applicants must have a high-deductible health plan. Health insurance deductibles must be at least $1,350 for an individual policy or $2,700 for a family policy.

“Individuals can contribute $3,500, and $4,500 to an HSA if they are 50 or over thanks to a ‘catch-up’ contribution option,” Lassiter explains. “Families can contribute $7,000 to $8,000, depending on age.”

Take a dip in our pool this summer.

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For more information about health savings accounts, call Lakeside at (337) 474-3766, visit LakesideBanking.com, or stop by any location.

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Home & Family

HAPPENINGS MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

Healthy Image Announces Sips in the City: Tequila Tasting Healthy Image Marketing is celebrating National Tequila Day by launching their inaugural Sips in the City tasting event series with “Tequila in the Treehouse.” The evening will feature a variety of eight unique tequila samples, fourcourse tapas tasting, and music.

Healthy Image is partnering with Lake Street Liquor and Sloppy Taco for the celebration.

The event is scheduled for Wednesday, July 24 at 5:30pm at the Treehouse at Oak Crossing in Lake Charles. Tickets are $65 per person. Attendees must be 21 or older to attend. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Ainsley’s Angels of Southwest Louisiana. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit TequilaInTheTreehouse.Eventbrite. com.

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An Essential Oil Extravaganza will be held at Heritage Baptist Church in Lake Charles from 1-4pm on July 13. Experts will offer samples and answer questions about essential oils and their uses.

Free admission.

benefits of exercise are wellknown, but by exercising together, families can improve more than just their heart rates.

The cost for the class is $25 per month, all summer. Classes are held Mondays from 5:30-6:15 pm. and on Saturdays from 9- 9:45 am and begins June 3 - July 29.

For more information, call (337) 515-6491.

For more information, call (337) 474-6601.

Get Fit with Your Family This Summer

10th Annual Arts & Crabs Event Set for August 17

Essential Oil Extravaganza

CHRISTUS Louisiana Athletic Club Lake Charles is putting the fun into family fitness this summer with a program that will guarantee good health and a great time.

The practice of family exercise also helps with the development of great life practices that allows children – and adults – to learn about the power of exercise that can reduce depression, stress, anxiety and improve sleep. The

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • July 2019

The Arts Council of SWLA has announced that the 10th annual Arts & Crabs fundraiser event will take place on August 17, 5pm-8pm, at the Burton Coliseum. Arts & Crabs celebrates the ties between our seafood and culture – the region’s greatest national assets.

Attendees sample from an extensive tasting featuring the best local chefs, each preparing a

unique seafood dish representative of their cuisine’s styles. Louisiana craft brew samples are offered as complementary pairings to all dishes. Chefs battle for votes in the annual “Best Crab Dish” award, which is determined by the number of tips each chef receives.

Funds raised at Arts & Crabs are reinvested back into the SWLA community through the Arts Council’s year-round services and events.

Sponsorships are now available, and the Arts Council invites area businesses to reach attendees during this unique culinary event through our various sponsorship packages.

For details, call (337) 439-2787, or visit www.artscouncilswla.org.

Our Growth Depends On Growing Louisiana’s Work Force. That’s why for the past 30 years, we’ve recognized the success of our customers as our greatest accomplishment. We help nurture growing businesses with added value like free business development seminars designed to protect and strengthen their work force and B2B networking events.

This may be our 30th anniversary, but to us, it’s our members’ milestone.

lciwc.com :: 985-612-1230

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Lakeside Named One of Healthiest Banks in the Nation For the fourth time in its nine-year history, Lakeside Bank has been ranked one of the healthiest banks in the United States in DepositAccounts’ "Top 200 Healthiest Banks in America” annual report. Each year, DepositAccounts.com looks at the financial health of over 10,000 banks and credit unions in the United States. The banks are evaluated based on several factors, including capitalization, deposit growth and loanto-reserve ratios. The criteria for rating also includes the Texas ratio and non-performing assets. Lakeside is the only bank in Southwest Louisiana included in the top 200 list.

DepositAccounts.com is the largest and most comprehensive online publication in the U.S. dedicated to banking and deposits product information for consumers. It covers every federally insured bank and credit union and utilizes its patented technology to track approximately 275,000 consumer deposit rates, each updated nightly. The complete list of the 2019 Top 200 is available at www.depositaccounts. com/banks/health.aspx#healthiest .

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Louisiana Launches Second Year of Sponsor a Little Program Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Louisiana is now accepting sponsors for its second year of the “Sponsor a Little” program in preparation for the 2019-2020 school year.

Many of the families involved in Big Brothers Big Sisters need support in being able to provide all of the school supplies their child needs for the upcoming school year. In 2018, Big Brothers Big Sisters of SWLA created a new program to help these families in need called “Sponsor a Little.” Last year, 12 Littles

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had the supplies they needed for a successful start to the school year thanks to SWLA volunteers. Overwhelming support from the community gives BBBS-SWLA the ability to increase the number of Littles they can sponsor from 12 to 20 for the 2019 school year.

Sponsors receive a Little’s school supply list which will also include the option to purchase something personal AND fun! Don’t let BBBS-SWLA Littles be singled out because they lack the required material necessary to learn. You can help a local child in need.

Change a child’s life and sponsor a Little!.

This is a great opportunity for those who may be interested in helping the community but aren’t yet sure if they have the time available to become a Big Brother or Big Sister. For For more information on “Sponsor a Little” or to sign up to become a sponsor for this program, contact Alex Stinchcomb, at alex@ bbbsswla.org or call (337) 478-5437, ext. 114.

Surgical Technology Degree Earns Programmatic Accreditation Program Found in Compliance with Nationally Established Standards The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) awarded accreditation to the Surgical Technology program at SOWELA Technical Community College Morgan Smith Site in Jennings, LA. A recent peer review conducted by the Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC/STSA) and CAAHEP’s Board of Directors recognizes the program’s substantial compliance with the nationally established standards.

The Surgical Technology program is designed to train practitioners as Surgical

Technologists to meet the needs of local healthcare partners. Students who successfully complete the program are able to make clinical judgements based on current standards and practices within the profession. They perform medical calculations before and during surgical procedures and serve as a member of the surgical team.

To apply or for more information about this program, contact the One Stop Enrollment Office at (337) 421-6550 or visit www.sowela.edu/admissions.

Simple Traditions by Johnson Funeral Home Now Open Simple Traditions by Johnson Funeral Home is open to serve the families of Southwest Louisiana. The new service includes an online planning process as well as a physical location in Lake Charles. All services are delivered by the experienced and caring staff of Johnson Funeral Home, trusted by families in Southwest Louisiana for over 40 years.

Simple Traditions by Johnson Funeral Home’s interactive website allows cremation or burial arrangements to be made online, minimizing the customer’s time and funeral home resources. Information and selections are available online, 24 hours a day, making the arrangement as convenient and easy to plan as possible. Service options begin at $1,395 (includes transfer of loved one into our care and basic cremation) with additional customization options easily added.

Simple Traditions by Johnson Funeral Home is located at 3448 Fifth Avenue in Lake Charles.

Visit www.simpletraditionsbyjohnson. com or call (337) 429-5512 to learn more.

35th Annual CITGO MDA GOLF CLASSIC

$406,771 700 Southwest Louisiana RAISED

SUPPORTS MORE THAN

AND

PEOPLE IN

Trevor Rickerson and Isabella Melara, 2019 Goodwill Ambassadors and their parents Stephen and Brittany Melara, with CITGO Lake Charles Vice President and General Manager Jerry Dunn and CITGO Lake Charles Government and Public Affairs Manager Dana Keel.

CITGO Lake Charles partnered with the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Southwest Louisiana (SWLA) to host the 35th Annual CITGO MDA Golf Classic on May 6 at the Lake Charles Country Club.

This collaborative effort raised $406,771 for the MDA SWLA and the proceeds will be used by the organization to support research and services for more than 700 children and adults affected by muscular dystrophy in Southwest Louisiana. A portion of the proceeds also sent more than 100 children to a barrier free MDA summer camp, Camp Starlite.

Thank you to all of the contributors, participants, and volunteers who made the 35th Annual CITGO MDA Golf Classic a resounding success. Also, we appreciate MDA SWLA for serving Southwest Louisiana residents who are impacted by muscular dystrophy.

www.CITGO.com Š 2019 CITGO Petroleum Corporation

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!

Solutions for Life

from Solutions Counseling & EAP

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

Take A Stand – No More Bullying I’ve been doing a lot of training lately on Bullying in the Workplace. Many people think bullying is something that only occurs in school to kids.

But, bullying activities are not limited to childhood. Many people still deal with bullies as adults – with family members, socially, and in the workplace. I usually have several open cases dealing with this very issue.

First, you need to understand some things about bullies: Bullies are emotionally underdeveloped.

They do not know how to connect easily with others, and they lack in social skills. People who bully in public have a warped belief that the onlookers will like them and look up to them as they bully their victim. People who bully in private have power and control issues and bullying makes them feel “better than” their victim. These people were not taught effective anger management or conflict resolution skills as children. Their bullying behavior probably started in childhood and has continued on throughout their life.

Bullies have low self-esteem They generally don’t like themselves very much – their true selves, that is.

They have the “bully” mask on so they can pretend they are cool and don’t care that no one connects with them on anything other than a surface level.

Good thing they are underdeveloped, or that might really bother them.

Bullies like being “big.”

People who feel the need to overtake the person they are dealing with are doing what I call “getting bigger.” Examples: • Standing up when everyone else is sitting down • Getting into that

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person’s personal space • Raising your voice when the other person is still talking at a normal level • Clinching your fists, breathing heavy, or gritting your teeth • Slamming the door, hitting the wall, pounding the desk • Of course, out and out violence It’s all about scare tactics to get that person to back down – instead of actually dealing effectively with the issue at hand.

Bullies choose their victims well.

Bullies tend to choose people they believe they can bully. People they think won’t stand up for themselves. People they believe they can intimidate – either physically or with something to lord over them (like needing your job).

Stay in the Comfort Zone.

Avoid hot topics that lead to opinions – religion, politics, etc. Even though those topics might be more fun to you, and you enjoy seeing people squirm a little, you will quickly become known as a person lacking social skills. Save those discussions for close friends, not new acquaintances.

So, what do we do about these troublemakers? As the title of the article suggests, you must take a stand. Gone are the days when the best recommendation for dealing with a bully is “Ignore him; he’ll go find someone else to bully.” We know that ignoring bullies only gives them permission to escalate their bullying activities.

Here are my suggestions: Address the bully directly Face to face is best. Look that person in the eye and say, “I don’t like it when

you ____________ (yell at me, try to intimidate me, etc.). If you don’t stop, I will ______________________ (tell the teacher, report you to management, file charges, etc.).” If you can’t bring yourself to do this in person, consider sending a certified letter (which you will keep a copy of). Remember, the bully is counting on you being like all their other victims – silent.

Don’t back down Once you’ve decided to take action, you must go through with it. Other victims may have threatened your bully and backed down. You have to break that pattern. If you must continue to see this person, then you must continue to not allow them to get away with bullying behavior. Ever.

Examine yourself.

There’s a reason you were selected by the bully. I’m not saying it’s your fault and that you’ve brought this on yourself, but I am saying you need to figure out what it is about you that the bully felt he/ she could treat you this way. How’s your self-confidence? Do you look people in the eye as they enter a room and when you speak to them? Do you stand up straight and move with purpose? Do you speak up when you have an opinion or in social situations? Are you willing to address uncomfortable or wrong things immediately, or do you tend to “take it?”

Therapy or personal coaching can be very helpful in determining these things.

I can remember being bullied in Jr. High. The girl was pushing me and threatening to beat me up. A very tall friend of mine stepped in on my behalf. The bully backed down. I learned right then that bullies can be controlled – if you’re willing to take a stand. No one has had to stand up for me since. I stand up for myself.

McNeese MFA Student Accepted to Summer Residency McNeese State University Master of Fine Arts student Sarah Harshbarger has been accepted to the distinguished Sundress Academy for the Arts (SAFTA) residency at Firefly Farms.

Originally from Woodbine, Maryland, Harshbarger is currently a second-year fiction student at McNeese. She received her bachelor’s degree in creative writing from Susquehanna University.

SAFTA is located on a 45-acre working farm outside of Knoxville, Tennessee, and offers short-term residencies to well-known and emerging writers, visual artists, filmmakers and composers.

While residents have time to focus on producing creative work, they also have the opportunity to garden and help out with the farm’s livestock.

SAFTA will host Harshbarger from July 28-Aug 4. While there, she will attend SAFTA-sponsored workshops, readings and other events with seasoned poets and fiction writers.

McNeese Honors College Welcomes 22 New Students For the last 19 years, McNeese State University’s Honors College has changed nearly 500 students’ lives.

Honors College provides additional educational opportunities for students with strong academic backgrounds, including scholarships, priority registration, personalized academic counseling and access to special classes. Students also have the opportunity to participate in unique extra service-based and recreational curricular activities.

For the 2019-2020 academic year, McNeese State University welcomes 22 freshmen into Honors College.

To qualify, students must score at least a 27 on the ACT or have a combined score of 1210 on the SAT, as well a 3.4 GPA or more. Additionally, prospective students must submit their high school transcripts, three letters of recommendation and a short twopage essay. The 2019 incoming class has an average 29.9 ACT and includes six valedictorians and 11 students who graduated with a 4.0 GPA.

McNeese Counseling Center Receives IACS Accreditation The McNeese State University Counseling Center has been awarded accreditation by the International Association of Counseling Services (IACS).

Established in 1971, IACS is the accreditation association for university, four-year college and twoyear community college counseling services. Accreditation by IACS is the highest standard available for campus counseling centers, according to Raime Thibodeaux, director of the McNeese Counseling Center.

The university counseling center is located in Room 112 E in Kaufman Hall, and offers comprehensive mental health counseling, assessment, consultation and crisis intervention to all students enrolled.

For more information about services, call (337) 475-5136.

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