Thrive June '10 Issue by Thrive Magazine

JUNE 2010

Inside:

Hurricane How-to Guide Your Teen’s Credit Grandparents’ Rights

SUMMER SECTION

Thanks, D ad! June 2010

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Contents

53 22

4 In This Issue

4 Coffee: Grounds for Concern? 8 The Male/Female Approach to Stress 1 1 Grandparents’ Rights 1 2 Water Safety: Keep Your Head Above Water 2 2 Does Your Teen Deserve Credit? 3 0 Eat Right for Better Sight 4 0 Top Health Threats for Men 4 1 Why Men Shouldn’t Be Afraid of Urologists 4 Cover Story: 4 The Front Lines of Fatherhood

Regular Features 6 20 39 5 0 6 2 64 70 78 8 2 8 6

B y the Numbers Coming to America Well Aware McNeese Corral

First Person:

with Chef Chad Jackson Best Impressions Chatterbox Solutions for Life High Five The Last Word

4 8 Does Your Lifestyle Age You?

52 Summer Time Summer Section • Debunking Summer Health Myths • Backyard Hideaways • Hot Looks for Summer • Tips for a Healthy, Happy Summer 7 4 Your How-to Hurricane Guide

7 6 The Life of Mid-life Moms 8 5 Battle of the Bugs

Don’t just live, thrive!

Winner:

Editors and Publishers Kristy Armand Christine Fisher Creative Director/Layout Barbara VanGossen Assistant Editor Erin K. Cormier Assistant Designers Jason Hardesty Louisiana Press Josh McGee Association Awards Staff Writers Katie McDaniel Haley Armand Advertising Sales 337.310.2099 Danielle Granger danielle@thriveswla.com Andy Jacobson andy@thriveswla.com Ashley Gatte ashley@thriveswla.com Submissions edit@thriveswla.com or fax to 337.312.0976 Submitted articles and photos are welcome. Thrive assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials and does not guarantee any submissions.

Thrive is designed for people focused on living a happy, healthy life, one that is balanced, full of energy and contentment. Thrive readers want to make the most of every day and be successful in all areas of their lives – family, health, home and career.

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Fee lin g by Kristy Armand

For true coffee connoisseurs, the day doesn’t get started until that first cup, and when the afternoon slump hits, nothing beats coffee for a burst of energy to get through the rest of the day. But for years, we’ve been warned about the health risks associated with coffee and, more specifically, caffeine. Coffee has been blamed for a range of risks, everything from heart disease and arrhythmia to cancer and osteoporosis. But are health dangers really lurking in our lattes? As it turns out, we may need to give coffee a break. Studies have found that coffee poses very little risk for most people, and appears to actually offer some surprising health benefits, including lowering the risk of diabetes and certain types of cancer, and beneficial treatment effects for headaches, Parkinson’s disease and depression, just to name a few. In recent decades, over 20,000 studies have been done examining coffee’s impact on health. And for the most part, the results are as welcome as that first morning

sip for the 108 million Americans who enjoy coffee as part of their daily routine.

control attacks when medication is unavailable, stop a headache, boost mood, and even prevent cavities.

“The research shows that coffee is more healthful than it is harmful,” says Jody George, MD, family medicine physician with The Family Care Center of SWLA. “No one would suggest that coffee be classified as a ‘health food,’ but we are finding that we may not need to be as concerned about health risks associated with coffee as we once were.”

The widely accepted belief about caffeine and cognitive function is also proving to be true. Studies found volunteers who drank caffeinated coffee in the morning performed better than nondrinkers on tests that involved learning new information. And another study found that attention, psychomotor skills, and long-term memory all improved during the few hours after volunteers drank caffeinated beverages.

After analyzing data on 126,000 people for as long as 18 years, Harvard researchers calculate that compared with non-coffee drinkers, those who drink one to three cups of caffeinated coffee daily can reduce diabetes risk by single digits, and having six cups or more each day slashed men’s risk by 54% and women’s by 30%. Similar results were found in a Dutch study. The results are promising, but scientist caution that “more research is needed before anyone should label coffee as a preventive measure for diabetes. At least six studies indicate that people who drink coffee on a regular basis are up to 80% less likely to develop Parkinson’s, with three showing the more they drink, the lower the risk. Other research shows that compared to not drinking coffee, at least two cups daily can translate to a 25 percent reduced risk of colon cancer, an 80% drop in liver cirrhosis risk, and nearly half the risk of gallstones. There’s also some evidence that coffee may help manage asthma and even

So why was all the concern about health risks from coffee in the past? One cup of coffee contains about 100 milligrams of caffeine, which is enough to give infrequent coffee drinkers a potent kick. Half an hour after a good strong cup, a coffee drinker’s resting metabolic rate, the number of calories burned just sitting quietly, increases by as much as 10 percent. Blood pressure climbs, heart rate accelerates and breathing speeds up. However, regular coffee drinkers quickly develop a tolerance to caffeine, Dr. George says. Research has found that after a week or two, they typically don’t see much change, if any, in their blood pressure, and habitual coffee drinkers are no more likely to suffer from hypertension than people who never pour a cup. Even patients with irregular heartbeats, or arrhythmia, don’t seem to be troubled by caffeine. Toronto scientists reviewed five studies of people with arrhythmia. Drinking up to five cups of coffee a day, they found, didn’t make anyone’s heart more likely to skip a beat. Nor does coffee appear to increase the risk of heart disease, according to a 10-year study of more than 85,000 women. Harvard researchers reported that women who drank six or more cups of coffee weren’t any more likely to have a heart attack than women who drank only one or two cups.

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Grounds for Concern?

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Several other coffee alarms have turned out to be false. A few years back, headlines warned about a possible link between coffee and breast cancer and between coffee and osteoporosis. But numerous studies have found no link between coffee consumption and either disease. And what about the old wive’s tale that says children shouldn’t drink coffee because it will stunt their growth? No studies show that coffee in reasonable amounts is in any way harmful to children. Can the positive health benefits that have been identified be attributed to caffeine? For most of these results, the answer is yes. The reduced risk of Parkinson’s disease is directly related to the caffeine, and caffeine is also what helps in treating asthma and headaches. “Though not widely publicized, a single dose of pain reliever such as Anacin or Excedrin contains up to 120 milligrams of caffeine, about the equivalent of a large cup of coffee,” says Dr. George. The bottom line: Coffee seems to be harmless for most people, but that doesn’t mean you should treat it as a health food, and for some people, coffee may still be advised against, says Dr. George. He says excess caffeine – more than whatever your individual body can tolerate – can increase nervousness, hand trembling, and cause rapid heartbeat in some people. “Coffee may also raise cholesterol levels in certain individuals. Check with your doctor, who may also advise you to avoid coffee if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you’ve had a heart attack or take heart medications such as betablockers or theophylline (caffeine plus these drugs amplifies centralnervous-system stimulation). Because caffeine is a stimulant, it can worsen sleep problems like insomnia. And if you’re feeling anxious or depressed, it’s worth easing up on the caffeine, which can intensify symptoms.”

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If you’re not a coffee drinker, don’t take up the habit for its possible health benefits, stresses Dr. George. “That’s not what medical experts are saying at all. There are other healthy habits that can provide the same benefit without the caffeine.” For example, the researchers who found that coffee prevents gallstones say that exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are preferred ways to protect your gallbladder. Overall, most experts agree that moderation in coffee drinking is less than four to five cups a day depending upon one’s build and size. “People who already drink a lot of coffee don’t have to worry or feel guilty about their coffee consumption as long as coffee does not affect their daily life,” says Dr. George. “The fact that they may actually benefit from coffee habits in the long-run is just an added bonus.”

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

June 2010

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BY THE NUMBERS

Summer Vacations 50

of Americans plan to take a summer vacation this year.

22 $500 of U.S. population has a passport. Source: U.S. State Department

Source: USA Cruising

Time off 9-11 weeks

Americans will be travelling internationally this summer.

Average length of summer vacation for schools.

3-8 days

Source: Global Insight

Average length of vacation for working adults.

52% of travelers plan to

Top 10

New York City San Diego Honolulu Seattle Washington, DC

Source: American Society of Travel Agents

6 8

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As the temperature rises, the worst part of our ozone season begins, making our community more susceptible to increased ground-level ozone levels.

Source: expedia.com

The summer ozone season officially began April 15 and will last until October 15. Because of increased attention on environmental initiatives, communities across the country have placed increased focus on ground-level ozone levels in their regions. Southwest Louisiana is one of those areas.

of travelers plan to stay at a hotel during their vacation this summer. Source: Trip Advisor

Although the upper-level ozone layer provides a protective shield in the stratosphere, ground-level ozone can be harmful to humans. Ground-level ozone, which is recognized as smog, is created when emissions from industry, business, cars, and human activities interact with sunlight and heat.

Top10

In Southwest Louisiana, more than 50 percent of the ozone creating emissions come from area sources, like auto body shops, gas stations, and personal activities; on-road mobile sources, such as cars, trucks, buses and vans; and off-road mobile sources, like machinery, farm equipment, railroads, lawn and garden equipment, boats and aircraft, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Although regional ozone monitors reported some of the lowest levels in the state last season, the EPA is continually creating more stringent regulations on ozone emissions, and new standards are expected to be issued later this year.

Destinations Abroad

U.S. Summer Vacation Destinations for 2010 Orlando Las Vegas San Francisco Miami Los Angeles

by Erin K. Cormier

The average cost per person for a cruise.

25.1 Million

Source: Travel Industry of America

Tweak Your Lifestyle and Help SWLA Take Action Against Ozone

Source: American Express Travel

visit a beach destination and 49% plan to visit a major metropolitan area this summer.

Ozone Season Has Arrived

kids attend summer camps each summer.

Mexico Canada Caribbean Islands Italy United Kingdom

Source: Cribsheet

Source: Global Insight

6 million

Living Thrive Magazine for Better Living

“Environmental standards have become stricter every year, which means communities have to try harder and harder to be in attainment and avoid the adverse consequences of falling out of the acceptable levels of ozone set forth by regulatory agencies,” said Larry DeRoussel, with Lake Area Industry Alliance.

France Germany China Netherlands Ireland

Although the local area has been in attainment of federal health standards for ozone levels since 1997, regulatory agencies continue to tighten the standard, which means small businesses and individuals in the community need to play a more active role in reducing emissions that contribute to ground-level ozone – especially on days when the temperatures reach the high 80s or 90s.

June 2010 March 2010

June 2010

“If our community does not stay in attainment, there can be costly economic ramifications that we’ll all face, including higher costs for gasoline and car inspections, and restrictions on business growth and expansion, just to name a few,” explains DeRoussel. Reducing surface level ozone is something everyone in the community can work toward, with a few simple changes: • Keep your car tuned and maintained. • Don’t spill gasoline while filling your car or other gasoline-powered equipment. • Keep tires properly inflated. • Seal containers of household, shop and garden chemicals and solvents. • Choose compact fluorescent light bulbs. They last longer, reduce greenhouse emissions and save energy. • Recycle. • Bring your lunch to work so you don’t have to burn up gas. Be sure to pack it in a reusable container rather than a plastic bag. • Turn off as many lights as possible when they aren’t needed. • Laptops use much less energy than desktop computers. If possible, use laptops instead. • Carpool. • Gas up your car during the late afternoon – and don’t top off the tank. Both these methods prevent excess fumes from interacting with the warm environment, which can contribute to ground-level ozone formation. • Can some of your errands be done over the phone or online? If so, opt for that instead. • Run errands during less busy times of the day. This will save gas and reduce idling.

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Gender Differences in Dealing with Stress

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Amy Nyberg, left, with Sarah and Parker Yarbrough

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Asking for directions, a sink full of dirty dishes, a disagreement at work -- a man’s reaction to these scenarios are usually different than a woman’s. It’s the same with stress. Men handle stressful situations differently than women. Reasons for this vary from hormones to instincts, according to Dale Archer, Jr., MD, president and founder of Institute for Neuropsychiatry and nationally-recognized expert on mental health topics. When stressful situations happen, hormones kick in such as cortisol and epinephrine. They cause a spike in blood pressure, blood sugar, heart rate, and overall awareness in men and women. Cortisol alone lowers the effectiveness of the immune system, which is why people are more apt to get colds and other viruses when they are stressed. When stress is long-term or significant, it can further weaken the immune system, playing a part in more serious conditions, such as heart disease and cancer.

time these days, it’s a verbal disagreement,” explained Dr. Archer. “It could be over a lost reservation, a ticket mix-up at the airport, or a project at work that is not going well. Whatever ignites the stress, we can feel our emotions begin to boil up as we deal with the situation. At times, we stand our ground, other times we decide a confrontation isn’t the best route to take at that time. This quick decision is attributed to the fight or flight theory.”

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T Tdaughters H E E Ysometimes E C L I Nhave IC MothersAand differences of opinion, but clear vision after LASIK has given Amy Nyberg and her daughter Sarah Yarbrough a shared point of view, one that allows them to focus on something else they agree on – how adorable Parker is.

A newer version of that theory is known as “tend and befriend” and it’s geared toward a woman’s reaction to stress. It’s the tendency to turn to friends or family for comfort and assurance after dealing with a difficult situation. Again, oxytocin in women is the driving force behind their need to reach out to others during stress. A man’s lower amount of oxytocin doesn’t elicit the same reaction.

Initially, women have the same response to stress as men, with cortisol and epinephrine rushing through their system, but then they begin secreting oxytocin from the pituitary gland, which helps to calm them.

Both genders seek an escape from the stress. Men may suppress their feelings for the time being, or they may let out their frustration through a physical activity like running, basketball or hitting a few golf balls. Women tend to share their experiences by talking with friends and relaying a play-by-play of the offending incident.

Dr. Archer says oxytocin is the hormonal difference. It promotes a feeling of wellbeing, calmness and nurturing. “In women, when cortisol and epinephrine are released, oxytocin is also released in larger quantities than in men. This counters the effects of the other two hormones.” In men, their inherent testosterone hormone revs up their tendency to react with aggression when attacked, either physically or emotionally. This violence was a defense mechanism back in the Stone Age when men needed to hunt to survive, as well as defend their clan. Men also secrete oxytocin, but in lesser quantities, and testosterone can often cancel any calming effects oxytocin may have had.

For both men and women, stressors of today are much different than they were many years ago. Today, we’re not fighting for physical survival; we’re facing mortgage payments, repair bills and multi-tasking. And, we’ve learned from each other ways to deal with difficulties. “Many women go for a run after a rough day, and men will come home and roughhouse with their kids. These activities help relieve the stress of the day, and also provide health and emotional benefits,” said Dr. Archer. “But understanding the basic physiology of hormones and the role they play in stressful situations can help all of us relate to each other in a better way.”

The instinctual difference when studying the reaction of stress among men and women is the “fight or flight” theory. It’s one most people are familiar with -- in stressful situations, people either fight their way through or they determine the situation is better resolved by stepping aside. “This can be a literal fight, or most of the

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When a child is born, the lives that are affected reach beyond the parents to a line of grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and siblings. With so many people vested in that young person’s success and happiness, things can quickly become muddied and complicated when trouble arises between the parents. Whether it’s a case of separation and divorce or an unexpected tragedy, the legal rights of those outside the immediate parents can become complicated and emotional, according to attorney David Green of the Hanchey Law Firm. “Most grandparents have a vested interest in their grandchild’s life. When something happens between the grandchild’s parents that causes animosity or tension, the grandparents are often left wondering what, if anything, they can do to ensure that they remain a part of their grandchild’s life. It’s not uncommon for grandparents to want visitation rights to their grandchild in a situation where they may be otherwise excluded,” Green said. “As with most legalese, however, the legal system in Louisiana as it relates to visitation can be tricky to navigate.” In most cases where grandparents are awarded visitation rights, the child’s parent has died, been incarcerated or has been deemed incompetent, according to LSA R.S. 9:344. “In all visitation decisions, the best interest of the child should take precedence. There is no blanket decision that covers all cases,” said Green. “Factors that the courts take under consideration for visitation rights include the grandparent’s ability to provide for the child, the longevity and quality of the relationship between the grandparent and child, and the preference of the child, assuming that he or she is mature enough to make an autonomous decision. The mental and physical health and well-being of the child is obviously the prevailing factor in all this.”

There are unique circumstances that can make Louisiana law on grandparental visitation even more complicated: When one parent dies and the child is adopted by someone else, for example, where does that leave the grandparents on the deceased parent’s side of the family?

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“There is no single way answer that question. To be honest, there is no easy way to answer any questions related to visitation because so much of it depends on the facts of each case, the arguments made by the attorneys involved and what the judge determines to be healthy for the child,” Green said. “For any grandparent out there who is considering taking legal action for visitation rights to their grandchild, my best piece of advice would be to find a good lawyer and set up a thorough consultation. The attorney’s ability to present the case will ultimately be one of the prevailing determining factors.”

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Visitation statutes can be complicated

Although most cases of grandparental visitation rights are exercised after one of the parents has been deemed unable to parent, there are instances where grandparents want visitation following a separation or divorce. “Under extraordinary circumstances, a blood relative, such as a grandparent, may be granted reasonable visitation rights if the court finds that it’s in the best interest of the child,” Green said.

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The Rights of A Grandparent

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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Keep Your Head

Above Water by Christine Fisher

the boat driver. So, if there are only two people involved, then there aren’t enough for someone to ski. Hand signals should be used for the skier to communicate with the people on the boat. They may need to signal for the driver to slow down, turn a certain direction or stop moving.

“The main thing when out on the water is to stay alert to potential safety problems. Chances are, you won’t have any trouble; but if a risky situation should come up, you’ll only have seconds to respond. That’s when you’ll be glad you are prepared,” said Fontenot.

When approaching a fallen skier, boat drivers should turn the motor off completely to avoid accidentally accelerating. Allow the skier to swim up to the boat, rather than driving up to the skier. Adding the fun of skiing can take a day on the boat to a whole new level, but if the party barge seems too crowded for your taste, a jet ski might seem inviting, as it holds only one or two people. It is extremely nimble, able to turn tight corners and maneuver into small spaces, which can end up leading to accidents if the driver isn’t careful. Drivers of jet skis should keep courtesy in mind: obey no-wake and speed zones, and don’t drive them near swimmers. “If you’re not careful, it can be easy to zoom up where people are swimming and there is little time to slow down or turn to avoid hitting them,” said Fontenot. When in the vicinity of swimmers, the dock or shoreline, keep the jet ski at a slow speed until a safe distance away. Most of us were given the advice of staying with the group when we were young, because there is safety in numbers. That wisdom applies to swimming, jet skiing, or boating as well. “Always have a buddy when out on the water. Never go out alone,” urged Fontenot. Vacations to water parks are great getaways to beat the summer heat. While the parks are filled with lifeguards and assistants, all water parks urge participants to patrol their own safety needs as well. Signs are posted to advise of proper positioning on water slides. Pay attention to them and follow their directions, because they are there to ensure you have a safe and fun experience. When going from one ride to another, note the difference in water depth, and plan accordingly. “Many people are caught by surprise to find out the pool suddenly drops off in a certain spot, for instance. If you’re not a strong swimmer, you could be in danger, especially if the pool is crowded and you get jostled or held on to by other people,” she said. “Be aware of the nature of the pool or water ride and know what you’re getting in to, literally, before you jump in.” No matter what type of water activity you choose, there are general safety points to keep in mind:

Taking advantage of the waterways in Southwest Louisiana is a favorite pastime for many people during the hot summer months.

especially if they are struggling and frightened, to drown while wearing a life jacket or inflatable arm bands,” said Fontenot.

One of the advantages of water activities is that they can be enjoyed by almost any age, and are great family outings. Because of that, though, keeping safety in mind should be a top priority. “Parents know how quickly small children can get out of sight and into situations that could be harmful. When water is involved, even a small amount, the potential for danger rises exponentially,” explained Joni Fontenot, spokesperson for the Safety Council of Southwest Louisiana. “It does not take much water, as little as a ¼ of a cup, for a child to drown.”

While swimming is relatively accessible to most everyone, some people choose to get away on a boat. Zipping along with the wind in your face and plenty of open space is invigorating. But, along with the fun, safe practices must be included. Seventy percent of recreational boating accidents are caused by factors that are controlled by the boat’s operator – failure to pay attention, carelessness, recklessness, inexperience, excessive speed and failure to watch for hazards.

When small children are involved, constant supervision is necessary around water. Drowning is the second leading cause of death among American children ages 14 and under. “About 94% of parents say they supervise their children while they’re swimming, but they also report being distracted during the same time frame. They’ll eat, talk on the telephone or read,” said Fontenot. “While you don’t have to forgo all other activities while watching a child in the swimming pool, it’s vital to keep a close eye on them. Don’t run inside to answer the telephone, or step away to visit a neighbor. Think of a lifeguard: they sit and observe the entire time they’re on duty. That’s how it should be anytime children are in the water.” If parents aren’t able to set aside the time to monitor, then the children should not be allowed to swim. It doesn’t matter if the child knows how to swim or not, or if he or she stays in shallow water. Relying solely on a life jacket or an inflatable toy is also wrong. Children have died because they ingested water even while wearing a life jacket. “It will keep the child’s upper body out of the water, but it’s possible to inhale enough water,

There are several boating classes available in this area, including those given by the Lake Charles Power Squadron. They are designed for individuals 16 years of age and older and are required to ensure safety on lakes and rivers.

• Stay aware of the surroundings. • Be alert to weather forecasts and changes. • Never mix alcohol and water. Alcohol impairs judgment, balance and coordination; all of which are key ingredients for a fun, yet safe experience on the water. • Wear sunscreen when in the sun for an extended period of time. That time period could be shorter than you think. Some people can burn in as little as 15 minutes. • Wear sunglasses; they are like sunscreen for your eyes. Look for sunglasses with labels that indicate they absorb at least 90% of UV sunlight.

Session start dates:

“Many boaters don’t wear their life jackets while on the water because they think they’ll have plenty of time to put them on if an emergency arises,” explained Fontenot. “The reality is there is no time to find your life jacket when something unexpected happens.”

Summer I: June 7 • Summer 2: July 12 Fall 2010: August 23

Louisiana ranks third in the nation for boating fatalities, according to the National Safe Boating Council. Everyone on the boat should wear a life jacket, not just the children. Just like in a vehicle, the driver of the boat should not go until everyone is buckled up. When out on the boat, skiing can be a favorite activity. One of the main safety precautions is to have a designated person to watch the skier, and it should not be

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June 2010

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Cavities

Worst Travel Mistakes you Can Make Not double-checking the name on your airline ticket.

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Cavities are often considered to be part of growing up, like to learning ride a bike or scraping your knee. However, it isn’t necessary for this condition to be a rite of passage. Cavities in childhood are often preventable or easily treated if found early. “Cavities are not a condition of childhood,” says Tim Robinson, D.D.S., of Robinson Dental Group. “Children tend to experience cavities at greater rates because of higher amounts of sugar and starch in their diets. In fact, cavities are growing increasingly prevalent in children due to the amount of highly processed carbohydrates in the modern diet.”

What causes cavities?

Bacteria is public enemy #1 in the battle against cavities. Millions of bacteria live in our mouths in a continuously forming film called plaque. The bacteria feed on carbohydrate-based food (sugar and starch)particles, creating acid in the process. This acid by-product eats into tooth enamel and causes cavities. Cavities mainly attack teeth in two ways. The first way is in between teeth or on the front or back of a tooth. The other common attack is through pits and fissures, which are grooves that are visible on the top surface of the back teeth. The tooth’s enamel is thin in the pits and fissures; this area also contains recesses that can trap food and plaque. In both cases, the cavity often starts with a small, focused point of attack, then spreads to invade underlying dentin, the softer layer under the enamel.

The new Transportation Security Administration rules say that names on boarding passes and IDs must match exactly - including apostrophes, hyphens and initials. So always double check that your name is spelled correctly. If you catch an error quickly, many travel agencies can change the name on the ticket, but if you don’t notice for a week or two, you may have to pay a fee – or buy a new ticket – to fix things. If you don’t fix it, you run the risk of not getting through security because the name on your ticket doesn’t match your ID.

Not inspecting your rental car when you pick it up.

How can I prevent cavities?

“Proper oral hygiene and a balanced diet are the best ways to prevent cavities, but even sometimes these measures are not enough,” says Dr. Robinson. “Even with the best efforts a cavity can still form; often times it is just a matter of genetics. It is always best to take care of cavity when it is small, rather than to wait until you have a toothache and may need more extensive treatment like a root canal. Regular dental check-ups twice a year are the best prevention.” Dr. Robinson advises the following to help prevent cavities: • Makesure your children brush their teeth, tongue and gums for three minutes, two or three times a day, especially after eating and before bedtime. • Use fluoride toothpaste and a toothbrush with soft bristles. • If your child is under 7 years old, supervise when they brush their teeth. Most children under the age of 7 do not have the manual dexterity to effectively brush their teeth. • Limit the amount of sugary foods your child eats and maintain a healthy, balanced diet.

If you don’t, the rental car company could hold YOU responsible for any damage – whether you did it or not! After all, there’s no way to tell if that dent was there before or after you used the car. So if you notice any damage, point it out to an employee, and have them write it down. Take a picture of any damage on the car before you drive away.

Not buying cancellation insurance.

You should purchase this for big ticket travel items – like cruises, guided tours and safaris. That way, you’re covered if you have to cancel your trip. You can compare travel insurance prices at squaremouth.com, but make sure you find out how far in advance you have to cancel. Most policies require the trip to be canceled at least 48 hours before departure. So if you miss the flight before your cruise, you may have to eat the price on the whole cruise if the boat sails before you get there.

Staying at a hotel with a “resort fee.”

Some hotels can charge up to $40 a day for the pool, tennis courts, putting green, “complimentary” newspaper, and local in-room phone calls – whether you use them or not! The best way to protect yourself is to call the hotel and make sure you’re booking an ‘all-inclusive’ rate. Source: MSNBC

Tiling the Swiss Way

For more information on how you can keep your child cavity-free call Robinson Dental Group at 474-3636 or visit www.lakecharlesdentist.com.

A cavity is destructive. It will travel and degrade the layers of a tooth until it is broken down. A cavity is often not detected until it has weakened the tooth to the point of breakage.

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“Many of my patients are surprised when they find out they have a cavity, because they haven’t experienced any pain,” says Dr. Robinson. “This is because the outer layer of the tooth’s enamel does not contain any nerves and it is not until the cavity has progressed and reached the underlying dentin layer that one may feel pain or sensitivity, especially to cold, sweets or drinks.”

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June 2010

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3-D TV and Movies

Lasers Provide Viable Treatment Alternative

Having Problems ‘Seeing’ What All the Excitement is About? Hollywood has been preparing for the summer with 3-D blockbuster hopefuls and cable networks are getting ready to launch 3-D networks and programming for newly released 3-D televisions. The trend toward this new technology is hard to miss—that is, except for the millions of Americans who are unable to see it. Movies such as “Avatar” and “Alice in Wonderland” have already left their impression on the 3-D screen and new movies such as “Toy Story 3” that are using the new technology are eagerly anticipated by theater-goers across the country. Meanwhile, ESPN and the Discovery Channel are preparing to broadcast in 3-D. While this new technology is capturing fans nationwide, some people are unable to enjoy the 3-D experience due to vision problems. In fact, a failed 3-D experience can reveal a possible vision problem. “People who have even a small vision misalignment or those who don’t have equal vision in both eyes may not be able to see 3-D images properly,” says Keith Menard, O.D., an optometrist with Menard Eye Center. “Individuals with unstable focusing or difficulty in coordinating vision with other senses can experience headaches and other uncomfortable side effects from viewing 3-D movies.” According to the American Optometric Association, anywhere from 3 to 9 million people have problems with binocular vision, which can prohibit them from watching 3-D TV and movies. Binocular vision is the ability to align both eyes accurately on an object and combine the visual images from each eye into a single, in-depth perception. The problem comes from fatigue caused when 3-D technology forces the eyes to make adjustments to focus simultaneously on images that are near and far away.

Symptoms indicating a potential problem can vary from person to person. The majority of individuals who have 3-D vision complications most often experience headaches, blurred vision and/or dizziness. Dr. Menard says, “Watching 3-D programming can unmask issues such as lazy eye, convergence insufficiency, poor focusing skills and other visual problems one might not have previously known existed.” Dr. Menard advises seeing an optometrist if you answer yes to any of the following questions: • Is your 3-D viewing experience not as vivid as it is for others? • Do you experience eyestrain or headaches during or after viewing? • Do you feel nauseous or dizzy during or after viewing? • Are you more comfortable viewing 2-D TV or movies instead of 3-D TV/ movies? • Is it difficult for your eyes to adjust back to normal after watching 3-D TV/movies? “Studies have shown that there are variety ways to help people experiencing problems with binocular vision,” says Dr. Menard. “Some of my patients have benefitted through simple efforts, but a problem viewing 3-D movies and TV can sometimes be a sign of serious vision issue. If you are experiencing any of these problems it is important to make and appointment with your optometrist.” For more information or if you have questions about 3-D vision issues contact Menard Eye Center at 478-4733 or visit MenardEyeCenter.com.

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Give the gift of choice Give them a First Federal Bank Visa gift card. This gift card is a prepaid card that can be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted worldwide, including retail stores and online merchants. It’s an ideal choice for birthdays, holidays, weddings and all your gift-giving occasions. Visit any of our locations to purchase your Visa gift card today!

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June 2010

by Erin K. Cormier

In the past ten years lasers have increasingly found their way into the medical community; they are now used to treat everything from yellowing teeth and age spots to aches, pains and other physical ailments. Their contribution to health and wellness has surged, but with good reason, according to Donald Thigpen, DC, with the Center for Chiropractic.

limited long-term effect,” he said. “And the vast majority of my patients would certainly prefer not to undergo potentially invasive surgery.” For more information, contact Dr. Thigpen at the Center for Chiropractic at 502-5303.

“In the medical community, lasers have been found to be accurate and efficient cutting instruments. In the cosmetic community, they are able to eliminate some undesirable skin abnormalities through a burning method that causes very little discomfort. And in the chiropractic world, non-burning lasers have been found to penetrate deep into the body’s tissues to stimulate healing,” said Dr. Thigpen. When used in chiropractic treatment, laser light interacts with the body’s mitochondria, which supply cellular energy and are involved in the control of the cell cycle, cell growth and other processes. In this interaction, the mitochondria increases its energy, which is believed to cause healing to joints and tissues, according to Dr. Thigpen. Laser treatment was once considered largely experimental, but has gained significant momentum in recent years as its benefits became widely documented, Dr. Thigpen said, noting that several common health conditions – including back and neck pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, arthritis and osteoarthritis, among others – have shown benefits from laser therapy. “Research has demonstrated that injuries treated with laser therapy heal faster. Laser therapy strengthens tissue, improves circulation and has been found to effectively relieve pain,” Dr. Thigpen said. He added that the Federal Drug Administration has approved laser therapy as a medical tool to reduce pain in many medical conditions. “When it comes to the body’s aches and pains, lasers being used as treatment run the range from TMJ to wounds and ulcers.” According to the National Library of Medicine, more than 2,500 scientific studies have identified the benefits of laser therapy as a viable alternative to surgical intervention for pain. In addition to potentially preventing surgery, laser treatment does not typically require drug therapy, which has also played a role in its growing appeal, Dr. Thigpen said. “Many of my patients, when given the choice, prefer not to use prescription medication to treat their pain because in many cases, meds have a June 2010

sWla Center for Health services will meet any of your healthcare needs, no matter what your financial situation.

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Call 337-439-9983 for an appointment SWLA is the only healthcare center in Southwest Louisiana to be accredited with the Joint Commission Approval.

• Obstetrics/Gynecology • Pediatrics • Internal and Family Medicine • Women’s Health • Kid Med/WIC • Immunizations • Nutrition Counseling • Case Management • Laboratory • Pharmacy • Outreach/Health Educaton • HIV Testing and Education • Oral Health (Dentistry) • Physical Fitness and Wellness Programs/Aerobics/KidFit • Behavioral Health Management • Substance Abuse Prevention and Counseling • Podiatry (Foot treatment)

Open Monday, Wednesday & Thursday 8am–5pm Tuesday 10am–7pm • Friday 8am–Noon Lake Charles Campus (337) 439-9983 Crowley Campus (337) 783-5519 • Lafayette Campus (337) 769-9451

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Get Back to Life.

The Center for Orthopaedics proudly introduces the Spine Pain Center, offering advanced non-surgical and surgical treatment options. This new service is part of our commitment to provide the region’s most comprehensive state-of-theart musculoskeletal care. We take a conservative, multi-disciplinary approach to neck and back pain treatment, with a team led by two board certified physicians: an orthopedic surgeon and a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist.

Our goal is to provide the right treatment at the right time for each patient to restore the highest level of pain-free function. Services at the Spine Pain Center include:

• Patient Education • Comprehensive Diagnostic Testing • Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation • Interventional Injections • Minimally Invasive Procedures • Spine Surgery If spine pain is keeping you from enjoying your life, call the Spine Pain Center today at 721-7236 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

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June 2010

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Coming to America tells the stories of local residents who left their native country to make a new home in the United States. Watch for a new story each issue. To nominate someone for this series, send a brief description to: edit@thriveswla.com

by Erin K. Cormier

Olivier and his daughter Rebecca skiing in the Alps.

From the Alps to the Bayou

One of the many castles in Switzerland

The Journey of Olivier Grosset

In August 1993, when Swiss native Olivier Grosset landed in Dallas after a 13-hour flight from Geneva, he planned to take a good, deep breath when he stepped out of the airport so he could remember his first taste of American air. The enormity of being in America was overshadowed by something else truly momentous, however: Southern Heat.

“Where I’m from, the distance from Lake Charles to Beaumont would require you to speak another language,” Grosset said. “There is a limited cultural point of view here, but there are far more opportunities.” By 1997, the Grosset family included a newborn daughter, Rebecca. Olivier had dreams to establish a thriving tiling business like his father, but knew that to truly flourish, he needed to be in America, where less stringent regulations, cheaper materials, and greater liberty meant more opportunity.

“When I was on the plane, I was thinking ‘I can’t wait to take my first steps on American soil and breathe American air,’” Grosset said. “Then I stepped outside and thought, ‘Oh my gosh, it’s hot.’” In his French-speaking hometown of Echallens, Switzerland, summer temperatures average in the mid 80s with little to no humidity. The houses don’t have air conditioners; it’s cool enough in the summer for long bike rides and snowy enough in the Alps for skiers to enjoy the slopes year-round. Grosset, 39, enjoyed both. He worked with his father in his tiling business, and was also a competitive cyclist and ski instructor.

“In Switzerland, the materials required to have a business like mine is much more structured and much more expensive. Everything has to be built to last. My grandfather’s house was built in 1854 and it still has the original shingles on the roof – the actual shingles are original to the house,” Grosset said. “There is definitely a difference between the Old World point of view and the New World point of view.”

In addition to the temperate climate, which allows for four Olivier Grosset distinct seasons, Grosset admits that the architecture, natural aesthetics and culture of Switzerland bear very little resemblance to East Texas, where Grosset found himself after he married a native of Beaumont. In Echallens, Grosset was thirty minutes from France, less than two hours from Italy and Germany, and about two hours from Austria. The country of Switzerland alone has four national languages – German, French, Italian, and Romansch.

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In 1999, the Grossets settled in Lake Charles and Olivier established his business, Artisan Tiling. Olivier, now a single father, achieved his dream with the help and encouragement of local residents. “The people here are amazing. When I moved to Lake Charles, they were so friendly. They accepted me as one of their own,” he said. He added that another one of his favorite things about the area is the food, and jokingly admits that he’s gained a lot of weight since he became a Louisianan.

“I could go on all day about Swiss chocolate,” he said. “So it’s best not to get started.” He also misses the great outdoors of Switzerland, particularly cycling and skiing, but he goes home at least once a year so he can get his fix on the slopes. He says he tried to keep cycling in Lake Charles, but it didn’t work out as planned.

June 2010

attorney at law

Practicing Immigration Law

“I spent years riding bikes elbow-to-elbow with hundreds of other men pushing their way through the crowd, so I figured I could handle anything. I got on my bike and rode down Common Street. A pick-up truck flew past me and literally brushed my arm. After that I put my bike away,” he says, laughing. Grosset has readily embraced the outdoors that Southwest Louisiana has to offer, however. One of his favorite pastimes is to take his 14-year-old daughter Rebecca on his boat. He says he loves spending time in the water, even if the water here differs from back home.

Of counsel to Stockwell, Sievert Law Firm

“When I was establishing my business I spent about two years here before I could go back home and when I saw Lake Geneva from the airplane, my eyes teared up. I lived in Switzerland all those years and never appreciated how beautiful the turquoise water was. I took it for granted until that moment,” he says.

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Grosset says he misses his friends and family in Switzerland more than anything else, but now considers this area his home. In May, he became a U.S. citizen and now holds dual citizenship with his native country.

That’s not to say that he doesn’t hanker for some native treats now and then, like raclette, a typical Swiss cheese dish, cheese fondue, or some infamous Swiss chocolate.

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Ashley Foret

337-436-9491

se habla español June 2010

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by Christine Fisher

Does Your Teen Deserve Credit?

Today’s teen has more buying power than ever before. Whether it’s concert tickets, celebrity-endorsed t-shirts, or ripped jeans, they are plunking down serious money to pay for their cool, if overpriced, things. As these fashionable teens near the end of high school and begin college, many begin the push to obtain a credit card, but new government reforms have tightened the strings on credit for young people. According to Gwen Himel, branch manager in Moss Bluff with Cameron State Bank, those under 21 will face a more difficult time in the quest for credit. “Applicants under 21 years old now have to prove they have ‘independent means’ to repay their debts; which means they will need to show they have income from a job or they’ll need to have an adult co-sign for them.” It’s no surprise that this reform happened. Credit card companies have liberally provided older teens with credit for years and, not surprisingly, balances have steadily increased on teens’ cards. “Teens were getting credit before they understood how to handle it,” Himel said. “Some had the financial education to be responsible, but many did not. They would begin their twenty-something years thousands of dollars in debt.”

The reform puts credit cards in the hands of parents, and many must answer a tough question: whether to co-sign or not. Himel cautions parents to consider it thoroughly. “When you co-sign for anyone, you are just as responsible for their debt as they are. Your credit score is affected by what they do. If they rack up a big balance and can’t pay it, you’re responsible and you’re credit score goes down.” She said big balances aren’t the only thing that can damage a good credit rating. “A single missed payment can knock up to 100 points off a credit score. If subsequent payments are missed, more damage is done. And, forget going over the limit; even charging close to the limit reflects poorly on one’s credit score.” She suggested using half or less of a credit limit, especially when establishing credit early on. Co-signing so that a young person can get a credit card will give them real-world experience, but parents need to be sure they can handle it. Responsible credit card holders should keep track of their balance, make payments on time, avoid spending beyond their means, and pay the card off in full each month. “These tactics are difficult for adults, much less, teenagers,” said Himel.

Some older teens and college students do have the maturity to handle a credit card, which is why the co-signing option is available. “These young people are great at checking their balances regularly, saving the credit card for only a few purchases, and use it mainly as a method to establish their credit, not as a way to pay for things they can’t afford,” Himel said. “In cases like this, it works as it should.” For young people who aren’t quite ready for credit cards, or for parents who are looking for other options, a debit card will likely fill the gap. Opening a checking account gives the young person a place to deposit their paychecks, and access to a debit card. This can give them experience using plastic and work their way up to a credit card. To maintain the account, the balance should be checked regularly, or the transactions recorded as they are made. “It still requires some effort on the young person’s part, and that helps them become familiar with financial transactions and staying on top of their spending,” Himel said. Another option she suggested is to use the debit card as a cash-only option. “This is a good place to start. They can work up to using the card as a debit card once they and the parents feel comfortable.” In the end, the decision to put plastic in the hands of a young person rests with the parents. They are the best judge of their son or daughter’s maturity and financial knowledge, but it’s important for parents to be aware of the ramifications it can have on their own account.

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January 2010

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Top Five Reasons for Bringing Your Child to the Emergency Room Some emergencies are obvious: trauma with a broken bone, the loss of consciousness or excessive bleeding. And there are children with chronic medical conditions who may also have special considerations that constitute an emergency. But how do you know when to take an otherwise healthy child to the emergency room? According to Dr. Robert Anderson, a board certified emergency medicine physician on staff at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, here are five general guidelines to visiting an emergency room with your child.

1. High Fever or Rapidly Rising Temperature

A fever is a temperature greater than 100.4o Fahrenheit. A high fever is a temperature greater than 104 o Fahrenheit that does not come down following medication. If your child seems cranky, check his temperature before giving medication. “Having a fever can be dangerous,” explained Dr. Anderson. “In some susceptible children, a rapidly rising temperature or a high fever can trigger a seizure. These seizures usually last only a couple minutes and do not recur and do not cause any long-term effects. Of course, a seizure is scary and your child should be evaluated, especially the first time this happens. “Having a fever can also cause your child to become dehydrated. So make sure she is drinking and urinating, even if she doesn’t have much of an appetite.”

2. Breathing Problems

Breathing problems are another common reason to bring a child to the Emergency Department. Signs of difficulty breathing include breathing too fast, breathing too hard (using extra muscles to breathe) or breathing loudly. Observe how your child breathes: A newborn does not breathe evenly like adults do, in and out. Instead, they breathe in clusters of many breaths followed by long pauses that can be terrifying for new parents. A child who is having difficulty breathing may start breathing more rapidly and shallowly,” he explained. “If you are concerned about your child’s breathing, lift up his shirt and watch the chest move. A child who is very short of breath will be using stomach muscles and even the muscles of the neck to help get a deeper breath.”

3. Urination and Dehydration

Dehydration is a major consideration in children. “Pay attention to how much your child is urinating because this is an excellent signal of their level of hydration,” cautioned Dr. Anderson. ”If your child has been vomiting or has been ill enough to not be drinking well and he is also urinating much less, he should be seen in the Emergency Department if you are not able to hydrate him at home.”

4. Behavioral Changes

When children are ill, often the first indicator is a change in behavior. Less energy, decreased eating or drinking, sleeping more or less than usual and crankiness are hallmark signs of illness. Often these changes are scary to parents because your child is just not herself. “Most middle of the night ER visits are sparked by a child who is not sleeping and keeping the family up with him, a child who has been crying intermittently for hours or concern for a child who is just picking at her food,” Dr. Anderson explained. “A tired and sleepy child may be sick, but a lethargic and unarousable child is dangerously ill and needs to be seen in the Emergency Department right away.”

5. The Gut (Stomach Issues)

“Your gut, not your child’s,” he explained. “Go with your gut feeling. If you feel something is seriously wrong, you need to get your child evaluated. If you are unsure if this is a true emergency, talk with someone who also knows your child well. “And if you need to visit an emergency room, choose a hospital with a complete continuum of care, board certified emergency medicine specialists, and the support of all medical specialties, including pediatric intensive care,” he advised.

Cameron State Bank Announces Patriot Checking Account Cameron State Bank has unveiled a new checking account available exclusively to U.S. military veterans, active duty men and women, reserve personnel, and their families. “America’s service men and women dedicate their lives to ensuring our freedom and making our country a safer place to live,” said Roy M. Raftery, Jr., president and CEO of Cameron State Bank. “We feel it is our responsibility to honor that service, both for our country’s veterans, and also for those who are currently serving.” Patriot Checking is a free interest-bearing checking account that provides exceptional benefits for those who are eligible, including: • No monthly fees • Free online banking, mobile banking and bill pay services • No required minimum monthly balance • Free check imaging • Free overdraft protection up to $100 • Free patriotic check book cover • Free first order of patriotic checks In addition, for every Patriot Checking account that is opened, Cameron State Bank will donate $5 to the Wounded Warrior Project and $1 to the American Red Cross. An American Flag blanket will also be given to every person who opens an account. “The sacrifice of our service men and women, as well as that of their family members, truly is immeasurable,” said Raftery. “This is our humble way of recognizing and honoring their dedicated service.” Frank Streva served three years of active duty in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict. “Everyone should serve in some capacity,” he said. “We take a lot for granted.” He said there’s been a change in America’s attitudes toward those in the military. “When veterans came home in my era, we didn’t talk about what we experienced or the things we saw. That was in the past and we tried to go on with our lives. When the movie Saving Private Ryan came out, I noticed a shift in perspective. We began talking. After 9/11, everything changed. It’s a more open time now.” Streva was the first person to open a Patriot Checking account, saying he is proud of Cameron State Bank for honoring those who serve in America’s armed forces. “It was 50 years before anyone thanked me for serving. I didn’t do it for recognition, but I’m glad the country’s viewpoint has changed to honor the sacrifices made, regardless of whether they think the war is right or not,” Streva said. Information about Patriot Checking is available at any of Cameron State Bank’s 21 locations in Southwest Louisiana, or by calling (337) 310-2265.

Pat Landreneau

nutrition consultant with 40 years professional health care experience

3204 Ryan St. • 337-433-6200 www.thriveswla.com

Whether you are dining in or calling in for takeout, let The Luna Bar and Grill do all the work. Come in today for one of our specialty salads, stellar sandwiches, or exceptional entreés. We offer many choices for the health conscious individual.

Take charge of your healTh!

Memorial’s Emergency Department is the largest trauma center in Southwest Louisiana, and is equipped to handle a child’s everyday bumps and bruises, as well as his or her critical injuries and life-threatening conditions . “Our kid-specific emergency treatment is handled by an experienced staff of board certified emergency medicine physicians, family medicine residents, nurse practitioners, emergency care certified nurses, clinical educators and support personnel,” explained Dr. Anderson. “ For more information, call Memorial’s Emergency Department at (337) 494-3630. If your child has a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

Frank Streva, veteran, opens the first Patriot Checking account offered by Cameron State Bank with the help of Tessie Dupuis, new accounts representative.

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June 2010

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Keep It or Toss It? The first step to organizing your home is to figure out what to keep and what to get rid of. These days, everyone seems to collect things they don’t use or need. Even if your house is clutter-free, it’s good to reassess what’s lurking in your dark closets and drawers. Use these simple guidelines to declutter your home.

Toss it if… • You have twice as many as you need. Take inventory of your duplicate items. If you own enough spatulas and coffee mugs to supply a small diner, it’s

time to shed a few. • It’s a gift you don’t love. If you haven’t used it and don’t plan on using it, don’t let your emotions get the best of you. Whoever gave it to you probably won’t even realize its gone. • It’s not worth repairing. If the item will cost more to fix than what its worth, toss and replace. Otherwise, give yourself a deadline. If you don’t get around to fixing it within six months, you should toss it out. • Your gut says lose it. Your instincts are known to be right. Don’t second-guess them. If you think you should get rid of it, you probably should. • You don’t know what it is. UPOs (unidentified plastic objects) get 30 days. If you still can’t figure out what it is, its time to tell it goodbye.

Keep it if… • It is as sentimental as gold. If it would truly upset you to lose it, keep it. You can always reassess the object later. • It fits your life today. Your possessions should support who you are right now, not the person you were five years or five pounds ago. If it hasn’t fit in a couple years, get rid of it. If it has been collecting dust in a closet or drawer, dump it. • You think it’s gorgeous. Even if no one else likes it, if it makes you smile, don’t count it as clutter. • You’d buy it again. Ask yourself, what would I do if I saw this in a store? If you would buy it again, save yourself the money and just keep the one you have. • You’ll find a place for it. Any item that you feel is worth keeping is worth creating a space for. Source: MSN lifestyle

Stress ree Time ess F L

Our Louisiana Pride Louisiana ProudRuns – No Bones About It. Deep. In Louisiana, our way of life is unique, from strong family values to our love of sports, spicy food and the great outdoors. At the Center for Orthopaedics, we understand this, because all of our physicians are from Louisiana and have chosen to make Southwest Louisiana our home. We’re proud to be part of this community and also proud to be the region’s largest, independent musculoskeletal group. This allows us to provide the kind of medicine our patients deserve in an office where Southern hospitality is not just a cliché, but something we practice every day. It’s a big part of our commitment to providing Southwest Louisiana with the most advanced, patient-focused orthopaedic care available right here in the place we all call home. Our range of services includes: Joint Replacement Knee Surgery Hip Surgery Shoulder Surgery Back and Neck Pain Spine and Neck Surgery 26

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Aging is inevitable. Looking old doesn’t have to be. Today, we have more innovative options than ever before to help you look as young as you feel. If your mirror is not reflecting the confidence and vitality you feel on the inside, now's the time to take action. The Aesthetic Center of Southwest Louisiana offers a complete range of age-defying treatments for men, from skin care products to facial treatments to cosmetic eye surgery.

Aesthetically speaking, we can Call us today at 310-1070. Dr. Mark Crawford Medical Director Facial & Cosmetic Eye Surgery Specialist

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June 2010

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Underage Drinking is Not Just a Teen Problem Alcohol Consumption Extends to Preteen Youth When we think of underage drinking, most of us picture adolescents in high school or college students, not preteens 11 to 13. But the truth is, this age group is experimenting—and some are actively drinking. It’s a national trend. According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the average age when youth first try alcohol is 11 years for boys and 13 years for girls. A study conducted by the Partnership for a Drug-Free America concluded that close to 10 percent of nine-year-olds had consumed more than a sip of alcohol, and the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University found that a third of children in the United States ages 12 to 17 had their first

“

Brain damage from alcohol can be more subtle and not in the moment, but it can have long-term damaging effects and quite a profound effect on people as they get older. Dr. Bruce Thompson, pediatrician

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”

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drink before age 13, totaling 64 million children. “Surveys conducted right here in Calcasieu Parish have found that local children are beginning to drink as early as 11 years old,” said Mary Kaye Allemond, director of Project KNOW, a program of the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury designed to combat underage drinking. According to a report released by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), those who start drinking before the age of 15 are four times more likely to develop alcohol dependence at some point in their lives and are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as drug use and promiscuity. “I think we know what happens to teenagers as well as adults with drinking—fatal accidents, emergency room visits, sexual assault, unplanned pregnancies, violence with fighting and even suicide, but probably less obvious are some of the medical effects,” said Pediatrician Bruce Thompson, M.D., of the Children’s Clinic of Southwest Louisiana. The human brain does not finish developing until one’s early- to mid-20s, according to Dr. Thompson. Alcohol use by youth and adolescents can especially affect two particular areas of the brain—the prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus area. The prefrontal cortex, in the front

June 2010

section of the brain, is responsible for good judgment, planning, decision-making and impulse control. “Drinking can cause irreversible long-term damage and consequences in this area. It can also affect one’s behavior and personality,” said Dr. Thompson. The other area affected is the hippocampus, the central area of the brain involved with learning and memory. According to Dr. Thompson, alcohol damage in this area of the brain can lead to having problems in school and failure to achieve long-term goals. “Brain damage from alcohol can be more subtle and not in the moment, but it can have long-term damaging effects and quite a profound effect on people as they get older,” Dr. Thompson said. In addition to addiction issues and brain damage, underage drinking has also been found to cause a variety psychiatric disorders, depression, sleep disturbances, hypoglycemia, hypothermia, liver disease and gastritis. According to NIAAA, many youth who begin drinking at an early age often share such personality characteristics as being disruptive, hyperactive, and aggressive—or are referred to as being antisocial or having conduct problems. Heredity also plays a role in early drinking. Children of alcoholics are much more likely to begin drinking at a younger age. For more information on underage drinking in Calcasieu Parish visit projectknowitall.com and/or follow Project KNOW on Facebook. You can help combat underage drinking by calling the Project KNOW tip line at 491-3618.

June 2010

He’s been there for you…now make your dad feel special! 337 • 480 • 1100 1737 W. Sale Road, Suite 103 Lake Charles, LA www.specialtouchlcla.com

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Ask about our Father’s Day Specials. EO422

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Eye-Opening Recipes

We’re Clearly Focused

on your Heart with our new Nuclear Imaging Camera.

One of the best source of eye nutrients are fruits and vegetables. Try these simple, delicious recipes for eye-opening flavor and healthy benefits:

Asparagus with strawberries

Ingredients and amounts for 4 people 1lb asparagus tips (white asparagus tips are preferred) 3 to 4 large strawberries 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar salt and black pepper to taste

Eat Right for Better Sight “You are what you eat.” We’ve heard it for years and basically understand the importance of good nutrition for living a healthy life. But you may not be aware of just how strong the link is between certain nutrients and long-term eye health. A rapidly growing body of evidence indicates that eating specific types of foods can help safeguard your vision. More than 22 million Americans suffer from cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the two leading causes of vision loss and blindness. “Although these problems are associated with aging because they are most often diagnosed in older adults, the process that leads to them begins many years before,” says William Iglinsky, MD, ophthalmologist with The Eye Clinic. “This provides an opportunity to take preventive steps, and good nutrition is an important one. Research shows that including key nutrients in your diet may reduce your risk of developing these and other vision-robbing conditions, or at least help slow their progression if they’ve already begun.” Studies have suggested that antioxidants are associated with maintaining improved eye health. Dr. Iglinsky explains that antioxidants are natural protectors, helping to prevent oxidative harm throughout your body, including the eyes. A special mixture of antioxidants (vitamins C and E, as well as betacarotene) and minerals (zinc and copper) has been shown in some studies to help people who are at high risk for developing advanced age-related macular degeneration. One well-known antioxidants study was conducted by the National Eye Institute. The study is referred to as AREDS (Age-Related Eye Disease Study), and the results led to the recommendation of an antioxidant vitamin formulation for individuals at high risk of vision loss from macular degeneration. Dr. Iglinsky says not everyone is a candidate for the treatment, and anyone who thinks they may be should consult their eye doctor. “The dosages required are very specific and should be taken in consultation with an ophthalmologist. The nutrients are not a cure for macular degeneration, nor will they restore vision already lost from the disease. It is hoped that will play a key role in helping a significant percentage of patients who have the disease keep their vision.” New research reported last year revealed that just one serving a month of kale or collard greens or more than two servings of carrots a week reduced the risk of glaucoma by more than 60 percent in a UCLA study of 1,000 women.

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Preparation • Peel the ends of the asparagus and remove the more fibrous parts. • Boil in abundant salty water for 12 to 13 minutes. • Blend the strawberries with the balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper. • Pour the blended mixture over the boiled asparagus and serve.

Zucchini flowers fried in peanut oil

by Kristy Armand

Scientists believe that high levels of vitamin A and other antioxidants in these vegetables help protect crucial cells in the optic nerve. Other research has found that specific antioxidants may have additional benefits as well. For example, vitamin A may protect against blindness, and vitamin C may play a role in preventing cataracts, and in preventing and/or alleviating glaucoma. Essential fatty acids appear to help the eye in a variety of ways, from alleviating symptoms of dry eye syndrome to guarding against macular damage. Eating oatmeal, high-fiber cereals, and whole-grain breads cuts the risk of macular degeneration by about 39 percent, according to another recent study, that also found that complex carbs prevent blood sugar swings that can damage delicate cells in the center of the retina. Research about nutrition and eye health is ongoing, but overall, nutritional and ophthalmic experts agree it is always best to try to get the nutrients associated with better eye health in their natural form, directly from food whenever possible. The following foods are good sources of eye-protecting nutrients: • Vitamin A: cod liver oil, liver, carrots, sweet potatoes, butternut squash. • Lutein and zeaxanthin: spinach, kale, collard greens. • Vitamin C: sweet peppers (red or green), kale, strawberries, broccoli, oranges, cantaloupe. • Bioflavonoids: citrus fruits, cherries, grapes, plums. • Vitamin E: sunflower seeds, almonds, hazelnuts. • Selenium: brazil nuts, yeast, seafood. • Zinc: oysters, hamburgers, wheat, nuts. • Fatty acids: cold-water fish (salmon, mackerel, trout). “In general, you should try to eat plenty of green, leafy vegetables, nuts, some yellow or orange fruits and vegetables, and two servings of fish per week,” says Dr. Iglinsky. “And it’s also very important to remember that good nutrition is a lifelong concern. The risk of poor vision may seem a lifetime away when you are young, but as each day passes. Your risk increases. Be proactive and don’t wait until you develop an eye problem or other health concern to make improvements to your diet.”

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Ingredients and amounts for 4 people 8 zucchini flowers 7 tablespoons plain white flour ½ teaspoon beer yeast or 2 tablespoons beer 1 pinch of salt 10½ oz peanut oil Preparation of the batter • Gently mix the flour with the beer yeast, 2 to 3 spoons of warm water and a pinch of salt. • Let sit for 30 minutes in a warm environment. Preparation of the flowers • Clean the flowers, cut them in half, wash them, and dry thoroughly. • Dip the flowers in the batter and transfer to the boiling peanut oil; cook at approximately 350 degrees; turn them over when the batter assumes a pinkish hue. • For best results, fry one flower at a time. • Serve hot after having dried the excess oil on absorbent paper towels.

Mixed Berries with Yogurt Ingredients and amounts for 4 people 1 ½ cups mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries) 10 ½ tablespoons plain yogurt 1 tablespoon honey (millefiori preferred) 4 tablespoons orange juice

This new system features: • Advanced technology • Improved visibility • Higher quality images in less time • Enhanced patient comfort Nuclear Imaging is conveniently located on the 3rd Floor of The Clinic.

Cardiologists: Richard Gilmore, MD, FACC Carl Fastabend, MD, FACC Ask your doctor for more information, or call Cardiology at The Clinic: 312-8281.

Preparation • Wash and dry the fruit. Split into 4 portions with the same total quantity and an equal amount of each fruit. • Prepare the cream by adding the honey to the yogurt and mix well; then add the orange juice and mix. • Pour the cream over the fruit and place in the refrigerator for approximately 1 hour. Source: The Eye and Nutrition, by ophthalmologist Lucio Buratto, MD.

June 2010

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Home

Making Your Houseguests Feel at

With the summer upon us, family and friends will likely be making trips to visit. Make your out-of-town guests not only feel welcome, but maybe even a little bit pampered by adding these simple, comforting touches, recommended by Martha Stewart.

Room essentials

By adding an alarm clock, a few cut flowers in a vase, or a foil-wrapped chocolate or two on the pillows, your visitors will feel as if they are in a fine hotel room.

Towels with a special touch

Keep a set of guest towels together, tied together with twill tape or ribbon. When you know you will be having guests, transfer the towels from the linen closet to the guest bedroom.

Bedside water

Placing a few bottles of water on the nightstand will help your guests feel more at home. If you really want to give your overnight guests the five-star treatment, leave them a chilled bottle of water next to the bed. Choose a vase that is deep enough to accommodate a small bottle with ice. Make sure to place a saucer underneath to collect the condensation and protect the table’s surface.

Outfit the bed

Make up the bed with cotton or linen sheets, starched and ironed for that hotel crispness feeling. Have a variety of sleeping pillows including medium, firm, and soft. Lastly, place both a light and heavy blanket on the bed for afternoon naps.

Stock up on supplies

When shopping, buy extra bars of soap and shampoo bottles. By keeping stock in your bathroom closet, you won’t be running out to get them when your guests are on their way. If the economic ups and downs of the past few years have you feeling uncertain about your financial security, Mallard Investments can help you face the future with renewed confidence. The experienced financial advisors at Mallard Investments know the time to plan for your future is now. We are fully invested in helping you achieve your financial goals.

Consider your guests needs

Make your guests feel more at home by giving them a tour of your home. Also, show them where to find snacks, drinking glasses, or anything else they might need during their stay. By making these small gestures, your houseguests will feel special when they come to stay.

• Personal and business investment planning • Retirement plans • Long-term care and wealth transfer strategies • Education plans

What’s Bugging You?

Diversification can not guarantee a profit or protect against loss. Securities and insurance products offered by UVEST Financial Services and its affiliates, member FINRA/SIPC. UVEST and Mallard Investments are independent entities.

Call Mallard Investments today to Not FDIC Insured Not Bank Guaranteed schedule a free consultation. Not Guaranteed by any Government Agency

(337) 312-7041

Stacey Corbello,

Investment Executive/Wealth Consultant

May Lose Value Not a Bank Deposit

4440 Nelson Rd., Lake Charles

Securities and insurance products offered by UVEST Financial Services and its affiliates, member FINRA/SIPC. UVEST and Mallard Investments are independent entities.

Mike Allen,

Not FDIC Insured Not Bank Guaranteed Not Guaranteed by any Government Agency

Investment Executive/Wealth Consultant

May Lose Value Not a Bank Deposit

Exercise Can Transform Your Life The year is halfway over and your resolution to exercise and lose weight still hasn’t kicked in. Your focus could be the problem. Research has shown when you only focus on exercise for weight loss, you cut your odds of success in half. To really make a lifestyle change, you need to instead focus on how exercise will literally transform your life. Maybe these new research findings will motivate you use exercise to make you mentally sharper, happier and, of course, healthier:

Bite back with 1717 W. Prien Lake Rd., Lake Charles 474-7377 • 514 Pine, DeRidder 463-4574 • jjext.com 32

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June 2010

Let’s start with how exercise improves your brain. Want to be the smartest person in the room? Get on a treadmill, because even a single treadmill session can make you brainier. It’s a fact – according to research done by the University of Muenster in Germany, after one treadmill session, exercisers learned new words 20% faster. Why? Because getting your heart pumping delivers more oxygen to your brain and that stimulates new growth in the areas that control multitasking, memory and planning. So kids, before a study session – try running up and down the stairs. It really does help. June 2010

You’ll be happier at work. According to the University of Bristol, on days when workers participated in an on-site fitness session, they reported thinking more clearly, getting more done, and having better relationships with their coworkers. People who exercise regularly take half as many sick days and all it takes is jogging or bicycling twice a week. People who exercise also feel better about themselves. According to a study done by Pennsylvania State University, women felt more attractive after four months of regular walking or yoga – even if they didn’t lose weight! Finally, if you’re one of the millions of North Americans popping a sleeping pill – save your money and start exercising. People who exercise four days a week, for an hour at a time, fall asleep faster and wake up less during the night – adding an average of 48 more minutes of sleep to their bedtime each night.

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Source: Prevention

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Rolling Toward a

Summer Food Service Program to Begin June 2 Beginning June 2 and continuing through July 30, the City of Lake Charles will sponsor the Summer Food Service Program for eligible children age 18 or younger. Any person over 18 who has been determined mentally or physically handicapped by a state educational agency or local public educational agency of a state and is enrolled in a public or private nonprofit school program may also participate. Breakfast and lunch will be served Monday through Friday at the following locations and times (Dates of operation may vary where noted with an asterisk (*). Please call (337) 491-1270 for details.): F.K. White Middle School, 1000 E. McNeese St.; Breakfast, 7:45 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and Lunch, 11 a.m. to 12 noon*

Green Future.

Mike Lanza Recreation Center, 609 Sycamore St.; Breakfast, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and Lunch, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Columbus Circle Community Center, 3520 Greinwich Blvd; Breakfast, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and Lunch, 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. JD Clifton Elementary School, 100 N. Prater St.; Breakfast, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and Lunch, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The purpose of the program is to provide nutritious meals to children during the summer months when schools are normally closed and the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs are not in operation. For more information contact the Summer Food Service Program at 491-1270.

Foreman-Reynaud Community Center, 215 Albert St.; Breakfast, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and Lunch 11 a.m. to 12 noon* Goosport Community Center, 1619 Cessford St., Breakfast, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and Lunch 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Hillcrest Recreation Center, 2808 Hillcrest Dr.; Breakfast, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and Lunch, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. LaGrange High School, 3420 Louisiana Ave.; Breakfast, 7:45 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. and Lunch, 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. Brentwood Elementary School, 3825 Brentwood Ave.; Breakfast, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and Lunch, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.* John J. Johnson Elementary School, 500 Malcolm St., Breakfast, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and Lunch, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.* Lloyd Oaks Center, 661 Dixy Dr.; Breakfast, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and Lunch, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. MLK Community Center, 2009 Simmons St.; Breakfast, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and Lunch, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Meadow Park Housing, 2400 Anita Dr.; Breakfast, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and Lunch, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. New Covenant Baptist Church, 2233 12th St.; Breakfast, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and Lunch, 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.* Oak Park Elementary School, 2001 18th St.; Breakfast, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and Lunch, 11 a.m. to 12 noon* Pearl Watson Elementary School, 1300 5th St.; Breakfast, 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and Lunch, 11 a.m. to 12 noon Fairview Elementary School, 3955 Gerstner Memorial, Breakfast, 7:45 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. and Lunch, 11 a.m. to 12 noon* Washington-Marion High School, 2800 Pineview St.; Breakfast 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and Lunch, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Booker T. Washington, 468 Chandler St.; Breakfast, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and Lunch, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Carver Courts, 1409 St. Mary Dr.; Breakfast, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and Lunch, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon

At PPG Industries, Lake Charles, our commitment to the environment is clear. So clear, in fact, that we recently received recognition from the U.S. Department of Energy. The precipitated silica produced at PPG’s Lake Charles plant is Global Identity Standards: Download Files used in tires to help improve vehicle fuel economy. By reducing a tire’s rolling resistance, or the amount of energy required to roll a vehicle’s tires, fuel efficiency increases and greenhouse gas emissions are reduced. PPG’s effort at Lake Charles to increase the manufacturing of silicas for green tires was recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy with the award of a $1.2 million federal tax credit as part of the Economic Recovery Act.

Blue (or Pantone ® 307) Going green is not only goodSymbol: for thePPG environment, it’s good for business.

Symbol: Black

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The creation of membrane cell unit was a $100 million (1 of 1)

International Habitat Conservation Award, 2007 PPG’s NatureLab is 600 acres of a “classroom in the woods”. The Wildlife Habitat Council honored the PPG NatureLab for promoting environmental education and enhancing wildlife habitat management.

Canal Remediation Project, 2008

College Oaks Center, 3518 Ernest St.; Breakfast, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and Lunch, 11 a.m. to 12 noon www.thriveswla.com

4.1 Governor’s Environmental Leadership Award, 2007

Identity Index:investment Symbol utilizing 25% less electricity.

Lake Charles-Boston Academy, 1509 Enterprise Blvd.; Breakfast, 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and Lunch, 11:55 a.m. to 12:25 p.m.

Other recent environmental achievements for PPG-Lake Charles:

June 2010

PPG INDUSTRIES • LAKE CHARLES PLANT

June 2010

Thrive

This $10.8 million project created 24 acres of wetlands in the area near the I-210 bridge, improving wildlife Magazine for Better and Living fishery habitats. www.thriveswla.com 35

Teaching Swimming is All We DO… and We’re the BEST in Town.

A Sudden LINK between you and your customers

infant programs to advanced levels free Diaper Dipper in-water orientation last Saturday of the month. call to register.

9 or 16 week block of leSSonS

free waTer SafeTY preSenTaTionS for Your School or DaY care

all Year ‘round

2 week Summer SplaSh clinicS June, July and august

Summer camp “camp SwimSaTional” week-long 1/2 Day Swim camps

Swim Team facebook fanS

Members of: US Swim School Assn., World Aquatic Babies Congress, International Swim Instructors Assn., NDPA and Safer Three

Businesses have selections because that’s what customers want—CHOICES. Suddenlink Media has networks custommade to please certain viewers.

Counter Culture It’s Our Bag, Baby!

Target your customers. Target your dollars with Suddenlink Media.

• First be on time!

There’s nothing that says, “I don’t think you’re important” quite like showing up late for a date. • Also, go out of your way to put your date at ease, and be thoughtful of their feelings, space and property.

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

• Don’t talk about how much things cost, the price of the date especially - or make insulting comments about the people around you. • Always use your best table manners, treat everyone with respect – that includes waiters and counter clerks – and be sure to say “please,”“thank you” and “you’re welcome.” How you treat the people serving you is an indication of how you’ll treat your partner down the line. • Don’t use your cell phone or start texting. According to a recent survey, that’s the #1 dating faux pas. The message it sends is that someone else – who’s not with you – is more important. If you’re expecting a legitimate call from work – or the babysitter – warn your date ahead of time. When your phone buzzes, excuse yourself and take the call elsewhere, so it doesn’t look like you’re snubbing your date right at the table.

2713 Country Club Rd. • 562-9508

For more information, contact Lynda McLeod at

(Across from Albertsons)

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PR O

lynda.mcleod@suddenlink.com

SSIO

NAL ME

MB ER

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(Across from McDonalds)

Phone: 337-477-9616

622 E. Prien Lake Rd. • 477-3548

I n te

• Finally: keep your word. If you don’t plan to call once the date is over, don’t say that you will.

878 north beglis parkway | Sulphur, la

tu te

When you go out on a date, what’s the most important thing to consider? No, it’s not what you wear, what you talk about, or where you go. It’s your dating manners that matter most. We’re not talking about knowing which fork is for the salad. It’s bad manners in general: Like ordering the waiter around, coughing without covering your mouth, wiping your mouth with the tablecloth, and showing no interest in the person you’re with. Bottom line: Rude and disrespectful behavior is always a relationship-killer. So, here’s how to behave on a date, from Etiquette for Dummies:

Advertise on the networks they watch most.

www.swimsational.net

June 2010

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tio n

s ti

Mind Your Manners on Your Next Date

check out our fan page! Swimsational Swim School

337-527-0950

al Fabricare

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• Enhanced Skin Rejuvenation • Laser Hair Removal • Acne Laser Treatments • Leg Vein Treatments • Skin Resurfacing “Laser Peel” Rhonda Salvador, LPN, LT

Free Seminar on Bone Health

A free seminar on bone health will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, June 24, at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital’s Garber Auditorium located at 430 Dr. Michael DeBakey Drive. Orthopedic surgeon Lynn Foret, M.D., will share the latest information and treatment options for a range of bone issues including carpal tunnel, hip and knee replacements, and sports injuries in young athletes. Dr. Foret is board-certified in orthopedic surgery and currently serves in CHRISTUS St. Patrick’s surgical services department. He has been practicing medicine in Lake Charles since 1992. Seating is limited. For more information or to register, call 491-7577.

(337) 480-1975 • 133 JEFFERSON DRIVE www.raufinancialgroup.com

• Weight Loss Clinic Also Available

4150 Nelson Road, Building C, Suite 11 Lake Charles

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

Call 337-529-7430 today for a consultation.

Ask about our monthly specials.

Safe Sitter Courses Available

Securiteis offered through LPL Financial. Member FINRA/SIPC.

Fitness

Fitness Camp

June 21 – 25 • 8:30am – 12:30 pm • Ages 6 – 11 Cost $75 Certified fitness specialists will teach kids the importance of good nutrition and physical fitness, providing them with a strong foundation for a lifetime of good health. Pre-registration required.

Fun at LA Fitness is

Swimming Lessons

10 classes/session • Variety of Session Times Available Cost: $35/members • $55/non-members Learning to swim is more than just a childhood milestone, it’s a necessary safety measure in Southwest Louisiana where we are surrounded by lakes and rivers, and where swimming pools are so common. Swimming is also one of the best allaround fitness exercises. Our certified swimming instructors will provide a safe, fun introduction to the water for your child. Pre-registration required.

Get your child started on the road to wellness with these great summer programs at LA Fitness.

Summer Student Membership Offer

$100/month for a single membership for students

Offering Summer Low R Call NOWates. !

Don’t miss out! Call LA Fitness today at 478-8686 for more information.

4324 Lake Street • Lake Charles www.lafitness-swla.com 38

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June 2010

Girls and boys ages 11 to 13 can learn the fundamentals of babysitting at Safe Sitter, a medically accurate baby-sitting preparation program available through Lake Charles Memorial Hospital for Women on Wednesdays, June 16, June 23, July 7 and July 14. During the one-day Safe Sitter class, participants learn how to have fun with their charges with age-appropriate activities. They will also learn how to recognize a medical emergency and what the appropriate action should be during an emergency. The cost is $35, which includes all learning materials. Participants will need to bring their lunch. Enrollment is limited, and reservations are required by calling 480-7243.

Jennings Hospital Receives Platinum Level Quality Award

Jennings American Legion Hospital has received the Platinum Level 2009 Louisiana Hospital Quality Award, presented by eQHealth Solutions, the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization for Louisiana. JALH was one of 78 hospitals in the state to receive an award from this group, and one of only 26 in Louisiana to receive the platinum level.

Speed Camp for Young Athletes Offered at Dynamic Dimensions

Dynamic Dimensions of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital will be offering an Speed and Agility Workshop for athletes age 9 – 18 at their fitness centers in Sulphur and Moss Bluff. The workshop will be conducted by trainers with over 25 years of combined experience in fitness and athletics. The goal of the program is to help young athletes improve their performance in whatever sport in which they participate. The trainers will work with each athlete to identify strengths and weaknesses, and help them develop a training program for improvement. Each session will include speed and agility drills and educational information about the importance of training and conditioning for both performance and injury prevention. The workshop will take place from June 7 – 11 at Dynamic Dimensions in Sulphur, and from June 14 – 18 at the Moss Bluff location. The workshop is divided into two age groups, with ages 9 – 12 from Noon to 2 pm; and ages 13 – 18 from 2 - 4 pm. The workshop cost is $75, and $50 for a second child from the same family. Space is limited for each session, and pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, call Dynamic Dimensions at 527-5459 in Sulphur, or at 855-7708 in Moss Bluff.

June 2010

From left to right: Gary Curtis, CEO and President of eQ Health Solutions, Terry Saucier, RN, WCCH Surgical Services, Kris Conner, RN, WCCH director of surgical services, Katie LeJune, RN, WCCH Nursing, Melissa Valenti, RN, WCCH Nursing, and Rebecca Hightower, QI Specialist with eQ Health Solutions.

WCCH Receives Quality Awards

West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital received a Platinum Level 2009 Louisiana Hospital Quality Award and its associated Home Health Agency received a Gold 2009 Louisiana Home Health Agency Quality Award from from eQHealth Solutions. The hospital is the only one in the Lake Charles/Sulphur area, and one of only 26 hospitals in the state, to receive the platinum award. The home health agency was one of 15 to receive the gold level recognition.

Ruiz Joins Heart & Vascular Center

Fernando Ruiz, MD, FACC, FACP, FAHA, a board certified cardiologist, has joined Heart & Vascular Center and the staff of Lake Charles Memorial Hospital. In addition to handling all aspects of cardiac care, Dr. Ruiz specializes in both interventional cardiology, which employs various minimally invasive procedures for diagnosing and treating cardiovascular disease, and nuclear cardiology, which employs noninvasive techniques Fernando Ruiz, MD to assess myocardial blood flow, evaluate the pumping function of the heart, as well as visualize the size and location of a heart attack. A native of Venezuela, Dr. Ruiz graduated from Central University of Venezuela, Luis Razetti School of Medicine in Caracas. He completed his internship and residency at Yale University School of Medicine – Hospital of Saint Raphael in New Haven, Connecticut, followed by a cardiology fellowship at Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans, where he also served as an assistant professor of clinical medicine. Prior to relocating to Lake Charles, Dr. Ruiz completed an additional fellowship in Interventional Cardiology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York, New York and developed expertise in coronary and peripheral interventions.

WCCH Health Fair Scheduled

In celebration of the opening of its new wing, West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital will hold a free community health fair from 7 a.m.-noon on Saturday, June 12. To access the health fair, community members will need to enter the hospital via the Stelly Lane entrance. A variety of free health screenings will be offered, including: lipid profile (LDL and HDL cholesterol), blood pressure, blood glucose, prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test for men over 40, glaucoma and vision screening and diabetic foot assessments. Fasting is recommended. Representatives from over 30 local healthcare agencies will be on hand to answer health related questions. For additional information, call 528-4735.

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MEN’S HEALTH MONTH • Be a Man, Take Care of Your Health • A Guy’s Guide to Good Health • It’s a Guy Thing • MEN’S HEALTH MONTH • Be a Man, Take Care of Your Health

Males Fail to Take Health Seriously

Top Health Threats for Men Most men would rather diagnose the rattle under their vehicle’s hood than the one under their own. If given a choice, they’d much prefer to debate politics than discuss their heart health or cancer risk.

This pervasive male attitude is very frustrating for doctors. Men go to the doctor less than women and are more likely to have a serious condition when they do go, research shows. “As long as they’re working and feeling productive, most men aren’t considering the risks to their health,” says Todd Peavy, MD, family medicine physician with Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic. “Very often, by the time they feel bad enough to see a doctor, we have a much more serious situation to deal with than if they had come in at the first sign of a problem, or if they had been following recommended guidelines for health exams and screenings.”

This lack of vigilance on the part of men has serious consequences. More boys than girls are born every year in this country, but that head start doesn’t give men the health and longevity advantage you might expect. From infancy to old age, women are simply healthier than men. And although the gender gap is closing, men still die five years earlier than women, on average, according to the Centers for Disease. Why? “Too many men pay too little attention to their overall health,” Dr. Peavy says. A recent survey by the American Academy of Family Physician (AAFP) examined the health behaviors of over 2200 adults across the country, including 1,111 men, and found that more than half of the men had not seen their primary care physician for a physical exam in the last 40

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t ’ n o D – n e M fraid of A e b rologist U e th

year, and more than 25 percent reported waiting “as long as possible” before seeking medical help for sickness, pain or other health concerns. A significant percentage of the men surveyed admitted they had not received recommended screenings for prostate or colon cancer. “Obviously, one of the biggest obstacles to improving the health of men is men themselves. But it’s a challenge both men and their physicians can’t ignore,” says Dr. Peavy. “Finding a way to get men to take an active role in their health is the first step.” The CDC recently released a list of the top 10 health threats for men: Heart disease Cancer Injuries Stroke COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

Type 2 Diabetes Flu Suicide Kidney Disease Alzheimer’s

“These top threats are probably not as scary – or unavoidable – as most men might think,” says Dr. Peavy. “In fact, they are common, and in many cases, preventable through healthy lifestyle habits, and treatable if detected early.”

It’s a known fact that men are not as attentive to their health as women are. In fact, a recent national study found that women are 100% more likely to visit the doctor for annual examinations and preventive screenings than men.

Which brings us back to the fact that in order to change this list and their overall health status, men have got to get more serious about their health if they want to stay healthy. Dr. Peavy says the most important step a man who has been ignoring his health can take is to see a doctor for a complete exam and routine tests including blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose testing. “The doctor will give you a clear picture of your current health status and any need for treatment, risk factor modification and follow-up. As part of that visit, ask your doctor what routine health screenings you should have, based on your age and health. Your doctor will be happy to work with you on developing a plan for managing your healthcare.”

Why do men avoid going to the doctor? The answers are varied, ranging from mistrust of the healthcare system, a “macho” attitude that frowns upon admitting a personal weakness, or a simple fear of poking and prodding. “Whatever the reason, men are losing out on quality of life due to illnesses that could be either prevented, or successfully treated,” says urologist Kenneth Verheeck, MD, with the Urology Center of Southwest Louisiana. “This is particularly true about many urological conditions. If men are uncomfortable seeing a primary care doctor, seeing a urologist is something many men work even harder to avoid, which can make treatment more difficult for certain conditions by the time we do see them.”

For more information about men’s health and recommended health screenings, call Dr. Peavy at 475-2252.

Blood in the urine. Waiting to see if the blood will go away is not smart. This is

June is Men’s Health Month, and physicians with the Urology Center say this provides an ideal opportunity to highlight the signs and symptoms that should alert men to a need to see a urologist: not normal and can be an early warning sign of other serious conditions, including kidney stones, bladder cancer or kidney cancer.

An elevated PSA or change in PSA. The PSA remains one of the most

sensitive indicators of prostate cancer of all tests in medicine, that requires regular monitoring and interpretation in conjunction with other indicators.

June 2010 April

June 2010

An abnormal prostate exam. Any abnormality - firmness, small nodules, or irregularities - may be from a prostate cancer and should be evaluated by a urologist. Likewise, any change from prior exams must be seen. This is why it is so important that all men over the age of 40 to 45 get a yearly exam, ideally by the same doctor. As with all potentially serious problems, if detected early the cure rate is high. A testicular mass or persistent pain. Because of the rare chances of having an underlying testicular cancer, any masses, firmness or nodules of the testicle should be seen by a urologist. This also includes men with testicular pain that does not resolve within a week or two. If caught early, testicular cancer is one of the most curable cancers in humans. Other urological-related symptoms men should pay attention to: difficulty voiding, nighttime voiding, frequent urge to urinnate and incomplete emptying. These types of problems could be caused by an enlarged prostate or overactive bladder, two conditions that Dr. Verheeck says can usually be treated with medication. Dr. Verheeck adds that these are just a few of the health-related issues that men need to pay more attention to on a regular basis. “By becoming more involved in your healthcare decisions, you put yourself in the driver’s seat. Together with your doctor, you can make informed decisions that will help ensure health for many years.”

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Thrive Wins

13 Awards

in LPA Competition Thrive magazine won thirteen awards in the 2010 Louisiana Press Association competition. The magazine competed against publications statewide, including the Baton Rouge Business Report, the Independent Weekly of Lafayette, Central City News, and Acadiana Lifestyle, in categories including advertising design, feature writing, news writing and lifestyle coverage. Creative Director Barbara Van Gossen received a first-place award for most effective design on a single page, and a first-place feature writing award was presented to Erin K. Cormier, assistant editor. Thrive nearly swept the featurewriting category, with Co-Editor Christine Fisher placing second and Kristy Armand, co-editor, receiving an honorable mention. Other individual awards went to Tony Lee, second place for most effective design; Cormier, third place for best news story and honorable mention for feature writing; and Mike Foux, third place for ad design. Thrive was also awarded second place for Best Lifestyle coverage, second place for Best Special Section, and an honorable mention for Best Front Page. Louisiana Press Association is the official trade organization for Louisiana newspapers and publications.

Caring for You, As You Care forThem

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As a woman, your job description often gets blurred between the family room, the board room, and all points in between. You nurture, comfort, protect, provide for, guide, discipline, delegate and advise every day. The physicians, nurses and staff of OBG-1 know how hard you work to juggle it all. For over 30 years, we have provided excellence in women’s health care. We pledge to continue providing you with the care you need so you can continue to care for those you love.

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Your child’s vision is the most important tool for school success. That’s why it’s important that children have an eye exam before they start school and on a regular basis after that. Beat the back-to-school rush and schedule your child’s eye exam NOW at The Eye Clinic. We’re making it easy with these special offers:

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Lorenz o Br and Im ani. oussard with Ja

’ly n, X

mayah

Broussard, 32, has taken his father’s example and transferred that to his own children – Ja’lyn, 13, Imani, 7, Amayah, 5, and Xavier, 3. He shares joint custody with his ex-wife and has continued the routine that they shared when they all lived under one roof – a routine that begins with a home-cooked breakfast and ends with the five of them brushing their teeth together as a family before bed. He gives credit to his ex-wife for smoothing the chaotic path of raising several children: “If anyone tells me I am a good father, I tell them it’s made simple because my children have a great mother,” he said.

The Front Lines of

Fatherhood

by Erin K. Cormier

Paying tribute to devoted local dads

Only 34 percent of American toddlers today will reach the age of 18 having lived most of their lives with both biological parents. Just as the traditional view of motherhood has changed in recent decades, now more than ever there are new kinds of fathers – divorced dads, single dads, older dads, stepdads and, unfortunately, absent dads. As the Norman Rockwell imagery of what it means to be an American family continues to adjust to the real modern world, fathers are too often falling out of the picture. According to the National Fatherhood Initiative, 24 million children live without their biological father; of that group, 40 percent haven’t seen their father at all in the past year, 50 percent have never set foot in their father’s home and 26 percent live in a completely different state. Although the traditional idea of what it means to be a father has changed, dads certainly have not become expendable. According to the NFI, children with involved, loving fathers are significantly more likely to do well in school, have healthy self-esteem, exhibit empathy and pro-social behavior, and avoid high-risk behaviors such as drug use, truancy, and criminal activity compared to children who have uninvolved fathers.

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avier, A

“The father is absent in many stories you hear today,” said Lorenzo Broussard, a divorced father of four who lives in Lake Charles. “Well, the father that raised me is my role model. My father spent quality time with me. He made sure I had the tools I needed to succeed in life. I remember him getting off from a 12-hour graveyard shift to accompany me on my first day of college. I strive to be like my father.”

Chris Manuel and son, Aiden

The statistics related to modern American fathers paint a different picture than the one Broussard has created with his family. According to a survey by the National Fatherhood Initiative, 53 percent of fathers say their role is replaceable by mothers; 57 percent believed their presence could be replaced by another man.

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June 2010

In addition to coaching his daughters’ softball teams, Broussard washes and irons their clothes, cooks meals that they eat together as a family, even brushes and braids their hair. He enlists the help of his oldest daughter to help with the younger sibs. “They all demand a different side of me that I understand and can deliver. They keep me grounded, for the most part. As they become older and more involved with academics and athletics, the more I’m involved with everything. I sometimes sit and watch and cannot help but smile,” he says. Although his children don’t live with both biological parents, Broussard says he is no less involved in their lives. The idea of not being an active role model for them is completely foreign to him. “I love my children with every fiber of my soul. I am a truly blessed father. My children make my life worth it. Wow. I can get teary eyed just thinking about it.”

June 2010

Although some dads may consider themselves replaceable, Thrive found plenty who didn’t. Here’s a snapshot of a few more devoted dads who, like Broussard, choose to stay on the front lives of family life.

His purpose in life

After his parents’ divorce, James Burk was raised without a strong male role model in his life, but that has had little bearing on the type of parent he is for Emma, 5, and Olivia, 2. James says he “wouldn’t trade being a father for anything in the world.” “I never knew my purpose in life until I gazed into my daughters’ eyes for the first time. The whole world made sense for a brief moment,” James said. “They made me start thinking and feeling in ways I never knew possible. My girls are my world.”

James

Burke

Emma r e t h g s dau and hi

James says he doesn’t waste much energy thinking about his life without a father. “It is what it is,” he says. “People live life in different ways.”

‘We are blessed’

Daughter-primping tasks are traditionally viewed as women’s work, but Jon Mayeux doesn’t shy away from a blow dryer and a brush when it’s time to comb out the tangles in their 7-year-old daughter’s hair, according to his wife Leah. Despite spending much of the week working in Houston, Jon maintains an active presence in the lives of their daughter Lillian and 15-year-old son Jordan. “He has a way of making them both feel like they are the only one in the world that matters. He goes to the movies with our son and plays computer games with him. Even when he is gone during the week, he and our daughter text each other as much as possible. He even showed her how to send picture text so she can send him pics of her playing or eating or snuggling,” Leah said. “We are blessed.”

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an and Jordon Jon Mayeux with Lilli

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Super Dad

When Aiden Manuel was born in 2004, the first thing his father Chris did was kiss his wife. When the baby was taken out of the room to get cleaned up, Chris followed. “After he left the room my doctor told me ‘You know, that is wonderful that your husband kissed you. So many dads forget to do that,’” said Shonda, who has been with Chris since 1996. “That really hit home.”

daughter Reese Chris Manuel and

Chris

Manu

el wit h

son A

iden

The greatest lessons learned

Jimmy Breaux of Jennings was “blessed with four girls and no boys,” as his daughter Christi puts it. She admits that there were times when he would disappear in his shop outside to work, but says “I can’t blame him. I actually felt sorry for him at times – too many women around.”

Late-night feedings, dirty diapers, doctor’s visits, shrieking cries – Chris didn’t avoid any of his new father duties with Aiden or Reese, the daughter that followed.

“Raising kids with Chris has been a joy. He is always right there on the front line with wet wipes for filthy faces, ointment for pesky eczema, and hugs for jobs well done. He couldn’t be more proud than to watch his kids sing silly pre-school songs or watch them swing for the fences in T-ball. I know that there aren’t many men that go to plays or wake up in the middle of the night just to bring their kids to the bathroom so they don’t wet the bed. He does. And then to top it all off, he cooks, he cleans, he fixes, he mows, he budgets, he creates, he helps, he reassures,” Shonda said. She jokingly adds that when Chris is out of town for work, “my friends call to check up on me to make sure I’m able to feed them and run the house.” Shonda said she thanks him often for being a “super dad,” but his response is always the same: “He says ‘They’re my kids. Why wouldn’t I be there for them?’”

“My dad has a beautiful voice and was the family entertainment during holidays. He would play his guitar and make up songs about each of us girls. At Christmas the entire family would sing while dad played his guitar.

Eligha Guillory Jr. admits that it may sound cliché, but his father, Eligha Sr., can do anything. “I know it sounds like I’m a school-aged boy with admiration for his father, but it’s true. He did construction, he worked on cars, he knows the Bible, he can cook. My father can do it all,” Guillory said. When Guillory was eight years old, his father, known as “Jay,” was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. The diagnosis did little to hinder strong will. “My father was somebody you didn’t mess with,” Guillory said. “All it took as my mother to say ‘Wait till your daddy comes home,’ and I’d straighten up immediately.” As the disease advanced, it became clear to Guillory that few people had a complete understanding of the condition, so he decided to organize a fund-raiser to help raise awareness. That fund-raiser eventually blossomed into a full non-profit organization called the Eljay Foundation for Parkinson Awareness. Guillory said he was inspired to start the foundation as he watched his father progress through the illness in a community that knew little about it. His father, now 65, can’t rebuild cars like he used to, but Guillory said he’s taken many of his father’s lessons into his own home – literally and figuratively. “I have two cars in the garage right now that I’m working on. I told my father just the other day that now I wish I would have stayed outside with him more so I could have watched and learned everything. If so, those cars would be fixed by now,” he said. Jay also left behind less tangible, yet more important, impressions on his son: “My father taught me to be a hard worker, to always put food on the

We still carry on that family tradition and dad still plays, but to a much younger audience. He also has forgotten the words to most of the songs. The grandchildren laugh at him, but are very big fans of their Paw Paw,” Christi said.

Jimmy attended his daughters’ dance recitals, pageants, parades and baseball games. According to Christi, he was their biggest cheerleader.

A hard-working man

The greatest lessons she learned from her father: Integrity and courage. “He said always do what’s right and take pride in what you do,” she said. “He would tell us to keep our head up and be strong.”

table, and to show my children what love is. Watching my mom and dad care for each other truly taught me that. He showed his love for her every day and still does. He was a faithful man and he taught me to be faithful too.” Guillory is the father of three children, ages 18, nine and three. He admits that the traditional roles of parenting have changed, but that doesn’t diminish the importance of fathers being available to their children. “More of the responsibilities are shared these days. When I was growing up, my father worked all day, came home, and was the disciplinarian. My mother cooked and did the things we traditionally think of mothers doing back then,” Guillory said. “In my household, my wife is more of the disciplinarian and I help the kids with their homework and go to school functions. Roles are less Eligha defined today; they’re more E ligha, shared. That’s not a bad thing, though. Parents can show love in many different ways.”

Guillo Sr. ry, Jr. and

Play It Safe, Healthcare’s not a The stats for men and personal heath care aren’t good. The score card shows that men visit the doctor 150 million

Jimmy Breaux entertaining his four wonderful daughters.

times less frequently per year than women. In fact, the reasons most men go to their doctor are for injuries suffered on Unfortunately, these short stops do not result in the vital doctor and patient. June is Men’s Health Month, and the physicians with the Urology Center encourage men to use this time to get

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tEstIcULAR cANcER - a monthly self exam is recommended beginning at age 15. Any unusual lumps orchanges should be reported to your doctor.

active about defending their health.

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234 S. Ryan Street, Lake Charles

T.P. Alderson, MD • K.S. Verheeck, MD

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Office hours: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. M - F

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June 2010

A LEAGUE OF YOUR OWN

PROstAtE cANcER -- screening should begin after age 50. The prostate-specific antigen, or PSA blood test, and the digital rectal exam, or DRE, should be done annually. For men at high risk, including African-American men and men with a strong family history of prostate cancer, screening should begin at age 45.

examinations and discussions that are important between a

Tip:

GAME The Urology Center can help you avoid striking out from these urological-related health risks:

the job, at home, or on the ball field.

Carpool and combine errands to avoid driving mid-day

father

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EREctILE DYsFUNctION- can be the first sign of an underlying medical condition such as diabetes, heart disease or prostate cancer. It affects an estimated 30 million men in the United States. A variety of effective medications are available.

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What Car Thieves Want

How Aging Is Your Lifestyle? by Christine Fisher

Lifestyle impacts longevity. Everyday choices such as whether to eat the hot dog and chili or the grilled chicken and broccoli can make a difference in life span. As the proverb goes, the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. “The choices we make in our daily lives, especially on things such as exercise, nutrition, smoking and drinking, can impact longevity,” said Marne’ Devillier, MD, family practice physician. By living an unhealthy lifestyle, the odds are, a person will die sooner than someone who does eat well, exercises regularly, avoids excess alcohol and chooses not to smoke.” Smoking, drinking too much, inactivity and a poor diet, especially when combined, can make a person feel older than they really are, according to a recent study. Nearly 5,000 British men and women were followed and their habits recorded by researchers who were interested in finding out how health habits affected longevity.

Overall, 314 people in the study had all four unhealthy behaviors. Among them, 91 died during the study, or 29 percent. Among the 387 healthiest people with none of the four habits, only 32 died, or about 8 percent.

Within the study, the bad behaviors were defined as: • smoking • drinking more than three alcoholic drinks per day for men and more than two daily for women • less than two hours of exercise each week • eating fruits and vegetables fewer than three times daily

Even among the healthiest group, the behavior wasn’t extreme. This group: • never smoked or had quit • drank moderate amounts of alcohol; men drank three or less drinks a day, and women drank two or less • got at least two hours of exercise a week • ate fruits and vegetables at least three times daily “This isn’t over-the-top healthy behavior,” said Dr. Devillier. “It’s just following a healthy lifestyle.” A closer look at each of the risky behaviors shows how damaging they can be individually, and when combined, they cause serious problems.

The researchers concluded that engaging in these risky lifestyle behaviors substantially increased the risk of death and virtually aged people by an average of 12 years.

Alcohol

In 2008, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that a lifestyle of heavy drinking was the third leading cause of death in the United States. It can lead to problems such as heart disease, liver disease, stroke, as well as gastrointestinal and mental health issues. “The key here is ‘excessive alcohol’. There is evidence showing that a small amount of alcohol can have cardiovascular benefits, but it’s not enough to recommend drinking when someone doesn’t in their everyday life. For the most part, it’s best to use an ‘everything in moderation’ motto and to check with your individual doctor who has your health history in mind,” said Dr. Devillier.

Exercise

It’s all about use it or lose it. The changes in the body that we normally associate with aging, such as lack of flexibility, balance problems, and decline in strength are actually a result of less physical activity. By exercising 30 – 40 minutes every day, including aerobic, strength training and stretching movements, much of the body’s aging is significantly reduced.

Smoking

It not only shortens life expectancy, smoking greatly affects one’s quality of life in later years. In many studies, participants who don’t smoke live an average of 10 years longer than heavy smokers (defined as more than 20 cigarettes smoked a day). The CDC reports that 20 percent of adults in the U.S. smoke every day.

Obesity

About 1/3 of Americans are obese, making the United States the fattest country. Moderate obesity shortens life expectancy by an average of 6 – 10 years. In some cases, obesity is as dangerous to health as smoking. Deaths from obese individuals are usually attributed to heart attacks, stroke diabetes, kidney or liverproblems.

The good news is that a report from the Justice Department says that car thefts are at a 20 year low. The bad news from that same report is that thefts of items from cars are up. A spokesperson from the National Insurance Crime Bureau says that car thefts are down because cars are built to be more theft resistant, but that technology won’t stop a person from smashing a window for the stuff inside the car – and there’s more stuff than ever to steal. In fact, gadget thefts rose 30 percent in the last five years. Experts say thieves are looking for things left in plain view like GPS devices and iPads, to purses and spare change. You might think no one would want to steal your tote bag full of gym clothes, but the thieves don’t know if you tucked your wallet or an iPod in there too. The message is, don’t tempt thieves. If you have a GPS holder affixed to your dashboard, even if your GPS unit isn’t in view, thieves will break into your car to try and find it. If they get your GPS, all they have to do it hit “home” on it and drive back to your house and rob it. Same goes for car chargers for your iPod, phone or GPS. Just so you know, gadgets stolen from cars usually aren’t covered by auto insurance. You have to file a claim through your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance.

The bottom line: “Hide it, lock it, or lose it.”

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“Living a long, full life depends on many things, good genes are one of them, but lifestyle choices obviously matter,” said Dr. Devillier. “Eating well, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, staying physically and mentally active, and getting adequate sleep are good choices to make toward a healthy, long life.” These healthy options could add years to one’s life.

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June 2010

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McNeese Corral

The $15.7 million addition to the Shearman Fine Arts Building at McNeese State University officially opened Friday. The new 59,918 square-foot addition features a glass atrium and a grand staircase as seen in a night shot of the SFA addition and the entrance plaza

Louisiana State University. When she started to struggle with health issues, she transferred back to McNeese in fall 2007 where she completed her fall and spring 2008 semesters. Her mother, Carol, said Amber had to withdraw from school after the spring because of the progression of her illness— she could no longer write, hold a book open or climb stairs. “She would fatigue so easily,” said Carol. The family received a definite diagnosis of ALS on March 19, 2008. Her family was thrilled about graduation and arrived en masse to show their love and pride for Amber. Amber’s faculty adviser and one of her instructors at McNeese, Rose Henny, pushed her former student’s wheelchair to the front of Burton Coliseum to watch as her receive her diploma. “At McNeese, Rose Henny was Amber’s guardian angel,” said Carol. “She took care of our daughter as though she was one of her own. Mrs. Henny walked with Amber to her car and carried her books and so much more—she went beyond the McNeese President Robert Hebert, left, congratulates Amber Koonce, seated, before the ceremony as call of duty. Rose Henny, instructor in teacher education at McNeese and former faculty adviser to Koonce, looks on. “When Mrs. Henny found out Amber was going to graduate, Koonce, who has Lou Gehrig’s disease, or ALS, had to withdraw from the university two years ago because she called me and asked me if I would allow her the privilege of the progression of her illness. of pushing Amber’s chair for her during the ceremony,” she added. Student Receives Unexpected Degree Henny said Amber’s excitement was contagious at graduation. “She said that McNeese is one of the first universities in a national pilot program to award this filled her with joy. Despite her diagnosis, she is accomplishing her goal. Her associate degrees to students who stopped attending classes for personal reasons courage and strength are an example to us all.” but otherwise met university criteria for an associate degree under Project WinWin, an initiative sponsored by the Education Trust, a national education policy organization, and the National Association of System Heads. E-Learning Courses Available Project Win-Win, which was launched last fall, includes seven community McNeese will offer a variety of electronic learning courses for academic credit colleges from Louisiana, Maryland, New York and Ohio and three four-year during the 2010 fall semester. The fall class schedule is now available online at universities in the University of Louisiana System (McNeese, Northwestern State www.mcneese.edu/schedule. University and Southeastern Louisiana University) that award associate degrees. College by Cassette classes offer students a convenient option of course The aim of the project is to produce more students with degrees and the focus preparation and study. A complete series of videocassette lessons are used is on those students who have accumulated significant college credit yet do not throughout the course. They may be rented or viewed in the McNeese library. have a degree but may be eligible for an associate degree, according to Stephanie Some on-campus meeting times are required. Students should look for course Tarver, dean of enrollment management at McNeese. listings online marked section CS. McNeese student data was searched to identify students who had entered the Compressed video courses offer students an opportunity to receive credit from university in August 2003 or later, had accumulated at least 60 semester hours and McNeese or other state universities by attending class at one of the on-campus had not received a degree. Transcripts were then evaluated to identify students sites or at one of McNeese’s off-campus sites in Allen, Jeff Davis or Beauregard who were eligible for the Associate of General Studies degree and 17 McNeese parishes. Students should look for course listings online marked section CZ (off students were notified in April that they met the criteria for their degrees under campus) or CV (on campus) to register for these courses. A $20 per credit hour Project Win-Win. Six of those students attended spring commencement exercises electronic fee will be administered for all CZ classes. Saturday morning in Burton Coliseum to receive their college diplomas. Internet or Web-based courses are being offered in several departments that One of those graduates is Amber Koonce of Sulphur. Koonce, 25, has Lou allow students to access class information and assignments from home or at times Gehrig’s disease, or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, and she had given up on her that might be more convenient to the student. For Web hybrid (WH) classes, some dream of becoming a teacher several years ago. on-campus meeting times or designated testing sites may be required while Web “My parents had always stressed the importance of a college education and classes (W) are strictly online classes and require no meeting times on campus. I had wanted to be the first one to give them that gift,” said Amber. “I had all but Students should refer to class listings marked section W or WH to register for given up on that dream until we got the phone call from McNeese.” these classes. A $20 per credit hour electronic fee will be administered for all Web Amber enrolled at McNeese in August 2003. Her major was education with a courses. minor in Spanish. She dreamed of becoming a teacher, more specifically, a Spanish For more information, contact the McNeese Electronic Learning office at immersion teacher. She attended McNeese for two years and then transferred to (337) 475-5075. 50

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June 2010

The first floor of the new addition to the McNeese Shearman Fine Arts Building houses a new state-of-the-art 526-seat theatre and stage. Productions in the new theatre are scheduled for the fall semester.

Dees Receives Faculty Award

Renovated Fine Arts Building Opens

McNeese has officially opened its $15.7 million addition to the Shearman Fine Arts Building. “The state-of-the art features and equipment in both the visual arts and performing arts areas provide a quality environment for students to learn, study, perform and showcase their work,” said McNeese President Robert Hebert. Dr. Jeanne Daboval, provost and vice president of academic affairs, said the expansion will give “our faculty an environment where they can truly showcase their teaching skills and demonstrate their exceptional talents as artists and performers …In addition to providing an outstanding setting for teaching and learning, this facility will be a tremendous recruiting tool.” The new addition houses two academic programs within the McNeese College of Liberal Arts—the departments of performing arts and visual arts. The first floor houses a new 526-seat theatre and stage, costume and scene shops, dressing rooms, concessions and a ticket office, while the second floor houses the theatre control booth, rehearsal hall, choral library, ensemble room, faculty office studios, a conference room, performing arts department suite and storage. To service the visual arts department, the first floor houses a grand gallery, sculpture and ceramics studios, with a kiln patio, mixing and glaze rooms and a 3D studio, photography darkrooms, a digital photography studio, an art history/visual resource center, classrooms, faculty offices and storage. A balcony exhibition gallery is located on the second floor. Architects for the addition are C.R. Fugatt and Associates, AIA, and Champeaux, Evans, Hotard, APAC. Bessette Development Corp. is the general contractor. The original Shearman Fine Arts structure was built in 1950 with an extension added in 1962. The older sections of the building are scheduled to undergo renovations that will bring the entire structure into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. June 2010

Pat Hay, left, president of the McNeese Alumni Association’s Board of Directors, presents the 2010 Distinguished Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching to Dr. William H. Dees, associate professor of biological science.

Dr. William H. Dees, associate professor of biological science, is the recipient of the 2010 Distinguished Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching presented by the McNeese Alumni Association. Dees received his Bachelor of Science degree in biology from The Citadel, his Master of Science degree in entomology from Clemson University and his doctorate in ecological sciences from Old Dominion University. He joined the McNeese department of biology and health sciences in 2001 as an assistant professor and became an associate professor in 2007. Prior to this, he was an assistant professor in the Division of Tropical Public Health for the Department of Preventive Medicine and Biometrics at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, Md., an adjunct biology faculty member at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota in Winona, dean and instructor at the Minnesota Academy of Mathematics and Science in Winona, and medical entomologist and education and training management specialist in the Medical Service Corps of the U.S. Navy. Dees serves on numerous departmental, college and university committees, including chair of the McNeese Alumni Association Undergraduate Scholar Program, chair and program coordinator for the health sciences initiative review committee, and co-sponsor of the MSU Premedical and Predental Society. He has also served as senior author or principal investigator of successful grants totaling over $500,000 and as co-author of numerous grants and projects totaling over $1.8 million. These have included grants from the Louisiana Board of Regents, the Shearman Research Initiative, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Louisiana Mosquito Control Association and the National Science Foundation. As a faculty member, Dees has consistently received excellent student evaluations and feedback for his teaching. As a research scientist, his interests include such areas as vector-borne disease surveillance and control, effects of invertebrate hormones/parasite cellular derivatives on infectious disease pathogens, national and international training programs in public health, and ticks and tick-borne diseases in the southern United States.

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Summer Time

A Hideaway in Your Own Backyard

Debunking Summer Health Myths Aaah, summertime – the season of fun in the sun, backyard cookouts, vacations and a whole new set of health rules. How many times did you hear, “Get out of the water! You just ate lunch!” as you were growing up? Or how about the summer you were basically put in quarantine when you got poison ivy because your family and friends were afraid they’d “catch it” from you?

You’ll be relived to learn that some of the healthy summer advice you’ve always accepted as fact (and are probably repeating to your own kids), is actually medically incorrect, according to Amanda LaComb, MD, family medicine physician in Jennings. “There are certainly health risks you should be aware of in the summer. The key is knowing which concerns are based on fact, and which, however well-intentioned, are simply ‘old wives tales.’” To help you separate fact from fiction Dr. LaComb responds to some of the most common summer health myths:

Wait a half hour after eating before you can safely go swimming.

This one is probably almost universally accepted. As with any exercise after eating, swimming right after a big meal might be uncomfortable, but won’t cause you to drown. The myth is based on the theory that swimming with a full stomach can result in severe muscle cramping and drowning. While it’s true that the digestive process does divert blood flow away from muscles toward the intestines, there has never been a documented episode of drowning due to a full stomach. Even the American Red Cross does not makes any specific recommendations about waiting any amount of time after eating before taking a swim. “There’s a theoretical possibility that one could develop a cramp while swimming with a full stomach,” says Dr. LaComb , “but a swimmer should be able to easily exit the water if this happens. However you may want to try to avoid swimming with an extremely full stomach because it could potentially cause fatigue and nausea.”

Poison ivy rashes are contagious. Poison ivy, oak and sumac rashes are not contagious. About 50 percent of people are allergic to urushiol, an oil found on these plants. The rash itself is a delayed reaction to contact with these plants, and is not contagious, even thought it may be oozing. 52

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The rash can be “spread” if another person who is also allergic to urushiol comes into contact with oil that remains on clothes, shoes, skin or other items. Once the oil is washed off, the risk of reexposure or “spreading” is eliminated. Dr. LaComb advises washing separately every item of clothing (and bedding) that might have retained plant oils.

by Erin K. Cormier

When most people think of a house’s flair and personality, they often get no further than the living room. The décor inside the four walls of a family home are considered a testament to their aesthetic. Pastels in the den, bold reds in the kitchen, deep blue tile in the bathroom – all these give insight into the homeowner’s personality. But the personality of a home doesn’t stop at the back door; it goes out the patio doors and into the backyard, where many homeowners settle for the grassy rectangular lot that came with the home purchase. A backyard can be much more than a laborious lawn-mowing project or a place for the dog to run, however. It can be a personal oasis.

by Kristy Armand

You need to burn first before you start to tan.

Dr. LaComb says this myth is a dangerous one. Both sunburns and suntans pose risks and neither is desirable from a health standpoint. “Sunburn is, as the name implies, is a burn injury to the skin that causes skin damage, redness, and eventual peeling, not a tan. A suntan is the result of injury to the epidermis, the top layer of your skin.” She explains that a tan develops when UV light accelerates the production of melanin, the dark pigment in the epidermis that gives your skin its normal color. The extra melanin, produced to protect the deeper layers of your skin, creates the darker color of a “tan.” A suntan is your body’s way of blocking out the ultraviolet rays to prevent further injury to the skin, but the protection only goes so far. Any amount of sun exposure poses an increased risk for the development of skin cancers and premature aging, but sunburn poses an even stronger risk.

Dark-skinned people don’t need sunscreen.

People with lighter skins have less melanin than darker-skinned people. While light-skinned people will be very sensitive to the effects of UV rays from the sun and burn more quickly, those with darker skins should not assume they are not negatively affected, according to Dr. LaComb. People with darker skin pigment are less likely to burn because of the protective action of melanocytes, which produce melanin. However, even those with darker skin types can burn with repeated exposures to UV light. This intense exposure can produce dry, rough skin patches, wrinkling and other skin disorders, including skin cancer. So even though people with darker skin can tan and tolerate longer periods of sun exposure without “burning,” the sun can still cause damage. Thrive Magazine for Better Living

“The beautiful thing about creating your own backyard oasis is just that – it’s your own, and it’s whatever you want. Some people plan every detail and transform their backyard end-to-end, top-tobottom. Other families break it down into a project every summer, always improving what they have. For some, it’s a huge above-ground pool with a big wraparound deck. For others, an Olympic lap pool. For still others, a brick courtyard with a spa and waterfalls,” said David Tassin, co-owner of Sabine Pools, Spas & Furniture.

Sparklers are a safe alternative to fireworks for children.

“There are no fireworks that are safe for children,” stresses Dr. LaComb. She says even sparklers, which look fairly harmless when compared to other fireworks, can reach temperatures above 1000 degrees Fahrenheit, and can burn users and bystanders. Sparklers can also easily ignite children’s clothing, causing severe burns, scars or disfigurement.

According to Tassin, the first step is to visualize your space. If you’re short on room, consider a small pool with a spa and waterfalls in a brick courtyard and lots of container plantings, he said.

The watermelon seed myth.

“No, there’s no chance the seeds will germinate and grow in your stomach if you swallow them,” assures Dr. LaComb. There is a very, very small risk of damage to the intestine (inflammation, obstruction, or a tear in the bowel) from swallowing any small, sharp object such as a seed. A watermelon or other type of seed could potentially lodge inside the appendix and lead to appendicitis, but this is also very unlikely to happen. She adds that the benefits of including fruit in your diet far outweigh any risks associated with swallowing seeds.

June 2010

If you’re fortunate enough to have a large and open backyard and want to entertain guests, “picture a wall of French doors leading to an outdoor living room and a large pool beyond. Add grilling and dining areas off to one side, and you will have transformed how you and your family spend your time,” Stine said.

According to Tassin, big outdoor décor trends today include using natural Earth colors accented by a big pop of color. For example: a deck in muted reds and tans with big, vivid blue planters, or patio furniture with deep red cushions or lime green throw pillows.

According to Stine, it’s simple to personalize a deck with interesting accents that compliment your house or yard. “Decks can range from traditional to modern and can be tweaked to fit any homeowner’s personality with just a few touches, like balusters, rails, or faux stone post covers.” “There aren’t any rules,” Tassin added. “It’s your backyard. Choose items you love, and you’ll be happy with your outdoor space every day.”

Adding a deck to your backyard isn’t just a smart way to turn your backyard into a personal retreat; it’s also a wise investment, especially if you look for deck materials that are durable, low-maintenance and cost-effective, Stine said. “Composite decking can be a good choice. It’s made from recycled wood fiber and other materials, so it’s environmentally friendly while also looking natural and providing the lowmaintenance type of deck most homeowners want.”

Plants can make all the difference in creating a getaway atmosphere, said David Stine, vice president of marketing/ merchandising with Stine. “The appropriate plantings can transform any boring backyard into an escapable garden. It doesn’t take much, either. A small amount of money can go a long way when it comes to landscaping your backyard and bringing out vibrant textures and colors. The great thing about plantings and landscaping is, you can landscape virtually any size space – from a very small area to a large and spacious one.”

June 2010

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Summer Time

Make Marinade Magic &

Get Your Grill On

Want to break out the grill this summer and create a sumptuous barbecue dish? Start with a sumptuous marinade. A top-notch marinade serves many purposes – its blend of herbs and spices contribute to the flavor of the meat, the acids in the juice help break it down and oils keep it from drying out during the grilling process. But creating a marinade isn’t as simple as throwing ingredients in a dish, saturating the meat and tossing it in the fridge overnight. A good marinade is an art unto itself. Here’s how to use marinades to your advantage: • Don’t soak meat for too long, especially if your marinade is highly acidic. Over-marinated meat will get too soft. Thirty minutes at the least, and overnight at the most. Chicken absorbs marinades more easily than beef or pork, so keep that in mind. Obviously smaller cuts require less soaking time. • Make sure all sides of your meat are coated and covered in the marinade. • Keep your marinade in a non-reactive container. In other words: No aluminum. Use glass, plastic wear or even plastic bags, but stay away from aluminum containers because the acids may react with it. • Don’t reuse marinade. Once your meat is grilled, throw out the marinade it soaked in. Using it again could transfer unwanted bacteria to your fresh meat. The best-case scenario is that your meat won’t taste good. Worst-case scenario? Sickness. • If you want to baste your meat with the marinade while you’re grilling, set some aside. Don’t baste meat with the same marinade that soaked your meat. Why? The juices that have soaked into your meat should get hot enough to cook out harmful bacteria. The same may not be true of the baste coating. • If the marinade has oil in it, be sure to pat the food dry before placing it on the grill. This will reduce the possibility of flare-ups from dripping oil. • As always, cook all food thoroughly.

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June 2010

Short Cuts to Summer Style Summer has arrived in Southwest Louisiana, meaning short hairstyles will soon follow. Hair is the most important fashion accessory that we all have. The question is how to choose a cut that matches our personal style and will hold up to the hairstyle hurdles posed by our high levels of humidity during the summer months. “Trimming off some inches is a seasonal habit for some, a bold, fresh change for others,” says Wendy White McCown, owner of Signatures Salon. “Short hair is a real time saver, because it only takes a few minutes to wash and style. It is great for those early morning rushes to get to work on time.” Short hair can also be very versatile with the right cut. “A short hairstyle is good for almost any occasion. It can be polished for a day in the office, casual for a weekend at the beach, or sleek and sexy for a night on the town,” says McCown. “Best of all, you can go from one look to another with minimal restyling.” This season’s haircuts and styles will allow easy styling with more free and casual cuts compared to last year’s super neat precision cuts. McCown says retro looks are back, but with new, modern twists. One example of this is the “bob.”“The bob is a low maintenance but high fashion look that is tailored to your face and lifestyle. The cut for the modern bob is strong graphic outlines incorporating curves and sharp lines. It can be one length, or more volume can

June 2010

be created by adding layers. This is a cut that can really be individualized.” The 70’s shag comes back as the “choppy layer.” McCown says this cut is perfect for those who like texture in their hairstyle. This natural look is easy to create with layers of un-styled, free moving hair. Long or short bangs can be worn with this cut to compliment the face. Speaking of bangs, these are definitely in style again. “Bangs are the perfect way for someone to make a fresh, bold statement,” says McCown. Ranging from soft and wispy to casual choppy edges, bangs frame the face to accentuate the features for a strong look. Short hair is not for everyone. “There are several things one should consider before taking on the short cut, such as face shape as well as the body and condition of their hair,” explains McCown. She says a short hairstyle might reveal some things about your face that you don’t like and don’t want to highlight. Also, if you are not satisfied with the way your hair looks, your options are limited until it grows back. “Ultimately, regardless of the length you choose, a hairstyle is all about you, your style and comfort and being confident in yourself,” McCown says. “It’s good to change up your look from time-to-time. Just give some thought and consideration to what you want your hair to reflect about your personality, and consult with a stylist you trust.”

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by Haley Armand

photos by Jason Hardesty

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Summer Time

Hot Looks for Summer Fashion

Put Your

Feet First This Summer

by Kristy Armand

this season. They are extremely versatile and can be worn during the day, night and even on the weekends. Paired with a casual dress or a basic tee, this jacket can be worn by women of all ages. Most importantly, keep an eye out for colorful linings and make sure to roll up the sleeves for an extra feminine touch.

Prints – “From floral patterns to geometric shapes and strips, these bold prints are

“This doesn’t mean you can’t wear flip flops at all, but they should be worn only for short periods of time,” cautions Dr. Green. “And try to choose one of the newer styles that do include some arch support.”

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If you haven’t updated your wardrobe just yet, check out the following 2010 summer trends before you hit the stores.

Boyfriend blazers – These oversized jackets will be a wardrobe essential for

“Summer is prime time for certain types of foot problems, and my office is flooded with patients experiencing heel pain, arch pain, sprains, and other conditions related to summer footwear and activities,” says Foot and Ankle specialist Tyson Green, DPM, with Center for Orthopaedics.

“We will see lots of airy, feminine, and flowing styles this season from bold patterns to neutral shades,” said Barbara Dubose, owner of Perfect Fit. “It’s time to put away the sweaters and step into more heat-friendly attire.”

shirts. They come in a variety of colors and are perfect with your favorite pair of jeans or shorts.

In addition to pronation, Dr. Green adds that flip-flops, and other flat and/or flimsy sandals with minimal structure, don’t hold the foot in position like most shoes do, which forces the wearer to overuse tendons and muscles in the foot and ankle to hold them on. This can lead to tendinitis and ankle sprains.

Our feet bear our full body weight and play a big role in maintaining our balance. Each time your foot hits the ground, the arch is supposed to be “locked” to absorb shock. That’s why good footwear is structured with an arch support. Flip flops, however, have a spongy sole, so when the foot hits the ground, it roles inward, and this locking mechanism is released, and the arch flattens. The sponge sole of the flip flop allows the arch to roll inward. “This is called pronation,” explains Dr. Green, “and it leads to problems such as pain in the heel, the arch, the toes and in the forefoot. It can even lead to the development of ‘flat feet’ which can contribute to many other musculoskeletal problems, including hip and back pain.”

For fashion lovers, summer is one of the top seasons and as it begins, plans of outdoor gatherings and events are well underway.

V-neck t-shirts – These shirts have taken the place of the standard crew neck

If summer heat shifts your fashion focus to your feet, then it’s important to get in step with foot health as the summer season kicks off.

While spike-heeled stilettos and strappy sandals may seem like the obvious culprits when it comes to foot pain, Dr. Green says flip flops – which have become the everyday summer shoe of choice for many – actually cause more problems. “Many people believe wearing flip flops is a way to give their feet a break, the opposite is true.” To fully understand why this type of footwear is so bad for your feet, he says you have to think about the mechanics involved with every step you take.

by Katie McDaniel

Flip flops should not be your only summer foot fear. Those pampering pedicures intended to keep your feet looking their best for sandal weather can have unintended results if caution is not used. Pedicures are becoming increasingly popular. A recent American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) survey of women ages 18-49, found that nearly 50% had received a professional pedicure by the age of twenty-five. And while pampering and grooming your feet promote good foot hygiene, Dr. Green says this is only true if you choose your salon carefully.

can lead to cuts and infection. And don’t have your cuticles trimmed. Your cuticles are the nails’ last defense and should only be gently pushed back. Cutting them provides an opening for bacterial and fungal infections.” Other tips for safe pedicures include: • Trim nails straight across, following the natural shape of the toe. Rounding the edges can lead to painful ingrown toenails. • If you are having a manicure and pedicure done at the same time, separate instruments should be used for each to prevent the spread of bacteria. • Do not apply polish if your toenails are discolored or cracked. “It’s well worth taking the time to properly care for your feet,” adds Dr. Green. “After all, if you expect them to take you through a fun-filled, active summer, you need to make sure they are ready for the job.”

Neutral tones – Along side these bursts of color, champagne, beige, ice blue,

light pink and all shades of grey will be very popular this season. This trend will help to compliment and contrast the heavy colored prints.

Ripped and worn denim – This trend seems to be sticking around a little

longer than expected and has been in the spotlight for the last few seasons. From jeans to skirts to shorts, these denims can be worn simple and paired with your favorite tee or dressed up with your favorite accessories and a chic top.

Accessories will be big this season just as they have been in the past. Statement jewelry such as big rings and multiple bracelets have been turning heads lately. With such statement jewelry, it is important to remember less is more. The simplest of outfits can come together by adding something as simple as a necklace, watch or scarf. “Linen and silk scarves will be worn many ways including belts and roped neckties,” says Dubose. Summer fashion will also be seeing a lot of bows, gemstones and feathers on everything from headbands to sandals. As for daytime handbags, we will continue to see oversized with a change towards more bold colors. “Everyone needs a large yellow bag to carry, it’s a sign of a high fashion lady,” said Dubose. For night, we will see more clutches and wristlets decorated with lots of colors and patterns.

For more information about foot problems and prevention, or to schedule an appointment, call Center for Orthopaedics at 721-7236.

Men’s fashion will embrace the Ivy League look, which will follow the rule of simple and clean cut. Trends will include short sleeve button downs, polos, boat shoes, and pastel shorts. Simple graphic t-shirts and athletic urban casual wear will also be making an appearance this season.

“The most important factor to consider is how they sterilize their equipment. It should be treated in an autoclave,” stresses Dr. Green. “This is the same type of sterilization process used in medical facilities and is critical for preventing infection. The way you’ll know if a salon uses autoclave is if a sealed pack of instruments is opened when they begin your treatment service.” He advises skipping the foot soak, which is a very common source of fungal infections. “Unless you know for certain that the foot tub is cleaned with an antibacterial solution after each client, don’t put your feet in.” says Dr. Green. “Smoothing rough skin with a pumice stone or emery board if fine, but don’t allow a pedicurist to use a razor for this purpose. This Thrive Magazine for Better Living

showing up everywhere this season,” says Dubose. Everything from dresses to leggings will be vivid and full of color. Combine a printed top with a solid black bottom or the opposite to have a lively colored outfit that is fun to wear.

Whether your style is rock, preppy or chic, summer is a great time to explore new trends. Be creative and try new things you haven’t worn before. With plenty of colors, shapes, and styles to choose from, summer 2010 fashion trends have something to offer everyone. For more information on trendy styles this summer, contact Barbara Dubose at (337) 433-5855 or visit Perfect Fit at 312 Pujo Street.

June 2010

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Summer Time

Tips for a Healthy, Happy Summer Pre-planning is a large part of avoiding common health worries in the summer. Whether you’re prone to swimmer’s ear, kidney stones, or start burning after 15 minutes in the sun, heading off potential problems before they occur is always good advice. Here’s a collection of great preventive and treatment tips from area health experts about some of the most common summer health and safety hazards:

The Low-down on

Dehydration

Skip Kidney Stones

Aside from drinking more water, what can you do to prevent kidney stones? A change in diet usually helps. Eating less meat, fish and poultry -- all of which increase the amount of acid in the urine -- is sometimes recommended. Also, avoid food with added vitamin D and certain types of antacids that have a calcium base. Other foods noted for increasing kidney stones include: chocolate, coffee, nuts, strawberries, tea and cola.

Soak Up the Sun - Safely Frolicking in the sun isn’t as benign as movies make it seem. Sunburn is a very real problem when skin is exposed to sunlight for an extended time. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ultraviolet light consists of UVA, UVB and UVC rays. The UVA rays cause tanning and wrinkling, while UVB rays cause sunburn, aging, wrinkling and skin cancer. Cloudy days do not offer protection. Most UV rays pass right through clouds. The amount of time skin can be exposed to the sun before burning occurs varies from person to person. “It largely depends on the amount of melanin in their skin,” said Christopher Achee, MD, family medicine physician in Jennings. “Melanin is a natural protective shield from sun damage. People with fair skin have a small amount of melanin, while those with olive skin and African Americans have more.” But, melanin can only do so much to protect skin. To keep skin truly safe, using a sunscreen is advised. Choose one with a sun protective factor, or SPF, of 30 - 45; even higher is better for people who burn easily. Long sleeves and a widebrimmed hat are also beneficial.

When it comes to preventing kidney stones, not just any fluids are the answer. “Fluids in this case mean water, not soft drinks, or tea,” advised Verheeck . “Those can actually cause dehydration, in some cases. Water is the best fluid for a hot summer day.”

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Itching Off Your Summer List

When summer arrives, most kids are itching with excitement to play outside as much as possible. This can lead to itching for other reasons. “Warm weather brings with it a multitude of itchy skin problems caused by bites, stings, allergic reaction, rashes and other irritants,” says Pediatrician Albert Richert, Jr., MD, with the Pediatric Center. Fortunately, most of these are minor and do not require a visit to the doctor, but it’s a good idea for parents to know the best way to treat the itch.” Here’s a rundown of the most common skin problems of summer and how to treat them:

Bites and Stings

Dehydration is a summertime woe to watch out for. “It happens frequently during high temperatures when people sweat and they don’t replace electrolytes,” explained Christopher Achee, MD, family medicine physician in Jennings. “If the body does not have enough electrolytes and fluids, it can’t continue normal bodily functions and, in extreme cases, the kidneys can begin to shut down.” Common causes of dehydration include serious bouts of diarrhea or vomiting, or excessive sweating. Older adults and young children are especially prone to it. Dr. Achee says symptoms usually include weakness, dizziness, and fatigue. Mild to moderate dehydration can be treated by drinking more fluids, especially those known to replace lost electrolytes; these are usually referred to as sports drinks. Severe dehydration requires immediate medical attention. “If you are in the heat for any length of time, and begin sweating profusely, be sure to drink at least one liter of a sports drink every hour, especially if you are exercising or working in the sun,” said Dr. Achee.

In addition to the risk of dehydration, not drinking enough water in the summer also sets the stage for kidney stones. “We see an increase in patients with kidney stones in the summer,” said Kenneth Verheeck, MD, with the Urology Center of Southwest Louisiana. “Many people spend a lot of time outdoors and don’t drink enough water to replace what they are losing by sweating in the summer heat.”

Scratch

June 2010

For most bites, a topical application of antihistamine, hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion will usually stop the itch, according to Dr. Richert. For bee and wasp stings, he says it’s important to remember that bees’ stingers are barbed and usually remain in the wound. Wasps stingers do not. If the stinger or poison sac is left behind, it should be removed as quickly as possible to minimize the poison dose and the risk of infection. To remove a stinger, scrape sideways with a dull, clean edge to prevent getting more venom into the skin. Wash with soap and water, use antiseptic ointment, and treat with ice, aspirin, antihistamines, hydrocortisone cream and/or calamine lotion. Dr. Richert says avoidance of stinging and biting insects can go along way to keeping summer outing enjoyable. “Keep kids away from open ditches, tall grass and other areas where mosquitoes like to swarm. Teach them to stay away from flowers, especially during the day when bees and wasps are most actives. And make sure they know what an ant hill looks like, and that they should avoid it. Fortunately, the itch from most bites and stings will only last a day or two. If your child has more severe allergic reactions, you should see your pediatrician for more specific treatment.”

Get Your Kids to

Straighten Up This Summer with Crawford Orthodontics

Poison Ivy and Poison Oak

Poison ivy/oak and sumac cause an allergic reaction in about 50 percent of the population. In those who are sensitive, a reaction appears as a line or streak of rash, usually within 12 to 48 hours. Redness and swelling occur, often followed by blisters and severe itching. In a few days, the blisters may become crusted and begin to scale. The rash takes 10 days or longer to heal. As with insects, avoidance goes a long way. “If you know your child is allergic, become familiar with where these plants typically grow and what they look like,” advises Dr. Richert. If contact does occur, wash all exposed areas with cold running water as soon as you can. You can relieve itching of mild rashes with cool showers and calamine lotion. Soaking in a lukewarm bath with an oatmeal or baking soda solution can ease itching and dry oozing blisters. Dr. Richert says in most cases, over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams are not strong enough to have any effect on poison ivy rashes. “If rash areas are large or the reaction severe, contact your pediatrician immediately.”

Heat Rash

Heat rash is characterized by little itchy bumps that form around clogged sweat glands primarily under the armpits, on the chest, inside the elbows, behind the knees and in the groin area. Dr. Richert says avoiding sun exposure, especially for extended periods of time is the best way to avoid heat rash. Clothing should be loose to allow skin to breath. For infants, baby wipes or a cool wet washcloth should be used to wipe sweat from rash-prone areas. Dr. Richert advises parents to plan ahead and stock up on anti-itch supplies in their medicine cabinet or home first aid kit. Supplies that should be kept on hand for summer include: topical histamine cream, tweezers, calamine lotion and a topical antibiotic to prevent infections.

June 2010

Summer is here - the perfect time to start orthodontic treatment. We offer orthondontic options that provide: • increased comfort • advanced technology • faster results

We accept most insurance and flexible benefit plans, and offer affordable, convenient payment plans to fit any budget, including no-down payment options. We’ll give you - and your kids - something to smile about.

Call Crawford Orthodontics today to schedule a free consultation.

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(337) 478-7590 701 West College Street, Lake Charles

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Summer Time

Dry Up Swimmers Ear Swimmer’s ear can turn an afternoon in the pool into a painful, throbbing experience a few hours later. “Normally, water flows in and out of the ear with no problem. But when exposed to water for an extended length of time, water can get trapped in the ear canal, making the skin soggy, and diluting the bacteria that normally prevents infections,” explained Ken Thomas, MD, family medicine physician in Sulphur. It’s common for only one ear to show symptoms, which include a feeling of fullness in the ear, swelling in the lymph nodes, decreased ability to hear, and severe pain in the ear area. Treatment usually involves seeing a doctor for eardrops containing antibiotics. Lifestyle changes, such as limited swimming, or using earplugs, may be advised. While most of these irritants remain just that, and rarely develop into serious health concerns, they can be quite annoying and definitely put a damper on summertime fun. Stay alert, keep in mind the suggested remedies and don’t put off a trip to the doctor if symptoms worsen.

Coming in July

Stay Tuned! Kemah, Texas

Pregnancy In the Summertime Pregnancy during the summertime is a lot to handle. A pregnant woman acts as a radiator for her baby. As the baby grows, it generates heat. “The only way to vent that excess energy is through your cardiovascular system. As a result, your blood volume and metabolic rate rise -- which can make you feel even warmer than usual,” explained Scott Bergstedt, MD, ob/gyn specialist with OBG-1. Add to that our high temperatures in the summer months, and it’s even more uncomfortable.

So Close…and So Much Fun!

Here are a few ways pregnant women can beat the heat: • Say “no” to polyester. Wear natural fibers, like cotton and linen. Man-made fabrics such as polyester tend to trap the heat. Make it light-weight and loose-fitting to add to the comfort factor. Dressing in layers is always smart. You can remove layers as you feel warm. • Drink up. The normal six to eight glasses of water are the bare minimum. Drink more if you plan on being outside even for a little while. Drinking plenty of water also helps eliminate swelling that happens to most pregnant women. • Stay indoors. If the temperatures are soaring, don’t feel the need to be out, especially in the middle of the day. • Eat sensibly. Loading up on salty meats and heavy foods will only make you miserable. Instead, choose fruits and vegetables, which are naturally full of water to help hydrate you.

Fabulous Restaurants O Live Music Nightly Kemah Boardwalk Amusements O Lighthouse District Shops & Boutiques

RoCk the DoCk concert series every Thursday night all summer long!

Pregnancy is stressful on your body. A summer pregnancy seems especially trying at times. Keeping tabs on your physical well-being is most important for you and your baby’s health. Anytime you feel tired, it’s okay to stop and rest. Listen to your body and check with your obstetrician anytime that you feel concerned.

Watch What You Eat In the

Summer Heat

Each year about one in every ten Americans has an illness caused by food. The problem is definitely more common in the summer. Registered Dietitian, Kristy Harrigill, director of nutritional services at Jennings American Legion Hospital, says given the right circumstances – heat and moisture- harmful bacteria can quickly multiply on food to large numbers. When this happens, someone eating the food can experience food-borne illness, most commonly showing up as gastrointestinal distress. She says this is more common in the summer when people are spending more time outside and cooking outdoors. “The safety controls we take for granted in an indoor kitchen, including a refrigerator, thermostat-controlled cooking, and easily accessible washing facilities, are usually not conveniently available in the outdoors.”

JuLy

4, 11, Fireworks Fridays—Enjoy the 18, 25 fireworks show over Galveston Bay at 9:30pm.

kid krazy Mondays every Monday— special prices for kids for food and ride wristbands.

5, 6

Military Discount Days—$12 All Day Ride Pass wristbands with valid Military I.D. (Up to 6 guests).

The Kemah 4th of July Independence Day Parade “Hats off to Heroes”

New eveNTS CoMiNg ThiS FALL: September 25 The Kemah Art Festival November 11–14 Wounded Warrior & Veteran’s Appreciation Celebration

Harrigill says there are simple steps that can be taken when preparing, storing and cooking foods in the outdoors that can greatly reduce the risk of food-borne pathogens:

• • • • • • • •

JuNe

So…what are you waiting for? kemah’s the place to play. Stay for the day, or stay for the weekend!

Wash your hands and cooking surfaces often. Keep cold food cold. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly. Keep foods separate. Prevent cross contamination from marinades. Cook to proper temperatures. Refrigerate leftovers promptly. If you have any doubts about the safety of any food, throw it out.

Stay and Play on the Bay

877-775-3624 www.kemah-tx.gov

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

June 2010

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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Chad

first person with

Chef Chad Jackson

by Erin K. Cormier

What do you appreciate most about Louisiana cuisine? I appreciate the tradition of the home chef. In Louisiana, the food tradition is honored through family, whereas in other food cultures, such as California, the food culture is all about where you can get the newest and best dish. The best chefs are the ones that nobody knows. That’s why I like eating food at people’s houses – I get to taste their interpretation of the food.

What aspects of Louisiana food culture do you think could use some work? Louisiana cuisine is stuck. In certain parts of the state, particularly New Orleans, people cling too hard to the food that directly defines their culture. The food culture hasn’t broken out of its box. For a place that calls itself a food destination, New Orleans is far too regressive. Quality is obviously a good thing, but quality and variety together are what define a food culture. Food-wise, California is far ahead of its time – leaps and bounds ahead. But you don’t have to go to the coasts to see it. Look at Austin and the level of culture they’ve created through diversity. That diversity needs to happen to help people appreciate food and other cultures more. As far as culture, New Orleans definitely receives most of the focus. But there are things happening all over the state. You’ll usually find the most contemporary and progressive things happening in places where there are large populations of young people. Places like Baton Rouge are finally taking hold of that mindset. There has to be a place for that in Lake Charles. If anything, just because of the interstate. I-10 is a beautiful thing. We should be able to get those people off the interstate on a regular basis, but there has to be a reason for them to stop. Even if it’s something as simple as them thinking ‘The best hamburger I ever had was in Lake Charles – I’ve got to stop here and get one.’ If that gets them off the highway, that’s a start. We shouldn’t allow the status quo to thrive. Change doesn’t happen with just one person or one business, though. All people need to know what it means to eat real food.

What is ‘real food,’ in your opinion? Food that’s taken out of the ground and as close to the Earth as possible. That includes grass-fed cattle and turkey that hasn’t been pumped up with hormones and antibiotics. Grain-fed beef and meat that’s been pumped up isn’t real food, but we accept that it is. We have to care more about what we’re eating and what our children are eating. That’s part of living a better life.

How did you develop a passion for food? My love of food came from my mother, who learned how to cook from my grandmother. We always had vegetables. We never ate out. Every meal was eaten at home; it was considered an occasion. We sat around and told about the bad, good and funny things that happened to us that day. Sunday after church was a more formal meal, but it was also at home. My mother raised three children and it was important to her that we had real food. The turkey sandwiches we took to school were real turkey sandwiches, with bread made at home and meat sliced at the deli. We woke up in the mornings to omelets and French toast. That’s my food history.

When people hear the word ‘healthy,’ they cringe. Do you think people misinterpret what it means to ‘eat healthy’? Absolutely. People think eating healthy means having a meatless diet and eating salad all day. But if you feed people good food that’s high quality, the health factor won’t even matter. I can sell a product as ‘healthy,’ but the bottom line is: Does it taste good? And if it does, people won’t care if it’s healthy or not. The key is quality. If you can provide quality food that gets people one step closer to feeling better, that’s what’s important. The health benefit is just a byproduct. For information on private chef or food-delivery services, call (337) 912-9436 or (337) 513-9987.

How do you hope to translate that passion to Lake Charles? People ask me why I left L.A. for Lake Charles. But that lifestyle is not as appealing as people think. The culture in L.A. is so unfulfilling and soulless. I call it ‘un-reality.’ It’s a narcissistic place with a lot of shady people. What’s crazy is that I chose two professions – entertainment and food – that are entrenched in that culture and in that area. So if I’m involved in those two professions, there’s the ‘why Lake Charles?’ question again. And the answer is opportunity. This is a place where nothing has really happened yet on the food scene except for the status quo. I want to introduce food that is local, accountable and sustainable. I want to go back to the agrarian approach. I want to cook meals for people that are made from fresh, local ingredients that are as close to the Earth as possible. If you want a good healthy lunch, why not call me and have it delivered to your office? A good turkey or roast beef sandwich made with homemade, organic ingredients – everything down to the mayo and the au jus. If you start eating it twice a week and don’t want to spend money on me anymore, I’ll go to your house and show you how to make it. That’s what I want. I don’t care if you pay me to make your lunch or if you do it at home, as long as you’re eating something real, sustainable and healthy at least once a week in your life. As long as you’re giving up a fried meal to eat something that’s good for you – even once. If you’re having friends over and want to serve them a good, healthy meal, hire me and I’ll cook for you. And I’ll show you how to do it yourself as I’m cooking.

First Person is a monthly Q&A that features local names and faces. Ideas for future Q&As? Email edit@thriveswla.com.

Jackson has viewed kitchens from all angles – as the oldest son of a Louisiana-born mother who believed in warm homemade meals; as a student at the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco; as a chef, working in kitchens around the world, including those that he’s owned and managed; as a highend caterer working for professional athletes and politicians; and a private chef, working for wealthy West Coast entrepreneurs like natural healer Dr. Richard Schulze, singer Tom Petty’s next-door neighbor. Today, however, he’s eyeing the American kitchen from a whole new perspective: As a California man ready to fuse the cuisines of Louisiana, Texas and California – the three places he’s called home – so he can serve the sometimes stubborn palates of Cajuns, Creoles, and other longtime Southerners who know what good and honest food tastes like. Jackson, 39, grew up in northern California and spent much of his adulthood on the West Coast. He graduated from the California Culinary Academy, now an affiliate of Le Cordon Bleu, in 1999. Shortly after graduation, he and his brother opened a wine bar in Benicia, Calif., and a high-end catering company called Jax Squared. The brothers used their catering profits to open a deli and restaurant, but Jackson soon left the restaurant ownership business for Southern California, where he became Schulze’s private vegan chef for nearly two years before taking over The Crescent, a struggling hotel restaurant in Beverly Hills. Under Jackson’s management, The Crescent went from being a restaurant in financial crisis to featured in InStyle magazine and garnering positive reviews in the L.A. Times and Los Angeles magazine. Jackson, who spent most of his younger childhood in Houston, also worked in kitchens throughout Europe. Last year, Jackson, weary of the constant hustle of the West Coast, moved to Southwest Louisiana to be near family, which includes his Lake Charles-born father, his sister and nieces, and his mother, a native of Alexandria. Jackson hopes to translate his vast kitchen experience into a new phenomenon for Southwest Louisiana: A food fusion that maintains Louisiana character while offering the light, organic and Earthy flavors of California, topped by a kick of Texas flair. With the support of 90 Red Productions in California, he’s currently co-producing a television program, “North by South by South,” that documents his vision of culinary unity. He also offers local private cheffing services as well as lunch delivery for local residents. Thrive met with Chef Chad Jackson to discuss his insight on the local food culture and his culinary vision for the area.

photo by Jason Hardesty

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

June 2010

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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A: It is sometimes difficult to determine when to stop the “thank you cycle”. In this instance, the gift you received was a “thank you” for having invited the individual to your home. If you graciously acknowledged it at the time, a written note isn’t necessary. However, I believe that a written note is a lovely gesture and one that makes the recipient feel good. If she was the only who brought a gift, that probably made you feel special; why not write and let her know that?

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A: Sure, but be prepared to hear the excuse. Depending upon your relationship with the individual, the situation may get awkward. It most probably won’t change anything as that type of behavior usually doesn’t change and will only frustrate you further. The party’s over…

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Don’t Sweat Sweat Stains

Triage Unit Resumes Operations

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

Specialized unit designed to assist those with mental illness

“Never let them see you sweat,” is great advice but can be hard to follow if you have sweat stains. Armpit stains are a common and embarrassing problem. It can sometimes be confusing whether an armpit stain is from perspiration or deodorant. If the stain is yellow or green in color and has a crunchy or crispy texture, it is due to perspiration. However, if the stain is white or clear with a greasy texture it’s due to the deodorant and should be treated as a grease stain with appropriate solvent. Some stains are caused by a combination of the two – when aluminum chloride or aluminum salts in many antiperspirant and deodorant products “bond” with sweat to create a water-resistant stain.

Thicker applications increase the chances of stain formation.. Be sure to allow your deodorant to dry thoroughly before getting dressed. Also, when you get home after a hot, sweaty activity, remove your shirt right away and rinse the armpits of your shirt with cold water. The cold water will neutralize the acids that are eating away at your shirt, and prevent a stain from forming.

Key

You may think bleach is a quick solution for sweat stains on white shirts, but it is actually one of the worse things you can use. The chlorine in bleach will react with the proteins in sweat and cause the remaining stain to darken even further. Try hydrogen peroxide instead, which will break apart the proteins in sweat and help prevent the area from darkening over time. Pour the hydrogen peroxide onto the stain and allow it to soak for 30 minutes. Wash the garment in cold water and let it air dry. If the stain still remains, soak the garment for another 30 minutes.

Find the to Home Ownership at the

2009 Home Ownership Fair Saturday, June 12 • 9am - 12pm

Because hydrogen peroxide is too harsh for color clothing, try vinegar and water instead. Use one tablespoon of white vinegar and a half-cup of water to remove the sweat stain. Allow the stain to soak for 20 minutes, and then wash in cold water.

Calcasieu Parish Office of Community Services 2424 3rd St., Lake Charles

There are also liquid laundry detergents and stain removal products designed specifically to treat tough protein stains. In many cases, this may be the simplest way to remove sweat stains. Treat the affected area with the laundry detergent and let it sit for 30 minutes, then wash as usual and let it air dry.

We’ll have all the answers you need under one roof at this one-of-a-kind event for potential home buyers. Participating vendors will include: • mortgage lenders • credit counselors • realtors • insurance firms • home inspectors • other service • government providers agencies Whether you have already started down the road to home ownership or just want to learn how to begin, we’ll help you get the facts you need to make your dream of owning a home a reality.

Interested in buying a home? Worried about getting a loan? Aren’t sure where to start?

Alcohol-based cleaners, like those found in baby wipes, can be useful for for getting rid of armpit stains and smudges left by deodorant. Baby wipes are also portable, concealable and disposable, so this is the perfect solution for an emergency on the go. As with any type of clothing stain, read the clothing care label before trying any at-home stain remedy. Some fabrics may require dry-cleaning only, and professional dry cleaners often have access to more successful stain-removal solvents. A few preventative steps should also be followed if sweat stains are a problem. When applying deodorant, apply a very thin, even layer to your armpits. This will help prevent acids and aluminum salts from getting on your clothes.

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FREE ADMISSION - REFRESHMENTS – DOOR PRIZES

A triage unit at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital designed to assist those with a mental illness has resumed operations after a seven-month hiatus. The unit is part of a cohesive effort between Memorial Hospital, Office of Mental Health, Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, Resource Management Services, local law enforcement agencies, area hospital administrators, and other health care professionals and community leaders. The triage unit was implemented in 2007 as part of a collaborative training and treatment initiative to help better serve the needs of the mentally ill in the community. As part of this initiative, local law enforcement officers receive intervention training in how to deal with those in a mental health crisis. The triage unit provides a place for the Crisis Intervention Team to bring those individuals so they can receive the appropriate care and attention. Before this collaborative effort was initiated, many of these individuals were placed in custody, according to Mickey Shannon, chairperson of the mental health task force of Southwest Louisiana and president of Resource Management Services. “The task force continues to look at ways to provide a complete continuum of care. The triage is a huge piece of that – the centerpiece, practically,” Shannon said. “It is nothing short of a humanitarian act on the part of Memorial Hospital. The fact that they developed this specialty unit, and are willing to continue its operation, shows a stand of solidarity with some of the most marginalized people of our community.” The triage unit was originally funded through a three year ($1.8 million per year) grant from a Hurricane Rita Social Services Block Grant. When the grant ended in June 2009, community leaders once again regrouped to determine how to continue triage services. Those discussions involved hospital administrators, local psychiatrists and physicians, Sen. Willie Mount, Mayor Randy Roach, local law enforcement agencies, the Office of Mental Health, Samaritan Counseling Center, the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, representatives with the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury and Judge Robert Wyatt, who has been instrumental in plans to develop a mental health court to complete the continuum. According to Shannon, the collaborative effort to reinstate triage services and Memorial Hospital’s willingness to shoulder the associated costs and obligations is “groundbreaking.” The triage center is temporarily funded by one-time grants from the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury and the Office of Mental Health. A Mental Health Emergency Room Extension (MHERE) license from the Department of Health and Hospitals, a license that Sen. Mount was instrumental in obtaining, is expected to provide future funding. “This triage center is of obvious benefit to the community and was welldeserving of a focused joint effort to ensure it would be able to continue operations,” Sen. Mount, D-Lake Charles, said. “The MHERE license plays an integral role in allowing Memorial hospital to provide specialized services for citizens who are too often underrepresented.” According to Crisis System Manager Dick Tanous of Resource Management Services, the triage unit provided more than 2,200 mental health assessments in 2008. Of those, 48 percent were brought in my law enforcement. “In years past, those 48 percent would have likely been brought into the criminal justice system, where their needs may not have been met properly,” said Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Darek Ardoin with the Crisis Intervention Team. Ardoin was instrumental in spearheading the movement

Call 475-8812 for more information.

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Continued on p69 June 2010

June 2010

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Triage continued from p67

When it comes to your health, useful information is what you need. KPLC 7News is here to help with our Healthcast Report. Get the latest medical news and see medical breakthroughs happening right here in Southwest Louisiana. The KPLC 7News Healthcast Report airs weekdays at 10:00pm. Here’s a recap of some of the most recent health news stories we’ve reported.

Saving Your Sight Wearing sunglasses can not only keep you looking fashion forward, they can also save your vision. Unfortunately, with so many styles to choose from, many forget the main reason to wear a pair of “shades.” According to Dr. Mel Gehrig, optometrist at The Eye Clinic, “When it comes to sunglasses, quality is what counts, and that may require more of an investment than dollar store options. You want to make sure that the sunglasses protect you 100% against UV-A and UV-B rays.” Signs of poor sunglass quality can include a lack in uniformity in tiny, vision distortion, and not blocking enough sunlight. When finding the perfect pair, look for polarizing lenses that reduce reflected glare, photo chromic lenses to adjust for the right amount of light, and mirror coatings to reflect. “Sunglasses are for most people a necessity. They may not think of them that way, but they can help preserve your sight for a lifetime,” says Dr. Gehrig.

Kawasaki Disease If your child has been running a constant fever, the diagnosis could be more serious than you may think. Although the odds of the illness being Kawasaki disease is only about 19 out of every 100,000 kids in the United States, Memorial Hospital treats about five cases in the five parish area each year. “There is no specific cause known to us right now. It is thought of as probably an autoimmune phenomenon,” says Dr. Jamal Saqer, Pediatric Intensive Care Specialist with Memorial Hospital. Saqer says it typically affects children under five years of age, but in it’s most severe form, the patient is usually under two. The first phase of Kawasaki disease contains symptoms such as severe redness in the eyes, dry, cracked

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lips, swollen tongue with a white coating and big red bumps, sore and irritated throat, swollen lymph nodes, and a fever that will not respond to Tylenol or Motrin. The second phase contains symptoms such as joint pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. “To diagnose Kawasaki, we rely on proving what it is not, rather than what it is,” said Saqer. Early diagnosis is critical. Untreated Kawasaki disease can lead to heart complications and in some cases heart failure.

Living with a Heart Condition With the funding of the American Heart Association, countless medical breakthroughs have been made. Doug Peterson, 23-year-old Westlake native, is living proof that the American Heart Association is changing lives. Lori Peterson, Doug’s mother, always believed that her son was a healthy baby boy, but at six weeks old, a pediatrician discovered that Doug had a slight heart murmur. “Basically told us that it would be something that we would follow and it would clear up hopefully before he left the hospital, unless it was a birth defect,” says Lori. Soon after, it was discovered that Doug had two heart defects, a bicuspid aortic valve and a hole in his heart. Before the age of 20, Doug underwent two surgeries to correct his heart’s condition. At the age of nine he received his first mechanical heart valve and at 19, they replaced it with a larger one. With a mechanical heart valve in place, Doug continues to lead a healthy, active lifestyle. “I’m just a normal person like anybody else,” said Doug.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Pitching Problems Last year, Barbe High School pitcher, Sam Smith began having problems with his throwing arm. “My arm started getting sore, I had tendentious in my elbow. I guess I just needed a break,” said Smith. Dr. Cascio, Director of Sports Medicine at Memorial Hospital, is taking part in a national study of injury patters in pitchers ages 9-18. According to Dr. Cascio, “Overworking the throwing arm can cause health problems in the long run, and with so many young ball players, it’s important to take preventative measures early on. There is a limit to what the body can take and 10 year olds aren’t meant to be out throwing everyday year round,” says Cascio. “I see kids as young as 15 or 16 with chronic problems, meaning bone spurs in their elbow already and that’s arthritis so they’re going to have arthritis for the rest of their life.” One way to protect a throwing arm is to play multiple sports or cross train, as Smith did when he was younger. “It helps your body use other muscles, put stress on different places on other joints, so you’re not having the same repetitive stress over and over again.” To learn more about these stories and more, visit us on the web at kplctv.com and tune into KPLC 7News daily for the latest news, weather, sports and health reports. You can also stay connected 24/7 on your mobile device at kplc7newsnow.com.

toward CIT training for law enforcement. “The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Lake Charles Police Department now have adequate training to recognize individuals in mental health crisis so we can respond appropriately. In many cases what these individuals need is intervention and treatment, rather than arrest and incarceration. But proper training of law enforcement is only one step. Once we recognize what a person needs, we must be able to fulfill that need somehow. That is the role that the triage unit plays and why it is so important that its service are being reinstated.” Todd Delahoussaye, Sr. Vice President of Lake Charles Memorial Hospital said the hospital is dedicated to the continuation of mental health services for our community. “The ability to reopen this triage unit was the result of dedicated collaboration by many different people in our community who saw the detriment its long-term closure would have to Southwest Louisiana. Lake Charles Memorial Hospital is proud and pleased to be the impetus to move this initiative forward,” said Misty Kelly, MBA, MA, LAC, CCDP-D, Director of Psychiatric Service at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital said. “We are anxious to work with other hospitals to expand access to services available for those in our community who suffer from mental health issues.” Another element of the continuum of care will be the development of a mental health court. “The mental health court is part of the whole process to provide necessary mental health care to the community,” Shannon said. “We’re forging ahead with that vision just as we forged ahead with the other elements that have already experienced success and support. It’s a real credit to our community that these much-needed mental health services are being successfully implemented. What we have accomplished here is something we can all be proud of and it is serving as a model for similar programs cross the country.” For more information on the triage unit, contact Lake Charles Memorial’s Triage Center at 337.494-2185.

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June 2010

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

CVB Volunteer of the Year

Merline Morvant received the 2010 Volunteer of the Year award from the Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau for eight years of service. Pictured are Anne Monlezun, chairman of the CVB’s board; Merline Morvant, volunteer of the year; and Jim Hutchinson, assistant secretary of the Louisiana Office of Tourism. Other awards included: Julie Ann Monlezun, Merline Morvant and Mancuso, Sales Partner in Tourism; GAP Jim Hutchinson Broadcasting, Media Partner in Tourism; Dan Ellender, Hospitality Arts and Tourism; Former Calcasieu Parish Administrator Mark McMurry and DeQuincy Mayor Lawrence Henagan, Public Service; Jimmy Robinson, Rhea Barnes Travel Industry Award; and Brooks Gregg, Tourism Lifetime Service Award.

Swashbucklers Introduce Pink Footballs Southern Home Health Receives Award

Southern Home Health has received a Gold 2009 Louisiana Home Health Agency Quality Award presented by eQHealth Solutions, the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization for Louisiana. Southern Home Health is one of 15 Home Health Agencies in the state to receive a Gold 2009 Louisiana Home Health Agency Quality Award. The Louisiana Home Health Quality Award is presented to home health agencies that have achieved defined levels of health care quality improvement.

The Lousisiana Swashbucklers will play their regular-season game on June 12 with special-edition pink footballs saluting the Ethel Precht Hope Breast Cancer 3K. Fans can purchase the special-edition pink leather footballs for a donation of $50 at the Treasure Chest during Swashbucklers home games and at the team office in the Civic Center outside of game times. The footballs are also available on the Ethel Precht Hope Breast Cancer 3K Web site at www.ethelbreastcancerwalk.org. All proceeds from the sales of the footballs will benefit the Ethel Precht Hope Breast Cancer 3K. The pink footballs are sponsored by Calcasieu Parish McDonald’s.

Cameron State Bank Donates to Interview for Life

Landry Appointed to PT Board

Danny Landry, PTA, was appointed by Gov. Bobby Jindal to the Louisiana Physical Therapy Board for a term of three years. Landry, owner of Residential Rehab Services Inc., served as an advisory committee member to the LPTB for the past two years. He received an associate’s degree in applied science from the Community College of Rhode Island and is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association. Landry has also been appointed to serve on the advisory panel of PTAs for the APTA through June 2013. Danny Landry

Nikki Fontenot, Roy Raftery and Mechele Nortman

Cameron State Bank recently donated $10,000 to Interview for Life, a local organization dedicated to helping high school and college students focus on techniques and skills that will enhance their professional image. Founded by Nikki Fontenot and Mechele Nortman, Interview for Life is a three-day session available in all Calcasieu Parish high schools and on an individual basis as requested.

Applications Available for Summer Teacher Institute

Sasol is now accepting applications for its 14th annual Summer Teacher Institute, which will be held from June 21-25. Participating educators will have the opportunity to enhance their knowledge of employment opportunities with area industry and how to best prepare students for these jobs. The Summer Teacher Institute is available to instructors of all disciplines and grade levels with special preference given to Junior and Senior High Science, Chemistry and Math teachers. Those participating will receive 25 continuing education credits, a $25 stipend per day and will have breakfast and lunch provided. For more information visit the local Sasol website at www.sasolswla.com or call (337)494-5811.

Vaccination Clinic on June 12

The Office of Animal Services will offer a rabies clinic from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, June 12, in an effort to prevent the spread of rabies infection. Calcasieu Parish and other municipal ordinances require that all dogs and cats over the age of three months be vaccinated for rabies and licensed. The clinics will offer rabies vaccinations to pet owners at a reduced cost. Vaccination and licensing rates for spay/neutered animals is $8. Unaltered pets will cost $10.00. The public should bring their pet’s license from last year, as well as correct change to pay to ensure a short wait time. All dogs will need to be on a leash and cats must be in a portable kennel. 70

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Gator Lounge Entertainment

Delta Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel has announced the entertainment line-up in the Gator Lounge for the month of June: Boomerang – playing disco, R&B, soul, funk, classic rock; Thursday, June 10, 8 p.m.-midnight; Friday, June 11, 8:30 p.m.-1 a.m.; Saturday, June 12, 8:30 p.m.-1 a.m; Ka-Nection – playing R&B, blues and soul; Thursday, June 17, 8 p.m.-midnight; Friday, June 18, 8:30 p.m.-1 a.m.; Saturday, June 19, 8:30 p.m.–1 a.m.; Daryl Perry – playing modern country with the roots-oriented edginess of Americana and Texas Music; Thursday, June 24, 8 p.m.-midnight; Friday, June 25, 8:30 p.m.–1 a.m.; Saturday, June 26, 8:30 p.m.–1 a.m. All shows in the Gator Lounge at Delta Downs are free and open to the public. The Gator Lounge opens Thursdays - Saturdays at 4 p.m. You must be 21 or older to attend the shows.

Photo Contest Open to Voting

Hart Eye Center will open public voting to determine the winners of the “Your Life in Focus” Photo Contest on Wednesday, June 16. Voters can visit harteyecenter.com to choose their favorite photo from a group of 12 finalists. The contestant whose photo receives the most votes by June 30 will receive the grand prize – custom LASIK. The contestant with the second-highest number of votes will receive a pair of Maui Jim Sunglasses. For more information, contact Jen Breen at jbreen@ocarroll.com.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

June 2010

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

Parish Receives Coastal Assistance Grant

The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury was awarded a Minerals Management Service grant for the Clear Marais Bank Protection Project, which is part of the State Coastal Impact Assistance Program (CIAP). The grant was chosen earlier this month. The $175,000 grant will be used to extend an existing rock armored shoreline stabilization structure approximately 4,100 feet to prevent continued erosion along the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW) bank. The structure will also prevent the encroachment of the GIWW into the marshes immediately to the north. Sediment removed for the floatation channel behind the structure will create one acre of marsh.

Calcasieu Medical Reserve Corps Receives Award

The Calcasieu Medical Reserve Corps has received the prestigious Ambassador Award from the Office of the Civilian Volunteer Medical Reserve Corps. The Ambassador Award honors Medical Reserve Corps units that meet the Surgeon General Priorities in improving health literacy, increasing disease prevention, eliminating health disparities, and improving public health preparedness. The Calcasieu Medical Reserve Corps was nominated for the award by the State Citizen Corps earlier this year and was one of two recipients out of 80 nominees across the nation.

Local Students Assist with Research at Rice

Two Northwestern State University chemistry juniors will spend the summer assisting in research related to nanocomposites through a program sponsored by the United States Air Force. Kena Senegal and Sarena Senegal of Lake Charles were selected to work with Dr. Paul Withey, associate professor and head of Kena Senegal, Dr. Paul Withey and Sarena Senegal NSU’s Department of Chemistry and Physics, who is currently on sabbatical at Rice University. Pictured are Kena and Sarena Senegal with Dr. Darrell Diggs, project manager of the Minority Leadership Program for Students in Chemistry and Physics.

Ann Monlezun, Heath Allen and Jim Hutchinson

The Police Jury Housing Department is now offering FDIC recognized financial courses. The classes are free to residents of all income levels and cover topics such as debt management, credit repair, renter’s assistance, foreclosures and more. For residents buying a house, both pre and post counseling is also available. Classes will be offered quarterly at various locations throughout Calcasieu parish. Upcoming classes will be held at Central Library, 301 West Claude Street, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. July 24 and October 9. Registration forms can be printed at the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury website www.cppj.net.

LCMH Receives Awards

The Louisiana Society for Hospital Public Relations and Marketing presented Lake Charles Memorial Hospital with three Pelican Awards and two certificates of merit for excellence in hospital public relations and marketing. Pelican Awards in Writing were presented for “Because Accidents Happen,” written by Jamie Gaines and for the Women’s Heart Health postcards, written by Lauren Nunez. The Project on a Shoestring Pelican Award was presented for the Young at Art program, created by Kathy DeRouen. Certificates of merit were presented for television advertising and brochures.

The Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau presented its 2010 Tourism Partner of the Year award to Lake Charles Regional Airport. Pictured are Anne Monlezun, chairman of the CVB’s board; Heath Allen, executive director accepting on behalf of the Lake Charles Regional Airport; and Jim Hutchinson, assistant secretary of the Louisiana Office of Tourism.

Delta Takes Bronze at State PBL Competition

Delta Tech students Amanda Istre and Katrell Guillory-Fusilier placed third at the state level in accounting principles and business law at the 2010 FBLA-PBL Louisiana State Competition in Lafayette. They will now compete in the national competition in Nashville.

VOA Hosts Free Parent Support Group

The Volunteers of America Heart 2 Heart and Grandparents Raising Grandchildren support group is for parents, legal guardians and grandparents who would like a chance to network and socialize with other parents, share parenting tips, and find resources in a relaxed non-threatening environment. The support group runs on the last Tuesday of the month from 5:30-7 p.m. For more information or to register, call Volunteers of America at 497-0034.

DeRouen Elected to State Board

Kathy DeRouen

HUD Offers Financial Courses

Library Debuts Adult Summer Program

CVB Tourism Partner of the Year

Kathy DeRouen, senior vice president of marketing for Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, was recently elected to the Louisiana Society for Hospital Public Relations and Marketing as a member-at-large. With nearly 25 years of marketing and public relations experience, most recently having served as director of marketing for Ochsner Health System and director of marketing and public relations for Universal Health Service’s New Orleans market hospitals, Chalmette Medical Center and Methodist Hospital, DeRouen has been responsible for directing Memorial’s annual marketing plan and budget to increase market share, increase service utilization in targeted areas and build public awareness since 2007.

Team Green Receives $10,000 Grant

Team Green of Southwest Louisiana has received a $10,000 grant from Keep Louisiana Beautiful. An affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, Keep Louisiana Beautiful provides communities with funds to undertake and accomplish local projects aimed at neighborhood and community improvement and restoration. Team Green of Southwest Louisiana is one of only 22 agencies receiving a KLB Community Grant this year.

New CASA Volunteers Sworn In

Judge Ronald Ware swore in two Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) volunteers recently. Pictured left to right are Sharon Bayard, Judge Ware, and Gwen Ashworth. CASA, a program of Family & Youth, recruits and trains volunteers who advocate in court for the best interests of abused and neglected children. CASA volunteers serve as the eyes and ears of the court, gathering information on each child’s situation. They also serve as the voice of the child, presenting their information, along with fact based recommendations, to the Family and Juvenile Court Judge, ensuring that the child’s best interests are considered in every decision.

Cameron Parish Library will host “Water Your Mind,” a free adult summer reading program, from June 1 to August 1. Prizes will be awarded to participants. For more information, call (337) 775-5421 or visit any Cameron Parish branch.

Chatterbox continued on p72

June 2010

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Chatterbox continued.

Thibodeaux Appointed to Council

Governor Bobby Jindal has appointed David Thibodeaux, a Certified Building Official with the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, to the Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code Council. The primary Sharon Bayard, Judge Ware and Gwen Ashworth function of the LSUCCC is to review and adopt the state construction codes, provide education and training of code officials, and accept requests for amendments to the codes, except the Louisiana State Plumbing Code.

Avoid a Case of Email Rage . . .

Ward Named Director of Operations

Jessica S. Ward, MBA, was recently named director of operations and business development of The Oncology & Hematology Institute of SWLA. For almost 10 years, Jessica has held a variety of leadership roles with Triad Hospitals Corp, Cardiovascular Specialists of SWLA, and most recently at Memorial Hermann Baptist Hospital as the Administrator of Baptist Physician Network, Julie & Ben Rogers Cancer Institute, Dauphin Cancer Screening & Prevention Center, Baptist Convenient Care Clinic. While with Triad Hospitals, she served as controller at River Region in Vicksburg, Miss., and Jessica Ward promoted to assistant chief financial officer at Women & Children’s Hospital in Lake Charles. Preceding the sale of Triad Hospitals Corp to CHC, she joined Cardiovascular Specialists of SWLA as their Practice Administrator.

Cameron State Bank Presents Donation

Cameron State Bank presented a $250,000 donation to the Veteran’s Initiative, a program of the national Senior Housing Crime Prevention Foundation. In making this contribution, Cameron State Bank joins SHCPF, the American Bankers Association and the Independent Community Bankers of America to ensure that 40,000 Veterans living in 160 State Veteran Nursing Homes in Roy M. Raftery, Jr., president and CEO, Cameron the U.S. are able to live out their lives State Bank and George Clinard, vice president, in safe, secure, enhanced qualitySenior Housing Crime Prevention Foundation of-life environments free from the daily fear of crime, abuse, neglect, hostility and deprivation of personal freedom, as provided through the SHCPF’s Senior Crimestoppers program.

Boudreaux Named Jeff Davis COO

Boyd R. Boudreaux has been named president and chief operating officer of both Bancshares and Jeff Davis Bank & Trust Company. He is a graduate of University of Louisiana-Lafayette, the Savings and Loan Institute of the South and numerous banking programs. He has 32 years of banking experience and served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Homestead Savings Bank in New Orleans, Louisiana. He has been active in many professional and service organizations, serving as 2009 Chairman of the Board of the Louisiana Bankers Association.

Make-Up Class for Girls

Glam N Gloss Spa will host a “Make Me Up” seminar for girls ages 13-18 from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, June 13. The seminar is designed for girls who are interested in learning the basics of make-up application and skin care. Cost is $20. For more information or to register, call 313-0222.

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Have you heard of email rage? That’s when people react to an insult in an email – real or imagined – and immediately fire off an angry reply. However, a knee-jerk reaction could ruin friendships, damage your reputation, get you fired, or kill your chances for promotion. According to Career Builder, people tend to leap to defend themselves when a coworker misinterprets something they said, and sends an accusatory email to half the company. Or when they receive an email filled with exclamation points, and words in all caps – which is the Internet equivalent of shouting. In a recent survey, 26% of companies say they’ve fired an employee for misusing email. Linda Stone, who worked for both Microsoft and Apple, calls it “email apnea.” She coined the phrase after researching and observing people under the influence of email. She noticed that most of us have a compulsion to respond quickly to emails. We also have a tendency to hold our breath when replying to an email – especially an upsetting one. Doctors backed up her observations and say, when you hold your breath, the brain is momentarily deprived of oxygen. That creates a stress response – and adds more emotion to what you’re typing. So, before you send an angry reply, try these tips: Resist the urge to “let someone have it.” Try this instead: Open a new email, and don’t put any names in the address slots. Once you’ve finished venting, delete it – or stick it in your “drafts” box – and move on. Vent OFFLINE. For example, ask a friend you trust to give you perspective when you’re spitting mad. Bottom line: You can’t undo the damage once you press ‘send.’ If you have an issue with a coworker, don’t create an electronic trail that can be forwarded, printed and referred to again and again. Studies show that people misjudge the tone of an email almost half of the time, and people feel freer to express themselves in email because they don’t have to look the person in the eye. If you wouldn’t say it to someone’s face, don’t put it in an email.

Safety Council of Southwest Louisiana:

A Vital Part

Your comfort, our calling.

of the Lake Area Community

Your care, our concern.

• • • • •

Safety and Health Training Water and Wastewater Training Programs Contractor Safety Programs Industry Site Orientation Programs OSHA Compliance Training Defensive Driving, Substance Abuse Studies, Community Service Program, several other Court Mandated Training Programs, and a New Driver Program • Classroom, Computer-based, and Web-based Training • Solutions Employee Assistance Program Call Today for More Information.

Your peace, our purpose. Your contentment, our compassion.

We are Brighton Bridge Hospice… a way of compassion.

(337) 436-3354 www.safetycouncilswla.org

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1.888.878.0337

Ryan at Clarence Lake Charles Monday - Thursday 7am - 4pm Friday 7am - Noon

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June 2010

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Your How-to Hurricane Guide

Don’t just plan on preparing for evacuation. Even if an evacuation order isn’t made, older adults still may be vulnerable to storm threats. A bad thunderstorm could make roads impassable, for example. Make arrangements during a potential emergency even if no official order is made.

It’s that time of year again. The season where we pay closer attention to weather reports, make sure our insurance is current and have a go-to plan in case of an evacuation. We all hope that hurricane season passes quietly, but if you’ve lived in south Louisiana for any amount of time, you’re smart enough to know that it’s cautious optimism. With that in mind, Thrive provides you with a how-to survival guide – just in case. How to Protect Your Money

Evacuating with just your wallet may not be the best way to protect your finances and manage your money in a disaster situation. Although you certainly want to take your wallet with you, you might also consider doing these things: Keep some petty cash on hand. You don’t need to carry wads of hundreds in your pocket, but it may be a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially if you’re in an area where ATMs may not work properly. Have a no-paycheck plan. After a hurricane there’s a good chance that your paycheck will be delayed, either because your employer is out of commission or the automated systems are. Your money may also be affected if you’re not able to return to work right away. It’s a good idea to have some kind of emergency financial plan in advance, just in case the dollars are short for a few weeks. Bring a list of your accounts. Make sure you have a list of your checking and saving account numbers with you, along with the phone number of the financial institution, in case you need to make arrangements by phone to access your money. Keep important documents easily accessible. Ideally, you should have all your important documents locked up in one place – hurricane or not. If you don’t, now’s the time. Review your insurance. Review your homeowner’s or renter’s policy to see what’s covered and what isn’t. Talk to your agent about flood insurance to see if it is a concern for your area. Review your coverage

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amounts to be sure you’re keeping up with inflation and make sure you’re comfortable with the deductibles. Inventory your household possessions. Use a video camera if you have one. Otherwise, take snapshots and/or write down a good description for each item of value, including clothes, jewelry, furniture, electronics, appliances, fixtures, etc. Keep the inventory along with any professional appraisals and estimates of replacement values in a safe place away from your home. Update it regularly.

How to Keep Your Head Straight

Hurricane threats and evacuations have a way of making our heads and hearts tired. The stress and fatigue of dealing with an impending or existing natural disaster is notable; however, it’s vital to keep your head clear so you can make sound, practical decisions when and if the time comes. Here’s how to respond healthily to hurricane threats: Be prepared. Knowing that you’re ready can definitely lower your stress level. Have an evacuation plan and a survival kit.

Don’t judge current situations on past experience. If a hurricane starts brewing in the Gulf and evacuation orders are made, don’t assume that it will be the next Katrina, Rita, Gustav or Ike – and don’t assume that it will simmer out uneventfully, either. Evacuees tend to get irritated when they pack up and leave an area only to discover that nothing significant has happened, but complacency and assumptions aren’t a good idea when it comes to

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big storms. Each hurricane is different and in many ways, unpredictable. Be logical. Recognize that you’re stressed, angry or frustrated, but don’t let those emotions control you. Recognize that you have choices and make sure you make decisions based on what is best for the safety of you and your family. Pay attention to your family members. In an emergency it’s best if a group is cohesive, understanding and attentive to each other’s needs. To maintain harmony, pay attention to the stress levels of others and be proactive to manage the situation. Recognize your choices. Remember: you can either approach the situation angry and frustrated or relaxed and determined. The latter is far less stressful.

How to Care for Older Family Members Changes in routine and conditions can cause some older adults a lot of anxiety. If you’re evacuating with older family members, preparation is more important than ever. Here’s how to get it together:

Make early preparations. Older adults who rely on family or caregivers for assistance are particularly vulnerable during hurricanes. Because routines are changed, the people they rely upon for basic care may not be around to provide it. Excessive stress can contribute or exacerbate an illness, particularly those with heart disease. Those who are dependent on regular medical treatments, such as dialysis or oxygen should definitely make early preparations.

June 2010

Manage medication. It’s vital that older adults have access to their meds with someone to manage what needs to be taken, how much and when. Make sure someone is in charge of medication management and follow these tips: Buy a small bag to store all medications inside. Write all medications down on one sheet of paper. Include the name of the medication, dosage, and time of day to take it. Put this inside the medication bag. If your loved one takes more than three medications a day, try using a medication dose manager, available at any drug store or discount store. Keep the original packaging for prescriptions. You may need to get them filled while evacuated. Many pharmacies will be able to do that if you have the original information. Plan for communication crisis. Many older adults rely on “Life Alert” necklaces, but without phone service, they are useless. If your older adult lives alone and is in poor health or is a fall risk, it may be best if they stay with family or friends during the time of communication difficulties. Minimize travel time. If you suspect an evacuation order will be made, consider leaving early to avoid traffic congestion. Plan together with other family members how you will travel with your loved one. Who will be the primary caregiver? If that person is unable to follow through, who is the backup? If your loved one is a resident in a nursing home or assisted living facility, ask the director what their evacuation plan is. Chances are, they will rely on families to take their loved ones. The facility is required to have an evacuation plan, but most strongly encourage families to be responsible for their family member, if possible.

June 2010

How to Care For Your Pets

Keep identification, key contact phone numbers, medical diagnosis, living will, and medication list in one location with your loved one. If you should get separated, or need this information in a hurry, it helps to have it in one place. Keep it in a wallet, purse, or medication bag.

How to Protect Business Data

Over sixty percent of mid-sized organizations don’t have a data retrieval plan, according to Enterprise Strategy Group. Unfortunately, not having access to your data when you own a business could spell long- or short-term detriment. As the saying goes, businesses should protect only the data that they can’t afford to lose and that’s pretty much everything. Here’s how: Have a plan – don’t just play it by ear. Create an entire data storage and recovery plan to ensure that everything is stored securely. This should include an off-site data storage site that is well protected from natural disasters. Include email in your data protection plan. Critical data varies from business to business, but most have common categories like bookkeeping records, customer accounts, client files, and inventory lists. However, so much business is now conducted via email, so it’s smart to have a back-up plan for that as well. Scan important documents like rental and flood insurance and put them on an external hard drive which is stored in a weather-proof area off-site. Back-up data off site. Backing up computer files is a critical part of data storage and should be done regularly. Too often, though, the backup is on a disk or flash drive in a drawer near the computer. If there is an emergency, the computer and the backup could be wiped out all at once. Data needs to be stored off-site for ultimate security.

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Pets can create unique challenges during a disaster situation. Follow these tips to increase your chances of fourlegged ease: Ensure that your pets are wearing their ID tags. Have them either on a leash or in a carrier. Make sure all vaccinations and licenses are up to date. Have a copy of your pet’s medical records. Consider getting a prescription for a safe pet tranquilizer to calm down nervous or jittery animals. Nervous animals can quickly create nervous adults. Prepare a list of boarding facilities and veterinarians who could shelter animals in an emergency. Staying in a hotel? Make sure they take pets. Have your pet micro-chipped in case it gets lost or separated. In the event a disaster strikes or an evacuation order comes while you’re away from home, line-up a trusted caregiver to look after your pets. Place an emergency decal on your front window or door; if disaster strikes while you are not home, this decal will alert rescuers of the animals inside. Remember: A sudden change of food can make your pet sick. If at all possible, keep your pet on the same diet. If you’re evacuating, take food with you.

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According to new research released last month by the Pew Research Center, for the first time, more babies were born to women older than age 35 than to teenagers. The report is based on census and government health statistics from 2008 (the most recent available data), which shows the trend toward mothers who are older cuts across all ethnicities in the United States.

There was a time when women heard their biological clocks ticking loud and clear as they approached their 30th birthday. Times have changed, and today, many women are hitting the snooze button and delaying pregnancy and childbirth.

One in seven babies -- or 14 percent of a total of about 4 million births -- were born to mothers older than 35 in 2008, and almost one in four were first-time mothers. By contrast, births to women younger than 20 declined to one in 10 babies. The statistics reflect far-reaching changes for women in society, affecting their decisions on when to marry and start families. The average age for marriage has been rising, as has the share of women who have attended college. The researchers said women with more education often delay marriage and childbearing while they complete their schooling and establish careers. Experts also speculate that a rise in divorces and second marriages is also fueling the trend towards later pregnancy. And on the medical side, advances in reproductive technology have made conception more achievable and pregnancy risks more manageable Walter Guth, MD, ob/gyn specialist with OBG-1 says their group has seen this trend reflected in their practice, with pregnancy during the 30s becoming much more common, and 40 no longer being considered a closed door as advanced technology and lifestyles have made postponing motherhood a desirable – and less risky option. “While most women over 35 have uncomplicated pregnancies and healthy babies, it is important for women of this age to be aware of the increased risks facing them and their baby,” says Dr. Guth. “Celebrities in their mid-40s on magazine covers may make pregnancy at a later age look easy, and it can be, but in reality there are some special considerations for pregnancy after age 35,” says Dr. Guth. “Thirty-five is not a magical number that spells ‘doom and gloom’ on the reproductive front, but just the age at which certain risk factors begin to increase. In many cases this increase is slight, but maternal age is something we as physicians do give special attention.”

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Lynnette Torrans had her first (and only) child 10 years ago, at age 39. “Although we both loved kids, we had accepted the fact that we wouldn’t have children. We had both been married before, and my husband Butch had been advised by doctors years ago that he was unable to have children. We had plenty of nieces and nephews to give us our ‘kid fix.’ So, when I found out I was pregnant, we were astounded, but so thrilled. I didn’t have any problems with my pregnancy at all,” said Torrans. “Having a child has taken our lives into a completely unexpected, wonderful direction.” Once Carl was born, Lynnette decided to stay home with him for the first few years. “I knew I wouldn’t

June 2010

have this opportunity again and I didn’t want to miss anything. Because we were older and more established financially, I had the freedom to do this. That was a huge benefit. ” Dr. Guth says even before pregnancy, older moms-tobe often face obstacles. A woman’s fertility declines with age. Unlike men, who have the ability to produce sperm throughout their lives, woman are born with all the eggs they’re ever going to have, and the quality of these eggs deteriorates over time. Fertility problems increase after about age 35 and women this age and older are more likely to require reproductive therapy of some kind, which can be emotionally and financially stressful. “We advise our patients over age 35 who are trying to conceive to have preconception counseling to maximize their chances of achieving a pregnancy. If conception does not result after six months of trying, a fertility evaluation may be recommended.” Once a 35-plus woman is pregnant, thoughts usually turn to pregnancy-related risks for mom and baby. Foremost is the increase in genetic defects such as Down syndrome. “In the past, there was a lot of publicity about the increased risk of Down syndrome after the age of 35, as if that were a major turning point for risk. Actually, the risk rises slowly with age, so that at 35, the chance of Down syndrome is slightly less that .5 percent,” explains Dr. Guth. “That means that over 99 percent of babies born to women this age will not have Down syndrome.”

pregnant at this age. For a healthy older woman who becomes pregnant, the medical risks for her and her baby are minimal. Much depends upon the mother’s physical and mental condition before pregnancy. A healthy, fit 40-year-old will likely do better than an unhealthy, overweight 20-year-old smoker. “ In general, babies born to moms over 35 don’t face any additional health problems than those born to younger mothers. And there are some benefits that come with an older mom: Research shows that in most cases, older moms are more likely to have a stable lifestyle and more financial security in their late 30s than in their early 20s. Women at this age are more mature and just have more life experience, even if they are having their first child. They are more likely to focus on their health and prenatal care, and to have the resources (income, health benefits, support network of family and friends) to do so. And while this doesn’t necessarily mean they will be better parents, it does provide them with a good background for successfully coping with all the uncertainties and worries of parenthood.

Most women having babies later in life say the benefits really do far outweigh the slight risk that comes with age. Donna Butler, had her third child, Abby two-and-a-half years ago, when she was 38. Her first two children Tyler and Allie, were 16 and 11 when Abby was D o nn a B u born. “My husband Brian tler an Dr. Guth says there are other risks daughters Allie ad her husband Brian, and I thought we were son Tyler, nd baby, A bby to consider after age 35, including done, but obviously we an increased chance of miscarriage or stillbirth; weren’t. We were in shock for high risk of multiple birth, even without fertility drugs; about two months after I found higher rate of caesarean delivery; and pregnancyout I was pregnant, just thinking about how much our related complications including gestational diabetes, lives would change. Especially because our children preeclampsia (high blood pressure), placenta previa, were at an age where they could do most things for placental abruptions, preterm delivery and intrauterine themselves. Tyler and Allie were so excited from the growth restriction. In addition, the normal health minute we found out, but we kept thinking ahead to concerns of women in this how old we would be when she started school, when age range such as uterine she graduates, and all those other milestones. Once fibroids, heart disease, the shock wore off, anticipation and excitement set in. high blood pressure and It helped that my pregnancy and delivery with Abby diabetes can pose a risk was so easy – maybe because I had been through it of complications during twice before and knew exactly what to expect” Butler pregnancy. said having a newborn, and now keeping up with a toddler, has not been a problem. “Again, I have been “Listing the risks very relaxed. I know now that many of the little things I associated with worried about when I was younger really don’t matter. pregnancy after 35 It’s okay if she gets dirty or wants to wear shoes or overstates the case for clothes that don’t match – or different things like possible complications,” that, which stressed me out with my first two. And we stresses Dr. Guth. all enjoy Abby so much – she is so much fun! I also “Remember, these are think I realize now how fast they grow up so I want to just increased risks, enjoy every minute! Basically, our age has given us not a probable risk, experience and confidence in our parenting skills and and should in no way the wisdom to recognize and enjoy our blessings – all dissuade a woman three of them.” Carl d her son n from becoming a s n a rr e To

Lynnett

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Solutions for Life Solutions Employee Assistance Program from

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

This month:

Is It the End, Or the Beginning? I’ve been experiencing a lot of endings lately – my grandmother recently passed away, my time as an Active in the Junior League of Lake Charles has ended, and I’ve received several graduation invitations. All three of these things have me thinking about endings and beginnings.

My grandmother was quite a woman. Actually, both of my grandmothers were pretty amazing. My mom’s mother was named “Erie Nevada” and my dad’s mother was named “Veta Exa.” When you come into the world with those kinds of names, you have had some expectations set before you . Both women lived up to their unique names. They were strong, fearless, and dealt with difficult lives. My maternal grandmother had to teach herself to drive home after she dropped my grandfather off to go to war. (She was never a fabulous driver, but she got where she wanted to go!) My paternal grandmother was faced with raising my father (the youngest of her eight children) alone after her husband mysteriously disappeared. She went from being the sheriff’s wife to living in the projects. Both of these ladies faced adversity head on. Veta died many years ago, and I felt fortunate to still have Nevada until very recently. I often tell people I come from strong stock, and a long line of take-charge women. Hey, I didn’t get this way by myself! The Junior League of Lake Charles has been a huge part of my life for the past 14 years. I joined the organization because a couple of my friends were joining. I had some free time, so why not? Little did I know that JLLC would become my source for friendships, training on a multitude of issues, and my contribution for improving Southwest Louisiana. Most of the friends who joined with me “retired from active duty” long ago. I stayed as long as I did because JLLC was meeting my needs – I felt needed, had relationships and bonds with people, and we were making a difference. All of those things are still happening in JLLC, it is just time for me to take all I’ve learned and move on to other callings. I’ve written several articles in Thrive about the importance of volunteering and leaving the world a better place than you found it. Everything I know about volunteering, I learned in the Junior League of Lake Charles. As I’m dealing with all the high school and college graduation announcements (i.e. writing checks), I just keep thinking, “It’s the end of a huge part of your life and the beginning of another.” Don’t you remember graduation? Wasn’t it a mixed bag of emotions? I remember being scared to leave the safety of high school, and scared/excited to start college. The world was full of unknowns and possibilities.

Let’s Be Clear Digital mammography with computer-aided detection is now available at Jennings American Legion Hospital, through Jeff Davis Imaging. It’s clearer and faster than traditional film mammography, and computer-aided detection adds another safeguard, alerting physicians of any suspicious areas. Digital mammography is an important tool in early detection of breast cancer. Jennings American Legion Hospital, along with Jeff Davis Imaging, is committed to raising the standard of care for women in our community.

A friend of mine recently had her first child. It rocked her world (as first children tend to do). As we discussed the end of her “childless” life and the beginning of parenting, she was very focused on losses – loss of freedom, loss of spontaneity, loss of sleep. She was at about the right time for “baby blues” so I let her have her pity party for a bit. Then, I shifted the conversation to her recent gains (not the weight, of course – do I look crazy?!). As she named things she was looking forward to, her mood began to shift. As I think about endings, one thing comes to mind – there are no endings without beginnings being somewhere close by. The problem with beginnings is that we usually don’t know yet what we’ve got. All we know for sure is that we’ve got change of some sort. Then attitude begins to take over, and the big question emerges: Are you going to look so long at the door which just closed that you miss the opportunity to walk through the one that just opened? I assure you that when one door closes, another one opens – we just have to be looking for it.

Contact your health care provider to schedule your appointment today.

When I meet with people who are looking back at that closed door (staying focused on people, places, things they’ve lost), it’s my job to gently nudge them towards the new open door. Walking through that new door is scary. Sometimes you can’t see what’s on the other side. But if we can shift the attitude from fear and trepidation to one of embracing the potential adventure, things go much smoother. So many times I’ve had people say to me, “This was really hard. I didn’t want to look at all the things you made me look at, and it was painful. But I’m glad I did it now.”

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So, I’m trying to take my own advice and focus on the adventures that are coming my way as I’m saying goodbye and closing doors. Not sure what they are yet, but I want to be sure I’m looking in the right direction!

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photos by Jason Hardesty

It’s a Dog’s Life – at Bark Park by Haley Armand

Summer vacation is here, and that means family trips, baseball and softball tournaments, and other activities that require families to leave their homes – and their pets – for extended periods of time. Hence the need for a doggie daycare like Bark Park. “A vet’s office is a great place for taking care of your dog’s medical needs, but not always for socialization and exercise,” says Phyllis Pool, owner. “Dogs love to run, jump, wrestle, and play. These are the things a doggie daycare offers.” Doggie daycare is a service trend for pet owners that is quickly sweeping the nation. It meets the needs of dogs and their owners. Dog owners no longer need to feel guilty about leaving their dogs cooped up all day while they are at work because their pet is getting care and attention. “Daycare is perfect for my dog. They love her and she plays with her ‘friends’ all day,” says Eva Price, a frequent customer of Bark Park. Pool explains that doggie daycare provides your dog with off-leash socialization and exercise in a cage-free environment. “Dogs can enjoy the benefits of playing with other dogs while receiving plenty of human attention. Dogs are social creatures, and being left at home alone all day makes them feel anxious, which leads to excessive barking, destructive habits, and messy accidents.” In addition to daycare services, Bark Park provides overnight boarding, professional grooming, and a doggie boutique. With overnight boarding, the dogs also play with the other dogs at doggie daycare during the day, and sleep in a comfortable kennel at night. Bark Park has been open for just five months, and Pool says business continues to grow. Located on Nelson Road in Lake Charles, Bark Park features a 2500-square-foot facility and a quarter-acre fenced outdoor park area with a hard-wired alarm system and “doggie cams,” for security. Pool says the “doggie cams” are live webcams in the playrooms that allow the owners to go to the Bark Park website and watch their dogs playing during the day. Kerry Andersen, another customer, said being able to log onto the website while on a recent vacation and see that her “little girl” was doing fine was very reassuring and convenient. Prior to attending Bark Park, all dogs must be neutered or spayed, provide current immunization records and be in good health, and pass a temperament test for non-aggression. The temperament test is a way Pool can ensure the safety of the dogs and prevent aggressive behavior from occurring. The daycare is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Overnight boarding is available 24/7, including holidays. For more information about Bark Park services, call 478-4300 or visit www.barkpark-online.com.

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by Katie McDaniel

When it comes to entertaining kids on long trips, many parents fall into one of two categories – those that plan ahead, and those that don’t. Planning ahead can not only lead to an enjoyable trip, but can make lasting memories for the whole family. We decided to ask our Facebook fans,

“How do you keep your kids occupied during summer travel?”

Vikki Shearman

Vikki likes to keep a variety of coloring books and DVD’s while on the road. “We mix old school and technology. One boy would play his favorite DVD while the other could color up a storm.”

Kerry Anderson

“I always pack a travel fun bag and give it to my son the morning of the travel,” says Kerry. “Fill the bag with snacks you wouldn’t normally give your kids such as crayons/fun pads, small cards, puzzles and load it up with fun, silly toys from the dollar store. They think it’s Christmas but it’s an inexpensive way to keep the peade while on the road!”

Michelle Woodyear

When her daughter was younger, Michelle would play games such as Billboard Bingo, Billboard ABCs, and Battleship on long road trips. “Now she likes to have the guide book and plan out our next move, pick out restaurants, and activities.”

Brian Leger

“My children are grown, but my brother took his 5 children on a 14-hour road trip. I asked them to tell me how many purple car’s they saw on their way,” says Brian. “They gave me a call as soon as they got where they were going to tell me they seen 96 of them.” Leger was very surprised to see that they had actually played along.

Mitzi Hodge

Mitzi has a miniature card game that fits in her purse. “We spread it out and play the memory game because it fits nicely on the airplane chair back.” She also pulls them out in restaurants and waiting rooms as well.

Become a fan of Thrive on Facebook so you can give tips on future High Five topics!

Reasons You Might Not Be Getting Hired If you’ve had trouble landing a job, you need to take a critical look at the possible reasons, including:

Unreasonable expectations. If your list of criteria for the perfect job is too high, you might be setting yourself up for disappointment. Make a list of your employment wants and needs, and then ask yourself how you can compromise. What’s a must-have? What’s negotiable? Don’t be too demanding. You’re limiting your resources. If you’re only networking, or only using employment agencies to look for a job, consider using other avenues, too. If you look for work online, are you only using one or two job websites? Instead, use several. The wider you cast your net, the better your chances are of catching a job. You’re all about you. Yes, it’s important to sell yourself, but tell the employer what you can do for them. Do your homework and understand what the company is looking for, then let them know how you can fill those needs. Avoid using the word “I” too often and instead, put the focus on the company. You thinking short-term. When an interviewer asks “Where do you see yourself in five years,” it’s not a trick question. Employers think long-term, and so should you. If you’re hired, how will you help the company grow? That’s just one of the questions you should prepare for. Lack of preparation. Rehearse your answers to some of the most common interview questions, including those about your strengths, your weaknesses and questions about your last job. Come up with three-sentence answers filled with facts and examples and practice them over and over.

Putting your job search on hold. Even if you’ve had a couple of great interviews. It can be exhausting looking for work, but it’s not over until you’ve accepted a job offer. So keep networking and applying, and think about the interviews you had. Did you make any mistakes? Were there any questions you wish you’d have answered better? Fine-tune and prepare for the next interview!

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Source: Yahoo Finance June 2010

June 2010

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Battle of the Bugs

Don’t let a fall at home spoil your recovery.

by Kristy Armand

An estimated 40% of seniors fall each year and more than half of all falls happen at home. And without timely intervention a medical incident such as a heart attack, stroke or fall can compromise your quality of life. But there is a way to help maintain your independence and give your family peace of mind at the same time. Lifeline is a medical alert designed to reduce the risk of living alone. With Lifeline, you can continue to live independently in the home you love, knowing that help is available at the press of a button. Southern Home Health provides skilled nursing and rehab services to patients in the comfort of their own home. While under our care, you may receive Lifeline, offered free of charge to all patients who qualify. Helping people to stay happy and independent in their homes is our goal.

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The irritating buzz of insect is as much a part of summer as long, lazy days at the beach, and ice cream melting on a hot day. But Robert Soileau, manager of J&J Exterminating in Lake Charles, says the problem with bugs in the summer is part perception and part miserable reality. “We spend more time outdoors during the summer months, so we tend to notice bugs more in the summer. Our warm, humid climate definitely provides a comfortable environment for the peskiest of pests, as well as providing an ample and easily accessible supply of water and food – in the form of plant and animal life.” Soileau says pests that hibernate in cooler months are coming out with a vengeance this summer, and it’s very common to come across swarms in the air and on the ground. “Some bugs are just an annoyance, and other pose real threats to home, yard and/or health. Knowing what the most common summer bug pests are, as well as being aware of any risks they pose, can help you protect your family and your home throughout the summer months.”

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are the most recognizable summer bug and are most often found in and around standing pools of water, which is where they lay their eggs in the summer. Soileau says with the increased risk of West Nile Virus in the summer months, mosquitoes continue to be, not only a summer nuisance pest, but also a major health threat. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), West Nile Virus infections have appeared more frequently across the United States in recent years, which makes mosquito control even more important. In addition to the potential for West Nile Virus, mosquitoes can also cause itchy, unsightly marks as well as severe allergic reactions in human beings. While most mosquitoes can be handled by decreasing the amount of standing water, wearing long sleeves and protective bug spray, yards that are connected to particularly wet areas may need more intensive pest control.

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Termites

Call for information. 337-478-8650

Soileau says termites are more commonly found in wet, humid areas, “so they love Southwest Louisiana in the summer.” He adds that while they aren’t a health threat to people, they can wreak havoc on the wooden foundation or walls of buildings. “In spring and summer, termite activity increases dramatically, as the insects swarm and feed on any wooden

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structures,” explains Soileau. “Termites can create lasting damage that comes with a huge price tag – up to tens of thousands of dollars – so it is important to take preventive measures and to respond immediately if you suspect an infestation.”

Flying, stinging pests

Stinging pests, bees, wasps, hornets, and yellow-jackets, send more than 500,000 people to the emergency room each year. Soileau says these types of pests are a big threat in our area in the summer, and can be aggressive in nature, often stinging as a way to protect their colonies or larvae from human beings who attempt to remove an infestation on their own. Stings form some insects can cause skin irritation or a serious allergic reaction in some people. They can make nests and hives in overhangs, bushes, and trees around your home. If left untreated, these can grow considerably in size, increasing the likelihood of stings.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are some of the nastiest bugs to have invading your home. Although many people find cockroaches unpleasant, you may not be aware that they also present a health threat. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) reports that one in five children in the United States has severe sensitivities to cockroach allergens, which increase the severity of asthma symptoms. Soileau explains that these allergens are most commonly introduced in homes through cockroach saliva, droppings and the decomposing bodies of these pests. “Cockroaches can also carry bacteria such as E coli and salmonella on their bodies, which can contaminate food, cooking equipment and food surfaces. It is best to control cockroaches before they have a chance to lay their eggs in the hidden parts of your home.

Ants

Ants are social insects, meaning if you spot one, there are many more to follow. Soileau says ants are a concern because not just because they can sting humans and animals, they can also damage electronics when infesting outdoor equipment such as a/c units, sewage systems etc. Carpenter ants can also cause severe structural damage, similar to termites, as they tunnel their way into wooden structures.

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Fleas

Fleas aren’t just a problem for man’s best friend. “These pests, which commonly appear in warmer months, feed on the blood of any warm-blooded body,” says Soileau. They typically bite human beings, causing itchy, unsightly marks and may cause severe allergic reactions.” He explains that fleas tend to travel with mammals on the move, which can include not only people and their pets, but also rodents.

Ticks

Lyme disease, which is carried by ticks, represents a major health risk to human beings. Soileau explains that the high risk season for ticks is typically between May and October. “Lyme disease is found most frequently in the Northeastern and upper mid-western Western states, but there has been an increase in the diagnosed cases of Lyme disease in the South in recent years,” says Soileau. “It is critical to be vigilant of ticks, especially if you are in wooded areas.” Symptoms of Lyme disease include a “bull’s eye” rash around the bite, flu-like symptoms and extreme fatigue. Regardless of which summer bug – or bugs – may be intruding on your summer fun, Soileau says it’s prevention and safety should always be your first priorites. “While an ant may ruin a picnic, the bigger, nastier bugs of the season can ruin everything from your health to your home if not stopped.”

J&J offers the following tips for protecting your home and family from summer pests: • Clean kitchen surfaces and seal food in containers to eliminate food supplies for summer pests. Eliminate sources of standing water around the homes. • Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, when possible, and avoid dark colors. • Avoid outdoor activities from dusk to dawn – when mosquitoes are more active. • Repair window and door screens. • Read and carefully follow label directions on any insecticides or mosquito repellents you use. • Remove debris from your yard. • Check yourself, your children and your pets for ticks before coming indoors, especially if you’ve been in high grass or wooded areas. Many ticks are small and not easily seen. If a tick has latched on, completely remove it from the skin. Removal of ticks can be done by firmly grasping a tick with tweezers and pulling gently. www.thriveswla.com

The Last Word ier

Corm by Erin K.

The first time we met in person he warned me that I wouldn’t like him very much, at least not for the first two weeks of our relationship. Considering the conditions under which we met – he, as a personal fitness trainer with LiveFit 7, and me, as someone who thinks exercise is the bane of all our existences – he had a point.

Carl had me and the other boot-camp recruits run a half-mile around the indoor track, hop across the floor at Trinity Fitness Center gym, do squats, push-ups and sit-ups and go up and down the stairs – all within 45 minutes of us first introducing ourselves. During that first workout session, I discovered how I would experience my final minutes on Earth. They would be spent on the gym floor of Trinity Fitness Center, somewhere between the bleachers and the stairs.

When I suggested to Carl that I may not survive boot camp or even get out of the first session alive, he waved it off and said that my endurance levels were low, but it was only temporary. Each week will get easier, he said. Then he rattled off some motivational words of fitness wisdom and told me to keep going.

Carl is energized by fitness and exercise. You know the type – the ones who are always cheery and smiling, who have extra pep in their step and can’t stop talking about how great they feel. I’ve always wondered about those people.

Carl Comeaux: Friend or enemy?

A couple months ago I had dinner with a friend and we were mutually complaining about our lack of fitness. I’m sure you’ve had similar conversations with your friends. We talked about how we tried this and that and we discussed all the different get-fit theories we’d heard in recent months. I mentioned that if I could stick with something for two weeks, I was sure I’d be in the clear; from what I’ve been told, it takes two weeks for something to become a habit. After two weeks, you’ll love exercise. That’s what “they” said. “Yeah, that’s what ‘they’ told me, too,” she replied. “It’s been three months and I’m still waiting to like it.” Not a good sign.

Still, I figured there’s got to be an exercise routine out there for me, if I could just get started. The problem with getting started is … well, getting started. I’d long since proven that left to my own devices, I wouldn’t do anything. I figured I needed someone to badger me into doing something with myself – hence why I signed up for fitness boot camp with Carl at LiveFit 7. The first class ended at six o’clock. By six-thirty, I was in a dead sleep. My more-fit friends gave me plenty of advice to help me survive the push-ups, stair climbs, squats, jumping squats, mountain climbers, jump ropes, jogs, hops, sit-ups, bear crawls, lunges, bicep curls, short hurdles, and other elements that constituted a high-endurance fitness routine. I was told to focus on something else, something that I truly loved. I was told to imagine myself as a superheroine. My brother-in-law, who retired from the Army, said he survived real boot camp by focusing on the workout itself and telling himself that he loved it. Tell yourself that you love doing push-ups and bear crawls, he said. Think: I love this. This is awesome.

At the end of six weeks, it was a stretch to say that I “loved” any of the exercises, but I’ll tell you what I did love – the adrenaline. Turns out, Carl was right. After just three workouts, my endurance and energy levels skyrocketed. Mid-way through the boot camp, I finished a workout of one hundred sit-ups, push-ups, mountain climbers, and all those other necessary evils, and I am here to tell the story. I can understand now why these exercise-types are so peppy. The natural high that exercise provides is something out of this world. Going through boot camp was like being injected with some astronomical B-12 shot. You can take all the vitamins you want, drink every ounce of water in the world, eat spinach and kale, and monitor your calories, but if you don’t get moving – if you don’t reach your “personal best,” as Carl likes to say – your body won’t experience the full benefit of fitness. And for me, the full benefit wasn’t weight loss or dress sizes; it was energy. After six weeks of high-endurance fitness training, I am still no exercise guru, but when I started boot camp, I couldn’t finish fifteen push-ups without splaying out on the gym floor in agony. By week six, I could do fifty – and that’s after running, squatting and lunging my way around the gym.

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One supervisory visit per week includes: Medication reminder • Bathing and dressing Morning meal preparation • General ADL assistance Household laundry • Light Housekeeping Errands as needed

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24 hour daily rate $360/day Hourly rate (2 hour minimum) $18/hour Call for specialty pricing programs.

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Not only did I get started, I got going. That’s a big step for someone who couldn’t jog a fourth of a mile two months ago.

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Don’t wait until you need emergency care to decide what hospital to go to and don’t assume that convenience is better. You want a hospital that has physicians on staff that specialize in your illness. You want a hospital that will work with your primary care physician. You want a hospital that has board certified, residency trained emergency medicine physicians in the ER. That hospital is Memorial. As Lake Charles’ recognized trauma center, Memorial has the • Most Board Certified, Residency Trained Emergency Physicians • Most Medical Specialties and Subspecialties • Most ER Trauma Trained Specialists

• Only Psychiatric Triage Center • Only Family Medicine Residency Program • Only Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

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