Thrive Oct 08 by Thrive Magazine

OCTOBER 2008

Battle of the Mid-Life Bulge First Look at Flu Season Real Estate Investing

October 2008

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October 2008

Female Athletes are in a

League of their Own

by Kristy Armand

Thirty years ago, the future aspirations of women were limited to wife, mother, nurse, teacher or social worker. The thought of widespread public acceptance of girls and women as amateur and professional athletes would have been unimaginable to most, and even offensive to many. What a difference a few decades makes. In 1970, only one of every 27 girls played high school varsity sports; compared to one in three today. More girls play soccer today than all the girls who played in all of youth sports combined in 1970. Women now outnumber men as active sports/fitness participants, with professional leagues in many sports and televised broadcasts of women’s sports events regularly taking place. The increase in participation and popularity in female sports has largely been the result of judicial and federal actions that provided new opportunities for females. When the Supreme Court opened the door to Little Leagues in the early ‘70s, girls rushed through and onto the playing field. Title IX of the 1972 Education Amendments Act (a federal law that prohibits discrimination in varsity athletics against females in high schools and colleges) paved the way for increased funding of girls’ and women’s sports programs. The dramatic increases in participation seen today in the area of women’s sports are a direct result of this legislation. Research has shown that sports participation provides numerous psychological, physiological and sociological benefits. For example, compared to non- athletes, teenage female athletes:

• Experience better overall physical health • Are less sexually active • Are less likely to be involved with drugs • Are less likely to begin smoking • Make better grades and are more likely to graduate from high school • Have higher self esteem and positive body image • Have lower risk of developing osteoporosis and breast cancer The benefit of sports participation extends into the workplace as well. Sports provide one of the most important socio-cultural learning environments in our society. Through sports, boys and men have traditionally learned about teamwork, goal-setting, the pursuit of excellence in performance and other achievement-oriented behaviors – critical skills for success in today’s competitive workplace. Working women are now entering the workforce equipped with these valuable lessons learned on the playing field, and achieving more career success as a result. A recent survey of women in management at Fortune 500 companies found that over 80% of them played sports when they were younger. With the benefits of sports participation, come some bumps, bruises and injury risks, although experts agree the benefits of participation far surpass the associated risks. Gehron Treme, MD, orthopaedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist with Center for Orthopaedics, explains that increased participation has led to an increased understanding of injuries and problems associated specifically with female athletes. “The myth that women are not capable or strong enough to participate in athletics has definitely been disproved, but no one should make the mistake of thinking that females should be treated the same as males. The good news is that the increasing number of female athletes has led to an increased understanding of the types of injuries they are more likely to suffer, along with ways to minimize the risk.” Dr. Treme says there is no doubt that women can be just as competitive as men, and enjoy sports as much as men, but there are physiological and anatomical differences that affect female athletes. He explains that female athletes as a group are not as strong as their male counterparts. continued on page 5

October 2008

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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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by Rose Klein

Q: Several people in my office hold different political views than I do. I don’t have a problem with this, but what I do have a problem with is them continually bombarding me with information in an attempt to get me to change my views. My preference would be to not engage in a debate in the workplace, but they start these conversations on a regular basis and stay at me to join in. Then when I do, they all gang up on me. My boss is involved too, so I have to be careful, but is there a polite way I can tell them I don’t want to argue about politics? A: Subjects like politics and religion can be intrusive for some people. There’s a difference between a friendly discussion with a healthy appreciation to “agree to disagree” and the art of arm-twisting and badgering in an attempt to get one to change one’s views. I find that keeping one’s opinion to oneself is usually the best defense. It’s hard to persuade or argue with one who isn’t contributing to the conversation. “I respect…” or “I appreciate your opinion.” is another good approach. It’s delicate when your boss participates, but this isn’t a job-related issue and the above approaches are not disrespectful. Q: My niece is getting married, and I’ve graciously been invited to several showers given by family members of both the bride and groom and close friends. Because of budget and time constraints, I would like to attend only the one given by our side of the family. Is it rude of me to not attend each one? A: Absolutely not. However, you should reply to each invitation in a timely manner, and no excuse or explanation is needed.

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continued from page 3 They can increase their strength percentage wise at the same levels as males, but their overall strength will never be as high. Women are also slower runners than males, primarily because the leg length in women is a smaller percentage of overall body length. In the area of endurance, women are approaching male levels much more rapidly than in strength or speed events. Some experts believe women’s bodies use oxygen more efficiently, making them more suited for endurance activities.

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Dr. Treme says there are other differences that aren’t as obvious. “Females tend to have more lax ligaments than males, which is thought to put their joints at increased risk for injury. Studies have shown this laxity may correlate to hormonal changes associated with the menstrual cycle. This causes females to have a higher incidence of knee ligament injuries, shoulder instability and ankle sprains.”

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Female athletes also seem to be disproportionately at risk for injury to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Dr. Treme says there may be several reasons for this, and adds that there has been a lot of research in the sports medicine field focused on this issue in recent years. “Females tend to have a narrower space in the knee available for this ligament, causing it to tear under less stress than in males. Studies have also shown that female athletes rely on their quadriceps more than their hamstrings compared to male athletes. This leads to weaker hamstrings, which are one of the main protectors of the ACL.” Body shape can also put females at a higher risk for certain types of injuries. Women have wider hips than men, creating a wider angle at the knee, where the knee cap (patella) meets the femur. This increased angle can create tracking problems, which can lead to pain and instability or dislocation of the patella. Ankle sprains are more common in female athletes than in males. Dr. Treme says this is due to several factors including ligament laxity, decreased muscle strength and coordination. Women also have a narrower heel in relation to their forefoot than men. “Increased ligament laxity also places the female athlete at higher risk for shoulder instability, particularly in overhead sports such as volleyball, tennis, swimming and baseball. Their lower levels of upper body strength add to the risk. Other sports injuries that are more common in female athletes include shin splints, scoliosis and stress fractures.” Dr. Treme says the best way to prevent any of these injuries is to be aware of the risk and to follow proper prevention and conditioning guidelines. “Pre-season conditioning to build and maintain knee muscle strength, particularly the hamstrings, may help reduce the risk of knee injury. Rotator cuff strengthening exercises can help prevent shoulder instability, and strengthening and coordination exercises for the ankle are recommended to limit the risk of ankle and foot injuries. Strength training can be very important for prevention of injuries for female athletes,” he explains. “This type of conditioning can help them achieve balanced overall body strength. Weight lifting programs done two or three times a week also increase bone density, decrease fat, and improve muscle definition and improve sports performance. Preparticipation sports physicals are also important for female athletes to ensure that there are no pre-existing conditions that would increase the risk of injury or medical problems.”

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October 2008

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

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Too Tired To Evacuate!

can’t believe how many people I heard that from recently – “Oh, I just don’t have anything left to give. I can’t evacuate again!” These people are victims of hurricane fatigue – exhausted from watching the Weather Channel non-stop, making numerous trips to the store to stock up on Vienna sausages and water, and still feeling traumatized by the Rita experience three years ago. Hurricane fatigue is a very lazy lover. She convinces us that we will be fine, and that evacuating is more trouble than it’s worth. She reminds us of the hours we spent sitting absolutely still in traffic during the last evacuation. She needles us with memories of the hours spent packing and unpacking, all for nothing. She entices us into making decisions poorly – based on emotion rather than fact. By the time you are reading this, we’ll be much closer to end of hurricane season and hopeully won’t face any more storms this year. Two in three weeks is more than enough! The downside of hurricane season ending is time begins to tick until the next hurricane. And time is both a blessing and a curse. Time allows wounds to heal and memories to fade. My house was renovated after Rita, and I’ve been back in for about one-and-one-

half years. My memories of packing up the entire house (thankful that I had items to pack up), moving into rental property for six months, and moving back into my new, fresh house are getting fuzzy. The heaviness in my chest from feeling overwhelmed and frazzled has gone. It just doesn’t seem like that big of a deal anymore. And that’s good – for my sanity. If I carried all that stress with me just to help me not forget, that wouldn’t be healthy. Neither is completely forgetting. I need to remember the tree sitting on my house. I need to remember the water-logged sheet rock and buckled floors. I need to imagine what the sound of that tree falling on my house must have sounded like. I know that many of you had much worse experiences than I did for Rita, and Ike as well. You really do need to remember. Take pictures – not just for your insurance company, but also for your own memory bank. If you came back to town before electricity had been restored, remember what that was like too. Our area was in survival mode for several months. I’ll bet if everyone had taken out their photos (real and mental) of the damage done by Rita, they would have made decisions based more on fact than emotion. Here are some suggestions for helping you make a fact-based decision: • Turn the TV off. At least most of the time. It’s a hurricane. It moves slowly. Checking the weather in the morning and at night is probably sufficient, particularly when it’s still several days away. Remember, television stations need ratings, which are driven by viewers, and they have lots of air time to fill. High drama is a possibility to keep viewers tuned in. • Make destination plans. Reserve a hotel, call a family member, find a campground. Do it as early as you start feeling anxious. That way you have one less thing to fret about. And you can always cancel the reservation. • Have a packing list prepared. The last thing you need to be doing is running around like a chicken with its head cut off. You can’t think when you’re stressed. With a list, you don’t have to think. Pack for one week and take important papers and photos. The rest is just stuff and can be replaced. • Be financially prepared. You live in an area of the country where hurricanes tend to come by every now and then. You need to sock away some money in preparation for that. If you’re living paycheck to paycheck, you have until next hurricane season to get that straightened out. (Suze Orman has some great books on getting your financial life together.) • Listen to our local experts. I found the OEP briefings very useful during these last two hurricanes. While we fared better than predicted, they pretty much nailed it. Their reports helped me make my decisions. Hurricanes and emotions don’t go together. And emotional decisions (on anything) rarely work out the way you want them to. I don’t care how tired you are, when it’s time to go, it’s time to go!

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October 2008

Wines of Fall

Toast the Season with the

As late summer fades into fall, it’s time to stock up on wines more suited to cooler weather, richer foods and the celebration of upcoming holidays.

loaf, gumbo, squash and Brussels sprouts are ideal partners for this wine.

“Fall is a great time of year to enjoy wine,” says Michael Parker, Food and Beverage Manager with Gray Plantation. “In our area, it’s warm enough to allow you to appreciate a chilled glass of your favorite white, and the evenings are often cool enough to settle in front of a fire and uncork a deep, rich red.”

American Gewuztraminer: Gewurz is German for “spicy.” This full-bodied white wine can be very dry and crisp or quite sweet. Its floral and citrus flavors pair with pumpkin pie, turkey with gravy and traditional trimmings, sweet potatoes, and caramel apples.

Late August through October marks the U.S. grape harvest and crush season. In wine regions across the country, grapes are picked from their vines by hand or machine and pressed. Crush refers to putting newly picked grapes into a machine that de-stems the fruit and breaks the skin to release juice from the berry. Parker says fall wines should compliment the many activities and hearty dishes of the fall season.“The perfect wine can be found for everything from tailgating to Thanksgiving dinner.” He recommends using the new season as the opportunity to try something new, and provides the following suggestions: Red Zinfandel: A deep red wine with bold fruity and spicy flavors, Zinfandel goes well with roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, pastas with tomato-based sauces, eggplant, prime rib, hearty soups and rich stew. Pinot Noir: Depending on age, this lighter red wine can have hints of berries, plums and cherries or more earthy flavors of wild mushrooms. Pot roast, meat

October 2008

by Kristy Armand

Sparkling Wine: This bubbly beverage can be sipped with salmon, fried foods, spicy foods, white chocolate, spinach quiche and creamy pasta. Tawny Port: Known as a dessert wine, this golden colored vintage has a sweet nutty flavor that is a treat with dark chocolate, pecan pie, apple pie and cheesecake. If you have any favorite wines you’d like the Evergreen Room at Graywood to consider featuring, email Michael@ graywoodllc.com. If you are interested in joining other local wine enthusiasts, visit the Value Oriented Wine Group online at: www. VOWG.org. They host several tastings and optional wine dinners at Gray Plantation each year, with wines available for purchase at great savings.

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effort between area law enforcement, healthcare providers and mental health organizations. Green is one of only a few attorneys in the region with a law enforcement background. He is licensed to practice in Louisiana and Texas, and has practiced extensively in both state and federal courts. Green is a member of the Louisiana and Texas State Bar Associations and the Louisiana Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. The addition of Green expands the range of legal services offered by the Hanchey Law Firm to include criminal law, in addition to personal injury and wrongful death, civil litigation, commercial real estate, successions and wills, workers compensation, and social security disability. The Hanchey Law Firm is located at 535 East Street in Lake Charles. Call (337) 436-5551 for more information.

Bradley Receives Honor

Greg Bradley

Mr. Greg Bradley, M.Ed., R.T. (R), program director for Radiologic Technology at McNeese State University, received The Louisiana Society of Radiologic Technologist Life Member award at the annual meeting in New Orleans. He was recognized for his professionalism, integrity and 27 years of service to the state, national and local societies and the profession of Radiology. Bradley is also the Publication Relations Director of the Louisiana Society and the Board Advisor for the Southwest LA Society of Radiologic Technologists.

Delta Tech Awards 2008 Scholarship to Oliver Delta Tech has awarded its 2008 Scholarship to Erica Oliver of Lake Charles. Oliver is a 2008 graduate of Washington Marion High School; she is the daughter of Shirley Oliver of Lake Charles. Delta Tech offers the scholarship each year to one student to help fund their pursuit of an associate or diploma. For more information about attending Delta Tech, call (337) 439-5765 or log on to www. deltatech.edu. Photo: Pictured left to right: Campaign Chair Glenn Pumpelly, Breakfast Speaker Coach Matt Viator, Chamber SWLA Chair-Elect Ken Broussard, Chamber SWLA Chair Dick Kennison, and Alliance President/CEO George Swift. Photo by Mary Beth Conner Photography

Sasol Pledges $30,000 to Fieldhouse

SWLA Alliance Foundation Launches Capital Campaign The SWLA Alliance recently kicked off the SWLA on the Move! capital campaign with a ceremonial “football pass” from the campaign chairs to the movers and shakers of the Southwest Louisiana region during the Leadership Breakfast. The SWLA on the Move! campaign is a business plan to stimulate human resource development, economic growth and industry diversification within the region. The campaign is gearing up to raise $2.65 million. Currently, the campaign has received $1,615,000 in pledges from private industries in the five-parish region.

Green Joins Hanchey Law Firm Attorney David Green has joined the law firm of David H. Hanchey and Carl H. Hanchey. Green’s practice will concentrate primarily on criminal law. Originally from Lake Charles, Green is a graduate of McNeese State University. After earning his undergraduate degree, he served as a deputy sheriff with the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office for nine years. Green then earned his law degree and worked as an David Green attorney. He served as an Assistant District Attorney in Harris County, Texas, and then in Calcasieu Parish. He is a criminal law instructor at McNeese and also provides training for the McNeese Forensic Chemistry class. He serves as the legal instructor for the CIT (Critical Incident Training) program, which is a collaborative educational 8

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Matt Viator, head football coach for McNeese State University, left, recently accepted a $10,000 donation on behalf of the McNeese Athletic Foundation from Sasol North America President Pat Brown. Sasol North America has pledged $30,000 over three years toward construction of the new field house.

Lawton Makes Donation to McNeese for Football Scholarships William B. Lawton, third from right, president of William B. Lawton Company, LLC, and Gus Schram (second from left), representing Jack Lawton, LLC, present McNeese State head football coach Matt Viator, center, with $30,000 for football scholarships from the William T. and Ethel Lewis Burton Foundation. Also pictured are Will Drost, left, vice president of William B. Lawton Company, LLC, McNeese Athletics Director Tommy McClelland, second from right, and McNeese President Dr. Robert Hebert. The

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2008

To receive aid, please visit www.EthelBreastCancerWalk.org and complete the form. The form needs to be mailed to 162 West Precht Road, Bell City, Louisiana 70631. For more information, please call 598-2093.

Cameron Communications Donates to St. Theresa’s Carlyss Bon Ton Festival Cameron Communications Public Relations Coordinator, Trina Johnson and Switching Supervisor, Tommy Prejean presented a check for $800 and framed print to Art Little. The donation was used for the annual Carlyss Bon Ton Festival at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church.

late W.T. Burton began donating money for football scholarships to McNeese State in 1966 and the tradition has continued for the past 42 years. Since that first year, the total donated to the university for football scholarships is $970,000.

McNeese Enters Agreement with Paris-based University

The Road to Rouge et Blanc

An entire week of wine dinners will lead up to Rouge et Blanc, an event scheduled Oct. 18 that will feature foods from 21 restaurants and more than 100 fine wines from Republic National Distributing Co. Six restaurants have prepared menus in which each course has been paired with a special champagne, wine or dessert wine. Among the participants are from left Chef Justin Sells of Snake River Grill at L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort, Nic Hunter, owner of The Harlequin, and Arthur Durham, co-proprietor of La Truffe Sauvage. The dinners will take place at La Truffe Sauvage on Oct. 11, Pujo Street Café on Oct. 13, Blue Duck Café on Oct. 14, Snake River Grill on Oct. 15, The Harlequin on Oct. 16 and Vista Grill and Delta Downs Casino and Racetrack on Oct. 17. More information is available at www. rougeetblanc.us.

Tying Local Breast Cancer Survivors Together

The 5th Annual Ethel Precht HOPE Breast Cancer 3K Walk/Fun Run will be held Saturday, October 18th at the Lake Charles Civic Center Outdoor Theater. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. followed by open ceremonies at 8:30 a.m. Cost for adults is $15 and $10 for students and children. Participates can pre-register online at www.EthelBreastCancerWalk.org. “While I believe money is needed for extensive research, my walk is dedicated to local survivors and their families,” says Ethel Precht, organization founder. All monies raised are used to benefit local Breast Cancer patients who reside in Calcasieu and Cameron Parishes who cannot afford to purchase bras, wigs, prosthesis and other items. October 2008

Marie Josèphe Gridel, left, international relations representative for the Pôle Universitaire Léonard De Vinci in Paris, France, shakes hands with McNeese State University Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Jeanne Daboval. Gridel arrived in Lake Charles on Monday with colleagues Philippe Dubost, left, and Michel Bernadou to discuss a study-abroad agreement between the universities. McNeese State University and administrators with the Pôle Universitaire Léonard De Vinci have signed an agreement that will create opportunities for McNeese students to study in France. Administrators of the Paris-based university have signed agreements with the eight universities of the University of Louisiana System, which includes McNeese. Once completed, the partnership will eventually provide study abroad opportunities for students studying business, engineering and engineering technology, computer science and liberal arts at McNeese.

Tennis Pros Headline CHRISTUS St. Patrick Tennis Classic to Benefit Children’s Miracle Network One of the most dominant players in the history of professional tennis, Todd Martin, and ATP Star Wayne Ferreira will headline the CHRISTUS St. Patrick Tennis Classic on Saturday, October11th at noon at Sports Club at Graywood (3860 Graymark Drive, Lake Charles) benefiting the Children’s Miracle Network. Martin was a finalist at the 1999 U.S. Open and the 1994 Australian Open. In 1994, he reached the semifinals at Wimbledon, the US Open and the Grand Slam Cup. Every year from 1994 to 2002 Martin played Davis Cup for the United States and was consistently ranked among the world’s top ten. He was inducted into the ITA Men’s Collegiate Tennis Hall of fame in May of 2007. Wayne Ferreira from Johannesburg, South Africa, currently holds 26 career ATP titles and the record for most consecutive Grand Slam appearances in men’s tennis. He has consistently been ranked in the ATP world top 10. In 1992, continued on page 10

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continued from page 9

Why Wait? When you’ve had a questionable mammogram, you need to know more – quickly. Now, there is a new way to get fast, accurate answers about a suspicious mammogram result. It’s called Breast-Specific Gamma Imaging (BSGI), and in Southwest Louisiana, it is only available at Jennings American Legion Hospital (JALH). BSGI is a new imaging technique that can aid in diagnosis when a mammogram is inconclusive; revealing important information that can help your doctor more accurately determine if an area of concern is cancerous or not. BSGI is safe, effective, comfortable and best of all – fast. Results are typically available the same day, giving you the information and peace of mind you need. BSGI is a valuable tool for situations where mammography cannot answer all the questions and further evaluation is needed, especially when patients have: • Dense breast tissue • Suspicious areas on a mammogram • Lumps that can be felt but not seen with mammography or ultrasound • Scarring from previous breast surgeries • Implants or breast augmentation • Been taking Hormone Replacement Therapy

Ferreira captured the Silver Medal at Olympic Games in Barcelona. “This will be an amazing day of world class tennis and family entertainment,” says Ronnie Walters, director of The Sports Club. “We are excited to have Todd and Wayne playing at Sports Club at Graywood this fall, and provide tennis fans with the best in men’s tennis.” Tickets are available on-line through www.etix.com or by calling 800-514etix (3849). Ticket prices are $30.00 for General Admission and $55.00 for Reserved.

AAA Cleaners Goes High Tech to Improve Customer Service These days, bar codes are used to organize and improve efficiency in almost every industry and for millions of products. Now the same technology is being used at AAA Drive-In Cleaners to improve customer service. It’s part of a new high-tech automated system recently installed at both AAA locations in Lake Charles. Features include a new assembly conveyor, electronic tracking and auto-bagger, in addition to the heat-sealed bar code. The tiny bar code is attached to each garment they bring in. “Our customers may not even notice it, this tag contains all the information we need to track and process dry cleanings more quickly, carefully and efficiently,” says Robert Guillot. The system helps AAA keep track of clothing from the moment it’s dropped off until it’s picked up. These tags not only identify each customer’s garments, they capture their preferences, including no starch, hold the pleats, wash only, and so on. That way, employees don’t have to enter this information each time garments are dropped off, and much less paper is used generating tickets.

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October 2008

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The

Water Crisis

f you judge by the local grocery store, you may never realize we’re in a water crisis. Bottled water lines the entrances, aisles and row after row of shelves. However, there is a water crisis, and it affects every human being on the planet, although most of us aren’t paying attention yet. “There are many myths about water. By educating ourselves about water and its vast and stark realities, we can secure clean water for generations to come,” says Wendell Thibodeaux, founder of New Flow Enterprises for Aqua Maker. Here are few startling facts about water:

• It is estimated that 1 billion people across the

planet now lack access to clean water – and that number is growing by the day • 1.8 million children die every year from waterborne diseases – one every 15 seconds • 40 billion hours are spent each year in Africa due to the need to collect and haul water • 5.3 billion (two-thirds of the world’s population) will suffer from water shortages by 2025 With such astounding facts, it’s easy to give in and say there’s no hope. But the reality is we can make a difference. “Its been said that half of the 1 billion people in need of clean water can be helped with simple technologies such as wells, boreholes, gravityfed springs and rainwater harvesting. Practical applications of low-tech solutions can get us halfway to our goal of clean water for every person on the planet and it can be done right now,” says Thibodeaux. However, to instill these solutions will take emotional and financial commitment from all of us. One of these practical applications includes the Aqua Maker, which converts the humidity in the air to clean drinking water. This is one way Americans can help facilitate the solution. Aqua Maker enables you to quit buying bottled water and using tap water as drinking water. It doesn’t hurt that it aids in de-humidification and improves air quality in your home or office while doing so. “Next time you’re about to buy bottled water, think about this little fact: ounce for ounce, bottled water costs more than gas and 24% is just ordinary tap water repackaged by major soft drinks companies. There is also concern that the plastic containers used may create a hazard to your health due to the high levels of PCBs,” says Thibodeaux. There are mountains of information, facts and education about the water crisis and how it affects us. One must only educate themselves to find out how they can contribute to the solutions. Now that we’re in the midst of a “green” revolution, it’s time to look forward to a “blue” revolution. For more information on how you can make a difference visit www.blueplanetrun.org or call Thibodeaux at (337) 764-5843. by Danielle Granger

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October 2008

Tricks for a Safe Halloween Most people think of Halloween as a time for fun and treats, and while we’re not trying to scare you, parents should be aware that Halloween is one of the most dangerous times of the year for children. Joni Fontenot, spokesperson for the Safety Council of Southwest Louisiana, says roughly four times as many children aged 5-14 are killed while walking on Halloween evening compared with other evenings of the year, and falls are a leading cause of injuries among children on Halloween.“Many Halloween-related injuries can be prevented if parents closely supervise school-aged children during trick-or-treat activities. The excitement of the night can cause children to forget to be careful. That’s why it’s important for parents to be aware of safety hazards and do what they can to ensure a fun – and safe – Halloween.” The Safety Council advises these tips for trick-or-treaters: • Trick-or-treating should be supervised by an adult in well-known neighborhoods. • Carry a flashlight. • Stay on well-lit roads and visit well-lit houses. • Avoid short-cuts. Stay on sidewalks or on the side of streets.

October 2008

by Kristy Armand

• Add reflective tape to costumes if it doesn’t already have reflective material. • Avoid masks that limit vision. Choose instead to wear makeup or face paint. • If your child is carrying a prop such as a staff or a pitchfork, make sure the edges are dull and your child carries it upright, not in the way of other children. • If you are driving during Halloween, slow down. • Instruct your child not to eat any candy until it has been examined by you. If the candy looks like it may have been opened, or there are holes in the wrapper, or it looks or smells odd in any way, throw it out.

If you plan to give out candy, make sure your visitors have a good time at your house by doing the following: • Keep your lawn free and clear of any obstacles that could be tripped over in the dim light. • Provide store-bought treats that are individually wrapped. • Keep your home well-lit. • If you decorate with jack-o-lanterns with candles inside, supervise them at all times and make sure they are out of the path the trick-or-treaters will use.

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Protect Breast Health with Medical Thermal Imaging

ach time someone experiences the devastating news of a breast cancer diagnosis, one can’t help but ask, “Could it have been prevented?” Educating oneself on preventative actions and early screenings is vital for women today. The benefits of these preventative measures, such as thermography, take awareness of women’s health issues to a whole new level. Medical Thermal Imaging is an FDA registered technology that is completely safe and noninvasive, without the use of radiation or other potentially harmful elements. It can visualize and quantify minute variations/changes in skin surface temperature. “These subtle temperature abnormalities can be indications of a multitude of potential health conditions,” says Kathy Markham, CCT, TN, MH, CNC, CNHP, with Nutritional Transitions and The American Wellness Center. One of the most valuable uses for this technology is the earliest possible detection of breast abnormalities. “Thermal Imaging can detect signs literally 10-15 years before disease manifests itself. Mammograms are integral in assisting the diagnosis of a suspicious situation, but by the

time it is effective, the patient is already a statistic,” explains Markham. “In our practice we have had the opportunity of providing thermography to many women and three of them were identified in the “neovascular” early stages.” Neovascular means, neo – new and vascular – blood vessel. This term is used by radiologists that read thermograms. “In layman’s terms, it means that cancer has not developed, but that the body is in a stage where development could begin.” This early warning allows women to begin making lifestyle changes, including small dietary changes and exercise to improve the chances that cancer can be prevented. Other screenings available include, monthly breast self-exams, mammography and physician exams. “While these are very important they are catching cancer after it has developed. Thermography may be able to see problems before they develop. An ounce of prevention is still worth a pound of cure,” says Markham. Today, in addition to breast screening, Thermal Imaging is also used for early detection of heart diseases, diabetes and any other inflammation-

Goals into achievements?

Dreams into reality?

Discord into harmony?

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2008

Imaging “Thermal can detect signs

related problems. Besides early detection, it also offers the benefits of being safe, painless and affordable. The images are evaluated by a medical doctor who specializes in reading thermograms and a full comprehensive report is returned within just a few days along with the images. It’s painless, noninvasive and simple. You can then schedule an annual exam after completing this process.

literally 10-15 years before disease manifests itself.

With this technology, three types of screenings are available; breast screening that consists of six images; women’s health screening that consists of 12 images; and the full body screening that consists of 31 images.

”

– Kathy Markham, CCT, TN, MH, CNC, CNHP

Nutritional Transitions is associated with The American Wellness Center in Lake Charles. For more information call (337) 463-4007.

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October 2008

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Sunday Afternoon Concert Sunday, Nov. 9, 2008, 3 p.m. “Heroes”

Harvey Benstein, Guest Conductor Adagio et Allegro Molto—Michael Haydn Peggy DeMers, French Horn William Rose, Trombone

Peggy DeMers N’Focus, Jamie Bonneau

Lincoln Portrait—Copland Symphony No. 3 “Eroica”—Beethoven Tickets are on sale at the Lake Charles Civic Center Box Office. Remaining concerts this season: Feb. 1 and Apr. 4.

William Rose

For ticket information call 337 433-1611 or visit www.lcsymphony.org. LAKE CHARLES SYMPHONY

SEASON 51 2008-2009

This concert is supported by a grant from the Louisiana State Arts Council through the Louisiana Division of the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. This concert is supported by a partnership grant from the Arts & Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana and the City of Lake Charles.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2008

by Kristy Armand

Battle of the Mid-Life You diet more than ever, but don’t weigh less. You’ve made a huge effort to exercise regularly, but still feel flabby. And your once perfectly-fitting clothes are more than a little snug. Are we talking about you? If you think so, then you are probably female, over 35 and suddenly feeling like your weight is an impossible road block on the path to mid-life bliss. It may not provide much comfort, but you are not alone, according to Suzy Trahan, licensed dietitian and certified exercise and fitness instructor at Dynamic Dimensions of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. “Many people who have never had problems losing or maintaining weight in their early adult life, find that things change as they approach their 40s. She explains that your metabolism actually slows down by approximately five percent each decade of your life. “This may not be something you are even aware of right away, until, once enough years go by, and you realize it’s not so easy to shed those few extra pounds as quickly as you did in the past,” says Trahan. “You’ll burn about 100 fewer calories per day at 35, compared to the number you burned at age 25. By age 45, you’ll burn 200 fewer. And if you do nothing to compensate for this change, such as adjusting your diet and exercise level, you could gain eight to 12 pounds a year.” As you age, muscle mass diminishes, as does your metabolic rate (the number of calories your body burns throughout the day, whether you’re sleeping, sitting, or jogging around a track). Many women try to compensate for these changes with crash diets, the latest exercise fad and other “all-promise, no delivery” weight-loss strategies. Trahan says these usually just make things worse, mainly because the lack of results is so discouraging. “As difficult as it is to accept, there are no quick fixes when it comes to weight loss. However, there are many things you can do to maintain or lose weight during mid-life. The key is to boost the number of calories you burn every day, while focusing on eating a healthy, wellbalanced diet.” She offers the following tactics for winning the battle against mid-life weight gain: October 2008

Bulge

Avoid Crash Dieting “There are so many reasons to avoid crash diets, both from a health and weight loss standpoint,” says Trahan. “But the bottom line is when you slash too many calories, you send your body into starvation mode.” Dropping to a very lowcalorie diet – less than 1000 calories per day – will drop the average woman’s metabolic rate by 15 – 20 percent. It can also cause your body to burn muscle as well as fat, which will slow your metabolic rate even more.

Trahan says when it comes to weight loss, slow and steady should be your goal. “If you stay within the 1,200- to 1,500-calorie range, you can still lose weight. You won’t drastically lower your metabolic rate, and most of the weight you lose will be fat, not muscle.” Step Away from the Scale A bathroom scale is not a reliable weight-loss guide. Trahan says the basic scales only calculate pounds, and can’t tell you what percentage of your body weight is lean, calorie-burning muscle and how much is sluggish fat. The metabolic difference between a pound of muscle and a pound of fat is dramatic: Muscle burns at least three times more calories. A woman who weighs 130 pounds and has a healthy 25 percent body fat will burn about 200 more calories per day than a 130-pound woman with about 40 percent body fat — a typical level for women at midlife. Instead of your scale, Trahan says you should have a body fat analysis to really determine your goals.“A fitness center or your physician should be able to provide this for you. If you have over 30 percent body fat, that indicates the need to make some diet and exercise changes. You should get rechecked every few months to track your progress.” Strengthen your Workout Cardiovascular exercise (like walking, jogging, biking, swimming, or aerobics class) is great for your health, but in most cases is not strenuous enough to build or even maintain your muscle mass as you age. “With muscle tissue, it continued on page 19

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2008

continued from page 17 really is a case of ‘use it or lose it,’” says Trahan. “You have to incorporate strength training into your regular exercise routine to promote the retention and regeneration of muscle tissue. The more muscle tissue you have, the more calories you burn – both at rest and during work outs.” One recent study at South Shore YMCA in Minnesota found that when women strength trained for 20 minutes twice a week for 10 weeks, they added 2.6 pounds of muscle and lost 4.6 pounds of body fat. Ideally, Trahan says you should aim for about 40 to 60 minutes of strength training a week.“Use the weight room at your local gym, attend a group fitness class that incorporates weights, or exercise with dumbbells or resistance bands at home. If you’ve never done strength training before, it’s advisable to start in a group setting with well-trained instructors, or schedule a session with a personal trainer to learn how to get the most out of each move and to prevent injury. You’ll also need to gradually increase the weight or resistance you are using over time.” Mix it Up If you always walk the same distance, bike at the same speed, or follow the exact same routine on the cardio and weight machines, you may get stuck in a fitness level rut. “You basically plateau, as your body adapts. Your muscles become so efficient that they burn fewer calories while you perform the same work out week after week,” says Trahan. She says you can tell it’s time for a change if you don’t feel tired after working out, you’re not sweating as much during your routine, or you’re gaining weight even though you aren’t eating more or exercising less. Trahan recommends picking up the pace on your workout by adding a few short, fast-paced bursts of speed to your cardio routine. For example, if you’re a walker, pick up the pace for 20 or 30 seconds, then slow down to your usual pace for a minute or two. Then do it again. Start small, with one, two, or three intervals in your walk. As you grow stronger, add more intervals, and make them longer and more intense. Sleep More and Stress Less High stress leads to increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can trigger cravings for high-fat, high-carb foods, according to numerous studies. These extra calories are also more likely to be deposited as fat around the belly, which is the hardest to lose and most dangerous to your health. When Harvard Medical School scientists followed over 98,000 women for 16 years, they found that those averaging five hours of sleep per night were 32 percent more likely to gain 33 pounds than those who got seven hours a night. Those who slept an average of six hours per night were 12 percent more likely. The reason? The researchers say sleep deprivation increases the appetite-stimulating hormone, ghrelin, and decreases the satisfaction hormone, leptin. They recommend trying to get at least seven hours of sleep most nights. Women who snoozed for that long, or longer, had a lower risk of weight problems, according to researchers.

October 2008

Don’t Skip Breakfast When researchers at the University of Texas at El Paso analyzed the food diaries of 867 women and men, they discovered a metabolic window of opportunity for appetite control: a hearty breakfast. Study volunteers who ate a bigger meal in the morning went on to eat 100 to 200 fewer calories later in the day. Research from Michigan State University that tracked 4,218 people showed that women who skipped breakfast were 30 percent more likely to be overweight. Breakfast skimpers and skippers, plus women whose diet resolve is strongest in the morning, often short circuit their metabolism before the day even gets started. “Breakfast really is the most important meal of the day. It ‘turns on’ your metabolism,” says Trahan. “Eating nothing or too little in the morning causes your body to conserve energy. Eating a healthy breakfast signals your body to start burning calories.” Trahan recommends breakfast foods that are high in protein and fiber, such as oatmeal, eggs and fruit. “As you can see, the reasons for mid-life weight gain are many and often involve a variety of contributing factors,” says Trahan. “And while the idea of a quick fix fat burning pill or miracle diet sounds appealing, there really are no short cuts. However, the solution is not that complex, nor is it unfamiliar. It’s the same recommendation you’ve heard for years: eat right, get plenty of rest, and exercise. As you get older, this advice is more important than ever.”

OCTOber iS breaST CanCer awareneSS MOnTh

Taking Care of You, SoYou Can Take Care of the Ones You Love In honor of breast cancer awareness month, Surgicare would like to remind women how important it is to get your yearly breast exam. As one of the finest Outpatient Day Surgery centers in the nation, we’ve been right here in the Lake Area for over 30 years, supporting our patients by providing state-of-the-art facilities and an experienced, friendly staff, to help you with your medical needs. You’ve got important things to do and even more important people to take care of. Choose the surgical alternative that keeps you first in mind.

2100 Lake Street • (337) 436-6941 • 1-800-782-0336 Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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n w o t n w o D o t n w o D t Ge October 7-11

cast – The Highlines, Color the Veteran and Parallel 9pm n, tow wn Do 0 71 Sky @ s, 10pm jak en Rik – Six Pack Deep @

Tuesday, October 7 d Between Takes @ – Magnum Cinema an Week Long All ll, Ha y Historic Cit ffee Roasters in Co – JAVA: The History of Sunday, October 19 rial Calcasieu pe Im e Th @ d Between Takes @ Louisiana – Magnum Cinema an ng Lo Week Long Museum, All Week Historic City Hall, All the work of Ellen ffee Roasters in Co of y – Here’s Ellen, Features lo exhibit @ Gallery tor His – JAVA: The rial Calcasieu pe Anthony in her first so Louisiana @ The Im Long ng Lo by the Lake, All Week ek We All Museum, 8 work of Ellen Wednesday, October n, 9pm re’s Ellen, Features the hibit @ Gallery tow He – wn Do 0 71 @ ht Nig ex lo so t firs – Open Mic r he in Anthony Long ek We Thursday, October 9 pm All , 10 ke ll, La Gri & the r Ba by ds @ Luna – Corey Saucier & Frien Tuesday, October 21 10 er tob Oc @ Luna Bar & Grill, 8pm y, da Fri r Ba na Lu @ e) Tribute to Elliot Smith A ett – fay (La an rav Ca t 22 – Greenligh Wednesday, October l eting @ Central Schoo & Grill, 9pm Me e en Blu Op @ ny itz Po Gr t or Ho Po & – lly Mo pm ss :30 Mi 0-7 in, 6:3 ies, – Duston Erw for the Arts & Humanit 0 Downtown, 9pm Duck Café, 9pm 71 @ ht Nig c 0 Mi 71 en @ is Op – d Idigiu – Ashes of Babylon an th-Ashes Lain & Thursday, October 23 Luna Bar & Grill, 10pm 10 ds @ Downtown, 9pmOct – Corey Saucier & Frien 10pm Drachen @ Rikenjaks, 24 er Friday, Octob Bar & Grill, 9pm Saturday, October 11 mp (Houston) @ Luna Rouge) w/special Plu n – ato a/B um (Ho t tric amethrowers) @ 710 – Light Up Dis – Research Turtles (Fl a Bar & Grill, 9pm guest Faster Faster @ Lun d Mothership @ Downtown, 9pm Lake an & Hot Gritz @ Blue – Santeria, Dead End ston Erwin, Miss Molly Du – m 9p 710 Downtown, Duck Café, 9pm enjaks, 10pm – I Am Sparticus @ Rik Saturday, October 25 Ramblers (Austin) @ The – Shawn Nelson and m 9p ill, Gr & r Luna Ba n e Good Captain & Vo Th n, lto Wa d Sunday, October 12 an Sh – @ s ke Ta n ee m tw 9p Be d n, – Magnum Cinema an Dukes @ 710 Downtow Week Long Historic City Hall, All Coffee Roasters in – JAVA: The History of perial Calcasieu Im e Th Louisiana @ Sunday, October 26 ng Coffee Roasters in Museum, All Week Lo en Ell of – JAVA: The History of the work perial Calcasieu Im – Here’s Ellen, Features lo exhibit @ Gallery e Th @ Louisiana so t firs r he in ny ng tho Lo An Museum, All Week Long work of Ellen the by the Lake, All Week res atu Fe , – Here’s Ellen 13 er tob exhibit @ Gallery Oc lo ay, so t Mond Meeting @ thony in her firs An ion iss mm Co g nin Zo Long – Planning & by the Lake, All Week pm 326 Pujo St., 5:30-6:30 29 er tob Oc y, esd dn We St, 15 Meeting @ 326 Pujo Wednesday, October – Public City Council eting @ 326 Pujo St, Me cil un Co y Cit c bli pm – Pu 1st Floor, 5:30-6:30 wntown, 9pm 1st Floor, 5:30-6:30pm ng @ Central en Mic Night @ 710 Do Op – eti Me r tee lun Vo st Fe ny – Po Thursday, October 30 Luna Bar & Grill, 10pm ds @ School, 6:30-7:30pm m 9p n, tow – Corey Saucier & Frien wn Do 0 – Open Mic Night @ 71 31 er tob Oc y, da Fri @ ree Day Celebration Thursday, October 16 Luna Bar & Grill, 10pm – Pony Fest 2008: A Th Central School for @ ds en Fri & r cie Sau & rey St. – Co 700 Block of Ryan Friday, October 17 na Lu @ n) sti the Arts & Humanities (Au ds en & Hot Gritz @ Blue – Champagne with Fri ston Erwin, Miss Molly Du – m 9p ill, Bar & Gr Duck Café, 9pm 710 Downtown, 9pm 1 – Hamilton Loomis @ e Blu @ itz Gr t tur Ho Sa day, November @ Molly & ree Day Celebration Th – Duston Erwin, Miss A : 08 20 – Pony Fest l for oo Sch al ntr Ce & St. Duck Café, 9pm 700 Block of Ryan Saturday, October 18 sh Fre w/ ) ers the Arts & Humanities row eth am – Research Turtles (Fl m 9p ill, Gr & r Ba Luna Nectar and others @

October 19-25

October 12-18

October 26-November 1

To be included in this calendar, please send downtown event or band schedules to thrive@ ehealthyimage.com.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Looking to add some culture into your life this Fall? Head downtown for these exciting events!

October 2008

A.G. EDWARDS IS NOW with WACHOVIA SECURITIES. When we decided to combine with A.G. Edwards, we were well aware of the firm’s 120-year heritage and long-standing commitment to helping investors and businesses grow. Wachovia Securities shares this sense of community and client-first commitment, and together we remain committed to our clients’ success.

Tony Bernard’s Tiger Eye

Dustin R. Granger, CFP® Financial Advisor Lake Charles Ofﬁce One Lakeshore Drive, Suite 1500 Lake Charles, LA 70629 337-439-9081 dustin.granger@wachoviasec.com www.agedwards.com/fc/y600

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October 2008

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2008

Get Focused on Fashion This Fall

at the Optics Unlimited Eyewear Style Shows in Jennings and Sulphur

Foot Pain

is Not Normal With 26 bones, 33 joints, a network of more than 100 tendons, muscles, and ligaments, and scores of nerves and blood vessels, the human foot is a biological masterpiece. The components of the feet work intricately together, sharing the tremendous pressures of daily life. In fact, an average day of walking brings several hundred tons of force to bear on the feet. Such structural complexity and daily stress make foot problems one of our most common health complaints.“Most suffer unnecessarily with foot pain. This is because many people believe that foot pain is normal, especially as we get older,” says Blake Chapman, co-owner of Z-Coil Pain Relief Footwear™. When foot pain is caused by repetitive impact, or by excessive pressure on specific areas of the foot, wearing shoes that have a comfortable fit as well as sufficient cushioning and support is key. Repetitive impact to the heel can result in heel pain syndrome or extreme discomfort when any weight is brought to bear on the heel. This condition may be caused by shoes with heels that are too low, a thinned-out fat pad in the heel, or by a sudden increase in activity.“Shoes that provide greater shock-absorption in the heel area can help relieve this condition. A slightly elevated heel also transfers pressure away from the sore spot,” adds Chapman.

Cooler weather means hot new styles for your eyes only at our

one-of-a-kind eye style event We’ll be featuring the very latest frame designs, along with new styles in sunglasses, accessories and frames for children and teens. eyewear styling consultants will be available to assist you in choosing the most flattering frame for your features and personal style. Participating designers will be offering special one-day-only discounts. drawings early for door prizes will be held throughout p o h s or the the day, and refreshments will be served. f !

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Another common diagnosis of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia. This is a broad band of fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the metatarsal bones. Chapman says for people with flat feet whose feet roll in, those with unusually high arches or those who are overweight, will often place undue stress on this band of tissue and experience pain in the heel and arch areas when they walk.

optics unlimited in The eye clinic 1201 Maplewood dr., sulphur Call 625-8948 for more information.

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The treatment of plantar fasciitis generally involves cushioning and elevating the heel and further relieving stress to the plantar fascia through the use of an orthotic with good arch support.“This rigid support gives the overstretched plantar fascia a chance to heal,” says Chapman. “Clearly, our choice of footwear plays a big role in both the development and the prevention of foot problems. We need to understand that foot pain is not an inevitable part of life,” says Chapman. “If we want to enjoy more active and pain-free days, wearing comfortable, well-fitted shoes is the way to get there, whatever your age or however much time you spend on your feet.” For more information, call Chapman at (337) 562-8509. October 2008

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2008

Memorial Hospital Welcomes David Muguku, MD Lake Charles Memorial Hospital welcomes family medicine specialist David Muguku, MD, to the medical staff. A graduate of Baylor University in David Muguku, MD Houston, Texas, and Howard University College of Medicine, Dr. Muguku completed both his internship and residency through the Howard University Hospital Family Medicine Residency Program before relocating to the lake area. Dr. Muguku joins Gerald Mouton MD, Dennis Fletcher, MD, and Michael Oler, MD, at Family Medicine Specialists. Their offices are located at 2615 Enterprise Boulevard, Suite B and 1890 W. Gauthier Road, Suite 115 in Lake Charles. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (337) 494-4727.

Internist Joins The Clinic’s Medical Staff Binitha Joseph, MD, Internal Medicine Specialist, has joined the physician staff of Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic. Dr. Binitha Joseph, MD Joseph received her Medical Degree from Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences in India and completed a residency in Internal Medicine at St. Francis Hospital in Evanston, Illinois. The Clinic is the area’s largest multi-specialty physician practice, with 28 physicians in 11 different medical specialties. Dr. Joseph’s office is located on the third floor of The Clinic’s main office at 501 S. Ryan Street in Lake Charles. Appointments can be scheduled by calling (337) 312-8414.

Jennings Welcomes Dr. Romero

Wound Healing Center Welcomes Physicians Maureen Lannan, MD, has joined the Wound Healing Center at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital as its Medical Director. She is responsible for reviewing patient care and results, evaluating new clinical products and providing oversight and guidance on policies and procedures. Dr. Lannan is a family medicine physician at the Cypress Medical Clinic in Sulphur. She earned her medical degree from the University of Saskatchewan. Also joining the Wound Healing Center is Brent Hutson, D.O. Dr. Hutson also practices at The Family Care Center of SWLA in Westlake. Hutson earned a degree in Osteopathic Medicine from Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine. The Wound Healing Center at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital specializes in the outpatient treatment of chronic wounds and non-responsible conditions. To schedule an appointment, call (337) 528-4708.

October 2008

Quentin Romero, MD

Jennings American Legion Hospital announces the addition of Quentin Romero, MD, internal medicine physician, to their medical staff. Dr. Romero’s office is located at 1322 Elton Road in

Jennings. Dr. Romero graduated from Louisiana State University and received his medical degree from St. Matthew’s University School of Medicine. He completed his residency at university Medical Center and is board certified in internal medicine. Dr. Romero practiced in Crowley for the past two years before establishing his practice in Jennings. Dr. Romero’s new office was formerly Dr. Lam Nguyen’s office location. Dr. Nguyen is pursuing an interventional cardiology fellowship and will return to Jennings upon completion. Office hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Friday from 9 am. – 12 p.m. Most major insurance plans are accepted. Appointments with Dr. Romero can be made by calling (337) 824-6835. Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

CONSTANTLY TRADING STOCKS DOESN’T MAKE MUCH SENSE EITHER.

Investments, like relationships, can be much more rewarding when you commit to them for the long term. This is why Edward Jones advises clients to stick with investment strategies that have proved themselves over time. www.edwardjones.com. Member SIPC.

Mike Allen 4840 Lake Street Suite B Lake Charles, LA 70605 337-477-0040

I choose Women & Children’s Hospital

because we support you every step of the way. When asked about the Surgical Weight Loss Program at Women & Children’s Hospital, Dr. Richard Shimer had this to say: “We’re leading the way in our region.” He should know. As a big part of the comprehensive care that helps patients live healthier lives, Dr. Shimer provides quality care to his patients. From introductory seminars, to pre- and postoperative support, we’re committed to our patients every step of the way. Call 474-6370 for more information on surgical weight loss or to reserve a spot in one of our FREE informational seminars.

2637268_WCH_Shimer_9x5_25_4C.indd www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Richard Shimer, M.D. – Bariatric Surgeon

Women & Children’s H O S P I T A L

8/12/08 4:05:55 PM October 2008

Making time for yourself…that means you! by Danielle Granger

Sid Briscoe, technician at ConocoPhillips, understands the importance of making time for himself and simply does it. “I have things I like to do, so I make sure I do them. It’s usually impromptu. If something else comes up, it’s ok; I eventually get around to doing it.” Gisel Wiedl, nurse at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, says, “I plan it ahead of time—I make a date with myself. My kids take up most of my time, so while they’re busy doing something, I’ll take advantage and go to the movies, have my nails done or just catch up with a friend over coffee.”

It’s not always easy finding time for ourselves. Time to play golf, time to go shopping, or even time to just kick back and relax in front of the TV. When was the last time you did something for yourself and yourself only? Whether we’re taking care of a family 24-7 or working too hard, time is scarce. As Americans, in general, become more and more busy, stressed and overworked, now more than ever – it’s important to take the time to make the time for YOU. Take these five tips to get you started and well on your way to more “me” time.

Jessica Ferguson, free-lance writer, says her work is also her “me” time. “I teach an online nonfiction boot camp for Lamar University that I really enjoy. I also blog for fun and speak on blogging. When I review books on my blog, they sometimes send me free books!”

Chaney Ferguson, teacher at Richard Milburn Academy in Beaumont, says, “I come to the bookstore to find new books I think my students could relate to. I also designate time during the week to watch my favorite TV shows—I’m a big fan of The Office!”

Sheila Sanders, a full-time mom, takes advantage of any time she can get. “Golf is my favorite pastime, so I play every chance I get when the kids are at school.”

Let us help you heal at home. For many patients, recovering in the comfort of their own homes truly benefits the healing process. Being close to family in an environment that puts them at ease is an ideal setting for improving their health. At Southern Home Health one of our main goals is to provide patients with peace of mind as they make the transition from the hospital to home. We specialize in: • Rehabilitation therapy for joint replacement and other surgeries; • Fall prevention; • Low vision; • Anodyne - infrared light therapy; and • Pelvic ﬂoor dysfunction for incontinence. Please visit www.kplctv.com and click on “Ask the Expert” for more information or to ask a question about your home health needs.

DEQUINCY October 2008

LAKE CHARLES

MOSS BLUFF

Pro ud M em bers o f LHC G ro up | w w w.l hc gro up.co m

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Cataracts Can Form At Any Age If you’re in your 40s or 50s and you hear the word “cataracts,” you may think,“That’s an eye condition suffered by the elderly. I have plenty of time before I need to worry about that.” That’s a common misconception. Cataracts can form at any age, and early-stage cataracts can begin occurring in one’s 40s or 50s. Local ophthalmologist William B. Hart, M.D., of Hart Eye Center, who has performed cataract surgery on a patient as young as 28, says,“Since cataracts can develop early in life, one should ask their eye doctor if they have any sign of early-stage cataracts during their routine eye exam.” Cataracts are the most common cause of blindness, and more than 22 million Americans age 40 and older have the condition. Harry R. Parry, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness America, says,“A cataract is something that most of us will develop at some point in our lives. Therefore it important for all of us to know the risks, symptoms and treatment of cataracts to protect our own vision health and to help educate others.”

Dr. Hart explains cataracts to Cindy Chesson. It may be surprising to learn that if you have a cataract, you will not experience pain, redness or tears. Dr. Hart explains that the following experiences may be symptoms of a cataract: • You experience blurred or double vision, view ghost images or have the sensation of a “film” being over your eye. • When you are reading or working close-up, light levels may seem too dim. Strong light may be overpowering and leave you with a sense of feeling “dazzled.” • You continue to change your eye prescription, but your vision does not improve. • Occasionally, one may be able to see a cataract in their eye. The cataract may be milky in appearance or may be a yellowish spot on your pupil. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is of the utmost importance to make an appointment with an ophthalmologist. If left untreated, cataracts can eventually cause blindness or severe vision impairment to the point where one may feel as if they are viewing a world that looks like a Van Gogh or Monet impressionist painting. “It is best to have cataracts treated as soon as they are discovered, even if you are under 50,” Dr. Hart says. “Unfortunately, cataracts will not go away with laser treatments, change of diet or home remedies. The only way to remove this cloud from the lens is cataract surgery.” The term surgery may sound daunting, but a cataract removal operation is an outpatient procedure, usually with little or no discomfort to the patient. The patient’s vision is clearer as soon as two days later and they can often return to their normal activities. Most patients with early-onset cataracts are able to enjoy a glasses-free future. After the age of 40 it is essential to have routine eye examinations and speak with your eye doctor about cataracts. Adults who have risk factors such as hereditary predisposition, long-time exposure to UV rays, diabetes, longterm steroid use and smoking should also speak with their eye doctor about cataracts. Hart Eye Center performs free cataract screening by appointment at its new location, 1920 W. Sale Road, Building F, Suite 3 in Lake Charles. For more information on cataracts visit www.harteyecenter.com.

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October 2008

p a c e s E t a e r G

Giveaway

Cozy Up to October Spa Package: Scents of the Season

This indulging treat includes: • Seasonal Body Treatment • Emminence Seasonal Manicure and Pedicure • Quick Fix Massage • along with a one-night stay in a deluxe room at L’Auberge du Lac and several other luxurious amenities.

After the stress of this hurricane season, who couldn’t use a little indulgence? Register today for Cameron State Bank’s Great Escape Spa Giveaway and feel the stress melt away. October’s package focuses on the Scents of the Season and this month’s pampering spa treats are infused with warm, delicious aromas to indulge all of your senses. In fact, at Cameron State Bank, we like to indulge our customers as often as possible. From convenient ATM locations to excellent personal service, you are our priority. Our giveaways are open to anyone, whether you’re a Cameron State Bank customer or not. So, stop by and register today at any banking location for our Scents of the Season giveaway.

Less

StreSS

Drawing is October 24

Registering for our monthly giveaways also registers you for the fabulous Grand Prize in December:

an all-expense paid, seven-night stay for two at Lake Austin Spa Resort in Austin, TX October 2008

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McNeese Academic Calendar Revised

J&J Exterminating Can Protect You from Post-Storm Pests

McNeese State University lost almost five days of the fall 2008 semester because of Hurricanes Gustav and Ike and the academic calendar has been revised to make up some of the days missed.

The flood waters of Hurricane Ike brought with it some unwelcome guests that may linger long after the storm. As you work to restore your yard and home, you shouldn’t have to cope with the irritation and potentially dangerous threat of mosquitoes, fire ants and rodents. Flooded areas will see a population explosion. Standing moisture and debris piles provide a breeding ground and inviting haven for these pests. The experts with J&J Exterminating are ready to help. As local experts, we know this area and what works in the extreme conditions we are experiencing. We also offer sanitizing and wood treatments for flood damaged walls and floors. Call J&J Exterminating today for a free consultation. We’re ready to respond immediatetly.

Classes will now meet Wednesday-Friday, Dec. 3-5, and final exams will begin on Monday, Dec. 8. Originally, Dec. 3 was a study day and Dec. 4-5 were final exam days. “With this change, we will regain class meeting time for Wednesday, Thursday and Friday classes, as well as Tuesday night classes,” said Stephanie Tarver, dean of enrollment management and registrar. In the original calendar, classes meeting at or after 4 p.m. were not scheduled to meet on Tuesday, Dec. 2. Several academic deadlines have been rescheduled as follows: • Wednesday, Dec. 3 Last date for faculty to remove “I” grade from previous semester for currently enrolled students. • Friday, Dec. 5 Classes end. • Monday, Dec. 8 Final exams begin. • Thursday, Dec. 11 Final exams end; grades for graduating students due by 1 p.m. • Monday, Dec. 15 All remaining grades due by 10 a.m.

(337) 474-7377

Complete revisions to all schedules are posted at www.mcneese.edu.

J & J Exterminating. Shielding What’s Near and Dear.

For more information, call the registrar’s office at 475-5356 or 1-800-622-3352, ext. 5356.

You Deserve A

Clear Picture of Your Breast Health

Digital mammography is now available at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, the only source in West Calcasieu for a clear, digital image of your breast health. These images offer more clarity in a shorter amount of time, and they are enhanced with Computer Aided Detection to pinpoint any areas of concern for a closer look. Since mammograms are recommended yearly for every woman over the age of 40, choose state-of-the-art technology that is quick and accurate as part of your commitment for a healthy life. At WCCH, physicians now have faster access to clearer images of your mammogram. Clearly, WCCH is your best choice for mammography services. For more information, call 527-4256. Your Need, Our Commitment.

701 Cypress St., Sulphur

www.wcch.com

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October 2008

by Kristy Armand

Females need to

Focus on Eye Health When it comes to eye disease, women look a lot worse than men. Over 3.4 million Americans age 40 and older suffer from visual impairment, and 2.25 million are women. In fact, of the four leading causes of blindness in older Americans: age–related macular degeneration (AMD), cataract, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, the rate of women’s cases outnumbers the men in all four categories. Alan Lacoste, MD, Board certified ophthalmologist with The Eye Clinic, says women are more prone than men to AMD in particular, which destroys central vision, with 1 million of the 1.6 million cases diagnosed in females.

“We can’t stress enough how important it is for women to make sure they take care of their vision throughout their lives,” says Dr. Lacoste.“We urge everyone to encourage their mothers, wives, daughters, sisters – any female they care about – to get their eyes checked on a regular basis so they don’t lose that precious gift of sight. Many eye diseases are treatable, and vision can be saved through early detection.” Besides early detection, The Eye Clinic also offers women these recommendations for healthy eyes:

Other conditions that may threaten the eye health of women include: • Cataract, a clouding of the eye’s naturally clear lens, affects 20.5 million Americans age 40 and older. Almost 13 million of those cases are women. • Glaucoma, a disease that causes the degeneration of cells that make up the optic nerve, continues to plague the population. Close to 60 percent of glaucoma cases are women. • Diabetic retinopathy, where blood vessels in the retina can break down, leak or become blocked, affects more than 5.3 million Americans, with women making up over 2.8 million cases. Obesity, also on the rise in the U.S., is a major contributor to diabetes, therefore increasing the rate of diabetic eye disease. • Dry eye syndrome, a condition that affects the quality of the tear film of the eyes, impacts an estimated 10 million American women middle–aged and older.

Eat Healthy and Stay Fit – The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that the risk of cataracts can be lowered by eating 3½ servings of fruits or vegetables a day. Green leafy vegetables especially contain loads of nutrients for the eye. Pairing a healthy diet with exercise will reduce the risk of obesity, leading to diabetes.

“The total number of eye disease cases is steadily on the rise. The increased longevity of our aging population is one big reason,” explains Dr. Lacoste.“As life expectancy rises, the natural progression of low vision occurs. And because women on average tend to outlive men, the numbers of visual ailments increases.”

sunglasses (labeled: absorbs 99–100 percent of UV–A and UV–B rays), and wide–brimmed hats.

He adds that many women may feel they need to put the health of their children and spouses in front of their own, but need to be reminded that they are just as important. Scheduling eye appointments for the entire family, including themselves, is one way to make sure women are getting the care they need. October 2008

Take Supplements – Antioxidants have been shown to actually reduce the progression of some eye illnesses, including AMD. Vitamin A, riboflavin (vitamin B2), vitamin C and zinc are good sources to help maintain eye health.

Quit Smoking – Besides the typically known side effects of smoking including cancer, lung disease, etc., it also increases the risk for eye diseases.

Wear UV Eye Protection – When venturing outdoors, wear UV–rated

Know Your Family History – Genetics plays a key role in eye disease. Research your family’s health history and notify your eye care professional of any eye diseases that run in the family. For more information about vision problems and eye health, call The Eye Clinic nearest you in Lake Charles, Sulphur, DeRidder or Jennings.

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The Power of a Woman and Her Money Those Dooney & Bourke bags are holding precious cargo these days. Tucked inside are wallets belonging to the most powerful group of consumers today. Women are leading the way and they aren’t looking back. In a few more decades, America’s educational elite will be as disproportionately female as it once was male. Projections by the National Center for Education Statistics show a 22% increase in female college enrollment between 2005 and 2016, compared with only a 10% increase for men. And, they also report that by 2017, 50% more women than men will earn bachelor’s degrees. The educational tide is turning as more and more women across the country receive advanced degrees. The trend is having a definite impact in the workplace. Today women hold half, or according to some reports, more than half, of the managerial and professional positions in the workplace. The Employment Policy Foundation says the number of women earning $100,000 or more has tripled in the last 10 years. Women represent a strong force in the economics of America. Sixty-four percent of all working women now earn more than half of their family’s income, according to the Washington Business Journal. The buying power of women has caused major changes in the way companies design and sell their products. Women ages 24 – 54 have 32

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emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the marketplace, making more than 80% of all buying decisions in the home, not to mention the office. “Think ‘purchasing manager’ for all things needed in all areas of life,” said Dorene Gothreaux, senior Vice President and Branch manager with Cameron State Bank. “Women are involved in virtually every aspect of their homes and their jobs, they have definite opinions on what products and services work best for their situations and they are expressing those opinions in the checkout lines.” They are involved in most of the purchases made for both home and office, including: • 70% of travel plans, whether it’s a family vacation or a business trip • 80% of healthcare decisions • 89% of new bank accounts • 93% of food purchases • 93% of over-the-counter medications Numbers like these make retailers take notice. Stores like Best Buy, Lowe’s, and Home Depot are recognizing the purchasing power of women and are adjusting everything from the way their stores look to the way their staff is trained. Home Depot’s fix-it classes are geared toward helping women learn the ins and outs of home repair. The home improvement warehouse has also been a major sponsor of the popular Trading Spaces TV show, watched by thousands of women. Best Buy has re-trained its floor sales staff to ditch the technical jargon and give women

practical answers to their questions, highlighting a product’s ease-of-use and dependability. But, savvy businesses know that attracting women to their product takes more effort than just making it pink. “Women buy based on intuition, their own background, recommendations from trusted experts and, last but definitely not least, other women,” said Gothreaux. Businesses are elated to be included in the annual Oprah’s Favorite Things and work hard to be spotlighted in magazine reviews or TV shows as product placement. In addition to their purchasing power, women are working hard to ensure a solid future by investing for their retirement. As with everything else, men and women differ on how to invest. Studies show that women are less risky and spend more time investigating potential investments. Women also tend to blame themselves if an investment loses money, as opposed to men who blame weak markets, bad advice or bad luck. On average, women give more thought than men do about their investments. They analyze research and consider investment decisions longer than men. Women are more intuitive than men. Decisions are often based on a combination of research and instinct. “While there has been this movement of women who are eager to learn

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e by Christin

Fisher

more about money management and investing, there is still a pocket of women who aren’t getting involved in their financial future,” said Denise Rau, local CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER and president of Rau Financial Group. “Because women live longer, they generally need more money to retire than men because they live longer. A more aggressive approach to investing can reap benefits when it’s time to draw on that money in the future.” Rau says she’s worked with many women over the years who know they need to get involved in their finances, but they are unsure of exactly how to progress. “When we sit down and discuss their goals, we put together a plan. Then, they get energized and often come back later with a dozen great ideas that we develop into a viable strategy that works for them.” The stakes are high for women to get a handle on their finances, whether they share the responsibility with their husband, or they shoulder the duty alone. Over 75% of all women are eventually widowed at an average age of 56. Only 47% of women are covered by a pension compared to 78% of men. Eighty-seven percent of elderly women live below the poverty line. Divorce impacts more than half of all families in the United States, which means many women are raising children on their own. “Taking care of your finances is serious,” said Rau. “Money influences many parts of your life. It doesn’t determine your value as a person, but October 2008

“

“ You have to think of managing your money as just one part of managing your life. Like getting dressed every day or taking out the garbage. It simply has to be done. It’s part of taking care of business.” Jean Chatzky, financial contributor on The Today Show

“Studies have shown that affluent people who call themselves lucky share common traits that account for their success. They’re friendly, open, optimistic and willing to try new things. A lot of the things you can do to increase your chances of becoming wealthy are very similar to the things you should be doing if you want to increase your happiness.”

”

Anne Kadet, senior editor of SmartMoney magazine

“When women become involved with their money and learn to make wise financial decisions, they become stronger, happier people, and that makes them better mothers, wives, friends, employees and employers.” Suze Orman, host of The Suze Orman Show

it does affect your ability to care for yourself independently, and it affects the degree to which you can afford to help others.” Over the years, Rau has compiled a list of financial hot button issues that impact most women. “Every situation is unique, but there are common threads shared by most women,” she said. Getting a handle on the following points can help women establish a comfortable future:

Make friends with the word ‘budget’. Even with a good salary, it’s easy to overspend and end up living paycheck-topaycheck. Take a look at your financial situation and establish a budget, allotting a healthy percentage to savings.

Step outside your comfort zone. If you have to make a choice, should you save for your kids’ college tuition or your own retirement? Moms across the country unanimously opt for the tuition. But, financial experts say retirement should trump college. Why? “You can take out a low-interest loan to pay for college,” said Rau. “You can’t finance your retirement.” Ideally, you can put aside money for both, if you are a savvy saver.

Keep tabs on spending. Small purchases add up and big purchases can put a big dent in a budget. Carefully consider all purchases and make sure they are legitimate needs before handing over your hard-earned dollars. Living below your means will allow your investments and savings to multiply quickly. The peace of mind is more than worth it.

Don’t bank on Prince Charming.

divorced or widowed. “A woman should always have a back-up plan. Life doesn’t always work out as planned and having a good education and a skill, whether a woman chooses a career or not, is always advisable,” said Rau. Keeping a hand in the financial workings of the household should be the case even in the strongest of marriages. “Both adults should be aware of how and where the money is spent and decisions should be made together.” Above all, Rau said it’s never too late for women to get their financial act together. “You can reverse money troubles at any point, and take control of your future by understanding your finances. Money affects virtually every area of our lives, so resolving any problems or potential problems will ease the stress on many levels.” Women continue to blaze their own trail, begun years ago by women who decided they could have it all and have worked tirelessly to achieve their goals. As women of today pause on the corporate ladder, some are seeing the view from the top and deciding they don’t necessarily want it. Women are selecting the prime portions of life and willing to forgo other less satisfying roles. “It’s not that women of today aren’t putting forth effort. In fact, most women will work relentlessly for a cause they believe in; but they’ve found they don’t want to spread themselves that thin,” said Gothreaux. “They are choosing to work for companies they believe in, and fighting for working hours that allow them to have a balance between work, family and leisure time.” Women are at the top of today’s market with the power to make the buying decisions and the cash to back it up. The future looks bright as more businesses and organizations embrace the power of a woman and her purse.

Relying solely on a husband for total financial support has delivered hard blows to many women when the unfortunate happens and they find themselves October 2008

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6 Easy Pumpkin Carving Tips Originally used to scare away evil spirits, jack-o’-lanterns are now a welcome sight during Halloween. Crafting the perfect “face” doesn’t need to be a frightening experience. Just roll up those sleeves and follow our helpful tips. 1. Be sure to level off the bottom of your pumpkin with a serrated knife so that it will sit straight. 2. After opening your pumpkin, scrape the interior clean with a metal spoon. Save the seeds for eating. 3. If you’re carving an elaborate design, draw it first on paper. Tape the design to the pumpkin and use a pin to poke tiny holes through the paper and into the rind. When you remove the paper, the pattern will be visible and ready to cut, without any telltale ink marks.

4. There are plenty of special carving tools, but you can work with a sharp knife and a small, serrated knife. A gentle sawing motion is not only safer than a forceful thrust, but also less likely to break delicate parts of your design. 5. To help your jack-o’-lantern last longer and prevent a wrinkled look, rub the cut surfaces with petroleum jelly. 6. If you want to light your pumpkin from the inside, a votive candle in a glass holder is best. It’s also less likely to leave scorch marks on the lid. – Courtesy of Foodnetwork.com

“Reader’s Choice Award for Best Hospice” – The Beaumont Enterprise

Harbor Hospice is a compassionate, patient-centered approach to medical care and support for people at the end of life and their families. It’s care focused on maintaining dignity, increasing quality of life, and providing comfort, including pain and symptom control. Harbor Hospice recognizes that every person’s experience will be different and the hospice team creates a plan of care according to the individual needs and wishes of each patient. Harbor Hospice staff members are available at all times, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It is the mission of Harbor Hospice staff to walk side-by-side with patients and offer support, not only for any physical symptoms, but for emotional and spiritual needs, as well. This support extends to family members, and Harbor Hospice helps them cope with their own unique emotional and spiritual concerns. Although the primary focus of Harbor Hospice is home care, there are times when caring for a loved one at home is simply not possible. When symptoms cannot be managed at home, or when families are having difficulty coping, Harbor Hospice of Lake Charles offers a wonderful alternative – The Harbor Hospice House. The Harbor Hospice House is a state-of-the-art in-patient facility designed with patient care and family needs in mind. Thirty private rooms offer hospice patients and their families all the comforts of home while providing round-the-clock, expert medical care.

We look forward to being of service to the community for many years to come as their Hospice care preferred provider.

OF LAKE CHARLES

2501 E. Prien Lake Road • 337.562.8620 www.harborhospice.com

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October 2008

Specifically engineered to relieve foot, leg and back pain

Relocation of Hackberry and Johnson Bayou Rural Health Clinic Services Due to damages from Huricane Ike, two of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital’s rural health clinics are temporarily relocating offices. Patients of the Hackberry Rural Health Clinic are now being seen in the March of Dimes and SWLA AHEC mobile unit located in the parking lot of the Hackberry clinic. Julie Galley, RN, APRN, said the clinic hours are Monday from 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Patients of Johnson Bayou Clinic are being seen at the Family Care Center of Southwest Louisiana, at 2345 Sampson Street in Westlake. These are the offices of Jody George, MD and Brent Hutson, MD. For more information on the Hackberry Rural Health Clinic, call 762-3762. For more information on the Johnson Bayou Clinic, call 439-1484.

CFO Offers Saturday Morning Sports Injury Clinic

Center for Orthopaedics (CFO) will be offering a Sports Injury Clinic for high school athletes every Saturday morning throughout football season. The Clinic will be open from 8 – 10am at CFO’s Sulphur office, located at 250 S. Beglis Parkway, Suite 1. CFO’s physician staff of orthopaedic and sports medicine specialists have extensive experience in working with local and national high school, college and professional athletes. Walkin patients with sports injuries are accepted and no appointment is needed. The Sports Injury Clinic is offered as a convenient service for area athletes. Call 626-2529 for more information.

Screening Offered for Peripheral Vascular Disease

A free screening for peripheral vascular disease, or PVD, will be held Saturday, October 18, from 8 a.m. until noon in the Cardiology Department of Jennings American Legion Hospital. No appointment is necessary. Adam Hankins, MD, vascular surgeon, will be available throughout the screening for further testing and consultation. The screening is open to anyone, and advised for men and women over the age of 50. For more information, call (337) 616-7360.

Girl Talk Class Scheduled for Adolescent Girls

Girl Talk, a class offered by West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, will be held Saturday, October 25, from 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., in the Large East Conference Room inside WCCH, near the Stelly Lane entrance. It is designed for girls ages 9 – 12 and their mother or guardian. The class covers physical changes occurring during puberty. There is a $10 fee for each girl attending, with a $20 maximum per family. Call (337) 527-4361 to register.

Women & Children’s Hospital to Host Surgicare of Lake Charles

Women & Children’s Hospital (WCH) and Surgicare of Lake Charles are working together to meet the healthcare needs of our community. Hurricane Ike flooded Surgicare, forcing its closure for 4-6 weeks. WCH and Surgicare are collaborating with the physicians, staff and administration of both facilities to provide quality care to all patients. Staff from both facilities will work together at WCH while the Surgicare facility undergoes necessary repair. “Our goal is to provide a home for the patients and staff of Surgicare, while they await for their facility to reopen.” said Charlene Warren, WCH Chief Nursing Officer. “Serving the community and proving the highest level of care for all patients and their families is our highest priority.” Relocated services include pain management, orthopedics, gynecology, plastic surgery, and cataract surgery. For more information, contact Women & Children’s Hospital at (337) 474-6370. October 2008

601 W. College Street 337.562.8509

Set a

Higher Standard For your Finances. For your Life.

Building financial security is about taking care of the things that matter most in your life. You need a financial advisor who will listen; someone you can trust to help secure the future you envision. Set a Higher Standard with CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Denise Rau and LPL Financial Advisors Eva Abate and Mark Eckard. Their range of expertise includes: financial planning – investment services – cash flow planning – trust services – divorce settlements – long term care insurance – life insurance – rollovers and retirement plans. Take the first step. Call Rau Financial Group today at 337-480-3835 to schedule a consultation.

(337) 480-3835 133 JEFFERSON DRIVE www.raufinancialgroup.com LPL Financial Representatives offer access to Trust Services through The Private Trust Company N.A., an affiliate of LPL Financial. Advisory Services, Financial Planning & Securities offered through LPL Financial. Member FINRA/SIPC.

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Left to right:Denise Rau,Mark Eckard & Eva Abate

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Karla O’Reilly

Alana Corry

Senior Vice President, Private Banking

Asst. Vice President, Retail Banking

Pam Whiteard

Liz Katchur

Vice President, Business Banking

Asst. Vice President, Cash Management

First Federal salUtes

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Bodies in motion tend to stay in motion thanks to complex systems beneath the surface working to keep us moving and functioning. We take these for granted until there is a problem. When that occurs, your physician may order an MRI for an inside view. At Open Air MRI, our sophisticated imaging technology, made up of our open and high-field MRI equipment, gives you and your physician an option on the type of scan chosen. Same-day appointments are typically available and reports are guaranteed in 24 hours, quickly giving accurate information to determine the best treatment plan. For eleven years, we’ve provided accuracy for area physicians, as well as comfort and convenience for patients. Open Air MRI is independently owned and managed by our on-site radiologists. They have received additional fellowship training in MRI, Body Imaging, Neuroradiology and Musculoskeletal. You have a choice when you need an MRI. Choose Open Air MRI.

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October 2008

NEW NON-SURGICAL TECHNIQUE NOW AVAILABLE

by Kristy Armand

Put

FINALLY ... a non-surgical treatment with no downtime that's Do you need a joint replacement or suffer from arthritis designed to help you fightoragainst arthritis injuries! sports injuries? We and offer asports non-surgical solution.

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First, the physician introduces medicines into damaged, arthritic cells ... atreatment non-surgical treatment with downtime that's FINALLY... a FINALLY non-surgical with natural no downtime that’sno designed to help you fight designed to help injection. you fight against arthritis andbysports injuries! by means of a precise This is followed infrared laser, and other against arthritis and sports injuries! modalities in order to accelerate the process. It usually only takes to 6 treatFirst, the physician introduces natural medicines into damaged, arthritic1cells This is howbyitmeans works: The physician introduces natural medicines intolaser, damaged, arthritic cells a precisedepending injection. This is followed by infraredseverity and other ments for you to of improve, upon tissue damage, and joint size. by means of amodalities precise injection. This is followed by infrared laser,only andtakes other modalities in order to in order to accelerate the process. It usually 1 to 6 treatThere is usually no downtime, and you can resume your usual activities for you to improve, tissue damage, severity and joint size. accelerate thements process. It usually onlydepending takes 1 toupon 6 treatments for you to improve, depending upon immediately.There is usually no downtime, and you can resume your usual activities tissue damage, severity and joint size. immediately. you suffer from muscoskeletal problems knee or shoulder pain, There If is usually no downtime, and you can resume yoursuch usualas activities immediately. If you suffertorn fromligaments, muscoskeletal problemsdamage such as knee or shoulder pain, whiplash, tendonitis, cartilage or sprains and strains, give If you suffer from muscoskeletal as knee or shoulder whiplash, whiplash, tendonitis, tornproblems ligaments,such cartilage damage or sprains pain, and strains, give tendonitis, us a call today for more information! torn ligaments, sprains and strains, give us a call today for more information! us acartilage call todaydamage for moreorinformation!

to Rest

Tired of looking like you’re tired? Leann Widcamp, medical aesthetician with the Aesthetic Center, says dark circles under the eyes are one of the most common complaints she hears. It’s estimated that nine out of 20 people experience “raccoon eyes” from time to time. “Many people have this problem and report that they get plenty of rest,” says Widcamp. “That’s because, contrary to what most people believe, fatigue is not the primary cause. Dark circles can actually caused by a variety of factors.” She explains that the skin under the eyes is the thinnest on the body. The many blood vessels in this area can show through the delicate skin, contributing to the appearance of dark under-eye circles, especially if the vessels become dilated.

4150 Nelson Rd., Bldg. D, Ste. 1 Lake Charles, LA 70605

R. Dale Bernauer, M.D. Stephen J. Flood, M.D.

4150 Nelson Rd., Bldg. D, Ste. 1 ForLake more information Charles, LA 70605 call

R. Dale Bernauer, M.D.

337-474-6960 Stephen J. Flood, M.D.

For more information call 337-474-6960

Do You Have A Tattoo You No Longer Want?

Causes for this include: • Genetics • Lack of sleep • Sun exposure • Increased fluid retention • Smoking • Aging • Extreme weight loss To reduce the appearance of dark circles, Widcamp advises getting the recommended eight hours of sleep, and sleeping with your head slightly elevated. “It’s also very important to keep this delicate skin moisturized,” says Widcamp. “Try to use a physician-grade eye cream containing nourishing antioxidants that help protect and rejuvenate the skin. These include greentea, and vitamins A, C, E, and K.” Other preventive measures include using sunscreen daily, drinking plenty of water and not smoking. Widcamp says some people, especially those whose skin coloring makes dark circles more visible, may not be able to ever completely alleviate the problem. “You can, however, minimize the appearance with a good concealer,” says Widcamp. “She recommends a mineral-based product like Jane Iredale mineral cosmetics. A yellow-based concealer works best.” For more information about treating dark circles, or any skin care concern, call the Aesthetic Center at (337) 310-1070. October 2008

LASER REMOVAL OF:

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Bronwen B. Darbonne, C.L.T. Catherine Vincent, C.L.T. Stephen R. Cannon, M.D. Micki Richard, L.C. Sarah D. Thibodeaux, L.E.

717 N. Eastern Ave., Crowley, LA • (337) 783-2426

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

We’ve Got Your Number And it tells us everything we need to know about caring for your clothing. This tiny bar code is heat sealed onto each garment you bring into AAA. It’s an important feature of our new automated assembly system that helps us track and process your dry cleaning order more quickly, carefully and efficiently. Drive through convenience, improved automation and digital tracking are helping AAA raise the bar for customer service.

SHOWN ACTUAL SIZE

622 E. Prien Lake Rd. • 477-3548 (Across from McDonalds)

2713 Country Club Rd. • 562-9508 (Across from Albertsons)

www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2008

Helping Women Retire with

Confidence All of us would like to think we will enjoy a comfortable retirement. If you’re a woman, however, you might be significantly more nervous than your male peers about life as a retiree. “This fear may not be entirely justified, but, in any case, you can greatly improve your outlook for retirement by understanding where you are now - and how to get where you want to go,” says Mike Allen, financial advisor for Edward Jones Investments. But first, Allen advises, you may have to overcome both fear and a financial “gender gap.” Consider these findings from recent surveys conducted by Harris Interactive: • Forty-six percent of the women surveyed said they worry about losing all their money and becoming destitute. Surprisingly, this figure rises to 48 percent among women with incomes of $100,000 or more. • Women were almost twice as likely as men to worry about money and to doubt their capacity to invest and plan for the future. • Only 10 percent of women said they feel quite secure about their finances. These figures, while disturbing, at least partially reflect some basic realities of women’s lives. First, women typically outlive men by nearly seven years, according to the U.S. National Center for Health Statistics - and more years of life mean more expenses. Also, women drop out of the work force for an average of 12 years to care for young children or aging parents, according to the Older Women’s League, a research and advocacy group. “Unfortunately, this time away from the workforce results in women accumulating much less money in their employersponsored retirement plans,” notes Allen.

Of course, if you are married, many of your financial assets are likely commingled with those of your husband. “But that doesn’t mean that you can abandon responsibility for your financial future,” says Allen. Some 80 percent to 90 percent of today’s women will be solely responsible for their own finances at some point in their lives, according to the National Center for Women & Retirement. So, what can you do to boost your confidence in your financial management skills? For starters, Allen says to take a close look at all potential sources of retirement income: Social Security, savings, investments and retirement plan distributions. Estimate about how much you might have available for your retirement years. Next, try to envision your “ideal” retirement lifestyle and put a “price tag” on it. “For example, if you would like to continuously travel the world when you retire, you’re probably going to need more money from your retirement funds than your neighbor who wants to stay home, pursue hobbies and possibly even open a small business,” says Allen. It’s not always easy to plan, save and invest for retirement. That’s why you may want to consider working with an experienced financial professional - someone who knows your risk tolerance, time horizon and long-term goals, and who can recommend the appropriate investments and strategies. Allen says the best way to start is to learn as much as you can about every aspect of your financial situation. You’ll boost your confidence about having sufficient resources for retirement - and you’ll probably enjoy it more when you get there. For more information call Mike Allen at (337) 477-0040.

October 2008

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

Your Money Matters... Just ask “Pepe” QUESTION:

(337) 312-7040

What does in mean to place a stop-loss order on a stock? ANSWER:

A stop-loss order is an order you give to your stockbroker that requires him to automatically sell a stock if it falls to a certain level. For example, if you own a stock that is selling for $55 per share, you might decide to hold the stock unless the stock drops to $40. You would issue a stop-loss order that requires the broker to sell if the stock falls to $40 per share. Stop-loss orders give you a sense of security and help you plan and manage your individual investments without having to constantly check fluctuations in prices.

To learn more about managing your investments wisely, call Mallard Investments at (337) 312-7040. Have an investment question? Send it to Pepe at thrive@ehealthyimage.com. Securities are offered by, and Investment Consultants are registered with UVEST Financial Services, member FINRA/SIPC. UVEST and Mallard Investments are independent entities.

Not FDIC Insured

Not Bank Guaranteed

May Lose Value

J.A. “Pepe” Vasquez

PRESIDENT & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Live United. It’s What We Do. 4.1

Identity Index: Symbol (1 of 1)

Symbol: PPG Blue (or Pantone ® 307)

Live United – its what we do at PPG every day as we work together to improve our productivity and performance, protect the environment, and support our community. 40

File name: SYM307 www.thriveswla.com File types: M / E(2)

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October 2008

Frame your Personality with Eye Style by Kristy Armand

If the eyes are the window to the soul, then eyewear is the window treatment, visibly framing not only your eyes, but providing a reflection of your unique style and personality.

easy, conservative tones to wear. Brown, golden tones, silver, burgundy and coffee are good for women.

Unlike a ring or a pair of shoes, your glasses are highly visible, and instantly noticed. Theresa Fluty, certified optician with Optics Unlimited at The Eye Clinic says, “Your eyewear is front and center when it comes to making a statement about who you are. It’s important to put some thought into what this statement will communicate to others.”

Modern shapes, such as geometrics in thicker and larger plastics, are a good choice, but metal materials can also be creative in appearance. Today’s more fashionable larger-sized frames are also an option as are more unusual colors such as blue, green and purple and combinations such as the currently popular multicolored laminations. Fluty_ also recommends lasered details and finishes for artsy and creative personalities and professions.

If you don’t think your eyewear can make a huge difference in how people perceive you, you don’t have to look any further than our current presidential race. Sarah Palin’s glasses have become an iconic part of her image, generating more interest than many of the real issues at stake in the election. Calls to find the style of frames Palin wears are flooding eyewear stores across the country. And don’t forget Super Man. A simple pair of glasses was used to signal a complete personality change, instantly transforming a super hero into Clark Kent, a mildmannered reporter. Fluty says what worked for a Kent can work for you. “The key to creating the image you want is selecting the right frames to match your personality and lifestyle.”

Creative Person

Parents On-the-Go Busy moms and dads don’t have a lot of time to worry about clothing and styling, so a basic, yet stylish pair of glasses will work best. For moms, ovals, upswept rectangles and soft cat-eye shapes provide easy function and still look great. Interesting colors such as plum, deep red, soft green and black can also add a fashion edge to a basic frame. Dads like frames that go with everything. Unornamented frames with gunmetal, black, silver, gold and tortoise are good choices. The double-bar bridge is back in style, which can add subtle detailing to an otherwise boring frame. Young children can be tough on their parent’s glasses, so look for durability when choosing eyewear.

Older Adults

Are you a working mom, a conservative executive, a retiree, a student or an artist? Each of these people may desire different types – or several pairs – of glasses to suit their needs.“Most people, especially women, own dozens of pairs of shoes, each suited for different looks and activities, but they don’t apply this same concept to their eyewear,” says Fluty. “If your life is built around just one look or activity, one pair may work for you, but if you are like most people and your life is broken up into several different areas, you will benefit from having more than one style of glasses.”

Choosing a modern frame keeps you from aging yourself unnecessarily with your eyeglasses. Fluty says a frame shape that is uplifting for the face such as an upswept rectangle for men and a soft cat-eye for women, can take years off your appearance. Certain colors can also make you appear younger, including gunmetal, deep browns and burgundy for men and lighter, shinier hues for women. Shine adds life to the face for women, but it is best to stay away from silver, black and dark, dull colors.

She says the first step in choosing fames is taking a closer look at yourself.“What are your interests? What is your occupation? How will you use your glasses? The answers to these types of questions will help you and your optician choose the eyewear that is right for you.”

Without constraints such as a conservative office environment, students have a lot more freedom in terms of styling, including color and shape, so don’t be afraid to experiment. Unusual shapes, bright colors, larger sizes and interesting details such as color laminations are all readily available in a variety of prices and brand names. You can go retro or mod, academic or artsy. With so many choices at different price points, you don’t have to spend a lot to get a cool look.

Here’s a closer look at what the eyewear experts suggest in terms of frame styling, color, material and size for a variety of lifestyles:

Businessperson If you fall into this category, a more conservative style, with recognizable shapes such as ovals, rectangles and almonds, is recommended. For the more classic person, these easy, non-complicated frame styles are much better than shapes that are new and unusual. Thin plastics and metals are also recommended. In terms of color, silver, gunmetal, brown and black work for men because these are October 2008

Students

Active Individuals Many who fall into the above categories also find the time to be active. This makes eyewear choice even more critical. You require one pair of eyeglasses for your regular work and home life, as well as something that provides safe, clear vision during athletic activities. There are many types of sports eyewear options that provide comfort and technical functions to enhance your performance. Styling

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continued on page 40 www.thriveswla.com

continued from page 39 can include shields for regular eyewear, wraparounds, polarized lenses for water sports, shatter-resistant for impact sports and different tints to enhance different lighting conditions. Most people will fall into more than one of these categories, according to Fluty. “You’ll move in and out of different categories as you go through different phases of your life. And there are other considerations when choosing eyewear, including your coloring, face shape, age and style preferences. A qualified optician can help you incorporate all these unique elements into your personal eyewear style.” Fluty adds that the focus should be on making your eyewear an extension of your personality. Think of your glasses as an integral part of your wardrobe. Just as you have different clothing styles for different aspects of your life, it just makes sense to have different eyewear styles as well. In fact, new glasses are a great way to update your look without buying a whole new wardrobe. Take the time to choose styles that will put the perfect finishing touch on your look.”

Eyewear Style Show Scheduled at Optics Unlimited Stores Optics Unlimited at The Eye Clinic in Jennings and Sulphur will each host a fall eyewear style show. Each event will take place from 9am to 4pm, in Jennings on Thursday October 23, and in Sulphur on October 24. The latest frame styles from designers such as Vera Wang, Vera Bradley, Coach, Lulu Guiness, Nike, Fendi, Cynthia Rawley, Flexon, Dana Buchman, Hush Puppies, Tres Jolie, Timberland, Thalia, Timex and much more. Styling consultants will be available throughout the day to assist shoppers with choosing the most flattering frame for their personal style. Special one-day-only discounts will be offered on purchases made at the event. Call Optics Unlimited at (337) 824-0040 in Jennings or at (337) 625-8948 in Sulphur for more information.

Source: www.allaboutvision.com

Put Your Best Face Forward This Fall with Fabulous Offers from The Aesthetic Center

Freshen Up for Fall The seasons are changing and so is your skin. The Aesthetic Center is making it easy for you to reduce the signs of aging that result from months in the summer sun.

Leave Wrinkles Behind

Save 20% on these rejuvenating treatments:

Facials, DermaSweep Microdermabrasion and Chemical Peels. • Cannot be combined with any other discount • Offer expires 11/15/08

Call (337) 310-1070 today to schedule a rejuvenating treatment today.

Fall back to a more youthful appearance with this special Botox Treatment offer. Botox treatments dramatically reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, on the forehead and between the brows. The treatment - a few tiny, painless injections - takes just minutes and the results last for up to six months.

$ Save on a Botox Treatment

www.thriveswla.com

Call (337) 478-3810 today to schedule your Botox appointment. • Offer applies to treatments received before October 31, 2008. The Aesthetic Center offers a comprehensive range of skin treatments, home care products, cosmetic injections and cosmetic eye surgery.

facehealth.net

Medical Director: Dr. Mark Crawford, Facial and Cosmetic Eye Surgery Specialist

1717 Oak Park Blvd. (in The Eye Clinic) Lake Charles

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2008

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

Clothing

Disasters

Tasha Evans,

Owner of Salon Evans & CoManager of Tan Daddy’s along with Megan Pinder, CoManager of Tan Daddy’s would like to WELCOME

When a disaster like a hurricane strikes, your clothing is the least of your concerns. But after you take care of the critical issues of safety and home, salvaging your personal belonging – including your clothing – becomes a priority. Quick action is needed, but not always possible, and it can be difficult to decide what to do first. First, separate wet clothing into two sections: clothing that can be saved and clothing that will be thrown away. Then separate the clothing to be laundered from the clothing to be dry cleaned. Drycleanable clothes, if worth salvaging, should be sent to the drycleaner. The chemicals in the cleaning process and the high-temperature steam pressing will sanitize the clothing.

Virginia West

Clothing to be washed should be separated into darks and lights.

(formerly of Scarboroughs Salon) to our team at 109 W. LaGrange Street.

Rinse washable items in clear, cold water to dilute the soil. For very heavily soiled items, after multiple rinsings, soak overnight in cold water and liquid detergent. If washing will be delayed, try to get the flood-damaged clothing as dry as possible to prevent mildew. Don’t leave wet clothes piled in a heap, or stored in plastic bags. Moist, warm conditions with little no air flow provide the perfect conditions for the growth of mildew. As soon as possible after rinsing, machine wash flood-damaged clothing with laundry detergent and disinfectant. To eliminate the possibility of harmful bacteria, disinfect all flood- damaged clothing. Disinfectants such as chlorine bleach, quaternary ammonium compounds and pine oil phenolic compounds can be purchased at supermarkets, hardware stores, janitorial supply stores and other outlets. Before using, carefully read the labels to make sure of the correct usage. (Read the detergent’s label for directions on use with heavily-soiled clothing.) Set the washing machine for the longest possible wash cycle, highest water level and hottest water temperature that is safe for the fabrics.

Full-Service Hair Salon 109 W. LaGrange Street

Appointments (337) 477-6868

Dry at the highest safe temperature or line dry in the sun, since sun exposure kills many bacteria. If outdoor lines are available and it is sunny, clothes can be rinsed and hung up outdoors to dry. Indoors, air conditioning will assist drying, but in its absence, dehumidifiers or fans may help speed the drying process. October 2008

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

20% OFF

for all students & faculty with the purchase of a tanning package!

We love our TEACHERS! www.thriveswla.com

Get a Jump Start on Holiday Decorating Thoughtfully chosen, ready-made items delivered to your door

he aisles of craft and hobby stores are already full of holiday baubles. It’s not too early to think about tinsel and trinkets to make your home holiday-ready. In fact, it may be a good time to give your holiday tree decorations a good once-over. Are they looked a little worn out? Do you have to position them just so to hide broken parts and scratches? Wouldn’t it be nice to have a holiday fairy put together a designer look and deliver it to your door? If so, then Santa has an early present for you: it’s SEASONS: Designs by Patricia. Owned by Patricia Reynolds of Sulphur, SEASONS offers everything needed for a beautiful tree, except the tree, and it’s all in one box. There are several themes to choose from, options for coordinating wreaths and garland, as well as décor for other seasons throughout the year.

Nativity Wreath

“I’ve always enjoyed decorating, particularly during the holiday season. While my children were at home, I tried to make the holidays a very special time for them by decorating my home, having their friends over, hosting family parties and get-togethers with friends,” explained Reynolds. “Our

by Christine Fisher

children have now grown and left to pursue their education and careers, and I contemplated what else I’d like to accomplish. I guess you could say I had an ‘Ah-ha!’ moment. The thought of ‘Christmas Trees in a Box’ came to me.” Reynolds has helped her husband, Jim, during his career of being a minister of music in local churches. Together, they have produced dozens of Christmas and Easter pageants and countless musicals. Reynolds’ decorating skills have been an integral part of many of the productions. She says this newest venture follows her familiar path of helping others enjoy the holiday season. “As beautiful as it is, I know first-hand how hectic this time of year can be for all of us! That’s why the idea of a 1-2-3 Christmas tree concept sounded so appealing to me.” After countless hours of shopping and searching for just the right combinations of décor, Reynolds has put together decorations for several themed trees, garlands and wreaths. Themes now available include: Snowmen, Nativity, Princess, Teddy Bears, Angels and Snowbirds. Orders are taken through the website. Once an order is made,

Unique Gifts and Accessories

3204 Ryan St. • 337-433-6200

www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2008

the box arrives to the customer’s home within 7 to 14 days containing all of the decorations needed to complete the desired tree, except the actual tree. “It saves time, gas and money,” she said. “Most of my designs are made for the customer to be able to decorate their own tree in one to two hours. A stepby-step guide is included, as well as a color photo of the finished tree so they will know exactly how it should look.” She adds that all of her products are guaranteed.

Nativity Tree

Special theme orders can be accommodated, although she says it would take a little extra time to get the order filled. If a professionally-designed tree and décor has been on your Christmas list, now everything you need is all wrapped up in one time-saving package. Visit www.seasonsinabox. com for more information, or call 527-6686.

If you think Edison did a lot for the light bulb, you should see what we’re doing for sockets. Bright ideas are nothing new at Center for Orthopaedics. And when it comes to innovative joint procedures, we really shine. From resurfacing your joint surface with space-age materials to high-tech computer assisted surgery for joint replacement, excellence in advanced orthopaedic care is always in our spotlight. There is no need to travel to receive the highest level of orthopaedic care. We’re providing the latest advances right here for patients in Southwest Louisiana. If you have joint pain, give us a call. Maybe we didn’t invent the light bulb, but no one will work harder to give you a brighter future. CFO is the region's largest independent orthopaedic practice, providing patient-focused care for patients of all ages, including:

• Fracture Care • Sports Medicine

• Joint Replacement Surgery • Arthroscopic Surgery • Occupational Injuries • Back Pain and Spine Surgery

(337) 721-7CFO (7236)

501 S. Ryan Street, Lake Charles (1st floor of The Clinic) Sulphur Office: 250 S. Beglis Pkwy., Ste. 1 www.centerforortho.net www.lakecharlesortho.com

James D. Perry, MD • Geoffrey J. Collins, MD • John W. Noble, Jr., MD • Gehron P.Treme, MD • Craig G. Morton, MD

October 2008

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More Older Adults Choosing

Chiropractic

Care

Chiropractic care has been a popular alternative for a variety of reasons. Older adults are among the many who turn to alternative medicine like chiropractic.

Woman to Woman,

Have You Had Your Mammogram This Year? I understand the anxiety women have about mammograms, but we can’t let that be an excuse not to have one. Having an annual mammogram is the best way to detect early signs of breast cancer. With early detection, the cure rate for breast cancer is over 90 percent. A simple screening really can make the difference. At The Clinic, we realize waiting for results is very stressful. That’s why I am available for immediate consultations for any abnormal results and I personally direct any needed follow-up. We also offer:

• QUICK APPOINTMENTS • FASTER RESULTS • BREAST PADS TO ENHANCE THE COMFORT • •

“Some of our patients who are older have chronic conditions and find relief from back pain, neck pain and headaches through chiropractic,” said Donald Thigpen, DC with the Chiropractic Center. “Conventional medicine may not address their needs fully. Physicians who see patients for back pain, for example, may refer them here if the patients aren’t getting relief through traditional methods. In addition, some of our patients use a combined method of chiropractic care and traditional medical care. We stay in touch with their referring physician so that we work as a team for the good of the patient.” Research shows that 55% of people chose a combined method of alternative medicine, including chiropractic, along with traditional orthopedic or family care medicine. The study revealed that most common reasons to seek alternative medicine include back pain, headaches, neck pain and joint pain. “Older adults have often tried traditional methods, especially if they have recurring conditions. If they haven’t found relief, they are interested in trying another alternative and many times choose chiropractic,” said Dr. Thigpen. Among older individuals who are open to alternative medicine, research shows that 19% use natural products like herbal supplement, like Echinacea, ginseng, ginkgo biloba and garlic supplements. “They are interested in natural remedies. When we talk about ‘alternative medicine’, it can sound like something way off the beaten path,” said Dr. Thigpen. “That’s not the case at all. Reputable chiropractic physicians rely on evidence-based research for all of the treatment we offer here. Back pain, neck pain, headaches, whiplash, fibromyalgia, and childhood ear infections, just to name a few, are supported well through research.”

OF THE MAMMOGRAPHY PROCEDURE EXPERIENCED MAMMOGRAPHY TECHNICIAN ULTRASOUND GUIDED BIOPSIES FOR ANY ABNORMALITIES

Don’t put it off any longer. Call today to schedule your mammogram.

Older adults, especially those who have suffered with chronic conditions, know their bodies and what typically works for them. In many cases, chiropractic is just what the doctor ordered. For more information, call Dr. Thigpen with Chiropractic Center at (337) 562-0817.

There’s A Difference Here. Mammography Services of The Clinic located in Urgent Care

(337) 312-8761 4320 Lake Street, Lake Charles

A study conducted by Ohio State University shows that nearly three out of four adults over age 50 use some kind of alternative medicine, such as chiropractic, acupuncture, meditation and herbal medicine. More people reported having been to a chiropractor than the other forms of alternative medicine. Almost 70% of people over 50 sought chiropractic care as opposed to 62% of those under 50.

Barbara Tomek, MD Radiologist

by Christine Fisher 46

www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2008

The damage caused by a natural disaster often brings out the best in people, as strangers reach out to help others in need. Unfortunately, according to Better Business Bureau President Carmen Million, the aftermath of a crisis also brings out those who take advantage of people who have already been victimized. Million warns consumers,“Be patient, don’t make quick decisions without doing your homework.” Some of the most common after-disaster scams involve home repairs, clean-up efforts, heating and cooling equipment, and flood damaged cars. The BBB offers the following advice for consumers: 1. Check with your insurance company about your coverage and their specific filing requirements. 2. Although anxious to get things back to normal, avoid acting in haste. Don’t be pressured into signing a long-term contract. Make temporary repairs if necessary. 3. For major repairs, shop around for contractors, get competitive bids, and check references. 4. Be wary of door-to-door workers. Check with your city or parish to find out about door to door rules and company licensing. 5. If possible, get more than one bid – bids should be in writing and should detail the work to be done, the materials to be used, and the price breakdown for labor and materials. 6. Review any written agreement carefully before signing and keep a copy. 7. Never pay in full until all supplies & subcontractors are paid eliminating a possible lien on your property.

Avoid Scams

After a Hurricane

For additional information or to check a company’s record, call the Better Business Bureau at (337) 478-6253 or 1-800-542-7085.

Unwrap A New You This Holiday Season!!! It’s never too early to prepare. Call our caring and attentive staff at Skin Deep and schedule a free consultation today. Services offered include: • IPL Photofacials to permanently remove sunspots • Laser Skin Resurfacing for fine & deep wrinkle reduction and acne scarring • Infrared Skin tightening for loose skin on face, neck and chest • Permanent Hair Reduction that eliminates shaving • Botox for wrinkle reversal • Restylane, Perlane, Juve’derm for filling in laugh lines, fuller lips or under eye hollowing

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Jason R. Morris MD 337.855.5300 277 N Hwy 171 Suite 8 www.thriveswla.com

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FREE CONSULTATIONS!

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| LakeCharles.com

If you’ve been looking for local information on the web, LakeCharles.com is it, and it’s LOCALLY OWNED! LakeCharles.com’s mission is to unite a community! We provide our visitors a “One Stop Shop” for local businesses, local dining, local real estate, local news & weather, local events calendar, local message forum and so much more! Check it out, it’s “YOUR LOCAL” site! Send us your article, event information, news or press release and we will post it, send it to news@lakecharles.com

community guide » real estate guide » local information » local news 48

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2008

Flu Finds

Kids First

by Kristy Armand

If you’re wondering when flu season will arrive in our area, just keep your eyes on the children in your neighborhood. And if you live in an area where there are lots of children, be extra vigilant. Experts say flu may strike your community sooner and harder than areas without children.

home to the most kids. Every one percent increase in the child population brought a four percent increase in adult ER visits. Researchers cautioned that this doesn’t mean the areas without kids are protected from flu. It just means they experience flu later and at lower rates. Previously, Dr. Richert says the flu vaccine was recommended for children under age five, who can become dangerously ill from influenza. This year, the government is recommending that children from age six months to 18 years be vaccinated — expanding inoculations to 30 million more school-age children. “While older kids seldom get as sick as preschoolers, it’s a bigger population that catches flu at higher rates, so the change should at least decreased school absenteeism and parents’ missed work. And it could have the added benefit of protecting entire communities if less influenza virus gets passed around.” Dr. Richert says the new recommendations will hopefully encourage more parents to have their children vaccinated each year for the flu. “Because the vaccine takes approximately six to eight weeks to provide full protection, the best time to get the vaccine is before the end of November,” he explains.“Flu season typically peaks between January and March, so even getting the shot as late as December will help protect children against the seasonal flu virus.” For more information about the flu vaccine for children, call the Pediatric Center in Sulphur at 527-6371.

Flu-shot season begins this month, and for the first time, the vaccination is being strongly recommended for virtually all children — not just those under age five.“More and more evidence has found that children are key flu spreaders, and we know the flu vaccine can help control the spread of the virus,” says Pediatrician Albert Richert, Jr., MD, with the Pediatric Center in Sulphur.

The Facts About Cancer in Southwest Louisiana – from a local doctor

Any parent can attest that their children are virtual germ factories. It takes years of nagging before they cover coughs and sneezes. Even teenagers aren’t great hand-washers. Crowded schools, preschools and day-care centers act as incubators for numerous communicable diseases, and now more and more research is linking this fact to the spread of the flu.

YOUR CHANCE OF GETTING CANCER IS BASICALLY THE SAME – NO MATTER WHERE YOU LIVE. THAT’S A FACT.

Although many people believe cancer rates are higher here, it's just not true. Whether you are an artist in the west, a construction worker in the north, or an accountant in Southwest Louisiana, you have about a one in three chance of getting cancer.* What else is fact? Cancer mortality rates are higher in Southwest Louisiana, meaning fewer people with cancer survive here. There are many reasons for this, however, the biggest one is the fact that fewer people in our area get regular screenings. And we all know, the earlier cancer is detected, the better the chances of survival. The most important fact? Getting regular screenings, along with living a healthy lifestyle, is your best defense against cancer. Lifestyle factors cause most cancers. So you can take control of your cancer risk by living a healthier life – don’t smoke, eat right and get plenty of exercise.

Preschoolers often signal the first wave of the flu in their communities. According to a study conducted by researchers at Boston Children’s Hospital, when it comes to the flu, children lead adults presenting with symptoms. Researchers found that approximately 30 days after feverish and coughing threeand four-year-olds started showing up in doctors’ offices and emergency rooms, flu-afflicted adults followed. Another four-year study by Harvard researchers correlated winter emergency room visits of adults with flu symptoms with census data for corresponding regional zip codes. Flu-like symptoms struck first and worst in the zip codes that were

*Source: American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org

Fight Cancer with Facts. Susan Jones, MD, internal medicine specialist

" How you live is more important than where you live when it comes to your chances of getting cancer. Knowing the facts can help you lower your risk and increase your chances of survival.” A community partnership between:

October 2008

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by Kristy Armand

Fighting Fall Allergies Just when spring allergies have become a distant memory, along come the itchy eyes, runny noses and general misery that signal the start of the fall allergy season. “About one-third of people with seasonal allergies sufferer also suffer with them in the fall. And although the allergy triggers in the fall may be slightly different, they can be just as misery-inducing,” says Raphael Chan, MD, ENT and Allergy Specialist with Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic. He says that during autumn, ragweed is the biggest allergy trigger. Though the yellow-flowering weed typically begins pollinating in August, it can linger well into the fall months. About three-quarters of people who are allergic to spring pollenproducing plants are also allergic to ragweed.“Because the ragweed pollen grains are very light, they can travel literally hundreds of miles in the wind. So even if it doesn’t grow where you live, it can still make you miserable if you’re allergic to it.” Mold is another culprit, because its spores can easily get airborne.“Mold thrives in damp areas, both indoors and outdoors,” says Dr. Chan. “Piles of damp leaves in the fall are breeding grounds for mold, as are any homes or buildings that flooded during the recent hurricane. Even bathrooms can harbor mold growth.” Dust mites -- microscopic, spider-like insects -- are another common indoor allergen. Dr. Chan says they are most prevalent during the humid summer months, but can get stirred into the air when you turn on your heater in cooler weather. From the air, dust mites can make their way into your nose, triggering an allergic reaction. Dr. Chan says the symptoms of fall allergies are the same as other seasonal allergies and include runny nose, sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, and coughing. “In addition, people with allergies to ragweed can also develop an itchy throat and mouth -- a condition called oral allergy syndrome (OAS) -- when they eat banana, cucumber, melon, or certain other fruits and vegetables.”

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You can minimize fall allergy symptoms with a few precautionary measures. Staying indoors with the doors and windows closed when pollen is at its peak (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Before you turn on your heat for the first time, have your heating ducts cleaned. Particles of mold and other allergens can become trapped in the vents over the summer and will fill the air as soon as you crank up the furnace. It’s also a good idea to wear a mask when you rake leaves to avoid inhaling mold spores. To alleviate symptoms, Dr. Chan says these medications may help: • Prescription corticosteroids, usually given in the form of a nasal spray, reduce inflammation in the nose. • Antihistamines reduce sneezing, sniffling, and itching by blocking the action of histamine (the substance produced during an allergic reaction) in the body. • Decongestants clear mucus out of the nasal passageways to relieve congestion and swelling. • Antihistamine/decongestants combine the effects of both drugs. • Antihistamine eye drops block the histamine that leads to the allergic reaction. Even though you can buy some allergy medications without a prescription, Dr. Chan recommends talking to your doctor first to make sure you choose the right medication. For those with severe allergies that are not relieved with medications, allergy testing and possibly immunotherapy via allergy shots is often a good option.“Allergy shots expose your body to gradually increasing doses of the allergen until you become tolerant to it. They can relieve your symptoms for a longer period of time than oral and nasal allergy medications. Although they don’t work for everyone, in people who do see a response, allergy shots can dramatically reduce symptoms.” For more information on seasonal allergies, call The Clinic at 312-8563.

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October 2008

Stride serves as vice president of the Southwest Louisiana chapter of the Humane Society and when it comes to curious dog behavior, little surprises her. “It’s not an easy question to answer,” Stride said. “Getting a dog to stop barking at thunderstorms really depends on why he is barking. It can be a complex issue. If he is just barking because it’s fun, then the easiest way to stop him is to teach him to be quiet on command.” The good news: Getting a dog to be quiet at your disposal isn’t as tricky as it sounds, if you can control the factors that make him bark in the first place, Stride said. Dogs often start yapping when someone knocks on the door, for example. Use that stimulus to launch your quiet-oncommand training.

Making Peace with Howling Dogs and Thunderstorms

“The human tells the dog to speak, then has someone knock on the door immediately afterward. When the dog barks, give him a treat, then give him a command to be quiet. Hold a treat in your closed fist. When he sniffs the treat, he will stop barking and be quiet. Then you give him the treat.”

If you think Seattle is the rainiest city in the United States, you’re wrong. Last year, San Francisco-based Weatherbill conducted a study of the nation’s rainiest areas and the Southeast took the cake. Lake Charles ranked in the top ten; Seattle didn’t even crack the ceiling. In a city where sprinkles, downpours, thunderstorms and hurricanes constantly lurk on our doorstep, the potential for in-house turmoil rises for a particular group of sympathetic pet owners — those whose dogs are afraid of thunder. For some, “afraid” might be an understatement. “Terrified” is more like it. I have heard horror stories concerning one particular pooch who was so terrified of storms that she scratched, clawed and chewed her way out of a kennel. She injured herself along the way and was discovered under the bed, scared to pieces. Listening to a dog howl, bark, whine and cry during a storm makes an already stressful situation almost unbearable. And although hurricane season is thankfully drawing to a close, that certainly doesn’t mean that we are in the clear as far as claps of thunder are concerned. To get to the bottom of this issue, I turned to my friend Sally Stride, a certified dog trainer and proprietor of Proper Pooches Dog Training.

Stride uses “thank you” as a quiet command for her dogs, but pet owners can decide what command word works best for them. As with any type of training, this technique needs to be repeated several times. Now for the bad news. Sometimes dogs aren’t barking just for the sheer pleasure of hearing themselves talk. Sometimes, they are truly terrified and cannot be consoled. If a dog is barking at thunder due to fear or storm phobia, Stride said this can be a “serious problem.” “In that case, I would recommend hiring a qualified trainer to help set up a program to help the dog conquer his fear. The Association of Pet Dog Trainers is a great resource tool to find a trainer in your area,” Stride said. Erin Kelly Cormier, a freelance writer, serves on the board of directors for the Humane Society of Louisiana’s Southwest Louisiana Chapter. She owns one unruly mutt named Miles. Email Erin any animal-related questions or ideas for future columns at ekcormier@inbox.com.

Cataracts? See better without glasses with Premium Lens Implants from The Eye Clinic. If you have cataracts, The Eye Clinic offers a solution in sight. Technologically advanced lens implants including the ReZoom, ReStor and AcrySof Toric can bring life back into focus, often without the need for prescription eyewear. Call today for more information or to schedule a consultation with one of our board certified ophthalmologists. Isn’t it worth a closer look? October 2008

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(337) 478-3810

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Falling

for New Handbags by Katie McDaniel

Now that summer is over, it’s time to check the fall fashion forecast and see what’s making headlines for handbags. Fall is looking to be a season full of color and style. Getting a head start on what will be hot this fall fashion season is easier than you may think. This fall season will be anything but boring. We can expect to see colors such as light brown, yellow, crisp orange and plum as well as the previous season’s metallic shades of silver, bronze and gold. These colors are sophisticated enough to be worn both day and night. Luckily, like past seasons, the black, white and grays will continue to be in style as well. Be prepared to have a variety of these colors for the most fashion flexibility. The oversized handbags that were so popular last fall season will be in style once again this season. The most versatile of these handbags are the tote-shaped, soft leather feel with a number of outer pockets for easy access to everyday items such as cell phones and keys. These super-sized bags are sure to be around in many upcoming seasons. Going from one extreme to the other, tiny clutch bags will also be very popular this fall. You will often see them in metallic materials and sometimes with texture.“If you are out and about a lot, this is the handbag for you. The clutch is perfect for those nights out when the last thing you want to worry about is carrying around a large handbag,” says Stacey Vezinot, owner of Stacey’s Armoire. Be prepared to only carry the essentials with this fashion statement.

Your Smile

y t l a Is Our Speci

At Crawford Orthodontics, we believe confidence starts with a smile. A great smile not only enhances your appearance, it adds to self-esteem and can improve so many aspects of your life. Braces today offer increased comfort, faster results and advanced technology. Dr. Crawford was involved in the development for one innovative option -- the Invisalign® system, a virtually invisible way to straighten teeth using clear aligners instead of wires. And braces aren’t just for kids. With the wide range of convenient orthodontic options available, more and more adults are able to have the smile they’ve always wanted. A healthy, beautiful smile is one of the most important investments you can make. Call Crawford Orthodontics today. We’ll give you something to smile about.

CRAWFORD ORTHODONTICS OFFERS: • Advanced, comprehensive orthodontics for children and adults • State of the art facility and equipment • Well-trained, experienced, caring staff • Complimentary initial exam • Acceptance of most insurance plans • Convenient financing and no down payment options

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With the popularity in exotic animal prints rising, the demand for these styles in a handbag is sure to grow. These handbags will be available in embossed prints or fine leather skins and will come in metallic hues as well as patent leather.“Try pairing a leopard print handbag with a solid black or brown outfit. This will add an extra bit of flair to any look,” says Vezinot. Even styles from the past will be making an appearance this fall. The 80’s-inspired quilted handbags will be back. You can find these in the most popular styles such as the satchel and the clutch as well as the oversized handbags. If those are not your style, try the traditional 80’s style of the quilted clutch with its tuck-in chair shoulder strap or the newly popular wristlet. As you begin to put together your fall handbag collection, keep these latest tips and trends in mind. Have fun with your style and buy what you feel comfortable wearing. Don’t be afraid to try anything bold and daring, there are no rules in this fall’s fashion.

(337) 478-7590 • 701 West College Street, Lake Charles www.drcrawfordorthodontics.com 54

One handbag trend that has remained since last fall is the bold, electric-colored bag. Accessorize your outfits with a bright purse. The ideas of fall hues will be expanded and winter jewel tones such as yellow and turquoise will be added. Try pairing these colorful totes in a leather foldover “tote-to-clutch” handbag. This will be one of the most versatile styles of the fall which can be worn casually or for a more dressed up look.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2008

Ground Your Investment Strategy with

Real Estate by Kristy Armand

ooking for a new way to diversify your investment portfolio? Take a look around you. Real estate – in the form of land, homes, office buildings or retail outlets – is an investment opportunity that is literally everywhere.

According to Mark Eckard, Financial Advisor with Rau Financial Group, not only can real estate be a wise choice for long-term investment, it can also provide an ongoing source of income. “Many people think real estate investing means buying property and either ‘flipping’ it for resale, or holding onto it and renting to tenants, becoming a landlord. And while these types of real estate ventures can be profitable, they also come with a great deal of hands-on management and, oftentimes, lots of headaches. But there other options that can help minimize the risk and maximize the profit for investors who want to get into real estate.”

purchase and operate income-producing real estate. REITs pool the funds of many investors together to purchase many different properties, providing the opportunity to invest in a diverse portfolio of properties. REITS may invest in offices, industrial, retail, apartment and even natural resources. Eckard says many of these types of properties are not often financially accessible to the individual investor, but the REIT makes this an affordable possibility. “REITs basically turn real estate into a publicly traded instrument,” explains Eckard. “REITs are bought and sold on the major exchanges just like any other stock.” Much like regular dividend-paying stocks, Eckard says REITs are a solid investment for stock market investors who want regular income from their investment. An REIT is required to pay out a certain percentage – typically 90% – of its income in the form of distributions, which may also consist of capital gains and return of capital. REITs also offer potential tax advantages because a portion of distributions may be tax-deferred.

Real estate has been around since our Neanderthal ancestors started chasing strangers out of their caves. Before the industrial revolution, wealth and power were measured primarily in terms of the amount of land owned by an individual or family. Although the twentieth century saw the rise of stock and bond ownership, Eckard says real estate investing is still a profitable option for those who are actively engaged in an asset allocation program, or who are want to diversify their current portfolio.

Eckard says because returns from commercial real estate do not usually move up and down in the same performance cycles as stocks or bonds, REITs can be an important component of an investor’s asset allocation. “The ups and downs of the often volatile stock market make many investors nervous,” says Eckard. “REITs can counter this by providing a stable foundation for your investment portfolio that is protected from stock market fluctuations.”

Eckard says investing in real estate has actually become increasingly popular over the last fifty years. “Although the real estate market has plenty of opportunities for making big gains, buying and owning real estate is a lot more complicated than investing in stocks and bonds. Not all real estate is created equal when it comes to return on investment,” says Eckard. “Real estate investment trusts, or REITs, are a very convenient way for the average investor to profit from real estate without the hassle of direct property acquisition and management.”

As with any investment, there is much potential with real estate, specifically REITs, but Eckard says this does not mean there are any guarantees. “As with any investment, make careful choices and weigh out the costs and benefits of your actions before diving in. A qualified investment advisor, with experience in real estate investing, can help.”

A REIT is created when a corporation (or trust) uses investors’ money to

For more information about REITs, call Eckard at Rau Financial Group at 480-1975.

October 2008

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The Hanchey Law Firm

Welcomes David Green

Attorneys David H. Hanchey and Carl H. Hanchey proudly announce the association of attorney David Green. Davidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s practice will concentrate on criminal law. David B. Green Originally from Lake Charles, David is a graduate of McNeese State University with a strong background in law enforcement and criminal law. He served as a deputy sheriff with the CPSO for nine years before earning his law degree. David has worked as an attorney for nine years and has both criminal defense and prosecutorial experience. He served as an Assistant District Attorney in both Harris County, Texas, and Calcasieu Parish. He was appointed by District Attorney John DeRosier as the prosecuting attorney for the Combined Anti-Drug Task Force (CAT) in Calcasieu Parish, and is a criminal law instructor at McNeese. David is licensed to practice in Louisiana and Texas, and has practiced extensively in state and federal courts. David expands the range of legal services offered by the Hanchey Law Firm to include criminal law, in addition to personal injury and wrongful death, civil litigation, commercial real estate, Carl H. Hanchey David H. Hanchey successions and wills, workers compensation, and social security disability. 535 East Street, Lake Charles (337) 436-5551 www.hancheyfirm.com

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October 2008

24-hour EmErgEncy SErVIcE rESponSE

Flood Damage? SERVCO Restoration can help.

If you’ve suffered damage from hurricane flood waters, a quick response is critical. Our staff of experienced and trained technicians can prevent mold and structural damage, restoring your home or business to pre-flood conditions. We have the area’s largest selection of drying equipment and over 15 years of experience. Best of all, we deal directly with insurance companies, so you don’t have to.

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605 W. College St Lake Charles, LA 70605

Meet Our Newest

Physician Specialist

Lawrence Rothenberg, MD

Gastroenterologist

The physicians of Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic proudly announce the association of Gastroenterologist Lawrence Rothenberg, MD, FACG, FACP. Originally from New York, Dr. Rothenberg received his Medical Degree from New York Medical College. He then completed two Residencies, one in Internal Medicine and the other in Diagnostic Radiology, as well as a Fellowship in Gastroenterology. Dr. Rothenberg is board certified in Internal Medicine, Diagnostic Radiology, Geriatric Medicine and Gastroenterology. He was commissioned as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army Reserve and served in the 801st Combat Support Hospital in Kuwait in 2003. He was recognized for his service with the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon and a Global War on Terrorism Award.

Lawrence Rothenberg, MD Gastroenterologist

October 2008

Dr. Rothenberg brings over 28 years of experience to The Clinic, where he joins Drs. Gerald Byrd and Hooper Nichols in our Gastroenterology Department. He is a welcome addition to The Clinic’s physician staff as we continue to expand the range of medical expertise we offer the community. Thrive Magazine for Better Living

337-528-8595

301 S. Huntington Sulphur, LA 70663

Cardiology Ear, Nose & Throat Family Medicine Gastroenterology General Surgery Internal Medicine Neurology Oncology Pulmonary Diseases & Critical Care Rheumatology Urgent Care Weight Loss Surgery Ancillary Services: Allergy Clinic, Endoscopy, Laboratory, Radiology & Research

There’s A Difference Here. 501 South Ryan Street Lake Charles (337) 312-8462 www.lcmsc.com www.thriveswla.com

When

Menopause Arrives Too Soon by Christine Fisher The effects of a period aren’t a picnic, from bloating to cramps, but having a regular menstrual cycle is, for the most part, a sign that all things are functioning normally for women. The absence of it can be a symptom of much larger problems. Premature menopause occurs more often than once thought, and can lead to devastating consequences. Diagnosing it can be difficult, but as with all health conditions, understanding what is happening can bring relief on its own. In the United States, the average age for menopause is 51. But for about 1 in 100 women, menopause knocks on their door earlier than normal, before the age of 40, resulting in premature menopause. “It’s also referred to as premature ovarian failure,” said Scott Bergstedt, MD, obstetrician and gynecologist with OBG-1. “These two aren’t exactly the same, but the symptoms are similar.” The research can be varied when it comes to defining ovarian function. Most of the studies show that with true premature menopause, the ovaries cease to function, thus eliminating the possibility for pregnancy. There is some research, though, that suggests a small percentage of women have become pregnant, usually with the help of hormone replacement therapy. With premature ovarian failure or POF, the ovaries in about half of the women may ovulate occasionally. So, although the name implies a complete shut down in the ovary department, some women with POF can successfuly get pregnant. “Because these ovary disorders affect women in their childbearing years, their 20s and 30s, it can be devastating to hear that having children or expanding 58

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their family may be much more difficult, or even impossible,” said Dr. Bergstedt. In some cases, women have been able to conceive through egg donation and then go on to experience a normal pregnancy and delivery. Other women opt for fertility treatments to induce ovulation. It doesn’t usually reverse premature ovulation, but it may help them realize a dream to have a child. For women facing premature menopause, decisions about expanding the family is a serious issue, and so is managing menopausal symptoms that arrive about 15 years early. When hot flashes, mood swings and major headaches begin happening in a woman’s 20s or 30s, it causes major concerns, to say the least. “Symptoms of menopause can be difficult to deal with, but women know it’s going to happen and sort of psych themselves up for it,” said Dr. Bergstedt. “By the time it begins, they aren’t welcoming it, but it’s nothing out of the ordinary.” Because premature menopause is not as well known, women can be alarmed by the symptoms and unsure of the cause. Causes for premature menopause include:

• Genetics. Women with a family history of premature menopause are more likely to have early menopause themselves.

• Autoimmune diseases. Thyroid disease and rheumatoid arthritis are two

diseases related to the body’s immune system. Instead of fighting off diseases, the body mistakenly attacks a part of its own reproductive system.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2008

• Chemotherapy or pelvic radiation treatments for cancer. This depends

40 mIU/ml on at least two occasions over a four week period, then diagnosis is made. Other diagnostic tests may be used to determine if there are any other related abnormalities.

on the type of chemotherapy used, and the age of the woman when she gets treatment. The younger a woman is, the less likely she will go into menopause.

When the ovaries shut down, there are increased health risks in women. “The reality of premature menopause is that women are facing these health risks at an earlier age. Serious conditions like osteoporosis and heart disease become more of a possibility,” said Dr. Bergstedt. The risk of thyroid disorders also increase, as does the risk for Addison’s disease. This autoimmune disorder suppresses the body’s ability to handle physical stress from injury or illness due to problems with the adrenal glands. A blood test measuring the follicle stimulating hormone is usually the determining factor in diagnosing premature menopause. If this value is over

Hormone replacement therapy is a treatment method that gives women the estrogen and other hormones their bodies are not making. Young women taking HRT may return to having normal menstrual cycles, and their risk for osteoporosis is decreased. There have been controversial studies about the long-term effects of HRT, so women are advised to thoroughly discuss the pros and cons with their physician. Premature menopause causes serious concerns both physically and emotionally for women facing this medical crisis. Talking through available options with a qualified physician, as well as relying on a strong support system, will help women make choices that are right for them.

When it comes to your healthcare, we’ve got your back.

The eyes have it. The nose knows. Even the ears have heard where to go when things get clogged. But, do you have a plan for when your back needs attention? Back pain is a major cause of missed work days, missed events, and missed opportunities. When the spine is not functioning properly, if affects many other parts of the body. The Chiropractic Center is a trusted resource to turn to for relief from: back pain · headaches · muscle spasms · joint pain · neck pain bulging/herniated discs · whiplash · sciatica · and more The Chiropractic Center evaluates your lifestyle and history and uses a natural approach to healing. We can work with your general physician, orthopedist, pain management physician, surgeon, or any other specialist so that you receive the benefit of a team approach to your healthcare. Don’t miss out on life. Call today and complete your healthcare team.

ChiropraCtiC center for Pain & Rehabilitation

Dr. Donald R. Thigpen, DC 418 E. College St., Lake Charles • 562-0817 www.ChiropracticCenter.info

We accept most major insurance plans. affordable payment plans available. Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Services include:

spinal manipulation • rehabilitation exercises • medical massage therapy decompression traction therapy • x-rays • electrotherapy

October 2008

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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Has the Internet Killed the Travel Agency? We live in a world where on the World Wide Web, internet travel sites allow you to book your own flight, search for the cheapest fares and hunt for last-minute deals. Most people have probably used the internet to book travel plans, but how many would say they’ve never faced problems doing it themselves? Traveling and flying have become more expensive and complicated in recent years, with rising fuel costs and increased security measures. On their own, individuals often encounter obstacles that may derail what should have been an enjoyable vacation. Kimberly LeLeux, owner of Partners In Travel Travel, says,“Agencies have gotten a bad rap over the years, but the good news is, not all the myths are true. Many jump to the conclusion that the Internet will work harder and faster for them, but it’s just not always the case. The Internet has its downsides as well.” As a representative of the travel agency industry, LeLeux provides the answers to the most common questions she and her staff often hear regarding agencies vs. the Internet for travel planning.

Planning Protected Graywood Residents from Storm’s Flood Waters Graywood, a master-planned community in South Lake Charles, is pleased to announce that no homes in the development were affected by Hurricane Ike’s storm surge. There are currently approximately 11 neighborhoods and 175 homes in the Graywood community. The scenic waterways located in and around Graywood are a big part of the attraction for residents, and Graywood’s development team gave careful consideration to the proximity of water during the planning and design phase. Three critical decisions were made to minimize the risk of flooding: • Streets and drainage were designed to the lowest possible elevation enabling the roads to serve as a conduit for quick drainage of the neighborhoods • Construction guidelines require all homes to be built substantially higher than the street elevation • Homes in neighborhoods adjacent to an estuary or waterway are required to at least meet or exceed FEMA elevation requirements

As a result of these standards, Graywood residents were protected from flooding during hurricanes Rita and Ike. In addition, neither the Gray Plantation Clubhouse nor the Sports Club at Graywood experienced any flooding and both are open for regular hours. Minimal areas of the award-winning Gray Plantation Golf Course were submerged for a short time after the storm, but drained quickly. The Course and ProShop have resumed regular hours. For more information about Graywood or club services, call 477-7143.

www.graywoodllc.com

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Does the Internet always save you money on travel? There may occasionally be “internet only” specials at some hotels, but, most of the time agents can obtain the same or better rates through the affiliation with a consortium of agencies which negotiates special rates for travel agencies only. Do Travel Agencies charge extra fees for its services? No, they are paid commission by their travel suppliers. However, since airlines don’t pay commission to travel agencies, they indirectly penalize the agency with a charge for booking their airline tickets, so the only time agents must charge a small fee is when they book airline tickets. Even the airlines and internet providers charge a “ticketing fee.” The advantage of using a travel agency over the internet is that an experienced travel consultant can search all of the airlines/times to find the best fare for a client’s travel dates and itinerary. Is the internet a reliable source of travel assistance? The internet is a great resource to gather information about different travel destinations, etc., but there are several potential downfalls to actually booking your travel plans through internet booking sites:

• You’re on your own. If a traveler has trouble at the

airport with an overbooked flight, schedule change, lost luggage; or if they arrive at their destination and are not happy with the service, they are left with no one but the person on the customer service 1-800 number.“Travel agencies will work with the airline/hotel/tour company on the client’s behalf to resolve the problem as soon as possible,” says LeLeux. • All that glitters is not golden. Internet booking sites lure the inexperienced traveler by displaying cheap airline fares, but, after they actually make the booking, the rate quoted may not have included taxes, surcharges and hidden fees.“Travel agencies will check a client’s travel dates and destination several ways to find the best airfare based on their requests and needs, and the consultants will always give a client the total price, including taxes and fees up front.” • Security Issues. Most internet booking sites accept only major credit cards as payment through a “secure” internet site.“Many, if not most, identity theft cases come from information shared on the internet site,” explains LeLeux. Travel Agencies will accept cash, check or credit cards with proper identification and will take extra care to guard the personal information of clients. October 2008

Minimizing Risks from

Mold

by Kristy Armand

Flooding from Hurricane Ike is causing many unfortunate residents of Southwest Louisiana to once again cope with clean-up, relocation and restoration of their homes. Those affected also need to be aware that underneath the visible destruction caused by high water lurks another insidious risk: mold.

Dr. Belenchia says it’s important to understand that you can’t just kill the mold to reduce health risk, you have to remove it. “Even dead mold can provoke asthma in susceptible people, and even people without prior allergies or sensitivity to mold can also develop them after significant exposure.”

“Mold growth poses special problems for the thousands of people with existing lung disease and may increase the likelihood of the development of lung problems for others,” says pulmonologist Johnny Belenchia, MD, with Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic.

Wright offers the following advice for minimizing the risk of mold growth and exposure in your home: • Professionally dry the home or building as quickly as possible with dehumidifiers and air movers. • Remove carpet, insulation, upholstery, drywall, and other porous items that cannot be cleaned if these were wet for longer than 72 hours. • Removal of mold from hard surfaces can be accomplished with commercial remediation products. • If mold growth is related to faulty plumbing or another problem with the water supply, be sure to fix that problem first or the mold issue will never go away. • Wear protective masks in closed areas where mold growth is known or suspected, or when doing work that could kick up dust.

Dr. Belenchia explains that mold is everywhere, especially here in the warm, humid climate of the South. He says most people have no problem living with this everpresent fungus. It reproduces by making spores, which travel unseen through the air and grow on any moist surface.“People who have asthma or allergies may be especially sensitive to molds. They may develop a stuffy nose, wheezing, eye irritation, or a skin rash when exposed. Other people may have more severe allergic reactions and experience breathing difficulty. People whose immune systems are weakened by chronic diseases, or those who are taking any drugs that suppress immune function are at risk for development of infections in the lungs.” According to restoration professional Ray Wright, owner of SERVCO Restoration, you can have mold even if your home did not suffer significant water damage. “You can’t always see evidence of mold,” Wright stresses. “The outside of your walls may look fine, but mold could be growing on the inside. Clothes can be washed or dry-cleaned, and furniture can be restored if dried and remediated properly. The same goes for carpeting, insulation, wallpaper and drywall,” says Wright. Wright adds that one big “mold myth” he and his staff encounter is people who think airing out their house after water damage prevents mold growth. “This is completely opposite of what you should do. Opening windows and doors lets the humidity in. Humidity keeps things wet, and provides the perfect environment for mold growth. If you are trying to dry out your home and furniture, close up your house and turn the air as low as you can.” October 2008

When is professional help needed? Wright says a mold assessment by a team of professionals can identify if mold is an issue. “We have an in-house environmental hygienist who can help detect the level of mold in your home or business. And if there is any doubt, because of the health risks associated with mold, it’s advisable to be extra cautious and have a professional evaluation.” Dr. Belenchia adds that if you are in one of the high-risk categories for mold exposure risks, such as asthma, try to avoid being in and around areas of potential mold growth. “If this can’t be avoided, be sure to take your asthma medication as prescribed, keep you emergency response inhaler nearby, and discuss any acceleration of symptoms with your physician immediately.” For information regarding mold testing and restoration services, call SERVCO Restoration at (337) 477-8400. Immediate response and free assessments are available.

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Arm Yourself with Flu Protection by Christine Fisher The flu vaccine for 2008 – 2009 has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is being delivered to healthcare providers across the country. Health experts are urging people of all ages to get their flu shots now. The flu season typically begins in November and lasts through February. “The best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu vaccination every year,” said Phyllis Theriot, MT(ASCP) Infection Preventionist at Jennings American Legion Hospital. “It greatly lessens your risk for getting the flu, and if you do, it will likely be a milder version instead of a full-blown attack,” she said. “Now is the best time to get a flu shot, before the flu season begins. It takes a couple of weeks for the body to build immunity after getting the flu vaccine.” Each year, five to 20% of the United States population gets the flu. More than 200,000 people are hospitalized due to complications from the flu, including 20,000 children. Most alarming, is the fact that 36,000 people die from the flu. There are six manufacturers who have produced this year’s flu vaccine, so there should be plenty of vaccines available, unlike previous years when only one or two manufacturers were used. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), when the match between flu vaccine and circulating strains of flu virus is close, a flu shot is between 70% and 90% effective in warding off illness in healthy people under the age of 65. Influenza viruses mutate quickly, so vaccinations are modified each year. A CDC advisory committee meets early in the year to estimate which strains of flu virus will be the most prevalent during the next flu season and manufacturers produce vaccine based on those recommendations. There are two ways to get vaccinated. A shot, usually given in the arm, contains an inactivated vaccine. There may be a slight reaction to the shot, such as soreness at the injection site, or mild muscle ache or fever. Reactions usually last one to two days, and are more likely to occur in children who have never been exposed to the flu virus. The shot is approved for babies six months of age through adults. Nasal spray consists of a low dose of live, but weakened, flu viruses. The nasal spray does not cause the flu and no major reaction symptoms have been 62

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reported. “The nasal spray has been a good option for children. It’s approved for use in children two years of age through adults up to age 50,” said Theriot. The CDC recommends a flu vaccine each year for persons who: • are age 6 months up to 19 years • are pregnant • are 50 years or older • have a chronic medical condition such as asthma, diabetes, or heart, kidney or lung disease • have a weakened immune system • are a resident of a nursing home or long term care facility • work with children, or in healthcare, or take care of someone at high risk of complications from the flu There are a small number of people who shouldn’t get the flu vaccine. They include anyone who: • has had an allergic reaction to previous vaccines • is allergic to chicken eggs • currently has a fever; wait until the fever passes before getting the flu vaccine In addition to getting a flu vaccine, being careful to follow good hygiene guidelines will also minimize exposure to the flu, and help contain it if others have it. Theriot recommends: • frequent hand washing with soap and running water • use of an alcohol-based hand sanitizer • avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth • if there is a flu outbreak in your area, avoid crowds until the outbreak subsides • when you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue “If you do contract the flu, stay home! Don’t continue your routine because you’ll not only run down your own immune system, you’ll also put others at risk for getting the flu,” said Theriot. Most family physicians offer the flu vaccination. Check with your doctor, or the health unit, for more information.

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October 2008

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It’s a great time to be a

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October 2008