WWW. TIME SSW. C O M • AP RI L 2, 2009 / VOL. 14, NO. 6
Chip Shot Away Moody Gardens Shadow Free To Breathe Maginnis Weighs In On Colleges Garrett Lumpkin Joins The Times April 2, 2009
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General . . . . . . .
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617 Drew St., Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-439-0995 Fax: 337-439-0418
Contents
Publisher . . . . . . Patrick Marcantel NEWS . . . . . . . . . Editor Nancy Correro assistan t Editor Jessica Ferguson assignments Chaney Ferguson Contributors Mike Allen Sara Blackwell Jim Doyle Matt Jones Bill Krull Lisa Miller Terri Schlichenmeyer Cindy Shackelford George Swift
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Politics John Maginnis Dan Juneau
cover story Moss Bluff Eyes Incorporation . . . 5
ADVERTISING . . . . . Sales Manager Andy Jacobson GRAPHICS . . . . . . .
columns Who’s News . . . . . . . . . . 7 Biz Bytes . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Swift Report: April 2009 . . . . 10 337 Sports . . . . . . . . . . 11 Inside Baton Rouge . . . . . . 16
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Art/Production Director Natalie Clark David Eakin
The Times of Southwest Louisiana is published every two weeks by Patsco Publishing, 617 Drew Street, Lake Charles Louisiana 70601. Phone (337) 439-0995. SUBSCRIPTIONS: $30 per year. Bulk mailing permit #9 paid at Lake Charles, La. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Times of Southwest Louisiana, 617 Drew Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601. FAX to (337) 439-0418. The Times of Southwest Louisiana cannot be held responsible for the return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations, even if they are sent to us accompanied by a self-addressed envelope. Copyright 2009 The Times of Southwest Louisiana all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited. DISTRIBUTION: The Times of Southwest Louisiana is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. The Times of Southwest Louisiana may be distributed only by The Times of Southwest Louisiana authorized distributors. No person may, without prior written permission of The Times of Southwest Louisiana, take more than one copy of each monthly issue from its racks.
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features Home Grown: Sign Star . . . . 8 Moody Gardens Golf Course . . 12 Contraband Bayou Golf Club at L’Auberge . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Men’s Health . . . . . . . . . 20 Just A Chip Shot Away . . . . . 26 entertainment Night at the Movies . . . . . . 31 Crossword Puzzle: Revenge . . 34 Book Beat: Little Pink House . . 36 The Shadow: Chamber SWLA Business Expo March 18, 2009 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 DeRidder Dispatch . . . . . . . 44
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business American Eagle Airlines, the regional affiliate of American Airlines, will begin nonstop jet service between Louisiana’s Lake Charles Regional Airport (LCH) and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), beginning June 11. American Eagle will operate the twice-daily service with 50-seat Embraer ERJ-145 jets and 44-seat Embraer ERJ-140 jets. “We are pleased to bring American Eagle service back to Lake Charles,” said American Eagle President and CEO Peter Bowler. “With this new service, business customers from the entire Southwestern Louisiana area will now have the option to take a quick day trip to Dallas or to connect to a host of other cities throughout American’s network, including Las Vegas, Denver and Chicago.” “Southwest Louisiana serves as a critical transportation hub, and American Eagle’s new flights will bring more choices and opportunity for economic growth,” said Rep. Charles Boustany (D-La.). “It is an important recognition of the good work going on in Lake Charles.” American Eagle last served Lake Charles in November 2000. The schedule for the flights between Lake Charles and Dallas/Fort Worth are daily and as follows: Departs: 7:20AM and Arrives: 8:35AM—Departs: 2:55PM and Arrives: 4:10PM. The International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) would like to invite all administrative professionals, bosses, coworkers, family, and friends to the 14th Annual Dutch Treat Community Luncheon at the Lake Charles Civic Center to be held on April 21 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Participants will also be treated to a fashion show. A vendor exposition will begin at 10:30 a.m. and end at 1:30 p.m. The cost of the event is $25. Vendor booths are available for $30. For more information go online to www.iaap-magnolia.org/13 or contact Nancy Borel at 337-475-5083. IAAP is a not-for-profit professional association with approximately 40,000 members and affiliates with approximately 600 chapters worldwide. IAAP works in partnership with employers to promote professional excellence. Since 1952, IAAP has honored office workers by sponsoring Administrative Professionals Week (formerly Professional Secretaries Week). This has become one of the largest workplace observances. The event is celebrated worldwide, bringing together millions of people for community events, educational seminars and individual corporate activities recognizing support staff. This year Administrative Professionals Week is April 19-25. The SWLA Economic Development Alliance has set the date of its 5th Anniversary Entrepreneurial Showcase for April 16, 2009. The Showcase will highlight individuals who have successfully completed the SWLA Microenterprise Training and/or have been certified by Small and Emerging Business Programs in Southwest Louisiana. Both the Microenterprise Training and the Small and Emerging Business Program are administrated by the SWLA Partnership for Economic Development which is a part of the SWLA Economic Development Alliance. The businesses include store-front and home-based operations. Participants have received technical assistance in a variety of business areas, including entrepreneurial training, marketing, computer skills, business planning, etc. This showcase will recognize their outstanding progress and achievements. The Entrepreneurial Showcase will feature a keynote speaker (to be announced later), an Outstanding Entrepreneur of the year presentation, as well as the opportunity for clients to display the products and services of their businesses. John Matthews, Executive Director of Louisiana Economic Development Entrepreneurial Service, will also be present. The Showcase will be held at the Lake Charles Civic Center, Thursday April 16th at 7 p.m. in the Contraband Room. If you would like more information about the Entrepreneurial Showcase, please contact Adrian L. Wallace at 337-491-9151. The United Way of Southwest Louisiana has selected Denise Durel as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective May 1, 2009. Durel’s name was submitted to the United Way board of directors in January, nine months
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notes following the death of Thomas Morris, who had served as the United Way’s President and CEO for 19 years. “Her primary mission is to assist our family of United Way agencies in securing the financial resources they need to meet the needs of our five-parish community,” said Jim McGough. “Denise will be responsible for the general management of the United Way of SWLA under policies developed by the Board of Directors. Her core responsibilities will include campaign development, marketing coordination, communication management and general organizational coordination.” The United Way currently has 36 local agencies and 19 partner agencies and closely works with a wide variety of public and private entities throughout Southwest Louisiana to improve the quality of life for all residents. William B. Hart, MD, of Hart Eye Center is among the first 150 ophthalmologists in the United States and the only eye surgeon in Southwest Louisiana approved to utilize the TECNIS® Multifocal Intraocular Lens (IOL), the latest advancement in cataract surgery. The TECNIS® Multifocal IOL is the newest, state-of-the-art artificial lens utilized in cataract surgery to save and improve a patient’s vision by replacing the clouded natural lens. Dr. Hart says, “The TECNIS® Multifocal IOL is changing the face of Hart Eye Center is dedicated to helping each patient achieve optimum vision through the most current, state-of-the-art advancements and technology. For more information on Hart Eye Center and/or cataract surgery, visit www.harteyecenter.com or contact Jen Breen at 478-7396 or jbreen@ocarroll.com. The next series of prenatal classes “The Baby Shower” is scheduled for the following consecutive Tuesdays and the dates are as follows: March 24th and 31st, April 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th. This series of six weekly sessions will be held at SWLA Center for Health Services, located at 2000 Opelousas Street in Lake Charles, from 4:00pm until 5:30pm. The classes are educational, informative and filled with activities geared toward the expectant families. The classes cover a variety of topics for the new and expectant moms and other family support members who are part of the birthing process. The classes will cover Pregnancy, Labor/Delivery, Nutrition, Exercise, Breastfeeding, Relaxation Techniques and Parenting tips for rearing healthy babies. Special guest speakers will present information related to the obstetrical process in addition to having games, prizes and refreshments. Each participant attending each class will receive a certificate of completion as well as have an opportunity to earn points by attending each class, doctor visits and other appointments, which can be used to shop in our “Baby Shower Store” for additional layette items. For more information or to pre-register please call the Women’s Wellness Clinic at 439-9983.
We are currently seeking a Media Sales Representative. Full Time Position, Minimum 3 yrs. Experience Required. Send Resume To: The Times of SWLA 617 Drew St., Lake Charles, LA 70601
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ENTERPRISEBOULEVARD Moss Bluff Eyes Incorporation By Chaney Ferguson
In 2000 Moss Bluff’s population was 10, 535 with a growth rate of 31%. Today, that number has grown to over 23,000, bringing the topic of incorporation to the forefront of the minds of area residents. In late January and early February of 2008, the discussions became more focused, and the incorporation committee began gathering research and information on the advantages and disadvantages of becoming incorporated. Currently, the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury governs the unincorporated areas of the Parish with Moss Bluff making up Ward One of that area. Mike Viator, Chairman of the Committee for a Better Moss Bluff Inc, says, “Through incorporation the people of Moss Bluff would have a government that is 100% elected by them and 100% accountable to them.”
The process of incorporation requires that a petition must be signed by at least 25% of registered voters in order to be considered for a ballot vote. The Calcasieu Clerk of Courts Office reviews the names before passing it along to Governor Bobby Jindal, and if everything is in order, a special election is held and must be decided by a majority vote. A quarter cent parish-wide sales tax funds the sheriff’s department’s operations, including patrols in Ward 1. “We will probably have to enter into a contractual agreement with Moss Bluff,” said Sheriff Tony Mancuso. “I think by law, but I’m not certain, that they have to have a chief of police that they will pay.” Mancuso went on to say that if they want additional police than what we can provide, then they will have to handle that themselves. Daily operations of a city are
Times Presents
Nancy Correro joined The Times team as an Editor. Born in Oxford, Mississippi and raised in the Mississippi Delta and Atlanta, GA, Nancy enjoyed playing trumpet, piano, guitar, and songwriting before venturing into the literary world. She spent several years as a retail manager while playing gigs at night until, finally, burnout. Nancy then went to Georgia Perimeter College and Georgia State University where she graduated Magna Cum Laude in English/Literature with an emphasis in Creative Writing. At Georgia State, Nancy worked as Assistant to the Managing Editor at the South Atlantic Modern Language Association (SAMLA). She has published poems, short stories, and essays in several publications. She has two dogs and three cats and loves spending time writing, gardening, and playing music. Jessica Ferguson joined The Times team as an Assistant Editor. Born and raised in Longview, Texas, Jess graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University with a B.A. in English and minor in Communications. She has been a freelance writer for a number of years, worked as a contributing editor for an In-flight magazine, and a writer for the Cajun Gazette in New Iberia. Jess is Coordinator of The Professional Writers Center at Lamar University and teaches an online writing course called Nonfiction Bootcamp. She’s written for Metropolitan Beaumont, the Beaumont Journal, Savor!, BE Magazine, and has been editor of several trade publications for writers’ organizations. Jess is founder of The East Texas Writers Association and President of the Bayou Writers’ Group in Lake Charles. She’s the author of one novel. Jessica and her husband Jim have jumped back and forth across the TexasLouisiana line due to his work, with one fun jaunt to Scotland. They are members of Trinity Baptist Church and have a son and a daughter. Chaney Ferguson joined The Times as Assignments reporter. She was born in Baton Rouge and graduated from LSU with a degree in General Studies with emphasis on English, Speech Communication and Psychology. By the time she was six years old, Chaney had attended writer’s conferences and meetings in Louisiana and Texas, coloring her pictures and listening to speakers from around the country. She was a student writer for the American Press during her years at St. Louis Catholic High School, won a novel writing contest at age sixteen and has been published in several regional publications and anthologies. She was accepted into the Hollins Summer Writing program at Hollins University, Virginia. Chaney reads approximately fifty books a year, and taught English, Journalism and Speech Communication at Richard Milburn Academy in Beaumont, Texas while in the teacher certification program at Lamar. Natalie Clark joined The Times as Graphic Designer. She comes to Lake Charles from Arma, Kansas. Natalie received her Bachalor of Science degree in Commercial Graphics from Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg Kansas. She has designed graphics for many familiar companies such as: Harley-Davidson, MGM Casinos, Holoubek, Blame it on Hip-Hop, and Caesars Casinos. She is highly skilled in print design, marketing, project management, flash ads for web, and photography. Natalie is looking forward to many adventures here in Lake Charles.
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Enterprise Blvd. Continued driven by funds. Research by the group Committee for a Better Moss Bluff Inc. reveals the current sales and property taxes will be enough to pay for the cost of government and still maintain existing services. Moss Bluff currently pays a one cent sales tax which will be reallocated to the municipality of Moss Bluff. The one cent tax would bring in 1.2 million dollars. Additional funding would come from business and application fees on businesses and residences (other non-tax related fees), as well as a seven mil property tax the entity could levy for operational purposes.
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These three sources would make up the initial funding mechanism for the newly incorporated city, bringing the budget up to approximately 2.5 million dollars. “With incorporation comes the birth of a new taxing entity,” said local Moss Bluff resident Harvey Honsinger. “So far, the claims are that the sales tax will be sufficient to fund the needs of what will become the new city.” Honsinger went on to say that history nearly always shows that needs and wants will rise to meet or exceed income. “The remedy is to impose taxes, and this process usually is an ongoing one,” he said. The committee is encouraging residents to
host “neighborhood” house parties in order to become more knowledgeable about incorporation. “So far, there has only been one party,” said Viator, “but more are planned for the near future.” With the vote being eyed for the fall, some residents still feel in the dark. David and Marcelle Walker and Gene Steech said they have not received any phone calls or flyers in the mail notifying them of meetings or information about the incorporation. Some residents thought that Moss Bluff is currently bound by a taxing contract with the parish until 2024, leaving an incorporated Moss Bluff without the promise of their tax dollars being released from the parish. However, according to Mark McMurrey, Parish Administrator, to his knowledge there is no contract with Ward One. Viator states that the committee has met with the Administration at the Police Jury including Mark McMurrey and Shannon Spell, the Ward One Police Juror, and everyone has been cooperative with no foreseeable hang-ups. Viator says he does not know that anyone has the authority to get a commitment at this point. He points to previous studies in 2005 that provide alternative solutions based on the notion that other costs such as capital improvements (roads) could continue to be provided by the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury until the tax comes up for renewal or negations are made to return the tax monies to Moss Bluff. Options mentioned in the 2005 study are:
• Continue paying mills and sales tax to have the Police Jury maintain the roads • Enter into an agreement with the Police Jury to continue levying the sales tax in Moss Bluff with the proceeds to be used for roads in Moss Bluff. The extent of Moss Bluff’s involvement in determining the work to be done would depend on the agreement reached with the Police Jury. • Discontinue paying the sales tax to the Police Jury and after voter approval, levy the tax in Moss Bluff with road maintenance to be done by Moss Bluff. The city could contract with private firms for road maintenance, purchase its own equipment and hire its own employees, or a combination of both.
In a newly released statement, Viator said that “Over the past 3 or 4 weeks, the committee has been looking hard at the numbers. We, as well as others, have scrutinized them with as much diligence as possible. While they work, they are very close. We are going to idle the effort for a little bit to explore our options,” he said. One option is to reduce the size of the proposed city which would reduce the cost of providing services according to Viator. “Our hope still is to take in as big of an area as possible. We have had way more calls and e-mails from people who wanted to be included in the city than from those who did not. We will explore every scenario,” he concluded.
Mayor Randy Roach honored by American Society Landscape of Architecture By Bill Krull
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he Louisiana Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architecture recently honored Lake Charles Mayor Randy Roach with its prestigious Patron of Landscape Architecture Award for his leadership in not only recovering from the devastating effects of Hurricane Rita in September of 2005 but also setting the stage for long-term economic and community development. “Even though his first and utmost priority was keeping people safe during and immediately after the dangerous storm, Mayor Roach had the vision and passion to see beyond recovery and see the opportunity for growth and development,” said Dana Nunez Brown, President of LCASLA. “Today, thanks to that vision, careful planning and passion on the part of Mayor Roach as well as area government and business leaders, Lake Charles is building a superb quality of life and forging a path of sustainable economic development.” Immediately following the hurricane, Louisiana Speaks, a long-term community planning
A P P RO V E D
initiative of the Louisiana Recovery Authority, began gathering input from area citizens. Based on their feedback, city planners drew up a broad-based strategy, incorporating “Smart Growth” principles to ensure responsibility, accountability, and sustainability. Earlier this year, President Barack Obama incorporated these same principles in the stimulus strategy. A Lake Charles native, Roach has been Mayor since 2000. Prior to that, he served two terms in the Louisiana State Legislature. He is currently seeking re-election in the city’s April 4 elections. Founded in 1899, the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) is the national professional association representing landscape architects. Beginning with 11 original members, ASLA has grown to more than 18,000 members and 48 chapters, representing all 50 states, U.S. territories, and 68 countries around the world. ASLA promotes the landscape architecture profession and advances the practice through advocacy, education, communication, and fellowship.
Rhett Bellon, registered dietitian at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, was named 2008 Employee of the Year at the hospital’s annual Employee Awards Banquet held on February 27. Bellon was one of four employees selected by the Partners Executive Council as Bill Hankins, CEO of WCCH; Rhett Bellon, Registered an “Employee of the Quarter” in Dietitian at WCCH and 2008 Employee of the Year; and Bobby LeTard, Chairman of the Board of 2008, based on demonstrated Commissioners for WCCH service excellence and performance. From these four, the Employee of the Year was chosen by a hospital-wide employee vote. Bellon graduated from McNeese State University in 1999 and has been employed at WCCH for five years. He has also served as a preceptor for the MSU internship program and was awarded ‘Preceptor of the Year.” Rhett states that he gets the most satisfaction from his job when he is able to teach patients how to improve their health through good nutrition. In addition to the award recognition, Bellon received a gift basket, 40 hours of additional PTO time, and a gift selection booklet. L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort announced its February Five Star Employees and Employee of the Month. The February Five Stars are: Peter Gover, senior staff accountant; Leslie Mulsow, a banquet cook; Larry Batiste, a table games dealer; Kimberly Banks, a slot floor person; and Shane Williams, a bell attendant. Peter Gover was also designated as the February Employee of the Month and is now eligible to receive the coveted Employee of Five Stars from Left to right - Larry Batiste, Leslie the Year award. Gover Mulsow, Kimberly Banks and Shane Williams joined L’Auberge in July 2007. He is a resident of Sulphur and graduated from McNeese State University. Gover is married with two children; he and his wife are expecting a third child next month. Five Star employees are recognized monthly for their exceptional service skills. All of these employees went to great lengths to uphold L’Auberge’s quality and image as the most successful and respected entertainment destination in the South. In recognition for their hard work, the employees receive a substantial cash prize, a personalized L’Auberge gift, a month Employee of the Month of VIP parking and gift certificates. Peter Gover
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A Star is Born Limited options pays off. David Eakin, co-owner of SignStar, attributes being a kid with limited options in Cameron Parish as the stimulus for his creativity. He says when he was young he played outside all the time—built and created things. Good experience for a young Co-Owner/President of a digital sign business. Because the digital and sign industry is rapidly growing and continues to flourish, Eakin and his partner Jobe Johnson, after much research, felt the time was right to expand their design firm into something more—and SignStar was born. SignStar is a digital printing sign company located at 3118 Ryan Street in Lake Charles. The talented staff can do all types of signs: construction, banners, tradeshow and exhibit graphics, posters, and much more. If customers can’t quite grasp what they want or need to best advertise their business, the creative SignStar crew will be happy to brainstorm with them until the idea is fully hatched. Business owners, marketing agencies and individuals utilize all methods of advertising to communicate their business, various events, political agendas, and SignStar offers a myriad of products and services. “Traditional media such as TV ads can get quite expensive for small businesses; this is a less expensive medium. People always need signs,” Eakin points out. Within three months he was proved right. SignStar actually tripled their expectations. While it’s true, all businesses need signs and advertising, much of the credit goes to the good-natured team who pull the projects together: Burn Rourk is a multi-talented graphic designer, Jason Gillen is the Production Manager, and Adam Burleigh is Production Coordinator. These men work together like a well-oiled machine.
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By Jessica Ferguson
Eakin’s business philosophies plays a huge part in the creative process too. “Get up early, work hard, and hopefully go home before six.” Eakin laughs and elaborates: “You get out of it what you put into it. I believe in serving our customer, offering them good quality products at a reasonable price. My philosophy is work hard, be respectful to our clients and
people in the industry, be humble, and do a good job.” David Eakin’s cleancut appearance reflects the niceguy image, and ensures trust from whomever he talks to. He looks like a good, generous family man who takes pride in his work. He admits to watching and learning from local people in the industry and forming relationships with them. One man in the industry that Eakin looked up to while in school was Peter
O’Carroll of the O’Carroll Group. Today O’Carroll is president of the American Advertising Federation— Lake Charles chapter. Eakin and Johnson have long range plans for SignStar. “We hope to franchise some day. Maybe open another SignStar in another location altogether. We’ll see how it goes. That’s something we haven’t really discussed.” They may not have discussed it, but the idea is dancing around in the back of Eakin’s mind. A graduate of McNeese University with a degree in graphic design, Eakin claims his favorite thing to do within the business is Sales and Design. On second thought, he says, “I enjoy all aspects of it.” He gets around as if he’s on speed dial—this is a man with a lot of positive energy—and when asked what a typical day is like, he responds, “Cranking out projects as quickly as possible.” An interesting project they do for customers is vehicle wrap. They design the wrap to fit a particular car using a template and they have software to cut it into panels. “We design, print, and install it on the vehicle. . . sort of like wallpaper. We have to get real creative with it.” Eakin says it can be removed with heat guns and it doesn’t damage the
paint on the car. “It’s a niche market that will get more popular in the future,” he says. When asked the personality of the perfect customer, Eakin doesn’t hesitate to provide an answer. ”Someone who understands that what we do takes time, effort, and creativity. The perfect customer will give us the time we need to do our job and do it well.” He pauses to think before he continues. “You know, there’s not a button you push for creativity.” Eakin is raising his children to be creative too. He tries his best to get thirteen year old Megan and two and a half year old Lilah away from the television and participating in projects that will challenge their young minds. Eakins’ wife, Sherrie, is a registered nurse who works in Labor and Delivery at Memorial Hospital. “I used to have a lot of hobbies before marriage and business,” he says. “Now my kids, my family are my full-time hobby.” After one visit with David Eakin and the SignStar team, customers come away totally assured that they know their business well, and will do the best possible job for each customer. Push a button for creativity? If ever there was one, it’s called SignStar.
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BIZ BYTES
- By Dan Juneau
THE SWIFT REPORT
Louisiana: The Energy-Less State President Obama’s recently-released budget details two things: where the Administration wishes to go and how it will pay for it.
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n Louisiana and other energyproducing and consuming states, alarms are sounding, because the proposed budget could well be the end of economic vitality as we know it. Louisiana has long been called “The Energy State,” with the oil and gas industry providing state and local governments billions of dollars and creating thousands upon thousands of jobs. But, in an attempt to chart a totally new energy course for the nation, the FY 2010 federal budget, called “A New Era of Responsibility Renewing America’s Promise,” is simply a plan to destroy the nation’s domestic oil and gas industry. While calling on the country to reduce its dependence on foreign oil to assure national security, the Obama Administration proposes to eliminate the tools that have been given to our domestic industry to seek and find oil and gas here at home. The new budget proposes at least $31.5 billion in taxes and fees from the oil and gas companies over the next decade to pay for its “transition to a clean economy.” No longer will intangible drilling costs be expensed—that means there will be no more available capital investment for high-risk drilling. No longer will wells be depreciated. No longer will credit be given for wells that produce only small amounts of oil and gas or for enhanced oil recovery projects. Gone is the manufacturing tax deduction. What the industry will get is a new 13 percent excise tax on production in the Gulf of Mexico. Proponents of the plan point to industry profits in recent years; however, they totally ignore current realities. Take a look at Louisiana’s current budget and budget proposals for next year to see those realities. When oil topped $100 a barrel, the state of Louisiana amassed hundreds of millions of dollars in surpluses. When the price dropped, what happened? Budgets got slashed.
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The oil and gas industry responded similarly—when the price for oil and gas dropped, it stopped investing. What was thought to be a great boon to the economy of north Louisiana and the state as a whole, when Haynesville Shale leasing was at its peak last year, has now slowed to a trickle. This downturn in oil exploration and production has occurred despite the fact that the industry currently receives the federal incentives and more favorable tax treatment. What will be the effect of eliminating those incentives plus adding even more tax burdens on the industry under the new federal taxing plan? For Louisiana, investment in oil and gas would likely drop by $6 billion a year, the State General Fund would drop by another $2.3 billion a year, and unemployment would probably exceed 10 percent. At the other end of the “double whammy” are Louisiana’s individuals, businesses, and industries. These are the folks that consume the oil and gas and electricity. The proposed budget hits them too, with what’s called “cap and trade” with an estimated national impact of $150 billion in increased energy costs. So, where are we going and how will we pay for it? We’re headed toward what the U. S. Department of Energy calls “a low-carbon economy” paid for by taxes on our oil and gas consumers and producers. Though “a low-carbon economy” may be a long-term Administration goal, it will be a short-term reality in Louisiana. The combined effect of the taxes on Louisiana’s producers and consumers will assure that there will be much less production and consumption of hydrocarbons in Louisiana. Ginger Sawyer, Vice President and Director of LABI’s Energy Council, contributed to this column.
- By George Swift
President/CEO: SWLA Economic Development Alliance
April 2009 In recent years, the Chamber SWLA has taken more and more of an active role in shaping, supporting or voicing opposition to legislation or policies affecting our region. Currently, we have several issues on our plate. For example, our Board of Directors is strongly opposed to the so-called Employee Free Choice Act and has urged our congressional delegation in Washington to vote down this bad legislation. This legislation should be called the “Employee Forced Choice Act,” but is referred to by most as the “Card Check” legislation. If passed, it will forever change some basic rights and principles that have governed the workplace since our inception as a country. Under the EFCA, union organizers could walk in any size business and ask employees to sign a card in public rather than make the decision to unionize utilizing a secret ballot. Many fear that this could result in harassment and intimidation. If 51% of the employees sign the card, the company is unionized and the company must come up with a contract within 120 days. If that doesn’t work out, a federal mediator comes in and sets the terms for two years and with no recourse for the company. The bill also substantially increases penalties for violations, but only for the employer, not the union. Small and medium companies can not afford the terms of these contracts and could be forced to go out of business. Many companies are now hanging by a thread and any volatile changes to the pay and benefits— with no input from the management and owners—could put thousands out of work. This is the worst time to even consider such a dangerous and far-reaching bill. Recently, we went to Washington to join with other Chambers around the state and nation to ask Congress to vote no with no compromises. Congressmen Boustany and Fleming from our area are opposed as well as Senator Vitter. Senator Mary Landrieu is a
very crucial vote in the outcome of this bill. Senator Landrieu supported this bill last year, but she has wisely declined to co-sponsor this bill this year. She is gathering information from both sides. As the new Chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, Senator Landrieu is in a great position to make positive changes to the SBA and other programs to aid small businesses. Think of the restaurants, hotels, car dealers, retailers, and others that could be ruined if EFCA passes. We urge you as employees and employers to write Senator Vitter and Congressmen Boustany and Fleming and thank them for their opposition and we ask that you write or call Senator Landrieu and ask her to vote against cloture and against the bill in any form. There is a right way to organize businesses and there is a wrong way. This EFCA legislation is bad all-around and it must be defeated. The last thing we need at this pivotal time in our nation’s economy is something like this rammed down the throats of our businesses that are struggling to keep open and keep their workers on the payroll. As the State Legislature is getting set to begin, we have informed our delegation that we support funding for LED. Louisiana is in a position to compete nationally and our Southwest region is recognized in the state as being among the strongest performing regions. We need the funding to entice new major projects for Louisiana like the Shaw Westinghouse project which is underway. Also underway, is our SEED Center at McNeese. The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury will serve as contractor for the project and an architect was selected this week. The center will focus its attention on entrepreneurship and will serve existing and start up businesses in our five parishes. McNeese, the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, the City of Lake Charles, and the
The Fight for Progress
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Livin g the Dream Spencer Mathews grew up in Lake Charles rooting for the LSU Tigers. “Spencer has been following LSU all of his life. He used to go see his grandma and grandpa and they would take him to Skip Bertman’s LSU baseball camp,” according to his father Scotty Mathews. Spencer went on to become an AllState pitcher at Barbe High School where he helped lead the Bucs to the 2006 Class 5A State Championship. After graduating, Spencer wanted to continue his playing career, and he only wanted to play for one school. With no scholarship offer from LSU, Spencer decided to try and walk on the LSU Baseball team in the fall of 2007. As cuts were being made Spencer thought he had a great chance to make the final roster, however, the last player that LSU head coach Paul Mainieri released was Spencer. Although he didn’t make the team, Spencer made a good impression on Mainieri. “Coach Mainieri gave me a call back and said he would like me to try out again. So I mulled it over during the summer and decided to tryout again. I had not thrown a pitch in six months, so I worked really hard, threw a whole lot, and got back in shape,” said Spencer.
When the fall semester began in 2008, Spencer was ready to give it another shot. He felt like he had more opportunities to impress the LSU coaches the second time around and this time when the final LSU roster was released, it included #58 Spencer Mathews. “I proved that I was good enough to hang with these guys, and they gave me a jersey. The first phone call I made when I heard the news was to my dad because he has been my biggest supporter,” said Spencer. “You’re wondering what you’re going to say when your son calls you and says I’ve been cut again,” said Scotty. “Spencer described how Mainieri brought him in his office and asked him if he would like to wear the purple and gold. When he told me that I almost passed out.” “Spencer made the team this year for one reason and that is that he earned it. He’s a kid that goes out there and throws a lot of strikes. He’s a gamer and he knows how to win. He was obviously coached very well at Barbe High School and was used to playing for a winner,” said Mainieri.
All Sports All Local All The Time Saturday & Sunday at 11:30am on
continued from p10
Alliance have formed a local services agreement to work together to make this happen. McNeese will be the focal point for our economic development activities in this new facility. As an aside, one of the best parts of my job is visiting with our chamber members. Recently, Paula Ramsey and I met with Elizabeth Payne, the General Manager at Olive Garden.
Elizabeth has worked in Beaumont and Lafayette and she loves the Lake Charles area. She is excited to come to work everyday and her enthusiasm shows. Managers like Elizabeth set a positive tone not only in the operation of Olive Garden, but in the attitude of her staff. Why don’t you try it? Think globally, act regionally, and talk up Southwest Louisiana.
www.337sports.net April 2, 2009
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Moody Gardens Golf Course By Nancy Correro
On Galveston Island
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800-582-4673 www.moodygardensgolf.com
n this fourth installment of “Just a Chip Shot Away,” we travel to beautiful Moody Gardens Golf Course on Galveston Island, Texas. The renowned golf course architects of Jacobson Hardy created a new design for the 6,900 yard, 18 hole, par 72 course in late 2006. Their focus was to keep the historical features while improving certain holes and overall course flow. The course is designed to be player friendly and has 5 sets of tees for all playing levels. The redesigned course features new turf grass, green complexes, elevation, irrigation, drainage, and cart paths. Other improvements include a larger driving range, new golf cart fleet, Pro Shop, and remodeled clubhouse. Although Hurricane Ike hit Galveston on September 12, 2008 and Moody Gardens had just reopened June of 2008 with fresh renovations, you’ll be pleased to know that they are back up and running according to Bill Pushak, Moody Gardens Golf Course General Manager. Their greatest nightmare having been faced, and not to minimize the impact of Ike, it seems as if it was a mere bump in the road for them. Their recent renovations to the course aided in the quick recovery. Superintendent Steve Yarotsky had overseen the seeding and maturation of the salt-resistant paspalum grass that covered the 135,000 square feet of the course. The grass did better than expected. It was a green beacon to many of the locals who went out and played the links about a month
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after Ike. Pushak said that “the grass was very resilient. It was completely underwater and they had no irrigation for two weeks, but the grass stayed green. When viewing the Island from a plane after the hurricane, the golf course was the only green in sight.” Pushak said that “there are 64 bunkers in all and they only need to repair 15” to be completely past the damage from Ike. He said that the new golf cart fleet was saved because they relocated them before the storm. Since the buildings had to be built high, they weathered the storm. Upcoming events include “Moody Madness 3” a Golf Tournament and Salsa Competition where you can golf and bring your own salsa for judging—Golf and salsa, now that sounds like fun. This will be held Saturday, May 9, 2009. You must register by April 29. Registration begins at 7:30 AM. The cost is $65 per person with green/cart fee, range balls, fiesta lunch, and prizes per flight included. For those of you who are not into golfing, perhaps you would like to indulge in Moody Gardens other attractions. There is a spa, IMAX 3D theater, 4D Special FX theater, tropical rainforest, aquarium, and interactive futuristic movie ride. They also have Spring Break and Easter events coming up. For more details see the Moody Gardens website since event dates and movie times change. You’re “Just a Chip Shot Away” from Moody Gardens, Spring is here, and the freshly mowed grass is waiting for you to tee off.
Chip Shot
Why do I Need to Regrip My Clubs?
We are constently being bombarded about how poorly the U.S. Economy is. But in Southwest Louisiana we continue to remain strong...
It's the perfect time for a partnership with
Advice for a Better Golf Game By Cindy Shackelford Owner, New Moon Drive-In Range
The grip is one of the most important components in golf and the only part of the club that you actually touch. Grips are made of materials that age and wear as a function of time and use. Ozone, heat, dirt, and oils from your hands all age your grips and cause the natural degradation of the grip. The traction that a fresh grip provides lets you hold the club lightly without the subconscious fear of losing the club during your swing. This relaxed state promotes proper swing mechanics and wrist action. A worn grip causes you to grasp the club tighter which causes arm and wrist tension that inhibits proper swing mechanics and can lead to a loss of power and control. Fresh grips are inexpensive and a fast way to bring noticeable change in your game. A national survey of golfers showed that 66% of those who had clubs re-gripped had an average drop of three to four strokes per round! If you average 2 to 3 rounds of golf a week once a year you should regrip. So, every spring you can get your clubs regripped. Go to the New Moon Drive-In Range and we can help you. For directions call: 337-480-0700 or email: newmoondi@aol.com.
Boy Scouts Celebrate 100th Anniversary “In a Big Way”
ECONOMIC FACTS FOR SWLA • Lake Charles unemployment is 4.8%... Nationally 7.2% • Southwest Louisiana housing prices are up 3.3% over this time last year... Actually there is a housing shortage in SWLA. • Local Southwest Louisiana Banks and Credit Unions are “Rock Solid” with millions of dollars to lend to consumers for mortgages, businesses, automobiles and other uses. (Locally owned banks in SWLA did not get caught up in the sub-prime loans problem) • Locally, retail sales are at an all-time high.
Take advantage of our local economy reaching your customers through the local magazine your customers read. Call our sales team to began your partnership of prosperity. Let's grow together! andy.jacobson@timessw.com
337-439-0995
“If you are going to celebrate a 100th anniversary, do it in a big way.” That’s the philosophy of six adult volunteers from Michigan who visited the Calcasieu Area Council, BSA during a unique 45,000 mile, year long road trip helping all Boy Scout councils throughout the United States kickoff their local celebration of 100 years on Scouting’s role in character and leadership development. Dubbed “A Century of Values,” the road journey teams launched their official kickoff in Laingsburg, Michigan on February 8, 2009. The caravan is winding its way across the country, scheduled to end in Irving, Texas at the National Boy Scout Museum on February 8, 2010, the 100th Anniverary of Boy Scouting in America. Fourteen teams will rotate driving the 45,000 miles in a 32 foot colorfully decorated motor home donated by Coachmen Industries. At each of the 300 plus council stops, team members will present local Boy Scout representatives with a framed 24” X 36” anniversary mural and help kickoff local centennial events. The mural depicts famous individuals, places, and events in Scouting history. It was created by professional illustrator and Eagle Scout, Bill Morrison, who has done design work for Disney and Hollywood animation studios. “A Century of Values” nationwide road tour was in Lake Charles on Thursday March 12.
April 2, 2009
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Contraband Bayou Golf Club at L’Auberge By Chaney Ferguson
L’Auberge du Lac Casino & Resort Lake Charles
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(337) 395-7220 • www.ldlcasino.com
ontraband Bayou Golf Club at L’Auberge, the only public course in the state designed by world-renowned golf architect Tom Fazio, suffered major damage during Hurricane Ike. The turf sat under saltwater for three days before the water receded leaving behind a layer of salt, dead fish, and ruined plant life. Recovery is ongoing and multi-layered. After the green was cleared of all debris, a neutralization process was carried out in order to extract the salinity from the turf. The eight lakes on the course, which facilitate drainage and serve as an irrigation reservoir, were drained of saltwater which took three days and then had to be refilled. The course was closed for only seven days thanks to all the L’Auberge du Lac employees who helped with the clean-up. “Everybody got involved. It didn’t matter what their title was they got out and helped,” said Billy Rase, Golf Superintendent at Contraband Bayou Golf Club at L’Auberge. The latest issue of Golf Digest quotes a previous excerpt from John Updike. “Somehow, it is hard to dislike a man once you have played a round of golf with him.” Hopefully, Updike would not mind his quote being amended for this particular occasion to honor the workers. “Somehow, it is hard to dislike a man once you have cleaned a golf course with him.” It certainly seems to be true for all of the workers at L’Auberge. Since the golf course opened in 2005, it has survived two major hurricanes. The difference between Hurricane Rita and Hurricane Ike is the type of damage each hurricane caused. Rita involved more wind damage resulting in fallen trees, and overall the recovery was quicker. Ike covered the golf course with 10 feet of saltwater providing lengthy and more complicated challenges. The three months following the storm involved changing the tires on all the equipment because of punctures caused by fish bones. This unique problem is one of many the workers had to overcome in order to restore the golf course back to its natural design. One problem plaguing the recovery efforts is timing. “This course is affected differently because our root zone is not as deep into the soil as surrounding courses,” said Billy Rase.
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Hurricane Ike hit September of 2008 leaving the grass to face cooler days after the initial shock of the saltwater. “Cold weather does not kill the grass, but causes it to go into a dormant state,” said Bill Belcher, Head Golf Professional and member of the PGA, at Contraband Bayou Golf Club at L’Auberge. The next several months of warm weather will allow the grass to grow and help it become healthier in case of future storms. Hurricanes are a fact of life in this area and preventative measures are being taken. Before Ike hit, the staff reserved a chemical called Gypsum from Georgia so they would be first on the list to get help once everything cleared up enough for recovery to begin. The chemical is used to help the salinity levels of the soil return to normal. It chemically bonds with the salt and is then flushed through the soil profile or root zone with fresh water. Belcher and Rase both acknowledge that the best preparation is planning and using experience from previous hurricanes. As a result, flood control valves and reverse irrigation pumps are being put into place. The unique design of the 7,000-yard, par 71—18 hole golf course helped control the damage. According to Rase, the water would have flooded everything anyway and the lakes and plants helped absorb and contain some of the saltwater. The tees, fairways, and roughs are 419 Bermuda and the greens are Tifdwarf. Both grasses are more salt tolerant and prefer warmer climates. The longest hole is 611 yards par 5 and the shortest is 169 yards par 3. Contraband Bayou also includes a driving range and a short practice range. All skill levels are challenged with four sets of tee boxes on each hole. There is still some turf damage in a few areas but they are expecting a full recovery by July. In the meantime, all 18 holes are open so go out and enjoy the warm weather while developing your game at Contraband Bayou Golf Club at L’Auberge, where even this non-golfer found herself drawn in by the beautiful environment.
April 2, 2009
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INSIDE BATON ROUGE
- By John Mcginnis
College Revamp Easier Said Than Done A few months ago, Commissioner of Higher Education Sally Clausen got the presidents of the state’s universities to agree in principle on a change to how colleges are funded. The idea, not a new one, is to reward schools doing better jobs of graduating their students on time and attracting competitive research grants instead of just allocating dollars based on enrollment, as is now the case. The college presidents all held hands around the campfire in unity, with one caveat: that any new plan would only be implemented with increased public dollars, so that some schools would get more but none would get less. In other words, hold that thought until the state’s financial picture improves. So imagine the shock and dismay in academia when the governor’s office, the day before it released its executive budget for the new fiscal year, informed college presidents that not only would they get 15 percent less state support, but that those fewer dollars would be distributed according to that brave new formula they were talking about, even if it wasn’t finalized. When there is not enough money to go around may seem like the right time to shake down the system and start anew, except to those who have to live with the consequences. Such is the cloud of angst hanging over college administration offices today. For years, the common complaint of armchair governors has been that Louisiana has too many four-year colleges, some within a few miles of each other. In this big-picture view, a bunch could be closed, merged or made into cost-effective two-year community colleges, thus saving millions by reducing the number of high-salaried presidents, deans and what not. While the tough-love approach to restructuring higher education sounds good and simple, there are more than the devil in the details, but whole sankepits and minefields awaiting the best-intentioned plans. Any official who has even uttered the name of an institutution as a candidate for closure, merger or down-sizing instantly has been besieged with irate phone calls and hate mail worthy of an AIG executive. Take, for example, the most obvious case for merger. The University of New
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Orleans and Southern University at New Orleans sit side by side on Lake Pontchartrain. The UNO student body is mostly white; SUNO is mostly black. Both campuses were heavily damaged by Katrina--SUNO more so--and their enrollments have declined significantly. Sounds simple just to put the two together. But to seriously propose such is to invite a firestorm of protest from both campuses, and probably an inquiry from the civil rights division of the U.S. Justice Department. And isn’t that just what the city needs: another issue on which to divide along racial lines? One could kick over a similar anthill in northeast Louisiana, home to three four-year ULS campuses, or anywhere else a university is targeted for demotion to a community college. Yet passionate and parochial concerns should not defeat the big idea that higher education in Louisiana would better serve and be served by a well-thought-out reorganization of campuses. The population of high schoolers is dropping while the popularity of community colleges grows, with both trends working against the status quo among four-year universities. Changing the funding formula for higher education seems like the best way to start, but the governor is putting Higher Education Commissioner Clausen in a very tough spot by calling for the new plan in the worst budget year in two decades. The governor might wish for the Board of Regents, which Clausen answers to, to propose the higher education cuts for him, but the constitution does not so provide. It requires the Legislature to appropriate directly to the college governing boards, not through Regents. That means college officials and boosters will be pressing their legislators to adjust the new funding formula--or to tap the so-called Rainy Day Fund--to keep their schools from being hurt. If so, not much will have changed where it matters. The last time Louisiana had a single head of higher education, his name was Huey Long. If Bobby Jindal is serious about restructuring university systems-starting with a new funding formula-he needs to get directly involved: devils, snakes, mines and all.
FINANCIAL FOCUS
Give Your Investment Portfolio a Spring Cleaning
S
by Mike Allen
pring is almost here — time to spruce up your house and get rid of your clutter. But this year, don’t confine your spring cleaning to your home and yard. Why not “freshen up” your investment portfolio at the same time? Of course, you can’t just take a mop and broom to your brokerage statement. But some of the same principles that apply to your basic spring cleaning can work just as well when you tidy up your investments. Consider the following suggestions: • Take an inventory of your belongings. If you’re like most people, you’ve got some things lying around your house that have outlived their usefulness. It might be that lawn mower that died in 2004 or the toaster that warmed its last slice during the Clinton Administration, but whatever it is, it’s beyond repair — and it should go. And the same may be true of some of your investments. If one hasn’t performed the way you had hoped or no longer fits into your long-term goals, this might be a good time to speak with a financial advisor. • Dispose of your duplicates. If you went through your house carefully, you might be surprised at how many items you have that do the same thing. Do you really need two colanders? And how many radios can you listen to at one time? If you looked at your investment portfolio the same way, you might be surprised by some of the redundancies that pop up. For example, you may have several stocks issued by similar companies that make similar products. This might not be a concern when the stock market is booming, but it could be a definite problem if a downturn affects the industry to which these companies belong. Always look for ways to diversify your holdings. While diversification, by itself, cannot guarantee a profit or protect against a loss, it may help reduce the effects of market volatility. • Put things back in order. Over time, and almost before you’re aware of it, the spaces in your home can get “out of balance.” Perhaps you have too many chairs in one corner, or maybe your new desk takes up too much space in your home office. With some rearranging, however, you can get things back in order. The same need for rearrangement may apply to your portfolio, which might have become unbalanced, with too much of one investment and too little of another. This situation could undermine your financial strategy, especially if the imbalance means you are taking on too much risk or, conversely, if your holdings have become too conservative to provide the growth you need. So, look for ways to restore your portfolio to its proper balance. By giving your portfolio an annual spring cleaning, you can help make sure it’s up-to-date, suited to your needs and well-positioned to help you make progress toward your key financial goals. And you can do it all without going near a dust cloth.
WHAT’S
UP DOC? Why do white spots on fingernails occur? Usually, it’s due to hitting or bumping your fingernail on a hard surface. The medical term for this is leukonychia and is simply chalked up to mild trauma. These spots usually grow out with time. A normal fingernail takes about eight months to grow out completely, so these white spots may linger for several months after the fact. There are less common reasons for these spots, including a fungal infection and skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema can also be the cause. More serious conditions such as certain nutritional deficiencies with zinc or protein can cause a nearly white nail, as well as cirrhosis, a form of liver disease. Keep in mind, though, that these conditions have other more serious symptoms, and white spots on nails are rarely the first indication. Ken Thomas, MD, family medicine physician, Cypress Clinic Does having a vasectomy increase my risk of prostate cancer? Not at all. Although, many studies have been performed to see if there is a link, research has found no increased risk of prostate cancer after vasectomy. If you’re concerned about your prostate cancer risk, talk to your doctor about possible symptoms and screening tests. Kenneth Verheeck, MD, urologist, Urology Center of SWLA What causes your sense of taste and smell to decrease with age, and is there anything you can do about it? Some loss of taste and smell occurs normally with aging. This can be due to degeneration of the nerves that control smell, which can directly or indirectly affect taste. Also, the sensitivity of your taste buds can diminish with age. But aging is not the only cause of taste and smell loss. Other causes include: • Nasal and sinus problems, such as allergies, sinusitis and polyps • Certain medications, such as some antibiotics, high blood pressure medications and chemotherapy • Mouth sores, tooth decay or poor dental hygiene • Head injury • Heavy metal poisoning • Cigarette smoking • Neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s Loss of taste and smell can have a significant impact on quality of life. Diminished taste and smell can lead to decreased appetite and poor nutrition in older adults. It may also tempt you to use too much salt or sugar on your food to enhance the taste — which is a problem if you have high blood pressure or diabetes. For these reasons, it’s important to have this problem evaluated by a doctor. If properly diagnosed, many causes of impaired taste and smell are treatable. Dr. Allen Butler, ENT Specialist, Jennings American Legion Hospital Medical Staff I have never had a problem with fever blisters but lately I have been breaking out. I was wondering what some possible solutions might be? Fever blisters are very common, and there is currently no cure. However, you can take steps to reduce and limit the duration of an occurrence. Some natural home remedies can include herbs such as tea bags, petroleum jelly, olive leaf extract or even sage. Many feel that these are beneficial to fever blister treatment and have seen less of a reoccurrence. If you are still having outbreaks after trying these, you should consult with your physician. There are prescription medications available that have proven success with managing outbreaks. Todd Peavy, MD, family medicine physician, Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic
April 2, 2009
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April 2, 2009
By Sara Blackwell
Pet Danger Whether a person lives alone or is part of a large family, many Louisianans enjoy the companionship of a lovable animal. Life just seems fuller and more pleasurable with a family pet that feels more like family than a pet. Some people enjoy reptiles such as snakes and lizards while others prefer the more traditional animals such as dogs and cats. Nevertheless the family pet becomes the family problem when that beloved animal injures a person or another’s property. Under Louisiana law, a pet owner may be liable for injuries caused by his pet and that liability is different if the animal is a dog rather than any other family pet. Louisiana Civil Code specifically states that the owner of an animal is responsible for the damage caused by the animal. However, such owner is only responsible if he knew or should have known in the exercise of reasonable care that the animal’s behavior would cause that particular damage. Further, the owner is only responsible for the animal caused injury if the damage could have been prevented by the owner’s exercise of reasonable care and that he failed to exercise such reasonable care. The language thus far comprises a typical negligence type of liability. The Civil Code article further states that the owner of a dog is strictly liable for the damages caused by the dog for which the owner could have prevented and which did not result from the victim’s provocation of the dog. Basically, an injured person attempting to recover for damages caused by a dog has an easier battle for recovery of damages then if the injuries were caused by any other household pet. The owner of a dog can be held liable for the injuries caused by the dog under two separate legal theories, strict liability and negligence, whereas the owner of other types of house pets is liable only under a negligence type theory. In applying the Louisiana statute to injuries caused by a dog, the Louisiana Supreme Court set out a standard which must be proven before the owner is strictly liable for the dog-caused injuries. A doginjured-victim must prove that he sustained an injury to himself or his property, the injury could have been prevented by the owner of the
dog, and the injury was not caused by the victim’s provocation of the dog. The same court explained that to show that a dog owner could have prevented the victim’s injury the victim must show that the dog presented an unreasonable risk of harm. An owner of a Rottweiler or Pitt Bull may have a hard time defending that the animal is not an unreasonable risk of harm based solely on the breed. If a dog has a history of biting or injuring others, then the owner may have a similar difficult time defending that the dog is not an unreasonable risk of harm. If the animal poses an unreasonable risk of harm, then the injured victim should be able to show that the injury could have been prevented by the dog owner. A leash and a fence are basic ways of preventing the dog from causing injuries but only if such leash and fence are sufficient to confine the pet. If the victim proves that the owner could have prevented the injuries, the victim must only prove that he suffered an injury and the injury was not caused by his own provocation. An owner which could have prevented the injuries can still prevent liability if he can show that the victim provoked the dog to injury. The victim provoked the dog if he poked the dog with a stick or teased the dog in some way. Calling for a dog or playing with a dog may be considered provoking the animal in certain situations. Standing on the opposite side of a fence and shaking meat at the dog would probably be considered provocation. Each situation differs depending on the type of the animal, the action of the victim and other various factors. On the other hand, if the injured party cannot prove that the injury could have been prevented by the dog owner or that the injury was not caused by his provocation of the dog, the injured party could try to recover under a negligence standard as set out for all other household animals. The requirements for such a showing are stated above. Regardless of which standard is applicable, it is wise to pay close attention to all animals in your possession, especially dogs. Know your pet and act accordingly.
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April 2, 2009
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MENShealth Brittle Can Affect Older Men As Well Fractures may be less common in men, but they are more dangerous for them, according to health experts. Everyone knows that women need to worry about osteoporosis as they age. But what is less well-known is that 30 percent of elderly men who suffer a hip fracture will die within a year of that fracture—double the rate for older female patients. “But despite this increased risk, many men—and their physicians—view brittle bones as a woman’s problem, and are never tested for osteoporosis,” says Barbara Tomek, MD, Radiologist with Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic. One recent U.S. study, published last month in the journal Osteoporosis International, found that men who have fractures are “woefully undertreated.” The study found that just one in every six men who had a spine or hip fracture was treated with osteoporosis medications to strengthen aging bones. According to the same study, just 1.1 percent of men brought to the hospital for a serious fracture received a bone density test to evaluate their overall risk. “If these patients were women, this type of follow-up would be routine, but doctors just don’t think of osteoporosis treatment as a consideration for a man,” says Dr. Tomek. Dr. Tomek says part of the problem is that men start out with denser, healthier bones than women. “Women have less bone to begin with, and then they begin to lose more after menopause. The overall rate of bone loss for men and women is the same, but because men start higher they don’t get into trouble as quickly, and osteoporosis doesn’t become a concern for men around age 70 and older.” But when a fracture occurs in the elderly, brittle bones can quickly become a life-or-death concern. “There are a number of reasons people can die after fracture,” Dr. Tomek explains. “They may have underlying cardiovascular disease that leads to congestive heart failure. They may develop infection and there’s a suggestion, based on some evidence that perhaps in 25 percent of male patients death is related to the consequences of the hip fracture itself.” While menopause is a major cause of bone deterioration in women, factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption and the use of certain medicines increase fracture risks for men. The gradual age-related decline in circulating testosterone is another factor. Men over the age of 50 should also take care to get approximately 1,200 mg of calcium a day from diet, or diet and supplements combined to reduce their risk. The current recommended daily allowance for another bone-strengthener, vitamin D, is 400 International Units (IU) per day for older men, but Dr. Tomek says that level is currently under review and may be revised upwards. As for exercise, it provides benefits for bone strength, muscle strength for bone support, and balance. “Two things contribute to fractures: bad bones and a fall,” says Dr. Tomek. “Exercise can help reduce risk on both levels.” Although there are currently no recommended osteoporosis screening guidelines for men, Dr. Tomek says experts in the field do agree on some recommendations. Bone density testing is recommended for men with history of fractures, particularly of the hip, vertebral body, or distal wrist; radiographic evidence of osteopenia; longterm glucocorticoid use; hypogonadism; hyperparathyroidism; and other risk factors for osteoporosis, also medications affecting bone metabolism, or gait disorder. “In addition, physicians are encouraged to consider routinely screening men aged 70 or older, because this is the age when fracture rates increase most rapidly,” adds Dr. Tomek. For more information about bone density screening, call the Imaging Services of The Clinic, located at 4320 Lake Street, at 312-8238.
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Nutrition Tips Just for Men Much has been said about women and nutrition. Due to menstruation, pregnancy and menopause, women do need additional vitamins and minerals such as folic acid, iron and calcium. However, men’s nutritional needs haven’t been as widely discussed. “Men have their own set of nutritional demands,” according to Leslie Petross, Registered Dietitian with West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. “Good nutrition is a key player for a healthy lifestyle in both men and women. Health concerns such as heart disease, obesity and diabetes can be reduced or eliminated with a healthy body weight and good nutrition,” she said. More Calories Needed As a whole, men’s calorie needs are greater because they are usually bigger than women and have more muscle mass to fuel. A typical 180-pound man who has 17% body fat would have 150 pounds of lean muscle and would need 2,100 calories per day at rest. A woman who weighs 130 pounds with 100 pounds of lean body mass at about 23% body fat would need 1,400 calories at rest. “The balance between men and women has been equalized, for the most part, when it comes to family life, careers and personal goals; but for calorie needs, men still get the advantage of needing more,” Petross said. She said these figures may need to be increased 300 to 500 calories per day for physical activity, but the difference in men’s and women’s needs remains basically the same. Importance of Protein For men who are physically active, protein intake is critical for
building muscle mass. “Men who are active and want to maintain or increase their muscle mass need to eat more protein than they might think,” she explained. To determine optimal protein needs for men, divide weight in pounds by 2.2. The ending figure is a good upper figure for the amount of protein needed. “For example, a 32-year-old man who weighs 180 pounds and wanted to increase lean muscle mass, should eat up to 82 grams daily,” she said. By eating protein in the evening, their bodies can rebuild muscle tissues during the night. Petross warned against consuming too much protein, which can contribute to heart disease. “An excessive amount of any particular food, vitamin or mineral is not recommended. A ‘balanced’ diet is just that—it’s a wide variety of many different foods eaten in moderation.” Nutrition through the Years As men age, that lean muscle mass decreases naturally. As the body composition shifts toward more body fat, calorie requirements decline. “That’s why if men are eating the same quantity in their 40s as they were in their 20s, they will see a weight gain,” she explained. “That can be solved by increasing physical activity, and slightly decreasing the amount of food eaten. It may take some trial and error, but eventually, you will find the right balance for your body,” she said. Petross explains some of the nutritional focuses men have through the years. “A man in his 20s and 30s is usually interested in building a strong, toned body. This can be done through strength training and eating a healthy, balanced diet. In their 40s and 50s, men need to pay more attention to their heart health
by consistently getting aerobic exercise at least 4 – 5 days a week and continuing to eat a variety of healthy foods,” she said. “In their 60s and beyond, making sure antioxidants are included in their diet. Antioxidants are found in brightly colored fruit and vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, tomatoes and spinach.” Health Concerns for Men Osteoporosis is often thought of as a “woman’s disease”, but men also need to be on guard. Experts say one in four men over age 50 will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in his lifetime. “Calcium is as important for men as it is for women,” Petross said. Vitamin D helps facilitate the absorption of calcium from the intestines. Unfortunately, many American men do not get enough Vitamin D. Levels may be low in the elderly and in those who are inactive or housebound. Getting ten to fifteen minutes of sunshine can help meet Vitamin D needs. It is also found in eggs, butter, liver and milk. For good prostate health, lycopene is a good addition to a man’s diet. It is found in abundance in fresh, raw tomatoes, but cooking appears to make the lycopene more readily available for the body to absorb and utilize. A 1995 study found that men who ate more than ten servings of tomato products each week had a thirty-five percent lower risk of prostate cancer than men who ate fewer than one and a half servings. Zinc also boosts prostate health. Zinc
deficiency can reduce testosterone levels and sperm count. “Zinc is found in high quantities of animal products, so for vegetarians, it may be particularly important to add a zinc supplement in their diet,” said Petross. Other sources of zinc include oysters, mushrooms, dairy products, beef and whole grain cereals. Heart disease is a leading health concern for men. Garlic has been shown to be a heart healthy herb, and folic acid helps keep homocysteine levels in blood from rising. Excess homocysteine has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Heavy consumption of meat and dairy products increase homocysteine levels. Foods rich in folic acid include leafy greens, citrus fruits, beans and wheat germ. “Healthy eating is important for both longevity and quality of life,” Petross explained. Research shows that eating right can play a strong role in the prevention of diseases and conditions such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes and obesity. A healthy diet can bring back the energy and vitality that may be lacking.
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Guys Get Comfortable in Their Own Skin In the not-so-distant past, it was a soap and water world for men. Skincare products “for men only” didn’t exist. If a guy needed help with a breakout or dry patch, he was on his own, or forced to borrow his wife or girlfriend’s face wash or moisturizer—not that this is something many would ever admit to doing. Fast forward to the present and it’s a bold—and beautiful—new world for the modern man. Product manufactures have not only realized that men have skin care concerns too, they are addressing the unique skin care needs of men with an array of washes, ointments, creams and more. Now men face a new challenge: figuring out what products they should use. “Women are very accustomed to learning about different ingredients, asking questions and choosing products to meet their skincare needs, but men are not as comfortable in this area,” says medical aesthetician Leann Widcamp, with the Aesthetic Center of Southwest Louisiana. “And while they may be tempted to go back to either doing nothing or using whatever their significant other has on the bathroom counter, it’s important for men to
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recognize that, beyond the obvious, all skin is not the same and there are finally products just for them” Widcamp says the products available for them have been developed to address the most common skin differences in men.
These include: Testosterone Because men have high testosterone levels, they often have larger pores, increased oil production and more acne. Consequently, men’s skin care products are specifically designed to deep clean your face and provide less moisture than women’s products, along with minimal smells and fragrances. Widcamp says this is why reaching for your partner’s products can actually do more harm than good. “Women’s products contain more oil to treat women’s drier and thinner skin. This can irritate men’s skin and clog their pores.” Thicker Skin Most people would say men have “thicker skin than women,” but while this expression usually refers to emotions, it’s also a physical fact. The skin of a male is typically 20 to 30 percent thicker than a woman’s because of higher levels of collagen and elastin. What does this mean for aging? “A man’s skin is naturally more hydrated, so it ages at a slower pace than women’s skin,” explains Widcamp. “But this doesn’t mean guys are off the hook. You still need a moisturizer to hydrate your thicker skin and also reduce signs of aging.”
Shaving With facial hair to control, men have another unique set of problems. Daily shaving can lead to ingrown hairs, irritation, razor burn and red splotches, making your skin extra sensitive. To combat shaving sensitivity, Widcamp says to look for aftershave and balm products. “And although shaving can cause irritation, it’s actually an important part of a good skincare regimen. In addition to getting rid of facial hair, every shave helps you slough off the dead, dry skin cells.” More Time Outdoors Typically, men spend more time outdoors than women. Whether you’re mowing the lawn, playing catch with the kids, or fishing, you are likely to work up a sweat in the hot sun. Widcamp says this is why a good cleanser for larger male pores is needed for deep cleaning. And men are not as cautious about UV protection. “UV rays can cause skin damage, aging and skin cancer. Some research suggests men are even at higher risk because their skin contains fewer antioxidants. Using a daily moisturizer that contains UV protection can help decrease this
risk, and men should also apply extra sunscreen to their face whenever spending time outdoors.” Widcamp says men don’t need to worry about feeling self conscious when purchasing skin care products. Manufacturers have eliminated the frills and designed packaging with men’s purchasing habits in mind. Products have practical names, precise directions and minimum frills. Bottles also tend to be bigger, designed comfortably for a man’s larger hands. “But while the packaging might look and feel different, the powerful ingredients included in women’s products are still there. Active ingredients like vitamins A, C and E, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, grape seed extract, retinol and more popular and effective treatments are inside. There’s no reason men can’t benefit from these proven treatments for skin care problems and anti-aging therapies that women have been using for years.” For more information about specific male skin care concerns, call the Aesthetic Center at 310-1070.
Dad’s Age Can Affect Baby’s Health New studies are showing that the biological clock comes in blue as well as pink. Men who father children after the age of 40 have an increased risk of the pregnancy ending in a miscarriage, or for the baby to have birth defects. The risks were independent of the mother’s age.
“Many men have fathered healthy babies in their 40’s, 50’s and 60’s and some even older than that,” said Thomas Alderson, MD, Urologist with The Urology Center of Southwest Louisiana. “But, the health of sperm diminishes as the man ages, raising the risk for potential problems in getting a
woman pregnant as well as the health of the baby.” It is known that women’s fertility declines after the average age of 35. Getting pregnant is more difficult, and the risk of birth defects, such as Down syndrome, increase. According to a recent study conducted by researchers with the
University of California, Berkeley, School of Public Health, the risk for men having a child with dwarfism increases with the father’s age, mostly after age 40. Other genetic problems and chromosomal defects were noted. The data involved 97 men aged 22 to 80 and found increased fragmentation of the DNA in sperm as men age. In unrelated research involving 2,000 sterile women undergoing in vitro fertilization, the age of the father made a tremendous impact. Pregnancy attempts were 70 percent more likely to fail when the man was over the age of 40 when compared to men under the age of 30, regardless of the wife’s age. The study was conducted with researchers from the French national health institute INSERM. “Women’s fertility has been known to decline beginning in their mid-thirties. With many couples considering delaying their family until their late-thirties and forties, it would be wise to consider the effects of both the woman’s age, as well as the man’s,” said Dr. Alderson. Since 1980, birth rates have increased 40 percent for men ages 35 to 49, while there has been a decline in births involving men under age 30. “We knew a man’s fertility decreased with age, but current findings show that the age of 40 marks a noticeable decline,” said Dr. Alderson. In a separate study of nearly 14,000 women who were pregnant in the 1960’s and 70’s, the risk of miscarriage was 60 percent greater when the father was age 40 or older than when he was 25 to 29 years old. The report was printed in an issue of the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology. “Even a man in his 30’s will have less quality and quantity of sperm than a man in his 20’s,” said Dr. Alderson. Adults are most fertile in their twenties and early thirties, but that isn’t always the most opportune time to choose a marriage partner and begin a family. Many couples choose to wait until their education continued on p24
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is completed, careers are established and they’ve spent a few years as a couple before introducing a baby into the mix. “These findings shouldn’t put pressure on couples to begin their families sooner than they feel comfortable. But, for couples who are ready to have children, being aware of health information such as this can assist them in making a decision that is right for them,” said Dr. Alderson.
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Men Can Get Breast Cancer Too Statistics show that breast cancer affects one out of every four women, but little is said about the threats to men. Although breast cancer in women is far more common, the National Cancer Institute reports that nearly 2,000 men were diagnosed with the illness last year. “We may have a mother, sister, or friend affected by the disease, but some of us may also have a father or brother who’s been diagnosed with breast cancer,” said Medical Oncologist/ Hematologist Henry J. Goolsby, III, MD, with Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic. “Breast cancer is a malignant tumor—a group of cancer cells that start in the cells of the breast, and then spread around the body. Even though we don’t think of men as having breasts, they do have breast tissue that can undergo cancerous changes.” According to Dr. Goolsby, incidence rates among men are lower because they have less breast tissue and fewer cells than women, but “because it occurs less often, many men think it’s a disease that only women get. A lot of times, men may ignore the early signs and symptoms of breast cancer.” Dr. Goolsby said that men are less likely to visit a doctor for treatment and may be embarrassed to find a lump in their breast, “but if you wait too long, you give the cancer time to spread.” There are several risk factors for male breast cancer, according to Dr. Goolsby. These include age, genetics, certain diseases, hormone treatment, radiation exposure, gene mutations, and Klinefelter’s syndrome. The average age for men when diagnosed is between 60 and 70, and 20 percent of those men typically have a family history, including close female relatives who have been diagnosed. “Some men, particularly those with prostate cancer, may be treated with estrogen, which can create an increased risk. Severe cases of liver disease can also increase the risk because the disease often results in lower levels of
male hormone,” Dr. Goolsby said, noting that there are some signs and symptoms of breast cancer that men should be aware of. “If a man or a woman fells a lump or experiences skin dimpling, redness, swelling or discharge, it’s time to see a doctor immediately.” According to Dr. Goolsby, the first thing a physician will do is conduct a breast exam and give the patient a complete physical to check for any other problems. Oftentimes, the lump is much more obvious to detect in men because there’s not as much breast tissue, but it could spread quicker than in women. Afterwards, a physician may require a mammogram, which is an x-ray of the breast. Finally, a biopsy may be necessary to determine whether breast cancer is present. A biopsy is a sample of breast tissue examined microscopically. If breast cancer is detected, there are several treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, Dr. Goolsby said. Another potential treatment option is hormone therapy, which includes prescription medications that prevent the hormones that spread and reproduce cancer cells. “As we know, early detection and better treatment options are saving more and more women’s lives, and they can do the same for men. People used to think the prognosis for men was worse than that for women. But today, we know survival rates are almost the same,” Dr. Goolsby said, adding that the 5-year survival rate for cancer is determined by how soon the cancer is detected and at what stage it is detected. “It pays to pay attention to any differences or changes in your breasts, whether you’re a man or a woman. If you detect something a bit different, make sure you call your physician.”
Modern Man It’s a great time to be a man. From rugged to indulgent, the scope of what’s acceptable has broadened in today’s society. The views of traditional masculinity are changing in American culture. The familiar quote, “You’ve come a long way, baby” usually refers to women, but can now be aptly applied to men. Years ago, the traditional stereotypes of men put an emphasis on being strong, independent and emotionless. The expectations were clear: work hard, provide well for your family, be the “boss,” don’t get emotionally close to anyone. In the last ten to twenty years, men’s roles have expanded and transformed. This has blurred the line between male and female responsibilities and preferences resulting in a re-evaluation of “traditional” notions of manhood and masculinity. Areas where this new trend is most noticeable are career, family, and image. The expanding ocean of opportunity for women seems to be engulfing men as well. In the past, men brought home the bacon and women took care of the home front. In the 1950s and 60s, the roles for men and women were relatively well-defined and non-changing, but recent decades have brought dramatic change. A survey conducted a few years ago by the Radcliffe Public Policy Center reported that young businessmen were placing a strong emphasis on having a job schedule that allows for family time. The survey found that 82 percent of men ages 21 to 39 ranked having a familyfriendly work schedule as a “very important” component of their job. Focus groups with Harvard students conducted around the same time found similar results. Men beginning their careers looked for a “family friendly” environment. They were not willing to give up having family time for a job. Climbing the ladder of success
isn’t as appealing to the up and coming businessmen as it was in previous generations. Men don’t want to sacrifice their personal and family lives just for the sake of a career. “Americans shifted their thinking after September 11,” explained Dale Archer, MD, president of the Institute for Neuropsychiatry. “After that, our country ‘came home,’ so to speak; we re-evaluated priorities and found that what really matters is our family and our relationships. Instead of putting in countless hours in hopes of a promotion, many men are choosing to spend time as a family.” So, does that mean careers just don’t matter anymore? “Definitely not,” Dr. Archer said. “Careers are still important for men as well as women, but, we’ve wised up. The amount of time spent focusing solely on a career has decreased nationwide and the smart men are paying more attention to their home lives.” It’s the eternal struggle women are familiar with to find a healthy balance between home and career. Now, men are joining the quest to figure it out. With dual income families, men have more freedom to explore career changes. Years ago, a man’s chosen field was set in stone. He was loyal to the company and was rewarded with a pension upon retirement. Today’s job market is anything but stable. Downsizing and layoffs are the unfortunate buzzwords. Thanks to a wife’s salary contribution, job changes are not as devastating as they once were, and if a layoff should happen, two
incomes can help soften the blow. Couples have more in common these days, since they both have a “day at the office” story to share when they retreat to the comfort of their home each evening. More and more males are embracing this radical notion of equality. In doing so, men have more flexibility in their careers and their lives in general. Cosmetic medicine has seen an unexpected trend in the number of men who are taking advantage of the benefits of both surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures. Facials, chemical peels, eyelid surgery, and skin creams have infiltrated the masculine market. More than 1 million men had some type of cosmetic procedure last year. “Baby boomers are much more aggressive and less self-conscious about attacking the signs of aging,” said Mark Crawford, MD, cosmetic eye surgeon and Director of the Aesthetic Center of Southwest Louisiana. “Men want to look healthy and maintain a youthful appearance.” He says there has been a fifty percent increase in the number of cosmetic procedures for men in the past decade. Men now account for one in four cosmetic
procedures. “A generation ago, none of these men would have had these procedures done,” he said. “Think masculine, but manicured.” The concept of teamwork is the focus with most of today’s families. Both spouses work hard in their jobs, and they both work hard with their kids and responsibilities at home. A typical day for either mom or dad may involve driving the kids to ball games, piano lessons, and a conference with the teacher. Just as women resented the implication that they could not be successful in the workplace, today’s fathers bristle at the idea that they can’t soothe a bruised knee or fix their daughter’s ponytail. “It’s not that men have suddenly made an about-face in their outlook on life or how they handle themselves. Men are still men. But today’s men have looked beyond traditional stereotypes that put them in a box, and they’ve broadened their scope of what’s acceptable,” Dr. Archer explained. More and more men are beginning to see the advantages of this new way of thinking. Improved health, less stress, more satisfying relationships, more career options, and less alcohol and drug abuse are just a few of the obvious benefits.
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Koasati Pines at Coushatta, Kinder
Koasati Pines
800-584-7263 www.koasatipines.com
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Koasati Pines Golf Course at Coushatta Casino Resort is nestled in the natural wetlands of Southwest Louisiana, surrounded by stately pines and huge live oaks, and offers an experience unlike any other. Combine the beauty of nature with a dynamic 18-hole, par 72 championship layout, six sets of tees, and multiple approaches on three holes. The Grand Inn of Coushatta is a 208 room resort hotel located on the grounds of the gaming facility at Coushatta Casino Resort. Dinner at Big Sky Steakhouse is not to be missed. The course was ranked number four in Louisiana by Golf Digest for 2007-2008. Here are the particulars of the 18-hole, par-72 Kevin Tucker designed course: • 7,617 yards from the championship tees. • 6 sets of tees to accommodate all players. • Unique 19th hole (gambling hole) is ideal for tie-breakers. • 12-acre practice facility with dedicated teaching area. • Instruction available from PGA staff. • Latest GPS technology from UpLink featuring dash-mounted GPS units. • Latest golf cart technology from Club Car - The Precedent. • Full service pro shop with the latest equipment and finest apparel. • Pro-line rental clubs available. • 9,000 sq. ft. clubhouse with bar and grill, locker rooms and meeting space.
The Lake Charles Country Club 3550 Country Club Drive, Lake Charles Golf: 337-477-0047 • www.lakecharlescc.net
The Lake Charles Country Club ranks in the top five percent of all clubs nationwide for the number of amenities offered. Golf, tennis, marina, swimming, pier, dining and banquet facilities all combine to offer more to the membership than is usually found in a club. Their renovation project, completed in 2003, brought the golf course up-to-date with state-of-the-art Tif-Eagle Grass on the greens and Tifsport grass on the fairways. Golf Course Architect, Jeff Blume, designed a masterpiece on the #8 hole featuring new bulkheading and a peninsula green – a beautiful addition to this fantastic golf course. Check out their beautiful, newly renovated dining areas, which include our Formal Dining Room, Family Grill, Club Lounge, and Men’s 19th Hole. Steeped in tradition and history, the Club looks forward to welcoming new members. If you are interested in becoming a member of the Lake Charles Country Club, call 337-477-5511.
Lake Charles Country Club Gray Plantation
6150 Graywood Parkway, Lake Charles (337) 562-1663 • www.graywood.net
Gray Plantation
Gray Plantation, a beautifully landscaped 18-hole, 7,200-yard semi-private golf course, is formidable enough to challenge the pro and entertain the amateur. Gray Plantation has received the highest rating in Louisiana by Zagat Survey’s 2007 edition of “America’s Top Golf Courses.” Golf Digest recently named it “Best Place To Play In 2007.” Gray Plantation is an 18-hole, 7,000-yard Par 73.6 course designed to challenge the pro and amateur alike. The greens are TifEagle. Veteran course architect Rocky Roquemore’s course on the Calcasieu River takes full advantage of the area’s natural surroundings with 60 acres of lakes coming into play on 12 holes, 94 bunkers and moss-draped pines at most every turn.
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Particularly impressive are the club’s four dynamic par 3s, two of which feature island greens. Instructions are available from Neel DeRouen or Chris Gentry. Gray Plantation is a teaching facility. There is a driving range, GPS, and club repair available. Gray Plantation is open to the public Daylight Hours 7:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Twilight begins at 3:30. Dress Code: Collared shirts are required. Shorts must be Bermuda length. Blue jeans or denim are not allowed on the course. (Driving range and practice facilities included). Golf shoes must have soft - spikes only, metal spikes prohibited. If you go onto the website there are incentives for member and nonmember sign-up.
Cypress Bend Golf Resort and Conference Center 2000 Cypress Bend Parkway, Many, La. (877) 519-1500 • www.cypressbend.com
Just two hours from Lake Charles on the shores of Toledo Bend Lake, Cypress Bend golf resort is considered Louisiana’s destination resort. Cypress Bend offers breathtaking views of the serpentine shorelines of Toledo Bend Lake, with winds sweeping across the open water and through beautiful mature hardwood forests. Cypress Bend Resort an Conference Center offers guestrooms, suites and condominiums for a family getaway or the ultimate event experience near beautiful Hodges Gardens. It is one of two southwest Louisiana courses on the prestigious Audubon Golf Trail, named for artist John James Audubon. All the courses on the trail are members of the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary for Golf Courses, a program dedicated to protecting the environment and preserving the natural heritage of the game of golf. (Visit www.audubontrail. com.) There are Golf Getaway packages for every price range and group, and lessons with experienced golf professional Ken Rams. Ken is available for instruction on all facets of your game. Golf lessons are more than just hitting
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the ball. The professional staff can also assist you in the proper mental preparation necessary to hit a good shot as well as help you “find” your short game and putting. All lessons are by appointment and can be made by call us toll- free at 888-256-4366. Shop Cypress Bend for the latest in golf apparel and accessories from manufacturers such as Nike, Titleist, Gear, Foot Joy, Ashworth, and more. The PGA Professional staff can custom fit you “personally” with all of your equipment needs, including custom fit irons and woods by MacGregor, Ping, Cobra, Cleveland and more. The staff can also help you find the correct shaft, lie angle, swing weight, and grip to produce maximum results.
Bayou Oaks Country Club, Sulphur, Louisiana (337) 583-7129
Bayou Oaks Country Club is located on the Choupique Bayou in a 100-acre grove of live oaks. The 18-hole course features 6,203 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 72. The course rating is 69.4 and it has a slope rating of 109. The greens are TifGreen. There are water hazards on seven holes, but no sand bunkers. Terrain is predominantly flat, but at times you may find an uneven lie on some of the course’s slight undulation. The large greens are maintained at medium speed. Bayou Oaks allows private carts and has facilities to accommodate private carts. The facility also has a locker room and swimming pool. The dress code is liberal and denim is allowed, however, you must have a sleeved shirt and caps must be worn with visor forward. Golf instruction and club repair available. Bayou Oaks is a semi-private club, established in 1971, and it has opened up for general play to promote and build membership. A bar and grill and a banquet room are available. Hours of operation are 7-dark, 7 days a week.
The Farm Golf Club, Carencro (337) 886-2227 • www.thefarmlinks.com
In 1997, owner/developer, Allison Ramsay had a vision for a first class practice facility in a serene, natural and tranquil environment. Farm D’Allie, located in South Louisiana, just north of Lafayette, is a spectacular eighteen-hole championship golf course crafted by golf course architect Jeffery D. Blume. The Farm Golf Club offers a PGA and LPGA golf course and combines professional instructors with a top notch teaching facility. The Farm is an 18 hole course with a 137 slope. Par rating is 74.4, and course yardage is7098. The greens are TifDwarf. Fairway and tee boxes are 419 Bermuda. Instruction by professionals is available at this golf teaching facility, for individuals or groups. The 215 acre course is situated in bottomland or Beaubassin, which was once the riverbed of the Mississippi. Farm D’Allie was named for the rich history of the land.The upper bank, the Coteau Ridge runs north and south and the 55-foot above sea level elevation is the highest point in Lafayette Parish. The gumbo-type soil was sculpted to show elevation change within the rolling fairways. Fourteen lakes are interconnected below ground to serve
as one reservoir for irrigation. The Farm D’Allie is open six days a week (closed Tuesday) and there is a driving range. Memberships are available, but The Farm is open to the public. Dress code allows for “golf active” wear, collared shirts required, but no denim. The Bassin Bar and Grill offers a wide variety of refreshments including soft drinks, domestic & imported beer, an assortment of wines and spirits, and several food choices.
Beauregard Country Club
Cecil Doyle Drive, DeRidder (337) 463-4444 • www.library.beau.org/~cclub The Beauregard Country Club is located in northwest DeRidder near the Grabow community. It boasts an 18-hole regulation course, tennis courts, pro-shop, on site PGA golf Pro, restaurant, and a swimming pool. The Club is semi-private, but non-members are welcome to play the course up to six times per year. Course is a 72 par for 6,343 yards with slope ratings for men 67.8 / 113, and 68.6 / 113 for women. There are 15 tees on the driving range. Green fees include the use of a gold cart (where available). Danny Tatum is the General Manager. Danny Tilton is the resident golf professional. Hours are Sunday 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Mallard Cove Golf Course
Chennault Air Park, Lake Charles (337) 491-1204 • www.cityoflakecharles.com Operated by the City of Lake Charles, Mallard Cove Golf Course is a public, 18-hole, par 73 course with a 128 slope. Course yardage is 6,977. TifEagle greens add to the enjoyment of the game. Mallard Cove provides Lake Area citizens and visitors the best possible facility and services needed to enjoy golf at the most reasonable cost to the players. The beautiful Mallard Cove hosts many tournaments each year and offers summer youth camps for young golfers. Derek Smith is the PGA professional on staff. Mallard Cove also offers a snack bar, pro shop, and a tournament pavilion and is open 7 days a week. Golf instructions, club repair, driving range and carts are available. Annual passes are available, but memberships are not necessary. Golfers are asked to wear shirts with sleeves, and no cut-offs and shorts must be hemmed. For more information, visit the Mallard Cove website at www.cityoflakecharles.com and click on the “Departments” tab and ‘Mallard Cove Golf Course.”
Jennings Golf Club
602 South Louise Street, Jennings (337) 824-1274 • www.jenningsgolfclub.com The Jennings Golf Club offers 18 holes at a par rating of 70.6, covering 6,300 yards. There’s a 123 slope on 6,437 yards. The beautiful greens are TifDwarf and Bermuda. Jennings Golf Club is open 7 days a week to the public. Jennings Golf Club was established in 1912 and is a semi-private golf club. Golf course is open seven days a week 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tournament information available upon request; call (337) 824-1274. The Club also offers Wednesday evening scrambles (DLST), pro shop, tennis courts, and swimming pool (June, July, & August). The pool is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
New Moon “Drive-In” Range and Pro Shop 4200 Gerstner Memorial Blvd, Lake Charles 337-480-0700 • email: newmoondi@aol.com
The New Moon Drive-In Range hosts junior camps, skills challenges, long drive contests, and regular clinics for juniors, women, and kids. During Demo Days in March and October, companies such as Ping, TaylorMade, Nike, Wilson, Titleist, Ben Hogan, Cleveland and more, are on hand with the latest
for golfing enthusiasts. The New Moon Drive-In Range offers putting and chipping greens, with lights for nighttime practice. The tee stations include 40 mats and 62 grass. The New Moon boasts over 10,000 Wilson balls in inventory and Wittek pickers and washers. They have a well-stocked pro shop and a snack bar with sandwiches and soft drinks. New Moon is owned and operated by Cindy Shackelford. Instructors include three area PGA professionals: Neel Derouen, Doug Farr and Bear Suarez.
Pine Shadows Golf Club, Lake Charles 337-433-8681
The 18-hole Pine Shadows Golf Course features 6,494 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 72. The course rating is 70.3 and it has a slope rating of 110 on Bermuda grass. Pine Shadows is a public golf course and it opened in 1940. One-on-one lessons are taught by professionals, led by golf instructor and course manager Todd Boudreaux. A driving range, club repair, snack bar and pro shop are onsite for a complete golfing experience. Pine Shadows is open 7 days a week, 7-dark, and is open to the public. Memberships are available and the dress code is casual. Located at 750 Goodman Road, close to Interstate 10, Pine Shadows is convenient and accessible and only 10 minutes from Lake Charles.
Frasch Park Golf Course, Sulphur (337) 527-2515 • www.sulphurparks.com
The 18-hole “Frasch Park” course in Sulphur features yardage tees Blue 6267, White 5963, and Red (Ladies) 5473. The course rating is 70.3 and it has a slope rating of 126 on Bermuda grass. Frasch Park municipal golf course opened in 1955. Bryant Suarez manages the course as the Golf Professional.
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Frasch hosts many tournaments throughout the year. This spring will include the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff LHSAA FP56 Benefit Tournament, April 24; Mac Burns Memorial Benefit Golf Tournament, May 23. This summer they will have the West Cal Cam Hospital Foundation Golf Tournament, June 20; Sulphur City Championship Golf Tournament, July 10-12. Fall will bring the Citgo/United Way Tournament, October, date to be announced. For information on tournaments, call 527-2515, or visit www.sulphurparks.com and click on “golf course.”
The Wetlands
2129 N. University Avenue, Lafayette 337-291-7151 • www.wetlandsgc.com The Wetlands Golf Course is located in the heart of Acadiana and is part of the Audubon Golf Trail. The Wetlands links style course is unique to Southern Louisiana with wide open fairways and subtle rolling terrain. The challenge of the golf course presents itself with well-bunkered greens and water hazards that affect eleven of our eighteen holes. The Wetlands accommodates all levels of players with 5 tees on the 18-course hole, ranging from 7300 yards at its longest and just over 5000 yards at its shortest. The TifDwarf greens are smooth rolling. Much of the course is lined with cypress trees and ponds and duck nesting boxes are placed in the many ponds throughout the course. The ponds also feature indigenous wetland vegetation, including pickerelweed and cattail. The back end of the course is a Louisiana prairie with oak trees and Indian grass. The Standard Outing Package includes green fees, cart and range balls. Professional assistance can include on-course contest set-up, customized rule sheets, scorecards and cart signage and an experienced cart staff. The resident golf professional is David Gary. Golf Instruction, club repair, snack bar, and a driving range are on site. The course is open six days a week, closed Tuesdays. In the winter the hours are 7-5 and daylight savings time 7-6. Memberships are available, and the dress code is “proper golf attire”.
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Training for a Better Golf Game Golf takes time, patience and endurance to master. For a beginner, this could mean learning how a club interacts with a ball; for a more seasoned player, it could mean understanding how to make an adequate golf swing spectacular. Either way, the Neel DeRouen Teaching Academy at Gray Plantation works. The Teaching Academy, which sits amidst a lush, 18-hole, 7,200-yard semiprivate golf course, was designed after most of the top teaching facilities in the U.S. It is a climate-controlled facility with video analysis, which allows students to watch the ball soar after every swing—each of those swings, according to Director of Golf Neel DeRouen, can then be observed from all angles. As Director of Golf, DeRouen has an opportunity to witness others’ progression from beginning golf enthusiasts to passionate and obsessive golfers. He trains aspiring athletes of all ages, from the youngest tykes to curious retirees. “Golf isn’t for everybody, but if you have a passion for it as a pastime, it can certainly fulfill the time. Once you understand the equipment and are able to start the mechanics of the game, there’s usually an inherent drive to get better and better,” DeRouen said. “It doesn’t surprise me at all when I watch people become unbelievably hooked, because it happened to me.” When DeRouen was growing up, golf barely made a blip in the lives of young athletes, most of whom played football. So when he learned how to play for the first time at age eighteen, he hardly expected that the sport would become his life and didn’t expect that he would one day oversee a golf course that was recently named a “Best Place to Play in 2007” by Golf Digest magazine. “Lake Charles has made a turn when it comes to golf. We’ve got an influx of people coming here from Texas to play. The natural beauty of this area makes it an ideal place for it,” DeRouen said. In 2003, DeRouen was awarded Gulf States Teacher of the Year. A member of PGA of America, he has attended numerous teaching and coaching summits and was named as one of the top five golf instructors in Louisiana by Golf Digest. According to DeRouen, it’s natural for him to pass along his enthusiasm for golf because it’s something he’s passionate about. “The game takes a lot of time to learn and master, so you have to be patient. Whether or not you’ll be successful depends on how much time is devoted to it,” he said. “Golf is almost something that you have to plan your life around.” He instructs boys, girls, men and women, at all skill levels, and says the course at Gray Plantation provides for a quality game because it is userfriendly, the greens are big and the bunkers can be avoided, he said. The course received the highest rating in Louisiana by Zagat Survey’s 2007 edition of “America’s Top Golf Courses,” ranking in the “extraordinary to perfection” category. The facility also provides custom clubs, club fittings and has the ability to check ball speed and launch angle. “It takes a while for people to understand the function of each of their clubs,” he said. “But once you understand that, you can keep developing your game. The good thing about golf is you can always get better.” DeRouen admits to at least one downside of the game, however. “Because of the time it takes to practice and play, you’re not afforded a bunch of hobbies besides golf. Golf consumes most of your leisure time,” he said. “But once you play, you’re hooked before you know it.” To learn more about the Neel DeRouen Teaching Academy at Gray Plantation, please call the Pro Shop at 337-562-1663.
RACE TO WITCH MOUNTAIN (2009)
***
Directed by Andy Fickman Starring Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino, AnnaSophia Robb, Alexander Ludwig, Ciaran Hinds, Tom Everett Scott, Billy Brown, Richard “Cheech” Marin, Garry Marshall, Kim Richards, Ike Eisenmann Disney—Rated PG—Sci-Fi—99 min PG-Rated “Witch Mountain” might frighten the dickens out of parents bravely accompanying their young’uns. Those familiar with “Zathura: A Space Adventure,” have a built-in test. If you didn’t run shrieking from the theater, you’re cleared to race. This time, the formula’s success owes much to Dwayne Johnson (Formerly wrestling’s “The Rock”), whose grasp on the beset hero spouting comic one-liners rivals that of Governor Schwarzenegger. Johnson portrays Jack Bruno, a Las Vegas cabbie and ex-felon trying to eke out an honest living. This means ignoring mob orders that he resume his post as their wheelman. Jack, a no-nonsense, good-hearted everyman, is equally bemused and disgruntled by a science fiction convention for geeks and freaks who “want to believe.” Things are looking up when an attractive astrophysicist (Carla Gugino) hops in Jack’s cab, but he’s nonplussed after she reveals herself to be a keynote speaker at the convention. His next passengers are Sara and Seth (AnnaSophia Robb and Alexander Ludwig), a teenaged sister-brother duo flashing a wad of cash. When the kids claim to be aliens, Jack is all chuckles until Sara displays her telekinetic and mind reading powers, and Seth walks through solid objects. In the film’s first of several scary sequences, a pair of black SUVs play squeeze the yellow cab down to the size of a model car. The man behind the attack, and ongoing governmental interference, is top U.S. Agent Burke.
Played by Ciaran Hinds with stony stoicism, the character and his over-thetop agenda constitutes the film’s one misstep. Apparently, government conspiracies are universal. A faction from Sara and Seth’s home planet is intent upon preventing the kids from completing their mission -- one that will save earth from alien invasion. Their enemies have dispatched a Cyborg assassin -- half-”Terminator” and half “Star Wars” drone -- whose weapons include a highly maneuverable miniplane. Comedic respite is provided when Jack and the two kids disappear into the convention. Hot on their trail is the Cyborg, his metallic exoskeleton looking like just another conventioneer’s outfit. Eventually, Agent Burke manages to capture the kids, clearing the path to enact a terrible Government plan. With help from Gugino’s astrophysicist and her anarchist friend, played by Gary Marshall, Jack puts his life on the line to save the kids who are only too happy to save him right back. Handily winning the box office race on its opening weekend, the remake should have legs. Its superior special effects and cast deserve much credit, as does the film’s quick tempo and zingy one-liners, collectively telling an exciting and coherent story. Even better, almost limitless sequel possibilities virtually assure we’ll be visiting “Witch Mountain” again, and soon.
In The Theater KNOWING (2009) * * * (Grade B) Directed by Alex Proyas Starring Nicolas Cage, Rose Byrne, Ben Mendelsohn, Terry Camilleri Summit Entertainment—PG-13—Sci-Fi “Knowing” benefits from a sturdy plot and the direction of Alex Proyas,
best known for 1998’s “Dark City” and 2004’s “I, Robot.” Cage appears as a professor who comes into possession of a paper containing a mysterious number series. After studying the numbers more closely, the professor discovers they correctly predict the times and coordinates of various impending disasters. When officials refuse to listen, the professor searches for the author of the paper and for a way to warn those in danger. Viewers at test screenings report the big action set pieces are well-orchestrated and the film’s surprise ending is a winner. It may be just the movie to wipe away the winter doldrums. DUPLICITY (2009) * *1/2 (Grade B-) Directed by Tony Gilroy Starring Julia Roberts, Clive Owen, Tom Wilkinson, Paul Giamatti Universal—PG-13—125 min A pair of lovers, CIA Agent Claire Stenwick (Roberts) and MI6 Agent Ray Koval (Owen), quit their jobs to work for competing multinational corporations. The duo plans to make a fortune stealing corporate secrets, but when the chips are down, they don’t trust one another. The film randomly cuts together scenes from various points, a strategy that can be wearisome. Owen and Roberts look terrific as they size one another up and ingratiate themselves to their bosses (Wilkinson and Giamatti), but they fail to convey the witty repartee required to set this one apart. We’ve come to expect great things from writer-director Tony Gilroy. His “Michael Clayton” was a home run and the “Bourne” films scored a triple. It’s tough to imagine “Duplicity” won’t hit at least a double. I LOVE YOU, MAN (2009) * * (Grade B) Directed by John Hamburg Starring Paul Rudd, Jason Segel, Rashida Jones, Andy Samberg, J.K. Simmons, Jon Favreau, Jaime Pressly, Jane Curtin, Rob Huebel, Aziz Ansari DreamWorks—Rated R—Comedy—110 min Newly engaged realtor, Peter (Rudd), isn’t what you’d call a man’s man; in fact, he hasn’t got a male
friend to his name. Hoping to find a best man for his wedding, Peter lets his gay brother Robby (Samberg) set Peter up on a series of disastrous man-dates. Then, out of the blue, Peter meets carefree investor, Sydney Fife (Segel). Where Peter is scared, reserved and dorky, Robby is bold, unguarded, and sloppy. Robby takes Peter under his wing, and soon they are always together, leaving Peter’s fiancée (Jones) on her own. The comedy relies on the standard assortment of doo-doo jokes and embarrassing sexual revelations, but J.K. Simmons is a riot. WATCHMEN (2009) *1/2 (Grade C-) Directed by Zack Snyder Starring Malin Akerman, Billy Crudup, Matthew Goode, Carla Gugino, Jackie Earle Haley, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Patrick Wilson Warner—Rated R—Fantasy—162 min A densely packed superhero movie based on the graphic novel written by Alan Moore and illustrated by David Gibbons, “Watchmen” is set in an alternate 1985. President Nixon is serving his third term, and superheroes either work for the government, or are considered vigilantes. Dr. Manhattan (Billy Crudup), a 45-foot-tall entity, glows blue, and tenuously hangs onto his humanity through his love for disillusioned masked crusader, Laurie Jupiter (Malin Akerman) also known as Silk Spectre II. As the story counts down to nuclear war between the United States and Russia, a handful of masked crime-fighting vigilantes attempt to learn who murdered one of their kind and why. The dark tale relies heavily on stylized violence, giving us remote characters. JONAS BROTHERS: THE 3D CONCERT EXPERIENCE (2009) * *1/2 (Grade B-) Directed by Bruce Hendricks Starring Nick Jonas, Joe Jonas, Kevin Jonas Disney—Rated G—Documentary—76 min Following their whirlwind set as the opening act for the “Hannah Montana/Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert 3-D,” the Jonas Brothers return with a 3-D concert of their own. Included are backstage snippets, a-day-in-Jonas-boys’-life and scenes from their triumphant 2008 continued on p32
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Khalid Taha Announces His Candidacy for Lake Charles City Council, District G
K
halid Taha is pleased to announce his candidacy for Lake Charles City Council, District G. A Democrat, Taha is forty-four years old, an American citizen, and has lived in Lake Charles for twenty-seven years. Married to Hanadi, who is a paraprofessional at Dolby Elementary, Taha is the father of three children. Shadi and Shereen attend S. J. Welsh Middle School, and Marwan attends Dolby Elementary. Taha is currently employed at the DuPont Research and Development Laboratory. A McNeese graduate with Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Chemistry, Taha is a strong supporter of McNeese academic and athletic activities. A member of the McNeese Quarterback Club, the McNeese Cowboy Club, McNeese Petrochemical Athletic Association, and a benefactor to the McNeese State University Write to Excellence Center, Taha believes that the connections between the City of Lake Charles and the University should be strengthened. Committed to strong family values, Taha wants to see the quality of life for all citizens in Lake Charles improved. He believes that children need both a safe and secure environment and healthy and wholesome recreational activities. Taha is committed to those activities that develop both the body and the mind. A dedicated supporter of Calcasieu Parish teachers,
Taha believes that teachers, in general, are underappreciated and underpaid. Believing that citizens have an obligation to work with children in their communities in order to provide a healthy environment, Taha has been involved in coaching soccer for nine years as head coach for the Dragons and the Lions and has served as the Lake Charles Soccer Association Junior League Coordinator. Committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all citizens, Taha supports the Lake Charles Police Dept., the Ward 3 Marshal’s Office, and the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Department and believes that, like educators, law enforcement officers are also undervalued and underpaid. Serving as Election Commissioner and attending Lake Charles City Council meetings for two years to keep informed of local issues, Taha has been involved in local political campaigns for Lake Charles city mayor, a Louisiana senator, a Louisiana governor, Ward 3 marshal, and Calcasieu Parish Sheriff. If elected, Taha pledges to address such issues as traffic congestion, especially at Nelson Road and the 210 West exit; poor drainage and sewage problems in the Country Club Road area; and littering. Concerned with economic development and growth and quality of life, he endorses lakefront development and community beautification efforts.
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tour. J-Bros. mania has officially swept the country, prompting 50,000 fans to show up to Times Square for the brothers’ latest album release. Playing on 700 screens, the Cyrus concert grossed $31 million. Judging by the buzz, this J-Boy rockumentary may best that number. THE INTERNATIONAL (2009) * *1/2 (Grade B-) Directed by Tom Tykwer Starring Clive Owen, Naomi Watts, Armin Mueller-Stahl, Ulrich Thomsen, Brian F. O’Byrne, Jack McGee Sony—Rated R—Action, Thriller—118 min Despite a sketchy script failing to flesh out character motivations, it doesn’t take much to persuade us that banks are hotbeds of corruption. Are we also ready to believe the notion of an international bank funding terrorists and killing anyone standing in its way? Clive Owen appears as scruffy Interpol agent Louis Salinger, assigned to investigate the IBBC bank, headquartered in Luxembourg. Run by European smoothies, the bank brokers arms deals with baddies then hires hit men to clean up the mess. Mueller-Stahl appears as a bank exec on the radar of a Manhattan Assistant DA (Watts). The film takes a break from its European locales for a shoot-’em-
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up chase in the Big Apple on the curving ramps of the Guggenheim Museum. Now that’s eye-candy. CORALINE (2009) * * *1/2 (Grade A-) Directed by Henry Selick Voices of Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher, John Hodgman Focus Features—Rated PG—Animated—100 min This 3-D, stop-motion world is adapted from a winsome children’s book by Neil Gaiman. Bored and lonely, young Coraline (Fanning) finds the portal to an alternate universe where she becomes the apple of her parents black-button eyes as they race to fulfill her every wish. But to stay in this happy place permanently, Coraline must trade her own eyes for a pair of the shiny black buttons. When she refuses, her alternate parents show themselves for the monstrous tricksters they are. Suddenly, Coraline has new found appreciation for her secure, if routine home life -- if only she can escape her fake parents to find her way back. Though the premise sounds very “Alice in Wonderland” it’s so dark and terrifying that black buttons could disappear from notions counters for years to come.
Ctc Announces Cast For the Velveteen Rabbit The Children’s Theatre Company and Kerry A. Onxley, Artistic Director, announces the cast for the company’s season finale THE VELVETEEN RABBIT. The story is based on the children’s novel written by Margery Williams about a stuffed rabbit and his quest to become real through the love of his owner.
The cast is as follows:
Narrator........................................................Brianna Guidry Rabbit...........................................................Kathryn Matte Boy...............................................................Samuel Owens Nanny...........................................................Dylana Smith Dancer..........................................................Maegan McBroom Ball...............................................................Ciarra Woods Tin Soldier...................................................Alex Landry Fairy.............................................................Sarah Bonvillain Toy Boat.......................................................Donvan Primeaux Jack in the Box.............................................Quincy Willis Dunny..........................................................Adyn Gaughan Performances are set for May 1 and 2 at 7:30PM and May 3 at 3:00PM. Tickets are $15.00 for adults and $12.00 for students. Applause Season Members should contact the theatre to reserve tickets. Performances are held at the Central School of the Arts & Humanities Center (809 Kirby Street) located in downtown Lake Charles. For more information, contact the theatre at (337) 433-7323 or visit the website at www.childrenstheatre.cc
The Times of SWLA is distributed throughout our region and via the world wide web. Call Andy at 337-439-0995 and let him show you how to grow your business today.
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(337) 433-9720
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April 2, 2009
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“Revenge!” — squares in squares. by Matt Jones
Last Issue’s Answers
Across 1 King canine 5 Arrive 11 Cobra ___ (bad guys’ dojo in “The Karate Kid”) 14 Second word of fairy tale openings 15 Anti-itch skin care brand 16 QVC rival 17 Gossip 18 A night out at a restaurant, perhaps 20 It may be impending 22 Veil fabric 23 Sine ___ non 25 Cried 28 Occupied (oneself) 29 2006 dystopian film with Keanu Reeves 32 “___ gut” (“very well,” in German) 33 Author Zora ___ Hurston 34 MDMA and “The Clear,” to some 40 Regina ___ (hymn to the Virgin Mary) 41 Curling units 43 Disputed inventor of baseball 48 Boneheadedness 49 General ___ chicken 50 Dentist’s deg. 51 East ___ (island nation in 2000s news)
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52 Actor Mark of “The Full Monty” 54 Pets that are low to the ground 59 Designer for Jackie 62 Samael ___ Weor, founder of the International Gnostic Movement 63 Ventilate 64 “___ #1!” 65 Money source for the permanently disabled: abbr. 66 Early punk rock band with the song “Never Been in a Riot,” with “the” 67 Square hidden in each of the five long across answers Down 1 Cow’s mouthful 2 AP rival 3 Label on many asses in 1980s fashion 4 “I’m ___ your tricks!” 5 Show set in NYC during the 1960s 6 Windows Media Player file format 7 He’s officially back with Barbie as of February 2009 8 Hallow end 9 Vivaldi’s Concerto ___ Major 10 Torquemada, notably 11 “The Prophet” author Gibran: var. 12 The “Rick” involved in Rickrolling 13 “___ a hug!”
19 Twilight segment 21 Part of B.Y.O.B. 23 ___ in “queen” 24 “Previously loved” 26 Wrote 27 Outdoor site for some Christmas purchases 28 Like old tires 30 ___ Gratia Artis 31 Rucker of Hootie & the Blowfish 35 It can give some people a headache 36 Actor Busey 37 Ultravox singer Midge 38 Rush’s lead singer 39 It may read “Add 2-3 inches in 3 weeks!” 42 Barrett of Pink Floyd 43 Grenoble goodbyes 44 Bahamas district where Hemingway lived for two years 45 High time? 46 Makes a big deal out of 47 Blotter material 48 “___ Written” (Nas album) 53 Like this clue 55 ___ fu (pop artist on the Sony Japan label) 56 Dwight Gooden’s “medical” nickname 57 Naughts and crosses win 58 Tool for nails or glue 60 Slip up 61 Dropout’s certification
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April 2, 2009
35
Book Beat by Terri Shlichenmeyer
You never thought it possible. Your neighbors lost their home. Foreclosed, just like that. And then another, and another down the road. For-Sale signs sprout like dandelions on your block, and moving trucks wear down the pavement. Two streets over, same story. Maybe one of the foreclosures was yours. But forget about mortgage for a minute. Let’s skip ahead and say you own your home. You’ve fixed it up, filled it with things you love. You know your neighbors and you like the neighborhood. You can live there as long as you want, right? In the new book “Little Pink House” by Jeff Benedict, you’ll see how chillingly, frighteningly wrong you are. For most of her life, Susette Kelo had very little to call her own. Pregnant at sixteen, the mother of five by age 23, Kelo was on the edge of leaving a bad second marriage when she found a house in New London, Connecticut’s Fort Trumbull neighborhood. Smitten with the ramshackle home, she bought it, updated it, and filled it with antiques. Within months, her “living nightmare” began. Pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, Inc. announced plans for a compound on waterfront property, near historic Fort Trumbull. The State of Connecticut got behind the project, as did the City of New London. There would be an upscale hotel and office buildings. The tax base would be greater and jobs would be created. To proceed, the City needed to buy properties from the homeowners in the area. And when that didn’t happen, they proceeded with eminent domain. One of the homes they wanted was Susette’s.
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In exercising eminent domain, the government appropriates private property for the sake of public use, for instance, as with a new road or bridge. Clearly, since the property was being taken for private use, this action would set precedents. As homeowners resisted and the project fell behind schedule, the organization in charge of implementation turned up the heat. Residents of the neighborhood alternately felt intimidated, fearful, and angry. Undaunted, Susette Kelo, her neighbors and supporters contacted the Institute for Justice (a public-interest law firm) and dug in their heels all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. Property rights or property wrongs? You’ll ask yourself that many times as you read this stunning, true legal narrative. As a rousing David-and-Goliath story, “Little Pink House” tells of legal maneuvers, politicking, and courage of conviction. It’s a book that will make you want to keep tabs on city hall, just in case. It will make any homeowner terrified. Author Jeff Benedict says that he interviewed many of the key players in this drama, and his authentic presentation will snatch your interest by page five. Though Benedict offers both viewpoints in the argument, it will be hard for you not to pick sides. Deciding to bury yourself in this white-knuckler is, however, an easy choice. If you can’t wait for your favorite legal-thriller author’s next book, fill in the empty time with this tremendous, don’t-miss book. “Little Pink House” may have you seeing red.
“Little Pink House”
by Jeff Benedict c.2009, Grand Central Publishing $26.99 / $29.99 Canada 397 pages, includes index
The
“Original”
Best Of SWLA
Readers Poll
2009
The Polls Are Open! It’s that time again – time for “The Times Original Best of Southwest Louisiana Reader’s Poll.” Since the Times readers have strong opinions and are not shy about sharing them, we were the first in the area to ask you to vote on your favorites in everything from boudin to banks, from barbeque to barber shops.
Polls close at midnight, April 24th. Voting is exclusively on-line at www.timessw.com. Click on “Best Of Ballot” and find your “Best Of” in each category on our on-line ballot. Please check the drop down list FIRST. If you don’t find your favorite in the drop-down list, write in your answer. Some categories will be write-in only.
We will announce the 2009 “Original Best Of” winners in The Times May 14 and May 28 issues.
EnTRy RuLES Only one entry per person and only one entry per email address are allowed. Ballot stuffing is prohibited. The Times reserves the right to reject any suspicious ballot. At least 25 categories must be completed for the ballot to be eligible. However, participants are urged not to vote in a category if they are not familiar with it.
Vote Online At www.timessw.com
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Issue Date goes here
April 2, 2009
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to Lake Charles. Individuals interested in studying watercolor painting can sign up for classes through McNeese Leisure Learning or contact Nancy Melton at nmelton@suddenlink.net. Nancy can also be contacted through her website: nancymelton.photoreflect. com. New painters are welcome!
22nd Annual McNeese National Works on Paper Exhibition – March 6 - April 23 The McNeese National works on Paper Exhibition is part of the Banners Series. Joy Glidden, director of Louisiana Artworks in New Orleans, is the juror for this year’s exhibition. It will be held in the Abercrombie Gallery which is in Shearman Fine Arts building room 125. Gallery Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00 – 4:00 Chicago at The Pavilion at Coushatta – April 11 Chicago has written, performed, and recorded some of the most popular and musically innovative songs in rock history. Billboard Magazine positions them at #13 on their Hot 100 chart’s of all time 100. Chicago has won Grammy Award, American Music Award and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Tickets on sale now at Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster outlets, and Coushatta Box Office. Or call Ticketmaster at (866) 488-7849 or go online at www.ticketmaster.com. Age 16 years and younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to attend events at the Pavilion. The Lake Charles Symphony – April 4 The Lake Charles Symphony presents “Timeless Impressions” featuring guest artists Jan Scott, clarinet, and Davie Gibson, bassoon. They will be performing Strauss’ Concertino for Clarinet and Bassoon. General adult tickets are $15 and student/senior tickets are $10 at the Civic center Box Office; the Symphony Office, 433-1611, and at the door. This is a family friendly event. 7:00 – 9:00 pm. Spring Watercolor Show – April 3 - May 21 The featured artist in this year’s Spring Watercolor Show—Nancy Melton and Friends— is Betty Tilleux Breaux. The Show will open with a Reception on Friday evening April 3 from 6:30 – 8:00 at the Frazar Library at McNeese State University. Dates of the Show are April 3 – May 21, 2009. Betty will display approximately 40 paintings showcasing her many strengths as an artist, in particular – her unusual attention to contrast. Tilleux was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, but grew up in Shreveport. At Northwestern State College in Natchitoches she majored in art and sociology. Following graduation, she moved
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L’Auberge du Lac Casino’s ‘Party by the Pool’ Concert Series – May 7 This series begins with dynamic and energetic multi-platinum rockers Everclear featuring homegrown Lake Charles rock group Magnolia Sons as the opening act. Everclear’s cannon of original material is marked by multi-million sales, critical praise, a Grammy nomination and awards including the 1998 Billboard Modern Rock Artist of the Year honor. This series will also include Seven Mary Three, June 4, and The Molly Ringwalds—80’s tribute band—June 18. Ladies get free admission to Party by the Pool. Gentlemen pay just $5; the cover charge is waived for ‘mychoice’ members. Must be 21 to enter. Please note that the event location is subject to change and/or cancellation due to inclement weather. Acrylic Workshop – May 16 Associated Louisiana Artists will sponsor a one day acrylic workshop at the new Creative Arts Center, 106 West Lawrence Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601, on Saturday May 16th from 8 to 5 pm. Alexandria artist and former Lake Charles minister Henry Blount will conduct the workshop using tar paper (roofing material) as his “canvas” and instruct attendees in the method of mosaic style painting, a unique method which has brought him many awards throughout Louisiana. April 30 is the deadline to enroll in this limited class. Cost is $50 and $5 for lunch. Supply list is at Gallery by the Lake. Please make checks payable to ALA, and mail to the above address in care of Nancy Czejkowski, workshop coordinator. Questions? Call Nancy at 855-9202, or Gallery by the Lake at 436-1008. Calcasieu Parish School System Art Show On display now through April 25 Calcasieu Parish Art Show “Between the Lines” is on display at Gibson-Barham Gallery of the Imperial Calcasieu Museum, 204 W. Sallier. The show features works by students in grades K-12. Museum hours are 10 am-5pm. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is $5 for adults $2 for children under 12 and seniors. Group tours are available. For more information, call 439-3739. AMSET Lecture Hall to feature Local Artist Bernice Thrall Switzer Through May 31 The Art Museum of Southeast Texas (AMSET) presents a collection of art by local artist Bernice Thrall Switzer (1897-1990) on display in the Quinn Lecture Hall through May 31. Eleven watercolors dating from circa 1915, a self-portrait of Switzer and three Newcomb Pottery pieces that date from the early 20th century are on loan from the artist’s daughter, Beaumont-resident Sue Mann, for the exhibit. Bernice Thrall was raised in Lake Charles, La. She studied art at Newcomb College in New Orleans during World War I (1914-1918) and is considered to be the first woman commercial illustrator in that city. AMSET is located 500 Main Street, Beaumont TX. AMSET Hours: Monday-Friday: 9am-5pm, Saturday: 10am-5pm, Sunday: Noon-5pm. Closed Major Holidays. Cafe Hours: Mon-Fri 11 am-2 pm. Admission: Free. For more information call: 409-832-3432.
local children’s author, Tommie Townsley. This book is based on a true story about a dog that was abandoned during a hurricane. This book is available in the museum’s gift shop and all area bookstores. Story time will begin at 11 a.m. on the third floor. Bookmarks and coloring pages will be given out.
April Events at the Children’s Museum Spring Art Walk The Children’s Museum is featuring local artist Melissa Pousson in our third floor Gallery. Free Gallery admission from 5:30-7 p.m. Regular museum exhibits will be closed. Refreshments served. Artwork will be displayed until April 17. Friday, April 10, Good Friday: Member’s Easter Egg Hunt The museum will be closed to the general public and open to Members Only for the Member’s Easter Egg Hunt! Don’t forget your Easter basket! The fun begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 11: Sasol’s Second Saturday Science Show Sasol employees will present “Exploring the Human Senses.” At 11 a.m. watch hands-on demonstrations exploring the five senses: taste, touch, hearing, sight and smell. See how developed your senses are! Monday, April 13 – Friday, April 17: Spring Break Spectacular: Each day there is a different activity planned to celebrate Spring Break! Monday, April 13: Relaxing with Bubbles Learn how to relax in a fun way! Michelle Trenton, LPC, with Samaritan Counseling and Volunteers of America will be here helping kids learn how to relax by using bubbles at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 14: Kids in the Kitchen with Chef Joe Heacook Come in and cook up something delicious with Chef Joe at 11 a.m. Kids will discover the wonders of the culinary arts and the joy of cooking. Be a Chef for the day and get your own Chef’s hat! Space is limited. Wednesday, April 15: ArtSpace Workshop – Mexican Flowers Celebrate spring by learning how to make Mexican flowers with tissue paper, pipe cleaners and straws!! Free for all visitors! Please register in the front office. Classes begin at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. and are limited to 15 children. They must be accompanied by and adult. Thursday, April 16: National Stories Day Join us for a reading of “Dixie the Ole Dawg,” a book written by
Friday, April 17: Stranger Danger and Personal Safety Program The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office will be here at 2:30 p.m. teaching kids how to stay safe and secure. Saturday, April 18: Happy Birthday Children’s Museum We are celebrating our 21st Birthday with special events: • Junior League Special Art Project – All day event Come join us anytime for this special project that the Junior League of Lake Charles has kindly prepared and implemented for the opening of our ArtSpace! • Puppet Show at 10:30 a.m. The Junior League of Lake Charles will present their famous Kid’s Choice Puppet Show “Perry Medix and the Sirens.” Join us on the third floor! • New ArtSpace Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 1:30 p.m. Cake and refreshments will be served in the party room on the third floor. • “Chico” The Clown at 2:30 p.m. Come see “Chico” juggle, perform magic tricks and create balloon animals. He is also bringing along his friend, Curious George! Monday, April 20 to Saturday, April 25: National Karaoke Week Stop by the “Karaoke Cavern” and test out your vocal chords. We have a great variety of music ranging from Elvis to Hannah Montana! Monday, April 20 to Saturday, April 25: Celebrate Earth Day! Learn about recycling in our community. You can help by recycling your aluminum cans. We have special containers for Recycling! Stop by the ArtSpace and plant a flower or herb. Tuesday, April 21: Grand Lake Elementary School Art Exhibit For this project, we collaborated with the second grade teachers at Grand Lake Elementary School. Their artwork will be on display until May 15. Thursday, April 23: National Immunization Week At 10 a.m., Jennifer Frank from the Office of Public Health will read books about immunization. The Children’s Museum is located at 327 Broad Street downtown Lake Charles. Museum hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Admission is $6.50 for children and adults. Memberships and parties are available. Contact the Children’s Museum at 337-433-9420 or visit www.swlakids.org for more details and special events. continued on p40
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Spring Art Walk 2009 The Annual Spring Art Walk, highlighting the creative community in the Lake Area will be Friday, April 3rd from 5 PM until 9 PM. Participants include: •G allery By the Lake, 106 W. Lawrence St., Associated Louisiana Artists Group Show • ArtwoRx, 429 Ryan St., featuring Kurt McCracken and Bill Campbell
• Carnegie memorial, Calcasieu Parish Public Library, 411 Pujo St., featuring Melinda Antoon Cormier • Children’s Museum, 327 Broad St., featuring Melissa Pousson We will have the Art Bus again this year. Maps and ditty bags will be available at the Civic Center Bus Stop and along the bus route. This event is free and open to the public. For more information contact the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana at (337) 439-2787.
• Majestic, 609 Ryan St., featuring Darren Daugherty and Devin Morgan •M uller’s Building, 625 Ryan St., Drew LaBorde Charlie Guidry Mark Lefevre Phelps Correctional Center •C ongressman Charles Boustany’s Office, 700 Ryan St., Studio 347 Group Show •L una’s, 719 Ryan St., featuring Matthew Duplichan •C harleston Antique Gallery, 900 Ryan St., featuring Kevin Leveque and Adrian Fulton •C harleston, 900 Ryan St.(first floor) Josie Scott AJ Hebert •P ujo Street Café, 901 Ryan St., Artist Collective Show • 1911 Historic City Hall Artisans’ Gallery (first floor) NASA Art (second and third floors)
Who Is Really
Qualified To Be Mayor Of Lake Charles?
When you compare Lake Charles to other cities, large and small, in terms of recovery, it is truly remarkable what we have done. We have restored stability to our infrastructure, provided services, cleaned up the city and even managed to work with state and local officials to diversify our economy and recruit a major manufacturing firm to bring 1,400 jobs to our community.
Leadership
In the midst of our work on hurricane recovery we passed a $90 million bond issue and approved a plan to re-develop our Lakefront.
Voters must examine the candidates closely...their understanding of the job, political and community involvement, knowledge of government and record of accomplishments relative to achieving goals which benefit the whole community.
Andres Duany, International Urban Planner has said, “Mayor Roach is one of the most effective people I have ever worked with. The man likes bold schemes; he brings people along politically; he is fantastically straightforward and trustworthy. If a project needs to be done…Randy Roach is the man that can do it.”
Re-Elect Mayor Randy Roach… Because We Need Experienced, Proven Leadership Paid for by the Committee to Re-elect Randy Roach Mary Beth Connor, Chairman
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Leadership isn’t something that you can turn on or off whenever you want. Leadership is not something that you can pull out of a hat and use in a political speech or ad. Leadership is earned…the hard way… through work. The real test of leadership is how one handles a crisis.
VOTE #24 ...Uniquely Qualified To Serve Randy
Roach M A Y O R
Free to Breathe Kickoff Breakfast March 13, 2009
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he Shadow awoke at two, four and five o’clock anticipating the excitement of the Free to Breathe Kickoff Breakfast on March 13th at First United Methodist Church. Walking through the darkness to the double doors, The Shadow made the acquaintance of Tom and Pat Gill who seemed exceptionally energetic and wide awake. Tom ushered The Shadow inside and we made our way to a room filled with the aromatic smells of a breakfast buffet. The breakfast, underwritten by McDonald’s, kicked off the very first Free to Breathe 5k Run/1M Walk the following morning. The event was in memory of Lisa Nolan White and all proceeds benefit the National Lung Partnership. Volunteers Susan Cormier and Jessie Gabbert took me under their wing and I greatly appreciated it since I’m a relatively new Shadow, but I recognized many faces: John Fontenot, City Council candidate for District G, as well as Ben Mount who did an outstanding Hot Topic for KPLC about his own experience with lung cancer. Mayor Randy Roach made an appearance as well as Police Chief Don Dixon. Smiling faces greeted each other and I was reminded how attitude is everything when fighting an enemy such as cancer. In fact, looking around the crowded room, I realized there wasn’t one person there who hadn’t been touched by cancer in some way—through a loved one or from personal experience. Dr. Gary Kohler, pulmonologist with Pulmonary Associates spoke briefly about the importance of early detection and screening. The Shadow appreciated Dr. Kohler’s warm nature and positive attitude. He reminded us that we were there to celebrate life and become better educated about
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1 - Sam Williamson, Willie Mount, Poddy, Joe Champeaux, and Ann Todd are enjoying smiles and friendship at the Free to Breathe Kickoff Breakfast. 2 - Susan Cormier, Ben Mount, and Ann Todd stopped for a picture after visiting with attendees. 3 - Patty Williamson, Christa Puckett, Jackie Hebert and Robin Abshire are with Southern Home Health and one of the sponsors. 4 - Marilyn Kudla and Jean Kampla at the Free to Breathe Kickoff Breakfast. 5 - Chuck O’Connor, Kay Barnett, Jessica Carlson, Ginger Patton, Jill Breaux and Kay Morgan are waiting for arrivals. This crew from CHRISTUS St. Patrick’s Philanthropy Department worked hard and happily organizing
this 101st anniversary celebration. 6 - S ister Ann Margaret Savant, Sister Elizabeth Marisol Cruz, Sister Rosanne Popp and Sister Maura Theriot are happy to be attending Tavern on the Green. Sister Elizabeth, from Central America, is experiencing Louisiana for the first time. 7-D ecked out in green, F.J. and Tillie Lungaro and Ollie and Elwyn Cavin are enjoying the festivities. 8-R oxanne and Shawn Camara and Ken and Sheri Hughes share a good time at Tavern on the Green. 18 - Pretty sisters Britney and Courtney Glaser are enjoying the festivities as well as each other’s company.
lung cancer. Cancer survivor Poddy Champeaux gave an uplifting talk about her own battle with cancer, the range of emotions she experienced, how her plans were interrupted. “It doesn’t have to be a death sentence,” she said. During the course of the morning, it was reiterated that education and early screening is the key. Poddy’s mantra is “don’t wait until tomorrow, do it today.” In 2008 a quarter of a million people were diagnosed with cancer. Roughly 10 to 15 percent of lung cancer patients are non-smokers.
The Shadow learned that people who stop smoking by age 50 have half the risk of dying by the time they’re 65. According to Jean Kamla, Chairman of the Free to Breathe event, lung cancer kills more people than breast cancer, prostate cancer, and melanoma. I realized it’s true: we don’t hear enough about lung cancer, and when we increase awareness, we’ll increase the dollars and the research.
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Tavern on the Green March 14, 2009 On Saturday evening, the new Shadow and her husband covered the 4TH annual Tavern on the Green celebration at Graywood Plantation Clubhouse. The rainy evening did not put a damper on the festivities as we celebrated CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital’s 101st anniversary. We got there early and were greeted by Chuck O’Connor, Kay Barnett, Jessica Carlson, Ginger Patton, Jill Breaux, and Kay Morgan. The Shadow was treated like royalty and told her husband she could get very used to that kind of treatment as well as the wonderful Irish themed hors d’oeuvres. Cocktail tables with long white cloths dotted the large banquet room while old black and white pictures of CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital flashed on a large screen. Memories caused a lump in the throat of many of the attendees as they reminisced about the old days of St. Pat’s. As we chatted and nibbled, Andy Blanton serenaded us with Scottish and Irish tunes. Andy, a traditional Celtic folk singer and musician, lived up to his wonderful
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reputation to stir the Irish soul. Some of the attendees who came to share the magical evening were: Jack and Mandy Robichaux, David and Elizabeth Richard, Bill and Marilyn Flavin, and Bishop Glen John Provost. Others were F.J Lungaro and his wife Tillie, former owners of Tillie’s Dress Shop and Elwyn and Ollie Cavin. Retired physician Elwyn Cavin joined St. Pat’s Hospital in 1958. Everyone anxiously waited to see who would win the fabulous trip for two to Ireland. The prize pack, sponsored by The Pathology Laboratory, Merchants and Farmers Bank, Trust Company, and CHRISTUS Home Care and Hospice,
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included air fare, 8-night hotel accommodations, and guided tours. Finally the moment came and the ticket was drawn. Hunter and Julie Lundy are headed to Ireland.
Chamber SWLA Business Expo March 18, 2009 The Shadow’s third function was the Chamber SWLA Business Expo at the Civic Center where 100 area businesses had booths and networked with each other and the general
public. But first, we had the privilege of hearing Todd Graves, Founder of Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, speak to business managers and young entrepreneurs. Using pictures from his personal experience, Graves encouraged anyone who wants to start a business to have heart and passion, and to let no one discourage their dream. Graves said that philanthropic tendencies is part of his DNA, that over 27% of everything they’ve made goes back into the communities where they have a Raising Cane’s establishment. Mayor Randy Roach commended Todd Graves on his expert use of PowerPoint, as well as his sincerity
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9 - Aboagye and Lorena Walls from Entergy stopped to smile at the camera before sampling some delectable food. 10 - Jessica Single and Becky Fontenot from The Charleston Apartments, Keliye Moore from Raising Cane’s, and Lisa Newsom from AFLAC.
and passion, and presented him with a key to our city. The Shadow recognized several entrepreneurs and old friends: Todd Lowe and Grace Robideaux of Century 21 Bessette, Cody Vicknair from Flavin, and Jacob Thibodeau from Lamar Advertising. I chatted with David Martin of Video Creations & Productions and P.A. Guillory, owner of E-lance Business Services as well as Adria Trahan and Joe Mier from 2 Cajuns and a Truck. Other business acquaintances that crossed my path: Chuck Ehlers of Knight Media, Inc., Kathleen Leonards, Business Relations Director from the BBB of Southwest Louisiana and Alvin Guillory from Guillory Realty. Rebecca Amy and Laura LaFleur from Sowela Technical Community College tried to dodge the camera but The Shadow is quick. This was the perfect place to learn about the many businesses in Southwest Louisiana.
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Calcasieu Medical Society Foundation A Black Tie Affair March 21, 2009 The doors opened at six to the Sycamore Room at L’Auberge du Lac Casino and Resorts, for guests to enjoy the silent auction, cash bar, hors d’oeuvres, and raffle ticket sales. The third annual Black Tie Affair was hosted by the Calcasieu Medical Society Foundation March 21. Proceeds from the evening went to benefit the Calcasieu Community Clinic, which is located in the nursing building at McNeese State University. The clinic provides medical care and medications free of charge to those working uninsured who qualify. Kayla Rigney made her way around the room with detailed programs which outlined the auction items and the schedule for the evening. The walls were lined with beautiful paintings to be auctioned and many other enticing items were situated around the room. The Shadow paused to take a picture of Estela Palma, and learned she works for Dr. Ordinario. We chatted for a while about a mutual friend. An elegant and lively atmosphere awaited the guests as they trickled in wearing handsome suits and lovely gowns. Waiters circled in and out offering appetizing hors d’oeuvres to the socializing clusters around the room. When The Shadow observed the arriving guests she saw Jay Winterbottom approaching, anticipating
11 - Ann Barilleaux, Foundation Development Director for the Alliance and President/CEO George Swift stopped to pose and smile before the Business Expo began. 12 - Rebecca Amy and Laura LaFleur are from Sowela Technical Community College. 13 - Amber and Carl Comeaux are looking forward to manning their booth and networking with other entrepreneurs. They own Live Fit 7 and live and breathe physical fitness. 14 - Blain and DeAnna Crochet look at the items to be auctioned before the room starts to fill. 15 - Margaret McCloskey and Larry Pecar socialize in the Sycamore Room. 16 - Cathy King and Father Brian King, the chaplain at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital, enjoy some time together at the silent auction 17 - Mr. and Mrs. Donavon Flegeance socialize while taking pleasure in the beautiful atmosphere at A Black Tie Affair. 18 - Ruth Girola and John Cannon arrive at the Sycamore Room for Hors d’oeuvres, a Silent Auction, and raffle tickets before dinner.
the arrival of his family. All the guests looked forward to dinner in the grand ballroom with a welcome by Dr. Van Snider, Chairman of A Black Tie Affair and President of the CMS Foundation and the Calcasieu Parish Medical Society.
The night included an invocation by Monsignor Harry Greig, and the Master of Ceremonies, Dr. John Noble, Vice-President of the Calcasieu Medical Society Foundation, presented the CCC Community Service Award followed
by Dr. Shamieh’s presentation of the Physician Community Service Award. All the guests were whisked away by the entertaining music of Vince Vance and the Valients. This Black Tie Affair proved to be a perfect evening.
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Dispatches from DeRidder
Boot Scootin’ Fun at the Fairgrounds
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By J. SHIRLENE COOPER
The Third Annual Rhinestone Roundup kicked off the evening of March 7 with boot scootin’ fun at the fairgrounds. Coordinated by BeauCARE, the Denim and Diamonds Gala drew a large crowd and was deemed a winner of an affair by BeauCARE Interim Executive Director Amada Smith as well as the BeauCARE Board Members. As every good roundup includes a great chuck wagon style meal, this event was on track with an assortment of loaded buffet tables. Among the offerings were barbecue brisket, baked beans, potato salad and “Texas Caviar”—a mixture of blackeyed peas, red onions, tomatoes, and spicy jalapeño bits—which had folks coming back for seconds and in some cases, thirds. To chase down that jalapeño, drinks from the makeshift “saloon,” put the cap on all the delicious fare, which was catered by Mrs. Emily’s. On the chow line and gathered at tables decorated with sunflower centerpieces, were a large sampling
of Beauregard’s finest cowboys and cowgirls. Mixing with BeauCARE board members, such as Leon Lagneaux, were DeRidder Mayor Ron Roberts and his wife, the First Lady of DeRidder, Martha Lou Roberts, Stuart and Kim Hayes, and both newly inducted judges from the 36th Judicial District, Judge Kerry Anderson and his wife, Erika, and Judge Martha O’Neal and her husband, Les Leavoy. Miss Beauregard, Abigail Day, also made the rounds, having opted to wear her rhinestone tiara, rather than a Stetson. Between the chow line and the dance floor, guests were invited to take part in a silent auction, to which area merchants and individual supporters had contributed a vast array of wares and collectibles. Up for bid, were Western home décor items, bath and beauty baskets, framed and signed photographs of sports stars, autographed sports memorabilia, such as balls and helmets, and gift certificates for automobile service or merchandise. Auction participants had only to pen in their highest offer and check back often, so as not to be out bid, if they
Among those visiting the Silent Auction tables at this year’s Rhinestone Roundup, Teri Windham (from left), Beverly Gott, and Sandy Lebeouf took time to catch up on current affairs while pondering what their highest bids might be.
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In paper napkin bandanas, Up With People community service organization, field agents Brandon Serna from Denver, Colorado, and Paulina Meza from Chihuahua, Mexico, joined Leanne Bulger, the spouse of a Fort Polk soldier hamming it up as wannabe cowpokes at the Rhinestone Roundup.
truly didn’t want to miss out on the prizes. Raffle chances also were available. The top prize in that area was a diamond, horse-shoe necklace, which was awarded at the end of the night to one lucky ticket holder. A DeRidder High School graduate, the talented Jennifer Hayes Stark opened the night’s musical entertainment. She wowed the crowd with several songs including an inspiring number called “Dream,” which was written by an aunt. Following Stark, singer/songwriter Kyle Parks, of Austin, Texas was the headliner and featured entertainer. His up-and-coming band consists of Parks, who is lead vocal and plays the guitar, Karl Schwoch on the lead guitar; CJ Reininger on the bass guitar; and Will Armstrong on drums. Drawing from the songs
featured on at least two CD’s to their credit—including the recently released “Anywhere in Texas”—the band kept the toes-tapping and the dance floor busy with a selection of old favorites and new country music offerings. An improvised corral, set up in front of the band, served as the dancing area and to the delight of other guests, Judge Martha and husband Les, were among the first to set boots to concrete. Brandon Serna and Paulina Meza, with the National community service group Up With People, were not far behind and the two couples were trading partners and showing the crowd what an old fashioned hoe-down was all about. Others soon followed suit and before long the scene was a blur of twostepping, waltzing, and twirling. Wrapping up the night’s activities
BeauCARE Interim Executive Director Amanda Smith (from left) assists BeauCARE Director of Finance Bruce Butts at the raffle table. Among those purchasing chance tickets on a diamond horseshoe necklace were Miss Beauregard Abigail Day and her dad, Ricky.
700 E. Prien Lake Road • 337-478-3566 Between Common and Kirkman
After a Rhinestone Roundup cowboy meal of barbecue brisket with all the trimmings, and before the action kicks off on the dance floor, DeRidder Mayor Ron Roberts (from left), Judge Kerry Anderson and wife Erika Anderson, DeRidder City Councilman Gordon Jenkins, and BeauCARE Board member Leon Lagneaux relax and visit.
was the announcement of the winning bidders from the Silent Auction. Dozens and dozens of highly prized items were awarded, with the proceeds from that activity, as well as the sale of tickets and other donations, earmarked for BeauCARE’s after-school programming. Smith explained that some of the programs the coordinators are hoping to develop or improve include tutoring with a focus on homework help, one-on-one mentoring, and educational activities. She said she was very pleased with the turnout for this year’s event and also with how smoothly everything came together in the pre-planning and coordinating stages. Smith also gave much of the credit to the Diamond Benefactor sponsors
Amerisafe, and Millard and Kerin Morris. Other sponsors included Gold Patrons - Pax, Inc., Ricky Day Trucking, Bryan and Strange, Inc., and Marine One; Silver PatronsFirst National Bank and Beauregard Federal Savings Bank; and Denim Patrons – Beauregard Memorial Hospital, CPA John Windham, Regions Insurance Group, L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort, and Jasani International. “BeauCARE thanks all the sponsors and supporters that made the event such a success,” Smith said, adding “We’re looking forward to next year.” That sentiment echoed in the chorus of attending cowpokes, in one final and resounding, “Yee-haw!”
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Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism
Donald McNabb (from left) Kie McNabb and Tifany Lestage discuss the offerings on the chuck wagon-style buffet at BeauCARE’s Denim and Diamond fundraiser.
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In her own words...... My name is Shereen Taha, I am 12 years old and go to S.J. Welsh Middle School. Let me tell you about my daddy..... He always helps our friends. People call him at home asking for his help. He served lunches for needy people at Abraham’s Tent during Christmas and Thanksgiving. He took me to the Burton Coliseum with him to help people from hurricane Katrina. He always takes us to Prien Lake Park to Barbeque and play soccer, and he takes us to Houston for the weekend. Please vote for my daddy, #38 on April 4, 2009. City Council District G.
R. Dale Bernauer, M.D.
4150 Nelson Rd., Bldg. D, Ste. 1 Lake Charles, La. 70605 PH: 337-474-6960 FAX: 337-474-6970
A non-surgical technique to fight against arthritis and sports injuries. Do you need a joint replacement or suffer from arthritis or sports injuries? We offer a non surgical solution. Regenerative Therapy is designed to regenerate joint cartilage and decrease arthritic changes and pain. This therapy uses a combination of injection therapy, laser therapy, exercises, bracing and other modalities. Parts of the program can be covered by insurance while parts are not. A commitment to the whole program is necessary for success. This is how it works: The physician introduces natural medicine into damaged, arthritic cells by means of a precise injection. This process is followed by infrared laser as well as several other modalities in order to accelerate the process. Depending on tissue damage, severity of the condition and the size of the joint that needs to be injected, people usually need a series of 1 to 6 treatments to improve. There is usually no downtime, and people can go back to their usual activities or work immediately. The treatments can help most musculoskeletal problems such as knee pain, shoulder pain, whiplash, tendonitis, sprain, strains, torn ligaments and cartilage damage.
paid for by Khalid Taha Campaign Funds
For more information and to schedule your treatment call 337-474-6960.
Parting Sh o ts 1) E-mail your snap shots to myphoto@timessw.com. Must include a contact name and phone number. 2) Photos should be attached as a file and not imbedded in copy or photoshopped into a format. Original size, please, do not compress the file. No mailed or fax photographs can be used.
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Megan, Lilah & Kaden Eakin enjoy Walt Disney World during their Mardi Gras holiday.
3) Subjects in photo must be identified by name. Children should also be identified by parent or guardian. Unidentified or anonymous photos will not be considered for publication. 4) The Times reserves the right to decline publishing photos of questionable taste or subject matter, or for space limitations.
The Land of Lagniappe
866.580.7444
ldlcasino.com
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