The Times of Southwest Louisiana by The Times of Southwest Louisiana

WWW. TIME SSW. C O M â&#x20AC;˘ july 2 3 , 2 0 0 9 / V O L. 14, NO. 14

Back to School Lake Charles

Firefighters

Beauregard Church Bombings

Jindal Legislative Luncheon Wrap-Up

Home Grown: Lake Charles Tackle

July 23, 2009 Volume 14, Number 14 617 Drew St., Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-439-0995 Fax: 337-439-0418

C ontents

PUBLISHER Patrick Marcantel

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Home growns Lake Charles Tackle: Where Service Is The Catch

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EDITOR Nancy Correro Assistant Editor Jessica Ferguson Assignments Chaney Ferguson

Contributors Garrett Lumpkin J. Shirlene Cooper D.B. Grady Katie Penny Matt Jones Lisa Miller Terri Schlichenmeyer Politics John Maginnis Dan Juneau

Enterprise boulevard Local High School Drop-out Rate/ Career Diplomas

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A D VE R T ISING Sales Manager Andy Jacobson

Account executive Katy Corbello

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Account executive Brian Chriceol

G R A P H IC S 36 38 41

Art/Production Director Natalie Clark 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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Columns Inside Baton Rouge: Moving Up By Staying Put Biz Bytes: The Politics of Patronage Legal Eagle: Covenant Marriage Geeks & Gadgets: Which Computer Should I buy? 337 Sports: New Orleans Saints 2009 Team Preview Dispatches From DeRidder: Beauregard Church Bombings Cover story Five Parish School Schedules Features The Citizen: A Fireman’s Backup Partners in Education List Children’s Health: Safety as Easy as 1, 2, 3 Children’s Health: Beat the Back to School Blues Jindal Talks-Up Legislation at the Chamber’s Summer Speaker Series Lake Area Film Group Breathe Dance & Performance Collective Entertainment Times Band Stand Times Picks The Shadow: 4th of July Parade, 4th of July Blue Ribbon Pie Contest, Brew-Ha-Ha Festival, Lake Charles High School Reunion Book Beat: “B as in Beauty” Movie Review: Ice Age Coffee Break Crossword: “I’m Getting Dizzy”—turns to turn your brain to mush.

business notes City Savings Bank Receives Highest Bank Ratings Independent Banker, TheStreet.com, Bankrate.com and BauerFinancial four leading financial resources, gave City Savings Bank the highest bank ratings. Independent Banker named City Savings Bank in its list of the 400 Top Performing Community Banks of 2008. TheStreet.com’s rating system evaluates the strength of more than 13,000 financial institutions. Bankrate. com awarded City Savings Bank its highest rating—five stars. BauerFinancial, Inc. awarded City Savings Bank its highest rating of five stars. Since 1928, City Savings Bank has served its local community by providing financial strength and stability and the highest customer service. The bank has locations in DeRidder, DeQuincy, Moss Bluff, Leesville, Sulphur and Lake Charles. For more information on City Savings Bank contact Matthew Bowles at 337463-8661, ext. 235 or mbowles@citysavingsbank.com. You can also visit City Savings at www.citysavingsbank.com. American Cancer Society’s 11th Annual Jamaica Me Crazy Party Tables are available for the American Cancer Society’s eleventh annual Jamaica Me Crazy Party for a Cure Gala to be held on Saturday, August 15 at the Lake Charles Civic Center Coliseum. Doors open at 7 pm with “Bayou Katz” providing live music from 8:00 pm – 11:00 pm. Admission for this event is $50 per person and $90 per couple in advance and $50 per person at the door. Tables of eight (8) are available for $400. Food will be provided by O’Charley’s Restaurant. Tickets are now available by calling 337.433.5817. L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort Co-Sponsors A Midsummer White Linen Night Larry Lepinski, vice president and general manager of L’Auberge, and Kerry Andersen, director of community & public relations, presented a $5,000 check to Leif Pedersen , senior vice president of philanthropy for The Foundation, and Larry Graham, chief executive officer at Memorial. The mission of The Foundation is to raise funds for Memorial’s capital needs, endowments, special programs and support of community efforts. For more information, please call The Foundation at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, (337) 494-3226.

Left to Right: Cameron State Bank president and CEO Roy M. Raftery, Jr., senior vice president/commercial lender Bobby Broussard, McNeese athletic director Tommy McClelland and McNeese president Dr. Robert Hebert. McNeese Athletic Department Receives Donation From CSB Cameron State Bank recently presented a $100,000 check to the McNeese State athletic department as the fifth installment of a $1 million dollar commitment to the department. Making the presentation were bank president and CEO Roy M. Raftery, Jr.

and senior vice president/commercial lender Bobby Broussard. Accepting were McNeese athletic director Tommy McClelland and president Dr. Robert Hebert. “We are very grateful for the support of Cameron State Bank,” said McClelland. “Cameron State Bank continues to be a very big factor in helping McNeese athletics reach new levels of success.”

Taking receipt of the plaque for L’Auberge du Lac from George Swift was Larry Lepinski, Vice President and General Manager, and Kerry Andersen, Director of Community and Public Relations. L’Auberge Receives Platinum Level Plaque For its contributions to the Southwest Louisiana on the Move Campaign L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort received its Platinum Level Plaque. L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort is one of many major contributors to the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance’s campaign to further the region’s development efforts. Taking receipt of the plaque for L’Auberge du Lac from George Swift was Larry Lepinski, Vice President and General Manager, and Kerry Andersen, Director of Community and Public Relations. The current plan of work under the Southwest Louisiana on the Move Campaign is to address the critical issues facing our region: workforce development, business recruitment, business retention and expansion, regional marketing, and building a single voice for a true regional partnership. Hackberry Rural Health Clinic Announces Reopening The Hackberry Rural Health Clinic of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital has reopened at its permanent location of 1020 Main Street in Hackberry. The clinic suffered flood damage due to Hurricane Ike and has undergone extensive repair and remodeling. A temporary location provided by Sempra Energy allowed basic health care services to be offered during the reconstruction of the permanent site. The clinic provides general health care services to patients of all ages. Most insurance plans are accepted, and the clinic sees patients that are uninsured, self-pay, or have Medicare or Medicaid. The clinic is open from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Mondays, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Fridays. The clinic is closed on Wednesdays. Dental care will be available through Dr. Thomas Cates, who will be in the Hackberry Rural Health Clinic each Thursday. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (337) 762-3762. Northwestern Mutual Lake Charles Ribbon Cutting A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony to celebrate the opening of the new Northwestern Mutual office located on the sixth floor of the downtown Chase Bank building was held. Mayor Randy Roach, Northwestern Mutual clients, and several Chamber members gathered together for this celebration. Northwestern Mutual has been an enduring and reputable member of the Lake Charles life insurance and financial services landscape for more than 30 years. Northwestern Mutual of Lake Charles has 10 financial representatives, Continued on Page 9

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A b o u t

S o u t h w e s t

L o u i s i a n a

E nterprise B oulevard W h o ’s

Is A Career Diploma the Answer?

Optometry Association of Louisiana Honors Oakdale Eye Doctor At the annual convention held in Lafayette, Louisiana, the Board of Directors of the Optometry Association of Louisiana announced the creation of a new award, Louisiana Distinguished Service Award; hereafter known as the Dr. James D. Sandefur Award. The Award was named in honor of its first recipient, James D. Sandefur, OD. Sandefur has worked tirelessly for over a decade as Executive Director of the OAL, represented optometry on a national level, served on the Louisiana State Board of Optometry Examiners, and elevated the practice of optometry in the eyes of Louisiana health care providers and the nation. Dr. Sandefur currently serves on the Board of Directors of First Federal Bank of Louisiana in Lake Charles and serves as the secretary/treasurer of the Louisiana State Board of Optometry Examiners.

By Chaney Ferguson

new curriculum designed to prevent high school dropouts has some people questioning if the possible solution will help or hinder Louisiana’s educational system. Senate Bill 259 includes the new curriculum and was signed by Governor Bobby Jindal in early July. Students who fulfill the curriculum will graduate with a “career diploma” instead of the standard academic diploma involving college-prep classes. The Legislature’s conflict over the bill highlighted the national debate over high school graduation standards. Advocates of the new curriculum believe it will help the struggling students prepare for community college or a career by focusing on technical training. The opposition argues that the participating students will be shortchanged in the future since the new curriculum does not prepare them for a college education—which most future careers will require. Legislators are not the only ones who are split on the issue. A recent report put out by Civic Enterprises, a public policy fellows program, reveals fifty-nine percent of teachers and forty-one percent of principles believe there should be an alternate track for students who are not college bound to receive a diploma. Louisiana will be one of the few states to offer the option of a career diploma. In the past several years, Louisiana has raised academic

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standards and graduation rates simultaneously. From 2001 to 2007 graduation rates rose from sixty-one percent to sixty-six percent. While supporters of the diploma point towards the one in three dropout rate, the diploma is not without its opponents. A letter written in early June by Michael Cohen, president of Achieve, Kati Haycock, president of Education Trust, and Marlene Seltzer, president and CEO of Jobs for the Future, cites concerns over SB 259 and two other additional bills with common intentions. The letter states that the creation of a new career readiness diploma as a less rigorous alternative to the Louisiana Core 4 diploma is particularly worrisome. The letter continues to reveal potential problems that will arise due to the bill. “In attempting to design a work readiness path for students, you may inadvertently re-create the type of tracking system that leaves many students, particularly poor and minority students, unprepared for good careers and for further education after high school.” Cohen, Haycock, and Seltzer address the issue of the career diploma benefiting those students planning to pursue a career rather than college. “The idea that students bound for the workplace need a lower level of education that those bound for college is a flawed premise that is not supported by research.” “In fact, the latest research shows just the opposite: a convergence around a core set of knowledge, skills, and competencies that all high school graduates need to be prepared for the postsecondary training and education that will open doors to well-paid, family-sustaining jobs and careers.” Despite concerns some educators believe the new option

Memorial Physician Receives Award of Excellence A pediatrician on staff at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital and a parttime faculty member Jody George, MD presented at the Dr. Unkel with Award. Memorial/ LSUHSC Family Medicine Residency Program, Patrick J. Unkel, MD, is the first recipient of the William Perry George Memorial Award of Excellence. The George Family Foundation recognized Dr. Unkel for his ethics, a life-long dedication to learning, and his many acts of kindness in both his personal and professional life. Jody George, MD, a 2007 graduate of the residency program, presented Dr. Unkel with a crystal memorial on behalf of the family foundation. For more information, call the Memorial/LSUHSC Family Medicine Residency Program at (337) 494-2023. Memorial Hospital Announces BiMonthly Rosie Thompson Award Winner Officer Raymond Laughlin was the recipient of Lake Charles Memorial Hospital’s

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W ho’s News cont. bi-monthly Rosie Thompson Award for May/June 2009. Laughlin was nominated by fellow employees for his outstanding examples of service excellence as a security officer at Memorial. McNeese State Assistant Volleyball Coaches Named The two assistant coaches join fifth year head coach Dale Starr to make up the 2009 Cowgirl staff. Chris Taylor and Nicole Wilson have been named McNeese State assistant volleyball coaches, pending state board approval. Tim Coffey, COO, presents the Taylor comes to McNeese after Rosie Thompson Award to Officer a three year stint at LouisianaRaymond Laughlin Monroe where he served as graduate assistant for the past two seasons and volunteer assistant in 2006. Wilson is a 2007 graduate of the University of Missouri where she was a standout volleyball player.

Nicole Wilson

Chris Taylor

PRIMA’s 2009-2010 President The Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) installed its new president, Ron Hayes, at its annual membership luncheon, held during PRIMA’s 2009 Annual Conference in Dallas. Hayes takes over the role of president of the Association after serving on PRIMA’s board of directors since 2005. He has also participated in PRIMA committees, including serving as the Conference Planning Committee chair in 2007, Finance Committee chair in 2008 and Risk Management Project of the Year Award Committee in 2006. He also served as the board liaison to the Chapter Relations Committee in 2008-2009. Hayes has been the risk manager for Calcasieu (LA) Parish School Board, since 1999. Hayes will lead the Association of more than 2,000 public entities and oversee its nine-person board of directors until June 2010, at which time he will assume the role of past-president on the Ron Hayes Association’s board. Lake Charles Student Heads to American Legion Boys Nation in Washington, D.C. One of 98 high school student representatives throughout the U.S. chosen to attend The American Legion Boys Nation. Michael Seaberry, resident of Lake Charles, Louisiana, and senior at Barbe High School, is one of two delegates selected from Louisiana based on leadership skills, academic record and activity. This program is designed to inspire a strong devotion to America while providing a practical view of federal government procedures.

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Cory Vincent McNeese Names MVP’s in Baseball and Golf The two will be recognized for their achievement during preTaylor Freeman game ceremonies at a McNeese State football game in the fall. Taylor Freeman in baseball and Cory Vincent in golf have been named most valuable players at McNeese State for the 2009 spring semester. Freeman will be presented the Frank Landry Jr. memorial MVP award and Vincent the Ellis Guillory memorial MVP award. Coach Terry Burrows announced the baseball MVP and Coach Neel DeRouen the golf MVP. It’s the second straight McNeese MVP award for Freeman who also won in 2008. Freeman, who played two seasons with the Cowboys as a catcher, was recently selected in the eighth round of the major baseball league draft by the New York Mets. The native of Carney, OK hit 20 home runs during his Cowboy career and drove in 108 runs. Vincent, a native of Sulphur, was the lead scorer for the Cowboy golf team during the spring semester. McNeese Tailback Named FCS All-American The Cowboy standout, a senior from Newton, TX, led the Cowboys and the Southland Conference in rushing last season with a school record 1,431 yards. McNeese State tailback Toddrick Pendland has Toddrick Pendland been named to the Sports Network pre-season Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) all-America football team. Pendland was named to the pre-season second team. Also picked for the team were Southeastern Louisiana defensive back Tommy Connors, Central Arkansas defensive end Larry Hart and SFA linebacker Jabar Williams who were named to the first team and Central Arkansas defensive tackle Taylor Scott who was named to the second team. The Cowboys open fall practice on August 6 and will kick off their season Sept. 5 at home against Henderson State. McNeese Softball Player Named to SC All-Academic Team Sophomore outfielder Lindsey Langner has been named to the Capital One Bank/ Southland Conference All-Academic team as announced by the league office.

Lindsey Langner

W ho’s News cont. Langner was selected to the second team. The native of Pearland, Tx. led the Cowgirls with a .269 batting average, 49 hits, 30 runs scored, 15 stolen bases, 212 plate appearances and 182 at bats. She was a third team all-SLC selection and was a member of the Southland Conference all-tournament team. Langner posted a 3.88 GPA in Health Education this semester.

encourage young people to become involved in helping keep our city and surrounding areas clean.

McNeese Pitcher and Outfielder Named to LSWA Softball Team The Louisiana Sports Writers Association All-Louisiana Softball team named McNeese State pitcher Bethany Stefinsky and outfielder Lindsey Langner to the team. Stefinsky, a senior from Gonzales, Texas, was a third team pick after leading the Cowgirls all season long in the circle and posted a 21-16 overall record with a 2.67 ERA in her final season with the Cowgirls. She broke McNeese’s single season strikeout record and led the Southland Conference with 304 strikeouts this season. Langner, a sophomore from Pearland, Texas was named to the honorable mention team after leading the Cowgirls in eight offensive categories including a .269 batting average, 30 runs scored, 49 hits and 15 Bethany Stefinsky stolen bases. The Rotary Club of Lake Charles announces its 2009-2010 Officers From Left to Right: Adrian Wallace, City of Lake Charles (Secretary), Pam Courtney, Fraser-Wheeler Law Firm (President-Elect), Michelle Jordan, First United Methodist Church (President), Randy Robb, Chennault Industrial Airport (Treasurer).

Dr. Maureen Olivier Joins The Clinic’s Physician Staff Dermatologist Maureen Olivier, MD, has joined the physician staff of Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic. Dr. Olivier has practiced in Lake Charles for 26 years. At The Clinic, Dr. Olivier will be providing both general dermatology and cosmetic dermatology services. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 474-1386. Chamber SWLA’s Ramsey Completes First Year at IOM The Chamber SWLA’s Membership Sales Representative, Paula Ramsey, recently completed her first year at Institute for Organization Management (Institute), a fouryear nonprofit leadership training program at the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia. In addition, participants can earn points toward the Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) or Certified Association Executive (CAE) certifications. Nearly 1,000 individuals attend Institute annually. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

Maureen Olivier, MD

We’re back from Market! New items are arriving daily… Jewelry / Fragrances / Linens / PJ’s Totes / Purse / Desk Accessories Invitations / Stationery / Party Goods Wrap / Ribbon / Journals / Fall Décor Paula Ramsey

2009 Clean Campus Contest Winners, Participants Announced Schools participating in this year’s Clean Campus Contest were recognized by Mayor Randy Roach and the Lake Charles City Council at a recent City Council Agenda Meeting. Representatives from each school received awards at the May 12 ceremony as follows: A.A. Nelson Elementary School; 1st place, Brentwood Elementary School; 2nd Place, St. Margaret School; 3rd Place. Reynaud Middle School; 1st Place, Our Lady Queen of Heaven School; 2nd Place, De Quincy Middle School; 3rd Place. Other participating schools: Combre/Fondel Elementary School, Dolby Elementary School, T.H. Watkins Elementary School, T.S. Cooley Elementary School, DeQuincy Elementary School, S.P. Arnett Middle School, Ray D. Molo Middle School, Sam Houston High School and Sulphur High School 9th Grade Campus. The goal is to

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July 23, 2009

Sthe o ubest t h iwn elake s t area L o enter u i s tai i anment n a ’s

H om e G rown B usiness es Lake Charles Tackle: Where Service Is The Catch By Chaney Ferguson In 1994, David Rabalais and Tim Woods started Lake Charles Tackle (LCT). The business venture began with two avid fishermen who had to order their bait. “Every time we had to fish at a tournament we had to go look at the magazine, and order baits because nobody was carrying the ones we were using at the time,” said Woods. Neither one remembers which one said the line that sparked the business, but the idea came from a desire to have a tackle shop like one at Toledo Bend. Rabalais and Woods began their business on Common Street in a building with only 900 square feet. “We put up a shingle, ordered some things we thought we could sell, and hired a good manager named Bill Brown,” said Woods. Brown had a background in merchandising and he taught the two new owners how to listen to what the customer wanted before ordering products. “We always thought we knew what the people wanted because we fished. We learned quickly that it was not always what we wanted but what the customer wanted,” said Rabalais. Business started out slow until Rabalais and Woods started sponsoring a fishing show, hosted by Terry Shaughnessy. “The show really helped get our name out there,” said Rabalais. After two years in the business the men decided

to expand. They moved to their current location at 310 W. McNeese Street, where they enjoy approximately 4,000 square feet. “We are actually looking to expand again,” said Woods. Since 1994 the business has not only increased in size but also in workers. “We began with one employee, and now we have between eight and ten depending on the season,” said Woods. The current general manager, Gregg Vidrine, says that LCT is not like Academy or Wal-Mart. “We are the individual serving the individual’s needs,” said Vidrine. “There is always someone here to greet the customer at the door, and see if there is anything we can do to help.” LCT finds unique niche items that help them separate themselves from their competition. Items such as the Yeti ice chest. LCT is made more unique with the Yeti LSU ice chest

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for the die-hard fans. They offer many services chain stores do not have. “We provide a service on rod and reel repair, spool reels, sell and service trolling motors, and we sell electronics like depth finders and GPS’s,” said Rabalais. Recently the store started carrying marine accessories, whether it is something to fix a trailer or boat, wiring or electrical. “We don’t do the repairs, but we sell the parts,” said Woods. They will special order any type of equipment, bait, boating accessory, or fishing accessory. “Special orders don’t upset us,” said Vidrine. Rabalais says that LCT will switch gears around late August or early September when they start carrying hunting equipment. “We deal with mainly waterfowl and deer hunting accessories,” said Rabalais.

Vidrine says that the name of the business should be changed to Lake Charles Tackle and More because the store offers products for the sportsman, not just the fisherman. Products for those who like to go rafting, kayaking, or fly fishing are offered too. “We order the newest and most innovative supplies for fishing or hunting,” said Rabalais. The market for the area has completely changed since the business opened fifteen years ago. Rabalais and Woods started their business with an interest in bass fishing. “We started with freshwater fishing, but customers came in and started asking for other things so we moved into what is called inshore saltwater,” said Rabalais. In the last six or seven years LCT has moved into blue water (offshore) fishing. The shift in merchandise is caused by what the customers are asking for. “If you can think it, we can get it,” said Vidrine. Over the past five or six years LCT has won the award for #1 Independent Dealer. When new products become available LCT has the ability to get them quicker than the chains. “We can react quicker than the chains,” said Vidrine. “We don’t order for next year in mind. We order for next week in mind.” The men learn of new products from their

busines notes cont. who are part of a network of specialists offering a wide array of financial services and products. Cameron State Bank Named Top National Performer by ICBA ICBA Independent Banker, the national magazine of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA), highlighted Cameron State Bank as an “ICBA 400 Top Performer,” the magazine’s annual listing of top earning ICBA member community banks. The trade magazine recognized Cameron State Bank for posting one of the best year-end earnings performances in 2008 for ICBA member banks with more than $500 million in assets. ICBA Independent Banker is the flagship magazine published by ICBA. Cameron State Bank has been serving the people of Southwest Louisiana for over 40 years, growing from one branch in 1966 to over 275 employees and 21 Banking Centers today. Families Helping Families SWLA 14th Annual School Supply Drive A non profit family directed, family resource center, Families Helping Families of SWLA, Inc. serves the rural parishes of Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron and Jeff Davis. For the past 13 years FHF has collected school supplies and assisted 150-175 children each year whose families may have difficulty providing all the needed supplies to support their students. For $11.42 basic school supplies can be provided to one student with special needs served in special educational programs. All funds raised and materials collected go directly to the families of students. Contributions are tax deductible. If you would like to donate supplies, please drop them at 2927 Hodges Street in Lake Charles or contact FHF at 337-436-2570.

contacts with sales representatives and product shows. They also order new items when customers come in talking about them. “The other day a guy brought in something he ordered, and he suggested we start carrying it. So we will,” said Vidrine. All three men believe in the importance of customer service. “Our customers are our best salesmen,” said Vidrine. “They keep coming back because of the service we provide.” LCT participates in community events such as the annual boat show, and they donate to various charities hosting fishing events. “We are not just a place for men to shop. We also offer rod and reels for women, and our Costa Del Mar sunglasses are a big seller with women,” said Rabalais. Whether you want to sign up for a tournament, learn the fishing and hunting regulations, or get a fishing or hunting license, Lake Charles Tackle is the place to go. For more information call 337-479-2999, visit the website at www.lakecharlestackle.com or stop by 310 W. McNeese St.

The Ease, and Security, of Mobile Banking Using a cell phone to merely call someone is so yesterday; these days, they can be used for checking email, taking pictures and even banking. Mobile banking is the new wave of technology enabling bank customers to check their balances or make simple transactions using their cell phone. If you’re not taking advantage of this convenience, experts say you will soon. More than three million people in America used mobile banking last year, ten times the number from 2007 and projected numbers forecast a thirty percent increase by 2010. As with anything in cyber-space, safety is the number one concern for both consumers and providers. Historically, financial industries have invested heavily in security and as technology has become more commonplace, it continues to be a top priority. As the popularity of mobile banking continues to grow, more and more banking customers are enjoying the portability of taking their bank with them wherever they go. Cameron State Bank customers can access their accounts by typing www. csbmobi.com into their cell phone with internet capabilities, or stop by any CSB location for details.

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Customer Appreciation Sale Thank you for your business. St acey

201 W. College St., Ste. C • (337) 562-8191

July 23, 2009

Inside Baton Rouge - By John Maginnis

Biz Bytes - By Dan Juneau

Moving Up by Staying Put

imply by staying still, the political stars of the state’s top two elected leaders are on the rise. Lt. Gov. Mitch Landrieu announced last week he would not run for mayor of New Orleans next year, opting to stay in Baton Rouge, closer to his ultimate goal. Good choice. Even if he were to be elected mayor, hardly assured, the office historically is a dead end for political careers, even if he were to succeed in bringing the city together, also hardly assured. For his future, the best job is the one he has. The same can be said for Gov. Bobby Jindal, for now anyway. His national star dimmed somewhat this year, but at least it didn’t flame out, like those of now-former Republican presidential aspirants Sen. John Ensign of Nevada and Gov. Mark Sanford of South Carolina, both politically destroyed by their recently exposed extra-marital affairs. Their falls are significant because both had recently eclipsed Jindal, following his dreadful nationally televised speech in February, especially dynamic fellow Southerner Sanford. On another front, Jindal, doing nothing again, also looked good compared to Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, who stunned Republicans and disturbed some too by announcing her resignation mid-term. She will make a fortune on the speaking circuit and can focus freely on a potential presidential bid, but some Republicans see her move as erratic and opportunistic. It might seem like a low bar, but just by honoring his marriage and keeping his job, Bobby Jindal is looking better and better as a leader in the Republican Party. Yet, unless things change drastically, he most likely is no rival to Palin for the presidential nomination in 2012, nor is he to others mentioned as top early contenders: Mitt Romney, Mike Huckabee, Newt Gingrich, even Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty. The Louisiana governor, however, holds an important distinction compared to them all. Given Pawlenty’s decision not to seek a third term in 2010, by then Jindal will be the only one of the above serving in public office. So much for the rap on him that he doesn’t stay in any job for long. By 2012, seasoned by re-election, Jindal would make an attractive vice presidential candidate for any one of them. Although he passed on being considered for the second spot on John McCain’s ticket last year, next time will be different. If tapped, win or lose, he would be the party’s likely frontrunner for 2016 or 2020, when he’s 45 or 49. Over the next three years, Jindal’s star need not rise so much as just hold steady, while he stays prepared. Meanwhile, nobody’s star is hitched so closely to his as is Landrieu’s. Before his announcement, the lieutenant governor said his decision would be based on where he could do the most good, in City Hall or the State Capitol. So we have his answer. Many hope that means he will challenge Jindal’s re-election in 2011. Already he has assumed leadership of the Democratic opposition, criticizing the governor’s funding cuts to education and healthcare and his refusal to consider tax increases. Yet it’s a stretch to see Landrieu taking his fight to Jindal on the ballot. Unless the governor is much less popular in two years than he is now, Landrieu’s long-term, even short-term prospects lie with the unique office he holds. In 2010, if Jindal (though he says he won’t) challenges and defeats U.S. Sen. David Vitter, and then wins the general election, Mitch Landrieu is the next governor. In 2012 (assuming they are both re-elected), if Jindal is tapped to run for vice president, and the Republicans win, Mitch Landrieu is the next governor. In 2014, if Jindal, late in his second term, challenges U.S. Sen. Mary Landrieu—or she doesn’t seek a fourth term—and he wins, Mitch Landrieu is the next governor. If none of the above happens, in 2015, with Jindal leaving office, the political pendulum could well swing back to the Democrats. In which case, barring some upstart, at age 55, Mitch Landrieu is the next governor. So, until then, why go anywhere? Patience and perseverance are not qualities ascribed to either man, but practicing such could get them both where they want to go.

July 23, 2009

Where Do We Go From Here?

he Legislature has adjourned, but the dust from this session probably will not settle before the next year’s session begins. Louisiana, like many other states, is at a critical crossroads. Two governors and two different Legislatures significantly overspent volatile oil and gas revenues in the two years prior to the current one. That was the major cause of the budget crisis state government faced this year. The problem is easy to identify. Simply go back to the decision made under the Blanco administration to fully fund the Rainy Day Trust Fund and allow skyrocketing oil and gas revenues to flow into the state general fund where they could be spent on recurring expenditures. That is exactly what the Legislature did in Governor Blanco’s last year and again in Governor Jindal’s first year in office. This year, the chickens came home to roost. Unfortunately, even more chickens will be looking for roosting space in the next few years. Last Thursday, the head of the Congressional Budget Office told Congress that the federal budget is unsustainable going forward with current spending levels— much less the increases being proposed. Some well-credentialed fiscal guru needs to give our governor and Legislature the same message. In addition to Louisiana’s declining revenue problem, the federal government has informed us that, due to a temporary upward blip in personal income, we will be paid $1 billion less in Medicaid money next year. Our state leaders are on their knees begging for mercy from that decision, but there is a strong likelihood that their pleas will go unanswered. Compounding the problem is the fact that in two years, hundreds of millions in “stimulus” dollars will no longer be coming from Washington. The time to plan for that is now, not two years from now. Another ominous sign on the horizon is the very negative attitude the Obama administration and the majority in Congress is showing toward the oil and gas industry. The industry is facing a drastic increase in taxes and more restrictions on domestic exploration and production. If domestic oil and gas activity is curtailed by new federal laws and regulations, our state revenue picture will become even bleaker. Governor Jindal is first up at bat in addressing these problems since he must submit an executive budget proposal to the Legislature early next year. What the governor submits in his annual executive budget usually provides the basic blueprint for what comes out of the process. Certainly, the governor can’t expect any increase in revenues coming from natural growth in the foreseeable future. That being the case, he will supply the early vision as to how state government must be reconfigured to match appropriate spending levels with real-world revenue projections. His executive budget should also clearly indicate what his spending priorities will be. The executive and legislative branches should not wait for next year to begin reshaping the delivery of state services to match new revenue realities. Close scrutiny should be given to state funding of local government services, consolidation of functions in post-secondary education, civil service reforms that would enhance state government’s ability to consolidate its workforce, and other spending reforms that would reduce the expense side of the state fiscal ledger. Use Shaklee, Live Longer It was fun to be governor or a and Healthier legislator in the revenue-boom years Prevention is the key to good Health and Shaklee after the hurricanes when recovery has a 53 year track record of creating healthier money was flowing and oil and gas lives via state of the art science and research. prices were setting records. The party If you like prevention you will love Shaklee. is now over. It is time to clean up the excesses and make government work as best as possible with the revenues that are available. That is what families are doing all across Louisiana. Their elected leaders should follow suit.

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By Chaney Ferguson

The past seven months has been a long and stressful process for the firemen of Lake Charles. Negotiations between the local union and the city have not reached an agreement on the issue of higher pay. “What the membership wants is to have equal pay with the Sulphur fire department,” said Wil Veuleman, president of the firemen’s union. Currently a rookie fireman with the Lake Charles Fire Department starts out at $23, 849 while working 2,912 hours a year. A rookie fireman in Sulphur starts out with $29, 186 while working the same amount of hours. “When we initially started we wanted parity with our counterparts here in town, the police department. We backed off of it because we felt it was too big a push,” said Veuleman. A rookie police officer in Lake Charles starts out making $32, 432 while working 2,184 hours a year. “What we are asking for is not reaching for the stars. It is just asking to be equal with everyone else around here,” said Veuleman. The city’s main issue during negotiations has to do with overtime. “Overtime is abundant, but it’s that way because we are minimally staffed,” said Veuleman. There is a nationally recognized staffing standard of four men per truck, but the city has always just carried three. “When you carry the minimum it doesn’t take long or it is very easy to get in the trap of running low when someone quits or has to leave,” said Veuleman. When someone leaves it creates an empty spot that must be filled with overtime pay until someone can be hired. The civil service process of hiring

behind significantly,” said Veuleman. “All of those cities that we are being compared to offer incentives to their departments while we have no incentives whatsoever,” said Veuleman. “But we aren’t losing men to Houma or Alexandria. I’m losing men to Sulphur a new fireman takes approximately six so that is who we have to compete with, months. and with that in mind that is the pay we “So for those six months,” said need to be striving to pay men right here. Veuleman, “we are “x” amount of That is our stance,” said Veuleman. positions short, and those positions are Currently there are around 178 being paid time and a half everyday.” members of the Lake Charles Fire Veuleman and Justin Governale, Department. The union represents 165 vice-president of the firemen’s union of those members. maintain that the overtime issue is not “That is what we call the fire the concern of the firefighters. suppression division. The fire stations, “It is the city’s problem to address— dispatchers, investigators, training and that is to hire more people. To officers, mechanics, and some of our hire more people you have to be other support personnel that we also offering competitive pay at the very represent, but the majority of us are all beginning and they are not, and that is firefighters,” said Governale. sort of where we have stagnated,” said Firemen respond to more than just Veuleman. fires. The issue of higher pay also affects Governale provided a list of other how long men stay with the department. possible calls to which they respond: “Chief Manuel stated that since he any type of fire, downed power lines, car became chief in 2003 there have been wrecks, pots on the stove, fire alarms, 123 people hired throughout the classes, hazardous material (in the whole parish), and 60 aren’t with us anymore,” said or an incident on the interstate with an Veuleman. 18 wheeler. “So half the people we’ve hired in “We will go wherever we are needed,” six years are gone. That is a significant said Governale. turnover rate for this size department.” Training for a fire department takes generally around $25,000. When firemen leave for another station or leave to take another job, that training money is gone. “You might as well have set it in a pile and lit it on fire because you have wasted it,” said Veuleman. Recently in the news, there was a chart showing the difference in salaries for firemen around the state in cities such as Houma, Alexandria, and Lafayette. “You can pick out cities to do a survey on and make us look like we are not that far behind, but I can pick out cities that show you we are

July 23, 2009

There are times when all stations are attending to fires. These times reveal the major difference between the police and firemen. “If the police are short, they run short because they can double up on their areas. If they have too much to handle they have the Marshalls and the Sheriff ’s Department to help them,” said Veuleman. The fire department does not have backup. Governale says they are their own backup. “We can’t run short, not only for our own safety, but for the safety of the citizens,” said Veuleman. There are days with down time when the firemen sit in the station wondering if anyone is even in the city. “Down time lets us know someone isn’t losing anything, whether it is property or life, and that is always a good thing,” said Veuleman. On July 28, the firemen’s negotiation team will meet with the city’s negotiation team in order to come to an agreement. The firemen urge the citizens to get involved in this and call their city council and the mayor, and voice their opinion.

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will interest students that may struggle with the standard curriculum. “I am always supportive of any initiative that allows students with varying learning styles to achieve at their maximum potential,” said Stephanie Rodrigue, Superintendent of Cameron Parish schools. Rodrigue states that school systems are aware of the career diploma legislation but are awaiting policy and guidance which she understands to be forthcoming. “We are fortunate that we currently have a very minimal number of dropouts in Cameron Parish and we are addressing that by implementing a grade recovery program this school year to further decrease the probability of dropouts,” said Rodrigue. Rodrigue remains hopeful that the career diploma will be a viable option for students who are career bound, immediately following high school, but struggle with the Carnegie credit requirements. Roger Creel, Director of Career and Technical Education in the Calcasieu Parish School System is another local supporter of the career diploma option. “We are hoping that it helps us with our dropout rate because there are a number of students that just get frustrated because they can’t pass the classes or the exit exams,” said Creel. “So it is going to give us a chance to help some of them at least get that diploma and provide them with a trade or a skill,” said Creel. Rita Mann, Superintendent of the Beauregard Parish School Board said the Beauregard Parish School System recognizes the need for students to be prepared to meet their future goals, whether earning a degree, completing technical training, or entering the job market. “We maintain a close working relationship with McNeese State University and surrounding Career and Technical Colleges in order to provide dual enrollment credits and certifications. Student participation in these courses indicates there will be interest in the Career Diploma program,” said Mann. Mann acknowledges that the program does require further guidance from the State Department of Education, which may result in postponing its implementation until the 2010-2011 school year. Whether the new option will help or hinder the states dropout rate remains to be seen. The effects of the career diploma will largely depend on how school districts implement the new curriculum and how students respond.

WE’RE TAKING A BIG STEP FORWARD IN FOOT CARE Please join us in welcoming foot and ankle specialist, Tyson Green, DPM, to Center for Orthopaedics and our medical community. Originally from Lafayette, Dr. Green received his undergraduate degree in Biochemistry from Louisiana State University. He earned his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He completed a three-year residency in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery at Scott & White Memorial Hospital – University of Texas A&M Health Science Center in Temple, Texas.

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Covenant Marriage In Louisiana There are only 2 kinds of marriage that can be entered into in Louisiana: covenant marriages or non-covenant marriages. The creation of the covenant marriage in Louisiana was quite controversial, but it is not really used very often, because entering into a covenant marriage, rather than an ordinary marriage, is completely optional. Once entered into, however, the fairly stringent requirements for entering and exiting the marriage are treated as contractual, and are, and tend to frighten off even some supporters of the Covenant Marriage Act (located in Louisiana Revised Statutes 9:272-276, established in 1997). Of course, marriage itself is pretty serious, so even a regular marriage should not be entered into lightly—one would hope. A covenant marriage can be thought of as extrememarriage, or marriage+, as the difference lies mainly in the more onerous requirements for the marriage to be formed and/or terminated. A regular marriage has only 3 basic requirements: 1) There must be a marriage ceremony, performed by some authorized third party, attended by both husband and wife in person. That means that “common law marriages,” which some other states recognize when the parties have lived together as man and wife for a certain amount of time, but never had a wedding ceremony, are not valid marriages in Louisiana. 2) Both parties must verbally express their mutual, freely given consent. A minor must have permission of custodians or even have court authorization. 3) There must be no legal impediment to the marriage. In Louisiana, there are 3 of these legal impediments: 1) bigamy 2) same-sex 3) blood relation to a certain degree. Marriage is not permitted between certain blood relatives (including adoptive relatives, with the caveat of legal permission in some cases), such as direct ascendants or descendants, and siblings, cousins, or uncles/aunts. Also, if the relationship is simply through marriage, and not blood, a marriage will be permitted. To enter into a covenant marriage, all of the above requirements still exist. However, a covenant marriage has various extra requirements. The parties must also receive at least one session of premarital counseling—and obtain an affidavit from that counselor attesting that they were so counseled—and receive and read a pamphlet on covenant marriage prepared by the attorney general. The parties must declare their intent to enter into a covenant marriage on their marriage license application. They must also execute a “declaration of intent to contract a covenant marriage.” The declaration includes a statement by the parties that they understand that they are “a man and a woman who agree to live together as husband and wife as long as they both may live.” (La. R.S. 9:273(A)(1). They have an affirmative duty to tell each other of anything that could negatively affect the other person’s decision to enter into marriage. The affidavit from the counselor must be included with the declaration of intent, and one copy of the declaration affidavit should be retained by the parties and the other copy should be filed with the official who issues the marriage license. At that point, a covenant marriage is just like any other marriage, with the same obligations and duties of the parties. It also creates community property between the parties just like a regular marriage. The next big difference arises if the parties decide they don’t like each other as much as they thought they did and want to either separate or divorce. In Louisiana, there are 3 basic grounds for divorce in a non-covenant marriage: when the parties live separate and apart for either 6 months—when there are no minor children—or 12 months—when there are minor children—when a party has committed adultery, or when one of the spouses has committed a felony and been sentenced to death or imprisonment with hard

July 23, 2009

labor. These basic divorce requirements are fairly minimal, and the “living separate and apart” is the result of the institution of no-fault divorce in Louisiana. In some ways, a covenant marriage is simply an optional reinstitution of a divorce system where the parties do have to show fault of the other party. The grounds for divorce in a covenant marriage are located in Louisiana Revised Statutes 9:307. These requirements ultimately amount to the fact that simply living apart is not really enough to get a divorce when one has entered into a covenant marriage, whereas living apart long enough will be perfectly sufficient to obtain a regular divorce. The marriage can be terminated only after the parties receive counseling—from the time the marital difficulties begin until the divorce judgment is signed—and only if the party can also show one of the following grounds: 1) the other spouse committed adultery 2) the other spouse committed a felony and has been sentenced to death or imprisonment with hard labor 3) the other spouse has abandoned the marriage for one year and constantly refuses to return 4) the other spouse has physically or sexually abused the spouse seeking the divorce or a child of one of the spouses 5) the spouses have been living separate and apart without reconciliation for at least two years 6) the spouses have been living separate and apart from one year since a judicial separation was signed— judicial separations are not used in anything but covenant marriages anymore; in a regular marriage, just living apart for one year alone would entitle a party to a divorce. 7) if there is a minor child of the marriage, and the spouses have been living separate and apart for 18 months since the signing of the judicial separation—unless the basis for the judicial separation was abuse of a spouse or child, in which case the time period for obtaining the divorce after a judicial separation remains one year even when there is a minor child. A judicial separation can be obtained for basically the same reasons as above, except that it also may be obtained for habitual “intemperance” of the other spouse, excesses, cruel treatment, or outrages, or ill treatment that renders living together insupportable. However, and to calm somewhat the outraged opponents of covenant marriage who think covenant marriage is unfair when there is abuse, the pre-divorce counseling requirement is done away with when the other spouse has physically or sexually abused the spouse seeking the divorce or one of the children. The provided information is fact-sensitive and jurisdiction-dependent. Consult an attorney before employing the above legal concepts.

By D.B. Grady

Which Computer Should I Buy? “I’m thinking of buying a laptop computer. Which one do you recommend?” None. Seriously, think of the headaches that come with a computer. Viruses. Spyware. Twitter. Do you really want to do that to yourself? Wouldn’t you rather spend a thousand bucks on a nice cruise to the Bahamas? I’ve never seen a spiral notebook crash or one of those big, green ledger-books blue-screen just after adding an entire quarter of sales figures. But if you’re absolutely determined to get a computer—think hard about those sandy beaches and umbrella drinks, though—there are fewer factors in choosing a system than you might think. While this may be the opposite of what you’ve heard from others, don’t worry about RAM or CPUs or hard drives or anything else measured in bytes or hertz. There are only three questions you should be concerned with: 1. Mac or PC? 2. Is the computer “comfortable?” 3. How much can I afford? Buying a Mac used to be a big deal, akin to changing religions or moving to Canada. There were separate stores, separate software, separate peripheral supports, separate user paradigms—the decision was nontrivial, and unless one worked in video or graphics design (where the Mac has always excelled) it was rare that the hassle warranted the investment. The Internet and Apple’s remarkable marketing and engineering efforts have changed this. The Internet is the Internet, whether one owns a bottom-shelf eMachine or a top-ofthe-line MacBook Pro. Email is email. The web is the web. Macs have the benefit of being impervious to viruses or spyware, which is a bonus, but a well-protected PC is just as safe. As for program availability, all of the major players in the software business support both platforms, including Microsoft Office, Firefox, Adobe Photoshop, Acrobat, iTunes, Skype, and Picasa, to name a few. Because Macs use Intel processors, they also have the luxury of supporting Windows XP, Windows Vista, and the upcoming Windows 7 by way of dual booting—that is, selecting on startup whether to boot into Mac OS or Windows—or through free emulation software such as VirtualBox (http://www.virtualbox.org). With regard to peripherals, from printers to external hard drives, if it works on a PC, it works on a Mac. The real question, though, is “How does it feel?” Unless one purchases an extraordinarily expensive system in the thousands of dollars, or a second-hand pawnshop special, there is little difference from one computer to the next. A thousand dollar Dell, a thousand dollar HP, and a thousand dollar Mac have pretty much the same horsepower under the hood. (In the case of Dell and HP, they even have the same outsourced telephone technical support staffs that employ so many in Third World countries.) The best way to choose a computer is to visit an electronics store and play with the demo models. Is the screen bright enough, or is it too bright?

How does the keyboard feel? Are the keys awkwardly placed? Is the track pad well positioned? Is the computer too small for aging eyes, or too large to lug to class every day? Hold the computer to gauge its weight and test its durability. One doesn’t need an advanced degree in electrical engineering to know whether a computer feels cheap or not.

Just as the average mid-sized sedan buyer isn’t particularly concerned with torque or engine liter displacement, neither should the average computer buyer worry much about whether the central processing unit runs at 2.2GHz or 2.4GHz. Faster is always better, but in the context of playing Freecell and chatting with Aunt Thelma in Des Moines, the difference is negligible. Indeed, that very reasoning has led to a new variety of portable computer known as the netbook. Purchased for as little as $200, netbooks are designed primarily for online use. As general computer activity moves from the desktop to the Internet, many users find there is little reason to invest in “big iron” computers at all. The exception to this is gaming, of course. Some high school students might sooner die than accept anything less than a computer that dims the lights when it’s powered on. But with the money saved by purchasing a less expensive system, one can buy an XBox 360 and enjoy hassle-free gaming. In the end, it all comes down to price. Buy the most comfortable computer you can afford, and buy locally, if possible. The least expensive MacBook is $999, and worth every penny. But if the thousand-dollar HP is more to your liking, get it. Whether you’ve budgeted two thousand dollars or two hundred dollars, there is something out there for you. Oftentimes, local mom-andpop computer shops have staggering bargains on secondhand laptops, and personal support that doesn’t require an interpreter or a passport. No longer the intimidating beasts they once were, purchasing a computer should not be a worrisome experience requiring years of expertise. Go with your gut and a handle on your checkbook, and you’ll do just fine. But really, think about taking that vacation. On the islands, the only blue screens you’ll see are in the sky and on the sea.

Have a technology related question or advice for other users? Email me at tech@timessw.com.

July 23, 2009

year. Jeremy Shockey is one of the better pass catching tight ends in the league and is also an above average run blocker at his position.

New Orleans Saints 2009 Team Preview Last Season The Saints finished 8-8 and missed the playoffs for the second straight year. It’s been the same story for the Saints in each of the last two seasons. The offense has been fantastic (ranked 1st in 2008), but the defense has been horrendous (ranked 23rd in 2008). Drew Brees joined Dan Marino as the only quarterback in the history of the NFL to throw for 5,000 yards in a season. The Saints weren’t blowing teams out. They had to throw the ball that much just to keep up with their opposition. The Saint’s defense allowed at least 23 points in 13 of 16 games. Quarterbacks A+ Drew Brees has established himself among the elite quarterbacks in the NFL alongside Peyton Manning and Tom Brady. He is the unquestioned leader of the Saints and produces monster numbers year in and year out. Brees has averaged 4,600 yards passing and 30 touchdown passes in three years in New Orleans. He rarely makes the big mistake and doesn’t take many sacks. He is the one player on the roster that the Saints can not afford to lose to injury. Mark Brunell is a 15 year veteran and is the backup quarterback. However, if you ever see Brunell on the field during the regular season, the Saints are probably in big trouble. Running Backs B Reggie Bush had his best professional season in 2008, but fans expect more from the former number two overall pick. Bush is the best pass catching running back in the league by far. However, Bush has struggled in the running game and has not finished each of the last two seasons due to injuries. In three NFL seasons Bush has yet to average 4.0 yards per carry. He needs to get there this year for the Saints running game to be a real threat. Third year running back Pierre Thomas could break out this season. Last year playing behind Bush and Deuce McCallister, Thomas averaged 4.8 yards per carry and scored 12 touchdowns on only 160 offensive touches. Look for the Saints to give Thomas more touches starting right out of the gate in week one. Mike Bell is third on the depth chart, but look for the Saints to possibly add a veteran free agent during training camp. Ex-Patriots fullback Heath Evans has some versatility and catches the ball well. Wide Receivers AMarques Colston is a big, physical receiver and one of the best at his position. He doesn’t shy away from contact which shows his toughness, but it has also led to injuries. Last year Colston missed five games with a broken finger. If he plays a full season, he should make the pro bowl. Lance Moore benefited from Colston’s absence and posted career bests with 928 yards and 10 touchdowns. Moore is an excellent number two option for Brees. Devery Henderson and Robert Meachum have each been inconsistent, but both are excellent deep threats. Henderson and Meachum each averaged over 24 yards per catch last

July 23, 2009

Offensive Line B+ The Saints pass much more than they run and the offensive line is at its best when Brees is throwing it. Last season only two starting quarterbacks were sacked fewer times than Brees. Brees dropped back to pass 635 times and was only sacked 13 times. Continuity is extremely important on the offensive line and all five starters from last year return. They have Jamal Brown and Jon Stinchomb at the tackles, Carl Nicks and Jahri Evans at the guards, and Jonathan Goodwin at center. If there is a flaw with this group, it’s in the running game. However, in November and December Pierre Thomas seemed to find the holes that Reggie Bush could not locate in September and October. Defensive Line C+ Will Smith is one of the most well rounded defensive ends in the league. He plays the run well, and when healthy, is the Saints best pass rusher. However, Smith’s sack total has decreased in each of the last three seasons. Charles Grant starts at the other defensive end spot and is more of a power player. He runs through people, not around them. Sedric Ellis showed promise as a rookie and is poised for a big season. He’s short, stout, and has a powerful upper body. Kendrick Clancy led the team in sacks with six and is expected to start at the other defensive tackle spot. Linebackers CMiddle linebacker Jonathan Vilma played well in his first season with the Saints as he led the team in tackles with 132. Vilma is a firm tackler and is adequate dropping back into coverage. Outside linebacker Scott Fujita has been consistent during his three years in New Orleans, but he is vulnerable when playing in space. Scott Shanle is penciled in to start at the other outside linebacker position, but he doesn’t make many big plays. Shanle could be challenged by Dan Morgan during training camp. Defensive Backs C Cornerback Tracy Porter had an impressive start to his career last season before a wrist injury cut it short. Porter has solid cover skills to go along with good speed. Jabari Greer is listed next on the cornerback depth chart, but don’t be surprised if rookie Malcolm Jenkins gets the starting nod. Jenkins was the Saints first round draft pick in April’s draft. Strong safety Roman Harper is a big hitter, but he struggles in man to man coverage. Free safety Darren Sharper was signed in the offseason and provides this young group with some experience. Sharper may not have the speed that he once had, but he always seems to be around the ball. Special Teams BPlacekicker Garrett Hartley does not have a real strong leg, but he is accurate inside of 50 yards. He made all 13 of his field goal attempts after joining the Saints midway through the year. The Saints don’t punt much, but when they do it will be Glenn Pakulak handling the duties. Reggie Bush is arguably the most feared punt returner in the league. He took three punts to the house in just ten games. Pierre Thomas, Skylar Green, and Lance Moore are all in the mix at kick returner. Predictions Best Case Scenario (12-4): The defense plays much better under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Greg Williams. The offense shows more balance with the run and the pass, and the team avoids major injuries. Worst Case Scenario (7-9): The defense doesn’t get any better. The offense struggles to run the ball, and a big contributor or two goes on injured reserve. My Prediction (10-6): I think the defense will improve under Williams. Everywhere he has coached in the NFL, he seems to have a top ten defense. I think that with Pierre Thomas getting more carries, the running game will be better and that will allow the Saints defense to rest a little more on the sideline. The Saints have a difficult schedule and I don’t think they will win the NFC South division. However, I do see the Saints making the playoffs as a wild card.

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Safety as Easy as

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School will be starting soon and whether you’re dreading sending your child off to kindergarten for the first time or anxious to celebrate getting the kids “out of your hair” again, you should take the time to consider back-to-school safety issues. Joni Fontenot, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Safety Council of Southwest Louisiana, says the best way to ensure your children’s safety as they return to school is to go over a few simple rules. “Parents often make the mistake of overestimating their child’s ‘safety sense.’ There’s a big difference between knowing what you should do to stay safe and actually practicing these rules on a daily basis,” she says. “We recommend that parents go over traffic and school-related safety guidelines with all children, with added emphasis on areas specific to a child’s age. For example, children starting school for the first time need an introduction to all school-related safety issues. Older children may know the basic rules, but you may want to review these, and give them new guidelines that relate to any added responsibilities they now have.” The Safety Council of SW Louisiana offers these back-to-school safety tips as a guideline for parents: School Bus • When walking to the bus stop, walk on the sidewalk if possible. If you must walk in the street, walk single file, face the traffic and stay as close to the edge of the road as you can. • While waiting for the bus it is important to stand six feet away from the road or curb. • When riding the bus, remain seated and keep the aisles clear. • When getting on and off the bus you should wait for the driver to signal that it is safe to do so. If you must cross the street, do so 10 feet in front of the bus where you can see the driver and the driver can see you. • Be aware of the street traffic around you. Look both ways and always be on alert for oncoming traffic. Walking and Biking • Before school begins, take your child on a “safety walk” or “safety ride” and point out potential dangers. Help them pick the safest most direct route with the fewest streets to cross. Try to restrict crossings to intersections that are guarded by a police officer or an adult crossing guard. • Look left, right, and left again for traffic. One of the most common errors young children make is to “dart out” into the street without first checking for traffic. • Walk on sidewalks, where available. If there are not sidewalks on your route, walk single file, facing the traffic, and as close to the edge of the road as possible. • Walk or ride with friends, if possible. • Follow all traffic signals and/or the crossing guard. • Walk your bike through intersections. • Bikers should wear helmets and have some type of reflective markers on their bike, book bag or helmet. Riding in a Car Buckle up every time you ride in a vehicle, whether you are a passenger or the driver. Studies show that teen drivers are four times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash. If your teen is driving to school, Fontenot advises these rules:

July 23, 2009

•

Teach them to always buckle up and to require everyone else riding with them to buckle up as well. • Limit the number of passengers. • Remind them to always obey the speed limit and to be extra alert in school zones. Home Alone Many children are home alone after school until their parents return from work. If you’ve decided your child is mature enough for this responsibility, Fontenot says to make sure you implement some “home alone” rules to keep them safe until your return: • Lock all doors when alone. • Make sure all guns are locked up apart from ammunition. • Never indicate you are home alone when answering the phone. • Decide on whether friends are allowed over or not. If so, how many and for how long. • Decide if using the internet is allowed. • Discuss if using the stove or oven is allowed. For most kids, it’s better to not cook without adult supervision. • Arrange for an “emergency person”, a parent with a cell phone always on, or a neighbor who has agreed to be on call and could respond quickly if an emergency occurs. • Post emergency numbers beside the telephone. General Safety • Instruct your child to NEVER talk to strangers. • Make sure the school has a list of adults who are allowed to pick your child up from school. Teach your child to never leave school with any adult they do not know. As a safeguard in case of an emergency, give your child a code word that can be used by anyone you send to pick them up. • Make sure your child is not afraid to tell a teacher or other trusted adult at school if they are afraid, or if they see or hear about anything suspicious at or around school. As the new school year gets underway, the Safety Council also asks all motorists to be extra cautious while driving as children are making their way to and from school on area streets. “With kids, you should always expect the unexpected,” stresses Fontenot. “Most kids have been told how to get to school safely, but kids being kids—they just don’t always remember the right way to do things. Drivers need to drive slowly in school areas and be extra alert.” The Safety Council asks everyone in our community to help ensure that this school year is a safe one for area children. For more information on back-to-school safety, call the Safety Council of Southwest Louisiana at (337) 436-3354 or visit their website at www.safetycouncilswla.org.

Hackberry Rural Health Clinic 1020 Main Street Tuesday, August 4, 2009 1p.m.-3p.m. (Walk-in Clinic)

Appointments are not necessary for Cameron Parish sites. For more information, call (337) 480-2582. Parents or caregivers who take advantage of the no-cost immunizations should bring their children’s shot records for updating. For more information on the Louisiana Immunization Program, visit http://www.dhh.louisiana.gov/offices/?ID=265.

Back-to-School Immunizations Available at No Cost

Free Children’s Health Fair to Be Held on August 1st

To help parents in southwest Louisiana prepare their children for school and daycare this fall and to protect them from preventable diseases, the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals – Office of Public Health is hosting back-to-school immunization events at parish health units and mobile clinics throughout the area.

On Saturday, August 1st, West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital will hold its Annual Children’s Health Fair from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Dynamic Dimensions in Sulphur. Free immunizations will be offered along with a variety of free health screenings for kids of every age and stage of growth. Nearly 20 local healthcare agencies will be on hand to distribute information on everything from injury prevention to safe sleep for babies. Information will also be available regarding the two additional vaccines now required for the upcoming 2009 – 2010 school year. The Sulphur Fire Department will display a fire truck and child ID kits will be distributed by local law enforcement. For additional information, please call (337) 528-4735.

Jefferson Davis Parish Health Unit

403 Baker Street Friday, July 31, 2009 9a.m.-3p.m. (Walk-in clinic) For more information, call (337) 824-2193.

Allen Parish Health Unit

145 Hospital Drive Friday, July 31, 2009 8a.m.-3p.m. (Walk-in clinic) For more information, call (318) 335-1147.

Beauregard Parish Health Unit

216 Evangeline Street Friday, July 31, 2009 8a.m.-11:30a.m. By appointment only Please call for an appointment. For more information, call (337) 463-4486.

Largest Selection of School Uniforms Year Round

In Cameron Parish, services will be provided on the March of Dimes Mom & Baby mobile unit at each of the following facilities. The following events are being hosted by the Cameron Parish Health Unit:

South Cameron Memorial Hospital 5360 West Creole Hwy Tuesday, July 21, 2009 9:30a.m.-2p.m. (Walk-in Clinic)

Grand Lake High School 1039 Hwy 384 Tuesday, July 28, 2009 9a.m.-3p.m. (Walk-in Clinic)

Johnson Bayou Community Center 5556 Gulf Beach Hwy Tuesday, August 4, 2009 9:30a.m.-11a.m. (Walk-in Clinic)

Dickies • French Toast • Classroom toddler Sizes to Jrs. and Young Men Layway available

New LocatioN! 542 W. Prien Lake Rd • 439-5484 July 23, 2009

Partners In Education S. P. Arnett Middle......................................................................................................... Entergy Barbe Elementary................................................................................... Chemtura and Excel Paralube Barbe High............................................................................................................GRACE Davison Catalysts Bell City High........................................................................................ City Savings Bank, Clean Fuel USA, Sweetlake Land & Oil Brentwood Elementary........................................................Academy, Brousse’s A Child’s World, Casa Ole’, Northrup Grumman, O’Charley’s Restaurant, Pizza Hut, Que Pasa, and State Farm Insurance Calcasieu Parish Career Center................................................................................................................................... CITGO J. D. Clifton Elementary.................................................................................................................................. Westlake Group College Oaks Elementary..................................Cameron State Bank, Chase Bank, CII Carbon, Fire Mountain, First National Bank, McDonald’s Restaurant, Piccadilly Cafeteria, School Aids, Sonic Drive-in, and Verizon Wireless Combre-Fondel Elementary................................................ Angelle Concrete, Lake Charles American Press, and Stine Lumber Co. T. S. Cooley Elementary Magnet.............................................. Basell Chemical Company and Sleep Disorder Center of Louisiana DeQuincy Elementary.............................................................. Brookshire Brothers, City Savings Bank, DeQuincy Masonic Lodge, DeQuincy Memorial Hospital, and McDonald’s Restaurant DeQuincy Middle School.........................................Cameron State Bank, Evon and Suzette Designs, Linda Owens - Edward Jones, Perkins Pharmacy, and Thermoplastic Service DeQuincy High....................................................................................................City Savings Bank, Popeye’s, and Temple Inland Dolby Elementary.............................................................................. Chase Bank, DynMcDermott, Home Furniture, Odyssey 317 Fairview Elementary.............................................Cameron State Bank, Check Into Cash, Lake Charles Toyota, M. Simon Furniture, Sonic Drive-In, Walmart Super Center, Wendy’s Frasch Elementary...................................................... Cameron State Bank, Cypress Veterinary Hospital, Landscape Management, Precision Prints Sports Center, Turner Industries, LLC. Gillis Elementary................................................... 7-0 Electric LLC., City Savings Bank, Family Respiratory Services, Gillis Grocery, Irish Cleaning Services, Melanie Perry State Farm Insurance, Myrtis Mueller Realty, Ronald Richard Law Firm, The Drug Store, and Webtronics Hamilton Christian Academy..................................................................................................................... ReCon Engineering W. T. Henning Elementary......................................................... Certainteed Corporation, Jeff Davis Bank, and Kajun Monograms Henry Heights Elementary................................................. Alcoa Primary Metals, Jeff Davis Bank, McDonald’s, Texas Roadhouse, Walgreens Drug Store, Walmart Super Center Holy Family Catholic............................................................................................................... Women’s and Children’s Hospital Immaculate Conception Catholic School........................................... Navarra’s Jewelry & Gifts, Open Air MRI, and Port Printing Iowa High................................................................................. Dunham Price, Farmers Rice Mill, Jeff Davis Bank, and McDonald’s John J. Johnson Elementary....................................................... Cox, Cox, Filo, &Camel Law Firm, J & J Exterminating Co., Inc., Kidney Assosciates of SWLA APMC, Southwest Center for Health Services, Sowela Technical Community College, and Suddenlink M. J. Kaufman Elementary.............................................................................................................Sam’s Club and Suddenlink John F. Kennedy Elementary.....................Black Heritage Festival, Louisiana Radio Communication, and Nate’s Music and Records E. K. Key Elementary................................................................................................................................................... CITGO LaGrange High........................................................................................................................................... Aeroframe and PPG Lake Charles Boston High.................................................................................................................................ConocoPhillips Alonzo LeBlanc Middle................................................................................................................ Southern Ionics and Steamatic Lebleu Settlement Elementary................................................Central Crude/LA Tank, Farmer’s Rice Mill, McDonald’s Restaurant, and Southside Machine Works

July 23, 2009

W. W. Lewis Middle School............................................................ Carl Vincent State Farm Insurance Agency, City Savings Bank, and Chemical Waste Management, Inc. Maplewood Elementary & Middle.......................................Billy Breaux Allstate Insurance Agency, Billy Navarre Chevrolet Geo, Innovative Expressions, KAP Electric, Marilyn’s Flowers & Catering, Rick Fitts State Farm Insurance, and Westlake Chemical Ray D. Molo Middle Magnet.................................. KZWA FM 105.3 and Baggett, McCall, Burgess, Watson, & Gauhan Law Firm Moss Bluff Elementary...................................... 3-D Foam Insulation, A-1 Sewer, Beauregard Electric, Brandon Bellon Development, Checker’s, Jeff Davis Bank, Sonic, Melanie Perry State Farm Insurance, Service Tire & Auto of Moss Bluff, Sonic Drive-In, and Wendy’s Moss Bluff Middle...................................................................................................Dwight Law Firm and Firestone Polymers, Inc. A. A. Nelson Elementary..................................................Jeff Davis Bank, Jim Mitchell State Farm Insurance, Outback Steakhouse, Raising Canes, Stine Lumber, Walgreens Drug Store, and Women & Children’s Hospital Oak Park Elementary.............. CenterPoint Energy, IHOP, Lake Charles Nissan, Oak Park Health Care Center, and Verizon Wireless Oak Park Middle.............................................................................................................. Trunkline LNG Co. and Whitney Bank Our Lady Queen of Heaven.............................................................................................................................. PPG Industries Our Lady’s School..................................................................CertainTeed Corporation, City Savings Bank, Innovative Expressions, Southern Engraving, West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital D. S. Perkins Elementary.................First National Bank of Sulphur, Neighborhood Mini/Abe’s Cajun Market, and Stine Lumber Co. Prien Lake Elementary....................................................Bessette Realty, Chick-Fil-A, Gill Animal Hospital, O’Charley’s Restaurant, Panhandle Energy, and Walmart Supercenter Nelson Rd. Reynaud Middle............................................First Federal Bank of Louisiana, W & W Construction Company, 100 Black Men Club, New Life Church International, Mr. T’s Miracle Hand Car Wash & Detail Sacred Heart..........................................Health Systems 2000, Inc., KPC Council #1H, and Medearis’ Costumes, Cards, & Balloons Sam Houston High................................................................Centennial Wireless, PPG Industries, and Sleep Disorder Center of LA St. John Elementary..................................................Albertson’s Country Club Road, AK Newlin, Chase Bank, Cintas Corporation, and Primerica Financial Services St. Louis High School............................................................... Bolton Ford, Christus St. Patrick Hospital, and The Children’s Clinic St. Margaret School..............................................................Aramark, A Daisy A Day, Data Systems, Inc., and Lake Charles Copy Starks High.....................................................Ladies Auxiliary of Post #4759, Nichol’s Dry Goods, Nisko Starks Gas Storage, LLC., VFW Post #4759, and White Way Enterprises Sulphur High................................................................................................................................................................ CITGO R. W. Vincent Elementary....................................Air Liquide, A-Total Tee, Billy Breaux All State Insurance, Business Health Partners, Chris Duncan Agency, Inc., Edward Jones Investment, Jeff Davis Bank, Lake Area Office Products, and Randy Aucoin All State Insurance Vincent Settlement Elementary.................................. Cameron Communications, Cameron State Bank, Targa Midstream Services, and Westlake Polymers Group Vinton Elementary.............................................................................................................................Georgia Gulf Corporation Vinton Middle......................................................... Ronnie Johns State Farm Insurance, The Shaw Group Inc., and Tommy’s Printing Vinton High........................................................................................................................................................ PPG Industries Washington Marion Magnet High............................................................Louisiana Pigment and Zion Tabernacle Baptist Church T. H. Watkins Elementary................................................................. King Enterprises, Levingston Engineers, and US Coast Guard J. I. Watson Middle.............................................. Burger King Restaurant, Christine Bailey State Farm Insurance, Farmer’s Rice Mill, Kreations Flowers & Gifts, and Stine Lumber Co. Pearl Watson Elementary........................ Clophus Dump Truck Service, Combre Funeral Home, Kidney Associates of SWLA APMC, Ned Brothers Clothing, Schlesingers Maintenance Service S. J. Welsh Middle.............................. Albertson’s on Ryan Street, Cameron State Bank, Craig Crawford, DDS, Mark Crawford, MD, Domino’s Pizza, Flavin Realty, The Home Depot, LC Coca Cola Bottling Co., and Sonic Drive-In Western Heights Elementary............................................................................................................Sasol North America, Inc. Westlake High..................................Bobby LeTard Shelter Insurance, Cameron State Bank, Confer-Creel Foundation, ConocoPhillips, Custom Metal Fabricators, and Barry King Architects Westwood Elementary......................................................................................................................Sasol North America, Inc. F. K. White Middle................................................................................ City Savings Bank, Lake Charles Toyota, and Putt Putt Golf Ralph Wilson Elementary................................................. Capital One, Georgie Porgie T-Shirts and Barber, Kroger Family Center, Master Clean Car Wash, and State Farm Insurance

July 23, 2009

CHILDREN’S healthcare

Beat the Back

to School Blues

It may still be summer, but in Southwest Louisiana the beginning of the new school year seems to come earlier every year. It’s time to start replacing beach bags with backpacks, bathing suits for school uniforms and long, lazy days with busy school schedules. Getting back in the school groove is usually a challenge—for both children and parents. Parenting experts say the best way to make a smooth transition from summer to school is to prepare ahead of time. Kendall LeJeune, MA, LPC, Therapist with Solutions EAP (Employee Assistance Program), says there are simple things parents can do to alleviate the stress and anxiety that can accompany the start of school, whether their child is heading to school for the first time, entering a new school or are seasoned veterans of the back-to-school drill. “While many children anticipate the beginning of a new school year, it is dreaded by others. Even those who aren’t particularly anxious often get a little nervous as the first day approaches,” he says. “Take the time

to talk with your child and address any concerns before going to school and what happens at school each day. It’s really important to give them a voice in the decision you are making whenever possible. Let them be a part of the process of establishing rules and guidelines, but hold them accountable for the commitments they make.” One example he gives is negotiating homework time with your child. They may want to come home and relax for an hour before beginning their homework. “There’s nothing wrong with allowing them to do this, but adults should set the time for them to start. Kids respond better when they feel respected, and holding them accountable teaches them responsibility.” Solutions EAP offers parents these additional suggestions for common back-to-school problems: Establishing a Routine Routines and rituals help define your days, structure your time and provide a sense of order everyone craves in our fast-paced world. Take the time before school starts to organize your thoughts

July 23, 2009

and your plans for the upcoming year: • Start easing back into the school schedule a week or so before the first day by practicing your morning schedule. Move up your child’s waking time gradually each morning. This will make them more tired so you can get them to bed earlier. See how long it takes them to get up, get dressed, eat breakfast and head out the door. • Discuss responsibilities and decide what responsibilities children will have each morning before they leave and each afternoon when they return. • With school uniform guidelines in effect, clothing choices are a little less complicated, but parents should go over the child’s options and make sure they know what they can and can’t wear to school. Once school starts, have your children put their clothes out for the next day each evening to save valuable time in the morning. • Make after-school arrangements and emergency plans. Explain the routine to your child. If they will be staying at home alone, establish clear guidelines for what you expect regarding their responsibilities and activities until you return. • Homework rules should also be established before the start of school. Designate a space in your home specifically for doing homework. For younger children, it may be better if this space is not in their room because there are often too many distractions. • Designate a “school gear” area where children can keep their school bag and any other items such as a jacket

or purse they need to take with them each morning. They should get all of the items together the night before to eliminate those frantic searches in the morning. Fear and Anxiety Worries about the new school year are normal for children of any age, but are even more common in younger children, particularly those starting school for the first time, or a child entering a new school. “Don’t ignore their fears, but don’t focus on them too much either. Talking with your child about what they can do to address their worries is the best way to help them overcome those fears,” says LeJeune. • Start talking about school in a relaxed casual way. Prompt a conversation by saying something like, “Getting back on the school schedule can be difficult for me, how about you?” Don’t over-prepare a young child for the first day. This can cause anxiety as well, by making them afraid they will forget something or do something wrong. Focus on all the good things about school. • Try to have your child meet their teacher before school starts. If it’s a new school, try to arrange a tour. You can help them find their classroom, the nearest bathroom and the lunchroom. • Plan to keep the good-byes short. Lingering when you drop them off just delays the agony and confuses the child. Almost all of these same children will start playing happily within moments after their parent’s departure. • Model confidence, yet show empathy. Make it clear you understand that going back to school can be scary, but show that you are confident your child will do okay. Kids pick up anxiety from parents, so if you’re anxious, they probably will be too. “Once school is underway, routines may need to be re-evaluated and adjusted as school activities begin or if schedules change,” says LeJeune, “But talking and planning with your children before school starts will help you get the new school year off on the right track.”

CALCASIEU PARISH SCHOOL CALENDAR 2009-2010 Students Report School Starts........................... August 18 Holidays Labor Day............................................................. September 7 Veterans Day...................................................... November 11 Thanksgiving................................................. November 23-27 Christmas, New Year......................... December 21 - January 3 Martin L. King, Jr. Day........................................... January 18 Mardi Gras Holiday..................................... February 15 & 16 Easter/Spring Break................................... March 29 - April 5 Inservice (Students will NOT attend school on these dates) Teacher Inservice................................................ September 11

Teacher Inservice................................................... October 26 Teacher Inservice.................................................... January 25 END OF SESSION School Closes ................................May 31 SIX-WEEK PERIODS END First Six-Weeks Period............... September 28 Second Six-Weeks Period........... November 9 Third Six-Weeks Period.............. January 12 Fourth Six-Weeks Period............ February 26 Fifth Six-Weeks Period.............. April 19 Sixth Six-Weeks Period.............. May 31

JEFF DAVIS PARISH SCHOOL CALENDAR District Calendar 2009-2010 Students First day/kindergarten testing .. August 11 Kindergarten/Pre-K Begin............................... August 12

Spring Break..................................................... March 29 - 31 Easter...................................................................... April 1 - 2

Holidays Labor Day ............................................................ September 7 Thanksgiving Week.................................... November 23 - 27 Christmas Holidays..................................... December 21 – 31 New Year’s Holiday................................ January 1 - January 4 Martin L. King Day................................................. January 18 American Heritage............................................... February 15 Mardi Gras........................................................... February 16 Ash Wednesday................................................... February 17

Last Day for Students...........................................May 24 other Half Day (No students in the PM)............................ September 16 Fair Day................................................................... October 9 Half Day (No students in the PM)............................... October 21 Half Day (No students in the PM)............................ November 11 Mid-Term Tests............................................ December 14 – 18 Half Day (No students in the PM)................................ January 13

CAMERON PARISH SCHOOL CALENDAR 2009-2010 Grand Lake, Hackberry, Johnson Bayou, and South Cameron High Schools

Students’ First Day of School........................ August 12 Holidays Labor Day............................................................. September 7 Veterans Day...................................................... November 11 Thanksgiving Week...................................... November 23-27 Christmas, New Year......................... December 21 - January 1 Martin L. King, Jr. Day........................................... January 18 Mardi Gras Holiday.........................................February 15-17 Easter/Spring Break................................................. April 1-6

Inservice (Students will NOT attend school on these dates) Teacher Inservice................................................ September 25 Teacher Inservice.................................................December 18 Teacher Inservice.................................................. February 12 Last Day for Students...........................................May 27

July 23, 2009

BEAUREGARD PARISH SCHOOL CALENDAR 2009-2010

5-day schedule Students Report School Starts........................... August 14 Holidays Labor Day............................................................September 7 Veterans Day...................................................... November 11 Thanksgiving................................................. November 23-27 Dismiss Friday, November 20 - Return Monday, November 30 Christmas Holidays............................ December 21 - January 4 Dismiss Friday, December 18 - Students Return Tuesday, January 5 Martin L. King, Jr. Day........................................... January 18 Presidents’ Day.................................................... February 15 Mardi Gras Holiday............................................. February 16 Easter / Spring Break ................................ March 29 - April 2 Dismiss Friday, March 26 - Return Monday, April 5 staff development (Students will NOT attend school on these dates) Staff Development............................................... September 8 Staff Development................................................... January 4 other important dates Progress Reports Issued.................................... September 14 Fair Day................................................................... October 9 End of First Nine Weeks....................................... October 14 Report Cards Issued/Parent Conferences........... October 23 Progress Reports Issued.................................... November 13 End of Second Nine Weeks................................December 18 Report Cards Issued................................................. January 8 Progress Reports Issued........................................ February 9 End of Third Nine Weeks.........................................March 15 Parent Conferences..................................................March 26 Report Cards Issued.................................................March 26 State Required Testing.................................April 12 - April 21 Progress Reports Issued............................................ April 22 Last Day for Seniors..............................................May 13 Last Two Days for Students (1/2 Day)... May 24, May 25 Last Day for Teachers............................................May 26

4-day schedule Students Report School Starts (1/2 day a.m.)..... August 11 Holidays Labor Day............................................................September 7 Veterans Day...................................................... November 11 Thanksgiving................................................. November 23-27 Dismiss Friday, November 20 - Return Monday, November 30 Christmas Holidays............................ December 21 - January 4 Dismiss Friday, December 18 - Students Return Tuesday, January 5 Martin L. King, Jr. Day........................................... January 18 Presidents’ Day.................................................... February 15 Easter / Spring Break ................................ March 26 - April 2 Dismiss Thursday, March 25 - Return Monday, April 5 staff development (Students will NOT attend school on these dates) Staff Development............................................... September 8 Staff Development................................................... January 4 other important dates Progress Reports Issued.................................... September 10 Fair Day................................................................... October 9 End of First Nine Weeks....................................... October 13 Report Cards Issued/Parent conferences............ October 23 Progress Reports Issued.................................... November 12 End of Second Nine Weeks................................December 18 Report Cards Issued................................................. January 8 Progress Reports Issued........................................ February 4 End of Third Nine Weeks.........................................March 11 Parent Conferences..................................................March 18 Report Cards Issued.................................................March 18 State Required Testing.......................April 12, 2010 - April 21 Progress Reports Issued............................................ April 22 Last Day for Seniors..............................................May 13 Last Two Days for Students (1/2 Day)... May 24, May 25 Last Day for Teachers............................................May 26 Friday Work Days: 8/14, 9/11, 10/23, 11/13, 11/20, 12/18, 1/8, 1/22, 2/19, 4/9, 4/16

ALLEN PARISH SCHOOL CALENDAR 2009-2010

Students’ First Day of School.......................... August 5

Holidays Labor Day............................................................. September 7 Veterans Day...................................................... November 11 Thanksgiving................................................. November 23-27 Christmas Holidays........................................ December 21-31 New Years Holiday.................................................. January 1 Martin L. King, Jr. Day........................................... January 18 American Heritage............................................... February 15 Mardi Gras Holiday............................................. February 16 Easter/Spring Break................................... March 29 - April 5

July 23, 2009

Other Important Dates 1st Six Weeks...................................................... September 16 Fair Day.............................................................. September 18 2nd Six Weeks...................................................... October 20 Half Day (No students in the PM)............................ November 11 Mid-Term Tests............................................. December 14 – 18 4th Six Weeks...................................................... February 17 5th Six Weeks............................................................... April 8 Students Last Day of School..............................May 21

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July 23, 2009

CHILDREN’S healthcare

Sports Injuries

Increasing for Kids

When it comes to injury rates, young athletes are becoming more and more like the pros and as a result, serious injuries in young athletes are happening more often, and even more alarmingly, at much younger ages than in the past. Numerous research findings support this trend. “This is a trend we also see here locally,” says orthopaedic and sports medicine specialist Geoffrey Collins, MD, with Center for Orthopaedics. “The growing popularity of tournament teams and select sports create a level of single-sport focus with year-round intensity for young children. This can lead to the type of overuse injuries that typically were seen more in older teens and young adults in the past.” Dr. Collins explains that because young athletes are still growing and developing, they are at a higher risk for injury than adult players. Current research has found: • 40 percent of all emergency room visits involving children aged 5 to 14 are for sports injuries. • More pre-high school students are sustaining shoulder injuries serious

enough to pull them from play. • Injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are now being seen in 9- and 10-year-olds. Surgery to deal with the injury can cause more lasting “growth plate disturbances.” Growth plates are the areas of developing tissue at the end of the body’s long bones. Another study noted a rapid increase in arm injuries in young pitchers, apparently the result of an improper throwing motion and overuse. One of these injuries, “little league elbow,” seems to result when the athlete winds up and uncurls the body too late before releasing the ball. According to the study, about 60 percent of 11- to 18-year-olds have sustained an injury due to the repetitive motion and overuse of the elbow and shoulder. Dr. Collins says this is the perfect example of how year-round playing can lead to additional complications. “Baseball has traditionally been a spring sport, but now it is very common for young boys to play baseball all year long. As a result, these kids aren’t playing other sports. In the past, childhood

July 23, 2009

athletes would play baseball for a few months in the spring and summer, then switch to football in the fall, and then basketball in the winter. The neural system needs many different types of activity to develop motor control, and many kids today are missing out on this. Rotating into different sports creates selective stress in different areas of the child’s body, which would have time to recover as they moved into another sports season. We’re not seeing that anymore. What we are seeing instead is overtraining and overuse injuries in much younger athletes, which is cause for alarm.” Experts agree that players, parents and

coaches need to pay better attention to the needs of young athletes’ developing bodies. Dr. Collins says the two key problems are the “focus on a single sport and the lack of expertise in coaching/ training these kids from a physiological, biomechanical, psychological and medical perspective.” Dr. Collins stresses that the main thing parents and coaches need to understand is that you can’t treat young children as if they were younger versions of adults or even older teens. “Their growing bodies can’t take the stress of intense training or constant, highlevel play. Let kids be kids, and focus on helping them develop into wellrounded, healthy athletes.” For more information on kids and sports injury prevention and treatment, call Center for Orthopaedics at 7217235 or visit www.centerforortho.com.

How You Can Be A ‘Partner’ in the Partnership in Education Program The Partnership in Education’s philosophy is straightforward, “[it] affords opportunities for the community, businesses, and schools to instill a sense of belief and pride in man’s ability to shape a world that offers hope to students in all schools. Business-education partnerships provide exciting opportunities for schools, businesses, and community leaders throughout Calcasieu Parish to work together to enhance and improve the quality of education for all students. Schools need the support of the community and the business community depends on a strong public education system to assure economic stability and maintain a high quality of life for citizens of all ages.”

The Calcasieu Parish School Board’s Partners in Education (PIE) was established in 1988, as a joint venture of the school district and the Chamber/ Southwest Louisiana. Originally known as “Adopt-A-School,” its purpose was to improve education by stimulating meaningful business and community involvement in public schools. Through individual partnerships with businesses, professional organizations, churches, and civic clubs, schools are now able to tap resources to meet the individual needs of each student body, provide excellent educational programming, and recognize achievement. The school board of directors, along with an advisory board, governs the operations of PIE. The school board is

comprised of 15 members representing the area’s communities. This includes: Joe Andrepont, Annette Ballard, Dale Bernard, Billy Breaux, Randall Burleigh, Mack Dellafosse, Clara Duhon, Chad Guidry, Fredman Hardy, Bill Jongbloed, James Karr, Bryan LaRocque, James Pitre, Elray Victorian and R.L. Webb. Partners in Education provides for the development and support of parishwide education partnerships, including more than 59 schools and approximately 200 partnering organizations. Careful consideration is given to match the needs of the school with the resources of the business. Businesses and individuals have the option of partnering with schools of their own choosing. Once the partnership is established,

the possibilities for a successful partnership are endless. Partners develop mentoring programs, pen pal programs, honors/awards ceremony, tutorials, teacher recognition programs, computer enhancement programs, field trips, career days, workshops for parents, speakers’ bureaus, life skills workshops, and more. Partnerships may be initiated by any business and/or school wishing to enter a declaration of partnership for the school year. Interested parties should contact the Partners in Education Program Coordinators for the Calcasieu Parish School System. For more information, contact Charlene Chiasson, (337) 217-4130.

Look

Coolfor

School

The Eye Clinic and Optics Unlimited can help give your kids a new and improved point of view this school year. Your child’s vision is the most important tool for school success. That’s why it’s important that children have an eye exam before they start school and on a regular basis after that. Beat the back-to-school rush and schedule your child’s eye exam now. We’re making it easy with these special offers:

50 routine eye exams 20% savings on children’s frames

for children ages four to twelve

This offer is available on routine vision exams* at all locations of The Eye Clinic through September 30, 2009. Call the location nearest you for more information or 1-800-826-5223.

1 (800) 826-5223

FOUR CONVENIENT LOCATIONS IN SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA

Lake Charles, 1717 Oak Park Blvd., 478-3810 • DeRidder, 801 S. Pine, 462-3937 • Sulphur. 2100 Maplewood Dr., 625-8948 • Jennings, 1219 Elton Rd., 824-0040

July 23, 2009

CHILDREN’S healthcare

Envision a

Great School Year

As the new school year begins, odds are most parents – and kids – are focused on school supplies, uniforms, bus schedules and homework. But doctors at The Eye Clinic say parents should also be on the lookout for vision problems as their children return to school. “Good vision is fundamental to reading, and reading is essential to learning,” explains Virgil Murray, MD, ophthalmologist with The Eye Clinic. “Children learn by seeing. In fact, 80 percent of learning in a child’s first 12 years comes through the eyes. That’s why undetected vision problems can have a tremendous detrimental impact on their ability to learn.” More than 12.million school-age children, or one in four, have some form of vision problem. Unfortunately, nearly 80 percent of preschoolers do not receive a vision exam. Dr. Murray recommends a comprehensive eye exam by an eye doctor for all children before four years of age. “Vision problems are treated more successfully during the growth and development of a child’s visual system,” he explains. “By the time a child reaches school age, their visual system has completed its development, so a delayed eye exam can spell trouble.” One condition that eye doctors can successfully treat in young children if detected early is amblyopia. Amblyopia is poor vision in an eye that did not develop normal sight during early

childhood. It is sometimes called “lazy eye.” Dr. Murray says the condition is common, affecting approximately two or three out of every 100 people. “The best time to correct amblyopia is during infancy or early childhood, but parents must be aware of this potential problem if they want to protect their child’s vision.” In addition to the serious risk of permanent vision loss, the link between learning and eyesight is compelling. According to Dr. Murray, children have great coping skills, so they may learn fairly well with distorted vision until they enter school. In the classroom, however, vision problems lead to learning problems. Poor vision causes problems when work is written on blackboards or computer screens. Self-esteem is fragile in children and it can be damaged by excessive frustration at school. This is why it is important to test a child’s vision regularly. If vision is the problem, it can usually be easily corrected, hopefully in time to prevent permanently negative attitudes toward school. “Children who have struggled in the classroom often turn their attitude and achievements

July 23, 2009

around when their vision is properly corrected. The difference is amazing,” says Dr. Murray. Once a child enters school, they should have an eye exam at least every two years, or more frequently, if specific problems or risk factors exist. “And keep in mind,” says Dr. Murray, “a school vision check is not a substitution for a thorough eye exam by a qualified eye doctor.” He says parents and teachers should be on the look out for these warning signs of vision problems in school-age children: • Squinting, closing or covering one eye • Excessive blinking or rubbing of the eyes • Dislike and/or avoidance of close work

• Short attention span; frequent daydreaming • Placing the head close to a book when reading • Turning or tilting the head to one side • Losing place while reading; omits or confuses small words when reading • Complaints of headaches, nausea and dizziness • Excessive clumsiness • Consistently performs below potential “If any of these signs are noticed, the child should see an eye doctor as soon as possible for an exam,” says Dr. Murray. The Eye Clinic and Optics Unlimited are offering discounts on children’s vision exams and frames through September 30. For more information, call The Eye Clinic nearest you in Lake Charles, Sulphur, DeRidder or Jennings, or 1-800-826-5223.

Jindal Talks-Up Legislation at the

Chamber’s Summer Speaker Series

By Chaney Ferguson

overnor Jindal reiterated his stance on state ethics and job creation at the Chamber Summer Speaker Series luncheon on Friday

July 10. “We can’t spend our way back to prosperity. We don’t have this D.C. philosophy here in Louisiana,” said Jindal. Louisiana’s driving philosophy has been a strategy completely based around job creation. “We started last year with our first special session on ethics. LSU and Forbes did studies that said the number one thing we can do to attract jobs is to crack down on corruption,” said Jindal. “Everybody has their favorite jokes, but the problem is those jokes were stealing opportunities from our state. As long as people think that who you know is more important than what you know people didn’t want to invest in our state,” said Jindal. A year ago the center for public integrity ranked Louisiana 44th for disclosure. This year we rank number one in the country for disclosure on the CPI index. “I think it is great to be number one on a national ethics list. It sends a message to this country that it is a new Louisiana,” sad Jindal. At the luncheon Governor Jindal praised state delegates for serving the lake area and working collectively to accomplish what is beneficial for the lake area. Governor Jindal shared about some of the bills passed to help Louisiana and Lake Charles. • Eleven bills were passed that protect our children from sex predators • 1.5 million dollars to protecting and restoring our coast • 3 DWI laws passed that will help make our streets safer and protect our children and families • 3.3 billion dollars spent on roads • 56 million dollars on road projects right here in Lake Charles • Laws were passed on discipline in our classroom Despite the money coming into the lake area, the 2009 Legislative session revolved around budget cuts. Those cuts affected two areas, higher education and health care. Higher education was originally supposed to have a general fund reduction of $213 million, but the

Legislature restored $100 million from the original cut. After looking at health care cuts, lawmakers identified an additional $45 million to alleviate some of the health care cuts. During this time of economic uncertainty and the state budget being what it is, Governor Jindal encourages the people of Louisiana to look at the solution in the workforce. “We don’t need to rely on our natural resources, but we need to have a productive workforce. The states that are going to move forward are the ones with an educated and productive workforce,” said Jindal. The Governor said the session has only started in revamping Louisiana’s workforce training efforts.

July 23, 2009

The Lake Area Film

n g i l l i B p o T Gets B

u Ferg a c ssi y Je

Group

son

Welcome got industry! That to the movie actly what ex ’s at n’t it? Th id d , n o ti en your att lm and media because the fi o, d to t n ea ost ever y produce it was m ese days. Alm th o o em w it t to o h g n a it and industry is mmission, tr yi alliance or co hy not? w lm d fi n a A edit it as a. h n h ia is par f Louis amps, e great state o sw th d to within that 24 an d o rs o o w at Holly ere, allig h d sp o an m s n at o r, ti o flav hour period.” planta Louisiana has ality s, antebellum ee tr ss er re p th ea cy Sounds like re s and d our w an , rs te ac ar beautiful oak ? e ch TV, doesn’t it am there r state and if you’re Our people ar irector. “And d media to ou within each te d flashy casinos. an a ys d sa lm p an fi , e g ro er n d th h ci al ’s ap W long. Enti omy. But that a cinematogr is warm year s for our econ ter, an editor, ri lu p w ys. a a sa e is b e h ld u t,” e? o n d get together is eative si some tale cr e e av community w th h t u u o e reason they yo y ab th d ck at h lu an ividual W p . u it o f o se-knit gr with their ind o s lo a er a p. b y u business side is b ro em G G 04 F m A p m 20 L making to hel mber e Area Fil passion for film ch other and r nded in Septe o ea u st Meet the Lak fo g ge re in as ra te u w ak in p co m u lm h an to en a Film Gro in growing a fi te anyone wit The Lake Are cts. They invi mitted als interested u je m id ro co p iv p d u in o e gr at on drop. “Just to riginal group of passi them. and e do,” says Wal w in s, uisiana. The o o jo at ea L h id t to , w es t le u w p o th eo u ab p So sionate a network of endent community in “We’re all pas structure ent: to create ling the indep em ab at en st y, n o el .” si iv n. W hile the es is ct fu re e e lle eg b ak d co L t to to the m ed in en G ar F er al sh diff t LA festiv their craft, ich, would be says they wan serious about an annual film so l st al al o p e h ’r ro to d ey resources wh d al Th W an . ire. roduce n is the Lake Area, te and to insp als. They all p ere, the passio va go th ti al e o u b m t id o th iv n o d t filmmaker in b h in to eir mig h would serve d achieving th oquent on Charles, whic oes. ning more an el d ar d G le F an A says there’s a g n L lo at h w and wax ing, Waldrop d ld o ak re b u m g. ct at in lm That’s exactly th ru h fi st et ch in ly m so quen creative as terest ups are high timidate and ou can get as who has an in in p “Y e n ee ey p. d u th yo t at ro Some film gro an u th b r G o is s, m F hie to write, a Fil ere. “It” and philosop u if you want with Lake Are to yo ut it all out th r em p fo am d th re r ce d an la fo it p at writing rules r a ce th s fo pla ere’ With dear— ded to just go endent films. t,” he says. “Th person holds ep ge d a to in t e am an re ak creativity nee . w d m u rt lm fi yo ills.” ant to gut-in-the-hea or directing or acting in a you have no sk t and if you w if ec ir d en d , ev an e ce p, down-in-theu u ye g d n ts lo ro p se p ng or produci p by saying, “I ild your skill p, a KPLC em create by writi yee, sums it u G you can bu as elusive as Scott Waldro t F lo o ys p A n L sa em is ,” g h ause when C in L ac P re ak K f another ed people bec p. “Filmm d u e, in ro ar “It’s not out o G W -m n m ke h il li F Jo h a wit e Lake Are group to grow ch other.” president of th unding ould like our fo w e learn from ea th e e first f W o . e er n o ett d b an ” re s. e’ C d are held on th L w n er u P gs r, h K n ge h f ti it so o it ig ee b e w m y ye re kl G e’ lo w ts wee in Lake w. L AF an emp r calendar no entral Library plays. She mee e’s writing works. Julie Fay, also u C en yo at re k sc M ar s P M te ri 00 AFG, w month at 7: d facebook . sure what sh members of L does an nesday of each oup to make on myspace an lie gr ed d e Ju W n u , u iq at fo it th e f cr b o g n p so d inviting can al On to screenwriti up is warm an of an actress. ional film harles. L AFG k ro at C n G ec f h o m e il n ed F o a rm so re have eA up info Julie is al ge you. If you state. n’t be shy. Lak o ra e eping the gro u D th ke co f ss o en ro b to ac jo t t ts n y wan endent sprin excelle d they honestl to be an indep fun. And a itions and film f e an et o ir t p es lo m d a co lt d fe s, an rt al hea f with work festiv n stifling that iliarize yoursel sprint? Hard ee m b lm fa fi o a T ’s . at re h o W r ifle no m and search fo y,” Waldrop ience. filmmaker, st ss the countr .youtube.com w ro learning exper w ac w r r la o to u F a p e s! go o b , it p ht are their work read the cred iteria—it mig “Film sprints Don’t forget to to ven certain cr p. gi as u @ e h o ar gr at s th lm m fi e ea la gu ialo AFilmGroup says. “T er ation email L and a line of d th p, rm ge fo ro p to in l a , al re n o it o m e ti u ti loca your short. Yo the gmail.com. be included in have to write u Yo . rs u o h 24 t, in p h ri wit sc

July 23, 2009

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MOSS BLUFF MOWER SALES 459 HWY 171 N. LAKE CHARLES, LA 70611 337-855-2983 www.mossbluﬀmowersales.com David L. Sigler & Associates, is pleased to announce the association of Cade Richard Cole. Mr. Cole’s primary practice areas are business planning, estate planning and administration, and taxation. Originally from DeQuincy, he received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Paul Tulane College at Tulane University, and earned his Juris Doctor degree from the Tulane School of Law, where he earned the CALI award for highest performance in Obligations II, Energy Regulation, and Income Taxation, and was a member of the Dean’s Leadership Caucus. Mr. Cole returns to the area after recently serving as a Law Clerk to Justice Jeannette Knoll of the Louisiana Supreme Court. He previously interned for U.S. District Judge Patricia H. Minaldi and Judge J. David Painter of the Third Circuit Court of Appeal, and was also a summer Law Clerk in the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office. He was admitted to the Louisiana Bar in 2008, and the Florida Bar in 2009, and is a member of the American, Louisiana State, and Southwest Louisiana Bar Associations. Mr. Cole is a past member of the Louisiana State Serve Commission, and was recently appointed Assistant City Attorney for DeQuincy.

David L. Sigler & Associates, PLLC Estate, Tax & Business Planning Successions, Wills & Trusts

33rd Annual Gueydan Duck Festival Festival of the Year

2004, 2005, 2007 & 2008 LAFF Division I

Presented in part by:

August 27th30th y Grand Parade y Dog Trials y Senior Pageant y Great Food y Nightly Bands y Skeet Shooting y State Duck and Goose Calling Contest y Carnival Rides & Much More!

Free Admission for children all weekend 630 Kirby Lake Charles, LA

See a complete schedule at www.duckfestival.org

439-2033

July 23, 2009

D i spatches f rom

D e R idder

BOMBS ROCK the Beauregard, Vernon Communities

By J. Shirlene Cooper

wo churches in Beauregard Parish and one in Vernon Parish were the targets of vandalism, burglary and bombs just prior to the Fourth of July weekend. Four men, between the ages of 17 and 21 years old have been arrested in connection with the incidents, as well as the burglary of a fireworks stand and a Frito Lay delivery truck, which was parked at a distribution plant on the LA 3226 bypass, between DeRidder and Rosepine. Sidney Flether, 21, and Timothy Free, 18, both of DeRidder; and Nathan Lee and Anthony Martin, both 17 years of age, and both of Rosepine were arrested Thursday morning, July 2, bringing several hours of criminal activities to an end. According to Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Office (BPSO) Chief Deputy Joe Toler, officials believe the events began Wednesday evening with the vandalism of Cypress Creek Baptist Church, located on the bypass. Several of the building’s windows were broken. Allegedly, the next stops for the four men were the distribution center, where the delivery truck was burglarized, and then the fireworks stand, which they reportedly looted. It was the explosives taken from the fireworks stand, which were used to fashion the bombs- one of which exploded at Grace Church, in DeRidder. The bomb at Grace Church detonated at night when no one was there. After church staff arrived at work on Thursday they suspected that the church had been vandalized or burglarized, and also discovered the broken window, which led them to notify the police. A Frito Lay travel mug, taken from the delivery

Timothy Free 32

truck, made up the casing of the bomb left near a window of the Champion’s Center at Grace Church. The bomb detonated, just a few feet away from the center’s playground area. An exterior pane of a double-paned window was shattered by the blast, while the secondary inner pane was left intact. George Lee Glass, pastor of Grace Church, said he arrived at the church on Thursday morning just shortly after the damage was discovered by other church personnel. He said that at first he suspected vandalism or a burglary. At Three Pine Apostolic Church, located off of LA highway 112, east of DeRidder, a church worker spotted the men apparently taking things from the building. This person notified the authorities with a description of the vehicle as well as the license plate number, and DeRidder police were able to apprehend the two men in the vehicle a short time later, while sheriff’s department personnel caught up with the two others who were still in the area of the church. Pastor Dan Booth of Three Pine Apostolic Church said he believes the bomb at Grace Church may have been set as a diversion to keep law enforcement on that side of town, while his church was being burglarized. It was later determined that music and audio equipment were taken at the Three Pine Church, but during the initial investigation of the burglary at that place of worship, Rev. Booth said he had been assisting deputies in trying to determine what items were missing. As they were clearing the area near the baptistery they happened upon what was first perceived to be an elongated flashlight.

Nathan Lee July 23, 2009

Toler described the flashlight as a three D-cell battery flashlight with metal casing, much like the ones used by law enforcement. Booth said that it first appeared that the flashlight, which was found lying on a chair seat, had been accidentally left behind by whoever had

Inside the Three Pine Apostolic Church, southeast of DeRidder another, potentially more dangerous bomb was found in a chair, in the baptistery area (See highlighted area).

A taped-over window at Champion Center at Grace Church is evidence of where a small hand-made bomb exploded on July 2, in DeRidder. The bomb allegedly was thrown or placed (see highlighted area in circle) just a few feet away from the church’s playground.

Sidney fletcher

anthony martin

BOMBS ROCK

cont.

burglarized the church. However, upon closer scrutiny, it was discovered that the flashlight was resting on and attached to a long fuse. At this point the area was immediately cleared and a Hazmat Team member from Beauregard Parish was notified. This bomb technician, skilled in EOD (explosive ordinance disposal) arrived on the scene with a robot recovery vehicle, which removed the bomb and detonated it in the church parking lot. Toler said that had the bomb exploded inside the church it had the potential to do much damage, and because it had been placed in an area which adjoined the living quarters of church leaders, “it could possibly have killed someone.” Toler explained that once the exploded bomb was found at Grace Church, “it spurred a parish-wide search of all churches,”—no small task in a city once included in the Guinness Book of World Records as having the most churches per capita. Additionally, the BAMA (Beauregard Area Ministerial Alliance) was contacted and church leaders notified to check churches and church grounds for suspicious looking items or items that may have been out of place. Local news media also were contacted and asked to issue an immediate caution via television and the internet. To date, no other explosive devices have been reported or discovered, and the investigation is ongoing. Toler said that from the beginning, the investigation was a combined effort of the Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Office, the DeRidder Police Department and the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Department.

Because the crime is a federal offence, the F.B.I. was notified also, but they are no longer involved in the investigation. Toler attributed the quick notification, response and arrests to the teamwork of those involved. “Everybody was in the right place at the right time,” he said. The pastors of both Beauregard Parish churches expressed concern for the young men involved and their families. “I am mainly concerned with those that made the mistakes,” said Rev. Glass. On behalf of Grace Church, he added, “We are a great community with connections to these families. Our prayers are for them.” Having first believed the incident to be a simple burglary, Rev. Booth said he was not surprised at what happened, considering current times. He, too, said, “We are praying for these gentlemen that they learn from their mistakes.” Individually, Fletcher, Free, Lee and Martin have been charged with one count aggravated burglary, one count of theft, two counts of manufacturing and possession of a bomb, and two counts of simple arson of a religious building. They also face additional charges, in Vernon Parish, of theft, simple burglary, and criminal damage to property, vandalism and discharging an in cinerary device. Defense council has been assigned in the case. Attorney Tony Bennett will represent Fletcher, Attorney Sam Jones will represent Free, Attorney David Wallace will represent Lee and Attorney Mitch Evans will represent Martin. As of press time, all four men remain in the Beauregard Parish Jail, with bonds set at $90,000 each.

Father Keith Pellerin of the Lake Charles Diocese gave the invocation.

Top 50

Top 50 Imperial Calcasieu Businesses Luncheon The 14th Annual Top 50 Imperial Calcasieu Businesses Luncheon was held on July 17 at the Lake Charles Country club. Generously sponsored by Jeff Davis Bank, the luncheon was a success and enjoyed by all who attended. The keynote speaker for this years Top 50 luncheon was Adam Knapp, CEO of the Baton Rouge Chamber, a native of Lake Charles, LA., and son of Lynn and Ann Knapp. The Times would like to congratulate the recipients of the 2009 Top 50 awards. We were honored to be a part of this celebration. We wish everyone continued success.

George Swift, President/CEO of SWLA Economic Development Alliance was the presenter of awards.

July 23, 2009

Don Donald kicks off the Top 50 luncheon

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I Had Cancer.

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When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, the one thought that comforted me is that I’d had regular mammograms for years, so the cancer that was found was in the early stages. I went through the treatment and today I’m cancer-free. That small lump could have resulted in big problems. Early detection is a key in cancer survival. Sometimes I wonder what would have happened if I hadn’t gotten that mammogram? The chances of getting cancer here are about the same as nationwide - approximately 1 in 3 will be diagnosed*. But, here in Southwest Louisiana, the survival rate is lower. One reason is because many people don’t see their doctor until the cancer is in later stages. Early detection gives more time to beat cancer. Take control of your cancer risk: get screened, get active and learn the facts. *American Cancer Society

Fight Cancer with Facts.

A community partnership between: Virgie Hughes, winning the battle against cancer

July 23, 2009

Dan Donald, President of Jeff Davis Bank, was the sponsor of the Top 50

Patrick Marcantel, Publisher of The Times, with Stephanie Morris and Lisa Walker of Health Systems 2000

Tyler Williams of Jeff Davis Bank organized the luncheon.

Bob Edens reads The Times Top 50 issue

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July 23, 2009

Thursday July 23 Chris LeBlanc @ Party by the Pool, L’auberge, 7 pm Fondumonks @ JD’s, L’Auberge Casino, 9 pm Felton LeJeune Cajun Cowboys @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5 pm Cole Train @ Delta Downs Gator Lounge, 8 pm Seven Perfect, The Jericho Machine @ Scout Bar, Beaumont, 8 pm Jam Session @ The Western Bar, 7 pm The Wild West Show @ Caribbean Cove Lounge, Isle of Capri, 8 pm Neil Smith @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 7 pm Acoustic Music @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 pm Friday July 24 Colorcast Veteran, Magnolia Sons and Paper Plains @ AJ’s Bar & Grill 10 pm Howard Noel Cajun Boogie @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5 pm Ron Thibodeaux @ Speckled Trout, Hackberry, 8 pm Wilson Miller & Still Kickin’@ Linda’s Lounge, 8:30 pm Mike Taylor Band @ Engine 89-DeQuincy, 8 pm Mike Richard & Step-n-Out @ Scottie Tee Judi’s Konstruxion Zone, 9:30 pm Tom Brandow @ Outriggers Tavern, 5 pm Briant Lloyd Smith & Hot Gritz, Fridays @ Blue Duck, 9 pm Peter Frampton @ Delta Downs Racetrack and Casino, Vinton, 8 pm Blues Tonic @ Mary’s Lounge, 5 pm MynameisJohnMichael w/ Red Letter Reverb @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 pm Cole Train @ Delta Downs Gator Lounge, Vinton, 8 pm Kadillacs @ Caribbean Cove Lounge, Isle of Capri, 9 pm Acoustic Pie @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 9 pm The Kinship cd release party w/Forever Falls,Viceroy @ Scout Bar, Beaumont, 12 pm Southern Spice @ Bab’s Pub, 7 pm Johnny Raincloud Full Band @ Toucans Bar & Grill, 9:30 pm Travis Matte & The Kingpins @ Yesterdays, 7 pm Cornerstone @ OB’s Bar & Grill, 8 pm 36

July 23, 2009

Saturday July 25 Research Turles and The Flamethrowers @ AJ’s Bar & Grill 10 pm GG and the Hot Damn Band @ GG’s Club, Alexandria, 9:30 pm Scotty Pousson Pointe aux Loups Playboys @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5 pm Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ Boogie @ Yesterdays, 7 pm Du Lac Live: Passenger, 6 Pack Deep @ Luna Bar & Grill, 8 pm Cole Train @ Delta Downs Gator Lounge, Vinton, 8 pm Salsa Dance Night @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 8 pm Pork Chop Express @ Blue Duck, 9 pm The Spacerockers @ Scout Bar, Beaumont, 8 pm Kadillacs @ Caribbean Cove Lounge, Isle of Capri, 9 pm Cracker Jackson @ Toucans Bar & Grill, 9:30 pm Sunday July 26 Jimmy/Wilson Band, Sundays @ Shorty’s Ice House, Moss Bluff, 5 pm Jim Rose vs. Jake The Snake @ Scout Bar, Beaumont, 7 pm Lacassine Playboys @ Wayne & Layne’s Deli, Sulphur, 4 pm Warren Storm, Willie Tee & Cypress @ Yesterdays, 7 pm Monday July 27 Singer/Songwriter Open Mic Night @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 pm Tuesday July 28 Alvin Touchet & Wine Tasting @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 7 pm Brandon Moreau La Band Pain Perdu @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5 pm Wednesday July 29 Briggs Brown Bayou Cajuns @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5 pm Jimmy Wilson Band @ Cuz’s Lounge, Sulphur, 6 pm Laurel at Sunset @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 7 pm Jerry Dee & Shakie @ Granger’s Seafood Restaurant & Lounge, 8 pm John Guidroz & Acoustic Friends @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 pm Twangsters Union @ Yesterdays, 7 pm

Thursday July 30 Hipbootjoe @ Party by the Pool, L’Auberge, 7 pm Hillcrest @ JD’s, L’Auberge Casino, 9 pm Lesa Cormier Sundown Playboys @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5 pm Leon Chavis @ Delta Downs Gator Lounge, Vinton, 8 pm Dave Pellerin on Piano @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 7 pm Nothingmore @ Scout Bar, Beaumont, 8 pm Jam Session @ The Western Bar, 7 pm Keith McCoy & CEO @ Caribbean Cove Lounge, Isle of Capri, 8 pm Echo Movement @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 pm Friday July 31 The 94s, Two Shots Fired & The Von Dukes @ Toucans Bar & Grill, 9:30 pm Hello Govenor, The Dead And The Postponed @ AJ’s Bar & Grill 10 pm Marshland Festival w/ Ronnie McDowell @ Lake Charles Civic Center, 8 pm Al Roger Louisiana Pride @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5 pm Ron Thibodeaux @ Speckled Trout, Hackberry 8 pm Wilson Miller & Still Kickin’@ Linda’s Lounge, 8:30 pm Mike Taylor Band @ Engine 89-DeQuincy, 8 pm Mike Richard & Step-n-Out @ Scottie Tee Judi’s Konstruxion Zone, 9:30 pm Tom Brandow @ Outriggers Tavern, 5 pm Briant Lloyd Smith & Hot Gritz, Fridays @ Blue Duck, 9 pm Leon Chavis @ Delta Downs Gator Lounge, 8 pm Devil & The Details @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 pm Southbound @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 9 pm Ian Moore, Podunk, She Craves, Paris Green @ Scout Bar, Beaumont, 8 pm Southern Spice @ Bab’s Pub, 7 pm Crooks Carnival @ OB’s, 8 pm Craig Mouton & Slingshot @ Caribbean Cove Lounge, Isle of Capri, 9 pm Sonny Bourg & The Bayou Blues Band @ Yesterdays 7 pm Blondie @ Paragon Casino, Marksville, 8 pm Saturday August 1 Paris Green, Forever Falls and She Craves @ AJ’s Bar & Grill 10 pm GG and the Hot Damn Band @ GG’s Club, Alexandria, 9:30 pm Marshland Festival w/ Billy Joe Royal, Hipbootjoe @ Lake Charles Civic Center, 8 pm Mack Manuel Lake Charles Ramblers @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5 pm Death Experiment w/Better off Dead Near @ Toucans Bar & Grill, 9:30 pm Pork Chop Express @ Blue Duck, 9pm Blues Tonic @ Caribbean Cove Lounge, Isle of Capri, 9 pm

Ashes of Babylon at L’Auberge du Lac

The Roaming Soldiers @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 pm Sugar House @ Sylvia’s Bistro, 9 pm Burn Halo, American Fangs, The Blue Eclipse, Bury The Past, The Southern Kill @ Scout Bar, Beaumont, 8 pm Mike Taylor @ Bobby B’s, Vinton, midnight Sunday August 2 Blues Tonic @ Mary’s Lounge, 5 pm Jimmy/Wilson Band, Sundays @ Shorty’s Ice House, Moss Bluff, 5 pm Lacassine Playboys @ Wayne & Layne’s Deli, Sulphur, 4 pm Monday August 3 Singer/Songwriter Open Mic Night @ Luna Bar & Grill, 9 pm Tuesday August 4 Errol Jenkins Louisiana Tradition @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5 pm Rookie Of The Year @ AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 pm Wednesday August 5 Don Fontenot Les Cajuns de la Prairie@ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5 pm Jimmy Wilson Band @ Cuz’s Lounge, Sulphur, 6 pm Jerry Dee & Shakie @ Granger’s Seafood Restaurant & Lounge, 8 pm Thursday August 6 Mike Zitto @ Coushatta Resort, Kinder, 8 pm Jamie Berzas Cajun Tradition Band @ D.I.’s Cajun Food & Music, Basile, 5 pm Jam Session @ The Western Bar, 7 pm Otenki @ AJ’s Bar & Grill 10 pm Dwight Yoakam @ Paragon Casino, Marksville, 8 pm

Don’t see your band or venue mentioned? Send schedules to editor@timessw.com July 23, 2009

the best i n lake area enter tai nment

Legendary Guitarist Peter Frampton Live! At Delta Downs July 24 Rock the night away with this Grammy Award Winning, international legend. Hear all the classic hits including “Baby I Love Your Way” and “Show Me the Way.” Concert starts at 8 pm at the Delta Event Center. Go to www.deltadowns.com for more information and tickets. Ad & Press Club’s 37th Annual Gridiron Show Fundraiser July 25 If you’ve ever made an impulse buy after watching one of those fast- talking TV commercials, then you won’t want to miss the Ad & Press Club of Southwest Louisiana’s 37th annual Gridiron Show. The fundraiser, a satire of local newsmakers and the media, is set for Saturday, July 25, in the Lake Charles Civic Center’s Sudduth Coliseum. This year’s theme is “As Seen on TV,” a localized spoof of TV shows and commercials, plus other current-events satire. Doors will open at 6 p.m. for a social and networking hour. Tickets are $60 per person and $400 for a table of eight. Several levels of sponsorships are available. Deadline to buy tickets is Wednesday, July 22. Seating is limited, and tickets are going fast. For tickets, call the Gridiron hot line at 583-4766; e-mail gridironshow@ yahoo.com, or order online at www.adpressclub.com.

July 23, 2009

Picks

Summer Film & Lecture Series July 30 An Imperial Calcasieu Museum presentation of favorite films “hand selected” by local film-buffs is made complete with popcorn, snacks, soda and an open discussion. Admission is free to museum members and $2 for nonmembers. Arrive by 6:30p.m. Concessions are $1 per item. 337.439.3797 or www.imperialcalcasieumuseum.org Final date in the series: July 30 – “The Last of Sheila” (1973, R) Presented by KPLC’s Jim Serra. Marshland Festival July 31 - August 1 Southwest Louisiana is known for flavorful fare and hot music, and this festival will give you a taste of both. Live music, begins at 5 p.m. on Friday, July 31, ending at midnight. On Saturday, Aug. 1, music will begin at 11 a.m. and go through the day, ending at midnight. For a schedule, visit www.marshlandfestival.com. Historic City Hall Art Exhibit June 26 – August 1 There will be an Art Exhibit of Sue Zimmermann’s work Good Vibrations Friday, June 26 – August 1 at the Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural

Center, second floor. Gallery hours are Tuesday – Friday 10am – 5pm and Saturday 9am – noon. Visit www.suezimmermann.com. For more information call 337-491-9147. Nephew Tommy: Stand and Deliver Comedy Tour August 1 Whether you were first exposed to him on the Steve Harvey morning show, BET’s Comic View, or at one of his many sold-out comedy gigs,by now you know that Nephew Tommy can stand and deliver. Born Thomas W. Miles II, the Houston native dedicated himself to performance at an early age and became the first African-American to graduate for m Texas A&M’s Theatre of the Arts program. That experience led him to opportunities both onstage and screen, first appearing in London’s Shakespeare Royal Theatre Company, and later in a variety of successful TV and film productions. His talent as a comedian landed him an appearance on Showtime at the Apollo. Nephew Tommy can be regularly heard on the Steve Harvey morning show. Event Date: August 1st, 2009 at 8:00 pm. Event Location: Rosa Hart Theatre at Lake Charles Civic Center. Go to www.ticketmaster.com for tickets. Zigler Art Museum Presents Exhibit: Two for Tea Through August 1 Two for Tea, the art of painting china, will be the theme of the upcoming exhibit at the Zigler Art Museum in Jennings, LA. The exhibit, which runs June 28 through August 1, 2009 will feature works by members of the Lake Charles Porcelain Art Guild and the Acadiana Porcelain Art Guild. The members of both the Acadiana Porcelain Art Guild and the Lake Charles Porcelain Art Guild have studied extensively with nationally And internationally recognized porcelain artists. Each of these women have accomplished various achievements in the art world, and have captured distinguished awards for their works. Many have won not only national, but international, competitions. Historic City Hall Announces We Are The Ship Exhibition June 26 – August 15 The City of Lake Charles is proud to present We Are The Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball, Original Paintings by Kadir Nelson at the 1911 Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center at 1001 Ryan Street. The exhibition is scheduled to open at Friday, June 26 and run through Saturday, August 15, 2009. An opening reception will be held from 6 – 9 p.m. with an overview by Journalist, Zeke Rideaux. All ages are invited at no charge; old fashion ballpark refreshments will be served. The City of Lake Charles is dedicated to supporting and promoting public interest in arts and history for the benefit of all Lake Area residents and visitors. Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are gladly accepted. For more information, please call 491-9147 or visit www.cityoflakecharles. com.

Reunion event, cosponsored by Lake Charles Little Theatre. James McClure’s companion oneacts, “Laundry and Bourbon” and “Lone Star” are set in Maynard, Texas, a dead-end town on the edge of a desert in the summer around 1974, when the nation was still trying to recover from the Viet Nam War. The women and men are hanging out gossiping, confiding, and reminiscing. For everyone, it is in the center of bright memories of being young and eager for the joys of life that no one expected to lead to deadend consequences. But despite all, the high good humor of the play never lapses, and it ends as breezily and happily as it began. If you ever longed for small-town life in the early 70’s in Texas or if you haven’t, this evening of one-act plays has humor for bumpkins and city slickers alike. Tickets are $15 with open seating. The Box Office opens for reservations July 27. For reservations call 475-5043. This production is for mature audiences. Sesame Street At the Civic Center September 4 – 6 Great family fun comes to town in September. Sesame Street Live’s “When Elmo Grows Up” has Elmo and his Sesame Street friends thinking about growing up, it’s a musical show-and-tell! Bert dreams of becoming a forest ranger, Telly longs to be a cowboy and their newest friend, Abby Cadabby, wants to be a Fairy Godmother just like her mommy. Elmo thinks about becoming a ‘weather monster,’ but has a hard time predicting his own forecast—he wants to be anything and everything all at once! “When Elmo Grows Up” includes lessons on perseverance, teamwork and the power of imagination. Children learn that if they believe in themselves and are willing to try, the possibilities are endless. Performances are: Sept. 4, 7 p.m. (Opening Night Discount); Sept. 5, 10:30 a.m. & 2 p.m. Sept. 6, 1 p.m. & 4:30 p.m. Performance is at the Lake Charles Civic Center. Tickets: $12 & $16. Opening Night, all seats (excluding Premium/Gold Circle) are $12. For more information, call 337-491-1432. To charge tickets by phone, please call Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com.

Two Comedies to Kick-off McNeese’s 70th Anniversary Celebration “Laundry and Bourbon” and “Lone Star,” uproarious comedies, will kickoff McNeese Theatre’s 70th Anniversary Celebration. Performances are at 7:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday, August 7 and 8 with a 2 p.m. matinee Sunday. August 9 at Lake Charles Little Theatre, 813 Enterprise Boulevard. The production is an Alpha Psi Omega National Honor Society Benefit and APO Alumnae

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The Lake Area’s Dance and Performance Collective, Breathe, Bring It Full ‘Circle’ Breathe, the Lake Area’s Dance and Performance Collective, was created two years ago when a young woman—Jillian Ardoin—gathered her passion for dance and choreography, contacted some friends with the same interests, and ‘followed her dream.’ Ardoin has been dancing since she was three years old. It’s safe to say it’s in her blood, her heart, and her soul. Ardoin graduated from St. Louis Catholic High School then attended the University of Texas in Austin where she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts. She absorbed her dancing and choreography classes, then took off to California where she participated in the Courage Group, a contemporary dance company committed to creating original dance works fusing classical art and architecture with metaphoric and resonant movement ideas. Ardoin also studied and danced with ODC which is considered one of the most active centers for dance on the West Coast. Ardoin’s impressive resume shows a vast amount of experience. She has studied in Texas, New York, Florida, North Carolina and California. In addition to being a certified dance instructor and a member of Dance Masters of America, Jillian Ardoin is a Licensed Massage Therapist at the state and national level. These are the credentials that her peers said yes to when Ardoin placed that original phone call and asked, “Do you want to dance?” Otherwise, why would eight or nine people who hold full-time jobs and lead busy, active lives, invest themselves in yet another very demanding project? The answers are: Passion for dance, passion for expressing themselves, passion to be creative, and respect and faith in Jillian Ardoin and her abilities. Meet the Dancers Lindsey Ardoin, Jillian’s sister has been a massage therapist for six years and has taught massage for two. She holds a Bachelors Degree from McNeese and is currently working on her nursing degree. As if that isn’t enough, she practices no less than twice a week for three performances in the up

and coming Circular Connections. Frances Fazzio began dancing at the age of three at Glenda Moss Academy of Dance. She holds a BFA from LSU with a concentration in painting and drawing. Frances has been an art teacher for four years. Another native of Lake Charles is Elizabeth Gates who graduated from North Carolina School of the Arts. Elizabeth currently resides in Lafayette and comes to Lake Charles twice a week for practices with Breathe. Tracy LeMieux serves on the board of directors of ACTS theatre and has performed two plays in 2009. For the past ten summers, Tracy has conducted her own Einstein art camp. Colleen Locklin is a member of Lake Charles Civic Ballet and teaches for Lady Leah LaFargue School of the Dance. Locklin has performed with ACTS theatre, Houston TUTS Theatre and Fort Bend Theatre. Lacy Vinson is also a product of the Glenda Moss Academy of Dance and has been dancing since she was three. She is a new home sales consultant in the field of real estate. Lindsay Quebedeaux is a French teacher at SJ Welsh, a board member at ACTS Theatre and sings on her church praise team. Sara Syron has been dancing for 23 years and works for Starbucks. Chris Shearman, a personal trainer, is also a musician, songwriter, and singer. He currently works at Smoothie King. Let the Show Begin Under the leadership and instruction of Ardoin, her small group of people who were all very interested in moving and dancing, collected together and started moving and breathing together. Their first performance was P.L.A.C.E.—performing local artists collaborating exhibition, and then there was THRILLER at the Poor Pony Music Festivals. These performances put Breathe in the spotlight and gave them the confidence to expand further in an attempt to perform throughout the community. They have since performed in events such as Poor Pony Thank You

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Party, V-Day and Pardi Gras as well as their annual fundraiser at Luna’s Bar and Grill. Choreography, their first show, was such a success that they decided to continue entertaining and communicating the performing arts to the community. This year, thanks to a DAF grant from the Arts and Humanities Council, and support from the Lake Charles Community Ballet, Breathe is able to perform bigger and better at Rosa Hart Theatre. Breathe’s Circular Connections is the second annual showcase, and consists of modern dance with the help of some props, collaboration and a little aerial dancing. Ardoin says the pieces in Circular Connections are definitely more near and dear to her heart. “They all have something to do with me and my past experiences in all types of relationships I have had since I’ve moved back home— there are moments of happiness and a lighthearted atmosphere throughout the show, ” said Ardoin. Ardoin said while choreographing Circular Connections she focused on clarity in an attempt to relate her relationship experiences and the things that are most important to her. “Things such as Strength, Trust, Relaxation, Honesty, Engagement, Being Connected,” said Ardoin. “We all go through these times in our lives and experience them very differently,” said Ardoin. “I hope our audience can feel and see how he/she is connected to everyone around them, even if it’s by the simplest thing as our Breathe, which is a continuous Circular Movement.” Jillian Ardoin has done exactly what Mayor Roach and many parents

By Jessica Ferguson

and grandparents have hoped and dreamed for their children: she’s brought her talent, her dreams and expertise home—back to Lake Charles, Louisiana. She’s giving back to her community by being an integral part of the community. The six dances Breathe will perform are called, Relax, Support, Strength, Connections, Honesty and Trust, and while each performance shares a huge chunk of Ardoin’s heart and soul, it’s the third dance called Strength that exhibits much of Jillian Ardoin’s character. “This dance portrays how powerful we can be together and individually,” says Ardoin, “and how understanding the importance of our own strength can get us far in reaching our personal goals.” BREATHE, the Lake Area’s Dance and Performance Collective presents “Circular Connections,” at 8 p.m. on Aug. 21-22, at Civic Center’s Rosa Hart Theater. Doors will open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at Expressions and Gordon’s Drug Store or at the door.

July 4th Red, White, and Blue Independence Day Parade Everyone loves a parade and the July 4th parade was no different. As hot as it was, many people came early for star-spangled fun, and all planned to stay late. They brought blankets and lawn chairs and coolers filled with snacks and drinks. The Shadow parked in the civic center parking lot and trekked to Ryan Street to join the waiting crowd. Three sisters sat at the base of the South’s Defenders Confederate Monument and I couldn’t resist snapping their picture. Helen Lindsey came over from Lafayette to spend time with Moss Bluff sister Connie Ballard. Emma Cunningham flew in from Mantua, New Jersey to join them. What a fun reunion for these three former Iowa, LA girls. On up the parade route, I spotted Bruce, Roxanne and Sara English who drove in from Vinton to enjoy the festivities. They come every year to take part in the Independence Day celebrations. Relaxing on a blanket in the shade, Sara, Jordan, Laura and Joe said they came prepared to see it all, and stay for the fireworks. The Douget family—David, Emily, Ava and Allison—waited patiently for the parade to begin. Everywhere I looked, I saw patriotic people decked out in red, white and blue. Mr. Joey Alcede handed out flags. I love our flag. And what’s a parade without spit ‘n polished fire trucks and hero-firemen waving to us? What fun! The entire crowd looked perfect—right down to the man on the corner who held his Try Jesus sign. Looking up and down the parade route, my heart swelled with pride by the number of people who braved the heat and actually looked as though they enjoyed it! The Shadow is very patriotic and the 4th of July is one of my very favorite holidays, but the Shadow gets cranky when she gets too hot. Patriotic music and people make it all worthwhile.

17th Annual Red, White, Blue, and You Celebration After the Independence Day parade, almost everyone packed up their blankets and lawn chairs and hiked back to the Lake Charles Civic Center’s Arcade Pavilion. Husband and I sat in the car for awhile with air conditioner blasting. We weren’t the only ones staying cool until the music kicked in. July 4th is a special holiday. It commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776—that was when the original 13 colonies separated themselves from Great Britain, declaring their independence. Independence Day is known as the loudest holiday, and always associated with fireworks and loud booms, long

Three sisters—Helen Lindsey, Connie Ballard and Emma Cunningham

Kent and Linda Lucas with Charrie Pipkins

Bruce, Roxanne and Sara English from Vinton

E.W and Betty Jones

Sara, Jordan, Laura and Joe from Carlyss. They came for the parade and planned to stay through the fireworks.

Sgt. Austin Williams and wife Emily

David, Emily, Ava and Allison Douget

Martha Dees, Gwen Pogue, ivy Huntington, Remi Richard and Evan Pogue

July 23, 2009

Hollie and Paislie Greenwood having fun and smiling pretty.

parades and picnics, political speeches and patriotic music and ceremonies. Here in Lake Charles, we had it all—even concerned ‘Tea Party’ protesters on the other side of the civic center. As husband and I sat in the car, we saw people come from every direction, dressed in red, white and blue and carrying coolers and lawn chairs. We decided to meet some of these patriotic souls. First we met Kent and Linda Lucas sitting with Charrie Pipkins. Kent told me they were there to pay respect to the veterans. Then we visited with E. W. Jones and his wife Betty. Mr. Jones told me they’d been married for 63 years. (I can’t imagine!) He was also celebrating his 87th birthday the very next day. Happy belated, Mr. Jones! All around us, people were having fun, laughing and chatting with each other. Not a sour face in the mix. Martha Dees, Gwen Pogue, Ivy Huntington, Remi Richard and Evan Pogue were ready for music and fun. There were scheduled sing-alongs by the Lake Charles Community Band and the Louisiana Choral Foundation. The Dixieland Band was scheduled to play at 7 p.m. and the winner of the Blue Ribbon Apple Pie contest was to be announced. The Shadow really wanted to enter that apple pie contest. In fact, I confess I experimented with my very own original recipe and tried it out on the family. Back to the drawing board— maybe I’ll enter next year. The Red, White, Blue and You celebration is always free and open to the public. And always fun. I enjoyed meeting Sgt. Austin Williams and his wife Emily. The Shadow wanted to hang around for the fireworks but that old saying came to mind: if you can’t take the heat, get out of the kitchen. Well, I did and that very talented, hard-working Denise Fasske, the arts and cultural events director, spotted The Shadow slipping out early. I felt so guilty! Sorry, Denise, maybe next year I can do it all.

Brew Ha Ha Fundraiser for St. Nicholas Center

Adrienne Walker pulls double duty with Anna Kathryn and Elyce.

Horse trainer Dustin Hayes

On Saturday, July 11th the Shadow popped in at the Brew Ha Ha, a fundraiser for St. Nicholas Center for Early Intervention. The fundraiser was sponsored by Luna Bar and Grill. When I got there with Shadow husband and Shadow daughter, the 700 block of Ryan Street was hopping with kids having fun. We met up with friends and watched the children bounce on the moonwalk. Skateboarders cruised up and down the street, and I prayed they wouldn’t hit the asphalt. The Shadow doesn’t like the sight of blood. Those guys were pretty good though—very brave. Pretty girls painted precious faces. Live music and live ponies made their presence known for all to enjoy. Want to guess which was the most popular? Many people had no idea that when the Children’s Museum was destroyed by fire, St. Nicholas Center for Early Intervention operated on the third floor of that same building and was lost as well. St. Nicholas Center provides educational, social and therapeutic services to children with developmental delays so the Brew Ha Ha fundraiser was a worthy one. Thanks to everyone who volunteered and played a part in this very worthwhile cause. The Shadow and family wandered up and down the street snapping pics and talking with people. Adrienne Walker and daughters Elyce and Anna Kathryn braved the heat and enjoyed the afternoon. Adrienne’s mom, Phyllis Steech was

July 23, 2009

Dominique and Kristine Duplechin with son Benjamin.

a volunteer as well as brother Wesley and his fiancée, Jessica. Wesley and Jessica stayed all day and into the night—talk about dedicated volunteers! The Shadow couldn’t resist snapping a picture of Hollie and Paislie Greenwood. Paislie had so much fun inside the moonwalk that the Shadow wanted to crawl inside too just to see what I was missing—but I restrained myself. Dominique and Kristine Duplechin snapped pictures of Benjamin sitting on the pony while horse trainer Dustin Hayes murmured calming words. The Shadow tried the capture Dustin in action but he dodged the camera and just shared a shy grin. I felt certain I’d met ‘the horse whisperer’ in person. The Brew Ha Ha was great fun. Shadow husband and I sat inside Luna’s for awhile, nibbled the white tortilla chips and superfantastic artichoke dip. A cool place to people-watch is my kind of place! Watching the children and moms traipsing back and forth in front of the windows, all the dedicated volunteers, made me a little sad that we can’t publish all their pictures right here, right now, but pickup the Shadow Edition in December—all pics will be there.

Lake Charles High School Reunion On Saturday, July 11th, the Shadow arrived at what was previously known as Lake Charles High School. It didn’t take me long to realize I had unintentionally worn the school color—red. I blended in, and was even mistaken for a Wildcat. After receiving directions at the registration table I met up with Pam McGough who explained that the reunion was for all graduates to enjoy, not just a specific graduating class. This year the reunion highlighted former athletes from LCHS. The Shadow ambled into the library and saw the montage of black and white photos—very nice. Pictures of the former athletes outlined the walls of the library and the tables hosted trophies—reminding graduates of past victories. Spouses and children of the former athletes moved around the library in awe, admiring pictures of LCHS former greats. There was a quiet reverence in the room. The Shadow listened in on old football stories as the men relived their winning plays. Other stories were not as pleasant. I heard one man tell his wife about a former teammate who had passed away the previous year. After the Shadow was turned down way too many times when I asked to take a picture, I made my way

to the gym where the real celebration was underway. Graduates of various ages circled the room, viewing the gym walls where more pictures captured the school’s past. The voice of the announcer boomed through the gym as he called for all athletes from the ‘60s to come forward. Each athlete took a few moments to tell a meaningful story from when he played for the school. Many took the opportunity to thank former coaches or share a memorable moment from a game. As I listened and observed the graduates, I realized that great times were had at Lake Charles High School. I left in a melancholy mood, but as I walked across the sidewalk, I saw KPLC’s Adam Hooper arriving. I couldn’t help but wonder if he’d have better luck with those very modest athletes who avoided the Shadow’s camera.

Georgia Welch, Class of ’78 and Ann Gaithe Burton, Class of ‘75

Buz Clark – Class of ‘65

Roxanne and Brad Thomas – Class of ‘69

By Terri Shlichenmeyer Your nose is too big. Most people wouldn’t notice, but you do. And when you look in a mirror, your eyes are like two tiny marbles in a pile of dough, and your hair is just… ugh. Everybody tells you how gorgeous your smile is, but you’re pretty sure they’re just being nice. You even hate your ears, if that’s possible. Don’t even start on your thighs or your tush. Do you ever wish someone had a magic wand and would—poof!—make you look like a model? In the new book B as in Beauty by Alberto Ferreras, a young woman wants exactly that, but she has other lessons to learn first. As if being fat wasn’t enough, Beauty Maria Zavala’s Cuban-born parents saddled her with a name that definitely didn’t fit. Beauty was willing to acknowledge the fat—it was kind of hard to hide— but the name? Not so much. She told everyone to just call her B. It avoided so much embarrassment. And as if being fat and having a weird name wasn’t the end of it all, B had a rotten job. For several years, she’d killed herself to do a good job for her evil boss, Bonnie, in the hopes of getting a nice, fat promotion and a corner office. But when B overheard a nasty conversation in the ladies’ room, she realized that was never going to happen. B hated her job.

So, when a Russian tax preparer handed her a business card and called her “beautiful”, well, who could resist calling? Much like a Fairy Godmother, the Russian woman offered B a new life, with a twist: some men would clearly see past the drab clothes and severe hairdo, and they’d pay to spend time with B. No strings attached. No sex. No long-term involvement. Cautiously, B took the job. Then another. And another. Soon, she could see that her body was worthy of worship. Her shape wasn’t pleasingly plump, it was just pleasing. Clothes didn’t have to be drab and curly Latina hair didn’t have to be tamed. And a mousy formerly-fat girl really could find happiness by embracing her wonderful name. Oh, my, but I loved this book. With a perfectly sweet and funny heroine, a few ugly “sisters”, a borderline-criminal fairy godmother, a handsome carriage driver, a flock of flawed and unwitting helpers, and the most unlikely Prince Charming, author Alberto Ferreras has crafted a modern fairy tale that is absolutely irresistible. Beauty Zavala is the kind of character you wish was real, just so you could borrow some of her attitude. It’s hard not to feel sad for her predicaments, it’s easy to cheer for her new-found self-confidence, and her slamdunk revenge is the kind of stuff that Hollywood loves. Real, unstilted dialogue makes this book an even bigger joy to read. If you’re wondering what to pack in your suitcase or overnighter this summer, stop looking and just get this book. For anyone who loves a happy ending, B as in Beauty is positively magic. B as in Beauty By Alberto Ferreras c.2009, Grand Central Publishing $13.99 335 pages

Margaret Kaough and David Parnell – Class of ‘67

Terri Shlichenmeyer has been reading since she was 3 years old and never goes anywhere without a book. She lives on a hill in Wisconsin with two dogs and 11,000 books.

July 23, 2009

considers gifting her the acorn in an act of love, but even as Lou Rawls croons, “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine” Scrat can’t quite bring himself to give up his “Precious.” This tug-of-war between the girl and an acorn that refuses to stay put, provides the film’s most enchanting entertainment. It also serves as an object lesson to those making children’s movies: It’s okay to let ‘em see you sweat, but don’t ever let them see you being predictable.

OnByThin Ice Lisa Miller Ice Age: Dawn Of The Dinosaurs (2009) rr (Grade C)

Directed by Carlos Saldanha Voiced by: Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, Denis Leary, Queen Latifah, Simon Pegg, Seann William Scott, Josh Peck, Chris Wedge, Karen Disher Fox—Rated PG—Animated—87 min The “Ice Age” franchise attempts to defrost its overexposed prehistoric characters by stealing from other movies. As the third chapter opens we find woolly mammoth couple Manny (Ray Romano) and Ellie (Queen Latifah) preparing for the arrival of their first born. The couple’s nesting activities prompt severe reactions from their best friends. Saber-toothed tiger Diego (Denis Leary) believes the pair’s domesticity is dulling his predatory edge. Sloth Sid (John Leguizamo) worries he will be abandoned by the others and left alone. Then Sid discovers a clutch of three enormous eggs in a subterranean labyrinth beneath the ice. He carts the enormous eggs up top, hilariously losing and recovering them on slippery slopes that serve as abstract illustrations of parental duty. Soon Sid proudly declares himself a “single mother” to three T-Rex hatchlings. Mama T-Rex comes looking for her babies and after wreaking havoc on the company’s home turf, she scoops up her brood and Sid, for the journey back to her tropical dinotopia. Manny, Ellie, Diego and a pair of sidekick opossums (Seann William Scott and Josh Peck), seek to effect a rescue, but they are unable to save a story recycling the highlights of “Jurassic Park” and “Journey to the Center of the Earth.” The film might have overcome the stigma had “Land of the Lost” not beat it to the punch, or had the third “Ice Age” been funnier. As it is there’s little satisfaction and even less humor to be extracted from problems attributed to the central characters that are distilled to saccharine soundbites. Hope springs once the company joins up with a dinosaur-hunting weasel named Buck (Simon Pegg), until what appeared to be an original notion proves to be a dumbed-down resetting of the classic “Moby Dick.” Some relief is provided by a parallel story featuring proto-squirrel Scrat’s (Chris Wedge) relentless pursuit of a prize acorn. In these dialog-free segments, the acorn plays the Road Runner to Scrat’s Wiley Coyote. It’s always good for a laugh but the writers give it a twist, introducing Scrat to a comely female squirrel (Karen Disher) who is competing for possession of the nut. The romantic in Scrat

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I Love You, Beth Cooper (2009) * * (Grade C) Directed by Chris Columbus Starring Hayden Panettiere, Paul Rust, Jack T. Carpenter, Lauren London, Alan Ruck, Cynthia Stevenson Fox Atomic—Rated PG13—Comedy Fox Studios rushes to capitalize on Hayden Panettiere while she’s still famous enough to turn “Heroes” fanboys into movie ticket buyers. After nerdy valedictorian high school senior Denis (Rust), proclaims his crush on popular girl Beth Cooper (Panettiere) during his commencement speech, the teen queen amuses herself by introducing Denis and his geeky friends to her wildchild party scene. Panettiere cheerfully does her part by stripping for a nude scene, so plot problems shouldn’t prevent the film from turning a buck. Meanwhile the MPAA’s rating system gets a little more questionable every year.

Bruno (2009) * *1/2 (Grade B-) Directed by Larry Charles Starring Sacha Baron Cohen, Richard Bey, Ron Paul, Paula Abdul, Domiziano Arcangeli, Emerson Brooks, Alice Evans, Gustaf Hammarsten Universal—Rated R—Comedy—83 min Flying high on his “Borat” success, Sacha Baron Cohen gets a new look when he becomes a bleached blonde (with highly arched eyebrows) for his latest mockumentary. This time Cohen plays Bruno, a gay, Austrian fashionista spending his exile in Hollywood where Bruno—his lovelorn assistant Lutz (Hammarsten) in tow—seeks stardom. Though a large portion of the humor is insulting and distasteful, the “Punk’d” scenes that depict Bruno offending the very celebrities he hopes to befriend, appear staged. Watch for male frontal nudity and numerous shots featuring skin-and-bones Cohen wearing nothing but itty bitty briefs.

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

UP DOC? My 8 year old daughter has a bed-wetting problem and never wants to go to sleepovers or have anyone over because she is embarrassed. Is there anything I can do to get rid of this problem? There are a number of behavioral modification tricks such as limiting fluids past 6pm and setting up a bathroom break alarm. If these tricks do not work, check with your physician. Some doctors may prescribe nasal spray, which can help block urine production during the night. Kenneth Verheeck, MD, urologist with the Urology Center of Southwest Louisiana I was told I have an anterior labral tear. What is this and what can be done? Many labral tears are actually a normal variant of shoulder anatomy. Depending on the nature of your injury, if it is torn it will require surgery to be repaired. If it is not torn there may be some other source of shoulder pain that may be able to be treated with therapy or an injection. Geoffrey Collins, MD, orthopaedic surgeon, Center for Orthopaedics How should a bee sting be treated? Treat a bee sting by scraping the stinger away in a side-to-side motion with a fingernail, or any other sturdy object. Then, wash the area with soap and water. Pulling the stinger or using tweezers may push more venom into the skin. For any bug bite or sting, ice or a cold compress and other the counter pain relieving creams or oral medications can help. Watch for signs of allergic reaction to stings, which typically happen within the first few hours. Christopher Achee, MD, family medicine physician, medical staff of Jennings American Legion Hospital I have pink eye and wear contact lenses. Do I have to dispose of my contacts, or can I disinfect them? Unfortunately, as a part of your pink eye treatment, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have to throw out your contact lenses and any carrying case that you used for them. Because pink eye is often caused by a virus, the infection can be spread by your contact lenses. Whether you wear hard or soft contact lenses, once they are contaminated by pink eye, they cannot be sterilized. Before wearing a new pair of contacts, you should wait until your eyes are totally healed. Since your corneas, the clear dome-shaped covering over your eye, may be infected with the same virus that causes pink eye, it may be wise to have an examination by your eye care provider before starting contact lens wear with fresh lenses. Chad East, OD, optometrist with The Eye Clinic

July 23, 2009

Last Issue’s Answers

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Across L.A. County shore area Liqueur found in a grasshopper Traveling that may make you dizzy Tough Tolkien creatures Give off Campus that’s about an hr. from Concord Egg shapes Bottom-of-page abbr. “My Life in Ruins” actress Vardalos Blood cell deficiency that may cause dizziness German river TV recording device “The Phantom of the Opera” novelist Gaston “Design on a Dime” channel Where a Cockney wears his ‘at Clearblue Easy competitor Horse hair Digital camera variety, for short They make you dizzy while redecorating a room “___ dat” (“agreed”) Tall apartment building Arkansas real estate

July 23, 2009

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group under scrutiny in the Whitewater investigations Submariner watch maker Napkin spot ___ number on “1234” singer “Born Free” figure Kids’ activity that causes dizziness Difficult situations

Down 1 Diner where “Alice” took place 2 “What ___ supposed to say?” 3 “Dancing With the Stars” judge Goodman 4 Original publisher of the “For Dummies” book series 5 Wager 6 Surgery site located on a Florida campus, for short 7 Sewing gathering 8 Nonunion quartet? 9 Suit to ___ 10 Drink that may make you dizzy 11 Pauses before acting 12 Attractions that may cause dizziness 13 Songwriter-husband of

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Minnie Riperton and father of “SNL” alum Maya Most healthy “Fringe” star Anna Average poker hand Hitchcock movie that may make you dizzy “I love,” in Latin Lucy of “Kill Bill: Vol. 1” Brass with a reed Start of the Hebrew alphabet “Tsk tsk!” Performing arts library abbr. Stanley Cup org. Uno plus uno plus uno Dose of what you desire Low-cost synthesizer brand Capt.’s inferior Charity orgs., maybe Condition once called “shell shock,” for short Yell on the links Boss Hogg’s deputy Antwerp International Airport’s code on luggage tags Spike TV, formerly Go quickly Multipurpose doc, for short Some shirt sizes: abbr. Actor McKellen of “The Da Vinci Code”

COMING AUGUST 28TH

The Times of SWLA is continuing its commitment to the people of our region to bring you the very best coverage of events possible. “Gridiron Prep Preview” is a comprehensive, in-depth look at the 2009 high-school football season. 25 area teams will be highlighted in this “must-have” publication, one that families will cherish for a lifetime. Rival schools from Calcasieu, Cameron, Jeff Davis, Beauregard, Allen and Vernon parishes will be included! See the entire 2009 schedule of games, player and coaching stats, team photos and much more! The Times of Southwest Louisiana’s “Gridiron Prep Preview” will bring the excitement of the upcoming high school football season directly to parents, families, friends and businesses that follow and support our local athletes and favorite schools!

Final Ad Deadline: August 18th To Reserve Your Advertising Space Call Andy, Katy or Brian at 337-439-0995 or email: andy.jacobson@timessw.com, katy.corbello@timessw.com, or brian.chriceol@timessw.com July 23, 2009

he t t e l t ’ Don ss a P r e Summ or f n i e by, com te a m i t l The U am e r C e Ic ! e c n e i Exper

Chocolatses-y Goodne TM

3475 Nelson Rd., Lake Charles • 477-4044