Times of Southwest Louisiana by The Times of Southwest Louisiana

WWW.TIMESSW.COM â&#x20AC;˘ MAY 29, 2008 / VOL. 13, NO. 11

Hurricane Tracking Chart & Evacuation Map

Above Average Hurricane Season Predicted

PAGE 2

MAY 29, 2008

GENERAL . . . . . . . . . . . 617 Drew St., Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-439-0995 Fax: 337-439-0418 PUBLISHERS Patrick Marcantel Scot Hebert

. . . . . . .

contents

ma y 29, 2008 Volume 13 • Number 11

15 The

“Original”

NEWS . . . . . . . . . . . EDITOR Kathryn Bergstrom timesedit@timessw.com

Best Of SWLA

ReadersPoll 2 0 0 8

ASSISTANT EDITOR Joseph Frazier

Part 2

CONTRIBUTORS Harry Castle, DDS Raphael Chan, MD Mark Crawford, MD Matt Jones Maureen Lannan, MD POLITICS John Maginnis Dan Juneau ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Andy Jacobson

E N T E R P R I S E B O U L E VA R D Comparing Apples to Apples . . .5 . . . . . .

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Patricia Prudhomme Nathan Yates GRAPHICS . . . . . . . . ART/PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Darrell Buck BUSINESS . . . . . . . . . OFFICE MANAGER Tracey Smith

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: $25 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 2008 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.

COLUMNS Who’s News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Inside Baton Rouge: Take One Big Tax Cut at a Time . . . . . . .8 Business Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Biz Bytes: Deer in the Headlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

COVER STORY Hurricane Preparation 2008 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 FEATURES What’s Up Doc? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Get Your Zzzs! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Decision ’08 Part 2: Arts & Culture, Food & Nightlife . . .15 Experts Predict Above Average ’08 Hurricane Season . . .23 Hurricane Tracking Chart & Evacuation Map . . . . . . . . . .24 What Good is a Flashlight and a Can of Tuna? . . . . . . . . .29 Beat the Rush; Stock Up on Hurricane Supplies Now . . .30 Understanding Hurricane Numbers & Nomenclature . . . .32 ENTERTAINMENT Times Picks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Coffee Break Cross Word: “Game Theory” . . . . . . . . . . . .42 The Shadow: Don’t Mess With My Tutu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Parting Shots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

Visit us online at: www.timessw.com MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 3

Shelter Insurance® Announces The 2008 Conference of Champions Honorees

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

CONGRATULATIONS TO:

KARLA HUNT

Do you have a mortgage with

COUNTRYWIDE® HOME LOANS Or another Mortgage Company?

Do you feel you were treated unfairly by your Mortgage Company following Hurricanes Katrina or Rita?

Only a select few agents qualify for Shelter’s highest annual honor. This award is given for outstanding personal service and overall excellence in agency administration.

3028 Ryan St. 433-9720

Our investigation has shown some mortgage companies, including Countrywide® made promises regarding the deferment of monthly mortgage payments following the hurricanes and failed to keep those promises. If you were…charged additional interest or additional fees, forced to make lump sum payments, forced to enter a modification agreement, had an increase in monthly payments, or if you were placed into foreclosure, you may have legal rights and we are ready to listen.

CALL 1-800-556-6770 for free consultation

GRENFELL, SLEDGE & STEVENS*, PLLC Jackson, Mississippi

-Representing clients in Mississippi and Louisiana*John H. Stevens-also licensed to practice in Louisiana Background information available upon request http://gsslaw.net

On Wednesday, May 21, a unanimously approved bill that would make it a felony to attend dogfights was sent to Gov. Jindal for his signature. Organized dogfights are currently a felony in all 50 states; in Louisiana, it is also a felony to own fighting dogs. With the passage of HB 286, authored by Rep. J.P. Morrell, D-New Orleans, Louisiana will have some of the strictest penalties in the nation. Legislators should be commended for their efforts to criminalize dog fighting to the fullest reasonable extent of the law. Patronizing a dogfight is currently a misdemeanor, so fight organizers were often able to wriggle out of stiff penalties by claiming that they were spectators. HB 286 will take that scapegoat away from them. By passing this bill, legislators also recognized that the criminality of dog fighting goes beyond animal cruelty – these types of events are often hot spots for other crimes, such as possession of illegal drugs and weapons. Several animal welfare groups nationwide, including the Humane Society of the United States, have congratulated the Louisiana Legislature for its passage of HB 286. The Southwest Louisiana chapter of the Humane Society of Louisiana would also like to extend its recognition of this important legislation. Animal welfare is not just about the safety of animals. It’s about compassion. Animals and children are the most defenseless groups in the world, vulnerable to our manipulation. It’s difficult to imagine the mindset of someone who relishes in powering over a society’s weakest members. It’s equally troubling to comprehend how spectators could consider it an enjoyable pastime to watch two creatures bludgeon each other to death under the leadership of human beings, who are considered the most advanced, civilized and intelligent beings on Earth. Erin Kelly Cormier Board Member Humane Society of Louisiana, Southwest Louisiana Chapter Lake Charles

Submitting a “Letter to the Editor” Send your comments for consideration by email to timesedit@timessw.com or fax to 439-0418, or mail to 617 Drew Street, Lake Charles, Louisiana, 70601. Include your name, address, phone number and other pertinent information. We will not print anonymous comments. PAGE 4

MAY 29, 2008

NEWS

ABOUT

SOUTHWEST

LOUISIANA

ENTERPRISEBOULEVARD Comparing Apples to Apples With Your Eye on the Prize… By Kathy Bergstrom ake Charles voters approved a $90 million bond issue for lakefront/downtown development in November, 2006. By September ’07 the nitpickers and naysayers were harping that “nothing has been done,” in spite of regular updates from Mayor Randy Roach and other city officials. At that time, we published an Enterprise Boulevard (September 20, 2006) to address the issue. Now eight months later, the negative talk has started again. So we checked the progress – or perceived lack of – with Lori Marinovich, Department Director, Downtown Development. She says, “Part of the misconception that ‘nothing is being done’ is that it’s just not a project like a boardwalk or a park.” Marinovich notes, “We are creating new city blocks and sub-divisions, like the Charrette plans that Duany group framed out. We have started moving in the right direction and the architects and engineers have the okay to go ahead. We can take those projects that are HUD and CDBG eligible and that way we can best leverage all the funds available.” The Downtown Lake Charles Charrette Report of 2006 was initiated as a way of assisting storm-damaged Lake Charles develop a recovery vision. The plan was commissioned by the Louisiana Recovery Authority (LRA) and facilitated by the planning firm of Duany Plater-Zyberk & Company which brought together planning and urban design professional expertise from Louisiana and around the world. This effort resulted in a forward-looking plan that took advantage of imbedded assets – the Lake Front, existing buildings and infrastructure, interstate access – and integrated innovative planning concepts. Scott Ball, Senior Project Manager for Duany Plater-Zyberk’s New Orleans office is following the progress. “The Lake Charles site is an enormous opportunity and requires federal, state and local government studies, discussions, and approvals with development plans…All of which they are doing in Lake Charles…It is NOT a small undertaking.” To answer criticisms, Marinovich reminds us of, “The scale of the projects – we need to remember to compare apples to apples. When you take a look at the Lake Front separate from Downtown development, it’s not just a park or a boardwalk, it’s a major neighborhood development,” said Marinovich. She notes that “Something of this magnitude from ground up takes time. There’s the timing of the funding

resources and leveraging resources. To get from spreadsheets and blueprints from architects, engineers and designers to reality takes time. And we are government entities and agencies — it’s not like a private project like Graywood or L’Auberge.” Marinovich points out, “We are documenting the decision-making process and tying it to funding resources and bond issue money. The financial charts spell out the variety of resources and match construction to resources.” These charts are available on the City’s website for all citizens to peruse. Scott Ball says, “I can tell you, Lori Marinovich and Mayor Roach are doing an extraordinary job with a very complicated lake front and downtown redevelopment effort, a bridge replacement, an exit for the interstate, existing utilities and infrastructure, and all that happens around those projects.” He notes that, “We have done the public meetings, the bond issues, the traffic counts, the marketing studies…it’s not a linear project. It changes in dynamics and size. A lot needs to be done and I can’t imagine any city leadership doing a better job of it... We have to consider not just our immediate needs but also the needs of generations to come.” “Lake Charles is extremely lucky to have the expertise and leadership abilities of Mayor Roach and Lori Marinovich,” said Ball. “They are doing a heroic job. I don’t know how it could be done faster with all the possibilities and complications of the project… Remember, ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day.’ Some people may feel that the projects are not moving forward and that is the apparent frustration, but the site is as promising as it is complicated. We all need to keep our eyes on the prize.” He also pointed out that, “There are ways to do it quick and easy but that would not be beneficial to the city or future generations.” You can follow the progress of lake front development and downtown revitalization projects. Go to www.cityoflakecharles.com, click on “Departments” and choose “Downtown Development”. At the bottom of the Downtown Development page, in “News & Notices” and “Related Information” you can access PDF files of plans, including a breakdown of funding sources and timelines. Stay informed. Well check in with you in January — about eight months from now — when the naysayers and nit-pickers start in again.

Who’s News Clayton Davis, “Ask the Expert” host and local attorney, has announced his candidacy for District Judge, Division B, a seat currently held by Rick Bryant. “Ask the Expert” is a local promotional service through KPLC-TV in which Davis provides legal advice for questions submitted by local residents. In announcing his candidacy, Davis commented that “the judiciary must be independent and free of political interference and intrigue.” Davis graduated from Centenary College of Louisiana in Shreveport and Southern Methodist University School of Law Clayton Davis in Dallas. He is admitted to both Louisiana and Texas bars and is admitted to practice before the Louisiana and Texas Supreme Courts and all federal courts in Louisiana and several in Texas. Davis went to trial on the first two Calcasieu Parish cases on behalf of homeowners involving Hurricane Rita insurance claims earlier this year. Both cases resulted in jury verdicts in favor of the homeowners. Davis is a member of Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Lake Charles, where he was formerly on the Vestry. He is on the Standing Committee to Evaluate Requests for Court Costs and Fees per appointment of the Louisiana Supreme Court. He is a former member of the State Board of Ethics, State Mineral Board and was the Treasurer of the Republican Party of Louisiana. From 1992 to 1996, he served on the Republican State Central Committee. Locally, he served on the Lake Charles Police and Fireman’s Civil Service Board and was a member of the Kiwanis Club of South Lake Charles and the Community Housing Resource Board in Lake Charles. Davis is married to Geralyn Peace Davis and they have one daughter, Amanda Davis, a teacher at Nelson Elementary. The election will be held on Oct. 4. Continued on Page 6 MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 5

Who’s News, Continued from Page 5

Full Payroll Services: • Payroll Checks • Federal & State Deposits • Quarterly Reporting • Year-End Reporting • Payroll Deductions • Workman’s Comp Ins.

Employee Benefits: • Insurance • Retirement Savings We also offer Paycheck Options such as Direct Deposit,ATM Debit Cards and Paper Checks

Patty Gray Boyd • 337-478-0154 • 337-842-3386 www.payrolltogollc.com

Dr. Delma McLeod-Porter, director of the Write to Excellence Center and professor of English at McNeese State University, is the recipient of the 2008 Distinguished Faculty Award presented by the McNeese Alumni Association. McLeod-Porter was selected from a field of professors nominated by their academic departments. She was honored during spring commencement Saturday, May 17, in Burton Coliseum. This award is presented to a full-time faculty member on the basis of achievements in teaching, research, publications, campus and community involvement. McLeod-Porter received her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Houston in Houston, Texas, her Master of Arts degree in English from Stephen F. Austin University in Nacogdoches, Texas, and a doctorate in English from Texas A&M University at College Station. She joined the McNeese English and foreign languages department in 1992 as an assistant professor of English. She has worked to enhance the learning of writing at all levels across the campus and played an important role as chair of the Write to Excellence Committee that developed the Quality Enhancement Plan initiative for the recent SACS ( (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools) reaccreditation process. She also finds time to serve on community boards and committees such as Volunteers of America, Alliance for the Mentally Ill, Black History Month Planning Council and Mayor’s Committee on Race Relations. She is currently secretary of the International Club of Southwest Louisiana. She is also a member of several professional organizations including the South Central Writing Center Association, International Writing Center Association, Louisiana Association of Developmental Educators, International Reading Association, Louisiana Council of Teachers of English, Linguistic Society of America, National Council of Teachers of English, South Atlantic Modern Language Association, Conference for College Teachers of English and American Dialect Society.

Allen Abshire

Allen Abshire, Market Information Officer for the Christus Health Southwestern Louisiana region, has been invited by Louisiana Department of Health and Human Services (DHH) Secretary Alan Levine to serve on a steering committee which will serve as a governing body through the assessment, design, and implementation phases for the creation of a broadband network to facilitate the use of electronic medical records, telemedicine applications and telehealth systems. The grant provides funding for 109 rural, non-profit hospitals in Louisiana to upgrade their network connections so they can connect to a high-speed, fiber optic network known as LONI which will provide them with an unprecedented ability to share information.

LHC Group has named Katy LaBauve, RN, BSN, COS-C as State Director of Alabama. LaBauve will remain in the Lake Charles office as she resumes the State Director position. Joining Southern Home Health, a member of LHC Group, in 2002, LaBauve tripled the census as acting Director of Nursing at the Lake Charles location. Later promoted to Regional Director of Operations, LaBauve oversaw operations for all LHC Group home health locations in SWLA and Southeast Texas. She has served as Administrator and Director of Nursing for local Home Care agencies since 1999. She is a member of the Home Care Association of Louisiana and helps numerous civic organizations and programs; including Young at Heart Expo Board Member. LaBauve started her career in Home Health in 1995 at a local home health agency. Lake Charles Memorial Hospital welcomes Mir Akbar Khan, MD with Internal Medicine Associates of Lake Charles. A native of Jackson, Mississippi, Dr. Khan is a graduate of the University of South Alabama and the University of South Alabama College of Medicine in Mobile. He completed both his internship and residency through the Department of Internal Medicine at Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans before relocating to the region with his wife and their four children. Dr. Khan’s office is located at 2770 3rd Avenue, Suite 350, adjacent to Memorial Hospital. For more information call (337) 494-6800. Three long-time champions of fish and wildlife conservation in Southwest Louisiana were rewarded for their commitment by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region, with the Regional Director’s Conservation Award at the annual award ceremony held on Monday, May 12, in Atlanta. Recipients were Shelley Johnson, executive director of the Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau, Monte Hurley, chairman, and Captain Sammie Faulk, vice chairman, both serving on the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road District Board

PAGE 6

MAY 29, 2008

We invite you to participate in the 2008 Celtic Golf Classic at Graywood Golf Course. Our tournament is a best ball format that will begin with a shotgun start at 8am. All proceeds will benefit the mission of the Celtic Nations Heritage Festival of LA. Tournament Entry Includes: • Golf cart greens fee • Complimentary use of driving range/putting green • Lunch • Gift Bag • Awards ceremony

Monte Hurley, Shelley Johnson, and Captain Sammie Faulk received the Regional Director’s Conservation Award at the annual awards ceremony for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region, held in Atlanta.

7:30am

of Commissioners. The trio has worked for more than a decade to garner national and international recognition for the trail, which winds through Calcasieu and Cameron parishes. With their efforts, the trail has received National Scenic Byway status and the coveted All-American Road status, making it the only All-American Road in the Gulf South. The trail has also recently obtained other accolades, being named as one of five fantastic family trips to take this summer in the 2008 April edition of Scholastic Parent & Child as well as one of ten great outdoor destinations in Louisiana in the 2008 spring edition of Louisiana Life.

Registration begins, breakfast & Piping of the greens 8:00am Shotgun Start 12:30pm Lunch & Awards Ceremony

COST: $110 PER GOLFER $400 PER FOURSOME

For More Information call:

439-4888

celticclassic@celticnations.org

thanks for making us your favorite furniture store! To all of you who voted us your favorite store – thanks!

We will continue to give you low prices, great furnitu re & friendly, personal service .

Ashley Furniture HomeStore 3625 Highway 14 (Gerstner Memorial Blvd. Old Lowe’s Building)

Lake Charles, LA 70607

337•478•7053 Monday-Friday 10am-8pm Saturday 10am-6pm • Sunday 1-5pm

MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 7

INSIDE BATON ROUGE — by John Maginnis

Take One Big Tax Cut at a Time s citizens fill out their state income tax returns this year, many who itemize were happily surprised to see that they can deduct 57.5 percent of their mortgage interest payments and charitable contributions. With those deductions to be fully restored in two years, the repeal of the Stelly Tax Plan is well underway. Depending on what the Legislature does with taxes in the rest of this session, the much-taken-in-vain name of former legislator Vic Stelly could soon fade from the political lexicon. It could be replaced, with honors, by that of Sen. Buddy Shaw, RShreveport. His bill to return income tax brackets to their pre-Stelly 2002 levels initially was given little chance of passage but has since taken on a life of its own. Over his objections, it was amended in the Senate to phase out the entire income tax over ten years. When Shaw’s proposed $302 million tax cut ballooned to $4 billion, House leaders called time out to slow down the runaway train before it collides with the budget. At a time when richer, more progressive states are struggling with spiraling budget deficits, backwards Louisiana is reducing taxes while raising teacher salaries and pumping hundreds of millions of dollars into highway construction, universities and—a need uniquely ours—coastal restoration. The causes of this happy peculiarity were examined at last week’s meeting of the Revenue Estimating Conference. It is a body of three state officials and a LSU economics professor, who, based on the analysis and recommendations of professionals, must unanimously agree on revenue projections that the Legislature will use to write the budget. This constitutional process replaced the old system, in which, basically, Edwin Edwards picked a number. Recently, the toughest job for estimators has been to keep straight faces while they lowball predictions on oil prices. Every $1 up tick adds $12 million to the state treasury. So they have to play it ultra safe, because anyone around state government in the early ‘80s remembers the horror of revenue projections being caught on the wrong side of an oil bust. With all due restraint, panel members pegged the oil price at $84 for the next fiscal year—motorists should be

PAGE 8

MAY 29, 2008

so lucky—resulting in $820 million more available for the current budget and the one beginning July 1. But if prices continue north of their current $125 per barrel, those estimates could be jacked up another half billion or so at the September meeting. The new oil and gas boom sloshes all over the budget. Corporate income taxes driven by the energy sector have spiked. Six thousand well-paying extraction jobs have been added in the oil patch. Sales taxes have leveled off but have kept their high levels from recovery spending. Then there’s the personal income tax, which makes up about a third of the state general fund and is steadily rising. Its recent growth is due less to the Stelly Plan, already factored in, than to workers making more money,

EVERY $1 UP TICK ADDS $12 MILLION TO THE STATE TREASURY. and more workers reporting it. The number of resident tax filers is growing because, according to state economist Greg Albrecht, more are taking full-time jobs and getting W-2s instead working part-time, or intermittently, and taking cash under the table. That was the most encouraging comment I took from the whole meeting. With the robust revenues, the Legislature can eliminate the $302 million in Stelly taxes and still balance the new budget with the use of some onetime money. That would still leave a healthy surplus for the current budget year, which can be plowed into another round of big highway projects, coastal restoration and debt service. Sen. Shaw has asked and deserves to have his bill returned to its original form, minus the income tax repeal amendment. The repealers can come back with a clean bill of their own next year. By then revenue estimators might be more comfortable with—and we’ll be resigned to—stable triple-digit oil prices. But for now, to go any further any faster in cutting the tax base would be betting on the oil boom lasting indefinitely, which we promised ourselves never to do again.

BUSINESS

notes First Federal Bank of Louisiana has donated $15,000 to McNeese State University through the McNeese Foundation for the C. Marshall Abadie Memorial Scholarship Fund. As part of the foundation’s current endowment campaign, First Federal Bank will receive a $5,000 match for its donation, making this a total donation of $20,000. First Federal Bank of Louisiana representatives Charles Timpa, president and CEO, and Andy Pierson, chairman of the board, presented the donation to a current Abadie Memorial Scholarship recipient Lorna Bourque, an accounting senior from Kaplan, and Richard Reid, McNeese vice president for development and public affairs and executive director of the McNeese Foundation. The McNeese State University Banners Series is annually supported by donations from area corporate sponsors, and CleanFuelUSA and Empire of the Seed donated $5,000 for this year’s Banners Series. Mary Richardson, director of the Banners Series, presented a 2008 Banners poster to Rick Richard, chairman of CleanFuelUSA and Empire of the Seed.

Bob Kent, vice president and general manager of the CITGO Lake Charles Manufacturing Complex, and Jamie Boudreaux, manager procurement and materials at CITGO, presented a $190,000 check to Ava Hebert (left) and Kristi Fredieu (middle right), program coordinators from the Southwest Louisiana Muscular Dystrophy Association.

For the past 24 years, CITGO’s Lake Charles Manufacturing Complex has been a proud supporter of the Muscular Dystrophy Association. The 24th Annual CITGO/MDA Golf Classic was held Monday, May 5 at the Lake Charles Country Club. According to Kelly Allgood, district director for the Southwest Louisiana Muscular Dystrophy Association, the CITGO/MDA Golf Classic is the most successful, single day MDA fundraiser in the state of Louisiana. This year’s tournament raised $190,000, breaking last year’s record of $171,000, to help find a cure for muscular dystrophy. CITGO’s contribution is vital for the organization since they are not affiliated with United Way. A total of 842 families in Southwest Louisiana who are touched by this disease will benefit from the efforts of the tournament. In fact, a special guest attended the CITGO/MDA Golf Classic representing those families. Six-year-old Emily Bradley, the 2008 Southwest Louisiana MDA Goodwill Ambassador, attended the event at the Lake Charles Country Club on May 5 with her parents Steven and Michelle Bradley. Emily is a native of Welsh, La. and attends Lacassine High School. She was diagnosed with congenital muscular dystrophy at a young age in May 2002. In appreciation for serving as the area representative for MDA, Southeast Texas Industries and CITGO donated a family vacation package to Emily at the tournament. A multitude of sponsors donated to this year’s CITGO/MDA Golf Classic. The support of sponsors enables CITGO to continually improve the bottom line that goes to MDA. CITGO’s top ranking donors were deemed “Tournament Sponsors” because they contributed $5,000 or more to the MDA. Tournament Sponsors for 2008 were Air Liquide, Brock Industrial Services, Chemical Waste Management, Desselle-Maggard, Evergreen Industrial Services, HydroChem Industrial, Mustang Engineering, R&R Construction, ReCon Management Services, S&B Engineers and Construction, Thermal Insulation, Featured from left to right: Bob Kent, vice ThyssenKrupp Safway, Total president and general manager of the CITGO Safety U.S., Turner Industries, Lake Charles Manufacturing Complex, and W.R. Grace & Co., and Emily Bradley, 2008 Southwest Louisiana Wholesale Electric Supply. MDA Goodwill Ambassador.

The McNeese State University Banners Series is annually supported by donations from area corporate sponsors. The Isle of Capri Casino and Hotel of Lake Charles donated $20,000 for this year’s Banners Series. Mary Richardson, director of the Banners Series, presented a 2008 Banners poster to Jeff King, vice president/general manager of the Isle of Capri Casino and Hotel. The Louisiana Society for Hospital Public Relations and Marketing (LSHPRM) presented the highly coveted President’s Award to Larry M. Graham, FACHE, President and CEO of Lake Charles Memorial Hospital at their Annual Gordon and Breaux Pelican Awards Luncheon, recognizing excellence in hospital public relations and marketing. Since joining the community-based hospital in December 2006, Mr. Graham’s objective was to revitalize the public image of the 391-bed acute care hospital, which includes a 324-bed facility at the main campus, a 38-bed hospital for women, and a 29-bed long term acute care facility. The LSHPRM recognized Mr. Graham’s significant investment in marketing, public relations, community outreach and employee relations at Memorial in 2007. The Handley/Pi Kappa Phi Memorial Scholarship has been established with a $5,000 donation by the Housing Corporation of Beta Mu Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity through the McNeese State University Foundation in memory of the late Bruce Handley who was a member of the fraternity. The chapter was McNeese’s first chartered national fraternity in 1955 and was among several small chapters closed in the early 1990s. After an attempt to reestablish the chapter failed, members of the chapter’s Housing Corporation; Hardy Parkerson, Douglas Handley, Bruce’s brother, and Dr. Joe Cash, head of the English and foreign languages department at McNeese and chapter adviser for 19 years, voted to establish the endowed scholarship. The scholarship will rotate among students majoring in the areas of English and foreign languages, history and social sciences, all departments housed in McNeese’s first School of Humanities, now the College of Liberal Arts, and the first scholarship will be awarded in fall 2008. West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital has received the Bronze Level 2007 Louisiana Hospital Quality Award. It was presented by the Louisiana Health Care Review (LHCR), Inc., the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization for Louisiana. WCCH was recognized for improving the quality of healthcare given to patients, showing continuous improvement in one or more of the following areas: heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia, and surgical care. These areas have been designated as national healthcare priorities by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 9

BIZ BYTES — by Dan Juneau

Deer In The Headlights hen Republican leaders in Congress now appear before television cameras, they bring new meaning to the term “deer in the headlights.” The 2008 Congressional elections were never expected to be good ones for the GOP. Recent election trends indicate that, instead of merely being bad, the fall elections may be catastrophic for Republicans. The first shock wave came when the special election to fill the seat of former Republican Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert resulted in a Democrat winning in what had been a safe Republican seat. Earlier this month, the election to fill Rep. Richard Baker’s seat—one that had been in the GOP fold for over 30 years—went to Democratic state representative, Don Cazayoux. The final piece of the Democratic trifecta came on May 13 in the special election in Mississippi to fill the seat of recently retired Republican Congressman Roger Wicker. That conservative district also sent a Democrat to Washington. Now the alarm bells are ringing loudly in Republican caucus rooms on Capitol Hill. The Democrats are approaching a 40-seat advantage in the House. Unless something changes the current election trend, that margin could swell to 55 seats or more. If relatively safe seats like those recently contested in Louisiana and Mississippi can be lost, there may not be many safe seats left for Republicans. The situation in the Senate isn’t much better. Currently, 51 senators are either Democrats or caucus with them, and 49 seats are held by Republicans. Only 12 Democrats are up for re-election next fall, and only one (Mary Landrieu of Louisiana) is expected to have serious opposition. In contrast, over 20 Republican seats are being contested—several of them without an incumbent running—and many of them will be seriously contested. When all is said and done, the current 51-49 Democratic majority could easily swell to 57-43—or worse. There are many factors at play in the demise of GOP fortunes, but the wounds are mainly self-inflicted. Numerous scandals have plagued

Late Night Tuesdays - Open until 6 p.m. every Tuesday the month of June

Sensational Summer Activities June 9th - 14th Check out www.swlakids.org for other special events.

327 Broad St., Downtown Lake Charles • (337) 433-9420

PAGE 10

MAY 29, 2008

Republican members of Congress— often at high levels—since the 2000 elections. The party of fiscal conservatism and limited government has been anything but in the minds of many voters who subscribe to those views. The proliferation of congressional “earmarks” during the time the GOP controlled Congress offended many conservatives and independents. Even the backlash against the war in Iraq is fueled to some degree over the question of how much it costs and how nothing is being offset in the massive federal budget to pay for it. It would be nothing short of a miracle at this point if the GOP lost only a handful of seats in the House or only one or two in the Senate. But what will

IT WOULD BE NOTHING SHORT OF A MIRACLE AT THIS POINT... also be interesting—particularly on the House side—is how some of the winners are going to square their campaign promises with reality if the Democrats succeed in building huge majorities in Congress. The recent upsets were won primarily by Democrats who ran pro-gun, prochoice, “Pelosi-and-Obama-Who?” campaigns. Those self-proclaimed conservatives will join the “Blue Dog” coalition of moderate Democrats who, so far, have found it hard to buck the liberal party leadership on most issues. Democrats who campaign as conservatives but toe the line of the liberal party leadership will enjoy only a brief honeymoon in Congress. They will live the unpleasant experience of being constantly pulled between a leadership they ran away from in their campaigns and districts that bought the claim that they were reasonable conservative alternatives to Republicans who had gone astray.

WHAT’S

UP DOC?

Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm Sat: 10am-4pm

Women’s Apparel & Accessories 201 W. College St., Ste. C,(Next to Gaidry’s)

(337) 562-8191

I get severe leg cramps at night. What causes this and what can I do to prevent it? The exact cause of muscle cramps isn’t known, so it’s difficult to give a remedy for them. Some experts believe they may be due to abnormal processing of electrolytes by the muscles. They are an involuntary, sustained tightening of muscles, and when they occur at night, they can definitely interrupt sleep. Common causes include prolonged sitting, dehydration, decreased potassium, calcium and magnesium levels; certain medications, such as albuterol, diuretics, niacin and some antipsychotic medications. Try drinking plenty of fluids during the day, and stretching your leg muscles before bedtime. Treatment results vary, but a few of the most effective remedies are quinine, vitamin B-12 and gabapentin, but it’s important to check with your doctor about any electrolyte abnormalities. So, visit with your doctor about these leg cramps and together you can decide on a treatment plan. Maureen Lannan, MD, family practice physician with The Cypress Clinic I’m interested in Botox, but I’ve seen people who have had it who look frozen. Can you get a natural look with these injections? Yes, if the injections are administered correctly. Botox works best for dynamic wrinkles. These are the wrinkles that occur when you smile, laugh or frown. They are commonly referred to as frown lines, forehead lines and crow's feet. Although the results after Botox are visible, a treatment with Botox injections will not radically change your facial appearance or make you look as if you "had work done." The muscle activity that causes frown lines between the brows is simply reduced, so you can still frown or look. Mark Crawford, MD, cosmetic facial specialist with the Aesthetic Center of SWLA How effective are whitening toothpastes? All toothpastes help remove surface stains through the action of mild abrasives. Some whitening toothpastes contain gentle polishing or chemical agents that provide additional stain removal effectiveness. Whitening toothpastes can help remove surface stains only and do not contain bleach. Over-the-counter and professional whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide (a bleaching substance) that helps remove stains on the tooth surface as well as stains deep in the tooth. None of the home use whitening toothpastes can come even close to producing the bleaching effect you get from your dentist's office through professional tooth whitening techniques. Whitening toothpastes can lighten your tooth's color by about one shade. In contrast, light-activated whitening conducted in your dentist's office can make your teeth three to eight shades lighter. Harry Castle, DDS, with Oak Park Dental Is it true that being out in the wind causes ear infections? No, it is not true that being out in the wind causes ear infections. There are two types of ear infections, but neither is caused by wind blowing in the ear. Otitis externa, known as "swimmer's ear" is an infection of the skin of the outer ear canal that begins when water gets stuck in the ear canal, such as after swimming or bathing. The water irritates the skin of the canal, which lets bacteria invade the skin, causing the infection. This usually causes ear pain (particularly when someone touches or pulls on the ear), with swelling of the ear canal and the outside of the ear. Swimmer's ear is different than otitis media which is an infection of the middle ear, behind the eardrum. While some of the symptoms can be the same, middle-ear infections are caused by bacteria and viruses, not by water in the ear canal, so they cannot be prevented by using earplugs. Raphael Chan, MD, ENT specialist with Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic

MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 11

READERS KNOW

THANK YOU Southwest Louisiana for voting

Cameron State Bank â&#x20AC;?Best Bank" for the 10th YEAR in the Times annual "Best of" readers' poll.

BEING VOTED THE BEST JUST KEEPS GETTING BETTER. We work hard to provide our customers with the Best personal banking services every day and we appreciate this overwhelming recognition of our efforts. We value our customers and are always focused on improving our services to make your life easier. 2008 is shaping up to be our Best year ever! If you are already our customer, thank you. If you're not, we invite you to take a closer look at all we have to offer. We're confident you'll see why our customers give us their vote of confidence in the "Best Bank" vote year after year.

Congratula to Pepe Vations also squez r being votfo ed Bes InvestmetnFinancial/ t Planner

Personal Banking At Its Best. PAGE 12

MAY 29, 2008

HealthCARE

The Secret to Slimming Down for Summer:

Get Your Zzzs!

For millions of Americans, shedding unwanted pounds is a top priority, especially as the summer swimsuit season approaches. That’s why the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) and the Sleep Disorder Center of Louisiana are reminding Americans that spending more time between the sheets may be the secret to slimming down and looking great on the beach or by the pool. People tend to forego sleep in order to make time for a work-out or other daily activities and it is often overlooked as an important factor in the battle of the bulge. “Many do not realize that skimping on sleep can actually make it harder to lose weight,” says Meir H. Kryger, MD, Chairman of NSF’s Board of Directors. “Research suggests that even a modest amount of sleep deprivation can increase appetite by altering the behavior of the hormones leptin and ghrelin, which are responsible for regulating metabolism. As a result of sleep loss, people may experience stronger cravings for carbohydrates and calorie-rich comfort foods such as cookies and chips, which can lead to weight gain.” Recent research suggests that peo-

ple who sleep less may also produce more insulin, which puts them at higher risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes. Diabetes and obesity are both on the rise in the U.S., causing many Americans to suffer serious health complications. In order to help fight these conditions and promote healthy lifestyles for all Americans, NSF and the Sleep Disorder Center of Louisiana are sending a wake up call to remind people that sleep is as important as diet and exercise … only easier! “Healthy sleep is a part of an antidote for the obesity and diabetes epidemics in America,” says Kryger. In addition to mounting scientific evidence, the results of NSF’s 2008 Sleep in America poll, released in early March 2008, suggests that sleep loss and obesity are linked. According to the poll, people who are overweight/obese are more likely than people of normal weight to spend less time in bed on workdays (6.82 hours vs. 7.12 hours)and to sleep less than 6 hours per night (17% vs.12%). NSF’s 2008 poll also reveals that having a weight problem can have a negative impact on one’s health and safety.

According to the results, those who are overweight/obese are more likely to: • Have been told by their doctor that they have a sleep disorder (18% vs. 6%). • Have driven drowsy at least once a month in the past year (35% vs. 26%). • Be at risk of having a sleep problem such as obstructive sleep apnea (20% vs. less than 1%) and restless legs syndrome (14% vs. 4%). For people with sleep disorders, getting adequate sleep may require the help of a healthcare professional. But for many Americans, healthy sleep can be achieved with just a few simple steps. Try these tips for better Zzzs: • Make sleep a top priority – getting optimal sleep allows you to feel your best and be productive. Healthy sleep also helps to regulate your metabolism. • Maintain a consistent sleep schedule – going to bed and waking up at the same time every day keeps your biological clock in tune. • Establish a relaxing bedtime routine – a regular routine, such as having a bath or listening to soothing music, can help you fall asleep and stay asleep.

• Use your bedroom only for sleep – clear your bedroom of distractions such as computers, phones and other “sleep stealers” in order to create a positive sleep association with the bedroom. • Avoid foods and drinks high in caffeine (coffee, colas and tea) for at least eight hours prior to bedtime, and avoid alcohol for a few hours before bedtime. • Exercise regularly, but finish your workout at least three hours before bedtime. If you are experiencing a sleep problem, such as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, or if you suffer from chronic daytime sleepiness despite allowing adequate time for sleep, talk to your healthcare professional about seeing a board-certified sleep specialist for help. For more information about sleep and sleep disorders, and for more results of NSF’s 2008 Sleep in America poll, visit www.sleepfoundation.org or www.sleepdisordercenterofla.com.

MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 13

Local Health Programs Offered in

June

Women With Cancer Invited to “Look Good…Feel Better,” June 9 Lake Charles Memorial Hospital and the American Cancer Society invite women currently struggling through can-

Cotten’s

“THE KING OF THE GRILL”

Thanks to all the readers & eaters who made

COTTEN’S FAMOUS HAMBURGERS

SWLA’s

BEST HAMBURGER We are still the “King of the Grill” and still feature the best in Homemade Hamburgers and onion rings for the past 26 years. Visit us at 2001 Oak Park Blvd. and pick up a copy of The Times while you’re here.

Takeout orders welcome

477-9759 PAGE 14

MAY 29, 2008

cer—the diagnosis, treatment and subsequent concerns about their appearance— to Look Good…Feel Better. Specially trained beauty professionals offer practical tips about skin care, makeup techniques, and guidance for coping with hair loss. The program also offers a sense of community where women are taught what to expect and how to deal with their appearance changes. Since 1989, Look Good…Feel Better (LGFB) has helped improve the quality of life of 550,000 cancer survivors through its free services, which include group programs; one-onone consultations; self-help materials; and a Web site, www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org. A free seminar offering help and encouragement in coping with the side

effects of cancer treatment, Look Good…Feel Better will be held Monday, June 9, from 11:30 a.m. until 1pm in Memorial’s Shearman Conference Room, 1701 Oak Park Boulevard. Lunch is provided and participants are encouraged to bring a guest. For reservations, call the American Cancer Society at (337) 4335817. Mental Health Screenings June 4 This year alone, over 19 million people will be affected by depression and anxiety. Unfortunately, only one-third of those who experience mental illness seek treatment, even though the illness can be effectively and easily treated.

Each year the month of May is designated as Mental Health Month. In recognition of Mental Health Month, Bridgeway Psychiatric Center is offering free and confidential depression and anxiety screenings on Tuesday, June 4 from 1:30-3:30p.m. Bridgeway is located at 2827 4th Avenue Suite 105 in Lake Charles. Once a screening is complete, trained professionals can recommend appropriate treatment options. No appointment is required and snacks will be served. If you or someone you know might be experiencing a mental health problem, please contact Bridgeway Psychiatric Center at 337-562-0211.

The

“Original”

Best Of SWLA

ReadersPoll 2 0 0 8

Part 2 Decision ’08 votes for “The Times Original Best of SWLA” are all in and counted. You’ll find some of your old favorites, some new favorites and some surprises. Drum roll, please! We now present the results for Best Art & Culture, Best Night Life, and Best Food in SWLA.

By Kathy Bergstrom

TS R A T BES LTURE & CU Best Annual SWLA Event: Mardi Gras SWLA. No place parties like SWLA, especially from Twelfth Night to Fat Tuesday! This year our voting readers gave top honors to Mardi Gras SWLA. Second place is the two-week spring festival

Contraband Days on the Lake Front. Arts Fest took third place for Decision ’08. Honorable mentions go to Downtown at Sundown, the McNeese Banners Series, the Cajun Food & Music Festival and the Iowa Rabbit Festival.

Best Patron of the Arts: Laura Leach. Miss Laura took top honors this year for her support of local art and artists. New to the list, Rick Richard took second place, with Tom Shearman honored with third place.

Best Arts Event: McNeese Banners Series – Every year, McNeese Banners Series gets better, more diverse and attracts larger crowds, giving the University, corporate sponsors, volunteers and the community a look fresh look at the variety of talent that is “art” and “culture.” The Arts & Humanities Council yearly Arts Fest came in second again this year. It’s now so popular it has outgrown the Central School grounds and is held at the Civic Center Amphitheatre. The Spring Art Walk took third place this year, with the popular fall event, Gallery Promenade, coming in fourth.

Best Live Theatre: ACTS. Artists Civic Theatre & Studio, the historic theatre on Reid Street, can celebrate its 43rd season with a “Best Of” award from our voting readers. Second place went to The Lake Charles Little Theatre and McNeese Theatre Department took third place again in ‘08. Making impressive honorable mentions were The Children’s Theatre Company and A Block Off Broadway in Jennings.

MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 15

Best Live Music: Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill. Decision ’08 is a repeat of last year’s voting! Jack Daniel’s at L’Auberge is still the place for rockin’ bands and live music. OB’s on Ryan remains a strong second place favorite, followed closely again by Rikenjaks in third. Earning very honorable mentions in ‘08 for providing quality live music were Luna and the Isle of Capri. Best Local Band/Musician: Kadillacs. The versatile repertoire of the Kadillacs made them the number one choice in Decision ‘08. The amazing talents of City Heat moved them up to second place with our voting readers. Barry Badon and the Bayou Boys placed third. Very honorable mentions among the hotly contested popular bands go to Cold Sweat, Eleisha Eagle, and Louisiana Express. Best Music Event: Downtown at Sundown. A sure sign that summer is on the way is the Friday night gathering at the corner of Broad and Ryan, downtown Lake Charles. Downtown at Sundown is an annual spring event spanning four Fridays after work. McNeese Banners Series was a close second with its eclectic music offerings, with the Cajun Food &

Music Festival placing third. Honorable mentions go to the Marshland Festival, the Zydeco and Blues Festival, and the Lake Charles Symphony – for their entire season and Summer Pops. Best Music School: McNeese State University. MSU’s music department took first place with our readers. Westlake High took second place and Lake Charles Music came in third. Best Dance School: Glenda Moss Academy of Dance. Reader’s voted Miss Glenda’s their favorite dance school. Center Stage placed second and Dance Arts took third with our readers. Best Art School: McNeese State University. MSU took first place again with Sam Houston High taking second place and the Central School creative arts center taking third place. Best Artist: Elton Louviere. A local treasure, Mr. Louviere reclaimed the number one spot with art lovers. Eddie Mormon garnered place second with our voters, with Rex Alexander taking third. Very

honorable mentions for their talents are Kevin Leveque, Anne Dentler, and Candice Alexander. Best Photographer: Victor Monsour. The talents of Victor Monsour made him number one in Decision ’08. Lindsey Janies was second with our voting readers and Bobby Monds took third place again this year. Best Art, Gift and Frame Shop/Gallery: Greg David’s Frameworks. Our readers gave Greg David’s Frameworks first place in Decision ‘08. The Frame House Gallery and Gifts placed second in the polls with ArtWoRx taking third place. Honorable mentions go to Gallery by the Lake, The Shoppes at Bridgepointe in Moss Bluff, and The Harrington Gallery in Sulphur.

the Lake and the Ziglar Museum in Jennings. Best Museum: The Children’s Museum. Each year the Children’s Museum offers hands-on art, science and creative playtime, and ranks highest among our voters. The Imperial Calcasieu Museum with art exhibits, regional history displays, and the beautiful Sallier Oak, placed a strong second, with 1911 City Hall coming in third. The Mardi Gras Museum at Central School is a popular honorable mention.

Best Public Art Gallery: McNeese’s Abercrombie Gallery. The Abercrombie Gallery at MSU took top honors with our voting readers this year. 1911 City Hall, with a variety of quality exhibits for residents and visitors alike, placed second. GibsonBarham Gallery at the Imperial Calcasieu Museum took third place. Honorable mentions go to the Associated Louisiana Artists Gallery by

Thank You

SWLA for voting us

Best Po-Boys Ever! & Best Game of Pool! PO-BOYS

Darrell’s Special • Darrell’s Shrimp Ham • Turkey • Roast Beef BBQ Brisket • BBQ Sausage

119 W. College St. • 337-474-3651 PAGE 16

MAY 29, 2008

2600 Highway 14 Lake Charles 337-478-6565

3406 Ryan Street Lake Charles 337-477-9850

1500 Ruth Street Sulphur 337-527-6355

BEST ARTS & CULTURE Continued Best Park: Sam Houston Jones. The serene beauty of Sam Houston Jones Park rated first with our readers. Sulphur Water Park, offering unique fun to residents and visitors, took second place. Bor du Lac Park on the lake front came in third. Honorable mentions go to Loc Park, Frasch Park in Sulphur,

the Oil and Gas Park in Jennings, and the 9/11 Memorial on the Lake Charles seawall. Best Non-Profit or Charitable Agency: United Way of SWLA. The umbrella for 81 programs administered by 56 human services agencies in the five-

United Way Jim McGough, Chairman of the Board and Vickie Wicks, current Board Member and Past Chair

parish area, United Way rated number one in Decision ’08 with our readers as the best non-profit or charitable agency. The Children’s Miracle Network came in second and Big Brothers/Big Sisters placed third. Best Place to Take the Kids: The Children’s Museum. The Children’s Museum, conveniently located right in downtown Lake Charles rates the highest for area kids. Sulphur Water Park came in a close second, with Shiver Me Timbers on the lakefront placing third. Sam Houston Jones State Park, Trinity Baptist Family Rec Center, and Loc Park taking honorable mentions. Most Fun Fundraising Event: Big Brothers/Big Sisters Bowl For Kid’s Sake. Again this year, the popular Bowl for Kids’ Sake ranks first with our voting readers as the most fun while fundraising. Second place in Decision ’08 goes to Jazz and Just Desserts, by ETC/Harbour House. The Junior League’s holiday shopping extravaganza, Mistletoe and Moss rated third place. Honorable mentions go to the Imperial Calcasieu Museum’s Calcasieu Boogaloo, the American Heart Association’s Heart Walk and St. Margaret’s fall Cal-Ca-Chew Festival.

BEST NIGHT LI FE

Best Casino/Place to Gamble: L’Auberge du Lac. L’Auberge takes first place again, even as it expands services and offerings with a variety of gaming, dining and night life. “Going to the Boat” at The Isle of Capri came in second, with Coushatta Grand Casino a strong third. Honorable mention goes to Delta Downs. All of our top four gaming venues offer great food, fun and music to both residents and visitors of Southwest Louisiana. Best Place to Hang Out With Friends: OB’s. The popular night spot on Ryan Street, OB’s, claimed first place in

MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 17

BEST NIGHT LIFE Continued Decision ’08. Yesterday’s took second place with Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill a close third. Very honorable mentions, popular with our readers, go to Luna Bar & Grill, Buffalo Wild Wings, Cooler’s Ice House, Nevie Beach Club at L’Auberge, Frosty Factory, Darrell’s, and the newly opened 710 Downtown. Best Happy Hour: OB’s. If you’re hanging out with friends for happy hour, OB’s is also the first choice! Nevie Beach Club at L’Auberge moved up to second place this year. Buffalo Wild Wings came in third. Honorable mentions go to Darrell’s, DeAngelo’s, Cooler’s Ice House and the Frosty Factory. Best Game of Pool: Darrell’s. Darrell’s is, once again, the favorite spot for chalking up that cue and shooting some pool, followed in second place by Wayne and Layne’s. Sportsman’s Paradise came in third. The Sport’s Pit got an honorable mention. Best Place to Dance: Yesterdays. A night out for dancing means Yesterday’s for our readers. They voted Cowboy’s as their second favorite and Crystal’s downtown took third place. Isle of Capri made a strong showing for honorable mention. Best Beer Variety: Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill. Patrons at Jack Daniel’s at L’Auberge can tour the world of beers, and voted it first place again. Buffalo Wild Wings took second

LA W S T BES OD FO

Best Appetizers: Snake River Grill at L’Auberge. As with any great meal, we’ll start at the beginning. Decision ’08 voters gave Snake River Grill top honors for appetizers. Outback took second place PAGE 18

MAY 29, 2008

place this year. Rikenjaks came in third. Making honorable mention for lovers of the brew are Pappy’s Sports Pub, Darrell’s, Luna, OB’s, and Cowboys. Best Margarita: Casa Manana. Frozen, salty, or sangria swirl, Casa Manana’s margarita’s continue to be tops with our voters. Nevie Beach Club at L’Auberge took second for Decision ’08 with Chili’s showing a strong third. Honorable mentions go to Que Pasa Taqueria, Margarita’s Bar & Grill, Casa Ole and Globar at L’Auberge. Best Martini: DeAngelo’s. Voted number one for its variety and quality, DeAngelo’s martinis are tops with our readers. And we all anticipate their re-opening and a quick recovery from the fire. We miss “Martini Madness Wednesdays”! L’Auberge scored a double play — Globars placed second with Nevie Beach Club coming in third. Honorable mention martinis go to Pujo Street Café , (the aptly named) Martini’s, O’Charley’s, and Outback. Best Bar Overall: Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill. Decision ’08 gave Jack Daniel’s top honors again this year. OB’s made a strong showing for second place, with Pujo Street Café placing third. Honorable mentions go to Luna Bar & Grill, Cowboy’s, Darrell’s, Yesterday’s, Globar, and Crystals.

and Luna garnered third place again. Honorable mentions go to the popular O’Charley’s, Logan’s, DeAngelo’s, and Jack Daniels Bar & Grill. Best Home Cookin’ Like Your Mama’s: Cajun Café. In SWLA we rate our food by comparing them to Mama’s home cookin’. Does your lunch special taste like your Mama’n’em was in the kitchen? The Cajun Café took first place, with Southern Spice placing a strong second. Leonard’s came in third. Hollier’s, Chastain’s, House of Soul, and Monique’s in Westlake garnered strong honorable mentions.

BEST SWLA FOOD Continued Best Plate Lunch Under $6: Cajun Café. With a tank of gas pushing $4 a gallon, it’s good to know there’s still a great bargain right here in SWLA – the Best Plate Lunch Under $6. Cajun Café took top honors this year. Hackett’s came in second and Nina P’s took third. Very honorable (and yummy!) mentions go to Chastain’s, Southern Spice, Leonard’s, the Blue Duck Café and Hollier’s. Best Place for A Business Lunch: The Harlequin Steak & Seafood. For business lunches or meetings, Harlequin was voted best, with DeAngelo’s placing second and Pat’s of Henderson coming in third. Honorable mentions go to Snake River Grill, Pujo Street Café, Mazen’s, Casa Manana, and Luna Bar & Grill. Best Romantic Dinner Date: Snake River Grill. When it’s time for romance, our readers choose the ambiance at Snake River Grill. Mazen’s placed second this year with Harlequin Steakhouse at third place. Very honorable mentions go to La Truffe Savage, Pat’s of Henderson, Pujo Street Café, DeAngelo’s, Farraday’s at the Isle of Capri and Luna Bar & Grill. Best Place to Chow Down After 2 AM: KD’s Café. After the party or late shift, KD’s is the place for night owls gather for breakfast or a burger and brew. The Waffle House placed second with Le Café at L’Auberge taking third. Honorable mention goes to Tradewinds at Isle of Capri and Waffle Iron. Best Gumbo: Seafood Palace. Decision ’08 gave Seafood Palace kudos for its gumbo. Pat’s of Henderson was voted second place and Steamboat Bill’s came in third. Honorable mentions were earned by Chastain’s, Richard’s in Sulphur, KD’s Café, Hollier’s Cajun Kitchen and Cajun Tails. Best Seafood: Steamboat Bill’s. Decision ’08 put Steamboat Bill’s in first place with Pat’s of Henderson in a close second. Seafood Palace was voted third place again this year. Honorable mentions go to D.I.’s Evangeline, Cajun Tails, Mazen’s, Hollier’s and Harbor Lights.

Best Crawfish: Steamboat Bills. When it comes to boiled crawfish, nobody does ‘em like Steamboat Bill’s and they take first place again this year. Our readers gave second place to Seafood Palace and third place to JT’s Seafood. The Boiling Point and Hollier’s in Sulphur, C’est Bon in Mermentau and Aucoin’s in Hayes earned honorable mentions. Best Po Boy: Darrell’s. Once again, Darrell’s was overwhelmingly voted the best Po Boys in SWLA. Strong competition for second place goes to those New Orleans authentic “dressed” Po-Boys at the Blue Duck Café. Leonard’s took third place, with Tony’s Pizza, Nina P’s, Pappy’ Deli and Wayne & Lane’s earned honorable mention in the tight race. Best Deli: Pappy’s Deli. The landmark deli on Ryan Street, Pappy’s took first place in Decision ’08. Pronia’s took second place and McAllister’s was third in the voting. Tony’s, Luna and Roly-Poly Subway earned honorable mentions. Best Breakfast/Brunch: Cracker Barrel. The local establishment of the national chain has taken first place for best breakfast again this year. But for breakfast anytime, KD’s Café placed a close second. Le Café at L’Auberge took third. Honorable mentions go to the Waffle House, Chez Café, and the Pitt Grill. Best Coffee House: Starbucks. The ubiquitous Starbucks was voted number one with the new Coffee Beanery coming in second. Local landmark Chez Café placed third. Joe Muggs and Latte’s at L’Auberge took honorable mentions. Best King Cake: Market Basket. Our readers gave the bakers at the area’s Market Baskets top honors for King Cake. Missie’s King Cakes came in second, with Nelson’s Donuts in third place. Honorable mentions go to Pronia’s, Jo’s Party House and A Piece of Cake. Best Boudin: The Market Basket on Nelson. The Nelson Road Market Basket once again took first place for boudin. Hackett’s Cajun Kitchen placed second and Robideaux’s in Iowa took third

g{tÇ~ lÉâ Uxáà WxááxÜàá for voting us

Southwest Louisiana

CAKES Italian Cream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$35.00 Chocolate Praline . . . . . . . . . . . .$35.00 Red Velvet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$35.00 Double Chocolate . . . . . . . . . . . .$35.00 Carrot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$35.00 Strawberry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$35.00

PIES Pecan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$18.00 Key Lime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$18.00 Lemon Meringue . . . . . . . . . . . . .$18.00 French Silk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$18.00 Pumpkin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$18.00

QUICHE OF THE DAY (Whole or by the slice) $20.00 Whole • $4.00 Slice Spinach & Artichoke Crawfish Shrimp & Asparagus Seafood ($22) CUP OF SOUP & SALAD . . . . . .$6.99 Bowl $5.99 / Cup $3.99

CHEESCAKES New York . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$40 Chocolate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$45 Turtle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$45 Strawberry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$45 Blueberry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$45 White Chocolate/Lemon . . . . . . .$45 Vanilla Bean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$45 Chocolate Eruption Cheesecake, Truffles, Fudge, & Much, Much More...

BAKERY & GIFTSHOP • Wedding Cakes • Grooms Cakes • Shower Cakes • Specialty Cakes • CATERING

AVAILABLE

BUTTERCREAM & SMOOTH FONDANT ICING AVAILABLE!

MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 19

BEST SWLA FOOD Continued place. The Boudin King in Jennings, and The Sausage Link won honorable mentions. Best Bar-B-Q: Dan’s BBQ Express. Moving up to first place for Decision ’08, Dan’s BBQ Express is the favorite among our readers. Wagon Wheel moved to second place with the Pink Pig in Carlyss holding on to third place. Honorable men-

tions go to Famous Bar-B-Que, Smokey Joe’s, and Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill. Best Local Pizza: Tony’s. Eat in or drive-thru, Tony’s on Prien Lake Road is the place to go for authentic homemade pizza. DeAngelo’s pizza was voted second place and Mr. Gatti’s took third. Honorable mentions go to Joe’s Pizza & Pasta in Sulphur, Mama Rosa’s, and Leonard’s.

Best Local Hamburger: Cotton’s. Just reopened, rebuilt after the fire, Cotton’s took first place among our readers again. Second place goes to Pappy’s. Third place is Back Yard Burgers with Mary Ann’s Café, Jack Daniel’s and Chastain’s earning an honorable mentions. Best Fried Chicken: Popeye’s. Our reader’s like their chicken spicy and voted Popeye’s as their first choice in Decision ‘08. Lake Charles’ own Ball’s Fried Chicken placed a strong second. Raisin’ Cane’s came in third. Honorable mentions go to Fausto’s, Church’s, and Southern Spice Café.

Jack Daniels, and Johnny Carino’s earned an honorable mentions. Best Italian: DeAngelo’s. The lovely café that’s now rubble, but will hopefully be rebuilt and reopened soon, DeAngelo’s was voted best Italian by our readers. The national chains, Johnny Carino’s and Olive Garden placed second and third respectively. Very honorable mentions go to local landmarks Tony’s Pizza, Mama Rosa’s and Pronia’s.

Best Bakery Goodies: Jo’s Party House. Readers with a sweet tooth voted Jo’s Party House their favorite again this year, with Sweets & Treats taking second place. Cypi’s Cake Box placed third with honorable mentions for Terra Cotta’s and A Piece of Cake. Best Salad or Salad Bar: DeAngelo’s. Oh, DeAngelo’s, how we miss ye! Tony’s luscious salads with Greek olives and pepperoncini came in second. O’Charley’s placed third. Luna,

Jo’s Party House

Dan’s BBQ Express

LAKE CHARLES 3213 Common St. 337.433.1193 1.800.960.7665

LAFAYETTE 1.800.842.9884 www.SabinePools.com

PAGE 20

MAY 29, 2008

BEST SWLA FOOD

Gayle’s Hardware AND GENERAL STORE

Continued

Est. 1902

2626 RYAN ST. • 436-4126

Thank You Lake Charles

for voting us #1 Hardware Store 4 Years in a Row! Mon-Fri 7:30 - 5:30

Terra Cotta’s Best Asian: Peking Gardens. Placing first for best Asian cuisine is Peking Gardens. Hong Kong placed second and Miyako took third. Honorable mentions are earned by Asia at L’Auberge, Big Apple and Chinese King. Best Mexican: Casa Manana. Still number one with our readers, Casa Manana makes the top of list in Decision ‘08. El Tapatio takes second place with Cancun placing third. Casa Ole, Que Pasa Taqueria and Tequila Margarita & Grille, earned honorable mentions with our voters. Best Salsa: Casa Manana. A full bowl of Casa’s famous salsa is always on your table or on the way, and took first place again this year. El Tapatio moved up to second place and Cancun came in third. Honorable mention goes to Cancun for their strong showing with voters. Best Steak: The Harlequin Steak & Seafood. This family-owned establishment earned the title of Best Steak in the area again this year. Snake River Grill took second place and Mazen’s steaks

The Kitchen

came in third. O’Charley’s, Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill, and Pat’s of Henderson earned honorable mentions. Best Desserts: Terra Cotta’s. Those yummy confections at Terra Cotta’s took number one with our voting readers again this year. Piccadilly’s selections came in second with Snake River Grill delights placing third. Honorable mentions go to Johnny Carino’s, Harlequin, O’Charley’s and DeAngelo’s. Best Restaurant Service: Casa Manana. Our readers voted Casa’s wait staff as the best for service in the area. Mazen’s placed second with Snake River Grill coming in third. Best Kept Secret Eatery: The Kitchen. Well, the secret’s out – The Kitchen is a secret no more! Asia at L’Auberge was voted second, and third place goes to Big Daddy’s. Best Local Restaurant. Period: Snake River Grill, L’Auberge. Romantic atmosphere, the glow from the fireplace, a unique menu and great service – Snake River Grill has it all. Mazen’s was voted second and Casa Manana took third place.

Come see the Newest Deck Grills and Fire Pitt/Grills we now carry.

Sat 8:30 - 4:30

Thank You Southwest Louisiana! 2008

Best Mexican Restaurant Best Service in a Restaurant Best Margarita & Best Salsa 2007 Best Mexican Restaurant 2002 Best Mexican Restaurant Best Margarita Best Salsa 2001 Best Mexican Restaurant Best Service in a Restaurant 2006 Best Mexican Restaurant Best Margarita 2000 Best Mexican Restaurant Best Service in 2005 Best Mexican Restaurant a Restaurant Best Salsa 2004 Best Mexican Restaurant 1999 Best Mexican Restaurant Best Waitress Best Salsa (Brandy Broussard) 2003 Best Mexican Restaurant 1998 Best Mexican Restaurant Best Service in a Restaurant

Celebrating 32 years of Service Casa Mañana now has a Curbside Pick-up Window in the Rear of the Building for your Convenience Full Food & Beverage Menu ALSO Casa is now serving Breakfast Burritos from 6:30am to 10:30am / Mon. - Sat.

Casa Mañana 2510 RYAN ~ 433-4112 CATERING AVAILABLE MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 21

Do You Have What It Takes To Join The

“TOP 50”? Who will make the 2008 list of The Imperial Calcasieu Top 50 Privately Held Businesses? The Times of Southwest Louisiana and Jeff Davis Bank are now seeking those prestigious businesses that will be featured in our 2008 Top 50 issue, published July 10. Go to The Times website at www.timessw.com and click on “Top 50”. Submit your nomination form online today! Or print it out the form and fax it to us at (337) 439-0418. For questions, please contact Kathryn Bergstrom, Editor, at 439-0995.

Please Note: We have an early deadline this year. To be eligible, you must submit your nomination no later than

FRIDAY, JUNE 13, 2008. For questions, please contact Kathryn Bergstrom, Editor, at 439-0995.

2007 Imperial Calcasieu Top 50 Privately Held Businesses: 1. Central Crude 2. Superior Supply & Steel 3. Talen's Marine & Fuel 4. Navarre Chevrolet 5. Stine Lumber Co. 6. Pumpelly Oil 7. Martin Automotive Group 8. Dunham Price Group 9. Solar Supply Corp. 10. Southwest Beverage 11. AllStar Pontiac GMC 12. Bubba Oustalet 13. Mark Dodge 14. Alfred Palma, Inc. 15. Cameron Communications 16. Lee Dee Wholesale 17. LeeVac 18. Port Aggregates, Inc. 19. R & R Construction 20. Bessette Development 21. Brask, Inc. IEE 22. Kite Brothers 23. ReCon Mgt. Services 24. Thermoplastic Services 25. Gulf Island Shrimp 26. Health Systems 2000 27. Kennison Forest Production 28. Lake Charles Auto Auction 29. Levingston Engineers 30. McDonald's of Lake Charles 31. Miller Livestock Markets

PAGE 22

MAY 29, 2008

32. Century Group 33. French Market Foods 34. Lake Charles Diesel, Inc. 35.OilQuip Inc. 36. The Rush Companies 37. Calcasieu Mechanical Contractors 38. Cycles & More 39. Eagle Electric Machinery 40. Freshko Foodservice, Inc. 41. Global Pollution Services 42. Honda of Lake Charles 43. Johnson Funeral Homes 44. Lake City Trucking 45. Northfork Enterprises 46. Sabine Pools & Spas 47. Southland Coins & 48. Gulf Coast Carpet & Decorating 49. S & M Family Outlet 50. Tulco II, LLC

Sponsored by

Editor’s note: Dr. William Gray and Dr. Philip Klotzbach with the Tropical Meteorology Project at Colorado State University are considered to be the experts in predicting hurricane activity and landfall strike probability. Their predictions and “hindcasting” are highly respected and reported and used by various government and media experts each hurricane season, including Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Their complete 2008 Prediction is available on the CSU, Meteorology Project website as a PDF file. We have lifted excerpts from their very detailed and scientific 32page report, rather than “interpret” their findings for our readers. This report was released April 9, 2008. Their revised and updated prediction, based on continued spring weather patterns, will be released June 3, 2008. For the full report with documentation, graphs and supporting materials, visit http://hurricane.atmos.colostate.edu/Forecasts.

Extended Range Forecast Of Atlantic Seasonal Hurricane Activity And U.S. Landfall Strike Probability For 2008 By Philip J. Klotzbach and William M. Gray Department of Atmospheric Science Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado

We foresee a well above-average Atlantic basin tropical cyclone season in 2008. We have increased our seasonal forecast from our initial early December prediction. We anticipate an above-average probability of United States major hurricane landfall. (As of 9 April 2008). This forecast as well as past forecasts and verifications are available via the World Wide Web at http://hurricane.atmos.colostate.edu/Forecasts. The methodology of this year’s extended-range forecast is based on a recently-developed (1 April) statistical technique built on 58 years (1950-2007) of data. This forecast is expressed in units of Net Tropical Cyclone (NTC) activity … We have gone the right way (correctly predicted an above- or below-average season) in 45 out of these 58 hindcast years. This new scheme also shows 1 April hindcast skill over the last 13-year period where our real-time 1 April forecasts failed to show statistical improvement over climatology. Continued on Page 26

GLOSSARY OF TERMS USED IN REPORT: Hurricane - (H) A tropical cyclone with sustained low-level winds of 74 miles per hour (33 ms-1 or 64 knots) or greater. Hurricane Day - (HD) A measure of hurricane activity, one unit of which occurs as four 6-hour periods during which a tropical cyclone is observed or estimated to have hurricane intensity winds. Intense Hurricane - (IH) A hurricane which reaches a sustained low-level wind of at least 111 mph (96 knots or 50 ms1) at some point in its lifetime. This constitutes a category 3 or higher on the Saffir/Simpson scale (also termed a “major” hurricane).

Intense Hurricane Day - (IHD) Four 6-hour periods during which a hurricane has an intensity of Saffir/Simpson category 3 or higher. Named Storm - (NS) A hurricane or a tropical storm. Named Storm Day - (NSD) As in HD but for four 6-hour periods during which a tropical cyclone is observed (or is estimated) to have attained tropical storm intensity winds. NTC - Net Tropical Cyclone Activity -Average seasonal percentage mean of NS, NSD, H, HD, IH, IHD. Gives overall indication of Atlantic basin seasonal hurricane activity. The 19502000 average value of this parameter is 100.

MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 23

90o

85o

Sulphur

Exit 25 Closed

De Quincy

171

210

Lake Charles

Exit 34 Closed

Iowa

5 Miles

Kinder

ge Ro ad

165

US 171 North - To Shreveport (GREEN) To access US 171 North, traffic must use LA 14 North from Lake Charles. I-10 eastbound traffic will NOT be allowed to exit onto US 171. I-10 West at US 165 Westbound I-10 traffic will be diverted at Exit 44 I-10 Eastbound - To Alexandria or Baton Rouge (BLUE) to US 165 South to US 90 West. I-10 eastbound traffic (normal lanes) will not be allowed to exit at the following exits: Exit 25, I-210 East US 165 North Exit 33, US 171 To access US 165 North, traffic must Exit 34, I-210 West use I-210 East. Exit 44, US 165

Map created by G.E.C., Inc., Baton Rouge,LA, May 22, 2006 using ESRI's StreetMapUSA Data by J. Daniels, GIS Department.

20,900

All other exits along I-10 will be open. I-10 eastbound lanes will flow as normal to Lafayette through the Lake Charles area.

Elton

165

Jennings

75o

Basile

Acadia Parish

Eunice

Mamou

I-10 @ I-49 Interchange (Beginning of Contraflow on I-49)

Iota

70o

Crowley

60o

167

Rayne

167

Scott

Sunset

Breaux Bridge

I-49 @ LA 10 (End of Contraflow on I-49)

Broussard

MAY 29, 2008

See Dealer for Details

40o

10o

15o

20o

25o

30o

*Prices plus TT&L. All rebates assigned to dealer. Offers shown here supercede previously advertised offers. Vehicles shown for illustration purposes only. Expires May 31, 2007. 0% financing on select models. See dealer for details. Must finance thru NMAC. WAC.

WE'RE MAKING DEALS EVERYDAY!

Visit us at www.nissanoflakecharles.com

Exit I-210 @ Legion 1-866-387-1794

Lake Charles AM 1470 (KLCL) FM 99.5 (KHLA)

Lafayette AM 1330 (KVOL) FM 99.9 (KTDY)

Baton Rouge AM 1150 (WJBO) FM 102.5 (WFMF)

Alexandria FM 93.1 (KQID) AM970 (KSYL) AM 580/FM 96.9 - KZMZ

Shreveport AM 1130 FM 94.5 (KWKH)

Ruston AM 1490 (KRUS) FM 107.5 (KXKZ)

Northeast AM 540 FM 101.9 (KNOE)

New Orleans AM 870 (WWL) FM 101.9 (WLMG)

Crowley FM 102.9 (KAJN)

During an evacuation, these radio stations will keep you informed across the state.

– The Louisiana Emergency Alert System

STAY TUNED

Construction continues on I-10 East as hurricane season begins. But according to the Louisiana Department of Transportation, should an evacuation be ordered for Southwest Louisiana, the construction on I-10 just east of Lake Charles would be halted, barriers taken down, and all four lanes would open to contraflow traffic. Workers and contractors are prepared to shut down construction and remove barriers should an evacuation be ordered, and that all Interstate traffic would follow the mandated evacuation routes.

I-10 East Will Open For Evacuation Contraflow

45o

Omar Paloma Rene Sally Teddy Vicky Wilfred

35o

Nissan of Lake Charles

I-49 South Traffic Southbound I-49 traffic will be diverted at the Meeker Exit (US 167). From there, drivers can use US 167/LA 13/US 71 to continue South.

2008.5 NISSAN TITAN 4-DOOR V-8 CREW CAB

50o

Hanna Ike Josephine Kyle Laura Marco Nana

Medical Emergencies Drivers with medical emergencies on I-49 (normal and contraflow lanes) will be allowed to exit at Harry Guilbeau Road (Exit 15). No other services are available at this exit.

Lafayette

Carencro

Grand Coteau Arnaudville

Port Barre

Exit 11 Leonville Open

Opelousas

contraflow lanes

23 St.Exit Landry Open Parish to

I-49 North (normal lanes) - To Alexandria/Shreveport (BROWN) Northbound I-49 traffic (normal lanes) may exit US 190 (Exit 19) to the east but not US 190 to the west. Northbound I-49 traffic (normal lanes) will be allowed to exit at Sunset/Grand Coteau (Exit 11) and Cresswell Lane (Exit 18). All other exits on I-49 North (normal lanes) between I-10 and Washington will be closed.

US 90 / US 167 (Evangeline Thwy) / I-49 North (contraflow lanes) - To Alexandria/Shreveport (RED) Northbound traffic on US 90/US 167 (Evangeline Thwy) through Lafayette will cross over to contraflow lanes just before (south of) the I-10/I-49 interchange. Northbound traffic on US 90/US 167 (Evangeline Thwy) also will be allowed to travel East to I-10. Northbound I-49 traffic (contraflow lanes) will be allowed to exit at Exit 23 (US 167). All other exits along the I-49 North contraflow route, including US 190, will be closed.

55o

Washington

I-10 East and West - To Alexandria or Baton Rouge (BLUE) Eastbound I-10 traffic may continue East or travel North on I-49. Westbound I-10 traffic from Baton Rouge will be diverted to I-49 North if Lake Charles has begun contraflow.

Lafayette Area Instructions

Lafayette Parish

Church Point

Exit 18 Open

190

Exit 19 Eastbound 190 Open Westbound 190 Closed

Ville Platte

Westbound I-10 Open for Local Traffic

65o

Study this map and CHOOSE YOUR ROUTE WISELY. There will be many restrictions on the Interstate System. Upon entering the Contraflow area, it may not be possible to change routes. If you do not wish to evacuate under the Contraflow restrictions, your best strategy is to LEAVE EARLY before Contraflow is activated.

Fronta

Oberlin

Jefferson Davis Parish

Welsh

I-10 @ US 165 Interchange

165

Lake Charles Area Instructions

210

190

Exit 44 Open to contraflow traffic only.

I-210 @ I-10 Eastbound

Westlake

Exit 33 Closed

171

I-210 East (contraflow lanes) - To Alexandria (PURPLE) Eastbound I-210 traffic will cross over to the westbound lanes of I-210 just before (south of) US 90. The crossed-over traffic will then contraflow (travel east on the westbound lanes of I-10) to US 165 North. Traffic using the I-10 contraflow lanes will be diverted northbound onto US 165.

Calcasieu Parish

Index Map Reference Medical Emergency Exit (I-49) Contraflow Crossover I-210 East Contraflow Lanes I-10 Eastbound US 171 Northbound US 90 / US 167 (Evangeline Thwy) / I-49 Northbound (Contraflow) I-49 Northbound (Normal Lanes)

Beauregard Parish

Allen Parish

80o

2008 Arthur Bertha Cristobal Dolly Edouard Fay Gustav

It’s HERE! That time of year when the seasonal list of hurricane names is released. When the winds from tropical storms reach 39 mph (34 kts), they will be given one of these names. Here are the monikers to listen for during weather reports this summer:

The Name Game

Atlantic Hurricane Tracking Chart

dria

US 171 Northbound

LEGEND

To Shreveport

Southwest Louisiana Contraflow Plan

95o

• Leave beachfront and low-lying areas. • Leave mobile homes for more substantial shelter. • Stay in your home if it is sturdy, on high ground, and not near the beach, but if you are asked to leave by authorities, GO! • Stay tuned to radio, NOAA Weather Radio, or television for hurricane advisories and safety information.

HURRICANE WARNING: hurricane expected to strike within 24 hours

• Be prepared to take action if a warning is issued by the National Weather Service. • Keep informed of the storm’s progress.

HURRICANE WATCH: hurricane may threaten withing 36 hours

REMEMBER, hurricanes are large powerful storms that can suddenly change direction. Check frequently on the storm’s progress until all Watches and Warning for your area from the National Weather Service are Canceled.

100o

439-0000 For time, temperature and forecast 24/7

Call our WeatherLine

nd ria

MAY 29, 2008 x an

To Ale xa

PAGE 24 le To A

PAGE 25

C o n t i n u e d f ro m P a g e 2 3

Atlantic Basin Seasonal Hurricane Forecast For 2008 Forecast Parameter 1950-2000 Climatology (in parentheses) Named Storms (NS) (9.6) Named Storm Days (NSD) (49.1) Hurricanes (H) (5.9) Hurricane Days (HD) (24.5) Intense Hurricanes (IH) (2.3) Intense Hurricane Days (IHD) (5.0) Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) (96.1) Net Tropical Cyclone Activity (NTC) (100%)

7 Dec ’07 13 60 7 30 3 6 115 125

9 April ‘07 15 80 8 40 4 9 150 160

Probabilities For At Least One Major (Category 3-4-5) Hurricane Landfall On Each Of The Following Coastal Areas: 1) Entire U.S. coastline - 69% (average for last century is 52%) 2) U.S. East Coast Including Peninsula Florida - 45% (average for last century is 31%) 3) Gulf Coast from the Florida Panhandle westward to Brownsville - 44% (average for last century is 30%) 4) Above-average major hurricane landfall risk in the Caribbean Information obtained through March 2008 indicates that the 2008 Atlantic hurricane season will be much more active than the average 1950-2000 season. We estimate that 2008 will have about 8 hurricanes (average is 5.9), 15 named storms (average is 9.6), 80 named storm days (average is 49.1), 40 hurricane days (average is 24.5), 4 intense (Category 3-4-5) hurricanes (average is 2.3) and 9 intense hurricane days (average is 5.0). The probability of U.S. major hurricane landfall is estimated to be about 135 percent of the long-period average. We expect Atlantic basin Net Tropical Cyclone (NTC) activity in 2008 to be approximately 160 percent of the long-term average. We have increased our seasonal forecast from early December. This forecast is based on a new extended-range early April statistical prediction scheme that utilizes 58 years of past data. Analog predictors are also utilized. The influences of El Niño conditions are implicit in these predictor fields…We expect current La Niña conditions to continue to weaken by the start of the 2008 Atlantic basin hurricane season. Certain years in the historical record have global oceanic and atmospheric trends which are substantially similar to 2008. These years also provide useful clues as to likely trends in activity that the forthcoming 2008 hurricane season may bring. …We select prior hurricane seasons since 1949 which have similar atmospheric-oceanic conditions to those currently being experienced. Analog years for 2008 were selected primarily on how similar they are to conditions that are currently observed. We searched for years that had La Niña conditions and aboveaverage tropical Atlantic and far North Atlantic sea surface temperatures during February-March. There were four hurricane seasons since 1949 with characteristics most similar to what we observed in February-March 2008. The best analog years that we could find for the 2008 hurricane season were 1950, 1989, 1999, and 2000. We anticipate that 2008 seasonal hurricane activity will have activity in line with what was experienced in the average of these four years. We believe that 2008 will have above-average activity in the Atlantic basin… Current conditions in the Atlantic basin are quite favorable for an active hurricane season. Both of our early April predictors call for a very active hurricane season in 2008. The current sea surface temperature pattern in the Atlantic is a pattern typically observed before very active seasons. Waters off the coast of Iberia as well as the eastern tropical Atlantic are very warm right now. The Azores High has also been quite weak during the month of March. Typically, a weakened Azores High leads to weaker trade winds that enhance warm SST anomalies due to reduced levels of evaporation, mixing and upwelling in the eastern tropical Atlantic. …Warm sea surface temperatures are likely to continue being present in the tropical and North Atlantic during 2008, due to the fact that we are in a positive phase of the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO) (e.g., a strong phase of the Atlantic thermohaline circulation). Also, the currently-observed weak Azores High will likely promote weaker-than-normal trade winds over the next few months enhancing warm SST anomalies in the tropical and subtropical Atlantic. PAGE 26

MAY 29, 2008

…It is surprising that such extended-range hindcasts are able to show statistical skill over long periods. This suggests that there are long-period memory signals within the global climate system. These long-period signals are certainly worthy of much further study. There are likely many new future extended-range forecast signals yet to be uncovered. One learns more about how the global climate system functions by making realtime public forecasts that have your name on them. This demonstrates your personal commitment to your seasonal forecast methodology and your belief that your current forecast is able to beat climatology. You always learn more when your seasonal forecast busts than when it verifies. Busted forecasts drive us to explain the reasons for the failure and likely lead to enhanced skill in future years…

Estimated probability of US Landfall in 2008 Estimated probability (expressed in percent) of one or more U.S. landfalling tropical storms (TS), category 1-2 hurricanes (HUR), category 3-4-5 hurricanes, total hurricanes and named storms along the entire U.S. coastline, along the Gulf Coast, and along the Florida Peninsula and the East Coast for 2008. The longterm mean annual probability of one or more landfalling systems during the last 100 years is given in parentheses. Coastal Region

Tropical Storms

Cat 1-2 Cat 3-4-5 All Named Hurricane Hurricane Hurricanes Storms

Entire US Gulf Coast Florida & East Coast

92%(79%) 76%(59%) 67%(50%)

84%(68%) 59%(42%) 60%(44%)

69%(52%) 44%(30%) 45%(31%)

95%(84%) 77%(60%) 78%(61%)

99%(97%) 94%(83%) 93%(81%)

Was Global Warming Responsible for the Large Upswing in 2004-2005 US Hurricane Landfalls? The U.S. landfall of major hurricanes Dennis, Katrina, Rita and Wilma in 2005 and the four Southeast landfalling hurricanes of 2004 (Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne) raised questions about the possible role that global warming played in these two unusually destructive seasons. The global warming arguments have been given much attention by many media references to recent papers claiming to show such a linkage. Despite the global warming of the sea surface that has taken place over the last 3 decades, the global numbers of hurricanes and their intensity have not shown increases in recent years except for the Atlantic…The Atlantic has seen a very large increase in major hurricanes during the 13-year period of 1995-2007 (average 3.8 per year) in comparison to the prior 25-year period of 1970-1994 (average 1.5 per year). This large increase in Atlantic major hurricanes is primarily a result of the multi-decadal increase in the Atlantic Ocean thermohaline circulation (THC) that is not directly related to global temperature increase. Changes in ocean salinity are believed to be the driving mechanism. These multi-decadal changes have also been termed the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO)… There have been similar past periods (1940s-1950s) when the Atlantic was just as active as in recent years. For instance, when we compare Atlantic basin hurricane numbers over the 15-year period from 1990-2004 with an earlier 15year period (1950-1964), we see no difference in hurricane frequency or intensity even though the global surface temperatures were cooler and there was a general global cooling during 1950-1964 as compared with global warming during 1990-2004.

U.S. Landfalling Tropical Cyclones By Intensity During Two 50-Year Periods Years

Named Storms

Hurricanes

1900 - 1949 1958 - 2007

189 165

101 82

Intense Hurricanes (Cat 3-4-5) 39 33

Global Temperature Increase +0.4 C

Although 2005 had a record number of tropical cyclones (28 named storms, 15 hurricanes and 7 major hurricanes), this should not be taken as an indication of something beyond natural processes. There have been several other years with comparable hurricane activity to 2005. For instance, 1933 had 21 named storms in a year when there was no satellite or aircraft data. Records of 1933 show all 21 named storm had tracks west of 60°W where surface observations

were more plentiful. If we eliminate all the named storms of 2005 whose tracks were entirely east of 60°W and therefore may have been missed given the technology available in 1933, we reduce the 2005 named storms by seven (to 21) about the same number as was observed to occur in 1933. Despite a slightly below-average season in 2006 and average activity in 2007, we believe that the Atlantic basin is currently in an active hurricane cycle associated with a strong thermohaline circulation and an active phase of the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO). This active cycle is expected to continue for another decade or two at which time we should enter a quieter Atlantic major hurricane period like we experienced during the quarter-century periods of 1970-1994 and 1901-1925. Atlantic hurricanes go through multi-decadal cycles. Cycles in Atlantic major hurricanes have been observationally traced back to the mid-19th century, and changes in the AMO have been inferred from Greenland paleo ice-core temperature measurements going back thousand of years…

Forthcoming Updated Forecasts of 2008 Hurricane Activity We will be issuing seasonal updates of our 2008 Atlantic basin hurricane forecasts on Tuesday 3 June, Tuesday 5 August, Tuesday 2 September and Wednesday 1 October 2008 …. The 5 August, 2 September and 1 October forecasts will include separate forecasts of August-only, September-only and October-November Atlantic basin tropical cyclone activity. A verification and discussion of all 2008 forecasts will be issued in late November 2008. Our first seasonal hurricane forecast for the 2009 hurricane season will be issued in early December 2008. All of these forecasts will be available on the web at: http://hurricane.atmos.colostate.ed u/Forecast

MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 27

ASK YOURSELF These Questions This Hurricane Season With hurricane season approaching, it’s a good time to ask yourself a few questions to determine if you’re appropriately prepared, experts with the LSU AgCenter stress. “Having the right answers before a storm comes your way can help you be prepared if a hurricane strikes,” LSU AgCenter housing specialist Dr. Claudette Reichel advises. Reichel and LSU disaster education coordinator Pat Skinner also say that even if you’ve been through a hurricane before, it’s easy to forget some of the preparations that can protect your property and family. “It’s a good idea to review your plans and make sure you haven’t left anything off,” Skinner says, adding, “Taking the right precautions before a storm comes your way has the potential to save time, money, hassles and even lives if a hurricane strikes.” The LSU AgCenter experts say taking the following hurricane quiz can

help you gauge whether you’re prepared. It’s time to take action if you answer “No” or “I don’t know” to any of these 20 questions: 1) Do you have a disaster survival plan? 2) Have you planned an evacuation route and destination? 3) Do you have an emergency communication plan for staying in touch or getting messages to friends and family? 4) Is your homeowner’s and flood insurance coverage up to date and sufficient to replace your home and belongings if they are damaged or destroyed? 5) Do you have an inventory of your property and belongings? 6) Do you have copies of your insurance policies, household inventory and other important papers, as well as other valuables, in a safe place – one that’s waterproof and fireproof?

7) Do you know how to turn off your utilities (electricity, gas and water)? 8) Do you have a plan and supplies on hand to protect and secure your home, outdoor items, boat, pool and so forth? 9) Has your roof been inspected within the past six months? 10) Have you trimmed the trees and shrubs around your house? 11) Has your car been maintained, and are the tires, including the spare, in good condition? 12) Do you have a plan of what to do with food in your refrigerator and freezer in the event of a possible power outage? 13) Is your emergency phone list up-to-date and handy? 14) Do you have emergency survival supplies such as batteries, a battery-operated radio, flashlights, lanterns, fuel, nonperishable food for three days, water jugs, manual can opener, medicines, traveler’s checks or cash, and so forth on hand? 15) Do you have an emergency supply kit for your car? 16) Do you have a plan of how to take care of family members with special needs (those with disabilities, infants or the elderly) in the event of a disaster?

17) Have you decided what you will do with your animals if you must evacuate because of various types of hazards? 18) Have you budgeted for the added expenses to protect your home, buy supplies, evacuate, clean up and recover? 19) Have you discussed your emergency plans, duties and rules with your family? 20) Do you know that the LSU AgCenter offers publications and other free information on disaster cleanup and recovery on its Web site (www.lsuagcenter.com) and through its parish LSU AgCenter Extension offices across the state? For more information on preparing for a disaster or recovering from one, contact your parish LSU AgCenter Extension office. You also may find the online versions of such publications as “There’s a Hurricane Forming” in the publications section of the LSU AgCenter’s Web site at www.lsuagcenter.com. Other resources also are available by visiting the Hazard and Threats section listed under Family and Home on the AgCenter Web site or by going directly to www.lsuagcenter.com/hurricanes.

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

GLENDA MOSS WOULD LIKE TO THANK SWLA FOR VOTING HER STUDIO

Best Dance Studio of the year. Early Fall Registration Wed. June 18 4-6pm, ages 3–adult

THE GLENDA MOSS FOLLIES OF 2008 LAKE CHARLES’ MOST OUTSTANDING DANCE PRODUCTION

SATURDAY JUNE 14, 2008 ROSA HART THEATRE, LAKE CHARLES CIVIC CENTER DOORS OPEN 6:45 PM • AWARDS 7:30 PM ADMISSION: $7 • AT DOOR: $10

700 EAST SCHOOL ST., L AKE CHARLES • 337-477-1826 PAGE 28

MAY 29, 2008

4150 Nelson Rd., Bldg. D, Ste. 1 Lake Charles, La. 70605 PH: 337-474-6960 FAX: 337-474-6970

A non-surgical technique to fight against arthritis and sports injuries. Do you have arthritis or been told you need a joint replacement? Regenerative Therapy may be for you. Regenerative Therapy is designed to regenerate joint cartilage and decrease arthritic changes and pain. This therapy uses a combination of injection therapy, laser therapy, exercises, bracing and other modalities. Parts of the program can be covered by insurance while parts are not. A commitment to the whole program is necessary for success. This is how it works: The physician introduces natural medicine into damaged, arthritic cells by means of a precise injection. This process is followed by infrared laser as well as several other modalities in order to accelerate the process. Depending on tissue damage, severity of the condition and the size of the joint that needs to be injected, people usually need a series of 1 to 6 treatments to improve. There is usually no downtime, and people can go back to their usual activities or work immediately. The treatments can help most musculoskeletal problems such as knee pain, shoulder pain, whiplash, tendonitis, sprain, strains, torn ligaments and cartilage damage. For more information and to schedule your treatment call 337-474-6960.

WHAT GOOD Is a Flashlight and a Can of Tuna?

Neglecting to make basic preparations could be a decision you heartily regret if a major storm or hurricane comes your way. That’s a message LSU AgCenter experts are stressing as this year’s hurricane season approaches. “Many of the areas most vulnerable to hurricanes were hammered so hard in Katrina and Rita that some people could find it easy to say, ‘What good would a flashlight and a few cans of tuna have done?’” said Pat Skinner, disaster recovery and mitigation specialist with the LSU AgCenter. “But looking at it that way really isn’t a good approach.” As this year’s hurricane season approaches, Skinner is encouraging Louisiana residents to prepare to survive our more typical hurricane season, where you might be stuck in your home, or on the road, for a few days – not weeks or months. “It just feels bad when you find yourself saying, ‘I wish I had…’ after a disaster strikes,” Skinner said. “The

way to avoid that feeling is to be prepared!” For most Louisiana hurricanes, here are some things the experts say you may want to make sure you do as part of your preparations: • Put a flashlight in the car. • Buy some extra batteries. • Fill some containers with water. • Keep nonperishable food in the house at all time – or, in other words, make sure you “don’t eat the last three cans of tuna” without quickly replacing them. • Make sure there is a working battery-operated radio around! “Most of us know these precautions,” Skinner said. “We’ve seen the emergency supplies lists. But we still manage to get caught short sometimes.” Stocking up for a storm is even more difficult now, according to Skinner, who points out that tighter credit and soaring gas prices limit the available funds for buying supplies.

“But the sense of failure that comes with not having what we need at the time of a storm just compounds the problems,” she said. “So try stashing one or two preparedness items a week over the next few weeks, and before too long you’ll have what you need.” Skinner also points out there’s much more to preparing your home for a power outage or other problems brought on by a storm than having flashlights, radios, batteries and food and water. The LSU AgCenter specialist says you can find helpful information on such topics as making emergency preparations or what to do in case of an evacuation, formulating your family’s disaster plans, keeping track of your family, caring for pets, helping

children prepare for a storm, safeguarding your home and property and much more in the Hurricanes section of the LSU AgCenter’s Web site at www.lsuagcenter.com/hurricanes. Among the resources is “There’s a Hurricane Forming,” a helpful publication that includes a hurricane-tracking chart and checklists to help you make last-minute decisions about what to take with you if you evacuate, supplies you need to have on hand, preparations you can make if a storm is approaching and much more.

MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 29

BEAT THE RUSH; Stock Up On Hurricane Supplies Now Accuracy • Experience • Reliability • Flexibility Professional Representatives • Dependability

Floods • Hurricanes • Tornadoes • Fires

“HOW READY ARE YOU?” Does your recovery plan include communicating with your customers? Let us help you stay in touch with your customers 24/7 365 days a year. Call 310-2435 or visit www.southwestcallcenter.com

629 Martin Luther King Hwy • Lake Charles, LA 70601

The Gold Key Quest 2008 is bigger and better than last year! More prizes, more options and some unique opportunities to win! Our Grand Prize will once again be the winner's choice of a

2008 Ford F150 Pickup Truck or a 2008 Ford Mustang from Bolton Ford! Other prizes include: A Gold and Gemstone bracelet • A 50" Flat Screen HDTV A Ducks Unlimited Gun of the Year 12-gauge magnum • A $1,000.00 VISA Gift Card

DRAWING WILL BE HELD ON JULY 12, 2008 Do your part to support the arts with a purchase of a $100 chance for these prizes

To purchase tickets or learn more www.goldkeyquest.org or call (337) 439-2787.

PAGE 30

MAY 29, 2008

Hurricane season 2008 is upon us and the LSU AgCenter experts say stocking up on supplies now makes sense – whether you think a storm may come your way or not. “Don’t wait until there’s a storm brewing to get batteries, flashlights, nonperishable food and other things you’ll need if the power goes out,” Dr. Paul Coreil, vice chancellor of the LSU AgCenter, advised. “Start now. It will be a lot easier if you shop for supplies early rather than getting caught up in the last-minute rush at the stores.” Stocking up isn’t wasteful, according to the experts, who say most of the supplies you need to survive the first few days after a storm are things you can use later if this year’s storm season turns out to be calm. “We can hope we’re as lucky this year as we’ve been the past couple of years, but we shouldn’t forget what happened in 2005 – with Katrina and Rita,” Coreil said. “People should hope for the best but prepare for the worst.” LSU AgCenter experts point out you will need a variety of basic supplies just to survive during and after a storm, and depending on the severity of the storm, you may need enough supplies to last several days. “After a major hurricane, you could be housebound for as much as a week or longer, probably with no electricity,” LSU AgCenter disaster preparedness specialist Pat Skinner said. “Water may be off or contaminated. Stores may be closed. Gas stations may not be in operation. Restaurants may not be open.” The same types of rules apply if you have to evacuate. You’ll still need

some basic supplies, since an evacuation more than likely will mean spending hours in the car and nights away from home. “Either way, you’ll need some nonperishable food and enough water for everyone,” Skinner said. “You’ll also want to have some other basic supplies, and you can shop for most of those now and store them until they’re needed.” Some of the supplies you may need include flashlights and extra batteries; hurricane lamps or lanterns (avoid candles); portable radio and extra batteries; first-aid kit or first-aid supplies; insect repellent; matches; ice chest; disposable cups, plates and utensils; disposable towelettes; and prescription medications. The experts also say you should have at least a three-day supply of food and water for each person. That means at least 2 quarts of water – a gallon is preferable – per person each day. As for food, choose foods that require little or no cooking and no refrigeration, and buy them in sizes appropriate for one meal with no leftovers. You also can keep low-volume, high-energy foods, such as granola bars, raisins and peanut butter, on hand. “Don’t forget to have a manual can opener. Otherwise, you won’t be able to open canned foods when the power is out,” Skinner cautioned. LSU AgCenter experts also say to consider any special dietary needs and to be sure to have items such as baby food and diapers on hand, if you need them. “Keep your pets in mind, too, because they’ll also need to be fed and to have water,” Skinner said.

Although it’s not an absolute necessity, an electrical generator also is something you may want to consider purchasing to meet your emergency power needs. “This is particularly important if you must operate medical equipment continuously,” Skinner said, adding, “It also is a way you can protect your investment in frozen foods, since a generator could allow you to keep your refrigerator and freezer running.” Camp stoves or barbecue grills also can help with cooking, according to the experts. Just be sure you have enough fuel on hand – and use them outdoors

only. “Most of the items you’ll need have a long shelf life, but they disappear from stores quickly when hurricane warnings are issued,” Skinner said. “That’s why it’s important to gather these supplies now – before a storm is approaching. Doing so also allows you to concentrate on the other preparations you’ll need to be making as a storm approaches.” LSU AgCenter experts point out that while hurricanes Katrina and Rita served as a wake-up call for people who hadn’t really faced the full devastation of a head-on hit by a major hurricane, the mild hurricane seasons in

2006 and 2007 could lead people to think “it won’t happen again.” But it’s important to heed warnings and to be prepared, the experts say. “Much of the damage and loss of life associated with hurricanes can be prevented or reduced by planning, preparation and evacuation,” Coreil said. “Planning may save your life or your pet’s life or help you to salvage something else you hold dear. At any rate, it definitely will help you to sleep easier through the hurricane season. And it probably will help to reduce damage to your home, help you cope during the storm and help you recover

more easily after a storm.” For more information on preparing for a disaster or recovering from one, contact your parish LSU AgCenter Extension office. You also may find the online versions of such publications as “There’s a Hurricane Forming” in the publications section of the LSU AgCenter’s Web site at www.lsuagcenter.com. Other resources also are available by visiting the Hazard and Threats section listed under Family and Home on the AgCenter Web site or by going directly to www.lsuagcenter.com/hurricanes.

The Times of SWLA is distributed throughout our region and via the world wide web. Call Andy, Patricia or Nathan at 337-439-0995 and let them show you how to grow your business today.

Thanks to our Corporate Sponsors: Martin Pontiac GMC Luke's R.V. • Twisted Offroad Martin's Paint and Body • Retro-Sports Cal-Cam Termite and Pest Control Sanders Photography **For advertising opportunities on Stretch Racer, please call Rick Sanders at 274-4936 or Mike Sanders at 438-5466.

MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 31

UNDERSTANDING Hurricane Numbers & Nomenclature

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale is a 1-5 rating based a hurricane’s intensity; 5 being the most destructive. The scale is used to estimate of the potential property damage and flooding expected along the coast from a hurricane landfall. Wind speed is the determining factor in the scale, as storm surge values are highly dependent on the slope of the continental shelf and the shape of the coastline, in the landfall region. The barometric pressure also contributes to a storm’s Saffir-Simpson ranking.

The Saffir-Simpson Scale Category One Hurricane: Winds 74-95 mph. Storm surge of 4-5 feet. No real damage to building structures but some damage to unanchored mobile homes, shrubbery, and trees. Some damage to poorly constructed signs. Some coastal road flooding and minor pier damage can be expected. In 2002 Hurricane Lili made landfall on the Louisiana coast as a Category One hurricane. Category Two Hurricane: Winds 96-110 mph. Storm surge of 6-8 feet. Some roofing material, door, and window damage of buildings will occur with considerable damage to shrubbery and trees, some trees blown down. There will be considerable damage to mobile homes, poorly constructed signs, and piers. Coastal and lowlying escape routes will flood 2-4 hours before arrival of the hurricane center. Small craft in unprotected anchorages will break moorings. Category Three Hurricane: Winds 111-130 mph. Storm surge 912 feet. Some structural damage to small residences and utility buildings is expected with a minor amount of curtain wall failures. Damage to shrubbery and trees and large trees will be blown down. Mobile homes and poorly constructed signs are destroyed. Low-lying escape routes are cut off by rising water 3-5 hours before arrival of the hurricane. Flooding near the coast destroys smaller structures with larger structures damaged by battering from floating debris. Terrain lower than 5 feet above sea level may be flooded inland 8 miles or more. Evacuation of low-lying residences will be required. Category Four Hurricane: Winds 131-155 mph. Storm surge 13-18 feet above normal. More extensive building damage with some complete roof structure failures on small residences will occur. Shrubs, trees, and all signs are blown down. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Low-lying escape routes will cut off by rising water 3-5 hours before arrival of the hurricane. Major damage will occur to lower floors of structures near the shore. Terrain lower than 10 feet above sea level will be flooded requiring massive evacuation of residential areas as far inland as 6 miles. Category Five Hurricane: Winds greater than 155 mph. Storm surge will generally be greater than 18 feet. Complete roof failure on many residences and industrial buildings. Some complete building failures. All shrubs, trees, and signs will be blown down. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Severe and extensive window and door damage. Low-lying escape routes will be cut off by rising water 3-5 hours before arrival of the hurricane. Major damage to lower floors of all structures located less than 15 feet above sea level and within 500 yards of the shoreline. Massive evacuation of residential areas on low ground within 5-10 miles of the shoreline required. The Beaufort Wind Scale: Wind Force – Knots to Miles Per Hour The Beaufort Winds Scale is a tool used by meteorologists to measure the effects of winds. The wind speeds below show winds in MPH and conditions observed at those speeds. PAGE 32

MAY 29, 2008

0 - Calm smoke rises vertically 1 - 4 Light air direction of wind shown by smoke but not by wind vanes 4 - 7 Light breeze wind felt on face; leaves rustle; ordinary wind vane moved by wind 8 - 12 Gentle breeze leaves and small twigs in constant motion; wind extends light flag 13 - 18 Moderate breeze raises dust and loose paper; small branches are moved 19 - 24 Fresh breeze small trees in leaf begin to sway; crested wavelets form on inland water 25 - 31 Strong breeze large branches in motion; telephone wires whistle; umbrellas used with difficulty 32 - 38 Moderate gale whole trees in motion; inconvenience in walking against wind 39 - 46 Fresh gale breaks twigs off trees; generally impedes progress 47 - 54 Strong gale slight structural damage occurs; chimney pots and slates removed 55 - 63 Whole gale trees uprooted; considerable structural damage occurs 64 - 72 Storm very rarely experienced; accompanied by widespread damage 73+ Hurricane devastation occurs Since tropical storm and hurricane winds strengths are often referred to in

knots, the following Conversion table for knots to miles per hour will aid in understanding the severity of storm winds. Knots to Miles Per Hour Winds 5 Knots = 5.8 MPH 10 Knots = 11.5 MPH 15 Knots = 17.3 MPH 20 Knots = 23.0 MPH 25 Knots = 28.8 MPH 30 Knots = 34.6 MPH 35 Knots = 40.3 MPH 40 Knots = 46.1 MPH 45 Knots = 51.8 MPH 50 Knots = 57.6 MPH 55 Knots = 63.4 MPH 60 Knots = 69.1 MPH 65 Knots = 74.9 MPH 70 Knots = 80.6 MPH 75 Knots = 86.4 MPH 80 Knots = 92.2 MPH 85 Knots = 97.9 MPH 90 Knots = 103.7 MPH 95 Knots = 109.4 MPH 100 Knots = 115.2 MPH 105 Knots = 121.0 MPH 110 Knots = 126.7 MPH 115 Knots = 132.5 MPH 120 Knots = 138.2 MPH 125 Knots = 144.0 MPH 130 Knots = 149.8 MPH 135 Knots = 155.5 MPH 140 Knots = 161.3 MPH 145 Knots = 167.0 MPH 150 Knots = 172.8 MPH

The Millibar Factor — Reading the “mb” Measured in inches and millibars (mb), barometric pressure is key to understanding hurricane forecasts. At sea level during calm weather, the normal barometric pressure is roughly 30.00 inches, or about 1,000 millibars. The barometric pressure reading in the eye of a hurricane drops as the storm intensifies. Extremely powerful hurricanes have very low barometric pressure readings in their centers. For example, in October 2005 Hurricane Wilma’s barometric pressure dropped to 26.04 inches, or 882 millibars—the lowest ever recorded for a hurricane in the Atlantic Ocean. A falling barometric pressure in a hurricane of any category is always a cause for concern. Barometric pressure readings are part of the Saffir-Simpson scale and yet are routinely left off published charts of the scale. Note that the stronger the storm, the lower the barometric pressure. Category One Hurricane — Barometric pressure: No lower than 28.94 inches, or 980 millibars (mb). Category Two Hurricane — Barometric pressure: 28.50 to 28.92 inches, or 965 to 979 mb. Category Three Hurricane — Barometric pressure: 27.91 to 28.47

inches, or 945 to 964 mb. Category Four Hurricane — Barometric pressure: 27.17 to 27.88 inches, or 920 to 944 mb. Category Five Hurricane — Barometric pressure: Lower than 27.17 inches, or 920 mb. The central pressure in Hurricane Katrina fell to 902 mb on August 28. This pressure was (at the time) the fourth lowest on record in the Atlantic basin, behind in Gilbert (1988) with 888 mb. The Labor Day Hurricane of 1935 registered a low pressure of 892 mb, and Hurricane Allen registered 899 mb in 1980. However, it has since fallen to sixth lowest, following an observation of 897 mb in Hurricane Rita (September 2005) and the new record of 882 mb for Hurricane Wilma in October 2005.

Tornadoes – Using the Power of Hurricanes Tornadoes can form when hurricanes make landfall – even thousands of miles away — when their winds at ground level slow down while the winds near the top keep their momentum. Recent data show this tendency seems to have increased. Residents of hurricane-prone areas should always prepare for the eventuality of tornadoes.

Randy J. Fuerst, State Farm Insurance Company, Stockwell Sievert Law Firm, Chozen Business Services Inc., Southwest Beverage Company, Bolton Ford, Dr. and Mrs. A.T. Ordinario Jr., The Stream Family, Sweets and Treats, Lake Charles Pre-Sort, Paradise Florist, Knight Media Inc., Louisiana Lottery, Shaw Group, Frame House & Gallery and The Harlequin.

MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 33

‘SIMPLE STEPS’

Disaster Preparedness Suggested by LSU

Thank

GAP Broadcasting would like to

Southwest Louisiana For Voting the

GATOR BREAKFAST BUNCH Best Local Music Radio DJ and

DALE MANN

Best Local Talk Radio Personality

PAGE 34

MAY 29, 2008

As hurricane season approaches, it’s a good time to take a few simple steps to protect your home and family in case a storm strikes, according to LSU AgCenter disaster preparedness specialist Pat Skinner. “Many of the precautions you can take are simple things to do,” Skinner said. “They’re things you can do now to reduce damage if a storm comes your way.” Among her recommendations for preventive actions you can take now are: • Trimming dead wood and limbs out of trees. • Staking young trees so they’ll survive high winds. • Making a list of things in the yard that need to be brought inside or tied down if a hurricane comes your way. • Repairing termite damage that might make your home more vulnerable to wind. • Moving your family photos and important household documents to upper shelves, where shallow flooding

would not affect them. The same thing is true for household chemicals. Skinner says detailed information is available through the LSU AgCenter’s Web site at www.lsuagcenter.com/hurricanes. Among the resources is “There’s a Hurricane Forming,” a helpful publication that includes a hurricane tracking chart and checklists to help you make lastminute decisions about what to take with you if you evacuate, supplies you need to have on hand, preparations you can make if a storm is approaching and much more. Hurricane and flood precautions, however, aren’t only a matter of protecting property, the LSU AgCenter expert points out. You also need such things as a plan to keep in touch with family and friends should evacuation be necessary. “Whether it’s for a hurricane or in response to a terrorist threat or incident, it’s very possible that members of your family will be caught going in different directions and unable to

communicate - even with cell phones,” Skinner explained. “When that happens, you’d like to be able to find one another – sooner, rather than later,” the disaster expert said, adding that the best way to locate one another is to decide in advance that everyone will “report in” to someone outside the disaster area, such as an uncle in Oklahoma or a close friend in Ohio. “Decide now who the contact person will be, and give everyone the phone number,” Skinner emphasized. “Be sure every member of your family has the emergency contact information with them at all times, and don’t forget to send copies to your child care center or school.” For additional information about disaster preparedness, contact an extension agent in your parish LSU AgCenter office.

GRANTS AWARDED

for Storm Stress Recovery Two Southwest Louisiana programs have received grants for the emotional health and wellness from the Louisiana Family Recovery Corps and the American Red Cross. Samaritan Counseling Center of Imperial Calcasieu, will receive funds for mental health forums, educational support and training for first responders and clergy in the Lake Charles area. The Greater St. Mary Community Development Foundation, will also receive grant funds for faith and community outreach in the Lake Charles area. The Louisiana Family Recovery Corps, in partnership with the American Red Cross Hurricane Recovery Program (HRP), announced 21 new grants for emotional health and community wellness programs to assist hurricane-impacted individuals and families in communities all across Louisiana. The $3.2 million Building Community Resilience Program was launched last fall and provides funds for activities designed to address the recovery needs of specific communities to reduce the Katrina- and Rita-related depression and post-traumatic stress many face. Organizations have been funded to provide wellness programming in Lake Charles, Alexandria, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Monroe, New Orleans and Shreveport. “The emotional and mental toll of Katrina and Rita is still an everyday struggle for many families, much as what was experienced in the September 11 terrorist attacks according to many studies,” said Raymond A. Jetson, chief executive officer of the Recovery Corps. “These lingering anxieties and traumas must continue to be addressed head-on. Minimizing and eliminating these barriers are vital to the long-term recovery of our communities.” For many survivors, the recovery has resulted in frustration, mental distress and overwhelming emotional obstacles preventing survivors from joining communities and social settings. Other Building Community Resilience programs and organizations throughout the state that have been funded include: • Mental Health America Louisiana, an initiative to promote pos-

itive self-image and self-esteem among female children and adolescents in multiple parishes, including the Monroe and Lafayette areas; • Bringing Hope to the Community, psycho-educational classes for trauma victims including more than 150 children in rural areas across the state; • Vietnamese Initiatives in Economic Training (VIET), educational and economic training for Vietnamese children to adjust to post-Katrina life; • Hope Worldwide; community arts and community integration activities to provide educational recreation and to promote literacy; • New Life Counseling and Health Centers, LLC, after school programming services aimed at counseling, community integration, conflict resolution, substance abuse, trauma recovery, and seminars for families in the Shreveport area; • Second Chance Marriage and Family Services, family and marriage counseling services including parenting and life skills for couples adjusting to post-Katrina life; • YOUTHanasia, cultural arts and after-school programs for at-risk youth to encourage positive self expression and lessen anxiety through spoken word poetry, music, art, dance, and educational tutoring; • Institute of Women and Ethnic Studies, wellness workshops to prepare human service professionals residing in hurricane impacted areas to self identify and screen for disaster related mental distress and disorders, and how to make appropriate referrals to mental health care; • Louisiana Association for the Education of Homeless Children (LAEHCY), advocacy and community integration services for homeless, hurricane impacted children addressing psychological and safety needs; • Children’s Hospital Family Advocacy, Care and Educational Services, support for HIV positive children including exercise and therapy. Programs are set to continue through December 2008. For more information on the American Red Cross Hurricane Recovery Program, contact Jeanne Ellinport at 202/3034585. For more information about the Building Community Resilience grant program or the Recovery Corps, contact J.T. Lane at 225/381-3915.

Another Success Story... I have advertised with The Times of Southwest Louisiana for over ten years. Having a degree in advertising, I know The Times definitely reaches my target audience and the quality of the paper is impeccable. — Susie Book, Owner, Expressions

MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 35

FEMA AWARDS

Louisiana $96.5 Million To Elevate Homes Louisiana will undertake the largest single home elevation project in American history. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved the use of more than $96.5 million in Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding to elevate nearly 3,000 homes devastated by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. “This unique grant making elevation funds available under the guidance of two programs represents successful collaboration with state and federal agencies to help homeowners rebuild stronger in communities across Louisiana,” said FEMA’s acting Associate Deputy Administrator for

PAGE 36

MAY 29, 2008

Gulf Coast Recovery Jim Stark. “In many cases, these grants will help those who already have taken the initiative to start rebuilding their homes out of harm’s way by elevating the structure.” This grant is one of the largest, single HMGP project obligations and is the first “batch” of grants in a series that will be made available to the state. The goal of this mitigation funding is to elevate or reconstruct more than 20,000 flood-prone structures throughout Louisiana. OCD has requested $750 million in federal funds to elevate these homes. “We are embarking on the single largest elevation program in history

and we are committed to working closely with our state and federal partners to ensure homeowners across south Louisiana have the opportunity to rebuild their homes safer, stronger and smarter,” said LRA and OCD Executive Director Paul Rainwater. “By providing this additional elevation money to homeowners, we are able to help alleviate the financial burden associated with mitigation and homeowners are in turn able to protect their homes from future storms.” The HMGP funding will work in tandem with Louisiana’s Road Home program. Applicants of the Road Home program whose actual elevation costs exceed the elevation funding they received under the Road Home may be eligible for additional funds. The state Hazard Mitigation program will award a maximum of $30,000 in HMGP funds to eligible applicants to elevate their homes to comply with local floodplain ordinances or Advisory Base Flood Elevation, whichever is higher. This grant is directed towards those homeowners who are not already participating in the HMGP through their parish. “This grant is the result of the outstanding cooperation between the mitigation staffs at GOHSEP and FEMA,” said State Hazard Mitigation Officer

Casey Levy. “We are now able to expand the scope of the HMGP after Katrina and Rita to reach thousands of Louisiana’s citizens and assist them in the rebuilding of their homes.” The $96 million in HMGP funds obligated to the state, the first of several batches of funding Louisiana will apply for from FEMA, will support the elevation of almost 3,000 homes. The state identifies properties for the program and FEMA approves them, clearing the way for homeowners to access the money when the program begins reimbursing homeowners later this year. The HMGP award also includes $100,000 allocated to OCD for informing and educating homeowners on the various requirements for eligibility in the program. Repairs have already begun or have been completed on a majority of the houses that will receive funding from the first batch of grants. FEMA funding for work already in progress, a change from business as usual, is made possible through a limited exception for retroactive approvals that FEMA requested and was granted by the Office of Management and Budget as a result of the unique circumstances in Louisiana after hurricanes Katrina and Rita. To participate in the program, homeowners must return letters mailed from the Road Home program indicating that they wish to elevate their homes through the state HMGP program. To date, more than 100,000 Road Home eligible recipients have received letters announcing that funds are available to assist them with the cost of elevating their homes and more than 12,000 homeowners have indicated their interest in the program. The state expects to begin giving funds to homeowners in early fall of 2008. The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides grants to states and local governments to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures after a major disaster declaration, to reduce the loss of life and property due to natural disasters and to enable mitigation measures to be implemented during the immediate recovery from a disaster. The state of Louisiana will issue a request for proposals to hire a contractor to manage Louisiana’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Elevation and Pilot Reconstruction Projects.

JUDI EVANS of "Days of our Lives" Receives Key To The City of Sulphur

Emmy winning actress and 2008 nominee, Judi Evans of NBC’s “Days of our Lives” recently received a Key to the City of Sulphur for her volunteer efforts during Hurricanes Rita and Katrina. In 2005, Judi, along with fellow actor Kyle Lowder (formerly of “Days of our Lives” now CBS’s “The Bold & The Beautiful”) were in Sulphur during the Hurricane Rita evacuation. They were initially here lending a hand at the Lake Charles Civic Centre with refugees from Hurricane Katrina. While here on their mission, they were stranded and eventually helped several Sulphur families evacuate to the Monroe area in September 2005. After Hurricane Rita struck Southwest Louisiana, Judi was very vocal in several national TV appearances of people not forgetting the citizens of Sulphur, Lake Charles, Calcasieu and Cameron Parishes who were hard hit the most. “I am so honored to receive the Key to the City of Sulphur, I LOVE the folks there and I feel special for this recognition - I will have this (key) with me when I walk that Emmy red carpet in June as my good luck charm and to remind people and the media that hurricane season is here!” explains Evans. Judi is nominated this year for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her dual roles as Adrienne Kiriakis and Bonnie Lockhart on NBC’s “Days of our Lives.” She first made her TV debut in 1983 as Beth Raines on CBS’s “Guiding Light” from 1983-1986. She then went on to NBC to originate the role of Adrienne Kiriakis from 1986 - 1991. In 1991 she joined the cast of NBC’s “Another World” playing Paulina Cory until the shows cancellation in 1999. Judi was lured back to “Days of our Lives” in 2003 to play a vastly different role, that of brassy and trashy Bonnie Lockhart. She played that role until 2007, then later that same year she returned to the role she originated of Adrienne Kiriakis on “Days of our Lives” until early in 2008. In between soaps she portrayed Patsy Ramsey in the FOX TV movie “Getting Away With Murder: The JonBenet Ramsey Mystery”. Judi won her first Emmy in 1984 at the age of 19 for her portrayal of Beth Raines on “Guiding Light.” Ms. Evans is represented by Sulphur native, Howie Simon. The Daytime Emmys will air Live on ABC - June 20th.

Stuttering Didn’t Silence His Story. 20/20’s John Stossel knows news. He also knows what it’s like to deal with a stuttering problem. John still struggles with stuttering yet has become one of the most successful reporters in broadcast journalism today.

For more information on what you can do about stuttering, write or call us toll-free. THE

STUTTERING FOUNDATION

check us out online:

A Nonprofit Organization Since 1947—Helping Those Who Stutter

1-800-992-9392

www.timessw.com

www.stutteringhelp.org

3100 Walnut Grove Road, Suite 603 • P.O. Box 11749 • Memphis, TN 38111-0749

Direct from Lake Charles to anywhere.

Call 800-326-4427 for a quote on YOUR FLIGHT PLAN!!!

The Eclipse 500 can climb as high as 41,000 ft and cruises at 425 mph. This ideal charter jet provides a smooth and quiet travel experience. Call us to compare prices with any other charter aircraft, and you will discover the cost-savings achieved by selecting the Eclipse 500, operated by Baton Rouge Air Charter & Management, Inc.

Aircraft operated by Baton Rouge Air Charter & Management, Inc., FAA Part 135 Certificate Number GOWA407E 4490 Blanche Noyes Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70807 • 1-800-326-4427 • www.batonrougeaircharter.com MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 37

HUMANE SOCIETY Helps You Prepare Pets for Hurricane Season Should an evacuation order be issued, you can take your pets with you, because of new laws enacted in the wake of the human and pet tragedies caused by Hurricane Katrina. Are you prepared to evacuate your companion animals or safeguard your farm animals? Find out by answering these questions: It’s not hard to imagine this scenario: A hurricane is quickly approaching, and the order comes — and you have to evacuate now. If You Have Pets: 1) Can you gather all your pets and put them into pet carriers in time? Do you have carriers for all your pets? 2) Are all your pets wearing collars and ID tags with their name, your name, your telephone number, and an emergency telephone number?

3) If your cat escapes the cat carrier and becomes lost, could you provide a photograph? 4) Do you know where you can go with your pets in the event of an emergency evacuation? Do you know of any animal-friendly motels nearby? Do you know where your local emergency animal shelter is located? 5) Do you have your veterinarian’s telephone number on your list of emergency numbers in case your dog or cat becomes ill? 6) Do you have a contingency plan to evacuate your pets if something happens when you are at work? 7) Where is your pet’s disaster evacuation emergency “go kit”? If You Have Horses 1) Can you have your horses loaded on the trailer ready to leave in time? Will your horse trailer hold all

your horses? Have you recently practiced trailering up your horse? 2) Is your horse wearing a halter with her name, your name, your telephone number, and an emergency telephone number on it? 3) Do you know where you can go with your horses in the event of an emergency evacuation? Do you know where your local emergency equine shelter is located? 4) Do you have your horses’ Coggins tests in your emergency packet to present to the officer at the emergency shelter? 5) When you arrive at the emergency shelter to pick up your horse after several days, could you provide identification photos and descriptions from your emergency packet to prove ownership?

Summer Art Camp

Starts 1st week of June – 1st week of August Every Monday starts a New Camp

Morning Camp 10am–12pm • Ages 5 and up $100 a week plus tax Projects – 10” Vase or Lamp, Ice Cream Dish, 12x12 Tile with Cork Board Center and Beaded Handle and More

Afternoon Camp 1:30pm–3:30pm • Ages 8 and up $130 a week plus tax Projects – Flower Pot Fountain or Birdfeeder, Ice Cream Dish, Chalkboard with Beaded Handle and More

ICE CREAM PARTY ON FRIDAY! Limited Seating! Call today to reserve your seat or reserve a week!

Call Dina Cuccio • 479-1434 • 3415 Louisiana Ave.

A Lake Charles Tradition Since 1962 1025 Ryan St. • 433-3637 www.navarras.com

PAGE 38

MAY 29, 2008

If You Have Farm Animals 1) Can you evacuate your animals in time? Do you have a way to transport your animals? 2) Have you mapped out an evacuation route? 3) Do you have a safe place to shelter your animals on your property if you cannot evacuate them? 4) Do you have materials on hand to reinforce your barn and outbuildings? 5) Do you have a backup plan for feeding and watering your animals should your power supply be cut off?

If you answered â&#x20AC;&#x153;noâ&#x20AC;? to any of these questions, go to www.humanesociety.org. You can download brochures to help you prepare your companion animals and livestock in the event of a hurricane. To contact the Humane Society of Louisiana, Southwest Louisiana Chapter, visit their website at www.gohumane.com . Email: contact@gohumane.com or call Beth Zilbert at 513-2857. Or mail them at: Humane Society of Louisiana, Southwest Louisiana Chapter, P.O. Box 19157, Lake Charles, LA 70616.

The Times of SWLA is distributed throughout our region and via the world wide web. Call Andy, Patricia or Nathan at 337-439-0995 and let them show you how to grow your business today.

MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 39

t i m e s

picks the best in lake area entertainment

REMEMBER THE PAIN IN YOUR NECK? THURSDAY, MAY 29 — Christus St. Patrick Hospital will be hosting a free educational seminar on this topic on Thursday, May 29, at 6 p.m., at Reeves Uptown, 1639 Ryan Street. Local Neurosurgeon, Erich Wolf, M.D., will provide information on the most common causes of back and neck pain, as well as the latest treatment options available. Back and neck problems are two of the most common health problems in the United States. Injury, aging, improper body mechanics, and normal wear and tear can all injure the spine. Damage to any part of your neck and back, especially pressure on your nerves, can cause pain and other symptoms. For more information, or to register, call Christus St. Patrick Hospital at (337) 491-7577. Reservations are requested. “TRANSPARENCY IN GOVERNMENT” LUNCHEON BY THE LWV, MAY 30 — The League of Women Voters will present “Transparency in Government” noon, Friday, May 30, at Reeves Uptown Catering, 1639 Ryan Street. League member and Sulphur City Councilman Nancy Tower will be the featured speaker. The League of Women Voters believes that transparency in government together with an “informed citizenry” is the key to good government. Registration and networking will take place just prior to the meeting. Membership applications are available at the registration desk or at www.lwv-lc.org The public is invited and encouraged to attend. The cost is $13 for members, $15 for non-members. To insure seating, please make your reservation no later than 2 p.m. Thursday, May 29, by emailing Alfred Doucette, Jr. at douce@bellsouth.net or calling 474.1864. LOUISIANA OPEN BOWLING TOURNAMENT MAY 31 THRU JUNE — The bowling lanes at SportsCenter USA and Petro Bowl will be lined with bowlers this summer as the Louisiana State Bowling Association brings a series of bowling competitions to town. Tournaments, set for the last weekend of May and all four weekends in June are expected to attract at least 5,000 men and women bowlers to the area. With the large booking of hotel rooms associated with the tournaments, local restaurants and attractions can expect an influx of visitors. “These types of sporting events provide a huge boost to the Calcasieu Parish economy,” said Tico Soto, director of sales for the Southwest Louisiana/Lake Charles Convention and Visitors Bureau. “We all benefit when groups like the Louisiana State Tournament bring their events to town. New money and tax dollars are generated as the visitors stay in our hotels, eat in our restaurants and visit or local attractions.” The CVB is asking all local businesses with a marquee in front of their location to welcome this group. For more information, contact the CVB at 337-436-9588 or visit www.visitlakecharles.org. GATES HONORED IN LPB RE-BROADCAST, JUNE 4 — Louisiana Public Broadcasting will re-broadcast statewide “An American Requiem” by Keith Gates on June 4. It will be shown at 10:30 pm on LPB-HD. “An American Requiem” was written by the late composer Gates in memory of the victims of the Sept. 11 attacks. LPB dedicated the program to Gates, who was a music professor at McNeese State University. LPB filmed the performance of the piece during a McNeese Banners Series program in March 2007. The Requiem was performed by the McNeese Wind Symphony and the McNeese Chamber Singers. The solo parts were sung by the Voices of London through a grant from the Southern Arts Federation. The half-hour television show includes excerpts from the music, an interview with Gates and narration by Lake Charles Mayor Randy Roach. It will also include footage of the Sept. 11 attacks, courtesy of ABC News, Good Morning America. The program will close with a rendition of “America the Beautiful,” performed by the McNeese Chamber Singers and Wind Symphony, with background images by Tika Laudun, senior producer at LPB.

PAGE 40

MAY 29, 2008

SHOOTOUT AT CALCASIEU POINT LANDING! JUNE 7 — The Lake Charles Chapter of the Coastal Conservation Association of Louisiana in cooperation with CITGO will host the 23rd Annual Trout ShootOut on Saturday, June 7, at Calcasieu Point Landing in Lake Charles. The shootout entry fee is $25 with all participants required to be members in good standing with CCA. Fishing times last from 5:30 am – 3:00 pm. Weigh in starts at 9:00 am. All participants must weigh in or be in line to weigh their fish in by 3:00 p.m. The catch-and-release format tournament encourages all anglers to weigh live trout at the official scale and then return the fish to water. All fish weighed alive will receive an 8oz. bonus to their official weight. The one-day tournament boasts at $5,000 cash grand prize for the largest trout caught in the adult division. The youth division holds a $2,000 educational IRA as its purse for the largest trout. There are 10 places awarded in the adult division and 25 awarded in the youth division. Prizes will be drawn by the hour. This year’s shootout is also sponsored by West Marine, Lake Charles Tackle, Lake Charles Pilots, Rejuvenade, Gulf Coast Tackle, T-Shirt Wearhouse and Aquarium of the Americas. Tickets are available at Lake Charles Tackle, Cajun Fast Mart, Gulf Coast Tackle, Cormie’s Grocery, West Marine and Calcasieu Point Landing. For more information about the Lake Charles CCA/CITGO Trout Shootout, call Lake Charles CCA Chapter president Chas Drost at 337-540-0724 or Bryan Williams at 337-794-2659. LOCK UP GRANDMA, TOM JONES AT L’AUBERGE! JUNE 27 & 28 — Tom Jones will perform in the L’Auberge Event Center at 8:30 p.m. on Friday, June 27 and Saturday, June 28; doors open one hour before the show. However, tickets are sold out. For more information log on to www.ldlcasino.com. Tom Jones’ 1965 single “It’s Not Unusual” shot to #1 and made him a player in the swinging music scene of the 1960s. The same year he scored hits with the movie themes to What’s New, Pussycat? and the James Bond film Thunderball. In 1988 Tom Jones Jones reinvented himself, joining the cutting-edge band Art of Noise to remake the Prince hit “Kiss” into a success of his own. In 2005, Jones celebrated 40 years in show business and continues to tour actively for a dedicated fan base. IMPROVE READING SKILLS, MCNEESE SUMMER READING CLINIC, JUNE 9 – JULY 3 — Spots are still available for the McNeese State University Summer Reading Clinic scheduled Mondays through Thursdays, June 9-July 3, for students entering grades 1-6. Two sessions will be offered. The morning session will run 9-11:30 a.m. while the afternoon session will be held 1-3:30 p.m. The fee is $175, which includes a deposit of $25 with the completed application. For more information or to request an application, call the McNeese Department Of Teacher Education at (337) 475-5404. FREE MULLIGAN FOR KNICKERS AND KILTS, CELTIC GOLF CLASSIC, JUNE 23 — The inaugural 2008 Celtic Classic golf tournament will be held Monday, June 23, at the Graywood Golf Course. Entry fee for the best ball format is $400 per team or $110 per individual and includes golf cart and green fees, complimentary use of the driving range, lunch, a gift bag and awards ceremony. Registration and breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m.,

with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. after the bagpipers pipe the greens. The lunch and awards ceremony is noon. All proceeds will benefit the mission of the Celtic Nations Heritage Festival of Louisiana. “Since golf originated in Scotland, one of the eight Celtic nations, it is only natural that we hold a golf tournament to help promote the Celtic Nations Heritage Festival,” said festival president Tod Ardoin. “Like the festival, we anticipate this tournament will grow exponentially in the coming years.” One unique feature of the tournament is that any player who plays in a kilt, Plus Fours or knickers will receive a free mulligan. Corporate sponsorship levels ranging from $3,000 for title sponsorship to $200 for hole sponsorships are available. Checks should be made out to the Celtic Nations Heritage Foundation and mailed to Celtic Classic, c/o Imperial Pageant Gallery/Mr. Formal, 2603 Ryan St., Lake Charles, LA 70601. For more information call 439-4888. EDUCATOR LITERACY CONFERENCE SLATED FOR JULY 17 & 18 — Registration is underway for the second annual literacy conference for PK12 educators July 17-18 sponsored by the McNeese State University Burton College of Education. This year’s theme is “Reading, Writing and Technology: Pathways to Differentiated Instruction.” Participants will learn and share ideas about the influence of reading, writing and technology in PK-12 literacy. Breakout sessions and keynote addresses will present strategies and content for PK-12 educators to improve student literacy in their classrooms. June 30 is the registration deadline. Registration is $75 a person if received by June 30 and $100 a person if received July 1-11. Registration must be completed in advance of the conference as there is no on-site registration available. Registration information and other conference details are available online at http://literacy.mcneese.edu. 2008 SUMMER STARZ SERIES STARTS IN JULY — The Children’s Theatre Company annual Summer Starz Series theatre workshops are designed to introduce newcomers to the world of theatre and challenge young veterans to perfect advanced theatrical concepts and production techniques. All workshops culminate in performance demonstrations. The three workshop sessions offered are:

Wild Things! July 9 – 11, 10 to 11:15 a.m. 5-8 Years Old $65 (Includes T-shirt). Introduces children to theatre through the use of creative drama, theatre games, creative movement, stage makeup and musical theatre. A demonstration follows the last day of the workshop. Acting For The Camera! July 9 – 11, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. 8-18 Years old $35 (Includes T-shirt). Covers auditioning for commercials, reading commercial scripts, exploring different commercial techniques, and beginning improvisational skills. Information and samples are shared on doing resumes, head shots and finding the best agent or manager. Students participate with hands-on camera experience. Midsummer Fun! July 21 – 25, 5-18 Years Old $85 (Includes T-shirt). 5-8 Year olds 10 to 11:15 a.m.; 918 Year Olds 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Learn the language, ideas and adventures of Shakespeare. Students perform excerpts from some of William Shakespeare’s most popular plays while experiencing the technical aspects of lighting, set designs and creating costumes. The workshop concludes with a free public performance starring all of the students. Kidz In Showbiz! August 4 – 8, 5-18 Years Old $85 (Includes T-shirt). 5-8 Year olds 10 to 11:15 a.m.; 9-18 Year Olds 10 a.m. to 12 Noon. Students learn musical theatre techniques by acting, singing and dancing to songs from Broadway shows. The final class features the students in a performance demonstration highlighting musical theatre skills learned. Technical Theatre Workshop! August 4 – 8, $85 (Includes T-shirt) 12-20 Year olds 10 a.m. to 12 Noon. Discover the art created behind-the-scenes. An intriguing backstage tour is combined with handson experiences in lights, sets, costumes and more. All workshops have limited enrollment and are held at Central School of the Arts & Humanities Center (809 Kirby Street). For registration information, contact the theatre at 337-433-7323 or visit the website at www.childrenstheatre.cc.

Thank You SWLA

for voting us Best Mini Storage!

Largest Selection of DVD’s, Lingerie and Adult Novelties In Southwest Louisiana!

All Asian DVD's - Buy 2 Get 1 FREE! www.neighborhoodministorage.com

700 E. Prien Lake Road • 337-478-3566 Between Common and Kirkman

474-8800 210 W. Sale Rd. Lake Charles

• Regular & Climate Controlled Storage • 24 Hour Access • UPS & Fed Ex Package Shipping • U-Haul Truck & Trailer Rentals • Boxes & Packing Materials

626-0000 850 S. Post Oak Rd. Sulphur

855-3000 716 Sam Houston Jones Pkwy., Moss Bluff

MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 41

"Game Theory" — I think I see a little pattern.

Last Issue’s Answers

10 11 12 13 18

Now Available

ALL NATURAL HEALTH PATCHES • DETOX your body while you sleep • BLOCK Fat & Carb Absorption • HOODIA - Topical Weight Loss Patch • STOP SMOKING - Nicotine Free & Long Lasting • SLEEP - Natural Alternative to Prescription Drugs

Your Choice - One Month Supply

29.95

Pat Landreneau, Pharmacist

NUTRITION CENTER Lake Charles & Jennings

479-0480 • 230-3598 PAGE 42

MAY 29, 2008

ACROSS 1 Terrible 6 Bald comic strip character 11 Peace, in Paraguay 14 Quit hogging 15 Hirsch of "Speed Racer" 16 NYC's Fifth, for one 17 Earn money, in the game Operation 19 Election contender, for short 20 100% 21 Folk musician Buffy ___-Marie 22 Hired helper 23 Hit the highest point 25 Scott who was "46... and Pregnant" 26 Actress Swinton in the "Chronicles of Narnia" series 27 Lime coat 29 Artificial, like pearls 31 Barkley or Bronson 34 Yukon XL manufacturer 35 Move like a bobblehead doll 38 With 39-across, what's revealed on the back of Trivial Pursuit cards 39 See 38-across 41 Ready-go link 42 Rock guitarist Steve 43 It can be made with sugar cane or corn 44 Feudal worker

45 ___ about (roughly) 46 History Channel show that follows loggers in the Pacific Northwest 49 Worry your fool head off 52 Lasso material 55 Primary 56 Character introduced in the cartoon short "Frog Baseball" 58 Hang (behind) 59 Road trip stopover 60 Board game whose ads featured the line "Pretty sneaky, sis" 62 Pistol 63 Cineplex ___ (former movie theater chain) 64 Two under par hole 65 Clearasil competitor 66 Gull relatives 67 Ad words DOWN 1 Performance rights org. 2 Intact 3 Completely lose it 4 It starts with http 5 Stuff at the bottom of a wine barrel 6 Cholesterol-reducing drug 7 "Legend of a Cowgirl" singer Coppola 8 What Blarney Stone kissers get 9 Elation

22 24 26 28 30 31 32 33 35 36 37 40 44 46 47 48 50 51 53 54 56 57 60 61

"___-haw!" Of Benedict XVI, for example Stay away from Princess rescued by Link Item on a San Francisco tchotchke Cake recipe word Actress Deborah of "The King and I" Arizona's second-largest city Number of points on the Canadian flag's maple leaf ___ fluid Syringe measurements: abbr. Tool that breaks up ground Starch, as a laundry agent Specialty that involves the brain and spinal cord Mining find Internet connection that postdated dial-up "Dial ___ Watkins" (2004 album by Welsh bluesman Geraint Watkins) Obama or Clinton: abbr. Pal, in Panama Palindromic anti-anxiety drug Like some mouthwash Kept going, like a grammatically incorrect sentence Category that excludes 1 St. ___ Girl (beer brand) Snowy heron relative Foretell "Keep this word in," to a proofreader Army bed Remote

Don’t Mess With My Tutu

ay 13 at Pujo Street Café, The Children’s Theatre Company celebrated another successful season by recognizing the outstanding accomplishments of its actors at their annual Your Choice Awards. Each spring, the recipients of the CTC Your Choice Awards are selected by audience patrons’ ballots and the staff of CTC, which has got to be a rough decision, considering all the young talents that shine at CTC’s performances. Special guest at the celebration was Dr. Dan Vidrine, art supervisor for the Calcasieu Parish School Board who was presented the 2008 CTC Hall Of Fame Award. This award is given to an individual for their relentless support of the educational programs at CTC. Receiving a 2008 Your Choice Award in the production of Disney’s Cinderella were: Best Actor, David Sonnier; Best Actress, Alex Landry and Savannah Sommers; Best Supporting Actor, Ian Gaughan; Best Supporting Actress, Brianne Guidry and Maegan McBroom; Best Costume Design, Kathyrn Matte; Best Hair Design, Alex Landry; Best Makeup Design, Alex Landry; Favorite Part of the Show, Brianne Guidry and Maegan McBroom as the Stepsisters; Outstanding Technical Qualities, Dennis Craft, Jr. for use of LED lighting; and Outstanding Merits of the Show, Drew Anderson and David Sonnier for choreography. Receiving a 2008 Your Choice Award in the production of James & The Giant Peach were: Best Actor, Jacob Weaver; Best Actress, Ciarra Woods and Kathyrn Matte; Best Supporting Actor, David Sonnier; Best Supporting Actress, Dylana Smith; Best Costume Design, David Sonnier; Best Hair Design, Ciarra Woods; Best Makeup Design, Ciarra Woods; Favorite Part of the Show, Kathyrn Matte as Aunt Sponge; Outstanding Technical Qualities, Dennis Craft for set design with lit boxes and fog effects; Outstanding Merits

Karen Cardonne and Bea Hebert were all smiles at DT@SD.

Heather and Kevin Davis at the first DT@SD May 16.

Dr. Dan Vidrine accepts an award as the 2008 CTC Hall of Fame from Kerry Oxley, Artistic Director of The Children’s Theatre Company during the “Your Choice Awards.”

Jake and Kam Jakubek and their son, Lukas, enjoyed the first DT@SD of the year.

MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 43

Spinners worked out at GiGi’s to raise funds for the Children’s Miracle Network.

of the Show, Christy Scothorn and Dylana Smith; Outstanding Performance in Creative Dramatics Isabelle Byrons Bartell , Joanna Daigle, Adyn Gaughan and Isabella Shearman. Receiving a 2008 Your Choice Award for Special Recognitions: David Sonnier for placing first with his Individual Event performance at the 2008 Louisiana Thespian Festival, and Westlake High Theatre senior students Michelle Breaux and Ashley Fontenot for each receiving a $4,000 theatre scholarship.

GiGi cheers on spinners at the CMN fundraiser.

Congratulations to all the actors and talented crew and volunteers of the CTC on another great season. They leave us anticipating next year! A very dedicated group of athletes turned out Saturday morning, May 17, for a Spin-A-Thon to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network. Sponsored by GiGi’s Fitness Center on Nelson Road, the group worked out under a tent to the lively music of “Arsnova.” GiGi and her staffed cheered on the spinners while CMN volunteers offered support and great snacks and refreshments during the

three-hour spinning marathon. Volunteering was a family affair for Spin-a-Thon. Ashley Wood and her grandmother, Poddy Champeaux, Mary Kathryn Clements and Jill Breaux were among the volunteers, along with Craig Jones and his grandmother, Craig Shaddock. Just watching all those hard-working spinners wore me out so I rambled across town to catch the “Business of Art” workshop at the Lake Charles Boston Academy of Learning. The Louisiana Small

Unique Gifts and Accessories 3204 Ryan St. • 337-433-6200

PAGE 44

MAY 29, 2008

Business Development Center at McNeese State University and the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana were presenting a day-long summit for entrepreneurs in cultural industries. “The Business of Art” was the first workshop of its kind in the state and hosted folks from Lafayette and Shreveport and all points between. According to Donna Little with the LSBDC and Irene Vandever with the A&HC, the workshop was designed for entrepreneurs in culinary arts, preservation construction, visual

Maggie Gauthreaux, Chef Joseph Heacook, and Crystal Anderson with the Sowela Culinary department, prepared luncheon for the “Business of Art.”

Craig Jones and his grandmother, Craig Shaddock helped out at the spinning marathon for CMN.

and performing arts, architecture and interior design, publishing, film and video, and web-related design. I met Jackie Dowden and Irene Vandever at the start of the luncheon break and Donna Little and Diane Rathbun welcomed participants. Maggie Gauthreaux, Chef Joseph Heacook, and Crystal Anderson with the Sowela Culinary department, prepared a fantastic buffet for the “Business of Art.” Participants enjoyed Chicken Cordon Bleu, smothered pork chops, green beans, potatoes, and two desserts – lemon cake and chocolate cake. During lunch, MSU Theatre students Leslie Robinson and Will Lormand performed dramatic monologues for the “Business of Art.” I visited with Debbie King, Gray Little, Jeanne Sievert, Veronica Allison, Donna Little and Diane

Rathbun. During the day-long workshop, entrepreneurs had the opportunity to share their experiences and attend two of four one-hour training sessions including, “Creative Marketing on a Shoestring,” “Recordkeeping: Don’t Underestimate the Power of the Manila Folder,” “501(c)3: Pros and Cons of Becoming a Non-Profit” and “Grants: The 5 Ws of Funding.” Presenters included Margaret Brinkhaus of LaCaboose B&B in Sunset; Suzanne Juneau, artist from Scott, Louisiana; and Diane Sclafani of Sclafani Cooking School in Metairie. Generous co-sponsors included the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, the Louisiana Cultural Economy Foundation, the Louisiana Crossroads Concert Series and the McNeese Banners Series.

Suzanne Juneau, Margaret Brukhaus, Emma Hughes, and Debbie Russell enjoyed the lunch at “Business of Art.”

I spotted Sally Cappel, Marilyn Cox, Veronica Allison, Gregory Collin, and Terry Backhaus. I chatted with Joni Berg, Patricia Prudhomme, Mary Richardson, Kay Andrews, Suzanne Juneau, Margaret Brukhaus, Emma Hughes, Debbie Reed, Susan Reed, Barbara Cahee and Debbie Russell. Artist Susan Vincent told me, “I got many inspirations today. It was great!” Lake Charles Civic Ballet honored the life and music of composer Keith Gates with their season finale, May 18 at the Rosa Hart Theatre. The long-standing relationship with Keith Gates and Lake Charles Civic Ballet produced many wonderful performances for Southwest Louisiana. Featured at the tribute included a new work, “Nocturne,” and popular favorite “Louisiana Saturday Night.” The work of Keith Gates is alive today as envisioned by his daughter, Elizabeth Gates, a former LCCB company member and current LCCB instructor. Ms. Gates presented a new work, “Nocturne,” choreographed to music written by her father. The exciting tribute featured

Chris Miller & Bayou Roots on stage live for the production of the LCCB classic, “Louisiana Saturday Night,” one of the Shadow’s favorite ballets! Originally choreographed by artistic director Lady Leah Lafargue Hathway, the current production is directed by Lady Holly Hathaway Kaough, associate director of LCCB. The band opened with ‘Jambalaya,’ setting the tone for the Cajun ballet. The entire cast joined in the fun with exciting, high energy music and fiddle playing action. ‘Jolie Blonde’, ‘Diggy, Diggy, Lo’, ‘Louisiana Saturday Night’ and many traditional Cajun songs beautifully merged with the world of classical ballet to wrap up the evening tribute. ‘Don’t Mess With My Tutu’, the most delightful bit of ballet the Shadow has ever seen, is my favorite moment. “Louisiana Saturday Night,” proves that classical ballet does not always have to look ‘classical’, but can be fun, wild and perfectly (and playfully) blended with our Southwest Louisiana culture! Other performances included Concertino for Flute and Wind Ensemble, composed by Keith Gates

Debbie Reed, Susan Reed and Barbara Cahee enjoyed the “Business of Art.”

MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 45

PHASE I SOON TO BE COMPLETED. RESERVE YOUR LOT TODAY!

Jackie Dowden and Irene Vandever welcomed folks to the “Business of Art” workshop at LC-B.

Providence is located at the south end of Pecan Acres Drive off of Country Club Road.

Office: (337) 474-9891 • Fax: (337) 474-9876 300 E. McNeese St. Suite 1-A, Lake Charles, LA 70605 www.ProvidenceofLakeCharles.com

in 1996. It has been performed by the United States Air Force Heritage of America Band. Mr. Gates composed the music for the LCCB production “The Fable.” Lady Holly Hathaway, artistic director of LCCB, worked with him on “A Day in Hollywood, A Night in the Ukraine.” LCCB is supported by grants from the Louisiana State Arts Council through the Louisiana Division of the Arts and the National Endowment for

Below: Taking a break from a hard day of playing are Rye Berry, Amonyé Ausberry, Autumn Buck and Lane Berry.

the Arts as administered by the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana. In addition to the company season finale, the tribute, and special guests, Lake Charles Civic Ballet presented the students of Lady Leah LaFargue School of the Dance in their annual spring recital. For ballet-lovers and fans of Mr. Gates beautiful music, it was a truly special tribute.

Below: Chasity Guidry proves that where there is a will there is a way to bake a cake.

Above: Stephen Morrison, 12, receives congratulations from his big sister Tiffany Gardner of Lake Charles after his team, the Junior Mudbugs of Shreveport, won the Pee Wee (10-12-year-olds) Championship in Baton Rouge.

Above: Dylan Guidry takes a break from a hard day of being a baby.

Parting Sh o ts

1) Email your snap shots to myphoto@timessw.com. Must include a contact name and phone number. 2) Photos should be attached as a file and not imbedded in copy or photoshopped into a format. Original size, please, do not compress the file. No mailed or fax photographs can be used.

PAGE 46

MAY 29, 2008

3) Subjects in photo must be identified by name. Children should also be identified by parent or guardian. Unidentified or anonymous photos will not be considered for publication. 4) The Times reserves the right to decline publishing photos of questionable taste or subject matter, or for space limitations.

Phone

3828 Ryan St., Lake Charles, LA (337) 478-4992 • Fax (337) 478-8701 MAY 29, 2008

PAGE 47