The Times of Southwest Louisiana by The Times of Southwest Louisiana

WWW. TIME SSW. C O M • AP R IL 3 0 , 2 0 0 9 / V O L. 14, NO. 8

New Airport

Jeff Davis Parish Economy

Contraband Queen’s Pageant

Marceaux’s Clothing Store April 30, 2009

April 30, 2009

C ontents

April 3 0, 2009 Volume 14, Number 8 617 Drew St., Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-439-0995 Fax: 337-439-0418

PUBLISHER Patrick Marcantel

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EDITOR Nancy Correro

assistant Editor Jessica Ferguson

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assignments Chaney Ferguson Contributors Garrett Lumpin D.B. Grady Matt Jones Lisa Miller Terri Schlichenmeyer Politics John Maginnis Dan Juneau

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A D VE R T ISING

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Sales Manager Andy Jacobson account executive Katy Corbello

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Art/Production Director Natalie Clark

38 40 The Times of Southwest Louisiana is published every two weeks by Patsco Publishing, 617 Drew Street, Lake Charles Louisiana 70601. Phone (337) 439-0995. SUBSCRIPTIONS: $30 per year. Bulk mailing permit #9 paid at Lake Charles, La. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Times of Southwest Louisiana, 617 Drew Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601. FAX to (337) 439-0418. The Times of Southwest Louisiana cannot be held responsible for the return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations, even if they are sent to us accompanied by a self-addressed envelope. Copyright 2009 The Times of Southwest Louisiana all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited. DISTRIBUTION: The Times of Southwest Louisiana is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. The Times of Southwest Louisiana may be distributed only by The Times of Southwest Louisiana authorized distributors. No person may, without prior written permission of The Times of Southwest Louisiana, take more than one copy of each monthly issue from its racks.

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enterprise boulevard New Airport for Lake Charles columns Business Notes Who’s News Inside Baton Rouge: No Easy Answer For State’s Money Woes Biz Bytes: Guaranteeing the Guarantees Geeks & Gadgets: Back Up Now or Pay Later 337 Sports: Local Legend Making Major Impact in Big Leagues Legal Eagle cover story Louisiana’s Best Kept Secret: Zigler Art Museum features Home Grown: Marceaux’s Clothing Company Forum Held to Inform of School Board Ethics Jeff Davis Parish is in the “Catbird Seat” What’s Up Doc? Contraband Pageant: Avast! Hand that Lass a Crown Parent’s Summer Survival Guide entertainment In the Theater: Fast and Furious Review Times Picks The Shadow: Kilties Anniversary, DeQuincy’s Railroad Days, McNeese Watercolors Art Exhibit Coffee Break Crossword: A Sustainable Solution Book Beat: A Saint on Death Row Parting Shots

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business Estate and Tax-Planning Seminar April 30 Clark & Burnette Financial Services will host “New Times, New Laws, New Techniques,” a free Webcast with estate and tax-planning expert Roy Adams. This continuing education opportunity will take place at noon on Thursday, April 30, at the McDonald’s Corporate Center, 3414 Common Street, Lake Charles. Lunch will be served beginning at 11:30 a.m. Application has been made for FREE Continuing Education credits for CLE, CPA, CTFA and CFP. Adams, recognized as one of the best lawyers in America, is managing member of Roy M. Adams & Associates, a partner of Constantine Cannon LLP. Considered an expert in his field, Adams is a sought-after speaker, both nationally and internationally. Seating is limited and pre-registration is requested. For more information or to register, call Clark & Burnette Financial Services at 562-9500 or email cheree@ clarkburnette.com LPCA Hosting Continuing Education at L’Auberge June 21-24 Louisiana Primary Care Association will be hosting an exciting Continuing Education Conference Event on Sunday, June 21 through Wednesday, June 24, 2009 at the L’Auberge du lac Casino Resort in Lake Charles, LA. This is a continuing education conference event that is sure to provide the latest information on state and national health care policy, engaging speakers, relevant courses, and all while providing an atmosphere of rest, relaxation, and the amenities of a resort. Go to www.lpca.net for registration, vendor and sponsorship opportunities! For more information or LPCA staff assistance call Donald Hunter or Gwen Laury or Angela Sheffie at 225 927-7662. A&H Council Announces “Super Sale” May 2 On Saturday, May 2nd, the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana will open the doors to some fantastic buys in Room 108 of Historic Central School. From 7:00 am until 2:00 pm, savvy shoppers will have an opportunity to pick up on some great deals. The Council is staging this one-time event in an effort to clear out useful arts and crafts supplies, miscellaneous computer components, office equipment/furnishings and more. Staff and Board Members have contributed to the effort, so there will be many household items, baby supplies and other bargains! Baskets, home décor and more – everything must go. For more information about this, or other Council programming, please call (337) 439-2787 or visit our website at www.artsandhumanitiesswla.org. New Health Care Organization Works with Lake Charles Businesses During ArtWalk The LA Cultural Economy Healthcare Initiative (LCEHI), recently announced by Lt. Gov. Mitch Landrieu, began a new chapter in the Lake Charles area during ArtWalk. Working with the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest LA, the LCEHI held health screenings Lois Derise looks over her test results with Katrina McCauley at four locations. at Gallery by the Lake

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The screenings are designed to inform and educate workers in the cultural economy who usually do not have access to group health coverage. This includes not only artists and musicians, but culinary workers employed by unique Louisiana restaurants. As Lt. Gov. Landrieu continues to market Louisiana’s varied culture to the rest of the US and the international tourism industry, he is also committed to preserving the health of those individuals who provide that resource. LCEHI is ready to assist those cultural workers with health screenings, information, and help in navigating both the private and public health care sectors. Kathy Richard, the LCEHI Director, has recently expanded the outreach of the Lafayette-based organization into the Lake Charles area and plans to have sites throughout south Louisiana. “The ArtWalk, with its varied components, was our first step in reaching out to the growing artistic community of this area,” said Ms. Richard. Screenings were held at Pujo St. Café, Luna’s, Gallery by the Lake, and Art WoRx. Included in the screenings conducted by volunteers, Nancy Weidner and Melissa Crador, were blood pressure and blood sugar tests. For more information about LCEHI and its services, contact Kathy Richard at (337) 233-7060 or email her at Kathy@culturaleconomy.org. There is no charge for the group health screenings or referrals. Fusion Five: Board Members Fusion Five is pleased to announce that Jay Winterbottom has been elected the new Vice Chair of its Board of Directors. Winterbottom, a Lake Charles native, is a Community Education Director with Calcasieu Oaks Behavioral Center. Winterbottom will be replacing Adam Benoit of Flavin Realty who is moving out of the region. With this promotion, there is currently a vacancy on the Fusion Five Board of Directors. Any member of Fusion Five interested in filling this position is encouraged to contact Jay Winterbottom at winbot2003@yahoo.com. Fusion Five is an organization of and for young professionals changing the social and economic landscape of Southwest Louisiana. The organization supports activities complimentary to its mission/vision in the parishes of Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron and Jefferson Davis. Fusion Five is an affiliate of the SWLA Economic Development Alliance. Suddenlink Honored with Krewe of Cable Awards The Louisiana Cable & Telecommunications Association (LCTA) honored Suddenlink Communications with three 2009 Krewe of Cable Awards at its annual meeting and convention held recently

The Louisiana Cable & Telecommunications Association recently presented Suddenlink Communications’ Alexandria system its 2009 Krewe of Cable Community Service Award for its “Connecting to Those in Need” program. Suddenlink Alexandria System Manager Glenn Parker accepted the award from LCTA board President Maryce Cunningham.

notes in New Orleans. LCTA presented the Community Service Award to Suddenlink’s Alexandria system for its “Connecting to Those in Need” initiative; the Customer Education/Image Award recognized Suddenlink’s “DTV Transition – SCC-TV and Educational Initiative”; and the LCTA’s Virgil G. Evans Award was presented to Maryce Cunningham, Suddenlink Mid South Manager of Government & Community Relations. This is the second straight year that Suddenlink has been honored by the LCTA for the “Connecting to Those in Need” initiative. This year the award was accepted by Alexandria System Manager Glenn Parker LSU Mobile Classroom Tuesday April 28 & April 29 Starting a Business? Expanding a Business? Have Business Questions? We’re Coming to Jennings to Help You! First-class business trainers and consultants will be available to help you make your business more successful with FREE, intensive, business education seminars. Pre–registration is required for sessions, due to limited seating. When: Tues., April 28 – Wed., April 29 Where: Jeff Davis Business Alliance, 246 North Main St. Jennings, LA 70546. To register contact Kayla Boudreaux: Call 337-824-0933 or E-mail: Kayla@jdbusinessalliance.com.

involved in, and McDonald’s is committed to promoting balanced and active lifestyles for both adults and children.” Calcasieu Parish McDonald’s are dedicated to serving and assisting the Southwest Louisiana community. For more information on Calcasieu Parish McDonald’s contribution to ICSA, contact Jen Breen at 337-478-7396 or jbreen@ocarroll.com. For information on the ICSA, visit www.lakeareasoccer.org. CHRISTUS Women’s Health Center receives ACR Accreditation The CHRISTUS St. Patrick Women’s Health Center at 1601 Country Club Rd has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in Breast Imaging as the result of a recent survey by the American College of Radiology (ACR). The ACR, headquartered in Reston, VA., awards accreditation to facilities for the achievement of high practice standards after a peer-evaluation of the practices. Evaluations are conducted by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. They assess the qualifications of the personnel and the adequacy of facility equipment. The surveyors report their findings to the ACR’s Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides the practice with a comprehensive report. The ACR is a national organization serving more than 32,000 diagnostic and interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists, and nuclear medicine and medical physicists with programs focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services. Citgo Petroleum Corp. Donates to McNeese Citgo Petroleum Corp. has presented a $35,000 donation to the McNeese State University Foundation for the endowed Citgo Petroleum Corporation Professorship in Engineering #5.

Surrounded by soccer players, Alirio Zambarno, president of the Imperial Calcasieu Soccer Association (LEFT), Chris Duncan, treasurer of the Imperial Calcasieu Soccer Association (RIGHT), accept a $10,000 donation from Doug Gehrig, owner and operator of Calcasieu Parish McDonald’s (CENTER).

Calcasieu Parish McDonald’s Contribute to the Imperial Calcasieu Soccer Association Calcasieu Parish McDonald’s restaurants recently contributed $10,000 to the Imperial Calcasieu Soccer Association (ICSA). The ICSA is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting soccer at all levels of age and competition in Southwest Louisiana. ICSA’s mission is to provide a positive experience for all of their soccer players by developing competitive teams to help improve each athlete’s potential and abilities. “The sponsorship from McDonald’s benefits the players and promotes community awareness of the league,” said Alirio Zambarno, president of the ICSA. “The league truly appreciates the continued support of our local McDonald’s,” added Chris Duncan, treasurer of the ICSA. “The league is not just about playing soccer. It engages youth ages 4 to 18 in physical activity,” said Doug Gehrig, owner and operator of Calcasieu Parish McDonald’s. “We encourage this involvement, because soccer is an activity for all ages to get

Dr. Nikos Kiritsis, center, dean of the college of engineering and engineering technology, accepts the donation from Don Fruge, right, general manager of engineering and technical services, as Darie Jordan, government and public affairs manager, looks on.

SWLA Chamber Board Announces Support of Library Tax Renewal The Chamber SWLA Board of Directors, represented today by its Executive Board, announced its support of the May 2nd Calcasieu Parish Library Tax Renewal. The renewal is critical for maintaining, equipping, operating, and supporting the Calcasieu Parish Public Library System and its facilities. “Everyone says over and over that Small Businesses are the backbone of our economy, but not many mention that our educational systems and our public libraries are the heart of each and every one of our communities. A source for

April 30, 2009

business information, guidance, and entertainment, our libraries are more than stacks of books. The 21st century library is a multi-media portal for the entire family as well as a throw back to our childhood where they still read to groups of school children and occasionally have a puppet show. Like so many things, we would never realize the impact that our community libraries have upon us until they are gone and we want that to never happen. The Board of the Chamber SWLA fully supports the upcoming millage renewal coming before the voters on May 2, 2009. We urge everyone to make their way to their polling places to support our local libraries which for so many years have supported us,” said Chamber SWLA 2009 Chair Ken Broussard. In attendance were, Chamber SWLA 2009 Chair Ken Broussard, CPA of The Broussard Group, SWLA Economic Development Alliance President/CEO George Swift, Calcasieu Parish Public Library Director Mike Sawyer, Library Board Chair Tony Zaunbrecher, and Paul Arnold, Library Board Member.

Glenn Pumpelly, center, a member of the McNeese Foundation board of directors and a director of MidSouth Bank, accepts the donation, from left, Steve Broussard, city president, MidSouth Bank, Jennings, and John R. Nichols, regional president for West Louisiana, MidSouth Bank, Lake Charles. McNeese

Midsouth Bank Donates to Hargroder Scholarship MidSouth Bank of Jennings recently donated $10,000 towards the Dr.Joe Hargroder Endowed Scholarship it established through the McNeese State University Foundation in honor of Dr. Joe Hargroder, vice chairman and founding director of MidSouth Bank. To date, the MidSouth Bank has given $50,000 to fund this endowed scholarship, which goes to a high school student who resides in Jeff Davis Parish who plans to attend McNeese.

notes

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Office of Public Health to Open Field Clinic in Hackberry Residents of Hackberry, Louisiana will no longer have to travel to Lake Charles or Sulphur for some essential health services. Cameron Parish Health Unit will resume providing services at the Hackberry Rural Health Clinic at 1020 Main Street in Hackberry on April 15, 2009. Immunization and WIC (Women, Infant, and Children) services will be provided on the third Wednesday of each month. WIC provides supplemental foods and nutrition education for lowincome pregnant and postpartum women, and to some infants and children up to age five. For further information or appointments, please call (337) 480-2582. White Lights Night Spring Fling April 30 Midtown businesses will showcase their gifts and goodies in an after-hours shopping extravaganza! Shop early for Mother’s Day, Graduation, and that special birthday. The hours are from 6pm-9pm. Calcasieu to Vote on Library Ad Valorem Tax May 2 On Saturday, May 2, Calcasieu Parish voters will be asked to renew a 5.99 mill ad valorem property tax for the operation of the parish’s public libraries. The tax, approved in 1999, must be renewed every 10 years. The current tax accounts for 93 percent of the library’s funding. If not renewed, it would expire on Dec. 31, 2009. The Calcasieu Parish Public Libraries have more than 95,000 registered borrowers, who checked out more 850,000 items in 2008. Publicaccess computers were used more than 225,000 times, and more than a half-million visits were made to the library’s online resources in 2008. In addition, some 71,000 persons attend more than 4,000 library programs for children, teens and adults in 2008. “Our parish libraries provide free and open access to knowledge for all parish residents,” said Buddy Bolton, spokesperson for the Library Foundation. “Literacy is essential in school and on the job, and our libraries provide literacy programs for all ages. The library is the only place of free Internet access for many citizens to search for a job, fill out a job application, study or do research. “As Calcasieu Parish grows and develops,” Bolton said, “our libraries enhance the quality of life and help attract new businesses and residents to the parish. And during economic difficulties, the library provides families a place to check out free movies and CDs, read magazines and newspapers, and attend entertaining and educational programs. “We hope the citizens of Calcasieu Parish will recognize the value of the library in our lives, and vote ‘yes’ for the renewal on May 2.”

new e m p lo ye e at T h e Tim e s

Katy Corbello joined The Times team as an Account Executive. Raised in Fenton, Katie has lived in Lake Charles since high school. She went to Delta School of Business and Technology where she graduated in the top percentile of her class. Before stepping into the world of business and finance, Katie worked as a Day Care Teacher. She worked with mentally challenged adults helping them accomplish their daily routines, finances, and work schedules. Katie shares her life with two wonderful children. They all like to bike and fish together. Katie brings years of experience in sales to The Times.

April 30, 2009

N e w s

A b o u t

S o u t h w e s t

L o u i s i a n a

E nterprise B oulevard

Lake Charles Regional Airport Enables Future Growth By Chaney Ferguson

he Lake Charles Regional Airport is receiving a new front door as Heath Allen, executive director of the airport explains. “I like to compare an airport to a front door of the community,” said Allen, “It is the first thing people see when they fly into the city. Right now the front door isn’t too pretty.” The Old Terminal The old LCRA terminal was built in 1962. According to Allen, even though it was a very clean building there was a lot of upkeep that had to be maintained. Since it was designed prior to screening, the set-up was not ideal for a post911 world. “We actually had offices in the terminal, but had to move out to give our space to the Office of Transportation and Security Administration,” said Allen. “We

really were cramped for space in that building.” Allen said the planning process for a new terminal was in discussion before Hurricane Rita hit. Renovation ideas, new location sites, and cost benefits would have put the new terminal in the next five to ten years. Then Rita blew through and changed all the plans. “At the time it was a severe blow,” said Allen, “We had a terminal standing one day, and the next day it’s not usable. We still had commercial service and didn’t want to do anything to lose that.” After surveying the hurricane damage, airline management decided to keep service going by using the onsite fire station. It was the only building left standing, and even though it didn’t have a roof, the four walls were enough. Allen said, “It actually worked

pretty well. We’ve been able to grow the market, but it’s a pain.” Blessing in Disguise It took the better part of a year trying to get the funding together for the new terminal. It is about a $28 million dollar project. “It is a large project that we undertook in a short amount of time,” said Allen. “We got it funded and designed in about a year and half or two, and then started construction.” According to Allen the typical process for a new terminal would involve a bond issue, finding money to pay the bond, and generally raising airline and rental car fees. “That’s never a good thing when you raise the rates on airlines,” said Allen. “We won’t have to raise rates or anything. We will be able to operate very efficiently.”

The damage to the airport was a major blow, but Allen describes it as a blessing in disguise because of what an asset it will be to the community. “We are going to get the terminal virtually funded by outside money. It ended up being a very good blessing,” Allen said. The planners were on an accelerated design schedule, due to the current terminal conditions. However, Allen said the terminal was designed for future growth, not just for today’s needs. “The building is designed to be easily expandable,” said Allen. “It’s a linear design. We can add on to each end until we run out of room.” There are two spaces waiting for Continental Airlines and American Eagle Airlines. “We will have a space for a third airline if need be,” Allen said.

Fly directly to dallas with American Airlines.

April 30, 2009

The new two-story Louisiana, plantation-style building has faced typical construction delays, but hopes to open on June 11 or shortly thereafter. The terminal will have second-level boarding. It will open with two loading bridges, but has the expansion capacity to go up to four. According to Allen, additional parking will be added to the old terminal parking lot, and there will be a designated area for screening, security, and baggage pickup, in order to meet federal requirements. American Eagle Airlines In 2000 American Eagle left Lake Charles. According to Allen the reason for leaving was due to union policies, and not because of a lack of business. “At the time they were doing well,” said Allen. “They were boarding more passengers than Continental.” American had acquired a small airline in the Northeast, and the union policies required the airline to reevaluate some locations. The policies are known as scope clauses, and they limit the size and number of regional jets within the airlines network. The purpose of the clause is to protect the job security of mainline pilots. “From the time they acquired the other airline they actually needed those spots, and pulled out of pretty much the whole Gulf Coast,” Allen said. According to Allen, after 911, the financial crisis, and the price of fuel rising, the airlines were able to get a lot of concessions from their unions. “That was a lot of the reason they were able to come back,” said Allen. Currently 100,000 people frequent the airport annually. Allen is expecting about a 50% increase with American coming in. “American will probably be doing a little hiring,” said Allen. The Gulf Coast appears to be handling the economic crisis a little better than the rest of the country. A new terminal and a new airline will only help. Allen said when you get additional air service it has a huge economic impact on the community. “It’s hard to tell how many

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companies locate here or how it helps them get business from the outside,” said Allen. “It’s hard to quantify, but we know it’s there.” Future Development The opening of the new terminal is the primary goal, but the airport is developing other services for the future. Air service and helicopters are two areas on the rise. “We’re going to continue to grow the air service,” said Allen. “When the timing is right and we see a need we are going to get additional air service.” The size of Lake Charles limits the type of air service that can come in. According to Allen the bigger aircrafts won’t come in because of the population. “Delta Airlines would be the next obvious choice,” said Allen. The helicopter side of the business has grown since the hurricanes. Each hurricane destroys the helicopter stations. Over the past few years the stations have had to be rebuilt several times. According to Allen they are starting to consider moving inland. “We’ve always had the helicopters here, but now they are actually transferring passengers out and that is something that is really growing,” said Allen. The land around the airport consists of 1800 acres. Although not all the land is able to be developed, Allen hopes to bring in other companies for developing the area. One prospect is interested in building a hotel near the airport. “We are one of the economic engines of the region,” said Allen. “Anything we can do out here is a plus for our community and helps someone have a job.”

Who’s News Sowela student, Heather Jean, elected to FBLA/PBL State Board of Directors The Future Business Leaders of America Phi Beta Lambda (FBLA/PBL) held their State Leadership conference March 21st at University of Louisiana Monroe. During the leadership conference, they elected their State Board of Directors. Heather Jean, an accounting student at Sowela and current President of the Sowela Chapter of FBLA/PBL was elected Director of Finance. Ms. Jean will represent Sowela at the National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, CA this June. Andrea Arceneaux Selected by Georgetown U Andrea Arceneaux, Mcneese State University senior Business Management Major, has been selected for admission to the 2009 Institute on Philanthropy and Volunteer Service summer program at Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. The Fund for American Studies awarded Arceneaux a scholarship for the summer program. At McNeese, Arceneaux is a member of Delta Sigma Pi professional business fraternity, serving as Vice-President Andrea Arceneaux of Alumni Affairs; Phi Beta Lambda business fraternity, Treasurer and past Project Manager; Student Government Association, Senator representing the College of Business and Alpha Psi Omega (The National Theatre Honor Society); Alpha Psi Omega, past Vice-President, Fundraising Chair, and Parliamentarian; McNeese Theatre Publicity/Promotion Assistant 2005-2009; and a member of the Student Union Board. Arceneaux received the Distinguished Scholar Award in 2007 and was selected as a Peer Mentor for the Freshman Foundation Course by the College of Business. Arceneaux has been employed as a Marketing Assistant at PDI of the South Inc., Healthcare Management Services for the past six years. Involvement in community organizations include: “Go Red” an affiliate of the American Heart Association; Annual Women’s Convention; Young at Heart Expo, committee member; and Fusion Five. Arceneaux volunteers for the Senior Network Organization, Mayor’s Commission on Disability, and Villa Maria. Louisiana Psychiatrist Serves as Resource for National Media Louisiana psychiatrist Dr. Dale Archer is becoming a soughtafter expert for national news networks. Dr. Archer, founder of the Institute for Neuropsychiatry in Lake Charles, and host of TellDrD. com, has become a regular guest on Fox News and CNN Headline News. Dr. Archer has appeared several times on both FoxNews. com’s “Strategy Room,” a live daily Webcast filmed in New York City, and on the daily CNN Headline News program “Issues.” “The Strategy Room” brings various guests together to discuss current events in an informal roundtable format. “Issues,” with host JaneVelez-Mitchell, focuses on current headline news across the country. Archer’s “Take Charge of Your Life” philosophy motivates people to take responsibility for their personal choices so they can lead a healthier and more productive life. Archer maintains that all people he treats, whether they suffer from a chemical imbalance

or a personal setback, have the ability to take charge of their decisions and their lives. Archer, a distinguished fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, is a graduate of Tulane Medical School in New Orleans. He has more than 20 years’ of psychiatric experience. Local businessman receives 2008 Good Samaritan Award Local businessman Willie King Jr. was selected as the 2008 Good Samaritan of the Year. The award was presented at Samaritan Counseling Center’s second annual Good Samaritan Dinner and Auction on Friday, April 3. The community was invited to choose the winner from 10 finalists, who were selected from a larger pool of nominees. King, president of Project Build a Future, received the most number of votes. King was nominated for his empowerment of youth, involvement and personal investment in area schools, chairmanship of the 100 Black Men Youth Leadership Program, continual volunteerism and dedication to the achievement of home ownership for struggling families. He was nominated by students and teachers of J.J. Johnson Elementary, T.H. Watkins Elementary, and Ray D. Molo Middle schools. According to the nomination form, King buys 350 backpacks each year for the area schools and also provides tablets, pencils, and school supplies for the students throughout the year. In addition to his various nonprofit and volunteer endeavors, he also works alongside fellow award finalist Father Henry Mancuso of Sacred Heart Church for Project Build a Future, which provides homes for underprivileged first-time buyers, according to his nominators. Other finalists were B.J. Cayton, director of the McNeese Counseling Center, minister Dr. Doug Ezell, Habitat for Humanity Interim Director Julie Giordano, pastor Fr. Henry Mancuso, local businessman John Morris, Calcasieu Women’s Shelter Director Ann Polak, National Alliance on Mental Illness Chapter Director Clarice Raichel, 14th Judicial District Judge Robert Wyatt, and People’s Advocate Director and non-profit attorney Beth Zilbert. Sulphur’s Kennison Appointed to West Calcasieu Port Board of Commissioners Sulphur-resident Joseph R. “Dick” Kennison has been appointed to the West Calcasieu Port five-person board of commissioners by the Sulphur Mayor Ron LeLeux effective May 1, 2009. Kennison’s appointment was unanimously approved by the Sulphur City Council at its regular meeting on April 13. Kennison will complete the unexpired term on the port’s board currently held by WCP Board President Joseph R. “Dick” Kennison Larry Mashburn. The unfilled term extends until 2010. Mashburn has offered his resignation effective April 30, 2009. WCP Board Vice President Brent Clement will serve as interim president of the port’s board of commissioners until board officer elections are held in October 2009. “We are very pleased to have Dick appointed to our board of directors,” said Mashburn. “His legacy of public and civic service is known far and wide, and his guidance and leadership will be of tremendous benefit to our board as we continue to develop the port and its assets.” Kennison, 63, is a 40-year veteran of the continued on p.16

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the S o best u t h in w elak s et are L ao eunit es rit ain a nmae’nst

H om e G rown B usiness es Marceaux’s Clothing Company by Chaney Ferguson

arceaux’s Clothing Company provides a warm atmosphere, friendly service, and affordable clothing. The comfortable layout of the store invites customers to browse through all the unique and stylish clothes and accessories. A box of toys in the shoe corner offers children a chance to play while their parents shop. The Beginning The clothing business has always been a part of John Marceaux’s life. He worked for his father for two years before going into business for himself. “My father was in the clothing business his whole life,” said Marceaux. “I think it was a natural step following in his footsteps.” In the late seventies Marceaux opened a children’s clothing store called Briar Patch. Later he, his father, and his brother started Marceaux Clothing. “When they decided to get out my wife, Janet, and I bought it,” said Marceaux. “Shortly after that I sold Briar Patch and concentrated on the Marceaux clothing store.” Marceaux also owns Uniform Outfitters in Crowley where they sell school uniforms to Acadia Parish. Marceaux’s also sells uniforms along with women’s clothing, men’s suits, jewelry, purses, and shoes. Over the past twenty or so years Marceaux has added many different lines to the store. Most recently, the store has taken on more shoe lines such as Volatile and YellowBox. “During the last two years Crocs have been popular. We sold a ton of Crocs,” Marceaux said, laughing at the memory.

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see if that’s something that would work for us.” Accrding to Marceaux, the market is like a mall with a lot of mini-stores. There are certain lines they visit consistently because they have done well for them in the past. A Canadian line called Tribal is one they always go back to. Marceaux describes the line as good quality, consistent fit, and attractively priced. “You walk the market and see what everyone is offering and make plans for where you want to go,” Marceaux said. A Change in Retail When you drive through small towns now there are barely any clothing stores left. Everything has changed in the past ten to fifteen years due to vertical retail. Vertical retail stores are those that design, produce, and sell their own product. “When you used to drive through Jennings you could probably find ten clothing stores. Now you’re down to about four,” said Marceaux. “It’s changed tremendously.” With vertical retail popping up Marceaux’s had to take a different tact. They moved their customer age base up, shifting their primary customers from young high school females to missy customers. “Women still care about fashion,” said Marceaux, “Women from thirty and older are a greatly underserved market in small towns. They get overlooked. So that’s the market we are trying to set-up.” Choosing the Right Styles Marceaux’s carries a variety of men and women’s clothing, accessories, shoes, and LSU products. John and Janet

Marceaux are always paying attention to changes in fashion so they know what to look for when they go four times a year to market in Dallas. “My wife does a lot of catalogue browsing to see what everyone is wearing and see what is new,” Marceaux said. “We always notice what people are wearing. There have been times when my wife and I have asked someone who made what they are wearing. We can

Face to the Community Marceaux’s windows face the busy North Lake Arthur Avenue. Window displays are a major way to invite customers to come in and browse. The displays are changed about every other week. “I think it is very important. It’s your face to your customers driving by,” Marceaux said. According to Marceaux, once

Biz Bytes - By Dan Juneau

Inside Baton Rouge - By John Maginnis

Guaranteeing the Guarantees

ccasionally, you hear things that you find hard to believe. That happened recently when I heard the 44th President of the United States giving a government guarantee for the warranties of cars purchased from General Motors and Chrysler. It was the perfect metaphor for the unparalleled intrusion of government into the marketplace that accelerated with the 43rd President’s bailout of financial institutions deemed “too big to fail.” It is now at warp speed with the policies of the current administration. Our federal government is now favoring certain companies over others— both in the financial sector and the automobile industry. These policies are ripe for conflict of interest, cronyism, and more manifestations of the cruel law of unintended consequences. Guaranteeing the automotive warranties is perhaps a symbol for the new approach to governance in America. The federal government is lining up a bevy of “guarantees” that, if enacted, would significantly change our social compact. One of the “guarantees” is in health care. President Obama and many of his allies in Congress want to move to a universal health care system in which every American is guaranteed health care coverage. While the plan is not designed to be a “single payer” system with the federal government making all of the payments for (and many of the decisions regarding) health care procedures, it could eventually default into such a system. The cost for the health care plan the president advocates would be enormous. Greatly expanding health care coverage will place escalating demands on the providers within the system. When costs rise (and they will), the government no doubt will employ the same “cost saving” measure it uses for Medicare and Medicaid: reducing the amount of

compensation paid to providers. That would likely drive more providers out of the system and could result in rationed care. President Obama plans to raise the money for his health care initiative from a huge “hidden” tax on carbon emissions. His “cap and trade” approach would have the federal government “guarantee” success in the fight against “manmade” global warming by limiting the amount of carbon dioxide emissions permitted and taxing those that exceed the limits. The president and his congressional supporters, disregard the fact that the amount of atmospheric warming has only risen 0.4 of a degree centigrade in the last 100 years and none in the last 11. They are on a jihad that could cost the U.S. economy as much as $1.9 trillion if this plan is implemented. The effect on jobs and economic growth would be so damaging that even many members of the “tax and spend” crowd in Congress are starting to put the brakes on this idea. President Obama and many in Congress are pursuing a goal of “guaranteeing” a comfortable life for every citizen of the U.S. In their scenario, the government would see to it that every American will have a good job, a good education, high quality health care and a sound retirement. That is a noble goal that is easier to promote than to accomplish. Historically, those ends are achieved by hard work, a diligent approach to studies and saving for the future. Our leaders in Washington should perhaps eschew the temptation to promise so many guarantees and instead concentrate on making the massive behemoth of the federal government do less and do it much better for the folks who pay dearly to finance it. Promises quickly turn empty fast when the models that deliver them don’t work and the cost for providing them brings with it the specter of fiscal insolvency.

No Easy Answers for State’s Money Woes

rtists, musicians, teachers, and arts advocates protested deep state funding cuts last week by staging a mock funeral procession to the Capitol, complete with coffin, symbolizing the death of the arts. They were not exaggerating much, given the Jindal administration’s proposed cutting of total arts funding by more than half, including effectively ending a grants program to community groups by slashing it 83 percent. Without those state grants, galleries, museums, and theaters in towns across the state could close and schools would lose the teaching services of visiting artisans and performers. They are not alone; the cuts run deep through nearly every department of government, causing fears of services to be eliminated, college class sizes enlarged, and providers, like pediatricians treating poor children, dropping out of the Medicaid program. Compared to most state agencies, the arts councils at least are able to capture some public attention with street theater. A funeral procession by Treasury Department auditors mourning the death of fiscal accountability just hasn’t the same zing. Neither do columns about the state budgets, compared to the typical fare of Louisiana politics. But how Gov. Bobby Jindal and the Legislature resolve the current fiscal crisis will be the defining drama of the coming legislative session, and the governor’s term to date. The real-life stage for agencies, colleges and non-profit groups is before the House Appropriations Committee, which is meeting three days a week in advance of the legislative session to scrutinize every section of the governor’s proposed budget, which takes effect July 1. Legislators, stung by the governor’s vetoes of their pay raise

and local spending projects last year, are determined to show more independence from him in the coming session, starting with the budget. They have picked a funny time to take charge. Last year, the governor got to decide how to spend a $1 billion surplus and over $1 billion in new revenues, with minimal input and backtalk from lawmakers. This year, with $1.3 billion less to spend and layoffs and service cutbacks looming, he is more than happy to let them rearrange the reductions, as long as they don’t raise taxes. The favored solution of many legislators, however, is to grow the pot by taking from two other large pots, $775 million in the so-called Rainy Day fund and another $415 million in the mega fund set aside for large economic development projects. The governor does not favor using the former this year and is trying to commit the latter before legislators get their hands on it. The constitution allows the Legislature to use up to one-third of the Rainy Day fund in a year, about $258 million, with no more withdrawals for two more years. It’s raining now, say legislators. But it will be pouring in two years, responds the governor, when the federal stimulus money--$666 million a year for two years in the state general fund—runs out. Jindal and Commissioner of Administration Angele Davis want to start a steep but gradual descent now rather than fall off the cliff in 2011, when, of course, the governor and legislators will be up for re-election. Still, it is unreasonable to expect or blame the Legislature for drawing from the Rainy Day fund in the worst budget fix in 20 years, even if it does get worse later. They can take out one-third now and one-third of what’s left in 2011. The administration will balk now but eventually accede in face of a broad coalition of unmet continued on p.12

April 30, 2009

continued from p.10 they displayed a dress with a wide belt in their window. A lady walked in to the store and said she wanted the dress and the belt. “So, yeah, it sells merchandise,” he said. The windows are not the only thing John Marceaux freshens up and rearranges. Occasionally he and his wife will shift things around in the store to change the layout. “Janet came in two weeks ago and reconfigured the layout of the floor. She’ll do that on occasion so everything doesn’t get too stale,” Marceaux said.

Customer Service “There was a lady in here who needed some pants for her son,” said Marceaux, “The pants have a difficult inseam and we’re going to see if we can get them for her.” Marceaux’s business philosophy is all about the customers. He and his staff have good people skills and always attend to the customer’s needs above anything else. He is not the type of owner who stays at home; he’s not one who remains in the back office working at a desk. John Marceaux is out on the floor, working the register, and even replacing light bulbs, while he visits with the browsers. If a customer has a need Marceaux and the staff will do their best to meet that need. “I think if you listen and treat your customers as best you can, you are going to be successful,” Marceaux said. For more information call 337-824-7579, or visit Marceaux’s Clothing Company, at 918 North Lake Arthur Avenue in Jennings. The store hours are Mon.-Fri. from 9-5 and Sat. 9-4:45. continued from p.11 needs. If it gave in on the Rainy Day fund now, the Legislature would be after the mega fund already. And that would be a terrible thing to waste on patching a budget hole, when it is the last real chunk of change, along with the $400 million in last year’s surplus funds not yet spoken for, that the state will have to do something major, whether to seize a big economic development opportunity or meet a big emergency. Though not filling the entire hole in the budget, the stimulus infusion from Congress is buying the Legislature two years to make some structural changes in government that the people can live with. If legislators fail that—and the governor too—the funeral processions of 2011 could be for their careers.

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FOUR CONVENIENT LOCATIONS IN SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA

Lake Charles, 1717 Oak Park Blvd., 478-3810 • DeRidder, 501 S. Pine, 462-3937 Sulphur, 2100 Maplewood Dr., 625-8948 • Jennings, 1219 Elton Rd., 824-0040

Forum Held to Inform of School Board Ethics by Jessica Ferguson

chool boards have been accused of micromanaging and have become the focus for new rules and guidelines. When Louisiana Superintendent of Education Paul G. Pastorek was asked to provide BESE with some recommendations on school board reform, the public in general focused on exactly what school board members do and what the problems might be. On April 14th, the League of Women Voters held a forum to educate the public on some of the controversial issues facing the school board; only a handful of people attended. Here are some of the issues discussed: • Limiting the ability of school boards and school board members to involve themselves in district hiring and firing decisions • Requiring the approval of a supermajority of school board members before a superintendent can be fired • Setting term limits for school board members • Changing the compensation for school board members to a limited per diem system • Strengthening state nepotism laws that govern school boards and superintendents • Prohibiting school board members from taking part in district health insurance plans Louisiana’s nationally recognized public education accountability program is number two in the nation. The state leads the country in accountability and testing programs, as well as data gathering and initiatives to improve teacher quality. In spite of that, student achievement is ranked one of the lowest in the country at number

47. According to Barry Erwin, President of the Council for Better Louisiana, there is a disconnect “between a decade of state efforts to improve public schools and what has happened at the local level.” CABL presents that education reform has been addressed at the state level and now it’s time to focus on local school boards. On April 27th, Representative Steve Carter, R-Baton Rouge, will introduce the following bills to the legislature. These bills could change how local education functions. According to Erwin, they are focusing on things that are already in existing law or for which they have precedent. • HB371 Ethics/Nepotism: Amends nepotism provisions relative to employees of school board. • HB664 Schools/Boards: Provides term limits for members of city, parish & other public school boards. • HB808 Schools/Boards: Provides relative to compensation of & benefits for members of local school boards. • HB821 Schools/Boards-MFP: Provides relative to the allocation & reporting of certain education funding. • HB851 School/Boards: Provides relative to the powers, duties, functions, & city, parish & other local public school boards. While many parents and educators across the state are vague when it comes to the school board reform battle, or have no opinion, or just don’t care, others have strong opinions. Most favor limiting the number of terms a member can serve. One local teacher who wishes to remain anonymous said, “Board members often stay too long and want things to stay the same with little or no change.” Others fear that

limiting terms will rid many knowledgeable and qualified board members. Some other local teachers, who prefer anonymity, feel the board should set policy and the school’s central office and the principals should see that policy is followed. They believe the principal should be allowed to run his school and hire who he wants, not who board members want and do not agree with the 2/3 majority. One parent said, “Those who make the rules should know what they’re doing by actually being in the classroom for several days or weeks. That what they’ll know what really needs to be reformed.” The main fear—the reason for battle between those for school board reform and those opposing it, is the loss of control, the balance of power, a turf war. Who will have the power? The state is responsible for how each school board does its job. The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry (LABI) says that “most reform that can be accomplished at the state level has been enacted, that the issue we face now is implementation which falls directly into the hands of those ultimately responsible for student achievement—the local school boards.” The reforms are logical, straightforward, and have much Chamber of Commerce support across the State of Louisiana; Now, the decisions are for the future of all Louisiana children. To learn more about school board reform, go to the following websites: www.la-par.org www.cabl.org www.louisianaschools.net

April 30, 2009

Jeff Davis Parish is in the “Catbird Seat” by Jessica Ferguson

efferson Davis Parish, located between Lafayette and Lake Charles, could very well become a retirees’ dream. The parish is home to approximately 32,000 residents who walk down tree-lined streets and along rural roads. While visitors describe a “let’s walk back in time” feeling, Jeff Davis Parish is moving into the future at a rapid rate. Marion “Butch” Fox, Executive Director for the Jeff Davis Parish Economic Development and Tourist Commission says, “We’re sitting in the catbird seat. We’re right on I-10 and we have land to develop.” Jeff Davis appears to be booming. A multimillion dollar water park is planned for the Lacassine area and is expected to open midsummer. Studies indicate approximately 4,000 visitors a day. According to Fox, Jeff Davis Parish has been a very well-kept secret for a long time. “There’s land available to be developed. Lacassine Industrial Park is definitely the driver when it comes to that,” she says. But Jeff Davis has more going for it than just available land. “The cotton spinning plant is going up – it’s in the final stages of getting all their equipment in,” Fox said. “We will have the only cotton spinning plant ever built in Louisiana and it’s using state of the art equipment from Germany.” Fox says the mill will employ about 60 people with full benefits and there’s a possibility of another location at some point. Fox says that unemployment in the parish is 4.1 percent—the lowest in the state. “We have a lot of great opportunities with existing businesses and to capitalize on them with new ventures. Credit is tight right now—that makes a big difference—but it’s just a very slight slow-down. It hasn’t come to a screeching halt,” Fox said. Jeff Davis Parish is also home to one of the most significant ethanol facilities in the country, and is a national leader in research and development of cellulosic ethanol. Louisiana Green Fuels is the sugar based ethanol plant at Lacassine. Another plant, Verenium is located on the east side of the parish.

April 30, 2009

One of the largest employees in Jeff Davis Parish—aside from the hospital is LEEVAC Shipyards, Inc. LEEVAC builds ships for the gulf and off shore industry. According to Fox it’s quite a facility. “Everyone should come out for the next launch. They launch them sideways in the river—it’s really fun. They’re a high energy group of people; it’s a fun, exciting place to work.” Fox says the hospital, LEEVAC Shipyards, Inc., and Jeff Davis Electric Co-op bring in people from the eight surrounding parishes to work every day in Jeff Davis Parish. One of the most exciting things happening in the parish these days is called SPARC— Southern Petroleum Arts and Recreation Center. The SPARC is a new cultural attraction in development by the Louisiana Oil and Gas Museum Foundation which will feature and promote several of the assets of Southwest Louisiana in one modern location. Located in Jennings, this won’t be the typical history or art museum. The plan is to bring together the dynamic aspects of energy, art, environment, and tourism. Fox sees Jeff Davis Parish as an opportunity to invest. “We’re fast becoming the parish you want to deal with in the state for economic development, for new investment, for new dollars. We’re the first in the state who have done the crawfish tours which is highly successful. We take them to the farm, the packaging plant where they grade and ship the crawfish out, and those who take the tour can actually cook the crawfish themselves. It’s a hands-on thing. We’re working on a bike trail to Lorraine Bridge and back, canoe trails and so much more.” While Jeff Davis Parish sounds like every

retiree’s dream, every young family’s desire, Fox admits they do have their problems. “Sure we have our problems just like everyone else but we look at our problems as opportunities to do better.” Fox was raised in Jeff Davis Parish. “We’re trying to give people a strong economic base because so many are moving back home,” she says. So when asked what the biggest challenge is for a community that sounds like it’s thriving, Fox says it’s the learning process. “Economic Development is a process. Our parish is rural. We’ve never had a lot of big economic development.” Fox says they’re looking at all the different processes, permits for one, zoning for another. “We’re looking at making it a one stop shop; we’re working at getting all the information together in one place so when people come in and want to invest in our community they can go to one place and get all the answers they need.” Another challenge is attitude, she says. “People understand that if they want their children and their grandchildren to live in Jeff Davis then they’ll have to change the way they think about economic development,” Fox says. “We want to continue our rural lifestyle but we have to supplement it with other economic development drivers.” Marian “Butch” Fox has been the Executive Director of the JDP Economic Development Commission for a little over two years. The Economic Development Commission is funded by The Tourist Commission, the town of Welsh, the city of Jennings, and the Police Jury has contributed too. Fox says, “We do a whole lot with not a lot of money. We’re in the middle of everything and it’s a very good place to be.”

““We’re fast becoming the parish you want to deal with in the state for economic development, for new investment, for new dollars.” - Marion “Butch” Fox Executive Director for the Jeff Davis Parish

Louisiana’s Best Kept Secret: Zigler Art Museum by Chaney Ferguson

he Zigler Museum is one of Jennings’ hidden gems. It is located on tree-lined Clara Street in the heart of Jennings’ residential area. In 1908, George Boyum Zigler, a haberdasher from North Dakota, moved his family to Jennings after being told by doctors that he only had six months left to live. The Ziglers bought the turn of the century style mansion from the Haber family, and George went on to live another thirty-four years. During those years he invested in many local businesses such as a towing and dredging service, a tire and tractor company, oil drilling, and rice farming. All of his endeavors contributed to the development of the oil industry in the area. Fred B. Zigler, George’s son, took over the family business and continued in his father’s philanthropic undertakings. He added the Zigler Flying Service, which was one of the first agricultural flight services of its kind. When Fred married Ruth they moved into the family home on Clara Street. In 1963, three years after Fred’s death, Ruth carried out her dream of forming a cultural center in the area. She set up a trust fund and donated her home to be used as the museum. Ruth added the East and West wings to the original structure in 1969. The following year The Zigler Museum officially opened. At the time, the museum consisted of less than twenty works of art, nine Louisiana wildlife

dioramas, and a few artifacts. Since the original opening, the museum has acquired many new pieces including over two hundred European, American, and Louisiana works of art, as well as a widespread assortment of wildlife art. “The director has always lived in the building,” said Dolores Spears. Spears, the current director, began by volunteering at the museum and eventually became the secretary in 1986. The following year she was the acting director. “I do whatever needs to be done,” said Spears, “From washing the dishes to giving tours.” The museum tries to promote Louisiana artists. Several Louisiana artists included in the permanent collection are: Audubon, Drysdale, Clementine Hunter, Knute Heldner, Robert Rucker, Elton Louviere, and Ellsworth Woodward. According to Spears the most difficult part of featuring local and regional artists is choosing between all the great talent. The museum contains the largest public exhibit of African American artist, William Tolliver. Jane Miller has worked at Zigler for the past four years and she is very impressed with Tolliver’s use of colors in his work. “He’s self-taught. That’s amazing to me,” said Miller. The West Wing of the museum displays six centuries of European and American works by such artists as VanDyck, Rembrandt, Durer,

de Vlaminck, Inness, Whistler, Pissaro, Constable, Helen Turner, Bierstadt, and Jambor. “You might recognize Jambor’s work. He illustrated Little Women,” said Miller. Zigler Art Museum is full of big names, all tucked away in the quaint little town of Jennings. Miller and Spears laugh about how art lovers from all over the country come to Jennings to see the original pieces, but some locals don’t even know it exists or like some, may not have a love of art. “One man came in the other day to fix something,” said Spears. “He looked around and said the paintings didn’t do anything for him.” Fundraiser dinners are held in the West Wing. Guests pay $100 a plate to eat among the beautiful pieces and listen to art aficionados. In addition to hosting fundraisers, Miller and Spears lead children’s tours during the year. Spears engages the children by stopping in front of a particular painting of a family in the kitchen and asking the children if the depicted family is poor. “The children look at the painting and see the cracked walls and say yes, the family is poor,”

said Spears. “Then I point to the violin on the wall and other objects in the painting to show the possessions the family has, revealing that they are rich.” In the East Wing, where the Louisiana wildlife dioramas are exhibited, the children have questions of their own. “Sometimes the children ask me if the birds are real,” said Miller. “When I tell them no, they ask why I killed them.” The museum doesn’t limit itself to reaching children through tours. An art camp is provided during the summer. The camp provides the opportunity for children to express their creative side and possibly use what they have learned from the guided tours. “All the supplies are included in the price,” said Spears. The Zigler Museum Gift Shop features more than just postcard souvenirs. Replicas of favorite pieces are available for purchase, either framed or unframed. The shop also includes jewelry, pottery, art books, cookbooks, porcelain, and wood carvings. If you are interested in visiting the Zigler Art Museum, it is located at 411 Clara Street, Jennings, LA. For information call (337) 824-0114 or go to ZiglerArtMuseum.com. The hours are Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm and Sunday 1pm-4pm.

April 30, 2009

Who’s News cont. forestry and lumber industry. He currently serves as Chairman & Chief Executive Officer for Sulphur-based Kennison Forest Products, Inc., a position he has held since 1997. Prior to that, he was president of Kenfor Division of Elder Forest Products in Sulphur for 18 years. A native of Port Barre, La., Kennison is a graduate of Port Barre High School and attended Grayson City Junior College. His military service includes three years in the U.S. Air Force with a tour in Vietnam. He was discharged in 1969 with the rank of sergeant. Bateman Joins MidSouth Bank Tabitha Mouhot Bateman has joined MidSouth Bank’s Nelson Road location in Lake Charles as Retail Store Manager and Bank Officer. She runs the daily operations of the banking center, supporting a variety of sales and service functions and helping to develop new business throughout the Calcasieu market. Bateman, who has almost a decade of banking experience, previously Tabitha Mouhot Bateman worked for Chase as Vice President and as a SWLA District Branch Manager. Before that she was employed by Wells Fargo as a Branch Manager. A Ragley native, Bateman attended McNeese for two years and earned a bachelor of science in business administration and marketing from Catawba College in North Carolina. She played basketball for both schools before going on to earn a master of arts in organizational management from University of Phoenix. She also is a Louisiana Notary Public. Jim Murphy named Athletic Trainer of the Year Jim “Doc” Murphy, ATC, PT, coordinator of Sports Medicine at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, was recently named by the Southeast Athletic Trainers’ Association (SEATA) as the 2009 Athletic Trainer for a College or University in recognition of his exceptional service Jim “Doc” Murphy to Memorial Hospital, McNeese State University and other organizations. Presentation of the award took place in Panama City Beach, Florida. In addition to the prevention and management of injuries, Murphy also deals with illnesses and diseases that might affect athletes’ health and physical performance. From day-to-day operations to the consistent training schedule of the athletes, Sports Medicine provides a total program to promote and maintain physical fitness. A commended Vietnam veteran, Murphy has spent most of his professional career in Texas and Louisiana. He has been the coordinator of Memorial’s Sports Medicine program for nearly 15 years, and has served as head athletic trainer at McNeese State University for 28 years. Murphy has also been recognized by the Louisiana Sports Medicine Society with the Jim Finks Award. For more information, call Memorial’s Sports Medicine at (337) 477-0248.

April 30, 2009

I am a 39-year-old attorney. My bottom teeth are quite crooked, but I’m worried about how braces might impact my career. Are there other options? Adults wearing braces is more common than you might think. According to the American Association of Orthodontics, there are an estimated one million adults in the United States with braces. This means you probably know an adult who is wearing braces, but you may not be aware of it. Many adults choose Invisalign, an invisible type of orthodontics that use a series of clear, removable aligners. The course of treatment involves changing aligners approximately every two weeks, moving your teeth into straighter position step by step. And unlike braces, these clear aligners can be removed while you eat and brush your teeth. Also the clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them an aesthetic alternative to braces. Craig Crawford, DDS, orthodontist with Crawford Orthodontics What wrinkles can be treated with Botox? Botox is best for treating the dynamic wrinkles that occur when you smile, laugh or frown. After many years of making the same facial expressions, deep horizontal and vertical wrinkles form in the forehead and around the eyes. Botox works by immobilizing the muscles people use when they frown or squint. The treated area then appears smooth, relaxed and wrinkle-free. Mark Crawford, MD, cosmetic eye specialist with the Aesthetic Center What is the best way to prevent endometriosis? There is not one proven definite cause for endometriosis, so there are no known ways to prevent it. We do know there are several things that raise your risk of developing endometriosis, including: • A close relative with endometriosis, especially a mother or a sister • A consistently short (less than 25 days) extended menstrual flow during each period - more than a week. • Heavy flow during periods. • You have a medical condition that blocks or constricts your cervix or vagina. • You have a congenital anomaly of the uterus, such as a double uterus or a double cervix. It’s important that you be aware of these risk factors and discuss them with your doctor. Scott Bergstedt, MD, ob/gyn specialist with OBG-1 My doctor told me that I have an underactive thyroid and I will have to come back in six months for a check-up. What is an underactive thyroid and what are the symptoms? “The thyroid gland secretes hormones that help regulate how your cells work. An underactive thyroid condition is known as “hypothyroidism,” which occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones. When this happens, the body’s functions are slowed, causing fatigue and other symptoms. Hypothyroidism can usually be treated fairly easily through medication. Other signs of an underactive thyroid include sore muscles, dry skin, thinning hair, or sensitivity to cold. When you return for your check up, make sure you get all your questions answered by your physician. Brian Stewart, MD, family physician with Family Practice Center of Sulphur

JALH provides a wide range of high quality health services in our community, including: • • • • •

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• • • •

Labor and Delivery Respiratory Therapy Laboratory Surgery, including Outpatient Surgery

You may have to travel for some things, but quality healthcare isn’t one of them. With Jennings American Legion Hospital, the healing touch is right here at home.

1634 Elton Rd. • 616-7000 www.jalh.com

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Steve Gill, OD, a nationally recognized low-vision expert, has joined The Eye Clinic as a visiting consultant. Dr. Gill established the LSU Low Vision Clinic and the Lions/LSU Regional Low Vision Center, both in New Orleans, where he serves as clinical director. He is assistant professor of clinical ophthalmology at the LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans and a fellow of the American Academy of Optometry. Dr. Gill will be seeing patients on a monthly basis at The Eye Clinic’s Lake Charles office. To schedule an appointment, call The Eye Clinic at 478-3810 or 800-826-5223.

(337) 478-3810 • www.theyeclinic.net 1717 Oak Park Boulevard, Lake Charles

April 30, 2009

Young Leaders Banquet Join The Times and Fusion Five YPO as we honor outstanding leaders of our region with a Young Leaders banquet on Monday evening, June 15, 2009 at the Isle of Capri Casino.

Seating is limited! Call Amanda at the Chamber Southwest to get your tickets.

337-555-5555

2009 Recipients: Nicholas Hunter – Harlequin Steakhouse Angela Tezeno – Owner, I Motivate Me Richard Cole – Calcasieu Parish Tax Assessor Cassondra Gilbeau – Regional Director, American Heart Assn. Heath Allen – Director, Lake Charles Regional Airport Faith Thomas – TXI, Inc., DeRidder Brooks Williams – Head Coach, MSU Girls Basketball Dr. Lisa A. Vaughn – M. D., Lake Charles Judd Bares – Owner, Sweet Spot Media Beau Hearod – Owner, Jeff Davis Insurance

April 30, 2009

by D.B. Grady

Backup Now or Pay Later Data recovery is a big business, and when your computer crashes, you learn just how big it is. The cost of restoring lost documents, music, and email can run into the thousands, and you can’t even write the technician a check, because your Quicken data is gone, too. For many computer users, backing up data falls on the same list as cleaning the garage and organizing the attic. In years past, this was understandable. Backups once required expensive software, arcane knowledge of directory structures and hours to spare for glacial file transfers. Today, however, there are online services and specialized hardware that automate the task with minimal user involvement. A few quick and inexpensive routines can save a fortune in data recovery when the worst happens. Mozy is an online

backup utility that stores your data on secure, remote servers (Offsite solutions are always the safest bet, protecting backups in the event of a housefire, theft or other disaster.) From the Mozy client, select which files you want to copy and let the program do the rest. It encrypts and sends your data across the web for storage, and stays resident on your computer, monitoring files for changes. Subsequent updates are immediate and automatic, utilizing a feature called “differential backup,” which updates only the portions of files that you change. As a result, your backup is always current. Mozy offers 2 gigabytes of free storage, which is enough to save documents and email. Unlimited storage, which can protect all of your data to include pictures, movies, and music, runs $4.95 a month. Mozy supports Windows and Macintosh operating systems. (Mozy: http://www.mozy.com) If you prefer a local backup solution, or shy away from monthly fees, Maxtor offers the One Touch 4 Plus external hard drive. It connects to your computer USB port and supports two backup modes. The first copies your data with the push of a button, and can be used to share files between two computers. The second mode, called Safety Drill, creates a full bit-by-bit image of your system to include the operating system and protected files. This is the most thorough backup possible, but also the most time consuming, as it

reboots your computer into special software to perform the task. The Maxtor One Touch 4 Plus comes in multiple sizes, the largest of which is 1 terabyte, or 1000 gigabytes, with a suggested retail price of $199.99. (Maxtor: http://www.maxtor.com) Only Steve Jobs, co-founder and CEO of Apple, Inc., would think one button is one-button-too-many when it comes to data protection. Last year, Apple introduced Time Capsule, a no-touch backup solution for Macs. Rather than plug directly into a computer, Time Capsule replaces your wireless router. It offers dual band Wi-Fi support and an integrated hard drive that allows every Apple computer on your network to backup concurrently. Time Machine, a free utility bundled with the most recent Mac operating system, enables you not only to restore a file, but also to travel “back in time” and restore previous versions of the file. Documents, as edited a week ago, a month ago, or, space permitting, a year ago can be recovered with equal simplicity. Configuration of Time Capsule could not be easier, as your Mac automatically finds it on the network, and immediately gets to work creating and maintaining a full image of your system. The Apple Time Capsule comes in 500-gigabyte and 1-terabyte varieties, the latter of which runs $499.00, Macs only (http://www.apple.com/timecapsule). Data recovery is expensive. Data backup is cheap. Before your documents disappear, before your photo album is gone and your precious memories become precious memories, get on a backup plan. And whether you choose an online service or a local hardware solution, because it’s automated, you’ll finally have time to clean the garage.

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

April 30, 2009

Local Legend Making Major Impact in Big Leagues Joe Lawrence may be the most celebrated baseball player ever to come out of Southwest Louisiana. In 1996 Lawrence was selected in the first round of the Major League Baseball draft straight out of Barbe High School. He was drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays who he played for from 1996-2002, and finished his baseball playing career with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2003. It looked like his MLB career was over, but another sport reconnected Lawrence to the big leagues. In the summer of 2003, Lawrence received a phone call from the LSU Football team. Lawrence, who had not played football since high school, was given an opportunity to play for the Tigers at the age of 27. “It was something that intrigued me, and it didn’t help that I had some best friends that wanted to see that happen,” Lawrence said, “I got the family support that I needed to make the decision, so I decided to give it a whirl.” Joe’s LSU Football encounter was short-lived as he suffered a devastating knee injury, but the experience was still extremely productive. That’s where Lawrence was introduced to Jack Marucci who is LSU’s head athletic trainer. Marucci was a big baseball fan and spent some of his free time hand crafting wooden baseball bats for his son. Knowing Joe’s background, Jack sought the former major leaguer’s opinion on the bats, and

April 30, 2009

Joe told the trainer that the bats needed to be in the hands of major leaguers. Lawrence, Marucci, and Kurt Ainsworth, who is another former major leaguer, formed The Marucci Bat Company. “In 2004 we got licensed by the major leagues,” Lawrence said. “We go from eight clients then, to now where we are in the hundreds.” The Marucci Bat Company, which is located in Baton Rouge, has come a long way since 2004. Marucci is currently the second leading bat manufacturer in Major League Baseball behind the Louisville Slugger. “If there is one marketing scheme we used, it was letting the right people swing our bats,” said Lawrence. “It has caused a ripple effect through the major leagues. We have clients from every organization in the league. Our clients are typically the better players on the team, meaning character wise. They just happen to be great players as well.” Marucci’s clients include Albert Pujols of the St. Louis Cardinals and Manny Ramirez of the Los Angeles Dodgers. They are two of MLB’s top sluggers in the game today. And while Marucci has well over two hundred major league clients, the company produces thousands of bats each year. “We did close to 18,000 bats in 2008,” said Lawrence. “This year we projected 20,000 and we’re well ahead of that pace.” Lawrence is still very actively involved with the Barbe baseball program. Last year Marucci developed a prototype aluminum bat called the Cat 5. Lawrence allowed Barbe to use the bat last year, and maybe it’s just a coincidence, but Barbe won the state championship. “Our kids love it,” said Barbe head baseball coach Glenn Cecchini. We just have one bat because they are being manufactured right now and all of the kids say it’s the best bat they’ve ever used.” “It’s the hottest bat on the market as far as technology,” Lawrence said. “If you get any hotter, that’s an aluminum bat term meaning how the ball comes off of the barrel, it’s going to be illegal. So we are right on that threshold. We’ve pushed it as far as we can push it.” The future certainly looks bright for Joe Lawrence and The Marucci Bat family. With the launch of its new aluminum bat, Marucci expects to become a major player in the aluminum bat industry, just as the company has done with its wooden bat line.

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April 30, 2009

by Chaney Ferguson

ontraband Days is upon us, and where would we be without our famous Jean Lafitte and Festival Queen to lead us into the festivities. Every year the pageant brings in contestants that want to have a good time competing in a relaxed pageant atmosphere filled with pirates, skits, and a supportive Buccaneer family.

The Miss Contraband Days contestants participate in the theatrics by dressing in pirate attire, and then performing an improvisational skit with an assigned Buccaneer. The contestants have an opportunity to be creative. They will be judged on originality, use of theme, and improvisational content. Jackie Bergeron, an experienced pageant

The pageant has a place for all young ladies ages 5-24. Young men who are aspiring pirates ages 5-6 years old compete for Master Jean Lafitte. The younger participants, in the 5-14 divisions, compete in the morning. All are scored on beauty, modeling/poise, and overall appearance. On the evening of the pageant, the Junior Miss Contraband (15-17) and the Miss Contraband Days (18-24) divisions are scored on a more in depth criteria. Ladies are required to be in evening gown attire when they give a brief introduction about themselves or Contraband Days. This is followed by an interview focusing on personal biography, poise, and conversation ability. “We are more theatrical than other pageants,” says Angela Kiser, this year’s pageant director, “We have traditions like the passing of the sword from the past Jean Lafitte to the new Jean Lafitte.”

director, has a rich pageant history. She began competing when she was eight years old, and most recently she directed the Mardi Gras pageants. Bergeron was the first Deb Miss Contraband Days in 1988, and her daughter was Little Miss Contraband Days in 2007. Bergeron doesn’t see the girls until the morning of the pageant. Contestants register and receive welcome packets before the competition begins. Being a mother herself, Bergeron knows the emotions the contestants and their mothers go through. “It’s an honor for people to share their kids with you,” she said. “It makes me feel good when a girl comes up and says that even though she didn’t win, she’ll be back next year.” Miss Contraband Days receives the sparkling 12 inch tall and 10 inch wide coveted crown that is passed down year after year. Division winners receive a decorative 8 inch crown featuring two swords with a ship in the middle.

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According to Bergeron, Miss Contraband Days will be extremely busy during her reign. The Queen receives invitations from festivals around the state. At those festivals, she promotes Contraband Days and all the pirate escapades. On a local level, the Queen can be found with Jean Lafitte raiding schools, football games, and sometimes even nursing homes. A raid is when the Buccaneers show up at an event like a Swashbucklers’ football game and surprise the attendees with beads and maybe even a little firing from their black powder guns. If you’re lucky you may witness a sword fight. The night the Queen is crowned the Buccaneers raid the pageant. “Unlike other festivals, we have a group of people who are heavily involved,” says Kiser, “The Buccaneers love being a part of the pageant.” Former Queens have their own traditions at the crowning ceremony. Last year’s Queen passes on her crown and the Queen before her is the Emcee. They follow a three-tiered tradition: Win-Crown-Emcee. According to Kiser, the Contraband Days Festival never says goodbye to their queens. “They don’t go away. We keep inviting them to things.” At the festival, Jean Lafitte and the Queen can be found judging the costume contest, posing for photos, and popping in on different events. Maybe you can talk him into an arm wrestling match, but be careful, he has a sword. Contraband Days Festival will be April 28May 10. Keep your eyes peeled for Jean Lafitte and our lovely Queen!

e h t n i n u F Hot ! e m i T r e m Sum

It’s almost time for summer break. Soon we’ll be hearing the splash of swimming pools and children’s laughter late into the evenings. The Times has compiled our annual “Survival Guide” for parents. From cooking classes to soccer to dance and Shakespearean productions, there is plenty to keep the whole family busy and happy during the long, hot summer. At press time, many organizations had still not finalized their summer schedules, but we included contact information here so you can keep in touch with them as plans are finalized. Enjoy your summertime fun!

April 30, 2009

Camps & Recreation

SPORTS SUMMER CAMP AT LAKE ST. COMPLEX 7903 Lake St. Phone Albert Landry 337-502-5231 or 337-502-5214 There will be an all day summer camp running from 8-5. This camp will have arts and crafts, guest speakers as well as sports. There will also be three one week sessions both full and ½ day camps for soccer, basketball, and flag football. They’re considering a tennis camp, but you must call for more details. Football Camp: Boys June 8-12 Time: 8-12 noon $25 Basketball Camp: Girls and Boys July 6-9 8-12 noon $25 Soccer Camp: Girls and Boys June 15-18 8-10:30 $25 Summer Camp: June 8-July 31 both full day and ½ day Parents can pay summer camp by the week. There is a one time $25 registration fee. The ½ day camp is $60 a week and full day camp is $80 dollars a week. PRICE-MILLER RECREATION CENTER 216 Albert St. Phone: 337-502-5231 For summer fun and enjoyment there are these Gym Amenities: 1 Full Size Gym w/Concession Stand, 1 Indoor Walking Trail, Playground Area, Exercise Bikes, Multi-Purpose room. The Price-Miller Recreation Center is available for rental. Call (337) 502-5231 for more details. YMCA SIZZLING SUMMER CAMP 3426 Ryan St Phone 337-562-8383 At summer camp we have fun, we go on educational and fun field trips, we make lifelong friends and memories, and we learn lessons that will last a lifetime. Where: First Christian Church 2525 2nd Ave, Lake Charles When: June 1st-Aug. 14 Mon-Fri What time: 6:30-5:30 Who: Children 5-12 years old Cost: $30.00 Registration Fee $80.00 per week How to Register: Registration is ongoing. Camp is limited to 60 campers per week so register early. Stop by the YMCA at 3426 Ryan St or call 562-8383 to register. Registration for T-ball and Baseball for boys and girls ages 3-10. Registration is 35.00. SUPERFOODS SUMMER CAMP 138 W. Prien Lake Road Phone: 905-7873 Pure Foods and Health of Lake Charles will host a SuperFoods Summer Camp for ages 4-13 during the month of June at their 138 W. Prien Lake Road store. The camp is designed to introduce youth to basic nutrition and the benefits of healthy eating. The camp will be held from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-Friday, June 1-26. Week one will be reserved for ages 4-6; week two, ages 7-10; week three, ages 11-13; and week four, 14-17. Students will have the opportunity to prepare their own pure foods. “Good habits developed in childhood carry over to adulthood,” said owner Dr. Gene Lampson. “Our summer camp hopes to set the stage for developing good habits.” Healthy eating in childhood and adolescence is important for proper growth and development and can prevent health problems such as obesity, dental cavities and iron deficiency. According to the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, most young people do not follow the recommendations set forth in the Dietary Guideline for Americans – 67 percent exceed recommendations for fat intake, and 72 percent exceed recommended saturated fat intake. In 2007, only 21 percent of high school students reported eating fruits and vegetables five or more times a day.

April 30, 2009

GRAND LAKE RECREATION CENTER SUMMER PROGRAM FOR KIDS Cameron Phone: 337-905-6000 The Summer program at the Grand Lake Recreation Center is for kids age 5-18 with activities, lunch each day, and field trips, 5 days a week from 7:30am to 6pm. The program begins when school ends. Fees are charged. Register by calling the number above. FOREMAN-REYNAUD COMMUNITY CENTER 215 Albert St. 337-436-2509 Summer Camp: June 2-July 31 and Extended Camp August 3-14 both will be from 7:30am-5pm. There will be a one time registration fee of $15 and $55 a week. If there is more than one child in a household, there will be a price alteration, please call for specifics. This camp offers indoor and outdoor sports, arts and crafts, movie time, computer, reinforcement of math and reading, field trips, swimming lessons, and water safety. Breakfast and lunch will be provided for the kids. SUMMER DAY CAMP DREW COMMUNITY CENTER 416 Ryan St Phone 337-491-1498 Sessions: June 1-12, June 15-26, June 29-July 10, July 13-24 Ages: 6-12 Hours: 7:30am-5:30pm Cost: $100.00 Camp activities will include: water park trips, educational seminars, pizza party, field trips, bowling, fun days tournaments, space walks, swimming, movies, and lots, more! Call for more details. SUMMER TEEN DAY CAMP Columbus Circle Community Center Phone 337-491-1280 Cost: $80 per teen, per two week session The recreation department will host this camp at Columbus Circle community Center. This is for 13-15 year olds. The camp sessions will be the same as the regular day camp. Some activites will include: nature field trips, swimming, sports competitions, movies, bowling, skating. For more information call. FREE TENNIS CAMP Huber Park and Barbe High Phone: 337-491-1280 Dates: June 1-12, June 15-26, June 29-July 10, July 13-24 Times: Huber Park: Youth ages 7-12 9am-10:30am Youth ages 13-adult 10:30am-3:30pm Barbe High School: Youth ages 7-12 1:30pm-3:30pm Youth ages 13 to adult 3:30pm-6:00pm For more information call Helen Lewis Dunn at the number above. SPAR SULPHUR PARKS & RECREATION &AQUATIC PARK 933 West Parish Rd., Sulphur Phone: 337-721-3040 USSSA World Series Baseball tournament July 5-12, 2009 See Contact Person Joey Odom (337) 562-1251 Dixie boy’s baseball state championships baseball tournament (13-14 yr olds). July 17-23, 2009. See Contact Person Keith Powell (337) 855-9675 www.dixie.org Pool & Bracket Play SPAR Baseball Facilities. CUB SCOUT SUMMER DAY CAMPS 304 S. Ryan St Phone: 337-436-3376 Cub Scout Day Camp, Grades 1-5 Sulphur, DeRidder, Jennings, and Leesville: June 1-5 Lake Charles: June 8-12 For more information call or go onto the council website.

BOY SCOUTS SUMMER CAMP AT CAMP EDGEWOOD 304 S. Ryan Phone 337-435-3376 Ages 11-18 This will be overnight residential camp. June 14-20 June 21-27 For more information call or go onto the council website.

WEBELOS RESIDENT CAMP 304 S. Ryan St. Phone: 337-426-3376 For incoming 4th and 5th graders June 28-July 1 For more information call or go onto the council website. CAMP FIRE FUN AT WI-TA-WENTIN CALL AND ASSURE THESE ARE CORRECT GOT IT OFF THEIR WEBSITE 2185 Campfire Rd Phone: 337-478-6550 Online: www.coampfireswla.org Camp Fire USA, SWLA Council offers children adventure, friends, and summertime experiences. If you go to the website listed, you can get the registration, parent packet, health form, and campership form. 2009 Camp Sessions: June 2-12 $295 June 14-18 $295 June 21-26 $295 Day Camp is 7:30-5:30: June 29-July 3 $125 July 6-10 $125 Optional overnight on Thursday nights only $10. All Session Prices include meals.

Sports Camps

NEW MOON GOLF OFFERS JUNIOR GOLF CLINICS 4200 Gerstner Memorial Blvd Phone: 337- 480-0700‎ This clinic will run from May 4-8 from 6pm-7pm. Call the number above for specifics.

NEEL & RONNIE’S GOLF & TENNIS CAMP AT GRAYWOOD 6150 Graywood Pkwy Phone: 337-477-1114 Online: www.graywoodllc.com For a brochure/registration go online or call. Whether your child is just starting out or wants to improve their golf and tennis skills, this camp provides a fun and unique opportunity to learn the basics from two of the area’s most respected sports professionals: Neel DeRouen and Ronnie Walters. Camp location: Graywood in Lake Charles: Neel DeRouen Golf Academy and Sports Club Tennis Complex Session I: June 22-26 Session II July 20-24 Cost: $265 for Sports Club members; $305 for non-members Includes lunch and snacks RONNIE’S TENNIS CAMP 6150 Graywood Pkwy Phone: 337-477-1114 Online: www.graywoodllc.com For a brochure/registration form, go online. If tennis is your child’s game, this camp concentrates on all the skills needed for recreation and competitive play. This camp will take place at the Sports Club Tennis Complex. Session I two weeks June 8-19 8:30-12:30 pm each day lunch included Cost: $330 for Sports Club members; $370 for non-members Session II one weeks July 6-17 8:30-12:30 pm each day lunch included Cost: $330 for Sports Club members; $370 for non-members Session III one week July 27-31 8:30-12:30 pm each day lunch included Cost: $330 for Sports Club members; $370 for non-members continued on p24

April 30, 2009

HIGH SCHOOL TENNIS CLINIC WITH RONNIE WALTERS & AJ VARNADO 6150 Graywood Pkwy Phone: 337-274-2340 Online: www.graywoodllc.com Junior players will have the opportunity to sharpen their tennis skills with two of the area’s most respected tennis professionals, Ronnie Walters and AJ Varnado. Location: Premier tennis complex at the new Sports Club. Open to any student who will be enrolled in high school in the Fall. Go online or call for dates, times, and cost. SOUTH LAKE CHARLES OPTIMIST JUNIOR PUTTING CLINIC 620 Petro Point Drive Phone: 337-480-1954 The South Lake Charles Optimist Club is very proud to sponsor the 3rd Annual “South Lake Charles Optimist Junior Putting Clinic” in conjunction with the Lake Area Putting Association. Register at the Putt Putt Family Fun Center. Early registration ends Monday, May 18. Location: Lake Charles Putt Putt Family Fun Center Time/Date: 9:00am-Noon, June 1-June 5 Ages: 8-18 Early Registration fee: $5.00 per child per day or $15.00 per child for the entire week Prizes will be awarded each day. Trophies will be presented at the Awards Luncheon at Noon on Friday. RIPPERZ SKATEBOARD SUMMER CAMP 650 Petro Point Dr. Phone: 337-479-7581 Online: www.ripperzskatepark.com Ripperz Skate park camp is about having fun, advancing your skateboarding, and hanging out with your friends and other skaters. From first timers to novice skaters, our instructors will help everyone improve their skill level. What is required: a waiver on file or one that is signed in front of a park employee, helmet (protective gear optional), and skateboard. All campers receive: rental helmet, lunch, snack, 2 fountain drinks, unlimited water, Ripperz t-shirt, swag bag, and 15% off coupon for the board shop. Session 1: June 8-11 Registration deadline: Wednesday June 3 Session 2: July 13-16 Registration deadline: Wednesday July 8 9am-1pm with instructors and 1pm-5pm free skate Cost: $150 per week

Sowela Summer Camps

SOWELA CULINARY CAMPS Phone 337-491-2698

Sowela Technical Community College is offering several culinary camps this year at Lake Charles Boston Academy and the camp cost is $185 per camper. Each camp will run for one week—Monday-Friday, 8am-2pm. Campers must be dropped off no earlier than 7:30am and picked up at 2pm. Kids in the Kitchen Culinary Camp (grades 1-4) June 1-5 June 22-26 Junior High School Culinary Camp (grades 5-8) June 8-12 June 29-July 3 High School Culinary Camp (grades 7-12) June 15-19 July 6-10 There will be two other classes for people age 17 and up: meat cutting class; basic cooking skills class—both are July 13-17 SOWELA AEROSPACE CAMP Aviation Building, Sowela Campus Phone 337-491-2698 Summer aerospace camp at the Aviation Hangar on the Sowela campus. Call for more information.

McNeese Special KIDS COLLEGE/MCNEESE TEENS SUMMER 2009 COURSES , ge le ol McNeese Campus Phone: 337-475-5616, (800) 622 C s id K Events, 3352, ext. 5616 is a tentative list as of publication. Dates and times will & Camps beThisup listed at www.mcneese.edu/conted on or before May 1. To Register call the numbers above. Course offerings may change.

MALLARD COVE GOLF COURSE 2009 SUMMER JUNIOR GOLF CAMPS Chennault Air Park Phone: 337-491-1204 Dates: June 8-11, July 6-9, August 3-6 Monday: 8am-10am Rules, Chip, Putt Tuesday: 8am 10am Irons, Woods Wednesday 8am-10am Tournament Practice Thursday 8am-11am Tournament Cost: $50.00 per Camper per Camp Mallard Cove is a Lake Charles municipal championship layout golf course open to the public. Campers must be between the ages of 7-12. They will be divided into groups of like age and skill level. If your camper does not have any equipment, Mallard will supply her/him with the proper equipment to be able to participate in the clinic activities. Instruction will be lead by the PGA Head Golf Professional. Basic rules and etiquette will be covered on Day 1. Day 2 will be specific instruction and tournament prep. Day 3 will include instruction and tournament prep. Day 4 will be Tournament and FUN day. Teams will compete for prizes. The awards will be given during a Pizza Party. Each camper will receive a golf camp t-shirt. Each golf camp will be limited to the first 40 paid entrants. Entry form must be delivered in person with payment or mailed with payment. Cash or check only. All campers must be picked up immediately at conclusion of each session. Instructors will not be responsible for campers outside of session times.

April 30, 2009

Reading & Study Skills Clinic (Gr. 4 – 5), (Gr. 6 – 8) Math Clinic (Gr. 4 – 5), Gr. 6 – 8) Beginning Golf (Gr. 4 & Up) Kids Beginning & Intermediate Guitar (Gr. 3 - 5) Teens Beginning & Intermediate Guitar (Gr. 6 - 10) Want to be an Author, Illustrator and Publisher? (Gr. 3 - 5) Creative Writing for Teens (Gr. 6 & Up) Kids in the Kitchen (Gr. 3 – 5) Teens in the Kitchen (Gr. 6 – 8) Crime Scene Detective (Gr. 3 - 4), Gr. 5 – 6), (Gr. 7 – 9) Violin for Beginners (Ages 7 – 10), (Ages 11 & Up) Cello for Beginners (Ages 7 - 10), (Ages 11 - Up) Beginner & Intermediate Music Theory Charlene Kaough’s Creative Clay (Gr. 3 - 5) Science for Young Scientists (Gr. 3 – 5), (Gr. 6 & Up) Intro to Digital Photography (Gr. 6 & Up) Fun with Photography (Gr. 3- 5) Beginning Origami (Gr. 3 - 8) Airigami (Gr. 4 - 8) French Fun on the Bayou (Gr. 3 – 6) Write, Illustrate, Edit and Publish a Newspaper (Gr. 4 - 8) Comic Book Artistry (Gr. 7 & Up)

Fundamental Camp will be held June 22-25 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Cost is $165 per camper for girls entering grades K-8. Shooting Camp will be held June 22-24 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Cost is $75 per camper for girls entering grades K-12. Elite Skills Camp will be held on June 15-16 beginning at 5 p. m. on June 15 and ending at 4 p.m. on June 16. Cost is $65 per camper for girls entering grades 10-12. Position Camp will be held on June 14 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Cost is $50 per camper for girls entering grades 7-12.

Splash Dance with Watercolor (Gr. 3 & Up) Forensics: Solving the Mysteries of Crime (Gr. 4 - 6), (Gr. 7 – 9) Printmaking 101 Beginning Piano for Kids (Gr. 3 – 5) Line Dance (Gr. 4 - 10) Chinese Calligraphy & Paper Cut Designs (Gr. 4 - 6) Beginning Piano for Teens (Gr. 6 & Up) Splash into Spanish (Gr. 3 - 6) Juggling & Balance Skills (Ages 10 - Adult) Writing a College/Graduate School Application Essay

MSU COWBOY FOOTBALL CAMP McNeese State University Campus Phone 337-475-5235 The 2009 Cowboy Football Camp will be held July 12-14 at McNeese State University. For more information regarding Cowboy football or the 2009 football camp please visit www.mcneesesports.com to get a copy of the brochure/registration form or call the football office at 337.475.5235. Forms must be in no later than July 9.

Watercolor Classes with Nancy Melton McNeese Campus Phone: 337-475-5616 Date: June 22 – 26 Monday-Friday Time: 1-2:15 Cost: $29 plus supply kit. Nancy Melton will be teaching a Watercolor Class for children at McNeese with the Kids College program with registration through McNeese Leisure Learning. The children will have fun as they explore Chinese artist Lian Quan Zhen’s pouring method. They will have fun while creating great-looking paintings in a wet-in-wet style. Your family will want to frame them all! Supply List: 3 tubes – red, yellow, blue or a set of tube watercolors; large & small watercolor brushes (sizes 4 and 8 or 10 or larger – approximately), pencil, eraser, mist bottle for water, optional—masking fluid,paper towels, cover up or wear old clothes; The instructor will sell paper—$5 for the week’s supply. Check out Nancy’s website at www.nancymelton.photoreflect.com COWGIRL KICKER KUTIE SUMMER DANCE CAMP Burton Coliseum Phone 337-475-5604 Registration is now underway for the McNeese Cowgirl Kicker Kutie Summer Dance Camp to be held Aug. 4-8 for girls age 5-12 at McNeese State University. The dance camp will be offered from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in Burton Coliseum. Participants will learn about jazz, hip-hop dance, tumbling, pom dance, modeling and etiquette. The camp cost is $150. For more information or a registration form, call Paige Harkins-Caldwell, Cowgirl Kicker adviser, at 475-5604. MSU BROOKS DONALD BASKETBALL CAMP Memorial Gym, Burton Coliseum, Phone 337475-5911 or 337-475-5473 Brooks Donald Williams Basketball will host a full summer of camps in 2009. Coach Williams’ camps feature six different camp sessions. Go online to www.mcneesesports.com to get a copy of the camp brochure/registration form and waiver and to see the age groups and cost associated with each camp. Team Camp will be held on June 11-13 and July 30-August 1. The cost for one day is $180 per team with a three game guarantee. The cost for two days is $300 per team with a five game guarantee and the cost for 3 days is $450 with an eight game guarantee.

MSU DAVE SIMMONS BASKETBALL CAMPS McNeese State University Campus Phone 337-475-5481 Coach Dave Simmons Basketball Camp is June26-27. Go online to www.mcneesesports.com and click on camps for the brochure/registration form or call the number above.

Lamar State College-Orange can help you start your college career on the right track! At LSC-O, you’ll find: • Personalized attention and flexible schedules • Varied curricula, including online courses • Affordable, quality education to maximize your college funds • Transferrable credits to four-year degree programs • Financial aid and scholarship opportunities • Vocational/technical programs geared to the local job market • Personal enrichment and skills enhancement courses

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May Mini SeSSion: May 20 - June 5 SuMMer SeSSion i: June 8 - July 9 SuMMer SeSSion ii: July 13 - auguSt 13 Fall 2009: auguSt 24 - DeceMber 15

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April 30, 2009

MSU DALE STARR VOLLEYBALL CAMP McNeese State University Campus Phone 337-475-5109 Skill development, teamwork and fun! May through August 2. Go to wwww.mcneesesports.com and click on camps to get a brochure/registration form. If you have questions contact Jessica Robinson at jrobinson@mcneese.edu or call 337-475-5109. MSU COMPETITIVE CHALLENGE SOCCER CAMP McNeese Campus Phone 337-475-5216 Train with college coaches and college athletes to learn the skills we use to be successful at the highest levels of competition. Girls Elite Soccer Camp Ages 13-18, July 5-8 Youth Day Camps ages 6-14 Session 1 - June 1-4 Session 2 - July 27-30 To Register: 1. Go to www.cowgirlsoccer.org 2. Click on the link at the top of the web page labeled “Competitive Challenge Soccer Camp”. 3. Click on the camp you are interested in attending on the lower left side. 4. Fill out the registration form and mail back to: Box 92744, Lake Charles, LA 70609

Art Camps

THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 327 Broad St Phone337- 433-9420 Online www.swlakids.org The children’s museum is planning a summer of fun for details call or go online.

IMPERIAL CALCASIEU MUSEUM ART CAMP 204 W. Sallier St Phone 337-439-3797 Summer Art Camp Session 1 Art Camp July 14 - 18, 9:00am - 11:30am Session 2 Art Camp July 21 - 25, 9:00 - 11:30am Session 3 Art Camp July 28 - August 1, 9:00am - 11:30am For details and possible changes call for more information. 29th SUMMER ART CAMP AT THE CALCASIEU PARISH SCHOOL SYSTEM Lake Charles Boston Academy Phone: 377-439-2787 Classes begin June 2 and run through June 25, Monday- Friday, 8:30 to 11:30 AM for only $225.00 for the entire month. For an application email: director@artsandhumanitiesswla.org. Students will get a camp T-shirt, will be enrolled in three classes, will perform on stage if enrolled in theatre and will bring home several projects from each class. Students will learn about artists from throughout history and will acquire valuable skills in a variety of media. Bus transportation is provided to Lake Charles Boston Academy from Frasch Elementary School in Sulphur for all art campers residing in west Calcasieu. All classes are taught by certified art teachers from throughout the Calcasieu Parish School System and master artists working in the community. These qualified teachers will be engaging students in a wide variety of classes such as Collage, Drawing, Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture, Pottery, Stained Glass, Photography, Cartooning, Computer arts, Musical Theatre, Theatre and more. New classes have been added such as Fiber Arts, Floral Design, Puppets, Portraits, and Masks. For Grades 6-8 we have added 2-D Mixed Media and a Video Production class that will be taught by former local KPLC TV news reporter, Pam Dixon. The “campus will easily accommodate the needs of all K-8 art campers, assuring easy in and out traffic flow. Two uniformed officers will be on site to ensure our campers are provided a safe, secure and healthy environment,” according to camp director Bobbi Yancey.

April 30, 2009

ZIGLER ART MUSEUM SUMMER ART CAMP OLI Campus, 600 Roberts Ave., Jennings Phone 337-824-0114 $100.00 ($90.00 for 2 or more students in family or $10.00 discount for “Family” or higher Friends membership). Only one discount per family. Art supplies are included in fee. The art camp will have drawing, pottery, sculpture, painting, crafts-Origami, and block printing. July 6-17 Time: 9-12 noon Grades 1-8 CLAY & CERAMICS WORKSHOP WITH MEGHANN EASLEY TBA, Call Gallery by the Lake, Creative Arts Center at 337-436-1008 HENNING CULTURAL CENTER 923 Ruth St., Sulphur Phone337-527-0357 The Henning Cultural Center will have free programs the second Saturday in each month. Ages 6-14 June 13 Performance Art July 11 Photography August 8 Visual Arts with Ceramics and Mosaics Time 9-1 ART CLASSES WITH MELISSA POUSSON Sulphur Phone: 337-764-5862 Melissa Pousson will be giving private art classes this summer. Up to 8 children per class. TuesdayWednesday 9:30-11 and 1-2:30. Fridays 1-2:30 and 3-4:30. Call Melissa Pousson at “How Great Thou ART Studio 1” for prices.

Theatre, Dance, & Music

LAKE CHARLES CIVIC BALLET 2009 SUMMER WORKSHOP 3511 Kirkman St Phone 337-304-5445 Online www. ladydanceschool.com The Six Week 2009 Lake Charles Civic Ballet Summer Workshop will be held from June 22 - July 31, 2009, at 3511 Kirkman Street in Lake Charles. Classes are open for ages 10 and up; daily workshop schedule runs 8 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. Monday – Friday. There are two divisions in the workshop: Company Division and Apprentice Division. The Artistic Directors of LCCB appoint each dancer into the divisions. Company division will participate in several classes including ballet, pointe and variation class, along with a themed class that will change each week. Apprentice division will attend classes including ballet, pointe, and stretch each day. Guest instructors this summer include Ballet Pensacola’s Artistic Director Richard Steinert and Ballet Mistress Christine Duhon, as well as Master Instructors Ginger Gondron and Lindsay Grande, both from Texas. LCCB Summer Workshop is made possible by the Arts & Humanities Council, the Lake Charles Partnership Grants, and Louisiana Division of the Arts. For further information about the LCCB Summer Workshop call Lady Holly at 337304-5445.

CHILDREN’S THEATRE COMPANY SUMMER STARZ SERIES 2009 Kirby Street Phone 337-433-7323 Online www.childrenstheatre.cc This Summer starz series can be purchased by going online and printing out the registration form. Either mail the form and a check to CTC or purchase the workshop of your choice online by clicking the “Seat Yourself” logo and selecting the desired workshop from the calendar. Wild Things Ages 5-8, July 8-10, 10:00-11:15 am, Cost: $65 Explore the wild world of theatre and imagination where any sort of creature can exist, and any kind of kid can be a creature. Children participate in creative drama exercises, games, movement and music in this workshop just for youngsters. This workshop is a wonderful way to introduce them to theatre! Brief demonstration performance at 11:30 AM on July 12 for family and friends. Acting for the Camera Ages 8-18, July 8-10, 1:00-3:00 pm, Cost:$85 This workshop 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. Be in a commercial! Mid Summer Fun! Ages 5-8, July 20-24, 10:00-11:15am, Cost $85 Ages 9-18, July 20-24, 10:00am-12:00 noon, Cost $85 Hey, wanna be in a play? Students learn how a play is produced by participation in a production by the world’s greatest playwright - William Shakespeare! Makeup, costuming and lighting are all part of this exciting adventure! Additional studies include movement, acting, stage combat, script analysis and theatre games. This workshop concludes with a public performance featuring all of the students on July 20 at 6:00 PM. This is the ultimate Shakesperience! Kids in Showbiz! Ages 5-8, August 3-7, 10:00-11:15am, Cost: $85 Ages 9-18, August 3-7, 10:00-12:00 noon, Cost: $85 Students learn the basics of musical theatre performance by singing, dancing and acting to songs and scenes from Broadway shows! The final class of this workshop concludes with the students in a performance demonstration highlighting musical theatre skill learned on August 4 at 12 Noon. Backstage Magic, Technical Theatre Ages 12-20, August 3-7, 10:00-12:00 noon, Cost: $85 Discover the art created behind-the-scenes! An intriguing backstage tour is combined with hands-on experiences in lights, sets, costumes and more!

Families are encouraged to check with their local public library to learn about specific incentives and programs available for kids and teens in their community. SUMMER CAREER EXPLORATON AT LEADERSHIP CENTER 220 Louie St. Phone 337-433-4533 or visit www.fyca.org Don’t spend your summer on the couch! Come to Summer Leadership and Career Exploration 2009 at The Leadership Center for Youth in Lake Charles (TLC). Kick your summer up a notch with fun activities and new friends! Start with art projects, sports competitions, and field trips. Add a dash of culinary arts and reading. Roll right into career exploration with guest speakers from medicine, banking, restaurant management, computer technology and government. The fun begins on Monday, June 1, and continues through Friday, Aug. 7, 2009. The cost is $10 per week for members and $25 per week for nonmembers. Deadline for registration is Friday, May 15, 2009. For more information, or to register, call or email Dana or Taylor at 337-4334533. TLC offers youth, ages 10 to 17, the following activities: planned summer activities, tutoring, youth leadership activities, arts and cultural enrichment, homework help, drug and violence prevention, recreational sports, computer literacy, and abstinence and STD prevention education. Membership is $50 a year. The Leadership Center for Youth is a program of Family & Youth. Family & Youth, a United Way Agency, believes that all individuals possess the ability to solve their own challenges and live full and healthy lives when support is available. Let us support you and your family. For experienced professional assistance, contact Family & Youth at 337-436-9533 or 1-888-414-FYCA.

Summer Fun Activities

LOUISIANA LIBRARIES SUMMER READING PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS Phone 337-475-8798 Online www.calcasieu.lib.la.us or www.state.lib.la.us Be Creative is the slogan for the 2009 Children’s Summer Reading Program, which will be offered by public libraries throughout the state. Programs, which include the performing arts, visual arts, literature, sports, and science, are designed to show children ages 2 to 12 how they can Be Creative! Children who join the Summer Reading Club will receive reading logs to keep track of their reading. Each child who completes the program will receive a personalized reading achievement certificate. T-Shirts and canvas tote bags with the “Be Creative” theme will be available at most public libraries. Express Yourself @ the Library is the slogan for the Teen Summer Reading Program 2009, which will be offered by public libraries throughout the state. The Teen Summer Reading Program is open to individuals ages 12-18. Teens will be invited to participate in a variety of artistic-related activities, such as poetry slams, readers’ theatre, talent shows, improvisational programs, song-writing workshops, teen film festivals, fashion shows, photography, comic drawing workshops, and art programs.

April 30, 2009

SWIMMING CLASSES 2nd Ave. Pool 337-491-1269 and University Pool 511Central Pkwy 491-1508 Ages 6 and up Must bring birth certificate for proof of age. Registration begins June 1. $1.00 per child, per day. LOCAL PARKS AND KID ATTRACTIONS Adventure Cove Park Phone: 337-491-1292 Adventure Cove is the first barrier-free park in our area, providing access to children of all ages and abilities to play together. This park was built entirely by volunteers. This park is located in South Lake Charles. Bord Du Lac Interactive Park 900 Lakeshore Dr Phone: (337) 491-1280 Located along the Northshore of Lake Charles, accesible from Interstate 10 (exit 29 Eastbound, exit 30A westbound). For an enjoyable day or a relaxing stroll, Veterans’ Memorial Park, Bord du Lac Park, Lake Charles Civic Center, PPG Interacting Fountain make an excellent combination. Millennium Park 900 Lakeshore Dr Shiver Me Timbers Millennium Park opened in September 2000. The park was built over a 10-day period. Local businesses donated money and supplies, and 5500 volunteers from the community worked 12 hours a day. The park is 20,000 square feet, with a tower, train, plane and other features made of splinter-free wood, a multi-story Louisiana Hurricane slide, and a treehouse. Petro Bowl 630 Petro Point Dr Phone: (337) 477-7554 Slide on your bowling shoes, but don’t slide down the lane! Take some time out of your busy vacation to relax and throw a few gutter balls. Or, if you’re a master-bowler, try for that impressive perfect game! Petro Bowl has everything you need to make your bowling first-rate. Consessions and a lounge are available for you to relax in as well, after a hard day of throwin’ strikes!

Putt Putt Golf 620 Petro Point Dr Phone: (337) 480-1954 Two 18-hole courses of miniature golf fun. Skate City of Lake Charles 4720 Nelson Road Phone: (337) 474-2855 At Skate City, you can roller skate, in-line skate, or just skate around errands! Skate City is open to the public and happy to help you make your skating wishes for the day come true. So bring your own skates, or borrow a pair from Skate City, and get going! Wheeelers Family Entertainment 1130 N Highway 171 (337) 855-3234 Wheeelers Family Entertainment promises a full day of outdoor fun for the entire family. Spend your day skating...or darting around playing laser tag. There are also many other games to play at Wheeelers. Let them help you host your party! Have a skate-themed or laser-tag themed party, all while you’re visiting Lake Charles. Wheeelers is located just north of Lake Charles in the community of Moss Bluff.

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‘Strangers’ Aren’t Usually the Ones who Harm Children In the 80s and 90s, one of the main slogans in children’s safety was “Stranger Danger”. Its purpose was to teach kids to not talk to strangers in hopes of protecting them from any perpetrators who may be on the prowl. The one flaw with the

popular slogan is that most adults who lure children into harm’s way befriend them first, eliminating the stranger factor. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children states that it has never supported the “Stranger Danger” message, especially because experience has shown that most children are actually taken by someone they know or are familiar with. Joni Fontenot with the Safety Council of Southwest Louisiana explains that children think of a stranger as someone ugly or mean. “They don’t perceive nice-

looking or friendly people as strangers. If someone talks to a child, or is even around a child more than once, that person loses his or her ‘stranger’ status,” she said. “A person intent on harming a child could easily put on a hard hat and work clothes, trying to blend into the crowd. A child could mistake them for a member of any kind of work crew and be misled into trusting them,” said Fontenot. Because when it comes to safety, appearances don’t mean anything. It’s impossible for anyone, whether an adult or a

child, to tell if a person is good or bad by outward appearance. And, to add more confusion to children, parents break the “don’t talk to strangers” rule at the grocery store, at ballgames, in line at the bank, etc. Children may wonder why it’s okay to talk to a new teacher or neighbor. These are strangers, too, at first. “As adults, we have the benefit of experience, judgment and decision-making skills; and sometimes, we’ve trusted people who end up hurting us. So, if we can’t identify ‘bad’ people, we can’t expect our children to,” said Fontenot. The Safety Council recommends that parents teach these guidelines to younger children: • Stay near a parent in public places, such as a store or the park • Don’t go anywhere with someone you don’t know • Never take anything from a stranger • Back up or run for help if an unfamiliar grown-up gets too close • Scream and kick if a stranger grabs you For older children in late elementary through middle school, Fontenot said one of the best things parents can instill in their children is to trust their own instincts. “Children have a good sense of right and wrong. They should trust that feeling that tells them if something is safe or not. By helping them develop this skill, they will come to rely on it as they grow. It will become invaluable as they make decisions in their adult lives.” Today, kids need to be empowered with positive messages and safety skills to boost their selfconfidence. They do not need to be bombarded with the message that the world is a scary place. They watch the news and hear adults talking. Some of them may even have witnessed physical or verbal abuse. “Guide children as they grow up to feel confident in their decision-making abilities,” said Fontenot. “When they make good decisions, point them out and give them positive feedback.” Street-proofing, or talking about dangerous situations, helps children become more aware of their surroundings. It can be especially beneficial for kids who continued on p.34

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Keeping Kids Safe in the Summer Sun The sights and smells of the approaching summer call for spending time outside. Whether it’s children playing in lawn sprinklers, barb-que’s in the back yard, or just laying in the back yard hammock, summertime means outdoor time. As parents take stock of summertime necessities, such as bathing suits, baseball equipment and wading pools, it’s important to remember sun safety. “It is estimated that 80 percent of lifetime sun exposure occurs before the age of 18. And just one bad blistering sunburn during childhood can double the risk of skin cancer later in life,” says Luis Apellaniz, MD, pediatrician on the medical staff of Jennings American Legion Hospital. The good news is that with regular use of a sunblock with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 or higher

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Kids Unplugged Making Fitness Fun during the first 18 years of life, the risk of certain skin cancers can be lowered by 78 percent. Sometimes it’s hard to tell if a child is getting a sunburn, especially if their skin naturally turns red from exertion. Dr. Apellaniz recommends parents get in the habit of applying sunblock anytime a child will be outdoors for more than 15 minutes. Damage from the sun can start with just 15 minutes of exposure, even though the effects may not be seen until 12 hours later. Other ways to be sun smart with your children are: • Limit sun exposure during the hours when the sun’s rays are the strongest, 10am to 4pm. The sun’s rays are the strongest between the hours of 10am and 4pm. To the extent possible, people should limit their exposure to the sun during these hours and practice all of the sun protective behaviors. Your shadow is an indicator of the sun’s intensity. If your shadow is shorter than you are, the sun is at its highest intensity. The American Academy of Dermatology has established the Shadow Rule: No Shadow-SEEK SHADE. • Refer to the daily UV index when planning outdoor events. The UV Index is a daily forecast of the intensity of the sun’s UV rays. The Index indicates the risk of overexposure to skin-damaging UV radiation and can be used to help plan outdoor activities to minimize overexposure. • Seek shade whenever possible. Shade structures such as trees and umbrellas provide year round protection. Although trees do not offer complete sun protection, they provide about 60 percent blockage from the sun’s rays. • Use broad-spectrum sunscreens whose active ingredients block UVA and UVB rays. The Sun Protective Factor (SPF) should be a minimum of 15. Sunscreens should be used every day, including cloudy days. They should be applied liberally and evenly before going out into the sun and should be applied frequently, especially after swimming. • Limit exposure to the reflective surfaces like water. UV rays can be reflected off of sand, tile, water, snow, and buildings. It is important to practice all the sun protective behaviors even when you are in the shade. Babies need special precautions for summer sun safety. Their skin is thinner and much more delicate than an older child. They can’t say when they’re hot, so it’s up to the parent to watch out for them. Keep these tips in mind for baby sun safety: • Babies under 6 months of age should be kept out of the direct sunlight. Move your baby to the shade or under a tree, umbrella, or the stroller canopy. • Do not apply sunscreen to a baby under 6 months of age. • Dress your baby in clothing that covers the body, such as comfortable lightweight long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and hats with brims that shade the face and cover the ears. • Select clothes made of tightly woven fabrics. Clothes that have a tighter weave–the way a fabric is constructed–generally protect better than clothes with a broader weave. If you’re not sure about how tight a fabric’s weave is, hold the clothing up to a lamp or window and see how much light shines through. The less light, the better. Clothing made of cotton is both cool and protective. “Summertime in Southwest Louisiana offers great opportunities for outdoor fun, but it can cause a lot of sun damage due to people not taking precautions to avoid sunburns. Parents need to set a good example of using sunblock on both themselves as well as their children,” urges Dr. Apellaniz. “It can help avoid serious skin concerns in the future.”

It’s a different world in kids’ entertainment than it used to be. Jungle gyms, roller skates, hop scotch and Frisbees have been replaced by Game Cube, DVD’s, CD’s and the Internet. Little to no physical effort is needed with these new attractions, simply plug and play. Basically, just a few keystrokes and buttons can keep kids happy for hours, but at what price? Our kids can defeat a myriad of electronic evil aggressors, but can’t run down the street without getting winded. Madden NFL has taken the place of an impromptu backyard football game with friends. Instead of getting the physical benefits from exercise, kids today are struggling with obesity, diabetes and depression. Inactivity is becoming an epidemic among children. “Kids are missing out on play as we remember it, where you actually sweat, jump and run,” says Robert Kingham, Director of Dynamic Dimensions of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. “Some things have improved with time, but kids’ fitness isn’t one of them, unfortunately. Technology has allowed us to accomplish much more in a given day, but it has taken away the ‘sweat factor’ that we needed to complete routine things.” Exercise can strengthen children’s bones now as well as later in life. Children who participate in weight-bearing, impact sports such as running, gymnastics, tumbling or dance have higher bone density than children who are not active, or kids whose major exercise is a non-weight-bearing activity such as swimming. Building strong bones in childhood helps to maintain bone health later in life. So, how do we get kids moving? “Make it fun,” he says. “Kids will enjoy fitness if it’s fun. Adults have made exercise a punishment. If a kids’ team wins, we take them to get a burger. But if they lose, they have to run laps. Kids are smart and they pick up that physical exertion is something to be avoided,” says Kingham. Parents can talk with their child to find out what activities they enjoy. Not every child wants to play team sports, but may excel in individual competition, such as martial arts. Dance, gymnastics, or tumbling may not suit your daughter, but bike riding or soccer does. “It’s important for kids to learn exercise habits at a young age to keep their hearts strong and prevent many diseases associated with obesity,” Kingham explains. “If kids learn exercise at a young age, those habits will likely stay with them throughout their life.” He recommends that children get at least thirty minutes of physical exercise or activity a day to develop their muscles and bones properly. Some of this is accomplished during P.E. at school. But, he urges parents to allow time for their child to play without structure. “Kids need time to be active without an agenda. Let play time be just that – play.” Consider these suggestions for getting your kids off the couch: • Allow your child to play outside once homework is done. • When they are especially rambunctious and it disturbs the household, remind them to take their energy outside with bike rides, tree climbing, and jump roping. • Be a role model. Get the whole family involved in games, bike rides or throwing a Frisbee. If you’re involved, your child is more likely to get involved. • Buy active toys. Purchase things that require active participation, such as scooters, balls, climbing equipment and skates. • Teach younger children games you played, like duck-duck goose, hide and seek or freeze tag. “The habits you start with your kids today will last beyond this phase in their lives,” says Kingham. “Parents should understand the importance of physical fitness and get moving with their kids. Everyone will reap the benefits.”

April 30, 2009

continued from p.31 tend to be naïve and a little too trusting. Instilling confidence should be one component of street-proofing. “It’s impossible to role-play every potentially dangerous situation. What parents should aim for is to develop their child’s skill to make a good decision in a bad situation,” Fontenot said. One of the best ways parents can keep their kids safe is to know where they are at all times, and to use discretion when giving permission on overnight stays, outings and other events. If a parent has a bad feeling, or feels their child isn’t ready, Fontenot says they should resist their child’s pleadings. In the end, being extra cautious may prove to be the best decision. “As a parent, we are responsible for our children’s safety. It’s not always the most popular decision, but a decision made with safety in mind is always best.”

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Faster, More Furious A Film Review By Lisa Miller Fast & Furious (2009) rrr (Grade B) Directed by Justin Lin Starring Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Michelle Rodriguez, Jordana Brewster, John Ortiz, Laz Alonso Universal—Rated PG-13—Action—106 min Positioned as a sequel to 2001’s “The Fast and The Furious,” the similarly titled four-quel ignores the second and third films. It’s a smart move that allows this chapter to refuel the franchise with its four main stars, and pick up its most compelling storyline. The engine driving this high-speed tale is lubricated by a slick exhibition of the machismo honor code. When the film opens, Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel) and his girlfriend Letty (Michelle Rodriguez), are detaching and stealing huge fuel tanks from a truck-train rocketing along a narrow mountain road. Rodriguez, restricted by tight pants, pushup bra and a formfitting tanktop, manages to leap onto speeding fuel tanks and back onto the hood of Dominic’s trailing hotrod, without losing her bearings or baring her bodywork. Despite the intended distractions, this action set-piece cleverly remains on the fringes of plausibility. As in the first chapter, loyalties are tested when Dominic and FBI agent Brian O’Conner (Paul Walker) team up to bring down an evil drug lord. Minor detours establish Dom and Letty’s selfless love, and the rekindling of O’Conner and Mia’s (Jordana Brewster) romance, but the real focus is on fast cars going faster. To punish a drug lord for murdering their friend, Dom and O’Conner must first infiltrate his organization by proving themselves as drivers. The task engenders the film’s only race, an exciting chase around Echo Park, Silver Lake, and downtown Los Angeles. A GPS system, outfitted on each of five contestants’ cars, uses sound and pictures to pay homage to street racer groupies—here an electronic babe waving the start and finish flags. Humorously, as collisions and near-collisions inevitably send cars off-course, a sultry female voice announces “route modified,” followed by the GPS unit depicting a recalculated path to the finish line. Vin Diesel is charged with delivering a half dozen tidbits of macho code—mainly while tightening engine bolts that show his own bodywork to maximum effect. The actor’s softly booming voice glides through a manly zone of honor and duty, relieved only by the mischievous twinkle in his eye. As an FBI agent drawn into the thrilling street racer milieu, Paul Walker’s character strikes a balance between upholding the law and protecting outlaw Dom—the one person he can count on in a pinch, and brother of Mia, the woman O’Conner loves. Walker, whose appearance is millimeters from teen-idol land, does his best to counteract his smooth boyish looks with an aura of quiet determination. What viewers have come to expect from the “Fast and Furious” franchise are fast cars pushed to the limit by drivers putting it all on the line. This fourth chapter, arguably the best so far, earns our respect with original set pieces and clever stunts. Not just for car fanatics anymore, “Fast & Furious” pulls a fast one and we like it.

April 30, 2009

IN THE THEATER Hannah Montana: The Movie (2009) rrr (Grade B-) Directed by Peter Chelsom Starring Miley Cyrus, Billy Ray Cyrus, Emily Osment, Jason Earles, Lucas Till, Vanessa Williams Disney—Rated G—Comedy—102 min Expanding on her sitcom show and incorporating her music videos, Miley Cyrus takes to the screen—again—as Hannah Montana. Miley’s growing up and her father, played by Miley’s real-life dad, Billy Ray Cyrus, is worried. Hannah Montana, Miley’s pop-star alter-ego, is becoming a testy diva, losing her temper in public. To halt Miley’s downward spiral, Dad spirits her off to Crowley Corners, Tennessee, home of the family ranch. Along for moral support is Miley’s best friend Lily (Osment) and Miley’s screw-up brother (Earles). Just as Miley begins to gain perspective, a local boy (Till) catches her eye and Hannah’s antics rear an ugly head. Featuring 12 new songs including Miley’s hit, “The Climb,” the film cashes in on Disney’s highly profitable asset while positioning Miley for bigger and better things yet to come. Observe and Report (2009) rrr (Grade B-) Directed by Jody Hill Starring Seth Rogen, Anna Faris, Ray Liotta, Michael Pena, John and Matthew Yuan, Celia Weston Warner—Rated R—Comedy—86 min An unexpectedly violent comedy, “Observe and Report” colors in its lighter regions with gross-out gags. Rogen appears as Ronnie Barnhardt, a bipolar mall security guard stirred

to action by a flasher ruining many a shopper’s spree. But there’s a silver lining to the problem since Ronnie plans to use the flasher threat to get closer to cosmetics-counter girl, Brandi (Faris). To catch the perp Ronnie marshals help from his fellow security guards—only to be pushed aside by police detective Harrison (Liotta). Between living with his alcoholic mom (Weston), Ronnie’s own bipolar disorder and the detective’s efforts to sideline the security team, achieving Ronnie’s goal is a real challenge. Additionally, Kevin James beat Rogen to the security guard theme with his highly successful “Paul Blart: Mall Cop.” Nevertheless Rogen gives a disquieting performance that should cement his status as the oddest security guard so far. Dragonball: Evolution (2009) rrr (Grade B-) Directed by James Wong Starring Justin Chatwin, James Marsters, Chow Yun-Fat, Emmy Rossum, Jamie Chung Fox—Rated PG—Fantasy—85 min Chow Yun-Fat brings humor to the role of Roshi, guide and protector of Goku (Chatwin), Earth’s young savior. “Dragonball,” adapted from the graphic novel series by Akira Toriyama, attempts to broaden the mangaanime fanbase with this whiz-bang fantasy. Goku is an alien charged with collecting seven mystical balls to protect mankind. He becomes locked in a fierce battle for control of the artifacts with Lord Piccolo (Marsters), an evil conqueror intent upon destroying Earth. Chatwin, 28, fails to persuade as an 18-yearold, but he wears the character’s funny hair comfortably. Yun-Fat’s Roshi doles out sage advice while providing martial arts expertise, effectively functioning as the film’s resident Yoda.

Adventureland (2009) rrr (Grade B) Directed by Greg Mottola Starring Jesse Eisenberg, Kristen Stewart, Ryan Reynolds Miramax—Rated R—Drama—107 min Set in the 1980s, collegiate and carnival cultures intertwine in an atmospheric dramadey. Eisenberg plays James, a Renaissance studies graduate whose dream of a European vacation goes bust when his family’s fortune takes a turn for the worse. To earn graduate school tuition James gets a summer job at an amusement park. There he falls for tomboyish, acerbic Em (Stewart), unaware of her clandestine affair with an older man (Ryan). Period ambience is captured by a soundtrack trolling “Poison,” “Yo La Tengo,” “Crowded House,” and others along with big-haired girls and carnie tricks for hanging onto those prized stuffed animals. Using humor to highlight the best and worst of the ‘80s, “Adventureland” is writer-director Greg Mottola’s semi-autobiographical ode to coming of age through lost innocence. Monsters vs. Aliens (2009) rrr (Grade B-) Directed by Rob Letterman and Conrad Vernon Voices of Reese Witherspoon, Rainn Wilson, Hugh Laurie, Will Arnett, Seth Rogen, Kiefer Sutherland, Paul Rudd, Stephen Colbert DreamWorks—Rated PG—Animated Family—94 min Reese Witherspoon headlines this animated science fiction entry voiced by an all-star cast. The plot, spoofing ‘50s sci-fi flicks, finds a 4-eyed alien (Wilson) threatening to destroy earth. To save our planet, the government releases monsters held in a secret hangar. Susan (Witherspoon), made into a 50-foottall-woman by an accident, leads efforts by earth’s monsters to repel the aliens. She works with the brilliant Dr. Cockroach (Laurie), a gelatinous blob (Rogen), a fishy primate and a 350-foot grubworm. Fun and scares arise from action-packed, humorous confrontations that rarely let up. I smell sequel-bait. The Haunting in Connecticut (2009) rr (Grade C-) Directed by Peter Cornwell Starring Virginia Madsen, Martin Donovan, Elias Koteas, Kyle Gallner, Amanda Crew, Martin Donovan, Sophi Knight, Ty Wood, Erik Berg Lionsgate—Rated PG-13—Horror—92 min Though reportedly based on a true story, and boasting first-rate special effects,

“Haunting” has received middling early reviews. Virginia Madsen makes a welcome return to the screen as Sara, a mother devoted to helping her eldest son, Matt (Gallner), overcome cancer. Experimental drugs appear to be working, but frequent trips to the treatment center compel Sara and her three children to move closer to the facility. Husband Peter (Donovan) must stay behind to work, leaving Sara and the kids to battle angry spirits that are drawn to Matt in their home away from home. The film pulls out all the stops to depict Matt’s torment, but uneven storytelling fails to create tension in this instantly forgettable horror. Knowing (2009) rr (Grade C-) Directed by Alex Proyas Starring Nicolas Cage, Rose Byrne, Ben Mendelsohn, Terry Camilleri Summit Entertainment—PG-13—SciFi—115 min Directed by Alex Proyas of 1998’s “Dark City,” and 2004’s “I, Robot,” “Knowing” is a hollow sci-fi/thriller. Cage appears as a professor who comes into possession of a paper containing mysterious numbers. Close study reveals that the numbers correctly predict the time and place of various impending disasters, including one that could spell mankind’s demise. When officials refuse to listen, the professor searches for both the paper’s author, and a means of warning those in danger. Although the big action set pieces are well-orchestrated, the film’s final act is a huge letdown. Duplicity (2009) rrr (Grade B) Directed by Tony Gilroy Starring Julia Roberts, Clive Owen, Tom Wilkinson, Paul Giamatti Universal—PG-13—125 min A pair of lovers, CIA Agent Claire (Roberts) and MI6 Agent Ray (Owen), quit their jobs to work for competing multinational corporations. The duo plans to make a fortune stealing corporate secrets, but trusting one another is harder than they predicted. The film cuts together scenes from various points in time, a strategy that is both wearying and brilliant. Owen and Roberts look terrific as they size one another up and ingratiate themselves to their bosses (Wilkinson and Giamatti), but they can’t quite summon the witty repartee the film strives for. We hope for great things from Tony Gilroy, writer-director of “Michael Clayton,” and screenwriter for the “Bourne” movies. Fortunately, “Duplicity’s” pleasures are more numerous than are its many flaws.

I Love You, Man (2009) rrr (Grade B) Directed by John Hamburg Starring Paul Rudd, Jason Segel, Rashida Jones, Andy Samberg, J.K. Simmons, Jon Favreau, Jaime Pressly, Jane Curtin, Rob Huebel, Aziz Ansari DreamWorks—Rated R—Comedy—110 min Newly engaged realtor, Peter (Rudd), isn’t what you’d call a man’s man, in fact, he hasn’t got a male friend to his name. Hoping to find a best man for his wedding, Peter lets his gay brother Robby (Samberg) set Peter up on a series of disastrous man-dates. Then, out of the blue, Peter meets carefree investor, Sydney Fife (Segel). Where Peter is scared, reserved and dorky, Robby is bold, unguarded, and sloppy. Robby takes Peter under his wing, and soon they are always together, leaving Peter’s fiancée (Jones) on her own. The comedy includes the standard issue of doo-doo jokes and embarrassing sexual revelations, but much of the humor is on target and J.K. Simmons is a riot. Race to Witch Mountain (2009) rrr (Grade B) Directed by Andy Fickman Starring Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino, AnnaSophia Robb, Alexander Ludwig, Ciaran Hinds, Tom Everett Scott, Billy Brown, Richard “Cheech” Marin, Garry Marshall, Kim Richards, Iake Eissinmann, Whitley Strieber Disney—Rated PG—Sci-Fi—99 min Remaking the not-so-hot 1975 movie, this new version amps up the special effects and casts Dwayne Johnson (aka “The Rock”) in a comedy-action role. Sara and Seth (Robb and Ludwig) are a pair of alien siblings who hire Jack’s (Johnson) cab to take them to their spaceship at Witch Mountain. Gugino shows comic potential as an astrophysicist agreeing to help the kids out. When pursued by a shady division of our own government and by a Cyborg assassin from their own planet, Sara and Seth harness special powers to avoid capture. It’s a fast-paced ride that manages to hang onto a PG-Rating despite a dozen major scares and explosions. A box office winner, it’s fair to say audiences have been bewitched. State of Play (2009)

rrrr (Grade A-)

Directed by Kevin Macdonald Starring Russell Crowe, Rachel McAdams, Ben Affleck, Helen Mirren Universal—Rated PG-13—Thriller—132 min Adapted from a highly-rated BBC miniseries, this dramatic thriller returns Russell

Crowe to a thinking man’s role. He portrays Cal McCaffrey, an established Washington reporter and friend of Stephen Collins (Affleck), a rising star U.S. Congressman serving on the defense committee. When Collins’s assistant dies mysteriously and violently, McCaffrey’s paper assigns him to investigate. Teamed with rookie reporter Della (McAdams), and under the scrutiny of his tough editor (Mirren), McCaffrey finds links to corporate wrong-doing and cover-ups. Assassins come crawling out of the woodwork, prompting McCaffrey to question his longtime association with Collins. Crank: High Voltage (2009) rrr (Grade B-) Directed by Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor Starring Jason Statham, Amy Smart, Clifton Collins, Efren Ramirez, Bai Ling, David Carradine, Reno Wilson, Dwight Yoakam, Corey Haim Lionsgate—Rated R—Action—85 min Intense action, and maximum pain inform the efforts of protagonist Chev Chelios (Statham), who works overtime just to stay alive in this sequel. Viewers of the original “Crank” will recall a final scene depicting Chev’s death, but as we learn in chapter two, he has been saved by technology. This includes an artificial heart that needs to be recharged regularly—and more often when Chev’s active. The Chinese Triad has harvested Chev’s heart and he’ll do anything—kill anyone—to retrieve it. Central characters from chapter one are back, most notably a scantily clad Amy Smart who gives Chev a shag for good luck. He’ll need it. 17 Again (2009)

rrr (Grade B)

Directed by Burr Steers Starring Zac Efron, Matthew Perry, Leslie Mann, Thomas Lennon, Michelle Trachtenberg, Sterling Knight New Line—Rated PG-13—98 min Having forsaken his basketball and college dreams on one fateful day in high school, Mike O’Donnell (Perry), now 37, is separated from his wife (Mann), estranged from his teen kids (Trachtenberg and Knight) and stuck in a dead end job reliving his glory days while visiting his old school. Suddenly—poof— Mike is magically transformed into a 17-yearold boy (played by Efron). Now a student at his kids’ school, Mike befriends his children who take him back to their house. His body may be that of a teen, but Mike’s still in love with his wife and compelled to keep his kids on the straight and narrow. Capitalizing on his do-over turns out to be harder than Mike ever imagined.

April 30, 2009

the best in lak e are a e n t e r t ain m e n t

Derby Time at the Cigar Club • May 2 It’s Derby time again, and Cigar Club, Southwest Louisiana’s home for fine cigars, spirits, and good life accessories, is teaming up with the Children’s Miracle Network, to host the 2nd annual Kentucky Derby Day Party to exclusively benefit The Children’s Miracle Network, Saturday, May 2nd starting at 10am at the club’s 1700 E. Prien Lake Road location. The day’s events will include a betting booth, “Kentucky” Hold ‘em poker tournament, Washerboard “horse race” tournament, Hat Contest, and live auction with many items donated from local businesses. Then of course there is the race that you can watch from one of our three flat screen TV’s, while relaxing in an atmosphere as comfortable as your own living room. Admission for the event is a $10 donation Children’s Miracle Network, which includes a barbeque dinner with southern iced tea. Tickets can be purchased, or further donations to Children’s Miracle Network can be made in advance, by calling Cigar Club at 337562-8889. Schedule of Events: 10am Doors Open 2pm Stick Horse Race (Outside) 3pm “Left Right Center” Dice Tournament 4pm Hat Contest 5pm Kentucky Derby (Race 11 of 13) 5:30-6 Live Auction 6:30-7 “Kentucky” Hold ‘em Tournament

Picks

digital photography in general. Valerie Smith, a local photographer and member of Associated Louisiana Artists, will be offering this course starting May 11, 2009 through June 15, 2009. This is a 6-week course held on Monday evenings from 7pm-9pm. Cost is $85.00. All you need to bring is your camera, the owner’s manual and the desire to learn and have fun. Class size is limited to 12, so call and make your reservations now. Call The Gallery by the Lake (337)436-1008, or Valerie (337)302-1978. L’Auberge du Lac Casino’s ‘Party by the Pool’ Concert Series • May 7 – June 25 This series begins with dynamic and energetic multi-platinum rockers Everclear featuring homegrown Lake Charles rock group Magnolia Sons as the opening act. Everclear’s cannon of original material is marked by multi-million sales, critical praise, a Grammy nomination and awards including the 1998 Billboard Modern Rock Artist of the Year honor. This series will also include Seven Mary Three, June 4,

Artisans’ Gallery Exhibit • April 3 - May 2 The Artisan’s Gallery is a community driven membership gallery that supports and encourages Southwest Louisiana’s emerging and established artists by providing a venue for exhibiting and selling their work. Founded in 1996 as a project of the Imperial Calcasieu Museum, the Artisan’s Gallery is dedicated to fostering and promoting fine art and crafts in Southwest Louisiana. The group’s juried membership process ensures high standards of craftsmanship and design in a creative celebration of original art. Membership includes painters, ceramists, photographers, wood workers, basket makers, and mixed media artists. All artworks are available for purchase during the show. Located at the Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center. Black Heritage Gallery Presents Variations on a Theme • Through May 29 The Black Heritage Gallery continues its 2009 season with the presentation of “Variations on a Theme”. The exhibit showcases the works of Malaika Favorite and other African-American artist with Louisiana connections. These artists explore diverse subject matter and media. Yet, what they share in common is a cultural connection of history and ideas embedded in the African American community. Therefore, no two artist’s works are visually the same; nor do they reflect the same ideology, but they do share the same historical references. The gallery is free and open to the public. Digital Cameras for Dummies • May 11 - June 15 This class will give you a better understanding of your camera and

April 30, 2009

and The Molly Ringwalds—80’s tribute band—June 18. Ladies get free admission to Party by the Pool. Gentlemen pay just $5; the cover charge is waived for ‘mychoice’ members. Must be 21 to enter. Please note that the event location is subject to change and/or cancellation due to inclement weather. Louisiana Sci-Fi Expo Underway • June 13 -14 Calling all Sci-Fi fans, Con. Du Lac—The Louisiana Sci-Fi Expo will be held at Enos Derbone Recreational Complex in Lake Charles, June 13-14, 2009. The expo will combine science fiction, science fact (NASA and the National Weather Service), paranormal research, medieval arts crafts and combat demonstrations. There

will also be mini-renaissance fair, acting workshops and more. Richard Hatch from Battlestar Galactica, who has been a part of both the original show in 1978 and the recent series on Sci-Fi, will be a featured guest at this year’s expo. Panels on Star Trek and Star Wars will be featured. Attendees of all ages are asked to dress up in their favorite Sci-Fi costumes for an Intergalactic costume contest to be held on Saturday evening. Tickets are on sale now through June 5th and are $25. Admission at the door will be $30 and children 10 and younger will get in for free. On Saturday, June 13, Lifeshare Blood Center will be on hand for a limited time and all donors will receive $5 off their admission. For more information on Con. Du Lac, contact Justin Toney at 337-513-8927 or visit www.condulac.net. L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort’s Nevie Beach Club Now Open Nevie Beach Club is now open for the season with poolside patio dining. Their chefs have completely revamped the menu making it a bit ‘lighter’ and infused with more local / regional seafood (soft shell crab sandwich, oysters, red snapper po-boy, seafood tacos etc.). Nevie is open 7 days at 11:00 a.m. Calcasieu Parish’s Movies under the Stars is back • April 25- May 9 The movies will be at Prien Lake Park. Food and other refreshments will be available at the park. All you need to bring is your family, a few chairs or a blanket to enjoy their full slate of family friendly fare. Other movies slated are Airplane!— on April 25th, and Finding Nemo—on May 9th. All movies begin at 7 p.m. ACTS Theatre Presents Hansel and Gretel in the Enchanted Forest • May 1 and 2 The show is scheduled for day-time performances on stage at ACTS One Reid Street Theatre on Friday, May 1 at 9:00 and 11:00 in the morning. Other performances will be on Friday May 1 at 7:00 PM in the evening and Saturday, May 2, at 11:00am and l:00 PM. Tickets for all performances are $8.50 per person. Memories of World War II, Photographs from the archives of The Associated Press • April 24-June 13 Scheduled to open Friday April 24 and run through Saturday, June 13, 2008. An opening reception will be held from 6-9pm at the 1911 Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center at 1001 Ryan Street. The public is invited to provide photographs of WWII veterans to be included on the Wall. For additional information email ArtsAndCulture@cityoflc.us. Acrylic Workshop • May 16 Associated Louisiana Artists will sponsor a one day acrylic workshop at the new Creative Arts Center, 106 West Lawrence Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601, on Saturday May 16th from 8 to 5 pm. Alexandria artist and former Lake Charles minister Henry Blount will conduct the workshop using tar paper (roofing material) as his “canvas” and instruct attendees in the method of mosaic

style painting, a unique method which has brought him many awards throughout Louisiana. April 30 is the deadline to enroll in this limited class. Cost is $50 and $5 for lunch. Supply list is at Gallery by the Lake. Please make checks payable to ALA, and mail to the above address in care of Nancy Czejkowski, workshop coordinator. Questions? Call Nancy at 855-9202, or Gallery by the Lake at 436-1008. AMSET Lecture Hall to feature Local Artist Bernice Thrall Switzer • Through May 31 The Art Museum of Southeast Texas (AMSET) presents a collection of art by local artist Bernice Thrall Switzer (1897-1990) on display in the Quinn Lecture Hall through May 31. Eleven watercolors dating from circa 1915, a self-portrait of Switzer and three Newcomb Pottery pieces that date from the early 20th century are on loan from the artist’s daughter, Beaumont-resident Sue Mann, for the exhibit. Bernice Thrall was raised in Lake Charles, La. She studied art at Newcomb College in New Orleans during World War I (1914-1918) and is considered to be the first woman commercial illustrator in that city. AMSET is located 500 Main Street, Beaumont TX. AMSET Hours: Monday-Friday: 9am-5pm, Saturday: 10am-5pm, Sunday: Noon-5pm. Closed Major Holidays. Cafe Hours: Mon-Fri 11 am-2 pm. Admission: Free. For more information call: 409-8323432. Spring Watercolor Show • April 3 – May 21 The featured artist in this year’s Spring Watercolor Show— Nancy Melton and Friends— is Betty Tilleux Breaux. The Show will open with a Reception on Friday evening April 3 from 6:30 – 8:00 at the Frazar Library at McNeese State University. Dates of the Show are April 3 – May 21, 2009. Nancy can also be contacted through her website: nancymelton.photoreflect.com. New painters are welcome! Baton Rouge Gallery Features Diniz-Liffmann, Wade-Day and Zietz in May • May 3-28 Baton Rouge Gallery will feature a diverse sample of three of its Artist Members. The work of Christy Diniz-Liffmann, Van Wade-Day and Reni Zietz ranges from nature-inspired patterns to celestial skies to a South American trip gone berserk The exhibition is free and open to the public Tuesday through Sunday from 12 – 6 p.m. A First Wednesday opening reception will be held from 7-9 p.m. on Wednesday, May 6 in honor of Christy Diniz-Liffmann, Van WadeDay and Reni Zietz. McNeese Theatre Bayou Players Presents Wait Until Dark • April 29-May 2 McNeese Theatre Bayou Players will present Wait Until Dark, a classic suspense thriller, on stage at 7:30 p.m. April 29-May 2, with a 2 p.m. matinee May 3, in Ralph Squires Recital Hall of the Shearman Fine Arts Center at McNeese State University. Wait until continued on p.42 continued on p40

April 30, 2009

Spring Watercolor Show 2009 Nancy Melton & Friends

othing intrigues me more than seeing wonderful talent on display. Today I was amazed by a fabulous group of artists at the Spring Watercolor Show. I always wonder how many years it took to get that good. As I walked among the paintings at McNeese’s Frazar Library, I couldn’t help but envy the artists whose work was on display. Oh, for the talent! Oh, for the patience! Students sat among the amazing creations, studying, chatting, and listening to their favorite tunes on their iPods. Chen Sun sat alone, working on a class assignment. Every now and then she’d glance up at the art work as if drawing solace or strength or inspiration. The Shadow snapped a picture of her standing beside the exciting, vibrant work of Camelia Lemne. Librarian Rebecca Blakely works in government documents. She has been too busy to really peruse the art so she’s sipping a cup of coffee and meandering through the aisles. Ja’Niqua Kendrix and NiAisha Anderson were just hanging out with friends. The Shadow coerced them to pose, and they were happy to do so.

70th Anniversary of the Lake Charles High School Kilties The Shadow popped in at the Kilties reunion at Lake Charles Boston Learning Academy and marveled at the number of beautiful girls—young and old—in attendance. It didn’t look like the threatening weather kept anyone away. From my calculations, the 70th anniversary of the LCHS Kilties was a huge success. I admired the bronze sculpture of a Kiltie that was being offered as a door prize. It was sculpted by Houston artist Janie LaCroix. Drums echoed through the gymnasium as I wandered around. I was surprised to see many ladies I know. Sandra Landry Moore stood with friends Linda Davenport Richard and Gloria East Toten. They’re all from the class of ’57. As I made my way through a sea of red and

April 30, 2009

blue, I saw Gloria Bumpus with daughter Gail Byrley. Mom and daughter were both Kilties. A man’s voice rang out: “Kilties from the 1950s raise your hands.” Hundreds of manicured fingers waved the air. And then, the school song began to play. Nothing makes me tear up faster than seeing old friends wrap their arms around each other and sway to the tune of their alma mater. The Shadow is a softie when it comes to friendship and memories. It was such a pleasure to be a part of this very special anniversary celebration.

Railroad Days at the DeQuincy Railroad Museum The Shadow was eager to get out on this beautiful clear, crisp day and take in the sites at DeQuincy’s Railroad Days Festival. After parking and stepping out of the car, I realized it was much colder than I anticipated, but it warmed up in no time. The first building I saw was the Railroad Museum. I entered into the building and discovered a world of knowledge about trains. There was railroad memorabilia that had been collected locally, from across the country, and from foreign countries as well. I discovered that people from all over the world have visited the museum. The 1923 Kansas City Southern Depot is on the National Register of Historic Places for which DeQuincy has its founding roots. As I made my way through the first room into the second, I was delighted to see a huge miniature train system set up. It took up the entire room. Shadow felt like a child again watching the train round each bend. The two engineers making the whole line function were William Fitzgerald and Les McMahen. Mr. Fitzgerald has been doing this for 23 years. When the Shadow left the museum, there was a whole other world of rides, food, and music to enjoy. It can be dangerous to have cash on hand and plenty of food awaiting you with flavorful smells lofting through the air. Shadow stuffed herself. I then came upon the Relay for Life American Cancer Society booth. Three cheerful ladies were eager and working hard to give out information on the relay. Iris Brown and Rita Kuyper both of the First Baptist Church of DeQuincy said they were just a few of many helping that day. Each taking two hour shifts. Also helping them was Ashlon Clement of the DeQuincy Middle School Honors Society. The Relay will be May 1 at the Railroad Museum Grounds. The Shadow thinks everyone should get out there and support them! Shadow moved on to the rides. There were so many! It made me feel nostalgic for the days that I could jump on those rides and not get sick. I stopped at the “Super Sizzler” ride and watched Rebekah Dyson and Bryce Dyson get churned round and round like butter in a churn. Ah to be young again and not have a care in the world! Next, Shadow stopped at the dunking booth. This group was raising money for the Warrior Baseball Team of DeQuincy. Two of the sponsors working the booth were Staci Rainwater and Leigh Jacobs. The victim, I mean very gracious volunteer, Mike Ashford, hospital administrator for DeQuincy Hospital, was in the dunking booth. Kaleb Jacobs stepped up to the plate and threw a mighty pitch and knocked Ashford into the water! It was great fun for a great cause.

9 14

10 15

1 - Chen Sun is taking a break from her studies to pose for the camera. 2 - Rebecca Blakely is making up for lost time and viewing some of the paintings. 3 - Ja’Niqua and NiAisha are looking pretty in front of Lavonne Finney’s peaceful paintings. 4 - Pam McGough and Bobby Migues talk a bit while Kilties are registering for the day’s events. 5 - Bobby Greenwood and Ray Chavanne lean against the rail and take it all in. 6 - Beverly Reine is from the class of 1950. 7 - Betty Cryer created Kiltie dolls as a hobby. 8 - Clare Woosley is looking pretty in her little Kiltie hat. 9 - Kilties swaying and singing their school song. 10 - William Fitzgerald adds another car to the train line. 11 - William Fitgerald and Les McMahen work together keeping the line running. 12 - From left, Iris Brown, Ashlon Clement, and Rita Kuyper work their shift for the Relay for Life 13 - Rebekah Dyson and Bryce Dyson, brother and sister, enjoy a ride on the “Super Sizzler.” 14 - Mike Ashford, hospital administrator of DeQuincy Hospital, volunteers to be dunked for the Warrior Baseball team of DeQuincy. 15 - Kaleb Jacobs hams it up before he pitches the ball that knocks Ashford into the water. In the background of the picture, from left to right, is his mother, Leigh Jacobs and sponsor Staci Rainwater. DeQuincy.

April 30, 2009

cont. Dark by Frederick Knott is set in a Greenwich Village apartment, where a blind woman, Susy, is stalked by a ruthless killer trying to locate a heroin-stuffed doll that her husband innocently brought home from the airport, when a fellow passenger asked him to keep it for her until she could take it to her daughter in the hospital. Tickets at the door are $15 for adults, $10 for McNeese faculty/staff, senior citizens and students (K-12). McNeese students are admitted free with a current ID. The theatre box office opens 10 days prior to Wait Until Dark opening date. Box office hours are 6-8 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m.-noon on Saturdays. For reservations call 475-5043 or go online at www.mcneese.edu/theatre. McNeese Department of Visual Arts hosts Spring Senior Exhibition • April 30-May14 The event is open to the public.The exhibition will be in the Abercrombie Gallery of the Shearman Fine Arts Center at McNeese State University. A reception for the graduating seniors who are featured in the exhibit will be held from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, April 30, in Abercrombie. The graduating seniors are: Jessilyn Burge, Eunice; Joseph Chretien, Hayes; Ashley Feagin, Westlake; Michelle Lavoie, Lake Charles; Beth McCoy, Lake Charles; Megan Murphy, Sulphur;

Ashley Nash, Opelousas; Joshua Nitsch, Lake Charles; John Viator, Sulphur; Andrea Walters, Lake Charles; and Andrea Wyatt, Sulphur. For more information call the McNeese Visual Arts Department at (337) 475-5060.

Over Twenty Artists Selected for Venus Envy 2009 April 20-May1 The eleventh annual Venus Envy Baton Rouge exhibition will be held once again at Baton Rouge Gallery from April 20 through May 1. The exhibition is a multi-media juried showcase featuring the work of female artists living within a 300 mile radius of Baton Rouge. On Sat. April 25 from 7-9 p.m. Baton Rouge Gallery will hold a Closing Reception for Venus Envy Baton Rouge 2009. The event

will celebrate femininity and the female artists featured during the exhibition. There will also be a special performance by Baton Rouge’s own Polly Pry. Named after the first female investigative reporter in the U.S., Polly Pry mixes folk and indie sounds with an undeniable female slant to music making. Venus Envy is a non-profit organization driven by women that positively affects everyone by empowering women through the arts, according to their mission statement. The Velveteen Rabbit • May 1&2 Performances are set for May 1 & 2 at 7:30PM and May 3 at 3:00PM. Tickets are $15.00 for adults and $12.00 for students. Applause Season Members should contact the theatre to reserve tickets. Group rates are also available. Performances are held at Central School Theatre located in the Central School of the Arts & Humanities Center (809 Kirby Street) in downtown Lake Charles. To purchase tickets, contact the theatre at (337) 433-7323 or purchase online at www.childrenstheatre.cc.

Online Money Management for Kids & Teens PAYjr Visa® Buxx Card PAYjr Chore & Allowance System Sulphur Branch-2154 Swisco Road

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April 30, 2009

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Last Issue’s Answers

7 8 9 10

1 6 9 13 14 15 16 17 19 20 21 23 24 25 27 29 31 33 35 36 40 41

Across Like untweezed eyebrows Sony handheld Cough syrup amts. Total H, in a fraternity “Street-smart kid moves to Newport Beach” series * “These poker items are made from 100% recycled material...” Get past the surface Roe source * “The chickens and pigs are locally raised...” National bank bought by Chase, for short “Addams Family” cousin “___ was saying...” Grand Coulee, for one Shrek, for one * “Use an energy-saving bulb, rather than the old style...” * “The arms of the garment were stitched together from previously worn shirts...” Milne bear Soft on punishment Like cons Modern waltz violinist Andre * “No pesticides were used in growing these habaneros...”

42 * “I got this hat at a thrift 45 46 47 48 50 52 56 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66

store; all I had to do was clean it...” Sped down the street Androgynous “S.N.L.” character The ___ Glove (thermal mitt brand) Sound from a ewe Stuck in ___ * “I grew these in my own garden with composted material...” Wrinkly dogs All riled up * “I only run the Mac as needed, turning it off when not in use...” Cancels Relieving number? Signature at Appomattox Fencing foil ACLU topics: abbr. Word that can precede the answer to each starred clue Down

1 Tampa Bay team, familiarly 2 The Beehive State 3 Intentionally easy-to-beat

adversaries

4 Ibsen’s Gabler 5 Times between dropping

balls?: abbr.

6 Simon of “Hot Fuzz”

11 12 15 18 20 22 25 26 28 29 30 32 33 34 37 38 39 42 43 44 45 48 49 51 53 54 55 57 58 60

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April 30, 2009

You Have What it Takes to Join the “Top 50”? Who will make the 2009 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 2009 Top 50 Issue, published July 9. Go to The Times website at www.timessw.com and click on “Top 50”. Submit your nomination form online today! Or print out the form and fax it to us at 337-439-0418.

Please Note: Your submissions must be in no later than Friday June 19, 2009 to be eligible.

2008 Imperial Calcasieu Top 50 Privately Held Businesses: 1. Central Crude 2. Superior Supply & Steel 3. Navarre Chevrolet 4. Stine Lumber Co. 5. Pumpelly Oil 6. Martin Automotive Group 7. Solar Supply Corp. 8. Mark Dodge 9. Cameron Communications 10. Bubba Oustalet 11. Port Aggregates, Inc. 12. R&R Construction 13. Aeroframe Services, LLC 14. All Star Pontiac GMC 15. LeeVac Industries, LLC 16. Alfred Palma, Inc. 17. Thermoplastic Services 18. Bessette Development 19. Brask, Inc. IEE 20. Gulf Island Shrimp 21. Lee Dee Wholesale 22. ReCon Mgt. Services 23. Gray Nissan Ford Mercury 24. Health Systems 2000 25. Kennison Forest Production 26. Lake Charles Auto Auction

April 30, 2009

27. Levingston Engineers 28. McDonald’s of Lake Charles 29. Century Group 30. LA Ash, Inc. 31. Miller Livestock Markets, Inc. 32. OilQuip Inc. 33. O’Neal’s Feeders Supply 34. The Rush Companies 35. Calcasieu Mechanical Contractors 36. Freshko Foodservice, Inc. 37. Honda of Lake Charles 38. Oasis Food, Inc. 39. Sabine Pools & Spas 40. Southland Coins & Collectibles 41. Cycles & More 42. Dubois Sheet Metal Works, Inc. 43. Eagle Electric Machinery 44. J & J Exterminating Co., Inc. 45. Johnson Funeral Homes 46. Lloyd Lauw Collision Repair 47. Northfork Enterprises 48. S & M Family Outlet 49. Tulco II, LLC 50. Lake Charles Music

By Terri Schlichenmeyer

magine meeting someone with the power to tell you everything that will happen to you in the future. He can see the good and bad, the ups and downs for the rest of your life. He has the power to tell all—including the exact time of your death. Would you want to know? In the new book A Saint on Death Row, author Thomas Cahill writes about a man condemned to die, how he got to where he was, and the lives he touched. Popular authors travel a lot. In late 2003, Thomas Cahill (author of “How the Irish Saved Civilization”) was looking forward to the end of his book tour and a chance to relax. But unable to say “no” to a new acquaintance, he reluctantly agreed to take a day out of his schedule for a side-trip. The acquaintance, a semi-retired judge from Chicago, had been introduced to a prison inmate in Texas by a man who belonged to a religious community in Rome. The judge, Sheila Murphy, wanted Cahill to meet the inmate, Dominique Green. At the beginning of his friendship with Green, Cahill wrote “Dominique is where he is for two reasons only: because he is poor and because he is black.” Green was raised in a household thick with drugs and alcohol, by an abusive mother and an apathetic father. He dropped out of school and started a “business” selling drugs so he could take care of two younger brothers. In October 1992, after being chased in a stolen car and on foot,

Green was arrested. A handgun was in the car (along with two other boys), and tests established that it had been used in the murder of a truck driver in Houston. Cahill says, “the record becomes exceedingly muddled and incomplete” at this point. But of the four boys involved, only Dominique Green was tried and convicted, though many doubt that he committed the crime. Unable to afford private counsel, he alone was sentenced to death. For not quite a year, Cahill spoke with, prayed with, and got to know Green while the young man was in prison. He watched as supporters—including Archbishop Desmond Tutu, that retired Chicago judge, and murdered man’s family—fought for Green’s life. And Cahill waited… If it wasn’t for author Thomas Cahill’s thoughtful musings and careful research, it might be easy to dismiss this book as very biased. There is no doubt that Cahill has extremely strong opinions on the subject of capital punishment. Obviously, as many people agree as disagree with him. But no matter on which side of the fence you sit, it’s hard not to be stunned by the chill of four words that Cahill uses sparingly: he says of Green and the system, they are “going to kill him.” A Saint on Death Row may not change your mind about capital punishment, but it will start discussion, both politically and around the dinner table. Read it, though, because no matter your stance, it’s a pretty powerful book.

“A Saint on Death Row” By Thomas Cahill c.2009, Nan A. Talese / Doubleday $18.95, 144 pages Terri Shlichenmeyer has been reading since she was 3 years old and never goes anywhere without a book. She lives on a hill in Wisconsin with two dogs and 11,000 books.

April 30, 2009

Children’s Museum Needs Help after Overnight Fire by Nancy Correro The Children’s Museum suffered major fire damage in an overnight fire Wednesday April, 22. They lost the entire first floor and some of their expensive exhibits. “Many of the exhibits will have to be replaced completely. The “Mr. Bones” exhibit is completely gone. It’s going to basically be thrown in the trash. That was a $14,000.00 exhibit, the list goes on and on,” said Dan Ellender, Executive Director of the Children’s Museum. Many of the favorite items and exhibits that the children enjoyed will need to be replaced. Cleaning is another big issue to deal with. “Cleaning after a fire is quite a mess and it can be very specialized. We’re still assessing that,” Ellender said. Rebuilding is going to require monetary help from the community and fundraisers. “Our “Imagination Celebration” fundraiser is the fundraiser we do every year to help the museum meet its operating expenses and we’ve already sent those letters out,” said Ellender. For the Children’s Museum, the need is now and the need is appreciated. “The community’s response has been overwhelming and we are very humbled by it,” said Ellender. If you want to help, you can send donations to the Children’s Museum at 327 Broad St., or make a donation at any Cameron State Bank branch.

April 30, 2009

R. Dale Bernauer, M.D.

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

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

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

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Aaron and Desiree Walker enjoy swinging their niece, Elyce Walker.

April 30, 2009

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