Thrive July 2012 Issue

July 2012 Thrive Magazine for Better Living www.thriveswla.com 11 www.thriveswla.com Thrive Magazine for Better Living July 2012

JULY 2012

First Person withLouis Bonnette

All AboutWomen’s Health Calcasieu in the Movies

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Community RepoRtInsert InsIde

2 www.thriveswla.com Thrive Magazine for Better Living July 2012

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Others who can benefit from inpatient rehabilitation are postoperative patients, accident victims and cancer patients.

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Editors and Publishers Kristy Armand Christine Fisher

Creative Director/Layout Barbara VanGossen

Assistant Editor Katie Harrington

Business Manager Katie McDaniel

Assistant Designers Shonda Manuel Kris Roy

Advertising Sales Shanteé Gotte [email protected] 337.310.2099 Submissions [email protected]

Submitted articles and photos are welcome. Thrive assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials and does not guarantee any submissions.

Contents

746 42

Thrive is designed for people focused on living a happy, healthy life, one that is balanced, full of energy and contentment. Thrive readers want to make the most of every day and be successful in all areas of their lives – family, health, home and career.

FOLLOW US ON:

Don’t just Live, thrive!

16

Regular Features44 Business Buzz 46 First Person: with Louis Bonnette50 Who’s News 78 Ready to Wear 82 By the Numbers 84 McNeese Corral 86 Happenings 88 Community Contributors

In This Issue Home &Family 6 Summer Food Safety 15 Unique Tips for a Quick Home Sale

Welcome to Cajun Country 16 - 35Pass a good time in this celebratory special sectionof our Cajun and Creole heritage.

Money &Career 36 Growing a Home-Based Business 40 Disaster-Proof Your Finances 42 A 10-Year Journey to Business Success

Places &Faces 48 Miss Louisiana Teen USA 52 Preserving Our History

A Girls’ Guide to Health 56 - 65 Your one-stop shop for ladies’ health

Mind &Body 66 Men’s Foot Problems 68 Free Eyecare for Infants 70 Where Germs Lurk at Work

Style &Beauty74 Finding the Fountain of Youth 76 The Newest Breakthroughs in Liposuction

Reserve your ad space now in the Thrive Playbook, our annual high school football special edition. We’ll preview the upcoming season and profile each area team.

Copies will be distributed at each school, at kick-off jamborees and in our racks in late August.

Email [email protected] or call 310-2099. Space is limited and going quickly.

Cover photo by Dan Everett


DECEMBER1 Jingle on the Boardwalk - Enjoy holiday music, crafts & activities, toy drive, a parade, Starbucks Cheer Party and more.

8 51st Annual Boat Lane Parade - Watch 100's of lighted and decorated boats cruise down the bay.15 Preludes Ballet - A review-style show featuring high energy singing, dancing & ballet.

31 New Year's Eve Family Celebration - Celebrate 2013 with family fun and fireworks!

So Close. . . and So Much Fun!

NOVEMBER2-4 Salute to Military Service - Pay tribute to our nation's heroes while viewing amazing military equipment

displays and enjoying live entertainment, discounted ride tickets, fireworks & more.17 Walk MS Kemah - Benefiting the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

24 Nutcracker Vignette - A holiday tradition performed by the Bay Area Houston Ballet Theatre.

JULY Rock the Dock Concert Series Every Thursday Night!6, 13 Fireworks Fridays - Enjoy the fireworks show over Galveston Bay at 9:30pm.9, 16 Kid Krazy Mondays - Discounts on kids meals, All Day Ride Passes & the Boardwalk Beast. (coupon required)20, 27 Fireworks Fridays - Enjoy the fireworks show over Galveston Bay at 9:30pm.29, 30, 31 Shark Week - Celebrate National Shark Week with us! Shark activities all week.

Kemah, Texas

AUGUSTRock the Dock Concert Series Every Thursday Night!1 – 4 Shark Week - Celebrate National Shark Week with us! Shark activities all week.4 Salsa Beats - Sizzling Salsa and Latin Jazz in the Plaza all day long.6, 13 Kid Krazy Mondays - Discounts on kids meals, All Day Ride Passes & the Boardwalk Beast. (coupon required)7 Boomin' by the Bay Concert Series - Rock out with KSBJ Radio & popular Christian bands & artists.

877.775.3624 • www.kemah-tx.gov

Kemah Lighthouse DistrictLive Music, Fabulous Shops,

Beautiful B&B’s to Stay the Night!

The Women’s Commission of SWLA, Inc. has announced Joan Lunden as the keynote speaker for the 2012 Fall Conference on Thursday, October 18, at the Lake Charles Civic Center. Lunden is one of America’s most recognized and trusted television personalities. As host of Good Morning America for almost two decades, she helped millions of American families start each day. The longest running host ever on early morning television, during her tenure she reported from 26 countries, covered four presidents, five Olympics and two royal weddings. An award-winning television journalist, best-selling author, motivational speaker, entrepreneur and mother of seven, Joan Lunden defines today’s working mother.

The annual conference has many opportunities for women to reach out to one another to educate, empower, and network with others in our community. The conference includes the MarketPlace where local businesses and community service organizations can provide information to the public, four sessions of workshops with topics ranging from fun to personal development and luncheon with entertainment.

Get more information about this year’s event at www.womenscommissionswla.com.

Women’s Commission Fall Conference Announces Keynote Speaker

Joan Lunden

Cover photo by Dan Everett


Home &Family

Summer is the time for picnics, barbeques, ball parks, swimming pools and all those other fun-in-the-sun activities that go well with another favorite pastime – eating. Unfortunately, food you eat outside may carry some unwanted ingredients: food-borne bacteria.

Summer Food SafetyWatch what

you eat in the summer heat!

by Kristy Armand


One wonderful place to have your baby.

At Women & Children’s Hospital, we believe that babies and their moms should be surrounded by comfort and care. Our dedicated OB/GYNs and skilled nursing team are committed to providing you with a joyous birthing experience. If you’re having a baby, choose Women & Children’s and take advantage of all the amenities so many other growing families have already enjoyed, including prenatal education classes; spacious all-in-one labor, delivery and recovery suites with Wi-Fi and sleep sofas for dads; a 24-hour, fully staffed Well Baby Nursery; a Level III Neonatal ICU in case your newborn needs extra care; and free membership in Tiny Toes, an OB club for expectant mothers. If you’re expecting, you can expect more from us.

To find an OB/GYN, enroll in Tiny Toes or schedule a tour of our birthing center, visit Women-Childrens.com/OB.

Joy.

63183_WCH_OBjoy_8x4_875c.indd 1 6/20/12 1:55 PM

One in ten Americans has an illness caused by food each year, and incidences peak in the summer months. Registered Dietitian Tess D. Arnold, MS, RD, LDN, director of nutritional services at Jennings American Legion Hospital, says higher temperatures are a big reason for this, but it’s not the only cause. “Bacteria are present throughout the environment in soil, air, water and in the bodies of people and animals. However, these microorganisms do grow faster in the warm summer months. Most food-borne bacteria grow fastest at temperatures from 90 to 110 °F. Bacteria also need moisture to flourish, and summer weather is often hot and humid.”

Most instances of food-borne illness result in simple gastrointestinal distress. Symptoms can develop anytime between 20 minutes and 6 weeks after eating food that contains harmful bacteria. Fortunately, people seldom get seriously ill from contaminated food because most people in the United States have a healthy immune system that protects them. Young children, the elderly, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems are at greatest risk.

Arnold says there are simple steps individuals can take when preparing, storing and cooking foods in the outdoors that can greatly reduce the risk of food-borne pathogens.

Wash your hands and cooking surfaces often. If clean water is not available, bring a jug of water from home for food preparation and cleaning. You can also pack antibacterial gel, moist towelettes and paper towels to clean hands and surfaces.

Keep cold food cold. When traveling to a picnic or barbecue, store perishable foods in an insulated cooler packed with several inches of ice, ice packs, or containers of frozen water. Pack drinks in a separate cooler, as the beverage cooler will probably be opened frequently.

Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly. Most produce should be rinsed under cold running water to help eliminate risks. Scrub melons with a brush and peel carrots to eliminate dirt and other hazards.

Keep foods separate. When packing a cooler, securely wrap raw meats or seafood to prevent the raw juices from coming in contact with ready-to-eat food, like fruits or vegetables. Wash plates, utensils, and cutting boards that touched the raw meat or poultry before using again for other food. Also, don’t use raw eggs for preparing homemade ice cream, uncooked desserts, or salad dressings. Prevent cross contamination from marinades. Always marinate raw food in the refrigerator, never on the counter. If you want to use the marinade as a sauce on the cooked food, reserve a portion of the marinade before putting the raw meat or poultry in it. If you forget, boil the marinade before pouring it over other food in order to destroy any harmful bacteria. Cook to proper temperatures. Raw foods must be heated long enough and at a high enough temperature to kill harmful bacteria. Grilled meat and poultry often brown very quickly on the outside, yet still may not be thoroughly cooked. Always check the internal temperature with a food thermometer:

T-Bone Steaks - 145 °F Hamburgers - 160 °F Hot Dogs - 165 °F Chicken Breasts - 165 °F

Refrigerate leftovers promptly. Follow the 2:2:4 rule. Food left out of the refrigerator for more than 2 hours (1 hour if it’s 90 °F or higher) may not be safe to eat. Store refrigerated leftovers in a shallow container—about 2 inches—and use them (or freeze them) within 4 days.

Arnold says if you have any doubts about the safety of any food – throw

it out.


Home &Family

Disinvite Mosquitoes from Your Next Party

Mosquitoes seem to find their way to every backyard party, bringing their friends along and making a true pest of themselves. Protecting your guests can be a challenge.

“Probably everyone remembers the problems we had during the spring. It was a mild winter with plenty of rain, causing a steep increase in the number of mosquitoes, especially for homes located near waterways,” said Robert Soileau, manager of J&J Exterminating in Lake Charles. “Whether it’s spring, summer or fall, you can count on mosquitoes being a problem. Depending on the rain we get, we could see an increase from time to time.”

Thankfully, there are things you can do to make your back yard party less inviting to these annoying bugs.

A few days before your party, mow the grass and trim shrubbery, where mosquitoes like to hide. “Keeping your lawn in shape will help reduce the number of mosquitoes,” Soileau said.

Also, walk through your yard and see if you have any places that hold water. It could be a bird bath, gutters, a low spot, a child’s wading pool or just some old forgotten tires or buckets. Mosquito larvae need to float on top of still water in order to grow and hatch. By emptying standing water, you decrease the number of mosquitoes that would have called your yard home.

For items in use, like a birdbath or a wading pool, change the water every few days. Store buckets and empty flowerpots upside down and toss tires to get rid of the water.

On the day of your party, as you’re setting things up, add some tiki lights and citronella candles around the perimeter of the party area to help deter mosquitoes. “The smoke from an outdoor fire pit can also help repel mosquitoes, so if you have one, use it,” said Soileau.

Sometimes, though, there are times when you don’t want to rely on tiki torches and candles to do the trick. That’s when you want to call a professional.

“We have several methods we use, depending on the customer’s needs,” Soileau said. “We can go in and spray their lawn and shrubbery with a product that will virtually eliminate mosquitoes for a few days. This is a great option for the occasional backyard party.”

But, if you like to entertain often or are tired of surrendering your lawn to mosquitoes, there are misting systems available. “Once installed, they will automatically mist the perimeter of your home in the morning and evening, creating a virtual barrier to give ongoing protection,” Soileau said. “It’s an effective remedy for homeowners who enjoy having people over frequently, or if they have small children who want to play outside, or if they live near water and have to constantly fight mosquitoes. We’ve had great reviews on our system from our customers. It works and it finally gives control back to the homeowners.”

NOT INVITEDby Christine Fisher


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Even if your party plans are to grill outside but eat inside, including mosquito protection on your party-planning list reduces the number of mosquitoes that enter your home as people walk in and out.

For details on mosquito protection, call J&J Exterminating in Lake Charles at 477-7377 or in DeRidder at 463-4574.


Home &Family

Protect Pets from the Heat of Summer

“Just like people, pets will naturally seek out methods to cool themselves off during hot weather,” says veterinarian Dr. Martha Briley, co-owner of Country Club Veterinary Clinic, opening this fall. “If pets are housed outside, it’s important to provide them with the resources to do so, such as a shaded area and an abundant supply of water.”

Pets most susceptible to heat stroke are animals with shortened muzzles such as bulldogs, pugs or Persian cats; overweight pets; those with thicker coats; and those with respiratory problems. Dr. Briley says older animals are also at increased risk. “They are weaker and might experience an adverse response to increased temperatures more quickly than younger dogs. The same goes for kittens and puppies who have not yet reached maturity.”

Dr. Christine Mocklin, Country Club Veterinary Clinic co-owner, reminds us that heat stroke is a condition that affects other pet species, as well. “I have treated heat stroke in numerous pet rabbits and pet birds that are housed outside. I’ve also seen guinea pigs, ferrets and other small mammals that people bring outside ‘for just a little while to get some sun’ get over-heated and quickly decline. All of these little guys are very susceptible to high temperatures. The best place for them during the hot summer is indoors in the air conditioning.”

She says pets will tell you by their actions if they are affected too strongly by hot weather, so it is important to recognize the signs of heat exhaustion. If your pet has been out in the heat and exhibits frantic breathing, a bright red tongue, lethargy, vomiting or staggering, it may be suffering from heat stroke. In severe cases you will notice your pet’s lips begin to turn pale blue or gray.

If you notice any of these symptoms, Dr. Briley says to move the pet into the shade or indoors with air conditioning immediately. “Apply cool – not cold – water to your animal to gradually lower their body temperature and seek immediate veterinary care.”

She offers these additional tips for keeping your pets safe in the summer heat:• Provide access to shade at all times. If possible,

try to keep them indoors during the hottest times of the day.

• Always supply your pet with fresh water and make sure the dish or water bottle is out of the sun. Put ice in to keep it cooler, longer.

• Limit activity when temperatures are high. Walk dogs in the early morning or late hours of the day when the sun is least harsh, and bring water along for them.

• Walk your dog on grass or dirt to avoid burning their paws on hot pavement.

• Pets can get sunburn too. Sunscreen can be used depending on the location of the sensitive skin. Use care in picking the product as cats and dogs are prone to licking themselves and should not ingest most lotions. Only use sunscreens that are specifically labeled for use in dogs and cats. Do not use sunscreen on other types of pets.

Dr. Mocklin says the most important pet safety rule to remember is to never, ever leave your pet in the car when temperatures are high, even with the windows open. “The number-one cause of heat stroke in dogs is being left in a hot car. The internal heat of a car can quickly increase 40 degrees or more above the outside air temperature, especially in direct sunlight. No pet owner should ever take this risk. The best thing for your pet may be to leave him/her at home.”

Both veterinarians agreed that if you suspect your pet is suffering from heat stroke or exhaustion, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.

For more information about the new Country Club Veterinary Clinic, follow the construction

progress on their Facebook page.

by Kristy Armand

As the “dog days of summer” begin, it seems like an appropriate time to remind pet owners that they are not the only ones affected by the Southwest Louisiana heat and humidity. Pets also face increased risk of heat stroke as the temperatures rise in July and August.


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how Low Can They Go? Interest rates for home loans have fallen to a record low. The last time they were this low, poodle skirts, Elvis Presley and “Bonanza” were all the rage.

A 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averages 3.67 percent, according to Freddie Mac, one of the nation’s largest backers of mortgage securities. Last year at this time, it was 4.49 percent.

The interest rate for a 15-year mortgage, a popular choice for refinancing, is also plummeting. It is now at 2.94 percent.

“This is great news for potential new homeowners,” said Justin Holt, vice president and senior lending officer with First National Bank DeRidder. “Because the interest rate is low, the monthly note drops and people can afford to buy a bigger home or a home with more amenities.”

The drop in interest rates is attributed to the still-sluggish U.S. economy. “The employment numbers haven’t made a significant improvement at this point,” said Holt. “Interest rates drop so that as more people refinance, or buy homes at a low interest rate, they have more money to spend, since they are paying less interest on their loans. This helps boost the economy.”

As the rates continue to fall, though, some potential buyers are wary that the value of their newly purchased home will erode.

Not so, say two famous and wealthy businessmen: Donald Trump and Warren Buffet. Trump recently stated on CNBC that housing “is one of the great investments right now. When people ask me what to do, I tell them ‘Go buy a house.’” Buffet said that if he had a way to manage them, he would buy a couple of hundred-thousand single-family homes and rent them out.

Real estate may be a solid investment, but what about the family who isn’t looking to turn around and sell? The family who wants to make a home out of the brick and mortar? Should they wait longer and see if rates continue to drop?

Real estate experts predict that rates will likely continue to drop, but much like the stock market, you can’t time the real estate market. If a family finds a home they like and can afford the note, now is a great time to buy.

“You have to look at our local housing market, not just the national trends,” said Holt. “Nationally, real estate is still in a slump. Locally, we have a solid foundation, our economy is stable with growth expected in the near future and our housing market is good. If you were already in the market for a home, you’re getting a record-low interest rate.

Home pricing will probably remain low for several months, maybe longer; but historically, it has always rebounded—good news for would-be homeowners or those looking to refinance.

For more information on home loans or refinancing, contact First Nationanl Bank DeRidder at 463-6231 in DeRidder or their mortgage loan office in Lake Charles at 477-6693.

by Christine Fisher


Home &Family

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Create your Own Shade this Summer with Window tinting

For most, the decision to have their vehicle windows tinted is based on improving the overall look, but according to Blake Thibodeaux, manager of Bailey’s Audio in Lake Charles, it can also keep your vehicle much cooler and provide protection from the sun.

Prolonged UV-ray exposure from the sun damages our skin, as well as furniture, floors and vehicle interiors. Summer temperatures have been known to reach near 100 degrees in Southwest Louisiana, with interior car temperatures hitting 120 degrees. UV light combined with extreme heat has been found to release hazardous chemicals inside cars. These chemicals come from floor coverings, plastic parts, seat cushions, and armrests and are easily ingested because of the dust inside of the vehicles. Tinted windows can reduce this risk by blocking harmful rays, says Thibodeaux. “Installing window tint can block 99 percent of UVA and UVB rays, which reduces the risk for skin cancer, especially for those who commute long distances or work out of their vehicle.”

He adds that window tinting is not just for vehicles. It’s a great way to keep your home cooler and can significantly lower your utility bills. Most wall colors, fabrics and wood floors will not retain their original appearance after prolonged exposure to heat and sunlight. “Installing a reflective window film can keep out as much as 80 percent of the sun’s heat and dramatically lower air conditioning costs,” says Thibodeaux. “In winter, it will help retain the interior heat, thereby reducing heating costs. The return on investment can be quick and impressive.”

Modern film technology provides more choices with better application techniques. Thibodeaux says today’s film choices range from the charcoal color most often seen, to frosted glass and even black-out film. There is now a clear film available containing ceramic that blocks out the heat of the sun without discoloring the view.

Other benefits to window tinting are increased privacy and security. Tinted windows darken the glass in the vehicle or home and therefore increase the privacy. This has been said to discourage prowlers as well as improve the overall look of the home or vehicle. The window tinting is a film, and is installed with adhesive, which can also prevent the window from shattering.

by Liz Trahan

July 2012 Thrive Magazine for Better Living www.thriveswla.com 1312 www.thriveswla.com Thrive Magazine for Better Living July 2012Smart Phones. Smart Healthcare.

Access Lake Charles Memorial Health System’s website...anytime...

anywhere. Go to www.lcmh.com using your mobile device and

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Now, finding the most highly trained physicians, the latest services

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Local Troop Saluted with Makeover

Justin Mouser, a 23-year-old Army veteran who lost his leg in a landmine explosion, received a $10,000 backyard makeover from 505 Imports and 505 Bazaar as part of Salute-a-Troop, a contest designed to honor the dedication and sacrifices of American servicemen and women.

505 Imports and its franchise store 505 Bazaar, Lake Charles-based import furniture stores, launched the contest to specifically honor local military, according to 505 Imports co-owner Rebekah Osburn. Salute-A-Troop was launched on the Facebook pages of both businesses. Interested military servicemen, either active or retired, were asked to enter the contest by submitting a photo of an outdoor space in need of a makeover and a brief story describing why they deserved the makeover. These photos, along with the real-life stories submitted by each serviceman, were then posted on Facebook for fans to vote.

Mouser, who served in Afghanistan, was announced as the winner on Memorial Day. His outdoor space was transformed by incorporating beautiful teak furniture pieces and unique home décor and accessories featured at 505 Imports and its franchise store 505 Bazaar.

To learn more about 505 Imports or 505 Bazaar, visit www.505imports.com.

Home &Family

Before

Justin Mouser enjoying his backyard makeover.

After

“FLYING BEYOND BORDERS”

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Unique Tips for a Quick home sale Most everyone knows the basics for selling a home - curb appeal, de-

cluttering, and even lighting a scented candle. These are easy things to do and most of them are common sense. But, what else can a potential seller do to entice the attention of a would-be buyer?

Suzanne McCoy, REALTOR® with CENTURY 21 Bessette Realty, Inc. says there are a few more techniques to make your home stand out from the crowd. “Today’s real estate market is competitive. Summertime is typically a busy season for buying because families want to be settled before the new school year. They’re out there looking and, right now, there are plenty of homes for them to consider. Usually, a home sale is made up of the right mix of location, price and luck and there are things the agent and homeowner can do to increase their luck.”

Check out the competition.Be reasonable about the asking price. If your realtor is suggesting a certain price range, it’s because they know the competition. Go to a few open houses in your area so you’ll see what the buyers are seeing. Make your home as favorable as possible. “Sometimes

this is done with a lower price. Sometimes it can be done with fix-ups. Either way, the seller should be flexible so that the home is a good buy,” said McCoy.

Ask for feedback. Your realtor can solicit comments from open house attendees and from showing the home to find out what prospective buyers think of your house, the price, or the neighborhood. If several commented about the paint colors, then a weekend paint party might get your house sold.

show it with pictures. Over 90 percent of homebuyers begin their house hunt online. If your home isn’t there, or isn’t compelling, they won’t make the effort to check it out in person. Allow your realtor to take several pictures of your home, interior and exterior, to post online. The more pictures, the better your chances of getting traffic through your door.

Consider throwing in some bonuses. Make it appealing for your homebuyer. Could you leave a high-end appliance that might be beyond your buyer’s price range? A stainless steel refrigerator might tip things in your favor.

share your status. Post an album of your home on your Facebook page and let your friends know your home is on the market. If you have 200 friends and they share your status with their friends, you have the potential to reach hundreds of people with very little effort.

Aim for move-in ready. Much of your competition is already priced competitively. Try to compete on your home’s condition. A fresh coat of paint in a neutral color, new hardware in the kitchen and bathrooms, and repairing any nicks or scraps can make a difference. Above all, give your home a thorough cleaning.

remember the extras. Be sure your realtor lets homebuyers know of the transferrable termite contract, or that the roof is only two years old.

Keep it easy. In order to sell your home, people need to see your home. In addition to online access, be sure your home is available for showing anytime. Don’t make it difficult for agents to show your home. They’ll move on to homes that are easy to see.

Get the neighbors involved. Let your neighbors know you will soon list your home. Ask if they know of anyone interested. They may have friends who would love to be in the neighborhood.

For more information, or to see available homes, log on to www.century21-bessette.com or call 474-2185.

by Christine Fisher


CAJUN countryWelcome to

Vay-yay (vay-yay): spending time talking and visiting

Cajun Phra•se•ol•o•gy

come on down and pass a good time, cher!Cajun Country is often described just as that – its own country. The old adage that you need a passport to visit Louisiana couldn’t be more true for this region, which stretches from Lake Charles to Lafayette and on down to the swamps of Houma, Thibodeaux and Grand Isle. From these big cities to the small towns in between, culture, food, faith and family reign supreme. A work hard, play hard attitude permeates this area that was founded hundreds of years ago when the Acadians were ousted from Canada by the British.

by Katie Harrington


Upon their arrival in South Louisiana, they became known as Cajuns and though they were poor in a monetary sense, they were rich many other ways. Life in Cajun Country was simple, but fulfilling. Traditions date back centuries and a certain resiliency can be found amongst the people who call this land home. Coming from Canadian maritime areas such as Nova Scotia, Halifax and New Brunswick meant that there was not much of a learning curve. The Cajuns began to live off of the land just as they had in their native country and this way of life is still abundantly present today. It is said that four out of seven meals per week are made from ingredients grown, caught, trapped or hunted by locals. The cuisine that is world famous now was born mainly out of necessity. Rice, soy beans and sugar cane were plentiful in these parts, so natives took their knowledge of French cuisine, a protein source and these readily available crops and began to create dishes like jambalaya, gumbo and boudin. From this, a great love and respect for the outdoors was born. Known as Sportsman’s Paradise, people travel from all over the world simply to enjoy the beautiful scenery, catch fish, shrimp and crabs and watch more than 300 species of birds fly over the area. The livelihood of many locals is still based solely off of working the land and fishing the waterways of south Louisiana. It is this connection to the land that has made the locals so protective of it and its plentiful resources.

It is said that there is a certain joi de vivre or joy for life found amongst the people of Cajun Country. At the end of a hard day’s work, there is nothing better than kicking back with a pot of gumbo, close family and friends and some good ole fashion live music. Where there is food, music and more than two people, there is bound to be a party. Mardi Gras and a host of other festivals dot the calendar throughout the year and add to the sense of adventure that comes with the territory of living in and visiting these areas. It is at these festivals and events that the passion for Cajun culture becomes strikingly apparent. Whether it’s dancing the night away at a fais-do-do (dance party) or peeling crawfish at a giant, newspaper covered table, Cajuns will make a party out of any gathering.

Today, the Cajun Culture is en vogue and speaking Cajun French and carrying out celebrated rituals is a badge of honor. This hasn’t always been the

case, though. As time went on and new generations were born into the Cajun heritage, many parents purposefully did not teach their children Cajun French. It was widely presumed that the children would have a better chance at a successful life if they were only taught English. It was against the rules for Cajun French to be spoken in schools; slowly, the language began to die. In 1968, the Council for the Development of French in Louisiana (CODOFIL) was established and through its efforts, programs like the highly successful French Immersion program have helped to teach thousands of school children the French language. The council has undertaken many other efforts to re-establish and preserve the language. Projects like festivals and reunions started out as small, grass roots efforts to preserve the language and heritage and have grown to take on a life of their own.

Whether it is for the food, music, culture or a mix of all three, visitors come from everywhere to experience a small slice of Cajun life. Tourism is the seventh-largest industry in Louisiana and generates millions of dollars in revenue annually. Advocates travel world-wide to market south Louisiana and to protect and preserve this heritage with roots that run deep. Current and future generations embrace the history and are proud to carry out the traditions of their ancestors.


happy birthday, louisiana!In Louisiana we don’t usually need a reason to celebrate, so this

year our festivals are even livelier as we commemorate Louisiana’s Bicentennial. For the past 200 years and even before becoming a state, Louisianians have been cultivating a culture unlike any other.

Our culture is a product of the melting pot we call home—a unique mix of people from all over the world who came together to create the food, music and traditions that make our state special. For generations, Louisianians have blended the societal ingredients of French, Spanish, Native American, African, Caribbean and Acadian cultures—seasoned with Italian, German, Irish, Asian, Hungarian and Middle Eastern influences—to create an exceptional living experience.

Louisiana is synonymous with festivals, boasting more annually than days of the year. If it walks, crawls, swims or flies, we salute it with a festival before we throw it in a gumbo pot.

Every parish in the state hosts some kind of festival, typically featuring the delicacy of the area. Plenty of our festival themes are predictable—crawfish, oysters, jazz, shrimp, sweet potatoes, crawfish étouffée, pecans, jambalaya. But some of our festivals highlight Louisiana’s unexpected delicacies and resources—frogs, tamales, fur and wildlife, rabbits, and even petroleum.

The sheer amount of festivals in Louisiana is a direct result of our joie de vivre. Louisianians love to celebrate life and everything unique to our home. Any excuse to get together with friends and family, eat great food and listen to great music is a good enough reason to have a festival.

Head north and see what the top-half of our state has to offer. Drive northeast to Poverty Point where Native Americans settled more than 3,500 years ago. Visit Ruston’s Peach Festival or the Washington Parish Free Fair—the largest free fair in the U.S. Head northwest to Shreveport to visit the Municipal Auditorium which hosted the Louisiana Hayride where Elvis performed and the phrase “Elvis has left the building” was first uttered. Hit the Red River Revel Arts Festival and enjoy eight days of music, art and fun. Visit Natchitoches, Louisiana’s oldest permanent settlement which turns into a Christmas wonderland each fall for the Festival of Lights. Also explore Southeast Louisiana where opportunities for great food and music abound.

Also, explore South Louisiana where opportunities for great food and music abound. Visit Southwest Louisiana where you can enjoy the Delcambre Shrimp Festival, Rice Festival in Crowley and the Oak Alley Plantation Arts and Crafts Festival in Vacherie. Of course New Orleans is jam-packed with exciting opportunities at festivals, art and history museums, sporting events, live-music venues and award-winning restaurants. And the Louisiana coast has the best fishing in the U.S.

Festivals continue throughout the year, for more information on travel opportunities within Louisiana visit www.LouisianaTravel.com. The Bicentennial year is a perfect time to explore Louisiana.

by Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne

THE CAJUN LIFESTYLE

Ahnvee (awn-vee):

a longing or craving for

something


photos by Louisiana Office of Tourism


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At the Center for Orthopaedics, Southern hospitality is our first specialty. That’s because all of our doctors were born and raised right in here in Louisiana, and we’re proud of it. We’re also proud to be the region’s largest, independent musculoskeletal group. This allows us to provide our patients with the type of care they expect and deserve – care that is courteous, respectful of their time, and of the highest quality. We’ve dedicated ourselves to bringing the latest technological advances to Southwest Louisiana so that our patients won’t have to leave home to get the orthopaedic care they need. After all, we have a vested interest in keeping our community healthy: it’s our home too.

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unique south louisiana festivals

Celebrate Cajun Culture with these great, upcoming South Louisiana Festivals.

Cajun French Music and Food Festival July 21-22, Lake Charles www.cfmalakecharles.org

Mamou Cajun Music Festival August 11-12, Mamou www.mamoucajunmusicfestival.com

Delcambre Shrimp Festival August 15-19, Delcambre www.shrimpfestival.net

Duck Festival August 23-26, Gueydan www.duckfestival.org

Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival August 30 – September 1, Morgan City www.shrimp-petrofest.org

Roastin’ with Rosie Bar-B-Que Festival September 7-8, Jennings www.jeffdavis.org

alligator Festival September 27-30, Luling www.stcharlesrotary.com

Louisiana Cajun Food Festival September 29, Kaplan www.kaplanchamber.com

Louisiana Cotton Festival October 9-14, Ville Platte www.louisianacottonfestival.com

Festivals acadiens et Creoles October 12-14, Lafayette www.festivalsacadiensetcreoles.com

Rice Festival October 18-21, Crowley www.ricefestival.com

Louisiana Yambilee Festival October 24-28, Opelousas www.yambilee.com

Louisiana Swine Festival November 2-4, Basile www.laswinefest.com

Giant Omelette Celebration November 3-4, Abbeville www.giantomelette.org

Frog Festival November 7-11, Rayne www.raynefrogfestival.com

Cracklin Festival November 8-11, Port Barre www.portbarrecracklinfestival.com


by Keagan LeJeunecajun folklore adds fun and flairLIFESTYLE

Have you heard of Madame Grand Doigts—the lady with the long fingers who comes to little children to make them behave? Maybe your great aunt or your elderly neighbor told you these sorts of stories—the ones passed down from generations, the ones not learned in school, the ones used to pass the time or keep us in line.

Creoles, Irish, Spanish and many other identifiable cultural groups contribute to the rich culture of Louisiana, but many argue that Cajun folklore stands as the most recognizable of Louisiana’s oral traditions. Our version of Brer Fox and Brer Rabbit contains characters named Bouki and Lapin, in which Lapin is the clever hare and Bouki—the Senegalese word for Hyena—plays the

role of fox. Widespread and traditional, the story changes to reflect Louisiana’s rich cultural mix. Cajuns and Creoles alike still tell this story, and this one example shows the cultural adaption of our people.

The stories Cajuns tell have an almost mystical power to captivate outsiders. Stories of strange lights drifting through the swamps or bizarre and wondrous creatures become so intertwined with the landscape and cultural elements that people usually remember these stories longer than other tales. In the fishing boat or in the duck blind, on the front porch or around the kitchen tables, people still tell the stories of feu follet—those lights in the night that trick poor Cajuns into walking into the swamp—or of witch riders—those mischievous

creatures who tie a horse’s mane up in knots if someone leaves the beast out all night and who ride the animal until it’s spent. They tell about the cauchemar—the creature who sits on a people’s chest while they sleep, pins them down, and nearly suffocates them—or the loup garou—the werewolf or shape-shifter that people say has bedeviled people’s lives as a shadow companion they couldn’t shake.

When we analyze these folk stories, we realize they reveal the core cultural values Cajuns hold dear: an intensity of family, a strong sense of faith, and a love for the land they’ve come to call home.

Cajun Phra•se•ol•o•gyMais la (may la): Well, for goodness sakes!


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LIFESTYLE


OUR CAJUN food

cajun vs. creole: what is in a name?Often the words Creole and Cajun are used interchangeably to describe the

food of South Louisiana, but a closer look at the origins of the two cultures reveals some distinct differences that stretch beyond culinary boundaries and make for flavorful epicurean adventures.

Creole cuisine and culture is deeply rooted in the African, West-European, Caribbean, French, Italian, German and native Indian heritages brought to New Orleans in the early 1700s. It is in the classical techniques and stylings of French, Italian, German and Spanish cuisine that you will find the basis of many of the precepts of Creole cuisine. Bouillabaisse, a soup from the Provence region of France, became the base of gumbo and the Spanish brought over the spices and dishes like paella, the forefather of jambalaya. In 1725 the boucheries were established when the Germans arrived with their knowledge of fine sausage making. With the Italians came a love for pastry and ice cream making, and the Caribbean population from the West Indies brought their smoke pots and exotic vegetables and cooking methods. Braising, a slow-cooking technique, contributed to the development of gumbo as well; mirlitons, sauce piquantes and the use of tomato rounded out the Creole cuisine. Native Americans introduced the settlers to new ingredients such as corn, ground sassafras leaves for filé powder and bay leaves, and the Africans brought with them the okra plant and the ‘kin gumbo,’ the namesake of Louisiana’s premier soup.

Cajun cuisine and culture finds its roots in the humble heritage of the Acadians. These groups settled in areas far from New Orleans, creating a geographic and cultural isolation that led to the development of a distinctive cuisine. The Cajun cooking style reflects the ingenuity, creativity and adaptability of these farming settlers. The Acadians, now known as the Cajuns, arrived with their black iron pots, prepared to adapt using ingredients indigenous to the land. This led to an early cuisine based on corn, rice, root vegetables and pigs, but it didn’t take long for them to create dishes featuring the area’s prevalent rabbits, turtles, finfish, shellfish, ducks and geese. They picked up a few techniques from the local Indians, such as stewing corn with sweet peppers, onions and eventually tomatoes to create maque-chou. The traditional breakfast favorite, couche-couche, was created when the Acadians learned to dry corn, grind it and cook it in a skillet.

In recent years, crawfish dishes have become largely associated with Cajun dishes, but rice still reigns supreme over the ingredients. It is often said that a good rice farmer can look over his field and tell you exactly how much gravy will be needed to cover all of the rice. The signature of Cajun dishes is a heavy and hearty seafood dish, often made in one big pot and served over rice. Favorite dishes include jambalaya, grillades, stews, fricassees, soups, gumbos, sauce piquantes and myriad of stuffed vegetable dishes characteristic of the one-pot meal.

As time went on, the Cajuns picked up the sausage-making skills of the Germans and began making things like andouille, smoked sausage, chaudin, tasso and chaurice.

In the end, South Louisiana is fortunate to benefit from with two distinct, yet rich cultural and culinary histories; a Cajun cuisine that Louisiana’s Chef John Folse has described as a “table in the wilderness,” and a Creole cuisine with close ties to European aristocracy through its wide array of courses. So, whether you call it Cajun or Creole, one thing is certain—when you come to eat in South Louisiana, you better come hungry and be prepared to leave full.

by Katie Harrington



cookin’ up a traditionHere in Southwest Louisiana it’s been said that we don’t eat to

live—we live to eat. Nobody could blame us, considering that we’re surrounded by such culinary delights as savory shrimp, succulent crawfish, rich gumbo, spicy red beans and rice, and an ongoing list of other delicious choices.

With just the mere mention of Cajun food, Chef Paul Prudhomme’s name is bound to come up. Over the years, Prudhomme has propelled the distinctive cuisine of his native Louisiana into the international spotlight and continues to push the limits by creating exciting and new American and international dishes. A melting pot of cultures here in Louisiana, we enjoy our food with such gusto partly because our cuisine connects us to our diverse heritage, which includes French, German, African, Spanish, and multiple other influences. To put it simply, we love our food.

Who better to create that kind of tantalizing food right alongside Prudhomme than Chef Paul Miller, the executive chef at Prudhomme’s restaurant, K’Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen? Located in the historic French Quarter in New Orleans, Miller has the good fortune of working with and witnessing Prudhomme’s creativity, talent, and passion for Louisiana cuisine on a daily basis. “I’ve been affiliated with Chef Paul for about 35 years,” Miller said. He’s also married to Prudhomme’s niece.

“Years ago, Chef Paul and I both happened to be in Atlanta at the same time and this was when he was with Brennan’s. Someone spotted us standing near one another and introduced us. They said, ‘Paul from Opelousas, meet Paul from Opelousas!’ We were both from the same area but had never met. This led to us getting together and talking more about our upbringing, Opelousas, food, family, and just everything really. And, here we are all these years later, still talking about food every day.”

When it comes to that food, and in particular, Prudhomme’s restaurant, it’s important for the ingredients to be fresh. “Right now, I’m using some really great fresh eggplant and some wonderful tomatoes we came across from Belle Chase,” Miller said. Just as other restaurants try to be sustainable and use local produce and other goods when possible, Miller said that the same thing is being done at K-Paul’s.

by Katie Harrington

by Lisa Addison

Chef Paul Prudhomme and Chef Paul Miller

Continued on p24

Allons (ah-lon):

let’s go!


photo by Michael Palumbo


“If we can use local food, we do that every chance we get,” Miller said. “And there are no freezers at all in our restaurant; that’s why we change our menu daily. The food comes in fresh, we use it, and we start all over again the next day. Each morning, we work on the menu, start making sauces, begin creating various dishes. That way, our customers are always getting the best we can give them. Chef Paul likes for people to get excited when they dine with us and for the food to taste better and better with each bite. It isn’t just having a meal; it’s an experience.”

Miller said that Prudhomme’s food philosophy has always been to experiment, have fun, use the freshest ingredients, be passionate about food, and to encourage people to sit down together as a family for dinner when possible. “He grew up as the youngest of 13 children in his family,” Miller said. “Chef Paul would tell me about how the siblings would be fighting but that the second that the meal was on the table and everyone sat down together, the fighting stopped. I think he really liked that feeling and it helped spark the desire in him at a young age to recreate that experience for others.”

In the course of conversation with Miller, he mentioned that some people may not realize a particular fact about Prudhomme. “Did you know that he created the blackening technique?” he asked. “A lot of people enjoy blackened fish, shrimp, or whatever. Well, Chef Paul is the one who first introduced blackening. He’s always experimenting and trying new techniques in the kitchen. Chef Paul is at the restaurant every single day. While he was just a young boy, he learned the basics of food preparation and also about using the freshest ingredients while cooking at his mother’s side and he continues to be influenced by his early upbringing.”

Miller said that the Prudhomme team works daily on creating seasoning blends (Prudhomme’s seasonings can be found in more than 30 countries) and among his newest flavors of seasoning blends are Toasted Onion & Garlic, Seven Herb, and Lemon & Cracked Pepper. The team also does taste tests, comes up with new recipes, and Prudhomme even autographs his various

cookbooks for patrons who come into the restaurant and want a signed copy. Miller said when customers come into the restaurant many of them are there because they want to order the very meals that helped to make Prudhomme a household name: gustatory delights such as etouffee, jambalaya, and gumbo.

“Chef Paul is busy every single day and he’s always creating something,” Miller said. “But you know what? None of it is work for him. He actually enjoys it and has fun every day in the kitchen. Truthfully, all of this is Chef Paul’s passion and it will be until the day he dies.”

For more information on Chef Paul Prudhomme or K-Paul’s, visit the restaurant at, 416 Chartres St., New Orleans; (504) 596-2530.

food

K-Paul’s in New Orleans

| cookin’ up a tradition

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K-Paul’s in New Orleans

visit the hottest place in south louisianaDriving along winding country roads just outside New Iberia, visitors

eventually come upon Avery Island, rising above flat Louisiana marshland. They may feel as if they’ve landed smack in the middle of a glossy postcard: Lovely moss-draped oak trees dot the sprawling grounds, alligators sun themselves on nearby banks, magnolias and other flowers bloom when in season and colorful, exotic birds can be seen and heard throughout the property.

Avery Island is a veritable paradise, home of the world-famous Tabasco hot pepper sauce and Jungle Gardens, which is located on top of a massive salt dome. Free factory tours are available at the Tabasco factory, where one can learn how Edmund McIlhenny first planted a handful of Mexican pepper seeds more than 100 years ago, which was the start of the famous Tabasco brand hot sauce.

Step into the large brick factory and enjoy displays of Tabasco and Avery Island artifacts, and watch a short film on the history and making of hot sauce. Did you know that the peppers have to be perfectly ripened when hand-picked? Peppers are processed the same day they are picked, then mashed and mixed with salt from Avery Island’s own salt mine. The mixture is poured into white oak barrels and covered with more Avery Island salt, and then left to ferment for three years. Once it’s finished fermenting, vinegar is added, it’s stirred often for about four weeks, bottled, and shipped all over the world.

If the factory tour makes your mouth water for Tabasco, step into the Tabasco Country store and sample different varieties of hot sauces and other Tabasco products, including Tabasco ice cream. There are all types of Tabasco gift items available too. If you packed a lunch, sit under the lovely oak trees and enjoy it or just enjoy sitting in the rocking chairs on the front porch.

Afterward, take a drive through the 250-acre natural habitat for plants and animals. There are plenty of spots where you can park your vehicle and walk

along paths that have azaleas, juniper, camellias, magnolias, and more. There’s an alligator-filled lagoon and if you stick around long enough, one of them is sure to come up long enough for you to take a picture. You’ll also come across a centuries-old Buddha in the Chinese Garden and there’s an Observation Tower where you can watch snowy egrets nesting at Bird City.

Avery Island is located close enough that it makes for a wonderful day trip. It’s all there just waiting for you to discover and explore.

There is a $1 toll (conservation fee) onto the island. Factory

tour admission is free. Open daily, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; closed

major holidays. Jungle Gardens & Bird City is open daily,

including holidays, 8 a.m.-5

p.m. $8 adults, $5 children

12 and under. To learn more

about Avery Island, Jungle

Gardens, or Bird City, call

(800) 634-9599. Hwy. 329,

Avery Island.

by Lisa Addison


foodlouisiana seafood bounces back

The April 2010 Deepwater Horizon spill threatened to derail commercial shrimping and fishing along the Gulf Coast—a family tradition and way of life that has roots in the 19th century and earlier. Louisiana is second only to Alaska in both tonnage and dockside commercial fishing revenues, with seven of the top 50 U.S. seafood landing ports located in South Louisiana. Of those, three—Empire-Venice, Intracoastal City and Cameron—are in the top six. Statistics show that nearly 75 percent of fish landed in the Gulf of Mexico come through a Louisiana port.

But with the spill came environmental concerns and questions of Gulf Coast seafood safety.

In November 2011, Calvin Walker, a seafood safety analyst with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) who has monitored the testing of thousands upon thousands of seafood samples, told the Chef’s Collaborative National Summit in New Orleans that he was confident no tainted seafood reached the market.

“Gulf seafood is safe today, and there is no reason to think that will change,” said Walker. “We all eat Gulf seafood on a regular basis.” He noted that safety watchdogs have kept a sharp eye on the impact the oil spill has had on the Gulf’s ecosystem as a whole because “the long-term effects of the oil spill on Gulf fisheries is still an open question.”

One of the biggest challenges in recovering from the spill has been overcoming the public’s perception that the seafood isn’t safe to consume.

“There’s a big gap in what people believe – after seeing so many images of oil in the water and the cleanup – and what is true,” says Tim Fitzgerald, a seafood scientist with the Environmental Defense Fund. “There’s a disconnect between the science and the public’s interpretation of the science.”

One way to address the perception problem is to make valid, scientific data available to the public. The Louisiana Seafood Plan is a collaborative effort between the Louisiana Departments of Wildlife and Fisheries, Health and Hospitals, Environmental Quality and Agriculture and Forestry. This BP-funded group conducts seafood testing and monitoring. Wildlife and Fisheries serves as the lead agency and is responsible for inshore and nearshore shrimp sampling as well as nearshore water and sediment sampling. The other three agencies work to sample everything from oysters, shrimp, crab and finfish to water and sediment samples. All of the results are posted to their joint website, www.gulfsource.org.

The Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board, created by the state in 1984, travels far and wide to educate key stakeholders on the safety of Louisiana’s seafood product. Their interactive website, louisianaseafood.com, is a treasure trove of information on everything from how to eat and cook your fresh Louisiana seafood to the sustainability of the industry. National media campaigns produced by the board are also aimed at educating consumers on the quality and tradition of the product.

Couyon (coo-yôn):

a fool, stupid. Usually

said in a playful

manner.


Ça fait chaud (sa fay show):

It’s hot!


by Katie Harrington

photo by Louisiana Office of Tourism


On May 26, 10 Louisiana chefs stood before a crowd at the New Orleans Wine and Food Experience’s Grand Tasting and vied for the coveted title of Louisiana Seafood King. The honor was ultimately bestowed on Chef Keith Frentz of Lola in Covington, who impressed the judges with his TABASCO®-spiced Friday Lunch Special, a cornmeal-dusted wild Des Allemands catfish, Camellia red bean and local crawfish succotash, braised collards, and house-made tartar sauce.

The dishes at the Louisiana Seafood Cook-off featured a variety of Louisiana seafood, but this was the first time that wild catfish was in the spotlight. Frentz, who was assisted by his wife Chef Nealy Frentz, hopes this encourages other chefs to showcase it on their own menus.

“It was important for me to use products from the local farmers market and wild-caught Louisiana catfish because it is such a versatile, flavorful fish, yet you don’t see it very often on menus,” said Frentz. “I am excited that the judges enjoyed it and I am really looking forward to representing Louisiana seafood in the upcoming year.”

Frentz has an exciting year ahead as he and wife Nealy will promote Louisiana seafood alongside the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board (LSPMB) at state, regional and national events. The first major appearance for Frentz will be the Great American Seafood Cook-Off held on August 11 in New Orleans at the Louisiana Restaurant Association’s Foodservice EXPO. The Great American Seafood Cook-off showcases wild-caught, domestic seafood and is sponsored by NOAA and produced by LSPMB. Frentz will represent Louisiana and compete against 15 other chefs representing their respective states.

by Ashley Roth

louisiana seafood

king crowned

Winning dish by Chef Keith Frentz

by Katie Harrington


foodacadiana breweries serving up craft beers

Bayou Teche Brewing of Arnaudville arrived on the scene only a few years ago with a goal to brew beers that worked well with Cajun food, said Karlos Knott, who serves as brewmaster and owns the company with his brothers Bryon and Dorsey Knott. Karlos Knott prefers Belgium, German and French beers but he experiments with other styles as well.

Their products have included LA-31 Bière Pâle, crafted with Belgian malts and American hops and yeast and named for the highway that runs through Breaux Bridge; a darker Bierre Noir; a wheat and passion fruit beer titled Grenade and a Belgium Trappist-style Bierre Joi–Mello Dubbel that includes locally produced Mello Joy coffee. In January, for Mardi Gras, the company released a French-style seasonal ale labeled “Courir de Mardi Gras,” complemented by a Cajun and Creole Mardi Gras album produced by Valcour Records.

Recently, Bayou Teche Brewing won a silver medal in the Biere de Garde – Ale category in the 2012 World Beer Championship.

Another brewery is Parish Brewing Company located in Broussard, which produces handcrafted draft beers Canebrake and Biere Amber for enjoyment in local bars throughout Acadiana. Plans are in the works by owner Andrew Godley to produce additional specialty beers.

Visitors and residents alike can sample both local brews at Gulf Brew 2012, an annual Lafayette beer festival that’s the primary fundraiser for the Acadiana Center for the Arts. The event will be from 6-9 p.m. Saturday, July 21, at downtown Lafayette’s Parc International and will feature food vendors, a brewer’s tent, gaming area, three live bands and a deejay.

Brewmasters will hail from around the Southwest region and beyond. Tickets are $25 for general admission and VIP tickets are $75 and include early admission and access to the VIP tent with special beer selections, food and VIP restrooms. A designated driver (non-taster) ticket is available for $15.

For more information, visit AcadianaCenterfortheArts.org.

YEARS AGO YOU’D BE HARD-PRESSED TO FIND A BREWERY IN ACADIANA. TODAY, THEY’RE WINNING INTERNATIONAL AWARDS.

by Cheré Coen

deux delicious louisiana recipesAcme’s Sherried Oysters

Sauteed oysters in a spicy cheese sauce served over sliced French bread.Chef: Chef Michelle Matlock, Acme Oyster House, New Orleans, LACredits: www.LouisianaCookin.com

1 bunch leeks, sliced and rinsed thoroughly12 ounces freshly shucked oysters, with liquid6 tablespoons unsalted butter1 medium yellow onion, medium diced2 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced1 cup cream sherry3 tablespoons Tabasco sauce1 cup heavy whipping cream

3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheesesalt and pepper to tastetoasted French bread, for serving

Slice the leeks in half lengthwise, using all the white part of the bunch, and some of the lighter green. Submerge the cut leeks in a bowl of cold, salted water. Agitate and remove from the water. Separate the freshly shucked oysters from their water and save both. Heat a large skillet on a medium heat. Add 4 tablespoons of butter, onions, leeks and garlic. Sauté until transparent. Next, add the cream sherry and the liquid from the freshly shucked oysters. Reduce until almost all of the liquid is gone. Next, add the heavy whipping cream and continue to cook. Stir constantly with a whisk. Reduce until thickened to a porridge-like consistency (about 5 minutes). Then add the Tabasco sauce, salt, and pepper. Last, add the Parmesan cheese and stir. Remove from the heat.

In a second skillet, sauté the fresh-shucked oysters with 2 tablespoons of butter for approximately 3 to 5 minutes. Drain off excess liquid. Add the sautéed oysters to the sauce and stir. Serve the warm oysters and sauce over the bread.

Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Crawfish

A Louisiana twist on the classic macaroni and cheese.Chef: Courtesy of Irma ThomasCredits: www.LouisianaCookin.com

Continued on p31


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cajun cooking words to know

Amandine (ar-man-deen)A method of serving fish or seafood with a lemon butter sauce topped with toasted, slivered almonds. Andouille (ahn-doo-wee)A lean, spicy, smoked Cajun pork sausage that adds great flavor. Beignet (bin-yey)Square French doughnut, deep fried & dusted with powdered sugar.

Bisque (bisk)A rich, thick creamy soup made from seafood. In Cajun country, it’s usually made with crawfish or shrimp.

BlackenedInvented by Chef Paul Prudhomme, it is characterized by coating a meat or seafood with spices and quickly searing it in butter in a cast iron skillet. The goal is to get a crunchy coat. Boudin (boo-dan)A seasoned Cajun sausage traditionally made of pork and rice and spices. Boulettes (boo-lets)Ground seafood, usually fish, crawfish, or shrimp, mixed with seasonings and breadcrumbs, then deep-fried in oil. Cafe au Lait (caf-ay-oh-ley)A half-and-half blend of strong chicory coffee and hot milk. It literally means coffee with milk. The Cajun TrinityThe Holy Trinity of Cajun cooking includes celery, onions and bell pepper.

Cane SyrupAn essential ingredient in Louisiana Pecan Pie and lots of other favorite Southern dishes.

ChicoryHerb that is ground, roasted and used to impart the unique flavor of New Orleans coffee. Cochon de Lait (coo-shon duh lay)An event where a suckling pig is roasted over a blistering hickory fire until the inside is tender and juicy and the outside brittle as well-cooked bacon.

CornichonA vinegar type of pickle that is canned in a glass jar and made with either cucumbers or mirlitons (vegetable pears or chayote squash) and usually contains hot peppers and eaten with gumbos or rice and gravy.

Couche-Couche (koosh-koosh)A popular Cajun breakfast food made by frying cornmeal and topping it with milk, coffee milk or cane syrup. Courtbouillon (coo-boo-yon)A spicy Louisiana stew made with fish, tomatoes, onions and vegetables, and typically thickened with roux. Crème Brûlée (French for “burnt cream”)A dessert consisting of a rich custard base topped with a layer of hard caramel, created by burning sugar under a grill or other intense heat source. It is usually served cold in individual ramekins. Creole MustardSpicy version of mustard made in South Louisiana using select mustard seeds that are marinated before processing. Debris (day-bree)A dish made combing the leftover parts of the animal such as the liver, spleen, intestines and the like with lots of onions. It has a delicate flavor and is served over rice. Dirty RiceRice dish sautéed with green peppers, onions, celery and variety meats.

DressingSynonymous with stuffing, but usually served as side dish for a meal as opposed to being stuffed in a turkey. Etouffee (ay-too-fay)A savory dish, usually made with crawfish or shrimp, prepared by simmering over a slow flame. File (fee-lay)Ground sassafras leaves used to thicken and flavor gumbo. Fricassee (free-kay-say)A thick Cajun stew made with roux and any type meat. Gateau de sirop (gat-tow d seer-up)This word translates to Syrup Cake, a moist cake made with cane syrup. Grattons (grah-tawns)The Cajun word for cracklins. Grillades (GREE yads)Beef or veal round steak, browned, and simmered until tender in browned tomato sauce served over grits. Gumbo (Gom-bo)A deep rich Cajun stew often thickened with okra or file. Some popular types are chicken and sausage, shrimp and seafood. Jambalaya (jam-bah-lah-ya)A traditional South Louisiana rice dish, it is a well-seasoned mixture of meat, onions, bell pepper and rice cooked in a single pot. Maque Choux (mock shoe)A Cajun dish of smothered corn, tomatoes, onions and peppers. Sometimes shrimp or crawfish are added to make a main dish. Mirliton (MEL-e-taun)Commonly called a vegetable pear or chayote squash, it is used to make pickles for gumbos and rice and gravy or eating right out of the jar.

Muffuletta (moof-a-LOT-a)A popular New Orleans French Quarter sandwich made with ham, salami and cheese stacked with an olive mix of chopped olives, garlic, onions, celery, and olive oil on a round loaf of Italian bread. Pain Perdu (pan-per-doo)Literally, “Lost Bread,” referring to the stale bread that would otherwise be thrown out, also known as French toast. Pistollette (pistol-let)A small French bread that is cut and the middle scooped out so that it can be filled with a delicious Cajun favorite, such as crawfish etouffee. Praline (praw-leen)A flat, smooth and creamy candy made with sugar, butter, milk and traditionally pecans, though there are many recipes with different ingredients. Remoulade (rem-oo-lard)A spicy sauce used with shrimp and other seafood. Roux (roo)A slow-cooked mixture of flour and oil. Adds flavor and body to gumbo and other Cajun dishes. Sauce Piquante (sos pee-kawnt)A thick, sharp flavored sauce made with roux and tomatoes, highly seasoned with herbs and peppers, simmered for hours.

Tasso (tah-so)Thin-cut, highly seasoned smoke-cured ham. Used for seasoning in beans, gumbos, vegetables and many other Cajun dishes. TurduckenA unique “Cajun Bird” created when a turkey is stuffed with a duck which is stuffed with a chicken. And it’s also stuffed with lots of Cajun dressings and seasonings. YamA sweet potato like vegetable, but usually sweeter.

One thing that sets Louisiana apart from anywhere else in the United States is our delicious food. We love any occasion when we can gather and eat! Our love of food goes hand-in-hand with our love of family.

food


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1/2 pound elbow macaroni, cooked al dente2 tablespoons butterNonstick cooking spray1/2 pound cheese cut into small cubes (anymix of pepper jack, Gouda, sharp or mildcheddar, Colby jack, etc.)1 tablespoon granulated sugar2 eggs, beaten1/2 cup milk1 cup cooked Louisiana crawfish tails, roughly choppedPreheat oven to 350˚F. Cook the pasta

Preheat oven to 350˚F. Cook the pasta to al dente, drain, and stir in the butter. Spray a baking dish with nonstick spray and add the pasta. Mix in the cheese, sugar, eggs, milk, and crawfish tails. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the macaroni is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

recipes |continued from p28food


Çest tout (say toot): that’s all


our CAJUN music

cajun & zydeco - what’s the difference?

It’s one of those things that everyone just sort of “knows”: Zydeco music and Cajun music aren’t the same thing. Yet there might be fewer hands raised in a dance hall to answer why they’re different. At local fairs and festivals, Cajun & Zydeco music are lumped into the same type of musical space. People experience a Cajun band, and then, a Zydeco band – maybe a little old time rock-and-roll to mix it up. So, it’s no wonder that there’s a gray area.

That being said, I talked to Chris Miller with Bayou Roots and Lesa Cormier of the Cajun French Music Association to get a little background. For Zydeco, Harold Guillory of Louisiana Zydeco Live TV Show and Brandon Ledet of Brandon Ledet & the Creole Touch shared their thoughts. All and all, I feel like I could raise my hand in a dance hall now to answer what sets Zydeco and Cajun music apart – and soon thereafter – I’d cut a rug, mais oui!

Miller explained the distinction this way: “Cajun usually has fiddle and all lyrics in Cajun French. It tends to be more folk in origin, and there are old tunes that are still in the genre. Zydeco, a relatively recent offshoot of Cajun, spans from the 1940s till now. It rarely has a fiddle and tends to be more electric in instruments than Cajun.”

And, what about the scrub-board? Miller said: “However, the scrub-board is a Zydeco instrument. It was developed and mixed with blues, swing, jazz and other genres—like today—modern R&B and rap. Although it started with French lyrics, the vast majority of Zydeco today is in English, and the emphasis tends to be more on dance rhythm than on melodic folk tunes as is the case with Cajun.”

Cormier also talked about the type of accordion used: “Cajun music has been around a long time and is played exclusively on a diatonic accordion. It includes many waltzes…and is sung in French. Zydeco is fairly new, and the beat is different. There are very few waltzes, and it can be played on a number of different accordions and sung in French and English.”

So, the beat is different, the instrumentation is different, and often times, so is the language. Harold Guillory put it like this: “It’s like Rock-and-Roll is to R&B. Cajun has its own swing, but Zydeco has more of a faster beat. I think it’s also like comparing it to food. Zydeco has a spicier sound. Or, looking at Elvis

or James Brown. James Brown took Elvis’ music, that type of music, and added funk to it.”

Brandon Ledet also used food to describe the differences in Cajun and Zydeco, with Ledet saying that both are “gumbos just seasoned differently, culturally and ethnically.” Ledet mentioned funk as well, and the mix of R&B and blues.

Right off the “scrub-board,” I’d say those are strikingly obvious variations in sound that are easily detected. Probably the thing that ties them together in people’s ears more than anything would be the accordion, and the fact that some Zydeco is sung in French – not to mention cultural similarities. Music plays a tremendous role in the cultures of Cajun and Creole people – as does food, religious beliefs and family.

“Cajun music is the glue that is holding together a very fragile Louisiana French culture. Without the music, I fear the culture itself would die off or be assimilated into larger homogenous American culture. Music events are the primary meeting events and festival themes for the culture,” said Miller.

When asked about the central points of Cajun culture, Miller went on to say that it is “Keeping God and family first. Being proud of who you are and how you are different from others in America. Also, knowing how to adapt—that is what our culture thrives on—and having a good time of course!”

For Guillory, “The family is a major part of Creole culture. Keeping the family together. We do that by always having family events, like cookouts at the house. It’s also rooted in the Catholic religion, and along with that, it’s the food and music that keep the families strong.”

Ledet backs up that philosophy with “Our way of life, the Catholic Church, our language, hospitality, food and music … make us standout from the rest of the world. Our culture is a true definition of hardworking, resilient people that value family and its history here in Louisiana.”

In many cases, music is passed down from generation to generation. “I have been playing Cajun music for 63 years. One of my sons and one of my grandsons have followed in my footsteps. I hope my great-grandchildren will do the same,” said Cormier. “I am proud to continue the music that my grandfather and father taught me. I enjoy helping our young students learn the songs of our ancestors.”

The “joie de vivre” of both cultures can be downright contagious. “Outside of the state, we are famous for our food, music and fun,” Guillory said. “We are a great state for a getaway, and whenever they go back home, they rant and rave about the time they had here. People love partaking in our culture because we love to have a good time. It’s fun.”

by Angie Manning

photo by www.visitlakecharles.org


by Angie Manning

Maybe that’s the secret ingredient to Louisiana’s ranking as the happiest state in the union in a 2009 study. No matter what, the important things in life are usually the priceless ones. Having a great time dancing, playing music, eating amazing food and having closely knit families and friends is enough to make anyone happy. There’s definitely something to it, and it’s the allure that keeps visitors coming back and spreading the word about Louisiana.

As a side note, the State Office of Tourism just launched a new site called

www.LouisianaSoundtrack.com, and 2013 will be the Year of Music for state promotions of culture, recreation and tourism since music is steeped in our culture and traditions. Be sure to check out the site for all sorts of musical ideas on where to go and what to experience around Louisiana. For more information on music in the area, festivals and events and venues, check out www.visitlakecharles.org.

popular instrumentsCajun or French BandCajun Accordion

Fiddle

Guitar

Bass

Drums

Triangle

Spoons

And sometimes a Pedal Steel Guitar

Zydeco Bands

Zydeco accordion

Scrub board

Guitar

Bass

Drums

Sometimes keyboard

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growing up southwest louisiana style

a little cajun humor

1. Mardi GrasFrom catching or throwing beads at a parade to dancing the night away at the Gumbo Cook-off or the Royal Gala, Southwest Louisiana’s Mardi Gras celebration is like no other.

2. pinch the tails A crawfish boil offers families a great reason to gather around and anyone claiming to be from Southwest Louisiana has to be able to peel and eat their weight in crawfish!

3. catch your dinnerWhether it is done via crabbing, hunting or fishing, catching your own dinner is more than just a hobby, it is at the very core of what makes us special.

Crabbing is a great family activity that can be done from the side of the road with only a string, dip net and some raw chicken or turkey necks!

4. take a walk on the wild sideThe Creole Nature Trail All-American Road is a national treasure running right through our backyard. What kid wouldn’t love spotting alligators, shelling on Holly Beach and watching the sun set over the Southwest Louisiana marsh?

5. hang out by the campfireSam Houston Jones State Park is a perfect place to experience sleeping under the stars after a day filled with hiking the trails, cooking over an open fire and telling stories of a simpler time.

cajun

FIVE THINGS ALL KIDS GROWING UP IN SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA MUST DO AND/OR ExPERIENCE BEFORE BECOMING AN ADULT.

baby crawfish A baby crawfish was walking ahead of its mother along a ditch when it came flying down in a frenzy. The mother asked, “What is the matter?” The baby crawfish answered, “Look that big thing right there.” The mother said, “Don’t worry about that; it is just a cow.” So they kept walking. Then the baby crawfish came flying down again. The mother asked again, “What is the matter?” The baby said, “Look at that thing right there!” The mother said “That is just a dog; it will not hurt you,” so they kept walking. Then suddenly the mother flies by the baby crawfish. The baby crawfish asked its mother what’s wrong, and the mother said, “Run! That’s a Cajun and they eat anything!

Source: www.cajuncookingrecipes.com

boudreaux meets st. peter Poor ole Boudreaux up and died one day. Upon arriving at the gates of Heaven, St. Peter greeted him, “Welcome to Heaven, dere Boudreaux!” Boudreaux exclaimed “Mai, tank ya, cher!” St. Peter explained to ole Boudreaux that there was one stipulation before he was allowed through the gates of Heaven—he had to answer one question and get it right. Boudreaux scratched his head and said, “Mai, ok, cher. What dat be?” St. Peter says “What is God’s first name?” Boudreaux answers, “Mai, cher, dat be easy, it’s Howard.” St. Peter, laughing himself silly, said “HOWARD? May I ask you, Boudreaux, how’d you come up with that name?” Boudreaux, smiling proudly, says “Mai cher, dat be an easy one.....Our Fadda who art in Heavin, HOWARD be dy name.” St. Peter, still chuckling, says “I can’t argue with that one, Boudreaux! Come on in!”

Source: www.topfool.com

rober’ and maurice Two Cajuns, Rober’ and Maurice, decided that hunting possums had gotten too dull, so they planned a trip to Canada to shoot moose. They flew in commercial planes all the way to Saskatoon, and from there, they hired a bush pilot to take them in a little plane into moose country. The pilot put them down in a short little airstrip about 200 kms from nowhere.“Boys,” he said, “I’ll be back here at noon in three days. You be right here, and remember that this plane is too small to carry more than the three of us and ONE moose. So, there’s no need to be hunting more than ONE moose, because you won’t be able to take but one out of here.”Rober’ and Maurice nodded agreement, and off the plane went, leaving the two Cajuns in the

wilderness, eager for their hunting expedition. On the third day, the plane landed at 11:55 local time, and there beside the airstrip were Robert and Maurice, each sitting on a moose, grinning broadly. “OK,” said the pilot, “which moose are we going to take back?” “Why, both of them,” said Rober’, “We got to take these meese back to show that we are both as good as the other.” “No, no, NO,” said the pilot, “I told you that the plane could bring back only ONE moose.” “What’s the matter?” asked Maurice, “ain’t yo’ plane good enough to carry one little ol’ extra moose? We got two meese on a plane just like this one last year.” “OK,” agrees the pilot, “ain’t nobody going to out-fly me around here. If you got two moose on that plane, you can get two moose on my plane.” So, they load up, take off, and the plane, as predicted, can’t handle the extra load, and they CRASH. The two Cajuns wake up in adjacent tree tops, and Rober’ asks, “Where ARE we?” Maurice reponds, “About 100 yards further that we were last year!”

Source: Justin Wilson


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Money &CareerGrowing a Home-Based Business

With the popularity of social media, including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and others, it’s become easier than ever for people to grow a hobby into a business. Whether it’s selling smocked baby dresses, promoting your woodworking items, or letting people know that you have multiple varieties of homemade jams and jellies for sale, there’s a growing prevalence of home-based businesses. Check out these four locals who have turned their hobby into a full-blown, home-based business using a passion for their product/service, word-of-mouth advertising and a solid social media presence.

by Lisa Addison

BOBBY JOHNS

FALLON HARRISON

DANIELLE GRANGER

MANDI BOYETTE

by Lisa Addison

photos by Shonda Manueland Lindsey Janies


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What are some of the challenges of owning a home-based business?One of the main challenges is not having an actual office or true place of business, or in my case, an office plus a fully stocked nursery. Having an office and a nursery would allow me to show my clients a variety of shrubs and trees, making the landscape process easier. Even though it’s a challenge, I work around it as best as I can.

What is the most rewarding thing about owning a home-based business?The most rewarding thing is that your business can grow at a rapid rate within a short amount of time since you don’t have high overhead costs.

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by Lisa Addison

photos by Shonda Manueland Lindsey Janies


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What are some of the challenges of owning a home-based business?Time management. Since you’re not tied down to a set 40 hrs/8-5/M-F routine, you have to make your own schedule. Prioritizing each day with what needs to get done first and to-do lists (I love lists!) really help me narrow my focus.

What is the most rewarding thing about owning a home-based business? Since it’s my own business, I say

when, where and how I get my work done. I work at the speed I want, I decide how much I want to make each month and I get to enjoy the other things in life that bring me joy. I call the shots, and working has never felt so good!

What is one piece of advice you offer to anyone looking to start a home-based business?Above anything else, you have to have passion for your product or service. If you don’t really believe in what you’re doing or selling, you won’t get past those first few

hurdles that come with starting a new business. You also need to do your research and ask yourself if the business you’re getting into can go the distance with you and your needs. If you’re looking into a home-based direct selling company, make sure it’s reputable and has a quality product. You also want to make sure the compensation plan is simple and that you can be profitable right from the start.

What are some of the challenges of owning a home-based business?The biggest challenge is that we provide the services at our actual home. Our business is 24-7, meaning no weekends off, no clocking out and no going home. Some people want to come and hang out with the dogs or just drop by, which can be inconvenient, since this is our home.

What is the most rewarding thing about owning a home-based business?We love dogs and are providing other dog-lovers a convenient alternative to vet boarding.

What is one piece of advice you offer to anyone looking to start a home-based business?My advice is to go for it if it’s your dream. It’s hard work. You have to be super-motivated and self-disciplined, but if that’s you, then it is worth it.

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Date started: January 30, 2011

Boutique jewlery and handbags; and also the opportunity for women to style their own life

HARRISON HOTEL FOR DOGS

Owners: Fallon & Sam Harrison

Search Facebook for Harrison Hotel for Dogs or e-mail [email protected]

Date started: July 2, 2011

Home-based boarding service for dogs that provides an alternative to traditional boarding


What are some of the challenges of owning a home-based business?There are more distractions at home (kids, etc.) and it’s harder for people to find out about me. Without a storefront, people can’t just walk in and see what I offer. It’s strictly word of mouth, but Facebook has helped me reach people and show my product off. I also don’t have a lot space--because I don’t have a shop/store. I’m utilizing my garage and home office space to work from.

What is the most rewarding thing about owning a home-based business?I get to stay home with my kids but also get to do something I enjoy and get paid for it! I have flexibility and am able to keep/set my own work

schedule to fit in with my family life. I have more personal freedom and less stress since I am doing something I love.

What is one piece of advice you offer to anyone looking to start a home-based business?Start small and keep a budget, but also, just go for it! I never want to say, “I wish I would have tried or done that!”

YARDLY PERFECT

Owner: Mandi Boyette

Search Facebook for Yardly Perfect or e-mail [email protected]

Date started: October2011

Hand-painted yard decor (all items are cut, sanded, primed, painted and sealed)

You no longer need to come into the bank. There has never been a time in which it’s been easier for an entrepreneur to conveniently access quality banking services. The advances in technology are nothing short of amazing. Make sure the bank you choose makes technology a priority by investing in capabilities that allow you to manage your own time and your most expensive resource as flexibly as possible. A robust internet banking platform, electronic document delivery, scan and fax remote deposit capability, merchant card payment alternatives and free ATM usage anywhere in the world are a few of the basics you should look for--and they’re just a start.

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Banking is still a trust business and it is human nature that we trust those we know so relationships still count. You will benefit over time from developing one with a banker, particularly during those inevitable periods of stress you’ll encounter even if successful.

The banking industry has never been more accessible to home-based businesses. The advancement of affordable technology means community banks in particular have never been as well prepared to partner with entrepreneurs. To maximize your business’s chances of success find a bank modern enough to offer the technology you need to keep you from having to come into the bank, but local enough to make you feel comfortable wanting to.

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during the month

of July to receive

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“THANK YOU!”

Main Office Drive-Thru

July 6 & 20

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July 13 & 27

Membership and eligibility required.

Federally insured by NCUA.

Main Office 4321 Nelson Road

Lake Charles, LA 70605

337.477.2000

Sulphur Branch 2154 Swisco Road

Sulphur, LA 70665

337.625.5747

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Toll Free 1.800.625.5747

In Southwest Louisiana, we’ve had first-hand experience with this reality and have learned the importance of being prepared. Every year when hurricane season begins, a great deal of public attention is directed toward disaster preparedness —keeping extra food, water and emergency supplies on hand; securing your property; and having an evacuation plan in place. But have you also taken steps to survive financially in an unexpected event?

“During the evacuation for Hurricane Rita in 2005, many people found themselves unprepared for the financial demands that follow in the days, weeks and months after a disaster,” says Nick Fuselier, security and compliance officer with Lakeside Bank. “From simple things like taking enough cash to more complicated issues such as accessing financial accounts and filing insurance claims, dealing with money-related issues after a disaster is not something anyone spends a lot of time thinking about – until the need arises. It’s important to plan ahead and put your finances on your preparedness checklist every year.”

Disaster-Proof Your Finances NATURAL DISASTERS CAN STRIKE AT ANY TIME, IN ANY PLACE. WHETHER IT’S AN EARTHqUAKE ON THE WEST COAST, TORNADO IN THE MIDWEST, OR A HURRICANE IN OUR OWN BACKYARD, THE RESULTS CAN BE DEVASTATING WHEN NATURE GOES ON A RAMPAGE.

by Kristy Armand


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Fuselier recommends giving some attention to the following finance-related items when organizing your personal disaster plan:

KEEP SOME PETTY CASH ON HAND FOR EMERGENCIESDepending on the nature of the disaster, ATMs might be out of commission for quite some time. You don’t want to keep too much cash on hand, but enough to get by for a short time is a good idea. It’s also important to consider what you will do if you have to go without a paycheck for a while if your employer is affected by the disaster, or how you will cope if your direct deposit paycheck is delayed because of disaster-related electrical or automated system problems. If you can’t get back to work for an extended period, having an emergency fund in your bank or brokerage accounts can help. A standby home equity line of credit you can tap in an emergency is also worth considering, says Fuselier.

BRING A LIST OF YOUR ACCOUNTSMake sure you have a list of your checking and saving account numbers with you, along with the phone number of the financial institution, in case you need to make arrangements by phone to access your money.

KEEP IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS EASILY ACCESSIBLE If you have to evacuate immediately, you won’t have time to search for things like birth certificates, passports, wills, trust documents, records of home improvements and insurance policies. It’s a good idea to keep originals in a safe-deposit box, but you should also keep copies together at home in an evacuation file or box. You can purchase fireproof, waterproof pouches and boxes for the home. If you need to evacuate, you can grab this quickly on your way out. If you’re tech-savvy, consider scanning your important documents into a computer file you can store online and/or on a jump drive. Consider putting any personal computer files on this as well. Again, a copy of this electronic storage device should be kept in a safe place out of your home.

HAVE THE RIGHT KIND OF INSURANCE COVERAGEReview your homeowner’s or renter’s policy to see what’s covered and what isn’t. Talk to your agent about flood insurance. Review your coverage amounts to be sure you’re keeping up with inflation. Also, make sure you’re comfortable with the deductibles. Fuselier says if you can pay those out of pocket, higher deductibles can result in significant premium savings. You may also be able to lower some premiums by taking steps ahead of time to protect your property from loss, such as anchoring your foundation and/or roof, installing smoke alarms and fire extinguishers, clearing brush and trees away from the house, installing storm shutters, and so on.

INVENTORY YOUR HOUSEHOLD POSSESSIONSUse a video camera if you have one. Otherwise, take digital photos for each item of value, including clothes, jewelry, furniture, electronics, appliances, fixtures, etc. Include a description of each and save these, along with any professional appraisals and estimates of replacement values, in a safe place away from your home. Make it a point to update regularly.

In the event of a disaster, Fuselier says one of your first financial chores will be to contact your insurance agent. If the disaster is widespread, however, your local insurance agent might be caught up in the same situation as you. So keep alternative contact numbers for representatives outside your area to get the claims process going as soon as possible. Fuselier advises keeping contact information for all your financial, investment and insurance providers in your evacuation box with your other essential documents, and on an electronic file on that jump drive with other critical information and records. “By taking these precautionary steps, your finances won’t become a disaster, even if you find yourself in the eye of one.”


Money &Career

A 10-Year Journey to Business Success

Partners, Barbara VanGossen, Christine Fisher and Kristy Armand

by Erin Kelly

photo by Shonda Manuel


ten years ago, two women with no business plan, no office and no start-up money decided to start a marketing business. their only professional assets were years of combined experience, two computers and an idea.

“We also had a willingness to help our clients achieve their goals,” said Kristy Armand, one of the two women who launched Healthy Image, a full-service marketing agency, in 2002. “We’ve grown steadily ever since.”

Armand was the director of marketing for a local hospital in 1993 when she met Christine Fisher, a McNeese State University senior looking for an internship. When Armand hired the mass communications student, neither of them had any idea that their future paths would eventually lead out of their corporate marketing offices and into their own office building.

After leaving the hospital in 1999, the women worked with separate health care groups, but soon discovered that their drive to work together in charting the path of marketing clients had not wavered. In 2002, the women heard by chance about a local medical group looking for a marketing agency. On a whim, they decided to join forces. They made up a company name, got a meeting, landed that client and changed their career destinies. They cheered their victory – in shock – in the parking lot after the meeting. At the time, they worked from home on separate laptops and managed a small, yet growing, client list. The women admit that marketing and advertising came easily to them, but being savvy in the world of business was another beast altogether.

What a difference a decade makes.Today, Healthy Image has a large office, four full-time employees, one

part-time employee and a team of freelancers, in addition to three partners—Armand, Fisher and Barbara VanGossen. VanGossen was an established graphic designer whose agency, Louisiana Marketing, worked with Armand and Fisher back in their hospital marketing days. She joined Healthy Image in 2007, but Armand says for all intents and purposes, the three of them have worked together for about 20 years.

The women exemplify the world of business success so well that they will celebrate a landmark victory in conjunction with their ten-year anniversary—Healthy Image has been named Small Business of the Year for the Southwest Region, and first runner up for the state awards, by the Louisiana Small Business Administration. This award honors those who epitomize the entrepreneurial spirit of Louisiana, according to LED Secretary Stephen Moret.

“This year’s award winners exemplify the vital role served by Louisiana small business leaders and their enterprises,” Moret said. “Across many industry sectors, Louisiana’s small businesses supply key goods and services that fuel our economy and have helped Louisiana outperform the South and the U.S. through the recent national recession and the current recovery. We salute these business leaders for the visionary role they play in job creation, innovation and entrepreneurial growth.”

As Fisher quickly worked her way from a marketing intern to an invaluable asset to a marketing team, she never imagined that she would become an entrepreneur. “When we look back, we realize that the early years were the easy years,” Fisher said. “We weren’t sure how successful we would ever be, but we knew our clients were happy and if we continued to make that our focus, we would do well.”

Today, the women who celebrated their first client in a parking lot now represent more than 100 clients, local and national, in the fields of health care, finance, industry, real estate, home services, fitness, politics and elsewhere. They offer a full range of marketing services including strategic planning, advertising, public relations, graphic design, corporate communication, event planning, videography, social media management, website development and photography.

The clients of Healthy Image say it’s their combination of creativity and attention to detail sets them apart. “Healthy Image has been nothing short of outstanding for handling all of our marketing needs,” explained John Noble

Jr., MD, with the Center for Orthopaedics. “They have clearly elevated our level of marketing to the best in the region, and it is the result of their creativity, professionalism and hard work. There is never a time that we’ve needed them that they haven’t come through for us.”

“Not only is this agency creative and extremely productive in their work, but they do it with the highest level of professionalism and ethics. The end result of their work is nothing short of exceptional,” said State Senator Ronnie Johns. “Over the years, I have observed many small businesses become a success but in my eyes a failure also in that they never contribute back into the community that made them a success to start with. Healthy Image has never taken that direction and from day one made an incredible commitment to share its talents and successes with the entire community.”

Communicating complex messages is a challenge, but for Lake Area Industry Alliance (LAIA), Healthy Image has repeatedly proven their ability to find the right strategy. “I have worked with Healthy Image since 2007. They’ve proved to be innovative and comprehensive in how they manage our communication campaigns. I recommend them as a solid, forward-thinking marketing agency,” said Larry Deroussel, executive director with LAIA.

Rhee Gold, CEO of The Gold School Dance Company, the publisher of Dance Studio Life magazine and the producer of DanceLifeTV.com, says for him, “it is about assembling the very best team we can find. As a Boston-based company, we’ve discovered that our best option for marketing is based in Lake Charles, Louisiana.”

According to Armand, each partner brings something different to the table. She attributes this to the company’s continued success.

“We all become more creative when we work together, but Barbara wears the biggest crown when it comes to creativity. She takes a good idea and makes it great. Christine is the toughest of the three of us. She is organized and great at tackling problems head on,” Armand said.

VanGossen says Armand brings a strong competitive streak to the group, along with a work ethic and drive that is difficult to match. Where Fisher is able to tackle and organize details, Armand comes in with a big-picture approach. Together, the three women not only see the forest and the trees, they also see all shades of green.

Although not having a business plan when they started didn’t impede their success, the partners are more focused on business management now. “We know a lot more about the business side of things than we did at the beginning,” said Fisher. “And as much as we’d rather work on what we consider the ‘fun stuff,’ all the time, we all devote significant time now to the management of our business.”

Although they now realize the importance of managing, they still feel it’s their love for what they do that provides the foundation of their growth, and that their successes have been built on determination, confidence and creativity. “We didn’t have a defined goal or list of expectations when we started,” Armand said. “We just knew we would work hard.”

“You hear horror stories about business partnerships, but at the end of the day, the three of us are really good friends as well as really good partners,” VanGossen said. “That gives us all a level of trust that makes a huge difference.”

Note: In 2003, the three partners of Healthy Image founded another company: this magazine. Thrive has won numerous awards from the Louisiana Press Association, including first place in General Excellence for 2012.

A 10-Year Journey to Business Success by Erin Kelly


Pinnacle Entertainment Property Recognized L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles, a Pinnacle Entertainment Inc. property, has been recognized for a third consecutive year as a Start! Fit-Friendly Company by the American Heart Association for promoting physical activity

and health in the workplace. L’Auberge again earned Gold recognition for its workplace wellness programs, only the second Southwest Louisiana business to earn the honor.

Tony Chachere’s Launches New Product LineTony Chachere’s unveiled their new line of sandwich sauces at the Louisiana State Capitol. They come in four distinct flavors: Creole, Bar-B-Que, Zesty, and Spicy-Sweet. Speaking in front - Troy Landry; L-R are Jacob Landry,

State Senator Jonathan Perry, State Representative Mike Huval, State Representative Bernard LeBas and State Representative Harold Ritchie. (Photo credit to Serena Crawford of Creative Communications.)

City Savings Bank Adds New BranchCity Savings Bank opened a full-service branch location in Grand Lake to better serve the needs of its customers and the entire community of Cameron Parish. The new full-service

branch will offer drive-thru service on weekdays 8 am - 6 pm and on Saturdays 9 am to noon, as well as an ATM for convenience. To learn more, visit 10085 Gulf Highway or call 337 528-2177 or visit www.citysavingsbank.com.

ENT and Aesthetic Center OpensWest Calcasieu Cameron Hospital announces the opening of its new ENT and Aesthetic Center, offering treatment options for common and complex conditions of the ear, nose, throat, head and neck. Aesthetic treatments and products, including surgical and non-surgical procedures for reconstruction are also offered. A grand opening celebration is planned on July 10 from 2 - 3pm. The center is located at 1327 Stelly Lane, Suite 3, in Sulphur. For more information, call (337) 439-2040.

Jeff Davis Interest-Bearing Checking Yields Among Best in CountryJeff Davis Bank & Trust Co. garnered nationwide attention recently for its performance in an annual survey on interest bearing checking accounts. Jeff Davis Bank was one of the highest ranked participants. For more information, visit www.jdbank.com or call (800) 789-5159.

Cameron Communications Adds 19 HD Channels to Digital Cable LineupCameron Communications announced that they have added 19 new HD Channels to their Digital Cable lineup. These and the 19 new HD Channels are available to our subscribers in Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas. For more info, visit their website as www.camtel.com.

The Clinic Receives AccreditationThe Clinic, a division of the Imperial Calcasieu Medical Group, has been granted a three-year term of accreditation in Echocardiography in the area of Adult Transthoracic by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC). Accreditation by the IAC means that The Clinic, located at 501 Dr. Michael DeBakey Drive, has undergone a thorough review of its operational and technical components by a panel of experts.

Comfort Inn Lake Charles Earns Award Comfort Inn Lake Charles announces that it has received a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence award. The accolade, which honors hospitality excellence, is given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveler reviews on TripAdvisor.com, and is extended to qualifying businesses worldwide.

The Clinic Urgent Care Celebrates Grand OpeningThe Clinic Urgent Care Center, a division of the Imperial Calcasieu Medical Group, hosted a ribbon cutting and open house at their new facility at 4201 Nelson Road in Lake Charles. Hours of operation are

Monday-Friday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Clinic Urgent Care Center provides walk-in, minor illness and injury care for colds and allergies, sore throats, earaches, fever, rashes and allergic reactions, stomach aches, flu, sprains and strains, cuts and minor lacerations and many other non-emergency medical conditions. The Clinic Urgent Care Center also offers sports physicals, adult immunizations and wellness screenings. For more information, call (337) 312-CARE or follow their Facebook page.

Digikast Launches HOTELKAST Digital Advertising Network in Southeast TexasDigikast is expanding their indoor digital advertising into the Southeast Texas market with their HOTELKAST network, bringing digital advertising into the lobbies of fifteen Golden Triangle area hotels, with more venues scheduled for installation in the coming month. These in-lobby television screens provided a “virtual concierge,” giving guests a way to find places to eat, things to do, and other pertinent information like the weather forecast and top news stories. For more information about HOTELKAST Southeast Texas and the other digital advertising networks and captive media solutions that are offered, contact Digikast at 337-437-1112 or visit their website at www.digikast.com.

All you need to know to stay in the know!

Money &Career


All you need to know to stay in the know!


first personwith Louis Bonnette by Katie Harrington

First Person is a monthly Q&A that features compelling people who excel in their chosen endeavors. Ideas for future Q&As? Email [email protected].

Places &Faces



into the Richard V. Doland Athletic Field House at McNeese State University, it’s easy to feel an overwhelming sense of pride for all things blue and gold. Looking at the trophies that line the cases and peeking into the Hall of Fame room, you get an amazing snapshot of the history and tradition of McNeese athletics. A huge

fixture in this tradition is Sports Information Director Louis Bonnette. At the end of this month, this Pineville native and Louisiana Tech graduate will step down after 46 years on the job. Thrive recently sat down with Mr. Bonnette to discuss his career and his thoughts on his pending retirement.

You’ve worked under every university president in McNeese State University history except for one. That’s a lot of time for things to change. What was it like then compared to now?When I started in 1966 we had maybe 3,000 students, a football stadium and the field house, but they looked nothing like they look now. We played basketball in the McNeese Arena, which was located on campus and just like today, the rodeos took place in the same arena. Our office was in that arena and it took a while to get that smell out of there. My office was located inside the vault of a little bitty room and I had a secretary up front. Really the biggest change has been the personnel, we have a lot more people now and more sports. Originally we had the women’s basketball program, football and baseball. With the NCAA and Title IX, we added softball, tennis, soccer and volleyball for women. We also added indoor and outdoor track and cross country. The technology has changed too. We used to call in our stories over the phone when I first started. Today, everyone is tweeting and using other social media outlets to spread the word. We used to be able to call the media and say we were sending a story for the morning edition and you could not worry about it breaking until the next day. Now when we send out a story, we have to make sure it is up on our website first and then send it out because everyone is posting it to their website and Facebook page as soon as they get it.

What is an average day in the office like?It really depends on the season. We have maybe part of June and part of July where it’s pretty quiet. The rest of the time there’s always something going on. At the end of July we start press conferences for football, camp in August and then the games start in September. Basketball starts practicing in the fall and really it never stops because all of the sports have some type of workout year-round. You stay busy seven days a week. If you don’t have a game on Sunday, then you’re at your office working out something for the week. There is always something to do.

What is something about your job that most people would be surprised to know you do?There’s a lot more to it than just writing stories. A lot of people think I just go to the games and have a good time and write some stories, but I keep up with stats and all kinds of other information too. We’ve got 46 years of information stored between this office and my other office in the old dorms. We take most of our own pictures and then we’ve got a lot of other guys who help us out and take pictures just because they want to do it.

Given the nature of your work, this obviously has never been a 9-to-5 profession. How have you and your family coped with the long days and nights that come with college sports?I have three kids and when they were growing up, I used to just take them with me. That was the only thing you could do. You have to take them with you if you want to see them. Both my sons are SIDs (sports information directors) now too. I have a daughter who is a nurse and my wife is a school teacher. My daughter definitely could have been an SID though because she worked with me when she was growing up. All of them are very familiar with a press box and know what’s going on.

You mentioned that your sons have followed in your footsteps, with Michael being the sports information director at LSU and Matthew recently being named the assistant athletic director-communications here at McNeese. Do you talk shop at family gatherings?We don’t get together very often and that’s a problem. They work the same hours I do. We all work nights and weekends and it’s just tough. I threw myself a birthday party this past year and all of them were there. Michael’s got three boys and Matthew’s got two girls. I told them everything’s on me and they all showed up. We went to the restaurant and then I took all the kids ice skating. It was great; we’re going to do it again this summer for my wife’s birthday.

What are some of the highlights of your career?There are so many. We’ve played in three Independence Bowls in football, NCAA tournaments in basketball, baseball and golf. We’ve had some national track titles. Then, I remember athletes like Buford Jordan, Stephen Starring and Kerry Joseph playing football, Joe Dumars playing basketball and we’ve had some outstanding baseball players too. Terry Burrows, who is our coach now, and Ray Fontenot were outstanding players and had the opportunity to go on and play in the pros. We’ve had some very good track performers like Brian Cooper and great golfers like Tim Graham who went on to play in the PGA tour. I’ve enjoyed all of it. Joe (Dumars) has continued to be a good friend. I remember when he was playing ball; we played at the Civic Center back then. Freddie LeBlanc ran the Civic Center and after the games we would file our stories and we had a group of guys from the TV and radio stations who liked to play basketball. Freddie would leave the lights on for us and when we’d get all our work done, we’d go down and play basketball and Joe would stick around and shoot with us. He was great with the kids and my sons loved playing with him. I’ve just enjoyed everything over the years, the coaches, the different administrations, all of it. I’ve been able to go all over North America on different trips for football and baseball. I’ve seen a lot thanks to my career here.

What does your wife think about your upcoming retirement? Do you have big plans?I like to play golf, I like to go fishing. That’s what I plan on doing a lot of once I retire. My wife will probably teach another year but we plan on traveling and just enjoying life. I’m looking forward to doing a whole lot of things and having the freedom to do what I want, when I want.

You’ve got some pretty big shoes to fill. Do you have any advice for your successor?Just come to work every day and do everything you can seven days a week.

Finally, we are sitting in the recently renovated field house and will soon walk out onto Louis Bonnette Field inside Cowboy Stadium for some pictures. Louis Bonnette Field—that is quite a legacy. What does that mean to you?It was a shock to me when they did that. Robert Nolan, who is a good friend, was behind that. He put up the money for the field and I don’t know how it came about, but he wanted it to be named for me. It’s a great honor, great feeling. I never thought anything like that would happen. I never even pictured my name on anything more than a byline.

Walking



Places & Faces

Marlee Henry’s freshman year at McNeese State University has been anything but ordinary. Just a few months into college life, this Lacassine High graduate was

crowned Miss Louisiana Teen USA last October. As she gears up to travel to the Bahamas for the Miss Teen USA Pageant slated for July 28, Henry says she is

truly enjoying her reign. “It is so rewarding to travel all over the United States and speak

to children,” says Henry. “I get stopped in the airport by kids for autographs and it is so great to be a positive role model for them.”

Henry, a former Mardi Gras Queen and the current Miss Chili Festival, is no stranger to pageant life. She began competing as a

young girl and picked it back up when she was a junior in high school. She says the months that she has spent traveling for the Miss Universe organization have helped her grow as a person.

“I make anywhere from two to four appearances a week that include everything from reading to kids at schools to visiting with students involved in an erosion prevention program,” adds Henry. “This title has really helped me to have a voice and shown me that this is about far more than the glamour of the crown.”

She says she has made friends from every state and that has been one of the best parts of her journey.

Henry says her future plans depend on the outcome of the Miss Teen USA Pageant. The winner will not only take home a crown, but also the opportunity to live in New

York City for a year while studying at the prestigious New York Film Academy.

She says it would be great to win the crown, but if not, she’s got a back-up plan.

“I will return home and go back to school full-time while working my two part-time jobs,” says Henry. “I want to finish school and get a job, but I’m not sure that I will be able to stay away from the stage. I love being up there!”

Being from a small town has provided Henry with a huge advantage during this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“I love being able to give hope to other girls like me,” adds Henry. “You don’t have

to come from a big city or a rich family to be successful in this industry.”

Henry says we can all help her by logging on to the Miss Teen USA website

and voting for her as the viewer’s favorite. The contestant with the most votes will

win a spot in the Top 16. You can follow her journey on Facebook by liking her Miss

Louisiana Teen USA page. A public send-off will be held for Marlee on July 15 at the Lake Charles Country Club from 2-4 p.m.

Miss Louisiana teen usA by Katie Harrington

There she is…

photo by Imagine That Photography


3624 Ryan Street • Exit 6A off 210 Lake Charles • 337-502-5131

Mon - Thur 11am - 10pm • Fri - Sat 11am - 11pmSun 11am - 9pm

Summer with a

Twist of Lime.

Margaritas, nachos and a few of your closest friends.

Celebrate summer at Coyote Blues.

The official groundbreaking ceremony for the upcoming West Calcasieu Events Center was held recently. The center is an indoor facility which will complement the existing outdoor arena.

“This phase of the West Calcasieu Community Center development is one which has been anticipated for many years. The Events Center will not only benefit West Calcasieu, but also Southwest Louisiana, by providing another venue for various events. The City of Sulphur welcomes this new facility. It will truly compliment the West Cal Arena,” said Mayor Chris Duncan of Sulphur.

Adrian Moreno, the executive director of the West Cal Arena is looking forward to the next phase of the development getting off to a great start: “This groundbreaking event is exciting news for everyone in Southwest Louisiana. The indoor facility will allow more flexibility with the types of events that can be accommodated at the West Calcasieu Arena and ultimately in Southwest Louisiana as a whole.”

The facility will be a 45,000 square foot multi-purpose center with a 15,000 square foot main banquet hall that can be divisible into three separate rooms. The new structure will also feature four separate meeting rooms that can be used individually or as three self-supported meeting/event rooms with a full catering kitchen and support area. The facility will cost just under $10 million.

“We have a number of events that we are looking forward to having in our area like Mardi Gras balls, weddings, family reunions, meetings, conventions, tradeshows and a variety of special events. This facility is going to be a wonderful asset to showcase this part of Louisiana,” said Tab Finchum, president of the West Calcasieu Association of Commerce.

“Having multiple options for groups and event planners is a real plus whenever the bureau is looking either to bring new group business to the area or assist an existing client. Many events are planned years in advance, and the staff at the bureau is looking forward to promoting the West Calcasieu Events Center leading up to the opening and beyond,” said Shelley Johnson, executive director of the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The anticipated opening will occur in the spring of 2014. For more information on the West Cal Arena, visit www.westcalarena.com or (337) 528-9378.

Miss Louisiana teen usA

Ground Breaking held for West Calcasieu

events Center

Pictured from left to right are: Adrian Moreno, executive director, West Calcasieu Community Center Authority, Dr. George Vincent – vice chairman of the board, Meg Lovejoy, board member, Evelyn White, secretary/treasurer of the board, Greg Robertson, chairman of the board, Robert “Bob” Hardy, board member, Mike O’quinn – board member, Senator Ronnie Johns, Representative Mike Danahay, Chuck Kinney – board member, Joyce Anderson, assistant director, West Calcasieu Community Center Authority.


Physicians Join Staff At West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital

West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital announces the addition of two physicians to its medical staff. Harold Bienvenu, MD, FACS, otolaryngologist and facial plastic and cosmetic surgeon, and Peter Angelopoulos, MD, FACC, cardiologist, to the hospital’s team of medical practitioners. Dr. Bienvenu practices at the ENT & Aesthetic Center of West Calcasieu Cameron. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bienvenu, call (337) 439-2040; to schedule an appointment with Dr. Angelopoulos, call (337) 527-3610.

27th Annual Lake Charles CCA Trout Shoot Out Another Success

Over 300 adult anglers and twice as many youth anglers registered and participated in this years’ Shoot Out. With help from The Aquarium of the Americas, 67% of the fish brought in to the scales were tagged and released alive. In the youth division, Victoria and Kelsie Lanthier took home 1st and 2nd place. In the adult division, Lynn Vaughn brought in the winning fish and Fred Bennershidt took 2nd place.

Iberia Bank Names New Branch Managers

Iberia Bank recently named Jennifer Hulshoff as Branch Manager for the Maplewood branch location in Sulphur and Kevin C. Hudson as a Branch Manager for the Nelson Road location in Lake Charles. Hulshoff joins the Company with eight years of banking and credit union experience. Hudson most recently served as a Branch Manager for Capital One Bank in Lafayette.

Lake Charles Firm Designated as Premier Advisor

John Hixson, CFP® certificant and principal with Financial Management Professionals (FMP) announced that his firm has been recognized as NABCAP Premier Advisors, an exclusive group of financial advisors who represent the best in quality wealth management.

Financial Security Company Recognized RepresentativeMarty DeRouen, financial representative with Northwestern Mutual of Lake Charles, has achieved Pacesetter Second 60. Less than three percent of the company’s financial representatives achieve

this prestigious award in their first year as a financial representative and have the highest career retention rate in the company. Jeff Davis Bank Launches New Mortgage Lending TeamDavis Bank & Trust Co. has formed a new mortgage lending team that combines the expertise of four veteran Southwest Louisiana bankers. The team members are Mona Hastings, senior vice president and mortgage loan department manager; Julie Miller, vice president and business development officer; Ashley Neely, assistant vice president; and Monica LeBlanc, mortgage loan originator.

Erica McCreedy Chosen as Executive DirectorThe board of directors for the Arts & Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana has named Erica McCreedy as the executive director. McCreedy has served as the special projects

coordinator for the Arts & Humanities Council for the past two years, beginning her career on a volunteer basis.

Local F&I Manager Featured in Ford Credit Inside FinancialRyan Boyd, Finance and Insurance manager for Bolton Ford of Lake Charles, has been featured in a recent issue of Ford Credit Inside Financial. Named as class Valedictorian, Boyd was

among the 1st dealer F&I managers in the nation to complete the Ford Financial Services Training, a course launched by Ford Motor Credit Company to enhance training for finance and insurance professionals.

Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau Honors Partners in TourismThe Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau awarded partners in tourism who have made significant contributions to the tourism industry in Southwest Louisiana at the award ceremony recently held at the bureau. For

Harold Bienvenu, MD, FACS

Jennifer Hulshoff Kevin Hudson

Erica McCreedy

Ryan Boyd

Marty DeRouen

L-R: Raymond Little, Lake Charles CCA Chapter President; Missy Amidon, CITGO; Lynn Vaughn, winner; Eric Mire, Lake Charles CCA Chapter Vice President.

L-R, front row - Christy Fontenot, Christa Champagne, Jarvia Belton, Tasha Berzas, and Daisy Walker. L-R, back row - Raychel Kiser, Vena Bertrand, Nick Hylton, Kenneth Jackson, Mary Smith, Jordan Folk, Dana Abshire, Erika Simon, and Judge Robert Wyatt.

Peter Angelopoulos, MD, FACC

Movers and Shakers in Southwest Louisiana... Who’s News? You tell us! Send press releases to

[email protected] with the subject line “Who’s News.”

Places & Faces


more information on the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau, visit www.visitlakecharles.org.

Northwestern MutualHires Four

Northwestern Mutual in Lake Charles has appointed Stephanie Shaddock, Chris Haftmann and Dustin Leveque as financial representatives. Shaddock and Leveque will be associated with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network of Lake Charles and Haftmann with Northwestern Financial Network of Louisiana. Heather Metzger has been named Director of Development with Northwestern Mutual of Lake Charles.

Hart Attends Cataract and Refractive Surgery Symposium Dr. William Hart of Hart Eye Center attended a symposium on cataract and refractive surgery and congress on ophthalmology practice management in Chicago sponsored by

the American Society for Cataract and Refractive Surgeries (ASCRS).

SWLA High School Sports Hall of Fame Announces 2012 InducteesThe Selection Committee of the Southwest Louisiana High School Sports Hall of Fame is proud to announce the names of the five 2012 inductees: Gavin Cecchini of A.M. Barbe High School, Jodi Chatters of St. Louis Catholic High School, Sara Corbello of A.M. Barbe High School, Chance Cronce of Singer High School and Marcie Michalko of Lacassine High School.

Local Suddenlink Employee Receives President’s Club AwardOfficials with Suddenlink, a cable broadband services provider, announced that Lake Charles Account Executive Tia Seeley earned the company’s

prestigious President’s Club Award. Seeley is among 71 employees to be chosen for the President’s Club for 2011 performance.

Calcasieu Parish District Attorney HonoredDistrict Attorney, John DeRosier, accepted the “Harold W. Hughes Award of Excellence” from The National Rural Institute on Alcohol and Drug Abuse. District Attorney DeRosier received this

award for establishing exceptional responsiveness to the rural alcohol and drug abuse field that helps to improve the lives of those who suffer the effects of alcohol and drug abuse.

Dr. Keith Menard Named State’s Young Optometrist of the YearThe Optometry Association of Louisiana (OAL) has named Dr. Keith Menard of Menard Eye Center, as Young Optometrist of the Year. This award is given

annually to a Louisiana optometrist who has shown exemplary leadership and service to the profession, patients and community.

Big Easy Food Appoints New Sales and Marketing CoordinatorAmy Nyberg has been named Sales and Marketing Coordinator for Big Easy Foods. Originally from Slidell, Nyberg has been a resident of Lake Charles

for 14 years. She has an extensive background in business management, having worked in a variety of administrative positions over the past 18 years. Nyberg was the Assistant Marketing Director for Cameron State Bank for four years and the Marketing Director for two years. Prior to entering the banking field, Nyberg worked in food service

industry management. She was the corporate banquet coordinator for The Bluffs in St. Francisville and the food and beverage manager at the Lake Charles Country Club for four years.

Eston Singletary has Moved his Practice to Stockwell SievertStockwell Sievert Law Firm is pleased to announce that Eston Singletary has recently moved his practice to the firm in an of counsel relationship. Eston was born in Sulphur,

Louisiana. He received his B.A. degree from Tulane University in New Orleans, and his J.D. degree from Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C. . Eston spent the first ten years of his practice in D.C. Since 1983, he has practiced in Lake Charles, representing represented businesses, individuals and governmental entities in a wide variety of regulatory, tax, commercial, business and real estate matters, working for a wide range of clients, including both individuals and family businesses.

Dr. Thompson named Medical Director of LCMH CardiologyChristopher Thompson, MD has been named the medical director of cardiology services at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital (LCMH). He is a board certified cardiologist

with the Heart & Vascular Center whose areas of expertise include cardiac catheterization, cardiac rehabilitation and interventional cardiology. Dr. Thompson also serves as Director of Cardiology and Cardiac Catheterization at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital.

The Clinic Urgent Care Centers Welcome Nurse Practitioner Karen KnowlesThe Clinic Urgent Care Centers in Lake Charles and Moss Bluff are pleased to welcome Nurse Practitioner Karen Knowles to the clinical team. Knowles, a Georgia

native, earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Armstrong State College in Savannah, and a Master of Science in Nursing from Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Georgia. She has over 34 years experience in the healthcare field and is certified by the American Nursing Credentialing Center (ANCC).

John DeRosier

Dr. Keith Menard

Amy Nyberg

Eston Singletary

Christopher Thompson, MD

Karen Knowles

Tia Seeley

Dr. William Hart

Stephanie Shaddock Chris Haftmann

Dustin Leveque Heather Metzger


With a history and identity 200 hundred years in the making, Louisiana has much to celebrate in 2012, and the entire spectrum of our cultural industry is coming together to give our statehood a birthday to remember. In concert with the Lake Charles/SWLA Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Arts & Humanities Council of SWLA has coordinated a year-long series of bicentennial events that showcase our rich heritage and cultural landscape.

On Thursday, May 17th, downtown’s newest public art piece was revealed to the public and commemorated the Lake Area’s own ties to the state’s history. The Arts Council commissioned local artist Fred Stark to create this bicentennial mural which stretches across the south side of locally owned and operated dessert shop Sweets & Treats, located at 411 Ryan Street in Lake Charles.

Stark, whose work can be seen in sixteen states and is most known for his work as a scenic artist for the Lake Charles Civic Ballet, composed the large scale mural in three timelines: 1812, 1912, and 2012. The first layer shows the natural landscape of Lake Charles in the early 19th century when only a few settlers lived in the area. The second layer represents 1912 when many of our

great architectural masterpieces, such as the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the Calcasieu Parish Courthouse, Margaret Place Historic District, and Central School Arts & Humanities Center (all depicted in the mural), were built following the Great Fire of 1910 which leveled much of the downtown area. The final layer of the mural brings the viewer to the present, and it shows images of recent additions and renovations to the downtown area, including the rebuilding of Millennium Park and the new downtown streetscape.

The Louisiana Bicentennial continues in September with the Imperial Calcasieu Museum exhibiting 200 Years: The Faces & Places of Louisiana, a special George Rodrigue bicentennial exhibit that will also feature the statewide bicentennial poster student art contest. Many of the Lake Area’s festivals, fairs, and arts events are also taking part in the bicentennial with their own celebrations. For more information on the bicentennial mural, call the Arts Council office at (337) 439-ARTS (2787). For more information on the bicentennial, visit www.visitlakecharles.org.

Preserving

HistoryFred Stark discusses the process of preserving Southwest Louisiana’s history in his latest mural.

by Erica McCreedy

Places & Faces



Places & Faces

Pack These safety tips On Your Vacation

by Christine Fisher

What makes Lake Area Custodial Services the best commercial cleaning service in Southwest Louisiana? Our people. Wehiremature,motivatedteammembers.

Our commitment to excellence. Monthlyinspectionshelpusmaintainourrigorousstandards.

Call us today!

Lake Charles, LA • T: 337-436-3000 • F: 337-436-3099

Please visit us at www.southernjanicorp.com or on Facebook!


Don’t Miss Out onSummer

Unfortunately, illness and injury don’t take a vacation, and

they don’t follow a convenient schedule – even in the summer.

When you or someone in your family needs minor illness or

injury care in a hurry, visit The Clinic Urgent Care Centers.

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Mon–Fri: 6am – 10pm | Sat: 8am–6pm; Sun: 10am–6pm

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Vacationers can fall into a blissful world that presumes everything will be wonderful, but it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and always keep safety in mind.

“We all know to keep our cash and passports protected, but there are other vacation safety tips that everyone should keep in mind,” said Joni Fontenot, executive director of the Safety Council of Southwest Louisiana. She suggested these tips for a safe vacation:

Physical safety• Sightsee with a group or at least one other trusted person.• Do not go anywhere with a stranger, even during the day.• Carry a cell phone at all times. It can be handy to help you

navigate around an unfamiliar town, but it could also save your life in an emergency.

• If you’re traveling with a large group and you decide to divide into smaller clusters, check in with each other once or twice throughout the day.

• Keep your identification handy.• Request a hotel room above the ground floor and near the elevator or a

common area. • Be extra alert in parking lots, anywhere after dark and on public

transportation.

Property safety• Travel with inexpensive jewelry and handbags.• Keep your cell phone in your pocket. As you leave a

restaurant, theater or event make sure you don’t leave it behind. • Always keep your hotel room locked.

Beach safety• Remember to pack sunblock, and use it.• Never swim alone and only swim when lifeguards are

present.• Pay attention to strong current warnings.

• Do not drink alcohol while swimming, jet skiing, water skiing or operating a boat.

Theft can happen at even the most charming resort, so keep safety in mind to ensure a fun, relaxing getaway.

Ah, vacation! You look forward to getting away from it all . . . , or maybe your idea of a

great getaway is an exciting new adventure. However you vacation, you want it to be perfect and refreshing.


Women are typically charged with making healthcare decisions for the entire family. Too often though, this makes them put their own well-being on the back burner. Our Girl’s Guide to Great Health offers a one-stop shop for all of the ladies to catch up on the latest in health concerns for women.

a girl’s guide to great health


prevention is key for women’s top health threats

That initiative could save her life, according to Brian Gamborg, MD, family medicine physician and medical staff member of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. “The most common health threats for women are largely preventable. It’s damaging to think that good health is out of reach. Some people may have healthier genes than others, but good health is largely in our own hands and the choices we make every day,” Dr. Gamborg said.

Many of the recommendations for disease prevention are the same: eat a healthy diet, maintain a healthy weight, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol, include some form of exercise every day and manage stress. “This is the roadmap for a healthy life,” said Dr. Gamborg.

Heart Disease• Leading cause of death among women• Over 42 million are currently diagnosed• More than 200,000 women die each year from heart attacks. Heart disease is caused by narrowed or blocked blood vessels that prevent your heart from receiving enough blood. A woman’s symptoms of a heart attack can be different than a man’s. General symptoms for both genders can include:• Chest pain• Shortness of breath• Shoulder or arm pain

A woman may experience:• Lightheadedness or weakness• Pressure in the upper back• Extreme fatigue “If a woman feels like she may be having a heart attack, she should immediately call 911. Don’t wait to see if it passes,” said Chris Thompson, MD, cardiologist and medical staff member of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital.

Cancer• Breast cancer is the leading type of cancer in women, followed by lung

cancer then colorectal cancer.• Over 226,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year;

109,000 with lung cancer and 70,000 with colorectal cancer.¬• More than 275,000 women die each year from some type of cancer.

“People are surprised to learn that as many as 75 percent of cancer deaths in the United States are preventable,” said Mohammad Khan, oncologist and medical staff member of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. “Smoking, a poor diet and being inactive greatly increases the chance of some type of cancer. By following a healthy lifestyle plan, you can reduce your risk of getting cancer.”

Stroke• 425,000 women have a stroke each year, 55,000 more than men• Women account for nearly 60% of stroke deaths

If you think someone may be having a stroke, think “fast” and do this simple test:F – FACE: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?A – ARMS: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?S – SPEECH: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange sounding?T – TIME: If you observe any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately.

“There’s a saying that time is brain when it comes to stroke symptoms. This is because the quicker the medical intervention, the better the outcome. If warning signs are observed and the person receives proper treatment, it’s possible to have little to no damage, depending on the severity of the stroke,” said Dr. Thompson.

Obesity• 40 million, or 35% of women are obese• Obesity causes many of the top health concerns in women, including

heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

by Christine Fisher

It’s been rumored that Margaret Thatcher once said, “If you want something done, ask a woman.” Once a woman knows of a problem, she’ll quickly have a plan, a back-up plan, and a list of resources if the first two plans fail. Bottom line, she finds a way to fix it.

Continued on p58

4150 Nelson Road, Building E, Suite 2Lake Charles, LA 70605

Phone: (337) 475-8949 • Fax: (337) 475-8946

Alice Babst-Prestia, MD FACOGObstetrics & Gynecology

• Currently Accepting New Patients• In-network with most insurance providers


• A person is considered obese when their weight is 20 percent or more above normal weight or their body mass index is over 30.

“If a person, whether they’re male or female, would lose excess weight, they would cut their health risks enormously,” said Dr. Gamborg. “Excess weight is the lynch pin for many diseases, conditions and problems.”

Diabetes• More than 12 million women have diabetes in the United States• As many as 6 million women do not know they have diabetes• Type 2 is the most common type of diabetes

There are several types of diabetes. Type 1 refers to the body’s inability to

produce insulin. Type 2 is usually diagnosed later in life and is largely due to poor eating and exercising habits. Gestational diabetes occurs in pregnancy and can be a precursor to Type 2 years later.

Symptoms of diabetes include:• Excessive thirst• Feeling unusually tired• Excessive hunger• Blurry vision• Having sores that are slow to heal

As with obesity, having diabetes can often lead to other health complications, such as heart disease or stroke.

“In a world saturated by media messages and well-intentioned advice, it can be difficult to sort out the good information about health from the bad,” says G. Vincent Bailey, ob/gyn specialist in Jennings. “It’s a problem when you accept this type of information as accurate, when it often comes from less than credible or up-to-date sources. These types of medical myths can be especially dangerous if they prevent you from addressing true health risks with the appropriate care from a qualified health professional.”

Dr. Bailey addresses a few of the most common women’s health myths he hears from patients:

Myth: A nursing mother can’t get pregnant.Fact: This is an old wives’ tale that has at least a kernel of truth in it, says Dr. Bailey. The truth is that breast-feeding will delay ovulation, but this is dependent upon how much the baby is nursing. He says women who do not wish to become pregnant should not count on breast feeding as a fool-proof method of birth control.

Myth: You can get a sexually transmitted disease (STD) from toilet seats.Fact: Most organisms that cause STDs will not survive long on a toilet

seat. Dr. Bailey says that although viruses such as those that cause herpes and hepatitis can survive, a woman would have to make genital contact with the seat to become infected.

Myth: You can’t get pregnant during your period.Fact: Sperm can live in the cervix for up to a week, and the presence of blood makes no difference. You generally ovulate 14 days before your next period. So if you have a 28-day cycle, you ovulate on day 14. If your periods last seven or eight days and you have intercourse toward the end of your period, you may have less than a week before ovulation. The only time you can be relatively certain that you won’t conceive is if you have intercourse a few days after you ovulate, possibly up to the time that you get your period.

Myth: Breast cancer is the leading cause of death among women.Fact: Heart attacks, strokes and other cardiovascular diseases claim the lives of more than 500,000 women each year compared to 43,000 for breast cancer. But in spite of ongoing educational campaign to educate women about their heart disease risk, research shows that women continue to fear breast cancer more than heart disease, even though other forms of cancer can be much more fatal. Lung cancer, for example, kills 50 percent more women each year than breast cancer.

Myth: You don’t have to worry about preventing osteoporosis until you reach menopause.Fact: While the loss of bone mass that affects one out of two women typically begins after menopause, prevention begins much earlier with health habits that promote bone strength. The National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) advocates a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, cautions against smoking and excessive use of alcohol, and encourages weight-bearing exercise to strengthen bones.

Myth: Antiperspirants can prevent the release of toxins that can back up and cause breast cancer. Fact: This is a myth that has been circulating through email for years. All the leading breast cancer organizations refute this myth, pointing out that sweat doesn’t even contain toxins and that sweat blocked by antiperspirants is excreted elsewhere.

Myth: Taking birth control pills will cause weight gain.Fact: In the past, Dr. Bailey says this myth had some truth, because early versions of oral contraceptives contained nearly twice the amount of estrogen. Estrogen boosts appetite and can lead to water retention. Today, if women gain weight when taking oral contraceptives, the pill is likely not the cause. It probably has more to do with timing. Women tend to start taking birth control

girl’s guide | prevention

debunking common women’s health myths

Everyone has heard medical advice that doesn’t have any basis in fact, and with the help of email, the internet and social media, health myths spread faster than ever in the modern world.

by Kristy Armand


pills in their teens and stay on birth control for about 10 years. This happens to be a decade when many women put on a few pounds as their bodies fill out and reach a set adult weight. A recent review of 44 studies found no evidence that hormonal contraception caused weight gain.

Myth: Menopause is an ordeal for all women, involving hot flashes, memory loss, wild mood swings and depression.Fact: For many women, the menopause transition involves relatively minor discomforts that do not require medical intervention or treatment. Even for women whose hot flashes or other discomforts are intense, the problems are generally temporary and there are often other options available for managing them. Similarly, the stereotype of all women having major mood fluctuations and falling into depression at menopause is simply inaccurate.

Myth: If no one else in a woman’s family has had breast cancer, she won’t get it either. Fact: A family history of breast cancer (particularly in more than one close relative, such as a mother or sister) does increase a woman’s chance of developing the disease. But about 70 percent of women who get breast cancer have no family history or known genetic risk.

Dr. Bailey stresses that when you have any questions about your health, you should always ask your doctor. “The worst thing anyone can do is make an important health decision based on incorrect or outdated information. Your health is too important to trust to the rumor mill.”

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girl’s guide

Women are significantly more affected by eye disease and vision problems than men. According to the National Eye Institute, more than 3.4 million Americans age 40 and older suffer from visual impairment, and 66 percent of these are women. Women are effected at a higher rate than men in all four of the four leading causes of blindness in older Americans—age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataract, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

Virgil Murray, MD, board certified ophthalmologist with The Eye Clinic, says women are more prone than men to AMD in particular, which destroys central vision, with 1 million of the 1.6 million cases diagnosed in females.

Other conditions that may threaten the eye health of women include: • Cataract, a clouding of the eye’s naturally clear lens, affects 20.5 million

Americans age 40 and older. Almost 13 million of those cases are women. • Glaucoma, a disease that causes the degeneration of cells that make up

the optic nerve, continues to plague the population. Close to 60 percent of glaucoma cases are women.

• Diabetic retinopathy, where blood vessels in the retina can break down, leak or become blocked, affects more than 5.3 million Americans, with women making up over 2.8 million cases. Obesity, also on the rise in the U.S., is a major contributor to diabetes, therefore increasing the rate of diabetic eye disease.

• Dry eye syndrome, a condition that affects the quality of the tear film of the eyes, impacts an estimated 10 million American women middle-aged and older. Dr. Murray says changes in vision can occur for women at various

stages of life, including pregnancy and post-menopause. Fertility treatments can also cause refractive changes, dry eyes, puffy eyelids that obscure side vision and sensitivity to light due to migraine headaches.

“The total number of eye disease cases is steadily on the rise. The increased longevity of our aging population is obviously one big reason,” says Dr. Murray. “As life expectancy rises, the natural progression of low vision occurs. And because women tend to outlive men, on average, statistics are going to show a bigger discrepancy in their eye disease incidence rates.”

He adds that many women give the health of their children and spouses far more attention than their own, and this applies to the eyes as well. “Scheduling eye appointments for the entire family, including themselves, is one way to make sure women are getting the care they need,” he says. “We can’t stress enough how important it is for women to make sure they take care of their vision throughout their lives. Most eye diseases are treatable, and vision loss is much more likely to be prevented through early detection.”

In addition to regular eye care, Dr. Murray offers women these additional recommendations for keeping their eyes healthy:

EAT HEALTHY AND STAY FITThe risk of cataracts can be lowered by eating 3½ servings of fruits or vegetables a day. Green leafy vegetables especially contain loads of nutrients for the eye. Pairing a healthy diet with exercise will reduce the risk of obesity, leading to diabetes.

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

qUIT SMOKINGSmoking increases the risk for eye diseases, including AMD, glaucoma and cataracts.

SHADE YOUR EYESWhen venturing outdoors, wear UV-rated sunglasses (labeled: absorbs 99-100 percent of UV-A and UV-B rays), and wide-brimmed hats.

KNOW YOUR FAMILY HISTORYGenetics plays a key role in eye disease. Research your family’s health history and notify your eye care professional of any eye diseases that run in the family.

For more information about vision problems and eye health, call The Eye Clinic nearest you or visit www.theeyeclinic.net.

women need to focus on eye health

It’s been rumored that many women have eyes in the back of their heads—just ask any kid caught with his hand in the cookie jar—but this alleged superpower doesn’t seem to give women an edge for better vision.

by Kristy Armand


Are you working & without health insurance of any kind?

Call for information. 337-478-8650

550 West Sale RoadLake Charles, [email protected]

Women’s Health

Awareness

“Occasional periods of high stress can bring on the occasional sleepless night, but fluctuating hormones are most likely to blame for more frequent occurrences,” says Michelle Zimmerman, a nurse practitioner with the Sleep Disorder Center of Louisiana. “The fluctuation of sex hormones during a woman’s menstrual cycle cause some sort of sleep disturbance for about 70 percent of women each month.”

On average, a woman with a normal menstrual cycle will have trouble sleeping more than two nights per month. Zimmerman says that the hormonal impact on sleep depends mainly on what part of her cycle she is in.

“From about the middle of the cycle to the end, hormone and temperature levels increase, which can decrease the amount of restful sleep,” Zimmerman says. “Declining progesterone and estrogen levels just prior to the start of the period can disrupt sleep as well. Cramps and bloating can also cause a loss of much-needed sleep.”

Women who suffer from severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS), a condition called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), may have difficulty falling asleep or may wake up early and unable to fall back asleep.

Zimmerman says another condition that can impact sleep for women is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). “Women with PCOS produce too much of the male sexual hormones which can lead to sleep apnea. Sleep apnea occurs when snoring is accompanied by pauses or gasps in breathing.”

Sleep plays a critical role in the body’s healing process so it is important to not only get enough sleep every night, but also quality rest in order to wake up feeling recharged.

Zimmerman says there are some simple things that can be done at home to improve sleep quality, including the following:• Regular Exercise: A good workout at least three hours before bedtime can

decrease a woman’s PMS symptoms while increasing the amount of deep sleep she is able to achieve.

• Light Therapy: Strategically using light can help manage the body’s internal clock. Experts recommend avoiding bright light in the evening, getting exposure to sunlight in the morning instead.

• Monitor Caffeine/Alcohol Intake: Limit caffeine, especially after lunch, and avoid drinking alcohol before bedtime. Contrary to popular belief, alcohol consumption is not a helpful sleep aid and can actually lead to waking up in the middle of the night.

• Bedtime Rituals: Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily to reset the body clock. Also, create a routine that helps wipe away the day’s stresses. A warm bath, listening to calming music or journaling can help clear the mind.

Zimmerman said that if trying some of these techniques doesn’t result in a good night’s sleep, then you should discuss your concerns with your family doctor or a board certified sleep specialist.

For more information or to schedule an appointment at the Sleep Disorder Center of Louisiana, call (337) 310-REST or visit www.sleepdisordercenterofla.com.

For today’s modern woman, a never-ending to-do list waits as dawn breaks each day. The demands of a job, raising children and managing a family require women to be at the top of their game. With so much on their plates, you’d think women would drift peacefully off to sleep at the end of the day, but the reality is that of the 10 to 15 percent of adults suffering from insomnia, the majority of them are women.

battling sleepless nightsby Katie Harrington


girl’s guide

“These procedures use cutting-edge, pinpoint accuracy to remove the first few lymph nodes into which a tumor drains, fine needle aspiration to differentiate a cyst from a lump, as well as minimally invasive treatment options, such as lumpectomy, which can often replace the more radical mastectomy,” Dr. Ken Moss said.

A sentinel lymph node is the first lymph node from which cancer cells are most likely to spread from a primary tumor. A sentinel node biopsy is most commonly used to help stage breast cancer and melanoma.

The procedure is being studied with other cancer types, including colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, esophageal cancer, head and neck cancer, thyroid cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer.

“The advantages to the sentinel lymph node procedure are many. There is no need to stay overnight in the hospital. There is no need for a drain, or physical therapy exercises,” Dr. Strong says. “Your recuperation from the procedure is faster. You are typically doing your regular activities within a few days, and the incision is well healed within a few weeks.”

A sentinel lymph node biopsy can lead to a more accurate assessment of whether the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. In a traditional axillary

dissection, the pathologist receives at least 10 lymph nodes or more. “A negative sentinel lymph node indicates an overwhelming chance that the

remaining lymph nodes in the axilla or armpit are also cancer free,” Dr. William Moss says. “That means there is no need to undergo a full axillary lymph node dissection, or to risk the long term complications and side effects from an axillary dissection.

Another minimally invasive technique is a stereotactic breast biopsy. This non-surgical technique uses digital mammography to locate the abnormality. Using these computer coordinates, the radiologist inserts a needle through the skin, advances it into the lesion and removes tissue samples.

“This procedure is quick. The whole thing takes about an hour, but the biopsy itself is just a few minutes,” Dr. Richard Martinez, radiologist, said. “Our advanced stereotactic biopsy machine gives us millimeter accuracy and the ability to mark the area in question for future reference.”

For more information contact Memorial’s Breast Health Center at 494-4755 or at 480-7444.

cancer detection improved through breast biopsy diagnostic and surgical advancements Technological advancements mean that most breast biopsies can be performed through less invasive

procedures than surgery. Surgeons Ken Moss, William Moss and Thomas Strong of Surgical Associates, a part of the Memorial Medical Group, are at the forefront of these diagnostic options, ranging from the minimally invasive ultrasound-guided needle and stereotactic breast biopsies used to assess a breast abnormality, to sentinel node biopsy.

When it comes to the hierarchy of health concerns, the bladder doesn’t seem to top the list. After all, how often do you think about how great it is to have a bladder that’s in perfect working order? “Most people go days, weeks, months and even years without thinking about their bladder at all,” says Kenneth Verheeck, MD, urologist with the Urology Center of Southwest Louisiana. “But when you have a bladder problem, it becomes the focus of all your attention and you realize how important good bladder health is.”

He says women seem to be plagued with bladder conditions more frequently than men. The most common of these are urinary tract infection, interstitial cystitis and incontinence. “Fortunately, all of these conditions can be successfully treated in most cases. Even more importantly, by avoiding foods that are known to irritate the bladder, women can help prevent these conditions as well as promote overall good bladder health.”

He provides the following list of known bladder irritants:

COFFEECaffeine is known to cause bladder irritation and worsen urinary tract symptoms. It also stimulates bladder muscles.

ALCOHOLLike caffeine, alcohol is a diuretic and a bladder stimulant, which can contribute to feelings of urgency. It can also irritate the bladder.

ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERArtificial sweeteners, also called sugar substitutes, are bladder irritants. You’ll find artificial sweeteners in diet sodas, cereals, sugar-free desserts and other diet foods. Be sure to read labels carefully.

bladder-irritating foods We’re bombarded with healthy dietary messages relating to many aspects of our health on a daily basis. Low-fat for heart health, anti-oxidants for cancer prevention, calcium for strong bones – just to name a few. But you’ve probably never heard a message like this about bladder health.

by Kristy Armand


It’s time to stop hiding your legs and show them off instead. The Vein Center of Southwest Louisiana can help.

We offer comprehensive medical and cosmetic treatment services for peripheral vein disorders, including varicose and spider veins.

Our founder and medical director, Dr. Carl Fastabend, has over 30 years of experience in the cardiovascular field, and specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of vein conditions. He provides minimally invasive, painless, outpatient treatment options that deliver excellent results in a short period of time.

Call us today to schedule a vein assessment.

337-312-VEIN (8346) • 501 Dr. Michael DeBakey Dr. • Lake Charles, LA

W.hat W.omen W.antWe have the information you want at one convenient location: obg-1.com. Practical and timely information on women’s health from physician experts you know and trust.

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Physicians:Ben Darby, MDScott Bergstedt, MD

Nurse Practitioners:Tammy Gillett, APRN, NPMarilyn Watson, APRN, NPCertified Nurse Midwives:Bonnie Leger, CNMAllison Hansen, CNM

312-1000 • Lake Charles: 1890 W. Gauthier Road, Suite 110

CITRUSY OR CAFFEINATED SODASSodas in general have been found to cause bladder irritation in people with chronic bladder inflammation, and they could aggravate symptoms in someone with a UTI. In particular, citrus-flavored sodas and caffeinated sodas are the culprits when it comes to worsening symptoms.

ACIDIC FRUITS Fruit may be an essential part of a healthy diet, but fruits containing high levels of acid (lemons, oranges, grapefruits and tomatoes) can irritate the bladder. Other fruits that may cause bladder irritation include apples, peaches, grapes, plums, strawberries, and pineapple. You should also avoid juices made from these fruits if you are prone to bladder problems.

SPICY FOODSSome people experience bladder symptoms after eating spicy foods. Try cooking without pepper, and skip hot sauces.

For more information on bladder conditions, call the Urology Center at 439-8857.


girl’s guide

Virtually every adult woman has been on a diet at some point in her life and because women are usually the ones who take the lead for meal planning at home, their approach to food affects the whole family.

There are fad diets based on blood type, there’s the raw food diet, and even a diet plan based on personality type. You can find diets based on peanut butter, cabbage soup, and even a breathing diet with claims of weight loss by increasing the amount of oxygen to boost metabolism.

“These diets aren’t working,” said Suzy Trahan, registered dietitian, ACSM Certified Health Fitness Specialist, ACE certified personal trainer and wellness director of Dynamic Dimensions fitness centers of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. “As I counsel people about nutrition, I see their struggles, disappointments, and frustration. They deny themselves the foods they like, and may lose weight, but it’s a short-term fix because they haven’t established a long-term eating plan. A few years later, they’ve gained the weight back. They’re tired of the cycle.”

It’s easy to be lured into a quick fix. Fad diets provide structure and fast results. These days, the amount of nutrition information available is overwhelming and people don’t know who or what to believe.

“We need to remember that the word diet is a noun. It refers to the foods a person eats,” explained Trahan. “We have taken that word and turned it into a verb, and changed its meaning to an activity involving the restriction of food to achieve weight loss. A healthy diet involves a variety of foods and the intuition to know when to eat and when to stop. We have to change our thinking and our approach to food.”

Trahan said a healthy lifestyle is more about building a relationship with food rather than a restrictive diet. “There aren’t foods that are off-limits. You don’t have to completely eliminate a food from your diet, unless you’re allergic to it, or there is a medical need. It’s all about moderation.”

The key to healthy eating is to listen to your body. It will signal when it needs more food based on activity level.

“I would love for someone to follow me around for a day to see how much I actually exercise and the food choices I make!” Trahan said. “No day looks exactly the same.” She offered these tips for a healthy approach to food:

Eat when you’re hungry. Children do this instinctively, but over time, they are

trained to eat only at a mealtime so the clock begins to rule their eating habits, instead of their body. It’s easy to fall into the trap of eating during stressful or emotional times. Check with yourself on a regular basis to be

sure that you’re eating because you’re hungry.

Listen to your body. Eat when you’re hungry and stop when you’re

full. It’s easy to eat because others are eating or to be polite and finish everything on your plate, but

the healthiest thing to do is to stop eating when you’re full. Avoid mindless eating.

Take a reasonable portion. It’s not only the type of food eaten, but the amount.

Between the 1970s and the 1990s, super sizing food became the norm. Eating a regular portion will give you

enough energy to keep you going until the next meal.

Enjoy your food. Slow down, don’t eat too fast, and savor each bite.

“If you’re indulging in a piece of cake, enjoy it! Let it be the treat it’s meant to be; but let it be a treat, not an everyday occurrence,” Trahan said.

She said a healthy eating plan should be a lifetime goal, not a short-term objective. Achieving a healthy weight is based on eating the right foods, the right portions, being active and listening to your body. Become an intuitive eater!

fad diets: A BiG FAT Lie

Fad diets are making Americans fat and poor. People in the U.S. spend $40 billion a year on weight-loss programs and products, while a recent Gallup-Healthways Well-Being index shows that 63 percent of adults in the U.S. were either overweight or obese.

by Christine Fisher


robotic technology is quickly becoming standard operating procedure by Christine Fisher

Faster. More precise. Advanced. When it comes to surgical technique, these are key qualities. Technology has driven major improvements in surgical techniques, resulting in smaller incisions, increased precision, shorter hospital stays and less blood loss.

One of the revolutionary techniques is robotic assisted surgery available at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital through the da Vinci Surgical System. The system is primarily used to perform a prostatectomy, or removal of the prostate in men, as well as a hysterectomy, or removal of a woman’s uterus, but surgeons are also turning to the da Vinci system for other delicate surgeries, including kidney procedures and fertility issues, to remove internal scaring and suturing tissue. The precision of the technique make these intricate maneuvers much easier, according to Lee J. Monlezun, MD, gynecologist with CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital. To date, Dr. Monlezun has performed over 200 robotic hysterectomies.

The da Vinci system, named after Leonardo da Vinci, who is credited with inventing one of the first robots, help surgeons overcome their own human limitations to better perform surgery. “During surgery, we’re often required to access and work within a very limited area. With the da Vinci system, we’re able to be many times more precise,” Dr. Monlezun said.

During a procedure, ports are placed into the surgical site on the patient. These ports are thin, hollow tubes about half an inch in diameter. Specialized cameras and surgical instruments are within the ports and are controlled by the surgeon, who is stationed at a console panel a few feet away from the patient. “The surgeon operates the controls from his or her station,

which is equipped with enhanced viewing capabilities. Any hand tremors or unsteadiness is corrected through the da Vinci system, allowing more precision,” he explained.

The system cannot be programmed to perform on its own and it cannot make decisions on its own. It requires direct input from the surgeon for every movement.

Dr. Monlezun said the response from patients has been overwhelmingly positive. “They are recovering faster because the surgery is less traumatic,” he said.

Farjaad Siddiq, MD, urologist and director of robotic surgery at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital, has used the da Vinci system to perform over 200 robotic prostatectomies. Because the surgeon has more control over the movements, more nerves can be saved, which means patients have a quicker return to urinary control, better potency, and overall faster recovery with the da Vinci system. Because it is more precise, it is a good option for patients who aren’t a good candidate for open surgery due to advanced age or declining health.

“Because women usually take the lead on health care issues in the family, they ask the questions in the beginning,” said Dr. Siddiq. “I’ll usually visit with both my patient and his wife to discuss the procedure and talk about the recovery. They’re encouraged by the advances available because of the quicker recovery and shorter hospital stay.”

by Christine Fisher


Mind &Body

Feet rank among the body’s most under-appreciated parts, especially for men. Women are known for torturing their feet with uncomfortable footwear in the name of fashion, but they are also much more

likely to spend time pampering their feet. Men may not force their feet into pointy-toed high heels, but that doesn’t mean their feet are walking on Easy Street.

Men face some of the same foot concerns as women do, along with some additional risks that relate to their anatomy and the abuse they put on their feet, according to Dr. Kalieb Pourciau, foot and ankle specialist with Center for Orthopaedics. “Many common male occupations require men to be on their feet, supporting their weight for hours at a time. Your feet take a pounding when you run, get twisted when you play basketball, are put at risk when you do yard work, and get crammed into ill-fitting or worn-out shoes on a regular basis. But men tend to ignore foot and ankle problems until they have an injury or develop pain that limits their normal activities.”

Dr. Pourciau provides an overview of some of the foot conditions most likely to affect men:

Gout. Gout is a disorder that results from the build-up of uric acid in tissues or joints. It most often affects the joint of the big toe. Symptoms typically include pain, inflammation, and swelling. “Gout can occur in any joint in the body, but is most common in the big toe because uric acid is sensitive to temperature changes,” explains Dr. Pourciau. “At cooler temperatures, uric acid turns into crystals. The big toe is the part of the body farthest from the heart, making it the coolest part of the body and the most likely target of gout.”

Heel Pain. Heel pain is most often caused by plantar fasciitis, a condition that is sometimes also called heel spur syndrome when a heel spur is present. Heel pain may also be due to other causes, such as a stress fracture, tendinitis, arthritis, a nerve irritation, or, rarely, a cyst. Heel pain can also be due to degenerative arthritis in the lower back that refers pain into the heel area. Dr. Pourciau says because there are several potential causes of heel pain, it is important to have heel pain properly diagnosed and treated.

Ankle Sprain. Participating in sports is one way men sprain their ankle, but even daily activities such as walking on an uneven surface or slipping

on a wet driveway can produce the painful stretching or tearing of the ankle ligament. Dr. Pourciau says if an old sprain doesn’t heal properly, the ankle may repeatedly get sprained, resulting in chronic ankle instability.

Achilles Tendon Problems. Tendonitis and tendonosis of the Achilles tendon are usually caused by a sudden increase of a repetitive activity. “Participation in physical activity, especially by those don’t exercise regularly, increases the risk of developing disorders of the Achilles tendon,” says Dr. Pourciau. “The risk of these problems is also higher for men whose work puts stress on their ankles and feet, such as those who do manual labor.”

Hallux Rigidus. This condition is a painful stiffening of the big toe joint, and while Dr. Pourciau says some foot types are more prone to get this condition, it can also be caused by overuse. “Golfers often develop it as a result of the motion of the foot during the follow-through of the swing, and other men who have jobs that increase the stress on the big toe, such as those requiring frequent stooping or squatting, are at higher risk.”

Athlete’s Foot. This is the common name for “Tinea pedis,” a condition most common among men and athletes, because their feet tend to sweat. Dr. Pourciau says it is caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments. The condition involves a red, scaly, itchy and sometimes painful rash, with peeling and cracking between the toes, says Dr. Pourciau. It can spread to your toenails, heels, palms, underarms, and groin. The fungus can be passed from another person, a locker room floor, or even your pet.

Foot Facts for Men by Kristy Armand


(337) 439-8857 or toll-free: 800.523.9969

www.ucswla.com234 Dr. Michael DeBakey Dr., Lake Charles

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by Kristy Armand

Foot Odor. Foot odor is the result of foot sweat confined in a shoe. Under these circumstances, bacteria multiply, which leads to the odor. Dr. Pourciau says men whose feet sweat profusely or who frequently wear socks and shoes made of synthetic materials at increased risk.

Dr. Pourciau says he’s also seeing more and more men in warm weather with pain or injury caused by their footwear. Men’s sandals, or “mandals,” have experienced a surge of popularity in recent years. Along with this comes the potential for more aches and pains. “The wrong sandal can lead to foot conditions and injury, including many listed above.” He says if you are going to wear a sandal, look for a sturdy, cushioned and supportive sole, and padded straps.”

According to Dr. Pourciau, the bottom line for healthy feet is for men to pay attention to foot pain or any other changes in their feet. “Foot pain is not normal, and most foot and ankle conditions are easier to treat when diagnosed early.”

Visit www.centerforortho.com for more foot health information.

Clean. Maintain good foot hygiene by washing your feet well with soap, especially between the toes. Change your socks regularly and use a foot powder that absorbs moisture. Wear soft, thick socks make of natural materials, as these also absorb perspiration. Avoid wearing shoes made of synthetic material; stick to leather and fabric. For extreme situations, a doctor may prescribe an antibacterial ointment or other treatment.

Trim your nails the right way. When you trim your toenails, make sure you’re trimming them straight across and not rounded. Rounded nail-cutting can increase your risk of ingrown toenails.

Wear shoes that fit. Choose a spacious toe box, wide foot bed and deep interior. The distance between your longest toe and the tip of your shoe should be one-half your thumb’s width, so you have the right amount of space to fit your feet.

Wear the right shoes. You should also be using shoes that are appropriate for whatever activity you’re doing. For example, you shouldn’t be wearing regular sneakers when going hiking; or top siders when you’re working on a construction site.

Wear sandals in gym showers. The warm, humid floor of the locker room is swarming with bacteria, so always wear something on your feet at these types of public places. You have no idea what type of germs might be lurking.

Consider insoles for comfort and arch support. If you stand for long hours, insoles can help make shoes more comfortable. However, most over-the-counter brands don’t offer much in the way of real arch support. Ask your doctor about custom insoles.

Put your best foot forward with these preventive

Foot CAre tiPs:


Mind &Body

West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital proudly announces the addition of cardiologist Peter Angelopoulos, MD, FACC, FSCAI, FSVM, to its medical staff.

Our Newest CardiologistBrings Vital Experience

701 Cypress Street, Sulphurwcch.com

Follow us on Facebook.

Dr. Angelopoulos is a graduate of Ross University School of Medicine, and has completed fellowships at New York University Medical Center and Manhattan Veterans Hospital–NYU. He is board certified in interventional cardiology through the American Board of Internal Medicine/Interventional Cardiology and is board certified in cardiovascular diseases by the American Board of Internal Medicine/Cardiovascular Disease. He is also board certified in endovascular medicine through the American Board of Vascular Medicine.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Angelopoulos, call (337) 527-3610. Peter Angelopoulos, MD

In the United States, one in 10 children are at risk from undiagnosed vision problems. One in 30 children are affected by amblyopia (often referred to as “lazy eye”), the leading cause of vision loss in people younger than 45. One in 25 will develop strabismus (more commonly known as “crossed eyes”), and one in 100 will exhibit evidence of eye disease, such as glaucoma.

Parents, regardless of income or insurance coverage, now have access to one no-cost, comprehensive eye assessment for their infants during the first year of life through InfantSEE, a program offering early detection of potential eye and vision problems.

Dr. Keith Menard of Menard Eye Center is a part of the program and says this important evaluation complements a pediatrician’s routine well-care visit. “The assessments are more thorough than typical screenings, using procedures not customary to general-care practitioners. The InfantSEE program can give new parents the peace of mind that their infant’s vision is developing properly.”

Undetected and left untreated, some vision problems may lead to learning and developmental issues later.

Dr. Menard recommends that infants have an assessment before their first birthday and young children have comprehensive eye exams at age three, before starting school and then every two years thereafter.

“Since infants cannot speak, we perform several non-invasive tests that evaluate visual acuity, refraction, motility, alignment, binocularity and overall eye health. These tests can detect and predict vision problems. Generally the ‘games’ are enjoyed by infants,” assures Dr. Menard.

Family health history is also an important part of an infant’s eye assessment. Things that may indicate a baby is at significant risk for visual impairment include premature birth, family history of eye diseases, drug or alcohol use during pregnancy and the existence of sexually transmitted diseases.

“I can’t stress enough the importance of early-childhood vision screenings,” said Dr. Menard. “Take advantage of the InfantSEE program and have your child assessed in order to detect and treat any potential vision problems before they interfere with learning.”

To schedule your infant’s free appointment with Dr. Keith Menard or for more information, call Menard Eye Center at 478-I-SEE (478-4733) or visit menardeyecenter.com

Free eYeCAre for Infants in Southwest Louisiana


Steven Hale, MDOrthopaedic Specialist

You may not realize that non-surgical treatment can relieve your pain in most cases.

The knee is the largest joint in the human body and one of the most easily injured. That’swhy it’s no surprise that knee pain is the most common reason people visit an orthopaedist.

If knee pain has you out of step, don’t delay seeking treatment due to fear of surgery.Join Dr. Steven Hale, orthopaedic specialist, at this free seminar to learn more about thewide array of non-surgical options available for successful knee pain treatment.

Tuesday, July 24, 5:30pmCenter for Orthopaedics • 1747 Imperial Blvd., Lake CharlesSeating is limited and pre-registration is requested. Refreshments will be served.

Call 721-2903 or register online at www.centerforortho.com •

KNEE PAIN?

NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT FOR KNEE PAIN WITH DR. STEVEN HALE

Emily Tadlock-Barnett holds her 9-month old daughter Collins Barnett while she receives an InfantSEE vision exam from Dr. Keith Menard.


Mind &Body

Which is cleaner — the toilet bowl in the restroom you share with co-workers or the microwave handle in the office kitchen?

If you went with what would seem to be the obvious response, you’d be wrong. Contrary to popular belief, restrooms are not the biggest culprit when it

comes to office germs. Research has found that desks typically have 400 times more germs than toilet seats, and a recently released study by the Kimberly-Clark Professional Healthy Workplace Project found that the most bacteria-laden surfaces in the workplace are actually where employees prepare and eat food.

“Most people assume that bathrooms have the most germs,” says Tim Haman, MD, internal medicine and infectious disease specialist with CHRISTUS St. Patrick Medical Group Internal Medical Clinic. “And a lot of studies have been done about the desktop work area. But what people don’t stop to think about is the break room, which is usually a big germ transfer point in the workplace. People prepare and eat their food in this area. In fact, it may be the one area that is shared most often by the most people in the office. This means multiple surfaces touched by many different people in a confined space; people who may be coughing and sneezing, and who likely have different hygiene

habits. Add food preparation and clean-up to that, and you’ve basically got an epicenter for germs, as this new study demonstrated.”

For the study, hygienists swabbed 4,800 different workplace surfaces from a variety of workplace settings – law offices, manufacturing facilities, healthcare providers and others – to identify the spots where germs are most prevalent. The research was directed by the microbiology department at the University of Arizona. The swabs were tested for adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is a common molecule found in bacteria and mold cells. An ATP score of 100 or less was considered clean, but if it reached 300 or more, it was considered.

Researchers found that break rooms and kitchens topped the list of germ-infested areas, with sink and microwave door handles identified as the most contaminated surfaces of all. The break room sink faucet was the worst, with 75% of those tested scoring over 300 on the ATP scale. Not far behind and all testing over 300 were microwave door handles, kitchen sponges, keyboards, refrigerator handles, water fountain buttons and vending machine buttons.

Where Germs Lurk at Work by Kristy Armand


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In addition, the study found that half of all computer mice and desk phones have ATP levels above 100 but less than 300, perhaps because fewer people are in this area, and individuals are also likely to take more responsibility for the cleanliness of their personal spaces. However, Dr. Haman explains that an ATP above 100 still suggests there is a need for more attention.

“Workplaces today are highly collaborative environments with many common touch points,” he says. Think of how often you open a door, shake someone’s hand, or touch another desk in the office. It’s easy to see how quickly germs can spread from a contaminated area like the kitchen throughout an entire office.”

This study clearly illustrates the need for good hygiene practices on a daily basis in the workplace, and Dr. Haman adds that lack of attention to cleaning and sanitizing, especially in those areas identified as higher risk, can lead to the spread of colds, flu and stomach illness, all of which result in sick employees and absenteeism.

Fortunately, there are some simple steps workers can take to minimize the spread of germs at work. Dr. Haman offers these suggestions: • Wash and dry your hands frequently throughout the day: when you

arrive, after using the restroom, and before and after eating. • Wipe the following items daily with a disposable disinfectant wipe: desk

surface, keyboard, mouse, telephone, kitchen sink handles, microwave handle, refrigerator handle, kitchen countertops, conference room tables, door handles, and water fountain buttons.

• Keep hand sanitizer at your desk and use it before and after meetings, and when leaving work at the end of the day.

• Use disinfectant wipes to wipe down the surface and high touch areas in a break room.

• Keep hand sanitizer in the break room to reinforce healthy hand hygiene behaviors.

Dr. Haman’s office is located at 217 Sam Houston Jones Parkway in Moss Bluff. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 430-4262.


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Forget about unwinding for the summer. Instead, local radio personality Gary Shannon is among those who’ve gotten busier as part of a growing group of area actors, directors, writers and technicians

who collaborate to make independent films in the area.“With filmmaking, there’s no feeling like it,” said Shannon, who’s a

professional across several media. It’s film, he said, that captures the very best work by everyone involved and preserves it for all to see – which is different from the fleeting nature of, say, live theatre, where he’s also a regular performer.

His latest effort is “The Man in the Chair,” a psychological thriller which director Ken Henderson wrote, in part, with Shannon in mind. The film began principal shooting last month in north Sulphur.

insiDe A shoot“The Man in the Chair” was shot inside the rooms of a single house. The exteriors were also being shot around that same house. The others involved in the shoot were, in many cases, people Shannon knew from past projects.

The distraught woman in the film, who kidnaps Shannon’s character, is

played by Julie Fay, who, like Shannon, works in broadcasting and enjoys stage and film as avocations. Shannon and Fay are friends from past films.

Henderson, the director, “wrote it to be a do-it-yourself production from page one,” Fay said. “There are only four characters and one extra in the film. As small as that sounds, we have three times as many people on the crew and have to pay to rent cameras, lights, sound equipment, dollies and yes, hot dogs and donuts for everyone.”

With an independent film like this one, “you’ve got to plan around the regular working schedules of folks who don’t actually make a living filmmaking,” Fay said. “That’s why instead of getting up at 6 a.m. and working until 10 p.m., the schedule is 5:30-10:30 in the evenings Monday through Friday, with all-day shoots on the weekends.”

Sounds like a real time-vampire. Why do it?

LiGhts … CALCAsieU … ACtionLocal actors, technicians oughta be in pictures -- and more and more, they are

by Brett Downer


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“It’s grueling, but worth it,” Fay said. “It’s always worth it. Even if the movie doesn’t turn out well, with every film you make your skills get sharper and friendships are made. Sometimes it’s like going to war. When everybody’s exhausted, you rally the troops together to tackle one more shot before you call it a day.”

ALso shot heRe“The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Film Commission is working with several producers who are currently in preproduction for projects based in Lake Charles,” said Megan Monsour Hartman of the Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau.

For example, writer-director Michael McGowan, a Lake Charles native, began local shooting for “How to Love a Geek” here last month. The project’s promotional efforts describe the story this way: “To capture the attention and possible love of her boss, a clumsy girl-next-door takes on the tutelage of her extremely desirable co-worker in exchange for lessons in being a geek.”

Most of the cast members were Southwest Louisiana performers. “More than 200 people auditioned to be in the movie and the cast is almost 90 percent from Southwest Louisiana,” McGowan said.

Local musicians and singers will be featured on the soundtrack. They include Stratton Doyle, Mickell James, Tracy Craft, Drew Blanchard, Gyth Rigdon, Jason Benoit and James Partin. They were chosen during “The Sound,” a Contraband Days competition which drew about 50 artists.

Here are some other recent shoots:• In January, a segment for the A&E Network’s “My Ghost Story” was

filmed in a Lake Charles cemetery. The segment aired this spring.• The local group Bayou Paranormal has its own show, “Bayou Paranormal

Presents,” in which members crisscross the country for assistance and investigations. The show will feature Sulphur and Lake Charles. The group also helps scout investigation sites for Syfy, the History Channel, A&E, Bio and Discovery.

• “East Stackton,” a short film shot in Southwest Louisiana, is now in post-production. It featured Shannon and one of his current “The Man in the Chair” co-stars, acclaimed local actor Mike Mayo.

Clearly, filmmaking in Lake Charles has come a long way since “The Drowning Pool” (1975), when Paul Newman showed up to shoot a handful of scenes in Calcasieu Parish. Today, the independent filmmaking enthusiasts who come to and from, Southwest Louisiana are headed in the right direction -- making waves and making headlines as they make their art.

Area musicians auditioned for the soundtrack of “How to Love a Geek” during a Contraband Days competition.


Style &Beauty

Fine lines, wrinkles and even blemishes all plague women as they age, but can eternal

youth be found by simply applying a cream to your face?

Retinoids have been on the market for more than four decades and while they typically have been prescribed to fight off acne, research shows that the benefits don’t end there. Key ingredients are proving just as effective at reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles too.

“More than forty years ago the FDA approved the first retinoid—tretinoin—marketed under the brand name of Retin-A, to treat acne,” says Dr. Mark Crawford with the Aesthetic Center in The Eye Clinic. “It didn’t take long for physicians and patients to notice that their skin was not only clearer, but also softer, brighter and less-lined.”

Fast forward to today and a whole host of retinoids have made their way to the market and clinical research is backing up the anti-aging claims. But what exactly are retinoids, are they safe and are over-the-counter versions just as effective?

Retinoids are a derivative of vitamin A which produces pigments in the retina, also known as retinol. It is the collaborative efforts of vitamin A and collagen though, that makes retinoids an effective tool in the fighting the aging process.

“As we age, collagen begins to break down, leading to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” says Skin Care Consultant Tana Garcia with the Aesthetic Center. “Consistent use of a pure retinol product combined with a host of anti-aging, hydrating and soothing agents offers outstanding age control benefits; by effectively increasing collagen and elastin production reducing free radical damage and preventing the occurrence of future visible aging.”

Finding the

Fountain of Youth

by Katie Harrington


Knowing this doesn’t mean that you should just run out and pick up the first over-the-counter cream that claims to contain retinol that you see though says Garcia.

“Not all retinoids are created equally. The versions available over-the-counter contain a less concentrated amount of the active ingredients,” explains Garcia. “Professional grade products, available through licensed professionals and physician-directed skin care services, can give you a much higher concentration of the retinoid ingredient that will deliver the results you are seeking.”

PCA Skin now has two versions of pure retinol creams that contain .5 percent pure retinol. “These products give patients the opportunity to purchase a retinol cream without a prescription, but because the products are found only where there is a physician-directed skin care provider or a licensed skin care professional, they are being properly educated on how to use it safely,” Garcia says.

One of the most common side effects of retinol is dry, red and flaky skin but according to Garcia, this can be minimized by easing into the use of the cream. “A smoother transition can be achieved by using the retinoid every third night for the first two weeks. If your skin seems to be adapting well, increase your usage to every other night for two weeks. If you still aren’t experiencing any side effects then make the move to every night usage.”

Another thing to keep in mind when using these products is to limit your exposure to sunlight.

“You should always take proper precautions by wearing a sunscreen with at least and SPF of 30 everyday, but Vitamin A makes the skin more susceptible to sun damage,” says Garcia. “If you are using a retinoid, take extra precaution to apply a good sunscreen and wear a hat to shade your face.”

For more information about retinoid products or any facial cosmetic treatment, call the Aesthetic Center at 310-1070 or visit www.facehealth.net.

by Katie Harrington

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Style &Beauty

Laser-Assisted smartlipotM Results in Less Downtime

Traditional liposuction has been available for years and is used to treat large areas of the body where fat deposits have become prevalent. Recovery from this type of invasive surgery is typically slow, bruising is extensive and the results can be less than what was hoped for.

Now there’s a new option for men and women looking for permanent body reshaping. Steve Springer, M.D., family medicine physician with the Imperial Calcasieu Medical Group and owner of Renew Medical Spa in Lake Charles is the only physician in the area offering a minimally invasive treatment for fat removal called Smartlipo LaserBodySculptingSM.

Smartlipo uses the latest advancements in cosmetic surgery technology, which provide a safer, quicker and cost-effective method. Local anesthesia is used, rather than general anesthesia, so patient is awake and alert during the procedure. “Patient downtime after traditional liposuction surgery is significant,” says Dr. Springer. “However, with the new laser-assisted Smartlipo LaserBodySculptingSM procedure, my patients are able to return to normal activities, such as work, in virtually no time at all—healing is significantly accelerated.”

Pioneered in Europe, the SmartLipo procedure is the first laser-assisted liposuction procedure. SmartLipo was approved by the FDA in November of 2006 and has quickly been labeled the cutting edge procedure in cosmetic surgery.

With SmartLipo, a hollow, pen-sized instrument called a cannula is inserted into a minor incision made by the physician. The cannula uses a small laser to liquefy the fat cells in an area and drain them away. Because the cannula is only about 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm, SmartLipo is a less invasive procedure, reducing the risk of bruising and promoting a quicker recovery. In addition, the cannula’s laser acts as a visual guide, helping the doctor make more precise movements than typical Liposuction.

“Smartlipo is ideal for treating small areas, especially for patients who have localized fat deposits but very lax overlying skin, which would have been made worse by traditional liposuction,” says Dr. Springer. “In addition to melting the fat, Smartlipo coagulates and tightens the tissue and induces collagen production. An ancillary benefit of the laser stimulating collagen production leaving the skin firm is an amazing and welcomed side effect for most of my patients.”

To learn more about Smartlipo LaserBodySculptingSM, or to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Steve Springer, call Renew Medical Spa at (337) 436-3840 or log on to www.renewmedicalspaswla.com.

The Newest Breakthrough in Liposuction Surgery Now Available in Lake Charles


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q: My good friend had extra tickets for a concert. I don’t know his wife that well but to a reasonable extent. She and I are in the backseat and within five minutes of leaving her cell phone rings. At the same time, I’m leaning forward to ask my friend a question. His wife extends her arm towards me, palm forward. I got the message, but was embarrassed and horrified. One of her children was on the phone and they spoke for a good ten minutes. Then another of her children called and she spoke almost all the way to the venue which was a good half hour drive. I didn’t speak in the car between calls or on the ride home. I found that to be some of the rudest behavior I’ve ever encountered. What do you think? We’re all middle-aged, by the way.

A: Cell phones tend to produce some of the worst manners. Under normal circumstances of attending a party, for example, if you encountered this woman she would most likely include you in the conversation when approached. Unless the children were in trouble or harm’s way, she should not have talked as long nor carried on a social conversation with them at that time. At the very least, she should have apologized for taking the calls.

q: I have small children and recently we were shopping in a local grocery store when a woman on a cell phone while shopping was using language I would have preferred my young children not hear. I tried to get her attention, but she ignored me. Even though I was almost finished shopping, I felt I had no choice but to take my children and leave the store. What should I have done?

A: I believe you did what you could short of finding a store manager to address the situation. It is a shame that cell phones have become so common place that we have forgotten the most common of courteous practices.

Submit your etiquette questions to: [email protected].

Best ImpressionsModern Day Manners & Everyday Etiquette

by Rose Klein


Here’s something I hear a lot: “I feel like I have so many things that I only wear one way.” When I piece together one of their printed shirts with a pair of white or gray pants instead of the black pants they usually go with, I get a surprised reaction. This is where I find the most satisfaction with my job—when I am able to help someone see that they can have two or three times the amount of outfits if they are willing to step outside the box with mixing colors or prints.I realize that this can be intimidating if you don’t have the eye for style, but that doesn’t mean you can’t learn some basics to help stretch the wardrobe that you already own.

Here are some simple outfits for my novice fashionistas:

A black-and-white print does not have to be worn with either black or white. You can mix it with any color (with the possible exception of cream or brown, to stay on the safe side), as long as you find another way to bring that new dominate solid color back into the outfit.

You can mix up your cardigan sets by switching the cami with another set that is in the same color-story or color intensity and then bring back the cami or sweater color in an accessory to finish off the outfit.

Don’t obsess about matching the shades as closely as possible when mixing colors. You don’t want it to look like you were trying really hard to match, but failed.

if you want to have fun with your prints by mixing two together, the safest way to do this is to have a larger, more dominate print paired with a smaller, softer print. AnD they should be in the same color scheme.

if you’re constantly concerned about what shoe and/or purse will match your outfit, save yourself some trouble and go neutral. Find a pair of nude shoes—not camel, cognac or light blush pink, but NUDE. They go with everything. For a more-fun scale of a neutral, grab a matte metallic.

remember that white and gray are a neutral too, not just black and khaki. This means that you can mix your prints or fun color-blocking cardigan and camis with your white capris or gray jeans.

Just remember that if you look in the mirror and it seems like “too much” it probably is “too much,” in which case you can probably just replace a ‘color’ in your outfit with a neutral!

Mix & Match Your Way to More Clothes!

Whitney Manns is the owner of WM Wardrobe Consulting. For more information, visit WMwardrobeconsulting.com

Style &Beauty

to WearReady

Remember, if you have a fashion question for me, just email it to [email protected] or post it on the Thrive Facebook page. It could be answered it an upcoming column. If yours is chosen, you’ll receive a Thrive t-shirt.

photography by Lindsay Janies Photography


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If you’re traveling through Beauregard Parish, why not stop and visit one of the 13 sites that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places? Discover great architecture, magnificent landscapes, and life-changing stories!

sponsored by

Beauregard Parish Courthouse1st Street, DeRidderPlaced on the National Historic Register on September 22, 1983, this is the largest building in Beauregard parish. It was built in 1914 and is also the only example of a domedstructure with classical details in the parish. The large,three-story structure occupies a city square in the heart

of historical downtown DeRidder. Did you know that the clock in the dome with its four faces, originally hand wound, has been converted to electric motors?

Gothic Jail201 W. First Street, DeRidderThese imposing buildings were completed in 1915 andthe jail was added to the National Historic Register in 1981. The jail and courthouse are connected by a tunnel thatwas built to transport prisoners out of public view.Currently, the jail is closed for renovations.

Burks Log Cabin604 Railroad Road, MerryvilleRaised in 1883, Burk’s Cabin was moved to Merryville and was completely restored. It is the only authentic log cabin in Beauregard parish and was listed on the NationalRegister of Historic Places on September 8, 1987.Did you know that the chimney is mud daub, using traditional methods from West Louisiana?

Dry Creek School8223 Highway 113, Dry CreekReferred to as the “White House”, the Dry Creek School is an imposing neo-Greco building that alters one’s concept of the traditional country school. Built in 1912 and added to the National Register on January 28, 1988, the school was the first to support public education through taxes. Unfortunately, because of school consolidation,it was closed in 1962.

Other Historical Sites in Beauregard Parish:Beauregard Parish Training School – Jct. of Martin Luther King Drive& Alexander Street, DeRidder

DeRidder Commercial Historic District – 42 buildings bound by theRR Line, Second, Stewart and Port Streets, DeRidder

DeRidder USO Building – Jct. of Pine and 7th Street, DeRidder

First Street School – 500 West First Street, DeRidder

First United Methodist Church – Martin Luther King Drive, DeRidder

Hudson River Lumber Company General Manager’s House –411 South Washington, DeRidder

Shady Grove School & Community Building – 2400 LA. Highway 26, DeRidder

Sills House – 211 West Fourth Street, DeRidder

Toy House – 205 West Fourth Street, DeRidder

Pictures and information provided by Beauregard Tourism.


of the material inside the Olympic Park can be reused or recycled, making this the greenest Olympics yet

90%number of years it took to construct the Olympicstadium in London

4number of competitors

10,500

number of Olympic medal events

302number of tickets that will be sold for the Olympic and Paralympic Games

Over 9 Millionnumber of Disciplines39

Source: london2012.com Source: timeoutlondon.com

Source: visitlondon.com Source: visitlondon.comnumber of Olympic sports26Source: timeoutlondon.com

Source: timeoutlondon.com

Source: timeoutlondon.com

the previous years London has hosted the Games

1908 & 1948

Source: london2012.com

BY THE NUMBERS


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it’s been called “the ‘saturday night Live’ of Lake Charles”—the longest-running stage show in town, serving up local laughs to

benefit our area’s two colleges.

It’s the annual Gridiron comedy revue—a night of skits, songs and videos poking fun at local newsmakers and the local media who cover them.

Gridiron is staged by the Ad & Press Club of Southwest Louisiana, the area’s oldest organization for communication professionals.

All proceeds from the show benefit McNeese State University and Sowela Technical Community College. The club has a scholarship foundation at McNeese and a support fund at Sowela.

This year is the 40th annual Gridiron show. The milestone, under the theme “40 Years of Laughter,” will be saluted (and mocked) at several points in the show with classic clips from yesteryear and fake video “tributes” from local luminaries.

MEDIA ALL-STARSThe cast features several dozen area communication professionals, including:• John Bridges, Britney Glaser, Lee Peck and Ben Terry of KPLC.• Jim Beam and Laura Heller of the American Press.• Brett Downer, Ad & Press Club president and Thrive contributor.• Heather Partin of 92.9 the Lake.• Ross Conner of KYKZ 96.• Cathy Chapman and Randy Partin of the Lake Charles Little Theatre.• Braylin Jenkins and Heather Ieyoub of Fox 29.• Patty “Lurlene” Hebert of Lagniappe.• Denise Foster and Shelbi Laviolet of Creative Concepts.• Pam McGough of McNeese State University.• Theresa Hay Needham, Ruthie Broussard, Russ Bordelon, Kellie

Hutchinson Walters and Cornell Thomas, all regular Gridiron performers.

NEVER BEEN?Gridiron throws political correctness – and, occasionally, good manners – out

the window with its good-natured ribbing of local celebrities, news events and the media. People come for the food and the cash bar, then stay for the laughter.

“Ask anybody who’s been to Gridiron, and they’ll tell you it’s the top entertainment and networking event of the summer,” said First National Bank’s Leslie Harless, the club treasurer. “Many in the crowd are the movers-and-shakers who are being lampooned on stage. Some are disappointed if they’re not mentioned.”

Gridiron: 40 Years of Laughter

Continued on p85


McNeese CorralBridget Martin to Serve as Vice President of Southland Conference McNeese State associate athletic director Bridget Martin has been selected to serve as vice president of the Southland Conference advisory council for the next two years and will assume the presidency in the 2014-15 year. She recently completed her eighth year as the university’s associate athletic director and has also spent the past 10 years as the coordinator of compliance. Martin also serves as the senior women’s administrator.

McNeese Roast Scheduled To Honor BonnetteA roast has been scheduled for July 24th in the Event Center at L’Auberge Casino Resort in honor of McNeese State University Sports information Director, Louis Bonnette. Bonnette is retiring after 46 years of service to McNeese and proceeds from the event will help to fund a scholarship in his name. Tickets will be available at the McNeese Ticket Office in the Doland Field House. Individual tickets are $50 or a table of eight is $500. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information on the Roast, call 337-562-4MSU.

Chemistry Department Currently Taking ApplicationsThe McNeese State University Chemistry Department is currently taking applications for a graduate fellowship through the Doré School of Graduate Studies that leads to the Master of Science degree in environmental and chemical sciences. The fellowship is available for a currently certified Louisiana high school or middle school teacher to begin studies for the fall 2012 semester. The recipient will be awarded a $26,500 graduate level fellowship funded by the Board of Regents’ Support Fund. For more information, contact Sneddon at 337-475-5776 or by email at [email protected].

Nesanovich Honored With Professor Emeritus Status Dr. Stella Nesanovich, retired professor of English in the English and Foreign Languages Department at McNeese State University, was recently honored by the university with Professor Emeritus status. Emeritus status is specifically granted to honor retired faculty and administrators who have made distinguishing professional contributions and have served significant portions of their careers at McNeese. Only a select few receive this recognition for their service to the university.

Matthew Bonnette Named Assistant Athletic Director-Communications Matthew Bonnette has been named assistant athletic director – communications for McNeese. He is the brother of LSU sports information director Michael Bonnette and the younger son of long-time McNeese Athletic Director, Louis Bonnette, who is retiring this year after 46 years of service. He assumed his new position on July 1.

Now in his 11th year in the sports information field, Bonnette has served as associate sports information director at Northwestern State for the past nine years.

L-R: Dr. Jeanne Daboval, McNeese State University provost and vice president for Academic and Student Affairs; Dr. Stella Nesanovich, retired professor of English at McNeese; and Dr. Scott Goins, McNeese professor of classics and coordinator of foreigh languages

Bridget Martin Matthew Bonnette


IndustryInsiderStraight Answers to Your Questions on

Industry and the Environment

You’d be surprised at the high number of tests and monitoring industry does to comply with our air permits. We’re constantly monitored, and overall, our air quality is good. Ozone in our area has been below the Environmental Protection Agency standards for the past

10 years; but as the ozone standard continues to become more restrictive, we all have work to do. During the summer heat, ground level ozone is formed when emissions from our cars, lawnmowers, industry and fuels combine and literally bake in the summer sun. Because of the strict industry regulations, we’re meeting air quality requirements, but it takes involvement from residents and other businesses for our community to remain in compliance with EPA standards. With industry, businesses and residents working together, ground level ozone in Calcasieu Parish can continue to remain within recommended guidelines.

Q:A:

Is anyone monitoring the air quality in our community? If so, how does it rank?

Industries and regulatory agencies continuously monitor air quality and we are within recommended guidelines.

Anna Toddenvironmental professional with area industry

Visit www.laia.com to learn more and submit your question about local industry and the environment.

The show will be Saturday, July 21, at the Lake Charles Civic Center’s Sudduth Coliseum.

Tickets are $60 each or $400 for a table of eight. The evening includes reserved seating and serving stations of heavy hors d’ouevres offered by local restaurants. A cash bar will be available.

The director is Barbara Downer, a past Ad & Press Club president and Gridiron director. The technical director is Marty Myers of Fox 29. Gray Little and Tracy Beaugh of Sowela are the production designers.

For tickets, or to be a sponsor of the show, leave a message at the Gridiron Hotline at 583-4766, email [email protected] or visit the Gridiron 40 page on Facebook.

Gridiron continued from p83

John Bridges offers a fake newscast.

Britney Glaser plays an uninformed citizen.

Cornell Thomas spoofs the president.

Laura Heller, left, and Jessica Williamson model the money cases in “Political Deal or No Deal.”

tt

t


Mark Your Calendar!Cigar Club Schedules Free Live Music Lineup For July7/7 Brian Moore

9pm – 12am7/11 Paul Gonsoulin

8pm – 11pm7/13 Ryan Bourque & Kevin Johnson 9pm – 12am7/14 Jacob Cooley

9pm – 12am7/18 William Christian

8pm – 11pm7/20 Rebecca Moreland-Huber

9pm – 12am7/21 Street Side Jazz Band

9pm – 12am7/25 Kris Harper

8pm – 11pm7/27 Kade Fontenot

9pm – 12am7/28 Kory Fontenot

9pm – 12amFor more information on the lineup, call (337) 562-8889.

Delta Downs Racetrack & Casino Announces July Live Music Lineup7/6-7/7 Blend 328

9pm-1am7/13-7/14 BB & Company

9pm-1am7/20-7/21 LA Express

9pm-1am7/27-7/28 Password

9pm-1amAll shows are in the Gator Lounge and open to the public. For more information, visit www.deltadowns.com.

Children’s Theatre Company Begins 2012 Summer Theatre WorkshopsThe Children’s Theatre Company begins its 2012 Summer Theatre Workshops with “Wild Things” for children ages 5-8. The workshop cost is $65.00 and is held on July 9-11 from 10 - 11:15 am. The afternoon workshop session is entitled “Acting for the Camera” for children ages 8-18. The workshop costs are $85.00 and is held July 9-11 from 12 - 1:30pm. For registration information, contact the theatre at (337) 433-7323 or visit the website at www.childrenstheatre.cc.

Summer Pops Goes Motown

Lake Charles Symphony and First Federal Bank take audiences on a nostalgic trip through the sixties as the Summer Pops pays tribute to the music of Motown on July 14, in the Lake Charles Civic Center Coliseum. Singing will be Broadway’s Ramona Keller, Destan Owens, and Kimberly JaJuan. The concert begins at 7:30 pm with doors opening at 6:30. For tickets, call the Symphony Office at (337) 433-1611 or order online at www.lcsymphony.org.

Lake Charles League of Women Voters To Hold August LunchAugust Lunch with the League will be held at Reeves Uptown Catering at noon on August 31. Guest Speaker will be Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. MD. For information on tickets, call (337) 474-1864 or email [email protected].

Youth Culinary Camp Scheduled at SowelaInterested middle-school students can take part in a second “Junior High Culinary Camp” which is being offered at Sowela Technical Community College. Camp dates are 8am - 2pm, July 9-13 at the college’s Culinary Arts Training Center and registration is $185. To register, visit Rose August at Sowela’s Workforce Development Office, located in the Electromechanical Building, or call 491-2684.

Chennault Adds Second Session of Ace Summer CampAll youth in grades 7-12 who are interested in exploring aviation-related careers are invited to sign up for the second annual Aviation Career Education (ACE) Summer Camp. The camp will take place 8am - 4pm weekdays, July 30 - August 3, at Chennault International Airport. Registration is $200 and the deadline is July 16. For more information, call Chennault at (337) 491-9961 or email Ware at [email protected] or Andrea Pelloquin at [email protected].

Leisure Learning Hosting Watercolor Painting ClassInstructor Nancy Melton will teach adults and children how to paint with watercolor. Classes will be held July 17, 19, 24 and 26 from 6 -7pm. For more information, contact Leisure Learning at McNeese State University.

Volunteer Center Prepares for 2nd Annual Casino Royale FundraiserThe Volunteer Center of Southwest Louisiana invites the community to their 2nd annual signature event – Casino Royale set for Saturday, July 28 from 7 – 11 pm at Reeves Uptown Catering in Lake Charles. Tickets are $50 per person and sponsorship levels run from $250 to $1,000. Anyone interested in sponsoring or purchasing tickets can call 337-513-4616 or go to www.volunteercenterswla.org.

Branch Out Summer Arts Camp ScheduledThe Imperial Calcasieu Museum is scheduled to host the Branch Out Summer Arts Camp, sponsored by Citgo on July 9-13, July 16-20 and July 23-27 from 9-11:30am. Registration is on a first come, first serve basis and classes are open for students who have completed grades K through 8. Tuition is $55 for members and $70 for non-members. For more information, call (337) 439-3797.

Non-Surgical Knee Pain Treatment Topic of Upcoming SeminarSteven Hale., MD, orthopaedic specialist, will be the speaker at a free community seminar at on Thursday, July 24, at Center for Orthopaedics in Lake Charles. It will begin at 5:30pm. The knee is a complex joint with many components, making it vulnerable to a variety of injuries that result in pain. Knee pain is actually the most common reason people visit an orthopaedist. Many knee injuries can be successfully treated without surgery. Dr. Hale will discuss the most common causes of knee pain as well as advances in non-surgical treatment options. Pre-registration is requested. Call 721-2903 or register online in the event section of www.centerfortho.com.


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Let’s face it. No one likes to think about his or her own death, but if you have young children or hold significant assets that you want distributed to specific people, a will is critical.

“If you die without a will, your estate will be divided according to your state’s intestacy statute, which may or may not coincide with the plan you had in mind,” says Dallas Kingham, attorney with Stockwell Sievert Law Firm in Lake Charles. “That’s why it’s important to understand Louisiana law on wills and testaments, and to keep up with changes that could affect an existing will. “

For example: Oral or verbal testaments are not recognized by Louisiana law. “There are only two valid forms of Louisiana last wills and testaments, both of which must be in writing. One form is an olographic testament and the other is a notarial testament.”

The author of either of these documents, legally referred to as the “testator,” must intend for the writing of these to be his or her last will and testament.

An olographic testament is one entirely written, dated, and signed in the handwriting of the testator. Although the date may appear anywhere in the testament, the testator must sign the testament at the end of the testament. Anything written after the testator’s signature is open to court discretion, according to Kingham, but any additions or deletions must be made by the hand of the testator.

A notarial testament is one prepared in writing, usually typed, where the testator signifies before a notary and two subscribing witnesses.

The notarial testament has to be signed by the testator at the end and at the bottom of each and every separate page. It must also contain the appropriate attestation clause, which your attorney will prepare in drafting the testament. According to Kingham, this is a declaration by a witness that an instrument has been executed in his or her presence. He adds that there are additional requirements depending on the condition of the testator. “These arise when the testator is literate, but is physically unable to sign his or her name, or if the testator is unable to read, or if the testator is deaf or deaf and blind.”

Witnesses to the notarial testament must be competent. “A person may not be a witness to a testament if he or she is insane, blind, deaf, illiterate, under the age of sixteen, a spouse of the testator, or unable to sign his name,” Kingham said. In addition, the notary and witnesses may not receive a bequest under the testament; as such a bequest is invalid. “However,” says Kingham, “should the testator bequeath a legacy to either the notary or a witness, the bequest does not invalidate the entire testament. There are specific provisions of law which give guidance in such a situation.”

To revoke a testament, Kingham says the author may physically destroy the testament or have the testament destroyed at his direction. He or she may also revoke the testament by including such a declaration in a subsequent testament. A revocation may also be made by authentic act, which is accomplished by signifying this intention in writing before a notary and two witnesses. A handwritten revocation may be made by the testator as long as the revocation is signed by him or her. There are also means by which the author may revoke specific provisions of the testament without revoking the whole testament.

“There are exceptions to most general rules,” stresses Kingham. “That’s why it is best to consult an attorney to ensure your last will and testament is drafted in accordance with Louisiana law.”

What you Need to Know

about Wills


Robert Noland Donates to McNeeseLake Charles businessman, Robert Noland has given $724,500 to McNeese State University to establish six endowed rodeo scholarships through the McNeese Foundation. L-R Justin Browning, rodeo coach; Jacquelyn Gregory, rodeo

team member; Robert Noland, McNeese president; Philip C. Williams, Dr. Chip LeMieux and Jason Thomas, rodeo team member.

Lake Charles Memorial Employees donate $79,000 to the hospitalMore than 400 employees of the Lake Charles Memorial Health System donated a day of paid time off or the monetary equivalent to the hospital’s foundation. The $79,000 raised by the hospital employees was met with an additional $75,000 from the hospital’s volunteer auxiliary.

For more information about the I Gave a Day program or the Foundation at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, call (337) 494-3226 or visit http://www.lcmh.com/foundation.

McDonald’s of Southwest Louisiana DonatesDoug Gehrig, owner and operator of McDonald’s of SWLA, presented a $30,000 check to Calcasieu Library to purchase AWE Early Literacy Stations for seven Calcasieu libraries.

L-R Chad Thielen, library foundation president; Doug Gehrig,

owner and operator of McDonalds of SWLA; and Loretta Gharst, associate librarian of circulation and computer Services.

L’Auberge Lake Charles DonatesL’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles recently donated more than $17,000 as the presenting sponsor of Oasis’ Gems & Stems Gala. Proceeds from the event will assist Oasis with their mission of creating social change through empowerment and support

for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, safe shelter for women and children and community education. L-R Keith W. Henson, senior vice president and general manager of L’Auberge Lake Charles, and Kathy Williams, executive director.

Cameron Communications donates to Fairview High SchoolThe Fairview Lady Panthers Basketball team was crowned

Class B State Champion for the 5th straight year. Cameron Communications donated $4,060 to purchase championship rings for the team. L-R, front row Coach Kyle Jinks, Karli West, Lauren Taylor, Tori Trammel, Ashlea Vizena, Kelsey Fontenot, Gabby Leonards L-R, back row Terry Rasberry, network operations technician/community relations for Cameron Communications, Paige Lemieux, Callie Maddox, Natosha Morvant, Katie Lemieux, Lauren Horn, Headyn Reeves, Maghan Cooley and Ricky Brown, combination technician for Cameron Communications.

National Science Foundation’s Documenting Endangered Language Program Gives GrantWith the help of grants totaling almost $582,000 from the National Science Foundation’s Documenting Endangered Languages program, the husband-wife team of Bertney Langley, right, director of the

Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana’s Heritage Department, and Dr. Linda Langley, McNeese State University research professor of anthropology, are working together to ensure that the tribe’s language, Koasati, does not become extinct.

CITGO Donates to Junior Achievement ProgramCITGO Lake Charles donated $2000 to Junior Achievement of Southwest Louisiana. JASWLA teaches financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship to area students with help from volunteers.

L-R Dana Keel, government & public affairs manager, CITGO Lake Charles and Meg Lovejoy, district director, Junior Achievement of Southwest Louisiana.

28th Annual CITGO MDA Golf Classic Raises $281,000CITGO Lake Charles Manufacturing Complex, contractors, vendors and suppliers raised $281,000 at the 28th Annual CITGO/MDA Golf Classic. All funds go towards comprehensive program services and research to improve the lives of the 860 children and adults served by MDA in SWLA. To learn more about MDA and other programs, contact the MDA SWLA office at 337-234-0088 or visit http://www.mda.org

Community Contributor$

Representatives of hospital employees and volunteers.


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L’Auberge Lake Charles Donates to Cops & Jocks Annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser

L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles hosted the 10th Annual Cops & Jocks charity golf tournament at Contraband Bayou Golf Club. Proceeds from the event will help families of Lake Area police officers and McNeese State University. L-R Alan Heisser, Cops & Jocks co-founder; Keith W. Henson, senior vice president and general manager of L’Auberge; Don Dixon, Cops & Jocks co-founder; and John Rudd, Cops & Jocks director.

Stockwell Sievert Law Firm Donates

George Swift, president/CEO of the SWLA Economic Development Alliance, and Ann Barilleaux, SWLA Alliance Foundation development director, accepted $6,000 on behalf of the SWLA Economic Development Alliance Foundation from Stockwell Sievert represented by attorneys Benjamin Guilbeau, Jr., Paul Veazey, Jr. and Bill Monk. This donation is Stockwell Sievert’s 2012 investment to the SWLA Alliance Foundation’s SWLA on the Move 5-year campaign.


Fort Polk is located in the midst of Sportsman’s Paradise. From hunting, boating and swimming, to hiking, jogging, motocross and horseback riding trails, you are sure to find that Fort Polk meets all your recreational needs.

Mulligan’s Restaurant, Bar & Grill • 1321 Corps Road, Building 352Lunch: Mon-Fri 11 am-2 pmDinner: Tues/Thur/Fri – 4 pm-7 pm • Wed – 4 pm-8 pm • Sat/Sun – 10:30 am-7 pm

Mulligan’s Restaurant, Bar & Grill is one of Fort Polk’s favorite places to eat. From philly cheese steaks to salads and burgers, Mulligan’s offers a wide variety of food to satisfy your craving. If you’re in the mood to wind down, grab a seat in the bar area to enjoy a drink or watch a game on one of their 16 flat-screen TV’s.

Spare Time Lounge • 2087 9th Street, Building 1457Mon-Thurs: 4:30-10 pm • Fri: 4:30 pm-1 am • Sat: 2 pm-2 am

The Spare Time Lounge, located in the Strike Zone Bowling Center, is Fort Polk’s newest hangout for soldiers who want to kick back and relax after hours. The lounge features big screen TV’s, trivia, music and dancing. If you’re not in the mood to fight the music for conversation, they have a secluded, glassed-in dance area and covered, out-door back patio which provides an environment separated from the lounge.

Huddle House • 7323 Utah AvenueSun-Thurs: 5 am-11 pm • Fri-Sat: All Day

Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch or dinner, Huddle House’s motto is “Any Meal, Any Time.” Huddle House serves meals in a warm, friendly environment that brings folks together. The menu includes everything from country-fried steaks and pulled BBQ pork sandwiches, to western omelets and French toast. Stop in for great foodand good times.

Strike Zone Snack Bar • 2087 9th Street, Building 1457Mon-Thurs: 11 am-9:30 pm • Fri: 11 am-12:30 amSat: 10 am-12:30 am • Sun: Noon-8:30 pm

The Strike Zone Snack Bar, located in the Strike Zone Bowling Center, is a great place to eat when you are in the mood for burgers, sandwiches, pizza or salads. Enjoy lunch or dinner while bowling with family or friends.

For more information on the restaurants listed, visit www.fortpolkmwr.com.

A Bank for a New Generation!

DeRidderMain • Eastside

Park Terrace • Westside463-6231

Lake Charles4031 Nelson Rd., Unit 200477-6693

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At First National Bank DeRidder, we are deeply grateful for the sacrifices and unwavering service of America’s men and women in uniform and their families. Thank you for protecting and defending our freedom and way of life. We pledge to be there for you, for years to come, with exceptional service and a bank you can rely on. It’s a small way to recognize your immeasurable service to our country.

We Honor Your Service.

fnbderidder.com

Salute to Fort Polk


I-10, Exit 27 Lake Charles, LA • 1-800-THE-ISLE (843-4753) • www.isleofcapricasinos.com© 2012 Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. Fan Club and FanPlay are registered trademarks of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. Valid only at Isle of Capri® Casino Hotel Lake Charles.

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Documents

Thrive July 2012 Issue