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Hats Off to Grads!
All About Women May 2011
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“We have one hospital to thank for seven of our beautiful grandchildren.” “Women & Children’s Hospital has always been the hospital we trust for OB care. You might say it’s a family tradition. In fact, my daughter and my daughter-in-law traveled from Houston and New Orleans just to have their babies here. When it comes to OB care for our family, we wouldn’t go anywhere else.” – Shelya and Lester Langley, Grandparents Choose the hospital where more families prefer to have their babies.* Call 337-475-4075 or visit Women-Childrens.com/ob today to schedule a tour.
From top to bottom: Taylor, Kaelen, Cameron, Tucker, Graham, Payton and Baylee
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*HealthStream Research Community Insights Survey 2010
May 2011
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In This Issue
Regular Features
4 Make Original Jewelry Your Custom 8 Get on Your Mark for the Inaugural
50 First Person: with Norman German 52 Best Kept Shhecrets! 58 By the Numbers 64 Solutions for Life 66 McNeese Corral 69 Well Aware 69 Best Impressions 70 Community Contributors 72 Chatterbox 75 The Last Word
Louisiana Sports Festival
All About Women Special Section
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What you need to know about women through the ages 22 American Heart Association Saves Lives
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Cover Story:
Thirteen Thriving
30 Somethings 33 Get Into the New You Makeover Challenge 36 Summer Fashion Trends
Special Section
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Hats Off to Grads!
Outlook for high school and college grads, parent survival guide and more! 44 56 62 68
Going Mad Over Money? Ease the Tension Par for the Course: A Guide to Golf Cart Safey Homebuyers Rule the Roost Community Unites for Homework Night Don’t just live, thrive!
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Editors and Publishers Kristy Armand Christine Fisher Creative Director/Layout Barbara VanGossen Assistant Editor Erin Kelly Assistant Designers Jason Hardesty Shonda Manuel Staff Writers Katie McDaniel Haley Armand Advertising Sales 337.310.2099 Danielle Granger danielle@thriveswla.com Andy Jacobson andy@thriveswla.com Submissions edit@thriveswla.com or fax to 337.312.0976 Submitted articles and photos are welcome. Thrive assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials and does not guarantee any submissions.
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. May 2011
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photos by Monsour’s Photography
Your Way
Your Jewelry, Done A one-of-a-kind design, whether it’s construction plans for a new home, a piece of artwork, a dress or a piece of jewelry, means that it’s exactly what was envisioned. It suits perfectly, and in the end, the owner has an original, making it even more special. Women often have a definite idea of what they want. “How many times have we all looked at something, whether it’s a room that’s been decorated or maybe a yard that’s been landscaped and said, ‘If it were up to me, I’d do this or that’? Those tweaks and adjustments make it our own, it makes it feel right to us and reflects our personal taste,” said Annette St. Romain, owner of Bijoux Fine Jewelers. Customized jewelry goes beyond merely personalizing it with an engraving or choosing a birthstone. It’s being involved with every aspect of the piece, from the metal chosen, to the gemstones, to the setting, and any carvings or embellishments. Megan Monsour Hartman had been planning her wedding long before she found the groom. “I had a binder in high school with all kinds of ideas and updated it through the years,” she said. When she met her future husband, Matt Hartman, they were a perfect fit -- and she wanted their wedding set to reflect that. “By the time we began talking of marriage, we discussed the type of ring I wanted and knew it would have to be custom designed. We were both adamant that we wanted the ring to be special and last a lifetime; there would be no upgrades in my future!” Hartman said she wanted to work with a local business to design the ring. “I had known of Bijoux’s work for years. Matt and I were impressed with Annette’s knowledge, expertise and laid-back demeanor. We felt very comfortable with her.” The usual process for custom jewelry at Bijoux is for St. Romain to talk with the client to gain understanding about what they are looking for. “I have catalogs we can look through and they point out what they like about one piece or another. We can look at the pieces I have on display and they can bring
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by Christine Fisher
in pictures and drawings,” she explained. That’s how it happened with Reagan Monsour LeBouef, step-sister of Megan. “I showed Annette several pictures of rings that I liked, but didn’t love. She was able to use a component of each one to create the perfect ring for me,” LeBouef said. Upon her engagement to Aaron LeBoeuf, she decided to follow her family’s tradition and have her wedding set custom designed. “In fashion, hairstyles and jewelry, I enjoy being different than everyone else. I knew I wanted something no one else had. Over the years, my mother had several pieces of jewelry custom designed by Annette. I’d always dreamed of having my own piece created someday. Almost daily, I receive compliments on the beauty and uniqueness of my engagement and wedding ring.” With over 20 years of working on custom designs, St. Romain has the experience and expertise to know what a design will do to the structure of the piece. “There are many factors at play: the metal, the cut of the diamond or gemstone, the shape, engraving or scroll work, and even the size of the piece. I help guide the client so that they end up with the design they want, and it’s built to last.” Having a custom jewelry piece may seem beyond reach of most budgets. While it does take more time to create an individual item, the overall cost isn’t far beyond a mass-marketed piece. “Several clients are surprised at how reasonable the cost is, especially as they can see the time we spend on their design,” St. Romain said. She said one way to keep costs down is to use existing gemstones and gold. “There are so many unique designs we can work with and end up with a very sentimental, artsy piece.” While custom-designed wedding sets are popular, women often get other pieces designed through the years. St. Romain said she worked with a client recently who had been looking for a particular style of ring but couldn’t find exactly what she wanted. “The popular three diamond style is what she had in mind: the past, present and future, but with a unique twist. She didn’t want
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the cookie-cutter approach. She continued looking for a while. Then, she experienced the sudden passing of her best friend, who had just celebrated her 45th anniversary. This client told me she realized how fragile life is and that she was ready to have her ring designed so she could enjoy it now, instead of continuing to put it off. We created a three-stone ring using different diamond shapes to make it unique. She was very pleased with the end result.” With all of her custom clients, St. Romain gets an idea of what they are looking for and then they agree on the design. A computer aided design, or CAD, is produced, giving a virtual reality model. The craftsman and the client now have intricate information about the structure of the ring. A mold is made and the ring is produced within a few weeks. In fact, the client is wearing it in less time than many originally expected. St. Romain said clients who bring in their ideas have a head start. “Rather than a description of what they have in mind, if they can bring in pictures it gives us a beginning.” She suggested looking through magazines, on the internet, and taking pictures of friends’ jewelry. Even if it’s a very small aspect of a piece, it helps to have it on paper. She said the satisfaction rate is very high, and she’s not surprised. “We carefully work on each step together throughout the process. By the time the piece is made and they receive it, it’s exactly what they imagined. It’s always enjoyable to have them pick up their piece and see how thrilled they are.” For more information, call Bijoux Fine Jewelers at 625-9971 or visit www.bijouxfinejewelry.com for more examples of customized jewelry.
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Poised for
Succe by Christine Fisher
Early SWLA Leaders Welcomed Industrial Development The petrochemical industry has been part of Southwest Louisiana’s landscape for so many years that it’s difficult to imagine this area without them. While many people wonder how industry became so prevalent in our area, it’s interesting to note that our past leaders worked very hard to pave the way for many of the local refineries and chemical facilities. “Civic leaders worked hard to make this area attractive for industrial growth,” said Larry DeRoussel, president of Lake Area Industry Alliance and former plant manager. “A popular notion is that the industries sort of came in with a ‘like it or not’ manner, but the facts are that industry was pursued and welcomed here because it could provide a substantial job base and future for this area, when it seemed that other resources were drying up.” Around 1900, the Union Sulphur Company was producing around 4,000 tons of liquefied sulfur a day, becoming the largest mine in the world, and establishing the city of Sulphur. A little further down I-10, oil fields began flourishing in Jennings and Eunice. Lake Charles had already been designated
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an official port of entry by an act of Congress, but the city’s leaders knew the port needed to be expanded to capitalize on the industrial growth taking place. “They requested federal assistance to open a deep-water channel to the Gulf of Mexico,” explained DeRoussel, “but it was denied. So, they did things the way we’ve always done then, including how we handled Hurricane Rita, they just did it themselves.” In an unprecedented move, the citizens voted to fund the project themselves in 1922. In 1924, the Lake Charles Harbor and Terminal District became a reality. The country’s need for war supplies during World War II launched the industrial boom in Southwest Louisiana. The military needed fuel, lubricants
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and synthetic rubber for trucks, tanks and planes and Lake Charles provided ready access to all of these elements, as well as a deep-water port to expedite delivery. “At that point, we could provide crude oil and natural gas. We had access to plenty of water for the manufacturing process and a waterway for the ships and barges transporting the products. The vision and dedication of civic leaders and the community was a reality and positioned this area for success,” said DeRoussel. The Lake Charles site of Continental Oil Company, now ConocoPhillips, was completed in 1941; the Firestone synthetic rubber plant, now Firestone Polymers in 1943 and the Cities Service refinery, now CITGO in 1944. As the war was coming to an end, the PPG facility was just starting up in 1945. These industries relocated people from all over the country to Southwest Louisiana. In fact, Maplewood, now located within the City of Sulphur, was created to house the hundreds of families moving to the south to work for CITGO.
ss May 2011
After the war, the nation’s economy boomed, causing a demand in consumer products. Southwest Louisiana’s industries were meeting the demands, creating more jobs for area workers and a strong economic base. Other industries took note of this growing industrial complex located near the Gulf of Mexico and began expanding here as well. “Presently, we have 24 industrial manufacturing facilities in the Lake Area. These facilities directly employ more than 6,500 people,” said George Swift, president of the Chamber Southwest. “These jobs come with great benefits, a competitive wage and opportunity for advancement. That number doesn’t account for the thousands of contractors, suppliers and consulting companies who support area industry. Our industrial base has contributed to the continued economic growth we’ve seen in Southwest Louisiana, particularly during the recent recession. Our economic diversity has helped this area weather the storm; the industrial component has been a key player.” Our industrial growth can be traced back to the vision of community leaders who saw the potential for Southwest Louisiana and instead of waiting for outside help, took it upon themselves to make it happen.
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Let the Games Begin! by Christine Fisher
Vendors
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Competitions
Southwest Louisiana is about to experience something new, according to John Wilson. He’s organizing the first-ever day-long event centered around being active and healthy. “We’ve had other events in this area that had parts of what I’m planning, but never a focused day with all of the competitions and demonstrations we’ll have,” he said. Wilson is organizing the Louisiana Sports Festival and Games, to be held on Saturday, May 21 at the Lake Charles Civic Center from 7am – 4pm. Owner of CrossFit Lake Charles, Wilson has a passion for encouraging health and activity for all ages. The Louisiana Sports Festival and Games will be family-friendly. Several elementary schools are working on fitness demonstrations to perform that day. Vendor booths are available for $99. “For businesses who want to reach people interested in health, fitness, wellness, nutrition and outdoor activities, this is a great opportunity,” said Wilson. Several competitions are planned throughout the day, with the Deadlift Competition being sponsored by Planet Nutrition and the Louisiana Cops and Jocks games sponsored by CrossFit Lake Charles. A farmer’s market will be available, thanks to coordination by Rick Richard and Brett Marino. Lake Charles Parkour Club will be doing demonstrations throughout the day, along with Lake Area Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and CrossFit Kids. An adult 5k and kids 1-mile run starts at 7:30am. Proceeds benefit Cops and Jocks, a local fundraiser for athletes and the families of Lake Charles Police Officers. “This event, combined with our annual golf tournament, will allow Cops and Jocks to better serve not only the men and women of law enforcement, but also provide scholarships to McNeese,” said Lake Charles Police Chief Don Dixon. More information is available at www.LaSportsFest.com, including sponsorship opportunities, and registration for the 5k, 1-mile and other competitions. For real-time updates follow the Louisiana Sports and Fitness Festival page on Facebook. Thrive Magazine for Better Living
May 2011
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All About Women
The female body is a complex system that changes and evolves dramatically as she moves through the various phases of her life. With so many shifts from one decade to the next, it often feels like a physical whirlwind beset with fluctuating weight, unpredictable cycles and hormonal hi-jinks. The challenges of womanhood are no small task, but sometimes you can calm the ride if you know what to expect with each emerging chapter.
by Erin Kelly
Women at Every Stage and Age 15-25: Age of Awakening The stages of emergence from girlhood to womanhood vary greatly. Some girls have their first cycle as early as ten or eleven while others may not experience one until sixteen or seventeen. “During the teen years the hormones are skyrocketing in every possible way,” said Eddye Blossom, MD, obstetrician and gynecologist with Lake Area OB/GYN Associates, an affiliate of Women and Children’s Hospital. Dr. Blossom noted that early menstrual cycles are often irregular and could take as much as a year or more to stabilize. “Teen girls can often go three or four months between cycles.” According to Dr. Blossom, it is currently recommended that women start their regular pap smears at the age of 21 unless they have specific health conditions or concerns or are sexually active. The procedure involves getting cells from the cervix to test for cervical cancer. Researchers recommend that women have pap smears every two years until age 30. These recommendations can change based on individual risk factors, Dr. Blossom noted. This period of time is also when reproductive medicine becomes a key concern for most women; these options range from monthly birth control pills and shots to implantable devices, all of which can be discussed with a skilled physician.
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For most women, this is an era of balance. Hormones calm down, the body is primed for fertility, and women have established lifestyle habits that will affect their lifelong health, such as eating and exercise patterns. This is also the period of time when women struggle most with balancing work and family. Metabolism begins to change fairly substantially during this period, which is one of the hardest things for women to deal with because it makes it easier to gain weight and harder to lose it, Dr. Blossom said. 10 11
Women with children will notice significant lasting changes after the birth of their children. “Pregnancy is the biggest hormonal change that a woman will experience in her life, assuming she is otherwise healthy. One thing she will notice is weight gain – not just during the pregnancy, but afterward. It can be difficult to lose the weight after that and the challenge continues with each subsequent birth,” Dr. Blossom said. He further noted that weight challenges are not limited to child-bearing women; it’s something that virtually all women will deal with. It is recommended that women have pap smears every two years until age 30 and every three years after that. During this balancing period it’s also wise to have clinical breast exams every one to three years to check
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for breast cancer, Dr. Blossom said. Some may need screenings more often than others, based on individual risk factors. He also pointed out that as the body balances itself out, women may become more aware of mood swings as they relate to their menstrual cycles. This is the most common time for women to be diagnosed with conditions such as PMS or premenstrual dysphoric disorder, also known as PMDD, a condition that causes severe depression, irritability and tension.
35-45: Cruise Control During this phase, most women are established in their careers and family life and their goals are well-defined. They have to come to understand their bodies, so there aren’t as many surprises as there were from the teens through the early 30s; however, this is still a time of change, as with every other phase of life. The biggest shift is the decline in fertility, which begins around age 35. As this shift begins, women are at increased risk of having babies with abnormalities such as Down syndrome. This doesn’t mean that a woman in her late-30s can’t or shouldn’t conceive, Dr. Blossom noted, “it just means that they have a higher risk. By age 35, a woman’s risk of conceiving a child with Down syndrome is one in 400. By age 45, the risk is one in 35. That being said, I recently delivered two babies to 40-plus-year-old women and both babies were healthy. Still, women should be aware of the increased risk.”
The average age for menopause is 51, but women between the ages of 35 and 45 can experience early symptoms as a result of declining fertility, such as cycle irregularities, mood swings, occasional hot flashes and their first night sweats. By age forty, it’s not uncommon for women to have benign growths that can cause heavy bleeding and clots. Annual mammograms are recommended starting at age forty and women should continue to undergo pap exams every three years.
45-55: A New Chapter From 45 to 55 women should continue their annual exams and tests. It’s also recommended that they do a thyroid screening and check their cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Screenings for colon cancer are suggested beginning at age 50 and every 10 years afterward unless the woman is at increased risk, in which case colonoscopies may need to be more frequent. At the beginning of this age span most women will enter perimenopause and then enter into menopause, a natural process that marks the end of menstruation and fertility. Continued on p12
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Straight talk about Heavy Periods Is heavy menstrual bleeding affecting your life? Join local gynecologists Lee J. Monlezun Jr., M.D., and Jim Brown, M.D., as they share the latest in treatment options for heavy menstrual bleeding, endometriosis, menopause, and hysterectomies.
Thursday, May 12 · 6:00 p.m. • Garber Auditorium Call 491-7577 to register today!
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Women
Women respond differently to this life change – it is easy and refreshing for some and more challenging for others – but the symptoms are typically the same: irregular periods, hot flashes, insomnia and vaginal dryness. For women who face challenges through this time, treatments are available, and not all the treatments are hormonal. This is something to discuss with your physician. One of the greatest challenges that women seem to face during this period is a faltering self-image, according to Dr. Blossom. “That’s a problem for many women from age zero to a hundred, but it’s something that I see often in this particular age group,” he said. He added that women have a lot to look forward to as they move through this age span because the end of the menstrual cycle ushers in years of stability. “This is the closing of one chapter and the opening of another,” Dr. Blossom said.
Continued from p11
Women should continue their annual physicals and exams, but now should also consider bone density screenings. Lowered estrogen and other factors can adversely affect bone density during this period, making women more susceptible to osteoporosis, fractures, and other conditions.
55+: New Beginnings According to Dr. Blossom, there are only two real periods of stability in a woman’s life – the years before her cycle begins and the years after it ends. After menopause, hormonal changes stabilize. “Theoretically you can have as much time in your life without your period as you did when you had it,” he said. Once menopause has ended, women should no longer experience bleeding. Postmenopausal bleeding is never normal and should be checked out by a physician.
Having routine mammograms is one of the best things you can do for yourself and for those who care about you. With early detection, the cure rate for breast cancer is over 90 percent. A simple screening really can make the difference. At Imperial Calcasieu Imaging, our goal is to make having a mammogram as convenient and comfortable as possible. We offer: • Quick appointments • Fast results • Breast pads to enhance comfort • Experienced mammography technicians • Follow-up personally directed by our radiologist, Barbara Tomek, MD - Immediate consults for any abnormal results - Ultrasound guided biopsies for any abnormalities
Don’t put off this life-saving screening. Call 312-8761 today to schedule your appointment.
Imperial Calcasieu Imaging a division of Imperial Calcasieu Medical Group
1747 Imperial Blvd., Lake Charles (just off of Nelson, 1/2 mile south of Country Club Rd.)
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Skin Care through the Ages It’s no secret that you don’t look the same at 39 as you do at 19. Many things about your appearance change as you age and your skin is not only one of them, it’s arguably the most visible. “Teen-aged skin is much different than forty-something skin, and what worked in your twenties, may not be what you need in your fifties,” says Maureen Olivier, dermatologist with Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic. “You have to modify your skin care habits as you age to ensure that your skin is always in the best possible condition.” Dr. Olivier outlines the primary skin care changes that take place over time, and advice on how to give your skin what it needs to look healthy at every age:
Teens
This is the best time to establish good skin health habits. Tan sensibly and use a sunscreen. The action you take now to protect your face from the harmful effects of sunlight will pay huge dividends in 15 or 20 years’ time. Avoid crash dieting and don’t be tempted to start smoking. After sun exposure, smoking is one of the leading causes of early wrinkles and dull skin. If you suffer from acne and/or oily, shiny skin, a very common problem at this age, your best bet is good hygiene and regular cleansing, and getting help from a dermatologist for chronic breakouts.
Fifties and Beyond
In your fifties, all the cumulative damage you have done to your skin over the years becomes visible. Hopefully by now, you have a skin care routine that includes an exfoliating product and sunscreen. However, you may notice more wrinkles and more uneven discoloration. Skin is thinner now, so it will burn easier. Be sure to focus on keeping your skin tone even and moisturized. Stay out of the sun as much as possible, and use a higher protection sunscreen. Routine facial treatments can help smooth and freshen the skin. Dr. Olivier says the key to great looking skin is giving it the attention it deserves with consistent care, quality products and a healthy dose of pampering as often as possible. For more information about skin care at every age, call Dr. Olivier at 474-1386. by Kristy Armand
Twenties
In your twenties, your complexion should be at its best, simply because it’s stabilized from all the hormonal changes of the teen years. If you haven’t already, you must develop a good skin care routine if you want this healthy glow to last. It’s important to make sure that your skin is always hydrated. The skin underneath your will begin to become dryer by the end of this decade, so start using an eye cream. Remember to use a sunscreen regularly. This is also a good time to start exfoliating to keep your skin smooth and even in color, and to remove signs of sun damage that occurred in your teens.
Thirties
In your thirties, oil production decreases and you may see fine lines and wrinkles become visible, especially if you did not – or do not – use sunscreen. Skin is drier and thinner, pores may appear larger, and you will notice a decrease in your skin’s elasticity. This is a good time to start using products which contain glycolic acid, which is proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and make your skin smoother. Masks may be used more frequently for exfoliating or moisturizing purposes. If you have never used an eye cream before, it is essential that you start to reduce puffiness, fine lines and dark circles, and to prevent wrinkles.
Forties
In your forties, you will experience more dryness because your skin continues to lose its ability to retain moisture. Elasticity will decrease even more, skin tone will be uneven and lines may be more pronounced. Your skin also doesn’t heal as well as it once did. If you’ve never needed moisturizer before, you will definitely need it now. Apply moisturizer day and night, and you may also want to apply firming cream to keep your skin looking tight and firm. If your skin is still oily at this age, you should still moisturize, but with products that are oil-free. You may also notice age spots, which can be easily treated with skin lightening products, microdermabrasion or chemical peels.
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Women
by Kristy Armand
Eye Health Reflects Gender Differences Ladies, you aren’t looking so good. Over 3.4 million Americans age 40 and older suffer from visual impairment, and 2.25 million are women. In fact, of the four leading causes of blindness in older Americans: age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataract, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, the rate of women’s cases exceeds the men in all four categories. 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.
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• 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. The total number of eye disease cases is steadily on the rise. The increased longevity of our aging population is obviously one big reason, according to 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. 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 Fit- The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that the 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 Supplements- Antioxidants 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 Smoking- Smoking increases the risk for eye diseases, including AMD, glaucoma and cataracts. Shade your Eyes- When venturing outdoors, wear UV-rated sunglasses (labeled: absorbs 99-100 percent of UV-A and UV-B rays), and widebrimmed hats. Know Your Family History- Genetics 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.
LAKE CHARLES: 1890 W. GAUTHIER ROAD, SUITE 110 • SULPHUR: 1200 STELLY LANE
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Young Women at Risk for Osteoporosis by Christine Fisher
Most of us consider osteoporosis a bone disease afflicting the elderly; not anything a busy young woman should worry about. But research is showing that women in their 20’s and 30’s are at risk for developing this brittle bone disease. Osteopenia, the precursor to osteoporosis, is sometimes called the “young woman’s silent epidemic” because many young women fail to realize they are susceptible to bone loss. A study done by the University of Arkansas shows that two percent of college-age women already have osteoporosis – that’s women in their late teens and early twenties. A further 15 percent have sustained significant losses in bone density and are well on their way to developing the disease. “Bones reach their peak mass around the age of 30,” said Staci Boudreaux, PA-C, coordinator with Bone Health Central. “Estrogen protects bones and stimulates their growth. But some young women are at greater risk than others for brittle bones. Recognizing the problem is the first step in reversing this trend.” Continued on p16
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Women
Continued from p15
One common method of birth control, Depo-Provera, is associated with significant bone loss, especially with long-term use. In fact, a warning is included on the label. This medication is injected every few months, making it more convenient, and thus more appealing, than taking a daily pill. The maker of Depo-Provera, Pfizer, along with the Food and Drug Administration, advise women to not take the medication for longer than two years, citing issues with bone loss. Low body weight is also a contributing factor for osteoporosis in young women. Those who have an unhealthy obsession for an extremely slim figure may do themselves more harm than good. The body needs some fat in order to function properly. A healthy body is achieved by getting adequate nutrition and daily exercise. Restricting calories down to an unhealthy amount will cause the body to rob bones of needed calcium. Studies show that young women who had participated in high school athletics had high bone densities. This finding underscores the importance of exercise and physical education during the school years. “Weight-bearing exercising like walking, aerobics, sports, and weight training, are the best overall way to strengthen bones,” Boudreaux said. Nutritional supplements have also been shown to boost bone health, but the best way to get daily calcium requirement is through diet. “Ideally, you shouldn’t rely on a supplement because the
body absorbs calcium most efficiently through food,” Boudreaux said. When it comes to osteoporosis, risk factors for young women include: • family history, especially mothers and grandmothers • weighing less than 130 pounds • inactivity • smoking Boudreaux said that while osteoporosis affects men and women alike, women are more prone to developing brittle bones if they didn’t develop enough bone mass in their younger years. “If bone growth is properly developed during the late teens and twenties, women greatly decrease their risk of osteoporosis,” she said. Osteoporosis is usually found either during a routine examination or following a fractured bone. X-rays can show a generalized loss of bone density. This disease inflicts more than physical pain, it takes a toll on a woman’s emotional health. “This is not a natural part of aging,” Boudreaux said. “Young women need to understand the risks and if they are susceptible to it, then change their lifestyle to hopefully avoid problems in the future.” Bone Health Central offers comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of bone problems. While a physician order is not necessary, the specialists at Bone Health Central will work in conjunction with a treating physician for care coordination. A service of Center for Orthopaedics and Dr. Steve Springer, Bone Health Central is located within the CFO building at 1747 Imperial Boulevard in Lake Charles. For more information, call 721-7270 or visit www.bonehealthcentral.net.
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May 2011
Pregnancy Magnifies Health Concerns Pregnancy, one of the most exciting times in a woman’s life, can also be a major stressor. There are numerous emotional changes occurring, but also major physical ones as well. Finding out how the body reacts under stress can help pregnant women avoid the potential for serious complications later in life. A pregnancy can magnify health concerns, according to Vincent Bailey, MD, ob/gyn and member of the medical staff of Jennings American Legion Hospital. “Similar to a stress test that shows how the body reacts to intense conditions, pregnancy puts the body under conditions like these and can show the potential for health problems later on in a woman’s life.” Gestational diabetes is one such condition that shows up during pregnancy, and then usually disappears once the baby is delivered. It can cause complications in a small percentage of pregnancies, but can usually be successfully handled through close monitoring of blood sugar and eating habits during the pregnancy. The baby’s health is not usually affected, although some babies tend to weigh more at birth when compared to mothers who did not have gestational diabetes. “Years ago, it was thought that once the pregnancy was over, most problems from gestational diabetes disappeared as well,” said Dr. Bailey. “Today, we know that gestational diabetes may be a risk factor for full-blown diabetes.” Studies have shown that women who are diagnosed with gestational diabetes during pregnancy may have a higher tendency to have diabetes or metabolic syndrome later in life. According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, five to 10% of women with gestational diabetes are found to have type 2 diabetes after pregnancy. Women who have had gestational diabetes have a 20% - 50% chance of developing diabetes in the next five to 10 years. Gestational diabetes is routinely screened between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy. It occurs when pregnancy hormones interfere with the body’s ability to use insulin, the hormone that turns blood sugar into energy, resulting in high blood sugar levels. Two to five percent of American women develop gestational diabetes. “Getting this diagnosis during a pregnancy isn’t welcome news, but it can be a wake up call that they may have a tendency to have glucose problems and it’s something to watch in years to come,” explained Dr. Bailey. Getting blood pressure checked is routine for every doctor’s office visit, and a prenatal visit is no exception. When high blood pressure is detected in a pregnant woman and protein is found in the urine, it is an indication of preeclampsia, a more severe and elevated level of blood pressure during pregnancy. It can also be associated with organ damage. Women who develop preeclampsia are more likely to develop increased heart calcification later in life than women who maintained a normal blood pressure, according to researchers with the Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care in The Netherlands. Researchers studied 491 healthy postmenopausal women, 31% of whom reported having hypertension during previous pregnancies. A calcium screening was used to detect any coronary artery calcium that might be present in the women; this type of calcium is a marker for coronary artery disease. Women with a history of high blood pressure during pregnancy had a 57% increased risk of having coronary calcification compared with women who had normal blood pressure during pregnancy. If left untreated, gestational diabetes and preeclampsia can cause
May 2011
by Christine Fisher
serious problems for both the mother and the unborn baby. That is why regular prenatal visits are important. “The routine checks that occur at each visit such as blood pressure and urine screenings give us important information to work with during the pregnancy to monitor the overall health of the mother and baby,” said Dr. Bailey. After pregnancy, women who were diagnosed with these serious conditions should continue to monitor symptoms to avoid potential problems in the future. Getting in the habit of checking blood pressure is a good idea. It is painless and quick, and should be done routinely. 120 over 80 is the recommended reading. Checking glucose levels can’t be done as simply as for blood pressure, but it is worth the extra effort. Blood glucose meters are used by pricking a finger with a lancet, a very small needle. The drop of blood is then put onto a testing strip and inserted into the monitoring device. Readings above 110 mg/ dl after fasting or above 150 mg/dl when taken randomly during the day, regardless of mealtime, are considered high and should be reported to a physician. Glucose testing can also be done through most family practice or internal medicine physicians’ offices. “Problems during a pregnancy can give clues to the potential for greater problems in years to come. It’s important to pay attention to these situations, treat the current problem, but be aware of the risk for similar concerns,” said Dr. Bailey. “Knowing how your body reacts under stress can give clues that can be life-saving later on.” For more information about pregnancy-related concerns, call Dr. Bailey’s office at 824-6150.
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Women
Premenstrual Syndrome Most women experience an array of unpleasant or uncomfortable symptoms during their menstrual cycle. For some women, the symptoms are significant, but of short duration and not disabling. Other women, however, may have one or more of a broad range of symptoms that temporarily disturb normal functioning. These symptoms may last from a few hours to many days. The types and intensity of symptoms vary in individuals. This group of symptoms is referred to as premenstrual syndrome, or PMS. Although the symptoms usually cease with onset of the menstrual period, in some women, symptoms may last through and after their menstrual periods. “Nearly 85 percent of women, during their reproductive years, experience at least one of the common symptoms associated with PMS,” says Matthew Scroggs, M.D., OB/GYN on staff at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital. “It is estimated that 5 percent of women have symptoms so extreme that they are considered disabled by the condition.” In general, women most likely to experience PMS symptoms are between the ages of 20 and 40 and have a history of depression in their family. “There are many signs and symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome,” says Dr. Scroggs. “However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. The symptoms of PMS may also resemble other conditions or medical problems. I recommend patients consult a physician for diagnosis.” Symptoms of PMS may include: • Psychological symptoms: irritability, nervousness, lack of control, agitation, insomnia, sadness, depression, confusion, crying spells, decreased self-image, paranoia, severe fatigue, anxiety and anger • Fluid retention: edema (swelling of the ankles, feet and hands), periodic weight gain, breast fullness and pain • Gastrointestinal symptoms: abdominal cramps, bloating, constipation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, backache, pelvic heaviness and pressure • Neurologic and vascular symptoms: headache, vertigo, fainting, sensitivity of arms and/or legs, easy bruising, heart palpitations and muscle spasms • Skin disorders: acne, skin inflammation with itching, aggravation of skin disorders, including cold sores • Other symptoms: decreased coordination, painful menstruation, diminished libido (sex drive), food cravings and hot flashes “The cause of premenstrual syndrome is unclear, but seems to be related to fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels in the body and does not necessarily denote disabled ovarian functioning,” Dr. Scroggs adds. “Social, cultural, biological, and psychological factors have been identified as possible contributors of PMS.” For some women, making simple lifestyle changes helps to reduce the occurrence of PMS symptoms. These changes may include: • regular exercise (3 to 5 times each week) • a well-balanced diet. It is generally recommended that women with PMS increase their intake of whole grains, vegetables, and fruit, while decreasing their intake of salt, sugar, caffeine, and alcohol. • adequate sleep and rest • not smoking Aside from a complete medical history and physical and pelvic examination, diagnostic procedures for PMS are currently very limited. 18 19
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Your physician may consider recommending a psychiatric evaluation to, more or less, provide a differential diagnosis (to rule out other possible conditions). In addition, your physician may ask that you keep a journal or diary of your symptoms for several months, to better assess the timing, severity, onset, and duration of symptoms. “Specific treatment for PMS will be determined by your physician based on your age, overall health and medical history, extent of the condition, current symptoms and your tolerance for specific medications, procedures or therapies,” says Dr. Scroggs. For more information about premenstrual syndrome, or other women’s health topics, log on to www.lcmh.com.
PMS
Thrive Magazine for Better Living
May 2011
Women and Heart Disease Many women fear cancer as the most likely cause of death. The simple truth is, each year more women die of heart disease and stroke than men. The overall lifetime risk of a woman dying from cardiovascular disease or stroke is nearly 50 percent. The statistics are alarming. Surveys show fewer than one in 10 women perceive heart disease as their greatest health threat. Unfortunately it’s the nation’s number one killer, and women are its prime target. The risk of heart attack and stroke increases with age, especially after menopause. But the damage starts early on. Atherosclerosis, the condition in which plaque—thick, hard cholesterol deposits—forms in artery walls to restrict or block blood flow and cause chest pain or even a heart attack, starts in your teens and 20s. That’s why it is important to start protecting yourself from heart disease at a younger age. “First, you should get your cholesterol and blood pressure checked. The higher either of them is, the greater your risks for heart disease or heart attack,” said John Winterton, MD, cardiologist with Lake Charles Memorial Hospital. “A lipoprotein profile, a blood test done after a 9- to 12-hour fast, will measure the fats in your blood to indicate your levels of total cholesterol, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, HDL (“good”) cholesterol and triglycerides, another form of fat in the blood,” Dr. Winterton adds. In general, you are at lower risk if your total cholesterol is less than 200 mg/dL; LDL, less than 100 mg/dL; HDL, greater than 40 mg/dL (but preferably greater than 60); and triglycerides, less than 150 mg/dL. Normal blood pressure is 119/79 or lower. Pre-hypertension, which means it is likely that high blood pressure will develop in the future, is 120 to 139 for the top number and 80 to 89 for the lower number. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is classified as140/90 or higher. According to Dr. Winterton your lipoprotein profile tells only part of the story. “Your doctor will use your profile in combination with other data, such as your medical history and family history of heart disease, to assess your risk and determine whether to recommend cholesterol-lowering medication,” says Dr. Winterton. “Your doctor may advise you to make diet and lifestyle modifications before prescribing medication. For most women, heart disease is preventable by making important changes that can reduce their risk.” Dr. Winterton offers the following ways to head off this silent killer.
Get moving
At least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week does more than help you burn calories. It can reduce your risk of heart disease by raising your HDL’s. It can also reduce LDLs.
Eat your fruits & veggies
Eat plenty of fresh produce—at least 2-1/2 cups of vegetables and 2 cups of fruits daily. Studies link diets high in fruits and vegetables with lower blood pressure and a reduced risk for heart disease.
Fiber up every day
Oatmeal, whole-grain bread and other whole-grain foods are excellent sources of soluble fiber, which helps reduce LDL cholesterol. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults have 6 to 9 ounces of grains per day. Half of this amount should be whole grains.
Drink alcohol in moderation
Women should limit alcohol to no more than one drink per day, the equivalent of 12 ounces of beer, 4 to 5 ounces of wine or 1-1/2 ounces of 80-proof spirits. For more information about the risk factors and treatment options associated with heart disease, log on to www.lcmh.com or call the Heart & Vascular Center at (337) 494-3278.
Lose weight
Being overweight increases blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It also increases your risk for type 2 diabetes, a condition in which your body can’t use insulin to transport glucose into cells, where it can be used for energy. Type 2 diabetes itself increases your risk for blocked arteries and heart attack. By bringing your weight down to its optimal level, you’ll lower your cholesterol level and blood pressure and make your body more sensitive to the effects of insulin.
Stop smoking
Smokers have more than twice the risk for heart attack than nonsmokers. The chemicals in cigarette smoke can shrink coronary arteries, making it tough for blood to circulate. Smoking can also cause the lining of blood vessels to become stickier, which makes blood clots more likely, which can cause stroke.
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Women
Menopause:
a Weighty Issue?
American women gain an average of approximately one pound a year between their mid-40s and their mid-50s. This is the same timeframe encompassing those years just before and after menopause. Coincidence? Most women choose to think not, preferring to blame weight gain on dropping hormone levels that are associated with menopause. Research results deliver a different conclusion. Several studies, including the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI), a large, multi-year, government-sponsored study of women’s health in the years after menopause, have found that the changes of menopause do not necessarily cause weight gain. This news may be hard to swallow for women who are experiencing weight gain on top of the other unwelcome symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats and sleeplessness. But Scott Bergsted, MD, ob/gyn with OBG-1, says those extra pounds are more likely due to aging in general and genetics, not hormonal changes. As both sexes get older, the number of calories their bodies use declines. “Many people who have never had problems with their weight find themselves fighting midlife weight gain,” says Dr. Bergstedt. He explains that body metabolism actually slows by approximately five percent each decade of your life. “Once enough years go by, you’ll find it more difficult to maintain or lose weight if you don’t do anything to compensate for this change, such as adjusting your diet or and exercise level.” Other research has found that changing levels of hormones at menopause may have some effect on women’s proportion of lean mass to fat, and that hormones may also affect where that fat settles on the body -- around the waist, for example, rather than a more even distribution. “These changes may give women the impression that menopause is the major cause of their weight gain, but in general, it’s just a convenient, accepted ‘medical myth,’” says Dr. Bergstedt. “But it’s actually the natural aging process, combined with the ongoing trend toward higher fat diets and less exercise that lead to midlife weight gain. It’s something all women should be concerned about because extra weight at this age is much more than just an appearance issue. It puts you at an increased risk of numerous serious health problems, including heart
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disease, diabetes and some cancers.” Charlotte Antonetz, fitness instructor with LA Fitness, agrees, saying that inactivity is probably the biggest contributor to weight gain at midlife. “This is the age at which people are most likely to work physical activity right out of their hectic schedules, and women are the worst culprits. Women at this stage of life are often busy taking care of their families, homes, job and all that entails, and less likely to be ‘on the move’, meaning fewer calories are burned during the normal course of the day. Extra exercise is needed during this period to prevent weight gain.” She says that as you age, the body also loses lean muscle mass. “Muscle burns more calories than fat, even while people are at rest. Lost muscle is replaced with fat, so fewer calories are burned. Regular exercise, including strength training, can help maintain lean muscle through midlife and beyond.” Numerous research studies have found that women who maintain or increase physical activity are going to see less of the body changes typically blamed on menopause at midlife, according to Antonetz. Women who are physically active have lower body fat, maintain smaller waists and gain less weight than those who are not physically active. The tried and true message of eating right holds true at midlife more than ever, adds Dr. Bergstedt. “Eating a nutritional, balanced that includes a lot of fruits and vegetables can help you cut calories and lose weight in a healthy way. And keep in mind that because your metabolism slows as you get older and go through menopause, you need about 200 to 400 fewer calories a day.” The recommendation for exercise is for moderate intensity activity on most if not all days of the week for a minimum of 30 minutes. Antonetz says this would be any activity that is comparable to walking at a 20-minute-mile pace. “Find something you enjoy doing and make a commitment to working it into your regular schedule.” “We’re not saying that keeping weight off is easy at midlife, but weight gain is something you can control at every age,” says Dr. Bergstedt. “And as an added bonus, eating right and exercising regularly will not only help prevent weight gain during menopause, research has shown that these healthy habits will help reduce other menopausal symptoms as well.”
Thrive Magazine for Better Living
by Kristy Armand
May 2011
May 2011
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Fighting for Wellness
Beatby Beat by Erin Kelly
Kellie Hutchinson Walters’ mother was a cardiac nurse and worked with recovering adult heart patients, so she was aware of the American Heart Association at a young age and knew the important role the organization played in the fight for patient wellness. She never considered that the AHA would work more directly in her life, but when her five-week-old son Lucas Grant was hospitalized for severe congestive heart failure last year she looked around the intensive care unit one day and thought about all of the technology that was keeping her son alive. Kellie and her husband never expected their first son would need such critical intervention. When he was born nurses discovered a heart murmur and a pediatric cardiologist notified the Walters that little Lucas had a congenital heart defect called ventricular septal defect; she said surgery may be needed later but there was no immediate emergency. The Walters were told to bring Lucas to the cardiologist for weekly check-ups and for several weeks, there was little change in his condition. “Then, when Lucas was about five weeks old, I noticed something just wasn’t right. He was very fussy and wasn’t sleeping well. Being first-time parents, we took him to the pediatrician just to make sure he wasn’t ill. That doctor noticed his chest retracting inward when he took a breath. The next day we were back at the cardiologist and before we knew it Lucas was hospitalized for congestive heart failure,” Kellie said. “That day is when we realized it was worse than we imagined.” Lucas was loaded with medications during his time in the intensive care unit at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital. Over the next few months his condition worsened – he wasn’t gaining weight and he had reached his maximum medicinal intake. The family was referred to the Children’s Hospital in New Orleans for surgery to repair his VSB. Eight days before Christmas 2010, Lucas underwent open heart surgery and spent eight days in the cardiac intensive care unit. In the months since, Lucas has grown into a healthy, happy, normal boy, according to his parents. “He will always be a heart patient, but as of now he has no issues and no restrictions,” Kellie said. “Lucas is the strongest little boy I know. He’s been through more in his first few months of life than most people ever have to go through. And we are thankful for that, because he and his parents will be stronger and better than we would have been without his story.” There’s another thing for which the Walters are deeply thankful: Organizations like the American Heart Association. “Without organizations like the AHA, that life-saving technology would not have been at my child’s bedside (and) the education of his caretakers would not be at its finest. We are still in awe of the talented team of surgeons and nurses who are dedicated to just pediatric heart patients,” she said. The family has become vocal advocates for the non-profit organization as a result of their experience and became involved in the AHA’s annual
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Southwest Louisiana Heart Gala, held this month at L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort. The gala’s “Red Dress, Red Tie, Red Wine” raised funds to directly support local, regional and national efforts of the AHA. “Research is critical to saving lives,” said Larry Graham, administrator of Lake Charles Memorial Hospital and chair of this year’s Heart Gala. “Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Louisiana.” Research funded by the American Heart Association has led to many important discoveries like CPR, pacemakers, life extending drugs and surgical procedures that save thousands of lives each year. For information on how to donate to the AHA, purchase tickets for fund-raising events, or volunteer for the organization, call 348-6188 or email janice.ackley@ heart.org.
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Kellie and Lucas
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Meet
13
Thriving Thirtysomethings!
GUILTY of going above and beyond the call of duty for others and our community. by Erin Kelly
For many, the thirties are a bridging decade – a crossover from the freedom of young adulthood to the obligations of adult responsibility. It is when we set the course for our careers, think about our financial futures and realize that life is ruled by our best decisions. Thrive, in its quest to celebrate those who have prospered during this monumental decade, asked readers to nominate someone in their thirties who has epitomized what it means to be thriving – HERE ARE YOUR THRIVING THIRTEEN.
Allison Kuhn When Allison Kuhn volunteers with the annual Science Bowl, hosted by the Louisiana Department of Energy, she imagines that one of the participating students will one day discover a cure for Alzheimer’s or develop a vaccine to prevent cancer and autism. It’s her belief in the power of science and youth that motivates her. Guilty: “Without the continued Engineering influx of young men and bright women in the area of futures. science, we would not be able to sustain the advances we have been able to make – from horse-drawn carriages to astronauts in space,” Kuhn said. “Helping our youth to not only see their own potential, but to develop it, reaps incredible rewards for the world.” It is people like Kuhn who pave the way for those youth. A woman in a predominantly male field, she was the first female senior site representative at the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. She earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from LSU and an M.B.A. from Georgia College and State University in 2004. She began a federal career as a process and facilities engineer for the Department of Defense before joining the SPR as a resident engineer.
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“I don’t look at my being a woman in a male field as being a challenge as much as I look at it as an opportunity to prove that women, even young women, have what it takes to excel and lead,” Kuhn said. In addition to involving herself professionally in her field, Kuhn has clocked more than 300 volunteer hours with organizations like the Junior League. “Volunteering has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. The gift of time, talent or treasure in any amount that can be spared from each of us can mean so much to others and there are many others in need right here in our own backyard,” she said. “I believe that with a little help from everyone, the opportunity to improve our community is boundless.”
Brooks DonalD-Williams
Thrive Magazine for Better Living
Guilty: A true and relentless winning attitude.
At the end of the 2009-2010 season the McNeese Cowgirls were buried at the bottom of the NCAA women’s basketball league. After competing in the Southland Conference Tournament in 2008 and 2009, the Cowgirls had reached an athletic valley and looked to their coach,
May 2011
Brooks Donald-Williams, to pull them out. She had already proven herself – since her hiring in 2007, the Cowgirls had celebrated the most wins since 1999-2000 – but now was the time for her and her team to prove that the Cowgirls had yet to reach their peak. One year later, Donald-Williams would be named Louisiana Coach of the Year by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association for guiding the Cowgirls to the biggest turnaround in NCAA history. Under her leadership, the Cowgirls claimed 26 victories, won the Southland Conference regular season and tournament titles and advanced to the first NCAA Tournament in the program’s history. “Winning can be defined in so many different ways,” Donald-Williams said. “For McNeese Cowgirl basketball, we consider it ‘winning’ when we are giving ourselves opportunities to succeed in the classroom, in the community and on the court. At the end of the day I want our girls to know they have prepared themselves in the best possible way for the opportunities before them, whether that’s a game situation or for a test, or – most importantly – in life.” Away from the court, Donald-Williams and the Cowgirls involve themselves in several community endeavors, including Toys for Tots, Special Olympics and the Ethel Precht Cancer Walk. She recognizes that athletes have long shouldered the responsibility to serve as role models and holds herself and the team to that standard. “Kids get to witness the discipline and drive that athletes have for their sport. It teaches them that anything is possible if you put in the work and have the determination,” she said. “I want young people to understand that they can accomplish anything. No matter how short or tall, no matter how quick or slow, if you put your heart into what you want and work for it with all your might, it can happen. Anything is possible. Dream big. Work bigger.”
Clair thomson When the news reports of Hurricane Rita were broadcast, Cameron native Clair Thomson saw her 80-year-old grandmother, a Hurricane Audrey survivor, Guilty shed a silent tear. At Turning: that moment, she knew that their lives would be disaster segmented in two parts into triumph – Life Before Rita and Life . After. Thomson was an English teacher at the time and never thought she would ever work in the field of disaster management or recovery, but in the aftermath of Hurricane Rita she found herself with both hands in the mayhem, working for FEMA and declaring to all who would listen that she was an Hebert from Cameron Parish with a grandmother from Maurice. In other words: she was one of them. As a FEMA representative, Thomson successfully managed more than 11,000 FEMA temporary housing units across nine parishes. Her involvement in disaster management soon led her to a position with the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, where she oversees more than $35 million in hurricane recovery projects and is involved in the development of the Southwest Louisiana Entrepreneurial and Economic Development Center, a project funded by the Hurricane Katrina/Rita Housing and Urban Development Community Development Block Grant. The SEED Center is
May 2011
designed to provide comprehensive services to the business community. “What I am most proud of is the fact that we turned a disaster situation into a benefit for our regional economy. That’s what the SEED Center symbolizes for me,” said Thomson, whose other community endeavors include the Southwest Louisiana Community Organization Active in Disaster, Fusion Five, and involvement in the Southwest Louisiana Alliance housing study and Southwest Louisiana Innovation and Technology grant. “I have learned that human beings are more powerful than any disaster. Our resilient spirit is what makes us who we are as a people.”
dave evans In the opinion of entrepreneur Dave Evans, the heart of any city beats downtown. Evans, owner of Luna Bar and Grill at 719 Ryan Street, has been an active champion of downtown development in Lake Charles since he moved his restaurant there six years ago. He believes wholeheartedly in the power and Guilty: talent of local artists and Believing in the musicians and has used his power of art, restaurant – a successful culture and and thriving business in downtown. a neighborhood that has seen others come and go at a disappointing pace – as a cultural hub. His restaurant is outfitted by the work of local visual artists and the outside stage provides a venue for regional bands and musicians, including his own. Luna has become the hotspot for live local music and an entrepreneurial beacon of downtown Lake Charles. “First and foremost, downtown should be the heartbeat of any city. I think about it every day. The downtown of this city should be thriving just like the downtown of every city. It’s the cultural hub and entertainment district. It’s where we should look for entertainment and arts. Besides its historical structures, there’s so much there. The downtown is what should house all that stuff,” Evans said. “It’s really hard to get the perception of a dreary place out of people’s minds. A town with a thriving downtown is a successful town. Little by little folks are getting it.” In addition to managing the restaurant and fronting the band Fresh Nectar, Evans has previously used Luna to play host to the annual Earth Fest and has been vocal about the need to make downtown more environmentally friendly. After six years as a downtown business, customers continue to crowd Luna’s dining room and patio, even as neighbors shut their doors and emerge as something new. Despite the business turnaround, he maintains his optimism in downtown Lake Charles. “Downtown deserves locally owned businesses. Us producing us – what we’re made of,” he said.
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heath allen According to Heath Allen, airports are the front door of any community. They are often the first and last impression that a traveler experiences when stepping foot in an unfamiliar town. After Southwest Louisiana’s regional door was kicked down by Hurricane Rita, it was up to Allen, named executive director of the airport in 2008, to build Guilty: something better. He was Flying high not yet thirty years old, but with a team of professionals at 32. behind him, that’s exactly what he did. “Much like the lakefront and other public structures in Southwest Louisiana, we wanted the airport to be a public entity that everyone could take pride in. We felt that it was important to not only rebuild, but rebuild better than before,” Allen said. Under his leadership, the Lake Charles Regional Airport opened a 45,000 square-foot terminal that offers second-floor passenger loading, a gift shop, café and state-of-the-art baggage claim. In 2009, American Eagle began servicing American Airlines flights into and out of Dallas-Ft. Worth, joining the already existing Continental Express service to Houston. At 32, Allen is entering the second of a two-year term as president of the Louisiana Airport Managers and Associates Organization. “It’s important for everyone to play an active role in working to better our community. So many people can bring different skills and abilities to the table that can help in many ways,” said Allen, who is active with the Chamber Southwest and Kiwanis Club. “Our Chamber does a great job working to better our economy, which the foundation of a strong and prosperous community. This also helps the airport grow, so my role is a winwin – growth for the airport and a better community to live in. With all the organizations I’m active in, I try to participate and make at least a little bit of a difference.”
jason barnes
Guilty: Bringing big-city culture to a midtown region.
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When Movies Under the Stars presented Disney’s Beauty and the Beast recently at Prien Lake Park, Jason Barnes caught a glimpse of a family of four, including a burly father, singing “Be Our Guest” together. “They were fully engaged in the movie and enjoying their family time together. I really enjoy seeing things like that – families spending quality time together, happy and smiling,” Barnes said. This event was particularly special because Barnes, special programs
and cultural affairs coordinator for the parish, was instrumental in bringing the regular spring event to the area. “Movies Under the Stars came about because of events I’d see in other communities. When I go to Houston or other bigger cities and see what they’re up to, one of the first things I think is: We need to do that in Calcasieu Parish. People think that we can’t do certain things because we’re a smaller community, but we are very capable of doing what other cities are doing. We just have to figure out ways to make it ours.” Barnes has played a key role in developing several cultural events for the area, including Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at Historic City Hall, Christmas Under the Oaks, National Night Out and the Sulphur Heritage Festival. He also spearheaded the region’s recent anti-litter campaign. “I just enjoy trying new things and I’m fortunate enough to work for and with people who give me the opportunity to do different special projects, whether it deals with coastal affairs, cultural events or mental health issues,” Barnes said. “Instead of asking ‘why,’ like ‘why does this community have something that we don’t?’ I ask ‘why not?’ Why can’t Lake Charles have the same things as other places? It seems like people these days want everything to come to them, but if you really want something you have to seek it out.”
jennifer wallace
Guilty: Being the queen of advancement.
For Jennifer Wallace, the pageant circuit provided the building blocks that would create the foundation for her future success. It was under the crown of festival queen that she learned how to think on her feet, be prepared for anything, and talk to people from all walks of life. A high school civics instructor inspired her to major in government in college, but it was touring as Mrs. Louisiana that she was able to meet lobbyists, Congressional delegates, governors, attorneys and other movers-and-shakers
that kept that interest alive. “I have fond memories of being a 20-year-old college student speaking to the full Louisiana House of Representatives about our varied fairs and festivals. It was around that time that I realized I was best suited to work on the local level of government because that is where I would have the greatest impact,” Wallace said. She started as an intern for the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury in 1993 and has since worked her way to assistant director of advanced planning, where she has been responsible for leading long-range comprehensive land-use plans for the parish, played an integral role in Vision: Calcasieu, a forwardthinking plan for the future of the region, and served as administrator for more than $30 million in recovery funds allocated to the parish for Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Gustav and Ike. She is also involved in Fusion Five and the Calcasieu Parish Long Term Recovery Group and is a former member of the Louisiana Board of Commerce and Industry and an advisor to the International Trade Accord of Acadiana and Imperial Calcasieu. During her pageant days she was first runner-up to Miss Louisiana and was crowned Mrs. Louisiana in 2001. “My ancestors have been in Louisiana since the late 1700s. They were
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obviously a group of people who knew the value of hard work and keeping an eye on the future. My parents made sure to nurture that aspect of my personality,” Wallace said.
kara garofas There is a framed photograph in the office of Kara Garofas. It depicts a deserted, weathered rescue boat with the University of New Orleans marquee in the background. She said it serves as a daily reminder of the struggles that life can throw at you and how it’s Guilty: possible to overcome them Helping with dignity and grace. others Garofas serves as area weather supervisor of Gulf Coast their storms. Social Services, where she provides therapy for juvenile offenders and their families and recently launched an Independent Living Skills Program that provides emancipation services to foster youths ages 16 to 18. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, she facilitated psychosocial intervention programs in Jefferson Parish schools. “Natural disasters or family crises can be powerful agents for change. Unfortunately in some cases it takes this traumatic event to reorganize their lives. Grief and loss isolates victims, but anger can alienate them, so I educate clients to use their anger to empower themselves, propelling them forward to gain control over their situations,” said Garofas, who is involved in the American Counseling Association, Louisiana Counseling Association and Louisiana Mental Health Counselors Association. “With knowledge and strength, taking action can have a healing affect.” After years of working first-hand with people who have suffered great mental, physical and emotional loss, Garofas has learned that there is a flip side to disaster – a strong and resilient side that grows and flourishes in the wake of tragedy. “We are programmed for survival. In some cases, people experience a new sense of gratitude and carry it with them,” she said. “While working with people who have suffered various hardships, I have seen triumphs first-hand. I’m reminded of a quote by Winston Churchill – ‘We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.’”
kimberly dellafosse
Guilty: Mentoring young women while looking GLAMorous. May 2011
Registered nurse Kimberly Dellafosse long fantasized about owning a Hollywoodinspired spa. After years of planning and researching, the dream finally took hold and she sacrificed the comfort of an established career for an extremely risky business venture – a luxury spa located in central Lake Charles. There were doubters, but today Glam-N-Gloss Day Spa continues to offer
hip and chic services to clients from all walks of life. Its mission to promote beauty goes beyond luxury massages and pedicures, however. In addition to running her business, Dellafosse uses her knowledge of beauty and skin care to mentor young girls. Her goal is to show girls how to embrace the beauty of their minds, bodies and souls. She launched an organization called the Glam Squad, a group of girls ages 14 to 17 who meet regularly to talk about the practical and philosophical aspects of what it means to be beautiful. The group recently sold raffle tickets for spa services and used the money to buy beauty products for the women’s shelter. “We wanted to restore beauty to women who are going through a difficult time in their lives and I wanted the girls to appreciate the beauty that exists in their own lives,” said Dellafosse, who also serves as a mentor to fourth-grade girls at Oak Park Elementary. “Not all children are blessed with good role models. It’s up to others in the community to fill that void so that child doesn’t get left behind.” Although she initially stepped forward to serve as an inspiration, she said the young girls inspire her in countless ways. “The fourth-graders show me what it means to be resilient. Some of these children are going through terrible times in their lives, but they still get up in the morning and go to school with the same happiness and joy as anyone else,” she said. “The teenagers teach me not to take myself so seriously. They keep me young at heart. When we’re adults, we assume we have to be serious. They show me that’s not always true.”
NIKKI FONTENOT When Nikki Fontenot came home to Southwest Louisiana after working as a trading analyst in Houston, she went through Guilty: a culture Believing in shock. The the power local level of of youth. professionalism, particularly among young adults, left much to be desired. She took a job at AG Edwards, but along the way she jotted down thoughts in her notebook, asking herself the same question: If I could tell this generation something, what would it be? The notebook would eventually become the foundation for Interview for Life, a program that provides career and life skills to students to help them transition into the professional business world. The three-day motivational workshop piloted at LaGrange High School in 2006 and has skyrocketed to such popularity that it now requires three additional facilitators. “We want to teach these kids to shine their shoes, pull their belts up and go out and get what they want. You can either pout about not having what you want or you can go out and get in the game – get that job, get that promotion, find out what you want to do with your life,” Fontenot said. “The earlier we can get them to sit down and have their own dream, the more likely they will stay in school and follow that dream.”
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Nikki, who left her job at AG Edwards to focus on Interview for Life, was entrenched in its launch when her daughter Maci, then four years old, was diagnosed with eye cancer. Texas Children’s Hospital became the Fontenots’ second home, but they maintained their optimism and Maci’s positive attitude soon caught the attention of the Make a Wish Foundation, an organization that grants wishes of children suffering from life-threatening illnesses. Maci met the Jonas Brothers through the work of the foundation, but more importantly, she inspired Nikki to get active in the organization. A June fund-raiser, to be held at the Lake Charles Civic Center, is in the works, as is a fall event called the Make a Difference Challenge. “I have learned that things aren’t always the way you want them to be, but in the end, it will all be okay,” Fontenot said.
trista ledet ames In May 2010, longtime civil rights advocate Shannon Cox and attorney Beth Zilbert were driving home from an appointment with a client when a car crossed the center lane and crashed into their vehicle. Cox was killed instantly. Guilty: g in er Zilbert was rushed ow p Em to s to a hospital and er h ot r ei began a long and th ll fulfi grueling recovery s. m a re d process. Meanwhile, office manager Trista Ledet Ames manned the front desk of the People’s Advocate, a foundation co-founded by Cox and Zilbert to promote civil rights and social justice, advocate for child welfare, end violence against women, children and animals, and fight for environmental justice. The agency was still in its infancy when Ames was left with the responsibility of dealing with clients who were suffering through their own hardships. “I’d be here alone, thinking about what we’d lost and the mountain that we had to climb to get beyond it. I knew that it was vital to keep the doors open so we could continue helping people. We are the only ones doing what we do and I knew that it would hurt Beth to know that the work she began (might end) because of the tragedy,” Ames said. “I came back to the People’s Advocate to keep her mission – our mission, my mission – alive.” Ames, who started working at the office as an intern, didn’t limit herself to menial office tasks or to-do lists. She got her hands in the mix, offering input into the agency’s work and serving as a voice for their struggling clients. Despite the tragedies that surmounted the People’s Advocate – not only the accident that took Cox’s life, but the difficulties endured by their clients, who had few other avenues available to help them – Ames said her work only solidified her positive outlook on life. She was so inspired by her work that she formed “I am Gracious,” a faith-based non-profit organization designed to promote self-esteem and confidence in girls ages 12 to 18. “I would see young girls who seemed so focus on getting their validation based on the way they looked, and seeking to get that validation from young men or just about anywhere they thought was feasible,” Ames said. “I wanted to share with them the validation I received from my parents. I’d like to see girls grow up and really do something with their lives, and not let others kill their dreams. We see that all the time.”
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tyson green, dpm As a foot and ankle specialist at the Center for Orthopaedics, Dr. Tyson Green knows how to provide treatment, but his true passion is prevention. A big part his practice is caring for patients with diabetes whose disease has affected their feet. His experience, including participation in numerous Guilty: research studies, has led him Speaking out to realize that prevention for is one of the weakest links prevention. in the health care chain, particularly when it comes to diabetes. “Diabetes education should be focused on prevention, asking people what they’re doing now to take care of themselves instead of waiting for a condition to develop, and on education for those who already have diabetes,” he said. As a member of the medical staff of the wound care centers at CHRISTUS St. Patrick and West Calcasieu Cameron Hospitals, Dr. Green sees first-hand the serious consequences of unmanaged disease. His newest project is working with several other doctors to start a local chapter of the Save a Leg, Save a Life Foundation, a group whose goal is to reduce the number of lower extremity amputations and to improve the quality of life for individuals in our community afflicted with wounds and complications of diabetes and peripheral arterial disease,” he stressed. Dr. Green doesn’t wait for patients to come to him before he gets off the sidelines. He’s taken initiative in preventative health care in the region by spearheading symposiums for healthcare professionals and community seminars at Center for Orthopaedics. He says he’s willing to talk to any audience who is interested in his message of prevention. He speaks to young athletes about the importance of taking care of their bodies – everything from conditioning to selecting the ideal running shoe. In addition to community outreach through education, Dr. Green has led the charge in getting his colleagues and employees involved in fundraising events such as the Free to Breathe 5K and the annual Heart Walk. Dr. Green has a special interest in sports medicine and has worked with both high school and college athletes to maximize their performance by streamlining their biomechanics, providing custom orthotics or complete medication of cleats their cleats or shoes. “Individual attention and education can help athletes maximize their potential and reduce their risk of injury, and my goal is to work with local high school and McNeese athletes to introduce this aspect of sports medicine.” Originally from Lafayette, Dr. Green says being here is just like being home. “I want to make sure I have a presence in the community, doing something I love, which is helping patients before they become patients – getting to know people in the community before they suffer an injury,” Dr. Green said. “Too much of what we learn as physicians is how to react to a condition. More people need to be trained on how to prevent it. We need to focus on prevention as much as possible. In Southwest Louisiana we don’t have a strong enough grasp on that aspect of health care. I want to be a part of changing that.”
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wayne smith When children leave Wayne Smith’s fifth-grade classroom, he has three great hopes for them. “I want them to apply the tools they’ve been given so they can become life-long learners. I want them to confident in themselves, and I want them to stand up for what they believe in without being afraid,” Smith said. Guilty: “Teachers serve not only as Running a educators, but as mentors hopeful and role models. We must classroom. take pride in being the only field that sculpts tomorrow’s leaders in government, medicine and business.” Smith, who was recently voted Teacher of the Year at Nelson Elementary School, said he strives to create an environment where there is a balance of classroom management, multisensory teaching strategies and open discussion.
“Going into this profession, I don’t think I understood the impact that teachers have on their students’ lives,” said Smith, who has been teaching for seven years. “Teachers have the ability to make a child’s day or ruin it. We all have to make that choice. Those are the moments that are most important in life. The children teach me that something that may seem really important in my life may not really be that big of a deal. They teach me that everything will be okay and I shouldn’t take myself too seriously.” Smith created the Nelson Running Club after watching some of his more unsettled students struggle with pent-up energy and lack of focus. He said he often suffered from the same issues when he was in school and often went for runs when he was working on his second master’s degree at LSU. The runs helped him clear his head and release energy. The running club is now in its third year and includes nearly fifty students. Rather than limiting their activities to school tracks or at-home jogs, Smith gets the club involved in local events that raise money and awareness for various causes. “The children take pride in their running,” he said. “By introducing our future to the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle, we are equipping them with the tools required to be active community members that strive for the betterment of our city.”
Friends,
We Support Nic Hunter
Working within my business, with customers, and with employees has helped me better understand myself. Firstly, I learned through the school of hard knocks how to run a business. I learned fiscal conservatism. Secondly, I learned how much I love interacting with the public. Thirdly, I realized how much I genuinely love Southwest Louisiana. This is my home and it always will be—Southwest Louisiana is the only place in the world for me. We have a strong, passionate community and it has been an honor and privilege to have served with citizens toward common business and philanthropic goals. These efforts have helped me understand where my talents can make a tangible difference right here at home. With these themes as my inspiration, I have decided to pursue the Police Jury seat in District 5 this coming October. I have spent many hours in prayer and personal contemplation, and this is not a decision I have come to lightly. I am both excited and passionate about this next step in my life. I humbly ask for your prayers and support.
HUNTER
POLICE JURY DISTRICT 5 May 2011
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Paid for by Nicholas Hunter Police Jury District 5 Campaign Fund—Nic Hunter
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Common Phrases That Don’t Mean What We Think They Mean You may not mean what you say! If you’ve ever used a phrase only to find out that what you said wasn’t at all what you intended to say – welcome to the club. The English language has more words and special phrases than any other - so it’s easy to make a mistake. Here are some commonly used expressions that don’t mean what we think. Getting these straight could save you some confusion and embarrassment.
“I could care less.” Most people use this to mean they couldn’t care less about something. “I could care less” actually means that something’s important to you. So say, “I couldn’t care less.”
“Let’s table this.” In the United States, we use this phrase when we want to stop talking about an issue. In the rest of the English speaking world, it means just the opposite - as in, “Let’s put this on the table right now and discuss it.”
“I did a three-sixty.” If you’re trying to say you reversed your opinion, then what you actually did was a oneeighty. If you turn 360 degrees, you change your direction and then come back to your original position – which means you’ve gone full circle.
“Getting the lion’s share.” This is understood to mean getting the biggest portion of something. However, the phrase originated in one of Aesop’s fables in which the lion took everything - not just the largest portion. Source: JohnTesh.com
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We’ve been here since our community’s grandparents got their first jobs, bought their first homes and began living the American dream. CSE’s assurance is we will be here helping your children as they forge their own way, carrying forth the traditions of their families. Today, CSE offers membership to over 300 Select Employee Groups and their primary family members. Stop by and see how making it all about people can make all the difference. May 2011
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At PPG, we aren’t just proud to be a part of this community. We’re proud to be making life in our community better. It’s a connection that starts with the jobs we provide and continues through dozens of community outreach programs led by employee volunteers. You see it in our environmental initiatives designed to protect and preserve our natural resources for a greener tomorrow. We touch your life in countless ways through the products we make that you use and depend on every day.
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PPG’s “Naturelab – Classroom in the Woods” is a program designed to facilitate environmental education and research in addition to the protection and promotion of wildlife populations. Located in the middle of a 200 acre wooded tract, the Naturelab “barn” is the control center for environmental education.
From the start of it, through the heart of it, PPG is working to make life better.
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The Steps to a Lifestyle Makeover by Erin Kelly
After
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In March of last year Sarah Going’s allergies had reached a breaking point, and she was ready to buckle down and see an allergist. She assumed she would have to get back on regular allergy shots to quell her constant cough and sleepless nights, but before going down that familiar road she decided to try a natural approach first.
“I was ready to try anything,” said Going, who also suffered from hypothyroidism and scoliosis. “I was in that getting-older mode.” In addition to her chronic allergy symptoms, she was about twenty pounds overweight and her energy levels were so low that she had trouble keeping up with her grandchildren. After her initial visits with chiropractor and nutritional consultant Dr. Eric Snow, she was skeptical. Rather than put her on a series of allergy shots and prescription medications, he talked about changing her diet and putting her on a supplemental regimen. “He told me it wouldn’t be an overnight process and I had to give it a while to see any differences. I told myself, ‘I’m giving this six months and then I’m trying something else,’” Going said. At the time her triglycerides – a type of fat found in the blood – were off the charts, her blood pressure teetered near concerning levels and she was on hormone therapy. Blood tests indicated that Going had a sensitivity to dairy and eggs, so she got off them and started reading labels on the food she ate. She added more grains and vegetables to her diet and avoided red meat. She also followed the supplement plan Dr. Snow suggested. Within four months, she felt a difference. She had much more energy and the extra weight was falling off. After a few months, lab tests were run again and her triglycerides had normalized, her blood pressure was in normal range, she’d lost thirty pounds and the allergy symptoms that had plagued her had virtually disappeared. She was also able to get off hormone therapy. “I feel like a new person,” she said. According to Dr. Snow, many people have hidden nutrient
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deficiencies because the standard American diet consists of so many processed foods and sugar carbohydrates. Simply eliminating certain foods can have significant positive effects on overall health that aren’t always realized through traditional prescription medication. “People look for shortcuts in everything. They want a quick fix, but there is no such thing. Getting healthy requires a lifestyle change. Too many people pull through the drive-through and eat a burger without thinking about the physiological consequences of what they’re eating. Any time we put something in our bodies it’s either building our health or tearing it down,” Dr. Snow said. “Unfortunately, many people don’t understand how the body works and can’t see that they’re eating their way to diabetes or other complications. They don’t realize it until they’re older and their system’s weakened.” Once patients begin to experience wellness on a holistic level, it affects all aspects of their lives, Dr. Snow said. “When your soul is strong and you are confident and secure it affects all your relationships in life. You have more energy to be a better parent, employee or spouse,” he said. “When you teach a person how to eat right and take care of their bodies it makes all the difference in the world.”
Before
May 2011
Three men and/or women have the opportunity to win the New You Makeover Challenge, offered by Signatures Salon, Dr. Eric Snow Chiropractic and Nutrition, and CrossFit Lake Charles. The media sponsor is Thrive. “The challenge encompasses the whole person, inside and out,” explained Wendy White McCown, owner of Signatures Salon. “We want to help them feel better about themselves by tackling nutrition and fitness issues then we’ll provide beauty services, giving them a complete transformation.” The makeover package includes a nutritional evaluation and healthy eating plan, personal training sessions, as well as hair and skin treatments. The journey will be documented in Thrive with interviews from the participants and the experts. To enter, visit any of these websites: www.signaturessalon.biz, www. drericsnow.com, www.crossfitlakecharles.com or www.thriveswla.com and look for the New You Makeover Challenge logo. Individuals can nominate themselves or someone else by submitting a brief explanation of why they would like to be chosen. The entry deadline is May 25.
What would you do with a $2,000 scholarship?* twitter.com/ MSFinancialFCU
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*Visit www.twitter.com/MSFinancialFCU for contest rules and specifics. May 2011
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Lost History was Across the Street
Old house inspires historical novel about turbulent Lake Charles of yesteryear by Brett Downer
A doctor in the Garden District bought an old house across the
street. Simple enough. The real story starts when he discovered the home’s forgotten history. Intrigued, and armed with the minor in history he earned at LSU, he dug through research for more than a year and ended up writing a novel that re-animates turn-of-the century Southwest Louisiana with real-life people and the watershed events they endured. Dr. Brian Harrell is the author of “Crimson Stained the Bayou Pines: A Novel of Political Struggle in the Deep South.” The house Harrell bought is the former home of local labor activist Walter Dietz (1878-1971). The Dietz residence doubled as the Louisiana state headquarters of the Socialist Party. At the time, Lake Charles was a busy lumber-mill town and workers were being urged to unionize. Dietz was part of that movement. The bitter offshoot of that uprising was the Grabow Incident -- a 1912 riot in Merryville between the timber industry and union members. Grabow left four men dead and dozens more wounded, and is the source of the book’s title. Harrell’s novel is historical fiction, but its main characters are Dietz and other actual figures from that time. The events of the plot are real. The dialogue takes literary license, but some comes from actual words Harrell found in speeches, writings, courtroom testimony and news accounts. It is the early years of the 20th century. Dietz is a vocal presence in Lake Charles civic affairs, having been sent here by Eugene V. Debs, the five-time Socialist Party candidate for U.S. president. Other real-life figures in the story are Grabow participants J. Phillips and Decatur Hall; union president Arthur Lee Emerson; Father Hubert Cramers, pastor of Immaculate Conception Cathedral; and local surgeon Dr. John G. Martin, co-founder of St. Patrick’s Sanitarium. The story takes place in an extraordinary era in local history. While the labor story builds, the area sees creation of the town’s first hospital in 1908 and Lake Charles’ devastation by the Great Fire of 1910. Some of the details in the book are still facts of life today -- a stroll along Ryan Street, a meeting at the Chavanne Building, a visit to a confessional at the cathedral and the menace of mosquitoes.
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Dietz lived at the wood-frame house from the late 1890s until about 1917. He and his wife, Viola, raised two children there. Harrell bought the old Dietz home in 2008. (His wife Lauren, an architect and preservationist, did the design and schematic drawings for restoration.) Though Harrell grew up in Westlake and Moss Bluff, he had never heard the story of Walter Dietz. Determined to learn it, he went through the files of LSU’s Hill Memorial Library and the Maude Reid scrapbooks in the McNeese State University Archives. “I did a little more than a year of research,” he said. “It took six or eight weeks to write the first draft, then I let it sit for about six weeks. Then I started rewriting it. I rewrote it about eight times.” Photos and historical notes accompany the final effort. Harrell’s intent is to tell a compelling local story, not to judge on Dietz or his politics. Whatever a reader might think of the main character’s views, “Dietz was very intelligent, and very much an organizer,” Harrell said. “He even
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Summer Session Enrolling Now! attended the national Socialist conventions.” Dietz also took part in local forums with local clergy and other civic leaders. “He debated with energy,” Harrell said. “He loved the mental jousting.” Dietz’s unionizing efforts were rather unsuccessful until the labor unrest, Harrell said. Though Grabow Incident was a bloody mark on history, Dietz was more of a debater and pamphleteer. “He did not believe in sabotage or violence,” Harrell said. Overall, the novel “is the burgeoning of Lake Charles from adolescence to adulthood,” Harrell said. “For people who aren’t from here, it gives an idea of the culture.” “You had all these people within three blocks of each other, because Lake Charles was smaller then,” he said. “And the forefront of a national movement was in Lake Charles.” The book is available at all Calcasieu Parish libraries, Stellar Beans, Charleston Gallery and Antiques, French Quarter Antiques, amazon.com, booksamillion. com and barnesandnoble.com.
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Fashion Stylish SummerTrends Summer is finally here and it’s time to heat things up a bit with this year’s summer styles. This summer will come with a whole new feeling of colorful, flirty, relaxed and feminine fashion trends.
by Katie McDaniel
“Trends are not always just in for one season,” said Lauren Lafleur, Owner of Frankie & Co. “Depending on the consumer acceptance, the average time for a trend to come and go is over a 2 year span.” If you’re looking to stay on trend or add to your summer wardrobe, Lauren has offered a number of trends that will stand out during the summer season.
Stripes
Maxi Dresses
High-waisted Bottoms
Stripes seem to hold a place in every wardrobe year after year, but this year, stripes are the pattern of the season. In sticking with the color trend this season, stripes should be big, bold and bright. From horizontal to vertical, stripes are all over this season’s must have tops and dresses.
These long and flowy dresses are extremely feminine and very flattering pieces. Maxi dresses can easily transition from day to night with just a simple change of accessories. With so many different patterns and colors to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect one to add to your summer wardrobe.
High-waisted bottoms will never go out of style, but this season they are back with a vengeance! The high waist helps to elongate your legs and make you appear slimmer. A great way to pull off this trend would be to pair a high-waisted skirt with a flowy top and some strappy sandals.
Boogie for Books
Live Music for Literacy
A day for SWLA literacy awareness, music & culture May 21st 3-10pm
Bright Colors
Spring fashion trends carry over into the summer. For example, bright colored garments gained a lot of popularity early on this spring and will still be a major staple this summer. With this trend, there are endless possibilities. While runways showed entire bright-colored outfits, a more practical take on this trend would be to wear one brightly colored piece of clothing at a time. Try wearing a bright dress with neutral accessories, or a bright top paired with white bottoms and a couple fun accessories. Whichever way you decide to incorporate this trend into your wardrobe, it is the best way to make a bold statement this season.
Crochet and macramé
Another trend that is really starting to catch on this season is crochet and macramé. Because it is often a very open weave, it is best to try and avoid a full crochet or macramé ensemble. Opting for just a touch of one of the two will be your best bet. Layering is also an option with a full crochet or macramé top, just adding a camisole underneath will make the top more wearable. 36 37
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Open-Air Amphitheater, Lake Charles Civic Center $15 • Kids 10 and under free Buy tickets in advance at Central School or at the gate the day of the event.
Help us raise literacy awareness!
• Great local music • Local food vendors & marketplace • Family Fun • Kid’s activities • Free Book Swap–bring a used book & swap it out for another at our Literacy tent
Featuring the following regional artists and bands:
Bobcat Sean Ardoin John Guidroz Paul Gonsoulin
The Kid Carsons Fresh Nectar Flatbed Honeymoon
Supports the Literacy Council of SWLA, a United Way Agency.
Headlining Sponsors Opening Act Sponsors
Supported by a grant from the City of Lake Charles and the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana
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May 2011
Feminine-inspired
Capital One tOwer
Spring brings out the ladylike spirit in everyone and this year the trend is carrying over into the summer. Creamy neutrals give you a polished, feminine look and the colors are great to help keep cool in the hot sun. Flowy blousses, ruffle trims, and knee-skimming dresses in pale pink or a nude color are the best ways to wear this trend.
As for accessories, Lauren suggests keeping them at a minimum this summer, as some of the trends are so daring and bold. “Neutral or metallic shoes, jewelry and bags will be your best bet.” For more information or to view examples of the trends listed here, contact Lauren Lafleur at (337) 564-6617 or visit Frankie & Co. at 3129 Ernest Street in Lake Charles.
Typical floor plan
• Class “A” office space • 6-story parking garage for tenants plus ample visitor parking • Affordable lease rates • Direct access to I-10 • Prominent location • On-site security • On-site banking • Level 5 Salon, Renee’s Café & Gift Shop, Black Tie Drycleaning pickup and delivery • Beautifully Landscaped • Flexible office design • On-site professional management • Overnight delivery drop stations • Nightly cleaning services
L e a s i n g i n f o r m at i o n : M a r k p O l i t z , C p M ® 3 3 7 - 4 3 7 - 1 1 4 2 | M a r k @ h e r t z g r O u p. C O M One lakeshOre Drive | lake Charles, la 70629
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We serve: Ribeye Select • Filet Mignon T-Bone Select • Pork Ribs Boudin • Sausage • Cracklins Ham Hock • Tasso Stuffed Pork Chops Turkey Wings & Necks We process deer sausage.
Ask about our monthly specials! May 2011
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Hats Off to Grads! The Key to College: Get a Plan, Get the 411 and Get Involved by Brett Downer
Sally McPherson is not one of the thousands of young people who mistakenly think they’re supposed to start college as lowly, anonymous freshmen. No, not her. Seeing opportunities on campus right away, the 18-year-old St. Louis High graduate unpacked at LSU last fall and promptly applied at the campus radio station. The freshman psychology major became a voice on campus -- literally -- as the host of “Look Alive,” a live Friday-night radio show on KLSU-FM that centers on bands performing in the Tigerland area. She’s an illustration of how being involved in campus life -- not just classes -- is an important part of college. It’s not limited to upperclassmen, either. Even as a freshman, “it’s so easy for you to get involved -- student media, clubs and organizations,” she said. A freshman can learn from that -- and will. McPherson will share what she already knows about college life with some other new student this fall. She’s part of the volunteer Tiger Transition Team -- a peer mentoring program of students selected by LSU who will serve as one-on-mentors with the next crop of freshmen. “We’re a resource for them,” McPherson said. “We can help them in working with the technology on campus, and we can give some guidance on courses.” As LSU’s online signup form explains, “Mentors and ‘mentees’ have at least one face-to-face meeting per month and stay in touch through e-mail, phone, and social networking sites on an ongoing basis. It’s always nice to have someone looking out for you.” For the high school Class of 2011, McPherson already has some advice based on what she has learned in her first year -- and it applies to students headed to McNeese State University, Sowela Technical Community College, LSU or elsewhere. --On classwork: “Professors, especially in big classes, are more likely to help you if they know you’re willing to put forth the effort, if you talk to them after class or review a test with them,” she said. “They can see you’re more involved when you’re not on Facebook, but listening and taking notes.” --On living on campus versus off campus: “I wanted to live in an apartment to start school, but ended up living in the dorms,” she said, “It actually turned out to be helpful, because I learned where everything was on campus, and I met so many people. It turns out that it’s one of my favorite things.” Plus, she said, “You can wake up at 8:26 and be in class at 8:31.” (Not that this ever happens to college students.)
McNEESE STUDENTS: There to Help
Practical advice like this can also be found at McNeese, which has its own mentoring program for new students. Beyond the usual academic advising services and orientation, there’s the McNeese Blue/Gold Peer Leader program, which pairs newcomers with a select group of scholarship students. Peer Leaders at McNeese know the Cowboy freshman routine firsthand, so they can offer real-life, one-on-one help. They also lead Freshman Orientation. 38 39
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McNeese also offers Freshman Foundations 101, which the university describes as “a course designed to assist first-year students in succeeding at the University by developing skills and attitudes necessary to achieve their educational and personal goals.” Some other practical advice about preparing for college comes from Alison Blevins, director of Advising and Retention/General and Basic Studies. “The more information you have, the better your decisions will be,” Blevins said. “Make a point to learn as much as possible about things like TOPS or your field of study so that you can make good choices.”
Here are some other tips from McNeese: --Nyla Darbeau, academic adviser, General and Basic Studies: “This is the first step on your academic journey. Embrace the universal experience.” --McNeese Blue/Gold Peer Leader Lemontre Woods, a sophomore business major: “ Don’t overload yourself!” --McNeese Blue/Gold Peer Leader Kaamilya William, junior major in nutrition and family studies: “Go to class, keep a planner, work on time management and get involved -- it helps a lot.”
SOWELA: An Emerging Force
Sowela has a track record of local training that leads to local jobs -- most notably in process technology, where graduates can move into positions in the area petrochemical industry, and aviation maintenance technology, where skilled workers are in demand right next door at Chennault International Airport. Sowela is currently working to earn accreditation from the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering in both programs, plus eight others: Accounting Technology, Aviation Maintenance Technology, Commercial Art, Computer Technology/Networking Specialist, Computer Technology/Programming Specialist, Drafting and Design Technology, Industrial Electronics Technology, Industrial Instrumentation and Office Systems Technology. Sowela’s growth is further illustrated by new construction projects to add two buildings to campus. New students at Sowela are assigned a faculty adviser during orientation. The adviser shares information about educational, administrative, career and extracurricular opportunities and helps plan classes. Also, the Office Career Services helps students plan career changes, for those moving into a new occupation, and guides students toward educational and career goals. Student organizations on campus are tied to several educational programs and can help develop interpersonal, leadership and communication skills.
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May 2011
Some of Your Options: Here are some of the educational and training opportunities available in the Southwest Louisiana area, and how to reach them. The addresses are in Lake Charles unless listed otherwise.
PUBLIC
PRIVATE
Delta Tech 517 Broad St., 439-5765 www.deltatech.edu
Carpenters, Piledrivers and Millwrights Local 953 Apprentice School 149 W. 18th St., 433-7144.
Sowela Technical Community College 3820 Sen J. Bennett Johnston Ave. 491-2698, www.sowela.edu
Stage One: The Hair School 209 W. College St., 474-0533
Mechanical Arts Training Services 600 S. Perkins Ferry Road, Moss Bluff 855-4247
McNeese State University 4205 Ryan St., 475-5504 www.mcneese.edu
Louisiana Technical College / Morgan Smith Campus 1230 N. Main St., Jennings, 824-4811 Central Louisiana Technical College/ Lamar Salter Campus 15014 Lake Charles Highway Leesville, 537-3135
Future Barber College 3941 Ryan St., 474-0623 LA Massage Institute 3750 Nelson Road, 474-3737 Coastal Truck Driving School 4030 Goodman Lane, 433-1072 Associated Builders and Contractors Inc. 222 Walcot Road, Westlake, 882-0204.
Lamar State College-Orange 410 Front Street, Orange, Texas 409-883-7750, www.lsco.edu
best jobs right now:
Cornerstone University 1605 Broad St., 497-1871 American Baptist College of Lake Charles, 433-6700 Duplichan University 116 State St., 474-1720 Unitech Training Academy 2827 4th Avenue, 564-5716
You Made It. Now Show It.
CareerCast.com has issued annual report on the 10 best jobs of 2011. Pay isn’t the only consideration, by the way. The rankings are based on surveys that evaluate careers on such issues as work environment, physical demands, outlook, income and stress. Plotting a career? Advice, in sentence: Pay attention in those math and science classes. Here is the list, and the average (not starting) salary for each profession:
You learned to speak French. You landed your first interview. YOU GRADUATED.
Goal.
You accomplished your
1. Software engineer, $87,000.
Whatever you did, we know it was amazing. Celebrate your success with jewelry that brings back that awesome feeling – then go forward and do more incredible things.
2. Mathematician, $94,000. 3. Actuary, $87,000. 4. Statistician, $73,000. 5. Computer system analyst, $77,000. 6. Meteorologist, $85,000. 7. Biologist, $74,000. 8. Historian, 63,000.
Fine Jewelers
9. Audiologist, $63,000.
Diamonds
10. Dental hygienist, $87,000.
Congratulations Graduates! May 2011
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Bridal
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Hats Off to Grads!
Survival Guide for Parents
You’ve dreamed of this day for so long, joking about how you “can’t wait to get them out of the house.” No more picking up behind them and waiting up at night for them to come in. You think your worries are over – they’re on their own at last. Then it hits you: your baby is really leaving! Now that the time is finally here, you realize you’re not quite as ready as you thought you were, and find yourself with a whole new set of worries to deal with. “Sending a student to college is a major milestone, not only for the student, but for their parents as well,” says Chauntelle LeJeune, MA, LMFT, LPC, Therapist with Solutions EAP. “Everyone has been so focused on getting the student through high school and into college, that they don’t stop to think about the very real changes taking place in the family. It’s a time of transition for students as they leave childhood behind and start taking on the real responsibilities of adulthood. It’s also a big adjustment for parents as they struggle to let go, and allow their children to take these big steps on their own.” LeJeune says this is often the hardest part for parents – letting their children take on responsibility for their bigger parts of their lives. “This doesn’t mean they don’t still need you for guidance and support, but it’s time for them to be more independent and make their own choices. If you’ve done a good job getting them to this point, they’ll be ready to make this move without any problems. And don’t panic if you don’t immediately see evidence that what you have taught is still with them. Even if their dorm room is a mess, it doesn’t mean you didn’t teach them the values of cleanliness.” She adds that the best way you can prepare your teen for life on their own is to teach them the skills they need in advance. By the end of high school, your teen should know how to manage their time, understand that that choices lead to consequences, be making and managing their own money, and know the basics of how to take care of themselves -- cook, clean, do laundry, shop for groceries, get the oil changed and other routine tasks. “If they can do these things, then you can be confident in their ability to succeed at college,” says LeJeune. “And if they don’t have these skills yet, they need to develop them sooner, rather than later, or they’ll never make it on their own! College life offers a good, somewhat protected environment for learning 40 41
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by Kristy Armand
and improving these life skills. You are not doing them any favors if you help them too much. Remember, it’s your job to help them become responsible and self-reliant, not to encourage them to continue depending on you for all the hard stuff.” She also advices giving your student some space once they get to school. “Let them find their way as they settle into college life. Communicate often, but don’t expect or demand the same from them. They may get homesick and have doubts about their decision to leave home. Even though you miss them just as much, don’t give in and bring them back home. Give them encouragement and support. Tell them it will be fine (it really will, you know), and make sure they know you have confidence in them and are there for advice whenever needed.” “There is no doubt your college student will have to make some important decisions and choices in the coming years,” adds LeJeune. “And so will you. You have to decide just what you are willing to do to make sure your student progresses through those wonderful, exciting, and challenging school years to emerge as an educated, confident adult ready to carve their own meaningful, successful path in the world.”
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May 2011
High School 1. Money 2. iPod 3. iPad 4. Lap Top Computer 5. GPS System 6. Set of Luggage 7. Digital Camera 8. College “Spirit’ Gift— something that represents their school of choice 9. Printer 10. Gift Certificate College 1. Money 2. Gift Certificates 3. The chance to Travel 4. iPhone 5. iPad 6. Lap Top Computer 7. Digital Camera 8. Engraved Pens 9. Briefcase 10. Leather Portfolio
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Hats Off to Grads!
Meet the Boomerang Generation by Kristy Armand
The good news: Your son or daughter has graduated from college. The not-so-good news: They’ve moved back in with you. A recent Pew Research survey found that approximately one in five adult children between the ages of 18 and 34 now live with his or her parents. The phenomenon has become so prevalent that the group has been named the “boomerang generation.” The reasons for the trend aren’t hard to identify, according to psychiatrist Dr. Dale Archer, founder of the Institute for Neuropsychiatry in Lake Charles and regular guest on national news programs. “To borrow an overused, but appropriate quote: ‘It’s the economy, stupid.’ We’ve just come out of the worst economic downturn in decades, with recordhigh unemployment in many areas of the country. Yes, the job market is recovering, but slowly, making it more difficult for college graduates to find their dream job right after receiving their diplomas. Many enter the workforce burdened with student loans and other debt incurred during the college years. They might be able to find work more easily than a year or so ago, but they may be settling for lower pay than they expected, with fewer and more costly benefits. The bottom 42 43
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May 2011
line is that 20-somethings today face a daunting road to financial independence.” According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, the average annual salary for college graduates is down two percent since 2009. “That’s why it’s important that the boomerang generation not be characterized as slackers,” says Dr. Archer. “This is not the cause of this trend. As a group, they are actively seeking employment or already working, but are not able to earn enough to keep up with today’s cost of living, or to even have the same standard of living their parents had at the same age.” Ironically, it’s another generation of boomers that the boomerangs are returning to in their childhood homes. Their parents are likely to be Baby Boomers, who were able to begin their adult lives under much different – and more positive – circumstances. They were able to take advantage of a healthier job market and higher wages, abundant credit, more affordable housing and transportation costs, safer communities, a stronger public health system, and much more generously supported schools and public universities. “Most parents can see the stark contrast between the two generations and are happy to help their children out while they get on their financial feet.” And Dr. Archer says while the trend of returning to the empty nest may be relatively new in the United States, multigenerational housing is much more common in other countries. Studies have shown this custom to be very beneficial for strengthening family ties. “And that’s a huge silver lining to this scenario. Families can use this time reconnect – or form a connection that was never made in the past. When both parties are committed to making it work, this transitional time can be very rewarding, providing the foundation for a new and stronger relationship as adults.”
May 2011
House Rules: While the financial and family benefits can be great, it’s not hard to see how adult kids living back at home can lead to conflict. Parents may feel like their children are taking advantage of them, and their children may feel like their parents are trying to control their lives at a time when they are supposed to be claiming their independence. “For these and many other reasons, it’s important to establish some mutually agreed upon guidelines to make this experience a positive one.” He offers these suggestions:
Establish a Timeframe: It’s key to establish how long this housing arrangement is going to last. Flexibility can be built in, but it’s important that everyone understand the living arrangement will be temporary. Expectations: Understanding the household rules is definitely necessary for everyone. College kids are used to doing what they want, when they want, but in this situation, both sides should agree to reasonable expectations for privacy,
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curfews, household chores, overnight guests, noise levels, contributions to living expenses and other details that go along with coexisting peacefully under the same roof.
Don’t Regress: Try to avoid falling into traditional parent and child roles. Parents should steer clear of doing traditional things like doling out spending money, doing their laundry and other traditional parental responsibilities. Remember, these are adults, not teenagers. And the adult child should remember this as well: If you want to be treated like an adult, act like one. Set up Boundaries: Parents should resist the urge to get overly involved in their kids’ lives and personal relationships. This is not healthy for you or them. Respect their privacy and growing independence. Let them make their own mistakes and learn from them. Solving their problems for them or creating a dictatorship won’t help them be confident in their independence.
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Mad
by Kristy Armand
About
Money Arguments about money are as old as money itself. The reasons are many, and arise partly out of philosophical differences and partly from habits so engrained you forgot you had them.
“It’s a fairly common scenario, and it usually happens because the two people involved aren’t on the same page. One person thinks they have a shared goal of saving for a house, car or retirement, but their partner doesn’t,” says Gail Brame, Vice President with Cameron State Bank. “Disagreements range from how much someone spends on lunch every day to the percentage of household income that should be invested in mutual funds each year. And because money decisions are made every day, these disagreements can lead to ongoing arguments, real bitterness and is often cited as a leading cause of divorce.” A recent study offers one insight into why finances can be such a point of contention. When they look at the same data, many husbands and wives disagree significantly over the extent of the family’s income, wealth and debts. They actually view their personal financial world quite differently. Brame says it’s all about perception. “Numerous studies have shown that most fights over finances occur not because of the amount of money spent but because of unspoken expectations that couples have and are often afraid to talk about. Sometimes it’s clashing styles, sometimes mismatched agendas, but people get so rooted in their own money views that they can’t see that their partner simply has a different perspective,” says Brame. Continued on p48
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May 2011
IndustryInsider
Straight Answers to Your Questions on Industry and the Environment
Q: A:
Thank You Southwest Louisiana for Voting Us Best Tire Dealer!
I see the flares burning at industry by my house and can’t help but wonder what they’re burning, or if something is on fire. Is it dangerous? Flares are a safety mechanism.
Flares process excess gas by burning it off. This safety mechanism minimizes air pollution and helps prevent industrial accidents. The noise that sometimes accompanies a flare is from the steam that’s used as a coolant. When the steam is introduced, it creates a hissing or rumbling noise. The steam cools the system, reduces smoke and minimizes air pollution. We know flares can cause concern and questions, and we try to minimize their use as much as possible because they’re so costly. Understanding why the flares are used can hopefully put any concerns to rest.
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senior community affairs director with local industry Pumpelly Tire is the only AskPatty.com Certified Female Friendly® Tire and Service Center Group in Lake Charles and Sulphur.
Visit www.laia.com to learn more and submit your question about local industry and the environment. May 2011
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AskPatty.com certified groups offer services designed with the women consumer in mind. Call us today to receive more info about AskPatty.com. www.thriveswla.com
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photos by Jason Hardesty
The Ultrasonic Facial Now available by Katie McDaniel
Signatures Salon is proud to be the only local Salon/Spa to offer The Ultrasonic Facial, a safe, revolutionary skin treatment system that incorporates environmentally safe water with low frequency sound waves to perform aesthetic services in a unique and highly effective way. This non-invasive device provides superior exfoliation that intensifies and enhances the peeling action of chemical solutions, resulting in increased exfoliation, deeper-reaching topical treatment, and instant healing. “Its cutting edge technology takes your basic facial to the next level,” said Noelle Mills, Service Manager with Signatures Salon. “Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, not only is it safe to use on all skin types, but the ultrasound facial has also been shown in studies to aid in the resolution of acne, rosacea, fine lines and wrinkles, in addition to many other skin challenges,” said Mills. 46 47
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The Ultrasonic Facial is a complete facial that has three distinctive phases, which aid in such a beneficial outcome.
Cavitation (The peeling stage) – This phase removes 40-50% of the outer layer of the skin, which is continuously shed. The ultrasonic vibrations spin the water molecules at a high frequency, causing cavitation, a brief phase change in the water molecule. This process gently loosens and removes dirt and oil from follicles to help diminish pores and bacteria levels. Without using crystals, salts or chemicals, it is the perfect alternative for sensitive skin or for anyone who needs skin resurfacing for common sun and aging skin damage.
Sonophoresis (The absorption of topical products) – The second phase increases the skin’s ability to absorb the vitamins, amino acids, peptides and other essential nutrients used during this treatment by allowing them to penetrate deeper into the skin through a process called synophoresis. Ultrasonic sonophoresis has the ability to send waves through the skin, making it healthier and more resilient than ever before. Fine lines and wrinkles are diminished and skin is restored to a smooth, youthful glow. It also increases product absorption by 4000 times.
Microamp (The healing stage) – The final stage restores cell’s natural electrical charge, which can be damaged by free radicals, over exposure to sun, aging, smoking and pollution. This restorative phase invigorates the skin’s tissue and is the final step in helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, firm and tightens skin, refine pores, assist in clearing and controlling acne and Rosacea, lighten hyper-pigmentation, and even out overall skin tone and texture. It also increases your skins elastin and collagen.
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May 2011
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All of these processes combined creates healthier and a more radiant glow. Clients have reported feeling immediate tightening and softening of the skin. “I’ve received facials in the past and enjoy the exfoliation benefits, but I dread the burn of the chemical peels,” said Katie Snow, client of Signatures. “With the Ultrasonic Facial, I get even more benefits without the burn. It’s the perfect facial for me!” The Ultrasonic Facial can provide dramatic results after just one treatment, but the best results are achieved when a series of treatments are performed. For more information on The Ultrasonic Facial, contact Signatures Salon at 337. 478.4433 or stop by at 803 West McNeese Street in Lake Charles.
May 2011
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Mad
About
Money
Continued from p44
Regardless of the specific type of disagreement over finances, Brame says all of them can be traced back to the three main sources of money conflict: communication, control and family. In a relationship, each person brings with them their own communication style about money, has their own control issues and feelings about spending, and lessons learned from their family about finances. In addition, each person has different ideas about how the expenses of home, work, family and fun should be handled. “When you consider all of these factors, it really is no wonder that disagreements over money are so common.” The good news is that you can improve the way you and your partner handle money decisions and cut down on the disagreements. Brame offers the following suggestions to improve the way you talk about money:
Tell your story. Start by telling your partner what your own family’s attitudes and behaviors toward money were. (If you haven’t spent much time mulling over your family’s financial dynamics, do that first.) Then be honest about your financial history, mistakes, and feelings about how you feel about financial matters. Be humble. Never assume your way is the right way. Listen to what your partner says and take it in. Their outlook may differ wildly from yours, but they hold their views as dearly as you hold yours, so be respectful, even if you disagree.
Establish common goals. The worst fights couples have boil down to the fact that they haven’t planned their “Big Picture” goals yet. You need to think about the various milestones in your life that will require money -- having kids, buying a house, caring for a parent -- and discuss them.
Quantify your goals. Once you’ve established even a small goal, like saving for a vacation, start to work toward it together. For example, schedule a lunch date each week where you deposit a fixed amount into a “Saving-for-a-House” account. The feeling of success will be a new financial bond between you.
Get help. Talking to a financial planner together can help ease money tension, since it’s easier to address tough issues with an objective party. Or take a financial seminar together.
Don’t lay blame, take action. Let’s say your partner is in debt. Rather that fight about it (Arguing won’t reduce that monthly payment!), force yourselves to focus on a game plan. Taking steps to address the problem will remind you that you are, and always will be, a financial team. Most importantly, Brame says if at first you don’t succeed, you have to keep trying. “Talking about money is hard, much harder than fighting. So if it takes a while to replace debates with discussions, don’t give up. Even if you do it wrong, it’s better to communicate than to not say anything.”
The importance of family is measured every day in a small community like ours. At Jennings American Legion Hospital, the daily health of your family isn’t just your priority – it’s ours, too. You may have to travel for some things, but quality healthcare isn’t one of them. With Jennings American Legion Hospital, the healing touch for your family is right here at home. Make an appointment today and meet our team of family physicians. Pictured from L to R: Johnny Segura, MD Christopher Achee, MD Michael Benoit, MD Mark Clawson, MD Young Kang, MD Amanda LaComb, MD Richard McGregor, MD James McNally, MD
1634 Elton Rd. • 616-7000 • www.jalh.com 48 49
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May 2011
20 chefs, great local recipes & over 50 wines June 12, 2011 $60 tickets limited Grand Marais Courtyard; Jennings, LA
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Lake
Charles native Norman German, PhD, has no shortage of interests. He has degrees in history, pre-law, philosophy and English from McNeese, the University of Texas and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He has hitchhiked through Europe, explored the crevices of Hawaii, and fished in Alaska. His hobbies include fishing, running, and coin collecting. He searches out distressed homes and renovates them in addition to continuing a 23year teaching career at Southeastern Louisiana University. In 2004, he won a three-year position as Southeastern’s Distinguished Teaching Professor in the Humanities. One of the places that German finds the most comfort – in addition to college classrooms and fishing boats – is behind the writer’s pen. A specialist in twentieth-century American literature, German has published short stories, novels, poems and literary essays. His stories have appeared in places like the Virginia Quarterly Review, Sport Fishing and Shenandoah. He has served as the fiction editor of Louisiana Literature for fifteen years and his novel “No Other World,” a fictionalized account of a freed slave who built her own empire, was awarded first prize by acclaimed novelist and Nobel Prize nominee Ernest Gaines in the 1991 Deep South Writers Contest. In recent years he has been best known for the novel “A Savage Wisdom,” a fictionalized retelling of the life and crimes of Toni Jo Henry, the only woman put to death in Louisiana’s electric chair. Henry was executed in 1942 for the robbery and murder of Joseph Calloway in Lake Charles. The novel is now in its second printing and reached number five in the True Crime category for sales on the Amazon Kindle. German’s next novel, “SwitchPitchers,” was published by BlueWater Press of Florida in 2010 and he is currently working on a thriller titled “Catch a Falling Knife,” set in the Atchafalaya Swamp and the marshes of the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge. Thrive recently spoke with German about his writing career and how his varied background has influenced his work over the years.
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“A Savage Wisdom,” a fictionalized version of the Toni Jo Henry case, is your bestknown work. How did the project develop? I’d heard the legend of Toni Jo Henry since I was a kid and it interested me for two reasons: one, because she committed the crime on Valentine’s Day and two, because there was a rumor – which was almost certainly untrue – that then-Sheriff Ham Reid fathered a child by her while she was in prison. I’ve had five women call me claiming to be the daughter of Toni Jo Henry, but it’s almost impossible for that rumor to have any truth to it. Still, I found the story interesting and I eventually decided to write a fictionalized version of her story. In the novel, I’ve kept her real name but I’ve disguised all the others. I spent about one year researching the novel and then it took another three years to plot it out and write it. Altogether I spent about four years on it.
Why did you choose to write a novel rather than a non-fiction book in the true crime genre? I wanted something redemptive to come from her story and there was very little that was redemptive about the true story as I researched it. From what I gathered in the research, she was seeing this guy known as Cowboy Henry, a prizefighter who killed a state trooper, and she developed this really harebrained plot to break him out of jail. Part of the plot was to find someone to rob. This seemingly nice man picked her up while she was hitchhiking and she did terrible things to him before shooting him in the forehead. Before that she was a prostitute and wasn’t living the most admirable life. When I started all this research I wasn’t sure what I was going to do – I didn’t know if I wanted to write a true crime book or a novel – but as a writer, you want to write a book in which readers can really care about the people they’re reading about. You want to have a sympathetic character. There wasn’t much about Toni Jo Henry that was sympathetic, so I guess it was about six months in that I decided to write a novel. To make her more sympathetic, I wrote her as an ingénue who is lured into the New Orleans underworld. There are many other aspects that are fiction. The book is only about 15 percent based in fact. There is a lot of precedence for the way I wrote the novel. It’s a genre known as alternative history, where you write a novel from a viewpoint of what-if. One of the best-known examples of this is “In Cold Blood” by Truman Capote, which is fiction based on fact – also called “faction”. I read that in preparation of writing my novel, and I also read “The Executioner’s Song” by Normal Mailer, another book in the genre.
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After spending four years immersed in the life of Toni Jo Henry, do you feel like you’ve come to know what kind of woman she was when she was alive? I feel like I had a good grasp on her personality when I was in the middle of all the research, but once I fictionalized her into an innocent young woman, that’s the person I came to know. That’s the woman that I’m familiar with now – not the actual Toni Jo, who wasn’t very innocent.
Was there anything that surprised you during your research? I read everything that was available to me at the time and I was a little surprised that she was glamorized in the press more than she should have been. They depicted her as this attractive, beautiful woman from this certain background, but the truth is she did not come from a good background. They depicted her as a woman who could lure men into her arms in the jail cell. The case should not have been romanticized the way it was.
“No Other World” is also a fictionalized retelling of a life story. What is the appeal of writing fiction out of truth? I’d heard about this slave woman who gave birth to fourteen children – four by another slave and ten by her French owner, who eventually freed her. She become a slaveholder herself and built her own empire. There were lots of records of her business dealings and things but almost nothing about her personal life. I found her story to be interesting and I wanted to write about her. About 25 percent of that novel is fact, but most of it is fiction. I also wrote “Switch-Pitchers,” about minorleague baseball in Lake Charles, which also has a historical basis. I’m just comfortable with having a skeletal outline of a life and then filling in all the blanks. Something about the historically based stories appeals to me.
You have a background in history, philosophy and English, among other things. How does your background influence your work? I’ll give an example: I’ve probably spent more time fishing in my life than doing anything else, except maybe for the time spent in a classroom. I’ve written stories about fishing that are zany and would probably never happen in real life, but to make it believable you still have to have an experience with it. I wrote a story about a man named Cameron who breaks into the New Orleans aquarium to catch a redfish. Later he goes back to catch a tarpon, but the fish pulls so hard that the platform he’s fishing on – the one the people at the aquarium walk on to feed
May 2011
photo by Shonda Manuel
the fish – breaks, and he falls in and is eaten by sharks. Now that probably isn’t going to happen in real life (laughs), but to write the story, you have to know what you’re talking about. I probably never would have written about baseball if I hadn’t played sports when I was a kid, or if my father hadn’t played in the minor leagues for ten years after World War II.
What is your next project? Wilbert Rideau was involved in a local bank robbery years ago in which he killed a bank teller. He spent a long time in prison and was called the “most rehabilitated prisoner in America.” It’s great that he’s rehabilitated, but in my view, he should still have to pay for the crime he committed. He’s been free for years now and wrote a book that was picked up by a major publisher. In the book he talks about his experiences. I’d like to write a novelized version of his life in response to all the feel-good press about his release. I want to balance out his story so the next generation understands the crime he committed. At some point that’s a project I would like to work on.
first person with
Norman German, PhD
by Erin Kelly
First Person is a monthly Q&A that features compelling people who excel in their chosen endeavors. Ideas for future Q&As? Email edit@thriveswla.com.
May 2011
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Best Kept
Shhecret by Katie McDaniel
We’re shining the spotlight on“best kept secret” items found within local retail shops; the things that could make your life better if you only knew about them. Shoo! Monster Dust
There’s a monster in the toy box, a witch in the hall closet, and a 3-year old taking refuge in your bed. If scary creatures are keeping your child up at night, check out Shoo! Monster Dust. According to Natalie Comeaux with Club Tabby, “Shoo! Monster Dust is a magical dust that your child can sprinkle around the room to ensure it shoo’s monster’s away.” The dust is an all-natural, non-toxic glitter that was created just for little ones who are afraid of things that go bump in the night. The gift set includes a fun, squeezable monster pet, one shaker of monster dust and a refill can. Club Tabby 676 West Prien Lake Road, Lake Charles (Inside the Prien Lake Mall) (337) 478-3600
The Modern Cocktail Introducing The Modern Cocktail, a refreshing new line of mixers featuring an evolved twist of the classics. Each Modern Cocktail set comes with 6 pre-measured mixers in individual bottles. “All you have to do is add ice and the needed alcohol to create the perfect drink,” said Carol Henry, Owner of The Perfect Gift. “They make the perfect gift for a hostess, friend or even for yourself!” These unique cocktail concoction sets include: • Modern Highballs • Modern Martini’s • Modern Berrytinis • Modern Tropical Mixers • Modern Margaritas • Modern Mojitos • Modern Champagne Toppers The Perfect Gift 2712 Hodges Street, Lake Charles (337) 439-7693
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May 2011
When you need… we care, we comfort. Your peace, our purpose. Your serenity, our strength. Your dignity, our dedication. Brighton Bridge Hospice for compassionate and professional care.
www.brightonbridge.com
1.888.878.0337
FRESH MEXICAN GRILL
Proudly Serving Southwest Louisiana
TAKE CONTROL of Your Hearing Loss Solutions are available. Untreated hearing loss can lead to depression, withdrawal from social activities, and isolation from loved ones. Visit the AudigyCertified™ providers at The Hearing Center of Lake Charles and discover the world of better hearing. Respected Audiologists, educational resources, advanced technological solutions—we’re here for you.
Dr. Ram Nileshwar, Au.D., CCC-A, FAAA Dr. Kara Headington, Au.D., CCC-A
Hear today. Hear tomorrow.
View our educational video on hearing @
www.hearingmatters.biz a member of
May 2011
Call today for more information
337.474.3880
1919A Southwood Drive • Lake Charles Thrive Magazine for Better Living
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53
Termites Aren’t the Only Pests that in Spring
Swarm
by Kristy Armand
Although homeowners are fearful of the winged wood-eating termite, the warm air of spring also means mating season for another destructive pest: The carpenter ant. Left to their own devices, these little insects are able to wreak havoc on wood and have been known to burrow their way into moisturedamaged walls and unattended houses. “Carpenter ants can cause damage similar to that done by termites. Fortunately, they are easier to detect and their colonies typically make themselves known before too much damage is done,” said Robert Soileau, Manager of J&J Exterminating in Lake Charles. The typical carpenter ant is large and black with a slender waist. The swarmers can be confused for a wasp. Unlike wasps, however, carpenter ants have distinctly elbowed antennae. When aggravated, they can bite. There is another carpenter ant found in our region, which is red and black, somewhat like a fire ant, but larger.
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Unlike the termite, carpenter ants don’t feed on wood and don’t need it to survive, according to Soileau. Their destruction is based on practicalities – they need to burrow into the wood in order to start their colony. This typically happens in spring, when the mated queen is searching for a place to lay her eggs. “Once the colony is established, worker ants have to leave the nest in order to search for food. That is what makes them vulnerable,” Soileau said. “Once they start leaving the nest, they are easy to detect. They trail from the nest to the outdoors and back.” Soileau says the most common site of carpenter ant activity in our region is in oak trees. “Oak trees have a lot of knots and hollow spots. These areas hold moisture which softens the wood, providing the ideal environment for the carpenter ant nests. Activity starts at the nest site and spreads from there, as the colony grows, slowly encompassing more and more of the surrounding yard. If they aren’t stopped, growth will continue and the colony will bud, forming sub-colonies. It is at this stage that these ants enter a home or business and become a more costly threat.” Home or business owners who notice carpenter ants around their structures should contact an exterminator immediately for an inspection, according to Soileau. “Inspection is a big key to containing these pests before structural damage occurs. Inspection is best done in late evening when movement is at its highest level. We can follow the movement back to the main colony. This is the key to successful eradication of carpenter ants – finding and treating the main colony. Once that location is identified, we apply localized spot treatment, which is the most effective way to eliminate the problem. However, since these pests are so common in our region, and they migrate, regular service may be needed to prevent new infestation.” For more information on carpenter ants or other spring pests, call J&J Exterminating at 474-7377.
Let your style
Shine through
It’s important to protect your eyes, but there’s no reason that protection shouldn’t provide you with a fashionable look. Optics Unlimited at The Eye Clinic offers quality sun wear with UV protection in the hottest designer styles: Vera Wang Coach Fendi Michael Kors Kenneth Cole
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Some exclusions may apply. Cannot be combined with any other discount. Offer expires 6/30/11.
May 2011
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Golf Carts Drive Up Injury Rates by Kristy Armand
From big city airports and rural farms to college campuses and upscale suburban neighborhoods, golf carts have moved off the golf course and into a multitude of other environments where they provide a convenient and energy-efficient means to get from place to place. But this increase in popularity has led to a corresponding increase in golf-cart-related injuries. According to the Center for Injury Research and Policy, the number of Americans suffering golf cart injuries that required medical treatment has surged over 130 percent in the past 20 years. A separate study analyzing nationwide emergency room data from 2002 through 2005 conducted by the Center of Injury Sciences at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that there over 1,000 golf cart injuries in the United States each month. “The majority of these injuries did not even take place on a golf course,” says Mason Lindsay, spokesperson for the Safety Council of Southwest Louisiana. “A lot of people perceive golf carts as little more than toys, and don’t realize they can be quite dangerous.”
Why Does My Back Hurt? E Get the answers at this seminar.
ight out of 10 people will experience lower back pain at some point in their lives. It is one of the top two reasons people visit a doctor and the most common cause of limited mobility among people under age 45. Whether it’s caused by an injury or just years of wear and tear, back pain can severely limit your activities and ability to work. If left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain and disability. The good news is there are many preventive steps and non-surgical treatment options that can help you beat back pain, especially if you’ve suffered for years in an effort to avoid surgery. Join Dr. Craig Morton, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist, at “Move Past Back Pain” a free community seminar at Center for Orthopaedics to learn more about the latest advances to help you win the back pain battle.
Move Past Back Pain
Thursday, May 12 • 5:30pm Center for Orthopaedics 1747 Imperial Blvd., Lake Charles (Just off Nelson, a half-mile South of Country Club Road)
Seating is limited and pre-registration is requested.
Call 721-2903 or email
abooth@centerforortho.com to pre-register.
Craig Morton, MD 56 57
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May 2011
Researchers found that golf carts are routinely involved in collisions and rollovers as well as other accidents in which people fall or are flung from the vehicle. Nearly one-third of injuries involved children. Fractures and head trauma were the most common injuries found in the study. Golf carts are not designed for use on public roads, and lack most of the safety features required for vehicles traveling public streets, such as windshields, signal lights, seat belts, stability mechanisms or mirrors. Lindsay says another problem is that golf carts don’t have brakes on all four wheels. Rear-wheel brakes can cause carts to fishtail and the driver to lose control. “Carts today can also reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour. There is little federal regulation, and most states do not require operators to be of a certain age, use any sort of safety equipment or obtain an operator’s license.” Across the country, government agencies are looking at possible regulations for safer use of golf carts. “Until then, Lindsay says it’s up to the owners and operators to take steps to reduce injuries.” He offers these suggestions from the Safety Council: • Drive at a reasonable speed, considering the weather and terrain. • Don’t make modifications to your cart to enable it to travel at higher speeds. • Brake slowly, especially on downward slopes. • Always avoid sharp turns, and be extra careful when turning at higher speeds. • Passengers should put both feet firmly on the golf cart’s floor, keeping their arms and legs inside the cart at all times. • Sit back in the seat so the hip restraints can help. • Be prepared to use the handgrip to prevent a fall. • Use seatbelts, if they’re available. • Don’t let children younger than 16 drive golf carts.
Birds of a Feather,
Flock Together
is becoming
Proud to be based in Louisiana for 124 years.
May 2011
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BY THE NUMBERS
Older Adults in the U.S. (age 65 and older)
39.6 MILLION
72,000
people, or 13% of the population 22.8 million 16.8 million Female Male
estimated number of centenarians – those 100 years or older
Source: U.S. Census
Source: U.S. Census
56% 32 MILLION are married
28
%
1/2
are grandparents
Source: U.S. Census
are widowed
of women over age 65 live alone Source: U.S. Census
$31,354
median annual household income Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
6.5 million or 17% are still in the workforce
tistics Source: Bureau of Labor Sta
77
%
have completed high school or higher education
9 million are veterans
Source: American Community Survey
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
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Thrive Magazinefor forBetter BetterLiving Living Thrive Magazine
March 2010 May 2011
presents
E-RECYCLE DAY
RECYCLE YOUR ELECTRONICS Saturday, May 14, 2011 • 8 a.m. - noon Life Church • 1551 East Napoleon Street • Sulphur, LA 70663 (On the corner of Beglis Parkway and East Napoleon Street) Each year, thousands of computers, monitors, TVs, cell phones and other electronics are discarded. Such “e-waste” contains recyclable materials and can be hazardous if disposed with regular garbage.
Electronic Donations Accepted: Computers, Monitors, Computer Peripherals, Printers, Fax Machines, Keyboards, Photocopiers, TVs, VCRs, Stereos, Home & Office Phones, Mobile Phones, Consumer Electronics. Mercury Items Accepted: Thermostats and Thermometers containing metallic or liquid mercury, Lamps (fluorescent, high-intensity discharge, neon, mercury vapor, high pressure sodium and metal halide).
For details, call the City of Sulphur at (337) 527-4500.
Items Not Accepted: Microwaves, Smoke Detectors, Fire Alarms, Dehumidifiers, Large Appliances (i.e.: Refrigerators, etc.), Medical Equipment, Units with Sludge or Liquids.
Residential donations only please.
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12 Hour Blood Drive hosted by United Blood Services and Townsquare Media
United Blood Services-Louisiana
• Thursday, May 26 • 7am–7pm • Bloodmobiles at Wal-Mart on Nelson Road • Donors will receive event shirts, register to win prizes every hour including $250 VISA gift card and FREE pint of Blue Bell ice cream! • OB’s Bar & Grill serving food from Noon–2pm Sign up at www.bloodhero.com
337-235-LIFE (5433)
May 2011
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Sponsor code: lakecharles Sign up ahead of time to receive 100 bonus points in the rewards store!
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Giving Homebuyers What They Want What do today’s homebuyers want? The latest research shows that they want it all and are willing to wait, search, and negotiate until they can get it. Sharon Leger, agent with Century 21 Bessette, says the newest crop of potential homebuyers has definite ideas about not just what they want in a home, but also clearly defined guidelines for what they are not willing to accept. “Although the national housing slump did not have a huge impact on our market, it did lead many people to postpone the purchase of a new home. They didn’t sit idly by while they waited. They did their homework and fine tuned their wish list. Now they are armed-and-ready to make a deal on the home of their dreams.” The latest research reports from the National Association of Realtors and AVID Ratings both found that overall, homebuyers are going back to basics and in the market for solid, well-maintained properties that will give them their money’s worth. “One of the biggest things we are seeing is buyers who are looking beyond surface appeal for real value. Demand is high for homes that are well-maintained,” says Leger. “People aren’t as interested in fixeruppers as they were in the past. They don’t want those unknown expenses hanging over their heads.” Today’s buyers are also looking for a rock bottom price. “They know it’s a buyer’s market,” says Leger. “They want to drive a hard bargain and are more focused on negotiating to get the home they want at the price limit they have set for themselves. They aren’t as willing to settle because they don’t feel like they have to.” In addition to value and price, Leger says there are several other home features that rank high on the list for homebuyers shopping the real estate market:
Downsizing Buyers are buying smaller homes, but Leger says they want to be able to use every inch of space. They want functional and practical home designs with no wasted space.
Open Spaces Walls between rooms, particularly those separating the kitchen, dining room and living room are coming down. “This trend goes hand-in-hand with the desire for more functional living spaces,” says Leger. These are the areas families spend the most time in, so combining these spaces just makes sense to many families.”
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May 2011
From Tampa to Turkey Creek
Your bank is only a text away. With a simple text message, you can quickly gain access to your account balance and recent transactions. Whether you’re dining in downtown Tampa or cooking dinner for your family in Turkey Creek, Text Message Banking is the fastest and easiest way to see the latest history of your bank account. It’s secure, it’s free when you bank online, and best of all, it works on any textable phone with no data plan required. Standard text messaging and data rates may apply depending on your cell
Outdoor living is in
phone service provider.
Popular features include decks, patios, screened porches and outdoor kitchens. “These are great selling points that make a home more competitive in the market,” says Leger.
Text Message Banking is the most convenient option for
Green is great
maximum
Energy efficiency is a top priority for buyers. At the top of the list are appliances and highefficiency insulation and triple-glazed windows for long-term cost savings on utility expenses.
account access from wherever life takes you. Visit our website
Storage Space
at merchantsandfarmers.com, click
Demand remains high for walk-in closets, linen closets, large pantries and other functional features that will help homeowners make the most of the square footage they purchase.
on the demo, and see for yourself how Merchants & Farmers Bank is only a text message away.
So what does all this mean to home sellers? Leger says the best advice is to remove every obstacle for a sell by being aware of these trends. “Repair, update, clean and stage,” she stresses. “Get creative with value-added incentives. Today’s buyers want to negotiate so you need to be willing to show some flexibility and work with them toward their – and your – goal.” 239-6504
For more information about selling a home, call CENTURY 21 Bessette at 474-2185 or visit century21-bessette.com.
May 2011
merchantsandfarmers.com
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!
Solutions for Life Solutions Employee Assistance Program from
by Keri Forbess-McCorquodale, MS, LPC, LMFT, CEAP
How Did This Happen? I can’t tell you the number of times in my career people have asked, “How could he do this to me?” or “Why would a parent do that to a child?” Typically my client is in anguish, grieving over an event or childhood memory. Sexual abuse, domestic violence, emotional or physical neglect all conjure up the “why” or “how” questions. There was a time in my career that I did not encourage my clients to focus on the “whys” of their situation. After all, why something happens does not change the fact that it happened. But I learned that if I didn’t allow some exploration of this aspect, clients had a difficult time moving on. The problem with “why” is you can really get stuck on it. Many people choose not to go forward until they really understand the reason for something. Well, that can take a long time (and in some cases will never happen at all). At some point, the lack of an answer becomes the excuse for not changing. Another issue is that often there is no answer that will ever satisfactorily explain what happened. Often people want to know “why” so they can support their subconscious theory that something is inherently wrong with them (“I’m not lovable/valuable/ worthy,”). I have learned that when you can find no plausible reason for someone to treat you a certain way, it is most likely a flaw on the other person’s part. Now, if you keep finding yourself in similar situations, it’s time to look at you! In graduate school, I worked with perpetrators of domestic violence. Trust me when I tell you, I was not thrilled about it. My family was fearful for my safety (and, truth be told, they were right), and I was disgusted by the issue itself. I’m the first to admit, the initial series of 12 group sessions was pretty rough. I was young, idealistic, and life was still black or white. Violence is wrong, and you are evil if you use it. Fortunately I had a great supervisor and an even better best friend/co-therapist. Through 64 65
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their influence, I became more open and a little more “gray.” By being more open, I began to see the perpetrators as whole persons, not just their crime. And I began to understand “why” they did the things they did. I began to understand that people don’t start out planning to hurt other people. They do what they know. Damaged people do damaging things. I also learned that they were not as violent as their parents had been. “Damaged” does not mean “broken.” Damaged means the item is repairable, but not to its original state – in this case, that’s a good thing. The original state wasn’t so healthy. We need a new and improved state. So, my supervisor and best friend/cotherapist had the job of helping me see the past as important to the present. Then I added my part to the process – if the past is to have meaning, it must be learned from for the present and future. I believe it is Maya Angelou who says, “When you know better, you do better.” As the perpetrators felt cared for and understood, they were more willing to accept the tools we offered, and they were expected to begin to solve problems appropriately. So, 22 years later, where am I with this issue? How important is it to delve into the past? As with most things in life, I have found it is about balance. For those clients who feel it is important to discuss the past, we’ll discuss the past. For those who don’t mention it, sometimes I’ll still dig around a little and sometimes I won’t. If the client is progressing, I’ll most likely leave it alone. If we’re stuck, I’ll start digging. The need to understand why something occurred is fine, as long as you don’t stay in that place too long. I’m happy to go on the journey with you, as long as we take it out of “reverse” and put it into “drive” pretty quickly. Remember, it’s hard to move forward looking behind you.
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Get Down Down town! 5/4 Paul Gonsoulin 10pm 5/6 Losers Reunion w/Forever Falls 9pm 5/7 When the Word Was Sound w/Niayh 9pm 5/11 Roots of a Rebellion 10pm 5/13 Moonlight Towers 9pm 5/14 Mobley w/Royal Teeth 9pm 5/18 Matt Fontenot 10pm 5/20 The Kid Carsons, The Wheeler Brothers w/
Sons of Bill 9pm 5/21 Fresh Nectar w/the Great Nostalgic 9pm 5/25 Mike Benavidez (acoustic) 10pm 5/27 Graham Wilkinson Band 9pm 5/28 Research Turtles CD Release Party 9pm
M-tu 11am-10pm • wed-Sat 11am-11pm every Monday night is open mic night!
719 Ryan St., Lake Charles 337-494-LUnA May 2011
Rough week at work? That’s why we’re
OPEN on SATURDAYS.
Center for Orthopaedics is now offering Saturday morning appointments to help working people and students get the care they need, at a time that is more convenient for their busy schedules. So if your knee is in need, your back’s out of whack, your shoulder feels strain, or you’re just off your game, give us a call. We’ll give you an accurate diagnosis and get you back on track to enjoy the rest of your weekend.
We Have the Keys You Need When looking for a new address, there are questions around every corner. CENTURY 21 Bessette Realty has the answers whether you’re buying or selling. We’ve won numerous awards for customer service, sales excellence and community involvement, but we know the most important reward is earning your trust through superior service. To search at your leisure, visit century21-bessette.com for current listings, financing options, and chat live with one of our Realtors®. We’ll guide you through the process and help you find just the right key for your future.
Bessette Realty, Inc. a division of Imperial Calcasieu Medical Group
(337) 721-7CFO new address, there are questions around every corner. CENTURY 21 he answers whetherwww.centerforortho.com you’re buying or Imperialservice, Blvd., Lakesales Charles numerous awards for1747 customer excellence lvement, but we know the most important reward is rough superior service. To search at your leisure, visit century21a division of Imperial Calcasieu rent listings, financing options, and chat liveMedical Group May 2011 ® tors . We’ll guide you through the process and help you
474-2185 | century21-bessette.com | live chat Each office independently owned and operated.
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McNeese Corral Juried Art Show Awards McNeese student Mary Donaldson won Best of Show at the inaugural University of Louisiana System Undergraduate Research Day’s juried art show on the campus of Northwestern State University for her work, “Trinity.” Robin Stodder won first place for “Scars” and Meagan Green received second for “Consumption 2.” More than 60 students from eight universities were selected from campus competitions to present their Mary Donaldson’s, Trinity research projects in the event. In addition to Donaldson, Stodder and Green, McNeese students Tonia Beaux, Alvy Carragher, Benjamin Clark, Katherine Daniel and Aaron Moreau participated.
Robin Stodder’s, Scars
Meagan Green’s, Consumption 2
Summer Reading Clinic The McNeese Summer Reading Clinic will be offered from 9-11:30 a.m. Mondays through Thursdays, June 6-30, for elementary students entering grades 1-6. The students will receive one-on-one tutoring for 60 minutes a day and participate in reading enriched activities with a master teacher. The fee is $175, which includes a deposit of $50 with the completed application. For more information or to request an application, call 475-5471.
Applications Accepted for Governor’s Program Applications are currently being accepted for the 2011 summer session of the Governor’s Program for Gifted Children scheduled June 5-July 23 at McNeese State University in Lake Charles. The Governor’s Program for Gifted Children is celebrating its 53rd year this summer. Established in 1959 at McNeese, the program is open to junior high and high school students and emphasizes academics and fine arts. Students participate in instrumental concerts, theatrical and musical productions and interact with one another during the residential program on the McNeese campus. For more information about the program, including application procedures and financial aid assistance, call 1-800291-7840 or visit the website at www.gpgc.org.
Spring Senior Exhibition The McNeese Department of Visual Arts will host the Spring Senior Exhibition through May 19 in the Abercrombie Gallery of the Shearman Fine Arts Center. The graduating seniors are: Frederick Babineaux, Lake Charles; Justin Bouley, Welsh; Mallori Campbell, Lake Charles; Hannah Chaney, Lake Charles; Heng Chi, China; Mary Donaldson, Kinder; Jordan Gibson, DeRidder; Kathleen Higgins, Iowa; Kreg Holeton, Asheville, N.C.; Alicia Johnson, Opelousas; Elizabeth Kirby, San Antonio, Texas; Leigha LaCombe, Evangeline; Whitney LeBlanc, Johnson City, Texas; Cynthia LeBleu, Lake Charles; Paul MacKnight, Sulphur; Clayton Moreau, Lake Charles; Marielle Myers, Lake Charles; Maria Elisa Simancas, Ecuador; Alex Smith, Sulphur; and Casey Smith, Bridge City, Texas. The Abercrombie Gallery, located in Room 125 of the Shearman Fine Arts Center, is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information about the exhibit, call the McNeese Visual Arts Department at 475-5060.
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May 2011
When it comes to your health, useful information is what you need. KPLC 7News is here to help with our Healthcast Report. Get the latest medical news and see medical breakthroughs happening right here in Southwest Louisiana. The KPLC 7News Healthcast Report airs weekdays at 10 p.m. Here’s a recap of some of the most recent health news stories we’ve reported.
Guidelines propose 3 steps to Alzheimer’s Doctors are suggesting a major change in the way they diagnose Alzheimer’s disease that would define it as a “spectrum” disease, separating it into three stages. The Alzheimer’s Association and the National Institutes of Health suggest the first stage is pre-clinical Alzheimer’s, followed by mild cognitive impairment. The third and most severe stage is dementia. The hope is that by identifying the disease earlier, patients will be in the pipeline earlier for research for future treatment. Under the new spectrum, doctors expect the number of people diagnosed with the disease to increase.
Nearly 5.5 million people suffer from Alzheimer’s disease in the U.S. ICU patients get moving sooner, recover faster Doctors are moving ICU patients into rehab faster with good results. Dr. Manley Jordan, critical care specialist and pulmonologist at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, said, “there’s a fear I think of all the tubes and catheters and connections we have to monitors the patients. There was a fear of hurting the patient or dislodging one of the monitoring leads.” Now, he said, specially trained physical therapists can work with a patient still attached to monitors and ventilators with a goal of getting patients moving at least two times daily.
May 2011
“As soon as they get here we begin whatever the patient can do whether it’s passive range of motion or sitting at the bedside,” explained Dr. Jordan. The movement “prevents blood clots in the legs that can cause pulmonary emboli. Certainly prevents bed sores, which are a big issue these days and helps with pulmonary hygiene which gets more air in and out of the lungs and lessens the likelihood of infection,” said Dr. Jordan. The motion helps rebuild strength, but it can also aid with emotional recovery.
ginger, gingko, garlic and alfalfa have the opposite effect somewhat, so these can cause bleeding in patients that are on Coumadin or Warfarin,” said Dr. White.
“They don’t get to look at x-rays or lab work to know they are improving. They can sit up on the edge of the bed and start standing and walking. They realize they are getting better and that makes a tremendous impact on the recovery.”
Herbal supplements are big business. Dr. White said $30 billion a year is spent on alternative medications. “They don’t have to go through the same FDA approval drugs do. They don’t even have to show effectiveness before they can reach the market and once they are on the market they are only loosely regulated by the FDA, so they’re not always safe,” said Dr. White.
The concept of ICU rehab is relatively new, said Dr. Jordan, though Lake Charles Memorial started the program in 2005
Bad combination: herbal supplements and RX drugs Herbal supplements may be all natural, but when mixed with prescription medications they can cause life threatening side effects. “People think that because they’re from plants, naturally occurring elements, that they are very safe,” said Dr. King White, cardiologist at Christus St. Patrick Hospital. One of the worst reactions can occur with a common blood thinner called Warfarin. Vitamin K rich supplements like green tea and gensing can inhibit the drug and result in clotting. “Other supplements such as
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Grapefruit juice is another one to watch. It is often hailed as a nutrient rich diet booster, but if mixed with a statin cholesterol drug the juice can increase the drugs’ effects. “If you are on a statin drug for your cholesterol or a calcium channel blocker for hypertension don’t exceed more than one glass of grapefruit juice a day,” recommended Dr. White.
Though not all supplements will react with prescription drugs, Dr. White recommends telling your doctor what supplements you take just to be safe. To check if the supplements you take react with any medications or have any side effects go to www.medlineplus.com for a full list. To learn more about these stories and more, visit us on the web at kplctv.com and tune into KPLC 7News daily for the latest news, weather, sports and health reports. You can also stay connected 24/7 on your mobile device at kplc7newsnow.com
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Building Bridges through
Tutoring
by Katie McDaniel
After it became apparent that many children could benefit greatly from additional support to complete their homework, Bridge Builders, a volunteer-driven program dedicated to building positive and supportive student-adult relations in Calcasieu Parish schools, organized a tutoring movement known as Homework Night. With the help of a group of adults and high school students, the tutoring initiative launched in January of 2011 in hopes of creating a partnership to support education in Calcasieu Parish. Since its inception at Zion Tabernacle Community Center on Shattuck Street in Lake Charles, Homework Night has been held from 5-7 p.m. every Monday with the goal to provide a vehicle for churches and other organizations to open their facilities and serve children in their neighborhood, all over the parish. At each Homework Night, parents are encouraged to bring their children for help with their homework for the week, or to go over other education materials as needed. “Our hope is that positive role models and mentoring happen over the course of time at Homework Night,” said mentor Velika Hurst. “Homework night is about more than education, it is about building relationships with children to show that we as a community care about each child. The children that come each week look forward to seeing their tutor. It has become an exciting experience for me and the others involved. I have recently visited with students at T. H. Watkins Elementary and was informed by the teachers that grades and behavior are improving. I am not sure if this is the result of Homework Night but that school has a large group of students who attend regularly.” The schedule is the same weekly, with check-in at 5 p.m. and tutoring beginning shortly thereafter. Around 6:30 p.m. snacks and drinks are served, with the help of Wendy’s Old-Fashioned Hamburgers sponsoring Homework Night every fourth Monday. Each week ends with a fun activity that leaves kids and parents alike smiling and wanting to come back. Homework Night requires all volunteers and students to check in and out every week in order provide a safe environment. Homework Night is a volunteer movement, with no paid staff and no rent expense. For more information or to become a volunteer, visit www.HomeworkNight.com or visit the Zion Community Center on Monday nights at 901 N. Shattuck Street.
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May 2011
Best Impressions
Modern Day Manners & Everyday Etiquette
by Rose Klein
Q: At a recent party I had a conversation with someone I had met before. A third person came up to us and this “someone I know” introduced me to the third person, but by the wrong name. It was close to my name, but a letter off. I didn’t know what to do; I didn’t wish to embarrass anyone, but I’d prefer this third person know my true name. What should I have done? A: Approaching this third person later in the evening and making the correction would accomplish both not embarrassing anyone and making certain this person knew your true name. Perhaps emailing the person who made the introductions might allow you to say how nice it was to see them again and sign your name giving him or her your correct name as well. Q: Recently, my husband and I were standing in line to check into a hotel where there were two attendants. When we reached the desk, a couple carrying drinks from the bar walked up to the desk and started talking to the attendant ready to assist us. My husband, sincerely, suggested that they go ahead of us as we weren’t in any rush. The man of the couple got ugly and assured us they were in line and fully understood what it meant to wait his turn. My husband shrugged, blowing him off, and waited until they had left to move forward. Every time we saw them in the hotel after that he gave us an ugly look or would just stare! We would continue on our way as if nothing happened. Should he have handled it differently? A: I think your husband was very gracious. Perhaps the other guest was initially intoxicated and stayed that way for the duration of his stay!
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Memorial Diabetes Education Earns ADA Recognition Diabetes Education at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital was recently awarded with the prestigious American Diabetes Association Education Recognition Certificate for its high quality diabetes education offerings – a component of care that the ADA believes is essential for effective diabetes treatment. Memorial’s Diabetes Education received this award because of their staff of knowledgeable health professionals who provide patients and participants with comprehensive information about diabetes management. The Education Recognition status is verified by an official certificate from the ADA and awarded for a term of four years.
Lower Back Pain is Topic of Upcoming Seminar Craig Morton, MD, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist will be the guest speaker at “Move Past Back Pain” on Thursday, May 12, at a free community seminar at Center for Orthopaedics in Lake Charles. Lower back pain is a very common ailment, with eight out of 10 people experiencing the problem at some point in their lives. It is the second most common reason people see a doctor and the most common cause of limited mobility among people under age 45. Back pain can result from a traumatic injury or wear and tear over time. In many cases, people are not even sure what caused their back problems, but the condition can severely limit activities and a person’s ability to work. If left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain conditions and disability. At the seminar, Dr. Morton will discuss back pain prevention, as well as the newest advances in non-surgical treatment options for lower back pain. May 2011
Call 721-2903 or email abooth@centerforortho.com to pre-register. Center for Orthopaedics in Lake Charles is located at 1747 Imperial Blvd., just off of Nelson, one-half mile south of Country Club Rd.
Internal Medicine Clinic of Lake Charles Welcomes Ronald Lewis, Jr., MD Ronald Lewis Jr., MD, board certified internal medicine physician, has joined the Internal Medicine Clinic of Lake Charles Memorial Hospital as of May 1, 2011. Dr. Lewis graduated from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine in Jackson. He then went on to complete both his internship and residency in internal Ronald Lewis Jr., MD medicine at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Prior to joining the staff of Lake Charles Memorial Hospital and the Internal Medicine Clinic of Lake Charles, Dr. Lewis was with the Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic. Dr. Lewis is experienced in the care and treatment of such conditions as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call Internal Medicine Clinic at 494-6800.
West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital to Hold Annual Community Health Fair Thursday, May 26 West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital (WCCH) will hold its annual, free community health fair on Thursday, May 26 from 7 a.m. – 11 a.m. A variety of free health screenings will be offered. Free screenings include: lipid profile (LDL and HDL cholesterol), blood pressure, blood glucose, prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test for men over 40, glaucoma and vision screenings, and diabetic foot assessments. A six-hour fast is required for the lipid profile screening. To access the health fair, community members will need to enter the hospital via the new entrance on Stelly Lane. For more information, call (337) 528-4735.
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Community Contributor$ Union Pacific to SWLA Alliance
Stockwell Sievert to United Way of SWLA
SWLA Alliance President/CEO George Swift received a check in the amount of $5,000 from Union Pacific President/ CEO James Young and Director of Public Affairs Drew Tessier to support the initiatives of the SWLA Economic Development Alliance Foundation.
Stockwell, Sievert, Viccellio, Clements & Shaddock employees raised $5,499 to support United Way of Southwest Louisiana’s 2010 campaign. On hand for the presentation are Pamela Addison, Beverly Smith, Somer Brown and Todd Ammons.
M.N. Davidson Foundation to McNeese Foundation The M.N. Davidson Foundation has donated $5,000 to the McNeese Foundation for the Dr. Ben Goldsmith, Joe Davidson and Blanche & Robert F. Michel Scholarships. Marianne White, left, coordinator of planned giving and donor research at McNeese, accepts the donation from Simon Davidson, president for the M.N. Davidson Foundation.
SWLA Senior Games to the McNeese Athletic Foundation The Southwest Louisiana Region Senior Games has donated $4,000 to the McNeese Athletic Foundation to establish the Health and Human Performance Senior Games Scholarship as a way to thank the university for use of its facilities and help from health and human performance faculty and track staff for over 20 years. From left to right are Kemuel Morales, assistant track coach, Dr. Mike Soileau, health and human performance department head, Adele Mart, director of Southwest Louisiana Region Senior Games; and Dr. Philip Williams, McNeese president.
Entergy to McNeese Banners Series
Gaming Industry to the City of Lake Charles Four Southwest Louisiana gaming industry businesses teamed up to present an $80,000 check to the City of Lake Charles and the Rebuilding Millennium Park Committee in support of the rebuilding of Millennium Park fundraising effort. This donation, which represents equal contributions from Coushatta Casino Resort, Delta Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel, Isle of Capri Casino & Hotel, and L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort, is the largest private sector donation to date.
Business First Bank to United Way of SWLA Business First Bank raised $5,910 in support of the 2010 Campaign for United Way of Southwest Louisiana. On hand for the presentation are Denise Durel, President & CEO of United Way of Southwest Louisiana, Phil Earhart, Regional Manager Business First Bank, Connie Blanchard, Asst. Vice President & Banking Center Manager, Business First Bank, Russell Pawlowski, Vice President Commercial Banking Business First Bank and Jon Manns, PPG Works Manager and 2010 Campaign Chair.
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The McNeese Banners Cultural Series is annually supported by donations from area corporate sponsors. Entergy donated $10,000 to support this year’s series. Banners Director Mary Richardson, left, presents a 2011 Banners poster to Sheila Pounders, regional customer service manager for Entergy.
Sasol North America to United Way of SWLA Sasol North America employees raised $163,914 to support United Way of Southwest Louisiana’s 2010 campaign. On hand are Mike Thomas, President, Sasol North America; Denise Durel, President & CEO, United Way of Southwest Louisiana; and Betty Rogers, Document Control Technician, Sasol North America.
May 2011
L’Auberge du Lac to Symposium L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort recently donated $10,500 as the Presenting Sponsor of the Choosing Civility in Southwest Louisiana Symposium held on April 7 at L’Auberge. The event focused on increasing civility in our community and provided valuable seminars by nationally recognized speakers Dr. P. M. Forni, Peggy Post and Daniel Buccino. Pictured are Geno Iafrate, Sr. Vice President and General Manager at L’Auberge; Lisa Verrette President/CEO of the Community Foundation; and Kerry Andersen, Regional Director of Community and Public Affairs for Pinnacle Entertainment.
Jeff Davis Bank to McNeese Banners Series Jeff Davis Bank & Trust Company has donated $10,000 for the 2011 Banners Cultural Series. The series offers family entertainment, classical music, jazz, lectures and so much more and is annually supported by donations from area corporate sponsors such as Jeff Davis Bank. Mary Richardson, left, Banners director, presents Tyler Williams, marketing director for Jeff Davis Bank, with a framed 2011 Banners Poster.
May 2011
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299 Cities Service Hwy., Ste. B Sulphur • 626-1011 www.businesshealthpartners.com
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C H A T T E R • E V E RY B O D Y ’ S T AL K IN ’ • D I D YOU H E AR T H A T ? • WOW - W H O K N E W ! • C H A T T E R • E V E RY B O D Y ’ S
LWV Honors Roach
Spartan Swim Team Competes
Pamela Phillips, Savannah Antonetz, Zac Stump, Alex Dorman and Tyler Hutchinson of the Spartan Swimming Team recently qualified and competed in the Speedo Champion Series-Southern Zone. The team, which is run by professionally trained coaches Andy Antonetz and Allan Andersen, is the only year-round youth swim team in Southwest Louisiana and is a member of Louisiana Swimming and United States Swimming. For more information visit www. spartanswimming.com.
Local Students Win Art Contest Cryslyn Hope Bacon of St. John Elementary won Best in Show at the Governor’s Office of Disability Affairs’ 2011 Inclusive Schools Art Contest at the Louisiana State Archives building in Cryslyn Hope Bacon Baton Rouge. She also won first place in the K-five division. Tyler Cole, also of St. John Elementary, received an honorable mention.
Boating Safety Class Scheduled The Lake Charles Sail and Power Squadron will host a boating safety course at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, May 28, at the LCSPS Anchorage at Israel LaFleur Park. Issues to be covered include boat handling, adverse conditions and emergencies, terminology, recommended equipment, regulations, lines and knots and piloting techniques. For more information, call 474-0730 or email mseverns@ yahoo.com. ‘
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Dorothy Roach was presented with an Honorary Membership in recognition for over 50 years of membership in the League of Women Voters at the organization’s annual banquet in April. New Dorothy Roach, left. board members were also announced, including President Molly Morgan. Other recently inducted board members are Robin Baudoin, 1st Vice President; Leslie Landry, Treasurer; Matilda Miller, Secretary; Francessca Howard, Director; and Sandra Walker, Director. The featured speaker for the evening was McNeese State University President, Dr. Philip C. Williams. Dr. Williams discussed three myths regarding higher education.
are welcome to bring chairs. For more information, call the Arts Council at 439-2787.
Film Shooting Continues Filming for the feature short horror film, East Stackton, is set to run through May 7 at various locations in Southwest Louisiana. The film was written by Sean Farina and Lake Charles’ John Veron while living in Los Angeles as part of a four-movie saga. East Stackton centers on Carroll Whitfield, played by Lake Area native Jared Bankens, as he travels to the titular town to check up on the latest branch of the House and Home hardware store chain. After he arrives, Carroll begins to suspect that the townspeople are hiding something from him. For more information visit www.ShootLakeCharles. com or www.facebook.com/eaststackton.
New Volunteers Sworn to CASA
Rural Caucus Elects Officers The Louisiana Rural Caucus today announced the election of officers for 2011-2012. The officers are Representatives Harold Ritchie of Bogalusa, Chairman; Bernard LeBas of Ville Platte, Vice Chairman; and Steve Pugh of Ponchatoula, Secretary/Treasurer. As chairman, Ritchie appointed seven caucus members to serve with the officers on the executive committee. They are Representatives Herbert Dixon of Alexandria, Noble Ellington of Winnsboro, Dorothy Sue Hill of Dry Creek, Robert Johnson of Marksville, Jack Montoucet of Crowley, and Senators Gerald Long of Winnfield and Francis Thompson of Delhi.
Downtown at Sundown Kicks off 2011 Season Downtown at Sundown will kick-off its four consecutive Friday performances on May 13with the 2011 Grammy winner for best zydeco album, Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band. Top Flight, the United State Air Force Rock Band, will continue the series on Friday, May 20, and it is made up of several active duty Air Force men and women who travel to overseas military bases to boost morale with their rock performances. The tropical sounds of Kelly McGuire, who has been described as “the Jimmy Buffett of the Gulf Coast,” will hit the stage on Friday, May 27, for Memorial Day weekend. City Heat will return to the Downtown at Sundown stage to close the concert series with a bang on Friday, June 3. Downtown at Sundown is held at the Downtown Merchants’ parking lot on the corner of Broad Street and Ryan Street from 6-9 p.m. on each Friday and is free to the public. All beverage sales go to benefit the Arts Council which supports and promotes Southwest Louisiana arts and cultural organizations. No ice chests are allowed, and guests Thrive Magazine for Better Living
Judge Lillyn Cutrer, from left, recently swore in ten Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) volunteers: Andrew Gallien, Bettye Gallien, Summer Sizemore, Rachel Claret, JoeEtta Rounds, Jeanie Johnson, Frances Jeffords, Barbara Jones, Ann Sensat, and Jan Cuniff. CASA, a program of Family & Youth, recruits and trains volunteers who advocate in court for the best interests of abused and neglected children.
Andersen Promoted to Regional Director Kerry Andersen has been promoted to regional director of community and public affairs for Pinnacle Entertainement. Andersen will have direct oversight of Louisiana media relations, public Kerry Andersen relations and community affairs at L’Auberge du Lac, Boomtown New Orleans and Boomtown Bossier. Additionally, she will lead PR efforts for Pinnacle’s newest property in Baton Rouge which is scheduled to open in 2012, pending regulatory approval. In May 2010, Andersen was named one of the company’s inaugural Center of Excellence leaders by Pinnacle CEO Anthony Sanfilippo for her expertise in public and media relations. She is the first team member May 2011
D I D YOU H E AR T H AT ? • WOW - W H O K N E W ! • C H AT T E R • E V E RY B O D Y ’ S T AL K IN • D I D YOU H E AR T H AT ? • WOW hired at L’Auberge du Lac, joining the project in November 2003. She represents L’Auberge and Pinnacle as a community liaison and passionate volunteer on numerous civic boards. Andersen will be based in Lake Charles and will report to Sr. Vice President and General Manager Geno Iafrate while maintaining her companywide role as spokesperson for Pinnacle Entertainment.
Local Stylist Completes Advanced Training Cortney Blalock, stylist with Signatures Salon in Lake Charles, recently attended an advanced training course in New York City. The workshop focused on curly hairstyles and was Cortney Blalock conducted at BbU (Bumble and bumble University), often referred to as the “Harvard for hairdressers.” Blalock has worked at Signatures for nine years and has completed a variety of advanced training programs.
CENTURY 21 Bessette Realty Agents Receive Customer Service Awards Tara Demarie, Century 21 Real Estate LLC recently recognized sales associates Judy Fontenot, Kim Granger, Nikki Hagen, Shellie Hoffpauir, Sharon Leger, and Larry Turner with the CENTURY 21 Quality Service Pinnacle Producer Award for 2010. The annual award is based on results from the CENTURY 21 Quality Service Survey (QSS) which is e-mailed to consumers immediately after the purchase or sale of a home through a CENTURY 21 System office. To earn the CENTURY 21 Quality Service Pinnacle Producer Award, an agent must have an average survey score of at least 95 percent or better for 2 consecutive years. LaPAW Fundraiser at The Ritz The Ritz Salon at 4401 Lake Street has launched a month-long fundraiser to benefit LaPAW, a nonprofit animal welfare organization. A pet photo contest, $5 to enter, will be open through May 14. Customers who bring in dog treats or toys will receive a 40 percent discount from May 10-13. Ten percent of all services will be donation to animal rescue, pet feathers will be available for sale and adoptable dogs will be on-hand.
Avery Archives Begins Construction on New Location Avery Archives, a full service records and information management company in Lake Charles, has broken ground at the site of their future location at 1155 E. McNeese Street. Currently located at 2797 Ryan Street, the company plans to be in their new building before the end of the May 2011
year. The new facility will be over 50% larger than the space they now occupy and will encompass 16,000 square feet of records storage space. In addition to record storage and management, Avery Archives also provides record digitizing services and document destruction. Shredding services can be provided at their facility or onsite at businesses with their mobile shredding truck. The company recycles 60-70 tones of shredded paper each month. For more information, call 491-9522 or visit www.averyarchives.com.
Hartman, Harrington Receive Certification Marketing Manger Megan Hartman and Public Relations Manager Katie Harrington of the Lake Megan Hartman and Katie Harrington Charles/ Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau have earned certification as Travel Marketing Professionals after completing the three-year program of the Southeast Tourism Society Marketing College. The STS Marketing College is a professional development program that for one week each summer turns the facilities of North Georgia College and State University in Dahlonega, Ga., into a laboratory to teach tourism marketing.
Elliot Wins State Competition Michel Elliot of Immaculate Conception Cathedral School won first place in the Library of Congress Letters about Literature competition, sponsored by the Louisiana Center for the Book in State Library of Louisiana in partnership with the Louisiana Writing Project. Finalists were chosen from more than 1,000 entries. Elliot, the youngest first-place winner, won first prize for a letter he wrote to Dr. Seuss.
ALA Announces Juried Show Winners Helga Gravitt received Best of Show at the Associated Louisiana Artists’ “The Boys” by Helga Gravitt annual Juried Regional Art Show for “The Boys,” an oil painting. She will now go on to compete at the juried Lone Star Art League annual convention in Houston. Thrive Magazine for Better Living
Juror Pat Love also selected first place winners: Kevin Leveque, professional oil; Tony Forrest, professional watercolor; Gloria Yang, professional pastel; Debbie Lavergne, pottery; Marilyn Wheeldon, professional photography; Sharon Benedict, non-professional oil; Theresa Dewey, nonprofessional watercolor; and Josh Fountain, student artwork. For more information about Associated Louisiana Artists or its member artists, visit http:// GalleryByTheLake.com.
Fuerst Elected to Family Law Section Randy Fuerst delivered a continuing legal education program entitled The Discovery Process Concerning the Self-Employed and Small Businesses at the 2010 LSU Family Law Seminar Randy Fuerst in Baton Rouge. Randy has guest lectured at LSU and other law schools in the past. Fuerst was also elected Secretary of the Louisiana State Bar Association Family Law Section for 2011. Randy has previously served as a Chair of the Family Law Section.
King Presented with Regional Award Willie King was recently presented the Regional Champions for Children’s Health award by the Louisiana Covering Kids & Families Coalition at their statewide meeting. The Louisiana Covering Willie King Kids & Families Coalition is a statewide coalition working to ensure that all eligible children and adults are enrolled in LaCHIP or Medicaid, to educate families and communities about health issues through collaborative partnership, and to increase the number of families who have access to health care. Louisiana Covering Kids & Families coalition members work together to ensure that Louisiana’s kids and their families have a healthy future. King is involved in many organizations benefiting children in Southwest Louisiana, including Project Build a Future, Salvation Army, MLK Day, Chamber SWLA, Children’s Miracle Network, Kids Can of Southwest Louisiana, 100 Black Men, Partners in Manhood, as well as Family & Youth, just to name a few.
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Mac Burns/WCCH Golf Tournament on May 21
Dynamic Dimensions Announces Biggest Mover Contest Winner
The 2011 Mac Burns/West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital Foundation Golf Tournament will be held on Saturday, May 21 at Frasch Golf Course in Sulphur. This year’s tournament marks the second year that the Mac Burns tournament and the hospital Foundation golf tournament will be held jointly. The tournament will follow a 4-man scramble format with a double shotgun start at 8 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. This year’s entry fee is $320 per team and covers food, drinks, range balls and mulligans. Various levels of sponsorships, as well as hole sponsorships, are available. For more information or to participate in the tournament, please call Ashley Andrepont, tournament chair, at 527-4241 or Debby Nabours, WCCH Foundation executive director, at 527-4144.
Welch Named West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital Employee of the Quarter West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital recently named Glenda Welch, food service aide, as its second quarter Employee of the Quarter. In her current position, Welch works to ensure that the food service needs of hospital patients and visitors are met. According to Fran Landry, director of nutrition services, Glenda is an outstanding employee who displays kindness and compassion in every aspect Glenda Welch of her duties. “Our mission at WCCH is to provide exceptional healthcare to patients. Glenda’s ability to help us achieve that mission demonstrates why she is this quarter’s recipient of the employee of the quarter award.” Welch is a resident of Hackberry and has worked at WCCH for over 9 years.
Melinda Hicks, winner of Biggest Mover contest (left) and Suzy Trahan (right), director of Dynamic Dimensions
Dynamic Dimensions Fitness Centers of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital recently named Melinda Hicks as the winner of the center’s annual Biggest Mover contest, a contest that promotes an increased level of participation in group fitness programming among current members of the club. The contest began February 1 and ran through March 31, with both locations of Dynamic Dimensions participating. The Biggest Mover contest utilizes a point system in determining a winner. As winner, Hicks received an Apple iPad.
Women & Children’s GIFT Certified Women & Children’s Hospital has been designated by the Louisiana Maternal and Child Health Coalition as one of only 19 GIFT certified facilities in Louisiana and the only hospital within Region 5 (Calcasieu, Allen, Beauregard, Cameron and Jeff Davis parishes) to be a certified Guided Infant Feeding Techniques (GIFT) hospital for protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding. The GIFT designation is a certification program for Louisiana birthing facilities based on the best practice model to increase breastfeeding initiation, duration and support.
St. Patrick Hospital Receives Award CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital received the 2010 Gift of Sight Hospital of the Year Award from the Southern Eye Bank . The Gift of Sight Award is presented by Southern Eye Bank to a partner hospital that has facilitated their mission of saving and restoring eyesight. The hospital chosen extends exemplary support and care to grieving families as they make end of life decisions for their loved ones.
Gulf Coast Bird Club Meeting on May 12 The Gulf Coast Bird Club announces a special program on the recent reintroduction of a Whooping Crane Population in Southwest Louisiana. The meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 12, at McNeese State University’s Frasch Hall Auditorium. The program will cover the latest events regarding the reintroduction of 10 young Whooping Cranes in the nearby White Lake area. Anyone with an interest in endangered species, wild birds or wetlands will truly enjoy this program. The speaker will be Ms, Carrie Salyers, Wildlife Biologist for the LA Department of Wildlife and Fisheries at Rockefeller Refuge. Salyers is a wildlife biologist with credentials from the University of Tennessee. She has been in Louisiana for a number of years and is currently working on the Whooping Crane Recovery Project.
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Tip:
Mow in the morning or evening.
www.allianceswla.org
The Last Word
The other day, I imagined a sun.
It was bright and symmetrical with varying shades of yellow and ly el K in by Er orange. Its threedimensional center was blazing. Its rays were bold and powerful. I decided to paint it. I’m not a painter, but I imagined how I would translate this image to canvas: I would trace a perfect circle and measure out each sun-ray with a yard stick, then prop the blank canvas on a tabletop easel and paint everything with my brand-new brushes and acrylics. My fourteen-year-old daughter watched me from the couch as I arranged all my materials and began. It became clear very quickly that I had no idea what I was doing. The center was flat and one-dimensional – hardly the fiery sphere I’d imagined in my head. The sun-rays were boring and understated, nothing like the colorful spiral I’d planned. As I sighed my way through trial-anderror, my daughter left her book and came over to see what was wrong. I explained that I wasn’t happy with my painting; the sun was flat, the rays were boring and it was nothing like I’d pictured in my head. She assured me it was a one-of-akind masterpiece then told me, in teenspeak, that art was a form of personal expression and my painting would never be beautiful until I believed it to be. She told me about a poem she read in school called “Valentine for Ernest Mann” by Naomi Shihab Nye. In it, Nye writes that “poems hide.” In the bottoms of our shoes, they are sleeping. They are in the shadows drifting across May 2011
our ceilings the moment before we wake up. What we have to do is live in a way that lets us find them, the poet wrote. My daughter said it was the same way with my painting and life in general. Look for beauty and you’ll find it, she said. After listening to her impressive artistic manifesto, I encouraged her to help me paint the sun. If we worked on it together, I explained, the painting would be even more meaningful. So she picked up a brush and outlined the center to give it depth. Then she dipped her paintbrush into a tray of green acrylic to start on the sun-rays. I told her I planned to paint the sun yellow and orange – colors that are typically associated with the real-life sun – but she shook her head and suggested we paint them all different colors. Not just yellow and orange, but forest green, bright blue, true red, burnt sienna, brown, and purple. And that’s what we did. As we painted, she told me more about her thoughts on art, beauty, and secret poems. “I understand what you’re saying,” I said, “but what do you do when the picture in your head doesn’t match what it looks like in real life?” She shrugged as she painted one of the sunrays blue. “That’s easy,” she said. “Just change the picture that’s in your head.” As soon as the painting dried, I found a prominent place for it on the wall.
Thrive Magazine for Better Living
Erin Kelly has been a local journalist for more than 12 years. Email her at edit@thriveswla.com. www.thriveswla.com
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Thrive Magazine for Better Living
May 2011