The Jambalaya News April 2017

April 2017

A Bayou Living Magazine Publication

Also Inside: Jamie Bergeron The Proofs in the Garlic The Poker Lady

One BIG happy flea market event!

The Food Dude & Dining Guide

And Much More …

Best Prices in Town

Open 24 Hours a Day 7 Days a Week

Low Prices On — Beer & Wine Alcohol Cigarettes Tobacco Icee Gasoline & Diesel 99 Cent Fountain Drinks w/ Crushed Ice Bagged Crushed Ice $1.29 for 8 lbs.

Hunts Brothers Pizza & Chicken Wings

Evan’s Jennings Location — 1207 S. Lake Arthur Ave., Jennings

Fishing Supplies & Bait—Live shiners, worms & frozen bait.

Iced Single Beers Alexis’ Diner offers—Video Poker, Fired Chicken, Hamburgers & also available on Waitr App. Store is open 6am—10pm 2

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

April 7, 2017

APRIL 7, 2017 …. VOLUME 9 …. ISSUE NUMBER 1

COVER STORY

Publisher

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Dawn Miranda Hughes-Daley dawn@thejambalayanews.com

Editor-in-Chief Dorothy Hughes dorothyhughes1951@gmail.com

Lauren Abate lauren@thejambalayanews.com Celeste W. Schlesinger Melanie Degeyter

Contributing Writers

Contributing Photography

Sales fayedrake@sbcglobal.net jambalayanews@gmail.com heatherhughes808@gmail.com lauren@thejambalayanews.com toniqu42@gmail.com

Graphics

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A Note From Delta Dawn A Note From Lauren & Dorothy We Are Louisiana Fishin’ Tales Tip$ from Tip Financial Spring Cleaning Business First Banking Life on My Terms Move Over Summer Time Blues (Crabbing) Trinity Outdoors Derby for Dollars According to Bill Soul Matters Cookin’ with Chef Redhead Sweet Cultivation Success Strawberry Preserves 3 Ways

THE SPICE OF LOUISIANA Dining & Entertainment Guide Event Guide Night Life Guide 39 38 40 41 42 48 54 56 57 58

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Spice of Louisiana Cover Tia Juanita’s Story Tio Juan’s Dream Becomes Reality Dining Guide Easter & Crawfish in Louisiana Entertainment with R. Loren Society Spice Adoption Corner Funbolaya The Poker Lady

Image by: Dawn Daley

Dawn Miranda Hughes-Daley Dorothy Hughes Jason Carroll

IN THIS ISSUE

Image by: Dawn Daley

Bill Elliot Celeste W. Schlesinger Dawn Miranda Hughes-Daley Dorothy Hughes Dominique Dugas George Cline Melinda Mose Nicole Shuff Arabie Paige Vidrine Roger Miller Russell Pawlowski R. Loren

Flea Fest … It’s Back Lake Charles Cover Jamie Bergeron Jennings Cover

Image by: Tiffany Casey

Contributing Editors

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Image by: Tiffany Casey

630 West Prien Lake Road, STE B #301 Lake Charles, Louisiana 70601 Phone: 337-348-2958 Www.thejambalayanews.com

CONTENTS

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Dawn Miranda Hughes-Daley Jessica Theresia—Intern Legal Disclaimer The views expressed by The Jambalaya News Columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Jambalaya News, its editors or staff.

The Jambalaya News is solely owned, published by Bayou Living Magazine, LLC, 630 W. Prien Lake Rd., STE B #301, Lake Charles, LA 70601. Phone 337-348-2958. While every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publisher cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. Copyright 2017 The Jambalaya News all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited.

April 7, 2017

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Image by: Dawn Daley

Art/Production Director

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All in Sunday Afternoon A few Sundays ago, I felt like getting everyone out of the house. So, I mentioned a late afternoon breakfast at I-Hop to my 9-yearold son (one of twins). He was ecstatic at the idea of pancakes, and ran to tell the others as I started getting the 7-month-old and myself ready. (As you can imagine, it takes lots of preparation to do that!) Then, I hear his twin sister protesting that she wanted to go to Chuck E. Cheese’s. So, after getting everyone dressed, I made them all sit down and told them we were taking a vote. Well, two were for Chuck E. Cheese and two were for IHop. I cleverly switched the game and asked who wanted to go to Cici’s Pizza instead. Luckily, they all decided that this was the place to go. So, off we went.

After everyone had a good bit off the buffet, the kids ask for tokens to play the games. I get some and go with them to make sure they aren’t putting their tokens in a machine that will rip them off. They decide to try and grab a ball out of a machine for two tokens, but each time, it drops the ball, no matter what.

Four little girls play the machine after them and the same thing happens. After they spend all their money, I can see that my son feels bad for them.

I walk away for a minute to get more tokens and when I return, I see that all the little girls have balls and they are thanking my

son. When I asked him, what’s going on, he says, “That machine was cheating them so I got them some by cheating the machine.” Needless to say, he’d crawled up into the machine with his thin flexible self and got the little girls some balls (not for himself or any of his siblings, just the little girls). I let him know that it was wrong even though he was trying to help the girls “But that machine cheats, and it took all their tokens!” he insists.

I explain to him that you can get things out of the machines and proceeded to try. (I was unsuccessful). So, I tried the other machine with the stuffed animals, and with much determination I managed to get six stuffed animals out of that machine. The kids were happy about that!

After we leave, we go to pay a phone bill at the Metro PCS. As I pull up, I notice my gas light is on. No problem, the gas station is right next door. But as I’m backing up into the street, my vehicle dies. Out of gas! Traffic on Prien Lake isn’t a joke right there around the mall. People are honking and yelling as I can’t restart the vehicle. I put on my flashers and the only thing I can do is jump out and wave people around as I’m trying to figure how I’m going to get gas with the kids in the vehicle and traffic zooming around us.

Out of nowhere, this vehicle whips right up in the parking lot on the side and an older couple jumps out and helps me push the vehicle out of the road. The gentleman buys a gas can and brings me a gallon of gas. I try to pay them, but they ask me to pay it forward.

I realize that what my son had done for those little girls and what this couple had done for me were random acts of kindness.

This is what keeps the world going in a better direction and in most cases, outweigh the bad! So, I encourage each and every one of you to get out there and help one another. It feels so good.

Delta Dawn Find the Blonde Bomber’s Necklace

…….. WIN $100 in CASH …….

The Blonde Bomber is a local retired professional boxer. He can be found punching thru ads in The Jam to help you get a prize. Find the Blonde Bomber’s red boxing glove punching thru an ad & TEXT 337-348-2958 to claim you chance to with this months prize. Include your full name, phone number, page number and ad description. Drawing will be held on April 30th. Winner will receive $50

gift card to Rikenjaks Brewing Company.

Congrats to our March winner who won two tickets to see Kathy Griffin at Golden Nugget.

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The Blonde Bomber has lost his necklace. Can you help him find it? He’s been wearing this necklace since he was 16 years old, it’s a lightning bolt with the letters TCB on it. Do you know what TCB means? Taking Care of Business and the lightning bolt symbolizes: in a flash. Elvis wore a necklace just like this one. Thankfully only the lightning bolt charm is lost. It’s important that he finds it … he’s lost it somewhere within the pages of The Jam, probably in one of the ads.

If you find it please TEXT 337-348-2958 with details on where he can find it (page number, ad description and where in the ad). Leave your name & phone number for the reward of $100. Drawing will be held the last day of the month. Remember it’s only the lighting bolt (pictured to the right) that he lost. Look close it’s hard to find! Good luck!

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April 7, 2017

Airstrip Orphans Crawfish!

Crawfish season is in high gear. It’s Lent and that means a lot of people are making huge sacrifices by going out on meatless Fridays and eating massive amounts of the delectable crustacean. Platters of spicy hot crawfish are being served up every other day of the week as well. High prices or not, they’re taking them to go, boiling them at home, or devouring them at various seafood places around town and beyond.

I adore crawfish. It’s the perfect food. First of all, it’s fun. You can get your hands dirty (NO latex gloves for me, thank you very much) and covered with spices. But unlike up North, where we get bibs with our boiled lobster, no protection is offered for crawfish.

It’s every man for himself. You have to have a plan of action.

Mine is simple: First, I wear black so it doesn’t matter what is spilled on me. No one is the wiser and the stains will come out. I also make sure I’m just about ready for my next manicure. Chipped nails seem to come with the territory. You have to eat crawfish with wild abandon, and not worry about anything. Takes away from the pleasure.

The dipping sauce is very important. I love to dip and I always have to ask for more sauce. I go through a lot of it. I don’t understand how people can eat crawfish without it.

That’s like eating boiled lobster without dipping it in butter. A good dipping sauce enhances the flavor.

Then there are the potatoes and corn. I usually love potatoes, but they are an afterthought as far as crawfish is concerned. The only thing I want with my crawfish is an icecold beer. Another flavor enhancer. I may dip a potato in some sauce, but if I have room for a potato, I’d rather fill it with more crawfish. The corn? Forget about it. It’s chewy and disgusting. If it’s not fresh corn on the cob, I won’t eat it. But I’ve been to crawfish boils where sausages and carrots and mushrooms have been thrown into the boil and I have to say they are delicious.

When I think of crawfish, I think of FUN, of being with a big group of friends and enjoying everyone’s company while we dive into these fabulous little mudbugs. It’s an experience. And this is what eating in Louisiana is all about.

So, get out there and get you some! Enjoy!

Lauren April 7, 2017

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Living on a farm, alongside a south Louisiana Bayou has its advantages. Life is always popping up in unexpected ways, and Spring is usually a time for a lot of that! Baby goats and puppies, kittens and little chicks, frogs and birds and bugs galore!

New little wildflowers that I hadn’t identified the spring before, and that sets me on a Google frenzy!

Of course, if I don’t write it down someplace to remember, I’ll find myself Googling all over again the following year. So, goes the season …

Spring of this year presented an incident with mixed emotions – something that brought hope, then sadness, and cycled back to hope again. Finding a dutiful and loving mama dog who had been abandoned in the country, starving and needy and apparently hiding her young pups someplace nearby, began this circle of an emotional train! She could only be fed where she stayed, near an agricultural flying service airstrip along a lonely highway – but she was disappearing from time to time, obviously feeding those pups somewhere! But where?!

Eventually, the hiding spot was found and so were TEN puppies of mixed coloring and characteristics – part Labrador, part Pitbull, and a suggestion of Catahoula hound. The wonderful mother with more heart than luck, was the darling of the flying service from the moment she had been found by the crew.

Everyone brought food and water for the mama dog and allowed her to keep her pups just where she had hidden them so very safely.

But, less than a week later, her lifeless body was found along the lonely country highway – the victim of an apparent result of a road crossing at that perfectly-wrong moment.

From desperation to hopefulness – full circle to worst-case scenario for this dog with such a sweet and dutiful heart. Now, with pups to save, the crew at the flying service acted immediately! When my son brought four of the orphaned pups home to foster, I had a tear for that valiant mother and a smile for the hearts of those who responded with the best of what we witness in humans – that ability to pour themselves into a worthy cause, to show human kindness to other life that shares this world with us.

The six that we didn’t take into our home were quickly snatched up by local farmers and families in the area who embraced the story of the orphaned family. Just as quickly, three of our little orphaned pups were placed carefully with people that were perfect for the dogs they took as theirs; some came quite a distance to claim their new little furry

friends – to have them become part of the families that rose to the occasion and displayed a greater part of the human heart.

Notice, I mentioned that three of our fostered four were placed quickly – but, the runt of the litter was passed over – becoming our darling little house guest for the past few weeks. We were wondering if we could ever part with the precious little Smokey! He’s been wormed, now – allowing his little body to reclaim the vigor and vitality of the new life he represents. The runt, no longer! But, we realize that three house dogs may be a bit too much; our two female Pitbulls – Becky & Kate, mother and daughter – are rather confused by the little intruder. They move away from his little teasing barks to attempt engagement in that puppy play he misses now that his brothers and sisters have all found their homes. And, seeing his siblings go to homes with kids that give them that happy frolicking time, is giving us pause to wonder if we’re making a mistake in withholding Smokey from the same happy experience.

So, Smokey is now officially going to be offered for adoption! We will part with our little guy if the right family decides to give him a chance at a forever home where he can be the center of attention! We think he deserves it, needs it, and has a ton of love to offer in return.

See photo below … If you feel your home would be the right place for Smokey, contact us by phone or e-mail: (337) 224-5153 or dorothyhughes1951@gmail.com

Dorothy

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We Are Louisiana …

Featuring the People Who are Making Things Happen In Our Community.

CPSO Deputy Receives Award Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office Public Relations Officer LT. Dan Herman, Vinton Law Enforcement Center, was one of 11 law enforcement officers from across the state to be awarded the 2017 Heart of Law Enforcement Award. Lt. Herman was nominated for his selfless acts during the flooding in March 2016 in the western part of Calcasieu Parish. During the flooding, Lt. Herman lost his home, but instead of taking time off, he continued to work countless hours to provide assistance to other members of the community affected by the flooding. Beyond the Badge is a non-profit organization that presents awards to officers who perform acts of kindness that go beyond what is professionally required.

Dr. Brett Cascio Moving Office Location Dr. Brett Cascio, orthopedic surgeon with Orthopaedic Specialists, a part of the Memorial Medical Group, is moving to Memorial Medical Group Office Building 4345 Nelson Road, Suite 201 Lake Charles.

The office will provide more convenient access to orthopedic and sports medicine services in the south Lake Charles area. He began seeing patients at his new location on March 27. The phone number will remain the same and appointments can be made by calling (337) 494-4900.

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Memorial Breaks Through with Robotic-Assisted Knee Surgeries Navio™ robotic-assisted partial and total knee replacement is now available at Lake Charles Memorial.

Partial and total knee replacement removes diseased bone while sparing healthy tissue and bone. Orthopedic Surgeon Robert Duarte, MD, with Orthopaedic Specialists, a part of the Memorial Medical Group, was the first to perform roboticassisted total knee replacement on February 28 and offer patients the revolutionary advanced precision of the Navio™ surgical system. Navio is a robotic-controlled smart instrument that delivers the precision of robotics into Dr. Duarte’s hands, allowing for accurate and predictable bone resurfacing and replacement. For more information, schedule an appointment with Dr. Duarte at (337) 494-4900.

Galan appointed to Victim Services Advisory Board Sheriff Sid Gautreaux, chairman of the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement, appointed Julio Galan, president and CEO of Family & Youth Counseling Agency to the Victim Services Advisory Board for LCLE. The Victims Services Advisory Board is responsible for overseeing the funding of grant applications for LCLE and advising LCLE staff on the provision and funding of services to victims of crime including sexual assault, domestic abuse, child abuse, and the underserved. Galan has been the president and CEO of Family & Youth Counseling Agency since 1997, and the president and CEO of the Family Foundation of Southwest Louisiana since its inception in 2000.

Keep Louisiana Beautiful’s Leaders Against Litter Event Keep Louisiana Beautiful and 23 affiliates including Team Green SWLA participated in a statewide litter-a-thon on March 10, ending with a press conference in Baton Rouge when Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser announced the results. Local government officials, business and community leaders joined Team Green SWLA across the one mile route on 12th Street between Enterprise Blvd. and Hodges Street collecting various forms of litter. Thirty bags and an estimated 550 pounds of trash, along with 2,500 cigarette butts, were collected.

Women’s Commission Elects Board The Women's Commission of Southwest Louisiana. Inc. announced their newly elected 2017 executive board and the installment of their 27th President Tammy Thibodeaux..

The remaining 2017 Executive Officers include Selena Cisneros - VP/Fall Conference Chair, Jeanine Blaney - Secretary, Cathy Brady - Treasurer, Kathy Sonnier - Membership DirecBayou Living Magazine, LLC

April 7, 2017

tor, Betty Anderson - Parliamentarian , Krystle Johnson - Past President, Dorothy Leger - Finance Director, Tara Ross Publicity Director, Carol Spence - Website Director, Brenda Wilkinson - Active Advisory Director, Anna Murphy - Advisory Proxy, Carol Ann Martin - Special Events Coordinator, Monica Duhon - Community Events Coordinator, Carol Henry - Cookbook Committee Coordinator, and Kensley Warren Lewis - Scholarship Coordinator.

CPSO Assistant Warden Graduates from FBI Academy Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office Calcasieu Correctional Center Assistant Warden Brandon Strenth graduated from the 267th Session of the FBI National Academy at Quantico, Virginia on March 17. He was one of 227 law enforcement officers who participated in the academy. Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy Program offers 10 weeks of advanced investigative, management, and fitness training for selected law enforcement officers having proven records as professionals within their agencies. Assistant Warden Strenth has 15 years of law enforcement experience and has been employed at the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office since 2002.

SOWELA Graphic Art Students Win Nine AAF Awards Graphic Art students from SOWELA Technical Community College received multiple accolades at the recent American Advertising Awards. Gold ADDY award winners include Brookin Alexander, Brandon Boggs, and Katelyn Vincent.

Gold category winners will advance to the district level where they will compete for a spot at the national competition. Silver ADDY award winners include Tyler Fitkin, Aspen Keel, and Katelyn Vincent. Bronze finalists include Brookin Alexander, Ashley Cook, and Tracy Kyeer. Each year, the Lake Charles AAF chapter receives submissions from area college students who compete for recognition in a variety of marketing and design categories. Local advertising professionals judge the entries, which helps students establish their skills among peers in the local community.

Krewe of Athena Supports SOWELA Graphic Art Student The Krewe of Athena recently presented the “Tracy Beaugh Rising Star Award" to Brookin Alexander for the spring 2017 semester at SOWELA Technical Community College. The award was created by the krewe in honor and remembrance of the college’s former faculty member, Tracy Beaugh, in the Department of Graphic Arts. The krewe awards $500 each semester to a graphic arts student based April 7, 2017

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on a selection process. Beaugh was a founding member of the Krewe of Athena, an active member of the Krewe of Cosmos and the Ad and Press Club, and received many awards and accolades for her designs. To learn how your organization can support student scholarships at SOWELA Technical Community College, visit www.sowela.edu.

West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital Honors Two Employees West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital recently recognized its February and March employees of the month for 2017 which are Ronnie Vice and Tammy Fontenot, RN. Ronnie serves as section coordinator in WCCH’s Health Information Management department where she is responsible for planning, coordinating and managing the duties and activities for chart analysts as well as scanning specialists to ensure patient’s records are readily available for continuation of care. “Ronnie plays a key role in making certain that medical records are complete in a timely manner. Her strong, well-disciplined work ethic proves her dedication to her department and our organization,” says Mayra Allemond, Health Information Management department manager. Ronnie has been with the organization for over eight years. Tammy Fontenot, RN, charge nurse in surgical service, helps oversee the different areas and daily functions of day surgery, endoscopy and recovery room areas by maintaining a steady flow of staffing for the department, updating procedures and collecting data. “Tammy is committed to providing an exceptional experience for each patient. She is a team player and a valuable asset to our team,” says Kris Conner, director of Surgical Services. Tammy has been with the organization for four years..

Ronnie Vice

Tammy Fontenot, RN

Lake Area Dentistry acquires patients from Dentistry on the Bayou. Dr. Jeffery Hennigan and Dr. Nathan Bray with Lake Area Dentistry have acquired the patients of the late David Kestel, DMD, of Dentistry on the Bayou, upon Dr. Kestel’s passing in December of 2016. Dr. Kestel had the succession plan in place to ensure his patients would continue to receive dental care from a team who shared his values and compassion. “As a friend of Dr. Kestel’s for many years, it is truly an honor to have been chosen to continue his legacy with his patients,” said Dr. Hennigan. Lake Area Dentistry, located at 700 W. McNeese Street in Lake Charles.

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By: Roger Miller

“ The Best of Times ” This was the best year afield ever for this old coot. It may have started with a whimper, as Dennis Dunneho and I got lost on our opening day of teal season. We may have only gotten one teal, but Dennis is also a magical tale-teller so we laughed a lot and had a grand time. To kill the time before big duck season, I made two trips to Jim Bel's hunting lodge to fish the culverts as the water roared through.

Not only did Mark Fontenot and his dad Sanford load up on redfish and flounder, they kept me entertained the whole time with quips and joyous shouts as they caught fish after fish.

Ronnie Shaw, Mark and I tried the culverts again the next week with much the same results except for Ronnie's multiple back lashes on a spin cast, no less. The piece de resistance was my excursion with the cart and wheelchair-bound Dr. Rocky Kent and Glenn Bordelon. They may both be recently deceased, but they were so very much alive that day. Rocky even caught six bass to go with his and Glenn's redfish. Adding to the cuisine catch was a laundry hamper full of big blue crabs hauled in by yours truly while the guys added filets to a packed ice chest.

Finally, waterfowl season opened and for the 46th year, Maj. George S. Kuffel and I hunted together. It was the first Wednesday of the season and as usual, we limited out with a lot

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of help from our guide and his British Labrador Retriever. Jim Bel's wife Lana Brunet Bel goes back to the ‘70s knowing Santa Charlie, so Jim invited Santa Charlie and my two godsons, Chris and Chad, for the weekend. It was the first Jim Bel's hunting lodge experience for the boys. We fished the culverts and Chris caught a hard-fighting 12-pound redfish. After a delightful supper, we settled in to catch up with Dr. Lacoste and the good old days (20 years) at Lacoste Lodge with Charlie and the boys, now men. Our hunt that morning took a mere hour to take 18 ducks.

Chris and Chad had the hunt of their lives with a 21-minute, 18duck morning. Retired dental surgeon Rand Alexander, hearing specialist Kirt Lupe, and local artist Frank McDonald also made it to Jim's with me. All three hunts produced limits.

For years now, my greatest pleasure afield is to observe my guests having delightful hunts, watching grand retrievers like Greg Naquin's Candy, and just being there one more time. There were so many other tales, such as the decoy carving one or fishing from Judge Jamie Bice's wharf on Big Lake, or the annual dove hunt at noted musician Greg Blanchard's. To paraphrase from Charles Dickens' Tale of Two Cities, “It was the best of times. It was the best of times.”

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April 7, 2017

Shameful Turnout in Recent Election I know that I am preaching to the choir because my readers are the type of citizens that exercise their civic duty. This last election had about as miserable a turnout that could be imagined. One candidate that was in a run-off for a city council seat simply dropped out of the race, frustrated by the ambivalence of the voters. His believes that it was not worth his effort if the voters cared so little for the good governance of our fair city. We have some run-off candidates for mayor and city races yet to be elected. I know my readers who have a candidate left to be voted in will all be there on Election Day. I am encouraging you all to solicit the participation of those not so committed to exercise their franchise, electing the most qualified to serve in these important positions.

Don’t Text and Drive!

The news has been full of reports of accidents caused by drivers’ texting, resulting in terrible accidents, even fatalities occurring. We all know that texting while driving is more than close to asking for trouble; it is begging for it. It is illegal here(not in Texas, but I bet it will be soon). Is it really that important to communicate while driving with your eyes on a hand-held device, smaller than a paperback book? It is one thing to hold the phone to your ears and talk, but texting is close to insane while driving. Please, pull over if you have to text, don’t put yourself and others at risk for no real reason other than you think you can get away with it. End of rant.

Short Measuring Rip-off One of my pet peeves has always been short measuring. The 14-ounce pound, the 59-ounce half gallon, the 11.2-ounce bottles that emulate 12ounce bottles are just a few of the ways that your dollar is extracted from your wallet while you think you’re getting full value. If you utilize some classic, older cook books, there is often a reference to using a can of this, a package of that, where items had been sold in a standard package for that particular product. No more, my friend. A 5 -ounce can of tuna is now the old 7-ounce tin. So frustrating.

I realize that prices rise, but being deceived by short packaging is simply not fair play. Blue Bell Ice Cream makes a point with their packaging by stating that their product comes in a full half gallon, thereby taking advantage of the undersize of the competition. Many of us remember when the fuel crisis of the ‘70s caused the auto industry to “downsize.” Heaven forbid they would have to admit their cars were smaller than what people were used to driving.

Some stores have begun selling produce by bunch rather than by the pound; rest assured that a bunch rarely weighs a pound. I know it will continue, as the marketing gurus are always coming up with new and improved packaging that will give you less for the same old price or higher. Just be aware and let the businesses know that you can see what their game is. Never hurts to be a wary consumer and your awareness can lead to some compensation (coupons, other promotions, etc.).

April 7, 2017

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Time for Some Financial Spring Cleaning Spring is in the air, even if it’s not quite there on the calendar.

This year, as you shake off the cobwebs from winter and start tiding up around your home and yard, why not also do some financial spring cleaning?

Actually, you can apply several traditional spring cleaning techniques to your financial situation. Here are a few ideas:

Look for damage. Damage to your home’s siding, shingles and foundation can eventually degrade the structure of your home. Your investment portfolio is also a structure of sort, and it, too, can be damages. Specifically, you may have deliberately constructed your portfolio with an investment mix—stocks, fixed income vehicles, cash instruments, etc. ~ that’s appropriate for your goals and risk tolerance. But over time, your portfolio can evolve in unexpected ways.

For example, your stocks may have grown so much in value that they now take up a larger percentage of your holdings than you had intended, possibly subjecting you to a higher degree of risk. If this happens, you may need to rebalance your portfolio.

Get rid of “clutter.” As you look around your home, do you see three mops or four nonfunctional televisions or a stack of magazines from the 1990s? If these items no longer have value, you could get rid of them and clear up some living space. As a investor, you also might have “clutter” - in the form of investments that no longer meet your needs. If you sold these investments, you could use the proceeds to fill gaps in your portfolio.

a new 401(k) there, and an older 401(k) someplace else. But if you consolidated all your investments in one place, you might cut down on paperwork and fees, and you wouldn’t risk losing track of a asset (which actually happens more than you might think). Even more importantly, when you have all your investments with one provider, you’ll be better positioned to follow a single, centralized investment strategy.

Prepare for a rainy day. As part of your outdoor spring cleaning, you may want to look at your gutters and downspouts to make sure they are clear and in good repair, so that they can move rainwater away from your home. Your financial goals need protection, too, so you'll want to ensure you have adequate life and disability insurance.

Seal leaks. In your home inspection this spring, you may want to investigate doors and windows for leaks and drafts.

Your investment portfolio might have some “leaks” also.

Are investment-related taxes siphoning off more of your earnings than you realized? A financial professional can offer you recommendations for appropriate taxi-advantaged investments.

This spring, when you’re cleaning your physical surroundings, take some time to also tidy up your financial environment. You may be pleased with the results.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Consolidate. Do you keep your lawnmower in a shed, a rake in your garage, and your gardening tools in the basement? When working on your outdoor tasks,, you might find it more efficient to have all these items in one location. You could also have your investments scattered about ~ an IRA here, 10

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We are looking to expand our sales Team and are in need of experienced Sales representatives.

Want to be on our sales team?

Call Dawn today at 337-348-2958 ‌ or E-mail resume: jambalayanews@gmail.com Come be part of a winning team!

April 7, 2017

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Business First Bank What Kind of Bank Are We?

Ten years in, Business First Bank serves over 10,000 clients across seven markets. There may be just 10 candles on Business First Bank’s birthday cake, but the glowing success of this innovative community bank is lighting up every corner of Louisiana.

A small flame that was kindled a mere decade ago with a few investors in a single Baton Rouge location spread rapidly. Business First Bank is now a thriving business bank with 17 offices and more than $1 billion in assets.

“We are proud to be one of the only community banks with coverage from east to west and north to south—from Shreveport down to Houma and from Lake Charles over to New Orleans and the Northshore ,” says Jude Melville, president and CEO of Business First Bank. “We want to be a regional business bank, so it is important to be on the ground and available in as much of the region as we can.”

Placing seasoned, local bankers at the wheel in these markets has been a vital part of the plan. “Our local bank executives have a lot of authority, and we really depend on them for credit and relationship judgments,” Melville adds. “We have worked hard to attract and retain the right employees and haven’t shied away from investing in highly experienced, locally oriented people, because banking, particularly business banking, is ultimately still about relationships.”

The local banking team in Lake Charles includes a blend of seasoned bankers and a support team along with younger, talented bankers that fit well with their customer base. Business First can do anything a bigger bank in Southwest Louisiana can do.

Most of the time, they can do it quicker and better because the decision-makers are local.

Business First feels its advantage is providing excellent and prompt customer service. Customers love the ability to walk straight up to a tellers desk--yes, a real desk--and be greeted by name by a friendly face.

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To complement its organic growth, Business First also made a bold statement in 2015 with a significant acquisition in Baton Rouge, giving it access to 10 additional metro locations.

What’s propelling the momentum? While Melville points to the talented team of employees the bank has been able to partner with over the years, he also emphasizes the bank’s unique focus.

“Our niche is businesses that are a little larger and more complicated than those typically served by community banks, yet too small to be anything but a number to the bigger banks.”

This niche includes energy sector service companies, small hospitals, larger nonprofits and real estate developers, for example.

Business First is proud to offer Commercial and Industrial (C&I) loans in addition to the standard real estate products traditionally offered by community banks. The bank’s reach has expanded to offer private banking and wealth solutions for business executives and owners as well as a full array of the traditional consumer deposit and loan products.

Reflecting its youthful energy and forward-thinking attitude, Business First is on board with the latest technology to make banking simpler for its clients. “At the same time, our clients know who to call when they need somebody,” Melville notes.

“We wanted to take a more specialized approach. Our business is not high volume. We are both high tech and high touch.”

The formula is working. Business First has been named Louisiana’s top bank (among banks of its size) for commercial and industrial lending and has been recognized by American Banker magazine as one of the best places to work in the industry.

While the bank is proud to celebrate its success thus far, it is even more excited about the future.

Business First Bank’s mission is to be the financial institution of choice for enterprises, their owners and employees.

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April 7, 2017

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13

Jason Carroll Image

Simple Ways to Make the Most of Your Money Are you tired of looking at your bank account mid-week and wondering where all your money went? I know the feeling. “I don't even spend that much. I don't splurge. So, where is my money going?”, was my thought. I got so sick of not having much to show for my lack of funds, that I started doing my research. I wanted to learn how I could make the most of the money I was earning. I began to dig into every Dave Ramsey book, article and podcast I could find! I was determined to learn how to really put my money to work for me.

Let me just tell you, you work way too hard to not have a savings account, money to invest or an emergency fund. I personally don't want to work forever just to realize that retirement isn't even an option. It was time for me to get real with myself and start making the decisions that would benefit me in the long run.

This is what I did.

Set a Budget. Every time I heard the word budget I would get an instant case of brain fog. Distract me please, because the last thing I wanted to do was sit down for any period of time to allot a set amount of money to individual categories. No thank you! I was trying to get serious about my money though, so all the advice I was getting was leading me to the thing I dreaded the most… budgeting. Setting my feelings aside, I pulled up the chair and pulled out my bank statements, receipts and other financials to start this process.

I started by making a table of my expenses and income.

Change your Spending Habits. How could I ask you to change your spending habits? You work hard to spend your money the way you want to. I know. I feel the same. The thing is that money doesn't get lost in the massive purchases you make once every 6 months. Money gets slowly funneled into unessential spending month to month until you realize you don't have a big enough savings to buy new tires or you don't have enough money to take that trip you always dreamed of. I like to travel too much to be wasting my money in a drive thru. So, I changed up my game plan. Once everything was on paper, I realized how my money was trickling out of my account into useless categories. For instance, I was spending far too much on my hair each month. So, 14

I went from a blonde to a brunette and simply let the roots grow in. Bam! Just like that I had an extra $80 a month to allot to my travel or savings fund. Oh, and food! Talk about wasting money. What I did to curb my excessive spending in this category has changed my life. On top of cooking more, a change my kids aren't necessarily excited about :), I switched up a few other things. First, instead of allowing the kids to drink juice boxes at home, I buy the large juices that you have to pour in cups. Cha Ching! Money in the bank and little to no inconvenience.

My biggest savings, when it comes to the kids juice and snacks, really came when I was introduced to wholesale market apps like Boxed. Now I purchase their school juices and snacks in bulk. I get large bags of goldfish and portion them out in zip lock bags.

This lasts months! This whole sale purchasing has worked wonders for my bank account.

Then there were subscriptions. No I didn't need my $10 subscription to the wonderful world of makeup trials each month. It had to go. As far as Amazon is concerned, I think it was the lack of control due to the automated click through purchasing that was the kicker. Geeze! There are marketing geniuses that work at Amazon. I simply had to tighten the reigns on myself and only purchase the absolute necessities.

There are tons of little tips and tricks I learned along the way that have helped me curb my day to day purchasing so that I can spend my money on things I actually, get a ton of value out of. I’ll leave you with this last little money savings tidbit. If you are a coffee lover, like me, invest in an instant coffee maker and a reusable filter. I also purchase the KKups on the wholesale app as backups in the event that I don't have enough time to fill my coffee filter (Yes, I still like to splurge!). Anyway, I like to buy the Starbucks coffee beans and grind them myself. It’s absolutely amazing and saves me a little extra cash every month.

Those little savings really add up in the long run and I’ve added hundreds to my fund looking for creative ways to change my spending habits.

Set Goals.

Curbing your spending and staying on budget isn't easy. The thing that has motivated me the most over time has been the financial goals that I set for myself. First, I plan trips months in advance and set a travel budget for them. This gives me so much drive to really save my money week to week. I get excited when I sacrifice in the short term knowing that I’ll be overseas in just a few months. Even little trips to New Orleans once every couple of months are enough to keep me motivated to save. In addition to adding to my travel fund, I invest in my future goals. I started a savings account and I like to set aside a decent amount of money to it each month. The goal for me is to save a large amount then take half of it and invest it in stocks and bonds. I’ve been reading books and articles on investing for months now. I would advise anyone looking to invest in the market to do a lot of research. It’s worth it in the end if you can make a massive return on your investment. The thought of being able to make my financial dreams a reality really keeps me motivated to stick to my budgeting goals. I like the idea of investment apps like ACORNS. It’s a simple way to get familiar with investing without putting a ton of money in the market. This has earned me a few extra bucks and I feel like that is worth the extra change I Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

April 7, 2017

put into each week.

You don't have to be a traveler or an investor to set realistic goals that will keep you focused. Figure out what you love the most and set aside the funds each month to indulge in that.

This is your life. You don't want to get to the end of it wishing you had experienced so much more. You deserve to really live. That will take some discipline though! So, get real with yourself and do what it takes to make the most out of your life.

Get Money Conscious.

Last but not least I want to explain the idea of being money conscious. Money is the tool we use to live our lives. You cannot live without it. So, if you're going to be thinking about something throughout the day, don't you think it would be wise to be conscious of money, how it comes in and how it goes out of your hands? I would imagine so. This is the basic concept of money consciousness. Once you set your focus on spending less, making and saving more, you will garner a form of freedom that is not known to many.

Most people will read this and say, “This is going to be a lot of work. No thank you!” I can understand that notion. Hear me out though. You work hard to earn your money. If you dedicate your focus to making it work for you, you will find out quickly that it is actually less work than toiling away with little to no long-term reward. Challenge yourself, make the budget, change your habits set goals, and see what happens.

You never know. You might just be able to change your life.

Mock Budget Expense Utilities (Water, Electric, Gas, Sewage, Cable/ Internet)

Mo. Payment $$$

Transportation (Car Note, Insurance, Gas & Maintenance)

$$$

Housing (Rent/Mortgage, Insurance, Maintenance, HOA fees)

$$$

Food (Dining out & Groceries)

$$$

Clothing

$$$

Medical/Health

$$$

Recreation/Entertainment (Movies, Shows, etc..)

$$$

Telephone

$$$

Traveling (Necessary to my budget)

$$$

Charitable Gifts

$$$

Personal (Hair, nails, brows…etc)

$$$

Debt (Credit Card, Loans, etc.…)

$$$

Savings

$$$ Income

$$$

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April 7, 2017

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15

Old country stores can still be on roads-less-traveled … this is one with great local history. From a wonderful part of my childhood days spent near Ball Ground, Georgia, We enjoyed going to the little stop that was down a winding wooded-road from our farm. Stancil Store was just the kind of place that Celeste is talking about in her article.

Years later I went back to uor old farm with my sister and we had to stop by Stancil’s. I hope these little places will always be around and I hope they aren’t the last of their kind … because they mean more to people than they know! I hope you have a Stancil Store of your own to remember.

Move over Starbucks and Cracker Barrel, GET DOWN AND HAVE SOME COFFEE, SHA!

By Celeste W. Schlesinger

Recently overheard while pumping some gas, “Yeah, I've already planted some broccoli, bell peppers and some corn.” “Corn?” “Yeah, corn can take two cold spells before it won't make!”

And we were looking at a short spell of cool weather ahead.

As a youth, our family would take little road trips. Mostly day trips, but once in a while, an overnight stay in a roadside motel.

One such trip led us to a heavily wooded area, unsure of many details since so long ago, but remembering a particular stop we made.

It was at a little gas station and general store shaded by large oak trees. The wooden steps leading up, were slightly U-shaped by wear. Dark wooden walls and a wooden floor throughout. A 'huge' jar of pickles, some pickled eggs, and probably Neapolitan coconut bar candy caught my eyes.

This was before or just about the time, that Mr. Evins opened his first Cracker Barrel Country Store in Lebanon, Tennessee. I'm sure that he had seen the same sort of quaint mom and pop gas stations/stores as a young man.

And there may very well have been a checker board set up on the porch.

Driving Louisiana roads, you'll see these types of gas sta16

tions/convenience food stores in the smaller towns.

Quaint; offering an odd variety, from wide brim sunhats, shiners to phone chargers; at Christmastime, there may be some local wares being displayed: horseshoe wreaths, for example. Louisiana does food, we all know that! So, food items from boudin, fried gizzards, to whole smoked rabbit may be available.

Then there's the coffee at these stores. And very often, a table or two. These coffee tables, as it were, become a communication hub.

Early hours will bring oil field people, farmers, sportsmen going to or from a hunt or a fish, mostly men, but women join in. There will be lines of pickup trucks. Some will be inside, small groups outside. Information being exchanged.

Lots of information; land up for sale, tractors for sale or how to fix, when and what to plant or what not to quiet, yet. What remedy to use for what ailment on people or animals, how someone's recovery from surgery has been doing...that later discussion usually is for the retired stragglers that remain about after large crowd has moved on to the day.

You'll also recognize respect, younger people listening to what the older people are offering.

Bordering on gossip, but really, it's community interaction.

And most assuredly the weather will be discussed. Not the “polite conversation” type of weather talk as suggested by Dear Abby or Ask Ann Landers, but genuine concern for how the crops, whether acres or just backyards will fare.

There's the adage, “You can tell if the food is good, by how many truck drivers or cop cars are outside”. That's mostly for travelers on interstates and larger highways.

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April 7, 2017

When you see those pickup trucks at any sort of gas station on smaller Louisiana highways and roads, you know there's no Wi-Fi being used. Just good old “jaw flappin'”. And bursts of laughter. Most times, as someone will depart, you might hear a sincere, “let me know if you need anything”.

I'm sure this scenario repeats itself in other areas of the United States, but these notes are only Louisiana.

Pardon me, now, I believe I'll start some spinach, broccoli, mint, parsley, beets (although almost too late), better to do some cucumbers. I'll be checking my almanac first, because I sure hadn't thought to put in any rows of corn.

But I “heard” at the gas station that it's possible.

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Main Office 1304 North Cutting Ave Jennings, LA 70546 Phone: (337) 824-0033 Iowa Office 114 North Thomson Iowa, LA 70647 Phone: (337) 582-1601 Iota Office 413 St. Joseph Ave Iota, LA 70543 Phone: (337) 779-2228 Lake Arthur Office 800 North Hwy 26 Lake Arthur, LA 70549 Phone: (337) 774-1339 Welsh Office 113 West Russell Welsh, LA 70591 Phone: (337) 734-3050

17

By: Tiffany Casey

Straw hats. Pedal pushers. Spheres of cream colored string.

Poultry parts. Dip nets. Ice chests. Sweat…let’s not forget lots and lots of sweat. The term ‘granny beads’ come to mind.

If these things conjure up memories of mid-summer days spent with family and friends along the scenic byways and beaches across the Gulf Coast, then chances are you ARE a Louisianian!

As an adult, the scorching hot summer months of July and August often remind me of weekends spent as a child with my family, usually roadside, usually somewhere along the Creole Nature Trail, and always with baited strings and long handled dip nets in tow. Nothing was off limits back then, not even for a young girl of 8 or 9. Under overpasses; near locks where cranes and herons stood watch like statues waiting for their next amusebouche; off to the side of the main highway as cars whizzed by sending clouds of dust throughout the thick summer air; even in the middle of a boat launch, intermediately, as boats attempted to depart and alligators begged liked puppies for one more bite – enough to hold them over until something more substantial came along. It didn’t matter where you setup shop it seemed because there were blue crabs to be had in Southwest Louisiana this time of year, by God, you just had to catch them!

If I were to ask you to close your eyes and to picture your past visits to the beaches along our Louisiana coast, whether as a small child or as an adult, it is likely that vivid remembrances of images and sounds would follow. Images of young and old alike standing waist deep, being jostled by the greenish tinged surf rolling in and out across the sandbars in a seemingly synchronized rhythm to that of the Gulf breezes. Sunshine dances off the morning haze while a shrimp boat runs its trawls off in the distance and gulls call out for one another. An older gentleman is trying desperately to tiptoe along his trotlines, with one hand checking each pendulous offering while the other is clutched firmly around the wooden handle of a dip net, all in anticipation of a prize at the end of each one. Children put to task sprint to and fro between the waves with smaller dip nets of their very own, scooping up anything and everything in their wake. If I were to paint a picture of a Louisiana beach, this is how it would look.

I have tried to keep up with traditions such as these, making it a point to spend days on the beach with family and friends, chancing what the salty coastal waters are willing to offer us. As an adult, I have figured out that at certain times of the year along our gulf shores, specifically July into August, all I really need is nothing more than a long-handled dip net to pluck the crabs from their almost seemingly coma-like state on the sandy bot18

toms of the tidal waves that roll across our beaches. A good, sturdy bucket to carry them home in assures one that he or she does not become ravenous given the ease of it all. No poultry required. No huge ice chests. That’s it…just me, my net, and my bucket.

“And how can this be?”, you may ask… Why is crabbing along our Louisiana coast so phoenominal? Well, allow me….

A brief look into the lifecycle of the Louisiana Blue Crab or the Callinectes sapidus (from the Greek calli- = "beautiful", nectes = "swimmer", and Latin sapidus = "savory"), the blue crab, Atlantic blue crab, or as we refer to it, the Louisiana blue crab, is a species of crab native to the waters of the western Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.

Each year the female blue crab makes her pilgrimage back to the sandy shores of the Gulf of Mexico to spawn, while her male counterpart hangs tight back at the crib – better known as the estuary. This annual migration usual occurs the heaviest in….you guessed it, July and August. In fact, there are so many female crabs trying to come nearshore to spawn that one, like myself, can literally scoop them up as they are pushed up onto the beaches by the rolling tides. You barely need get your feet wet, they are that easily obtained. It is quite a sight to behold once you realize what is actually taking place.

Female crabs only mate once during their lifetime but are able to reproduce several times due to their ability to store the male’s sperm and subsequently fertilize her own eggs when she sees fit.

Smart gal, I’ll give her that. Anyway, a female crab can lay over 9 million eggs in her lifetime…9 million! That’s a lot of crab boils people! She carries these bright orange eggs in what we, in South Louisiana, refer to as Pom-poms (or clusters) which are attached to her undercarriage, until they hatch at which time they are swept away in tidal currents back into the estuaries where their lives technically began. Juvenile crabs spend anywhere from 9 months to a year in the back bays and marshes before adulthood begins nature’s cycle once again.

Now that you may know more than you actually wanted to about the Louisiana Blue Crab and why this time of year is so popular for many of our recreational fishermen - grab your dipnet, your bucket, and finish reading this article in the truck, while your buddy drives of course. It’s time to go crabbing!

Alright, everyone in the car? …seatbelts on?...let us continue.

That car ride home was often quiet. You’ll see. Exhausted from the heat of the day and beat down by the suns powerful rays, this was the only opportunity available to rest-up for the culmination of the day – the boil.

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Once home, the ice chest(s) were unloaded (and then reloaded to chill beverages i.e. beer, root beer, fruit punch, cream sodas, and more beer), the crabs were then purged of all their sand and grit then tallied up for good measure, and a large pot of seasoned water was put on to boil. There were one or two tables strewed with day even week old newsprint. This proved to be a good time to catch up on the latest Andy Capp strip. Then the paper towels were set out at each end, the butter knives piled up in the middle for whacking and cracking the claws, and the soup bowls filled with drawn butter – a decadent touch for any seafood boil in South Louisiana back then – were placed around considerately around the table(s). This was the backdrop of many a gathering over the years. Funny thing is, turns out it was just another day in Cajun country where love, laughter, music, and food were always plentiful.

There aren’t many things that one has the chance to say this about these days, but - the traditions revolving around that of crabbing during these sweltering summer months really haven’t changed all that much since I was a kid. Those same exact scenes play out daily, over and over and over again, all across our Louisiana coast this time of year. From Grand Isle to Holly Beach and everywhere in between, families still spend the day together - in the relentlessly hot sun; along roadways and sandy shores; in automobiles and backyards – all in pursuit of these decapods and the love of their sweet, delicate meat. The only difference I see today is the acceptance of sunscreen and bottled water….which brings me to this: I was blessed growing up in Southwest Louisiana. I was raised with a great appreciation and the utmost respect for the outdoors ….and that means all of it, folks. I was taught that I should NEVER take more than I absolutely needed whether from an animal or from the land; that if I killed it, I damn sure better plan on eating it; and in order for all of it to continue to flourish, I was taught that it was my responsibility to make certain that I left things the way I found them. Unfortunately, it seems that THIS is the biggest change that I have witnessed over the years – the lack of respect for the world around us and its inhabitants.

As an avid fisherman and outdoorsman, I witness first-hand the slow and steady destruction of our coastal wetlands and its wildlife every day. It is real. You can choose to roll your eyes at this or you can choose to be a part of the solution. It is your choice. I so hope you chose to be a part of the solution!

When bringing your families out to enjoy our parks, refuges,

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waterways, or even your own backyards, please make it a point to reinforce the fact that it is our job and our responsibility to be the best stewards of this land that we can be. As far as we know, we only have one Earth and we only have one chance to do right by Mother Nature. Let’s pull ourselves together, people, to assure that future generations are able to experience the gifts for which Louisiana has thrived on for centuries.

Happy hunting, fishing, shrimping, and crabbing, everyone!

Sauvegardez le garde-manger du Bon Dieu.

(Save the pantry of God) Things to note: *Did you know that there is NO legally specified season to catch blue crabs? *Possession of female crabs with pom-poms (egg clusters) is prohibited and carries a fine. * There is a daily limit of 12 dozen crabs per person. This is subsequent to change from time to time so it is ALWAYS best to check with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries http://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/ . * You do not need a fishing license or a gear license when using nets or trotlines unless on a LDWF WMA (Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Wildlife Management Area) or refuge. *Do not keep your crabs in water, closed containers, OR upside down. They can suffocate and/or drown. Keeping them on ice is the best way to keep them fresh and safely stored until you are ready to boil.

19

Have you ever been permanently injured in an accident? Do you have a relative or child with a disability? Would you like to bless someone with a special gift? The 501c3 ministry outreach at Trinity Outdoors Disabled Adventures, LLC provides allinclusive outdoor adventures to those in need.

Eleven years ago, an automobile accident in Lafayette proved to be the beginning of a huge life transformation for Jason Bland, the founder and CEO. Bland, a recent resident of Lake Arthur, was able to turn something negative into an asset to help others by starting a nonprofit that caters to kids, adults and veterans in the outdoors.

Due to his accident, Bland is now an amputee. “Losing my leg was a blessing,” he says. “What I once looked at as a negative has turned out to be the biggest asset. When I lost my leg, I thought that I would never be able to go hunting or fishing again. That was until I truly came out of my slumber and into a relationship with Jesus Christ.”

Trinity Outdoors Disabled Adventures was formed in November 2008. “We try to give back the gift of life to those who think that overcoming their disability or the life they had been living was once non-accomplishable,” he says. “Eighty percent of our leaders have a disability or have a child with a disability. We all love the Lord, and basically want to give back to those in need.”

Trinity Outdoors provides activities such as alligator, hog and deer hunts and fishing trips and mission trips, in addition to also helping folks overcome addictions. Bland says funding the program takes constant fundraising. “After nine years, we have been able to master new and creative ways to do so,” he says.

On Saturday May 6, they will hold their Inaugural Dream Big Banquet at the Lacassine Community Center where television celebrity Ronnie “Cuz” Strickland from Mossy Oak’s Hunting the Country will be the guest speaker. “This will not be your typical banquet,” Bland explains. “This banquet will have high definition video clips from previous hunts and fishing trips along with the disabled child giving a quick testimony. There will also be gun raffles and much more family fun to experience.”

On Saturday June 2 and 3 Trinity Outdoors will hold their 2nd Annual Frogging Tournament. The pre-registration will take place at Hurricane Off Road and the weigh-in will be held in the parking lot at Trinity Baptist Church in Lake Charles. Companies such as Don’s Wholesale, Henderson Implement, Sunshine Equipment & Shell and many more made this event possible. “We want to draw a crowd from all of the surrounding areas

20

Jason Bland, founder/ owner of Trinity Outdoors & his daughter Ashlyn Bland enjoying some outdoor time.

of Lake Charles, along with the East Texas area, “Bland says.”

We are here because of our support from Louisiana, but now it’s time branch out.”

For more information, contact the Trinity Outdoors office at (337)548-9000 or go to www.trinitydisabledaventures.com

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April 7, 2017

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21

Gentlemen, grab your derby duds and ladies, put on your hats!

It’s time for the 5th Annual Derby for Dollars Kentucky Derbystyle event! The Mint Juleps are crisper, the cause greater, and the camaraderie even more delightful every year!

Derby for Dollars will take place at The Stables at LeBocage in Lake Charles on May 6 starting at 3:30 p.m. The scene at the Stables is one right out of the movies on Derby day. Guests arrive dressed to the nines in their best Derby attire. As the make their way in to the event down the red carpet, they are greeted with the flash of the camera from a professional photographer and a cool, crisp Mint Julep. Past the entrance, guests place bets on their favorites for the day’s race before making their way over to the silent auction area where there is a treasure for everyone.

Guests are encouraged to dress in their best Kentucky Derby attire. Stroll the grounds of The Stables while enjoying fresh Mint Juleps provided by Harlequin Steaks and Seafood and electable dishes from the Lake Area’s finest restaurants, including Ember Grille, Cousins, Mazen’s, and others will be available.

Jack Jobert, renowned painter, will return to paint a one-of-a kind masterpiece on site during the event. The Cigar Club will also join the Derby fun again this year.

While guests await the start of the authentic Kentucky Derby, bidding on a favorite horse or two or browsing unique silent auction items is a perfect way to begin the fun. Enjoy a jumping exhibition and good music while judges surreptitiously select the winners for Gentleman’s Best Derby Duds and Lady’s Best Derby Hat. When the important race begins, large screen televisions throughout the property will bring the crowd together… as if, just for a few moments, everyone is a part of the actual Kentucky Derby!

Derby for Dollars is one of the Lake Area’s most unique and exciting fundraisers. All proceeds benefit Shannon Cox Counseling Center, a division of Family & Youth. The Grief Counseling Initiative of Shannon Cox Counseling Center was founded

by John and Ginny Henning, owners of The Stables at LeBocage and friends of Shannon Cox, a local advocate who promoted and defended various causes. Shannon passed tragically in a car accident, leaving behind a young son in need of grief counseling. Knowing there must be many others just like him, the Henning’s endowed Family & Youth with the resources to create a Grief Counseling Initiative for children of minority age who are grieving the loss of a parent or other significant family member.

Shannon Cox Counseling Center provides a wide range of 22

constructive and life-changing services in the form of counseling, consultation, and education to benefit individuals and families in Southwest Louisiana. In 2016 alone, Shannon Cox Counseling Center provided grief counseling services to 144 children.

Tickets for the event are $125 per person and can be purchased at www.fyca.org. Sponsorships packages are available and include free tickets and souvenirs, as well as sponsor recognition during the event, which is attended by over 600 individuals. For more information, contact Amy Nyberg at (337) 436-9533 or amy@fyca.org.

For more information about Family & Youth, visit www.fyca.org, call (337) 436-9533, or like Family & Youth on Facebook. Family & Youth is a United Way-supported agency.

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April 7, 2017

Trinity Outdoors Disabled Adventures “NOT YOUR TYPICAL BANQUET” This banquet will be family oriented. High definition handicap hunting videos with live testimonies of past year’s participants, silent auction, live auctions, and much more. $40.00 Membership (Meal, Monthly Newsletter, T-shirt) $30.00 Evening Event (Meal) Kids under 12 enter and eat free

SPECIAL GUEST: RONNIE “CUZ” STRICKLAND from HUNTING THE COUNTRY

Saturday May 6, 2017 @ The Lacassine Community Center 6-9 pm Lacassine, Louisiana Level $500.00 1 year membership 1 table at banquet with 8 meals 2 shirts $50 worth of banquet raffle tickets Doe Level $1000.00 Yearly Sponsorship Medium Traffic 1 year membership 1 table at banquet with 8 meals 4 shirts $100 worth of annual raffle tickets $100 worth of banquet raffle tickets Big Buck Level $2500.00 Yearly Sponsorship High Traffic 1 year membership 2 tables at banquet with meals 8 shirts 2 Entries to Frogging Tournament $200 worth of annual raffle tickets $100 worth of banquet raffle tickets CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE: All of the above PLUS a chance to choose your own kid Adult or Veteran to bless on a trip Plus a chance to have a $2000 handicap Deer stand named after your company On our local 750 acres

GUNS, APPAREL, Hunting & Fishing Equipment & Much More

Proceeds goes towards all-inclusive outdoor adventures for those in need, local missions work, local land improvements for disabled individuals, operations, and the Trinity Building Fund.

SUPPORT NON-PROFITS WHO HOLD UP TO MORAL STANDARDS For more information please call (337) 548-9000 or go to www.trinitydisabledadventures.com April 7, 2017

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23

ACCORDING TO BILL The Exploding Egg Sandwich Life is indeed an exploding egg sandwich. The statement bears explanation, of course.

When I refer to eggs I mean to the standard chicken egg that has been a staple foodstuff of mankind since civilization was invented. Today, availability of fresh eggs are a given, and we consume them in many products without much thought or ado. These little round guys are the epitome of reliability, particularly in the modern world in which technology has permanently banished the rotten egg from the shelves of supermarkets. When you get an egg, you know what to expect and disappointments are so rare as to be nonexistent.

I don't eat a lot of eggs because the latest truth I can remember is that they have a bit too much of cholesterol. A six pack of eggs may last me as much as a month. But I know they are there, and, like money in the bank, I can draw one out of the refrigerator and caulk up the hunger hole in my tummy in a hurry. Yesterday was one of those days.

I obeyed the instruction to eat by taking a single egg out of the refrigerator, cracking it without breaking the yolk into a greased microwaveable glass pie dish, then popping it into my microwave. I simultaneously put some bread in the toaster. When the bread was lightly toasted, I put the micro waved egg on one piece, peppered the cooked egg for flavor, and completed the assembly with the other piece of toast. I then walked into another room to watch a bit of television as I ate my sandwich.

Before sitting down, I took a small bite of my sandwich and was rewarded by an extremely loud "POP" and a blast that tore my sandwich apart. I had pieces of egg yolk stuck on the lens of my glasses and ten or fifteen pieces of egg scattered about. My upper lip was scalded but not severely though I favor it even as I write.

I had a new truth. Eggs, the epitome of certainty, my nutritional catch all and a hitching post of civilization, were capable of attacking me and leaving me wounded with a battlefield to clean up.

My new wisdom is somewhat unsettling as I now know that all of the certainty gleaned from a lifetime of experience is only a convenient illusion that does not include the reality that egg sandwiches explode. I can't stop wondering what is next.

Emily Davis just won & holds the title of Miss Teen Louisiana United States. With her state title she will compete in the United States national pageant which will be held in Orlando, Florida this year in June, with a chance to win and carry the title of Miss Teen United States. We will cover this in our May Issue.

Covering all your party sweet favorites ‌ birthday parties, weddings, company gatherings or just your daily sweet cravings.

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By: Nicole Shuff Arabie

love, pray, believe, and give of myself. With determination and self control, my life will begin to balance itself with ease and grace. Although the division occurred and it seemed as if I woke up in a new dimension, I was actually becoming a new creation in a new world. A world that gave me new eyes and a new heart.

Inspiring new ideas began leading the way on my journey, with different types of abundance and happiness filling up my life.

Listening to your own inner voice is important. Don’t be lulled into daydreaming. You have to get clear on what you want, and take action towards them. You can’t put off making the changes that you know in your own heart are necessary. Learn to embrace the new direction you are being called to follow. Many things may appear as if they keep us apart from the hopes and dreams we carry, but there is only a doorway that separates our hearts. Use the door of God to leave what you think you could never leave and go where you thought you could never go.

The Space In Between the Doorway in Our Heart The space in between the doorway to our hears is filled with doubt, confusion, and fear, and from the depths of it are cracks that make divisions where the future seems undone.

It’s a space where you feel conscious of everything that’s missing. It is here where we must release regret and embrace opportunities for happiness. Regret simply doesn't serve us. In that space in between is where God met me. I poured out my heart to Him, and he answered.

God saved me from the grey matter I was living in; he showed me compassion, and blessed me beyond measure. God brought beauty to the places where I no longer could see it. I learned that for anyone to be in my life now, they would have to love the Lord as passionately as I did.

He began by preparing me to be alone and learning to wait patiently. I began to see the beauty of simplicity. I learned that our heart is our greatest strength. That we must trust by stepping out of our comfort zone by charging bravely ahead with joy and confidence. God has reminded me that He is the author of my story.

That His love is relentless. He continues to pursue me, and uncovers the connections that would have normally gone undetected below the surface.

Hopes and dreams are wonderful things to have. When we choose to cling to God, they become reality, worries fade, and fears dissolve.

It is time to believe in myself. I go after what I want, and attract what is helpful. He is always filling me up with the knowledge that there is a plan, although I might not be able to see it clearly at times. All I have to do, despite the distractions and disappointments over the past few years, is to get up and continue each new day, no matter how I feel.

I must choose to move along this walk, and 26

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For the salad: Heat a grill or grill pan over stove top over medium-high heat.

Brush grill lightly with canola or vegetable oil, then place marinated chicken on grill and cook, about 4 minutes per side, or until chicken has cooked through (it should register to 165 degrees in center of chicken when tested with a meat thermometer). Transfer to a cutting board and let rest 10 minutes. Then, cut chicken crosswise into strips about 1/4-inch thick.

To assemble salad: In a large bowl toss together cabbage, spinach, lettuce, asparagus, 3 chopped green onions, and cilantro with enough dressing to coat salad. Sprinkle top with Chinese Noodles and serve.

Russell Pawlowski It’s springtime in Southwest Louisiana and everyone keeps talking about this diet or that diet. Honestly, I hear you loud and clear and for me hunting season was rough I tended to eat a lot of carbs and lots of camp gravies. Now it’s time to shed those winter pounds and get ready for spring and summer vacations. We prepared one of our favorite salads. Salad by itself is boring and not too satisfying. I assure you this is a meal.

Grilled Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad Ingredients Dressing and Marinade 1/4 c low-sodium soy sauce 2 Tbsp. finely minced ginger 3 Tbsp. canola oil 2 Tbsp. hoisin sauce 1 Tbsp. toasted sesame oil 1 tsp Thibs Haberno Sauce or your favorite hot sauce 1/2 tsp salt, then more to taste as desired 1/4 cup red wine vinegar 1/4 cup chopped green onions, green and white parts Salad 2 (9 oz.) boneless skinless chicken breasts 1 lb. spinach and iceberg lettuce chopped 1 bunch Asparagus ½ cup red cabbage sliced thin 1/2 cup cilantro leaves, chopped 3 chopped green onions, green and white parts 1 tsp white sesame seeds, toasted 1 boiled egg Chinese Noodles for garnish Directions For the marinade: In a mixing bowl (or 2-cup liquid measuring cup), whisk together soy sauce, ginger, canola oil, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, Hot Sauce and 1/2 tsp salt. Add chicken breasts to a large re-sealable bag and add 3 Tbsp. of the marinade mixture, reserving remaining. Seal bag and rub marinade over chicken, then transfer chicken to refrigerator and let rest at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 day.

For the dressing: Add red wine vinegar and 1/4 cup chopped green onions to remaining dressing mixture and whisk to blend. Set aside (chill in refrigerator if marinating chicken longer than 1 hour).

April 7, 2017

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Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

6am –9pm Monday thru Saturday Military & Police Discounts …

2211 Ryan Street, Lake Charles, LA | 337-602-6772

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Flea Fest is back! The fun and kitschy country fair-like festival that features nearly four covered acres of anything and everything roars back into Lake Charles on April 29-30. Billed as “a bargain hunter’s dream”, the semi-annual flea market event has grown dramatically since its 2013 inaugural show. For evidence of Flea Fest’s explosive popularity, one has to look no further than the festival’s highly trafficked Facebook page, where it has garnered nearly 17,000 “likes”. In a world where social media approval can rightfully be considered the opinion poll of the modern era, Flea Fest stands nearly alone in its category.

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But Flea Fest’s popularity extends beyond its loyal fan base of shoppers. It’s also become one of the pre-eminent stops on the often tight-knit vendor circuit, drawing vendors from multiple states selling a myriad of unique merchandise. Speak to any vendor during the show, and you’ll encounter a common opinion - not only is the show profitable for them, it’s also just plain “fun”. It’s a reality summed up succinctly in Flea Fest’s tag line: “One Big Happy Flea Market Event”.

A walk around the event quickly reveals the secrets of Flea Fest’s popularity. A massive crowd throngs the floor as a live DJ spins classic

rock n’ roll tunes. A little girl squeals in delight as she sits upon a circling pony.

A fidgeting boy sits in anxious excitement as a face painter transforms him into a ferocious tiger. A woman grins widely as she surveys a table filled with fresh baked pies. An old man artfully negotiates the price of a cedar swing. A young couple hold hands as they lean intently over a table of handmade jewelry. All the while, the sweet, thick aroma of fried festival treats wafts through the massive covered barn. The cumulative effect infuses the entire event with a palpable charge of excitement. And

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that’s exactly where Flea Fest’s success can be said to lie. It seems to have captured something elusive – that rare, but somehow strangely familiar sense of classic Americana. An exceedingly rare find that can be experienced by anyone for only one weekend each spring and fall.

Boasting vendors of all types, the upcoming spring show is expected to be the biggest yet, featuring over 300 vendors and a virtual drove of frenzied shoppers. Flea Fest’s offerings include antiques, retro & vintage, handcrafted items, toys, collectibles, clothes, art work, comic books, upcycled furniture and décor, gifts, plants, handmade jewelry, crafts, a farmer’s market, adoptable pets, and much more. In addition to the variety of merchandise vendors, Flea Fest will also include a virtual grab bag of wares from locals holding their garage sales at the festival. Flea Fest is set for 9am5pm April 29-30 in the Burton Complex Event Barn, located on the South side of Burton Coliseum. Adult tickets are $5, with the exception of Saturday from 8am-9am (The Early Bird Power Hour) when ticket prices are $10. Kids 12 & under are admitted free at all times. Tickets are only available at the gate – cash only. Parking is free, but if shoppers want an up-close space, a limited number of spots are available in a special VIP parking lot for only $2. The venue is entirely covered so the event will go on rain or shine! More details can be found at www.FleaFest.com and …

Facebook.com/FleaFest/.

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Image by Dawn Daley

The Proof is in the Garlic …

Jamie Bergeron is undeniably a well-known cultural musician in these parts, having enjoyed seeing his lively performances garner impressive popularity, voted in The Times of Acadiana as “The Best Cajun Band” for 13 years running! Well-deserved recognition for a band with a crowd-pleasing musical style – part Zydeco, part Swamp Pop, and most definitely Cajun! Just mention that Jamie Bergeron & the Kickin’ Cajuns will be heading up a festival or performing at a local club, and there’s sure to be a crowd to meet them and revel in the festivities!

At the age of 16, Jamie was drawn to another of his passions – the serious and life-saving work of an Emergency Medical Technician. That dedication never left his heart, and he manages to stay active as an EMT for Acadian Ambulance – having done so for the past 27 years! In fact, if you get him talking about the role he plays as a licensed paramedic, he will tell you, “I love it – I LOVE it! That’s a job I can honestly say I love to do.”

Loving his music and loving his work just comes naturally for Jamie Bergeron – one gets the feeling that there is probably nothing this man does without equal zeal and genuine attention.

And, as if his participation in this busy life wasn’t already enough, he has recently launched his energy into yet another passion: the creation of his culinary line!

RCA Seasoning & RCA Hot Sauce are products that link back to another of Jamie’s passions: cooking!! He LOVES to cook!!!

So, creating and marketing this gem of a seasoning, falls comfortably in line with the way Jamie approaches life – with zest!

He began noticing the introduction of new seasoning blends on store shelves; it seems everyone was coming up with new ones. He figured, “If that dude can have a seasoning, why can’t Jamie Bergeron?!” Wheels inside his head began turning ... and the process began! There was blending and testing, more blending and testing! He began using his new blend on everything he cooked and finally got it right!!

Jamie likes to apply “observation and diligence” toward everything, so he spent some time thinking about what to call his label, wanting something to catch the attention of the cooking public and wanting something unique for his brand. After several other ideas, Jamie settled on the label he now owns: Registered Coon Ass! Shortening it up to RCA, this label appropriately ties back to a song by the same name and recorded by Ja32

Written by: Dorothy Hughes

mie Bergeron & the Kickin’ Cajuns. And, as Jamie calls the term, “Our Cajun claim to fame!”

Many people, knowing Jamie to joke and cut up, may have originally viewed this as a “novelty kind of thing” – but after using the RCA blend and hot sauce, they changed their thinking to say, “Wow! Jamie really has a seriously great product going here!” I asked Jamie what made his seasoning blend different and why everyone became more serious about their opinions: “More garlic and less salt!” That was his quick response to my question; and it has no MSG in the mix! Having put careful time and the mind of a cook into the creating of this blend, Jamie wanted it to stand alone, not only in the unique name he gave his label but in the taste of the seasoning itself. And by all measures, he has succeeded!

RCA Seasoning and RCA Hot Sauce have surpassed Jamie Bergeron’s expectations! He says he’s learning every day, having no experience in marketing of such products – but he applies himself to this task, just as he has with everything else he’s challenged himself to do in life. “Idle time isn’t good for me – I always have been a busy person, always taking care of whatever I had to do. If my body’s not moving, my mind is moving. I never stop. Now, I’m my own sales guy, my delivery guy, my own promoter … I’m my everything, you know?!”

Jamie is self-distributing for now, and mostly in Lafayette locations, although I found a full display of stock at ShopRite in Jennings, brought some home and I love them both! As the area of distribution keeps growing, we can expect to see this label carried in major grocery stores chains and in kitchen specialty stores – a goal of Jamie Bergeron’s! And when I asked about plans beyond RCA’s seasoning and hot sauce, “Who knows?

The sky’s the limit! I’m hoping that my blends will be everyone’s new favorite – being used in kitchens everywhere!”

Jamie likes what he’s done and uses his products in his own kitchen, adding his hot sauce to ketchup and splashing it into gumbo! Asked to name his favorite foods he answered, “Anything with rice and gravy!” But, we have it on good authority that he loves those Louisiana Crawfish! Yes, Jamie Bergeron is a real Cajun boy!!!

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April 7, 2017

Image by Jason Carroll

Available at different locations in these cities: Breaux Bridge, Scott, Lafayette, Henderson, Carencro, Duson, Eunice, Krotz Springs, Lake Charles, Morse, Rayne, & Church Point. Can be ordered online at www.kickincajuns.com .

Salon 4:13 is NOW OPEN ‌ make your appointment today!

April 7, 2017

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The Cultivation of Sweet Success Tiffany Casey

There Once Was a Kitchen Table When one takes into consideration all that we as Louisianans have endured throughout the course of history, it only seems fitting that former Governor Mike Foster declared the "Louisiana strawberry" as the only official state fruit when it was signed into legislation on May 21st, 2001. It is somewhat uncanny that the strawberry, much like the inhabitants of this great state, has become a symbol of rebirth and renewal all through its history.

Springtime in Louisiana means strawberries, lots and lots of strawberries. They are everywhere this time of year! We do not have to venture very far to find them, either. They are displayed beautifully and prominently at local supermarkets, farmer markets, on restaurant menus, amongst our home gardens, and most notably, along the many miles of roadside stands which dot our landscape - much like a trail of breadcrumbs left from the past.

There is a rich history here, like so much of our culinary past in Louisiana, which is packaged ever so neatly in this distinctive red berry for all to take in.

It was during the late eighteen-hundreds that a small group of Hungarian immigrants, also known as Magyars, set forth to escape the clutches of the industrial cities of the northern United States.

In search of better pay and more favorable working conditions, they eventually found themselves in one of Louisiana's newly-established logging settlements not far from what would eventually become Albany, Louisiana. The Brackenridge Lumber Company sweetened the pot with offers of land ownership to those willing to work their mills. This of course attracted many other immigrants seeking better fortune and soon the community of Arpadon was born.

After years of "clear-cutting" the once dense forests, the lumber companies retreated to new and more profitable prospects, leaving their employees to fend for themselves. Much more accustomed to the rural lifestyle they left behind in the old country, resourceful Hungarian immigrants instinctively turned to farming. At a time when strawberry growing was becoming increasingly popular, the Magyars began farming strawberries as a cash crop. It is this group of men and women who first brought strawberry agriculture to Livingston Parish, leading the way to what we have come to know and love today as the Louisiana strawberry.

Peak strawberry season in Louisiana runs from January to May. Although strawberries are grown throughout Louisiana, it is in a tiny town in Tangipahoa Parish, not so far away from the strawberry’s humble beginnings, that a festival is held each year. On the first (or second) weekend in April, depending on the arrival of Easter, the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival

celebrates this glorious history and that of the sweetest strawberry around – our Louisiana strawberry. This celebration is only second to that of Mardi Gras and is anticipated and enjoyed by generations of loyal, strawberry lovin' Louisianans since its conception in 1972. ** Fun Facts ** •Botanically speaking, strawberries are not fruit. They are achene. Each apparent seed on the strawberry is actually not a seed at all but an ovary. Yes, that's right, and ovary containing a seed within!

• The cultivated strawberry variety, Klondike or Klondyke, was invented in Louisiana and was first made available to farmers in 1901.

•The first strawberries sold in the South were said to be raised at Magnolia Lane Plantation near New Orleans in what is now Bridge City, Louisiana. Old timers in Ponchatoula scoff at the idea.

The most coveted condiment in any household come spring is that of a jar of homemade Louisiana Strawberry preserves or as some still prefer to call them, strawberry conserves.

There is not much that rivals that of a sweet, juicy Louisiana strawberry except maybe that of sweet, juicy Louisiana strawberry preserves. Once properly canned, they can be stashed away for later use for such delectable as cakes, cookies, ice cream, or just simply, buttered toast.

Canning your own strawberry preserves is sure to put a sweet smile of content on each face that blesses your table throughout the year…if they last that long.

Image by: Tiffany Casey

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Strawberry Preserves 3 Ways Tiffany Casey

There Once Was A Kitchen Table Strawberry Preserves with Pectin 8 – 10 cups of Fresh Louisiana Strawberries, cleaned and hulled ¼ cup water or Lemon Juice 1 (1.75 oz.) package of Sure Jell Powdered Fruit Pectin 6 cups Sugar

Old Fashioned Strawberry Preserves I 2 lbs. of Fresh Louisiana Strawberries, cleaned and hulled 1 cup Sugar 2 tablespoons Water Place all ingredients in a heavy pot and boil until they foam and it has risen and fallen; about 15 minutes. Test for readiness by using a metal spoon. Keep boiling until the preserves drip off the spoon in sheets, they are ready for canning. Pour into sterilized jars, seal, add filled jars to a pot of warm water, bring to a boil and process for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from water bath and allow to cool completely for 24 hours before storing in a cool dark place.

Old Fashioned Strawberry Preserves II

Image by: Tiffany Casey

Combine strawberries, water, and pectin in a heavy pot. Bring to a boil stirring occasionally. Bring to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down for 1 minute. Add the sugar, stirring until all is dissolved. Boil once more for 10 minutes, stirring continuously.

Remove from the heat. Pack the still boiling hot preserves into sterilized jars, sealing with proper lids, and process for 5 minutes in boiling water.

for later use for such delectable as cakes, cookies, ice cream, or just simply, buttered toast.

Canning your own strawberry preserves is sure to put a sweet smile of content on each face that blesses your table throughout the year…if they last that long.

1 lb. of solid ripe Louisiana Strawberries, cleaned and hulled ¾ lb. Sugar ¼ to ½ cup of crushed Fruit Juice Crush and cook the smallest of the strawberries for about 3 minutes while stirring. Once cooked down, strain. Add sugar to the juice, stir, and heat slowly until all the sugar has dissolved completely. Drop large strawberries into the syrup, simmer 3 – 5 minutes before boiling rapidly for 10 – 15 minutes or until the fruit is somewhat clear. Remove any scum that rises to the top.

Allow fruit to stand overnight in the pot. Fill sterilized jars with drained strawberries. Cook juice rapidly once more until, until thick. Pour over the berries before sealing the jars properly.

Place jars into a water bath and boil for 15 minutes. Allow to cool before storing in a cool dark place.

The most coveted condiment in any household come spring is that of a jar of homemade Louisiana Strawberry preserves or as some still prefer to call them, strawberry conserves.

There is not much that rivals that of a sweet, juicy Louisiana strawberry except maybe that of sweet, juicy Louisiana strawberry preserves. Once properly canned, they can be stashed away April 7, 2017

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The Spice of Louisiana This Louisiana Spice cover was Sponsored by: The Jambalaya News, Trahan’s Hardware, 5507 Common Street, Lake Charles. Phone: 337-477-5627. Photo credits go to Jason Carroll of Monsour’s Photography, 727 Ryan Street, Lake Charles. Phone 337 -496-7194. Please see article on page 28.

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

DINING GUIDE

Table …

Come Have A Seat Tia Juanita’s - The Story Behind the Name …

Tia Juanita’s has made quite a name for itself in the Lake Area. Behind this unique eatery is a story just as interesting. I was lucky enough to sit down with Susan Lalonde, owner of Tia Juanita’s Lake Charles location, and she was as vibrant and intriguing as the environment she has created around her.

Tia Juanita’s opened its doors to our city in August 2015, offering a unique blend of Cajun, seafood and Mexicaninspired dishes. Such a perfect combination of backgrounds was inspired by Lalonde’s time living in San Francisco and the city’s domination of fusion-inspired restaurants. These exclusive mixes of flavors bring us mouthwatering dishes like the shrimp nachos and the boudin quesadillas.

This “Cajun Mexican Seafood” restaurant also has an interesting back story. It has a lot to do with the friendship that Lalonde has with her business partner, Ricky Martinez. Being from a Mexican background, he brought his culture and an interesting dynamic to the partnership including its namesake, Tia Juanita’s, which is named after his aunt that raised him and sparked his passion for the restaurant industry.

As of today, Martinez runs the sister restaurant in Beaumont, Texas and Lalonde runs the Lake Charles establishment. She is excited to be here as both a resident and a business owner.

“I could have run either one, but I fell in love with Lake Charles during Chuck Fest,” she says. “There’s always something to do. The festivals are what make it.” She knows this city is where she needs to be.

On any given weekend evening, a quick stroll downtown and a glance inside shows a full house with a lot going on.

With Lalonde on the floor guiding her staff and interacting with guests, dishes upon dishes of savory entrees leave the kitchen to satisfy eager patrons. I’ve enjoyed dining at Tia Juanita’s many times and, honestly, I’ve never been disappointed. As a self-proclaimed “foodie,” I pay close atten-

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By: Dominique Dugas Photography by: Dawn Daley

tion to the details of a restaurant and relate my dining experience to my many years in the food industry. Tia Juanita’s continually exceeds my expectations. You can tell that there is genuine love and passion here, not only in the food, but also in the overall environment. It’s important to know that everything is made from scratch; Lalonde understands that fresh ingredients make all the difference.

The unique journey begins with appetizers. You can keep it simple with the homemade chips and salsa, or add a little variety with their Shrimp Nachos, which consists of grilled shrimp, topped with a creamy pepper jack shrimp sauce, mozzarella cheese, lettuce, guacamole, and jalapeño peppers, piled on top of a bed of homemade tortillas chips. Another notable appetizer is, honestly, one of my personal favorites. Their homemade boudin balls are out of this world! I very rarely crave something so badly that I can taste it! Served with jalapeño ranch (which is, surprise, homemade), their fried boudin balls will leave you wanting more.

If you are craving tasty homemade boudin, Tia's Juanita's offers it up in more ways than just fried boudin balls. As I mentioned earlier, their Boudin Quesadillas are a must try.

Grilled boudin, mozzarella cheese, and green onions are folded in a buttery grilled tortilla. This dish is served with guacamole, pico de gallo and jalapeño ranch dressing. And you must try their Boudin Po-Boy, which takes the best of both worlds and combines them!

Now, let's talk gumbo. In my opinion, if a restaurant is going to serve gumbo, it must be so delicious that it's comparable to the many places in town that have been serving it for years. Well, Tia Juanita's has done just that. As the bowl of gumbo was delivered to my table, I took my first bite of absolute bliss. Shredded pieces of chicken and chunks of sausage make up each bite. They have definitely earned a top spot on my list.

After 5 p.m., guests can also enjoy their evening menu, which consists of four select dishes with a unique, Cajun Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

April 7, 2017

flair. The Blackened Tilapia Pontchartrain consists of a classic Cajun mushroom sauce served on blackened tilapia, with two jumbo shrimp over seasoned rice and sautĂŠed vegetables.

Their Shrimp & Grits are voted number 12 in the state, and consist of wild -caught jumbo shrimp sautĂŠed in garlic, green onions and tomato served over creamy pepper jack grits. Blackened Fish & Vegetables and New Orleans BBQ Shrimp complete this select menu.

From fried seafood baskets and delicious hushpuppies to shrimp and beef tacos, their menu is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of diners. So, the next time you want to experience a little slice of heaven, let your appetite take you downtown and into Tia Juanita's. You will not leave disappointed!

April 7, 2017

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

DINING GUIDE

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DINING GUIDE

Juan’s Dream Becomes a Reality …

Juan Alvarado’s dream was to open a restaurant of his own. So, he saved up until that day would come, and it did.

He heard about the perfect location within the newly-built Evan’s Corner Store and Chevron station on Ryan street in Lake Charles. This was the perfect place and time to make his dream a reality!

Juan worked endless hours, days and weeks – joined by his family and his wife, Sylvia – for months they all worked together! Long work hours aren’t foreign to Juan; once part owner in several local Casa Ole locations, and having logged 25 years of work into the service industry, Juan is no stranger to the restaurant business. With his dream completed, he has created quite the little environment – Tio Juan’s Fresh Tacos and More is open for business!

This new place serves up delectable dishes with an authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex style of its own. It’s a perfect blend of two wonder cuisines to create a mouth-watering flavor. Tio Juan’s is open early in the morning for those working folks rushed for time at 6:00 am, and the lunch menu begins at 11:00 am! Open until 9:00 pm, they also have a convenient drive-thru to serve you better!

I paid them a visit and ordered their beef quesadillas on the first day they opened. I was served a nicely wrapped quesadilla and a good-sized amount of guacamole, sour cream, salsa mix and jalapenos! With perfectly seared chunks of beef inside and expertly-married flavors, these beef quesadillas are quite simply some of the best I’ve ever eaten!

At Tio Juan’s, the environment is fresh and clean with a well-decorated interior. Their friendly staff is always eager to serve you – in fact, what I’ve noticed most about the staff is that they’re all smiling! This presents such a wonderful vibrancy in this delightful little oasis.

I spoke with Juan and he told me they will be serving Margaritas, soon – offering three different flavors: Traditional, Sangria, and Strawberry! In addition, they will soon have a video poker room. Well, I know where I’m going for Cinco de Mayo!

Juan is also part of a fund-raising effort to benefit The Women’s Shelter of Lake Charles. Together with sponsors from Billy Navarre and Academy, they will be hosting a children’s karaoke contest at Tio Juan’s Fresh Tacos and More on April 22nd and April 29th … there will be two dif-

Written & Photography by: Dawn Daley

ferent age divisions for the young participants. For more information call 337602- 6772.

Tio Juan’s Fresh Tacos and More is located at 2211 Ryan Street, Lake Charles, Louisiana.

Be sure to pass by and check out the place! You’ll enjoy meeting Juan, his wife Sylvia, and the rest of the team.

You might even see me there!

Offering Military & Police discounts.

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April 7, 2017

Steamboat Bills

1004 N. Lakeshore Dr., Lake Charles 337-494-1070 | steamboatbills.com

Listed as one of the top 10 places to eat in the US and voted #1 in the top 20 best restaurants in Southwest Louisiana. Steamboat Bill’s draws in Cajun-Creole-craving tourists and locals alike.

This fast full-service restaurant offers a wide range of Louisiana flavor from fried, etouffeeloaded pistolettes and the locally favored, boiled crawfish to the rivetingly pleasing homemade gumbo crafted from their family recipe. Steamboat Bill’s not only serves highly rated, Louisiana cuisine, but is an outstanding place for fellowship with close friends and family.

Cajun Tales Seafood Restaurant 501 North Adams Street, Welsh Louisiana 337-734-4772 | cajuntalesseafood.com

Cajun Tales is committed to satisfying their customers with great food and excellent service.

They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

They feature a daily lunch buffett, crawfish pie, broiled stuffed catfish and award-winning seafood gumbo… just to name a few of their great menu selections. They are also family friendly with a menu just for the little ones. Their menu is full of irresistible Cajun favorites as well as burgers, steaks, seafood, friend chicken and so much more!

Your sure to find a reason to go back soon and try another dish off the menu. Conveniently located right off I-10 in Welsh.

Regatta La Seafood & Steakhouse

508 Hawkeye Ave., Lake Arthur, Louisiana 337-774-1501 | regattarestaurantla.com

A Cajun themed restaurant in Lake Arthur featuring fresh seafood, steaks, pasta, traditional Cajun food and boiled crawfish in season. Located on the beautiful lake in Lake Arthur, accessible by both land and water. They feature live bands on the weekends and for special events. Locals and tourists come from miles around to enjoy their scrumptious dishes as well as the inviting indoor and outdoor dining on the lake front! So next time you plan on a weekend out, come by and enjoy some of what Lake Arthur has to offer!

Otis & Henry’s Bar and Grill

The Lone Wolf Express

Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp

Otis & Henry’s Bar and Grill combines the comfort of a neighborhood bar and grill with the favorites of a steakhouse. Whet your appetite with our house specialty chicken wings or sampler platter, then pick from a list of delicious pastas, sandwiches, salads, steaks, ribs, chicken and more. Otis & Henry is great food at great prices. From watching your favorite sports games with their wide selection of beer, cocktails and appetizers or enjoying a casual dinner. Otis & Henry’s is your go-to destination for a great time any day of the week.

Come to The Lone Wolf Express any time of the day to get all of your favorite dishes. We serve everything from burgers to General TSO’s Chicken and we cannot forget to mention the ALL DAY omelets—because here at the Isle of Capri, we believe that breakfast is not determined by the time of day. We are also available on WaitR, so you can also enjoy convenience of having our food delivered to you wherever you may want it.

A vibrant atmosphere breathes life into anyone who walks through the doors of Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp! The name alone suggests a casual little vacation from the rush your day might’ve been.

With terrific food, colorful décor, a great downtown location and friendly service—this place is nothing short of a delightfully unique experience.

Vintage brick walls, with memorabilia from times past, offer a virtual exhibit with an undeniable ’coolness factor’! Looking through the menu for the very first time, you’ll know you want to keep coming back — trying EVERYTHING served up by this eatery of special flavors, mixing their own version of Tex-Mex laced with Cajun Flair! It doesn’t get any more special than that!

100 Westlake Ave., Lake Charles, Louisiana 337-564-3097

April 7, 2017

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

100 Westlake Ave., Lake Charles, Louisiana 337-564-3106 | cajuntalesseafood.com

723 Ryan Street, Lake Charles, Louisiana 337-602-6243 | tiajuanitasfishcamp.com

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It’s Easter in Louisiana … Time for Crawfish!

Written By: Dawn Daley Photography By: Dawn Daley & Dorothy Hughes

Many of my childhood years were spent on the family farm in Lake Arthur, Louisiana. Every year, there were harvests of rice, soybeans, and of course crawfish! I distinctly remember almost every family get together at my Uncle Howard’s house, with that sweet aroma of crawfish seasoning heavy in the air! All the kids played outside near the bank of the bayou in the back yard, joined by our adventurous Uncle Maple who liked hanging out with us. Fishing was always a favorite activity during these get togethers, but I remember this one time – with Uncle Maple deciding he would catch an alligator! From a distance, we watched as he tied a whole raw chicken from the meat market to the end of a long, heavy rope. He threw it out near the gator in the water and would wait. Things like that, you just don’t forget!!!

I remember the first time I ate crawfish too! It was at one of these family gatherings on the banks of Bayou Chene that I found my never-ending craving for crawfish!

The crawfish business is big business in Louisiana. In fact, the state of Louisiana is the world’s largest producer of crawfish.

Its annual crawfish yield is between 75 million to 105 million pounds and incredibly, almost 70% of the crawfish produced in Louisiana are consumed within its borders! Nearly 7,000 people across Louisiana’s parishes are employed directly or indirectly by the crawfish industry; an industry that provides around $120 million as an annual economic impact for the state! Fact is that the crawfish is native to this state which is also home to a densely Catholic population, and considering the overlapping of Lent with crawfish season … well now that’s just perfection, isn’t it?!

Crawfish season spans from November to July, depending on weather and temperatures. Crawfish can be found most anywhere from February thru May. This means they’re plenty available during the Fridays during Lenten season. Crawfish are in high demand during each Friday during Lent, but come Good Friday they are in such high demand, it might be hard to find them even though we are in the height of crawfish season! You might find that the prices rise as we get closer to Easter weekend because they are in such high demand … Easter weekend is one of the biggest crawfish-selling times of the season around here. After Easter, the prices will drop again and they will continue to drop until the end of the season. Once you get into June the quality of crawfish tends to go down, the crawfish are older and their shells become harder, and it’s not so much fun to peel them then!!!

I took time to visit a local crawfish drive-thru location and learn a little about them and how Easter weekend is handled. I stopped by Hot-To-Trot, located by Darrell’s in Lake Charles, Louisiana and spoke with owner Garrett Klump of Welsh, Louisiana who opened this drive-thru in 2015, located at 117 W. College Street in Lake Charles. I spoke with him about the upcoming holiday weekend and how it effects his business. He told me the week of Good Friday is very busy and the demand for both live and boiled crawfish is sometimes hard to keep up with. But he’s always ready and has created a terrific deal! He offers his boiled ready-to-go crawfish as an “Ice Chest Special” … if you order over 30 pounds of boiled crawfish they are only $2.50 a pound! That’s making my mouth watering just thinking about it!

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

April 7, 2017

So, as every business gets ready for the big weekend, whether you’re buying live-sacked, boiled-to-go, boileddining-in, or peeled tail meat from your grocer’s freezer for cooking up a scrumptious etouffee, you can bet everyone in the industry and consumers alike are ready for this weekend!

“I’ll be heading over to Hot-To-Trot to grab me one of them ice chest specials!” I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday weekend that includes some of those tasty Louisiana mudbugs! Bon appétit …

April 7, 2017

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

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EVENT GUIDE

117 W. COLLEGE STREET, LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA 43

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April Events at the Children’s Museum Saturday, April 8 Sasol's Second Saturday Science Show Sasol continues its 5S Project with "The Science of Soap" at 11:30 a.m. Dan Plummer and Allison Hann will introduce the importance of soap, detergents and cleaners. Demonstrations include different types of soaps, how soaps and oils mix and bubbles. Before the Sasol program begins, stop by the "Surprise" exhibit on the first floor that is coming soon. See if you can guess what our new exhibit will be. Enter your thoughts into our jar. We will pull a name at the end of the program to win a One Time Family Pass to the museum.

Friday, April 14 Wooden Egg Workshop Paint a colorful wooden egg. Classes begin at 11 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. and are limited to 20 children, ages 3 and up. The museum will close at 1:30 p.m. in observance of Good Friday.

Saturday, April 15: Ceramic Easter Egg Workshop Decorate a ceramic Easter egg using acrylic paint. Class begins at noon and is limited to 30 children, ages 3 and up.

Monday, April 17 Butterfly Sun Catcher Workshop Make a butterfly sun catcher for your window. Classes begin at 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and noon and are limited to 20 children, ages 3 and up.

Tuesday, April 18 Wooden Birdhouse Workshop Paint your own wooden birdhouse for the backyard. Classes begin at 11 a.m. and noon and are limited to 20 children, ages 3 and up.

Wednesday, April 19 EGGciting Adventure with Stretch-N-Grow Join Lydia and Susan Woodward with Stretch-N-Grow at 11 a.m. for an EGGciting adventure. We will learn about healthy lifestyles, exercise and play games. At noon and 12:30 p.m., we will paint rainbow sun catchers in the ArtSpace. Classes are limited to 20 children, ages 3 and up.

Thursday, April 20 Dr. Dogs Join us at 11 a.m. and meet the Dr. Dogs Pet Therapy Team! These therapy dogs have wonderful temperaments that provide comfort and affection to people in stressful situations. The group volunteers at retirement and nursing homes, hospitals, area schools, counseling centers and various community events. At noon and 12:30 p.m., you can make a clothespin butterfly in the ArtSpace. Classes are lim-

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Friday, April 21 Story Time and Activities Get up and get moving during Story Time presented by the Calcasieu Parish Public Library Maplewood Branch! Kids will enjoy books, songs, finger play, tongue twisters and riddles that are designed to help develop your child's fine motor and language skills. A table will also be available to sign up for library cards and check out library books! The fun begins at 11 a.m. We will also make a wooden butterfly photo holder in the ArtSpace workshop at noon. The class is limited to 25 children, ages 3 and up.

Saturday, April 22 Kids Choice This is a workshop to use extra projects that were leftovers from previous workshops and weekly projects. Projects will be available from 10:30 a.m.-noon on a first-come firstserved basis. Limit one project per child.

Saturday, April 29 Campus Kappas Present "Science and Nature Scripts" Join the McNeese Campus Kappas as they present "Science and Nature Scripts" at 11:30 a.m. "Global Warming," "Weather," and "Energy" are three of the dramatic Readers Theater presentations that will be performed.

The Children's Museum is located at 327 Broad Street downtown Lake Charles. Museum hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Admission is $8.50 for children and adults. Admission applies to all workshops and activities. Go to visit www.swlakids.org for more information.

Kiss Me Kate April 5-9

McNeese State University Theatre will conclude its 20162017 season with its first musical production in three years: Cole Porter’s Kiss Me Kate. This hilarious musical will be presented at 7:30 p.m. April 5-8 and at 2 p.m. on April 9 in Tritico Theatre. Kiss Me Kate is described as “one of the most famous musical adaptations of Shakespeare for the stage,” focusing on a theatre company putting up a musical version of The Taming of the Shrew. Ticket prices are $15 for adults, $10 for McNeese faculty/staff, senior citizens and youth, and free for McNeese students with a current ID. For tickets or more information, call (337) 4755040.

CyPhaCon 2017 April 7-9 CyPhaCon is an annual three-day media convention going into its seventh year, held at the Lake Charles Civic Center.

Attendees can indulge in Science Fiction & Fantasy media of every stripe, Anime, Board, Immersion & Video Gaming, Costuming Role-play (Cosplay), and celebrity meet-up and photo ops. Additionally, there are costume contests, music groups, charity auctions, and other fun and eventful activities to go along with the general hob-nobbing of genre fandom. CyPhaCon takes place on all 3 floors of the Lake Charles Civic Center. For more information, go to www.cyphacon.org The Original DownTown LC Crawfish Festival April 79 The DownTown Lake Charles Crawfish Festival is held each year at the Lake Charles Civic Center in downtown Lake Charles. Attendees will pay an admission-only fee to enter the festival, which includes carnival and midway games, music and live band entertainment. There will be an Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

April 7, 2017

opportunity to purchase merchandise and food from local businesses and vendors. The layout of the festival grounds at the Civic Center allows for it to be one of the largest indoor/outdoor festivals in southwest Louisiana. The festival will be held rain or shine. Go to www.downtowncrawfest.com for more information.

April 7, 2017

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

Family Fishing Festival April 8 The 3rd Annual Family Fishing Festival will be held Sat., April 8, from 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. at Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge. All participants 16 years of age and older will require a Basic Louisiana Fishing license to participate.

All state fishing regulations will apply. Participants will have

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an opportunity to fish for bass and/or catfish from three ponds covering 6.5 acres which are only open to fishing during this event. There will also be numerous activities and demonstrations throughout the morning. Loaner fishing poles available for check out on a first come first served basis. Bait worms will be available while supplies last. Registration and entry to the fishing festival grounds will begin Saturday morning at 9 a.m. For more information, call (337) 598-2216.

Tour of Homes April 9 The 42nd Annual Palm Sunday Tour of Homes will feature homes throughout historic Lake Charles on Palm Sunday, April 9. The theme of this year's tour is "Future and Past” and will feature properties in the Historic Charpentier District north of Broad Street in Lake Charles. Tour headquarters on Palm Sunday will be the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd. For more information on tours, prices and schedules, visit www.calcasieupreservation.org or call (337) 433-2385. To learn about the area's tour app for the Historic Charpentier District, log onto www.visitlakecharles.org/ apps.

Pump Boys and Dinettes April 14-30 Enjoy an evening of beautiful vocals and fun lyrics in this country western musical at the Lake Charles Little Theatre.

The Pump Boys keep the gas station operating while the Dinettes keep the diner customers happy and fed. Set along Hwy 57 in Tennessee, the characters deliver smooth vocals and entertaining personalities. Performances held on April 14-15, 21-23, 27-30. Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm. Sundays at 2 p.m. Adults $15; Students and Seniors (65+) $10.

Tickets available at thelclt.com or (337) 433-7988 LC Sesquicentennial Celebration April 22 Save the date for a celebration of Lake Charles' 150th year!

The time capsule opening will be at 3 p.m. at Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center, followed by a parade at 4:30 on downtown Ryan Street. The family concert will begin at 5:30 at Arcade Amphitheatre. For more information, go to www.celebratelakecharles150.com. Sesquicentennial Calendars are now available for a $5 donation at Historic City Hall. Donations will go towards funding various public celebrations in honor of this momentous occasion.

EVENT GUIDE Arts Council of SWLA’s annual Spring Art Walk. This year’s free event focuses on creating a unique bazaar atmosphere through a full-force showcase of the arts, including the visual and theatrical. Tour historic downtown properties and businesses while enjoying refreshments and the best in Southwest Louisiana arts. Venues will offer drink specials, concessions, and giveaways. Spring Art Walk is presented by the Arts Council of SWLA and the City of Lake Charles.

For details on participating venues, artists, and activities, visit www.artscouncilswla.org or call (337) 439-2787.

Yom HaShoah Presentation May 4 This year's Yom HaShoah speaker is Dr. Nathan Stoltzfus, who will be speaking on the 1943 Rosenstrasse Protest in Nazi Berlin. This was a unique uprising by Aryan women in mixed marriages with Jews to protest and defend their Jewish husbands, who were being arrested from their homes. It was a powerful, non-violent protest that was ultimately successful in protecting these select family members. The event begins at 7 p.m. and will be hosted in the Tritico Theater on the McNeese State University campus. The presentation is free and open to the public. A Q & A session with follow with Dr. Stoltzfus as well as free refreshments.

Contraband Days May 4-7 Come out to the Lake Charles Civic Center the first weekend in May, Thurs.-Sun., May 4-7, to celebrate the Contraband Days Louisiana Pirate Festival’s 60th anniversary.

There will be music, carnival rides, pirates, fireworks, and of course, the landing of Jean Lafitte and his band of buccaneers with the mayor walking the plank. For the 60th anniversary, Contraband Days is rolling out the welcome mat to the community with no admission fee for the one-weekend festival, packed with the events. Festival goers can enjoy waterfront, music and entertainment for free. For a full schedule of events, go to www.contrabanddays.com.

Orchid Show April 22-23 Hundreds of orchids will be on display and for sale at the first ever regional orchid show presented by the Calcasieu Orchid Society on Saturday and Sunday, April 22 and 23, in the gymnasium of Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, 715 Kirkman Street. The show is free and open to all. Hours are 1- 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 22 and 1-4 p.m. on Sunday, April 23. Orchid vendors from several states will both display and sell a wide variety of orchids, as well as give advice on how to care for them.. Everyone is invited to enter an orchid corsage or flower arrangement to be judged by Orchid Society representatives. Drop off entries at Good Shepherd between 1-3 p.m. on April 21. Judging will take place on Saturday morning. No fee to enter. If you would like to volunteer or need more information, call (318) 6143516 or kjoiner2000@yahoo.com.

Spring Art Walk April 28 On Friday, April 28, from 5-9 p.m., downtown Lake Charles will celebrate the Lake Area’s vibrant community during the

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April 7, 2017

April 7, 2017

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

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NIGHT LIFE GUIDE Good Times, Memorable Moments …

As the radiant emerald glow of the latter part of the first week of Spring’s handiwork buds in the trees, I am looking forward to the upcoming outdoor events of the season. Those little extras at the end of a hard week that help us remember the sweet and most precious things in life -- food, family, friends, music, and the camaraderie of other like-minded souls gathered together in the name of good times and memorable moments. It was with that frame of mind, surrounded by the early Springtime environment, that I went to check out Live @ the Lakefront, which I hadn’t done before. Was I ever glad I'd decided to check it out! With weather as good as it ever gets here in Lake Chuck, the leisurely growing crowd sauntered under rich, deep cerulean skies in the warm golden glow of the afternoon sunlight at Lakeside. The balmy breezes reminiscent of tropical trade winds blew in across the lake as flocks of various species of birds rode the pristine skies investing them with movement in the absence of clouds. Spirits were high, and there was a palpable atmosphere of good cheer and good vibes all around. Only one dark cloud imposed itself on the scene as a lone woman was asked to remove her lethargic, obviously harmless pug that lay sleepily and contentedly at her feet on her blanket because there were apparently “too many people.” A seemingly meaningless thing to do but perhaps rules are rules.

Long lines of hopefuls queued up at the raffle table buying up tickets in support of the Arts & Humanities Council of SWLA with their eyes on the prize -- in this case a cleverly decorated and unique Shiner guitar offered by Shiner Beers who are one of the main sponsors of the Live @ the Lakefront event. Ample supplies of beer and wine were provided at a couple of Shiner tables and a tent or two and were popular with the thirsty, spirited patrons. A local dance troupe warmed up the audience with a stomp routine which captivated the sparse but attentive early arrivals to the event. The first band, Wolfman Wonders, took the stage with the bespectacled, fedora-hatted MC Nora Popillon introducing them in his rich, booming James Earl Jones-evoking baritone as he taunted the audience with an “Oh Yeah” that would make both Ferris Bueller and Yello proud. Wolfman Wonders played a beat-box-driven set of synthpop

originals steeped in ‘80s influences with atmospheric chiming guitar lines and a relatively contemporary delivery. Though the public was still slowly wandering in and about, they were well-received with polite applause. We took the opportunity between bands to amble around the lake and take in the uncommonly beautiful day. And that is very much a part of the attraction and point of these events - to draw people out to enjoy the many humble attributes of the lakefront park - to wander, stroll, immerse oneself in the sights and sounds not to mention some of the best sunset views in town along the tranquil lakeside shoreline. Upon our return, Iceman Special took the stage and pummeled the now quite large all-ages audience with their signature brand of bluesy psychedelic swamp-funk originals. Replete with flowing or alternately pulsating melodic air-guitar-inducing riffs, funkified canon cracking drum beats, and primal vocal exhortations and invocations passionately delivered by frontman and guitarist Will Murry. Their music had a noticeable effect on not only the student-aged concert attendees and adults but also the many kids to be seen running, hopping, and dancing to the band’s grooves.

Drummer Hunter Romero and brother Charlie Murry on bass provided a rock-solid rhythm section upon which ax man Stephen Staples applied generous amounts of swelling, wailing tasty guitar courtesy of his vintage Jaguar. Their set was further enhanced by a spectacular multi-hued sunset. By the time the Iceman Special had finished the crowd had swelled to considerable size. Many families were still present, and the food truck lines and beer lines were packed. Powerful lights illuminated the entire amphitheater, but the stage area was darkened enough to allow for a mesmerizing fireenhanced, ethnically-themed dance provided by the International Dance Company’s fire maidens. Lake Charles favorites the Flamethrowers took the stage to close the night and the Live @ Lakefront season out with a set of accomplished and accurate renditions of primarily ‘80s cover songs.

A truly splendid and memorable time was had by all, thanks to the good cheer and considerate behavior of the event goers. A special thanks must go to the Lake Charles Police Department for their vigilant yet softhanded, upbeat, and diplomatic presence. And lastly, but certainly not least, thanks to Shiner Beer for their faithful sponsorship.

If you’ve missed out on these types of events in the past, do yourself a big favor and get on out to at least a few in the future. They’re well worth the small effort it takes to get to where the action is, and there are memories to be made!

R. Loren Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

April 7, 2017

Friday, APR. 7

DJ Collision

9 pm @ The Southern Pub 208 S. Adams St., Welsh

Dustin Sonnier

10:30 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Josh Taylor 8 pm @ L-Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

3HG

9 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Kaos / DJ Jose Mata

9 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Jamie Bergeron & The Kicking Cajuns

April 7, 2017

9 pm @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Todd O’nell

8 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge 100 Westlake Ave., LC

Nathan Horton & The Velvet Pig

5:30 pm—8:30pm @ Crying Eagle 1165 E. McNeese St., LC

3HG

9 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Kaos / DJ Jose Mata

9 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

L.A. Roux

John Cessac

9 pm @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

7 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

Todd O’nell

Saturday, APR. 8

Rosedown Rocker

9 pm @ The Southern Pub 208 S. Adams St., Welsh

Chance Anderson Band 10:30 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

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8 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge 100 Westlake Ave., LC

Toe Up 7 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

Ethan Cormier

9 pm @ Whisky Bluff 1525 N. Highway 171, LC

Lynyrd Skynyrd

9 pm @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmasters.com and/or by phone through Ticketmaster's at (800) 745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased on performance day beginning at 2 pm at the Golden Nugget Box Office.

Sunday, APR. 9

3HG

8 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Kaos / DJ Jose Mata

7 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ Boogie

9 pm @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

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NIGHT LIFE GUIDE Reed Planchard

777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

3-7 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

Joe Harmon & The Hamonics

Monday, APR. 10 Angel Garcia

7 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge 100 Westlake Ave., LC

8 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

5:30 pm—8:30pm @ Beer Garden Crying Eagle 1165 E. McNeese St., LC

Tuesday, APR. 11 David Joel

Chad McGee

8 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

DJ Derek Williams, Front Row LC-Karaoke 10:30 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Clint Faulk 6-9 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

Wednesday, APR 12

Justin Martindale

8 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Chris Miller and Bayou Roots 6 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

Karaoke

7 pm @ Whisky Bluff 1525 N. Highway 171, LC

Thursday, APR. 13

Zipties

8 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Shane Barnhill-DJ Jose Mata 9 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Louisiana Express

7 pm @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort

8 pm @ Wayne & Layne’s 3906 Hwy 27 S., Sulphur

Friday, APR. 14

DJ Bayou 9 pm @ The Southern Pub 208 S. Adams St., Welsh

DJ

9 pm @ Whisky Bluff 1525 N. Highway 171, LC

Mark Chestnut 9 pm @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmasters.com and/or by phone through Ticketmasters at (800) 745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased on performance day beginning at 2 pm at the Golden Nugget Box Office.

Saturday, APR. 15

Twangsters Union

Micky and the Motorcars

9 pm @ The Southern Pub 208 S. Adams St., Welsh

10:30 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Harrison Swift

Allison Collins 9 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Dplay-DJ Jose Mata

9 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Dr. Zarr’s Amazing Funk Monster 9 pm @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

10:30 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

9 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Dr. Zarr’s Amazing Funk Monster

The Kadillacs

7 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

Phone: 337-478-4022

Dplay-DJ Jose Mata

9:30 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge 100 Westlake Ave., LC

The Faulks

General Dentistry 3632 Common St. Lake Charles, LA

9 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

The Chee Weez

5:30 pm—8:30pm @ Beer Garden Crying Eagle 1165 E. McNeese St., LC

Katie Couville Roberts, D.D.S.

Allison Collins

9 pm @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Michael Krajeck

Mary Seale Churchman, D.D.S.

8 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge 100 Westlake Ave., LC

Carl W. Churchman, Jr. D.D.S. General Dentistry 3640 Common St. Lake Charles, LA Phone:

Ryan Borque & Kevin Johnson

337-478-5070

5:30 pm—8:30pm @ Beer Garden Crying Eagle 1165 E. McNeese St., LC

Call For Appointment …

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April 7, 2017

Clint Faulk

Juz-B-Cuz 7 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

Joe Purvis

9 pm @ Whisky Bluff 1525 N. Highway 171, LC

Kathy Griffin 9 pm @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmasters.com and/or by phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased on performance day beginning at 2 pm at the Golden Nugget Box Office.

Sunday, APR. 16 Orphan Annie 8 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Angel Garcia-DJ Jose Mata 7 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Monday, APR. 17

Racheal & Ian 8 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Flashback 7 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

Tuesday, APR. 18

Matt & Katie 8 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

6-9 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

Wednesday, APR 19

Josh Taylor 8 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Chris Miller & Bayou Roots 6:30 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

April 7, 2017

Kasey Tyndall 10:30 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

John Guidroz 8 pm @ L-Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

QRISIS Karaoke

7 pm @ Whisky Bluff 1525 N. Highway 171, LC

9 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Thursday, APR. 20

The Slags-DJ Jose Mata

QRISIS

8 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Gyth Rigdon-DJ Jose Mata 9 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Bernie Alan 7 pm @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

David St Romain 7 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge 100 Westlake Ave., LC

Ronnie Fruge 6-9 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

Casey Peveto 8 pm @ Wayne & Layne’s 3906 Hwy 27 S., Sulphur

Dj Verrett-Karaoke 10:30 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

9 pm @ The Southern Pub 208 S. Adams St., Welsh

Friday, APR. 21

Dustin Sonnier Lagniappe Festival

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

9 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

TBA 9 pm @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Rockin Dopsie Jr. & The Zydeco Twisters

2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmasters.com and/or by phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased on performance day beginning at 2 pm at the Golden Nugget Box Office.

Saturday, APR. 22

Scotty V. Lagniappe Festival

9 pm @ The Southern Pub 208 S. Adams St., Welsh

Troy Cartwright 10:30 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

QRISIS 9 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

The Slags-DJ Jose Mata 9 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

TBA

9:30 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge 100 Westlake Ave., LC

9 pm @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Cody Forrest & The Velvet Pig

Cupid

5:30 pm—8:30pm @ Crying Eagle 1165 E. McNeese St., LC

Blues Tonic 7-11 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

DJ

9 pm @ Whisky Bluff 1525 N. Highway 171, LC

9:30 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge 100 Westlake Ave., LC

TBA 5:30 pm—8:30pm @ Crying Eagle 1165 E. McNeese St., LC

Tony Faulk & Choas 7-11 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

Brooke Brown Little River Band 9 pm @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort

9 pm @ Whisky Bluff 1525 N. Highway 171, LC

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

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Boston 9 pm @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmasters.com and/or by phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased on performance day beginning at 2 pm at the Golden Nugget Box Office.

Sunday, APR. 23

QRISIS 8 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Trey Rose-DJ Jose Mata 7 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Darren Adams & Reloaded 3-7 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

Monday, APR. 24

American Kids

8 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

DJ Jose Mata

9 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Tuesday, APR. 25

David Joel 8 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

DJ Jose Mata

9 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

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NIGHT LIFE GUIDE L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Clint Faulk 6-9 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

Wednesday, APR 26

Monique McCain

8 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

DJ Jose Mata

9 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Chris Miller & Bayou Roots 6:30-9:30 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

Karaoke

7 pm @ Whisky Bluff 1525 N. Highway 171, LC

Thursday, APR. 27

The Fuse 8 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Chase Tyler-DJ Jose Mata 9 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Dirt Road

DJ Collision 9 pm @ The Southern Pub 208 S. Adams St., Welsh

CJ Solar 10:30 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Josh Taylor 8 pm @ L-Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

The Fuse 9 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Swagger-DJ Jose Mata

9 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Miles Flatt 9 pm @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Mustang Sally 9 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge 100 Westlake Ave., LC

Tom Brandow 5:30 pm—8:30pm @ Crying Eagle 1165 E. McNeese St., LC

The 33’s

7 pm @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

8-11 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

Herbie Stutes & The Grand Shin

9 pm @ Whisky Bluff 1525 N. Highway 171, LC

7 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge 100 Westlake Ave., LC

Johnny Jimenez

DJ Derek Williams, Front Row LC-Karaoke

8 pm @ Wayne & Layne’s 3906 Hwy 27 S., Sulphur

10:30 pm @ Jack After Dark

Friday, APR. 28

DJ

Restless Heart 9 pm @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmasters.com and/or by phone through Ticketmasters

at (800) 745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased on performance day beginning at 2 pm at the Golden Nugget Box Office.

Saturday, APR. 29

DJ T-Jam

9 pm @ The Southern Pub 208 S. Adams St., Welsh

Jake Bush 10:30 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Josh Taylor 8 pm @ L-Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

The Fuse 9 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Swagger-DJ Jose Mata 9 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Miles Flatt 9 pm @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Mustang Sally 9 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge 100 Westlake Ave., LC

Renda Ruiz 5:30 pm—8:30pm @ Crying Eagle 1165 E. McNeese St., LC

Flashback 7-11 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

Chad McGee

9 pm @ Whisky Bluff 1525 N. Highway 171, LC

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

April 7, 2017

REO Speedwagon 9 pm @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmasters.com and/or by phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased on performance day beginning at 2 pm at the Golden Nugget Box Office.

Sunday, APR. 30

The Fuse 8 pm @ Rush Lounge

Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Kris Harper-DJ Jose Mata 7 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

The Big Jimmy Band 3-7 pm @ Loggerhead’s 3748 Hwy. 3059, LC

Wednesday, MAY 3

Karaoke

7 pm @ Whisky Bluff 1525 N. Highway 171, LC

110 West Broad Street, Lake Charles, LA 337-436-9115

April 7, 2017

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

208 South Adams Street, Welsh, LA 70591 | 337 734-0077

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

NIGHT LIFE GUIDE

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SOCIETY SPICE

SOCIETY SPICE

Meet Melinda, she’s our Society Spice Girl ...

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Hey Peeps! I’m Melinda, the new Society Spice Girl. I’ll be covering your future Spice sections. I am a dynamic individual.

Life would be so boring without me and normal people worry me a bit. You will often see me snapping photos around town and at events. If you see me out on the town and want your picture taken, showing how awesome you are, let me know!

Live at The Lake Front …

Live at the Lake Front was nothing short of spectacular this year! What a better way to enjoy a nice spring outing? Live music at the Lake is perfect for the whole family to enjoy, and we saw lots of families out enjoying this live line of musical talent. We spotted a few event goers already in dress up ready for the Cyphacon event!

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

April 7, 2017

SOCIETY SPICE Turn it up Tuesday, Jennings …

April 7, 2017

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

SOCIETY SPICE

The Turn it up Tuesday event in Jennings, Louisiana is turning it up a notch! With this past Tuesday’s performance by Jamie Bergeron and The Kicking Cajuns. The crowd was one of the biggest this year as locals and out of towners alike enjoyed the perfect weather and music. The adults enjoyed dancing and either the children joined in are found something fun to do at founders park. This FREE event is surely something everyone must check out no matter where you’re from, it’s held every Tuesday in Jennings.

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Meet little Wren, aka Wrenny-Penny. Contrary to her name (somewhat docile-sounding), she is an 11pound dynamo! She is about a year old and is pleased to be in rescue where she believes she is in charge. As sweet and loving as she is independent, she is certain to entertain her person(s). She gets along well with other dogs and holds her own playing chase with the big boys outside. After play time and dinner, she is ready to settle down as a cuddle bug for the night. Her vetting is complete apart from the spay (scheduled). She is heartworm negative and ready for her new forever to begin. For more information, call or email: (337) 478-7294; lapaw@bellsouth.net. Home visit and vet check required prior to all adoptions.

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Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

April 7, 2017

Tic-Tac-Toe

We’ll be back next month, Folks …

April 7, 2017

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

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G

ame ...

Take A Seat

‘Lucky 7’s at Table Number 7’ No matter how short or long the time you’ve been playing poker, there will always be these hands that you play over and over in your head. Poker stories are like a good fishing tale you never tire of telling. And, if you are like me, you also enjoy hearing poker stories from other players almost as much as you enjoy telling them. Poker can be a tricky game to play! It’s all in how YOU play YOUR hand – a good raise early-on may get others out of the game so you win the pot, or you may have a few callers and that builds the pot to a good size. It’s all in how the cards fall that determines the pot size and who will be raking in the big one! I certainly remember my first BIG pot winning.

Do you?

I was playing poker at The Isle of Capri early last year when I fell into a good run of luck and played the cards just right for maximum pot gains. It was just after that epic flood of 2016, when even I-10 was closed due to flooding near the Texas state line, and there were a lot of faces I hadn't seen before. Several FEMA workers, down from the northern states to work the flooded areas in Vinton, LA happened to be around my lucky table #7 (one that became my favorite while playing tournaments).

I showed up rather late that night, and ready for some stimulating poker. Getting to the table I see there are 3 seats open, but my usual seat 5 is taken. I scope out the seats that are open and decide on taking the number 4 seat. If you’ve played poker before, you know that seats are numbered 1-9. Almost all poker tables that I’ve been seated at personally have had 9 seats, although it isn’t unheard of for some to seat 10 – I don’t particularly care for 10 because that’s a bit crowded around the table for my taste but, on the other hand, it can build better pots.

I start with my usual amount of money: $100. I sum up the players at the table as I pass on my first few hands (I don’t play anything that doesn’t make a wheel – more about this later, in another issue). I always like to watch for a little while, anyway.

Judging character is a big part of my poker game, and everyone at this table seems to be playing pretty straight-up. (Oh, more about this ‘character judging’ will be discussed later, as well.) I see Sonya seated to my left – I already know she plays good poker from being at the same table with her before, and she’s the only one I recognize this night. I begin judging how she’s playing the people I don’t know, and it gives me a rough gauge about how I might react to these players.

After about an hour-in, I’m roughly up to $400 or so – usually a sufficient night’s winnings for me, but the game is going so well I decide to stay longer. Everyone at that table loved raising pre-flop. I hate that – I always want to get by with the least 58

amount to see the flop! So, when I wake up with pocket 7s I only call the $3 (I’m seated at a $1-$3 game). Sonya raises after my call and then there is a re-raise down the line up to $35. I don’t usually call this kinda’ raise with pocket 7s, but I’m up good and I’m feeling lucky! Eight people make that call and the pot is already nice sized! The flop comes 9-7-5 … I’ve got a set!

The guy before me raises another $100, another call before I also make that call. Only one guy folds. The turn reveals a 7 and I had to look twice because I now had quads! To my surprise after 3 checks, another player raises $175! Then, there is a caller – of course, I’m all-in at this point – not that much more than their $175. I have 5 callers – unreal to me at the time, but I’m happy about all the calls. Bigger pot!

The river is a jack. Side-raising follows and then calling between two guys – the others all fold. They turn over their cards first, to see who wins the side pot. One guy has pocket jacks and the other shows pocket 9s, with the pocket jacks taking the side pot. I turn over my pocket 7s and say, “Read ‘em and weep, boys!” … and as they push me that big pot the adrenaline was pumping in my veins! It’s a great rush and this is what every poker player seeks … that perfect pot and the rush of the win.

Needless-to-say, if the river would have been a 9, I would’ve probably passed smooth out! Had that been the case, I would’ve won half of a $132,000 “progressive jackpot”. Not until Sonya quickly pointed out that I should’ve been hoping for a loss on that hand did it hit me – I had come very close to being part of the ever-so-elusive Bad Beat Jackpot!!! But, I was happy just winning that hand! It was about a $1,600 pot – my biggest to-date!

The funny thing is, not often does everyone’s hand line up to be so perfect for the whole table to build such a big pot when seated at a 1-3 table. Other games – like Omaha or 2-5 – do have much bigger pots. But I’m not much of a risk-taker, so I don’t often seat myself at one of these games. I’m more of the safe player that sits back and waits until opportunity strikes while hoping to have enough money in front of me to make the most of my hand. Of course, I’m always the small stack at the table because I leave when I get up a decent amount and I almost always play it safe!

Poker can be a give-and-take game until you hit the perfect hand. I always suggest, wherever you decide to play poker, go on the day with your favorite promotion and be sure to set aside enough time to hit a great hand – giving yourself an ample opportunity to win a big pot! Until next time, may you catch lucky 7s at table #7 … and we’ll all keep dreaming about being part of the Bad Beat Jackpot!

The Poker Lady Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

April 7, 2017

Copyright 2017 Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. Isle of Capri and FanPlay are registered trademarks of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. Must be 21 years of age. Isle of Capri employees and the immediate family of executives and marketing team are not eligible to participate. Disregard if prohibited from visiting Louisiana casinos. All promotions and events are subject to change / cancellation without notice. Rules and promotions may vary.

Complete rules and eligibility for promotions are available upon request.

COMPULSIVE OR PROBLEM GAMBLING? CALL 1-877-770-STOP(7867).

April 7, 2017

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