The Jambalaya News March 2017

March 2017

A BAYOU LIVING MAGAZINE PUBLICATION

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Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

Contents March 3, 2017 … Volume 8 … Issue 20

630 West Prien Lake Road, STE B Box 301 Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-348-2958 www.thejambalayanews.com

Publisher Dawn Miranda Hughes-Daley dawn@thejambalayanews.com

Cover Story 22 Lake Charles Cover The Bad Apple Saloon Y’all Come Have a Bite

24 Jennings Front Cover Dusty Chaisson: A Passion for the Past A Vision for the Future

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

Contributing Editor Celeste W. Schlesinger

Contributing Editor Lauren Abate lauren@thejambalayanews.com

In This Issue 4

A Note From Delta Dawn

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Adoption Corner

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A Note From Dorothy

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A Note From Lauren

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We Are Louisiana

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Dr. Thompson

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A Heart of the Family

Contributing Writers

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Lake Area Medical

Bill Elliot Celeste W. Schlesinger Dawn Miranda Hughes-Daley Dorothy Hughes Dominique Dugas Justin Morris Nicole Shuff Arabie Paige Vidrine Russell Pawlowski

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Music Makers

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Red Carpet Affair

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To Parade with Love

Sales toniqu42@gmail.com dawn@thejambalayanews.com heatherhughes808@gmail.com lauren@thejambalayanews.com

Graphics

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Life on My Terms

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Soul Matters

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The Pirate’s Platter

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The Food Dude’s Table

The Spice Of Louisiana 36 38 42 43 48 50

Event Guide Dining Guide Louisiana Entertainment Night Life Guide Society Spice The Poker Lady’s Game

Art/Production Director Dawn Miranda Hughes-Daley Legal Disclaimer

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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 Road, Ste. B Box 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. The Jambalaya News cannot be held responsible for the return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations, even if they are sent to us accompanied by a self-addressed envelope. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Copyright 2017 The Jambalaya News all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited.

March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

Happy St. Patrick's Day …

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thing you've loved from this publication for the last eight years with a little of our Bayou Living flair!

I feel blessed to be able to do what I love and bring some community involvement to our readers: true Louisiana pride and a love of our culture and ways. Louisiana stands out like no other state in the nation due to our culture and food. Enjoy being a Louisianan!

I’ll start my introduction with a line from one of my favorite movies: “Like my Mama always said, ‘Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you are gonna get.’” This line came to mind as I bit into one of my Valentine chocolates after a meeting with Lauren Abate on Monday, February 13 (I had received my gift early). How true that line rings in real life!

Publishing has always been in my blood, probably thanks to a special pen pal of mine from my childhood. Nikki Sevigny (now Lacasse) started a newsletter called “Dreams Unlimited.” As I recall, I was happy to be the vice president of our pen pal newsletter in 1988! It all came back to me after working a brief spell for Kathleen Bush of MontroseStyle magazine in Montrose, Colorado. As I set forth to begin my own publication, Bayou Living magazine was born.

Now that Lauren has passed her “baby,” The Jambalaya News, on to me, I hope to bring all of you loyal readers every-

Find The Blonde Bomber 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 your prize. Include your full name, phone number, page number, and ad description. Drawing will be held on March 22nd. Winner will receive TWO TICKETS TO SEE THE GIN BLOSSOMS IN CONCERT ON MARCH 25 at the Golden Nugget.

Congratulations to Jo Ann Niles, who won a $50 Bar Tab to L-Bar at L’Auberge Casino Resort.

Catastrophe Cat was on page 32 in the Lake Charles.com ad.

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As I sit up late writing my first publisher's intro, I can hear my dog Elvis barking in the back yard at the red-eared turtle that I “fetched” off Country Club Road about a week ago. Talk about being a Louisianan! I just couldn’t leave that turtle in the middle of the city road, so I picked him up while my stepdaughter recorded it to put on her Snapchat feed. I think I really crack her up sometimes with my country ways. She asked me what I was going to do with that over-a-foot-in diameter turtle. I answered, “Well, I’m gonna cook it!” She laughed, but at that moment, I was remembering my grandpa’s tasty turtle sauce piquante.

After I put the turtle in the backyard with Elvis and he started to play with it, I figured he would just be another pet after that!

Since then, this country turtle has been eating pizza crusts that we threw out to the dog! He went from gonna be eaten to getting fed. Now, that’s got to be one of the craziest stories you’ve ever heard!

Until next month, may all your days be filled with unexpected comical events, because you never know what you’re “gonna get!”

Your publisher,

Delta Dawn Find the Blonde Bombers Necklace …

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 it means? Taking Care of Business and the lightning bolt symbolizes: in a flash. Elvis wore a necklace just like this one. Thankfully only the charm was 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 (page number, ad description) Leave your name & phone number! We will be giving $100 in reward money to the lucky winner of the drawing on the last day of the month. Thanks for helping him find his necklace!! Remember it’s only the lightning bolt that was lost … look closely because it’s hard to find!!

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

Last Minute Queen Back in 2013, when I was apparently looking for something interesting to do – obviously, this was before my more recent obsessions – I was drawn into a brief stint of creating Bitstrips with my grandchildren and a few of my fun-loving children. Little did I know that those images of ‘Me in Cartoons’ would surface to experience a second life!!

I really got into the whole creation aspect of instant cartooning – yes, cool things have a way of fascinating me beyond reason. And now, you’re learning a little snippet of who I am. So, here comes another little fact: I had actually saved the Bitstrips to file! Yes, I’m a ‘collector’ of everything.

I can’t seem to let go of anything that holds a moment of life as an engram to be indelibly marked on the timeline that is mine! It’s like living life more than once.

So, when Dawn – yes, Delta Dawn is my daughter – asked her mother what we might use as a little caricature to symbolize something about this personality of mine, I told her not to worry, “I have something I saved!” I quickly reached back into my plethora of Facebook albums (I have more than anyone you’ll ever know!) and found it right where I left it in 2013.

I sent several that might be appropriate, asking Dawn to decide. Somehow I knew this would be the one!! ‘Last Minute Queen’ – yes, someone should buy me the t-shirt. I guess I finally reached a point in life where laughing at myself is a fun thing to do. So right this moment, I’m wondering if she even realizes that SHE is the one who made this one?!

This has been a busy time in my life since offering my participation in the publication business. My work with Bayou Living Magazine has been nothing short of exciting and rewarding, extending a welcome invitation to express myself in interesting ways. I’ve met many new people and constantly find myself in places I’d probably not get to visit, otherwise. Now, to embark on another journey with my participation in this debut of Jambalaya News – well, what can I say?! Life just gets more interesting all the time! More things to like and more people to meet. New stories to write!

Complete with newfound opportunities to push my timing to that very last minute, always giving me one more chance to wear that crown – falling off my head as I rush out the door!

This April, The Jambalaya News will be celebrating eight years in print. My publication has been a labor of love for me.

Since I moved here from Boston in 2003, I have discovered something new almost every day in my adopted state: the cuisine, culture, music, festivals, the warmest people, the sheer exuberance of Mardi Gras, the joie de vivre that simply can’t be found anywhere else in the country. And that’s why I started The Jam—to celebrate life in Southwest Louisiana.

It’s been quite a ride, and I am now excited to pass it on to the very capable of hands of Dawn Daley.

Dawn is the publisher of Bayou Living and has so many exciting ideas for The Jam! She will be making some changes, of course, and I am looking forward to a new and improved Jam with a lot of fun and fresh ideas. I wish I had some of her boundless energy!

With that being said, I am also thrilled to let you all know that I’m not going anywhere—and neither are most of my writers. I am staying on as editor and will continue to be at the helm of the publication you know and love. It’s been a pleasure working together with Dawn on this first issue, and we look forward to collaborating for a long time to come.

We transitioned to a monthly this past January, so look for us the first Friday of every month. Thank you for your support! Love you all!

Lauren

Dorothy

Recently joining us is Little Man, a Shih Tzu/Maltese mix about three years old. And what a precious fellow he is! With a sweet temperament and being house trained, he is ready for his forever person to find him. For more information, call his foster at (337) 287-4677; or, email us at lapaw@bellsouth.net. Home visit and vet check required prior to all adoptions.

March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

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We are Louisiana …

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

Mardi Gras Shoebox Float Contest Winners The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau recently held a community-wide Mardi Gras Shoebox Float Contest. Da’Jae R. Arthur took home first place in the Children’s Division. Paige Joyce Lorenzi was awarded second place, and Elena Grace Lorenzi won third place. First place winner in the Teen Division was Emma Istre. Mrs. Tina Harris’ class from Kaufman Elementary took first place in the Pre-School Division. Gage Ibeck’s class from the St. Nicholas Center won second place. Capturing first place in the Elementary School Division was Mr. Godel’s class from Prien Elementary School. Ms. Landry’s class from Prien Elementary landed second place honors, and Ms. Touchet’s class from Prien Elementary won third place. Ms. Donaldson’s class from Iowa Middle School took home first in the Middle School Division. In Adult Division, Melanie Stahl won first place, and Kathy Heath took second place. Best of Show was awarded to Emma Istre with her lighted Mardi Gras jester float.

Black Heritage Festival is Top 20 Event The Southeast Tourism Society recently honored the Black Heritage Festival as a 2017 Top 20 Event for the month of March. Held Friday and Saturday, March 10-11 at the Lake Charles Civic Center, the festival brings together the cultures of Africa and Southwest Louisiana. Celebrating diversity, culture and education, the festival is filled with legendary Zydeco, Blues and Gospel performers as well as The Market Place, featuring African art, clothing and more. For more information, contact the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau at 436-9588 or visit www.visitlakecharles.org

Emma Istre proudly poses with her winning shoebox float.

Judith Washington (left), executive director of the Black Heritage Festival, receives the Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event award from Tara Johnson (right), sales manager for the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Sasol Donates to Junior Achievement Sasol donated $15,000 and provided volunteers to Junior Achievement of SWLA during the 2016-2017 year in support of several financial literacy programs. In July, middle school students participated in JA It’s My Future™ taught by Sasol volunteers at the Westlake Library. In October, Sasol volunteers taught JA Our Community® to second grade students at Westwood Elementary and JA Our Region® to fourth grade students at Combre-Fondel Elementary. In January, Sasol employees served as volunteers and mentors to students participating in the JA Finance Park® simulations.

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Daley’s Gym would like to announce their 2017 Golden Gloves Champion, Luke Churchman. Luke is the son of Carl & Mary Churchman from Lake Charles, Louisiana. Congratulations Luke on your big win!

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

ICCS Names Students of the Year Jack Spann and Asha Austin have been named the 2016-2017 Immaculate Conception Cathedral School Students of the Year. The students were selected for the honor based on grade point average, school organization participation, community service, a special essay writing assignment and interview with a panel of judges. Jack, an 8th grade honor roll student, is a member of the ICCS Beta Club, Student Council, Catholic Athletes for Christ and ICCS football, basketball and track & field teams. He also serves as an ICCS Ambassador. Jack is the son of Julee and David Spann. Asha, a 5th grade honor roll student, is involved in the ICCS Engineering Club, Honor Chorus and Safety Patrol. Asha is the daughter of Nicole and Robbie Austin.

Jack Spann

Haven Enterprises, John and Alta Baker and Attorney Wendell Miller.

Asha Austin

Blake Named Exec. Director of Project Build A Future Rev. Henry Mancuso, president of Project Build A Future, has announced the selection of Charla Blake as executive director of the local not-forprofit agency. Over the past 15 years, PBAF has constructed 100 quality, affordable homes. Currently, six additional homes are under construction and 20 more are in the planning stages. A native of Cameron, Blake earned architectural degrees at USL, the University of Charla Blake Texas at Arlington, and is currently a doctoral candidate at the University of Missouri. She is a member of the American Institute of Architects, Louisiana Partnership for the Arts, and the Calcasieu Historical Preservation Society. For more information about PBAF, call (337) 439-7191 or visit www.projectbuildafuture.org.

CITGO Earth Keepers Program Plants Trees at Local Schools In January, representatives from the CITGO Earth Keepers recycling program planted trees at participating local schools to recognize students and teachers for recycling.
CITGO Earth Keepers, a community and school recycling program, was implemented in November of 2013 and has since been building momentum as the program progressively expands throughout Calcasieu Parish. Currently, there are 24 schools participating in Sulphur and Lake Charles. As part of the program, schools also receive recycling bins and a tree to beautify their campuses. Program partners include CITGO Lake Charles, Stine in Sulphur and Lake Charles, the cities of Lake Charles and Sulphur, CSE Federal Credit Union in Moss Bluff, McNeese State University and United Way of SWLA in Lake Charles.

March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

Mount Art Collection on Exhibit at Zigler Museum The Zigler Art Museum in Jennings would like to thank Senator Willie Mount for generously allowing them to exhibit her collection of artwork in their Fine Art Gallery. Mount is a Lake Charles native and graduate of Lake Charles High School and McNeese State University. She served as the first female mayor of Lake Charles for six years and became the first woman elected as a Louisiana State Senator of District 27 in 1999, serving three terms. She has received distinguished awards from numerous organizations and continues to serve the public on dozens of boards and foundations in Louisiana. Special thanks to the sponsors of the exhibit and reception, including Safe

Lee (Buddy) Bloch, ZAM Board Member - Greg Marcantel, ZAM President - Celia Joe Black, ZAM Director - Marion Fox - Representative Elcie Guillory and Senator Gerald Theunissen

St. John Elementary students watering their newly planted tree.

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Don’t Weaken your Teeth While Strengthening your Body

By Dr. Frances Thompson Will you be actively training for your favorite sport this spring training? If so, be careful what you decide to rehydrate with, as many drinks designed to boost your energy can do significant, even irreversible damage to your teeth. Energy drinks are often marketed as the perfect drink after a good workout, but they can sometimes do more harm than good.

For a cavity to form, three things must be present in your mouth: bacteria, sugar and acid. The bacteria is already present naturally, but sugar and acid are introduced by what you ingest. A tooth is made up of minerals (harder even than bone), but when acid is present, it starts to remove some of these minerals, or demineralize the tooth. This “softens” the tooth and makes is more susceptible to decay. Once you consume sugar, the bacteria has the food it needs to be able to break apart a tooth and cause a cavity to form. Sugar doesn’t have to just come in the form of sugar, either. Many popular snack foods, like carbohydrates such as potato chips, break down into sugar.

Many energy drinks contain both sugar and acid. Even natural acids, like citric acid, can cause damage. Carbonated beverages like Coke and Sprite contain loads of sugar as well as acid. Acid in addition to sugar in a drink exacerbates the harmful effects upon your teeth. Too much acid can even eat away at the enamel (outer,

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protective layer of tooth); once enamel is gone, it can never grow back. Try to be aware of what’s in your drink by reading the ingredients on the label before consuming it.

If you can’t give up Cokes or energy drinks cold turkey, try to cut back on how many you drink. Consuming a sugary or acidic beverage during a meal is better for your teeth than sipping on it throughout the day. This is because it takes about 20 minutes for the pH of your mouth to normalize after eating or drinking. If you take a sip of a Coke every 15 minutes, your mouth will not return to normal pH until 20 minutes after the last sip is taken.

Think of it like soaking your teeth in sugary acid for however long it takes you to finish your drink. Not a good idea if you want to keep your teeth well into your retirement.

Although perhaps not the tastiest drink, water is a great way to rehydrate after a hard workout. Make sure to keep up with electrolytes with a healthy snack, and save drinking the occasional cold drink for special occasions. Keep up the hard work training this spring, and drink responsibly!

Dr. Frances Thompson, formerly known as Dr. Frances Bercier, opened up her practice after graduating from the LSU School of Dentistry in 2013. Conveniently located at 632 West McNeese St., Dr. Thompson and her amazing staff provide a wide array of services. If you have any questions about your mouth or concerns about your teeth, feel free to call her office at (337) 478-1113 or check out her website francesthompsondds.com and send her a message.

A fifth generation dentist, Dr. Frances graduated summa cum laude from McNeese State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She received her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry in New Orleans and is an active member of LDA and ADA. She enjoys building personal and lasting relationships with her patients while providing them gentle and modern dentistry.

What We Do • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Dental exams Cleanings Whitening Cosmetic Dentistry Filling Restoration Bonding Porcelain Crowns Sedation Dentistry Emergency Visits Extractions Root Canals Dentures & Partials Implant Restoration … and more!

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

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The Heart of the Family

Last October, Iowa native Ralph Picard, 78, was having some tightness in his chest. He assumed it was a respiratory issue and would pass, but after about a week, he decided to get it checked out at an urgent care facility. From there, he was advised to head to the Memorial Emergency Room for more testing.

The enzyme testing ruled out a heart attack, but a stress test did show that there was heart disease present, so it was decided that Picard would need cardiac catheterization testing done.

That’s when Picard was referred to Dr. Edward Bergen, a cardiologist with Memorial Medical Group. Dr. Bergen performed Picard’s cardiac catheterization – a test in which a small, hollow tube is inserted into the blood vessels near the heart to discover any plaque buildup – and the findings proved there was indeed substantial blockage.

“Going in, I thought maybe I’d get a stent or two,” Picard said, “but he said it would have been five stents. I said ‘that doesn’t sound too good.’”

Upon discovering the level of blockage, Dr. Bergen conferred with Dr. J. Gregory Lugo, cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon with Memorial Medical Group. They determined that coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery was the way to go, and the sooner the better. In CABG surgery, a healthy artery is taken from elsewhere in the body (usually the leg) and grafted to the blocked coronary arteries. Blood then travels through the new, healthy artery rather than the one with the blockage.

“I came in to have the catheterization testing on Friday, and they did the surgery on Monday morning,” Picard said, noting that he was advised to stay in the hospital over the weekend because the doctors did not feel comfortable sending him home.

Ralph Picard had quadruple bypass surgery on October 16, 2016. Little did he or his family know that his daughter, Kay Cole, 52, would be having triple bypass surgery only one month later.

Cole had been having some problems with shortness of breath when she would go up the stairs at work in her role as a secretary for the parish. “So my doctor said, ‘Let’s do a stress test,’” Cole said.

After her father had such a good experience with Dr. Bergen, she decided to see him for her cardiac care as well.

When he recommended catheterization, she had some fear. “I thought, ‘Oh no, I’m not doing that. Daddy just did it!’ but sure enough, we did the heart cath, and they came in and said it’s got to be the surgery.”

Cole’s CABG surgery took place as Picard was beginning to slowly resume work at the Iowa Police Department 10

following his own procedure.

As a former smoker for 35 years until just before her bypass surgery, Cole’s recovery took a little longer, but she is currently back at work and feeling good.

“I quit the week before my surgery, and I told myself that when I got out of there after surgery I would never have another cigarette, and I haven’t,” she said. She only has a few more sessions of post-surgical cardiac rehab left to go before she “graduates” from the program. (Picard graduated from his cardiac rehab just before Christmas.)

In addition to a healthy diet plan and medications, Picard and Cole will have follow ups with Dr. Bergen every few months to make sure their hearts remain healthy.

As with all the trials and tribulations life throws at us, family can always help us heal, and both credit the family matriarch, Joyce Picard, for taking great care of them post-surgery. They also agree that getting back into their normal routines as quickly as possible was a key to successful recovery. Picard said, “I told my wife, ‘You have to be my helper, not my nurse.’ So I would get up in the morning and get the paper and the mail and take the dogs out and all the ordinary stuff.”

“I was most looking forward to holding the grandbabies,” Cole said.

For more information about cardiovascular care services and physicians at Memorial, please visit lcmh.com/heart.

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

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Lake Area Medical Center Serving Southwest Louisiana for over 33 years

Past Lake Area Medical Center, first known as Women & Children’s Hospital, began with a group of eight obstetricians and gynecologists led by Floyd A. Guidry, M.D., who wanted to offer the most advanced healthcare services to women in Southwest Louisiana. They dreamed of a hospital that would put patients first, one that would strive to meet the special needs of women and newborns.

In 1981, Dr. Guidry contacted Humana, Inc., the largest hospital company at that time, to discuss the idea of building a women’s hospital in Lake Charles. After conducting several demographic studies, the company agreed that Southwest Louisiana would benefit from a women’s specialty hospital. Dr. Guidry was selected as chairman of the steering committee and three years later, he was named the hospital’s first chief of staff.

When the hospital opened on October 21, 1984, it was the first women’s hospital in the Lake area. With 80 patient beds and 8 physicians, the hospital featured state-of-the-art-technology, spacious rooms, a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), complete gynecological services, mammography and surgical services. Just two years later, services were expanded to include care for women, children and men. Then in 1988 they began offering orthopedic services, opened a new emergency department and added an intensive care unit.

In 1989, Charles Washington, M.D. performed the first laparoscopic laser cholecystectomy (gall bladder removal surgery) in the Lake Area at Women & Children’s Hospital. Only 11 other facilities in the U.S. were equipped to perform this procedure, including one in Houston and another in New Orleans.

Between 1999 and 2007, Women & Children’s Hospital completed several large expansion projects which doubled the size of the obstetrics and neonatal intensive care units, added a new day surgery lobby, chapel, medical records department, surgery expansion and a new adult ICU wing. From 2008 – 2014 additional service lines were introduced, along with the development of an on-campus physician clinic corporation and hospitalist program.

Additionally, a family medicine clinic opened in Grand Lake, a Wound Care Center opened on campus and the Urology Center of Southwest Louisiana was purchased. Due to the accelerated growth of new business, industry and families relocating to Southwest Louisiana, Women & Children’s Hospital officially changed its name to Lake Area Medical Center in early 2014.

Present Today, Lake Area Medical Center (LAMC) is an 88-bed full service acute care hospital offering inpatient, outpatient, medical and surgical care for men, women and children. The hospital is conveniently located at 4200 Nelson Road; on one of the busiest roadways in Lake Charles.

After 33 years of service to southwest Louisiana, LAMC is still recognized as a preferred leader for women’s services.

Lake Area Medical Center has earned ongoing recognition for receiving high patient, employee and physician satisfaction scores. It is recognized as a Top Performer in Key Quality Issues by the Joint Commission--one of the healthcare industry’s most recognized quality and performance standards organizations--is an accredited Bariatric Surgery Center, and has been recognized by Modern Healthcare magazine as a Best Places to Work in Healthcare for three of the past nine years.

Lake Area Medical Center is under the executive leadership of Bryan S. Bateman, Chief Executive Officer. Other members of the executive team include; Robbin Odom -Chief Nursing Officer, Dawn Johnson-Hatcher -Chief Financial Officer and LaTosha Machey -Chief Quality Of- Robotic Surgery 12

ficer. LAMC is governed by a Board of Trustees made up of community and medical representatives including; Roxanne Baggett, Charlotte Colosky, Dr. Tammy Fairchild, Mike Harmison, Dr. James Jancuska, Dr. David Landry, Dr. Brad Lebert, Sam Liprie, Willie Mount, Toby Osburn, Dr. Alice Prestia, Beverly St. Mary and Dr. John Vanhoose.

Services Available • Bariatric Surgical Weight Loss Lake Area Medical Center’s bariatric weight loss program is designed to help people improve their health and quality of life by using surgical intervention for weight reduction. They are an accredited Bariatric Center by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP).

Online and live weight loss seminars are offered, along with a free monthly bariatric support group. For more information please call the bariatric coordinator at (337) 475-4760.

• Cardiology & Vascular Services Under the medical direction of board-certified cardiologists, specially trained cardiac nurses and technologists work collaboratively to help patients and their families feel comfortable, safe and informed during cardiac and vascular procedures. With one of the newest Cardiac catheterization labs in the Lake Area, 24 hour/7 days per week cardiac emergency services is available. For more information, visit LakeAreaMC.com/Heart.

• Diabetes Services Whether diabetes is a new or previous diagnosis, it is important to stay up-to-date with the education and resources that can help in the management of diabetes and support healthy living. Lake Area Medical Center offers group education classes and individual sessions that meet the standards of education for the American Association of Diabetes Educators, along with a free monthly support group. For more information on diabetes selfmanagement education, please call (337) 475-4075.

• Emergency Services ER services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Prepared to provide immediate evaluation of acute illnesses or injuries for both adult and pediatric patients, Lake Area Medical Center’s ER team are specially trained in emergency medicine, critical care and advanced life support. Each treatment room is equipped with trauma technology to handle most life-threatening situations. The number of patients seeking emergency treatment at Lake Area Medical Center has consistently increased year over year for the past six years, ending 2016 with 32,795 visits.

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March 3rd, 2017

• Imaging Services Located close to the ER, Lake Area Medical Center’s Radiology Services include; General and Interventional Radiology, Bone Density, Breast MRI, Cardiac CT Angiography and Calcium Scoring, CT, Fluoroscopy, Mammography, MRI, Nuclear Medicine and Ultrasound. A commitment to continually invest in new equipment and training helps patients have access to imaging advancements, such as improved image clarity and reduced radiation exposure…keeping patient safety a top priority. For more information or to schedule your radiology test at Lake Area Medical Center, please call (337) 475-4110.

• Surgical Services Lake Area Medical Center offers general and specialized surgical procedures with many available on a same-day, outpatient basis. In 2016 a total of 5,270 surgeries were performed at Lake Area Medical Center in the specialty areas of; Ear-Nose-&Throat, Gastroenterology, General, Gynecology, Heartburn, Orthopedic and Urology. Additionally, there are six members of the medical staff who perform robotic-assisted procedures for general, gynecology and urology surgeries. Lake Area Medical Center was the first in the area to offer surgeons and patients’ fluorescence imaging during robotic assisted surgical cases. Fluorescence imaging enables surgeons to use a special video camera and glowing dye to view blood flowing in vessels and tissue, or bile moving through ducts during minimally invasive surgical procedures.

• Women’s Health At Lake Area Medical Center, they help make the most memorable nine months of your life go smoothly and aim to keep your pregnancy a healthy one. If you're having a baby, Lake Area Medical Center welcomes you--and your little one--to take advantage of all the amenities so many other growing families have enjoyed, including: Pre-natal education classes, all-in-one private labor-delivery-recovery suites, a 24 hour fully staffed Well Baby Nursery, a Level III Neonatal ICU to handle the most delicate of newborns, advanced electronic infant security system, pull-out sleeper sofa for dad or a family member to rest and a Tiny Toes OB Club membership. In 2016, 1,283 babies were delivered at Lake Area Medical Center. To find an OB/ GYN affiliated with LAMC, or for a listing of available childbirth education classes, please visit LakeAreaMC.com.

• Wound Care Center While some wounds can heal using traditional treatments, others require more extensive care. That’s where the Wound Care Center at Lake Area Medical Center can help. They specialize in caring for people whose open sores have resisted traditional treatments, or wounds that haven’t healed within 30 days. The Wound Care Center is staffed with a physician led team trained in wound management, hyperbaric oxygen treatment, and noninvasive vascular studies. For additional information or to schedule a tour, call (337) 475-4001.

• Additional Hospital Services Outpatient and Inpatient 24 hr. Laboratory testing; Rehabilitation services including Physical, Occupational and Speech therapies; Cardiopulmonary services to include: full pulmonary function testing, EKG and EEG along with medication breathing treatments; and outpatient dietary consultations. In 2016, Lake Area Medical Center provided care to >2,900 inpatients and > 54,000 outpatients. Not only does the hospital provide patient care, Lake Area Medical Center also hosts numerous support groups and a variety of educational classes and seminars to better educate the community. Two affinity programs offered include Senior Circle and Healthy Woman.

• Senior Circle is dedicated to making life after 50 more active, informed, fun and full of friends. With over 800 local members and over 100,000 nationwide, Senior Circle offers seniors events, volunteer and educational opportunities centered on helping you live the healthiest, most active lifestyle possible.

You just show up, meet, greet, and take advantage of the benefits: new friends, fellowship, and valuable member-only discounts and privileges. For more information on Senior Circle, please call 337-475-4002 or visit LakeAreaMC.com/ SeniorCircle.

• Healthy Woman at Lake Area Medical Center is a free program designed by women, for women. With just under 5,000 members strong, it aims to empower women with the knowledge and confidence to make informed health care deciMarch 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

sions and maintain a healthy mind, body and spirit through health education events. Target aged members (24-64) take advantage of free seminars, health fairs, educational programs and interactive events throughout the year. For more information or to become a member of Healthy Woman visit LakeAreaMC.com/HealthyWoman or call (337) 475-4064.

Every year, Lake Area Medical Center provides quality medical care to thousands of people from the community and surrounding areas. But the care offered extends beyond the doors.

If you’ve ever been to the hospital, you know that they take care personally. They are genuinely invested in making this community a better place to live and work.

In 2016, Lake Area Medical Center financially invested $29,015,246 back into the community!

Employee Payroll = $24,877,019 Property and Sales Taxes = $ 1,727,571 Capital Investments = $ 1,538,097 Charity & Uncompensated Care = $ 814,297 Charitable Contributions = $ 58,262 TOTAL Community Investment = $29,015,246 Future With over 500 employees and an experienced medical staff of over 200 physicians and growing, Lake Area Medical Center remains an important and vital healthcare resource for the residents of Southwest Louisiana. With such a rich history of innovation and dedication to providing exceptional healthcare services, it’s no wonder why families continue to choose Lake Area Medical Center as the birthplace for their children and the hospital they will trust with their families for generations to come.

For more information, please visit LakeAreaMC.com or call (337) 474-6370.

Chief Executive Officer Bryan S. Bateman 13

CSE Federal Credit Union Hosts Instrument Drive for MusicMakers2U STRIKE UP THE BAND! “Never look at the trombones; you’ll only encourage them,” joked Richard Strauss in the early 20th century. Trombones – those bold sliding pieces of brass that create a joyful sound, sending us to grab a handkerchief and dance down a New Orleans street in a second line celebration – that’s what Connor knew he wanted. Always musically inclined, Connor connected with the trombone when he was given the opportunity at school to try several instruments. MusicMakers2U heard that he was interested and presented him with a refurbished trombone.

Connor excelled. He was chosen to participate in both Honor Band and Honor Jazz Band for the past two years, has received Superior ratings twice in solos and ensembles competition, and is part of the award-winning middle school band at S.J. Welsh which has received all Superiors at District Festival the past two years under the direction of Eva Brown and Reggie Rogers.

MusicMakers has replaced his refurbished trombone with a brand new Yamaha!

MusicMakers2U, Inc. is an organization devoted to providing area middle, high school and McNeese State music majors with access to musical instruments. The 501-(c)-3 non-profit group collects used musical instruments, has them refurbished and cleaned, and with the help of school band directors and music teachers, pairs them with deserving students to help them realize their dreams. Since its inception in September 2013, the group has paired just under 300 instruments with young musicians and schools in Southwest Louisiana.

CSE Federal Credit Union is inviting you to “Dust off and Donate” your musical instruments that may be gathering dust in closets and give them new life in the hands of a deserving student. CSE, as a sponsor for MM2U, is the year-round drop-off spot for instruments, but spaces are being cleared to receive major donations between March 17 and 31 at three locations. Instruments in any condition are accepted. MusicMakers2U will have them repaired and cleaned. CSE locations are at 4321 Nelson Road in Lake Charles, 2154 Swisco Road in Sulphur, and 1170 Sam Houston Jones Parkway in Moss Bluff.

Donors will fill out a brief information form, which the receiving student can use to send a note of thanks or to invite the donor to a future recital or concert. The student and parents sign a contract agreeing to care for the instrument and if the instrument is no longer needed, to return it to the group for re-pairing to another student.

For more information, please visit the MusicMakers2U Facebook page or www.musicmakers2u.org or call (337) 244-9314.

Don’t have a musical instrument? Monetary donations to cover the cost of refurbishing and cleaning the instruments are always appreciated. Tax deductible monetary donations may be mailed to MusicMakers2U, P.O. Box 7964, Lake Charles, LA 70606.

According to Connor, “MusicMakers has meant a lot to me. Getting the trombone led to other opportunities like learning how to play new instruments. I’m thankful for that.” His parents Jennifer and Mark state that “The MusicMakers experi14

ence has been rewarding. It has changed Connor’s life forever!”

Help us to keep the music playing in Southwest Louisiana by ‘dusting off and donating’ your musical instrument.

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March 3rd, 2017

March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

15

LA KREWE DES GENS

PRESENTS

AN EVENING AT THE GRAMMYS …

It’s a Red Carpet Affair

In 2016, La Krewe Des Gens Extraordinaire celebrated “Festivals of Louisiana” with King Carlos Metoyer and Queen Tara Metoyer and their Royal Court. Their reign came to an end on February 25, when they presented “It’s A Red Carpet Affair,” where they celebrated 22 years of Royalty. The Ball was held at the Lake Charles Civic Center.

Krewe member Ricky Armelin, Sr. sang the National Anthem and did a great job with his smooth vocals. The color guard was presented by the Washington Marion High School ROTC. The 2017 Royal Court was led by President Tara Metoyer and 2017 Ball Captain Carlos Metoyer. The Court consists of Duke Brent King and Duchess Prescilla Adams of Hip Hop and R&B 2000s Era and Duchess Dorothy Leger and Duke Bryan Leger of Pop/Crossover 1990s Era. The 2017 King and Queen of the Grammys are King James Thibodeaux and Queen Tammy Thibodeaux. King James is a lifelong resident of Lake Charles where graduated from Lake Charles High and attended Sowela Technical Community College. He is a facility maintenance foreman for the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury. A sports car and music advocate, King James is a member of the Lake Charles Camaro Club and Knights of Peter Claver and attends St. Henry’s Catholic Church where he serves as an usher and Extraordinaire Minister of Holy Communion. The son of Nancy Thibodeaux and late James Sidney Thibodeaux, he has been married to Queen Tammy for 23 years. He enjoys traveling, going to the casino and spending time with his wife and their son Cameron Blake Thibodeaux.

King James dedicated this night in memory of his father, the late James Sidney Thibodeaux.

Queen Tammy is a veteran at public service. She is a 15-year employee of the 14th Judicial District Court and is also employed with the City of Lake Charles as a Community Event Leader. Giving back is a huge part of the Queen’s life. She belongs to St. Henry’s Catholic Church and serves as a lector and Extraordinaire Minster of Holy Communion. Queen Tammy is the president of the Women’s Commission of Southwest Louisiana, Inc. and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Inc., Catholic Daughters of America, Twelfth Night Revelers of Lake Charles, and a Big Sister with Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Southwest Louisiana. She is a on the board of directors for the Black

Ball Captain Carlos Metoyer 16

Duke Brent King

Heritage Festival and Southwest Louisiana Sickle Cell Anemia, Inc. The Queen has received numerous accolades over the years including 2016 Women’s Commission of Southwest Louisiana, Inc. Fall Conference Chair and Active Advisory Commission of the year. In all she does, Queen Tammy hopes to inspire and motivate young women.

Queen Tammy is the proud daughter of Clarence Brown, Sr. and the late Rose Marie Brown. She enjoys gardening, shopping and spending time with her goddaughter Jazmine Brown. Queen Tammy dedicated this night in memory of her mother, the late Rosie Marie Brown.

Prince Cameron Blake Thibodeaux is a junior at Barbe High School and attends St. Henry’s Catholic Church where he is an altar server.

He is a Star Wars fanatic and enjoys playing video games and spending time with his father, King James.

Princess Jazmine Janee Brown is a junior honor student at the University Of Lafayette Louisiana pursuing a degree in psychology. Her goal is to obtain her master’s of psychology and open her own practice. In her spare time she studies and enjoys spending time with friends, especially her nanny, Queen Tammy.

The Krewe hosted a champagne hour for their guests while they socialized and enjoyed the elegant decorations. Krewe members entertained guests with performances by New Edition (Girls Group): “Can you Stand the Rain,” the Group Lakeside: “Outrageous,” Betty Wright: “The Cleanup Woman,” and Beyonce: “Drunk In Love.”

The Royal Toast and Promenade preceded a night of Second Lines and Royal pageantry. Krewe members and guests danced the night away to the electrifying sounds of Hotline, a live band from Opelousas the night was filled with awesome people, great music, Creole food and Mardi Gras excitement. Laissez Les Bon Temp Rouler!

La Krewe Des Gens Extraordinaire was founded in 1995 and is composed of 36 extraordinary people from all walks of life, all dedicated to the festive Mardi Gras celebration. This Krewe of Extraordinary People has made a commitment to foster and promote this joyous celebration by participating in all Mardi Gras activities in Southwest Louisiana. La Krewe Des Gens Extraordinaire is in its 22nd year and looks forward to continuous Mardi Gras merriment in the spirit of the Mardi Gras season!!

Duchess Prescilla Adams

Duke Bryan Leger

Duchess Dorothy Leger Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

Queen Tammy Thibodeaux

Queen Tammy Thibodeaux & King James Thibodeaux March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

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“To Parade – with Love”

by Celeste W. Schlesinger Sherri Lindsey, inspired photographer

Queue the music: “La Dance Des Mardi Gras” - your knees should be beginning to bob and your feet are stamping...visions of masked and costumed horseback riders should be in your mind. Beads, doubloons and moon pies are flying through the air into the hands of waiting crowds of people yelling, “Throw me something, Mister”.

Then there's the more curious images on the sides of the Mardi Gras floats. Chickens running as being chased by above mentioned costumed people. Krewe names of all sorts of origins and meanings.

Many floats stick with the traditional purple, green and gold representing Justice, Faith and Power, respectively. Often seen, the harlequin diamond patterns and of course, the fleur de lis.

But as we move on to newer translations of Mardi Gras celebrations: clever t-shirts printed with Krewe names, plush toys and superballs have been added to the tosses, and the float designs become more personal.

A float from Lake Arthur, Louisiana is our example: Krewe du bec mon grand chu.

This was a float provided with the love from a father/ Gramps, the name came from his observation and loving teases about the big bottomed girls in his circle of family and friends.

Most local krewe/float riders start with a small trailer, then in a couple of years grow to a larger, more efficient model.

Oren and Joycelyn Trahan were gifted a trailer by Joycelyn's father, Leo Crader (Gramps). He collected and reused junque in a Sanford and Son style. Joycelyn didn't want her father to use his money for their activities, but he insisted and after more than a year, some collected yellow metal sides went up, a rooftop, and the successful process began.

For the Mardi Gras season of 2017, a makeover was being planned. Local airbrush artist, James “Boo” Duplechin was asked to listen to the theme ideas and reinterpret. That he did!

In 2016, Joycelyn's father, Leo had passed overnight.

He had been a fixture in the little town of Lake Arthur, cruising the eight streets and various avenues slowly and regularly. The general comment was, here comes Leo in that bright blue truck....or there goes Leo to tend to his chickens. If he saw you outside and you didn't appear to be too busy, he would stop and ask some sort of question, usually involving something he might be interesting in “collecting”. Or about chickens. You'd better hoped he had his hearing aid....hmmmmm.

Many townfolks have different tales of Leo, so when Boo revealed his images to the Trahans, tears would flow. Whenever, the images were shared to others who knew and admired Leo, a tear or dry choke would also result.

Coonass people are emotional at heart and true to their friends and families. One such family friend of Oren and Joycelyn took these photos, Sherri Lindsey. Who also had a large reason to break out a screaming sob 18

when she saw that her “Granny” was included on the new float design. Granny is shown sitting on the Trahan's front porch in a rocker, where she loved to be when they would 'come south' from Keithville, near Shreveport, to visit. Behind her in his infamous pose, Leo “Gramps” Crader, arm propped on the hood of his bright blue truck, one leg crossing the other.

Sherri and Tony Lindsey met the Trahans at the Mud Nationals in Jacksonville, Texas about ten years ago. They bonded, promised to camp next to each other from then on each year.

Then over time, they began to join each other in benefit poker runs until finally they were visiting each other about once a month. Sherri and Leo (Gramps) had a like mind when it came to junque collecting. Granny and Gramps became quite close friends, as well. Granny lived life large and full, right up until her death just a few months before Leo died.

When the flood of the century (August 2016) hit the Lindsey home, the Trahans organized clothes, household items, food and packed their R.V., parked it in the Lindsey's yard while they rebuilt.

Leo references are all over the float, an image of his beloved paint horse which was named “Foodstamp” (as Sherri stated on her Facebook post, that's another story). Then there's a “Sippy Cup”, yes, a young child's sippy cup which in this case was filled with chocolate milk and used by Oren and Joycelyn's nephew, Jacob Trahan. Each and every visit, Gramps would tease Jacob about sharing the sippy cup and it remained a gentle banter at every visit. An older Jacob asked his mother if it would be okay to put his sippy cup on Leo's grave wreath. And there it is, but also documented by airbrush artist, Boo Duplechin, on a side of the 2017 float.

To again quote from Sherri Lindsey's Facebook post, “They (Granny and Gramps) will forever be able to watch the fast paced world pass by; just as they always did...now from the front of the float”.

Fade the music, drop the mic. Story told.

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March 3rd, 2017

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NOLA with Your Kids: Finding the Magic New Orleans. The city where most people go to lose their inhibitions on Bourbon Street, only to wake up the next day searching their phones for photos hoping they’ll be able to recall the night’s events.

Yeah… That place! It has proven to be the perfect destination to celebrate your legality, get lost in Mardi Gras and simply be free (if only for a night). And though I have participated in all of the above, I am letting you know that New Orleans is also a fabulous place to take your kids!

I know you’re scratching your heads, probably due to the common understanding of what it means to be a tourist in this iconic city, but I am here to shatter that stereotype.

My parents have been taking me to New Orleans since before I was legal, so I have known a very different side of this magical city my entire life. This was the weekend destination when my parents just wanted to get a breather from their 24/7 entrepreneurial duties. It was nothing to pack us up and go, so we went and we went often.

So, here I am with my two kids (ages five and four years). I’m thinking, “It’s time.” That is what led us to good ole’ New Orleans. Let me brief you on what this place has done for me and how I’m reliving the magic with my energy balls (the kids!).

My mom has always told me that you can either do New Orleans daytime, or do the night life, but there is absolutely no way someone can do both. Well, it’s 2017 and they are making some strong espresso these days, so I most assuredly do not agree, even though I still consider it very WISE advice.

On this trip, I did both. I was up at 7 a.m. with my kids traipsing through the city, then out on the town with a friend through the night. It was wonderful. I am still recovering (I officially discovered a new definition for exhaustion).

The first day was great. The kids enter20

tained the bellmen at the Royal Sonesta for half an hour before the manager was able to get our room situated. (Note to self, there are no adjoining balcony rooms). This was a wonderful experience, as my kids were excited to just be somewhere new. They were full of wonder the moment they stepped into the breathtaking lobby. A sweet bellman took it upon himself to open up conversation with my kids, and then it was over. Within 30 minutes they were getting hugs, high fives and rides on the luggage carrier! My son, being the sunshine that he is, made one bellman tear up with his natural diplomatic nature. “Sir, can I have a hug?” That was a great start to a wonderful trip.

Once the rooms were cleared for our arrival, we simply dropped our bags and left. Outside of our hotel, we grabbed a Pedi-cab (Kyle Thomsen: the driver and photographer in most of my photos; shameless plug *Facebook him*) and went on an hour-long adventure. It’s always best to opt for a Pedi-cab than a taxi; if you tip them enough, they will do just about anything for you… hence the awesome photos! Thank you, Kyle!

So, we were off. We asked to stop peri-

odically to get some good photos, show the kids “Rapunzel’s castle” in Jackson Square and to get them sugary treats.

There is absolutely nothing like riding through the streets of New Orleans on a beautiful day. Even for a kid. The look, the feel of it all is magical, like being in a different world.

New Orleans will be celebrating its tricentennial year in 2018. It’s been 300 years since its conception and it hasn’t lost any charm. Hearing about its history does something to a child. It opens their minds to the idea that the world is much bigger than what they imagine; there is something else out there. It only took us a few hours to get there, so imagine the possibilities given the time to explore.

And that is all I want for my kids. I want them to know that they can explore if they so choose. It starts in the backyard and can span wherever their hearts desire.

I am the type of mom that would rather say “run” than “sit down.” I would rather them learn to talk than to have my peace and quiet. I give them every opportunity to taste freedom. Don’t get me wrong, I set boundaries and I enforce them dutifully. Some say I am pretty strict with my Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

kids since I hold to my word. I’ll let them talk, play and run, but when I say “sit” I expect obedience. I want to enjoy my kids and I give them every opportunity to enjoy themselves.

The key for me is to raise kids that the world will appreciate one day. I want them to be whatever they want to be, but I will show them the way that I value.

Obedience, respect and honor accompanied by the freedom to think is what makes an amazing individual in my estimation. I try to instill those values in my children. It seems to be working, so I am going with it.

We ended the night with Gabe tap dancing with some locals on the street and chatting it up with “Dwayne the Umbrella Guy” out of the open window to our restaurant. (Google Dwayne… he insists.)

The next day was freezing. The seasons tend to change in a matter of a day down here in Louisiana. It doesn’t surprise me anymore; it’s just the wardrobe confusion that gets to me. I allowed the kids to dress up, as usual. Gabe was superman.

Hannah was Jasmin. It was cute, but we March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

will have to try this again on the next trip.

Freezing weather isn’t the best when you’re trying to save the day from bad guys in a new city.

Regardless, we hopped on a horse and buggy and took off. It was enjoyable until the wind picked up. We did get to see Darth Vader in the street. That was everything! So, we quickly decided to troubleshoot. My mom went her way and the kids and I went to the Children’s Museum. If you have kids, this is a must-see in any city you visit. Each place has its own take on what a Children’s Museum should be and it’s always fun! We spent so much time there that we ended up staying until the doors shut.

From there, the kids got to experience the wonder of playing in a hotel room. It may sound terribly boring, but kids have an incredible imagination. I don’t believe in the iPad, YouTube life for young kids, so they are forced to dress up and figure out how to knock the boredom. They always do. I love witnessing the good ole’ fashioned fun and they love having it.

The next day we headed home with our

hearts full. The kids enjoyed themselves, my travel itch was scratched and my mom was happy to have shared a little adventure with her grandkids. All it really takes is a few days, a sense of adventure and the ability to let loose to truly experience the little joys a new city can offer.

Though you may want to avoid a ride through Bourbon Street with your kids (unless you’re cool with the quick eyecovering maneuvers), New Orleans is a great spot to take your children for a little adventure. There is wonder here. There is magic. You just have to open your heart to see it.

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The Bad Apple Saloon, located at 3436 Ryan St. in Lake Charles, is the newest bar ‘n grill in SWLA! A fun and casual place to meet for adult beverages and great food, the atmosphere is perfect for gathering your friends and making new ones. And you’ll love this new laidback vibe! Conveniently located in the middle of the Ryan St. bar-mall, just south of I-210 and with plenty of parking room, there is no cover charge and everything is priced to satisfy everyone's budget.

Why not start your morning with a full cooked-to-order breakfast?! In fact, The Bad Apple Saloon is one of very few ‘drinkeries’ where you can get a delicious Bloody Mary or Tangy Mimosa while enjoying a tasty house special – the “Humpty Dumpty” breakfast plate! Breakfast is served Monday-Saturday 7am-11am. This is a must-try for any breakfast lover and for all service industry employees. Service employees receive drink specials with their breakfast!

Lunch time is a great time to walk in for the best burger around! Beginning at 11am daily! And, it's been suggested that you must try the best catfish sandwich in SWLA. Bad Apple’s Kitchen Manager – Jerrett Overmyer – extends his personal invitation to try the best made-to-order dishes you’ll find in the SWLA area! This includes his special DRUNK GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH! His self-taught cooking style is a masterful blend of flavors and attention to detail that makes food seem like heaven in your mouth! Jerrett’s Jalapeno Butter is an absolute favorite! Drizzle this specialty onto any side item and it pairs perfectly with a plate of delicious 22

grilled shrimp! Many of his dishes are complimented by the Old Wagon Wheel BBQ Seasoning – used in the beloved SWLA favorite restaurant, the Wagon Wheel Barbeque & Catering, a Lake Charles establishment that spanned over three decades!

In addition to the great food, this popular ‘drinkerie’ offers a wide variety of bottled beers, mixed cocktails, chilled shots and several draft selections featuring popular craft beers!

They take special pride in offering drink specials to all first responders, as well as service industry employees. "We believe in helping those who help us all" is the motto at The Bad Apple Saloon and they live by it!

You’ll enjoy the beautiful 24-seat horseshoe bar that adorns this wonderfully remodeled saloon! The room is filled with 7 large TV screens so you can enjoy the big game wherever you’re seated! Check out the quaint billiard area that offers FREE 3 BALL EVERY SATURDAY from 10am-5pm!

Bad Apple’s daily happy hour is a terrific place to meet your friends, with specials from 4-7pm. You’ll like their DRAFT SPECIALS and enjoy their $1.50 DOMESTICS and $2.50 WELLS! ENJOY HAPPY HOUR ‘TIL MIDNIGHT on THIRSTY THURSDAY! The Bad Apple Saloon welcomes all your celebrations! It’s a great place for birthday celebrations, bachelor or bachelorette parties, and any other event you’re celebrating! Gather your party around Bad Apple’s large tables and enjoy the fun atmosphere.

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Owner, Bryan Gregg of the Wagon Wheel BBQ, along with Cyndi San Miguel, the Gregg family, and Gifts & Grinds have combined their efforts in creating this inviting atmosphere to enjoy! They’re joined by their friendly and attentive staff who take pride in serving their patrons. Bar Manager, Nikki Guillory, was quick to point out their community involvement with several worthy charities, including the American Diabetes Association and the National Kidney Foundation. Mr. Gregg is celebrating 17 years of post-transplant life, his call to platform is for all to consider the gift of life as an organ donor, simply done as you renew your driver’s license.

You can visit The Bad Apple Saloon on Facebook for a full menu and other specials! You’ll see plenty of great reviews and comments while you’re there, and remember to press the LIKE button!!!

THE BAD APPLE SALOON - LOCATED AT 3436 RYAN ST. - CALL IN ORDERS 337-474-2294 WITH CONVENIENT PICK UP WINDOW. (WAITR TO BE COMING SOON!) OPEN MON-SAT 7AM-‘TIL!

Photography by Dawn Daley Photography. Group picture on first page: Bryan Gregg & Cyndi San Miguel seated up front facing each other, surrounded by friends and patrons of the saloon. Pictured behind the bar from left to right Jessica—cook, Jerrett—kitchen manager, Nikki—bar manager, and Jean— bartender.

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The year of 1901 marked a special time for a little town named

after a Southern Pacific Railroad contractor. Jennings McComb had chosen it as a great place for a depot in the late 1800s. It was a young village of farmers and people with an entrepreneurial spirit. They grew and they built, and the railroad created a new way for more efficient transporting of goods. They were people of vision and they were wise! So, they built the railroad depot and the town became known as Jennings.

By 1901, Jennings was bustling with the energetic activity of pioneer spirit when the thrill of an exciting new discovery came to this territory of agriculture and enterprise: the discovery of oil!

And, this is where Scott Heywood enters the picture! As a young man, he prospected for gold in Alaska. He had joined with his three brothers to drill for oil in California, and at Spindletop near Beaumont, Texas, and was immediately hired to drill the first oil well in Louisiana. Being convinced that he found petroleum gas, Heywood contracted with the hiring partner for one-half interest in the acreage, relocated his family to Jennings and created his own Jennings Oil Company.

In that same year of 1901, downtown Jennings was ravaged by a fire that swept through and destroyed many of its wooden structures. But the same tenacity that had marked the town for prosperity, spurred a rebuilding in downtown Jennings, with many buildings being erected from red and orange brick made and fired by local brick-makers. One of those structures was built in 1903 and soon after construction, became known as the Heywood Building – housing the offices of the Heywood Oil Syndicate, with its unique flatiron architecture giving reason to be noted in a newspaper article of 1903 as “a handsome little structure.”

Its presence on the corner of Main Street and Market Street has graced the downtown scene of Jennings for well over a century and, through many old photos, we see how its eyes have viewed the passage of time. It has been many things, but it has always been that iconic building – remodeled in the 1930s into a stunningly glamorous Art Deco style, with its triangular stories encased in shiny black glass and marble. It has housed a clothing store and a hair salon, with business offices occupying its upper story. In 1960, it served as the local campaign headquarters for John. F. Kennedy.

But the years have not been kind, and the building has fallen into disrepair. So, it finds itself today – a place with a story to tell and history to represent. A place that was on the brink of its end, but championed by some who caused a little stir and was followed by a bit of controversy.

In 2014 the fate of the iconic Heywood building was in the hands of the few people who stepped up to the challenge. It had been donated to the Jeff Davis Arts Council, and with critical funds contributed by donations from the private sector, Greg Marcantel headed the project as president of the council. The plan was a complete renewal to its original presence on the corner of Market & Main – to once again become that “handsome little structure?”

But best-laid-plans don’t always work as originally envisioned.

Nature and circumstances combined to cause an untimelyMarch 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

collapse shortly before final supports were to be put into place.

With a major storm having done its damage, the small group of dutiful contributors of time and energy as volunteers, were flattened with the reality that the structure would no longer be as imagined. The funds were limited and the damage disheartened them – but, only briefly.

Dusty Chaisson has been a tireless leader among the group of volunteers. He describes what happened at a casual gathering to discuss what might be done after the loss …“That night, we came up with the Heywood Plaza idea. ‘Okay, so we won’t have a roof. What can we create without one?’ Something to memorialize what it once was. It will be a public space – accessible to the entire community – with no glass placed into the openings where windows once were, but benches instead. Public Wi-fi has been discussed. White plaster will be up above the black glass (by over 3 feet) to create the white overhead border that gives the contrast this Art Deco building always displayed. The vault, high above in its original location, will remain and will be clearly visible. It’s going to be the most original Flatiron structure in the country! Nobody has a Flatiron-Patio, but we will. It will have been worth all that we’ve gone through as a community to have this as an iconic memorial to the past of our town!

You’ll know what it once was!”

Not only is Dusty Chaisson one of the people who stepped in to donate time and energy toward the Save the Heywood Project, but his tireless volunteer work in the Jennings community has led to his appointment as the city’s project coordinator. In addition, he has recently entered the race for Mayor of Jennings!

We recently sat down with him and Dusty had this to say …

“I was born and raised in Jennings. After graduating from JHS in 1992, I enlisted in the US Navy and was trained as an instrumentation technician. Later, I used my training to work in the petrochemical plants of Lake Charles and in the Gulf of Mexico.

After moving to Nashville, Tennessee during the economic boon happening there in 2003, I became a licensed electrician.

While in Nashville, I met and married by beautiful wife, Jill. I also took part in a 10-year revitalization effort that was accomplished with heavy involvement from the community there.

In 2014, I made the decision to move back to my hometown.

I started a local historical publication called The Jennings Rearview, and enjoyed more success with this new venture than I had dreamed possible. This also satisfied my insatiable love of history! After reading about the movement in Jennings to save the Heywood, and having learned through my former revitalization involvement that anything is possible when community and government work toward community goals, I sent a simple message – “How can I help?”

When we asked Dusty to share his ideas and his plans for how he would handle the office of mayor, this is what he said: “I’m interested in what is going to work. With each issue, on a municipal level, we must look with objective eyes. On a local level, the office of mayor affects the day-to-day lives of the town’s people. Our quality of life here can hinge on the decisions made in the mayor’s office. We need to budget properly, to plan over time, and to see those plans through. I feel I can build on what Mayor Terry Duhon is leaving behind – a financially25

sound city. I greatly appreciate his many years of service, and want to conduct affairs with the same responsibility.

In my recent position, I have worked with a great team of people to accomplish things we can be proud of. Our festival attendances have seen higher numbers than in previous years, and I will continue to add to our Christmas festivities, hoping to see it become the number one destination in the state within four years! Safeguarding our current direction to improve our town will prove a benefit for those who will be attracted by the quality of life our town extends to its residents. All of what is being done has a direct benefit in tourism, but we get to enjoy it, too.

Our parks, our two libraries, our festivals, and our two impressive museums, the theater – they all belong to the people of Jennings, and these are the things that make our town special.

Lake Charles is growing right now, and we can expect to realize some of that spill-over. As mayor, I would be recruiting families to move here – to enjoy the advantages of living in a smaller and friendly community. A community that includes our wonderful new Jennings High School with its terrific academic and athletic programs! Jennings has so much going for it. And, I will also continue to support the efforts of our city’s police and fire department to help keep Jennings safe.

I recognize what our history has been, but I also recognize what our future can be. Borrowing from the past, we can take a cue from the founding father, Sylvester L. Cary. He came from Iowa in 1883 and here he saw fertile soil and a hope. He shared his vision to attract other Midwesterners to southwest Louisiana – he was a recruiter!

Economic growth will be a top priority. It’s easy to say that one will bring jobs and new business to the area, but that can’t be successful without a plan to do that. During his tenure, Mayor Duhon has done an outstanding job, along with our Economic Development Commission. He has created new infrastructure that has brought new businesses here and I will continue the plan already being carried out. There are also new ways to grow our economy. Many cities across the country are using new methods that take advantage of the amazing technologies available to all of us over the last 10 years. One idea that excites me is the business incubator concept, like the SEED center in Lake Charles. This environment provides shared services and office space to entrepreneurs who have the right ideas but perhaps not the knowledge, funding, or support needed to succeed in starting a new business.

I think a network of sharing ideas and modern connectivity makes it possible for the mayor’s office to listen in on what the community is saying. We could have more town-hall meetings for people to sit down with their government officials, having conversations about our town. It could be a place to voice concerns and to find out how to become part of a solution. This is a new world, and a community can only benefit from awareness and sharing of ideas – I think my very best idea is to hear more ideas! Conversations need to happen and I will commit my time to listen! The Heywood Project proved to me that a ‘civic infrastructure’ is possible. Rebuilding with a network of people is what got this done. I haven’t made a dime from that endeavor; it simply became my passion – one I shared with many. People 26

volunteered their time and their heart toward something they can say they’ve helped to preserve and create for their community. It’s developed friendships! It’s even where I met my dog, Wrigley. He just came up to us while working at the project site, a stray that needed a home. I gave him one, and he now is like a symbol of everything that’s happened at the Heywood.

As mayor, I intend to be visible and accessible, just as I’ve always been. I will still share my ideas and enthusiasm through social media, engaging in conversation and an occasional debate in some cases – I will still be me!”

Paid for by Dusty Chaisson campaign for Mayor. www.savetheheywood.com

Above top: Pictured on “The Old Settlers Bench” in front of what is now the W.H. Tupper Museum. Photographed in about 1904. From left to right: W.R. Garman, Thos. Clayton, W.J. Williamson, L.L. Morse, Mr. Cotton, Geo. W. Bullick, E.A. Damon, & J.B. Killinger. Photographed by Walter Morse. Above bottom left to right: Lin Fake, Shane Crochet, Harrell Chaisson, Dusty Chaisson, Ben Chaisson, Robert Richard, Larry Broussard, and Keith Hebert. Next page top left photo standing: Harrell & Ben Chaisson, Juanita & Larry Broussard. In front Dusty Chaisson & Robin Touchet. Next page bottom left: Dusty standing inside the Heywood vault. Next page top right: Dusty & his dog Wrigley. Next page center right: Jill & Dusty Chaisson. Next page bottom right: Dusty Chaisson with parents Harrell Chaisson & Juanita Broussard.

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

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by Nicole Shuff Arabie An Open Heart To love is to be vulnerable, because love opens the heart. Loving is not safe. Real, authentic loving is risky. Security is found behind the walls of a closed heart. You either invite a union by opening in love, or you secure the isolation by closing down.

When grief enters into our lives, the impact is painful and can spread like wildfire. The burns from grief can be so painful that some of us may have no desire to live after a loved one passes or a relationship ends. Some people draw darkness into their heart and build walls around it, believing this will keep them safe and untouchable.

When we encounter grief, we can choose how to embrace it.

Instead of building those walls, choose instead to let in the experience flow through your being. Take time to listen to the lessons that it brings. From this, you will be forever transformed. You will learn that we can never truly lose anyone, nor can they lose us.

I have learned through my own journey of loss that love speaks to us and we can speak back to love. I have felt heartbreak and loss. As I’ve grown in my own awareness, I have been given the gift to see the blessings in death, to see death through the eyes of love. Death touches our souls in different ways. The messages that I have received over the years is almost always, “I love you and I will always will be with you.”

Grief is a real thing and can hold you back from receiving the message of love, or even seeing and feeling your loved ones around you. It can cause so much pain that you can’t hear or see the signs from those that have passed. That is why God has given me the gifts to help others now; to be a vessel that He works through to reach others.

Moving through your grief and pain will allow healing to occur. Pray and listen to your spirit. It will guide you to the best way to work through your grief and mourning--if you are willing to listen. Carrying the heaviness of grief keeps you closed off and walking without light. Moving through the grief allows you to feel the love connection and to see, feel, hear, and know when love is right beside you.

Love is everywhere…even in death. Love is what connects us 28

to others. Love is compassion. However, the eyes of your heart must be open to see it. Death expands us. It allows us to grow in ways we never could imagine, and likely never wanted to.

When embraced by faith, and received by faith, time can be moved. You can experience a relationship with God and through God that you never knew was possible.

I have learned to embrace the way God has remolded my heart. It is a gift that I was able to unwrap. It has taught me that love never really goes away. I had to embrace my own death, grief, and loss. I had to learn all the lessons God had waiting for me and my new heart. Death has taught me to love. To become love. To be a messenger of LOVE. To see through the eyes of love.

You can be the change you wish to see by using your voice to speak your truth. People fear what they don’t understand. Honor your truth. Love yourself regardless of whether people share your beliefs or not, and don’t take it personally when they don’t.

Know that it just isn’t time for them, yet. Remember that one day, those people will catch up.

Welcome the life you have yet to live, and appreciate every moment of every day. Love one another without condition.

Forgive yourself and one another.

And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13 With all my love, Nicole

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

Chicken and Andouille Pasta In this issue, the Pirate remains moored on the Gulf Coast to bring you a local favorite!

Ingredients

5 boneless chicken breasts 1 cup diced andouille ¼ cup flour ½ cup olive oil ¼ cup onions ¼ cup celery ¼ cup red bell peppers ¼ cup yellow bell peppers ½ cup diced tomatoes ¼ cup Rotel 4 garlic cloves minced Pinch of fresh thyme Pinch of fresh basil 1 ounce dry white wine 3 ½ cups of whipping cream Favorite Cajun seasoning to taste ¼ cup parsley 3 cups rotini pasta

Preparation Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes, then season with Cajun seasoning. Dust lightly with flour and set aside. In a 10-inch heavy bottom saucepan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Sauté chicken until lightly browned on all sides. Add andouille, onions, celery, bell peppers, tomatoes, Rotel and garlic. Sauté approximately 5 to 7 minutes or until vegetables wilt and are translucent.

Stir in thyme and basil, and then deglaze the pan with the white wine, making sure you get all the drippings on the bottom. Add heavy whipping cream and bring to a low boil, stirring occasionally. Allow cream to reduce and thicken to half volume. Season to taste with, salt and pepper. Add parsley and the cooked pasta, tossing the sauce with the pasta. Serve immediately.

Serves six. Enjoy!

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March 3rd, 2017

St. Patrick’s Day By: Ester McKinney

Born in Great Britain, Maewyn Succat, the man now recognized as St. Patrick, was kidnapped by Irish marauders and sold into slavery at age 16. He later escaped and returned to England, but after becoming an ordained priest, he went back to Ireland as a missionary, converting Celtic pagans to Christianity.

Although St. Patrick's day is now a holiday filled with the festivity of Irish roots and culture, it was initially a humble saint’s day honoring St. Patrick’s good works. As time went on, it became a day of festivals, parades, and parties in multiple countries.

The popularity of this holiday in the United States is due to the fact that America actually has more Irish people than Ireland itself. While Ireland contains about 4 million people, America has around 35 million individuals with Irish ancestry. Although this means that America’s population is only 9 percent Irish, St. Patrick's day is widely celebrated throughout the country. It is only a legal holiday in two cities, but is nonetheless a day for Americans to wear green, attend parades, and feast on Irish food and libations, all in the name of keeping Irish roots alive.

Models: Seth Daley from Lake Charles, LA & Madison Langlinais from Midland, LA. Makeup by Chantell’s Makeup Studio. Phone#337-842-1981. Costumes sponsored by: Medearis Costumes 2619 Ryan Street, Lake Charles, LA. Location: MacFarlane’s Celtic Pub 417 Ann, Lake Charles, LA. March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Event Guide

March Events at the Children’s Museum Saturday, March 11: Sasol’s Second Saturday Science Show Sasol continues its 5S Project with its “Density” program at 11:30 a.m. Presenters Bradley Altier and Nicole Chakov will demonstrate the different properties of density.

Monday, March 13 – Friday, March 17: “Luck of the Irish” Scavenger Hunt Come in this week and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by completing the “Luck of the Irish” Scavenger Hunt.

Monday, March 13: Lucky Leprechaun Workshop Make a “Lucky Leprechaun” in the ArtSpace workshop. Classes begin at 11 a.m. and noon and are limited to 20 children, ages 3 and up.

Wednesday, March 15: Paper Plate Rainbows Stop by the ArtSpace between 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. to make a rainbow!

Saturday, March 25: Spring Turtle Workshop Create a colorful spring turtle using a paper plate, construction paper, scissors and glue. Class begins at 11:30 a.m. and is limited to 25 children, ages 3 and up.

Monday, March 27: Homeschool Day The museum is a great place to explore and learn through play! If you are homeschooling, join us from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. for a chance to interact with others doing the same. Admission is $6.50 per person with a homeschool id or approval papers.

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

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Recital at McNeese March 10 The McNeese State University Department of Performing Arts will present a free recital by flutist Judy Hand and pianist Lina Morita at 7 p.m. on Friday, March 10, at Tritico Theatre.

The recital will feature “Sonata for Flute and Piano” by Gaetano Donizetti, “Fantasy” by Philippe Gaubert, “Three American Pieces” by Lukas Foss and “First Sonata for Flute and Piano” by Bohuslav Martinu. For Jeff Scott’s piece, “Startin’ Sumthin,” the pair will be accompanied by Beverly Jones on oboe, Jan Scott on clarinet, Susan Lauderdale on bassoon and Rod Lauderdale on French horn.

Black Heritage Festival March 10-12 If you're hungry for mouthwatering food, terrific music and family fun, this is the festival for you.

Taking place at the Lake Charles Civic Center March 10-12, entertainers will perform gospel, Zydeco, blues, spoken word and more on the Kids and Main Stages. Food booths will serve great tasting Louisiana Creole and traditional African-American foods. The vendor marketplace will be open, and you'll also be able to enjoy a Kids’ Zone, games, Zydeco aerobics, baby expo/ healthy baby contest and more! For more information, visit www.bhflc.org.

St. Paddy’s Day at MacFarlane’s Celtic Pub March 17 Breakfast starts at 6 a.m. The other festivities will begin with ample drink, food and entertainment, including Lone Star Pipe Band, Abby Green, Farouche and Fire Dancers. There will be shot and drink specials throughout the day and tons of fun to be had. Check out the vendor tents that will be set up outside. There will also be soft tip dart and beanbag toss competitions.

Both are free to enter and the winner will receive a $100 cash prize. The games will start at 4 p.m. on Friday! Come in and sign up anytime between now and St Paddy's Day. (337) 433-5992 Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at MacFarlane’s Celtic Pub in downtown Lake Charles.

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

Rabbit Festival March 17-18 Celebrating the economic and culinary impact rabbits have in Southwest Louisiana, the annual Iowa Rabbit Festival is a one-of-a-kind event, from the rabbit gumbo to crowning the new Miss Bunny. The family-friendly event has some of the best music in the area from the Iowa High School Marching Band to local Cajun favorites.

All proceeds go to support the community of Iowa and various other youth organizations, schools and not for profit groups. Will be held at Burton Coliseum. For more information, visit www.iowarabbitfestival.org.

Live @ the Lakefront March 17, 24, 31 The electric lineup of live music performances for Live @ the Lakefront 2017 has been announced .The annual live music series will celebrate its sixth season on three consecutive Fridays, March 17, 24, and 31, from 6 -10 p.m. at the Lakefront Promenade’s Arcade Amphitheatre. Tank and the Bangas will kick off the 2017 season with the headlining performance on March 17. Opening for Tank and the Bangas is singer/songwriter Brittany Pfantz and her band, plus melodic folk duo Elms District. The Lost Bayou Ramblers will return on March 24. This evening is supported by Justin Martindale & the Backstabbers and the Chris Shearman Experience, and is sponsored by SWLA’s premier young professionals’ organization, Fusion Five.

Closing out the season will be returning favorite The Flamethrowers on March 31. Swamp funk band Iceman Special and synth-pop band Wolfman Wonders will get the evening going. Live @ the Lakefront will also include an extensive local art market each Friday as well as delicious menu options from area food trucks. Bring chairs and a blanket. The Arts Council will benefit from all beverage sales. No outside ice chests are allowed.

LCCB Presents Assemble’ March 18-19 The Lake Charles Civic Ballet invites all Lake Area residents to Assemblé 2017, Alice in Wonderland on March 18-19 in the Rosa Hart Theatre.. LCCB has prepared a thrilling theatrical experience which strives to inspire future generaMarch 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Event Guide

tions for a love of the arts while building a repertoire of unique artistic and musical achievement.

Composer/Conductor William Rose will lead a 14 -piece live orchestra comprised of several local musicians. Saturday’s performance is at 7 p.m., Sunday’s is at 3 p.m. Ticket are available through Ticketmaster. For more information, go to lakecharlescivicballet.com

Beats & Eats March 24

On Friday, March 24 from 6-10 p.m., Volunteers of America will hold Beats & Eats 2017 at the Lake Charles Civic Center Buccaneer Room. The theme of the event is Rockin’ for Recovery with The GTOs and will highlight Volunteers of America programs that assist people in mental health recovery The business casual event will also feature a dinner and an auction. Tickets are only $45 per person or $360 for a reserved table of 8 before March 1. Tickets are $55 per person after March 1 upon availability. Order tickets at

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Event Guide

beatsandeats2017.eventbrite.com or call (337) 497-0034.

Vietnam Veterans Honor Day March 25 The City of Lake Charles Mayor’s Armed Forces Commission will host a “Vietnam Veterans Honor Day” event on Saturday, March 25, at 10 a.m., at Veterans Memorial Park, Veterans Memorial Parkway. The purpose of the event is to honor United States Armed Forces Vietnam War Veterans.

Joey Strickland, Secretary for the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs, will be the guest speaker. Immediately following the program, adjacent to Veterans Memorial Park, there will be a family-style picnic. The event will also include military and patriotic music and readings. Master of Ceremonies will be Erica Bivens of KPLCTV. For more information, please contact the Mayor’s Office at 491-1201

A Night to Remember Benefit April 1

For the 6th year, A Night to Remember will be held to benefit the City of Refuge Veterans’

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Homeless Shelter, located in Vinton. This year’s event will take place from 5 - 10 p.m., Saturday, April 1, at VFW Post 2130, located at 5676 Lake St. “Denim & Diamonds” will consist of auctions, special guest speakers, entertainment and a variety of food provided by Becky’s Catering. Tickets are $50 per person. For more information, contact Denise Stigen at 337-532-4271 or Billie Jo Phalen at 337-397-0496.

Groovin’ at the Grove April 6 Groovin’ at the Grove, Lake Charles’ new, outdoor live music series will be held at Walnut Grove. Musicians will perform on Walnut Grove’s Great Lawn, overlooking the beautiful Contraband Bayou. Residents and visitors are invited to dance as well as enjoy food and beverages offered by local food trucks and vendors. The music series is family-friendly, free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets. No ice chests please. Louisiana Red will be performing s from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on April 6.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ groovinatthegrove.

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Dining Guide

337-474-2294 ~ MON—SAT: 7AM-UNTIL

3436 RYAN ST ~ LAKE CHARLES March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT 36

Dining Guide

T By: Dominique Dugas

able...

Come Have A Seat

Lent Is Upon Us … Where Will You Dine?

As the street sweepers carry away the debris from another successful Mardi Gras season, the madness of the past couple of weeks starts to settle. For many of us who call Southwest Louisiana home, the day after Fat Tuesday marks the beginning of a special time in the Catholic community.

With the Lenten season upon us, the search for a Friday night alternative to a meat-based dinner leads us to seafood, Southwest Louisiana’s most suitable staple. As a foodie and restaurant industry professional, I love to explore local restaurants and spread the word on tasty dishes. Here are a few meals that are definitely worth considering, not only for Lent, but all year long.

Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar (Sweet Chili Glazed Salmon) A tender piece of salmon is served with green beans and a slice of Garlic Bread. As simple as this dish may sound, the real magic comes from the finger-licking sweet chili glaze that is caramelized on top. It’s so good, you’ll end up using your Garlic Bread to soak up as much glaze as you possibly can. At least, that’s what I did.

Steamboat Bill’s [Lakeshore and Broad Street locations] (Catfish Atchafalaya) Guests come from near and far to try the boiled crawfish and Cajun cuisine from this Lake Area treasure. Voted Number 1 in boiled crawfish, the restaurant serves hundreds of guests every weekend during Lent. While many diners come to indulge in the delectable mudbugs, Steamboat Bill’s offers a vast array of additional Lent-friendly dining options. Stop by and order the Catfish Atchafalaya: fried fish fillet over a bed of rice with a hefty scoop of mouthwatering shrimp étouffée poured on top and garnished with chives. A house favorite, this succulent item is definitely something you must try this season. Aside from all of the appetizing dishes on the menu, some of my personal favorites are the crawfish and shrimp pistolettes: lightly fried rolls stuffed with a scoop of their delicious étouffée. I can honestly close my eyes and smile just thinking about how absolutely delicious they are.

Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp (Grilled Shrimp Quesadilla) Have you tried this place yet? If not, check them out soon! I’ve been a fan for quite awhile for many good reasons, from fresh ingredients to a great atmosphere. One of my favorite dishes is

the Grilled Shrimp Quesadilla. Grilled shrimp, mozzarella cheese, and green onions are folded into a butter-grilled tortilla.

Served with guacamole, pico de gallo, and jalapeño ranch, this dish is not only delectable, but will also leave your belly full. But as full as you may become, you might find yourself still nibbling, trying to savor each delicious bite.

Luna Bar and Grill (Shrimp Bienville) This downtown staple is loved by many. While the live music and unique atmosphere may draw you in, the mouth-watering food is the reason you come back. Their Shrimp Bienville is a must try! Large gulf shrimp is topped with homemade Bienville sauce and cheddar cheese and served with sourdough Texas toast. From their savory Luna Crab Cakes to their honey spice glazed Dragon Tuna, there is plenty to choose from if you’re in the mood for seafood. One of my favorite dishes is Luna’s Crawfish Salad. A bed of fresh spring mix is covered with your choice of grilled or fried crawfish tails, and is topped with ripe tomatoes, purple onions and Parmesan cheese. I recommend pairing this with their homemade Cosmic dressing, something truly out of this world!

Buffi’s Peax Boys (Spicy Boiled Crawfish Peax Boy) You’re going to try this and you’re going to love it! This Lake Area eatery dishes out some of the best po-boys in the city. And this time, they took everything that we love about boiled crawfish and made it into a succulent po-boy. Oven-baked French bread is sliced down the middle, and filled with boiled crawfish tails, potatoes and corn, mixed together in a special blend of a savory crawfish sauce. Whether you’re a local or are just passing through, you need to try this. You won’t be disappointed.

Pizza Artista (Margherita Pizza) Okay, so this isn’t necessarily seafood, but this pizza definitely deserves a spot on this list. The dough, which is made from scratch every day, is topped with red sauce, freshly grated mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, garlic, and basil. This is a perfect meatless option if you’re looking to satisfy your taste buds this Lent season. I’m not usually fan of meatless pizza but the Artista does it right!

The Food Dude Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 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, étouffée-loaded 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 friends and family.

Sam’s Southern Eatery

Rikenjaks

Sam’s Southern Eatery is sure to satisfy the entire family. Offering delicious food at a great price, From po-boys to fried seafood, this slice of paradise will ease your hunger for both lunch and dinner, with a menu that offers such items as fried green tomatoes, tasty premium salads and mouthwatering burgers, If you haven’t been yet you should surely give this place a try. You won’t be disappointed, and you’ll probably be stopping by again soon to try another item off the menu.

The only thing you’ll be craving after eating their big helpings of tasty food is a nap!

A great place to catch up with friends, this establishment offers much more than the typical restaurant. Their unique, yet delicious assortment of menu items, offers a great selection of burgers, salads, and sandwiches.

Rikenjaks, however, takes a unique twist on certain items like the Dixie Chicken Tacos or their specialty appetizer, Bavarian Pretzels.

As the only restaurant/brewpub in Southwest Louisiana, they offer a vast selection of Louisiana craft beer. With a great atmosphere, live music, outdoor fire pit, and outdoor games as well as seating, this is the perfect place to dine , no matter the time of day.

3121 Gerstner Memorial Dr, Lake Charles 337-478-8258

Otis & Henry’s Bar and Grill

Cajun Tales Seafood Restaurant

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 their house specialty chicken wings or sampler platter, then pick from a list of delicious pastas, sandwiches, salads, steaks, ribs, chicken and more. Otis & Henry had 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.

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 buffet, as well as great menu choices like: crawfish pie, broiled stuffed catfish award-winning seafood gumbo...just to name a few of the 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, fried chicken, and so much more! You’re sure to find a reason to go back soon and try another dish off the menu. Conveniently located right of I-10 in Welsh.

100 Westlake Ave, Lake Charles 337-564-3097

March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Dining Guide

501 N. Adams Street, Welsh 337-734-4772 | cajuntalesseafood.com

3716 Ryan Street Lake Charles 337-602-6635 | rikenjaks.com

Regatta La Seafood & Steakhouse 508 Hawkeye Ave, Lake Arthur, 337-774-1504 | 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!

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Dining Guide

By: Dominique Dugas

Did you know that Southwest Louisiana has an up and coming food truck scene? If not, you aren't alone. There are actually a ton of new and unique dining options in our area that many people don’t know about, and I’m going to shed some light on them.

Because I have worked as a restaurant manager for half a decade, the food industry and everything that it entails has become second nature to me. Due to my experience, I hold restaurants and food trucks alike to the highest standards. I know that, as important as it is to produce stellar food, the operation, overall experience and service must also be exceptional for the business to be prosperous. I truly believe that a restaurant or food truck could have the best food in the city; however, without passion and culture, they will not produce lasting success. Fortunately, many business owners around here understand that notion.

Brilliant small restaurateurs are a cornerstone in the Lake Area. No matter what is happening in the world, these entrepreneurs always seem to unite the community in the most creative ways in order to enhance our culture and set us apart from other communities.

For example, one chilly evening last December, as I scrolled down my Facebook timeline, I noticed a food truck event, promoting the industry by joining all of the areas food trucks in one location, which would essentially be an opportunity for me to try a ton of different food in one sitting. Say no more! Invitation accepted! It didn't take me long to arrive at the event, which was called “Food Trucks Invade.”

Personally, I was excited to know that The Sloppy Taco, a Lake Area food truck staple, was behind the event. As one of my favorite dining options for their fresh and unique take on tacos, I was ready and willing to try something new off their menu. I chose their steak taco.

As I sat there on the park bench, with a taco in one hand, barbecue (from another food truck) in the other, and, of

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course, a drink nestled in my lap, I didn’t care how I looked. At that moment, I knew true happiness. I was in my own little world, and each bite made me smile. Yes, I’m a foodie and I do not deny that.

Tender pieces of steak with delicious pico de gallo, cheese and Remoulade sauce inside a warm flour tortilla graced my taste buds, and I was in absolute heaven. This experience was all I needed to make me a loyal patron of any such event, and I’m really excited for the next one. I am eager to see what the numerous other trucks have to offer.

The Sloppy Taco is excited to bring the event back in April. Slowly gaining popularity since its introduction in September, “Food Trucks Invade” typically splits its location between the lakefront and the Crying Eagle Brewery.

Having participated in the past few Invade events, owner Haili Li of the Hi-Licious Street Kitchen Food Truck, is excited about the word of mouth that this event brings. “[Food Trucks Invade] gives food truck owners the opportunity to demonstrate their talent and introduce new dishes to the community,” she says. She understands the importance of having this event in our area and how food is the key to community togetherness.

“I don’t only sell food,” she continues. “Food isn’t just for eating. It’s also about culture. Through food, we get to know a country… we get to know a culture. We get to make friends. I want people to experience my culture through food.” She recommends that you try her Thai basil chicken, rib plate and spicy chicken. She points out that her kitchen is always introducing new dishes and she strives to show more Asian-inspired cuisine to her guests.

Other local trucks that have participated in this event include Southwest Louisiana businesses Spoonful of Sugar, Roll Indoor Cycling, Pops & Rockets, Mucho Bueno, and many more. Some participants even travel to participate, such as Beaumont food truck, Dat Mac. The Sloppy Taco is getting ready to announce the lineup for the next event. They go to a list of the 12 (or so) trucks that have participated, and see who's free and up for the event.

For more information, please visit The Sloppy Taco’s official Facebook page, as they will post the latest information as it becomes available. The official date will be April 6 and I am there already!

The Food Dude Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

T-Don’s Crawfish Live Boil Catering Call Today!

337-884-8325

March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Dining Guide

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NIGHT LIFE GUIDE OUISIANA ENTERTAINMENT Laissez les bons temps rouler...

Louisiana may be the birthplace of jazz, but its entertainment scene has grown through the years to include more than just music. It should come as no surprise that New Orleans has been ranked the top U.S. city for creative professionals. Move over New York and Los Angeles; working artists should move to New Orleans if they want their careers to flourish, according to a Smartasset ranking which names New Orleans as the top U.S. city for creative folks, from painters to musicians and choreographers to architects.

Louisiana has quite a list of Grammy winners such as JoEl Sonnier, Steve Riley, the late Buckwheat Zydeco, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Aaron Neville, Wayne Toups, Clifton Chenier, Wilson Savoy and many more. We also have our share of Grammy Hall of Famers and Lifetime Achievement Awards, including Fats Domino, Faron Young, Jerry Lee Lewis, Clifton Chenier, Aaron Neville and so on. I can name a few country music singers from Louisiana such as Sammy Kershaw and Tim McGraw.

Talented singer/songwriter/actor Harry Connick, Jr. was born and raised in New Orleans. Comedian Ellen DeGeneres is a Louisiana native, and we’ve had a few rap and pop singers as well, such as Brittany Spears and Lil Wayne. These are just a few claims to Louisiana's creative prowess.

Cajun and Louisiana folk love a good Cajun or Zydeco band to dance to on the weekends. We are famous for saying Laissez les bons temps rouler (Let the good times roll!) What better way to warm your heart and stir your soul than an accordion and a packed dance floor? Your feet can't help but do the two step or a jitterbug! Acts such as Leroy Thomas, Jamie Bergeron, Wayne Toups, Steve Riley, Sean Ardoin and so many more frequent local bars. Proud fans follow their favorite bands from place to place to be sure to get some weekend dance action!

As much as I love a good Cajun or Zydeco band, I'm sure that I'm not alone in enjoying country music concerts and we have plenty of them! Check out concert listings at the Golden Nugget, Isle of Capri, L'Auberge, Coushatta, Paragon, Delta Downs, Evangeline Downs, and Cypress Bayou casinos, to name some of the closest. A few of the big-name acts playing in our casinos this year include Easton Carbin, Darius Rucker, Jake Owen, Tracy Lawrence, Travis Tritt and so many more! How lucky are we to have the opportunity to see such top acts because of our area casinos? And so close to home!

Speaking of “home grown” local bands are exciting as well. Twangsters Union, Toe Up, Under the Influence, Crystal Creek, Bryan Fontenot, Yvette Landry, Aaron Istre--this list could go on forever! I’ve personally seen most of these bands play at The Southern Pub in Welsh (which I am proud to say is owned and operated by my brother and sister). This makes my love of promoting our local music even stronger and I encourage each and every one of you to step out to enjoy some of our local talent!

Check out our Night Life Guide each month to find out where you can catch your favorite local musician or some of the bigger acts coming to a place near you! Until next month, may you laissez les bons temps rouler!

Delta Dawn.

In Lake Charles, there is an up and happening Zydeco Brunch at Sloppy’s Downtown where you can hear some of these talented musicians. Check it out every Saturday from 10 a.m. ‘til 1p.m.! To carry over to Sunday, Blue Dog Café has a brunch with live local talent from the Jazz scene. What great options for brunch we have in our area on the weekend!

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

Friday, MAR. 10

DJ Kyler

9 pm @ The Southern Pub

208 S. Adams St., Welsh

George Dearborn & Branded 11 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

Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

The Kaddilacs

9 @ Lone Wolfe Lounge Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave., LC

Renda Ruiz

7pm-10pm Patio Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 3716 Ryan Street, LC

The 33’s

9:30 pm Inside Rikenjaks Brewing Co. Katie Whitney & Chip Radford 3716 Ryan Street, LC 5:30 @ Ember Ryan Bourque Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC 5:30pm—8:30pm @ Beer Garden 1165 E. McNeese St., LC

Swagger

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

Safira

9 pm @ Mikko Live

Eddie Money

8 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

March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

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.

777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

ZZ Top

8 pm @ The Grand Event Center Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Saturday, MAR. 11 Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmasters.com and/or Dustin Ray by phone through Ticketmaster 9 pm @ The Southern Pub at (800) 745-3000. Tickets can 208 S. Adams St., Welsh also be purchased on perforday beginning at 2 pm at Leroy Thomas & Roadrunners mance the Golden Nugget Box Office.

9;30 pm @ Red Dog’s Bar 444 Trumps Road, Egan

QRISIS

The Kaddilacs

9 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave., LC

DJ Paws teh Cat

11 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Kevin Lambert

8 pm @ L-Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort

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

Swagger

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

Safira

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

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NIGHT LIFE GUIDE

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

NIGHT LIFE GUIDE Bluesiana Red

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

Mason Feduccia

DJ Hyphee

Brad Brinkley

Chrips Harper

7pm-10 pm Patio Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 3716 Ryan Street, LC

8 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Time Machine

Michael Krajicek

Bottoms up Yoga

Monique McCain

11 am @ Beer Garden 1165 E. McNeese St., LC

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

Stanton Warriors

Time Machine

Michael Krajicek

Ryan Bourque

TBA

Breakfast at Tiffany’s

Joe Harmon

TBA

8pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave., LC

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

St. Patty’s Day with

Joe Harmon

9:30 pm - 12:30 Inside Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 3716 Ryan Street, LC

5:30pm—8:30pm @ Beer Garden 7pm-10pm Patio Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 1165 E. McNeese St., LC 3716 Ryan Street, LC

Zydeco Brunch

Jerome Batiste & The Zydeko Players 10 am - 1 pm Sloppy Downtown 329 Broad Street, LC

Sunday, MAR. 12

QRISIS

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

Dead or Alive

7 pm—10pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

Joe Harmon & The Harmonics

8 pm @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder Monday, MAR. 13

Racheal & Ian

Thursday, MAR. 16

Joe Harmon

7pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave., LC

Time Machine

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

9 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC 9 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC 9 pm @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Justin Martindale

Richard LeBeouf & Two Step St. Patty’s Day Bash 8 pm @ Mikko Live With The RUXPINS Coushatta Casino Resort 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Louis Adams

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

Ronnie Fruge

7pm Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 3716 Ryan Street, LC Friday, MAR. 17

7pm-10pm Patio Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 3716 Ryan Street, LC

Chris Janson

8 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.

Ethan Cormier

208 S. Adams St., Welsh

Saturday, MAR. 18

Tuesday, MAR. 14

R.C. and the Ousiders

Blain Roy

9 pm @ The Southern Pub

11 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

11 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC 8 pm @ L-Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC 9 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC 9 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

8 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge 5:30pm—8:30pm @ Beer Garden Isle of Capri Casino 1165 E. McNeese St., LC 100 Westlake Ave., LC

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

Gyth Rigdon 42

8 pm @ L-Bar L’Auberge Casino Resort Wednesday, MAR. 15 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

9 pm @ The Southern Pub

208 S. Adams St., Welsh

TBA

7pm-10pm Patio Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 3716 Ryan Street, LC

Peace & The Chaos 9:30 pm—12:30 Inside Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 3716 Ryan Street, LC

Dreams Come True with a Brew—Live Music by RKW Trio. This is a fund raiser for Louisiana.

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

Ann Wilson of Heart

8 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 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

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, MAR. 19

Time Machine

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

Brittany Pfantz

9 pm @ Blue Martini Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Monday, MAR. 20

David Joel

8 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Tuesday, MAR. 21

Matt & Katie

First Class

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

David St. Romain

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

Alfred Doucet Band

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

Michael Krajicek

7pm Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 3716 Ryan Street, LC

Crawfish in the Beer Garden with Mr. Bill’s Catering

5:30pm—8:30pm @ Beer Garden 1165 E. McNeese St., LC Friday, MAR. 24

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

Ashton Dupre

Wednesday, MAR 22

Killawatts

Kevin Lambert

8 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Blake Sticker

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

Brad Brinkley

7pm Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 3716 Ryan Street, LC Thursday, MAR. 23

Brad Brinkley & The Comfort Zone

7 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave., LC March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

9 pm @ The Southern Pub

208 S. Adams St., Welsh 11 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Michael Krajicek

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

First Class

Brad Brinkly & The Comfort Zone

8 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave., LC

Brittany Pfantz

7pm-10pm Patio Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 3716 Ryan Street, LC TBA 9:30 pm Inside Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 3716 Ryan Street, LC

Encore

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

Troy Laz Band

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

Brad Brinkly & The Comfort Zone

8 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave., LC

William Beaumont

John Guidroz

Tower of Power Average White Band

TBA

5:30pm—8:30pm @ Beer Garden 7pm-10pm Patio 1165 E. McNeese St., LC Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 3716 Ryan Street, LC

8 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.

Saturday, MAR. 25

Talon

9 pm @ The Southern Pub

208 S. Adams St., Welsh

DJ Paws t eh Cat

9:30 pm Inside Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 3716 Ryan Street, LC

TBA

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

Gin Blossoms

8 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.

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

11 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Sunday, MAR. 26

Encore

Mason Feduccia

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

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

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

Troy Laz Band

First Class

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

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

First Class

Josh Taylor

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

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NIGHT LIFE GUIDE

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ENTERTAINMENT & ENTERTAINMENT DINING & DINING

NIGHT LIFE GUIDE

Monday, MAR. 27

777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Josh Taylor

Kris Harper

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

7pm Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 3716 Ryan Street, LC

Tuesday, MAR. 28

Friday, MAR. 31

Roger Tienken

DJ T Jam

8 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Wednesday, MAR 29

Mason Feduccia

8 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Trey Rose

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

John Guidroz

7pm Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 3716 Ryan Street, LC

9 pm @ The Southern Pub

208 S. Adams St., Welsh

The Coleman Brothers

8 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave., LC

Kevin Lambert

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

Bubba Plauche

11 pm @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort 777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Rapture

9 pm @ Rush Lounge Golden Nugget Casino Resort Crawfish in the Beer Garden 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC

with Mr. Bill’s Catering

5:30pm—8:30pm @ Beer Garden Cherry 9 pm @ Blue Martini 1165 E. McNeese St., LC Golden Nugget Casino Resort 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. LC Thursday, MAR. 30

The Coleman Brothers

7 pm @ Lone Wolfe Lounge Isle of Capri Casino 100 Westlake Ave., LC

Rapture

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

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

Brad Brinkley

8 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.

Mary Seale Churchman, D.D.S. Katie Courville Roberts, D.D.S.

Saturday, APR. 1

General Dentistry

Leroy Thomas and The Zydeco RoadRunners

3632 Common St. Lake Charles, la

9 pm @ The Southern Pub

208 S. Adams St., Welsh Karaoke Places @ Kaw-Liga’s @ Sports Pit @ Old Town Tavern @ Coconuts in Sulphur @ Lamplighter’s Lounge @ Dequincy VFW @ Mikes Place @ Chicageaux Bar @ No Name Lounge @ Crickets @ Dj’s Bar @ Sidelinez @ Tiki Bar @ Frosty Factory @ Annie’s

Phone: 337-478-4022 Fax: 337-478-4017

Carl W. Churchman, Jr., D.D.S. General Dentistry

7pm-10pm Patio Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 3716 Ryan Street, LC

3640 Common st., Lake Charles, la

Nigel Edison

Pat-E Salzeta Band

Joe Harmon & The Harmonics

4 Barrel Ramblers

Phone: 337-478-5070 Fax: 337-478-5071

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

9 pm @ Mikko Live Coushatta Casino Resort 44

Trigger Proof

Delbert McClinton

9:30 pm Inside Rikenjaks Brewing Co. 3716 Ryan Street, LC

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

Call for appt.

Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

The Mad Hatter is played by Gabbe DeMourelle, Alice is played by Lauren Reyes, and the White Rabbit is played by Andrew Anderson.

Assemble’ 2017 The Lake Charles Civic Ballet invites all Lake Area residents to Assemblé 2017, Alice in Wonderland. LCCB has prepared a thrilling theatrical experience for participants and spectators alike. This collaboration of Lake Area talent strives to inspire future generations for a love of the arts while building a repertoire of unique artistic and musical achievement.

Composer/Conductor William Rose will lead a sixteenpiece live orchestra comprised of several local musicians.

His inventive score sets the tone for this tantalizing tale of Alice’s adventures. Under the direction of Pam LeBlanc, the St. Louis Concert Choir will lend their vocal talents to a delightful musical overture. LCCB’s Artistic Director, Lady Holly Hathaway Kaough, along with Nancy Higginbotham, Drew Anderson, Ashley Eaves and Golden Wright will March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

provide original choreography in varying dance styles that encapsulate the quirky characters of Wonderland.

Technical Director Fred Stark is developing scenes that seamlessly fuse traditional theatrical props and settings with innovative visual effects. Lake Charles Civic Ballet will illuminate the imagination of its audience by utilizing projection techniques and lighting concepts never before used in a Civic Ballet production. Civic Ballet wardrobe mistresses Whitney Henry and Evette Ange have developed costumes that capture both the beauty and fantasy of Alice in Wonderland. Join Alice, the Mad Hatter and the Queen of Hearts for this unforgettable theatrical experience.

Performances are March 18 at 7 p.m. and March 19 at 3 p.m. at the Lake Charles Rosa Hart Theatre. Tickets are available at the Lake Charles Civic Center box office and through Ticketmaster.

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

NIGHT LIFE GUIDE

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& ENTERTAINMENT DININGSOCIETY SPICE 46

SOCIETY SPICE Laci McDaniel, Monica LaFleur, Eric Vincent, Allen Joyner,

Krewe de la Louisiane’s Through The Looking Glass It was a night of "wonder" as the Krewe de la Louisiane kicked off their revelry with their annual ball, this year featuring a court performance straight out of Wonderland!

NOLA's very own Bag Of Donuts rocked all the revelers into the wee hours of the morning. Bravo and Bon Mardi Gras!

Savannah Fontenot & Brandon Walker.

Robin & Yvonne Jacobs and Jay & Tonya Shelton

Krewe of Krewes Parade The rain threatened, but the revelers who turned out for SWLA’s 2017 Mardi Gras grand finale were not disappointed as the rain held off and a good time was passed by all! The 50-plus floats rolled through the town as the sun dropped below the horizon bidding the season farewell. That's gonna wrap it up for our 2017 Mardi Gras!

We'll see you all next year! Aiii Yeee!!!

Wade Ritter, Gayle Stoker, Kaye Creel and Terri Pavlik

John Russell, Aiyana Robinson, Bently McElfresh & Laya Mullingan Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

SOCIETY SPICE Motor Gras Parade A cloudy afternoon couldn't dull the shines on the lovely cars that lined up for this year’s "Motor Gras" parade on Fat Tuesday. Nothing stopped these Mardi Gras fans from turning out in force and giving the city a beautiful show of some fantastic automobiles. Passez un bon temps, mes

amis!

Julien LeBlanc & his 1971 Jaguar XKE

Chamber's Business After Hours at Orthopedic Specialists Hosts Dr. John Noble and Christus St. Patrick Administrator Don Lloyd greeted Business After Hours guests and spoke of their groundbreaking work in robotic orthopedics that's happening right here in the Lake City.

As always, it was a fun and classy affair. Thanks to The Chamber and Orthopedic Specialists for the hospitality!

SOCIETY SPICE

Jimmy Fontenot & Stanley Thomas

Dr. John Noble, Paula Ramsey and Don Lloyd

Mack & Ali Slaughter, Andrea Babin and Andrew Mire Troy Boese, Lillie Chambers and Keith Irons March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

47

… Cajun Moon …

how it defines parts of her life, something else she cannot escape. This is a part of her that she must face, along with a mysterious coincidence and a new path that is offered her. So, as all gifts are, the curse and trials are part of the package. The need for deciding cannot be denied but Celine finds support and love through the beloved matriarchs – and a new player in her life – like a destiny that was intended to be.

Dwaines Thomas Lawless was the first writer to be profiled by Bayou Living Magazine. The article can be found in the Fall Issue of 2015. It wasn’t enough to read the book – I had to know more, so I attended not one but two special events featuring the pleasant oration by Ms. Lawless. I enjoyed learning how this book came about and even more information about subject matters that are key to the story itself.

Her life has been nothing short of preparation for her new journey as a gifted writer. A resident of Austin, Texas, she was born in Welsh, Louisiana. She is an education graduate of UL in Lafayette. With a background in fine arts, she began as an art educator before con-

Reader’s Spotlight by Dorothy Hughes

When Dwaines Lawless dreamed up the idea for her engaging and unique story she would entitle Cajun Moon, she had no idea that her novel would be creating for itself a new genre all its own – or did she?!

There is a Cajun word for a waking dream: Cochèmere!

From that whispered-word, this writer has fashioned a story that challenges your senses and draws you into layers of intrigue and history, embellished with cultural flavor.

Emerging from her extensive research and attention to detail, Ms. Lawless tells her story with broad and vivid strokes!

Like painting on her canvas, she mixes a blend of unexpected color and great intensity, creating an incredible tale! Carving out its own hybrid genre, this book is an eclectic mix that reads like a romantic mystery – with paranormal insinuations and a touch of horror for good measure! Tied to a firm foundation based on old New Orleans history and the secretive healing traditions among Cajun folk, the novel uses an impressive understanding of that little-understood practice of the Cajun healer—the traiteuse!

The main character in Cajun Moon is there from page one – a modern-day woman, trapped inside a nightmare she can’t escape. Celine Dupre is haunted by a hideous monster – something she can’t share or explain, but begins to see these nightmares as dream-like visions. Cochèmere!

Tormented, Celine reaches out to the two women who have always been there in her life – her mother and her grandmother, both possessing the knowledge of the traiteuse – both keepers of the gift.

Forces beyond her control are at play and Celine is guided to understand more about these intense and intrusive visions. She learns more than she ever knew about her powerful lineage and 48

tinuing her studies to become a certified teacher of the blind and visually impaired, and obtained her M.Ed. in Special Education.

After retiring in 2007 to enjoy her grandchildren, her long-time desire to write a novel came to fruition with Cajun Moon! Now, Dwaines Lawless promises a continuation of the story. Her anticipated-novel entitled Cajun Bones will bring new facts to light and I’m quite sure she will make good on a comment she made to me when she first began on the sequel: “Expect the unexpected!” I’ll be setting aside some quiet reading time when that happens, knowing this will be another like her first – a pageturner that no one wants to put down. You might want to read Cajun Moon to be ready when the new book is released, but a suggestion: Keep the night light on – you’ll need it!

Cajun Moon

by Dwaines Lawless 2nd Tier Publishing, 2015 322 pages Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

HAPPY ST. PATRICKS DAY WORD SEARCH Y Z A L L E R G I E S YX O WL I B L O S S O M QAKLEOKWXEQUINOXKOIL LKL GARDENERDOWWLGREENKLO WKDOXBMNOGROWING DLOED KKOWDOWIMARCHDOWDKQXL DEOWXWMULCHDWOYTOEX I L DOED POLLENKOWDBDXOJDLS BCOWDOPWPLANTINGKLSAZZI DOWOX IOSSPRINGTIMEDLOW TENMWRAINDROPSDWOXAEOI REBIRTHOKWQXRAKECVBLEOL QWARMTHDSTPATRICKSDAYIZ ZILOEOLWIWQVBSOPLEOPEXK

TIC . TAC . TOE

March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

TIC . TAC . TOE

THE WORDS … ALLERGIES BLOSSOM EQUINOX GARDENER GREEN GROWING MARCH MULCH POLLEN PLANTING SPRINGTIME RAINDROPS REBIRTH RAKE WARMTH ST PATRICKS DAY

TIC . TAC . TOE

49

SPONDSORED BY ...

G

ame...

While that night seemed to have turned a corner for me, and Take A Seat even after wanting to return soon, a long while passed before I

Have you ever walked by a poker room while at the casino and wondered what it would be like to join the game? Well, I have been that person. I know what it’s like to want to play, but feeling too intimidated to go in. It took me years to get the courage to walk in and ask to get on the list. Now that I actually feel more relaxed in a poker room, all I can say is, “What was I thinking?”

My first poker room action was by invitation. Someone I will refer to as “The Chad” was taking his wife to the casino and I was invited to tag along to play poker. I had curiously watched tournaments and had even studied up on the game, admiring the poker room from afar but feeling too awkward to walk into one. But now, this seemed like my chance for a new experience. It turned out to be an evening to remember.

I show up with $100 and we all get on the same 1-3 table (more in a later issue on poker lingo). About an hour in, I “wake up” with Pocket Kings! I know it’s GOOD after the flop comes and it’s a K-3-10. So, I feel that I’ve got the best hand and honestly, at this point, I totally did! There’s a raise after I check and several calls, including The Chad. I make the call for $35; no problem, I’ve got this one! Then there’s a 10 on the turn. Well, I’m so sure I still have the best hand, (a Full House – K’s full of 10’s). There's another raise starting with The Chad; of course. I'm calling! The river reveals a 3. Yep, I just feel that I have this game wrapped up! But, expressions on Chad’s face give me the sense that maybe I shouldn’t call his raise when he goes “All-In.” I do a few quick mental checks inside my head, but I’m still convinced, thinking “I’ve got this!” So, I go all-in as well!

Everyone else folds and it’s time for the truth—we reveal our hands. We turn our cards over and there are my Kings full of 10s, and low and behold, Chad shows pocket 3s with two on the board! Yep, you guessed it – four of a kind! Needless to say, I left the table after that loss. The Chad felt so badly about it, he tried to give my money back. But, I licked my wounds and chalked it up to education. This type of hand is referred to as a “bad beat” … I don’t know any poker player to this day that would of folded that hand even after the river card!

I didn’t set foot into another poker room for at least two more years. Even after that ice breaker with my friends, I still felt that it was a game best left to the pros. Then one night, my brother decided to go to The Isle of Capri for some blackjack and I agreed to tag along to watch him play. Once again, that poker room held out a challenge that I felt I wanted to answer, and I decided to try again. That night, I was “Lady Luck,” hitting a royal flush--the one and only time, thus far. I played until dawn, no pun intended, and I left with significant winnings.

I really enjoyed that experience and told myself that I’d be playing again soon.

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gathered the courage to face the game again. Instead, I had randomly played at the roulette table whenever I was at the casino with friends. But, I had been studying more about poker in books I had found. So, thinking I was ready to use what I had learned, I went back. I played for a few hands and got really lucky with some Pocket Kings, winning a nice-sized pot. I got up and left while I was ahead, but returned a few days later and did well again.

After another little hiatus, I went back to what had become my favorite casino last January. Walking into the poker room at The Isle of Capri gave me that tinge of uneasiness I had before --but it didn’t last long. The first day back, I had Pocket Kings, but knew I had lost. Still, I threw my cards over and it was a good thing I did, as the dealer says, “You won $150!” After my look of confusion, I learned about promotions that day! I had unknowingly walked in on a promotion that rewarded “Cracked Kings.” The next day, I returned for the “Highest Hand of the Hour” promotion. Needless to say, I certainly liked these promotions – and I still hadn’t even become aware of what makes a bad beat!! That day, I hit a queen high straight flush about five minutes before the hour was up, beating out a jack-high straight flush! Now, that was surely some good luck!

From all of this, I have learned a lot about myself. Poker is a game that allows you to test yourself, to hone your ability to exercise discipline and to think things through. I seem to have become pretty good at this game after spending many hours in the poker room, observing and learning. I’ve come to know the dealers by name and enjoy conversations with the other players. I’ve met some awesome people during my poker escapades. And I really enjoy early morning poker with the older guys…I like playing with them best!

I’ll share a few tips to take to the poker room: never bluff, and always tip the dealer after every hand you win – most of their income is from your tips! Follow me each month for new Isle of Capri promotions, stories from my own poker experiences, and those of players from my favorite poker room. We’d love to hear stories you might like to share! Please, e-mail me with ‘Poker Tales for The Poker Lady’ in the subject line to: jambalayanews@gmail.com. Until then, may you all wake up with pocket aces (pocket rockets) and hit two on the flop…or as in my case, Pocket Kings…referred to by poker players, Cowboys!

Wishing you luck, The Poker Lady Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017

Š 2017 Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. Isle of Capri and FanPlay are registered trademarks of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. Must be at least 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 March 3rd, 2017 Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

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Opening Soon Next Door

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Bayou Living Magazine, LLC

March 3rd, 2017