Thrive August 2016 Issue

AUGUST 2016

Special Section

August 2016

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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Rehabilitation Hospital

of Jennings

DIAgNOSeS THAT we TReAT

• Brain Injury

• Hip Fractures

• Strokes

• Osteoarthritis/DJD

• Amputations

• Neurological Disorders

• Burns

• Spinal Cord Injury

• Major Multiple Trauma

• Congenital Deformities

• Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Systemic Vasculidities

• Joint Replacements

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

24 Hour Nursing Care • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy • Nutritional Counseling and Monitoring Case Management Call for a free assessment today.

One Hospital Drive, Ste. 101 • Jennings, LA 70546 • Phone: (337) 821-5353 • Fax: (337) 821-5355 or 5366 jenningsrehab@yahoo.com • www.jenningsrehab.com 2 www.thriveswla.com

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August 2016

IF IT HURTS HERE, WE CAN TREAT IT HERE. Torn Rotator Cuff Trigger Finger Nerve Injury Hip Injury Shoulder Injury Carpal Tunnel Torn Tendons Hammer Toes

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Fractures and Dislocations

Arthritis

Knee Injury Ankle Sprain

Bunions

800.831.1796

INJURIES seen same or next day

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Injuries seen same day or next day

Convenient. ▼ ▼

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Quick and easy access to locations in Lake Charles, Sulphur and DeRidder Inpatient and outpatient physical rehabilitation services for easier transition toward increased mobility Joint camp class for patients to learn what to expect from surgery and meet with staff, other patients and their families

More Accurate. ▼ ▼

The most advanced imaging and surgical technology in the region Only facility in the region to provide the MakoTM robotic-arm assisted surgery system for improved precision and alignment, small incisions and quicker recovery times

CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital and Imperial Health Center for Orthopaedics have joined together to deliver the most advanced orthopaedic care across Southwest Louisiana.

Our board-certified surgeons are dedicated to providing comprehensive, convenient orthopaedic services right here at home, personally customized just for you.

— More than a partnership, a milestone for Southwest Louisiana.—

Highest Quality. ▼

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Orthopaedic surgeons trained at the most prestigious centers across the country 2015 A+ rating with National Leapfrog Hospital Safety Score Dedicated, comprehensive inpatient orthopaedic unit

The most advanced orthopaedic care anywhere is right here.

August 2016

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Contents 38

6 In This Issue

Regular Features

Wining & Dining

10 First Person with Lance Guidry 18 Who’s News 40 The New Family Tree 58 Business Buzz 64 Happenings 66 Solutions for Life 67 McNeese Corral

6 Food Trucks 10 Liquid Gold: The Versatility of Olive Oil Places & Faces

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Science, Full Sail 16 Nancy Wyman

Mind & Body

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5 Signs There’s Trouble in Paradise 22 Who is Caring for the Caregiver 26 – 35 SPECIAL SECTION:

Home & Family 36 6 Tips to Help College Freshmen Thrive 38 Make Back-to-School Photos a Snap

Look for this favorite insert in our

October Issue

42 – 51 Cover Story: Pampered Pets

Money & Career 52 Pokemon GO, Catch ‘em All on the Clock 56 Take Your Career to the Next Level

lanc e et B R 2014 Roug OCTOBE

Style & Beauty

by ored Spons

60 The Latest Fashions and Accessories for Football Season 62 Ombre, Balayage & Melting, Oh My!

DON’T JUST LIVE, THRIVE!

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

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Editors and Publishers

Kristy Armand Christine Fisher

Advertising Sales ads@thriveswla.com 337.310.2099

Creative Director

Barbara VanGossen

Submissions edit@thriveswla.com

Managing Editor

Angie Kay Dilmore

Business Manager

Katie McDaniel Stevenson

Assistant Designers

Shonda Manuel Kris Roy Mandy Gilmore

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

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2016

All our wonderful dogs are available for adoption through 4Paws Society.

Call 287-3552 for more information and to learn about other programs that are available.

SO DOGGONE CUTE!

All of these precious pups, and kitty, are looking for loving homes.

May May

Clooney

Flynn

Clooney is a 2-year-old Norwich terrier that is extremely people-friendly.

Clooney plays well with others, but would love to be an only child.

Flynn came to us rescued from a hoarding situation. He adores other small dogs, but is still shy with people.

Grits Grits is a small, 10-week-old male Chihuahua. He is all puppy: full of love and the energy to match!

Kitties need rescuing too, and this sweetheart is a young, precious female. We also have her two sisters. Check out that stache!

Follow your Nose

to the ENT & Allergy Clinic in Sulphur on Mondays Beginning August 15, Dr. Blake LeBlanc, Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist and Surgeon, will be seeing patients every Monday at a new satellite office in Sulphur.

Originally from Lafayette, Dr. LeBlanc joined the ENT & Allergy Clinic, an affiliate of Imperial Health, one year ago.

He earned his medical degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in Shreveport. He completed a residency in the Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, also at LSU Health Sciences Center in Shreveport.

Dr. LeBlanc specializes in the medical and surgical treatment of a variety of diseases and disorders of the ear, nose and throat, as well as related structures of the head and neck, including: • sinus disease • tinnitus

• ear infections • tonsillar conditions

• thyroid disorders • hearing loss

• minimally invasive sinus procedures • specialized allergy treatment

The new satellite office is located within the Center for Orthopaedics’ office in Sulphur, at 250 S. Beglis Parkway, Suite #1. The main office of the ENT & Allergy Clinic is located at 1615 Wolf Circle in Lake Charles.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. LeBlanc in Sulphur, call (337) 312-8681.

ENT & Allergy Clinic (337) 312-8681 • 250 South Beglis Parkway, Suite #1, Sulphur • www.imperialhealth.com August 2016

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Wining & Dining

There’s a relatively new dining trend on the streets of Southwest Louisiana – food trucks. While these mobile lunch vendors have been a staple in larger cities across the country since the days of the chuck wagon in the late 1800s, the food truck recently found its way to the Lake Area and the locals are lovin’ the new dining option. Warning: pickup window lines can be long! But the food is worth it. Highlighted here are some of the trucks you’ll find around town; some wellestablished and some brand new.

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August 2016

by Mitch Thomas

Gourmet on the Go Shauna St. Pierre Fuselier wants everyone to have the opportunity to enjoy real gourmet food. With a culinary background that includes study at Le Cordon Bleu in San Francisco and service under chefs in places like The Crab House on Pier 39 in San Francisco, Bella Luna in New Orleans, and

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Steamboat Bill’s in DeRidder, Fuselier brings a whole extra level of quality to the street food she serves out of Dat Truck, which started operation in October of 2015.

“I want people to look at me as not just a food truck [vendor] but as someone they can come to and know they can get an actual four or five-star meal, and it just so happens to be on four wheels,” Fuselier said.

Dat Truck, part of Fuselier’s II Boots (pronounced “two boots”) Catering, serves up street food made from only fresh, locally grown ingredients, locally caught fish and seafood, and meats from farms known for humane treatment of animals. Choices include Da Tacos, Fuselier’s most popular selection, made with chipotle shrimp, braised pork belly, Mardi Slaw and cucumber de gallo, and her Loaded Pork Frittes with pork smoked for 15-20 hours and served over sweet potato fries. Her signature item, Dat Burger, came from 2 months of planning and experimentation. Fuselier has even dabbled in her own version of the infamous Luther, a burger served on two doughnuts.

“I just keep coming up with wild and crazy ways to serve street food, but with a gourmet twist,” she said.

Dat Truck currently operates in DeRidder and can be found most days at the Park Terrace Shopping Center. Though Fuselier

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would love to expand, her dream has always been the II Boots Restaurant, named for the sources of her culinary inspiration -- the “boots” of Italy and Louisiana. Until then, Fuselier hopes to continue bringing the gourmet experience to the DeRidder community.

To find out where Dat Truck will be operating, visit iibootscatering.com or look up Dat Truck on Facebook.

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Authentic Chinese Mobile Kitchen Haili Li came to America from China in 2006. She began her western adventure in Michigan to learn English, then spent time in Missouri, New York, Texas and finally settled in Lake Charles.

When she lived in China, she didn’t cook. Her parents prepared food for her or she would eat at restaurants. After coming to America, Haili became homesick for the cuisine she grew up with, especially very spicy food. She says the Chinese restaurants in America are “really not Chinese.” So she taught herself to cook, with occasional input from her father over the telephone.

Once Haili learned to feed herself, she began cooking for family and friends. It was such a satisfying experience (for both her and her guests), she started making and selling food at the Tuesday Cash and Carry Farmers Market last year.

“People like my food. It’s something special and unique,” she says.

Haili wanted to expand her business and thought about buying a restaurant, but the prospect seemed like so much work. She opted instead to buy a food truck and opened for business this past April. She has a few employees who are a big help, but Haili prepares nearly all the food herself and has been working 17-18 hours a day. “I cook original, authentic Chinese food. It’s about sharing my culture,” she says. Some of her most popular dishes include her rib plate, shrimp Thrive Magazine for Better Living

by Angie Kay Dilmore

fried noodles, crab Rangoon, and her unique bean salad. She works hard to make healthy food with quality ingredients, always with her customers in mind. “I have so many amazing customers. I don’t want to disappoint them.”

Haili doesn’t consider herself a “chef.” She describes herself as “curious” and “passionate about new things.” She likes to experiment with food and infuses a dash of her own personality into every dish. Haili enjoys the interaction with her customers and the opportunities she’s had to make new friends. She admits her mastery of the English language is “not good.” So for Haili, food is a form of communication.

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Wining & Dining

by Braylin Jenkins

New Truck on the Block Adding to the fanfare surrounding food trucks in the Southwest Louisiana area is newcomer "Rito's Street Eats." Husband and wife duo Heath and Jessica Stevison will soon make their dream a reality, and the Lake Area makes up a large part of that dream.

Heath told Thrive it was a dream he had late one night that sparked the idea of opening the

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food truck. With the influx of workers locating throughout the region, he said "The more I pondered on it, the more I recognized the need for another food option."

The concept of Rito's is not a peculiar one by any means, ensuring an immediate fan base with an already dedicated following. Burritos, one of the main items that will be offered on the Rito's menu, are a major staple among Americans in general and many Southwest Louisiana residents, who have adopted Mexican-inspired dishes as a part of their weekly meal selections. Along with a variety of burrito options to choose from, patrons will also have interesting options in the morning thanks to the numerous breakfast sandwiches that will be offered by Rito's Street Eats.

Look for Rito's to open in mid-August and don't worry, the food truck will be at several

locations throughout the Lake Area for your convenience. Also be on the lookout for Rito's on Facebook for more exciting details to come.

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What have the Stutes learned in one year of serving tacos to their hungry adoring fans? “The biggest shocker for us is that being a part of The Sloppy Taco has allowed us to meet so many local supporters, and surrounding ourselves with the BEST taco-people ever!” Amanda says. “We’ve been extremely fortunate to have some of the coolest and most loyal employees and customers.

They’ve hung with us through all of our growth and transitions over the last year.”

Find The Sloppy Taco on Waitr App, Facebook (www.facebook.com/TheSloppyTaco), or visit their website, www.sloppytacotruck.com.

by Angie Kay Dilmore

photos by Shonda Manuel

Messy, But Good!

The Sloppy Taco folks spilled onto the Lake Charles food scene in May 2015. Owner Brett Stutes got a “crazy idea in March 2014 to get a Taco Truck,” says his wife and co-owner Amanda.

They brought Brett’s brother Derek on board and attended city events such as Live at the Lakefront and Downtown at Sundown. The Sloppy Taco was a runaway hit from the beginning.

The Stutes expanded their business in January 2016 to include a commercial kitchen and walkup take out window at 2500 Kirkman St. Their truck can be found at various places around 8 www.thriveswla.com

SWLA. (See website for schedule.)

Amanda describes their food as “gourmet fusion tacos with a blend of experimental and classic, Asian, Cajun, and Mexican influences.”

Their most popular items include the Sloppy Taco (braised pork, grilled steak, grilled shrimp in chipotle glaze, monterey jack cheese, purple onions, jalapeños, and their house remoulade) and their Ribeye Roll (a ground ribeye/beef chili with black beans, onions, and bell peppers wrapped in a 12” tortilla with monterey jack and melted queso cheeses, deep-fried and served with a homemade cilantro ranch.)

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2016

by Angie Kay Dilmore

Food Truck Forerunner Years before food trucks came on the scene in Lake Charles, there was Weinie Dogs. Kristi Wooldridge bought her hot dog cart in 2011 and headed out to McNeese football games and other events to feed the hungry masses. She says selling weinies from her truck was “a dream.”

“The customers I met became my friends. I knew their names, I knew their orders. In fact, I named most of my menu items after my regular customers. I quickly became known as ‘the hot dog lady’ around town. I would give rides, run tabs, call cabs, hold contests, feed cops free, and even sometimes let customers make their own dogs.

Such a fun time.”

For a hot dog shop, the Weinie Dog menu boasts some super fancy food! She offers a Monte Cristo (ham and cheese melt, deep fried with egg, powdered sugared, and a homemade strawberry sauce), LaFrance Fries (her version of poutine, with

fresh cheese curds, french fries, homemade brown garlic gravy, and green onions), the Cubeenier (her version of a Cuban, with ham, cheese, pork, pickles, mustard, grilled flat in a sandwich press), boudin dogs, brisket nachos, and a dozen different specialty hot dogs.

Wooldridge says she is excited to see the new food truck trend in the lake area. And she’d like to think she had a hand in their success.

Though technically not a “truck,” Wooldridge and her cart were the pioneers who paved the way and enabled the other trucks to set up shop. “I attended several city council meetings, made calls to the mayor, and trips to Baton Rouge to get some

[rules and legislation] changed and overhauled.

It’s much easier now to open a food truck in Lake Charles than it was then.”

Wooldridge still takes her cart to area events, and a year ago, she started selling Weinie Dogs from the kitchen at Chicageaux Bar at the corner of Lake St. and University Dr.; open for lunch, dinner, or late night. Currently, she is in the process of moving into her own place at 305 W. College St. and is awaiting location approvals from the city government. In the meantime, you can still get your hot dog fix at Chicageaux, on the Waitr app, and various events around town.

DEDICATED BANQUET ROOM

609 Ryan Street, • Lake Charles | (337) 491-8880 | BlueDogCafe.com August 2016

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9

Wining & Dining

The

Amazing Versatility of Olive Oil

Thomas Jefferson once said, “The olive tree is surely the richest gift of heaven.” It would be hard to argue with the third president of the United States, especially given the olive’s multitude of uses. Olive oil can be used for anything from treating a sunburn to making delicious meals for family and friends.

Fran Avery and Melanie McMullen, owners of Crave Gourmet Baskets and Gifts, have a passion for olive oil that extends beyond that bottle of EVOO sitting in the casual cook’s kitchen cabinet. Walk into this culinary boutique and you’ll find a wide variety of different olive oils, each with a unique purpose. Fran and Melanie will happily highlight each one.

Their All Natural Organic Butter Olive Oil can be used in place of butter to cook with, giving you all the health benefits of olive oil with the taste of butter. You might choose to use their blood orange flavored oil as a substitute for butter in your favorite cupcake recipe, giving it an extra jolt of flavor.

The All Natural Coratina Olive Oil is considered a nutraceutical, which is a specially treated food eaten to improve your health, and it aids in digestion if taken every morning prior to eating.

For at-home beauty regimens, olive oil can be used as a pre-shampoo treatment. Simply warm the olive oil in the microwave and then apply it to the ends of the hair and scalp. Leave it in for ten minutes while you enjoy a cup of tea, and then simply shampoo it out.

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by Lauren Atterbery Cesar

Olive oil can also be used as an eye make-up remover.

Don’t worry about it clogging your pores. Olive oil acts like a magnet for other oils and toxins, making it a great pre-cleansing step to remove anything regular make-up removers leave behind.

For another use of olive oil in the bathroom, wipe dry razor blades with olive oil to prevent rust, which makes shaving quite a bit easier and extends the life of your razors.

For the unconventional adventurous environmentallyfriendly car enthusiast, olive oil can be used to make biodiesel. You can mix up to 10-25% oil in proportion to your diesel and still be safe.

Olive oil can also be used to help remove stickers from glass. Massage the emollient into the sticker, let sit for fifteen minutes, and then, voila! Simply peel the sticker off.

If you are a true olive oil aficionado, you can even adopt a grove of olive trees for one year through Tre Olive. In return, the owners of this Italian grove will send you olive oil from your adopted trees.

The versatility of the mighty olive and its oil are only limited to a person’s imagination. It isn’t hard to imagine that bottle of magic sitting atop a shelf in your kitchen cabinet truly being one of the richest gifts of heaven.

Crave Gourmet Baskets and Gifts is located at 2801 Ryan Street, Lake Charles, Suite100. For more information, please call 337-421-0040.

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August 2016

Fine Dining Defined

by Lauren Atterbery Cesar

While casual meals out may not require a dictionary to decipher the menu, special occasions at more upscale restaurants might seem daunting. You may open the menu only to find words and phrases like “omakase” or “a la broche.” You have a decision to make -- do you ask the waiter what it means, or do you play Russian roulette and order what you soon discover is a creamed fish dish topped with bits of liver? To avoid dining disaster, brush up on some of these gourmet terms before your next fine dining foray, because eating out should be fun, not flummoxing!

A La Broche: This term simply means cooked or served on a skewer. You may also see a form of the term brochettes, like the mouthwatering beef brochettes served at 121 Artisan Bistro.

Bechamel Sauce: This is a sauce made from milk thickened with white roux. As one of the French “mother sauces,” you can find this sauce on

anything from lasagna to asparagus. If gruyere cheese is added, this becomes a mornay sauce.

The crab crepes at Mazen’s are filled with mornay sauce, and they will have your taste buds tap dancing.

Confit: When something is cooked in its own fat, it is considered confited. You often find this preparation with duck.

Dauphinois: You will find delectable gorgonzola dauphinois potatoes as a side dish at La Truffe.

Sauvage: This means that a vegetable or potato is sliced, cooked in milk, and often topped with a cheese.

Drawn Butter: Drawn butter is on the menu at Vic and Anthony’s served with their heavenly Alaskan King Crab legs. It is simply a butter that has been cooked in a saucepan. Once it is cooled, they skim the foam from the top and transfer containers, leaving any solids behind.

Emulsion: This is when two liquids that don’t generally go together are mixed. You probably have an emulsion in your refrigerator at home if you’ve got a jar of mayonnaise.

Macerate: To macerate something is to soak it in a liquid so that it takes on the flavor of that liquid.

Omakase: If you place your order this way in a Japanese restaurant, be prepared to be wowed.

This term means “I’ll leave it to you,” and the chef decides what you’ll be eating.

In Southwest Louisiana, choose from a wide array of fine dining options. It is nearly guaranteed that you will leave with a satisfied stomach.

Hopefully knowing these terms will make your dining experience more pleasurable, and you will go into your meal brimming with confidence and ready to order!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! 11am – 2am Daily | Late night food all night Happy Hour: Monday – Saturday 3 – 6 | Nightly Specials Full Kitchen – “Louisiana Comfort Food” Locally Brewed Beers

3716 Ryan Street • Lake Charles | (337) 602-6635 August 2016

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11

Places & Faces

The National Park Service Celebrates a Century

by Frank DiCesare

The National Park Service will celebrate its 100th anniversary this month, completing its first century of managing and preserving what has been called America’s best idea. Created in response to the conservation movement of the mid-19th century, the agency’s history points to America’s need for open space, natural beauty, and places to visit that remove people, however temporarily, from the busy streets of their day-to-day lives. It is a story rooted in America’s wanderlust for the west and the preservation of its untamed beauty.

At the conclusion of the U.S. Civil War in 1865, New York Tribune Editor Horace Greeley advised young veterans to “Go west, young man, and grow up with the country.” Whether Greeley coined that statement or borrowed it from another source remains in debate among historians. What is not in doubt is that America’s western expansion, a path originally blazed by Lewis and Clark’s intrepid expedition between 1804 and 1806, was well underway during the Reconstruction era. Spurred on by the philosophy of manifest destiny, American pioneers from the east had been heading west for decades to discover new lands and, perhaps, a better life for themselves and their families.

By the late 1860s, America had grown to a nation of 37 states of which 11 were west of the Mississippi. Expeditions into the mountainous west had resulted in writings, paintings and photographs that illustrated the region’s natural beauty. But after geologist Ferdinand V. Hayden, photographer William Henry Jackson and their team of more than 30 men returned from the headwaters of Wyoming’s Yellowstone River in 1871, America began to take conservation seriously. The Hayden Geological Survey of 1871 told of Yellowstone’s soaring natural beauty and prompted President Ulysses S. Grant to sign The Act of Dedication into law on March 1, 1872, which created Yellowstone National Park “as a public park or pleasuringground for the benefit and enjoyment of the people.” Yellowstone National Park was first of its kind in the world and was placed under the control of the U.S. Department of the Interior.

Conservationists such as John Muir and George

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Perkins Marsh inspired Washington to create nine additional national parks in the American west, including Sequoia and Yosemite, and two in the territory of Hawaii, - Haleakala and Hawaii Volcanoes - between September 1890 and August 1916.

Twelve national parks soon proved too much for the Interior Department to manage. So with the stroke of his pen, President Woodrow Wilson created the National Park Service (NPS) on August 25, 1916 as an agency within the Interior Department to promote and regulate America’s national parks.

NPS’s first half century was a time of expansion.

During those years 21 national parks were created, including the Grand Canyon, Zion, Shenandoah, Arches, the Everglades, and the Petrified Forest.

Both the agency and America’s preservation efforts expanded, too. In 1933, President Franklin Roosevelt consolidated all of America’s national parks, monuments, cemeteries, memorials, capital parks, and military parks into a National Park System. The National Park Service would oversee this new system.

The National Park Service would add another 26 national parks in its second half century, including the Badlands, Glacier Bay, Nevada’s Great Basin, Death Valley, Joshua Tree, and, the most recent of its kind, Pinnacles National Park in California, created by President Barack Obama in 2013.

Nationwide events celebrating NPS’s 100th birthday have been going on all year at the national parks and will continue into the fall. NPS Founders Day birthday bashes on Aug. 25 will take place at 20 national parks and monuments across the country, including Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Devil’s Tower, Pipestone, Harpers Ferry,

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Death Valley, Arches, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon.

Centennial events this fall include concerts, films, speakers and a variety of outdoor activities, ranging from hiking and canoe excursions to nighttime astronomy. As part of NPS’s birthday celebration, all national parks and sites that charge admission will waive the fee from August 25th through the 28th.

Runners should check out the Mesa Verde Fun Run in Colorado on Sept. 17, a 5K run on the Mesa Top Loop and a one-mile walk around the park’s headquarters and museum loop.

Bikers can participate in the first ever Bike Your Park Day on Sept. 24, a free event in some parks. Participants can explore their favorite park by bike, whether they choose to ride one or 100 miles. Bikers can ride along any type of public land, including national or state parks, monuments, or historic sites. Bike Your Park Day will also include routes along seashores, rivers, recreation areas, preserves, forests, wildlife refuges, and parkways.

Civil War buffs should not miss the living history demonstrations at Gettysburg National Military Park, which will run on weekends until Oct. 30. Visitors can interact with Civil War historians, explore the camps, and learn about the tools, military tactics and weaponry of one of the most important battles in American history.

So if you and your loved ones need to get away this fall, spend some time in America’s National Parks, ‘the peoples’ backyards’, where our nation’s outdoors await all those who seek to return to nature and take in her many wonders. For more information on an NPS Centennial celebration in your area, go to www.findyourpark.com.

August 2016

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FINALE SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 Activate entries for the finale on Sunday, September 4 at the mychoice Center kiosks from 11am – 6:55pm.

Finalists will be drawn every hour from 1pm – 6pm.

Select mychoice tiers will receive bonus entries at time of activation.

See mychoice Center for more details.

Must be 21 or older to enter casino and event center. ©2016 Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved.

Play LegendaryTM

GAMBLING PROBLEM? PLEASE CALL 800.522.4700.

August 2016

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13

Places & Faces

Science , Full Sail

by Harold Andersen

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It’s no easy task explaining the intricacies of chemosynthetic life and methane seeps to an audience full of children, as well as adults.

Doing so remotely over several hundred miles via a live video feed and filling a role on a watch team with seven other scientists – each responsible for navigation, research, or operating a remote operated vehicle (ROV for short) – all crammed into a cramped control room sounds just about impossible.

The fact that Dr. Amber Hale recently spent three weeks doing exactly that and describes the experience simply as “very stressful” says more than a little about her composure.

That she emphasized the stress was nothing compared to the opportunities presented by these moments says much more.

These opportunities were the primary reason Dr. Hale ventured out to sea on the E/V Nautilus for those three weeks this past June. A molecular biologist by training and trade, Dr. Hale is also equally passionate about science education and communication and never balks at an opportunity to hone her skills or understanding of either field. She’d heard about the Ocean Exploration Trust’s Nautilus Exploration Program and their opening for a science communication fellow in the summer of 2014. It was not until after she moved to Lake Charles to take up a professorship at McNeese State University in the fall of 2014 that she was able to apply for and eventually join the Corps of Exploration. The Science Communication Fellowship that Dr. Hale participated in is one part of the Ocean Exploration Trust’s Community STEM Program which CITGO funds in Lake Charles, Corpus Christi and Houston, Texas, as well as in Lemont, Illinois.

“It was very different for me,” she recalled.

“Not at all like anything else I was used to.”

That unfamiliarity was partly a result of the expedition’s make-up. The E/V Nautilus is an exploratory vessel (designated by the “E/V” in its name, separating it from research vessels) which means that while its expeditions might have a guiding principle – Hale’s own leg of the trip was mostly concerned with research around deep sea coral and methane seeps in the eastern Pacific Ocean – the explorers are free to stop and investigate sites and discoveries as they happen upon them. Hale says this freedom allowed the shipmates to probe points of scientific interest that had not been explored in over a decade, if ever, and discover what might potentially be several new species. It also means the ship was rather small, with nearly fifty crew members squeezed into a space a little more than two-hundred feet

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long. Not that this seems to have bothered Dr. Hale, who says at no point did she find the quarters cramped. “The crew slept in shifts, which meant that most of the time you were working while most everybody else was asleep.” Dr. Hale was assigned the 4 to 8 shifts, which meant she was on duty from 4:00 a.m until 8:00 a.m and again from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. each day.

The less obvious challenges inherent in her role as a Science Communications Fellow presented Dr. Hale with her greatest obstacles. One, her research prior to the E/V Nautilus fellowship had mostly been done in solitude; aboard, she was expected to work with a diverse team of people.

“Everything was done as a team while on the ship. You had to be very aware of what you were doing as well as what everybody else was doing.” For another, she quickly found that fielding questions proved trickier than she had anticipated. “Kids especially love to catch you off guard with their questions. When an 8-year-old asks you how chemosynthesis works, how do you contextualize that? How do you explain that to an 8-year-old? Questions like that make me a better science communicator.”

As perplexing as some of these challenges might have been, Dr. Hale affirms they were an invaluable learning opportunity. As a major advocate of scientific outreach in education, she’s always been concerned with how to capture the attention of younger students, especially children between the ages of 10 and 12; something her time aboard the ship really allowed her to focus on. “Those are the years when children’s interests in science really drop off. But it’s been shown that if you can give them a meaningful experience during these formative years, you can keep them interested.”

For that reason, why while on board, Dr. Hale worked on a module that uses real data from the coral she studied to walk students through the process of DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis and why that same project eventually morphed into a focus on bioluminescence, a topic especially popular with children. Dr. Hale hopes to use this and other opportunities as outreach platforms in Lake Charles, as well as to connect with teachers and science groups in the community, such as the Southwest Louisiana Master Naturalists. “I want to get people excited about science again.

There’s a lot of great work being done by citizen scientists these days and there’s no reason the same work can’t be done here.”

August 2016

Platinum Recording Artists

SISTER HAZEL

Over Two Decades of Making Music

by Angie Kay Dilmore

American rock band Sister Hazel returned to Lake Charles and closed out L’Auberge’s Liquid Society Summer Concert Series late last month. They are currently touring the country to promote their ninth studio album, Lighter in the Dark, released in February 2016. A month after the record’s release, it hit number 4 on Billboard’s Country Chart. The album’s hit single “That Kind of Beautiful” charted at #4 on the CMT (Country Music Television) Music 12 Pack.

Wait, country? Sister Hazel came together in 1993 as an alternative rock band. In 1997, their hit song “All for You” topped the U.S. Billboard’s Adult Top 40 at number 1 and their album Somewhere More Familiar sold Platinum. For over two decades, these five musicians (Ken Block, Andrew Copeland, Ryan Newell, Mark Trojanowski, and Jeff Beres) have written and played music in a style that is difficult to classify, combining folk, rock, pop, classic and southern rock. The band, based in Gainesville, Fl., often simply refers to their style as “Florida music.”

Now fans find Lighter in the Dark listed in the Southern Rock/Country genre. But has Sister Hazel’s musical style truly changed?

Not really, according to drummer Mark Trojanowski. “I think the same elements are there.

When you listen to our records, they’re diverse. You hear all kinds of musical grooves and sounds. This new record got classified in the country genre. But it wasn’t a situation where the band decided, hey, we’re going to make a country record. If you play our first record today, that record would probably be classified as country. The biggest [change] has been in the song writing, where you might hear an August 2016

evolvement. In the beginning, [lead singer] Ken was writing all the songs for the band. Then Andrew started writing one or two songs per record and singing them. Then it got to the point where we all were writing and bringing songs. This new record comes full circle because we brought in a lot of outside writers. Ryan and Jeff both sing lead on some songs. Andrew sings lead on several songs. So this record may sound a bit different. But it’s still the same five guys. It’s just a bit different.”

Sister Hazel came together from a variety of different musical roots, which contributes to their unique sound. “The one thing that tied us all together was songs and song structure,” Trojanowski said. “Whether you like the Allman Brothers, the Beatles, the Police, or James Taylor, it was always about a good song. And we all love songs. Even though we all came from different musical backgrounds, it all kind of worked.”

Lyrically, Sister Hazel’s songs are defined as upbeat and optimistic. They came together in the 1990s when other bands sang angry angstfilled songs. “For us, it was always about a positive message. Even when the music is darker in key or tone, lyrically, we always try to portray a positive message.”

Listeners have been drawn to Sister Hazel’s unique optimistic sound since the band’s inception.

A large organized fan base, called the Hazlenuts, follows the band around the country, studying set lists and sharing bootleg concert recordings. The band has a unique relationship with these fans.

They reward fan loyalty with annual events like the Hazelnut Hang and the Rock Boat, a cruise featuring Thrive Magazine for Better Living

nonstop opportunities for fan/artist interaction.

“Our fans have allowed us to do what we do for this many years,” Trojanowski said. “I think it is because we have always toured all the time. We never disappeared for awhile between records. We’ve played six to ten shows a month for the last twenty years. We kept our faces out there. We connect with our fans, but we still have time with our families. We found a balance for what really works for us.”

The band was named after Sister Hazel Williams, a missionary in their hometown of Gainesville.

Lead singer Block grew up watching this woman help people through homeless shelters and soup kitchens. She made an indelible impression upon Block and he named the band after her. Throughout the years, the band has donated money to her charities. Sadly, Sister Hazel Williams died last month on July 17 at the age of 91.

Led by Sister Hazel Williams’ example, the band has established charities of their own. Lyrics for Life was formed around 2000 after Block lost his 13-year-old brother to cancer. They’ve raised over a million dollars to help children with cancer and their families. They also started Camp Hazelnut this past year. Thirty kids suffering from cancer enjoyed a week of adventure at the new camp.

What’s next for Sister Hazel? They seem to be on a roll and have no plans to slow down any time soon.

Trojanowski said, “We want to tour the rest of the country with this new record. Then eventually get back into the studio to make another record.”

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15

Places & Faces

Nancy Wyman

by Brett Downer

Teaching at Pearl Watson Jr. High School

Nan and Cleary Hinton, friends since high school

Portrait from LSU Gumbo

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For nearly a century, Nancy Wyman has been a part of Lake Charles life. At 96, she still looks forward to the next outing around town.

Nancy Wyman still gets visits by former students from the old Pearl Watson Junior High -- if they’re able to catch her at the house.

She goes out and about regularly, gathers with longtime friends every weekend, and keeps up with local info on Facebook.

She’s 96 years old, not that it seems to make much difference.

It’s Wyman, though, who clearly made a difference — to thousands of students she taught in parts of three decades, as evidenced by the middle-age people who still remember and thank her for it decades later.

Known to many in Lake Charles, she is perhaps best known as a 20-year educator in Calcasieu Parish schools.

Much of that time was at Pearl Watson.

“I hardly go out anywhere where I don’t find somebody that I taught,” she said. “And it’s so great. They come up and tell me who they are – as if I don’t already know – but it’s so rewarding to hear those things as a teacher.”

Her lone apparent concession to age was when she stopped driving just a month ago.

“That was a big adjustment,” she said. “I got my first car when I was 16 – a Ford Model A. So for 80 years, I’ve had a car in the driveway.”

She still gets out and about, though, via friends and family. “People are so sweet – they’ll take you places,” she said. “And there’s so much to do in Lake Charles. The park has concerts, and our church has concerts. And my friend Annabella (Gorham) down the street – we still go there to visit. About five or six of us

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who’ve always gotten together go on Saturday nights. We still do that. Every Saturday night.”

Recently, she spent a weekend in New Orleans. Not everyone can say that. She may get out of the house more than most people do. “Hard to believe,” she said, laughing. “But you have to remember I don’t have to get babysitters anymore.

At Pearl Watson, Wyman taught a block of English and social studies courses to seventhand eighth-graders from 1963-79. “I’d teach about 150 students per semester, and the next semester, I’d get another 150 students,” she said.

“So it amounted to an awful lot of people.”

Unless junior-high math fails here, that comes out to about 4,800 names and faces. Add her earlier three years at Hamilton (1960-63) and, before getting married, a wartime teaching stint at Fourth Ward Elementary (1943), and that’s a wide swath of the young people of Lake Charles passing through her classroom.

“I run into them all the time. It’s so amazing to me that they are parents now -- and some of them are even grandparents,” she said.

“Another reason they’re so close to me is because they matched with my own children,” she said. Her Fourth Ward teaching stint, which she landed after graduating from college, was followed by time away to marry and start a family. “I didn’t return to teaching until 1960. I went back when my children -- Barbara, Craig, Bruce -- were school-age themselves,” she said. “So I taught in those years when they were all in the same grades.”

August 2016

Beyond the students, Wyman has known their parents and extended families as well – through church, civic and neighborhood connections that span a near-century. Those ties have been reinforced over the years in chats after worship, in the checkout line of the 12th Street Kroger, and at scores of nighttime arts and cultural events.

Others variously recognize Wyman as one of the most senior living alumni of Lake Charles High School (Class of ’37), where she rallied fellow Wildcats as a member of the Pep Squad; as an LSU grad (Class of ’41); and as a permanent presence in community matters.

She is also a handshake with Lake Charles history, though she wouldn’t have known it while a 6-year-old playing in what’s now the Charpentier Historical District. Her two grandfathers were Guy Beatty, co-founder of the Lake Charles American Press, and Dr. John G. Martin, co-founder of St. Patrick Hospital. In a scene straight out of “Our Town,” the two men – the local newspaper publisher, the town doctor -- lived across the street from each other and saw their families united by marriage. Wyman, who was a step-granddaughter, was among those at the two clans’ joint Sunday dinners -- where she said young nurses and nuns from St. Pat’s were regular supper guests. (The Beatty and Martin homes, still standing on South Division Street, have since been declared landmarks.)

“Imagine that -- I grew up with both sets of grandparents right in the same block. I didn’t appreciate it like I would if it would happen now,” she said with a laugh. “My own grandchildren are scattered in Atlanta, New York, Seattle, Austin and New Orleans.”

That Wyman still remains busy and engaged in Lake Charles-area life may spring, in part, from the family that surrounded her as a child.

“When I was in high school, I would drive my grandfather Beatty across the river to see the new industries that were just beginning,” she said. “He was so civic-minded – so Lake Charlesdriven. I think about that now -- what would he think about SASOL, about of all these industries, when he was one of the ones who saw to the deepening of the ship channel to the gulf? He was so interested in all that. I hope he knows the Lake Charles area is just booming on account of that. It’s amazing to me, the growth of the port and all,” she said. “Those were things he talked about, but now they’re real – and a blessing.”

Lake Charles “is really special,” she said. “It’s just accomplished so much. The neighborhoods where I grew up around Good Shepherd have taken on new life. Downtown is spruced up. I’m really happy about that. Even the subdivision where I live now, Edgemont, is what they consider part of ‘old Lake Charles.’ When I was in high school, it was nothing but waving grass.”

August 2016

IndustryInsider

Straight Answers to Your Questions on Industry and the Environment

Q: A:

I see the flares burning at industry by my house and can’t help but wonder what they’re burning, or if something is on fire. Is it dangerous?

Flares are a safety mechanism.

Flares process excess gas by burning it off.

This safety mechanism minimizes air pollution and helps prevent industrial accidents.

The noise that sometimes accompanies a flare is from the steam that’s used as a coolant. When the steam is introduced, it creates a hissing or rumbling noise. The steam cools the system, reduces smoke and minimizes air pollution. We know flares can cause concern and questions, and we try to minimize their use as much as possible because they’re so costly.

Understanding why the flares are used can hopefully put any concerns to rest.

Joe Andrepont

senior community affairs director with local industry

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

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17

Places & Faces

Movers and Shakers in Southwest News? You tell us! Send press releases to Louisiana... Who’s edit@thriveswla.com with the subject line “Who’s News.”

City Savings Banks Announces New Hire City Savings Bank has announced that Casey Johnson has joined its team as a loan officer.

Johnson is originally from Pitkin, La., and he received a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology Casey Johnson from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, La. Before joining City Savings Bank, Johnson worked in sales in the oil industry.

For more information, call (337) 463-8661.

Duplantis Joins First Federal Bank of Louisiana Kyle Duplantis has joined First Federal Bank of Louisiana, as Vice President and Business Banking Specialist, bringing nearly 20 years of financial services Kyle Duplantis experience to the First Federal Bank Business Banking team. He is located at the Main Office, 1135 Lakeshore Drive in Lake Charles.

Duplantis will be responsible for acquiring and managing banking relationships with businesses and their owners, providing assistance with deposit, loan and cash management products and services and representing the bank in the community.

Lake Area Medical Center Welcomes Dr. Uzma Porche’, OB/GYN Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist Uzma Porche’, M.D., is the newest physician to join the medical staff at Lake Area Medical Center.

Dr. Porche’ has taken Dr. Uzma Porché over the OB/GYN practice of retiring physician and trusted colleague; Dr. TriCia Guidry. Dr. Porche’ offers a full range of women’s services including; high-risk pregnancies and general obstetric and gynecological care, infertility management, minimally invasive surgery including - robotic-assisted hysterectomies, preconception counseling and preventative health screenings for women of all ages.

For more information or to request an appointment, call (337) 474-0653.

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Dr. Tyson Green Named to APWCA Board of Directors Dr. Tyson Green, foot and ankle specialist with Center for Orthopaedics, an affiliate of Imperial Health, was named to the board of directors for the American Professional Dr. Tyson Green Wound Care Association (APWCA), a non-profit medical association for medical providers involved in prevention, treatment and pain management of non-healing wounds.

Obsidian PR Promotes Brignac To Senior Account Manager Obsidian Public Relations has announced that Lake Charles resident Kelli Brignac has been promoted to senior account manager at the firm.

Kelli Brignac Brignac joined Memphis-based Obsidian PR in October 2011 and was promoted to account manager in July 2013.

She has since contributed to the firm’s success with her efforts in planning and executing strategic PR plans in various business sectors and in the notfor-profit realm. Brignac now lives in Lake Charles and works remotely. She manages a team of junior account representatives for several clients in numerous cities and works with clients in multiple states.

SOWELA Student Amber Woods Receives Gold in World’s Largest Skills Competition Amber Woods, SOWELA Technical Community College Graphic Art student, won Gold in Advertising Design in Amber Woods last week’s SkillsUSA Championships. This event, by invitation only, was for first place state medalists in 100 competition areas for career and technical students. It is the largest skill competition in the world.

Woods is now eligible to attend the 2017 WorldSkills Competition in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. For more information, visit www.sowela.edu.

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Lakeside Bank Welcomes State Senator Ronnie Johns to its Board of Directors

Senator Ronnie Johns

A well-respected businessman and active community volunteer, Senator Johns has represented District 27 in the Louisiana State Senate

since 2012.

Senator Johns has received numerous awards for his work in the legislature, and has been recognized repeatedly for business achievements and community involvement.

For more information, visit www.lakesidebanking. com or call (337) 474-3766.

Pediatric Surgeon Opens Lake Charles Clinic Dr. Dee Garrett with the Kids Specialty Center at Women’s & Children’s Hospital has begun seeing patients in Lake Charles.

The clinic has opened at 2800 Country Club Road Dr. Dee Garrett in Lake Charles.

Dr. Garrett joins fellow Kids Specialty Center physicians Dr. Ammar Morad, pediatric hematologist/oncologist, Dr. Vukmir Vlasic, pediatric pulmonologist and sleep medicine specialist, and Dr. Ann Marie Flannery, pediatric neurosurgeon, who currently offer clinics in Lake Charles.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (337) 371-3101.

The Eye Clinic Welcomes Dr. Margaret Carter Margaret Carter, MD, has joined the medical staff of The Eye Clinic. Originally from Lake Charles, Dr. Carter earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Centenary Dr. Margaret Carter College of Louisiana, and a Medical Degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, both in Shreveport. She completed her internship in Internal Medicine and residency in Ophthalmology at Louisiana State University Health Shreveport.

Dr. Carter will be seeing patients in The Eye Clinic’s offices in Lake Charles, Sulphur, Moss Bluff August 2016

and Jennings. Call the office nearest you or 1-800-826-5223. Information is also available at www.theeyeclinic.net.

Dr. Andres Guillermo Joins Imperial Health’s Physician Team Dr. Andres Guillermo, a family medicine specialist, has joined the physician team at Imperial Health, Southwest Louisiana’s Dr. Andres Guillermo largest, physician-owned multispecialty medical group.

Originally from Thibodaux, Louisiana, Dr. Guillermo received his undergraduate degree in Pre-med/Biology from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, and earned his Medical Degree from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine in Saint Maarten. Dr. Guillermo completed his Family Practice Residency Program at the LSUHSC School of Medicine Family Medicine Residency Program in Lake Charles. He is certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and has over nine years of experience in his field, the last six of which were in private practice at the Guillermo Family Medical Clinic in DeRidder.

Dr. Guillermo’s office is located at 333 Dr. Michael DeBakey Drive, Suite 110, in Lake Charles.

To schedule an appointment, call 337-419-1958.

Bryant Joins Dermatology Associates Laina Bryant, family nurse practitioner, has joined Dermatology Associates. She will assist Dr. Lee Miller with Mohs micrographic surgery as well as assist Laina Bryant in seeing patients and coordinating treatment plans.

Dermatology Associates provides diagnosis and treatment for a variety of conditions of the skin, hair and nails as well as skin cancer prevention and treatment. For an appointment, call 337-433-7272.

Memorial Medical Group Welcomes the Following: Family Medicine Specialist, Holley Kelley, DO Dr. Holley Kelley will see patients at the new Lake Charles Memorial medical office building located at 4345 Nelson Road.

As a primary care physician for people Holley Kelley, DO of all ages, Dr. Kelley’s specialties include: acute illnesses, high blood pressure, asthma, cold and flu, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, minor musculoskeletal injuries, high cholesterol, comprehensive wellness visits, preventative care and well woman care.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (337) 480-7900.

Barilleaux Hired as Vice President Marketing Director Ann Barilleaux is an experienced marketing professional in Louisiana with a proven record of facilitating growth, building long-term relationships with Ann Barilleaux customers and businesses and developing community outreach.

She arrives at JD Bank after serving as a Marketing Consultant for CenterPoint Energy in Lake Charles since 2013, where she managed and designed multiple commercial and residential client projects.

Mefford Promoted to SR. Vice President Regional Manager

Interventional Cardiologist Edward Bergen, DO Dr. Edward Bergen, DO, FACC, FSCAI, CCDS, is a fellowshiptrained interventional cardiologist. He joins fellow cardiologists, Dr. Christopher Thompson, Edward Bergen, DO Dr. John Winterton, Dr. Kevin Young, Dr. J. King White and Dr. Clay Hammett at Heart & Vascular Center located on the 2nd floor of 1717 Oak Park Boulevard.

Dr. Bergen is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) in interventional cardiology, cardiovascular disease and internal medicine. He is board certified in nuclear cardiology by the Certification Board of Nuclear Cardiology (CBNC) and in Cardiac Rhythm Device Therapy by the International Board of Heart Rhythm Examiners (IBHRE).

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bergen, call (337) 494-3278.

Internist Craig Greenman, MD Dr. Craig Greenman will see patients at Internal Medicine Clinic of Lake Charles located at 2770 3rd Avenue.

In addition to providing primary care services, Dr. Greenman Craig Greenman, MD specializes in treating diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidemia.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (337) 494-6800.

August 2016

JD Bank Announcements:

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Angel Mefford

Angel Mefford will continue to serve as Branch Manager of the Kirby St. office in Lake Charles and will now also supervise the JD Bank locations at McNeese, Moss Bluff, Hwy 14 and

Morganfield.

Mefford has 35 years of banking experience in the Lake Charles area.

Cormier Hired as Assistant Vice President/Call Center Manager Rhoda Cormier has spent 32 years in banking and has extensive experience in bank operations. She will work in the JD Bank administrative building on Rhoda Cormier Elton Road in Jennings.

Cormier will supervise the five operators who handle all incoming calls for JD Bank. She will also manage the deposit services, including the back office processing, checks and Automated Clearing House (ACH) electronic credit and debit transactions.

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19

Mind & Body

5 Signs

By Lauren Atterbery Cesar

There is Trouble in Paradise Every relationship has its ups and downs. Some are comparable to the ebbs and flows of the tides, while others feel more like a Six Flags roller coaster ride! How do you know if you are in a relationship that is headed for trouble? Look out for these signs.

You’re avoiding one another. Avoidance can manifest in many ways. It can start as innocently as making less time for one another than you did early in the relationship because you’ve become comfortable together. There is such a thing as healthy distance. However, repeated avoidance can snowball from doing things more independently to feeling like you have nothing in common anymore. Eventually you may feel more comfortable ignoring the bigger issues that need to be resolved to maintain a healthy relationship.

Conflict becomes commonplace. In the beginning of your relationship, everyone is on their best behavior, so little to no conflict arises. As time goes by, you become less considerate of each other which can cause conflict. (How hard is it to put dirty socks in the hamper?) You can’t avoid issues forever, so if you don’t have the right tools to address them as they arise, someone is sure to lose their cool. If this starts happening more and more often, you need to consider it a relationship red flag.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2016

You use other relationships as your measuring stick. There is a wise old saying that says, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” It’s important to remember that no one has the perfect relationship, no matter what it looks like to the casual observer. When you compare your relationship to someone else’s, you may begin to set unrealistic expectations for your own relationship. This is an easy way to set yourself up for unnecessary conflict!

Winning the argument is more

important than resolving the issue.

You are right, and if your partner

would just listen to all the reasons

Walter Ledet, MD, FACS, general surgeon

Stephen Castleberry, MD, FACS, general surgeon

why you are right, they would definitely change their minds. Does that sound familiar? There are better ways to approach big issues than telling someone all the things they should have done. That immediately puts your partner on the defensive, and the result is rarely good.

Remember, you are a team, not opponents, so you win or lose together.

One person begins to abuse their power. When one member of the

team begins to think their job,

ideas, or time is more important

than the other person’s, they might begin to abuse their power within the relationship. This is

Proven Excellence in General Surgery Receiving honors is rewarding, such as the latest one from Health Grades recognizing us as one of America’s 100 Best in General Surgery.

It underscores our fundamental foundation of providing exceptional care for our community.

We applaud our general surgery physicians, Dr. Walter Ledet and Dr. Stephen Castleberry and our surgical team of nurses and caregivers.

dangerous ground because you become unequal partners, leaving one partner feeling superior, while the other is made to feel inferior. This can lead to the beginnings of verbal and emotional abuse. Be careful to keep things on equal footing.

Although these signs of trouble should be seen as red flags, they do not have to be deal

What really matters, though, is the ongoing satisfaction and good health of our patients. The fact that they trust us for their surgical needs, and refer their family and friends, says more to us than awards. Accolades are appreciated; but our patients’ trust means everything.

For more information, visit healthgrades.com.

breakers. Although it has been said many times before, communication is the key to healthy relationships. Simply talking to your partner about changes in your relationship can solve the difficulties you might be experiencing, but never rule out the sage advice of a trusted counselor who is trained to help you solve these issues so

(337) 527-7034 701 Cypress Street, Sulphur

wcch.com

that your stay in paradise is a prolonged one.

August 2016

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21

Mind & Body

Who is caring for the

caregiver?

by Christine Fisher

Caregivers may need to take a little of their own advice. As they care for their loved ones, it’s easy to lose a sense of themselves in the process. “They’re busy making sure things are just right for their loved one, they forget to check in with themselves,” said Pamela Bruney, director of the Home Health Agency of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital.

The number of people who care for a chronically ill, disabled or aging family member is astounding: more than 65 million, or almost 30 percent of the U.S. population. They spend an average of 20 hours per week caring for their loved one, which can include: buying groceries, running errands, managing medication, going to the doctor, bathing, feeding and grooming their loved ones, according to the National Alliance for Caregiving in collaboration with the American Association of Retired Persons.

The same Alliance for Caregiving also reported the value of the services that family caregivers provide for free to older adults is estimated to be $375 billion a year.

Caregiving, no matter how noble the intention, can be stressful. “It often falls on one person to manage the needs of the older adult; this could range from their daily meals to providing emotional support. There are times when it is physically and emotionally draining,” said Bruney. “Home health care can ease the burden when it comes to medication management, teachings, and disease management processes. In addition to a tailored plan of care, physical, speech and occupational therapy services are available to assist with returning patients to the activities of daily living. It gives the caregiver a little respite. For those without home health services to rely on, caregivers should be aware of the potential problems that often occur in the process of caregiving.”

Caregiving can often be rewarding for the caregiver, as they selflessly work to make life better for one they love, but it can also be a time of high stress. While many factors contribute to this, the amount of energy the caregiver puts into maintaining his or her own health plays a significant role.

“Many caregivers end up being stressed out, frustrated and dealing with their own health issues,” Bruney said.

“Stress is often a result of continuous caregiving when there aren’t boundaries set in place.”

Stress symptoms can be varied, depending on the person.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2016

Here are tips to help caregivers: • Stay as organized as possible, from medications to doctors’ appointments.

Writing everything down on a calendar or a notebook will help you stay on schedule and hopefully avoid a stress-inducing crisis.

Common signs of chronic stress include: • Anger • Body aches • Recurring colds and flu • Trouble sleeping • Fatigue and exhaustion • Over-reacting • Frequent headaches

• Ask for help, more than once. People are often willing to help, but they don’t know what to do and they don’t want to create more work for you.

Caregiving can be done in many different ways: cooking several meals, chauffeuring to the hairdresser, managing finances, etc. Let interested parties know how they might help.

If the stress is not dealt with, it can lead to more serious health problems, such as heart disease or depression.

A sense of sadness and burden is also frequently cited among caregivers.

“Caregiving can be consuming. It can take every minute you have, but we all need a respite. Caregivers need to take time off and know their loved one is in good hands, whether it’s another family member, a friend, a home health agency, or someone in their church. You have to take time for yourself so you can enjoy your life and have something left to give back to your loved one,” Bruney said.

It’s important to relax, enjoy time with friends, and ask for additional help so that one person isn’t shouldering the burden alone.

• Do something you enjoy. Whether it’s a long walk, getting a massage, reading a book or getting coffee with a friend, schedule time for yourself every week, if possible. It will give you something to look forward to.

• Attitude is everything. Approaching your caregiving tasks with the right attitude can make a significant difference. If you’re low on energy, you’ll be more easily frustrated, which can lead to stress.

The main thing is to remember that caregivers also require care. If you are providing consistent care for a loved one, remember to take time for yourself. It’ll help you maintain your mental and physical health as well as providing the best care possible for your loved one.

The Eye Clinic proudly

Welcomes Margaret Carter, MD Ophthalmologist

Dr. Carter was raised in Lake Charles and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Centenary College of Louisiana, and a Medical Degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, both in Shreveport. She completed her internship in Internal Medicine and residency in Ophthalmology at Louisiana State University Health Shreveport.

Appointments will soon be available with Dr. Carter at The Eye Clinic in Lake Charles, Sulphur, Moss Bluff and Jennings.

Call (337) 478-3810 or 1-800-826-5223.

www.TheEyeClinic.net August 2016

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23

Mind & Body

Managing Your Dry Eye Symptoms

Scratchy eyes may sound like a harmless side effect of summer’s hot, windy days or the coming of allergy season, but dry eye disease can cause some serious harm to your eyes’ ocular surface if your tears evaporate too quickly or if your eyes produce low quality tears. Over 55 million Americans endure the symptoms of dry eye, and 39 million of those are undiagnosed with dry eye disease.

“Dry eye disease is one of the most underdiagnosed ocular diseases out there, but it is one of the most common reasons why people visit their eye care professional,” said Dr. William B. Hart of Hart Eye Center in Lake Charles.

Your tears are more than just a salty solution keeping your eyes from drying out. The ocular surface is a fragile ecosystem that nourishes your eyes and helps to block bacteria. When your eyes’ natural moisture balance is thrown off by dry eye, your eyes are susceptible to debris and infection.

“Our eyes undergo a lot of stress,” Dr. Hart

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commented. “Dry eye disease can be caused by many things, from environmental factors and medications to contact lenses and refractive eye surgeries.”

Dry eye is defined as a multifactoral disease of the tears and the ocular surface, and it can yield symptoms like discomfort, blurry vision and redness.

“If you feel the need to blink your eyes often to restore clear vision, you may have dry eye disease,” said Dr. Hart.

To combat dry eye symptoms, many head to the drug store and purchase generic eye drops.

While this may seem like the obvious solution to the problem, many eye drop products are full of preservatives and can exacerbate your dry eye symptoms in the long run.

Instead of relying on checking off a long list of possible dry eye symptoms, always consult with your eye care professional first. Area patients

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can now be quickly and efficiently diagnosed

by TearLab, which is the first dry eye diagnostic system of its kind in the Lake Area.

TearLab is an objective and quantitative point-of-care diagnostic test that provides precise information regarding dry eye disease.

By taking a tiny sample of a patient’s tears from the eyelid, TearLab can accurately measure the eyes’ osmolarity. The amount of tear fluid needed is no larger than the period at the end of this sentence. “TearLab adds valuable data to an eye doctor’s examinations,” said Dr. Hart.

Once the patient’s osmolarity score is determined, the patient and eye doctor can move forward toward effective treatment options and work to improve the patient’s quality of life.

To find out more about Hart Eye Center’s TearLab, visit www.HartEyeCenter.com or call 337-439-4014.

August 2016

Named One of the Healthiest Banks in the U.S.

4735 Nelson Road, Lake Charles 2132 Oak Park Boulevard, Lake Charles 2203 Sampson Street, Westlake

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YEARS

IN A ROW!

DepositAccounts just issued its list of the “Top 200 Healthiest Banks in America,” and for the 3rd year in a row, Lakeside made the list. We are one of just four banks in the state to be included in the ranking, and the only bank in Southwest Louisiana to meet the standards.

DepositAccounts independently evaluates the financial health of all 6,500 federally insured banks in the United States, and ranks them based on capitalization, deposit growth, loan to reserve ratios, and other critical factors.

Join the migration to Lakeside

LakesideBanking.com

Meet the Newest Member of our Physician Staff,

Andres Guillermo, MD, Family Medicine Physician

Family Medicine Specialist Dr. Andres Guillermo has joined the Imperial Health physician team.

Dr. Guillermo has over nine years of experience in his field, the last six of which were in private practice at the Guillermo Family Medical Clinic in DeRidder. His new office is located at 333 Dr. Michael DeBakey Drive, Suite 110, in Lake Charles.

Originally from Thibodaux, Louisiana, Dr. Guillermo received his undergraduate degree in Pre-med/Biology from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, and earned his Medical Degree from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine in Saint Maarten. Dr. Guillermo completed his Family Practice Residency Program at the LSUHSC School of Medicine Family Medicine Residency Program in Lake Charles.

Dr. Guillermo is certified by the American Board of Family Medicine.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Guillermo, call (337)-419-1958.

www.imperialhealth.com

333 Dr. Michael DeBakey Dr. | Suite 110 • Lake Charles August 2016

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

25

McNeese photos courtesy of McNeese athletics

IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN. WHETHER YOU’RE A DIE-HARD TIGER, A LOYAL COWBOY, A FANATIC SAINT, OR ALL OF THE ABOVE, GET READY TO CHEER ON YOUR FAVORITE TEAM THIS FOOTBALL SEASON. THRIVE WANTS YOU TO BE PREPARED. HERE’S THE OUTLOOK FOR EACH OF OUR AREA’S FAN FAVORITES. 26 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2016

COME SEE OUR

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS

Friday night high school football is a long-standing tradition in Southwest Louisiana, and Walnut Grove is built on a foundation of local history and tradition.

We are expanding rapidly, with new commercial and residential properties available. As we grow, we are proud to add an extra glow to the night time skyline.

West Sallier Street, Lake Charles www.walnutgrovetnd.com

(337) 497-0825 Residential and Commercial Property Available

August 2016

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

27

COWBOY UP! For the defending Southland Conference champions McNeese Cowboys, the 2016 season looks to be Golden – as in Isaiah Golden, one the most highly regarded defensive linemen in the country.

Golden is joined by a fellow preseason All-America pick, safety Dominique Hill, to lead a crushing defense. And they’re only juniors, to boot.

They’re part of a bumper crop of returning talent this year.

Six players are first-team selections to the preseason All-Southland Conference football team. Joining Golden and Hill are two other juniors, wide receiver Kent Shelby and linebacker Ashari Goins; and two seniors, tight end/HB Zach Hetrick and offensive lineman Mason Martin.

But wait, there’s more. Three juniors are preseason all-conference’s second team – running back Ryan Ross, defensive lineman Jammerio Gross and defensive back Jermaine Antoine.

It’s a freshman, though, who will have the biggest impact on the team: Lance Guidry, the first-year head coach.

Guidry has taken the reins from Matt Viator, who left for the University of Louisiana-Monroe. Guidry is a former McNeese player (Class of 1995) who told Thrive he knows firsthand of McNeese’s winning tradition, the current

talent, and the extra boost that comes from playing at Cowboy Stadium in front of a home crowd.

Guidry became McNeese’s 15th head football coach last Dec. 16, with a battle cry: “Cowboy up!”

The hiring was an early Christmas present for McNeese fans hoping to sustain a winning tradition. At least three stocking stuffers came later -- with the addition of three McNeese Sports Hall of Fame members to the coaching staff: Kerry Joseph, Zack Bronson and Charlie Ayro. All were AllAmericans in their playing days.

It’s their job now to see that the wins continue.

When the scary-good McNeese defenders are done stopping the ball, the offense will be looking to advance it. In the backfield, Ross averaged 6.2 yards per carry last season in rushing for 891 yards and nine touchdowns.

In the air, Shelby caught 36 passes, six for TDs, for a team-leading 668 yards – better that 18 yard a catch. Hetrick had 10 receptions for 104 yards The Cowboys open the season Saturday, Sept. 3, hosting Tarleton State.

2016 SCHEDULE SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 | 6:00PM SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 | TBA

VS. TARLETON STATE @ UL-LAFAYETTE

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 | 6:00PM

VS. STEPHEN F. AUSTIN

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 | 6:00PM

@ INCARNATE WORD

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1 | 6:00PM

VS. NICHOLLS

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8 | 6:00PM

@ SOUTHEASTERN LOUISIANA

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15 | 6:00PM

VS. CENTRAL ARKANSAS

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22 | 6:00PM

@ NORTHWESTERN STATE

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29 | 6:00PM

VS. ABILENE CHRISTIAN

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5 | TBA

@ SAM HOUSTON STATE

SATURDAY, NOEVEMBER 19 | 6:00PM

28 www.thriveswla.com

VS. LAMAR

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2016

Lake Charles Branch - 700 Pujo St Ste C, Lake Charles, LA - 337-419-1885

Lake Charles Branch - 700 Pujo St Ste C, Lake Charles, LA - 337-419-1885 August 2016

Thrive Magazine for Better Living Lake Charles Branch - 700 Pujo St Ste C, Lake Charles, LA - 337-419-1885

www.thriveswla.com

29

O

nly 15 men have been the head coach of the McNeese State University football team.The newest

of them is Lance Guidry, who first showed his leadership potential as a full-out hoss on the McNeese defense in the 1990s — and wore

No. 15, as if telegraphing his future with the program. (And: If he wins a conference championship, it’ll be McNeese’s 15th.)

first person with

30 www.thriveswla.com

Lance Guidry

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

by Brett Downer

August 2016

Guidry played from 1990-93 and was known for his inspired play. Now he’s the main man drawing the same from others — with “Cowboy Up!” as his mantra.

Guidry, 45, has more than 20 years of sideline experience. He began as a defensive coach for Leesville and Carencro high schools. After that, he alternated between Carencro and McNeese before joining the coaching staff at Miami-Ohio, then Western Kentucky. He’s actually served as a head coach already, on an interim basis, twice — winning a bowl game for Miami-Ohio in 2010 and taking Western Kentucky to a bowl game in 2012.

Guidry returned to McNeese in 2013 as an assistant to Matt Viator. When Viator left for the University of Louisiana-Monroe after last season, Guidry was tabbed as the new head coach.

“Lance has done a terrific job as our defensive coordinator and assistant head coach,” McNeese Athletics Director Bruce Hemphill said when announcing Guidry’s promotion. “The defenses he’s headed up have been some of the best in the Southland Conference, and this year, among the best in the nation. He’s a proven winner everywhere he’s been. He’s an exceptional motivator and understands the pulse of the team.”

Guidry spoke with Thrive about his new job, his expectations, and his deep McNeese roots.

And now you’re in charge. What will you be like as a coach?

I’m a very enthusiastic guy. And I know this a very enthusiastic team.

What’s the status of the team as you take over?

First off, it has to be said that Coach Viator has left us lots to build on.

You played here, too. You’ve been an assistant since then. How has McNeese football grown during that time?

Back then, we hadn’t won a conference for 10 or 11 years. Then Coach (Bobby) Keasler came in and

August 2016

How do think that translates on game night?

I said when I got the job, there’s a term: “Cowboy Up.” And that’s us. Cowboy Up — you gotta be tough, stay in the game, get back in the saddle when you get knocked out of it. Everybody’s gotta Cowboy Up. What can we expect to see this season?

On offense, we’ll be a little more aggressive. I think fans will see us throw more — go for bigger plays. I like the potential of the passing game.

We’ve definitely brought back a lot of swagger.

It’s the offense that sells the tickets, and we’ll have a lot to offer fans there. We’ll introduce some aggressive new things.

restored some winning tradition. And that’s what I’m expecting.

And the fan base?

Let me tell you about the fans. I’m in a new role now, and I already appreciate the role they play.

That’s because I was fortunate enough to play at McNeese — this is going back to the days of the ’90s. It’s a great fan base. When we play at home, it’s like they come out of the woodwork. We always know they’re there.

You hear the fans? In the crush of the game, the concentration it requires — you can hear the crowd?

Oh, you hear them. (Laughs.) In Cowboy Stadium?

You hear them.

What’s your goal?

The Southland Conference championship — and then we want to be winning playoff games.

You’ve talked about the McNeese tradition a lot.

We want that. We’ve brought back some of that winning spirit with people like Kerry Joseph, (Charlie) Ayro and Zack Bronson (to the coaching staff). They know the tradition here, and they know how to win. (All are MSU Sports Hall of Famers and former All-Americans.)

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

31

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GO

TIGERS! Success for LSU this year – as measured in Baton Rouge and beyond, let alone by Athletic Director Joe Alleva – would be, oh, a top-10 finish and winning a nice bowl game.

Just kidding there.

For Tiger Nation, the expectations for 2016 start with a national championship, of course, and inch down incrementally. Stacked with returning talent, LSU is well-positioned to improve on last year’s 9-3 record (5-3 in the Southeastern Conference) and three-game losing streak to Alabama, Arkansas and Mississippi. Drawing the pathway to a national title is as tricky as diagramming a Les Miles sentence – but the route exists, and Miles has made a career of pulling things off.

LSU’s returning talent gives basis for high expectations. It starts with Leonard Fournette, the Heisman-caliber legend in the making who rushed for a team-record 1,953 yards and 22 touchdowns last season. Sixteen other starters return with him this fall – eight on each side of the ball. Kevin Toliver II and Tre’Davious White remain at cornerback. Ethan Pocic returns at center, flanked by Will Clapp and Maea Teuhema – core pieces of a strong offensive line. Gone, though, are safety Jalen Mills, offensive linemen Vadal Alexander and Jerald Hawkins, outside linebacker Deion Jones (who had 100 tackles) and cornerback Rashard Robinson.

Now to quarterback. (We’ll pause and let you take a deep breath.)

Recent seasons have had Tiger Nation reaching for the Rolaids, but this year might cause less heartburn. It certainly will mean tougher competition for the job. Quarterback Brandon Harris completed less than 54 percent of his pass attempts last season. This year, the players in the QB pool are, in random order, Harris himself; Anthony Jennings, who was the starting QB two seasons ago; and former Purdue starter Danny Etling, who sat out last year and transferred to LSU. In 13 games of Big Ten play, 12 as the starter, Etling completed 55.5 percent of his passes for 2,490 yards, 16 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Whatever the quarterback situation, the capable receiving corps is led by Malachi Dupre and Travin Dural.

LSU started 7-0 last year before the team – Fournette included – tailed off. This year, the talent would seem to justify the hype. For Les Miles, who’s back for his 12th year as head coach, the magic act he pulled off last year – saving his own job --- is worthy of an encore … and Tiger Nation hopes this one takes place on the field.

(337) 502-4144 • 2203 Sampson Street, | Westlake, LA

www.lakesidebanking.com 32 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2016

SMARTER BOLDER

FASTER

2016 SCHEDULE SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 | 2:30PM

@ WISCONSIN

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 | 6:30PM

VS. JACKSONVILLE STATE

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 | 6:00PM

VS. MISSISSIPPI STATE

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 | TBA

@ AUBURN

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1 | TBA

VS. MISSOURI

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8 | TBA

@ FLORIDA

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15 | TBA

VS. SOUTHERN MISS

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22 | TBA

VS. OLE MISS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5 | TBA

VS. ALABAMA

SATURDAY, NOEVEMBER 12 | TBA

@ ARKANSAS

SATURDAY, NOEVEMBER 19 | TBA

VS. SOUTH ALABAMA

SATURDAY, NOEVEMBER 24 | 6:30PM

August 2016

@ TEXAS A&M

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33

Will this season mark Drew Brees’ swan song with the Saints?

It seems unthinkable after a Super Bowl title, a string of playoff appearances and record-setting passing. The guy’s an icon. But he’s also 37 years old and in the final season of a five-year, $100 million deal. The NFL is a business as well as a sport — and the Saints didn’t come knocking with a fat contract extension over the offseason.

After two straight 7-9 seasons, the Saints needed to make moves. The money went elsewhere.

So, Saints fans, you have him this year for sure. The future’s unknown.

The 2016 outlook has the team wobbling along at .500 again. If the defense improves — and it can’t get much worse — the Saints can shoot for a 9-7 record and hope other teams lose enough to ensure a wild card. The offense can get them that far if the defense doesn’t keep pulling them back. Brees has led the league in passing three times in the last four years — including last year, with 4,870. New Orleans averaged 403 yards a game — one of only two teams to crack the 400 level — and a league-best 310 yards.

Brandin Cooks had 84 receptions, 1,138 yards, and nine touchdowns, leading the Saints in all three categories. He has the potential to run up huge numbers this year as Brees’ top air destination. The changing of the guard was made official in the offseason when the

34 www.thriveswla.com

Saints released receiver Marques Colston, who was the team’s all-time record-holder in TD catches and reception yardage. Rookie Michael Thimas may be the man who succeeds Colston. Tight end Ben Watson also has departed. His replacement is free agent Coby Fleener.

The defense, meanwhile, has far bigger challenges — with a stretch goal of achieving competence. The Saints’ D allowed more points than anyone last season — nearly 30 a game. The painful numbers — we’ll spare you the grisly details — paint the 2015 Saints as the worse pass defenders in NFL history.

To turn the page, the new additions via free agency are linebackers Nathan Stupa, Craig Robertson, and James Laurinitis; tackle Nick Fairley; and look-who’s-back safety Roman Harper, who was part of the Saints’ playoff and Super Bowl days.

First-round pick Sheldon Rankins should help at tackle. Two prospects from the previous draft — cornerback P.J. Williams and outside linebacker Davis Tull — missed last season with injuries but could be contributors this season. It’s the first full season for Dennis Allen as defensive coordinator. Last year, when he took over with halfdozen games left in the season — after Rob Ryan’s firing — the Saints went 3-3. Head coach Sean Payton signed a five-year extension of the off-season.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2016

2016 / 2017 SCHEDULE SEPTEMBER 11

WEEK 1 | VS. RAIDERS

SEPTEMBER 18

WEEK 2 | @ GIANTS

SEPTEMBER 26

WEEK 3 | VS. FALCONS

OCTOBER 2

WEEK 4 | @ CHARGERS

The region’s preferred Sports Medicine Team.

WEEK 5 | BYE OCTOBER 16

WEEK 6 | VS. PANTHERS

OCTOBER 23

WEEK 7 | @ CHIEFS

OCTOBER 30

WEEK 8 | VS. SEAHAWKS

NOVEMBER 6

WEEK 9 | @ 49ERS

NOVEMBER 13

WEEK 10 | VS. BRONCOS

NOVEMBER 17

WEEK 11 | @ PANTHERS

NOVEMBER 27

WEEK 12 | VS. RAMS

DECEMBER 4

WEEK 13 | VS. LIONS

DECEMBER 11

WEEK 14 | @ BUCCANEERS

DECEMBER 18

WEEK 15 | @ CARDINALS

DECEMBER 24

WEEK 16 | VS. BUCCANEERS

JANUARY 1

Official Sports Medicine Providers: McNEESE ATHLETICS

WEEK 17 | @ FALCONS

14 AREA HIGH SCHOOLS

SPORTS INJURY HOTLINE (337) 439-7220

(337) 721-7236 • www.centerforortho.com LAKE CHARLES • SULPHUR • DERIDDER

OUR DOCTORS John Noble Jr., MD Craig Morton, MD Tyson Green, DPM Steven Hale, MD

July 2016

William Lowry Jr., MD George “J.” Trappey IV, MD Andrew Foret, MD Kalieb Pourciau, DPM

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Jonathan Foret, MD David Drez Jr., MD, Senior Advisor

www.thriveswla.com

35

Home & Family 6 Tips to Help College Freshmen Thrive . . . from Someone Who’s Been There

By Olivia Heinen, Junior at Texas Christian University

While college can be a great experience overall, the path to graduation is not an easy journey. It takes a lot of dedication to have a nice grade point average as you also participate in some social events. I personally have gotten a more balanced college life by following these six pieces of advice: 1. KEEP AN OPEN MIND. Colleges consist of a large and diverse group of students. Initiating conversation with others can result in new friendships and connections.

I made a handful of new friends my first week on campus by simply introducing myself to them. Your classes will be diverse as well. I have learned better writing techniques in my writing major classes. However, I have also learned about different religious practices and the history behind works of art via the core curriculum. You can get something out of any class, even though its content may seem “useless” or “irrelevant” to you.

2. COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR PROFESSORS. At first, I thought I annoyed my professors when I approached them regarding information in their classes. However, they would always tell me, “Thanks for stopping by.” This means that coming to professors with questions and/or concerns only pleases them. It shows that you not only care about your success in classes, but also about the content the professors are teaching. Utilize their office hours. If their office hours do not work with your schedule, most professors will arrange a meeting with you. Making this effort almost guarantees getting better grades.

3. MAINTAIN A BALANCED DIET. The freshmen fifteen is not a myth. You will think that eating two fast food meals in the same day or having ice cream for dinner will be a one-time thing. It will not be. They become bad habits that you may not recognize until it takes a significant toll on your health. After learning this lesson the hard way, I try to imagine how my parents would react as I make my dining decisions.

36 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2016

4. DEVOTE MORE TIME TO STUDYING THAN YOU FEEL LIKE YOU SHOULD. Almost every bit of school work you are given in college is significantly harder than what you were given in high school. Tests may cover about five chapters instead of one or two. They may also be in a long answer or essay format instead of being completely multiple choice. Word counts in papers are longer, and writing broadly is seen as a lack of effort. All of this means that you cannot start preparing the night before a due date. You should start at least a week before on any significant assignment and go through all information thoroughly. I originally thought that I could not handle college work, but this completely changed when I decided to follow this advice.

5. USE ALL RESOURCES YOUR SCHOOL OFFERS. The constant emails and signs from campus resources annoyed me at first. I later realized the reason behind these advertisements: these resources are extremely helpful all throughout college. If you are sick, go to the health center.

If you are going through a tough time, go to the counseling center. If you are trying to get a job, go to career services. There are also tutors for almost every academic subject on campus.

A lot of these resources are free of charge, so there is almost no excuse to not take advantage of them.

Insta

803 North Division Street Lake Charles, LA 70601 337-433-5246 www.episcopaldayschool.org

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6. HAVE FUN WHENEVER YOU CAN. Yes, you can participate in the stereotypical, social life of college. Everyone needs a break from studying and/or working. Have some fun because no other stage of life will ever be like your college years.

Global Citizenship Outstanding Technology Program Vibrant Fine Arts Program Successful, Confident Graduates Individual Attention Spiritual Growth Leadership

Great Reasons to be a

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

37

Home & Family

Make Backto-School Photos a Snap

by Sylvia Ney

By Sylvia Ney

It’s that time of year when all parents begin hitting the “Back-to-School” sales, buying classroom supplies, and planning their new schedules.

This is also when social media becomes flooded with “first day” photos. If you want to make yours memorable, try these tips:

Supplies – Start your school pictures with a few shots of the kids picking up school supplies. Brightly colored pencils, a personalized backpack, school uniform, or new clothes can all tell the story of your preparation for the new school year.

The Outfit – It can be hard to let go of the control to choose your child’s outfit for the first day of school. We want our little ones to look nice, make a great impression, and we want that reflected in our pictures. However, your child may feel nervous and a familiar favorite shirt or new pick may help them cope. It’s also a great reflection of your child’s personality and the phase they are currently appreciating. This makes a great picture, which in turn makes a great memory. Even if they have a designated uniform, have the kids try on their new clothes a few days ahead of time and hold a mini photo shoot so you are not rushed on the first day.

Props

– Many people choose to use props such as signs with “class of ...” or grade # … For a slightly vintage look, try adding a bow tie, suspenders, or retro glasses, an old desk, an apple for the teacher, a globe, ruler, typewriter, or even a chalkboard to your pictures. For a more personalized look, include their new textbooks, or a pile of favorite reads. Have them hold a large frame, a calendar, and maybe even the computer they use. For younger kids, consider using number and letter blocks or magnetic letters in their photos. For the older crowd, consider printing signs such as hashtag senior, or #BacktoSchool. Allow the kiddos to be goofy, choose their own props, and have fun with the photos.

38 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2016

Chalk It Up to Dreams – Have your child write out what they want to be when they grow up using chalk on the sidewalk or driveway. Have them lay down next to their creation while you stand over them to snap a picture.

Their own handwriting, cute smile, and pose with their dreams can become a treasured memory.

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Be Candid – The first day is crammed full of emotions for everyone involved. Try to capture those moments of interaction between yourself and spouse with your child, grandparents, and siblings. Snap shots of them reuniting with friends they haven’t seen over the summer. These photos should be natural and unplanned moments you quietly capture without interrupting the pace.

Transportation – Sometimes we drive our kids to school the first day, and sometimes they ride the bus, walk, or ride bikes. Remember to snap a few photos of them heading off to school on the first day.

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first day of school, or just head into the classroom early on the first day, take photos of your children on school grounds (maybe someplace with the school logo, mascot, or a favorite hangout) as well as the classroom.

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Bonus – For a cute project down the road, try taking similar shots and poses each year. When your child graduates, you can create a collage or scrapbook of the first day of school photos over the years!

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Whatever choices you make, be sure the pictures are a true reflection of your child and have fun!

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2510 Enterprise Blvd. | Lake Charles, La. 70601 • (337) 436-7959 • www.stmcs.com • kfontenot@stmcs.com August 2016

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39

Home & Family

Landyn Wants a Forever Home

Eight-year-old Landyn is hoping to go from foster care to a forever home.

Landyn is a rising third grader and describes himself as a good kid and you only have to spend a few moments with him to find yourself smiling at his wit and feeling like you are talking to an old soul.

Landyn does well in school, excelling in every subject, and making all A’s and B’s on his report card.

His foster mom and adoption worker know how badly Landyn wants to be adopted. That is why he jumped on the opportunity to get closer to making that happen with KPLC’s feature story in Britney Glaser’s The New Family Tree segment.

Landyn’s list of “musts” in a forever family is pretty basic: “Food, shelter, love, and other friends to play with,” he says.

Moving to another home with strangers does make Landyn nervous, but he says time will help the relationships grow.

When asked what he wanted a potential forever family to know about him, Landyn says, “I’m a good child and I want them to think that I would be a good child to have.”

Landyn is legally freed for adoption through the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services. Call 337-4912470 to make an inquiry. There is one remaining orientation session this summer at the Lake Charles DCFS office, 1919 Kirkman Street in Lake Charles. That session is set for Monday, August 15 at 6:00 p.m. The orientations provide an opportunity to get an overview about foster care and adoption through foster care.

If you have questions about the adoption process or want to make an inquiry about Landyn, call the Lake Charles DCFS office at 337-491-2470.

40 www.thriveswla.com

Each day, an abused or neglected child is removed from an unsafe home and placed in Louisiana’s foster care system. They remain in the system until their home environment is safe—but for many, that never happens. Of the 4,000 children currently cycling in state foster care, about 350 are ready to be adopted today. More than 60 of them are in Southwest Louisiana, right here in our community.

KPLC reporter Britney Glaser, in partnership with the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), highlights children who are legally ready to be adopted. Thrive is supporting The New Family Tree by featuring this month’s story.

QUICK FACTS ON ADOPTING A FOSTER CHILD

• Minimum age is 21.

• Single people can adopt.

• Many of the children in state custody are considered “special needs,” which is defined as the following: older child, race/ ethnic background, sibling group, medical conditions, and/or physical/mental/emotional handicaps.

• Children in foster care are there as a result of abuse, neglect or abandonment.

• The certification process typically takes 90 days to complete.

Once matched with a child, the process to legally adopt a child takes about one year.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2016

Summer Olympics NUMBER OF PARTICIPATING COUNTRIES IN THE SUMMER OLYMPIC GAMES

206 10,500 42 NUMBER OF ATHLETES WHO WILL PARTICIPATE IN THE RIO GAMES

TOTAL NUMBER OF SUMMER OLYMPIC SPORTS THIS YEAR

3

NUMBER OF CONTINENTS THAT HAVE NEVER HOSTED AN OLYMPICS

18

THE MOST MEDALS EVER WON IN A SINGLE SUMMER OLYMPICS

12,000

NUMBER OF ATHLETES WHO WILL CARRY THE OLYMPIC TORCH

1960

YEAR THE FIRST SUMMER GAMES WERE TELEVISED IN THE U.S. Sources: krcresearch.com; www.factmonster.com; www.statista.com/topics/1730/olympic-summer-games/; en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2016_Summer_Olympics; thebiglead.com/2016; www.olympic.org; www.rio2016.com

August 2016

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978

NUMBER OF MEDALS WON BY AMERICAN ATHLETES DURING THE SUMMER OLYMPICS BETWEEN 1896-2012 www.thriveswla.com

41

Current Trends for

Pampered Pets

by Lauren Atterbery Cesar

Comedian Rita Rudner once said, “I wonder if other dogs think that poodles are members of a weird religious cult.” It is true when one thinks of an extremely pampered pet, they would be hardpressed not to conjure up images of a poodle prancing around with intricately coiffed hair, a diamond collar, and perfectly manicured paws. In today’s culture, however, it has become increasingly common to see all manner of pets sporting the latest fashions and trends while they’re peeking out from their owner’s purses in the local pet-friendly cafe.

In fact, extremely pampered pooches can experience an array of services that some of their 42 www.thriveswla.com

human companions may not indulge in themselves.

For some owners, nothing is too good for their pets! What might possess a pet parent to treat their animals like humans? Some people pamper their pets because they are empty-nesters and want something on which to lavish their affections.

Others simply have lots of extra love to give. You may find it difficult to imagine your great dane or yellow lab receiving more than a flea bath and nail clipping when you drop them off for their yearly shots, but the options for Fido are limited only to what your imagination can conceive.

Should you and your canine companion find yourselves in Chicago, Stay. A Modern Dog Hotel Thrive Magazine for Better Living

offers your fur baby pool time in an indoor lap pool with swim-in-place currents and one-on-one exercise sessions, just in case they have put on a little excess holiday weight and need to fit into their fabulous New Year’s Eve outfit from Karl Lagerfield’s Pet Kollection. (www.karl.com) Perhaps lighter exercise is more your pet’s speed.

Marie Osmond and Betty White are fans of Doga, or doggy yoga, a relaxing form of exercise that was created by pet guru Suzi Teitelman. You and your pet can take classes in Florida, or you can watch the videos online from the comfort of your living room.

Namaste!

If you are concerned with your pet’s mind and August 2016

spirit as well as their body, you may consider employing a pet psychic like the world-renowned Sonya Fitzpatrick. For a mere three-hundred dollars for a thirty-minute phone conversation, Sonya asks questions of your pet and helps you determine the issues your palomino, parrot, calico, or corgi may be having. You will no longer be forced to wonder why Fluffy the Cat has an aversion to the litter box or Sarge barks at Aunt Sally every time she walks by the oven.

If you prefer to pamper your pet closer to home, A Cut Above Pet Spa at 2712 Country Club Road in Lake Charles offers some distinctive services to help your pet put their best paw forward. Should your pooch be in need of a spa day, A Cut Above will be happy to oblige with mud mask treatments, hydration therapy, skin renewal treatments, micro bubble baths, and relaxation massages. But what pet spa would be worth its bath salts without offering cutting edge grooming techniques?

Although a leopard may not be able to change its spots, for a short time, Spot can have zebra stripes with custom airbrushing -- all the rage during holidays like Mardi Gras when pet owners can show off their pups in the local parades. Stylish tail-waggers can also spruce up those ears with gluedon earrings, dyed tips, and even glitter-tipped ears! If you’ve been watching “The Last of the Mohicans” or “Pocahontas” lately with your sweet little schnauzer and you feel inspired, you can have a feather woven into their hair to add a little pizazz to their Halloween costume. However, feathers on Fido may give your cockatoo an identity crisis, so be forewarned.

Gill Bright Animal Hospital offers services like aromatherapy massage and soothing mudbaths for your pet, but they rarely get strange requests from pet parents. However, Crystal Rublaitus, owner of A Cut Above Pet Spa, recalls some interesting requests she has received in the past. “Once, a woman was upset that her black poodle was going gray. She didn’t want people to see that he was aging, so she wanted me to use human hair dye and dye him black from head to toe. Of course, we were unable to honor this request as the dye was not safe for pets.”

With all of the options out there for pets and their owners, one thing is certain: nothing is too good for Fluffy and Fido. Pets make amazing companions, and one way to show them your appreciation is by giving them lots of love . . . and the occasional pampering. After all, they are man’s best friends.

The Eye Clinic in Sulphur is moving – but you won’t have to look very far to find us! We’re relocating at the end of August to our new office just around the corner:

720 Cypress Street across from West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital

The Eye Clinic has provided comprehensive eye care for the entire family in Sulphur for over 25 years, and our new office will feature more exam rooms, a larger waiting area, expanded Optics Unlimited eyewear, a full-service contact lens department and additional parking.

BETTER VISION IS MOVING UP THE ROAD!

(337) 625- 8948 | theeyeclinic.net

720 Cypress St.

August 2016

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43

Lake Charles Opens Downtown Dog Park The City of Lake Charles, the Quality of Life Task Force for the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance, and the Community Foundation of Southwest Louisiana opened the new downtown dog park last month. Bark du Lac is located on the corner of Ann and Pine streets in Lake Charles.

“The dog park introduces another component to our downtown in addition to other amenities such as coffee shops, restaurants, museums, galleries, businesses and housing. Not only does the dog park provide a public place for residents and their dogs to safely socialize, it offers another reason for interstate travelers to stop in Lake Charles and shop in our businesses or eat in our restaurants,” said Mayor Randy Roach.

In September 2015, the City Council gave approval for the park to be created on city property behind the City Court building. At that time, the City committed to constructing fences necessary for the park along with other improvements and the Task Force committed to raising funds for other items including benches, picnic tables, and fountains.

“Having a dog park is something that our youngest generation of workers looks for when selecting where they want to live.

Our Development Advocacy group worked closely with the City of Lake Charles to provide this park for its downtown residents and their furry companions. The City has many projects and programs they are working on to improve the quality of life for their residents, and we were glad to step in and raise money for this park’s amenities,” said Patricia Prudhomme, 2016 Quality of Life Chair and Director of Banners at McNeese.

The Bark du Lac Dog Park would have been impossible without the overwhelming response from residents and local businesses in support of this park. Over 60 individuals, businesses and organizations contributed to the Quality of Life Fund at the Community Foundation to make the dog park a reality.

Doug and Gay Gehrig of McDonalds of Southwest Louisiana signed on as the park’s title sponsor. The Juliet Hardtner Endowment Fund of the Community Foundation started the fund as a Gold Sponsor, and was joined

by Silver Sponsor CITGO Petroleum, and Bronze Sponsors Rick & Donna Richard of 44 www.thriveswla.com

Empire of the Seed, Mr. & Mrs. Billy Blake, Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, The Rotary Club of Greater Lake Charles, The Pat Hight Insurance Agency, The Investors Group of Louisiana, Magnolia LNG, and Vicki Wicks in memory of her mother – Sylvester Myers.

The park also benefited greatly from Friends of the Dog Park which brought in $4,250 in contributions ranging from $25 to $500.

We are also honored to have been the beneficiary of donations in memory of Mrs. Catherine Navarra.

The downtown dog park will be under the supervision of the Recreation and Parks Department of the City of Lake Charles.

For more information on the park, please visit www.cityoflakecharles.com or call 337-491-9176.

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August 2016

Pets and Social Media Animals Garner Increased Online Attention

From dogs and cats filling up social media feeds - some even with their own profile pages - to true pet celebrities who command the attention of millions, animals have become a major part of the digital landscape.

With this in mind, Mars Petcare conducted a survey to learn more about people’s social media habits when it comes to animals. Here are some of the top findings.

All Animals, All the Time About 65 percent of pet owners post about their furry friends on social media an average of two times per week. One in six said they’ve created a social media profile specifically for their pet - and half of those pet owners say their pets get more social attention than they do online. One third said they post about their pets as much, and as often, as they do about their human family and 13 percent admitted to posting about their pets even more than they do their human relatives.

Pet Love Trumps Personal Vanity More than half of pet owners polled care more about getting “likes” and/or comments for their pet-related posts than they do for most other topics, including changes to their own profile picture. Whichever way you throw the ball, pet posts matter most.

Call Them the “Paw-Purratzi” Thirty percent of pet owners follow famous animals on social media. The bottom line is people love pets, whether it’s their own or one with real rock star status, and love sharing their stories with the world. The survey underscores what was already known: Pets have become an integral part of people’s lives and pop culture.

To learn more about how to make a Better World for Pets, visit facebook.com/ABetterWorldforPets.

The only Salon (facility & staff) that is AKC Certified in Louisiana.

A Cut Above Pet Spa Styles de cheveux de chien d’elite (337) 474-1337 | 2712 Country Club Road • Lake Charles, LA | www.acutabove-petspa.com August 2016

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Members of ISCC and NDGAA.

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45

Ruffin’ It On Vacation

at these Dog-Friendly Hotels

by Andrea Guthmann

Step inside Chicago’s elegant Fairmont and you’ll be surprised by the newest member of the hotel staff. Some might say this resort has gone to the dogs! Chinook, a golden retriever, serves as the hotel’s dog-cierge, greeting

W Hotels

guests as they enter the lobby.

The W’s P.A.W. (Pets Are Welcome) program invites guests to bring along their four-legged friends at properties throughout the U.S, including Minneapolis’ iconic 1920’s-inspired hotel. Perks include walking, grooming, toys and turndown treats. In Minneapolis, they’ve gone so far as to build pillow forts for the hotel’s favorite four-legged guests, which have included celebrity canines like Spot (the face of Target).

The luxurious Fairmont brand realizes people are increasingly vacationing with their furry friends in tow, and they’re bending over backwards to make room for this new breed of traveler. Fairmont’s not alone . . . a growing number of hotels across the U.S. are catering to canines, offering everything from welcome goodie bags to enclosed dog runs, even staff that will walk your dog while you’re out.

Yet even among hotel chains that claim to be pet-friendly, individual policies vary. Some merely tolerate dogs, while others roll out the red carpet. Loews Coronado Bay Resort in San Diego can set up dog surf lessons and the W Fort Lauderdale offers a special menu for pets, including organic salmon and steamed asparagus!

Some hotels enforce weight limits and have rules about dogs being crated when guests are gone. Some charge a daily fee for pets or require a security deposit, while others (Red Roof Inn and Kimpton) charge nothing at all.

Remember to call before booking, for specifics.

Staybridge Suites Another budget-friendly roadside hotel priding itself on offering canine comforts is the Staybridge Suites brand. Each individual hotel has its own policies, but here’s how the Staybridge Suites in Alabama’s Gulf Shores will pamper your pooch: welcome doggie bag at check-in (bandana, chew toy and list of pet-friendly al-fresco restaurants), gated outdoor dog run, and a jar of dog biscuits at the front desk.

Want to hear live music at Lulu’s (sister of native son Jimmy Buffet) or enjoy fresh Gulf seafood at the elegant Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina? Staff will gladly take your dog out for a walk, free of charge, while you’re gone. No wonder more than half the guests at Staybridge Suites Gulf Shores have dogs! $75 pet fee for up to 6 nights.

Staybridge Suites Gulf Shores is about as pet-friendly a hotel as you’ll find. But it’s not just chain hotels that roll out the welcome mat for our furry friends. Some independent resorts are dog-friendly, as well.

Looking to escape the Louisiana heat? Consider heading up to the Great Lakes Inn and Suites in coastal South Haven, Michigan. This charming harbor town understands that traveling without man’s best friend can be unbearable! Located two hours from Chicago and three hours from Detroit, many South Haven restaurants and hotels are pet-friendly.

There’s even a chic downtown store catering to canines. Decadent Dogs offers gourmet doggie treats, as well dog-themed gifts for just about every breed of dog lover. Comfort Suites of South Haven is also pet-friendly.

Best Western This economical hotel chain did a study with AAA Travel finding more than 50% of travelers like to vacation with their pets. They’ve answered that demand by offering tips on traveling with your pet on their website, which also lists policies at different Best Western hotels.

As you plan your vacation, ask these questions when contacting hotels: • Can the dog be left in the room unattended?

• Are dogs allowed on the beach, pool, gardens or other public walking paths?

• Are dogs welcome at outdoor patios and restaurants?

If you’re a dog owner, you know that pet-friendly places rule. No bones about it. Just do your homework before the vacation, so you and your canine companion can peacefully travel together.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2016

Jae H. Chang, DVM • Randy L. Farr, DVM

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August 2016

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47

The “Dog Days” of Summer

Safety Tips for your Pet School may be starting, but as the

temperature reflects, we’ll be enduring summer weather - and heat - for several more weeks. “We love to get out and about with our pets during this time of year, but we need to keep in mind that the summer season can be very dangerous for our companions,” says Dr. Jae Chang, with Prien Lake Animal Hospital.

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Southwest Louisiana is growing and the need for skilled workers is too. Get the training you need now so you’ll be ready for new career opportunities.

Learn more at www.allianceswla.org.

(337) 433-3632 l www.allianceswla.org 48 www.thriveswla.com

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August 2016

As we enter the “dog days” of summer, here are some summer safety tips for your pets:

1 2 3 4 5

NEVER leave your pet in a hot car! It takes only minutes for a pet to suffer a heatstroke and suffocate in a car. Even on a nice spring-like day at 78 degrees, temperatures in a car can reach 90 degrees in the shade and upwards of 160 degrees if parked directly in the sun. “If you’re driving around with your pet in the car, bring water and a water dish and take your dog with you when you leave the car,” suggests Dr. Chang.

Make sure your pet is protected from parasites like fleas, ticks and mosquitoes. “Mosquitoes are especially prevalent in our area and can carry the heartworm parasite, which is very dangerous to your pet. It’s very important for your pet to be protected all year long, but especially during the months of heavy mosquito activity – which can actually be all year long in our state,” explains Dr. Chang.

Keep your pet’s paws protected. Dr. Chang says, “We know what it feels like to have our bare feet on sunbaked pavement during the summer months, and your pet can feel it too. Hot pavement or metal – like in the back of a truck – can not only burn your pet’s paws but it can also increase their body temperature which can lead to overheating.”

Pets need access to plenty of fresh water and shade.

“When our pets get hot, panting and drinking water are really the only ways they have to cool themselves down,” says Dr. Chang. You should keep your pet indoors, if possible, during the summertime but if that isn’t an option make sure they have plenty of shade outside. Even though dogs and cats like to sunbathe, direct sunlight can overheat them and cause heatstroke.

Watch your pet around water. “Not all dogs and other pets are natural swimmers. They should be watched around water at all times,” explains Dr. Chang. Even if your pet is a good swimmer, they may not be able to get out of a pool or other body of water, causing them to drown. There are several types and styles of life vests available for pets that you can purchase.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR A CAR TO GET HOT? Outside Temperature

75º 80º 85º 90º 95º

Inside Temperature 10min. 30min.

94º 109º 99º 114º 104º 119º 109º 124º 114º 129º

EXCEL is proud to announce the purchase of Ron Williams Construction, which will expand our footprint in the Lake Charles region. Local customers will benefit from EXCEL’s expanded services delivered by employees from the Lake Charles community. It’s the best of both worlds for this growing region.

CONSTRUCTION • MAINTENANCE• FABRICATION • ENGINEERING

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS FOR NEARLY 40 YEARS! 337.882.1238

August 2016

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excelusa.com

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49

Pet Lovers are We! Crystal Hines-Ortego

Sixty-five percent of U.S. households, or about 79.7 million families, own a pet, according to the 2015-2016 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association (APPA). That number includes the staff and owners at Thrive magazine and Healthy Image Marketing! Check out their furry loved ones.

Crystal, office manager at Healthy Image, has the largest crew of critters, topping out at six furry rescued friends, including dogs and kitties.

Hank

Khaki

Karma

Coda

ssen Barbara VanGo

Kasper

Max

Mandy Gilm ore

Barbara, co-owner and creative director of Healthy Image and Thrive, enjoys four fur babies that keep her household hopping and full of joy.

Cali Boomer

KitKat

Winchester

Mia

Mandy, graphic designer for Healthy Image, is crazy about this cutie patootie.

Look at that face!

7TH ANNUAL

MUSCULOSKELETAL SYMPOSIUM Saturday, October 8, 2016 • 7:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino • Lake Charles,

LA

An integrated educational program for physician and physician extenders in the areas of family practice, pediatrics, internal medicine, occupational medicine, sports medicine, physical therapy, nursing and athletic trainers. Specialists from individual fields will speak on all aspects of musculoskeletal medicine.

For more information, call 337-312-8291 or pre-register by emailing Tonya Richard at TRichard@imperialhealth.com. Same-day registration is also available at the event.

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a maximum of 5.25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™ will be awarded

August 2016

Shonda Manuel

Shonda, associate creative director and photographer of Healthy Image, has quite a mixed brood of pets, including a ham of a guinea pig, a brand new kitten and a fancy fish.

Frisk Chip Kris Roy

Sebastian Victor DiGiovanni

Tiger Lilly Katie Steven son

Kris, graphic designer for Healthy Image, has two special cats that keep him and his wife, Lauren continually entertained.

Katie, business manager for Thrive magazine, adores this precious pup who loves playing fetch and will do just about anything for a treat!

Chloe

Bentley

Victor, resident videographer for Healthy Image, has a very patriotic set of pooch pals.

Caroline Landry

Mandy

Barbie Benny

Robin Barton more Angie Dil

Boss Man

Pretty sure the name says it all for this big guy who belongs to Robin, communication specialist for Healthy Image.

August 2016

Laci

Caroline, communications specialist for Healthy Image, enjoys this bundle of energy who has a major obsession with tennis balls.

Ava & Mystic

Angie, editor for Thrive magazine, is the proud owner of these precious twinsies.

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We created our clinic with our patients in mind. From a convenient location, a spa-like atmosphere, and extended hours, our focus is you.

Dr. Laurie Baynard Dr. Joseph Kulaga 5656 Nelson Road, Suite D2 Lake Charles, Louisiana 70605 (337) 240-6619 www.lakecharleschiro.com www.thriveswla.com

51

Money & Career Catch a Balance between Employee Protocol and

by Michael Wicks

If you haven’t yet heard of the mobile gaming phenomenon, Pokémon Go, welcome back from the tundra of Antarctica.

The augmented reality gaming app that prompts players to hunt for 151 different characters on their phones debuted on July 6, 2016 and has captivated the minds, attention spans, and wallets of gamers across the country. The app can be addicting, and if you feel inclined to catch a few Eevee when you’re at work, you’re not alone. An estimated (likely underestimated) 17 million employees admit to playing the game while on the clock.

How can gamers balance this virtual scavenger hunt with a positive work ethic?

52 www.thriveswla.com

While some employers staunchly forbid playing Pokémon Go (or any other gaming app) during work hours, others embrace the concept and use the opportunity to increase employee activity and encourage team building exercises. It’s a well known fact that an occasional walk around the block can improve employee productivity and creativity. At the least, employees should be free to spend personal time such as lunch hours and coffee breaks looking for pokémon “I think when I’m at work, work is my priority,” says local paralegal Terrence Gumpter, “But when I walk to the bathroom though, that’s my time.”

Here are some tips to help you stay productive and respect your employer, while still getting your Pokefix here and there.

Establish office boundaries with your boss and know what he/she expects of you. Communication is key. Ask upfront if it’s okay to spend a few minutes during your downtime throwing curve balls at small monsters.

Confirm with your employer that your gaming poses no security risks to the office network or organization.

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August 2016

• Pokémon GO was developed and published by a company called Niantic.

• Nintendo only owns 33% stake in the game, and receives 30% of the game’s revenue.

If you work in a managerial role, set the standard for workplace culture and lead by example. If employees see you constantly using your mobile device around the office, chances are they will follow suit.

• Nintendo had a 24.52 percent rise in Nintendo share price (highest since 1983) which added $9 billion to Nintendo’s market value within five days of the game’s release.

Encourage co-worker “team-building” activities while playing Pokémon Go. A cohesive team is key to any successful business, and allowing employees some downtime while fostering relationships with each other can improve productivity.

• On July 12, the game became the most active mobile game in U.S., with 21 million users.

• It has been suggested that playing Pokémon GO relieves sufferers of depression and social anxiety by giving a healthy outlet to combat their maladies by means of active exercise through pokémon hunting, and by having positive social interactions between other gamers.

Ultimately, both staff and managers are being paid to do a job. When on the job, work comes first. Ensuring there are clearly defined rules regarding workplace gaming is a must in this technologically advanced age.

Infertility support that can have some very cute results.

If you and your partner have struggled with infertility for more than six months, it may be time for an evaluation. So it’s good to know that Uzma Porché, M.D., is here to help.

Dr. Porché is a friend and trusted colleague of retiring physician TriCia Guidry, M.D., and has recently taken over her practice.

Dr. Porché provides initial fertility workups and management, preconception counseling and complete OB/GYN care.

She is now accepting new patients.

Uzma Porché, M.D. TriCia Guidry, M.D. OB/GYN

OB/GYN (Retired)

Uzma Porché, M.D.

4150 Nelson Rd., Bldg. E, Suite 2 Lake Charles

337-474-0653

LakeAreaMC.com Independent Members of the Medical Staff at Lake Area Medical Center

August 2016

92449_LAMC_Porche_8x4_875c.indd 1

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7/28/16 9:16 AM

Money & Career

Cell Phone Courtesy in a Connected World

Relief for Dry Eye Syndrome Are your eyes suffering from these symptoms?

• Eye redness • Watery eyes or excess tears • Itching, burning sensation • Gritty or sandy feeling • Difficulty wearing contact lenses • Sensitivity to light, or difficulty seeing at night Like many people in Southwest Louisiana, you may have chronic Dry Eye Syndrome. Besides being uncomfortable, Dry Eye increases your chances of vision problems and infections.

Diagnosis—Then Relief During your eye exam, Hart Eye Center’s TearLab® will use a sample of your own tears to measure your tear osmolarity and determine if you suffer from Dry Eye Syndrome.

When Dry D Eye is diagnosed, treatment is available to correct the problem and give you relief.

Call 439-4014 to schedule an eye exam at Hart Eye Center.

harteyecenter.com • 439-4014 • 1727 Imperial Blvd., Building 1, Suite B., Lake Charles

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

August 2016

You’re in a business meeting and someone’s phone starts ringing. You’re in a restaurant and your date is looking at her phone all evening instead of talking to you. It’s the middle of mass and the guy at the end of the pew is texting with his buddies. We’ve become a society connected to our cell phones, but at what cost?

While certainly convenient, we’ve developed bad habits around the incessant texting, emailing, calling and being connected 24/7.

Sharon Schweitzer, an international etiquette expert, author and founder of Protocol & Etiquette Worldwide, offers these eight tips to help improve our cell phone courtesy: KEEP IT UNDER THE TABLE Whether you are attending an important business meeting, out on a date or even in a casual setting with friends, keep your phone out of sight. Placing your phone on the table or desk sends a clear message that the people you are with are not your number-one priority. It’s also just rude.

SILENT SMARTPHONE It’s mannerly to turn off your cell phone before meetings, meals, and meaningful moments – like dates! If you can’t turn your device off, turn it to silent or vibrate. Your phone is not a replacement for an in-person meeting.

EXCEPTIONS There are exceptions to every rule, and it’s permissible to take out your smartphone in several situations: A) Doctors, nurses, first responders, and health providers B) Those expecting emergency calls C) Those who have an infant with a babysitter or a person with a caregiver D) Those momentarily sharing photos with others E) Those researching an important request, such as directions.

EXCUSE ME If accepting an emergency call, excuse yourself as quietly and calmly as possible from the gathering with an apology. For example, “I apologize; however, this is urgent, please excuse me. I hope to return in a moment.”

CONSIDER CONTENT CAREFULLY With smartphones, spontaneity can be contagious.

Remember, once a text, tweet or post is sent, it’s live. Sure, you can delete it, but it’s still out there on the Internet, just waiting to bite you back! So use common sense and don’t post inappropriate pictures or writing while consuming adult beverages. Avoid profanity.

10-FOOT RULE When making or taking a call, move ten feet away from the building including windows.

No one wants to see pacing or gesturing during your conversation. Step outside when responding to a call while in a house of worship, medical office, library, theatre, or hospital. Refrain from confidential conversations on planes, trains, and automobiles.

DON’T DRIVE & TALK Many localities now ban smartphone use while driving. If you must use the phone, drive to a safe area away from traffic. Safety first!

THE CELLULAR CRUTCH Don’t use your phone when you are not sure what else to do in uncomfortable situations. If you walk into a new office or even a wedding reception and don’t know anyone, take time to engage with people face-toface. Deferring back to your phone as a crutch will keep you from truly connecting with the people around you.

August 2016

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55

Money & Career

Take Your Career to the

NEXT LEVEL

By Felicite Toney

If you’re looking for ways to improve job performance and increase career opportunities, then professional development may be the key to a brighter, more successful future.

Professional development is the continuous process of improving work performance through education and training. It can be pursued through various avenues in and out of the workplace, and it needn’t be a headache.

Here are five stress-free ways to pursue professional development.

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August 2016

T raditional ways of pursuing professional development include seminars, conferences, and university classes. Seminars and conferences provide insight and knowledge specific to your workplace. University classes can be taken online or on campus, providing flexible options for a busy schedule. You can choose to take a class relevant to your job or learn a new skill that may benefit you in the future. Some businesses may offer tuition reimbursement, which would allow you to pursue a higher-level degree and advance your career.

R esearch can be used to learn about a particular subject. If taking a class doesn’t appeal to you, you can use research to teach yourself a new skill or to stay up to date with technology relevant to your workplace. You can stay one step ahead of your co-workers by staying up to date on current trends, new technologies and best practices.

Volunteering in the community provides you with the opportunity to network, learn new skills, learn more about your community, and improve leadership skills. You can make a difference in the community while improving your current skill set.

Mentorship is a way to establish professional relationships while learning what it takes to be successful. It can be done in person and through electronic communications, making it a convenient option. When choosing a mentor, look for someone with experience and accomplishments who is willing to share their expertise. Whoever you choose doesn’t necessarily need to be a co-worker—he or she can be anyone who has a successful career in your chosen field.

S ocial media allows for individuals to network with anyone who has an internet connection. You can use social media to your advantage by networking, reading blogs relevant to your career, and following a successful figure in the business world.

Professional development is key to a successful future, whether or not it benefits your current career path. By using the steps above, you can take control of your future and take your career to the next level!

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601 S. Pine Street • DeRidder, LA 70634 • (337) 463-7442 www.thriftyway.com • thriftyway2@thriftyway.com August 2016

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Money & Career All you need to know to stay in the know!

Pelican State Credit Union Announces Louisiana Community & Finance Blog

Arts Council presents new Little Free Library at Historic Central School The Arts Council of SWLA is proud to present the Lake Area’s newest Little Free Library, charter #35851. Located in Historic Central School, 809 Kirby St., Lake Charles, LA, the Little Free Library encourages visitors to take a book, leave a book.

The Calcasieu Parish Library will donate out of circulation books.

The Central School replica was built and donated by Ron Stear of Cedar Bough Fine Bird Houses. Over 350 hours and mixed materials including cypress, sawdust, and 3D-printed windows and doors were used. The detail and craftsmanship of this piece is outstanding.

For details, visit www.artscouncilswla.org or call 439-2787.

Local Pet-Sitting Business Expands Service Area Susan’s Pet Care, a professional pet sitting and dog walking service, now has expanded its service area to cover Lake Charles in addition to Moss Bluff and Westlake. Owner Susan McHugh provides expert care as a pet-sitting professional. The business is insured and bonded and is a member of Pet Sitters International, the world’s largest pet-sitting trade association.

Susan’s Pet Care provides a variety of services for dogs, cats, and other small animals, including private and group dog walks, in-home sitting, and pet taxi.

More information, a complete list of service areas and contact information are available at the company’s Web site at www.susanspet.com or by calling (337) 532-2752.

Residents Can Find Mosquito Truck Spray Schedule Online Calcasieu Parish Mosquito Control and GIS departments are making it easier for residents to see when mosquito spray trucks and planes will be in their neighborhood. The new map shows which areas will be sprayed each day and the areas previously sprayed that week. Aerial spray zones are marked with plane icons.

To look at the spray schedule online and to get additional information on the spray trucks and planes please visit our website at www.cppj.net/ sprayschedule.

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Pelican State Credit Union has announced a new Louisiana family, fun and finance blog, Pelican State of Mind, which launched on July 1.

The family and fun sections of the blog will spotlight local communities, businesses, events and credit union members. Pelican’s team members across the state will contribute to putting the spotlight on local food, people and happenings through personal interaction and experiences.

Everyone who signs up for blog updates at pelicanstateofmind.com will receive the free eBook 40 Ways to Save When You’re Terrible at Saving as a thank you from Pelican.

Lakeside Bank Named One of 200 Healthiest Banks in America for 3rd Year For the third year in a row, Lakeside Bank has been ranked one of the healthiest banks in the United States in DepositAccounts’“Top 200 Healthiest Banks in America” annual report. Each year, DepositAccounts.com looks at the financial health of all 6,199 federally insured banks in the United States. The banks are evaluated based on several factors, including capitalization, deposit growth and loan-to-reserve ratios.

For more information, visit www.lakesidebanking. com or call (337) 474-3766.

National Networks Receives Recognition as a Top 501 Managed Service Providers Worldwide National Networks was honored in Penton Technology’s 9th annual list of the top 501 Managed Service Providers in the world. The cloud service provider honorees are chosen based on metrics such as consulting services and growth.

This is the third year that National Networks was included on this list. For more information, call (337) 474-4249 in Southwest Louisiana or (409) 724-0440 in Southeast Texas or visit www.ntwo.com.

Memorial Leads McNeese Sports Medicine Program Lake Charles Memorial Health System is leading a new partnership with McNeese State University and area doctors to provide medical care to the university’s student athletes.

The Memorial-McNeese Sports Medicine Program will be primary care based with family medicine specialists and sports medicine doctors providing initial care and assessments, while working with orthopedic consultants and other subspecialists.

The team of doctors will provide care in the infirmary, training rooms, clinic and on the field.

Whatever the medical need is, the student athlete Thrive Magazine for Better Living

will then be referred to the proper specialist to treat any injury or illness.

Greenberry Industrial Announces New Pipe Fabrication Shop

Greenberry Industrial, LLC has opened the doors of a new fabrication facility in Sulphur to continue its growth in the Gulf Coast industrial markets. In addition to its construction and maintenance services, Greenberry will now have expanded fabrication capacity for piping, structural steel, vessels and tanks in the new 14,400 square foot shop which includes state-of-the-art automated fabrication equipment, three 5-ton bridge cranes, and 16 welding stations. This shop, combined with the existing 6,000 square foot shop gives Greenberry over 20,000 square feet of fabrication space and enables Greenberry to meet customer needs for fabrication services.

Bayou Services Announces Opening of Commercial and Industrial Storage Warehouse Bayou Services, owned by Vic Vicknair and Mike Reese, has announced the opening of their commercial and industrial storage warehouse in Lake Charles.

The 45,000 -square-foot warehouse is located at 2925 Industrial Avenue, just off of Hwy. 14. It was designed to meet the storage needs of businesses of any size, with the capacity to accommodate large, heavy machinery and equipment. The warehouse features six rolling bay doors with drive-up ramp access. Long and short-term storage is available, as well as climate-controlled options. State-of-theart surveillance and fire prevention systems are in place, along with digital inventory management for both security and convenience. Bayou Services can also provide pick-up and delivery services, if needed, with a fleet of transport vehicles that includes flatbed trailers and refrigerated trucks.

Together, the owners offer over 35 years of business experience. Vicknair was born and raised in Lake Charles and Reese is originally from Leesville.

For more information or to request a quote, call 337-602-6189, or visit www.bayou-services.com.

August 2016

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August 2016

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Style & Beauty

The Latest Fashions and Accessories for

Football Season

by Emily Fontenot

It’s Saturday afternoon -- the first game of the season.

You crack open your closet and check out your options: a clingy polo, an old jersey, and a T-shirt that looks more brown than gold at this point. You find yourself wishing for just one good outfit to fit the occasion. Lucky for you, it isn’t too late. Game day clothing is fresh on the racks at area boutiques!

Once again, the trend this year is dressing to the nines for the women of the bunch, but no one said that meant resigning to itchy fabric and tight pants. A nice sheer kimono, some linen bottoms or a loose dress are all “in,” according to Emily DeWitt, manager at Accessory Zone.

“Every year it gradually gets a little bit dressier for game day,” DeWitt said. “Girls come in looking for dresses and heels and wedges, that kind of thing. Suede sandal booties are also really in.”

Another item to look for this season is the choker. One of Accessory Zones’ hottest buys this season, the custom-made Buku choker comes in both McNeese and LSU colors. They also carry a number of customizable spirit items, such as cups, totes, and scarves.

Also trending this season are prints. Solid colors were all the rage last year, but bold prints are predicted to upstage them in 2016, according to Lauren Monroe, owner of Mimosa Boutique. She said although women are putting more emphasis on looking stylish for game day, the most important thing to them seems to be comfort. “We have a lot of tanks, easy dresses, and rompers so that you’re not going to sweat too much the first super-hot game. A lot of stuff you can pair casually with denim shorts or just a black sandal. That’s what people usually look for.”

Monroe urged buyers to get to the store before the game day rush so they get the largest selection of items. Purple tie-dye tanks, V-neck rompers and bold dropdown necklaces are just a few of the game day items available at Mimosa Boutique this fall.

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If you’re a fan of multiple teams, you may want to purchase gold items instead of racking up on blues and purples. No one will know that you’ve spent Friday night at the Sulphur game, Saturday watching the Cowboys and Sunday cheering on the Saints, all wearing the same gold kimono.

Now for the men . . . the pressure to look the part is not lost on these spectators, whatever they may say. But, like the women, they’ve found a way to look suave without revealing a pair of sweat stains every touchdown.

“Fabric and feel is what’s selling,” Steve Khoury, founder of Khoury’s Clothing in Sulphur, said of men’s game day fashion this year. He added that men’s fashion experts have recently discovered how to make clothes that are light,

Did you know that 90 PERCENT of the signs of AGING are from the damaging effects of the SUN?

soft and breathable, and they conveniently make them in colors like blue, purple, black and gold.

Khoury’s sells a variety of game day clothing from popular brands like Southern Marsh and Southern Tide. Their Columbia-style fishing shirts are also a popular choice for those outdoorsmen and women of the bunch.

Game day isn’t just a time to watch talented athletes compete. It’s also a time to socialize, connect with friends, and, yes, show off a new outfit that perfectly expresses your style without sacrificing comfort.

So don’t delay. Support your team and stop by your favorite clothing boutique today. When that first sporting event rolls around and you crack open your closet, what will you find?

PROTECT & REVERSE THE DAMAGE

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We offer: 3 Cosmetic Injections: 3 Botox 3 Juvederm 3 Voluma 3 Belotero 3 Sculptra 3 Kybella

3 Chemical Peels 3 Microdermabrasion 3 Targeted Skin Care Treatments 3 Eyelid Surgery 3 Latisse for Eyelash Growth 3 PCA Home Care Products 3 Jane Iredale Mineral Make-up

It’s time to get your skin ready for the new season, with help from the Aesthetic Center.

Call 310-1070 for more information or to schedule your appointment.

Treatments are provided under the medical direction of facial cosmetic specialist, Mark Crawford, MD.

facehealth.net • 310-1070 • 1717 Oak Park Blvd.

August 2016

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Style & Beauty

Your Guide to Fall’s Hottest Hair Color Trends.

by Emily Alford

Just a few years ago, hair color was pretty straightforward: natural, highlighted or colored, with lowlights available for the most daring among us. Fast-forward to the Instagram age, and hair has gotten seriously complicated. Rainbow colors and foreign-sounding techniques abound, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. While some of these newer color techniques, like ombre, balayage, and color melting sound confusing, they’re actually great for subtle updates to hair color that are stylish without being over the top. Let’s face it, hair color has never been a low-maintenance affair, and while these three techniques mean a little more time at the salon, the effects are stunning. Here’s a rundown of the differences between the techniques.

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Ombre comes from the French word for “shadow” and refers to the transition from a darker shade to a lighter one. The effects can range from intense to very subtle. Remember how as a child, hair got lighter in the summer and grew out during the winter to create a natural two-tone, effect?

That’s the goal of the ombre look, which works really well for natural brunettes looking to lighten up without committing to all-over hair color. Stylists can blend the color a little or a lot and vary shades to make the look dramatic or natural, depending on customer preference.

August 2016

The term “balayage” also has its roots in French; it means “to sweep.” Think of balayage as ombre 2.0.

It’s more blended, and therefore much more subtle than a straightforward ombre look. Instead of the two-tone, darker on top, lighter on bottom look, balayage involves a careful painting of color. Stylists sweep a lighter color on triangular sections of hair, blending the color from the top down so the darker roots and lighter ends are better blended. A few darker pieces are left at the bottom for a more natural look as well. It’s a great technique for those looking to grow out old color or just freshen up without making a drastic change.

August 2016

In 2014, dip-dying, or coloring just the ends of hair, often in rainbow colors, was all the rage. But in 2016, the business-ontop, party-on-the-bottom style looks a little dated.

Instead, rainbow haired Instagrammers are going for a “melted” look involving shades that blend into one another, making for a gentler effect. To get the look, a colorist saturates the ends of the hair and then slowly lightens up toward the middle, reversing the effect at the roots, so the two colors blend. For example, lavender might fade to turquoise or, for those seeking a less drastic look, auburn roots might connect with honey blonde ends for a subtle transition from red to blonde.

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Mark Your Calendar!

Arts & Crabs Fest 2016 Arts & Crabs Fest, a culinary event unique to Southwest Louisiana, brings regional cuisine, culture, and art to the forefront each August celebrating the ties between seafood and culture.

This year, the festival will be held August 20, 5–8 pm at Burton Coliseum.

Festival goers take part in an extensive crab and beer tasting which features local chefs and area restaurants each offering a crab dish representative of their cuisine’s styles and personalities. Dishes are then paired with Louisiana craft beer. Chefs will compete for festivalgoers’ votes in the annual Best Crab Dish Award determined by the amount of tips each chef receives.

For details and ticket information, call the Arts Council of SWLA at (337) 439-2787 or visit www. artsandhumanitiesswla.org.

Lake Charles. On Air Personality of Charlotte, NC “BJ in the Morning” on 105.7 will be the headliner. Early bird tickets and vendor space is available. For more information, email makemelaughcomedyjam@ gmail.com

Sake Hop Scheduled Stroll through the French Quarter while enjoying complimentary sake tastings at each of the five-featured bars and chatting with celebrity bartenders. The 2nd Annual New Orleans Hotel Collection “SAKE HOP” to benefit Southern Food and Beverage Museum is scheduled for August 16 from 5:30-8:30pm. $10 to attend. For more info, visit www.sakehop.com.

Your presence is requested at the 2nd Annual New Orleans Hotel Collection “SAKE HOP” to benefit Southern Food and Beverage Museum on August 16 at 5pm.

Make Me Laugh Comedy Jam Scheduled

Family & Youth presents Career Exploration: “Building Career Pathways” The Leadership Center (TLC), a division of Family & Youth Counseling Agency (Family & Youth), will be hosting Career Exploration: “Building Career Pathways.”

This program is designed to expose students to a variety of career fields so they are better equipped to make informed decisions about their future. Local high school students can explore different career options by participating in a series of field trips to a variety of businesses, companies, and industries in the Lake Area.

On September 26, Family & Youth Counseling Agency will host a Career Exploration “Social Meet & Greet” from 6-7pm. Registration is now open online at www.fyca.org or by calling Laura Perry at (337) 436.9533. The fee for Career Exploration is $100 per student.

The event is to be held on August 20 from 6-10pm at Central School Arts and Humanities Center in

LOCAL LIVE ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCED FOR AUGUST Golden Nugget For more information, visit www.goldennuggetlc.com.

Grand Event Center August 12 Wynonna & The Big Noise August 13 Ron White August 19 Vince Gill August 20 Kellie Pickler August 26 Christopher Cross August 27 Tanya Tucker The Country Club at Golden Nugget August 20 Rusty Yates Rush Lounge August 1 Orphan Annie August 2 The Decades August 3 The Decades August 4 The Decades August 5 Tricky Dickies August 6 Tricky Dickies August 7 Swagger August 8 The FUSE August 9 The FUSE August 10 ENCORE August 11 3-H-G August 12 3-H-G August 13 Orphan Annie August 14 QRISIS August 16 The Strangers

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August 17 August 18 August 19 August 20 August 23 August 24 August 25 August 26 August 27 August 30 August 31

Rapture Rapture Rapture Rapture Angel Garcia Orphan Annie Orphan Annie Party @ Joe’s Party @ Joe’s Kris Harper The FUSE

Blue Martini August 3 ENCORE August 4 High Rollers/DJ Jose Mata August 5 High Rollers/DJ Jose Mata August 6 High Rollers/DJ Jose Mata August 7 Dead or Alive/DJ Jose Mata August 10 Orphan Annie August 11 ENCORE/DJ Jose Mata

August 12 ENCORE/DJ Jose Mata

August 13 ENCORE/DJ Jose Mata

August 14 Kris Harper/DJ Jose Mata August 17 Mike and Amber August 18 GoGo Dolls/DJ Jose Mata August 19 GoGo Dolls/DJ Jose Mata August 20 GoGo Dolls/DJ Jose Mata August 21 The Strangers/DJ Jose Mata August 24 Dead or Alive

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August 25 August 26 August 27 August 28 August 31

Swagger/DJ Jose Mata Swagger/DJ Jose Mata Swagger/DJ Jose Mata Angel Garcia/DJ Jose Mata Mike and Amber

Isle of Capri – Lake Charles Announces August 2016 Lineup August 3 August 4 August 5 August 6 August 10 August 11 August 12 August 13 August 17 August 18 August 19 August 20 August 24 August 25 August 26 August 27 August 31

Karaoke Will Wesley and the Juke Box Band Twangsters Reunion The Coleman Brothers Karaoke Orphan Annie The Doghill Stompers David St Romain Karaoke The Katelyn Johnson Band Herbie Stutes and The Grand Shin Milton Patton Karaoke The Chuck Taylors Joe Harmon and The Harmonics The Kadillacs Karaoke

August 2016

August 2016

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!

Solutions for Life

from Solutions Counseling & EAP

by Keri Forbess-McCorquodale, MS, LPC, LMFT, CEAP

Letting Go of Running Away Me: “So, how did you handle it when she asked you to do this thing you really didn’t want to do?”

Client: “I said I would do it.”

Me: “Even though you didn’t want to do it?”

Client: “Yeah, it wasn’t worth the fight.”

And then I realize I’ve spotted one – the elusive conflict avoider. Generally not seen in a therapist’s office except under duress (i.e. having been dragged in), or until they realize the lifelong patterns they have been in.

I always know when I have a conflict avoider on my hands. They usually come in telling me how wrong they have always been treated in relationships, how they are always taking care of other people but no one seems to care about them, how they keep getting stomped on.

When I begin to ask how they react to these unfair demands, that’s when the truth comes out. “Well, I didn’t say anything.” Or, “I just couldn’t take it anymore and I blew up.”

Conflict avoiders are runaways. They run away from anything negative, and they perceive much to be negative. To them, standing up for oneself is being bossy. Acknowledging you are good at something is bragging. Telling someone your needs is picking a fight. And since being bossy, bragging or picking a fight is never a good thing, they must be avoided.

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And conflict avoiders tend to pick partners that will help them to continue to avoid conflict: bossy, demanding people who like to get their way, and who will enact a price for not going along with them. This only reinforces to the conflict avoider that their way is best: just don’t rock the boat.

The problems begin when the conflict avoider dares to think his/her own opinion might have merit at times.

And they usually begin to think this when someone else introduces them to the concept, be it a friend, co-worker, etc. I am often reminded of the client I once worked with who had never truly considered that she was intelligent until she got a job. First her parents, then her partner had convinced her that she was stupid and useless. In fact, she was lucky they put up with her! She spent all her time flying under the radar and avoiding conflict. Then she had to go to work (after all, it was the least she could do since she had been mooching off her partner all those years). As she had good days at work, she began to realize how bad being at home was. As she was given positive feedback at work, she realized how little of that she got at home. As people listened to her and valued her opinion at work… (you get the picture).

It wasn’t long before she was in my office and we began to develop a plan for her future that did not revolve around keeping everyone else happy.

their needs met in the relationship, and because they don’t think they should ask to get their needs met (nor do they know how), they will often go outside of the relationship to get those needs met. Secrets are also a big part of relationships for conflict avoiders. They do not want their partner unhappy with them, so they say whatever they need to so conflict can be avoided.

Convincing a conflict avoider that saying “no” is not only okay, but necessary at times, is difficult. As is “I don’t like it when you do that” or “this isn’t working for me.” Just as difficult is convincing the partner that the only way the relationship can be healthy is if honesty supersedes everything, and the partner must create the environment where honesty is safe. If punishment is doled out when anyone stands up for him/ herself, either the conflict avoider will regress to old patterns (including secrets and/or infidelities) or will begin to outgrow the partner in healthiness and the relationship will no longer be viable.

As a marriage and family therapist, there are certain relationship patterns that are very predictable. The way a couple handles conflict accurately predicts the viability of the relationship.

I encourage you to take a look at yourself. It’s time to stop running away!

The other situation I see so often has more to do with those people who are dragged into therapy. Usually some type of indiscretion has occurred. Conflict avoiders are very often unfaithful in some way. Because they are not getting

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August 2016

Rouge et Blanc 2016 Ticket Sale Date Announced Tickets for the annual event will go on sale to the general public on August 5 at 9am. For more information on purchasing tickets, visit www.facebook.com/rougeetblanclakecharles.

MA in Psychology with ABA Concentration Now Online at McNeese

McNeese Engineering Graduate Student Wins National Award

McNeese State University’s Master of Arts in psychology degree program with an applied behavior analysis concentration will be available completely online beginning in August.

Students now have the choice of completing the program either on campus or online. The program is nationally accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International and has been approved by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board.

The psychology program is now accepting applications and classes begin August 22. In order to be admitted to the graduate program, an applicant must be admitted to the Doré School of Graduate Studies.

For more information on graduate admission requirements, visit www. mcneese.edu/psychology/applied_behavior_analysis.

Xiao Han, a graduate student in mechanical engineering at McNeese State University from Hangzhou, China, has been named a winner of an American Society of Mechanical Engineers Fluid Engineering Division Graduate Scholar of the Year Award to be presented in July at the annual ASME Fluids Engineering Conference in Washington, D.C.

16-382-0094 First Federal Loans Resizes Thrive 8x2.375 PRs.pdf

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Han will receive a $1,500 scholarship and present her research titled “Impacts of Industrial Fresh Water Withdrawals on Calcasieu Lake Hydrodynamics and Salinity Concentration” at the conference.

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Kick Cross Keeper Save Victory Knee-Drop Meniscus Tear Memorial Sports Medicine Kick Cross

www.lcmh.com/sportsmedicine Memorial is the health and sports medicine leader in Southwest Louisiana for 35 years serving the needs of student athletes at 14 Calcasieu Parish high schools and McNeese State Athletics with fellowship-trained sports medicine physicians supported by a team of board-certified physicians from major specialties such as orthopedics, primary care, cardiology, physical rehabilitation, pulmonology, neurology, neurosurgery, gastroenterology, gynecology, rheumatology, urology, trauma and critical care.

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