Thrive July 2025

•

•

•

•

BEHAVIORAL

In This Issue

Wining & Dining

Mind & Body

Style & Beauty

Money & Career

Places & Faces

Home & Family

Lauren Grant, PT, DPT

Kimberly Vaussine, PT, DPT

Floyd Saltzman III, PT

Brenda Hazel, PT

Fran Emily, PTA

Jared Amiot, PT, DPT

Brandon Soileau, PT, DPT

Wining & Dining

Who screams for ice cream?

Unless they’re lactose intolerant, likely your children do . . . and so do you. The universally loved treat is available in businesses across SWLA, but to get the full ice cream parlor experience, there are a few new places dedicated to the frozen treat you should visit. As you dream about that delectable ice cream cone, learn how the modern-day indulgence came into existence.

CAMERON FISHING FESTIVAL

QUEEN’S PAGEANT

FRIDAY, JULY 25 5:30 P.M.

Cameron Library 512 Marshall St.

JOIN US FOR CAPTAINS’ NIGHT

FRIDAY, AUGUST 1 6:30 P.M.

Purchase Shirts, Caps, Discounted Tickets Includes Fish Dinner | Door Prizes

2025 FISHING FESTIVAL LINE-UP

Lighthouse Bend Complex Pavilion | 190 Davis Road, Cameron

THURSDAY, AUGUST 7

Offshore Fishing Competition Begins

FRIDAY, AUGUST 8

Offshore Fishing Competition Continues

Bay Fishing Begins

Weigh Station Opens (Located at the Restuarant/Mariana Parking Lot) Festival Gates Open Silent Auction Opens

5:00 PM Blessing of the Fleet

6:00 PM Weigh Station Closes

6:00 – 8:00 PM Layne Touchet

8:00 PM Live Auction

8:30 – 10:30 PM The Johnson Brothers Band

10:30 PM Festival Closes

SATURDAY, AUGUST 9

Offshore & Bay Fishing Competition Continues

11:00 AM Festival Gates Open

11:00 AM Silent Auction Opens

2:00 PM Weigh Station Opens

1:30 – 4:00 PM Leroy Thomas & the Zydeco Roadrunners

4:00 PM Children’s Crab Races - Kids Corner (Crabs provided)

4:15 PM Special Acknowledgments and Announcements

5:00 PM Weigh Station Closes

6:30 PM Silent Auction Closes

5:00 – 7:00 PM Conner Haynie

7:00 PM Live Auction & Fishing Awards

8:30 – 10:30 PM Louisiana Red 10:30 PM Karaoke 11:30 PM Festival Closes

GATE FEES: FRIDAY $10 | SATURDAY $15 | TWO-DAY PASS $20 Children 12 & Under Are Free | Games & Fun Registration and details are available online at: CameronLionsClub.com/Cameron-Fishing-Festival Festival Information: 337-775-5713 or 337-540-4623

Fishing Information: 337-775-5713 or 337-274-8501

ICE CREAM LOVER'S GUIDE

SWLA CELEBRATES

by Angie Kay Dilmore

Beyond the usual corporate chains, this cold, creamy confection can be sourced in some unexpected places. Several coffee shops, like Stellar Beans Coffee House & and The Buzz Coffee & More, offer hand-dipped ice cream. Giggles Ice Cream and Gourmet Coffee style of an old-timey soda shop, is connected to a Subway sandwich franchise. Jason’s Deli offers free chocolate and vanilla soft serve, but the star there is that decadent Ghirardelli chocolate sauce. You’ll find 20 flavors of Blue Maplewood Burgers. Order ice cream as a side for your warm Insomnia Cookies. Enjoy an ice cream cone after a round of miniature gold at Putt-Putt Fun Center And, of course, many of the ubiquitous summer sno-cone stands, such as Lulu’s Specialty Cones and More Snowballs offer ice cream options.

Several newer privately-owned businesses are bringing innovative twists to the ice cream scene!

Last month, owner Aimee Lacy cut the ribbon on this new establishment. Take a nostalgic journey back to 1990s pop culture with video games, toys, books, posters and other millennial/Gen Z mementos. Lacy’s daughter, Sarah Begbie, opened the original Sprinkle in Time in Belle Chase, Louisiana in 2024. Once she landed on the '90's theme, she scoured the internet and sought out auctions and estate sales for the decor. Begbie now has the largest collection of 1990s toys in the state. Lacy’s son Seth also collects ‘90s memorabilia, found in the Sulphur shop. Arcade games are free for the public to play. “I wanted to create a space where large families and groups could come and have fun together,” Lacy says.

Aimee Lacy, owner of A Sprinkle In Time Too in Sulphur.

But about the ice cream? Lacy set her prices so that the average family of four can enjoy scoops for under $20. It’s homemade onsite from fresh dairy and is all natural. Twenty-four flavors are offered daily, including sorbets and dairy-free choices on rotation, depending on the season.

You know when you’re eating an ice cream cone and that one last bite is always the best part?

Jordan Waldmeier sells that best part in a pack of nine. “It’s a whole new way to enjoy ice cream,” he says. “No mess, no spoons, portable and convenient, and made by hand.”

Last year, Waldmeier was tending the bar at a local casino and looking for a second job. In October, he decided to make a childhood dream come true. He made his first batch of Best Bites and promptly amassed quite a following. His

best-selling flavor is cookies and cream. Other fan favorites include churro and red velvet, with a new flavor every month.

Waldmeier says the business name comes from a musical term. “A ‘coda’ is the cue to ramp up for the grand finale. Coda Best Bites are the grand finale to the ice cream cone.” Currently a pop-up shop, Waldmeier sells his frozen treats at farmers’ markets, festivals and other events. His goal for the product is to have them become commercially available. “Everyone loves ice cream. I get to witness that joy when people taste that one bite of nostalgia.”

Kent and Marcia Ratzloff opened Curled Crème in 2023 after dreaming about owning a little ice cream shop for over two years. Since then, they’ve been on a roll, literally. “We first were introduced to rolled ice cream when we accidentally happened upon a rolled ice cream shop,” says Marcia. “Intrigued with the concept and loving the rolled ice cream, we started seeking out rolled ice cream shops when out of town or on vacations.”

Curled Crème offers several "pre-made" favorites, but most of their customers create their own concoctions. Start with a base – vanilla, chocolate or mocha. Then decide between 32 mix-in options and several drizzle and topping choices. Their most popular mix-ins are Oreo,

The Ratzloffs focus on high quality, natural, nonGMO and gluten-free ingredients. They also offer vegan/non-dairy and low sugar options. Marcia says Kent grew up lactose intolerant. When the rest of the family ate ice cream, he had to settle for Cool Whip. “Being able to serve dairy-free and low sugar options is a bonus. We love being able to serve the city of DeRidder and surrounding areas.”

10% off your order when you mention Thrive!

seasonal favorite, fresh Georgia Peach ice cream.

Jordan Waldmeier sells his Coda Best Bites ice cream at the Tuesday afternoon Lake Charles Farm & Table Market. Photo by Angie Kay Dilmore

A pair of happy customers enjoying homemade ice cream at A Sprinkle In Time Too in Sulphur.

Today ice cream is one of the most beloved treats to beat the summer heat.

In fact, Minimal, located in Taiwan, is the first ice cream parlor to receive a Michelin star, with flavors ranging from green tea to miso.

While many prefer their ice cream to be sweet over savory, the treat is easily accessible and affordable for everyone. However, when production and storage of the frozen dairy product was more difficult, ice cream was a luxury item, only available to rich and elite families.

There is no clear origin story for the creation of ice cream. Instead, ice cream took its current form after

centuries of innovation spanning different countries and continents.

There are many myths and diverting pathways when it comes to where ice cream was created, but drinks and desserts made with ice thousands of years before Christ were likely the starting point for ice cream.

Snow was eaten or used to chill food and drink, something documented as happening in Athens, Greece, in 500 B.C., and ice houses were created to keep a steady supply of the frozen water even during warmer months. Nero, Roman emperor from 37-67 A.D., was fond of iced treats featuring honey.

The first notable reference of a

chilled dessert with milk is a drink flavored with camphor and water buffalo milk during China’s Tang dynasty. And the origin of the word ‘sherbet’ comes from a Persian term for a variety of sweetened drinks chilled with snow.

India and Europe were on a similar timeline when it came to the discovery that would make beginning iterations of ice cream possible. Salt added to ice allowed frozen treats to more easily be created, the precursor to how basic ice cream machines work.

Kulfi was enjoyed in India around the same time European sherbets began to gain popularity. Kulfi is made by heating and thickening milk and then freezing it. It is

unchurned unlike modern ice cream and therefore melts slower. Flavors include saffron, rose and pistachio.

Italy is widely recognized to be the European country in which sherbets or water ices gained popularity in the 1600s. There are multiple written accounts of frozen treats being served among the royal family and nobles throughout the century. And a recipe for a milk sorbet was published in 1694 by Antonio Latini. Italy is now famous for their specific ice cream version, gelato.

In 1671, it was said that King Charles II had “one plate of white strawberries and one plate of ice cream” at a banquet being held for

the Feast of St. George in England. The upper class kept ice houses to be able to indulge regularly in this new luxury. The key to making ice cream wasn’t common knowledge, so those who knew the process were quite successful in business. The first recipe in English for ice cream was not published until 1718 for this reason.

George Washington is known as a primary figure in American history due to his contribution to politics, but he also has connections to ice cream in America. While it is said ice cream was first served in America in 1744 by the first lady of colonial Maryland, Washington bought an ice cream machine in 1784. It continued to be popular with presidents as Thomas Jefferson

was introduced to the sweet treat in France, where it was sometimes made with the addition of egg yolks, and served the treat while president numerous times.

Once ice cream was more widespread in the market, invention started rolling at a fast pace. The Coke float, or “ice cream soda,” was invented in 1874 and was quickly followed by ice cream sundaes, milk shakes and, eventually, waffle cones.

With the invention of modern refrigeration, production of ice cream became much cheaper and now anyone can have ice cream on hand in their homes for whenever the urge for something sweet, cool and refreshing overtakes them.

Italian gelato in front of Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy.

A driver poses with his horse and ice cream cart in Cambridge in 1902.

A street vendor in India preparing traditional Kulfi ice cream.

Wining & Dining

Dave Evans Embraces Upscale Dining

by Kerri Cooke

If you’ve recently passed by the Phoenix Building where the old 1910 was located, you will see a small sign with a rose motif announcing new restaurant Augustine. The brainchild of Dave Evans, who has had great success with Luna Bar & Grill downtown for 21 years and opened Luna Bar & Grill South three years ago, is continuing a long family legacy of restauratership. Evans’ mother, Rose Lucienne Augustine Guincestre, who the restaurant is named after, was originally from France and immigrated to the United States without completing her full education or being able to speak English. Rather than explain her French name to locals, she became simply known as “Pat.” Pat became a staple in dining culture, opening La Normandy Lounge, Dave’s Oyster House and Miss Pat’s Pub & Deli over the course of her 30-plus year career.

Augustine, originally dubbed Timothy’s after Evans and his late father, transformed during the development of the brand after Pat died a year and a half ago. “The reason I’m in the restaurant business is her. She was selftaught and so am I,” Evans says.

The whole concept for the upscale dining establishment was the result of Evans journaling over a six-to-eightyear period. He jotted down concepts or types of food he would like to see in a new restaurant and adapted ideas inspirated by restaurants he and his wife, Nanette, visited while traveling. Evans explains the process of conjuring up Augustine was an act of creativity. It was a result of daydreams. “This is out of joy,” Evans says as he gestures at the room around him.

While Evans explored opportunities of investing in real estate and opening a restaurant in another location, those plans fell through, and he found the golden opportunity when the owners of the Phoenix Building reached out to him due to a vacancy. It was perfect timing for Evans, as he explains that Luna now works as its own well-manned ship without much need for him to be physically present. Describing himself as a “busy-minded person,” Evans realized he had found the perfect location for Augustine without the need for a significant amount of investment. Since the previous business had also been a restaurant, Evans already had the kitchen and amenities he needed to get started.

With shimmering wall sconces, purple walls, deep velvet eggplant curtains and wooden tables, Augustine exudes a romantic atmosphere. Nanette Evans and Destiny Gschwend, the latter with DG Curated, designed the space to feel elegant and inviting. The décor is further enhanced by an instrumental jazz playlist.

“We need more dining spots in Lake Charles that bring you somewhere else . . . that help you escape from daily tasks,” Evans says. “When my wife and I travel, we try to find James Beard and Michelin star restaurants to see what they do differently. Our visits to New Orleans are full of lunch and dinner reservations. I tried to apply all of the restaurant and food knowledge that I could to Augustine.”

With Chef Eric McCree, who previously worked for Luna, on board, the duo has created a menu complete with food pairings you won’t find anywhere

Photos by Kerri Cooke

else in SWLA. Delectable appetizers include Blue Crab Spaghetti with jumbo blue crab, lemon dill crèmebeurre blanc and salmon roe. An example of an entree is Augustine’s Duck Breast with blackberry gastrique and duck confit potatoes.

“We utilize fresh ingredients and created a menu based on different regions and flavors,” Evans says. “I thought of what I want on a menu. I want guests to feel a classy, romantic dinner awaits them. We also have a wonderful wine and cocktail list.”

Local mixologist Jason Davis is

head bartender for Augustine and responsible for all cocktails, including Augustine’s take on the old fashioned with 1792 Bourbon, black tea syrup and bitters or Fig Sazerac made with Martell Blue Swift Cognac, Sazerac Rye, fig syrup, bitters and absinthe rinse, among others. Davis also selects the variety of spirits on the champagne and wine menus such as specific cabernets, pinot noirs, chardonnays, sauvignon blancs and other classics. Augustine features different menus for lunch and dinner service.

Louisiana Coffee Company

REGIONAL COFFEE ROASTING DONE RIGHT

by Matt Dye

It’s the age-old question, “What came first, the coffee or the bean?” and while the answer can be debated, in the instance of Louisiana Coffee Company, it was the brew that led to the berry.

“We were born from the energy and momentum of Coffee:30,” Hillary Robertson, co-owner of Louisiana Coffee Company, says. “As our passion for high-quality coffee deepened, we realized that we did not just want to serve it. We wanted to roast it, source it responsibly and create blends and an experience that could represent ourselves and Louisiana beyond the walls of Coffee:30.”

Louisiana Coffee Company originated in 2021 when Robertson, along with her husband, Trent, Josh and Taylor Smith, and Jake Porche became determined to create something special, rooted in Louisiana hospitality, grit and flavor.

“It was not always a dream, but once it was conceived, we wholeheartedly

pursued it,” Robertson says. “Where we are now is a result of believing in an idea, trial and error, and partnering with people who believed in doing something special.”

With that in mind came the research and finding the right beans, handselected, to roast in small batches. From there, the team worked to develop blends they felt represented the bold, soulful flavor of the South.

“Coffee is just the beginning,” Robertson continues. “What people are really after is the connection, consistency and something that feels personal. We have learned that growth requires getting uncomfortable and remaining patient, and that there is a lot of power in doing things your own way.”

Fast-forward a few years, and Louisiana Coffee Company offers a variety of blends such as Bayou Breakfast, Mocha Beignet, Louisiana Mudslide, Southern Pecan and Café Calcasieu. Not only can their coffee be found at Coffee:30, but they’re also in a growing number of other

coffee shops in the region, as well as available in Rouses all along the I-10 corridor.

“Coffee is the excuse, but people are the reason,” Robertson says. “Every time someone says our coffee made their morning better or a shop owner tells us they are proud to serve our beans or a barista gets excited about a new roast, that keeps us going!”

The future continues to look bright for Louisiana Coffee Company. On the horizon is a celebrity line of coffees that are being carefully kept under wraps but are sure to bring a whole new wave of buzz

and exposure when it happens. And if you’re looking for a private label coffee for your own company, restaurant or event, Louisiana Coffee Company is willing to serve you up a fabulous cup of joe of your own.

“We want to be known not just as a Louisiana brand,” Roberson says, “but as a southern coffee leader with a national footprint while staying true to our local roots.”

To find out more about Louisiana Coffee Company, head over to their website, LouisianaCoffeeCompany.com.

Whether you’re sipping at home, or have customers to serve, our coffee delivers bold, fresh-roasted flavor directly to your coffee pot, restaurant, or retail space.

Mind & Body SECRETS TO

People are living longer than ever due to advances in medical science. As of 2023, the average life expectancy for Americans was 78.4 years. It’s possible to live to an old age while remaining healthy and maintaining quality of life, which can be managed through healthy eating, preventative screenings, prompt treatment of ailments, regular exercise, physical therapy and other innovative treatments. Learn more about how to age gracefully from a variety of doctors and health experts ahead.

NOW DELIVERING EVEN MORE CARE.

LCMHS welcomes three new OB/GYNs to our growing team. For all stages of women's health, you now have more trusted experts delivering the care you deserve.

For care that you can count on, please scan the QR code to request a provider. New patients are welcomed.

Rounding out Memorial’s OB/GYN team are our dedicated Laborists, including Dr. David Darbonne, Dr. Matthew Scroggs, Dr. Armand Grimshaw, and others committed to delivering expert care.

Mind & Body | SECRETS TO AGING WELL

How to

The idea that from midlife on it’s all downhill is as out-of-date as cassette tapes, phone booths and typewriters.

Life isn’t over at 50. In fact, 50 really might be the new 30. Aging experts agree that while reaching the 50-year milestone signals the beginning of the second half of life, today’s 50-year-olds have the experience, resources and time to make their second 50 their best 50.

“Many people dread the thought of aging, worried their bodies and minds will fail them as they age,” says Brenton Smith, MD, family medicine specialist with Imperial Health. “But poor health as you age is not inevitable, and you have more control than you think you do. Study after study shows most of the factors that determine whether you will be remain healthy after 50 are the result of how you live your life long before your hair starts turning gray.”

There was a time when the idea of blowing out 100 candles on a birthday cake seemed impossible. In 1900, life expectancy in the United States was just 47 years—a full three decades shorter than it is today. Antibiotics, better sanitation and improved medical care deserve much of the credit for the increase. The average life expectancy at birth is now over 78 years, according to the U.S. Census.

Research shows if you live to celebrate certain milestones of age, your life expectancy actually expands. On average, a 65-year-old would have nearly 18 more years to live, while an 85-year-old would have about six years longer.

If your goal is healthy longevity, you may be focused on decreasing your cholesterol and blood pressure to prevent heart disease, the No. 1 killer of Americans. And while these are obviously important, Dr. Smith says you may need to adjust your strategy to include some other lifestyle aspects—some of which might surprise you.

The results of a landmark study continue to be analyzed and improve medical knowledge about the factors that most impact healthy aging. The “Harvard Study of Adult Development” is the longest, most comprehensive examination of aging ever conducted. It began in the 1930s, with researchers studying several large groups of men and women, following them from adolescence into old age, and seeking clues to the behaviors that translate into happy and healthy longevity.

In many cases, the results were not even what the investigators themselves anticipated. Although some of the aspects for longevity are genetically determined, the mountains of data gathered from the Harvard study and numerous others about aging have found the individual controls many other factors. Perhaps the biggest surprise identified is how much influence personal behavior has on health and life span. Changes that a doctor or a scientist might have once attributed to the aging process, such as high blood pressure, joint pain and memory loss, are now considered pathology, not biology.

Experts now believe that more than two-thirds of the factors that control how a person will fare in later life are determined by lifestyle factors such as diet, mental and physical exercise and meaningful existence.

“This means living a long and productive life is within most people’s grasp if they have the knowledge of what to do and the motivation to do it,” says Dr. Smith. “You must have the desire and means to avoid and treat

disease, sustain a high level of mental and physical function, and engage actively in life. Successful aging is not simply a matter of genes or fate. There are no guarantees, but staying active and making healthy choices can pave the way for a long, vital life.”

The Harvard study found the following factors to be most predictive of whether you’d move successfully through middle age and into your 80s:

• Avoiding cigarettes

• Resiliency – good adjustment or coping skills; positive outlook

• Keeping a healthy weight

• Exercising regularly

• Maintaining strong social relationships

• Pursuing education or staying mentally active

• Having routine medical care

If healthy aging habits aren’t yet part of your routine, Dr. Smith emphasizes that it’s never too late to begin. “It’s similar to saving for retirement: the sooner you start, the greater the benefits. But regardless of your age, the effort pays

off. And a trusted advisor—in this case your doctor—can help. We all have the ability to make changes that support a longer, healthier life.”

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Smith, call (337) 433-1212 or visit imperialhealth.com.

Dr. Brenton Smith, Family Medicine Specialist

Imperial Health is proud to welcome Brenton Smith, MD, to our staff of family medicine physicians.

Dr. Smith earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, and his Doctor of Medicine form the University of Miami – Miller School of Medicine in Miami, Florida. He completed his residency in Family Medicine at Womack Army Medical Center at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and Aerospace Medicine Primary Training as a Flight Surgeon at WrightPatterson Air Force Base, Ohio. He also earned a Master of Health Administration (MHA) from Louisiana State University in Shreveport.

As a Major in the U.S. Air Force. Dr Smith served as a Flight Surgeon/Family Medicine Physician for the 47th Medical Group at Laughlin Air Force Base in Texas for the past four years. He is certified by the American Board of Family Medicine.

Dr. Smith welcomes patients of all ages, including newborns. In addition to traditional family practice, his services include:

Mind & Body | SECRETS TO AGING WELL

As You Age

Physical Fitness for Better Health

by Kerry Andersen

The golden years are often viewed as a time to slow down and take it easy and to rest and relax after years of building a family and chasing busy careers. Medical research reveals, however, that staying active and fit as we age is the true fountain of youth.

Liz Kingham, MPH, is the owner and founder of Thrive Fitness Studio in Lake Charles. The newly opened gym specializes in functional movement—helping clients improve strength, mobility, posture and overall fitness. She says, “Exercise isn’t just about adding years to your life, it’s about adding life to your years. That means being able to move with ease, stay independent and enjoy the things you love without pain or limitation.”

Kingham says, “It’s never too late to start moving better. We work with clients in their 70s and 80s. Start small; progress is always possible and there are numerous proven health benefits of exercise linked to aging well.”

PHYSICAL HEALTH

Regular aerobic activity improves cardiovascular health by strengthening the heart, lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease. Weight bearing movements like squats, lunges and resistance training are essential for maintaining bone density and preventing age related muscle loss and osteoporosis. Activities like yoga, Pilates and tai chi are excellent for flexibility and can enhance balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls—one of the leading causes of injury in older adults. Exercise even boosts the immune system, which tends to weaken in our later years.

IMPROVED MOBILITY AND INDEPENDENCE

Kingham focuses on functional movement patterns with her clients: squats, hinges, pushes and carries that support real life activities. The right kind of exercise promotes flexibility, joint health and mobility work to help older adults stay agile and capable of daily tasks. Staying active can preserve your ability to live independently longer, avoiding or postponing the need for assisted living. Kingham says the quality of

your movement matters more than intensity as we age, which promotes results and can prevent injury.

CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT

Consistent physical activity is associated with lower risks of colon, breast, and prostate cancers and reduces the risk of stroke. Exercise is also the best medicine against chronic diseases like diabetes, arthritis and high cholesterol since it improves insulin sensitivity and reduces inflammation in the body.

COGNITIVE AND MENTAL HEALTH

You’ll feel better! Physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins and reduces stress hormones, helping manage depression and anxiety. Movement increases blood flow to the brain, reducing the risk of cognitive decline and dementia and sharpening brain function. Best of all, you’ll sleep better. Regular

movement helps regulate sleep patterns and improves declining sleep quality. A fit lifestyle also encourages social interaction through group classes or walking clubs, which can combat loneliness and foster a sense of community. Stay consistent. Even light daily activity like gardening and walking can deliver cumulative benefits if you are intentional (aim for 3-5 days per week). Thrive Fitness offers classes specifically designed for aging well with their Senior Strength & Stability, Functional Mobility, and Functional Core course. You can also visit with a personal trainer for a customized routine.

Thrive Fitness Studio is located at 300 McNeese Street, Suite 102 in Lake Charles. Open weekdays 5:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. and weekends by appointment. Call (337) 302-9997, visit thrivefitnesslc.com or check out their Instagram page @thrivefitnesslc.

Aging Is More Than Just Wrinkles— It’s About Volume and Collagen

As time passes, the body produces less collagen and elastin, leading to changes like hollowed cheeks, sagging skin and a loss of that youthful bounce. Grogan points out that while most people notice wrinkles first, the real change comes from the loss of volume and support beneath the skin. The good news, she says, is that with the right treatments, it’s possible to restore what time takes away—naturally and beautifully.

Step 1: Sculpt and Restore with Injectables

Grogan’s first line of defense is a combination of advanced injectables that target the deeper causes of aging:

• Neurotoxins such as Botox or Dysport relax the muscles that create expression lines, softening the angry 11’s between the brows, the crow’s feet and forehead lines.

• Dermal fillers replace lost volume in the cheeks, lips, jawline and more, restoring youthful contours.

SKINCARE SECRETS TO AGING WELL

Local Expert Hannah Grogan, FNP, Shares Her Approach

When it comes to restoring youthful radiance, few people understand Lake Charles skin better than Hannah Grogan, FNP, founder and lead aesthetic injector at The Sculptry. Thrive spoke with Grogan about what truly works for aging gracefully. Here she shares her top secrets to sculpting a fresher, more confident you.

• Biostimulators are a favorite of Grogan’s because, as she explains, they encourage your body to build new collagen, so improvements continue to develop over time.

“Injectables let us sculpt and support the face from within. It’s all about subtle, natural results that help you look rested, not ‘done,’” says Grogan.

Step 2: Don’t Forget the Skin Itself

While injectables restore structure, the skin’s texture, tone and firmness also need attention. Grogan emphasizes that you can fill and lift, but if the skin is dull or loose, you won’t get complete rejuvenation. Her top treatments for reviving skin quality include:

• RF Microneedling, which she describes as a game-changer for boosting collagen and elastin, is essential for achieving firmer, smoother skin with minimal downtime.

• Sofwave uses ultrasound energy to lift and tighten, especially effective for the lower face and neck, explains Grogan.

• Laser resurfacing brightens, smooths and refines the skin, giving it a fresh, healthy glow.

Why the Two-Step Approach Works

Combining injectables with skin-renewing treatments provides balanced, natural-looking results. This approach addresses both the foundation, which is volume loss, and the surface, which includes texture, tone and elasticity. Grogan says this combination helps clients look like themselves, just brighter, lifted and more refreshed.

“When you treat both volume and skin quality, you create harmony. It’s never about changing who you are or what you look like. It’s about enhancing your natural features and helping you feel your best,” Grogan shares.

Whether you want to restore lost volume, rejuvenate your skin or simply learn what’s possible, The Sculptry offers expert guidance and advanced treatments for every stage of life. Visit The Sculptry in Lake Charles or online at thesculptry.com to discover your own secrets to aging well.

RF Microneedling

Softwave

Biostimulators

Laser Resurfacing

Mind & Body | SECRETS TO AGING WELL

by

Pain relief, neurological support, injury recovery and overall wellness are gaining attention—and many are now finding answers in an unexpected place: the cold. Cryotherapy is becoming a go-to solution for people seeking natural, non-invasive ways to reduce inflammation, boost energy and feel better every day. What used to be seen as a luxury is now part of a more intentional, accessible lifestyle, especially as you age.

At Lake Charles Cryotherapy & Recovery, founder Bradley Materne built the business on one guiding belief: healing should be simple, sciencebacked and centered around community.

“Our work is guided by a simple but powerful mission,” Materne says. “To help people live longer, stronger and more intentionally by reducing inflammation and staying consistent with wellness. Recovery isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifestyle.”

For over eight years, the center has served Southwest Louisiana, constantly adjusting to better meet the real needs of its neighbors. “We’ve listened closely, refined our hours and offerings, and partnered with local therapists and gyms to reinvest in our region’s wellness,” Materne explains.

Cryotherapy—also known as cold therapy— uses short bursts of low temperatures to spark

the body’s natural healing process. Once used mainly for skin conditions, today’s cryo chambers help reduce pain, manage inflammation, boost metabolism and support better sleep and stress relief.

“Recovery isn’t something you wait to do after you’re hurting,” says Materne. “It’s something you build into your week—just like movement, nutrition or prayer. That’s when healing becomes a habit.”

Cryotherapy’s key benefits include:

• Soothing Pain & Inflammation – Cryo can ease joint pain, stiffness and swelling. For those who prefer a gentler option, Normatec compression boosts circulation and recovery.

• Improving Sleep – Cold exposure helps regulate stress hormones and endorphins, leading to deeper, more restful sleep.

• Boosting Metabolism & Energy – Cryotherapy activates brown fat and increases your resting metabolic rate, supporting energy, weight

management and long-term vitality.

• Sustainable Routine – Two to four sessions a week offer real, lasting benefits—without overwhelming your schedule or wallet.

To make consistent care even more affordable, the center offers FAVORS, an annual membership that stretches your investment and amplifies results. Members get access to curated wellness tools, recovery services, and exclusive partner perks—designed to help you do more with less.

And they’re just getting started.

“We’re always looking ahead,” says Materne. “Whether it’s mobile cryotherapy, testing new therapies or building stronger partnerships, we’re committed to offering the best tools and care to help people feel better and live better.”

Because when healing becomes a habit— everything else improves, too.

Learn more at lccryo.com.

Madelaine Brauner Landry

Live your life in motion

Scan here to learn more.

You were made to move — on the field, on the trail, through every moment that matters. From sports injuries to everyday pain, our orthopedic experts at CHRISTUS Health Ochsner are here to help you recover faster and move better with advanced care that’s tailored to you. Because you have more games to play, miles to ride and life to live.

Mind & Body | SECRETS TO AGING WELL

Don’t Let a be your

Wake-up Call

How Physical Therapy Helps Stabilize the Body

by Katelynn Mouton

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data indicates that falls are the leading cause of injury and injury-related death among adults ages 65 and older. The good news is that many of these falls can be prevented by taking some precautionary steps.

According to Floyd Saltzman, III, PT, owner and physical therapist at Action Physical Therapy and Balance, it all comes down to the “if you don’t use it, you lose it” saying. “In order for bones and muscles to remain healthy, they need to be challenged on a regular basis.”

Before any joint or body part can feel better, it needs to move better, and this functional movement can help aging adults minimize injuries as they age.

“It is usually a joint or muscle that has been overworked for a while that is prone to injury," adds Saltzman. "We often find that the joint above or below is not moving as well as it is supposed to, or the musculature around that joint is not strong enough to properly control or stabilize the joint.”

Balance is a key function for preventing falls and associated injuries.

“Balance is made up of three systems including the visual, vestibular, and musculoskeletal systems," explains Saltzman. "All three of these working together is a must in order to have all cylinders firing. Keeping each component as active and healthy as possible allows for the confidence and safety of maintaining an active lifestyle free of falls and injury.”

Saltzman says if you are feeling unsteady on your feet, a physical therapist can be a valuable proactive partner on your medical team. “We can coordinate with other healthcare providers to educate patients on how to move safely, and should a fall happen,

how to fall as safely as possible, as well as to properly get back up off of the floor. Along with gait and mobility assessments, we can create individualized strength and balance training programs and we can even make some home safety recommendations to help build a fall prevention plan.”

There are also a few simple exercises that can be incorporated at home.

“When you take a step or walk up and down stairs, momentarily stand on one leg at a time between each step. Practicing single leg stances can help steady your balance for maintaining this critical skill,” says Saltzman.

A single leg stance involves standing with feet hip-width apart. While holding onto a counter, lift

one foot slightly off the ground. Hold this for 10 seconds and then switch to the other foot. Be sure to keep the body tall and avoid leaning on the planted foot. Repeat this exercise 5 times on each leg twice.

Another home exercise to strengthen the large thigh and hip muscles is to simply practice being able to stand up from a straight chair without the use of your hands. Saltzman states, “The ability to do this is a statistical marker for good balance and fall prevention. If unable to do so initially, just place a pillow or cushion on the chair, and as it gets easier remove the pillow to lower you center of gravity. And when that gets easier, practice from a lower chair.”

TRUSTED CANCER CARE, CLOSER TO HOME.

West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital is proud to welcome Kamran Shahid, MD, Hematologist/Oncologist, to the Ochsner CHRISTUS Hematology/Oncology Clinic in Sulphur.

After receiving his medical degree, Dr. Shahid completed a residency in internal medicine and pediatrics and a fellowship in hematology and oncology at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Before joining Ochsner in 2020, he was with the UT Health Campus Tyler –MD Anderson Cancer Center, where he served as an assistant professor of hematology and oncology and a principal investigator for a wide variety of research trials. He is board certified in Internal Medicine and Oncology.

For appointments or more information, call 337-656-7872

Whether

Mind & Body | SECRETS TO AGING WELL

Precision Meets Preservation: Enhancing Muscle-Sparing Knee Replacement with Robotic Technology

by Kristy Como Armand

Dr. Jonathan Foret, board-certified orthopaedic surgeon with the Center for Orthopaedics, recently completed advanced training in the subvastus approach for both partial and total knee replacement in combination with the Mako surgeon-controlled robotic arm system. He says this innovative pairing of two proven knee replacement techniques offers significant benefits to patients. The subvastus surgical approach is commonly referred to as a musclesparing, or quadriceps-sparing, approach to the knee.

“Muscle-sparing surgical approaches are continuing to evolve, allowing us to replace damaged joints with much less damage to the surrounding tissue,” explains Dr. Foret. “The goal of this type of knee surgery is to protect and preserve muscles, since your muscles provide

control and strength to your knees. These structures are also an important factor in regaining motion. We know if we don’t have to cut or detach the muscles around the knee, the patient will have less pain, better motion and a faster recovery.

Dr. Foret says a persistent challenge in knee replacement procedures has been the need to cut into or split apart the quadriceps tendon to allow the surgeon to move the kneecap out of the way to access the joint. “With the subvastus approach, we are able to avoid this cut. Instead, the quadriceps muscle is gently mobilized and lifted to access the knee joint, reducing trauma to surrounding tissues. However, this technique can limit exposure to the joint, which limits a surgeon's ability to consistently align the cutting guides used in a

traditional knee replacement," says Dr. Foret. "Utilizing the precision and advanced navigation of the Mako robotic system eliminates that problem, allowing the surgeon to work accurately through a musclesparing approach."

The benefits of combining a musclesparing approach with the Mako robotic system are numerous, with patients experiencing a quicker, less painful recovery, more natural motion in their knee and a more rapid return to normal activities.

Dr. Foret performs these knee replacement procedures at The Joint Replacement Center of Louisiana, which opened in 2023 and is the only outpatient surgery center in Southwest Louisiana to focus on outpatient joint replacement surgery. The center’s surgical suites feature Mako SmartRobotics™

designed to elevate surgeon control and precise, accurate implant alignment by combining 3D CTbased planning and AccuStop™ haptic technology.

“Combining robotic-assisted precision with the muscle-sparing subvastus approach gives patients the best of advanced surgical technique and technology,” says Dr. Foret. “Our robotic technology enhances accuracy and consistency, while the subvastus technique accelerates healing and mobility. Together, this creates a powerful synergy that minimizes downtime and maximizes recovery. It’s a big step forward for our patients.”

Call the Center for Orthopaedics at 337-721-7236 for more information or visit centerforortho.com.

As their parents age, many adult children find themselves in the caregiver role. But how do you know when an elderly adult may really need help?

"The key is to look for changes,” says Andrew Davies, M.D., family medicine physician with Braud/ Davies Family Medicine and a member of the medical staff of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. “For example, be alert for changes in appearance and behavior. An aging family member may say they are doing just fine, but changes like increased confusion, memory lapses or neglect of themselves or their home could be a sign of illness, dementia or a decreasing ability to handle all of the daily chores involved in living independently.”

Seeing unusual behavior from time to time is not necessarily cause for alarm, but Dr. Davies says if you see a pattern of behavior changes, it’s time to take a closer look and have

a discussion with them. “For many adults caring for an aging loved one, this type of conversation is often a dreaded one. It’s tough to admit those who cared for you may be unable to care for themselves. But as difficult as it may be, it’s important to do so for their safety.”

Dr. Davies highlights several key warning signs that could indicate a serious problem for an elderly person:

Weight changes. In an elderly person, unexplained weight loss could be a symptom of depression or another illness. A significant weight gain could indicate the person is not eating a nutritious diet or getting enough physical activity.

Poor hygiene. If your loved one is wearing dirty clothes, has bad breath or body odor, or forgets to brush their teeth or hair, they may need help, especially if this is a big change in their typical behavior.

Neglect of home. If your loved one has always kept a neat and clean home, and you suddenly notice

Key Warning Signs an Aging Relative May Be in Trouble

by Kristy Como Armand

signs of dirt and clutter, this is cause for concern.

Spoiled food, or lack of food. This could be a sign your loved one is growing forgetful, is incapable of shopping or cooking on their own, or has lost their appetite.

Bill payment problems. Missed bill payments, past-due notices and stacks of unopened mail are signs that your elderly relative may need help managing their finances.

Changes in judgment.

Uncharacteristic spending, charitable donations, involvement with unfamiliar people, drinking, gambling or other significant behavior changes may warrant closer attention.

Lack of participation in regular activities. Take note if your loved one gives up activities they once enjoyed, such as playing bingo, going to church or watching television. This could be a sign of depression or other health problems.

Friends or neighbors notice a change. Those who see your elderly family member frequently can be good partners in their care, especially if you don't live nearby.

Unusual physical problems

Falling or dizziness is a symptom of a variety of potential medical problems, and burns or bruises may be signs of forgetfulness or possible problems with medication or alcohol.

“If you see any of these warning signs, or any other symptoms that concern you, make an appointment for an assessment with your loved one’s healthcare provider,” says Dr. Davies. “A comprehensive evaluation can identify any health problems that need to be addressed. They can also recommend any additional testing and provide referrals to any other resources they feel are needed, such as home health or daily living assistance.”

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Davies, call (337) 528-7316.

Style & Beauty

Fashion is a universal language. It exchanges information without words. Despite whatever part of world you happen to be in, people will be able to discover information about you based on what you wear and how you wear it.

Something as simple as a Yale sweatshirt notifies the public that you are probably an America. Wearing the color black all the time has historically been a signifier that you are a New Yorker, an idea that persists to some extent to this day. Carrying a Miss Dior purse indicates wealth. And a traditional dress such as the Chinese traditional cheongsam celebrates heritage and lets the world know what part of Asia the wearer is from.

While people might dress or accessorize a little bit differently wherever they are, style is still a unifying factor, and that concept is celebrated on July 9—National Fashion Day.

Style & Beauty | NATIONAL FASHION DAY CELEBRATION

National Fashion Day is July 9, and it celebrates not only the physical pieces of fabric and the accessories we carry, but it embodies what it means to be ourselves. Fashion is the outward expression of our beliefs, ideas and the creativity we carry within us. As we evolve and change over time, so does our approach to fashion. One year you might find yourself grabbing blazers in neutral colors and the next craving dresses in neon green and pink.

The way you choose to dress can cause you to blend in with a crowd or stand out in a room full of people. Think of Audrey Hepburn. She had a long-standing relationship with fashion designer Hubert de Givenchy, so a great portion of her public aesthetic is due to her work with the couturier. When not in high glam, Hepburn could be found in classic but understated clothes while working in her garden at her home La Paisible in Switzerland.

When you’re confident in yourself, it changes the way you look, walk and talk. The way you dress can empower you. Put on the right outfit and you might find yourself doing something with ease that would usually terrify you. Find the colors and types of clothing that instill joy within you, and you’ll soon find you’ve become fashionable in a way that’s authentic to your personality.

There’s the famous saying, “You are what you eat.” The same could be said with fashion.

Author Matshona Dhilwayo says, “You are what you wear, therefore wear what you are.” There are even books such as You Are What You Wear: What Your Clothes Say About You and TED talks dedicated to how our

choice of dress affects our mood and psychology. This verifies what fashionistas have known for thousands of years.

Being fashionable doesn’t have to be hard or out of reach. It can be as simple as purchasing a few investment pieces that make you feel confident and comfortable.

Hallie Marceaux Guillory, with local online boutique Parish Line & Co. says, “Fashion is one of the most personal forms of self-expression. What you wear tells a story—how you’re feeling, what you love and who you are. Whether it’s a comfy matching set for running errands or a flowy dress that makes you feel your best, your outfit reflects your mood and confidence. I started this boutique to give women and girls a place to find clothing that feels good, looks cute and stays true to who they are. Modest, trendy, casual, dressy—we carry a little bit of everything because we know that style isn’t one-sizefits-all. At the end of the day, fashion should make you feel something. It should feel like you. And if I can help even one person feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin, I’m doing something right. So, whether you’re getting dressed for a special occasion or just throwing something on for the day, your style matters. It tells the world who you are without saying a word.”

they are a guaranteed conversation starter. While the design might not be conducive to carrying a wide variety of items, the unique shape will add an elegant and geometrical flair to any outfit.

SLOUCHY BAGS

Want more room and less form to your purse? Slouchy bags were a dominant trend on the spring and summer runways, with Coach sending down an XX-Large bag modeled after a coin purse tucked under a model’s arm. Other popular iterations are shoulder bags made with leather so soft they gently fold with movement, perfect for the minimalist.

SUEDE BAGS

2025 Trend Report

by Kerri Cooke

It’s always an amazing feeling when you’ve put together the perfect outfit. The dopamine hit is powerful. However, that’s only step one to building your daily persona. Adding accessories to your look is the best way to enhance a design detail and create an ensemble.

Purses are an essential item for the modern woman, holding everything from our keys to 10 lip glosses to sunglasses. Pick one or a few to not only keep your items safe, but to stay hip and on trend as you go from a daily work meeting to dinner. Here are a few current purse trends:

EAST WEST BAGS

The stand-out purse for 2025 is the east west bag. As the name would indicate, these purses are slender and longer than your average bag. Without the height of the average bag, and their long horizontal design,

Suede bags are enjoying a renaissance but are more likely to be found in medium or chocolate browns, possibly due to The Row’s mocha Margaux bag becoming a cult favorite. Mocha Mousse is also Pantone’s color of the year, so it’s unsurprising that accessories are being offered in rich browns. Take the relaxed bag on a trip around town or wear it to the rodeo for the perfect accessory.

WOVEN BAGS

Woven leather bags, Bottega Veneta style, offer wearers the chance to tote a bag that exudes quiet luxury and generational wealth. The braided leather technique adds an intricate touch to the design and personality to the bag while being subtle in impact. The square pattern catches the eye in a way a simple leather bag won’t.

BELTED BAGS

As belt mania continues to gain steam, going from a simple accessory to being the building block for an entire pair of jeans or a dress, bags are sporting belts as an embellishment. The Hermes Birkin is the most notable belted bag and has enjoyed immense popularity for years. 2025 is ushering in more belted bags at all price points, with details similar to the Birkin. Slender belts adorn the top of many bags, but other bags utilize larger belts that can be tied or folded for a bolder statement.

BOWLING BAGS

Bowling bags take their inspiration from a time when it was regular practice to carry a bowling ball with you for sport. The shape gained popularity for regular handbags in the 1950s, and these purses are on the hot list again for 2025. Popular for their roomy and sometimes boxy (think medicine bag) design, the silhouette offers everything one wants in a bag for daily wear. Sturdy handles attached to a heavy-duty body ensures your extra pair of flats, a bottle of water and, even perhaps your iPad, can easily be carried to work with you.

EMBELLISHMENTS

Secondary only to the bag itself, charms are adorning the bags of trendsetters and fashionistas everywhere. From mini handbag charms to the viral Labubu, use addons to customize your bag to make it unique to you.

FAMILY WORKS:

Frances Fitz-Gerald Jewelry & Antiques has built upon an extraordinary family legacy over the past 10 years since opening its storefront in Lake Charles. But the roots of this motherdaughter business stretch back generations. Frances Fitz-Gerald, the matriarch of the business, has been working in jewelry and antiques for over 50 years, creating a career grounded in craftsmanship, resilience and impeccable taste.

The story begins in Woodville, Mississippi, with Elizabeth “Honey” Whetstone—grandmother of Frances and great-grandmother to Elizabeth “Kate” Bergstedt, the duo who now run the Lake Charles store. “She had a side hustle before a side hustle was a thing,” Kate says. “She would drive her yellow Cadillac up and down the Delta, selling antiques out of the trunk of her car.” The family legend tells of Honey returning home each evening with crystal and silver tucked into her petticoat, clinking her way to her room so her husband wouldn’t see her purchases.

Honey’s entrepreneurial spirit carried through to her granddaughter. In 1974, Frances and her husband, Danny Roane, opened The Goldsmith, a fine jewelry company in Baton Rouge. Frances, recognizing Danny’s extraordinary skill, did her research—studying the styles and selections at luxury retailers

like Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. She sent packages of their work to buyers and successfully secured a deal with Saks, creating custom pieces for their high-end traveling shows.

Danny used the lost wax casting method to create each piece, a labor-intensive process that mesmerized their daughter, Kate, as a child. “It looked like lava,” she remembers, recalling the awe she felt watching her father engrave and set stones by hand. “Jewelry was made so differently then—it was a true art form.”

In 1990, Danny was named one of the top 10 jewelers in the country at the Dallas Fine Jewelry Show. When he passed away shortly after, Frances kept the business running with the help of jewelers Danny had trained. She eventually sold The Goldsmith after seven more years and, in 1994, remarried and moved to Lake Charles. Though she didn’t settle there until 1996, Frances remained active in the antique world, operating booths in St. Francisville, Lafayette and her hometown of Woodville, before expanding into Breaux Bridge. She continued in that work for over two decades.

Kate, meanwhile, earned a degree in interior design from the University of Louisiana at

Frances Fitz-Gerald, center, and family

Lafayette and worked at the Paul Michael Company in Lafayette before transferring to Monroe. Eventually, the pull of home—and family—brought her back to Lake Charles. In 2015, she and Frances combined their talents and opened Frances Fitz-Gerald Jewelry & Antiques on Ryan Street. The shop grew steadily, expanding its space year by year over the next decade.

In January 2025, they moved to a new location at 200 W. Sale Road, Suite 800—but this wasn’t just a move; it was a transformation. Frances and Kate personally designed the entire space from the ground up. They created the floor plans, chose the wall colors and paint finishes, designed custom molding, selected lighting and even picked the stain for the concrete floors. Every inch of the store—from architectural layout to the smallest decorative detail— was intentionally crafted to reflect their vision of beauty, warmth and function. The result is not just a storefront, but a fully immersive experience that tells their story. Where do their treasures come from? The two travel the country together, sourcing one-of-a-kind finds from antique shows and markets. “She’s my best friend,” Kate says of her mother. “Our work trips feel like vacation. We’ve met people from Russia to Madagascar.”

For Kate, the goal is more than just selling antiques. “I want to show people what their home could look like,” she says. “Things don’t have to match, but they do have to go. Antiques tell a story—they carry the history of people and places—and we want our customers to feel that story when they walk in the door.”

At Frances Fitz-Gerald Jewelry & Antiques, history isn’t just preserved—it’s lived, celebrated and shared from one generation to the next.

At Frances Fitz Gerald,

we are passionate about preserving the past by helping to match exquisite antiques and vintage items with people who appreciate the value of these extraordinary

Elizabeth "Kate" Bergstedt and Frances Fitz-Gerald

Money & Career

Partners in Education are vital to the health of our local school system. These businesses volunteer time, money and employees to assist teachers and students in ways that federal or state employees and funding aren't able to. Research shows that when there are strong partnerships between schools and the community, everyone benefits, and student attendance and test scores improve. Curious about the Calcasieu Parish School Board’s Partners in Education program? Read on.

What is Partners in Education (PIE) ?

The Calcasieu Parish School Board Partner in Education program is designed to foster meaningful connections between businesses, individuals and schools with the goal of sustaining and advancing improvement in public education. This program encourages community stakeholders to actively support the well-being of our students and their families, contributes to the overall health of the community and enhances the Calcasieu Parish School System's role in building a vibrant, thriving economy. By leveraging these partnerships, schools gain access to valuable

resources, expertise and support networks to enrich the learning environment, promote student success and strengthen community ties, thus ensuring education remains a foundational pillar for economic growth and social well-being. What makes the program so special?

Our Partners in Education program is special because it helps to create and foster sustainable, two-way relationships between schools and the communities in which we serve. Strong partnerships don’t just meet short-term needs; they contribute to systemic improvements in student achievement and community investment

Featuring Dr. Shonna G. Anderson, Supervisor of Special Projects at the Calcasieu Parish School Board

Dr. Shonna G. Anderson

in education. In short, the program is special because it represents education as a shared responsibility, where our schools are not just places of learning, but a place where we foster collective community growth.

What do kids learn and are there any experiences in the past that have stuck out to you as particularly impactful to students?

In the Calcasieu Parish School System, students involved in our Partners in Education programs gain critical life skills that prepare them for success beyond the classroom. We are essentially connecting classrooms in a way that impacts students by preparing them to learn the value of service, leadership, teamwork and career readiness. Students see firsthand how their education connects to the broader community and the workforce right here in our school system and community. An example of this is our recent Career and Technical Education partnership with the Lake Charles Fire Department.

Another impactful experience occurred when a local business partnered with one of our schools to host a STEM-focused career exploration day. Students were able to

interact directly with engineers, health care professionals and skilled tradespeople—many of whom were Calcasieu Parish graduates. These experiences stand out because they align with our district’s vision of educating the whole child. They leave lasting impressions, empower students to take pride in their community and reinforce the belief that their future is full of possibility—right here in Calcasieu Parish.

How do businesses get involved?

The process of becoming a Partner in Education is straightforward. Interested businesses or organizations should reach out directly to the principal of the school they wish to support. From there, the principal and the prospective partner collaborate to define the terms of the partnership, tailoring the commitment based on the specific needs of the school and the interests or resources of the partner. Each partnership is unique and built around a shared mission and vision with the goal of supporting student success and strengthening the school community.

How have you seen Partners in Education impact individual children and as a group?

Our Partners in Education program has had a tremendous impact on both individual

students and entire school communities. On an individual level, Partners in Education creates opportunities for students to be seen, supported and inspired in ways that are deeply personal and often life changing. One student, who had long struggled with confidence and engagement, was paired with a mentor through a partnership. This partner consistently showed up to support the student as he participated in school events. Over the course of the year, that student not only improved academically but also began to participate in school clubs and later became an advocate for others, something that would’ve seemed impossible just months earlier. The relationship built through the school-community partnership gave that student a sense of purpose and belonging.

On a group level, Partners in Education has also supported school-wide initiatives like food drives, health fairs and career expos that build a shared sense of responsibility and pride. These events not only meet immediate needs, but also foster a culture of connection, service and high expectations; values that reflect the Calcasieu Parish School Board vision.

Westlake Corporation

PARTNER IN EDUCATION WITH ELEVEN SCHOOLS IN CALCASIEU PARISH

by Kerri Cooke

Westlake Corporation is a proud member of the Calcasieu Parish School Board’s Partners in Education (PIE) program. Thrive spoke with Joe Andrepont, principal-community & government affairs, at Westlake Corporation to gain insight into how the plant and its workers are involved with this vital program in partnership with the local school system.

Westlake Corporation works with 11 different schools in the parish on a wide range of issues and activities. Facilitated by volunteers, the company funds the purchase of supplies and equipment for projects, supports local robotics teams at schools such as Vinton Elementary and Maplewood Middle, and assists baseball teams and the band at Sam Houston High. This is just a small taste of the specialized activities Westlake’s employees are involved in within their roster of supported schools.

Volunteers also provide meals during Teacher Appreciation Week, bring snacks during testing days and get involved in end of the year fun days. Occasionally, students visit Westlake sites to tour and learn about job opportunities. But Westlake focuses first on the specific needs of each school. A recent project for volunteers was the Skills for Life Camp in partnership with the Louisiana Trooper Foundation which teaches children firefighting, team building, first aid, woodworking, and bike and boating safety.

Andrepont believes “there’s nothing more important than getting an education” and says it’s important to educate students early on about the knowledge and skills they need if desiring to go into a specific profession. He also emphasizes that Westlake and its employees believe in the importance of attaining an education and that is actively portrayed through the number of volunteers taking part in the Partners in Education program, which goes above and beyond employees’ job descriptions.

“When our children graduate in the parishes and in the state, we want the talent to stay in the state. A lot of our best and brightest are moving away for better opportunities. We want to do anything we can to support education,” Andrepont says.

Volunteers educate children on what products Westlake makes, the job opportunities available there, what academic requirements are needed to achieve certain positions and the best way to ace an interview. A common misconception is

that industry employs only engineers and STEM workers. Plants also need skilled craftsman, such as electricians, welders and pipefitters, Andrepont points out.

Andrepont encourages all businesses who might be interested to become Partners in Education. “Get involved,” he encourages. “There’s a need. Often the state has mandates as to how money

can be spent. Schools are limited. It’s a win-win for businesses to be involved. It’s an investment, and graduates are the product.”

Andrepont is not content to rest on past laurels and wants to continue to drive innovation in how Partners in Education can help local schools and the community. He “would like to see a joint effort between business, industry and the school

board to create two tutorial centers on the east and west sides of the parish” to help children who might be lagging behind their peers in studies. At the end of the day, Andrepont says it’s the spark in children’s eyes when learning that makes all the support worthwhile.

Baggett McCall LLC

PARTNER IN EDUCATION WITH NINE SCHOOLS IN CALCASIEU PARISH

by Kerri Cooke

As a prominent local law firm in Lake Charles, Baggett McCall is committed to giving back to the community that supports them. One way the firm contributes to the local economic landscape is through the Calcasieu Parish School Board’s Partners in Education program (PIE). Thrive spoke with Missy Shaw-Brown, partner and lawyer with Baggett McCall, to talk about the company’s involvement with its nine designated schools.

While the expectations around a law career can vary from student to student, Shaw-Brown says one of her favorite things about being part of Partners in Education is when she represents the profession at career fairs. “I love talking to the kids and watching how few hands go up when I first ask, ‘Who wants to be a lawyer?’ and then seeing how that changes after I share what a career in law can look like.”

The overall goal at Baggett McCall for being involved in Partners in Education is to “support, encourage and engage with students and educators in meaningful ways,” Shaw-Brown says. The firm not only hosts events at schools, but also at their office where students can tour the facility and get a close-up view of the everyday work that comes with being a lawyer. “We talk to students about what it’s like to be a lawyer, what a typical day looks like and what subjects they should focus on if they’re interested in a legal career.” Beyond showing students the legal field by example,

Baggett McCall purchases school supplies for teachers and sponsors fun events for students. Past examples include hosting a Polar Express event at Moss Bluff Elementary and serving Kona Ice to those at St. John Elementary. Whatever a particular school needs is what Baggett McCall will hone in on.

Giving back is a way to show appreciation for local support and to pave the way for the future for Baggett McCall. “This community has allowed our firm to thrive for 67 years," Shaw-Brown says. "Partners in Education is not only a way for us to express our gratitude to the community that has supported our small business, but also a meaningful opportunity to invest in the next generation of lawyers.”

If any businesses are interested in becoming a Partner in Education, ShawBrown encourages stakeholders to consider doing so. “Not only is there a need for it, but what you give, you will receive back tenfold. It’s rewarding to know that you’re making a difference not only for the students who are the future of our community, but also the educators who are molding them.”

Attorney, Missy Shaw-Brown

Our goal at Lakeside Bank is to provide our customers with the BEST possible banking services every day. We are honored to be in the TOP 5 of the American Press People’s Choice Awards for BEST BANK, and ask you to vote for us online at the address below or with the QR code from your smartphone. Thank you!

LOCALLY OWNED.

Butch Ferdinandsen

CSE POWERS UP PARTNERSHIP WITH FOOD DRIVE FOR SOWELA STUDENTS

During Shared Branching Awareness Week, CSE Federal Credit Union proudly hosted a food drive to benefit the Tiger Love Food Pantry at SOWELA Technical Community College. The week-long initiative invited members and the local community to donate non-perishable food and essential items to support SOWELA students, faculty, and staff.

The event coincided with CSE’s participation in a nationwide celebration of the Shared Branching Network system that offers CSE members access to more than 5,000 credit union locations across all 50 states, Puerto Rico and Guam. These are full-service branches where members can perform their regular banking as if they were at their home location, underscoring the accessibility and convenience that Shared Branching provides.

“This was a perfect opportunity to highlight both our commitment to the community and the value of Shared Branching,” said Matt Koch, president and CEO at CSE Federal Credit Union. “Thanks to the generosity of our members and team, we were able to collect a significant number of donations for SOWELA’s food pantry—and remind everyone that banking with CSE means support wherever you go.”

PHILLIPS 66 AWARDS STEM SCHOLARSHIPS TO LOCAL STUDENTS

Ten high school seniors from Southwest Louisiana have earned Phillips 66 STEM scholarships, recognizing their academic potential and interest in pursuing careers that will power the future.

Southwest Louisiana honorees include: Hayz Hext from DeQuincy High School, majoring in Machine Tool Technology at SOWELA Technical Community College

Landen Fontenot from Grand Lake High School, majoring in Process Technology at SOWELA Technical Community College

Colton Liscum from Sulphur High School, majoring in Industrial Instrumentation at SOWELA Technical Community College

Brady Foolkes from Sam Houston High School, majoring in Instrument and Electrical at SOWELA Technical Community College

Brayden Miller from Lacassine High School, majoring in Industrial Instrumentation at SOWELA Technical Community College

Keilan LeBlanc from Sulphur High School, majoring in Process Technology at SOWELA Technical Community College

Lamarion Armstead from Lake Charles College Prep, majoring in Engineering from Grambling State University

10 Southwest Louisiana students are among 57 students across the U.S. selected from a competitive pool of applicants who plan to study science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) at a technical school or four-year college, with a goal of entering the energy, chemicals or manufacturing fields.

Students pursuing a technical education will receive $2,000 scholarships. Those attending a four-year university will receive $5,000. Scholarships are renewable each year through graduation, as long as students remain enrolled full time and meet GPA requirements.

BRYCE RIVER FOUNDATION’S ‘RIDE TOWARDS TOMORROW’ SUPPORTS MENTAL WELLNESS AND SUICIDE PREVENTION

On August 16, 2025, the Bryce River Foundation will begin driving awareness of Suicide Prevention Month (September) with its second annual cycling fundraiser, "Ride Towards Tomorrow." Hosted by Crying Eagle Brewing Company from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., the event invites cyclists, wellness advocates and anyone impacted by the loss of suicide from Southwest Louisiana and beyond to join this important initiative to strengthen community support and promote mental health.

The 2025 event features a variety of challenges for participants to choose from:

• RUCK “With You” (3 miles): New this year, RUCKing is an event where participants will carry a weighted pack during a supportive walk, similar to military training. This event benefits mental wellness partner, With You, which serves first responders and veterans.

• Family Ride (6 miles): A gentle, closed- course pedal to the upscale horse stables at Le Bocage— ideal for kids and parents to ride worry-free away from traffic. After the ride, families can enjoy breakfast, inflatable jumps and 360 cameras!

• Intermediate Ride (27 miles): Ideal for cyclists seeking a moderate challenge, this picturesque route explores the scenic farmlands and quiet rural roads of Southeast Calcasieu.

• Advanced Ride (50 miles): A rigorous course designed for experienced cyclists, showcasing the natural beauty of Louisiana’s countryside.

Not quite ready for the saddle? No problem! Register for the "Don't Make Me Ride" VIP option.

Use this time to explore the pop-up vendor market and connect one-on-one with mental health professionals and partner organizations of the Bryce River Foundation. Discover local support resources, gather wellness tips or simply soak up the community spirit.

Ride Towards Tomorrow will also feature a garden of memorial ribbons to remember those who have died by suicide and to show support for the families and loved ones who have been affected by it.

GLOBAL DATA SYSTEMS NAMED TO CRN SOLUTION PROVIDER 500 LIST

Global Data Systems (GDS), a leading full-service managed service provider, announced that CRN®, a brand of The Channel Company, has named GDS to its 2025 Solution Provider 500 list.

CRN’s annual Solution Provider 500 list recognizes North America’s largest solution providers by revenue and serves as a benchmark for identifying the most influential and successful organizations in the IT services industry. With a combined revenue

of $548.9 billion among all ranked companies, this list reflects the critical role solution providers play in advancing innovation and delivering transformative IT outcomes across industries.

“Being included once again on the CRN Solution Provider 500 list is a testament to the hard work, innovation, and customer-first approach that drives everything we do at GDS,” said Doug Pickle, president of Global Data Systems. “We are proud to be counted among the top-performing IT service providers in North America. This recognition fuels our continued mission to simplify IT and deliver unmatched value to our clients.”

STINE CELEBRATES REOPENING OF NEWLY REMODELED CROWLEY LOCATION

Stine, the largest family-owned home improvement retail chain in Louisiana, has reopened its remodeled location in Crowley.

Stine's reopening signifies a renewed chapter in its long history of serving the community at 235 Odd Fellows Road in Crowley. Originally established in 1997, the store has undergone an extensive remodel to enhance the shopping experience to meet the needs of contractors and homeowners alike.

"We are incredibly excited to unveil the newly remodeled Stine in Crowley to the community," said Stine President Wendy Stine. "This investment reflects our ongoing commitment to serving the Acadiana region and providing our customers with an exceptional shopping experience. With a refreshed store, we are confident that we can better support the building and home improvement needs of Crowley and the surrounding areas."

SOWELA RECEIVES $100,000 TO FUND STEM ENERGY PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

SOWELA Technical Community College received $100,000 from the Future Use of Energy in Louisiana (FUEL). In collaboration with ExxonMobil and Allen Parish School Board, this initiative will support professional development training in rural school districts. SOWELA was one of 13 Louisiana programs to receive funding to advance energy talent development.

“Providing instructional opportunities to train future educators in the STEM fields is critical to the continued success of providing educational training opportunities to our students,” said SOWELA Chancellor Dr. Neil Aspinwall. “This is another great example of education and industry partnering to help provide the skills and tools needed to prepare our students for future work opportunities in the always changing and expanding STEM fields. We really appreciate ExxonMobil for their willingness to invest in talent development for our educators and Allen Parish

School Board for their support with the training.”

Funding for the SOWELA program provides 40 educators with a one-week STEM summer professional development camp at SOWELA Oakdale. Middle and high school teachers throughout the six-parish area and across all disciplines will explore principles in project-based learning and STEM.

Participants will take on the role of a student in completing an energy-focused project. The training will culminate with an educator showcase where teachers present their energy research projects. They will also customize lesson plans, attend workshops, strengthen their teaching and leadership skills and build their professional network.

“We care about our communities, and that starts in the classroom. A good education sets the foundation for the future, and we’re excited to help students get ready for the jobs of tomorrow,” said Justin Carr, CCUS asset manager at ExxonMobil. “By teaming up with SOWELA, the Allen Parish School Board, and local teachers, we’re helping bring real-world skills into the classroom. We’re proud to support students and teachers as they learn, grow, and take on new challenges — together, we’re making a difference.”

FUEL is a collaborative initiative bringing together universities, community and technical colleges, state agencies, industry partners and capital investors. With $160 million in funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) through the NSF Engines program, the largest and most competitive award ever given by the agency, and an additional $67.5 million from the Louisiana Economic Development, FUEL's mission is to drive the state's energy innovation forward.

SOWELA EXPANDS NURSING LABS

SOWELA Technical Community College recently expanded its simulation labs to accommodate growing Nursing (RN) and Practical Nursing (LPN) programs. The expansion project was funded through a $503,000 grant with the Louisiana Technical and Community College System. The project increases patient lab space from 1,349 to 2,015 square feet and brings the total number of high-fidelity labs from three to five.

“The Allied Health Care field is continually growing and SOWELA provides the area healthcare industries with qualified and skilled nurses,” said SOWELA Chancellor Dr. Neil Aspinwall. “With the addition of a fourth RN cohort this past year, we were fortunate to be able to build a new nursing skills simulation lab. This new lab will provide our nursing students the technology and equipment they need to gain practical hands-on experience in many nursing skills scenarios.”

Last year, SOWELA added a fourth Nursing (RN) cohort to its program, doubling program enrollment. The college now admits students into the program every fall and spring semester. The

space helps the program accommodate additional students and enables both the Nursing and Practical Nursing programs to participate in highfidelity simulations at the same time. Students in all nursing programs participate in adult, geriatric, pediatric and OB (labor, delivery and postpartum) high fidelity simulations.

“We are very excited to have two more high fidelity simulation rooms,” said SOWELA School of Nursing and Allied Health Dean Kristine Stout. “This will allow for multiple simulations to occur simultaneously as well as more complex simulations for students to participate in. High fidelity simulations require decision-making and problem solving under realistic pressures but in a safe controlled environment. The additional rooms will enhance the education of students in all our nursing and allied health programs.”

THE SWLA HOME SHOW RETURNS ON AUGUST 16

The Home Builders Association (HBA) of Southwest Louisiana has announced plans for the 2025 Home Show, presented by Delta Energy. The Home Show will take place on August 16 at the Lake Charles Event Center, from 9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.

This will be the first Home Show since March of 2020, marking the return of a highly anticipated community event that took place annually for 29 years, before the pandemic and the natural disasters of 2020-2021.

The Home Show will showcase the latest trends in homebuilding and construction, advances in in-home technology, new décor styles, ideas for landscaping, financing options from local lenders and so much more.

“We are so excited to bring the Home Show back to Southwest Louisiana, and hope residents will be even more excited,” says Christa Comeaux, executive director for HBA of SWLA. ”With over 100 booths all under one roof, homeowners and future homeowners will be able to get great advice, inspiration and ideas from local experts. Each booth will be staffed by professionals in their field ready to help you bring together the pieces needed, whether you’re planning to build or working on home improvement projects.”

A new feature of the Home Show this year will be the Kid Zone. Food truck vendors will also be onsite offering meals and beverages. A mobile blood drive, in partnership with LifeShare Blood Center, will also take place.

Admission to the Home Show on August 16 is $8 per person and free for children 17 and under.

For more information, visit www.hbaswla.org/homeshow or call (337) 478-7893.

From the Desk of the McNeese Prez

A little over a year ago a Brand New Day dawned at McNeese. We are proud of what we've accomplished this past year—we have right-sized the university, stabilized our finances and reversed a 14-year enrollment decline—but our mission is far from finished.

While we will remain focused on recruiting, we are also working to better retain our students and on increasing graduation rates. We are on the right path to create a thriving learning community for our students and being a good partner for our community. We want McNeese to be the premier regional university in Louisiana and Southeast Texas!

We received great news that McNeese will be the site of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration’s National Center of Excellence for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Safety. This will be a game-changer for our region in terms of workforce development and groundbreaking research. We are excited to be at the forefront

of helping ensure safety and sustainability in the energy sector and look forward to working with PHMSA to develop a world-class facility to house their staff. Located in McNeese’s LNG Cener for Excellence, the PHMSA’s National Center of Excellence for LNG will facilitate research and development, training, and regulatory coordination and encourage the development of LNG safety solutions to real-world challenges through global and domestic collaboration among LNG stakeholders.

Dr. Wade Rousse

McNeese State University President

McNeese Names April Broussard Vice President for Business Affairs

April Broussard has been named vice president for business affairs at McNeese State University. Broussard has been serving in the interim role since July 2024.

“Ms. Broussard has been in the trenches as part of our executive leadership team for over a year. She is an accomplished professional and is willing to bring opposing viewpoints to the table to make certain leadership decisions are fully vetted,” Dr. Rousse said. "I’m thrilled that she is in the permanent role of vice president for business affairs.”

Broussard earned an associate degree in computer information tech, a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a Master of Business Administration from McNeese. Broussard served as the operations director of the McNeese Autism Program and Kay Doré Counseling Clinic from 2019 until June 2024. While there, she secured funding to support suicide education and awareness and Road to Wellness programs. She also negotiated multi-agency partnerships with funding to provide a program coordinator role and support counseling services at Sam

ULS Academic Summit Art Students

McNeese State University students

Navy Tate, Olivia Little, Nya James and Nelly Gonzalez Chan, presented their artwork at the University of Louisiana System (ULS) Academic Summit this spring.

Each year the ULS Academic Summit offers students from all nine schools in all disciplines of study an opportunity to meet and present research, show off their art and share ideas. 13 McNeese students attended the summit this year.

Tate showed a piece called Lisa’s Flower, a ceramic sculpture of a girl with a flower protruding from her mouth. She said the piece was inspired by the feeling of not being able to speak your mind for the sake of kindness.

Little created a promotional package for a masquerade ball in her graphic design class and showed it at the summit. She was inspired by fantasy book covers and masquerade invitations.

James took a still-life photography piece to the summit. It is part of a three-part series titled, She Still Remains, that depicts the process of healing and grieving after a loss. The piece highlights the influence of her late grandmother.

Komorebi is the Japanese word that signifies the play of sunlight filtering through leaves and trees that Gonzalez Chan’s painting captured. She used scale, value, lights and darks, and distance to create a painting that showed sunlight filtering through leaves and flowers.

Houston High School.

“This university holds a special place in my heart. Not only did I earn my three degrees here, but many of my family members, including my father, are also proud McNeese graduates,” she said. “I look forward to building on the great work already happening in business affairs, strengthening our operations, fostering collaboration and ensuring we continue to prioritize the needs of our students and the broader campus community.”

Still life photography by Nya James

Painting by Nelly Gonzalez Chan

Still life photography by Navy Tate

Graphic design by Olivia Little

Places & Faces

byKerriCooke

Often going above and beyond the call of duty, teachers, counselors and school staff strive to ensure our children are receiving a good education in an environment conducive to learning. Their efforts are the building blocks on which our communities grow and flourish. In this section, Thrive features five Education Superheroes in celebration of the men and women working tirelessly to instill foundational learning in today’s students. Ironically, all five individuals featured have backgrounds in other fields before they made their transition into teaching.

Colin Hyatt, who was born and raised in Sulphur, Louisiana, began his career at Cheniere LNG after graduating from LSU with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Health Sciences. For the next decade, he continued to work in industry but felt that wasn’t his permanent career path.

As a college student, Hyatt worked as an assistant wrestling coach at Zachary High School, so when he made a return to coaching at Sulphur High several years ago, he was “reminded of how much I enjoy instructing and being able to pass along knowledge.”

The 2024-2025 school year was Hyatt’s first year as a teacher, and he is a state finalist for New Teacher of the Year. His classes included 6th and 7th grade science and PE at F.K. White Middle School.

Hyatt particularly enjoys teaching middle school-aged students because they’re old enough to learn more complex subject matter but still young enough to get excited about new discoveries. “Students are asking thoughtful questions, making connections and engaging in meaningful conversations about how the world works,” he says. “They still have that incredible sense of wonder and curiosity. They get genuinely excited about discoveries, experiments and the mysteries of science.”

While Hyatt says he enjoyed his first year as a teacher immensely, he also admits there are challenges, especially when just starting out in a new career. “I believe that if something is worth doing, it won’t be easy. The challenges didn’t make me love teaching any less—in fact, they made me love it more. Growth comes in small steps every single day through persistence, hard work and belief.” Hyatt also credits his fellow teachers, mentors and co-workers for helping make his first year of teaching such a success.

As to being a finalist for New Teacher of the Year? Hyatt says, “Making such a drastic career change into education was certainly a leap of faith, but it was driven by a passion to make science meaningful and accessible to my students. This recognition validates that decision; it tells me that the energy I’ve poured into teaching is making a difference.”

However, Hyatt doesn’t see his recognition as solely a personal win, but as a representation of what can happen when someone with a background outside of teaching brings their experience into the classroom. (The winner of New Teacher of the Year was announced after Thrive’s deadline.)

Places & Faces | EDUCATION SUPERHEROS

Shi Garriet never expected to become a teacher after pursuing nursing. While she had played teacher as a child, the catalyst in her career was watching her grandfather pass away while EMTs tried to revive him while she was in middle school.

The desire to become a solution for people suffering health events lead Garriet to obtain her CNA, LPN and RN certifications from Lamar State College Orange before graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Lamar University.

Garriet decided to bring her knowledge to a classroom setting at age 40 after gaining 21 years of nursing experience. Stationed at Washington Marion Magnet High School for the last four years, she teaches Basic Nursing Skills and offers dual enrollment classes in partnership with SOWELA Technical Community College. Through dual enrollment, Garriet teaches students not only from Washington Marion, but also from Sam Houston High School, LaGrange High School, Barbe High School, Iowa High School and Bell City High School. Students automatically become certified nursing assistants upon completion of Garriet’s class and are ready for the workforce and higher education immediately.

Transferring her skills from the bedside to the classroom has allowed Garriet to share valuable insight into the nursing field to help future generations excel in their studies and future careers. Teaching is a multifaceted profession and involves “building relationships with students, collaborating with dedicated staff and engaging with the community,” says Garriet, who finds a great level of satisfaction in impacting the present and future of her students. “The most fulfilling aspect of teaching is witnessing students achieve their goals and thrive both academically and personally,” she says.

However, teaching doesn’t just involve what happens in the classroom. Garriet says, “Educators must recognize and address external challenges, which can include family issues, socioeconomic factors and emotional struggles. This realization fosters a deep understanding and empathy towards students, highlighting the importance of holistic support in their development.” In fact, while hands-on nursing is what Garriet did for over two decades, now that she’s an educator, she recognizes the importance of the groundwork teachers set for all professions.

Garriet has definitely made an impression on her students and co-workers as she was named High School Teacher of the Year by the Calcasieu Parish School Board for the 2024-2025 school year, which she says was “not on my bingo card!” Grateful for the honor of being chosen for this prestigious award, Garriet has eyes on the future with hopes of expanding the nursing program at Washington Marion.

Amy Pourciau began her career working as a licensed professional counselor in a clinical setting after graduating with a Master of Fine Arts in Counseling Psychology from McNeese State University.

As she gained experience, she began to feel the urge to return to a school setting as she had herself attended Catholic school and “always genuinely loved being in school.” She continued her education and obtained a Master of Education in School Counseling.

Pourciau will begin her 4th year as counselor at St. Margaret Catholic School for the 2025-2026 school year but has worked in a similar position for a total of seven years. As a school counselor, Pourciau says, “I can combine my love for education with my background in mental health.”

While Pourciau provides emotional support to students as needed, she also is involved in other aspects of the daily running at St. Margaret such as “scheduling, communicating with parents and collaborating with staff based on their needs.” Her favorite aspect of being school counselor? “I love seeing students succeed—not just academically, but also in athletics, extracurricular activities and personal growth. It’s rewarding to witness their progress from the beginning of the school year to the end.”

As coordinator for the Student of the Year competition, Pourciau is further able to assist and observe as students progress in their personal journeys over the course of a school year. The competition allows her to connect with more students on a personal level. “I get to learn about students’ leadership qualities, their dedication to serve and their successes both in and out of school. It’s a privilege to hear their stories, see their accomplishments from a new perspective and help highlight the ways they’re making a positive impact in our school and local community.”

Through St. Margaret’s Voyages class, Pourciau is involved with students who have specific learning needs that might be different than the average student. She stresses that it’s a privilege for her to see “these students make real gains and grow in confidence, skills and independence.”

As a counselor, it’s important for Pourciau to be able to handle different responsibilities and situations while maintaining a calm and collected persona. Making a difference in the lives of students as a counselor looks different every day, but Pourciau loves the ability to adapt. The job “means helping out wherever there is a need. Sometimes it’s a small thing such as providing an extra highlighter or a hug. Sometimes it’s bigger, like supporting a family in a time of crisis,” she says.

Places & Faces | EDUCATION SUPERHEROS

Music is in Colette Tanner’s blood as the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Francis G. Bulber, former music educators at McNeese State University whose legacies continue to impact students today. In fact, she continues the program her father founded 84 years ago as director and conductor of the Lake Charles Messiah Chorus and Orchestra.

Tanner graduated with a bachelor’s and master’s in music education from McNeese. She will begin her 23rd year teaching choir at Our Lady Queen of Heaven for the 2025-2026 school year. She’s also choir director at St. Louis Catholic High School and for the Governor’s Program for Gifted Children.

Growing up in a musical family is what inspired Tanner’s career path. “I was surrounded by music, art and the quest for knowledge all of my life. It was a natural extension to continue that into my adult life,” she says.

Teaching choir is particularly rewarding for Tanner when a student achieves a skill they didn’t think was possible. For example, a young child “reading a rhythm for the first time to students performing for concerts and competitions” is exciting to witness. While some of her students continue their education to become proficient in music as a career, Tanner says educating students to become professional musicians is not her goal. “I teach so everyone can realize the importance of music in all of our lives. Music is integral to the human experience. But, like everything else that has value, you get out of it what you put into it.”

Musical education is a gift that continues to give back to Tanner. “You have all of these people with different stories, different lives, coming together as one to create beautiful music, beautiful art. We are using our ‘internal instrument’ to speak to the hearts and souls of our audiences.”

In a world where technology has made music increasingly easy to access, make and alter, Tanner hopes that her students retain the importance of musical education. She notes that historically, music was a luxury and a skill that was introduced to households through the wide-spread installations of pianos. She hopes her students remember “the importance of music and that everyone can and should participate in music for the betterment of themselves and the world.”

Kimberly Wilson began her career as a banking analyst after graduating from McNeese State University with a business degree.

She transitioned to a stay-at-home mom for a number of years before returning to McNeese State University to obtain her teaching certification. Establishing relationships with her children’s teachers had fostered a desire to become an educator herself.

Wilson has taught 1st grade at Immaculate Conception Cathedral School for the last twenty years. While she teaches subjects ranging from science to religion, it’s teaching English that “stirs my heart,” she says. It is a joy to teach this age group “because they are learning to love to read. I’m blown away every year by how much progress they make and how many books they read. It’s exciting to see every one of them with a book in their hands and when they bring me a book they’ve really enjoyed.”

As rates of cracking open a book continue to decline among the general population, reading opens up the whole world to the little tykes. Wilson says she and her students have had “great conversations about everything from ancient Egypt to the American Revolution.”

Since Wilson has taught students for two decades, she has had the privilege of seeing the children she’s taught turning into young adults. “I know the skills they developed with me will help them get to where they’re going. It’s so much fun to watch it happen!”

In a historic moment for the city of Lake Charles, Marshall Simien Jr. was sworn in as its 30th Mayor—and the first Black person ever elected to this office—this month. And while he is new to this leadership role, his name is a familiar one. A proud son of Lake Charles and accomplished attorney, Simien has built a notable career blending public service and civic leadership.

The oldest of five children, Simien graduated from Washington High School before earning his undergraduate degree in government from McNeese State University. While attending LSU Law School, he met his wife of 33 years, Dr. Paula Simien. They have three children, Marshall III, August and Grace.

Simien began his legal career in New Orleans, with a clerkship for Judge Bernette Johnson, who would become a Louisiana Supreme Court Chief Justice. He joined the law firm of Middleberg, Riddle & Gianna, as an associate and later partner, where his primary focus was complex business litigation. It was at this law firm where his interest in politics began, as he worked on several political campaigns.

When his father became ill in 1999, Simien and his family moved home to Lake Charles and he founded the Simien Law Firm, focusing on commercial litigation, insurance defense and championing small businesses. In 2003, Governor Blanco appointed him to the Lake Charles Port Board, where he helped guide reforms and economic expansion efforts. He was elected to the Lake Charles City Council in 2005. Following two terms on the council, he temporarily filled a vacancy on the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury and later chaired the Community Foundation of Southwest Louisiana, further emphasizing his commitment to regional growth and resilience.

As he begins this next chapter as mayor of Lake Charles, Thrive spoke with him about his journey to this pivotal point, along with his goals for the city’s future.

MARSHALL SIMIEN

LAKE CHARLES MAYOR

Photo by Shonda Manuel

You grew up in Lake Charles. What are some of your favorite memories from your childhood?

There are many: swimming at the Goosport pool, playing softball, going to school at Molo Middle School, just being with family and friends all the time. You know, when I think about my childhood, what stands out the most is that feeling of community we had. There’s nothing like it and that’s what I want everyone to feel in our city.

What led to your interest in law?

My initial major was engineering, but then I ran into physics and decided to pivot. Going back to the lessons of service and community I learned from my parents, and my personal interest in understanding how government works for a community, I switched to government. This gave me a solid foundation for pursuing a law degree. I felt gaining an understanding of the legal system would give me the knowledge to work for meaningful change—for the clients I’d represent and the community I serve.

What are you most proud of in your career?

Being the first in my family to attend college was a proud moment—proud for me because it made my parents, who had worked so hard, proud. I’m proud of the family my wife and I have created, and of my previous public service and what I helped accomplish in those roles. And of course, I’m proud of becoming mayor of this city I love. But looking back, one of the things I’m most proud of is mentoring the young men of the Junior Knights of St. Peter Claver through Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. It is up to us, as the older generation, to find a way to connect and understand our youth. The Junior Knights opened up this communication for me. Spending time with these young men, discussing their concerns and views, watching them grow into adults, while helping to instill the values of faith, leadership and social responsibility—that’s an accomplishment I can never surpass.

What’s the best advice you ever received?

My dad shared lots of great advice with me, but what comes to mind first is a simple gem from my grandfather. Whenever I’d have a

problem or ask him for help, he’d ask, “What’s your solution?” If I didn’t have one, he’d then say, “If you don’t have a solution, by definition, you cannot have a problem.” I’ve certainly learned how right he was!

Public service has played an important role in your life. How has that prepared you to be mayor?

I believe public service drives progress in a community. My experience on the Lake Charles Port Board, for example, taught me the value of accountability, strategic planning and economic diversity at a regional level. My eight years on the Lake Charles City Council reinforced these lessons, and the recovery efforts we oversaw after Hurricanes Rita and Katrina showed me the importance of government leadership and collaboration at all levels. As a board member with the Community Foundation, I experienced the value of translating vision into action through data-driven planning and community wide engagement.

What do you feel are the biggest strengths of Lake Charles?

We have so many! Our waterways are a huge natural resource I feel we don’t make the most of, or promote enough, as an attraction. The growth of the LNG industry is fueling our economy with more expansion ahead. It’s an exciting time for that industry and we’re at the center of it. But our biggest strength is our people and the strong sense of community we have here. This is not found in most other cities across the country. We care about one another and look out for each other. It’s part of who we are and what makes us a resilient and united community when it matters most.

How do you feel about making history as the first Black mayor elected in Lake Charles?

I’m very conscious of the weight of this moment. It’s an honor and I feel it reflects how far we’ve come as a community. People across this city, across the state, have expressed genuine and heartfelt support for me, which is so appreciated. It was especially encouraging to me that there was substantial crossover vote.

What are your immediate priorities?

During the campaign, I talked about creating “One Lake Charles,” where all parts of the city come together, participate fully and share equally in progress. This vision drives my immediate priorities across the board. I want to work to give our city workers a raise. They have families to support and need to earn a living wage. We’re also looking at our police department, to make sure it is not only wellstaffed, well-trained and well-equipped, but also that our officers are engaging properly with the community. We’ll be focusing on creating safe spaces for our youth for recreation. Economic diversity and growth that is sustainable for future generations is a big priority from day one. Our beautiful lakefront offers many untapped opportunities for this.

What are more long-term goals you hope to achieve?

To strengthen our city’s resilience to weather events so we can better withstand storms when they occur and recover from them more quickly and fully. I want to foster more investment in the business sector, adding more diversity to our economy so more of our young adults can find the jobs they want right here at home. I want Lake Charles and the Lake Area to become the place to go for diverse and extensive entertainment options—something for everyone—in a safe, family-focused, culturally rich community. Our city has a unique vibe, and it’s time for us to share it.

As you move through this first month in office, is there anything else you’d like to say to the Lake Charles community?

First, thank you. Thank you for the literal vote of confidence in choosing me to be your mayor. I will not let you down, but I ask you to be patient. We are hard at work, and you’ll start seeing the results very soon. I’m excited and moving forward with a steady hand and hopeful heart, guided by faith and driven by a vision of a better Lake Charles for all of us.

Places & Faces

Designed to serve as trusted community spaces during both emergencies and everyday life, Community Resilience Hubs are a key initiative of Just Imagine SWLA. These multi-use facilities provide critical resources during disasters and support community engagement year-round. In this month’s piece, enjoy a a Q&A with Jennifer Cobian, grants director at the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, to learn more about how these hubs are coming to life across the region.

What criteria guide where resilience hubs are placed in SWLA?

The goal is to strategically place resilience hubs in areas across our parishes to ensure critical resources are readily available near where people live. Calcasieu and Cameron are large parishes geographically, and it’s important to ensure hubs are within a reasonable travel distance for citizens, including those in rural communities.

Accessibility is crucial in selecting resilient hub locations. Since these hubs serve citizens after natural disasters when communications are limited, the sites should be in well-known and highly visible areas of a community. In addition, it is essential to select sites in low-flood-risk areas with well-maintained roads and drainage infrastructure to ensure the sites remain accessible during and after events.

What are the steps and timeline for launching a resilience hub project?

The first step is to identify existing facilities that may serve as a resilience hub. An ideal structure is one that is hardened to withstand high windspeeds and one that will not be needed for emergency operations after a disaster. Examples include public libraries, indoor park pavilions and community centers. Utilizing existing facilities is the most efficient and cost-effective strategy for

Building Resilience Where It Matters Jennifer Cobian Explains Community Resilience Hubs

establishing a resilience hub in a community. Where an existing facility does not exist, a new facility may be constructed. Like utilizing existing facilities, a realistic strategy to constructing a new resilience hub is to identify a dual-use facility that can serve a community purpose during blue sky days.

The timeline varies significantly depending on whether an existing facility is used or a new one is constructed. In addition, the funding source is a key determining factor for timelines. For example, for projects that utilize federal disaster grant funds, the process may include an additional two to three years waiting for approval of grant funds before the design and construction process can begin.

How are resilience hubs tailored to each community’s needs?

The public input gathered during the Just Imagine SWLA community engagement process is incredibly valuable when considering the needs of resilience hubs because it gathered information from citizens at a critical time in our community’s recovery process. Conducting an individual assessment of the surrounding community supported by a resilience hub is a crucial step to ensure the facility accomplishes its mission after a significant event. Utilizing public input, along with a thorough needs assessment of the area, will enable the hub’s features and resources best to meet the community’s needs after an event.

What funding or partnerships support resilience hub development?

Potential funding sources include grant funding such as FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), state disaster grant funding such as the Resilient Communities Infrastructure Program

(RCIP) and local funding through local tax collections or private industry donations.

The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury allocated a portion of its disaster grant funding to construct the Mallard Junction Community Center and Second Harvest Resiliency Hub project. The Mallard Junction Community Center will serve as a local recreation and community center for citizens during blue sky days. The structure will be hardened to withstand higher windspeeds and can serve as a resilience hub after an event.

The City of Lake Charles and the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury are partnering with Second Harvest Food Bank on the Second Harvest Resilience Hub project. Both projects have been awarded grant funding and are currently in their early design phase.

To learn more about Community Resilience Hubs, visit justimagineswla.org.

Jennifer Cobian, grants director at the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury

Karson is a fun-loving 13-year-old with a big heart and a silly sense of humor. He enjoys singing at church, playing basketball, video games, and spending time at trampoline parks. Karson dreams of joining the NBA and loves math. He’s looking for a Big Brother to help him grow in confidence and succeed in school.

old

Dante is a funny and outgoing 10-year-old who loves Fortnite, Roblox, and PE. He dreams of becoming a police officer and enjoys making people laugh. Dante is looking for a mentor he can talk to about life and have fun with along the way.

Alijah is a 12-year-old sports fan who loves football, basketball, and video games like NBA and Madden. He’s active, outdoorsy, and full of humor. Alijah hopes to find a Big Brother to play basketball with and look up to as a role model.

Shifting To A Low Waste Lifestyle

Lake Charles Native Becomes Tory Burch Fellow

by Kerri Cooke

Eleisha Eagle is an entrepreneur out of Narberth, Pennsylvania, who just became a 2025 Tory Burch Fellow with the Tory Burch Foundation for her small business SHIFT, a refillery, which is dedicated to the concept of low-waste living by providing personal care such as soap, shampoo and detergent for sale in bulk in refillable containers.

A native of Lake Charles, Eagles’ dad, Larry Eagle, was the fourth-generation owner of T Miller & Sons Hardware & Art Supply on Enterprise Boulevard and her mom was an interior designer. Upon graduating from St. Louis Catholic High School, Eagle attended Washington University in St. Louis for a year before moving to Nashville to pursue music full time. She released four albums, toured the country and organized a benefit concert annually at the Rosa Hart Theatre in Lake Charles which raised over $100,000 for the Children’s Miracle Network and other local nonprofits.

Eagle says that while touring America, she noticed many of the small towns she passed through were struggling due to the loss of a small business landscape. With SHIFT located in downtown Narberth, Eagle says, “What we’re creating is a modern alternative to convenience

culture—one that centers community and connection, where you know your neighbors and your purchases reflect your values."

SHIFT was born out of a desire to reduce waste and increase sustainability. Eagle said she began taking note of how much plastic we use and started buying products in bulk and purchasing clothing made with natural fibers. “Plastic made everyday life easier, but we’ve become too dependent on it. Once I started learning about the health and environmental impacts, I wanted to find better options,” Eagle says. Contributing to a system built on waste also didn't seem healthy. “I started down this path before headlines were talking about microplastics in our bloodstreams or forever chemicals in our homes. It wasn’t trendy—it just felt necessary."

One day, while on her low-waste living journey,

Eleisha Eagle, co-owner of SHIFT

she attended a lecture by her now-business partner, Kimberly Bezak, who had been living the same way. The two women clicked and opened SHIFT in a 10 foot by 10 foot space in the local grocery store where patrons could bring in their old bottles and purchase products by the ounce. The products utilize clean ingredients, are concentrated and are sourced as close to Narberth as possible to help reduce greenhouse gas

emissions. Eagle says many people are surprised to discover that SHIFT’s products are comparatively priced to those on regular box store shelves. After only six months, SHIFT was successful enough to have its own shop, which has been open for three years. Not only does the space house the refillery, but it has a community space where other local female-run microbusinesses reside. Other small businesses include those

2025 Women’s Fall Conference

Jackie Joyner-Kersee

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16

Featuring Motivational, Empowering and Fun Workshops SAVE the DATE!

8:00am - 4:00pm

selling secondhand clothing and thrifted home goods. SHIFT also hosts many events, including clothing swaps, a monthly knife sharpening event and a regular candle refill day.

SHIFT has already successfully “diverted over 60,000 single use containers,” Eagle says. She is a staunch believer in the idea that “most of what we need already exists.”

When it was announced that Eagle was named one out of 50 2025 Tory Burch Fellows, she says, “To get an extra boost of support like that . . . It’s a validation of your vision. The Tory Burch Foundation, created by fashion designer and entrepreneur Tory Burch in 2009, supports women building businesses that last by providing access to community, expert resources and strategic support. As the co-founder of SHIFT, I’m excited to bring the spirit of low-waste living to a national stage and join a network working toward a bold goal: generating more than $1 billion in economic impact by 2030.”

As Eagle navigates SHIFT into the future, she emphasizes “growing up in Lake Charles taught me to be resourceful and resilient. People there know how to help their neighbors and stretch a dollar and fix a problem. That mindset shaped me.”

Movers and Shakers in Southwest Louisiana...

VISIT LAKE CHARLES BOARD OF DIRECTORS WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS

Visit Lake Charles announces the appointment of five new members to its board of directors.

Derrick Morris, representing the City of Lake Charles, is a longtime entrepreneur and media professional with deep ties to the region’s arts, entertainment and cultural scene. As the founder of 3rd Coast Media, which includes 3rd Coast TV, 3rd Coast Radio and the 3rd Coast Crunkfest Music Awards, Morris has spent decades promoting Southern music, culture and creative industries. His work in media and entertainment has brought visibility to local artists and businesses. In addition, Morris has served on various community boards, including the Black Heritage Board, Maison Amie and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Southwest Louisiana.

Jana Crain, representing Southwest Louisiana’s Arts and Humanities, brings a strong voice for the region’s creative community. A native of Lake Charles and graduate of McNeese State University, Crain holds degrees in criminal justice and paralegal studies and has worked as a litigation paralegal for 20 years. She currently serves as vice president of the Arts and Humanities Council, where she advocates for local artists, supports cultural programming and helps expand access to the arts through grant initiatives and strategic partnerships. In 2020, Crain was recognized as a Thriving 30-Something for her leadership and volunteerism efforts throughout the community.

Janie Frugé, representing Chamber Southwest, serves as the chief executive officer of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, where she has worked for 28 years. Before assuming her current role in 2013, Fruge served as chief operating officer and chief nursing officer. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from McNeese State University and a Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management from the University of Phoenix. She is also a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. Frugé is a dedicated leader in healthcare and community development and is actively involved in the Sulphur Rotary Club, United Way and the Chamber Southwest Alliance Executive Board.

John Hamati, representing the Southwest Louisiana Lodging Association, brings more than 35 years of leadership in the resort and hospitality industry. As vice president of resort operations at Golden Nugget Lake Charles, Hamati draws on an extensive background that spans luxury hotels, mixed-use developments and international resort properties. His career includes key roles with brands such as Hyatt, Marriott, Kimpton, and Aston, as well as international experience managing properties in the Caribbean, Panama and Spain. A strong advocate for community involvement, Hamati has served on multiple civic and

economic development boards throughout his career.

Kala Kuhlthau, representing the West Calcasieu Chamber of Commerce, brings more than 43 years of experience in the financial industry. As senior vice president and branch manager at Lakeside Bank in Sulphur, her extensive background in consumer and commercial banking, lending and internal auditing gives her valuable insight into the needs of local businesses and economic development. An active community leader, Kuhlthau has served on the finance committee of Project Build a Future for over a decade and has been involved with the West Calcasieu Chamber of Commerce for more than 10 years, including a term as chairman of the board.

GLOBAL DATA SYSTEMS APPOINTS DOUG PICKLE AS PRESIDENT

Global Data Systems (GDS), a leading managed service provider delivering enterprise-class technology solutions, promoted Doug Pickle to president. In this role, Pickle will oversee the company's strategic direction and day-to-day operations, building upon GDS's 35-year legacy of excellence in managed IT services.

Pickle, who previously led the company's sales initiatives, brings a proven track record of developing high-performing teams and driving operational maturity. His appointment marks a strategic move to accelerate GDS's growth and enhance its position as a premier technology solutions provider.

Under Pickle's leadership, GDS will continue its commitment to delivering innovative technology solutions while maintaining the highest standards of service excellence for its clients across multiple industries.

CRYING EAGLE LAKEFRONT WELCOMES CHEF LYLE BROUSSARD AS EXECUTIVE CHEF

Crying Eagle Brewing Company announces Chef Lyle Broussard as the executive chef of Crying Eagle Lakefront, opening Summer 2025 in Lake Charles.

A proud native of Southwest Louisiana, Chef Broussard has spent his life immersed in the region’s rich Cajun and Creole roots. From learning to cook beside his grandmother to becoming one of the area’s most celebrated chefs, his journey has been defined by passion, precision and a deep love for the culture and cuisine of his home.

Chef Broussard spent nearly two decades at L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles, where he rose through the ranks and became known for his bold, soulful approach to Louisiana cooking. His accolades include recognition from the Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off, ACFNO’s Best Chefs of Louisiana and Visit Lake Charles’ Outstanding Culinary Professional Award.

Jana Crain

Derrick Morris

Chef Lyle Broussard

Janie Frugé

Doug Pickle

John Hamati

Kala Kuhlthau

At Crying Eagle Lakefront, Chef Broussard will lead the culinary vision with a menu that pays homage to the region’s heritage while embracing fresh, modern interpretations. Expect standout Gulf Coast seafood, smoked specialties and innovative dishes—all delivered with the unmistakable flavor and heart that define Chef Broussard's cooking.

Chef Broussard is known not only for his food but also for his community involvement. He has mentored aspiring chefs and championed local food systems through farm-to-table initiatives.

His cooking has earned him top honors in BBQ and gumbo competitions across the state, and he continues to be a proud ambassador for the flavors of Southwest Louisiana.

IMPERIAL HEALTH WELCOMES

DR. BRENTON SMITH

Family Medicine Physician Brenton Smith, MD, has joined the medical staff of Imperial Health. Dr. Smith earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, and his Doctor of Medicine form the University of Miami – Miller School of Medicine in Miami, Florida. He completed his residency in Family Medicine at Womack Army Medical Center at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, and Aerospace Medicine Primary Training as a Flight Surgeon at WrightPatterson Air Force Base in Ohio. He also earned a Master of Health Administration (MHA) from Louisiana State University in Shreveport.

Dr. Smith achieved the rank of Major in the U.S. Air Force and served as a Flight Surgeon/Family Medicine Physician for the 47th Medical Group at Laughlin Air Force Base in Texas for the past four years. He is certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Medical Association, the Wilderness Medical Society and the Association of Ringside Physicians.

Dr. Smith will be practicing with Dr. Errol Wilder, Dr. Ben Williams and Dr. Effat Rasul in the Imperial Health office at 771 Bayou Pines East in Lake Charles. Call 337-433-1212 to schedule an appointment.

THE SCULPTRY WELCOMES BETHANY VERRET, P.A.

Bethany Verret, board certified physician assistant, has joined the medical aesthetic team at The Sculptry, Southwest Louisiana’s premier medical aesthetics spa.

Originally from Lake Charles, Louisiana, Verret brings nine years of clinical experience and two years of hands-on expertise in aesthetic injecting. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from Louisiana State University, followed by a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. Her medical background includes occupational medicine, urgent care, emergency medicine, and most recently, an exclusive focus on aesthetic medicine.

In addition to her board certification as a physician assistant, Verret is also a certified injector for Botulinum Toxin (Botox) and dermal fillers. She joins The Sculptry’s founder, Hannah Grogan, APRN, FNC-P, as the medical spa’s aesthetic injectors.

The Sculptry offers a wide range of medical aesthetic treatments provided by an experienced team of professionals. Learn more at thesculptry.com.

Ashlyn Esterly

THE JOHNSON FIRM WELCOMES ASHLYN ESTERLY AS AN ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY

Ashlyn Esterly has joined The Johnson Firm as an associate attorney.

Originally from Ascension Parish, Esterly earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Louisiana State University and a Juris Doctor from the LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center, both in Baton Rouge. After earning her law degree, she worked as a law clerk for the Honorable Martha Ann O’Neal and C. Kerry Anderson in the 36th Judicial District Court of Louisiana in Beauregard Parish.

Esterly’s practice at The Johnson Firm focuses primarily on family law. She is an active member of the Southwest Louisiana Bar Association’s Family Law Division and Young Lawyers Section.

The Johnson Firm has a 45-year history of providing superior legal services across Southwest Louisiana. Their team of 10 attorneys specializes in the areas of criminal defense, personal injury and family law. Learn more at johnsonfirmla.com

CRYING EAGLE LAKEFRONT WELCOMES RYAN OZMENT AS NEW GENERAL MANAGER

Crying Eagle Brewing Company announces the addition of Ryan Ozment as the general manager of Crying Eagle Lakefront.

A native of Southwest Louisiana who attended McNeese State University, Ozment brings years of industry experience and a deep passion for hospitality to this new leadership role. His career began humbly at Snake River Grill inside L’Auberge Casino, where an unexpected introduction to the world of fine dining ignited a lifelong curiosity about food, beer, wine and service. From bussing tables to managing high-end operations, Ozment quickly worked his way up the ranks.

In 2020, he was named general manager of Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse, Landry’s premier, standalone fine dining concept. His leadership earned him the prestigious General Manager of the Year award in 2022—the first time it had been awarded since the COVID-19 pandemic—and led to his promotion as assistant director of food & beverage for the property.

With Ozment at the helm, Crying Eagle Lakefront is poised to become a standout destination for locals and visitors alike—offering craft beer, elevated food, wine, craft cocktails and a dynamic entertainment experience right on the water.

Dr. Brenton Smith

Bethany Verret, P.A.

Ryan Ozment

Home & Family

INTRO

With the new school year approaching, it’s important to stay up to date not only on your child’s health and wellbeing, but to be aware of changes and improvements in your local school district. Learn about some changes to school choice at the state level and how SWLA is improving its STEM programs. Also, discover educators who have branched out to write their own children’s books.

Dive into Thrive’s Back To School Tools for an array of ways to help your child excel in their studies.

Calcasieu Parish School Board

Start the School Year in Health Annual Physicals for Continued Wellness

with an

by Kristy Como Armand

As the new school year looms, it’s time to start those back-toschool checklists. Victoria McDaniel, DNP, FNP-C, with Imperial Health Urgent Care, reminds parents to make sure a wellness exam is on that list.

“While well baby visits are common for infants and toddlers, many school-aged children only see a healthcare provider when they have a health problem, so annual comprehensive health evaluations never take place,” she says. “Most schools require a physical before a student can participate in school sports teams, but a yearly exam is also recommended for all students to help develop good health and wellness habits, as well as to identify any health issues that need attention.”

McDaniel outlines the key benefits of getting a wellness or sports physical before the new school year begins:

Convenience and Flexibility: With fewer academic and extracurricular commitments, parents have greater flexibility in arranging appointments. If a sports physical is required, taking care of it early helps parents avoid the rush and stress of completing it to meet school deadlines as each season begins.

Preparation for the School Year: Various aspects of a child's health, including immunizations, growth and development, and overall well-being will be evaluated. By addressing any health concerns, parents can take proactive steps to ensure their children get a healthy start to the school year.

Assess Risk for Sports Participation: These examinations evaluate a child's physical fitness, assess for any underlying health issues and identify potential injury risks. By completing sports physicals during the summer, children can obtain clearance to participate in sports activities without delay, allowing them to hit the ground running when the season begins.

Preventive Health Measures: Physicals provide an opportunity for healthcare providers to discuss preventive health with parents and children. From promoting healthy lifestyle habits to discussing injury prevention strategies, these examinations empower families to prioritize their health and well-being, providing a foundation for a successful school year.

McDaniel says a student wellness exam will typically include:

• Head-to-toe physical examination

• Family history review

• Medication review

• Developmental screening

• Vision screening

• Hearing screening

• Blood pressure screening

• Immunizations, if needed

• Health education

“For middle and high school students who need a pre-participation sports physical, we’ll also assess their flexibility and strength, discuss nutrition and fitness, and complete any required forms,” McDaniel adds.

School physicals can be provided at Imperial Health Urgent Care locations in Lake Charles and Moss Bluff. No appointment is needed and extended and weekend hours are available. Visit imperialhealth.com for more information.

Back to Healthy Back to SCHOOL

Getting back in the school routine is a challenge—for both children and parents. Parenting experts say the best way to make a smooth transition from summer to school is to prepare ahead of time.

Keri Forbess-McCorquodale, MS, CEAP, LPC-S, LMFT, president of Solutions Counseling & EAP, says there are simple things parents can do to alleviate the stress and anxiety that can accompany the start of the new school year, whether their child is heading to school for the first time, attending a new school or is a seasoned veteran of the back-toschool drill.

Forbess-McCorquodale says it’s important to establish guidelines for the school year well ahead of time. “Routines help define days, structure our time and provide the sense of order everyone craves in our fast-paced world. Take the time before school starts to organize your thoughts and plans for the

upcoming year; then discuss the plan with your children. Whenever possible, give them a voice in the decisions you are making. Let them be a part of the process of establishing rules and guidelines but hold them accountable for the commitments they make. For example, homework time. They may want to come home and relax for an hour before beginning their homework. There’s nothing wrong with allowing them to do this, but adults should set the time for them to start. Kids respond better when they feel respected and holding them accountable teaches them responsibility.

Forbess-McCorquodale offers parents these additional suggestions to minimize some common back-toschool problems:

· Start easing back into the school schedule a week or so before the first day by practicing your morning schedule. Move up your child’s waking time gradually each morning. This will make them more tired so you can get them to bed earlier. Track how long it takes them to get

up, get dressed, eat breakfast and head out the door. This will help you and them plan ahead for the wakeup time you need to set to avoid hectic mornings.

· Discuss and decide what responsibilities children will have each morning before they leave and each afternoon when they return.

· With school uniform guidelines in effect, clothing choices are a little less complicated, but parents should go over the child’s options and make sure they know what they can and can’t wear to school. Once school starts, have your children put their clothes out in the evening for the next day, saving valuable time in the morning.

· Make after-school arrangements and emergency plans. Explain the routine to your child. If they will be staying at home alone, establish clear guidelines for what you expect regarding their responsibilities and activities until you return.

· Homework rules should also be established before the start of school. Designate a space in

your home specifically for doing homework. For younger children, it may be better if this space is not in their room where there are often too many distractions.

· Designate a “school gear” area where children can keep their school bag and any other items such as a jacket or sports bag they need to take with them each morning. They should get everything packed and ready the night before to eliminate those frantic searches in the morning.

“Once school is underway, routines may need to be re-evaluated and adjusted as school activities begin or if schedules change,” says ForbessMcCorquodale. “But talking and planning with your children before school starts will help you get the new school year off on the right track.”

For any type of family counseling need, call Solutions Counseling & EAP at (337) 310-2822 to schedule an appointment.

by Kristy Como Armand

“NURTURING ALL CHILDREN AND ACHIEVING ACADEMIC SUCCESS IN THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST.”

St. Margaret extends warm wishes for a delightful summer break to all members of our Viking Krewe, both past, present, and future. If you’re interested in learning about grade level opportunities, we invite you to visit our website or get in touch with us via phone.

We look forward to seeing you in the Fall!

Louisiana Becomes 11th State to Enact Educational Fund

by Kerri Cooke

It is widely known that Louisiana lags behind many other states in the education department, with literacy being a big issue. Steps are being taken to improve learning and test scores, and one of the ways Louisiana is combating its low education scores and graduation rates is by introducing education savings accounts (ESAs) for all students across the state to help cater directly to your child’s individual needs. Louisiana Giving All True Opportunity to Rise (LA GATOR), which was signed into law last year by Governor Jeff Landry, is a program parents can opt into if they believe their child could benefit from receiving an education somewhere other than their closest school.

The state allocates funds for every child in the state already. Usually that money is sent to public schools and is part of the budget to help your child thrive in that school. LA GATOR would have a portion of the money that is already being spent on your child’s education sent instead towards another institution or learning program of your choice.

This is especially helpful if a child has special needs, is struggling at their current school or has some form of learning disability.

The amount of money available to parents depends on income levels and the specific student in question. The money in the account can be used towards private school tuition, online education, tutoring, special equipment, transportation costs and educational materials.

The ESA program is being phased in over a period of a few years and will begin in August for low-income children, children with disabilities, children entering kindergarten and students wanting to withdraw from a public school. Eligibility will expand over the next few years. 11 other states have ESA programs and have had great success with them. Before applying through the Louisiana’s Odyssey portal, parents should familiarize themselves with the criteria for approval. There is a database of participating schools and providers to ensure whatever your child’s educational path looks

like, there is a good option for them. Review eligibility requirements to make sure your child qualifies for an ESA. Determine what the expected expenses for your child’s education will be for a school year, and ensure you have the proper documentation to apply for the program.

The ESA program was enacted to guarantee that every child is able to access a quality education regardless of their specific needs and ease the burden on parents to make that happen. While America spends more money per child on education than any other country in the world, this is not corelating to the amount of success students are having in education. By offering aid for specialized programs, Louisiana and other states with ESA legislation are hoping to gain ground in educational success. Eventually, ESAs in Louisiana will be open to K-12 children from families of all-income levels.

Visit doe.louisiana.gov for more information.

Public & Private Tutoring Sessions

Kindergarden through College

We accept most insurance and flexible benefit plans, and offer affordable, convenient payment plans to fit any budget. Call us today to schedule your child’s summer dental exam. *Cannotbecombinedwithanyotheroffer.Valuedat$85.00.

CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON REGION 5

STEM CENTER INNOVATION LAB

by Kerri Cooke

The Region 5 STEM Center, a hub where science, technology, engineering and math activities are hosted and planned for the surrounding community, is located on the campus of Lake Charles Boston Academy in Lake Charles. Late last year it was announced that the current library at the academy would be converted into a STEM Innovation Lab. As of Thrive’s deadline, construction on the lab was scheduled to start at the end of June.

The lab is in partnership with Woodside Energy and will provide a state-of-the-art learning environment at Lake Charles Boston for Southwest Louisiana’s five-parish area. The rest of the funding will be provided by the City of Lake Charles and the Calcaiseu Parish School Board.

The lab will feature areas dedicated to robotics, drone operations, space and travel, inventing and other STEM topics. There will also be a STEM Maker Machine area. The lab will be created to allow versatility depending on teachers’ needs. Many children don’t realize the extent of the STEM careers that exist. A student poll was taken during a STEM activity day where most children said they would like a career as an influencer,

but after learning about being a drone pilot, students were intrigued and had changed their tune upon being confronted with the possibilities of careers in new technology.

Calcasieu Parish School Board Superintendent Dr. Jason Van Metre said of the project, “Growth is what we strive for in all we do across the district, and that’s certainly what we are seeing here within the Region 5 STEM Center. When community partners step in to invest in our students—our future—we all benefit. We are grateful for the continued support from the City of Lake Charles and Woodside Energy in this endeavor.”

The lab is being designed by Inventionland, a self-described idea incubator, which began assisting industry and other businesses find state-of-the-art solutions to their concerns over 30 years ago. The company started creating and building STEM labs eight years ago. The Pittsburg-based corporation aims to help students learn by creating an environment that sparks the imagination. Labs are turned from basic rooms like your typical library into creative spaces, such as Inventionland’s previous projects including a tree house and pirate ship. The company holds an Edison Award for its

completed lab projects in the Seneca Valley School District.

Immersive learning has shown great success in the language sector, so it’s no surprise that STEM-based immersive learning is high on the CPSB’s agenda.

Vanessa Martin, vice president at Woodside Louisiana LNG, said, “At Woodside, we’re committed to giving back to the communities where we live and work. We are committed to our contribution in Louisiana and we’re proud to be supporting further STEM education and research in Lake Charles.”

For more information on the Region 5 STEM Center, visit cpsb.org/depts/region-5-stem-center/ about-us.

Home & Family | BACK-TO-SCHOOL TOOLS

We hear a lot about bullying, but most of us don't have a clear picture of how large of a problem it is. New details released by research conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) should make every parent and educator pause and then take action. Their report shows the devastating number of teens being impacted by bullying.

"It’s almost as if we are hearing about bullying more, but the number of people reporting being bullied is not decreasing as a result,” says Kirk Smalley, co-founder of Stand for the Silent, an organization dedicated to stopping bullying. "This clarifies that we need to increase our efforts, focusing on bullying prevention and zero tolerance policies."

The CDC has issued its findings from a survey study conducted from July 2021 through December 2023. Teens self-reported their experiences with being bullied during the prior 12 months. The data shows that 34% of teens have been bullied within the last year.

With a third of all teens reporting that they have been bullied in the last year, it is easy to see how hundreds, if not thousands, of students at one high school are being impacted.

Additional facts exposed from the CDC research study include:

• Sexual or gender minorities were bullied more often than others, at a rate of 47% to 30%.

• Those who said that they are bullied most often are white non-Hispanics.

• Teenagers who have disabilities are also bullied more often, with over 44% of them reporting that they had been bullied within the last 12 months.

• Teens who have been bullied are twice as likely to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression compared to those who have not been bullied.

"Bullying is a serious issue, and this report shows it is seriously impacting the people who will soon be running our cities, communities, and country," said Smalley. "We need to work together to help them with this issue so that they can reach their highest potential.

Their Student Stand Out program encourages teachers to nominate students who stand out,

display excellent behavior and lead by example. Some of the behaviors they hope teachers will recognize and nominate their students for include addressing bullying, being a positive role model, being kind, having good leadership skills, being respectful, having integrity and more. They also want to emphasize nominating those students who show initiative in helping to end bullying at their school.

Some ways to mitigate bullying include checking in with your child often, teaching them how to treat others, even those who might be different from them, and instilling in them how to notify teachers if experiencing a problem. Also, equip children with strategies on how they safely stand up to bullies and protect themselves and others.

$24,000

12,000+ 2,000+

the

shelf

July’s edition of The Bookshelf shines a light on books from two local educators. As reading is one of the basic building blocks of a rich inner life and a skill that will follow children throughout their lives, it’s important to get them engaged early on. Schools focus on literacy as a core subject and it’s a natural progression for those involved in education to publish materials inspired by their experiences in the classroom.

You Can Sit With Us!

Tisha Whittington’s book You Can Sit With Us! tackles the anxiety children can feel when beginning their yearly school routine. Dive into Nola's world, where the first day of school feels both exciting and a little scary. Nola is a new student who is nervous about everything from big things to small things, especially during lunch. Where will she sit? Journey with Nola as she discovers that making new friends and finding her place isn't as hard as it seems.

Whittington is a dedicated educator and school leader based in Southwest Louisiana, with a career spanning over

two decades in the field of education. A native of Kinder, Louisiana, she earned both her Bachelor of Science and a master’s degree in educational leadership from McNeese State University. She currently serves as the assistant principal at Jennings High School. In addition to her role on campus, she serves on the Executive Board for the Louisiana Association of Computer Using Educators (LACUE). She also recently completed the Louisiana Department of Education’s Science Leadership Cohort, as well as their Aspiring Principal Fellowship (APF) program.

Whittington says she wrote You Can Sit With Us! to support early literacy by using tools like rhyme, repetition and alliteration—all of which help young learners develop sound and word recognition. And the inspiration behind the book is the message of kindness. Over her 22 years as an educator, Whittington says she’s seen students of all ages walk into school unsure of where they fit in. But the one thing that can always make a difference is kindness. It costs nothing but has the power to change someone’s day— or life—for the better.

Whittington’s book can be purchased at The Charmed Page, Krew’s Books and Brews, Bux Kajun Korner and Très Jolie Boutique in Lake Charles. It’s also available from booksellers online.

The Bedtime Stories of Grumble: The Moonlit Labyrinth

Jason McGee • Ages 10-17

The Bedtime Stories of Grumble, Part One: The Moonlit Labyrinth is a tale that follows the Trewhitt and Anderson families as they navigate an exceptional and mysterious new life in a quiet suburban town. Their new life leads them into the moonlit labyrinth, where they encounter the truth of Karagen Grumble, a bounty hunter targeting their exceptionalities. The narrative is rich with themes of family, self-learning and courage. The characters, including Claire, Elliot, and Olive Trewhitt, and Nonsense Anderson, find themselves immersed in their own bedtime story, learning valuable lessons about the man

they thought was merely a bedtime story himself.

Jason McGee is from Southwest Louisiana and has two sons who are passionate about sports and music. He graduated from McNeese State University with a bachelor’s in early childhood education and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with a master’s in curriculum and instruction. He has been an educator for 13 years in the early childhood setting. He currently works for the Calcasieu Parish School Board's Early Childhood Department at John F. Kennedy Early Learning Center as an Educational Facilitator for the head start program. Educating young children has always been a passion of his. This passion comes from

observing the success in his students.

His journey to becoming an author started in his junior year at McNeese State University. He completed a course that utilized the opportunity to guide instruction through several projects that promoted reading and writing for his future students. The projects consisted of creating a variety of children’s books that taught specific lessons: predicative pattern, rhyme schemes and other educational components. Many of those projects created in this undergraduate course were published 10 years later.

McGee’s 11 books, soon to be 12, can be found at Not Just Christmas and Krew’s Books and Brews in Lake Charles or online.

Tisha Whittington • Illustrated by Leigha Briolo • Ages 4-8

Lucy’s Hometown Hunt Brings Summer Adventure to Lake Charles Families

This July, families across Lake Charles are invited to join a city-wide adventure that blends literacy, local pride and fun-filled exploration! Lucy’s Hometown Hunt, created by children’s author Crystal H. Mayo, launches July 1 and invites families to discover local landmarks, complete playful challenges, and celebrate the story of Lucy’s Lake Charles Adventure—a book inspired by Crystal’s school-based program in partnership with T.S. Cooley Elementary.

Participants will follow clues to nine key locations featured in the book. Each stop is connected to a local business or landmark, encouraging families to explore their hometown in a fresh, hands-on way. At each location, families will complete simple photo challenges that count as entries to win prizes. The hunt is designed for all ages, with a special focus on children ages 4–9.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

1. Download your clue sheet at www.crystalhmayo.com/summer

2. Visit each location and complete the challenges

3. Snap fun photos of your adventure

4. Post them using #LucysHometownHunt and tag each location

5. Share your best post in the Lucy’s Hometown Hunt Facebook group for official entry

The more challenges you complete, the more chances you have to win! The hunt ends July 31 at midnight, and winners will be announced August 1, 2025.

Thank You! 40thAnni rsary

The CITGO Lake Charles Refinery hosted the 40th Annual CITGO MDA Golf Classic in support of the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) on May 5 at the Lake Charles Country Club.

The tournament and other fundraising efforts raised $695,000 to support research and services for those affected by neuromuscular diseases.

Since 1985, CITGO Lake Charles and our dedicated network of vendors and partners have raised more than $7.7 million to support MDA’s mission: empowering people living with neuromuscular diseases to lead longer, more independent lives. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the generous supporters who made this year’s event a tremendous success.

Pictured: Charly Bradford, MDA Director, Corporate Partnerships; Sterling Neblett, CITGO Vice President & General Manager; Benjamin Willis, CITGO MDA Ambassador; Missy Amidon, CITGO Public Affairs Manager