Thrive October 2017 Issue

October 2017

IN THIS ISSUE:

HALLOWEEN SECTION ALL ABOUT FALL BOOTS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

1

Rehabilitation Hospital

of Jennings

DIAgNOSeS THAT we TReAT

• Brain Injury

• Hip Fractures

• Strokes

• Osteoarthritis/DJD

• Amputations

• Neurological Disorders

• Burns

• Spinal Cord Injury

• Major Multiple Trauma

• Congenital Deformities

• Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Systemic Vasculidities

• Joint Replacements

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

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

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

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

3

Contents

Regular Features

In This Issue Wining &Dining

6

Vegan Eats of Southwest Louisiana 8 Small Plate Dining & Tapas in Southwest Louisiana 10 Apple of Your Eye: How to Use Fall’s Favorite Fruit

18 First Person with Genevieve Gorder 26 Who’s News 30 McNeese Corral 42 Happenings 56 Business Buzz 70 Solutions for Life

raft Beer C Explore the Outdoors of SWLA with Lake Area Adventures

Places &Faces

12 – 17 Cover Story:

A

ISIAN TO LOU

IN TAPPING

20 22 Sulphur High School’s Toreadoras Celebrate 50th Anniversary 24 CHRISTUS Changes the Healthcare Landscape in Southwest Louisiana

Home &Family HALLOWEEN 28 – 35 Special Feature: ROUNDUP

6 22

36 Fall Out with Pests 38 Fall into a Beautiful Yard 40 Creating a Positive Productive, Homework Zone

tyle &Beauty S 44 Your Ultimate Skincare Routine at Any Age 46 Five Fall Boot Trends to Try 47 Give Foot Problems the Boot by Choosing the Right Boots 48 Soak in these New Pedicure Trends oney &Career M 50 Budgeting 101 for 20-Somethings 52 5 Ways Your Spare Change Can Make a Big Difference 54 Match Your Career Choice to Your Personality

Mind &Body Cancer Awareness 58 – 61 Special Section: Breast

62

Truce! Finding the Middle Ground on Hormone Therapy 66 How to Prepare for Flu Season 68 9 Reasons for Weight Gain That Have Nothing to do With Overeating

DON’T JUST LIVE, THRIVE!

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

4 www.thriveswla.com

52 Editors and Publishers

Kristy Como Armand Christine Fisher

Advertising Sales ads@thriveswla.com 337.310.2099

Creative Director

Barbara VanGossen

Submissions edit@thriveswla.com

Managing Editor

Angie Kay Dilmore

Business Manager

Katie McDaniel Stevenson

Design and Layout

Mandy Gilmore

Assistant Designers

Shonda Manuel Kris Roy

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

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

DOWNTOWN NEW IBERIA | OCTOBER 14-15, 2017

SATURDAY, OCT. 14TH

CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES 8:00AM 5K ROUX RUN 11:00AM – 2:00PM CAJUN CREOLE FEST & MEANEST BEANS COOKOFF 11:00AM-12:30PM CHUBBY CARRIER 1:00PM – 3:30PM HWY 90 4:00PM – 5:30PM TWO IN THE CHAMBER 6:00PM – 8:00PM JARYD LANE 8:30PM – 10:30PM JASON MILLER BAND

GUMBO SUNDAY, OCT. 15TH

COOKOFF WITH 90+ TEAMS SERVING BEGINS AT 11:00AM CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES 10:00AM – 12:30PM GENO DELAFOSSE 1:00PM – 3:30PM RODDIE ROMERO 3:30PM AWARDS CEREMONY For more information visit: www.iberiachamber.org/gumbo-cookoff

October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

5

Wining & Dining

Vegan Eats

of Southwest Louisiana story and photos by John O’Donnell

Veganism isn’t a new concept, but it’s receiving a lot more attention lately. It seems you can’t dine, research a recipe, turn on a cooking show, or even open your favorite social media app without hearing or reading the term “vegan”.

6 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

So what does it mean to be vegan? Veganism is a way of eating and living that excludes the exploitation of and cruelty to animals as much as possible. A dietary vegan refrains from consuming any animal products like meat, cheese, eggs, and dairy. The diet is popular both for its ethical implications, as well as its health benefits. A well-planned vegan diet has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and even certain kinds of cancer.

The health benefits of the diet have made it the latest rage in Hollywood and sports, but veganism isn’t only for supermodels, celebities, and professional athletes anymore.

With local restaurants working to fill every dietary niche possible, it’s becoming easier than ever to eat a vegan or vegetable based diet in Southwest Louisiana. Here are a few local vegan favorites to make your taste buds happy and keep your body healthy.

Many people assume that eating vegan means you have to give up favorite food staples like sushi, but Let the Good Nosh Roll has you covered. Let The Good Nosh Roll hand rolls their vegan/paleo-friendly rice-less nori rolls in Lake Charles every Tuesday from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at The Cash and Carry Farmers Market. Substituting organic cauliflower for rice, their OG Nosh Roll also includes cashews, avocado, cucumbers, pickled red onions, and sprouts. With prices ranging

from $10-$12, Good Nosh Roll is a quick and easy dinner, or vegan lunchbox option.

Craving a good old fashioned American hot dog, but don’t want the meat? Head to Botsky’s in Lake Charles. Botsky’s wheat protein “sausage” dog, made with apples, sage, Yukon Gold potatoes and a hint of hickory smoke might make you forget that you’re not eating meat at all. For extra veggie value, pair it with one of their incredible cabbage wraps instead of a bun, and load it down with fruit and veggie toppings like pineapple, onion and jalapeno. Don’t forget a side of sweet potato fries dipped in fresh sugar cane syrup.

We all complained when our parents tried to get us to eat our vegetables. Salads have long been regarded as some of the most boring items on any menu, but Garden Path Groceries is changing that perception with fresh creative ingredient combinations in their weekly Buddha Bowls. You can find them Wednesdays from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. in the courtyard at The Historic Calcasieu Marine Bank in downtown Lake Charles. The Buddha Bowl changes from week to week, so you never get the same one twice, and each weekly menu typically features two bowls with staples like roasted sweet potatoes or eggplant, fresh greens and peppers, and quinoa. Dine al-fresco in the beautiful courtyard

or, if the weather is inclement, inside the historic rotunda of the bank. Short on time?

You can place a to-go order over the phone.

When you think of food that goes with beer, the last thing that comes to mind is plant based foods, but one of the largest and tastiest vegan menus in Southwest Louisiana belongs to a tiny silver trailer of a food truck called The Velvet Pig that’s typically found outside Crying Eagle Brewing. The Velvet Pig serves deliciousness like black bean egg rolls, vegan white lasagna, veggie burgers, vegetablebased Thai inspired dishes and sandwiches that pair well with Crying Eagle’s growing tap list.

Interested in learning how to make your own amazing dishes? The Velvet Pig offers frequent cooking classes at Walnut Grove with focuses on international cuisines like French and Thai.

You can also find them on Tuesdays at The Cash and Carry Farmers Market, 4:00-6:00 p.m.

This list is by no means comprehensive.

Every day more and more local restaurants and eateries are catching on to the growing vegan trend and adding delectable foods to this list. The days of resorting to side salads and steamed vegetables are over. Going meatless in Southwest Louisiana never tasted so good.

the Eat Local – Live Local

Ethically sourced and produced food served at the Cash & Carry Farmer’s market, Crying Eagle Brewing and local events.

Vegan Options • Cooking Classes • Catering (337) 842-5520 • thevelvetpig@gmail.com thevelvetpig.bigcartel.com October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

7

Wining & Dining

Small Plate Dining & Tapas in Southwest Louisiana

by John O’Donnell

8 www.thriveswla.com

photo by Brian Pitre

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

The days of the appetizer menu beginning and ending between spinach dip and fried cheese sticks are over.

The variety, creativity, and prominence of Tapas, also commonly known as starters, or small plates, is one of the hottest growing trends in restaurants right now, and eateries in Southwest Louisiana are no exception.

October 2017

While Tapas are of Spanish origin, the food term has become synonymous with almost all small plates regardless of the ethnic origin of the dish. This is largely due to another fast growing culinary trend, fusion cuisine, which has blurred the lines of the origin of many foods.

In Spain, Tapas can be anything from a small plate of cheeses, to small sandwiches. The term applies to just about anything served on a small plate.

Small plates and appetizers offer diners an opportunity to explore flavors and ingredients, and give chefs and restaurants a way to introduce customers to the quality of food and inventiveness of their menu without filling their customers up with one particular dish. Small plates are a great way for restaurants to introduce patrons to new or exotic ingredients they might be wary of when ordering an entrée, and in fact this principle created the origin of Tapas.

Tapas was born in inns and taverns alongside ancient Spanish roads. Weary travelers would stop in to small hotels and hostels for rest and food. Many travelers were from other European countries, and may have been unfamiliar with Spanish cuisine. Tapas allowed the owners of the inn to give their guests a sample of the dishes they had available.

Similar to Tapas is the Italian tradition of antipasto. Antipasto is the first meal in Italian cuisine. The term is derived from Latin, “ante” (before) and “pastus” (meal). The origin of these small plate dishes goes all the way back to the Middle Ages, but the objective of the dish is still the same today: To get you ready for the amazing courses of food to come. Chef Amanda Cusey and owners Mike and Brenda Sperandeo are doing amazing things to create modern versions of that ancient antipasto legacy at The Villa on Pujo Street in Lake Charles. As Italian food should, The Villa provides a true multi-sensory dining experience, and their small plates and starters succeed in engaging all of your senses for the meal to come. If you’re feeling traditional, try their own wonderful Antipasto for one or two people, featuring the chef’s selection of

October 2017

various meats and cheeses, with crostini, olives and fig chutney. If you’re feeling more adventurous, sample the chicken liver bruschetta, or the prosecco risotto with oysters.

Small plates, Tapas, and cocktails have long gone together. Many bar owners know that to keep drinking customers happy, it’s wise to also feed them. We’re blessed with many great bars and cocktails in Southwest Louisiana, but some of the most creative cocktails, extensive wine lists and beers on tap reside at Restaurant Calla at Walnut Grove in Lake Charles. Along with their great beverages, they have some cool, more modern small plates. They offer salty favorites like hand-made sweet potato chips that pair well with a variety of their beers on tap. With wine, try their cheese tray, often served with various jams, jellies, crackers and sliced meats. If you’re looking for something more unique check out the Bone Marrow served with onion jam, grilled toast and an herb salad, or the Pork Pate served on a grilled baguette with pickled okra, a quail egg, and buerre rouge.

Just as Tapas originated on a road-side, Americans too have long added their influence to small plates with road side diner inspired dishes. French fries, cheesy bread, and chicken wings might not sound as fancy as other ethnic small plate traditions, but that doesn’t mean they’re less delicious. True to their name, Sloppy’s Downtown on Broad Street is putting together some great, but messy, menu items in the vein of a good old fashioned road-side diner. Their Poblano Fries are deep fried roasted poblano peppers served with red pepper emulsion. Not sloppy enough? Try the Fresco and Pepper Fries. They’re house French fries topped with queso fresco and roasted poblano.

Too sloppy? Their simple but tasty Yellow Fin Tuna Poke Bowl with sushi grade yellow fin tuna, onion and avocado, tossed in a sweet Asian soy glaze and served over white rice should do the trick.

As this global trend in starters, appetizers, and Tapas grows, you can bet that our local restaurants will continue to carry on this ancient tradition of doing big things with small plates.

Pork Pate from Calla

DOCUMENT SOLUTIONS FOR BUSINESS

copiers • scanners • printers • fax • shredders

Locally owned and operated for over 30 years

600 W McNeese Street, Lake Charles | (337) 474-9913 asiofficesystems.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

9

Wining & Dining

Apple of Your Eye:

How to Use Fall’s Favorite Fruit

by Keaghan P. Wier

October is National Apple Month, and it’s a great time to try out some new recipes for this autumn favorite. While the most American dessert of all may be apple pie, there are many other ways to enjoy this fruit! Here are a few ideas to try.

DESSERTS Apple Dumplings: A peeled and cored apple filled with cinnamon and sugar, wrapped in pastry, baked and topped with sweet syrup. It’s a twist on apple pie that’s familiar but fun! You can also make an easy version using canned crescent rolls.

Apple Fritters: Essentially, these are apple donuts. Diced apples are mixed into a donut batter, fried, and coated with a simple glaze. A sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee on a chilly morning!

Apple Bread: There are countless versions of apple bread – some of them similar to banana nut bread, some of them with chunks of apples.

They consistently contain spices, a quick bread-style batter, and a lot of fresh apples. Top with a streusel topping and enjoy a slice.

10 www.thriveswla.com

OTHER TREATS Apple Cider: It’s like apple juice, but spiced and better! Whether you like your cider cold or warm, homemade apple cider is easier than you think. There are a lot of recipes you can make in your slow cooker and have waiting when you’re ready for a mug in the evening.

Apple & Gouda Grilled Cheese: Slice crisp, tart apples (Granny Smith work well for this) and pair with a creamy cheese for a grown-up version of this childhood favorite. You can experiment with other cheese and apple pairings, too – bleu cheese, Havarti, and mozzarella would all be nice combinations.

Apple Butter: Smooth, spicy and indulgent. Apple butter is great spread on toast, waffles and pancakes. Like cider, you can easily make apple butter in your slow cooker for use on fresh bread.

Apple, Bleu Cheese and Bacon Flatbread: Another great way to enjoy tart, fresh apples: sliced on a cheesy flatbread! Bake and prepare your flatbread with bleu cheese crumbles and crunchy bacon. Thinly slice apples and include them – or, for added crispiness, place them on the hot flatbread when it comes out of the oven. Want to experiment more with flavors? Add roasted garlic cloves, caramelized onions, or maple syrup.

Applesauce: Applesauce is another great way to enjoy apples – and this one is perfect for any bruised or older fruit.

Want to mix things up? Try a recipe for other flavored versions, like strawberry or cranberry applesauce!

SAVORY Apples & Pork Chops: Thinsliced apples, caramelized onions and pork chops make a great autumn dinner. Serve with roasted potatoes. Make this dish in your slow cooker or as a baked meal.

Hopefully this has sparked some creativity for your bushels of fruit this year. If all else fails, opt for a good, old-fashioned apple pie. Want something that’s even simpler? You can’t go wrong with a fresh-sliced apple and its delicious crunch! Whatever you choose, find ways to really enjoy this fantastic fruit now in season.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

MAKING USE OF YOUR BUSHEL: WHICH APPLES TO USE FOR WHAT There are many varieties of apples, all with different perks. Here’s a quick guide to some of the most common apples (according to the U.S. Apple Association), and how to use them.

• McIntosh: Deep red, tender, juicy and tart. Best used in applesauce or snacked on raw.

• Fuji: Yellow and red bi-colored, sweet and firm. Great for eating fresh with cheese, on salads, or in a slaw. Also good if gently simmered and used as a topping.

• Red Delicious: This is the stereotypical apple – a bright red, shiny fruit. It’s crispy and juicy, and works well in a traditional apple pie.

• Gala: Very sweet and crisp. Gala is perfect for snacks, sauces, served as baked apples with ice cream or turned into baked apple chips.

• Braeburn: Orange or red and yellow, juicy and rich.

Braeburn is good for all baking and cooking purposes, a fantastic multi-use apple.

• Pink Lady: Pink and yellow, crisp and tart. Pink Lady apples are best eaten fresh, but also can be used for baking.

• Granny Smith: Green, crunchy, and very tart. Granny Smith is great for baking, cider, and eating fresh.

October 2017

Phil Dalhausser & Nick Lucena from Team USA

Serving up

Success presented by South Beach Volleyball

OCT 21, 2017 • 9am-1pm Ward 3 Power Centre train with TEaM USa

VOLLEYBALL CLINIC with OLYMPIANS South Beach Volleyball and Andreas Global Asset Management Group are proud to bring the #1 Men’s Beach Volleyball Team in the United States and our 2016 Rio Olympians to Lake Charles to benefit The Leadership Center for Youth, a division of Family and Youth. This 4-hour skills’ clinic will be conducted by U. S. Olympians Phil Dalhausser, aka “The Thin Beast” and Nick Lucena, aka “Nick the Quick”.

October 2017

$150 per player or $100 per player on a team with a minimum of 5 players on a team Register online at www.fyca.org or call Devan Corbello at (337) 436-9533 for more information.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

11

Places & Faces As fall settles across Louisiana, the byways and backroads of our state beckon us to explore. A great way to experience our diverse culture is to visit the many craft breweries that dot the Louisiana map. In celebration of OktoberFest, we’ve created three unique road trips, taking you on a tour across the state, as seen through the eyes of Louisiana beermasters.

by Angie Kay Dilmore Crying Eagle photos by Shonda Manuel

12 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

Cajun Country Easily completed in a day, we recommend you start your South Louisiana road trip at Parish Brewing in Broussard, then wiggle up to Bayou Teche Brewing in Arnaudville, as these two open at 11:00 on Saturday, and complete your tour at Lake Charles’ own Crying Eagle Brewery. That way, when you’re done, you don’t have so far to drive home.

Parish Brewing Co., south of

Lafayette off Hwy 90 in Broussard, has been “at battle against boring tasteless beer” since 2008. Their inaugural beer, Canebrake, was an instant hit. They are the secondlargest brewery in the state and distribute state-wide. Open Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Tours at 12:00, 1:00, and 2:00. www.parishbeer.com, 229 Jared Road.

Head’s Up!

Be sure and check out Crying Eagle’s new retail area when you visit.

Bayou Teche Brewing,

Arnaudville, off I-10 north of Breaux Bridge.

This brewery got started in 2009 when the Knott brothers decided to convert an old railroad car into a backyard craft brewery. Their goal was and continues to be to create beer that complements our Cajun and Creole cuisines. Taproom opens Saturday at 11:00, where you can sample their ten signature brews, including Acadie, Biere Pale Ale, Noire, and Swamp Thing IPA . Saturday tours at 12:30, 3:30 and 5:00.

The real fun begins at 3:00 with live music, song trivia at 6:30, and dancing until 9:00. www.bayoutechebrewing.com, 1106 Bushville Hwy.

Crying Eagle Brewing Co. started as a concept in a conversation around the Avery dinner table a few years ago and has since become a thriving hub of activity in Lake Charles. Their taproom and beer garden are the site of numerous community activities, fundraisers, and business-hosted events. They distribute three flagship brews – Calcasieu Common, Ready to Mingle, and The Chuck. They also have an impressive rotating line of beers available only in the taproom. Open Wed. – Sat., 2:00 – 9:00ish. www.cryingeagle.com, 1165 E McNeese St.

October 2017

Monday

Great Selection of

Louisiana Crafts on draft, in bottles and in cans

Open Mic Night | 8-11pm

Tuesday

Trivia | 8-10pm

Wednesday

Steak Night with Acoustic Music | 7-10pm Ladies Night Karaoke | 10pm-2am

Thursday

Acoustic Music | 7-10pm

Friday – Saturday

Acoustic Music | 7-10pm Regional Live Bands | 9-12midnight

Sunday Funday

Acoustic Pie | 3:30-6:30 Jay Ecker Jazz Quartet | 7-10pm 3716 Ryan Street • Lake Charles | 337.602.6635 • rikenjaks.com

Daily Specials | Late Night Food Menu Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

13

Places & Faces | Louisiana Craft Beer

NOLA Bound It may be best to tackle this road trip over a two-day weekend.

Start your journey in Baton Rouge and work your way across the North Shore communities.

In 2010, two lifelong friends (a banker and a lawyer) decided instead to make beer together and opened Tin Roof Brewing in downtown Baton Rouge. They offer six yeararound brews, plus seasonal and single batches. Open Sat. noon – 10:00 p.m. www.tinroofbeer.com, 1624 Wyoming St.

Gnarly Barley Brewing Co. in

Hammond. Zac and Cari Caramonta started home brewing in the gatage, and opened Gnarly Barley in 2014. They’re creative in their styles and flavors of beer. For example, their latest brew? Peanut Butter Korova Milk Porter.

Taproom open Sat. noon – 5:00 p.m. These beers are only available on tap in parishes east of Lafayette, so don’t look for it locally. www.gnarlybeer.com, 1709 Corbin Road.

Did you know?

Covington Brewhouse is located in historic downtown Covington in a building that was once a hardware store. Their flagship brews boast a variety including a pilsner, IPA, strawberry ale, and Kolsch.

There are seasonal brews, including an Autumn Fest Bier. Open Sat. 11:00 – 9:00 p.m. Tours on Saturday at 11:30 and 12:30. www.covingtonbrewhouse.com 226 E Lockwood St.

During Prohibition, people were prescribed “medical beer.”

Near Covington, you’ll find Abita

Brewery in Abita Springs. They

use water for their beers from a deep artesian well; some of the cleanest, clearest, tastiest water on the planet. They brew a large variety of year-around and seasonal beers as well as sodas. Tours on Saturday offered every half hour from 10:30 – 3:00 p.m. Tours are quite popular and tend to be crowded. Cost $5.

Taproom open Sat. 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. www.abita.com 166 Barbee Road.

14 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

SERVING UP FINGER-LICKING FOOD FOR THREE DECADES Continuing along I-12, Chafunkta Brewing Co. in Mandeville is a nanobrewery started in 2011 by husband and wife team Josh and Jamie Erickson. They offer four unique brews; an imperial IPA, a robust porter, an American cream ale, and an Irish red. Sat. hours 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Currently not available in SWLA, so go get you some. www.chafunktabrew.com, 21449 Marion Ln #2.

Also in the area, Old Rail Brewing is located across from the Mandeville Trailhead in Old Mandeville. They’re known for their food as much as their beer. Sat. hours 11:00 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Find them at facebook.com/ OldRailBrewingCompany. 639 Girod St.

& SPORTS BAR

Now take the causeway across Lake Pontchartrain, find lodging, and rest up for this next set of breweries in the City of New Orleans.

Only in the Big Easy (just a guess) would all these breweries be open all day Sunday.

NOLA Brewing Company. These

guys are a socially-minded lot and donate to various charities and host environmental fundraisers. They use only aluminum cans rather than bottles because the city does not recycle glass. Their spent grain goes to farmers instead of landfills. Their Rebirth Pale Ale supports local musicians. You’ll find 24 beers on tap in the Taproom. Open 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. every day. Weekend tours 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. www.nolabrewing.com. 3001 Tchoupitoulas St.

Crescent City Brewhouse is a

premier New Orleans restaurant and touted as the French Quarter’s only microbrewery.

Opened in 1991, it was also the state’s first brewpub. They brew four beers onsite, plus a Special Brew each month. Set in one of this historic city’s older buildings, they offer live jazz performed nightly by local musicians.

Open Sunday 11:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. www.crescentcitybrewhouse.com, 527 Decatur St.

Courtyard Brewing Co., near

New Orleans’ Lower Garden District, offers a large number of beers on tap, including several of their own, mostly IPAs. As a nanobrewery, they shy away from flagship brews, which allows them to make whatever they want. They also have a traveling food truck. Open Sun. 11:00 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. www.courtyardbrewing.com, 1020 Erato St.

October 2017

JOIN US FOR GAME DAY Since 1985, we’ve been satisfying the appetites of Louisiana folks with po-boys, chips and libations.

Let Darrell’s put a smile on your face and give you delicious food you’ll love.

We pride ourselves on serving enticing po-boys that include surf and turf, Darrell’s Special and BBQ. At Darrell’s, we make all of our gravy, BBQ sauce, jalapeno mayonnaise and butter sauce in-house daily because we believe in giving you the best.

119 West College Street, Lake Charles (337) 474-3651 | darrellspoboys.com Monday – Thursday: 11am–10pm Friday & Saturday: 11am-11pm Closed Sunday | Happy Hour 4–7pm

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

15

Places & Faces | Louisiana Craft Beer

Across the Northern Tier This trip might also be best over two days, simply due to the many miles covered if you start in Lake Charles.

Great Raft Brewing, named

for a historic log jam on the Red River in the early 1800s, is located in Shreveport’s historic Fairfield District.

They brew three flagship beers and a dozen or so seasonal varieties. Food trucks are always onsite. Tasting Room open Sat. noon – 9:00 p.m. Free tours Sat. at 1:00, 2:00, and 3:00 p.m. www.greatraftbrewing.com, 1251 Dalzell St. See what’s ‘hoppening’ at

Red River Brewing Co. in Shreveport. Their events include Cornhole Tournaments and Taproom Trivia. They brew approximately five beers. Open Sat. 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. www.redriverbeer.com, 1200 Marshall St #500.

Flying Heart Brewing in

Have you ever noticed, nearly all brewmasters sport beards?

16 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Bossier City began, as many breweries do, with a home brew group that just kept going. They’re located in the Historic Fire Station Number 6 in Old Downtown Bossier. They host unique weekday afternoon events such as Paint your Pint (to benefit the Arts Council) and a Beer and Cookie Pairing. They offer six regular styles and a variety of seasonal. www.flyingheartbrewing.com, 700 Barksdale Blvd.

October 2017

Next, head east and discover some breweries in Northeast Louisiana.

First you’ll find Ouachita Brewing in West Monroe. There are five beers described on their website. Most intriguing is a seasonal spiced winter ale made with mulling spices from a tea and spice shop located around the corner from the taproom. Sat. hours 2:00 – 9:00 p.m. www.ouachitabrewing. com, 95 S Railroad Ave.

Y L H S E FR D E H C HAT NEW

Flying Tiger Beer is in Monroe.

The name honors General Chennault and ties to the nearby Chennault Aviation & Military Museum. Several of their beers have WWII-related names.

Four flagship beers and eight to nine rotating beers are available. They do some interesting things with fruit; for example, a Belgian beer infused with bitter and sweet orange and coriander, and an amber lager made with rumsoaked plums. Open Sat. 1:00 – 11:00 p.m. and Sun. 1:00 – 8:00 p.m. www.flyingtigerbeer.com, 506 N 2nd St. From Monroe, head north to Sterlington and visit Cottonport Brewing’s

Taproom and Beer Garden.

Opened only last year, they offer twelve beers on tap, including their own brews, as well as other Louisiana craft brews.

Call ahead for more info and hours.

318-331-7145. 5946 Horseshoe Lake Road. www.cottonportbrewing.net.

These listings are a sampling of the state’s breweries and are not exhaustive. For the most up-to-date information, do check the breweries’ websites. As always, we urge you to stay safe and diligently have a designated driver when imbibing.

Taproom

Wednesday - Saturday | 2:00 - 9ish

Tours

Wednesday, Thursday & Friday | 6:00 & 7:00 Saturday | 3:00, 4:00, 5:00, & 6:00

cryingeagle.com 1165 E McNeese Street Lake Charles, Louisiana 70607 October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

17

Places & Faces This year’s Women’s Commission Conference Keynote Speaker is celebrity interior designer Genevieve Gorder, well-known for hosting her many popular series on MTV, HGTV, and Netflix, including shows such as “Trading Spaces,” “Town Haul,” “Genevieve’s Renovation,” “Dear Genevieve,” “Design Star,” “A Hero’s Welcome Home,” and HGTV’s “White House Christmas Specials.”

Genevieve was born in Minneapolis in 1974. After a relatively typical American childhood, she attended Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon. and majored in international affairs. But a graphic design course turned her path in a different direction. She started working at MTV after an internship there, which opened the door to her current celebrity lifestyle.

first person

by Angie Kay Dilmore

18 www.thriveswla.com

with

Genevieve Gorder

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

She began her work as an interior designer after earning a BFA from the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan.

Today, Genevieve is a bighearted, city-dwelling, music loving, curious-minded world traveler and mother who believes beautiful things are essential to a well-lived life.

She is a master at the art of branding and will talk to conference attendees about “Building a Creative Brand,” relating to the everyday woman who struggles to have it all in today’s world.

Thrive magazine recently tracked down this busy trendsetter in the days leading up to her very first visit to Louisiana.

As a child, you helped your family renovate and design old Victorian homes. What is your favorite style of home today?

You’re well-known as a television host and celebrity designer, but you are also a humanitarian. Tell us about that.

I don’t have just one. I’m generally a pre-war kind of girl but love modern too...

I guess if I had to pick one it would be an Italianate row house in New York.

Design is a powerful tool -- not fluff, not extra -- but truly a necessity in the life of everyone.

No matter our culture, economic status, gender, or geography, as humans we adorn for joy . . . we all want to live beautifully and most importantly, in a place we feel safe. I research this, I promote this, I speak about this, I’m an advocate for this, I lobby for this basic right for people around the world. It is my pleasure.

You’ve designed homes for countless clients, but in 2014, you renovated and designed your own Manhattan home.

Which is more of a challenge – designing for others or yourself?

Myself! Because I have to pay for it!

When designing a room or home, where do you find your inspiration?

That is a very long answer as it isn’t just one place. My job is to see harder than you; travel is my continuing education where I take my eyes on dates and come back full. But I can easily come up with an idea from a song, a photo, a person . . . anything. Inspiration is not an issue; having enough time in this life to execute it all is the real concern.

You have designed everything from the interior of cruise ships to a Tanqueray bottle.

What is your favorite type of design work?

Design work that changes a person’s life. Simple.

October 2017

Of all the projects you’ve worked on, which has been the most rewarding?

My ambassador work with Oxfam America has been the most fulfilling and inspired work yet. They’ve sent me all over the world, refugee camps to Capitol Hill, as an advocate for home and the globally displaced. Connecting design to the greater good of humanity is the greatest joy.

With all you do, you are an incredibly busy woman. How do you relax and unwind?

I like to cook and surround myself with my tribe.

When my house hums, I’m truly at my happiest.

The lives of children today are very technology-oriented.

Name three things you enjoyed doing as a child.

Unfortunately so. A constant struggle in every parent’s life right now. As a kid I loved soccer, drawing, and [spending time with] my brothers.

What’s up next for Genevieve Gorder?

Two new series, new collections of wallpaper, fabric rugs, and a great new collection now at The Land of Nod. Getting married and being a mom to my nine-year-old daughter.

To hear more from Genevieve, come to the Women’s Commission Conference, Oct. 19, at the Lake Charles Civic Center. Check out www.womenscommissionswla.com for registration information.

As a seasoned world traveler, where is your favorite place on earth to go?

Ugh. Favorite? There are so many for so many reasons . . . my favorite cities are Rome and Istanbul. For beaches, I enjoy Croatia and Sardina. Morocco and Norway are my go-to destinations for design.

In America, I love the southwest and New York.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

19

Places & Faces

Explore the Outdoors of SWLA

with Lake Area Adventures

by Angie Kay Dilmore

According to a 2012 study in the Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, only 51% of children go outside to play at least once a day. The Guardian says today’s kids spend half the amount of time outdoors as their parents did. Yet nine of ten parents wish their children would spend more time outdoors.

It’s called Nature Deficit Disorder, and the gentlemen at Lake Area Adventures want to change those statistics; at least for families in Southwest Louisiana. A group of ten civicminded friends opened the business in January of this year. They want to provide lake area residents with opportunities for families and friends to get outside, have fun, and enjoy the outdoors and all this area has to offer. “Some people move here, or have even lived here their whole lives, and have never been out on the water,” says co-owner Tim Robles.

If you look at their website, you see they offer kayak and boat rentals (paddle boats, pontoon boats, ski boats & aluminum boats), guided river tours, and paintball. But they want area residents to know they offer so much more than that.

They work with their clients to put together events that perfectly suit the needs of the client and go out of their way to meet requests.

Both Robles and co-owner Jerry “Sarge” Antoine have military backgrounds. “People

20 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

approach me all the time and want me to take their kids camping,” says Antoine. If an activity is something that is safe and encourages a family to be together outdoors, doing something adventurous, we’re not limited to watercraft and paintball.”

Birthday Parties, Reunions, and other Family-Oriented Events Lake Area Adventures will work with clients to create the perfect party. They seek to find activities for the whole family, from grandparents to toddlers. An afternoon of flag football, a tree climbing competition, a weekend of learning survival skills? These guys are happy to plan your event. “Whatever you want, we’ll figure it out.

We’re very flexible,” says Antoine.

In addition to owning a business together, Antoine and Robles are both pastors and consider their venture a form of ministry. Their events are very family friendly—no profanity, no alcohol.

Just good clean fun in the outdoors. It’s part of why they go out of their way to oblige clients. “If someone needs some help, we’re going to help them. We take care of people,” says Antoine.

Corporate Events Lake Area Adventures also works with businesses to plan team-building events such as obstacle course racing, mud racing, and company picnics with boat tours. “Clients want their events to be fun, engaging, entertaining, and relaxing. We can do that!” says Robles.

October 2017

1st Annual

Zombie Patrol Lake Area Adventures also offers seasonal events. For this Halloween, they’ve created an interactive futuristic world in an abandoned warehouse where zombies threaten to infect and take over Lake Charles.

Bring your friends, family, or coworkers for a scary night of platoon style paintball raids. Your Special Ops mission is to quarantine and eliminate the zombies before they escape. The hunt continues every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through October 31 at 2701 Industrial Ave. off Hwy 14.

So, when was your last adventure? Call 1-888-902-2016 or see their website, www.lakeareaadventures.com and start making plans!

October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

21

Places & Faces

Sulphur High School’s

Toreadoras Celebrate

50

th Anniversary

by Angie Kay Dilmore

Original Toreadoras 1967

Mary Lou Covington was an English and Phys. Ed. teacher at Sulphur High in 1966. Then-Principal Mr. B.S. Walker asked her to organize a drill team to compete with the Lake Charles Kilties and the LaGrange Gatorettes. Her acceptance of this assignment began a Sulphur legacy that flourished from 1967 to 1994.

Covington got to work and planned this new group named the Toreadoras.

She had been a Kiltie in high school, and patterned some things from her previous experiences with that organization. According to Sulphur alumnus Howie Simon, 140 girls signed up that first year. Positions included marchers, drummers, majorettes, dance team, and cheerleaders. At their peak in the early 1980s, they numbered 250 and were the largest marching squad in the state at that time. The Toreadoras performed at football games, pep rallies, basketball games, Mardi Gras Balls, CalCam Fair Parades, Homecoming Parades, and Contraband Days Parades. They had an annual Christmas party and their own yearly Mardi Gras Ball. They participated in two service projects each year that benefited disabled veterans and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Senior members received a Toreadoras sweater and enjoyed an all-expense paid senior trip. The girls were expected to uphold the qualities of “dependability, cooperativeness, good character, the advancement of scholarship, promotion of school spirit, and the ideals of friendliness, fair play, and loyalty,” as per their mission statement.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Toreadoras and they intend to celebrate in a big way. They will be honored at the home football game

Oct. 27, sitting in a reserved section on the visitors’ side with pom-poms, noisemakers, and wearing special T-shirts. They will host a big reunion that same weekend. Simon says over 400 Toreadoras alumni are expected to attend. “Some are flying in from Mexico, France, London, all over the south and from the state. It's much like a sorority, a sisterhood.”

Chris Tramonte Godare was a Toreadora from 1978 to 1981. She fondly recalls cheering at the football games on Friday nights and spending time with her Toreadora sisters. Godare took pride in being part of the organization.

“Not only did it take having school spirit, but also hard work, commitment, and dedication. Ms. Colvin was strict and held us to this high standard and we did not want to disappoint her.

She instilled respect and discipline into us. Ms. Colvin was a mentor to me and taught me lifelong lessons.”

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, this group is raising money for the Ethel Precht Breast Cancer Foundation. In recognition of those Toreadoras who have lost their lives to breast cancer, a pink pom pom will be laid on the sidelines for each member as a tribute. Toreadoras in attendance who have survived breast cancer will also be honored.

In addition, Mary Lou Covington will be recognized at the game during halftime as the organizer and first sponsor of the Toreadoras, from 1966 to 1981. She has fond memories of her years with the Toreadoras and guesses approximately 2500 girls participated over the years. “The girls were caring, disciplined, and fun to be with. I am so proud of all these young ladies.”

Original 1967

22 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

Original Toreadora Seniors 1967

The City of Sulphur

CONGRATULATES Original Toreadora Drummers 1967

Toreadoras the

50

th Anniversary! on their

Chris Godare 1978-1981 Toreadora

1978-1979

October 2017

1982-1983

101 N Huntington Street | Sulphur, LA (337) 527-4500

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

23

Places & Faces

CHRISTUS Changes the Healthcare Landscape in Southwest Louisiana It’s been a busy year for CHRISTUS Health in Southwest Louisiana as the health system has announced several big changes involving other facilities and groups that expand the range of services offered and improve care for patients.

The series of big announcements from CHRISTUS are all part of the health system’s long-range goal of developing a more integrated healthcare system to provide the highest level of care possible for patients in this region. “We’ve been carefully working to choose the partners and affiliates to make that happen,” says Stephen Wright, senior vice president of group operations for CHRISTUS Health in Louisiana. “The announcements may seem to be coming quickly, but each took months, or even years, of careful planning and consideration, all focused on what would best help us meet the healthcare needs in a region that is experiencing unprecedented growth.”

CHRISTUS Health Purchase of Lake Area Medical Center In May of 2017, CHRISTUS Health announced a purchase agreement for Lake Area Medical Center. The acquisition includes the hospital and its associated assets.

“This development had been discussed for a number of years, but this was the point when the details came together to make it work,” says Wright. “We knew this hospital would be a great match for CHRISTUS St. Patrick, adding specialty services, such as OB and pediatrics, that allow us to offer a more complete range of services.”

Lake Area, whose name has officially changed to CHRISTUS Lake Area Hospital, brings a strong network of primary care and specialists to the affiliation, which supports CHRISTUS’ goal of expanding and strengthening their relationships with physicians as they create a more fully integrated network.

“This acquisition gives us increased capability to meet the demands of the region’s growing population as one organization,” says Wright.

“Our plan is to grow both campuses, adding needed services. With two full-service hospitals and a large network of physicians and ancillary services, we are very well positioned as Southwest Louisiana’s leading comprehensive regional health system.”

24 www.thriveswla.com

CHRISTUS Health and Ochsner Health System Partnership In June of 2017, CHRISTUS Health and Ochsner Health System (Ochsner) announced a joint venture partnership of current CHRISTUS operations in the Lake Charles area. The joint venture will have responsibility for all future health care facilities and services operated by the two health systems in the region.

Wright said this partnership brings together two of the most recognized and respected healthcare brands in one market. “We have been working with Ochsner in a more limited capacity for several years, and that collaborative care effort has been a tremendous success in all markets. The CHRISTUS St. Patrick Telestroke program is one example. This new partnership expands on that success and will allow us to benefit from Ochsner’s 75 years of experience in patient care excellence, as well as their business model for developing integrated networks with physicians for regional care.”

Well-known for their efforts to involve physicians in the leadership process, Ochsner will bring a wealth of expertise in clinical development and education to this partnership, including graduate medical education, research, and population health expertise. In addition, CHRISTUS will have access to the wide range of Ochsner specialists, which will aid in the recruitment of physicians in specialties such as maternal fetal medicine, pediatric subspecialties, neurosciences and oncology, something Wright says has long been a challenge in markets across the United States.

“Ultimately, this partnership builds on the collective strengths of both CHRISTUS Health and Ochsner,” says Wright. “By working together, we will improve patient care and expand local access to health care services and specialties not previously available.”

Wright stresses that even though people will begin to see the two names co-branded on signage and other materials, the CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital people have known and trusted for generations will remain the same. “We are still a CHRISTUS, Catholic faith-based healthcare provider. Our mission of extending the healing ministry of Jesus Christ remains the same. We’ve just chosen a nationally respected healthcare partner that will allow us to care for even more people, in even more ways.”

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

We Celebrate

Smiles

Proud sponsor of the MSU Cowboy Smile Cam! Put your smile in safe, experienced hands.

Lake Area Dentistry offers all aspects of General Dentistry including:

CHRISTUS Health and Imperial Calcasieu Surgical Center Joint Venture In August of 2017, CHRISTUS Health announced a joint venture with Imperial Calcasieu Surgical Center, which will now be called CHRISTUS Imperial Calcasieu Surgical Center. The physician-owned outpatient surgical center opened eight years ago and provides outpatient surgical services in the areas of orthopedic; ear, nose and throat; ophthalmology; interventional pain management; podiatry; and hand and wrist surgeries.

Wright says this partnership gives CHRISTUS much needed additional outpatient capabilities provided by a well-respected group of physicians. “Delivery of exceptional clinical outcomes is something we are absolutely committed to,” says Wright. “By partnering with physicians in the community, on the surgical front, we are continuing to strive for the highest inpatient satisfaction, an increase in access for patients and the solid establishment of an enhanced outpatient surgical service line in a non-hospital setting.”

A new joint board of directors is being formed to govern strategic decisions for the surgical center, with seats being held by both CHRISTUS Health and the center’s physician partners.

Wright says the one thing that is certain in healthcare is that change is inevitable. “We want to be forward-thinking and positioned to meet the changing needs of our patients and the advances in technology and treatment that allow more and more care to be provided outside of a traditional hospital setting. This is an exciting time for CHRISTUS and the people of Southwest Louisiana. Our pivotal growth and partnerships across the area over this past year have been deliberate, as we continue working to expand, innovate, and improve health care in this region.”

October 2017

• Family • Preventive • Restorative • Sedation • Implant • Emergency • Minor Orthodontics • Same Day Procedures

LAKE AREA DENTISTRY Peter T. Bayles, DDS | Nathan Bray, DDS | Jeffery Hennigan, DDS Lake Charles 700 W. McNeese St. (337) 478-8470

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

DeQuincy 824 W. 4th St. (337) 786-6221

lakeareadentistry.com

www.thriveswla.com

25

Places & Faces

Movers and Shakers in Southwest Louisiana...

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

Rick Eisner Achieves President’s Club Status at Cetera Conference

Rick Eisner, Sr Financial Advisor of First Federal Investments located at First Federal Bank of Louisiana was recently recognized for attaining Rick Eisner President’s Club status at Cetera Financial Institutions’ annual Connect conference for his stellar performance during the previously concluded year. President’s Club status is for Cetera Financial Institutions’ elite circle of advisors that achieve the highest level of performance and service.

Eisner has fulfilled financial needs of individuals and businesses with Cetera Investment Services for 8 years. He has worked in the investment and insurance business for nearly 17 years.

Assistant Controller Cameron Landry will handle the compilation and analysis of financial reporting information for First Federal Bank’s management and board of directors, in addition to gathering information needed for maintaining regulatory compliance and assisting with tax preparations.

Healthy Image Marketing Agency Welcomes Taylor Trahan Henry to Staff

Healthy Image Marketing Agency in Lake Charles has announced the addition of Taylor Trahan Taylor Trahan Henry Henry to their staff of communication specialists.

Prior to joining Healthy Image, she spent two years as the marketing and communications coordinator for United Way of Southwest Louisiana. In her new position, Trahan will be responsible for working on a variety of public relations and communication projects for the agency’s clients.

CHRISTUS Lake Area Hospital Welcomes Lawrence Weber, M.D.

Peter Gover

Amy Hooper

First Federal Bank Announces Promotions

First Federal Bank of Louisiana’s board of directors is pleased to announce three recent promotions in its financial and accounting departments.

Cameron Landry Peter Gover has been named treasurer; Amy Hooper has been promoted to controller; and Cameron Landry has been named to the assistant controller position.

Treasurer Peter Gover will be responsible for liquidity risk management, cash management functions and corporate finance management.

Controller Amy Hooper will direct all of First Federal Bank of Louisiana’s accounting functions.

She will establish and maintain the organization’s accounting principles, practices and procedures, while also handling financial reporting and giving recommendations to top management.

26 www.thriveswla.com

CHRISTUS Lake Area Hospital and Lake Area Physicians are proud to welcome Lawrence Weber, M.D., Ph.D. to the medical staff.

Dr. Lawrence Weber Dr. Weber received his medical degree from Weil Cornell University Medical College in New York, followed by orthopaedic fellowships in hand and upper extremity surgery, as well as shoulder and elbow surgery at The University of Pennsylvania Health Care System.

The office of Dr. Lawrence Weber is located at 4150 Nelson Rd., Bldg. D, Ste. 1 in Lake Charles.

For more information, call (337) 562-5200.

Heather HidalgoLaFleur Appointed as Arts Council Board President

The Board of Directors of the Arts Council of SWLA has appointed Heather Hidalgo-LaFleur as its 2017-2018 Board President. LaFleur has Heather Hidalgo-LaFleur served on the Arts and Humanities board for three years and previously held the positions of Second Vice President and 1st Vice President. She has worked at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Health System for 11 years and currently serves as Director of Marketing and Communications.

The Arts Council is an umbrella organization for Southwest Louisiana’s arts and cultural groups and initiatives, and coordinates annual events and fundraisers for the arts.

For details, call (337) 439-2787 or visit www. artscouncilswla.org.

Kaitlyn Solice Promoted to Business Development Manager

Don Rivers, President of Don Rivers and Associates of Lake Charles has promoted Kaitlyn Solice to Business Kaitlyn Solice Development Manager.

Kaitlyn will be responsible for developing and executing promotions to attract new clients as well as setting up Interview Preparation Seminars for employees, military, and students primarily in the Lake Charles area but also on a national basis Don Rivers and Associates is an executive recruiting firm specializing in recruiting for industrial clients.

For more information, visit www.donrivers.com.

Barbe High Teacher Receives Award from Yale University

A Calcasieu Parish School Board high school teacher is the recipient of the 2017 Yale Educator Award.

Lori Benoit, an English and AP Gifted English teacher at Barbe High Lori Benoit School, was selected out of over 400 nominations from around the world.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

The award, sponsored by the Yale Office of Undergraduate Admissions, is solely studentled. Benoit was nominated by former student Simarpreet Chadha, who now attends Yale.

The award honors outstanding educators who serve as an inspiration to their students, supporting and encouraging them to perform at high levels and to achieve excellence.

SOWELA Instructor Receives Fellowship

Patricia “P.A.” Guillory, Assistant Professor in the School of Business and Applied Technology at SOWELA Technical Community College, has been selected to receive the President’s Faculty Fellowship from the Patricia “P.A.” Guillory Louisiana Community and Technical College System. The President’s Faculty Fellowship is awarded annually to an outstanding professional educator in the LCTC System to provide the recipient with a fellowship grant of $8,500 to cover the cost of attendance and related fees while pursuing a doctoral degree.

Guillory was recommended by Chancellor Neil Aspinwall for the award.

Phylan Poe Promoted to Branch Manager of Lakeside Bank

and directing patient care. She is also a boardcertified Family Nurse Practitioner and a Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist, delivering a highintensity, evidence-based, cognitive-behavioral plus pharmacotherapy treatment for nicotine dependence.

The Smoking Treatment Center is a partnership between Imperial Health and the Smoking Cessation Trust to offer free smoking cessation products and services to those who smoke in Southwest Louisiana.

For more information or to get help quitting call, (337) 312-8690.

IBERIABANK Names Perez Commercial Banking Manager

Janelle Authement

Cheryl Gaspard

Merchants & Farmers Bank promotes Authement, Gaspard to Assistant Cashier

Ken Hughes, President/CEO of Merchants & Farmers Bank, has announced the promotion of two employees, Janelle Authement and Cheryl Gaspard, to the position of Assistant Cashier. Both

Lakeside Bank is pleased to announce Phylan Poe’s promotion to branch manager of their Westlake location.

She has nearly a Patricia “P.A.” Guillory decade of experience in local banking and is accredited through the Louisiana Bankers Association Consumer LendingAcid School. Poe joined Lakeside in 2014, and has been responsible for loan processing, new accounts, and branch operations in Lakeside Bank’s Westlake location prior to her promotion to branch manager.

The Westlake branch of Lakeside Bank is located at 2203 Sampson Street.

Acid reflux, meet LINX.

reflux, meet LINX.

Contact usmore to about learn Contact us to learn LINX.

Domingo E. Galliano Jr., MD, FACS, FASCRS Darci Portie, APRN-FNP, more about Murdock Circle ExecutiveLINX. Center CTTS, has completed 18308 Murdock Circle, Suites 108 & 109 Port Charlotte, FL 33948 • (941) 625-3411 comprehensive training through the ACT Center for Tobacco Treatment, Comprehensive Surgery Clinic Education and Research Contact us to learn more about LINX. in Mississippi to earn theDomingo E. Galliano Jr., MD, FACS, FASCRS Darci Portie designation of Certified Murdock Circle Executive Center Nelson B-6 • Lake Charles, LA 70605 Circle, SuitesRd., 108STE & 109 Tobacco Treatment Specialist (CTTS). She is the 18308 Murdock4150 Port Charlotte, FL 33948 • (941) 625-3411 program director and medical liaison for the Smoking Treatment Center, directly supervising Contact us to learn more about LINX.

Dr. Keith Chung (337)433-1303

October 2017

IBERIABANK, the 130-year-old subsidiary of IBERIABANK Corporation, is pleased to announce the recent naming of Steven Perez as Vice President and Steven Perez Commercial Banking Manager for Southwest Louisiana.

Perez has been with the company for over five years and most recently served as Treasury Management Officer.

For more information, call (337) 312-7021.

Keep toxic stomach acid where it belongs.

Acid reflux, meet LINX.

Portie Earns Tobacco Treatment Specialist Certification

have been employed with the bank for nine years.

Authement, a New Account Representative, provides personalized service for current and prospective retail banking customers. She is responsible for opening new accounts, maintaining accounts, drawing on lines of credit, and introducing customers to services such as remote deposit capture and cash management. She also serves as a relief teller for the teller line and vault.

Gaspard is a Loan Administrative Assistant.

She is responsible for assisting lenders in the loan application process, loan documentation, and loan closing procedures, as well as following up with customers and processing closed loans.

Domingo E. Galliano Jr., MD, FACS, FASCRS Murdock Circle Executive Center for Better Living 18308 Murdock Circle,Thrive Suites Magazine 108 & 109 Port Charlotte, FL 33948 • (941) 625-3411

LINX. A revolutionary Keep toxic stomach reflux. acidsolution where itforbelongs.

LINX. A revolutionary Keep toxic stomach solution for itreflux. acid where belongs.

Although many patients benefit from LINX®, results may vary.

Please talk to your physician to see if LINX is right for you. Your physician can discuss the benefits and risks with you. Each patient experience is unique and Torax Medical, Inc. does not provide any indication, guide, warranty or guarantee as to the response a patient will have to LINX. The LINX Reflux Management System is a laparoscopic, fundic-sparing anti-reflux procedure indicated for patients diagnosed with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) as defined by abnormal pH testing, and who are seeking an alternative to continuous acid suppression therapy (i.e. proton pump inhibitors or equivalent) in the management of their GERD. Rx Only. Contraindications: Do not implant the LINX System in patients with susAlthough many patients benefit from LINX®, results may vary. pected or known allergies to titanium, stainless steel, nickel or Please talk to your materials. physician to see if LINX rightdevice for you.

Your ferrous Warnings: TheisLINX is considered physician can theinbenefits andresonance risks withimaging you. Each MR discuss Conditional a magnetic (MRI) syspatient experience is either unique0.7and Torax Inc. (1.5T), does not tem up to Tesla (0.7T)Medical, or 1.5 Tesla dependprovide anying indication, guide, warranty or guarantee as toplacement the on the LINX model implanted.

Laparoscopic of the LINX device is major surgery.

General Precautions: response a patient will have to LINX. The LINX Reflux ManThe LINX is a long-term implant for anti-reflux use in patients agement System is adevice laparoscopic, fundic-sparing 21 years or Medical management of adverse reactions procedure indicated forolder. patients diagnosed with Gastroesophinclude(GERD) explantation and/or by replacement. ageal Refluxmay Disease as defined abnormal Potential pH test-Risks Associated with LINX System: belching, decreased appetite, ® ing, and who are seeking an alternative to continuous acid Although many patients benefit from LINX(device , results device erosion, device migration doesmay not vary. appear to suppression (i.e.site), proton pump inhibitors or Please talk to your physician to see if LINX is right forequivalent) you. Your betherapy at implant dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), flatulence, in the management of the theirto GERD. Rxrisks Only.

Contraindicahiccups, inability belch orand vomit, infection, nausea, odynophysician can discuss benefits with you.

Each tions: Do not implant the LINX System in patients with susphagia (painful swallowing), pain, regurgitation, stomach patient experience is unique and Torax Medical, Inc. does notbloating, weight loss, worsening preoperative pected allergies toand titanium, stainless steel, as nickel or provide or anyknown indication, guide, warranty or of guarantee tosymptoms. the moreWarnings: information theLINX LINX Reflux Management System, ferrous materials.

The device isReflux considered response a For patient will have toon LINX. The LINX Mancontact physician resonance or Torax Medical, Inc. For full syspatient inMR Conditional inisyour a amagnetic imaging (MRI) agement System laparoscopic, fundic-sparing anti-reflux formation www.linxforlife.com or www.toraxmedical.com. tem up to either 0.7visit Tesla (0.7T) or 1.5 Tesla (1.5T), depend-

LINX. A revolutionary solution for reflux.

procedure indicated for patients diagnosed with Gastroesophing onReflux the LINX model implanted.

12Laparoscopic of by 12 abnormal 5565placement Rev July 2016 ageal Disease (GERD) asPage defined pH1 testof is major Precautions: ing,the andLINX whodevice are seeking an surgery. alternativeGeneral to continuous acid The LINX device is (i.e. a long-term implant for use patients suppression therapy proton pump inhibitors or in equivalent) 21 years or older.

Medical management of adverse reactions in the management of their GERD. Rx Only. Contraindicamay explantation Potential tions:include Do not implant theand/or LINX replacement.

System in patients withRisks susAssociated with LINX System: belching, decreased pected or known allergies to titanium, stainless steel, appetite, nickel or device migration does not appear to ferrous erosion, materials.device Warnings: The(device LINX device is considered be at implant site), dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), flatulence, MR Conditional in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) syshiccups, to belch vomit, odynotem up toinability either 0.7 Tesla or (0.7T) or infection, 1.5 Tesla nausea, (1.5T), dependphagia swallowing), pain, regurgitation, stomach bloating on (painful the LINX model implanted.

Laparoscopic placement ing, weight andis worsening of preoperative symptoms. of the LINX loss, device major surgery.

General Precautions: For more information on the LINX Reflux Management System, The LINX device is a long-term implant for use in patients contact physician or Torax Medical, Inc. For full patient in21 yearsyour or older.

Medical management of adverse reactions formation visitexplantation www.linxforlife.com or www.toraxmedical.com. may include and/or replacement.

Potential Risks Associated with LINX System: belching, decreased appetite, Page 12 of 12 5565 Rev 1 July 2016 device erosion, device migration (device does not appear to be at implant site), dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), flatulence, hiccups, inability to belch or vomit, infection, nausea, odynophagia (painful swallowing), pain, regurgitation, stomach bloating, weight loss, and worsening of preoperative symptoms. www.thriveswla.com For more information on the LINX Reflux Management System, contact your physician or Torax Medical, Inc. For full patient information visit www.linxforlife.com or www.toraxmedical.com.

Keep toxic stomach

27

Home & Family Easy

Halloween Costume Trends of 2017

by Lauren Atterbery Cesar

When planning costumes for you or your family this Halloween, you do not have to break the bank or spend hours preparing to achieve the perfect look.

There are plenty of simple ideas out there for the whole family.

For Adults: Betty, Veronica, and Archie Everything old is new again.

The still-popular comic series “Archie” is now a CW television hit called “Riverdale,” and a new generation is being enthralled in their love triangle. A letterman jacket, jeans, and some temporary hair dye will make becoming Archie a breeze, and sophisticated clothing and a dark bob hairstyle is an easy way to become Veronica Lodge. Don pink pastels and a high blond ponytail to be the sweet girl-nextdoor, Betty Cooper.

Human Fidget Spinner If you’ve got a large piece of cardboard, a little paint, the ability to draw circles, and some creativity, you got an easy way to become one of the most popular sensations of the year.

28 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Day of the Dead Wearing dark clothing and getting fancy with your makeup is all it takes to create an interesting Day of the Dead costume. However, some people take it a step further by wearing intricate skirts or tuxedos to go along with their ghoulish south-of-the-border look.

For Children: Charlie Chaplin Dress your little one up in a suit and a bowler hat, and draw on a mustache, and you have a little Charlie Chaplin on your hands. Your sweet darling is sure to keep everyone in stitches during trick-or-treating.

Unicorn With a colorful tutu, some mesh fabric in varying shades tucked into a headband, and a decorated party hat, you can create a unicorn costume that will be the envy of all the little girls on the block.

Human Lego Cut out arm and neck holes in a box, hot clue small plastic cups to the front, and spray paint the entire thing in your child’s favorite color for a human Lego costume. This is an easy costume that kids of all ages will enjoy.

Looking for a Halloween onestop shop?

Visit the locally owned Party Time Store of Lake Charles.

They are stocked up on what they predict will be the most popular costumes of the season, including Steam Punk and Day of the Dead regalia, but they like to keep classic costumes and accessories on-hand as well.

Party Time Store staffers believe some looks never go out of style, like the pirate, or era-based costumes like hippies and ladies from the Roaring Twenties.

No matter what look you choose for you and yours this Halloween, the best part of this special day is creating fun memories with family and friends, and of course stocking up on fun-sized Snicker bars.

October 2017

Trick or Treat Etiquette

by Lauren Atterbery Cesar

October is the month for pumpkin spice lattes, teeny-tiny goblins, and Ninja Turtles ringing your doorbell in hopes of scoring the best candy to add to their trick-or-treating pails. It can be oh-so-much fun to watch precious children donning their favorite costumes and ambling their way to your door with outstretched bags and their best smiles . . . but there have likely also been times when you have wished someone would have reminded a few trick-or-treaters that there are some basic trick-or-treating rules they should stick to. Teach your child to practice manners to ensure he or she is a pillar of politeness on All Hallows Eve. Say thank you. On Halloween night, young people can forget they are going to someone’s home and asking them for something. In any situation where someone gives something to another, a simple “thank you” is in order. Also, saying “trick or treat!” as someone answers the door is part of the fun and expected by many candy-givers.

If the lights are off, keep moving. If someone has turned their porch lights off, it means they are not participating in handing out candy, so you should not go onto their property at all. There are plenty of other homes offering Halloween goodies, so move on to the next one.

Don’t be greedy and wait your turn. Ensure your child is not the one who pushes others out of the way or forgets there are other children also waiting for some of the Halloween loot. When given the opportunity to take candy from a bowl, a trick-or-treater should only take one or two pieces unless instructed otherwise. And only visit each house one time.

At a certain age, trick-or-treaters should retire.

Although the age of retirement from going door to door is debatable, many think teenagers should stay home and hand out candy to younger children.

If they must go door to door, at the very least, they should don a costume and be polite.

Remember that the city generally sets times for trick or treating, so try to adhere to those rules as you and your loved ones enjoy the Halloween fun.

October 2017

Your Halloween Headquarters Corner of Lake Street & McNeese Street

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

337-477-2789 www.thriveswla.com

29

Home & Family | Halloween

No-Carving, No Problem!

Easy Pumpkin Decorating Ideas

by Sylvia Ney

It’s autumn and time to enjoy all things pumpkin flavored, colored, and scented! However, enjoying the taste and smell doesn’t necessarily mean you like to carve pumpkins for decorating. If you detest the mess of gutting a pumpkin, only to watch it slowly rot, consider one of these fun alternatives and bring this holiday staple back to your home.

Paint, stamps, glitter, sequins, adhesive jewels, and decals Whether you’re painting red lines on a white gourd to simulate a baseball, or bedazzling a pumpkin to recreate a princess carriage, these items can bring delightful results for decorators of any age.

Flowers, foliage, leaves, and branches It doesn’t matter if they’re artificial or the real thing, natural elements can be a beautiful enhancement to your décor. Simply glue them to the rind, or drill small holes to insert the stems.

30 www.thriveswla.com

Mr. Potato Head pieces, brads, pins, nails, string The easiest decorations are often found in items that can simply be inserted without fuss.

Use potato head pieces to make faces or brads and push pins to create bling and lines. Nails can be inserted easily to allow for string art design to produce the image of your choice Lace, ribbon For a more Gothic or Victorian look, consider using lace and ribbon.

Props Simply add a top hat, witch or pirate hat, bow tie, glasses, mustache, or a mask for a quick transformation.

Toilet paper or white streamers These can be wrapped around a gourd for a mummy look.

Food If the Rose parade can make entire floats from flowers, seeds and other edibles, you can add them to your pumpkins. Consider a pumpkin made to look like a popcorn box.

Groupings Make a vine centerpiece by coiling flexible fake vines around gourd stems to produce a miniature pumpkin patch, or stack miniature gourds to produce your own gourd guys, similar to making a snowman.

Gourds of goodies Stick lollipop ends into a pumpkin or gourd for a handy trick or treating bowl.

Decoupage Use a favorite pattern for a detailed, but easy look.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Spiders nest Plastic creepy crawlers are a bug infestation worth having in your décor. Simply cover a gourd with plastic spiders, and don’t forget to have a few trailing off!

Go Teal Teal has quickly become a traditional fall color, signaling trick-or-treaters with food allergies that you are offering allergysafe goodies. For more on this trend, check out the teal pumpkin project: www. goodhousekeeping.com/ holidays/halloweenideas/a25868/tealpumpkin-project/

October 2017

Trick-orTreat!

America’s love for chocolate and other Halloween favorites prevail over time

by Victoria Hartley-Ellender

The history of trick-or-treating for candy is a relatively recent phenomenon in American culture. Becoming popular first in the 1950s, the rise of candy as the go-to treat on Halloween followed closely with the rise of national mainstream marketing throughout the last half of the 20th century.

Originally, candies were only one of several options given to trick-or-treaters among fruits, small toys, and other items. During the early 1960s, candy bars were downsized specifically for Halloween season into fun-size candies and individually wrapped treats.

The sales tactic was huge, and mini chocolate bars became the quintessential Halloween candy. Mars Candy Manufacturers led the way in this endeavor, first selling mini candy bars at Halloween in 1961. The first fun size candies were Snickers and Milky Way. Today, Americans spend an estimated $3 billion on candy for Halloween. According to the California Milk Processors Board, “An average Jack-O-Lantern

BE ALERT! MONSTERS AT WORK

bucket carries about 250 pieces of candy amounting about 9,000 calories and amounting to three pounds of sugar.”

According to surveys by the National Confectioners Association, 72% of all candy purchases this Halloween will be on chocolate. In fact, the top five candies for Halloween in 2016 were: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, M&Ms, Snickers, Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars, and Kit Kat Bars.

Other popular Halloween candies, including candy corn, Twizzlers, and Skittles, reaped the early marketing efforts of chocolate manufacturers to intentionally market trick-ortreating and candy together -- ultimately pairing nicely with chocolate to bring Americans a full repertoire of creamy, sweet, and tangy treats each Halloween.

The candies that have consistently remained in Halloween baskets over time have been candy corn and all varieties of chocolate, especially Hershey’s Bars and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

DRIVE SAFELY THIS HALLOWEEN.

safetycouncilswla.org October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

31

Home & Family | Halloween

WOW

Your Child’s Classroom with these HALLOWEEN

TREATS Life with children is busy, and it can be difficult not to feel inferior when you send your child to the class party with a bag of Dots purchased on the way to school at the Family Dollar store, only to discover other parents sent replicas of Count Dracula’s castle made from bananas, strawberry lollipops, and flax seeds grown organically in Transylvania under Vlad the Impaler’s castle. Seriously?

No, you’re not doing it wrong. You’re doing your best, and that is good enough. However, if you want to wow both the kids and party moms this year without reconstructing Dumbledore out of Twizzlers, here are a few ideas that won’t break the bank or take three weeks to assemble.

by Lauren Atterbery Cesar

Marshmallow Treat Monsters: You will need wax paper, a box of prepackaged Rice Krispies® Treats, Wilton’s Candy Melts in whichever color you like, cooking oil, and candy eyes in various shapes. Melt the Candy Melts in a microwave-safe bowl, adding small amounts of oil until it becomes a liquid.

Dip the top half of each unwrapped Rice Krispies Treat into the liquid, and place various eyes onto the liquid before it dries. Place each treat on wax paper to dry, and then voila! You will have adorable marshmallow treat monsters for your child’s classroom in minutes.

Banana Ghosts and Mandarin Pumpkins: You will need bananas, miniature and regular sized chocolate chips, mandarin oranges, and a stalk of celery to create this healthy Halloween snack. Cut the bananas in half, peel them, and place two miniature chocolate chips near the top for eyes, and one regular sized chocolate chip further down to create a mouth for your banana ghost. Next, peel the Mandarin oranges and place a small piece of the celery stalk on top to make it look like a cute little pumpkin.

Halloween Hands: You will need several bags of assorted, individually wrapped candy, clear plastic gloves, a bag of plastic spider rings, and some ribbon. Stuff the latex gloves with the assorted candy, tie the glove off with a piece of ribbon, and put a spider ring on one of the fingers. This is a memorable way to hand out candy to your child’s class. If you want to get even more creative, put a piece of candy corn in each finger area before stuffing it.

32 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

Lake Area

HALLOWEEN EVENTS Altitude Trampoline Park Costume contest during Friday Night Friendzy, October 27. The winner of the contest will receive Altitude-related prizes, one of them being a free birthday party certificate.

The Lost Hollows Haunted Attraction Fridays and Saturdays through October 28. E. Prien Lake Road, Lake Charles, LA 70607. (337) 415-9159. $22 for General Admission; $35 for FAST PASS.

Pops and Rockets and Botsky’s Will host a Halloween Candy Crawl for kids at the Pop Lab, 3-6 p.m., Oct. 31, followed by a Creepy Crawlers Bar Crawl for adults at 6:00 p.m.

Sign up at the Lab for the costume contest.

Witch Way’s the Party Halloween Theme Cake Decorating Class Sept. 28, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. $45.00 includes all supplies.

Moss Bluff Senior Center, 2868 Highway 171 North, Moss Bluff, LA 70611. (337) 302-9951

Lake Area Adventures Will host the first annual Zombie Patrol this fall every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through October 31st. 6:3010:30, 2701 Industrial Ave. off Hwy 14. $25/person.

Tales from the Mat Yoga Spooky Black Light yoga flow.

October 13, 6:30 p.m. $15 Drop In, $5 for unlimited members, Free for Autopay and Yearly members. Yoga Center of Lake Charles, 321 Broad Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601, 337-497-0017

Real Zombie Hunt Outdoor Adventure – Fridays and Saturdays, Oct. 13 - 28, 7:0011:00 p.m. at Bayou Games Paintball Complex, 681 Kim St. Sulphur, LA 70663. Call (337) 214-5001 for more info.

Admission: Laser Tag - $10; Haunted Paintball Trail - $25; Combo Adventure - $30

October 2017

Movies in the Square October 14, Goosebumps; Oct. 28, Hocus Pocus Admission: FREE. Movies in the Square begin at sunset.

In the event of rain, movies will be rescheduled. The Grove at Heritage Square, 1211 Ruth St. (337) 313-1302

Murder at Moon Mansion Catered Meal Provided Tables/Tickets must be purchased in advance for Dinner Theatre performances. The Mines Sulphur Community Theatre, 121 E. Napoleon St., Sulphur, Oct. 14 and 28, 7:00 p.m.

(337) 215-1602.

1 of 1 Lake Area Runners Spooky Trail 10 Mile Trail Run Sam Houston Jones State Park, Moss Bluff, Oct. 28.

8:00 a.m. Post race food and beverages provided.

Downtown Trick or Treat Candy Crawl, Lake Charles Put on your best costume and head downtown for trick-or-treating! Oct. 31, 3:00 - 6:00 p.m.

SkeleTUNES on the Lake Lake Charles Community Band Halloween Concert.

7:00 p.m., second floor mezzanine of the Lake Charles Civic Center. Oct. 31, 7:00 p.m. FREE. (337) 6255330 KC Productions presents Sweeney Todd on stage Central School Arts and Humanities Center. Oct. 26-29.

Kiwanis Coats for Kids Spooktacular Crying Eagle Brewery, Sat. Oct. 28. 5:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Free beer glass and raffle ticket with a coat donation.

Coats and proceeds donated to 10 local charities.

Halloween Harvest Fest Free community event including games, train rides, face art, balloons and fun in the Civic Center Coliseum.

Costumes are encouraged but not required. 900 Lakeshore Drive, Oct. 31, 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. (337) 4911280

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

33

Home & Family | Halloween

Tips for a

Trick-or-treating should be supervised by an adult in well-known neighborhoods.

Safe Halloween

Carry a flashlight.

Stay on well-lit roads and visit well-lit houses.

Avoid short-cuts. Stay on sidewalks or on the side of streets.

Add reflective tape to costumes if they don’t already have some.

by Kristy Como Armand

Children and adults are reminded to put electronic devices down and keep heads up.

Most people think of Halloween as a time for fun and treats, and while we’re not trying to scare you, parents should be aware that Halloween is one of the most dangerous times of the year for children. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, on average, children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year.

Joni Fontenot, spokesperson for the Safety Council of Southwest Louisiana, says falls, eye injuries, cuts and burns are also common among children on Halloween. “The good news is Halloween-related injuries can be prevented if parents closely supervise school-aged children during trick-ortreat activities. The excitement of the night can cause children to forget to be careful. That’s why it's important for parents to be aware of safety hazards and do everything they can to ensure safe enjoyment of Halloween activities.”

Avoid masks that limit vision. Choose instead to wear makeup or face paint.

If your child is carrying a prop such as a staff or a pitchfork, make sure the edges are dull and your child carries it upright, not in the way of other children.

If your older children are going alone, plan and review their route, and agree on a specific time when they should return home.

The Safety Council offers the following easy tips to reduce the risk of injury on Halloween:

Instruct your child not to eat any candy until it has been examined by you. If the candy looks like it may have been opened, there are holes in the wrapper, or it looks or smells odd in any way, throw it out.

When driving on Halloween, drive slowly in neighborhoods and be alert for trick-or-treaters.

If you plan to give out candy, make sure your visitors have a good experience at your house: Make sure your lawn is free and clear of any obstacles that could be tripped over in the dim light.

Provide store-bought treats that are individually wrapped.

Keep your home well-lit.

If you decorate with jack-o-lanterns with candles inside, supervise them at all times and make sure they are out of the path trick-or-treaters will use.

34 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

Don’t Play Tricks

With Your Eyes

by Kristy Como Armand

Costume contact lenses have the power to take your costume from mediocre to monstrous in the blink of an eye. Transforming your eyes to complete your costume can be great Halloween fun, and the range of costume lens styles expands each year, but caution is advised when it comes to the use of these types of lenses.

While eye care experts don’t want to scare consumers unnecessarily, concerns about the risks associated with the novelty lenses -- which can be purchased from unlicensed vendors on the internet or at flea markets and specialty shops -- have prompted the FDA to issue a warning to consumers.

“Although decorative contact lenses may seem like just another costume accessory, it’s important to understand that these lenses can seriously harm the eye if they are used without appropriate supervision by an eye care professional,” says Dr. Mel Gehrig, optometrist with The Eye Clinic.

“Many people mistakenly think novelty contact lenses are just like sunglasses, and if you’re not wearing the lenses to correct your vision, you don’t need to see an eye doctor,” says Dr. Gehrig. “This is a dangerous misconception. Unlike sunglasses, these lenses are going in your eye, right on top of your cornea. People, especially teenagers and young adults, who wear lenses purchased from unlicensed vendors have been given no instructions and often practice risky behavior. They don’t clean or disinfect the lenses. They sleep in them. They even swap them with their friends.”

Eye care experts advise that all contact lenses can increase the risk of infections in the eye because they prevent normal amounts of oxygen from reaching the eye, but these risks are much higher in over-the-counter contact lenses because none of the safety procedures are followed. “When you purchase these from an unlicensed provider, you don’t even know if the lenses are made from a material that is safe for your eye,” adds Dr. Gehrig.

The FDA has also received reports of corneal ulcers associated with wearing decorative lenses longer than the recommended period. These ulcers can progress rapidly and, if left untreated, can lead to infection, scarring of the cornea, vision impairment, or even blindness or eye loss.

October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Dr. Gehrig says other risks associated with the use of novelty contact lenses include: • Conjunctivitis (a highly contagious infection of the eye) • Corneal edema (swelling of the cornea) • Allergic reactions and corneal abrasion caused by poor lens fit • Reduction in visual acuity (sight) • Contrast sensitivity and other problems that can interfere with driving and other activities “As with any contact lens, an eye exam is required for proper fitting of cosmetic lenses,” says Dr. Gehrig. “By purchasing contact lenses from a non-eye care source, you are putting your vision at risk.”

If you want blue or orange, zombie, cat or alien eyes, you can get them, but Dr. Gehrig says the key for your eye safety is to make sure you get them from a licensed eye care professional.

For more information, call The Eye Clinic’s contact lens department at (337) 478-3810.

www.thriveswla.com

35

Home & Family

The region’s preferred Sports Medicine provider.

Official Sports Medicine Providers: 14 AREA HIGH SCHOOLS

Fall Out with Pests

Cardiovascular Specialists

SPORTS INJURY HOTLINE (337) 439-7220

(337) 721-7236 www.centerforortho.com Lake Charles • Sulphur OUR DOCTORS John Noble Jr., MD Craig Morton, MD Tyson Green, DPM Steven Hale, MD William Lowry Jr., MD George “J.” Trappey IV, MD

36 www.thriveswla.com

Andrew Foret, MD Kalieb Pourciau, DPM Jonathan Foret, MD David Drez Jr., MD, Senior Advisor

Cardiovascular Specialists Cardiovascular Specialists

by Victoria Hartley-Ellender

As cooler weather arrives, of Lake Charles, said the best the battle against bugs and preventative measure at this pests can shift and take on time of year is to be mindful a life of its own as rodents, of stacking things up closely mice, and roaches attempt to the home. “Any type of to escape the outdoor chill. clutter near the home can lead Noble Burrowing their way into Dr. John to pest problems during the John Noble Dr.Dr. John Noble homes and offices, these colder months. The rodents pests are often difficult to and insects are looking for a eliminate and can cause a warm place to find shelter, host of problems in attics and and any kind of pile of leaves walls. Rodents are known for or clutter can attract them chewing through electrical to come near and eventually wires and drywall as well enter your home if things are as plumbing, piping, and Dr. John not sealed tightly.” In general, Noble air conditioning ducts. people do less landscaping Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr.Dr. John Noble John Noble The best way to deal with and spend less time outdoors Orthopaedic Surgeon Surgeon these rodents is to meet them duringOrthopaedic the winter months.

Any at the door -- preventing entry time there is dormancy near a and proactively stopping home or building, insects and the problems before they rodents will take advantage of arrive. Robert Soileau, branch the vacant area and move in. manager at J&J Exterminating

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

J&J Exterminating serves customers throughout Southwest Louisiana. The company offers Goldshield 365 -- a program designed to effectively keep pests out of the home with integrated pest management. The program uses proven long-lasting baits and barriers to block entry with physical and residual barriers.

“In the fall, it is especially important to have a proactive plan to address these pests before they can get into the home. Our exterminators will inspect for possible entry points such as construction joints, utility entrances, vents, windows, and doors,” Soileau said.

If you store firewood outdoors, it is important to keep woodpiles at least 20 feet from your home and store in an elevated place if possible. Homeowners can also remove any plants that are past their prime from nearby homes and buildings, which can be an attractive place for many insects to settle. If plants are overgrown, cut them back at least two feet from the home.

Fall decorations, such as scarecrows, hay bales, and pumpkins can also attract pests. Be sure to check these items before bringing them indoors, and shake them frequently if they are left outside for an extended length of time.

Daphne Letlow, PharmD Brittany Brown, PharmD 1st Ave. Location Lake St. Location

When your child is sick, there is nothing worse than having to wait a long time to have your prescription filled. You won't have to wait long when you use the Children's Pharmacy!

• Specialize in Children’s Medications • Fill Prescriptions From Any Doctor

• Most Insurance Prescription Plans and Louisiana Medicaid Accepted

• Competitively Priced on Both Prescription and Over-TheCounter Medications

• Flavoring Available for Liquid Medications

• Prescription Filled While You Wait

2 LAKE CHARLES LOCATIONS! For more information, visit jjext.com.

October 2017

2903 1st Avenue

(337) 474-5492 Monday – Friday: 8am-Noon & 1-5pm

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

4111 Lake Street with Drive-Thru

(337) 502-4873 Monday-Friday: 8am-Noon & 1-5pm

www.thriveswla.com

37

Home & Family

Falla Beautiful into Yard

by Kristy Como Armand

Many people work diligently during the spring and summer to ensure that their yard and everything in it is lushly landscaped, perfectly mowed, trimmed and weed-free. Then, when the first cold front arrives, the mower and gardening tools are packed away until spring returns.

But, you shouldn’t ignore your yard in the fall.

There is work to be done now that will set the stage for a healthier start next spring.

“Fall is the best time of year to trim hedges and trees,” says Chad Everage with Landscape Management in Lake Charles. “Not only will this mean you have fewer leaves to rake, but it also improves the appearance of your yard.” He advises identifying and removing dead or diseased limbs first, and then cutting back excessive growth and trimming shrubs into the desired shape.

“You also need to fertilize your lawn in the fall to give grass needed nutrients for the winter, which is when the top layer of grass is dormant while the root systems continue

to grow,” explains Everage. “Roots easily absorb and store nutrients during this time, and fall fertilizing will also help your lawn ‘go green’ faster in early spring.” The type of fertilizer you will need varies depending on the type of grass you have, and Everage says you may want to ask a landscape expert for some guidance in choosing the right one for your lawn. He also recommends raking or mulching leaves to keep your lawn healthy over the winter months. If you are establishing a new lawn, he says you should get that done as soon as possible. “This late in the growing season, you should use sod and try to get it laid by mid-October.”

Everage says it’s important not to stop mowing your grass just because the weather is cooler. Raise the height on your lawn mower to leave a blade that is two-and-ahalf to three inches tall throughout the fall.

This is the optimum height for preventing diseases in the winter while still providing your grass the self-sufficiency it needs

to store food for the coming months.

Late October through March is the prime season for planting hardy trees, shrubs and ground covers in Louisiana, so now is an excellent time to assess your landscape situation and begin to make plans, advises Everage. “The benefits of a well-planned landscape are many, from providing shade, privacy and color, to correcting drainage problems and creating outdoor living areas for your family to enjoy. Beautiful landscaping also increases the value of your home.”

He says most homeowners have no trouble dealing with small projects themselves.

“Planting a tree, designing a flower garden, or planting beds around a deck are good do-it-yourself projects. Designing an overall landscape, including drainage, outdoor living areas and major planting, may require some expert design advice and/or installation assistance, depending on the capabilities of the homeowner. It may also be something you add to in stages, over time.”

For more information on landscape planning, call Landscape Management at call (337) 478-3836 or visit www.landscapemanagement.org.

38 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

McNeese BRIDGES Program Set for Fall

McNeese Homecoming Parade Applications Now Online

The 2017 McNeese State University Homecoming Parade is scheduled to roll down Ryan Street at 7pm on Thursday, October 19, and the community is invited to participate.

Registration for the parade is now open online for community entries at www.mcneese. edu/homecoming. The fee is $60 per unit.

This year’s theme is “Stand Up Get Rowdy!”

The Cowboys are playing the Cardinals of the University of Incarnate Word for Homecoming at 6pm on October 21 in Cowboy Stadium.

The McNeese Autism Program will offer its BRIDGES program this fall for adolescents and young adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum.

BRIDGES - Building Respect and Independence by Directing, Guiding and Encouraging Socialization – was introduced this summer on campus to “bridge a gap” between the increasing need for services for youth ages 14-18. The program will run from 3:306:30pm., Mondays through Thursdays, October 2 – November 30. Insurance and private pay options are available.

According to Lettie Goings, director of the program, BRIDGES consists of focused skills for independence that will help support employment and social success for adolescents and young adults.

To enroll or for more information about this program, contact Goings at (337) 562-4246 or at lgoings@mcneese.edu.

For more information about the parade, community organizations can contact the McNeese Office of University Services at (337) 4755706.

October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

CITGO Rewards McNeese Business College Students with Scholarships

CITGO Lake Charles looks for opportunities to award deserving local students for academic excellence and recently awarded $5,000 in scholarship funds to McNeese State University Business students. The MSU business scholarship recipients each received a $1,000 scholarship towards their college education – a share of the $5,000 scholarship funds that CITGO awards to Business students annually.

Business students awarded included: Olivia Karam, management major and CITGO employee; Alla Voth, accounting major; Morgan Hawkins, marketing major; Brandon Robert, accounting major and McCall Monceaux, accounting major.

www.thriveswla.com

39

Home & Family

Creating a Positive, Productive Homework Zone

by Bailey Castille

40 www.thriveswla.com

Homework is one of those necessary evils that every student, teacher, and parent alike must endure. One way to show children that homework is a beneficial tool for intellectual development and not a form of torture is to create a dedicated space in your home where they can complete their assignments. A homework zone provides students a place to work and study free from distractions and motivates them to finish their tasks in a timely fashion.

Try these tips to create a zone you and your student will love.

Every child is different and therefore learns differently. While one may work better in solitude and silence, another might prefer company and classical music to remain on task. Knowing and listening to your child will help you pinpoint exactly what he or she needs to most efficiently complete assignments.

The wishes and needs of the student should carry over throughout the entire project. Studies have shown that workers are more productive, driven, and focused when they are able to personalize their

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

workspaces. Allow the child input on the homework zone and add items he or she enjoys—for example, photos, little snacks, colored pens, or other trinkets. This makes the station more inviting.

The homework zone, while containing fun elements for children, should not be cluttered and unruly. A clean, well-organized space leads to more efficiency and less anxiety. The space should be fully stocked with all the supplies every student needs: pens, pencils, rulers, sharpeners, a calculator, etc. Also, studies have shown that a well-lit area, especially with access to lots of natural light, helps productivity, sleep habits, and quality of life—all of which are essential to a child’s development.

An A+ worthy homework zone is organized, customized, and (most importantly) utilized to enhance the benefits of homework, promote the importance of completing assignments, and encourage the individuality of the student. All these elements combine to form an important tool for success in school as well as success in life.

October 2017

ALWAYS IN YOUR CORNER Jessica Latour 337-602-6393

© 2016 Allstate Insurance Co.

217968

Everyone considers facial plastic surgery at some time in their lives.

Whatever the reason, facial plastic surgery is an opportunity to look at your face, not as it is, but as it could be. By enhancing the tone and texture of the skin, gently and carefully adjusting the overall balance and proportion, you create a more youthful, more rested appearance that still looks like you–only better.

Jeffrey J. Joseph, md, facs

The hands of a surgeon.

The eye of an artist.

1000 W. Pinhook Road • Lafayette 337-237-0650 www.acadianent.com

board-certified & fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon jeffrey j. joseph, md, facs October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

41

Home & Family

Mark Your Calendar!

Louisiana Institute of Massage Therapy Fall Registration Open STEP UP for Down Syndrome

The 15th annual Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk is set for October 7 at Prien Lake Park.

Registration begins at 9am with the walk beginning at 10am.

Silent auction, face painting, food, dancing and games/activities will follow from 10am-1pm.

The 2017 Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk is the primary fund raiser for UP4 DOWNS, which is committed to raise community awareness and understanding of the special abilities of children and adults with Down syndrome.

For information on registration, visit www.up4downswla. org or call (337) 842-6555.

Empowerment Fashion Show

On October 22nd, the Girlie Girls Mentoring Program will host a “Be Who God Created You To Be” Empowerment Fashion Show.

This event involves a one-of-akind fashion show that focuses on the models as unique individuals.

The goal of this empowerment fashion show is to inspire, educate, and motivate girls to be themselves, not to be like anyone else. Immediately following the fashion show, motivational keynote speaker, Pastor Hope Snider with Christian World Ministries will speak. Guests will enjoy a formal dinner prepared by L’Auberge Casino Resort.

For more information, call (337) 302-3725.

42 www.thriveswla.com

Fore Our Kids Gold Tournament

Big Brothers big Sisters will host their 4th annual golf tournament fundraiser on November 3 at Lake Charles Country Club. Teams will play a four-person scramble.

Lunch served at 11am. Register to participate or sponsor at events. r20.constantcontact.com. motorcade following the bus.

HALOS Support Group Meetings

HALOS (Healing after Loved Ones Suicide) Support Group meets every 1st Tuesday of the month in Sulphur in the West Cal Cam Hospital Cafeteria at 6pm and in the Ben Mount board room of Christus Lake Area Hospital at 6pm, every 3rd Tuesday of the month. They are open to anyone who has been affected by suicide.

Their fundraiser walk, “Out of the Darkness,” will take place on October 7, at the Lake Charles Civic Center Amphitheater.

Registration is at 9am with the walk beginning at 10am.

and savory dishes. A single rider tag is $35 and sponsorship opportunities are available.

For more information, sponsorships, or to donate to St. Nicholas Center for Children call (337)491-0800.

West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital to Host Cooking Demonstration

On October 17, at 11 a.m., West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital (WCCH) will provide a free cooking demonstration in the WCCH Cafeteria Conference Room, located at 701 Cypress Street in Sulphur, for individuals looking for ideas for quick and healthy dishes.

The class will last approximately 45 minutes, and will cover healthy meal planning, provide stepby-step tactics to make cooking

easy, and demonstrate how quick and fun cooking can be. Samples will be provided to attendees.

This cooking demonstration is free and open to the public.

For more information, or to sign up for a class, please call (337) 5274261 or email flandry@wcch.com.

Stearman Fly in Scheduled The Jeff Davis Parish Tourist Commission and the Stearman Fly-In Association would like to invite the public to the 37th Annual Stearman Fly In. This event will take place at the Jennings Airport in Jennings, October 5th-8th. The public day is October 7th, from 10am-4pm.

For more information, visit www.jeffdavis.org.

For more information, call (337)794-3113.

Wheels of Hope 2017 Benefits Local Children with Autism

Wheels of Hope, benefitting the St. Nicholas Center for Children, will celebrate its 5-year anniversary on October 7 and will be hosting a charity bike ride. This ride will take place in Moss Bluff and will offer 5 different routes showcasing the natural beauty of Sam Houston Jones State Park and the Calcasieu River. In addition, a “Taste of Louisiana” will feature a team of outstanding chefs cooking up their favorite appetizers

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

43

Style & Beauty

20s

Your Ultimate

Skincare Routine at Any Age

by Emily Alford

If you’ve perused the skincare aisle of a drugstore recently, you’ve probably noticed the classic skincare routine –soap and water with just a touch of moisturizer -- has been completely up-ended by a seemingly endless array of serums, masks, creams, and oils that can easily become completely overwhelming. The truth is, all skin needs different care, and our skincare needs change over time, so what worked at age 25 probably needs reconsidering at 35. Here are a few professional tips for taking great care of your skin at any age.

44 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

The biggest skincare challenge twentyyear-olds face is probably adopting healthy habits, according to Jennifer Lemons, licensed aesthetician and co-owner of DermaLogix Salon and Day Spa in Lake Charles. Late-night study sessions, high-stress first jobs, and even a quest to get the perfect summer tan can all have long-lasting effects on skin.

“The aging process usually begins in our twenties,” Lemons says. “Our diets, stress levels, sun exposure, and unbalanced sleep patterns can really take a toll. Starting a healthy skin care routine and being consistent with it is the key to healthy skin.”

For twenty-somethings who want to develop a consistent skincare regimen, Lemons recommends a balancing cleanser, toner, daily moisturizer, and plenty of sunscreen. Preventing future damage is the best goal for a beginner’s routine.

30s

Lemons says fine lines and early wrinkles are the most common complaints from clients in their thirties, but there are ways to delay these common skin woes. Adding more exfoliation and introducing retinol into your skin care regimen can help repair skin that’s lost a bit of its elasticity.

“Adding products that contain retinol and vitamin C can greatly enhance the benefits of any skincare regimen,” Lemons says. “Treatments like mild to moderate peels or even microdermabrasion are also available to help strengthen and maintain the overall condition and appearance of skin.”

October 2017

40s

Clients in their forties often see sun damage from their twenties and thirties start to catch up with them, and hyperpigmentation (or sunspots) is one of the biggest complaints Lemons sees from clients in their forties, along with fine lines and enlarged pores.

To help correct these problems, she recommends switching to prescriptionstrength products. Ask your dermatologist about prescribing products with hydroquinone, which decreases the formation of melanin to dissolve the appearance of dark spots, and retinoid creams that boost collagen and reduce the appearance of fine lines.

50s

As skin ages, it becomes more delicate and prone to dryness. Lemons often recommends that clients in their fifties switch to gentler cleansers and more hydrating moisturizers. She also suggests that they significantly reduce the amount of time they spend exfoliating.

“For women 50 and above, I recommend products that target hydration, such as those that contain hyaluronic acid, which binds one thousand times its own weight in moisture,” Lemons says. “Also, creamy cleansers as opposed to harsh gel-based washes help maintain supple skin. Be careful not to over-process the skin as with too much exfoliation from facial scrubs.

This can impair the skin’s moisture barrier and cause more harm than good.”

60s and beyond!

Sunscreen is important at any age! Look for creamy daily moisturizers that also contain SPF 30 and above, and be sure to reapply throughout the day. Another common problem for sixty-and-above skin is irritation: tried and true products that once worked wonders now cause rash or even acne. As the moisture barrier breaks down, it becomes much easier for skin to become irritated.

Prescription-strength products can be mixed with moisturizer to make them less abrasive.

If you haven’t been overly diligent about skincare in the past, there’s no better time than the present to adopt a healthy skin routine.

“The most important piece of advice I can give is to start taking care of your skin today,” Lemons says. “It is never too late.

Always cleanse your face morning and night and follow with the proper am/pm skincare regimen, wear sunblock every day, drink plenty of water, eat a well-balanced diet, and get an adequate amount of rest.

These habits can be adapted at any age, but the sooner you start, the better!”

Dr. Keith Chung

Comprehensive Surgery Clinic

(337)433-1303

4150 Nelson Rd., STE B-6 Lake Charles, LA 70605 October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

45

Style

& Beauty

Five Fall Boot Trends to Try

by Emily Alford

One of the best things about cooler weather is breaking out the fall

clothes and pairing cuddly sweaters with stylish boots for laid back, yet pulled together looks. And in 2017, boot lovers are in for a treat because this year is all about different styles of boots. From short to tall and everywhere in between, here are all the best fall boot trends to try.

Winter whites

If you thought white go-go boots died with disco, think again!

This season’s most fashion-forward trendsetters are wearing white boots with short, chunky heels as a cute compliment to suits, skirts, and blazers. Most style influencers are choosing to let their white boots make a statement and keeping the rest of their outfits low-key in all black or other neutral colors.

Chunky and funky

If you like a little more heft to your footwear, you’re in luck! Black, chunky boots are also on the radar for fall. Many of the season’s best black boots are calf or ankle-high with square, blocky heels.

Combat styles, paired with fall’s military-inspired jackets or even long, floral-print dresses, are also making a comeback.

Ladylike lace ups

Victorian-inspired looks, including high collars and layers of lace, ruled this year’s runways, and one of the best things about the return of romantic street style is that tall, lace up boots are back as well. They’re best paired with skirts or worn with tucked-in skinny jeans to show off their signature laces.

And one of the biggest perks of wearing Victorian-inspired boots is that the delicate laceup detail means a pair of flats or a tiny kitten heel can look just as ladylike and elegant as a pair of sky-high stilettos.

46 www.thriveswla.com

Sock it to ‘em

This year, the 80’s sock boot has gotten a major update. Whether you prefer a skinny heel or a platform base, tightly fitted boots in stretchy fabrics were everywhere on fall 2017 runways. Designers usually paired calf-high sock boots with short skirts or cuffed jeans to really show them off.

Long and leggy

This fall’s coolest leggings are actually . . . boots. Ultra-tall, slouchy over-the-knee boots in black, brown, or gray might be this fall’s most daring shoe trend. While high heeled, thigh-high boots certainly aren’t for everyone, they look youthful and fun when paired with short skirts and dresses, over skinny jeans, or layered on top of a pair of actual leggings.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Some footwear, like a comfortable pair of Chelsea boots or a soft, sturdy pair of riding boots, never goes out of style.

However, it can be fun to try out the latest trends by picking up a pair of inexpensive fashion boots and seeing just how much a new pair of shoes can change up even the most tried and true fall fashions.

October 2017

Give Foot Problems the Boot by choosing the right boots

by Kristy Como Armand

Suede or leather? Knee or ankle? Classic or Contemporary? Rain or Snow? Gray, Black or Brown?

Boots are a hot trend for cold weather, but with the wide range of styles, materials and colors to choose from, choosing the perfect pair can be a challenge.

Dr. Tyson Green, foot and ankle specialist with Center for Orthopaedics, says it’s worth taking some time with your decision. “Don’t sacrifice comfort for style.

Careful consideration of your options can prevent discomfort and even painful foot injuries. When it comes to boots, you should always put your feet first.”

Style

Choose

Avoid

Sleek

Natural materials like leather that allow proper airflow and keep feet dry

Synthetic materials trap in heat and moisture

Classic Cowboy

A natural, flexible material with as wide a toe as possible

Wearing for long periods of time.

Narrow toe can cause blistered and cramped toes

Slouch

A lower or stacked heel for support

Narrow and/or very high heels which transfer weight onto the ball of the foot, resulting in pain and numbness

Ankle

A heel no more than two inches in height and plan on standing/ walking in these for only short periods of time

High, narrow heels which, combined with the lack of ankle support can cause imbalance

Rain

Styles with arch supports or add cushioned arch supports

Rigid shapes which limit natural foot movement and provides no arch support

Snow

Rubber soled styles with grooves for proper traction

Smooth, slick soles

Dr. Green offers some shopping guidelines for finding a comfortable pair – or pairs – of boots that will allow you months of pain-free wear:

General Boot Shopping Tips: • Have feet measured regularly when shopping for boots or shoes. Your foot size can change throughout your life.

• Keep in mind that your boot size may not fit the same in all styles and brands.

• Try boots on in the afternoon because feet tend to swell during the day.

• Most feet are not the exact same size, but you should always buy for the larger foot.

• Carry an insole when boot shopping in case a pair lacks the proper arch support.

• Boots should feel comfortable when tried on in the store, there shouldn’t be a “break-in” period.

• Choose a boot with plenty of toe room, a firm heel counter, and traction to ensure stability.

October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

47

Style

& Beauty

Soak in these New Pedicure Trends story and photos by Chelse Willis

Sticking your feet into a bath of fruits and roses, accompanied with jelly and whole milk may seem silly, or even odd. Not these days. Pedicures are about more than choosing a polish color. They are geared towards a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for you and your aching feet.

48 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

According to Merriam-Webster, a pedicure is defined as care of the feet, toes, and nails.

Thanh Nguyen, owner of Milanie Nail Bar off Nelson Road, notices that most of her customers want more than just pretty toes.

Customers come in to recharge and de-stress from their day to day activities. Her nail bar offers a range of pedicures that start with simply changing the nail color, all the way to the Milanie V.I.P. Jellycure. The Jellycure package involves fruit that helps hydrate and soften the feet and calves, along with a sugar scrub and hot rock massage. The jelly in the foot bath moisturizes your feet and allows the basin water to stay warmer longer. This package also includes a lengthy calf and foot massage, cucumber wrap for dry skin, topped with a hot towel, and wax-dipped feet. Are you relaxed yet?

DIY Foot Bath

Can’t get to a spa or nail salon anytime soon?

A simple Pinterest or internet search for “foot bath” will show that you can enjoy one in the comfort of your own home. Some recipes on Pinterest include Epsom salts, essential oils, and warm water. Sounds normal, right? What about Listerine, coffee grounds, and vinegar? Those are some of the more unusual ingredients you may find listed. Do you need to detox,

relax, or just moisturize your cracked heels?

You can get specific when you search to help find the foot bath recipe that is right for you.

Calling All Kids

Sore feet and the need for relaxation don’t discriminate by age. Men, women, and even kids can appreciate a pedicure. Nguyen at Melanie offers pedicure services for children age 10 and under. Their Princess and Sport Boy Pedicure service includes cuticle and callus care. If your little one wants more, they offer a Princess or Prince PediBomb treatment, which includes a toy filled bath bomb.

The More the Merrier!

What are you doing for your bridal shower, birthday party, or mom’s night out? Invite your friends or coworkers to join in the experience. What a great way to unwind after a long work day or week. If you call your salon ahead, they will make sure to accommodate all your party guests.

Whether you close your eyes and drift off, or scroll through social media, take the time to relax and truly enjoy your pedicure experience.

For more information on Milanie Nail Bar’s services, call 337-602-6764.

Fall in love We offer: • • • • • • • •

with a new you

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

It’s time to get focused on looking your best this fall and for the upcoming holiday season. Months of fun in the sun can drain the skin of nutrients and lead to premature aging – wrinkling, dryness, discoloration and an overall faded, tired appearance.

Freshen up for cool-weather season with a little help from the Aesthetic Center. Our skin care specialists will asses your skin and recommend rejuvenating treatments and products to restore a healthier, more youthful appearance.

Revive your skin for the new season.

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

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

facehealth.net • 310-1070 • 1767 Imperial Blvd., Lake Charles October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

49

Money & Career

Budgeting 101 for 20-Somethings

50 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

M

ost 20-somethings struggle with budgeting. The process can be intimidating because young adults are often not well versed in financial literacy. Fortunately, financial experts and websites like www.feedthepig.org can educate young adults on fiscal knowledge and how to create a sustainable budget.

Butch Ferdinandsen, financial planner with Ferdinandsen Financial Group, says the foundation of a good budget is to not spend more money than you earn.

There are two types of spending: essential and discretionary. Essential costs are unavoidable, like rent and food.

Luxuries like concerts, movie tickets, and new jewelry are discretionary. Identify where you are spending your money. Be truthful with yourself on your spending and pinpoint every penny spent on everything from gas to gum. This may be tedious, but the more thorough you are, the more accurate your budget will be. Ferdinandsen recommends software such as Quicken or Quickbooks, which provides spreadsheets to monitor monthly expenses. A checking account ledger or

October 2017

online site can serve a similar purpose.

“It’s important to keep track of where your money is going,” says Ferdinandsen. “If you discover you’re spending a lot on wants rather than needs, you can likely find ways to save money, either for an emergency savings account, a home, or retirement.

At this point, you can determine where your money has gone. If you can shave $2 a day off your spending each month, you’ll save about $730 a year. This extra money can go to student loans or an emergency fund. Ferdinandsen suggests creating a savings account to allow for six months of expenses for a single person, or three months expenses for dual-income couples. If you anticipate a major purchase in the near future, increase the amount you are saving.

Any budget that fails was probably doomed from the beginning. One key to ensuring a realistic, feasible budget is to establish personal financial goals.

Make a list of short and long-term goals and rate these goals on a 10-point scale.

This will allow you to focus on saving for the most important targets first.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Once you have established your budget, follow it. Know which of your expenses are not negotiable and which ones should be left for a more financially sound period.

Ferdinandsen also recommends young people take advantage of employer retirement funds such as 401k accounts or consult a financial planner for other saving options. “Too often, young people say ‘I’m young, I got time,’ and they’re right, but the earlier they start saving, it’s a huge advantage, even if it’s just a small amount.” He also advises young people to keep their debt in check. Pay off credit card debt as quickly as possible.

Budgeting monitors your cash flow, structures your spending, and opens your eyes to the realities of your expenses. Start honing your money-saving skills today.

For more information or to speak with Ferdinandsen, call 337-491-9236.

Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through Woodbury Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. Ferdinandsen Financial Group is a marketing name. 2356 E. McNeese St. Suite 100 Lake Charles, LA 70607

www.thriveswla.com

51

Money & Career

5

Ways Your Spare Change Can Make a Big Difference

According to the Transportation Security Administration, there was over $531,000 worth of spare change left behind in the country’s airports just during 2012. Nearly every time we make a cash purchase, it results in spare change. Some of us let it jingle around in our pockets, while others drop it into the charity bucket next to the register, hoping it makes it to the featured charity. Even more of us let it pile up in our vehicles, waiting for a chance to put it to use. But what if that spare change, as small as it may seem, could actually add up to something big and make a difference in the world or give your family a fun vacation?

“We all have spare change, and most of us see it as trivial,” explains Leena Patidar, chief executive officer and cofounder of Coin Up, an app that donates your spare change to charities of your choice. “What people don’t realize is that the aggregation of this spare change is actually quite powerful. It adds up quickly, allowing for major effect, depending on how you want to use it.”

Here are five things to keep in mind as your spare change begins to accumulate:

1 2

Save for a family vacation. Many families find it challenging to pay for a family vacation. Yet if they saved spare change throughout the year, putting it into a big bank in the closet, they may have $600 or more at the end of the year. That’s enough to take a nice little family vacation or staycation and create some memories.

3 4 5

Pay it forward. Use your spare change to pay it forward for someone else. If you let it pile up in the car, once you see you have a few dollars, pick up the tab for the person’s latte in line behind you. That good deed is likely to create a ripple effect of kindness.

Keep saving it. If you put all your spare change into a coin bank, then once a year cash it in and add it to a savings account at the bank (or invest it), you will significantly add to your retirement nest egg. Even saving a few hundred dollars per year will add up to a surprising payday once retirement hits and the money has all been compounded in the bank.

Eliminate debt. In our society, most people carry some debt, whether from credit cards, automobile payments, or student loans. Save your spare change, and every time it adds up to $25-50, apply it to your debt. Over time, those extra payments will help eliminate the debt quicker.

Give to your favorite charity. Everyone has a cause they are passionate about.

Giving spare change to a favorite charity can help have a major impact on that issue and lead to a better world. Apps such as Coin Up have helped make giving spare change to one’s chosen charity effortless. By downloading the app and choosing a charity to donate to, your purchases are rounded up to the nearest dollar, with the change going to your chosen charity each month.

“We know the impact and power that spare change can have on society,” added Coin Up co-founder and chief technology officer, Scott Graham. “That’s why Coin Up is revolutionary, because we are creating a society that can easily engage in charitable giving through the convenience of every day transactions; taking incremental spare change from your daily credit/debit card transactions and donating it to the charity of your choice.”

The Coin Up app is free to download and provides a secure way for people to control their monthly charity donation amount, as well as a tax-deductible donation.

52 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

Turf!

Take care of your

Pre-season is CRITICAL.

And we’re not just talking about football! Having a game plan for your lawn and landscaping during the fall will help protect it during the colder winter months, and ensure a lush, healthy yard when spring comes. Fall is the perfect time to fertilize and aerate the lawn, freshen up mulch in the beds, remove dead annuals, and lightly prune dead and dying branches.

When the temperature begins to drop, it’s also a good time to plant certain trees and shrubs, allowing them to establish roots during the cooler season.

Unsure about what you need to do for your yard this fall?

We can help – just give us a call!

We Plan. You Plant. Landscaping made simple for your home.

LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC.

5005 Cobra Road in Lake Charles (337) 478-3836 M-F: 7am – 4pm Sat: 8am – 2pm (Seasonal Hours)

landscapemanagement.org

Lakeside Bank is giving you immediate access to the interest you earn on a Certificate of Deposit with our new Quick Cash CD offer.

Quack Cash!

Quack Cash!

Simply open a CD and we’ll give you the total interest payment – right away. Now that’s a quick return on your investment!

Choose from Two Great Rates: 2.00 % for 5 years or 1.75 % for 3 years APY*

APY*

Quick Cash CD Features and Requirements: • Can be an existing customer, however, the CD must be opened with NEW money to the bank • Available to Consumer and Commercial customers (NO public funds or Fls)

• Minimum deposit of $25,000 • Maximum deposit of $1,000,000 • Limited-time offer

Migrate to a Great Rate – and get Quick Cash – at Lakeside!

*APY Annual Percentage Yield

The way banking should be.

Substantial penalty for early withdrawal

LakesideBanking.com October 2017

Lake Charles & Westlake • COMING SOON: Sulphur Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

53

Money & Career

Match Your Career Choice to Your

Personality

by Lauren Atterbery Cesar

Your personality dictates many of the things you choose to do socially, so factoring in the various facets of your personality when choosing a career seems like a no-brainer. Often, when students go to college or a trade school, they feel a bit lost in terms of making decisions that will affect the rest of their lives. Many choose to go into fields of study that will pay a bit more lucratively, or they choose a career based on their family’s input.

That can hold true for adults looking for new careers as well. Sometimes the focus is on what is available and what will net the most income, rather than what a person would be perfectly suited for. If you’re in the market for a career change, there are many factors that should be considered, personality being one of the most important.

Davis Woodward, LPC at Elite Medical Wellness, located at 2802 Hodges Street,

54 www.thriveswla.com

explains, “I am always astonished at how, as people, we are so stratified! Within the complexities of our unique personalities we have facets in which we excel and areas where we struggle. When I meet a new patient, often, they are dissatisfied in more than one area of their life, with work being a factor in their unhappiness.”

Davis also explains that sometimes, with self-reflection, a patient finds that they would like to change jobs to something more suited for their personality.

If you have a realistic and logical personality, see things in black and white, and your brain thinks in a concretesequential manner, you probably are not suited for a career based in creativity such as graphic design or photography.

Whereas if you are a logical thinker, you may want to seek out a career in finance, medicine, or computer programming.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

What if you’re not completely certain what career would suit your personality the best? Talk to the people who know you best and ask what they think you would be good at based specifically on your personality. Perhaps your grandmother remembers when you were a child and drew tree-house models so detailed she thought you would become an architect. Another way to discover which career would best suit your personality is to take an online personality test that will suggest suitable careers for you.

“There are many useful tools but the one I like to look at is the Myers-Briggs test, which highlights 16 different personality types,” says Woodward. “It’s a great way to get good insight into what types of careers work for different people. Ultimately, we have a better chance of success if we pick a career that plays to our strengths!”

October 2017

A few other suggestions for online career-matching personality tests are: • www.similiarminds.com | This online test, similar to the Myers-Briggs test, will ask sixty questions and give you five different ways to interpret your personality based on your answers, including career suggestions.

• www.mycareerquizzes.com | This website offers a plethora of information and possible career choices.

Not only does it offer a personality-based career quiz, it gives guidance on job interviews, offers educational information, and includes a career library.

Whether you are looking into a career path for the first time, or you are looking to make a life change, factoring your personality into the equation is one of the best moves you can make.

IndustryInsider

Straight Answers to Your Questions on Industry and the Environment

Q:

How safe is it to work at an industrial plant?

A:

Safety is the priority at every industrial plant.

Because of the safety mindset within the plant, an employee’s risk of injury decreases significantly once he or she enters the plant.

Before any job begins, multiple safety checks occur and continue throughout the job, daily. If anything seems unsafe, employees have the right and responsibility to stop the job. If an incident should occur, highly skilled and specialized emergency response teams are in place onsite and are ready to work with area first responders.

Safety is our culture, and it’s built into every job we do. The goal is to protect ourselves, our co-workers, our families and our community, because this is our home too.

Greg Satterfield

senior safety engineer with area industry

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

October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

55

Where you go to stay in the know!

SOWELA Ranked Among Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

The Contraband Days Festival Changes Its Name

RMC Named a TOP 25 Destination Management Company in the World

For the 5th consecutive year, RMC: Resorts Mountains Cities, an international Destination Management Company with a management presence in Lake Charles, has been included in an exclusive list from of the world’s 25 best Destination Management Companies (known as DMCs).

The Top 25 list was released in the July issue of Special Events Magazine, an international For more information, visit resource and premier magazine for special www.louisianapiratefestival.com. event designers, producers and suppliers.

The magazine’s annual “25 Top DMCs” feature recognizes destination management companies Email or Text Notification when your RX is ready! around the world that are leaders in the industry and in the destinations they operate. DMCs were selected for inclusion based on their annual revenue, service capabilities and number of events produced Friendly service from your annually. home town pharmacy.

RMC: Resorts Mountains Cities was founded in 1989. From • Citywide Delivery Service its first location in • Drive-Thru Pick-Up Window Aspen, Colorado, RMC • E-Mail and Call in RX Service has expanded to 10 renowned destinations across North America and Mexico, serving multiple locations.

For six decades, the Contraband Days Festival in Lake Charles has brought pirates, carnival rides, music, traditions and merriment to the lakefront.

However, the festival is entering into a new era, embracing all that is “Louisiana” along with the folklore and beauty that surrounds the Lake Charles area. The festival is changing its name to become the Louisiana Pirate Festival.

ThriftyWay PHARMACY #2

For more information, call (970) 305-4890.

SOWELA Technical Community College ranked 40th in the U.S. out of 721 community colleges on the personal finance website WalletHub in its 2017 Best and Worst Community Colleges nationwide list. The three key aspects WalletHub utilized to determine its ranking included: 1) Cost and Financing, 2) Education Outcomes, and 3) Career Outcomes.

Other assessment metrics used by WalletHub to determine the rankings included studentfaculty ratio, school spending efficiency, return on educational investment, first-year retention, graduation rates, and other data to determine the ranking.

SOWELA Technical Community College provides traditional, distance, and lifelong learning experiences and awards associate degrees, technical diplomas, and certificates that empower learners in transfer, career and technical education to excel as globally competitive citizens. The College has been educating the region’s workforce for more than 75 years.

First Federal Investments Honored at Cetera Financial Institutions’ Connect Conference

First Federal Investments, located at First Federal Bank of Louisiana, recently achieved 3rd place for Cetera Financial Institutions’ Top Financial Institution award in the $500M- $1B category. This year’s conference was hosted at the beautiful Gaylord National Resort in National Harbor, Maryland and helped celebrate the accomplishments of top advisors and programs. The educational four-day event also allowed participants to take advantage of networking opportunities, varied breakout sessions and ideas to drive business growth.

Breakout sessions featured a line-up of knowledgeable and inspirational speakers that included: Doris Kearns Goodwin, Presidential Historian and Pulitzer Prize-winning author; Phil Buchanan, Executive Chairman of the Board of Cannon Financial Institute; Bob Stein, Deputy Chief Economist with First Trust Advisors; Sam Silverstein, Founder of the Accountability Movement; Trisha Miller, Co-President of Carey Financial LLC; and Mike Abrashoff, Commander of USS Benfold.

601 S. Pine Street • DeRidder, LA 70634 • (337) 463-7442 www.thriftyway.com • thriftyway2@thriftyway.com 56 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

57

Mind & Body

Breast Cancer: The Power of Genetic Testing

by Lauren Atterbery Cesar

Knowledge is power, and what could be more powerful than finding out if you have genetic risk factors that cause breast cancer? Knowing this could change everything when it comes to the “c-word.” If you knew that you had a greater risk for breast cancer, you would likely take steps to get frequent screenings while implementing preventative measures.

As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and with any type of cancer, knowing your personal risk factors is key.

This interest in “knowing,” along with advances in genetic testing have led to the increased popularity of genetic testing. Some forms of genetic testing for cancer risk are even available online.

If you are unsure of what to expect going through an online company, and you’ve taken an Ancestry DNA test or a 23 and Me test in the past, the process is quite similar. You simply give a saliva sample that can be analyzed and a report will be generated and sent to you about your specific genes including any abnormalities you have or genetic risks you are carrying.

Companies like Color are based online and for around $150.00, Color’s Hereditary Cancer Test will provide you with an analysis of 30 genes, including two of the most common that could show signs of mutations that indicated an increased risk of breast cancer. It will also show you an analysis of your personal and family health history

58 www.thriveswla.com

to inform your results, personalized cancer risk information and screening guidelines, and information on how your results could impact your family.

“The downside of online genetic testing for breast cancer is that your results may cause you to worry when there is no cause,” says Dr. Windy DeanColomb, MD, medical oncologist and director of hematology and oncology at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital. “Just because you have a specific gene mutation does not mean that you are going to be diagnosed with breast cancer. It could just mean that you need to be more cautious in your lifestyle and have frequent screenings based on advice from your physician.

There are other factors to consider.

That’s why we advise people to only have genetic testing under the care and advice of their doctor, where counseling is part of the process, for you and your family members.”

A native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Dr. Dean-Colomb completed a fellowship in oncology at M.D. Anderson in Houston, Texas, where she distinguished herself in the area of breast cancer research. This is an area of focus she continues in her new position at CHRISTUS St. Patrick, where genetic testing and counseling are offered to patients.

It is important to realize that people who develop breast cancer do not always have a family history of it. Dr. Dean-Colomb explains that all cancers,

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

including breast cancer, are caused by changes, or mutations, to critical molecular structures in the body called genes. These mutations may be caused randomly, by outside influences such as pollution, smoking or sun exposure, or exist because they were inherited. Not everyone who is born with a gene mutation will develop cancer.

Inherited gene mutations may be passed from either parent and may increase the cancer risk in both women and men. The risk from inherited gene mutations varies greatly, depending on the abnormality and other factors.

There are specific genes in women known for mutating and increasing the risk of certain cancers, for example breast cancer, including BRCA1, BRCA2, TP53, and PALB2, although new ones continue to be discovered, according to Dr. Dean-Colomb.

“Keep in mind that inherited mutations known to increase the risk of breast cancer are rare in the general population, accounting for only about 10 percent of

all breast cancers diagnosed in the United States. Some slightly increase breast cancer risk, while others, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, greatly increase the risk.”

She also emphasizes that women are not the only ones at risk for breast cancer; men can suffer from breast cancer, too. Breast cancer in men is often detected at a later stage than it is in women because men are less likely to be suspicious of abnormalities in that area of their body. With later detection, cancer can spread quickly before medical action is taken.

“As a physician, I feel there are specific criteria for who should consider genetic testing for breast cancer,” says Dr. Dean-Colomb.

“It is certainly a valuable tool that increases our knowledge, but it is one that is best guided by a physician who can help you understand the process, results and any follow-up needed.”

h ealt H t s ea h! is Br s Mont r e es ob Oct waren A

Are you over 40 & without health insurance?

If you’re working at least 20 hours per week, you may qualify for a free mammogram.

FREE health care for lowincome, working uninsured!

Call for information. 337-478-8650

For more information on genetic testing at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital, call their Oncology Nurse Navigator at (337) 431-7916.

550 Sale Road Lake Charles, LA www.calcasieucommunityclinic.com

Dr. Alice Babst Prestia

OB/GYN

For more than 13 years, Dr. Prestia, Anne B. Griepsma, Nurse Practitioner, & their staff have been committed to providing the best, most up-to-date care possible, and thanks to all of you, our services are growing and thriving!

NOW OFFERING

Our office is proud to now offer BioTE® hormone optimization services. Studies have shown that balanced hormones are necessary for good health and disease prevention for women and men as we age. After hormone optimization, patients report back to their BioTE trained practitioner amazed that something so small has made such a huge difference their life.

Call us for more information and to schedule your appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon!

CERTIFIED PRACTITIONER

Alice Babst Prestia, M.D. APMC · Anne B. Griepsma, APRN, FNP-C 4150 Nelson Rd. Suite E - 3 · Lake Charles, LA 70605 · 337.475.8949 ph · 337.475.8946 fax

October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

59

Mind

& Body

Breast Cancer

Myths & Facts

by Christine Fisher

There are many myths and half-truths about breast cancer; it is one of the most misunderstood diseases. “What women perceive as factual may not be.

For example, many women think a lump definitely signifies the presence of cancer, but 10% of all women diagnosed with the disease did not have a lump or pain,” said Stephen Castleberry, MD, surgeon with Sulphur Surgical Clinic and medical staff member of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital.

Dr. Castleberry received specialized breast cancer treatment training known as sentinel node biopsy from Scott and White Medical Center/Texas A&M Health Sciences Center in Temple, Texas. He talks with patients every day who have erroneous ideas about their risk for breast cancer, what may have caused it, and how it can be treated. The truth is that scientists still do not know what causes breast cancer, only that certain factors such as obesity or too much alcohol may increase risk.

Dr. Castleberry said, “It’s important to get the facts out to the public. There are many misconceptions.” Here, he helps separate fact from fiction: Myth: Having a family history of breast cancer means you will get it.

Fact: While a family history is a risk factor, most women who have breast cancer have no family history. But if the family history is a first-degree relative, meaning a parent, sibling or child, your risk of developing the disease doubles.

Myth: Having no family history of breast cancer means you won’t get it.

Fact: Just as a family history doesn’t guarantee that you will get breast cancer, having no family history doesn’t offer protection from it either.

60 www.thriveswla.com

Myth: A mammogram can cause breast cancer to spread.

Fact: A mammogram is one of the best tools available for the early detection of breast cancer. It cannot cause cancer to spread, nor can the pressure put on the breast from the mammogram.

Myth: Antiperspirants and deodorants cause breast cancer.

Fact: Researchers at the National Cancer Institute say there is no conclusive evidence linking the use of underarm antiperspirants or deodorants with breast cancer.

Myth: Finding a lump in your breast means you have breast cancer.

Fact: If you find a lump in your breast or if you have any changes in your breast tissue, see your doctor. Eight out of 10 breast lumps are benign.

Myth: Men do not get breast cancer.

Fact: Each year, about 1,700 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 450 will die.

Myth: Wearing an underwire bra increases your risk of getting breast cancer.

Fact: Medical experts have debunked the claims that underwire bras compress the lymphatic system, causing toxins to accumulate and cause breast cancer.

“Neither the type of bra nor its tightness has any connection to breast cancer risk,” said Dr. Castleberry.

Myth: Breast implants can raise your cancer risk.

Fact: Women with breast implants are at no greater risk of getting breast cancer, according to research. Standard mammograms don’t always work as well on women with implants; so additional x-rays are sometimes needed to more fully examine breast tissue.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Myth: The size of your breast is related to your risk for cancer.

Fact: There’s no connection between the size of a breast and your risk for cancer. “Very large breasts may be harder to examine than small breasts, but all women, regardless of breast size, should have regular screenings and checkups,” said Dr. Castleberry.

Myth: Breast cancer always comes in the form of a lump.

Fact: A lump may indicate breast cancer, or it could be benign, but women should be alert for other signs of changes. These include skin irritation or dimpling, breast pain, thickening of the nipple or breast or discharge other than breast milk.

Myth: If you’re at risk for breast cancer, there’s little you can do.

Fact: Lifestyle changes make a tremendous impact on breast cancer. Losing weight, getting regular exercise, lowering or eliminating alcohol consumption, and being rigorous about self-breast examinations and clinical exams and mammograms will go a long way toward preventing breast cancer.

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer for women worldwide, second only to skin cancer in the United States.

“If you feel or see any changes in your breasts, check with your doctor. Every woman is unique. Getting information specific to your situation is always the best recommendation,” said Dr. Castleberry.

October 2017

252,710

The estimated number of new cases of invasive breast cancer expected to be diagnosed in women in the U.S. for 2017.

2,470

About new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in men in 2017. A man’s lifetime risk of breast cancer is about 1 in 1,000.

1in 8

About U.S. women (about 12%) will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime.

There are more than

3.1 million women with a history of breast cancer in the U.S. This includes women currently being treated and women who have finished treatment.

About

85% of breast cancers occur in women who have no family history of breast cancer.

5-10%

About of breast cancers can be linked to gene mutations.

In 2017, it’s estimated that about

30%

of newly diagnosed cancers in women will be breast cancers.

BREAST CANCER

BY THE NUMBERS

Breast cancer incidence rates in the U.S. began decreasing in the year 2000, after increasing for the previous two decades.

They dropped by 7% from 2002 to 2003 alone. One theory is that this decrease was partially due to the reduced use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) by women after the results of a large study called the Women’s Health Initiative were published in 2002.

About

40,610

women in the U.S. are expected to die in 2017 from breast cancer, though death rates have been decreasing since 1989.

Source: www.breastcancer.org

October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

61

Mind

& Body

Truce!

Finding the Middle Ground on Hormone Therapy

Hormones and the news about hormones have one thing in common: they tend to wildly fluctuate. For years, many women went on hormone therapy upon reaching menopause as a common way for controlling symptoms such as hot flashes, emotional highs and lows, risk for osteoporosis, and many others.

A large clinical trial raised questions about the risks causing doctors to become less likely to prescribe it. However, further review of clinical trials and new evidence showed that hormone therapy could be a good choice for certain women, depending on their risk factors.

“Hormone therapy isn’t right for every woman,” said Scott Bergstedt, MD, Ob/Gyn with OBG-1 of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. “But many health experts agree that it shouldn’t be avoided as was done immediately after the findings of the study were released. We’re still feeling our way through and we know that we don’t have a concrete answer yet; but the fact is that there are definitely women who benefit from it.”

The problem with this new territory of middle ground is that it’s hard to know when hormone therapy is appropriate and when it’s not a good idea. To clear up some of the confusion, Dr. Bergstedt described some situations where it could help.

Hot flashes and night sweats. “The level of hot flashes can help determine whether we use hormone therapy or not,” explained Dr. Bergstedt. “Probably two thirds of women report mild to moderate hot flashes, saying that they are annoying, but not severe. In these cases, they are able to alleviate the symptoms on their own, by layering clothes, avoiding spicy foods, using breathing techniques

62 www.thriveswla.com

by Christine Fisher

when the hot flashes occur, and generally try to ‘make do’ without using medication. I agree with this approach. If they are able to get through these times on their own, I think that’s best; but, a few women have severe hot flashes and night sweats. It interferes with their sleep and daytime activities to the point that they can’t function normally. In these cases, hormone therapy can help. A high percentage, probably around 95%, of women who suffered with hot flashes said hormone therapy greatly reduced their symptoms.”

Sleeplessness is often related to night sweats, but can also occur on its own.

When it occurs for a span of time and interferes with the next day’s activities, it’s probably time to check with your doctor.

Osteoporosis has been shown to improve in women on hormone therapy, but not across the board. Older women who have osteoporosis may not see as much of an improvement as a younger woman in early menopause with osteoporosis. This is where family history and individuality comes in the picture.

“The physician has to look at each patient individually and then together, they can decide on a course of treatment,” said Dr. Bergstedt.

An overall boost can be a legitimate reason for hormone therapy.

Some women just feel better when taking the hormones. “In these cases, I would make sure my patient understood the

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

risks associated with it, and that they agree to come in for regular check-ups and have the recommended screenings,” he said.

Health experts do agree that keeping it short and simple is still the way to go: take the lowest dose possible for the shortest amount of time. Defining a short amount of time can be tricky. Again, it depends on the individual.

Dr. Bergstedt suggests the patient bring it up during regular check-ups. “It’s good to address it at each visit,” he said. “Your physician shouldn’t gloss over it; he or she should talk with you about it, see how it’s making you feel, ask about any unusual symptoms. It is something we should continually monitor.”

The decision to go on hormone therapy is one that should be discussed with your doctor after understanding the potential risks involved; but it’s not the taboo treatment some make it out to be. Women are discovering that middle ground can be a comfortable place.

October 2017

October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

63

Meet the Newest Members of our Physician Team Brett Goodwin, MD Cardiologist

600 Dr. Michael DeBakey Dr., Lake Charles | (337) 436-3813 Imperial Health is proud to welcome Brett Goodwin, MD, to our medical staff. Dr. Goodwin is board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, and Adult Echocardiography. He is board eligible in Nuclear Cardiology and Interventional Cardiology.

Originally from Southwest Louisiana, Dr. Goodwin earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with a Certificate in Health Policy from Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. He returned to Louisiana to attend Tulane University in New Orleans, where he earned a Medical Degree from Tulane University School of Medicine and a Masters in Business Administration from the Tulane Freeman School of Business. Dr. Goodwin completed an Internal Medicine Residency at Duke University and a Cardiology Fellowship at The Texas Heart Institute at St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital in Houston, Texas.

Dr. Goodwin is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology and a member of the American College of Physicians.

He joins the Cardiovascular Specialists group at Imperial Health.

Benjamin Fontenot, MD Family Medicine Physician 277 Highway 171, Suite 8, Moss Bluff | (337) 312-0030 Imperial Health is proud to welcome Benjamin Fontenot, MD, to our medical staff.

Dr. Fontenot is board certified in family medicine.

Originally from Lake Charles, Dr. Fontenot completed his undergraduate studies at McNeese State University in Lake Charles. After studying basic sciences in the Caribbean, he earned a Bachelor of Medical Science and a Doctor of Medicine from Sint Eustatius School of Medicine on the Caribbean island of Sint Eustatius. He completed his residency at the LSU Family Medicine Residency at University Hospital & Clinics in the Lafayette General Health System in Lafayette, Louisiana.

Dr. Fontenot joins Dr. Jason Morris at Imperial Health’s Moss Bluff family practice office.

64 www.thriveswla.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017

Jason Burklow, MD Family Medicine Physician

4150 Nelson Road, Building A, Suite 3, Lake Charles | (337) 474-7290 Imperial Health is proud to welcome Jason Burklow, MD, to our medical staff. Dr. Burklow is board certified in family medicine.

Originally from Lake Charles, Dr. Burklow earned a Bachelor of Science in Biological Science from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He received a Doctor of Medicine from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine on the island of St. Maarten.

Dr. Burklow completed a Family Medicine Residency at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital as a part of the Louisiana State University Health Science Center Family Medicine Residency Program.

Dr. Burklow joins the family practice office of Dr. John A. DiGiglia III.

Joseph Crookshank III, MD Interventional Pain Management Specialist and Anesthesiologist 1747 Imperial Blvd., Lake Charles | (337) 721-7236 Imperial Health is proud to welcome Joseph Crookshank III, MD, to our medical staff.

Originally from Lake Charles, Dr. Crookshank earned a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from McNeese State University in Lake Charles and a Doctor of Medicine from Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans. He completed an Internal Medicine Residency at Earl K. Long Medical Center in Baton Rouge, an Anesthesiology Residency at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans, and a Fellowship in Interventional Pain Management at Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Dr. Crookshank is board certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology and board-eligible in Interventional Pain Management..

He joins the Center of Orthopaedics’ group of musculoskeletal specialists.

October 2017

imperialhealth.com Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

65

Mind

& Body

How to Prepare for Flu Season

by Andrea Mongler

Most of us look forward to fall. Kids return to school, temperatures drop, and fall festivals provide weekend entertainment. Unfortunately, autumn also marks the beginning of flu season.

Each year, literally millions of people in the United States become infected with the flu.

The Louisiana Office of Public Health estimates that between 450,000 and 900,000 residents in our state alone get sick with the flu annually.

Flu season usually doesn’t start before October, but this year it appears to be ramping up early.

“We are seeing more flu cases this year earlier than we ever have,” says Dr. Bob Anderson of Calcasieu Urgent Care.

“Since the beginning of September, we’ve had several people test positive.”

Anyone who’s had the flu knows how miserable it can make you feel. The primary symptoms are fever, aches, chills, fatigue, weakness, coughing, and headache. Some people also experience sneezing, a sore throat and a stuffy nose. Symptoms persist for at least a few days — sometimes as long as a week.

For most people, the flu is simply unpleasant.

But for some, particularly people at high risk of complications, it can be much worse. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that the flu results in between 140,000 and 710,000 hospitalizations and 12,000 to 56,000 deaths in the United States each year.

Although there is no guaranteed method for preventing the flu, you can take steps to substantially reduce your risk of becoming infected.

66 www.thriveswla.com

The most important action you should take every year is to get a flu shot, which the CDC recommends for almost everyone. There are actually many different flu viruses, and which ones are causing outbreaks continuously changes — that’s why there’s a new vaccine every year.

“I recommend getting a flu shot as soon as possible,” Anderson says. “It takes two weeks to build immunity, so sooner is better.”

Even if you don’t manage to get vaccinated right away, you should do so whenever you can, even if it’s late in the season.

Vaccination is especially important for people who are at high risk of serious flu complications.

This includes children younger than five, people age 65 and older, those with chronic health conditions like asthma or diabetes, and pregnant women. There’s some evidence that vaccinating a pregnant woman protects her baby from getting the flu for several months after birth. That’s especially important because infants younger than six months are too young to get a flu shot.

Very few people should not get a flu shot, but those who shouldn’t include anyone who has severe, life-threatening allergies to flu vaccines and those who have ever had Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Serious side effects related to the flu shot are extremely rare. It will not give you the flu, and it will not cause autism. Also, the CDC recommends that FluMist, a nasal spray version of the flu vaccine, not be used this year because it was found to be ineffective in preventing illness in previous flu seasons.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

If you do come down with the flu this year, hang in there. Take antiviral drugs if your doctor prescribes them. They might make your symptoms milder and shorten the length of time you’re sick.

“I am a big advocate of getting tested as soon as you suspect you might have the flu so that you can start the medication as soon as possible,” Anderson says.

“The medication is most effective if it is started in the first 48 hours, so don’t wait.”

October 2017

T O H S FLU Get protected

Getting a flu shot isn’t the only thing you can do to prevent the flu. You should also:

Get ½ price!

Avoid close contact with sick people.

Wash your hands often with soap and water. If they aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Mention this ad for 1/2 off all Flu shots

LOOK FOR THE

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

GREEN DOORS!

Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that could be contaminated with flu viruses.

LAKE CHARLES • SULPHUR • MOSS BLUFF

2017 Keynote Speaker

Genevieve Gorder THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2017 LAKE CHARLES CIVIC CENTER

8:00 am - 4:00 pm Featuring Various DIY Workshops Vendor Registration for Marketplace Now Open!

womenscommissionswla.com (Registration Now Open!)

October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

67

Mind

& Body

9

Reasons for Weight Gain that have nothing to do with Overeating

When people see another person who is overweight, many erroneously assume that individual overeats and doesn’t exercise. But there are men and women who seemingly do everything right when it comes to diet and exercise, yet they’re simply unable to shed pounds. This can be incredibly disheartening and wreak havoc on one’s self esteem.

Consider these other reasons why someone may struggle with weight.

Lack of Sleep

Sleep deficits cause changes in hormone levels, which increase hunger and appetite and also make you feel not as full after eating. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night.

Medication

Many drugs can be responsible for weight gain -antidepressants, birth control pills, excess hormones for hormone therapy, steroids, beta-blockers for heart disease and blood pressure, antiseizure meds, breast cancer medications, some treatments for rheumatoid arthritis, and even some migraine and heartburn medications. If you are concerned about a prescribed medication causing excess weight, talk to your doctor.

68 www.thriveswla.com

Sluggish gut

Digestive issues may account for excess pounds. If you suffer from irregularity, dehydration, medications, low fiber, or even a lack of good flora in your gut could be the culprit. For constipation, probiotics can help your digestive tract work properly. If you’re still having trouble, check with your doctor to rule out a range of disorders, including hypothyroidism or a neurological issue.

Aging Issues

Our metabolism naturally slows down as we age and we simply don’t burn as many calories as we did 20 or 30 years ago. So our bodies require more exercise and less food to keep the metabolism active.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Injuries or medical conditions that limit activity

Any medical condition that curtails your ability to move is likely to cause weight gain.

Hopefully this condition is temporary, but whether acute or chronic, if you can’t exercise, cut back on your calorie intake.

Liquid Calories

Many overweight persons don’t realize how many calories they may be consuming in the form of liquids. Sodas and juices add a large number of calories without satisfying your hunger. According to livestrong.com, approximately half of the U.S. population drinks at least one soft drink per day. Eliminating one soda from your diet each day can result in a 15 pound weight loss in a year. Switch to water.

October 2017

Weight Training

Weight training can increase your muscle mass, therefore increasing your weight. When you gain muscle faster than you lose fat, your body mass increases.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS):

PCOS is a common reproductive problem that affects up to 10% of women in childbearing age.

The hormone disruption caused

by PCOS has many unpleasant consequences, including unwanted weight gain. If you have acne, excessive hairiness, and do not have regular periods, ask your doctor about being tested for PCOS.

Quitting Smoking:

Quitting smoking is always the right decision on many levels. But it is not uncommon for successful quitters to gain 7-10 pounds. Snacking often makes a handy substitute for smoking and the absence of nicotine drops your metabolism to its normal level. Don’t allow weight gain to deter your quitting efforts.

Talk to a dietician who can help you learn to eat fewer calories.

Focused on Everyday Heroes

The Eye Clinic greatly appreciates the Everyday Heroes in our community. These individuals put the safety and wellbeing of our community before their own. We know the dangerous work you do can be even more hazardous when glasses or contacts get in the way. To eliminate that added risk, and in recognition of all you do to keep us safe, we are offering special savings on LASIK to you and your family members through October.

20

on LASIK % Savings for Everyday Heroes

This offer is extended to Everyday Heroes and their immediate family members: • MILITARY (active, guard, reserve, veterans) • LAW ENFORCEMENT • FIRE FIGHTERS • EMT • CAJUN NAVY

Call today to get started with a FREE screening to find out if LASIK is right for you: 1-877-95-FOCUS. (36287)

Offer expires October 31, 2017.

Cannot be combined with any other discount

October 2017

TheEyeClinic.net 1767 Imperial Blvd., Lake Charles

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

69

!

Solutions for Life

from Solutions Counseling & EAP

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

Shifting to an Adult-Adult Relationship with your Children Let me start this article by saying, “I got a letter, I got a letter!!” (I’m doing a little happy dance…)

Sally (not her actual name) wrote me a letter concerning her 19-year-old son.

She briefly outlined the issues she is worried about – the all too common tales of ADHD diagnosed in childhood, lack of anger management, lack of impulse control, fights, substance abuse, etc.

Here is my reply: Dear Sally, First of all, let me thank you for the letter you wrote. Of course, I’m happy to help anyone – that’s what I do, after all. However, I can only help people who want to be helped. I noticed that your son did not write to me – you did. That fact leads me to believe that you may be more interested in your son getting better than he is. In response to your letter, I would like to chat with you about your role in this situation.

It is very difficult to watch someone you’ve loved for so long struggle. I’ve seen so many families in pain watching their children flounder in the worlds of addiction, mental instability, and poor choices in general. We have such hope for them when they are beautiful babies, and that hope never goes away.

When they were children, we had much more of an opportunity to control things in their lives – where they went, who they were with, etc. As adults, there is very little we can do about their choices.

One of the things I’ve watched parents

70 www.thriveswla.com

struggle with is the shift from a ParentChild relationship to an Adult-Adult relationship with their adult children.

I’m wondering if you’re having a difficult time with this too, Sally. Our job as parents of children is to protect them, keep them happy and healthy, and rescue them from danger. Our job as parents of adults is to love them and get out of the way. This means you don’t make the phone calls (or write emails) for your son to schedule appointments for him. This means you don’t hire the attorney when he gets himself into legal trouble. This means you don’t solve his problems for him.

Adult children no longer need us to protect or rescue them. In fact, it is imperative that we do not step in.

Consequences for their choices are very often the only thing that serves as a wake-up call. Once adult children realize we will be there to get them out of the messes they get themselves in, where is the incentive to do the right thing?

It’s time to empower your son to think for himself and begin to solve his own problems. You do this by asking questions – “Gee, how are you going to handle this?” “What options have you thought of?” “What do you think might happen if you choose that particular option?”

Another area that I would ask you to think about is boundaries. Boundaries are the limits we set with others and ourselves. What are you willing to do, and where is the line you will not cross?

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

So often parents in your situation are too busy putting out the fires their children keep setting that they’ve never considered having a limit. Begin to consider your options in the various situations as they come up.

I’m a real big believer in “we teach people how to treat us.” A boundary for some parents might be that they will speak to their adult children as long as they are sober and handling themselves appropriately. Should the child attempt to communicate when they are under the influence, or belligerent and rude, the parent will remove him/herself from the situation. Another boundary might be that the next time your son finds himself in jail after a fight, you will not bail him out.

A word of caution – boundaries only work when they are kept. This is not the time for “talking tough” then giving in.

That only teaches your adult child that you do not really mean what you say.

Sally, when your son truly becomes ready to address the areas of his life that are causing him trouble, he will find resources to help him. There are plenty of places locally that help with substance abuse, anger management, etc.

My encouragement to you at this point is to begin deciding how you want to handle yourself in this very frustrating situation. After all, the only thing in this great big world that you can control is yourself – your words, your actions, your beliefs. Good luck!

October 2017

October 2017

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

www.thriveswla.com

71

3D

MAMMOGRAM

SCREENINGS available at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital

To schedule an appointment, call (337) 527-4256.

20% DISCOUNT IN OCTOBER Radiologists’ fees are billed separately from the hospital and are not included in the discount.

Early detection is a powerful tool in the fight against breast cancer. West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital now offers the latest 3D mammography technology.

701 Cypress Street, Sulphur 72 www.thriveswla.com

wcch.com

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

October 2017