September 2018
Southwest Louisiana
A Sportsman’s Paradise Special Feature
Your Guide to Rouge et Blanc September 2018
Women’s Commission Insert Inside
Special Section
Secrets to
Aging Well Thrive Magazine for Better Living
ENCE NFER LL CO ’S FAe Charles Civic Center N E M Lak WO er 18, 2018 | Women y, Octob Thursda
on of elebrati
In C
www.thriveswla.com brating
Cele
28
Years
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
September 2018
The Power of Choice A Night with Dale Smith Thomas Thursday, September 20, 2018 | 3:00 – 8:30 p.m. Golden Nugget Lake Charles | 2550 Golden Nugget Boulevard Lake Charles | LA 70601
3-6:00 p.m. Women’s Health Expo 6:00 p.m. Dinner and Program Join CHRISTUS Lake Area Hospital and CHRISTUS St. Patrick Health System for a night of insight and inspiration. Grab your girlfriends and help us celebrate the 8th anniversary of this empowering women’s event. Self-described as an “unapologetic optimist,” Dale Smith Thomas travels the globe sharing her powerful and down-to-earth message; challenging audiences to connect their head with their heart to embark on a journey of making winning choices in every walk of life. Are you ready for the challenge? Come early to enjoy shopping and interacting with more than 50 vendors at this year’s women’s expo. This is one girls’ night out you won’t want to miss!
To register, call 866.200.3627 Or visit christushealth.org/livewell-womens-network Tickets are $40/person or $300/reserved table of eight
Entertainment Partner
christushealth.org/livewell-womens-network 18-1195
September 2018
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Contents In This Issue
Wining &Dining 14 – 24 Special Feature:
tyle &Beauty S 18 Fall Fashion Preview 2018 20 4 Fun Ways to Update Your Fall Makeup Bag 22 Fashion Gives Back Places &Faces
Regular Features 38 42 50 72 74 75
First Person Who’s News Business Buzz Happenings Solutions for Life McNeese Corral
Southwest Louisiana
Cover Story: A Sportsman’s Paradise 40 14th Annual Ethel Precht Walk
24 – 37
20
oney &Career M 44 3 Simple Ways Productivity Leads to Your Best Self 46 Millennials Are Shaking Up Money Management 36 Co-Working Spaces: The Pros and the Cons
Mind &Body 52 – 63 Special Section:
Secrets to
64
Aging Well
64 Off Your Game? How Allergies Can Hinder Athletic Performance
Home &Family
66 Prepare Your Lawn Now for Winter 68 Small Pests can cause Big Problems: Protect Your Home 70 Get a Room! Room Service Delivers Flair to Your Home
70 Managing Editor
DON’T JUST LIVE, THRIVE!
Creative Director
Barbara VanGossen
Design and Layout
Mandy Gilmore
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 to be successful in all areas of their lives – family, health, home and career. 4 www.thriveswla.com
Angie Kay Dilmore
Editors and Publishers Kristy Como Armand Christine Fisher
Business Manager Katie McDaniel Stevenson Advertising Sales katie@thriveswla.com 337.310.2099 Submissions edit@thriveswla.com
Submitted articles and photos are welcome. Thrive assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials and does not guarantee any submissions.
Thrive Magazine for Better Living
September 2018
SERVING UP FINGER-LICKING FOOD FOR THREE DECADES
& SPORTS BAR DARRELL’S TO-GO Our new to-go kitchen next door allows us to seat and serve our indoor customers much quicker!
NE
W
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
September 2018
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Meet the Newest Members of our Physician Team Alex Anderson, MD
Primary Care Sports Medicine Specialist 1747 Imperial Blvd., Lake Charles | (337) 721-7236 Imperial Health proudly welcomes Alex Anderson, MD, to our medical staff. He joins the Center for Orthopaedics’ group of musculoskeletal specialists. Dr. Anderson is originally from Kenner, Louisiana, and completed an undergraduate degree in biology from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He earned his Medical Degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine in Shreveport, Louisiana. Dr. Anderson completed a residency in family medicine at the LSU Health Sciences Center Family Medicine Residency based at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital. He went on to complete a primary care sports medicine fellowship at Texas A&M in College Station, Texas. Dr. Anderson is board certified in Family Medicine and Sports Medicine by the American Board of Family Medicine. Dr. Anderson will be seeing patients in the Lake Charles location of Center for Orthopaedics. To schedule an appointment, call (337) 721-7236.
Sarah Clevenger, MD
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist 1747 Imperial Blvd., Lake Charles | (337) 721-7236 Imperial Health is proud to welcome Sarah Clevenger, MD, to our medical staff. She joins the Center for Orthopaedics’ group of musculoskeletal specialists. Originally from Sulphur, Louisiana, Dr. Clevenger completed her undergraduate degree in business at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas. She earned her Medical Degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine in New Orleans, Louisiana, where she also completed a residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. She is a member of the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and the American Medical Association. Dr. Clevenger will be seeing patients in the Lake Charles and Sulphur offices of Center for Orthopaedics. To schedule an appointment, call (337) 721-7236.
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September 2018
Michael Gonzales, MD, FACE, ECNU, CCD Endocrinologist
1727 Imperial Blvd., #2, Lake Charles | 337-310-3670 Imperial Health proudly welcomes Dr. Michael Gonzales, board certified Endocrinologist, to our medical staff. Dr. Gonzales will be practicing with Dr. Timothy Gilbert and Dr. Sandra Dempsey at the Imperial Health - Endocrinology Center of Southwest Louisiana. The Center provides specialized treatment of metabolic disorders, including the management of thyroid disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and pituitary and adrenal disorders. Board certified in both Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, Dr. Gonzales is also a certified Clinical Densitometrist and certified to conduct neck and thyroid ultrasound and thyroid biopsies. He is a fellow of the American College of Endocrinology. After earning a Doctor of Medicine Degree from the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, Philippines, Dr. Gonzales completed an Internship and Residency in Internal Medicine at Eastern Virginia Medical School, Department of Medicine, in Norfolk, Virginia. He then completed an Endocrinology Fellowship at the Strelitz Diabetes Center, also at Eastern Virginia Medical School. He has over six years of clinical practice experience. Dr. Gonzales is accepting patients by referral. For more information, call (337) 310-3670.
Justin Rudd, MD General Surgeon
501 Dr. Michael DeBakey Dr., Lake Charles | (337) 312-8762 Imperial Health is proud to welcome Dr. Justin Rudd, general surgeon, to our medical staff. Dr. Rudd is originally from Moss Bluff. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Physics from McNeese State University and received his Medical Degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in Shreveport, Louisiana, where he also completed his internship and surgical residency. He is a member of the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Rudd’s office will be located in the main Imperial Health building at 501 Dr. Michael DeBakey Drive in Lake Charles. To schedule an appointment, call (337) 312-8762.
September 2018
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Wining & Dining
PARTY
with a
PURPOSE Your Guide to Rouge et Blanc It’s that time of your again. Rouge et Blanc! Banners’ premier food and wine event takes place October 13 at McNeese State University. Ticketholders will sample the wide variety of wines offered by numerous vino vendors and taste the paired morsels provided by area A-list restaurants and other purveyors of everything from gourmet snacks to snow cones. This sold-out event is Banners’ biggest annual fundraiser. Patrons can enjoy the event knowing they are supporting high quality arts and entertainment for both local students and the community.
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September 2018
Thank you SWLA for another sold-out event, 13 years and running!
Saturday October 13, 2-6pm, McNeese State University campus rougeetblanc.us
Party With a Purpose!
All proceeds support Banners at McNeese banners.org
KNIGHTMEDIA PRINTING
Paradise Florist
Wine Distributors
Wine Retailers September 2018
Purveyor of Fine Wines
Gourmet Eats From 121 Artisan Bistro Big Easy Foods Brown Bag Cafe Coushatta Casino Resort Fontenot Beef Gray Plantation
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Hokus Pokus Artisan Foods Kona Ice Lake Charles Country Club McNeese CAMPP Paul’s Rib Shack
Sloppy Taco Tikiz Gulf Coast Toga Grill The Villa Zeus Cafe AND MORE!
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Wining & Dining
The Purpose Behind the
Party Everyone knows that Rouge et Blanc is one of the best annual events on the Southwest Louisiana party scene. But do they know WHY the Banners committee works so hard to plan this amazing event year after year? The answer is simple – so that Banners, a financially self-sustaining organization within McNeese State University, can continue to provide the community with access to exceptional arts and humanities programming and education through arts integration that is unique to the area. Banners’ programs focus on lifelong learning and an appreciation of cultural diversity, working to enhance the quality of life in the communities of Southwest Louisiana. When you purchase a ticket to Rouge et Blanc, you support community services provided by Banners. For example: Banners Cultural Season Through their Cultural Season, Banners presents a series of performances each spring. Those performances include classical and jazz music, readings, dance companies, illusionists, academic lectures, film, world music, and more. Each Season’s line-up is chosen by a group of volunteers who review possible artists and choose the best options for our community. Their volunteers also participate as ticket takers, hospitality providers, outreach assistants, and photographers. Banners Engages One of the most important responsibilities of Banners is to
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engage local students in educational programming through arts and humanities performances. Banners Engages includes live presentations at no cost to public and parochial schools, appearances at Parish Public Libraries, demonstrations to students of McNeese State University, and other community venues. This program works to increase the number of students who experience live cultural programming, increase the number of hours of arts and humanities programming, and supplement the curriculum with prepared materials. It helps to ensure that children develop creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial thinking. Studies have also shown that children involved in the arts are more likely to be recognized for academic achievement, be elected to class office within their schools, and win awards for school attendance. Each year, more than 17,000 students reap the benefits of having Banners educational outreach performances as part of their learning environment. With approximately 60 outreach programs annually, Banners brings arts and humanities to K-12 schools throughout Calcasieu, Cameron, and Jeff Davis Parishes and the students of McNeese State University. When you support Banners at McNeese by attending Rouge et Blanc or purchasing a season subscription, you help provide our community with access to exceptional arts and humanities programming – as well as furthering the education of our children.
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September 2018
C I T N E H T Cork or AU
Screw Top the Debate Continues Cork or screw top? This topic may be trivial to someone who replies “white” or “red” when ordering a glass of vino, but for those who ascribe to a more refined wine culture, the dilemma is real. If you have a personal preference and only subscribe to one method, you may well be missing out. From articles to podcasts, both amateurs and connoisseurs have weighed in on this controversial topic. And the verdict is in – there are merits to both methods of capping a wine bottle. Corks originated in the 17th century. From the art of removing a cork without complication to the sound of the cork being set free, signifying a small victory, corks are a part of the wine imbibing experience and have a long-lasting legacy. According to wineexpertsguide.com, the case has been made that corks are “the most environmentally friendly stopper” and allow the wine to breathe properly. Screw tops are actually credited by many with doing a better job than corks when it comes to sealing in freshness and offering convenience to the consumer. In fact, corks have been faulted for altering the taste of white wines due to the amount of air taken in via the cork; and ultimately, aeration seems to trump any other concern or point that can possibly be made. With wine revenues in the United States said to be at 69 billion this year, including imports, the cost between corks and screw tops are a major factor. Screw caps are not remarkably less expensive than cork, but they avoid the loss of good wine to cork taint, generally estimated to affect about three percent of cork-closed wines. That’s a cost winemakers would like to avoid. As a result, some of the world’s longest established vineyards are making the switch to screw tops, leaving the discussion up in the air as to what the destiny of the cork will be.
CUISINE
C I T N E H T U A
LEANS E NEW OR T RY T H E S OME! T IT E S A H R O V A F T N o, R E S TA U R A
umb n Sausage G oudin, e k ic h C , n e Tuduck uffee, B Shrimp Eto ith Sausage, & Rice w Red Beans uille, Pork Sausage Ando Jamabalaya
CUISINE
3935 Ryan St. Lake Charles, LA 855-477-9296
Get News & Specials facebook.com/bigeasyfoods
benefitting the
Calcasieu Community Clinic
Refine your taste for wine in a fun, casual atmosphere. Get great tips on the basics of wine selection and enjoyment while you sample a specially prepared menu of hors d’oeuvres perfectly paired with incredible wine.
Wednesday, OctOber 10 6:00 p.m. Grand Ballroom at 777 Avenue L’Auberge | Lake Charles
Tickets: $75 Tickets available online at www.calcasieucommunityclinic.com under the ‘Support Us’ page, or by calling (337) 478-8650.
Presenting Sponsor:
Champagne Sponsors:
Magnum Sponsor:
Barbara and Raleigh Newman
September 2018
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Wining & Dining
Blue Dog Café Returns to Rouge et Blanc with Award-Winning Chef Ryan Trahan Blue Dog Café will once again offer tasty morsels at this year’s Rouge et Blanc. And it is certain to be fabulously delicious. Last month, Executive Chef Ryan Trahan represented the state of Louisiana at the 15th annual Great American Seafood Cook-Off and was crowned King of American Seafood! He and Executive Sous Chef Sullivan Zant won the prestigious award with a creative dish featuring Cracklin’ Crusted Red Snapper with pickled crawfish tails, buttermilk chili consommé, spring vegetables, burnt leek oil, and bowfin caviar.
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September 2018
Rouge et Blanc
Riedel
Glassware to Host Stemware Seminar The Riedel Glassware Seminar takes place Wednesday, October 10, from 5:30 - 7:30 pm, at Burton Business Center’s Conference Room. Rouge et Blanc and Riedel invite you to put your nose and taste buds to the test with our Riedel Comparative Glass Workshop. Discover how the size and shape of a wine glass affects your
experience of favorite wines in a fun and informative tasting hosted by a Riedel representative. Each guest will receive a four-glass red and white tasting kit -- theirs to keep (a $140 value!) From wine newbies to vintage connoisseurs, this seminar is not one to miss! Purchase tickets at www.rougeetblanc.us.
Saveur du Lac
Banners brings back its pretasting event, Saveur du Lac. This sold-out soiree takes place from 1:00- 2:00 p.m. prior to the Grand Tasting on October 13 in the Tritico Lobby of Shearman Fine Arts Annex. Saveur du Lac is only open to Imperial Imbiber patrons (those who purchased over $500 in wine orders last year). Saveur du Lac features rare wines and those with a retail price of over $75, along with gourmet food pairings
September 2018
from area restaurants such as Brown Bag Café and the Lake Charles Country Club. While sipping and sampling, guests will also enjoy the fine artwork of the McNeese Faculty Art Exhibition. “Banners staff is excited that the Saveur du Lac pretasting will be hosted in this beautiful space, surrounded by the works of McNeese’s immensely talented roster of visual arts professors,” said Jody Taylor, assistant director at Banners.
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Wining & Dining
Site Map et Parking Common Street
parking garage
parking
parking
Vernon Drive
E. Sale Road
Allen Drive
Cameron Drive
Robert D. Hebert Drive
parking
VIP Parking Entry
RED ENTRY
street closed
TABLES
FOOD TRUCK AREA Farrar Hall
vip parking only
parking
STAGE
TABLES
Burton Business Building
TABLES
IPAD
GOLD ENTRY McNeese State University Campus
McNeese Bookstor Business Conference Center
Calcasieu Drive
Quartermaster
Lawton Drive
Bulber Auditorium
street closed
Volunteer Tent
photo booth
street close
Vendor Tent
Kaufman Hall
Memorial Circle VIP Area
E N
S street closed
W
To I-210 and I-10
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street closed
Ryan Street Thrive Magazine for Better Living
drop off & pick up zone only
Ryan Street September 2018
Wine Event Etiquette Everything You Need to Know
An afternoon of wine tasting, paired with delicious food, music and great friends – sounds like the perfect way to spend an early fall afternoon, right? That’s exactly what Rouge et Blanc’s Grand Tasting offers. Long-time attendees have developed their tried-and-true routines for strolling through the various vendor booths. As the event has evolved over the years, and as Southwest Louisiana’s population has grown, there are more and more people attending Rouge et Blanc for the first time. If you’ve never been to a tasting event, it can be overwhelming. Where to go? What to do? Wine tasting etiquette goes beyond social rules. These guidelines can help you make the most out of the tasting experience. It’s a Taste The wine offered at each booth is a tasting-size pour, which is about one ounce. That’s what the volunteers are trained to serve. So, don’t expect to receive a full glass of wine. It’s poor etiquette to ask for more than you are served, or to quickly drink your serving and request a refill. If you want a second taste of a wine you enjoyed, you can return to that vendor later.
ed
parking
Beauregard Drive
re
Move Aside Show consideration by stepping up to get a sample, and then stepping away or to the end of the next line to enjoy it. Other participants, as well as the vendors showcasing their wines, will appreciate this courtesy. If the vendor is offering more than one wine, either step to the side between pours or return later. Discard Pour out (or spit out) wine after you have had a sufficient taste if it’s one you don’t want to finish. Your pourer will not be offended. Drinking too much wine will make it difficult to taste the differences after a while, which defeats
the whole purpose of a wine tasting. Buckets are available at all wine booths, along with water to rinse out your glass. Rinsing is especially important if you are going back and forth between reds and whites. Be Responsible While you shouldn’t drink enough to get drunk at a tasting, you may consume a fair amount of wine during the afternoon. Designating a driver or planning ahead for a taxi or Lyft ride is the responsible thing to do. All these suggestions have one goal in common – to help you enjoy every moment you spend at Rouge et Blanc.
FINE WINES • LIQUOR • BEER
Drink Water Alcohol dehydrates the body, so sip water between wines to cleanse your palate and stay hydrated. Water is provided at several locations throughout the event.
Non-Wine Southern Glazers S.W. Beverage TABLES
Mystic vines International Wines D & E Fine Wine Group
September 2018
Eat There’s delicious food served along with the wine for a reason. Alcohol enters the bloodstream quickly. When your stomach is empty, you’ll feel the effects much quicker, which means you’ll be able to handle less wine than you would on a full stomach.
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Wining & Dining
Entertainment
Kid Merv This year’s Rouge et Blanc entertainment will be provided by Kid Merv, a popular jazz vocalist and trumpeter from New Orleans. This versatile musician wows audiences with a fun mix of funk, brass band, and traditional music. Kid Merv grew up in the Big Easy, surrounded by jazz greats who mentored him. He is also a member of the Treme Brass Band.
In honor of Rouge et Blanc, join us for daily tastings of our favorite wines all week. Monday - Friday October 8 - 12 3:30 – 5:30 pm
and
Saturday
October 13 Noon - 3:00 pm
Celebrate with 10% savings on all wine the entire week! Let us help you find your new favorite wine & create the perfect pairing from our wide selection of gourmet cheeses and artisanal accompaniments.
For everything you crave and more…
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Party Responsibly The Rouge et Blanc staff and Thrive magazine want you to have a great time at this annual premier party. But we also want you to be safe. We strongly encourage you – if you’ve been enjoying the wine all afternoon -- please don’t drive yourself home. There are plenty of other options. • Have a designated driver in your group. • Arrange to have a friend or family member drop you off at the event and pick you up when it is over. • Hire a chauffeur. Many young drivers appreciate the opportunity to earn a little extra cash. • Make it fun by asking friends to join you in hiring a limo service. • Call a cab. Yellow Cab offers a Safe Ride Home rate within the Lake Charles city limits; 337-433-8282. Or check online for other taxi options – there are several. • Call for a Lyft. With a tap on an app, a Lyft driver will take you home . . . or wherever the next party might be.
THE MCNEESE FOUNDATION
Discover more ways to support McNeese
McNeeseFoundation.org
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Style & Beauty
Fall Fashion Preview 2018 by Emily Alford The days are getting shorter, and fashion lovers everywhere are looking forward to putting those sundresses and swimsuits in storage and focusing on autumn looks. After years of 90s- and 70s-inspired fashion that focused on plaid, flannel, and even saw the return of the (ath)leisure suit, runways for fall 2018 finally gave us something different. And if you’re a fan of 80s fashion, you’re in luck, as some of the hottest looks for fall might make you nostalgic for Michael Landon and Debra Winger.
All ruched up
Ruching is the term used to describe a strip of fabric, usually at the seams or in the center, on clothing that’s gathered in order to cause a rippling effect. It was big in the 80s, and this fall, ruching is back. This year, it’s more streamlined and less costume-y than the puffy prom dresses of the Reagan era. Look for ruching on tops, pants, and even coats to add a bit sophisticated flair to everyday looks.
A prairie affair
Another throwback classic getting a modern makeover for fall 2018 is the prairie dress. Inspired by the iconic looks from TV’s Little House on the Prairie, the new dresses are a bit more fitted in the waist, and most designers have ditched the frilly bib and instead replaced it with delicate lace details at the sleeves, waist, and hem. It’s a romantic look for a cozy fall date night in cooler weather.
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September 2018
DOCUMENT SOLUTIONS FOR BUSINESS
copiers • scanners • printers • fax • shredders
Head-to-toe red
Red was the star of the runway as this season’s power color. Of course, red never really goes out of fashion, but this year’s bold suits featuring cropped pants and slightly oversized jackets really stood out.
Urban cowboys (and girls)
If you never really got over Debra Winger riding the mechanical bull in Urban Cowboy, this is your year. Vintage style western shirts, complete with giant pockets and pearl snaps are big for both men and women. The most standout styles come in pastels and florals, but the humble Western-style denim shirt is huge for fall, as well.
Locally owned and operated for over 30 years
600 W McNeese Street, Lake Charles | (337) 474-9913 asiofficesystems.com
Destroyed denim
This fall, fashion-focused men and women should be prepared to answer the question, “Can’t you afford some new jeans?” from every wannabe comedian in town, because jeans ripped at the knees and distressed around the pockets are back with a vengeance. Denim on denim is also a hot trend for fall this year, so if you invest in the aforementioned denim shirt, be sure to pair it with your distressed jeans. Of course, there’s still life left in the hottest trends of seasons past, like athleisure, florals, and plaids, and many of those trends will pair well with this year’s looks. For example, a denim shirt looks great with last year’s leggings or even track pants, and a new, ruched skirt with spring’s floral blouses will breathe new life into a look that might be feeling a little tired. Fashion is all about mixing it up; greet the cooler weather with a killer combination of spring and summer favorites paired with new fall fashions.
September 2018
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Style
& Beauty This fall, makeup lovers who live for all things sparkly, shiny, and glittery are in for a treat because right now, the cosmetics industry is all about overstatement. From glitter to metallic, standing out is this year’s hottest trend.
Glitter
by Emily Alford
For the past few seasons, the fashion world could probably be best described as glittery. From rhinestone decals on high-end sportswear to full faces of glitter going down the runway, right now is the time for sparkle. “In spring, glitter was huge, and it’s not going anywhere,” says Shaunteal Prejean, owner of Chantelle’s Makeup Studio in Lake Charles. And while glittery lipsticks and eye shadows abound, those looking for a bolder look can use glitter as a highlight in unexpected places, like the tops of the cheekbones or right at the hairline for a more ethereal look.
Shine
Heavy metal for nails has been a huge trend for a while now, with chrome nail polish making its way from runways to drugstore shelves, but silver is also the hot new color for eye makeup. A little smudge of silver liner on an otherwise neutral eye is a fun, relatively inexpensive way to update last year’s matte eye palettes.
Pop
If you’re really looking to move away from neutrals, bright eye makeup in bold, pure colors is a fun option for experimenting with a more mod look. When it comes to color, simply pick your favorite. Recent runway looks have included a rainbow of colors, including blue, red, yellow, and orange to create striking, can’t-miss-it eye makeup. While some fashionistas are using bright colors over their entire eyelid, the trend doesn’t have to always be so dramatic. “If you want a pop of color, the safest place is on the outer corner of the eye or the lower lash line,” Prejean says.
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September 2018
Glow
Of course, great skin never really goes out of style. But after years of heavy foundation and sharp contouring, this year’s most stylish foundation is more about looking fresh-faced than Instagram filtered. “Ultimately, you’re looking for spa-like second skin,” Prejean says, referring to the dewy, less powdery looks she’s seen recently. “Second skin is really more about taking care of your skin than wearing foundation with a lot of coverage. Foundations from previous years have been like leggings, but these are more like pantyhose. They neutralize where you need them to with a kind of satin sheen.” To get spa-like skin, look for lighter-formula foundations or tinted moisturizers that are gelbased or have extra-moisturizing ingredients, like shea butter. Even if you’re not someone who gets excited about bold cosmetics, you can definitely still brighten your look without going all out disco ball. “Just choose one element and use it with purpose,” Prejean says. “This year’s looks are all about empowerment. No apologies.” For more information on makeup trends, call 337-842-1981 or see Shauntelle’s website, www.chantellesmakeupstudio.com.
September 2018
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Style
& Beauty
Fashion Gives Back by Isabel Jones, photos by Maggie Bradshaw
L
auren Monroe is the mastermind behind Fashion Gives Back -- a fashion show fueled by women helping women who understand the struggles and loss sometimes involved with motherhood. “I love fashion, but I love empowering women even more,” says Monroe, owner of Mimosa Boutique. And with her own personal experiences guiding her along the way, Lauren has created an event that has grown over the years and helped many in need. “Through personal experiences I know that the journey to motherhood can be a difficult one,” she says. “I wanted to do something to give back to the community and let families know that they are not alone.” Fashion Gives Back is a fundraiser for a cause close to many women’s hearts -Hand to Hold. Their mission is to provide support and resources to parents and families of preemies, babies
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born with special health needs, and pregnancy loss due to complications. For a mother experiencing any of these issues, Hand to Hold is there to support her. Beyond sharing information and resources, Hand to Hold offers a peer support system so people can connect with others who have been through or are going through the same thing. Having the support of someone who understands is what makes this cause such a special one. Now that they are getting involved in Lake Charles hospitals, it is a great time to come out and support the women who help the community grow. On the runway, you can expect to catch a glimpse into some fall trends for this year; from menswear to athleisure, along with some 70s-inspired looks. You can definitely count on a few overalls and jumpsuits to hit the runway, and we can’t forget those jaw-dropping jewel tones! All the looks
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will be modeled by Mimosa Boutique customers. This means you’ll get to see some familiar faces from the Lake Charles community express their strength and power. Celebrating its fourth year, Fashion Gives Back is again being held at Burton Coliseum. After moving the event to the Coliseum last year, they were able to hold 900 attendees and expect the same for this year. It’s time to get ready for this wonderful event that not only supports a meaningful cause, but also gives the amazing women of Lake Charles a chance to shine! Fashion Gives Back will take place September 27th. For more information, visit mimosaboutique.com or on Facebook.
September 2018
Have you found your wedding dress yet? Have you found your wedding dress yet? WWW.LBRIDALCOUTURE.COM 337-884-0621
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September 2018
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Places & Faces Southwest Louisiana
A Sportsman’s Paradise
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September 2018
F
or some, Southwest Louisiana is synonymous with Sportsman’s Paradise. With our ample swaths of coastal wetlands, marshes, bayous, and forests that an abundance of birds and animals call home, it’s no wonder this area is the perfect place for hunting, fishing, and enjoying the great outdoors. In this month’s cover section, we celebrate anglers and hunters, as well the people who support the wildlife recreation industry – charter services, Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries, and the artists who create the gadgets that make the pastime even more enjoyable!
3 Great Reasons
to be a part of the #1 Chapter in the Organization
“Delta Dollars at work LOCALLY” Youth Hunt ld Day ie F y il m Fa Veterans Hunt
Annual Banquet
September 13th - Burton Coliseum
For Ticket/Sponsorship Information, contact Jonathan Jimney at 337-764-9410
September 2018
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Places & Faces A Sportsman’s Paradise
Hunting and Fishing Charters
They Know Where to Find What You’re Looking For by Angie Kay Dilmore If you want to hunt or fish in Southwest Louisiana, there is no shortage of places to go. Waterways, marshes, and rice fields abound. But if you’re serious about scoring the game you seek, consider venturing out with a guide. These experts make a living at knowing exactly where and when to snag that trophyworthy fish or prized waterfowl. Below is a roundup of reputable guide services. photo by LindseyJanies.com
Fishing and Hunting Guide Services Big Lake Guide Service
Since 1984, Jeff and Mary Poe have offered fly and light tackle saltwater fishing on Calcasieu Lake and its tributaries and off-shore; well-known sources of coveted speckled trout, redfish, flounder, and others. They operate seven boats guided by U.S. Coast Guard licensed and insured full-time captains. A full day of fishing lasts about eight hours. Their waterfowl services offer an excellent way to find numerous varieties of ducks and geese, primarily mallards, teals, pintails, and speckled bellies from blinds in a fresh water marsh. A guide will call, identify, and retrieve your birds. Hunting and fishing combo packages are available, as are lodge accommodations. Located at 150 Junius Granger Rd. Lake Charles. For pricing information, see biglakeguideservice.com.
Hackberry Rod and Gun Hackberry is known as the “Speckled Trout Capital of the World.” Originally founded in 1975, Hackberry Rod and Gun is one of the largest professional guide services in the country. They charter up to 16 boats daily. Morning duck and geese hunts take place on 15,000 acres of Cameron Parish marshland. Owned by Kirk, Guy & Bobby Joe Stansel, these brothers 26 www.thriveswla.com
are committed to quality customer service. At the lodge, their momma, Ms. Martha, cooks authentic Cajun cuisine. 485 Lake Breeze Hackberry, hackberryrodandgun.com.
Big Woods Fish & Game Preserve This members-only resort provides world-class bass fishing and seasonal hunting. Located just 15 minutes west of Lake Charles, the facility offers boats, lodging, docks, shooting ranges, hunting blinds, and more on 3,000 acres with two man-made lakes. 2627 Hwy 388 Vinton, bwfgp.com.
Grosse Savanne Lodge Gross Savanne offers waterfowl and alligator hunting, fishing, lodging, and eco-tours.
photo by MonsoursPhotography.net
See page 32 for more details.
Hunting Only
Henning’s Guide Service Captain Grant Henning and his experienced guides offer exceptional goose and duck hunting in the heart of Sportsman’s Paradise – Southwest Louisiana. With operations based out of Thornwell, a small unincorporated area nestled in Jeff Davis Parish, Henning’s offers hunting on over 5,000 acres of private rice farms and impounded marsh property. 337-802-9000, henningsguideservice.com
photo by LindseyJanies.com
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photo by Lake Charles SWLA CVB
September 2018
Fishing Only Charters Calcasieu Charter Service
These experienced U.S. Coast Guard and Louisiana-licensed boat captains know all the hot spots, whether you’re looking for reds, specks, or flounder. If it is waterfowl you seek, Southwest Louisiana rice fields checkerboard across the migrational flyways. Their lodge offers accommodations for corporate events, family gatherings, parties, or relaxing weekend getaways. 210 Bank St. Lake Charles, calcasieucharters.com.
Calcasieu Point Charters This guide business offers morning (8 hours) or afternoon (5 hours) fishing trips on Calcasieu Lake. They depart from three locations: Calcasieu Point Landing, Spicer-Hughes Marina & Motel, or Hebert’s Landing. Calcasieu Point Charters is owned by Captain Lee Daughdrill, an experienced, award-winning angler. He also offers guided waterfowl hunting. 607 McKinley St., Westlake, 337-540-3399, calcasieupointcharters.com.
Hackberry Charters Captain Mark Huse offers guided fishing adventures on both Calcasieu Lake and Sabine Lake. Huse operates his charter service from a 24-foot Yellowfin bay boat. A lodge is also available. 289 Lake Breeze, Hackberry, hackberrycharters.com.
Fishing Tom’s Guide Service Join father and son team, Tom and Tommy Adams, for inshore fishing along the Calcasieu Estuary, which includes the Calcasieu River, Lake Calcasieu, Black Lake, and the Ship Channel to the Gulf of Mexico. Lodging available upon request. 370 Moss Rd. Sulphur, fishingtom.net. So, next time you want to experience a superb day of fishing or hunting, consider hiring one these charter companies. Most guides include everything you need except your Louisiana hunting or fishing license (which can be purchased online or often onsite), beverages and snacks of your choice, an ice chest to take your catch home, and a camera to capture your memories. September 2018
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Places & Faces A Sportsman’s Paradise
Creative Sportsmen by Angie Kay Dilmore
For a day on the water or a morning in the duck blind, hunters and fishermen usually utilize various “tools of the trade” to make their adventure a bit easier and hopefully more successful. While their primary concern is for a tool to be beneficial, a sportsman may not be aware of the artistic talent that often goes into creating these useful devices. Thrive magazine caught up with five local artists whose artistic outlets originated from a love of the sport.
A quick Google search on duck decoy makers in Southwest Louisiana confirms that
Ronnie Chauvin is the
go-to guy for whittled waterfowl. Chauvin has always been interested in art. He took art classes in high school and still enjoys oil painting and other art forms. He started carving wood in Boys Scouts, encouraged by his Scout leader who also carved. Through family connections, he became interested in duck decoy carving. He basically taught himself, learning which types of wood work best (tupelo and cypress roots). He became involved with Ducks Unlimited, an organization that promotes duck habitats, which further prompted his interest in duck carving. Then he met well-known local artist Elton Louviere, who helped him hone his duck painting skills.
Lance Chapman has been
creating custom duck calls since 2014. He says each call he makes is unique. “Each piece of wood tells its own story and has its own special meaning to its owner,” said Chapman. “I recently completed a call using wood from Lambeau Field in Green Bay for a huge Packers Fan. Another was made from a 100-yearold beam out of a customer’s grandparents’ house. I’ve even used cypress knots from our own family farm in Gueydan to make calls.” Chapman works full-time in industry, but he carves out time to pursue his hobby late at night or on weekends. He operates out of a 12X20 wood shop behind his house in Lake Charles. Recently, his acrylic call won 4th place in a field of 50 highly-respected entrants. “That reaffirmed the fact that I was on the right track with my call making.”
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Chauvin started entering his duck carvings in competitions. He has won numerous blue ribbons and Best of Shows. Chauvin says he can make a decoy from start to finish in about three days, depending on the level of detail. Decoys (also called dekes or slicks) used in hunting don’t have the same degree of detail as an award-winning mantle-worthy duck. He does sell his work on occasion, but he doesn’t take orders. As a man who is enjoying his retirement, he makes them on his own time and sells them when he has them. Chauvin has discovered a unique way to mesh his interest in the outdoors with his love of art. “It gives me a lot of pleasure and satisfaction to try to reproduce something from nature that is pretty.”
His business, Reclamation Game Calls, pays homage to his family’s farm – Lake Arthur Reclamation Company (LARCO) in Gueydan – where he learned to hunt waterfowl. Through the power of social media, Chapman’s hobby has morphed into a lucrative part-time job. He receives 10-15 requests a week for custommade calls and completes 250-300 calls per year. Customers wait six to eight months for Chapman to make their perfect call. He makes several different types of waterfowl calls upon request, but the Mallard Hen call is his specialty. “I have found my niche in making an easy-to-blow single reed call that has a wide range of sounds. Many customers order matching set of calls, both duck and goose.” Prices range from $125 $250, depending on materials used. Find Chapman on social media, @getemagain.
September 2018
Steve German started
his taxidermy business in 1973. He was an avid duck hunter and learned the craft of taxidermy basically out of a desire to preserve his own kills. But then he fell in love with the art form. Word got around of his abilities and other duck hunters began bringing their birds to German. Currently, Steve German Taxidermy Art is the largest taxidermy business in Louisiana. “God blessed me with a job I enjoy,” he says. In 1990, German won the national taxidermy competition and afterwards served as a contest judge for many years. When asked what projects are the most challenging, he says,
Brothers, Alex and Z ac of Smith & Sons Knife Company in Sulphur have been making knives professionally since 2011, but knifemaking has been a part of their family since the late 90s, when their dad, Gary got involved in the craft as a hobby. While the Smith family makes knives of all sorts, they specialize in hunting knives. They make many of their knives from quality D2 Tool Steel. But their knives are about more than function. They must also be visually appealing. “True craftsmanship can only be gained from experience and it is what guides September 2018
“Tiny things and great big things are really hard. Giraffes are hard. Hummingbirds are hard. So delicate.” German and his son Josh, who now owns the business, and one associate manage to process 500 birds, 400 fish, 275 deer heads, 50-60 small mammals, and 200 African heads per year! “We work!” says this very busy taxidermist. He has clients from all over the country and around the world. Steve and Josh maintain a taxidermy showroom with hundreds of birds and animals on display. They welcome visitors, so stop by and see them sometime.
Fred G. Hannie, Sr.
started fly tying after Hurricane Rita as a form of therapy. “It gave me something to immerse myself in and forget the troubles of the day,” he says. He learned to tie flies by searching the internet for tips and techniques and formed online friendships with other tyers. Hannie has a day job, but fly tying earns him extra income. In addition to tying flies, he has written magazine articles and a book on the subject. He also paints and has incorporated his fishing flies into his artwork. However, his most lucrative venture with flies has been to sell or lease them to
602 Sulphur Ave. in Westlake, La. You can also find them on Facebook, @SGTALA.
prop shops in Hollywood. “I sold some honeybees for an episode of the television series Castle and rented some wasps to an independent film company.” Hannie says he loves the problem-solving aspect of fly tying. It also provides him a unique outlet for his creativity. And he adds that fly tying has a calming nature. He has shared his craft with veterans who suffer from PTSD and he says it helps them. Hannie has won a number of awards for his fly tying, including the Charles E Brooks lifetime achievement award by the Federation of Fly Fishers International.
us to make careful artistic choices that won’t hamper the usability of our knives,” says Alex Smith, Creative Director. “Craftsmanship drives us to mastery over our tools, materials, techniques, and eye for detail. At the same time, artistic expression drives our craftsmanship to new levels by forcing us to conquer technical fears and discover new techniques for achieving our end goal. It’s the relationship between craftsmanship and artistic expression that truly makes our knives unique: knives that are just as beautiful as they are useable.” Thrive Magazine for Better Living
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Places & Faces A Sportsman’s Paradise
Hunters & Anglers Help Keep our SWLA Tourism Industry Strong by Andrea Mongler
cameronparishport.com (337) 739-1098
Clair Hebert Marceaux, Director
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Tourists travel to Southwest Louisiana for a variety of reasons. Some visit the casinos, others come for the food, and some want to escape colder climates up north in the winter. Many, though, are here for the abundant fish and wildlife. More specifically, they come to take advantage of the multitude of hunting and fishing opportunities the region has to offer. Anglers can choose from among freshwater, inland saltwater and offshore fishing, and the area’s list of hunting seasons includes those for whitetailed deer, as well as various waterfowl and small game. “Southwest Louisiana is a draw for hunters and anglers because we have so much to offer,” says Will Precht, media relations manager for the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Combine friendly Cajun culture with so many hunting and fishing options and it’s no wonder why outdoor adventurers love Southwest Louisiana.”
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While the exact number for those visiting specifically to hunt and fish isn’t known, Precht says guide services consistently stay booked. In fact, many require customers to make reservations weeks in advance. In addition to hunters and anglers from across the United States who visit the region, international tour operators offer hunting and fishing opportunities to their foreign clients, and Precht says this part of the tourism industry is growing. Tourists, of course, aren’t the only ones who enjoy hunting and fishing here. Outdoor recreation is an integral part of the local culture, too. “Growing up just south of Lake Charles, I didn’t know many people who didn’t love to hunt and fish,” Precht says. “It’s something that is passed down from generation to generation as a cultural tradition. That local culture promotes and welcomes visitors to experience the outdoors, which certainly has a positive impact on the tourism industry.”
September 2018
Hunting Safety Hunting is a time-honored form of recreation. But where there are guns, there are risks. Every hunter is encouraged to take a hunter education course. However, Louisiana law requires that all hunters born on or after September 1, 1969 receive a Hunter Education Certification from an LDWF-approved course prior to hunting in Louisiana, unless they are under direct supervision of a qualified person. For hunters who have already met their safety course requirements, here are some timely reminders to follow the next time you head out to the woods or duck blind this fall.
You Don’t Have to Hunt for a Lower ATM Fee
For more information, visit www.wlf.louisiana.gov. • Every time you see a gun, pick up a gun, or point a gun, assume that it’s loaded. • Make sure your safety is always on and that the barrel is pointing down when you are walking with or transporting your gun.
• Stay sober and do not take any mind-altering drugs before or during your hunting sessions. • Look well beyond your target before you shoot as high-powered ammunition can travel up to a mile.
• Be certain of your target before you take your shot. That is, make sure that you are shooting at an animal and not a human and that there are no people anywhere near the targeted animal.
• Hunt with a buddy. If you can’t hunt with a buddy, make sure that someone knows where you are and a time to expect you back.
• Wear the required amount of orange so that you don’t become another hunter’s target.
• Before you begin the hunting season and before you use any new or borrowed equipment, make sure to go over everything and make sure that it is working properly.
• Make sure all animals are dead before you put them in or strap them onto your vehicle. • Do not bring small children with you. • Do not climb up or down a tree or over a fence with a loaded gun. Instead, hand your gun to a hunting partner with the safety on and allow them to hand it back to you when you are in position.
September 2018
• If using a tree stand to hunt, wear a safety belt.
With Lakeside, you never pay an ATM fee. Our customers have fee-free convenience at any ATM they use. So if you need cash for a hunting trip, you won’t have to track down a specific ATM to avoid high fees.
Join the migration to Lakeside.
• Store and transport ammunition separately from your guns. • Keep both your guns and your ammunition under lock and key. • Never shoot at a sound or movement. • Enjoy yourself!
LakesideBanking.com 4735 Nelson Rd., Lake Charles 474-3766 Thrive Magazine for Better Living
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Places & Faces A Sportsman’s Paradise
Grosse Savanne Waterfowl and Wildlife Lodge by Angie Kay Dilmore
Located on 50,000 acres of coastal wetlands, prairies, and agricultural fields in the heart of Cameron Parish near Calcasieu Lake, Grosse Savanne Waterfowl and Wildlife Lodge offers hunting and fishing guides and accommodations with a focus on customer service and a big dose of luxury. Packages with freshwater fishing, saltwater fishing, waterfowl hunting, alligator hunting, and bird watching are available. Their annual Blast and Cast package, available only in September, is Grosse Savanne’s most popular sporting package, according to Bobby Jorden, Grosse Savanne Eco-Tour Division Manager. It’s only offered 16 days each year in mid-September to coincide with Louisiana’s blue wing teal season. Dates differ year to year, but for 2018, those dates are Sept 15 – 30. The package includes a continental breakfast, early morning guided teal hunt, a southern brunch, an afternoon of either fresh water or salt water fishing, a five32 www.thriveswla.com
course dinner, one night’s lodging, all beverages, and game/fish processing. “Book early because this package fills up fast, but there could be some limited availability,” says Jorden. The Lodge opened in 1998, albeit on a smaller scale. Over the years, hurricanes and a growing client base have resulted in physical elevation and several additions. Today, they can host up to 18 guests in nine guestrooms. The décor is a cross between man cave hunting camp and five-star luxury hotel. It offers modern conveniences in a rustic setting and more than the average comforts of home. Even sportsmen appreciate fresh linens and turn down service now and then! Guests enjoy authentic Cajun and Creole cooking in the cozy dining room. A Bed and Breakfast option is available and includes a five-course dinner, continental breakfast, Southern brunch, and all beverages. The screened-in wrap-around porch is perfect for sipping coffee and watching the Thrive Magazine for Better Living
sunrise or relaxing in the evening with friends and a refreshing beverage while telling fish tales. For entertainment, the Great Room offers comfortable seating, a fireplace, and plasma television. The adjacent game room has a large card table, billiards, and a wet bar with topshelf spirits. Climb the spiral staircase to a lookout room for a bird’s eye view and watch the sun set. Want to mix business with pleasure? Grosse Savanne has added a meeting room, making it a perfect venue for corporate retreats. Visit their pro shop for merchandise and a take-home souvenir. They also arrange golf and gaming excursions to nearby casinos. Jorden says over the years, Grosse Savanne has grown to a flourishing year-around business. “There’s no shortage of things to experience here.” For more information, call Grosse Savanne at 337-598-2357 or see their website, www.grossesavanne.com.
September 2018
Eco-Tours at Grosse Savanne Not everyone wants to hunt or fish to enjoy the great outdoors. Located near Bell City, Grosse Savanne Eco-Tours offers twohour and half-day boat tours through a wide variety of habitats including fresh and salt water marshes, cypress swamps, coastal prairies, pine forests, and agricultural fields. It’s the perfect environment for birders, photographers, and all varieties of outdoor enthusiasts to view wildlife and nature. Southwest Louisiana is one of the top 10 birding areas in the country. Over 400 species can be seen at various times of year. Bobby Jorden says summer is the busiest season for tourists to visit Gross Savanne. The two-hour boat marsh ecotours are particularly popular.
September 2018
Jorden enjoys showing off the lush vegetation of the coastal prairie, flowering plants, birds and waterfowl, snakes, turtles, frogs, and of course, alligators! “Alligators are the number one animal species visitors request to see,” he says. “And we’ve got plenty of them!” Jorden has a degree in natural resource conservation management from McNeese. On his tours, he highlights the region’s culture and the ecology behind what visitors see on the tour. “It’s fun to be able to share that with people from all over the world.” Contact Grosse Savanne EcoTours via their website, www. grossesavanne-ecotours.com. 358 Chalkley Rd. Bell City, La.
Solving sleep problems from shift work. Shift work can magnify sleep disorders because of the interruptions to the natural sleep cycle. Our sleep specialists can help you feel well rested both on and off the job. Call us today for sleep solutions that work. Sleep Specialists Phillip Conner, MD Michelle Zimmerman, NP
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4820 Lake St., Lake Charles (337) 310-REST sleepdisordercenterofla.com
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Places & Faces A Sportsman’s Paradise
Hunting & Fishing Memories from Childhood
Megan Monsour Hartman and her father, Victor
Jonathan Jimney and daughter Taylor Soileau
Every hunter knows the anguish that ensues at the end of a season. Yet as the next season approaches, the ensuing anticipation is the most child-like aspect of adulthood. The experiences I’ve shared with family and friends in Sportsman’s Paradise will long be cherished. While every experience is memorable, a nice harvest is hard to beat.
Jonathon Jimney
To me, there was nothing more peaceful and beautiful than watching the Southwest Louisiana sun rise in a duck blind with a cup of hot coffee sitting next to my dad. My dad, Victor Monsour, was an avid duck hunter and photographer who always told me that Southwest Louisiana had the most gorgeous sunrises than anywhere else in the world. Duck hunting was a strong family connector in the Monsour household. My dad started taking me hunting when I was two years old, along with snacks and a sippy cup of coffee milk. We’d have fatherdaughter duck hunts at the camp in Johnson’s Bayou for as long as I can remember. Hunting was a way for us to share life together, talk quietly about our dreams and goals while watching the peaceful sky.
Megan Monsour Hartman Public Relations Director, Phillips 66
owner of JK Custom Homes Spending weekends and holiday breaks hunting with my family at our camp was one of my favorite things to do growing up. I’ll never forget bagging my first duck out there. It was a cold, overcast morning with me, my dad, and a family friend. Dad was calling a lone Gray Duck (gadwall) that had cupped its wings and was apprehensively circling our pond. After a minute or so of calling, the drake flew straight in front of us, right into our decoy spread. I must’ve been the proudest eight-year-old in Louisiana that morning. Will Precht and his father, Phillip
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Will Precht
Media Relations Manager, Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau
Thrive Magazine for Better Living
September 2018
I have fond childhood memories of fishing with my father along peaceful Southwest Pennsylvania mountain streams. But one fishing trip stands out in particular. I may have been six or seven years old at the time? And I have no photos to document the event. But for whatever reason, I was standing to the left and slightly behind Dad. I pulled the rod back over my shoulder, thumb tight on the spool release, flung it forward, released the line . . . and the lure flew smack into the pants on my dad’s derriere. I wasn’t sure if I should laugh or cry until I knew whether I was in trouble or not. Dad wasn’t upset, and it was quite comical, watching him try to get that hook off his backside. I was laughing too hard to help him.
Angie Kay Dilmore
Angie’s father, Ed Drummer, years later
editor at Thrive magazine
FISHING
John Ieyoub and brother Chris
FOR
My brother woke me up at 3:00 a.m. and said we were invited to his friends lease to hunt ducks. The friend had a cancellation and had invited us at the last minute. Our family didn’t have a duck lease, and I was obsessed with hunting. So, when we had the opportunity to go, I was all in!! It was an amazing memory because I was able to hunt (which I loved to do) with my older brother (10 years older) and his friend. How cool was that?
John Ieyoub
LODGING
33 YEARS
,
Big Lake Guide Service has been providing some of the best fishing and hunting experiences for visitors to Southwest Louisiana.
Visit our website for information and updates on what’s happening on and around Big Lake.
BigLakeGuideService.com
Lake Charles City Council District D and Owner/ General Manager at PRIME Occupational Medicine
September 2018
HUNTING
(337) 598-3268 • biglakegs@camtel.net 150 Junius Granger Road, Lake Charles 70607
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Places & Faces A Sportsman’s Paradise
Protect, Conserve, Replenish
Agent on boat
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries takes care of the state’s natural resources for its residents and visitors by Andrea Mongler
Booker Fowler Chase Chatelain showing two inch bass fingerlings being harvested from a pond
For anyone who loves nature and outdoor recreation, Louisiana has a lot to offer. The state’s millions of acres of marshes, hardwood forests, and waterways are home to a wide variety of animal and plant species. In addition, outdoor recreation is an important part of the local culture and opportunities to hunt, fish, hike, camp, and bird-watch abound. But all of these resources and opportunities require management and protection; a role that’s filled by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, or LDWF. “LDWF is charged with protecting, conserving, and replenishing the natural resources, wildlife, and aquatic life of the state,” says Rene LeBreton, the agency’s public information director. “As part of that role, we provide quality outdoor opportunities for the public.” The agency performs these functions through several different offices and divisions, including the Office of Wildlife, the Office of Fisheries, and the Law Enforcement Division. The Office of Wildlife is responsible for research and management work
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with a goal of maintaining and promoting healthy and productive wildlife populations and habitats. Its game species programs focus primarily on white-tailed deer, waterfowl, turkeys, and upland game such as doves and quail. Its Natural Heritage Program, on the other hand, is responsible for the conservation of rare, threatened, and endangered species; non-game birds; and habitats. Examples include whooping cranes, which are being reintroduced to the state, and Louisiana black bears, which were protected under the Endangered Species Act until 2016. The Office of Wildlife manages nearly 1.5 million acres of public outdoor recreation areas. It also provides hunter, aquatic, environmental, and general wildlife education. Similarly, the Office of Fisheries is tasked with managing aquatic species and their habitats, supporting the fishing industry, and providing the public with access to and understanding of the state’s aquatic resources. Its management areas encompass coastal waterways, freshwater resources, and the Gulf of Mexico, and its research and
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Fulvous Hatchling
September 2018
Marine Patrol Agent
management activities include species sampling, surveys, and control of invasive species. The recreational and commercial fishing industries are both priorities for the Office of Fisheries, which aims to enhance recreational fishing opportunities through improved access and public awareness and to support and maintain a sustainable and economically viable commercial fishing environment. Its outreach and education efforts include boat shows, school programs, community events, and fishing workshops. “Educating and interacting with the public is one of our key responsibilities,” LeBreton says. “Though our mission is to protect our state’s natural resources, we are ultimately doing so for the people who live and visit here.”
LDWF’s Law Enforcement Division is also tasked with protecting the state’s natural resources — and serving the people who use them — but it does so through enforcing state and federal laws related to fish and wildlife. In addition to ensuring compliance with licensing and harvesting regulations, the Law Enforcement Division enforces boating safety laws,
Agent with child near boat
investigates boat crashes and hunting accidents, and provides boater education classes. It also conducts search and rescue missions and is the lead agency in the state for search and rescue during natural disasters. Close to 200 LDWF law enforcement agents work across the state in the eight enforcement regions. Anyone interested in becoming an agent must pass a Civil Service Law Enforcement and Protective Services exam and then complete the division’s training academy, which involves classes and both physical and tactical training. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have two years of experience as a Peace Officer Standards and Training level 1 certified peace officer, at least 60 hours from an accredited college or university, some combination of the two, completion of an associate degree or other twoyear program, or four years of active military service. Calcasieu Parish is part of LDWF’s Region 5, and the local office is located at 1213 N. Lakeshore Drive. For more information, call 337-491-2580 or visit www wlf.louisiana.gov.
Your Gateway to the Outdoors! Come see us for all your hunting and fishing needs! Locally owned and operated by the LaFosse Family
2640 Country Club Rd., Lake Charles | (337) 477-9800 September 2018
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Places & Faces
first person by Lauren Atterbery Cesar
38 www.thriveswla.com
with
David & Dennis Stine
Thrive Magazine for Better Living
September 2018
For David and Dennis Stine, growing up in Sulphur, Louisiana in the 1950s and 1960s made for an idyllic childhood. It wasn’t only the seven kids sleeping inside the screened-in porch with a gentle lullaby of crickets and frogs to carry them off to slumber at the family camp in Hackberry, or the muddy waters of Big Lake where J.W. Stine was a notorious boat captain and no one, not even his own children, was safe when he docked the boat that made the Stine children’s youth so special. It was also a hard-working, loving mother and devoted father who painted these scenes with a Norman Rockwell-esque flair. Piling the children up into the station wagon and driving all day to some exciting location for family vacations and then taking time to swim and laugh in the hotel pool with the kids half the night was not unusual for J.W. and Dee Dee Stine; nor was taking the time to ensure each child knew they were loved and absolutely cherished. J.W. Stine, patriarch of the Stine family, was a motivator, an encourager, and a larger-than-life father who let each of his children choose their own path. Looking back, identical twins David and Dennis agree that it says something about the man who recently celebrated his 100th birthday that six of his sons followed him into the family business. Thrive recently caught up with these busy entrepreneurs and they provided some insight into their remarkable family business and the memories of growing up with a visionary like J.W. Stine. Dennis and David with JW on his 100th birthday celebration
September 2018
As twins, were you ever tempted to switch places? And who is older? Dennis: I am older by nine minutes. Many times people think they are talking to David but they are actually talking to me. Dad has told this story hundreds of times, and as he tells it, I was on my tricycle in the middle of the shell street that we grew up on. He said he hollered at me, “David get out of the middle of the road!” I didn’t move. He hollered again and again and finally went over to me to pull me out of the street. I slowly rode my tricycle out of the road and I looked up and said, “I not David, I Dennis.” He laughed and laughed and didn’t have the heart to spank me for not obeying him. David: I can remember only one time pretending to be Dennis. It was when he asked me to sit in for him in a college class in which he had too many absences. The professor never knew the difference!
What prompted you to follow your father into the family business? David: We both started college at USL in Lafayette, which is now ULL. We all paid our own way to college, and tuition wasn’t bad, but coupled with room and board, the money dried up quickly. We returned home after the first year to attend McNeese. I think Dad had a plan in making us pay for school. In doing so, he knew we would return to an excellent education at McNeese, have free room and board at home, and work for his company after class. Dennis: Working full time at the lumber yard while I was in college allowed me to learn the business and become comfortable with serving people. Dad gave us an incredible amount of responsibility at a young age which only encouraged us to be more involved in the business. We became hooked! Dad was a pretty smart man. Not many companies survive past the second generation, but we’ve worked hard with outside family planning to create a legacy for our children and hopefully succeeding generations.
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Stine’s Lumber recently commemorated J.W. Stine’s 100th birthday. How did your family celebrate this occasion with the community? David: We celebrated with all of our associates and customers at all 11 Stine stores. We gave away 1000 100th Birthday commemorative hats, grilled hot dogs, and served birthday cake. We also had several proclamations from different bodies: Sulphur, Lake Charles, Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana Senate, the Governor’s office, and even the President of the United States! Dennis: I visited six of our stores on the Saturday we held the celebrations which were enjoyed by associates and customers alike. I think it gave our associates and our customers an opportunity to be a part of a family event within our family business, making it an awesome day.
What role does faith play in your family and business? David: Our parents taught us the importance of having faith in a higher being, which gives a person humility. There are struggles we, and other businesses, face every day, and if you can’t anchor them to a strong faith in God, then you’re in for tough times. Faith and family are the two formational values of our eight company core values. This is the legacy of our father and our company.
What advice would you give younger generations or aspiring business owners? Dennis: Business is not terribly complicated, so don’t make it more complicated than it needs to be. Let guiding principles or values steer your decisions and don’t compromise those principles. Be passionate and accountable to your job, making certain to respect and grow yourself and the people who work with you. And finally, follow the golden rule: treat others as you want to be treated.
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Places & Faces
14th Annual Ethel Precht HOPE Breast Cancer Walk One dream. One mission. Ethel Precht’s legacy lives on, impacting thousands of residents in Southwest Louisiana. by Lisa Guerrero
In 2004, with the help of family and friends, Ms. Ethel Precht – the wife of a local rice farmer in Cameron Parish – used her experience as a breast cancer survivor to help others through their journey battling this terrible disease. Her goal was simple, yet unique. To create a local walk event that would provide 100% of proceeds directly back to individuals from Calcasieu and Cameron Parishes who are undergoing breast cancer treatment. Now in its 14th year, the Ethel Precht HOPE Breast Cancer Walk continues to grow in financial and community viability, reaching well over 5,000 participants on walk day! This year walkers can also experience the 1st Annual ‘Save the Girls’ Gumbo Cook-Off, where teams compete for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place, the People’s Choice award, and more – again, staying true to the mission of giving 100% of proceeds to local survivors. A Car Show is also in the works to add to the
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celebration scheduled for Saturday, October 6, 8:00 a.m. at the Lake Charles Civic Center. According to the American Cancer Society’s Breast Cancer Facts & Figures 2017 - 2018; a woman living in the U.S. has a 12.4%, or a 1-in-8, lifetime risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer. Locally, the HOPE Breast Cancer Foundation has provided financial support to nearly 650 survivors, equating to just under $500,000. The assistance provides such things as wigs, prosthesis, payment of medical bills, and transportation to and from cancer treatment centers. Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011, survivor Millisa Shell states, “My neighbor told me about the support group affiliated with the Ethel Precht Foundation, and encouraged me to attend. There I found others who understood exactly what I was going through. The financial aid was a true blessing, but the emotional support from
Sam’s Club – Lake Charles Brown’s Grocery – Grand Lake Stine Home & Garden - Sulphur Prien Lake Mall Donna’s Lingerie
other survivors provided a forum for healing. I’ve been cancer-free for seven years and still attend the support group every month.” Jan Blake, another survivor, says, “The vision and legacy that Ethel Precht created for this community is nothing short of beautiful. We hear story after story of how the monetary assistance has helped ease the financial burdens of families across Southwest Louisiana. The support group has recently embraced a similar spirit of giving and are delivering ‘We Care Goodie Bags’ to patients undergoing cancer treatment at area hospitals. It’s another way to let fellow survivors know they are not alone.” Monetary contributions are accepted year-round online. Walk pre-registration is open until September 30. T-shirt pickup and in-person pre-registration will be available throughout September at the following locations:
9:00am – 2:00pm 9:00am – Noon 8:00am - Noon 10:00am – 3:00pm 10:00am – 2:00pm
For complete information, please visit www.ethelbreastcancerwalk.org.
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September 2018
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GAMBLING PROBLEM? PLEASE CALL 800.522.4700. September 2018
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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.”
William Devin Seale, MD, general surgeon, joins medical staff at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital
West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital is pleased to announce the addition of Dr. William Devin Seale William Devin Seale, MD, general surgeon, to its medical staff. A native of Sulphur, Dr. Seale received his medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans and completed his residency in general surgery at Oschner’s General Surgery Program at Oschner Medical Center in New Orleans. Dr. Seale practices alongside Dr. Walter Ledet and Dr. Stephen Castleberry at Sulphur Surgical Clinic, located at 914 Cypress Street in Sulphur. To schedule an appointment, call (337) 527-6363.
Imperial Health Welcomes Dr. Sarah Clevenger
Sarah Clevenger, MD, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist, has joined Imperial Health, the region’s largest multi-specialty Dr. Sarah Clevenger medical group. Dr. Clevenger will be practicing with Imperial Health – Center for Orthopaedics. Originally from Sulphur, Louisiana, Dr. Clevenger completed her undergraduate degree in business at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas. She earned her Medical Degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine in New Orleans, Louisiana, where she also completed a residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Dr. Clevenger will be seeing patients in the Lake Charles and Sulphur offices of Center for Orthopaedics. For more information or to schedule an appointment with her, call (337) 721-7236.
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Washington Named Director of Client Services
Quinn Washington has been hired as Director of Client Services for Andreas Global Asset Management Group. She is dedicated to developing and Quinn Washington maintaining long term relationships to ensure the highest level of satisfaction when providing service with a personal touch. Quinn comes with 6 years of experience in customer service where she developed a talent for connecting and servicing others and a genuine care for those that she interacts with. She is a native of Lake Charles and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from McNeese State University.
Imperial Health Welcomes Endocrinologist Dr. Michael Gonzales
Endocrinologist Michael Gonzales, MD, FACE, ECNU, CCD, has joined Imperial Health, the Dr. Michael Gonzales region’s largest multispecialty medical group. Dr. Gonzales will be practicing with Dr. Timothy Gilbert and Dr. Sandra Dempsey at the Imperial Health Endocrinology Center of Southwest Louisiana. Dr. Gonzales is board certified in both Internal Medicine and Endocrinology. He is also a certified Clinical Densitometrist and is certified to conduct neck and thyroid ultrasound and thyroid biopsies. Dr. Gonzales is a Fellow of the American College of Endocrinology. Dr. Gonzales has worked in private practice for over six years, first at the Hattiesburg Clinic in Mississippi and most recently, at DaVita Healthcare Partners Specialty Clinic in Nevada. Dr. Gonzales is currently accepting patients by referral. For more information, please call (337) 310-3670.
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Lee Joins CSE As New Marketing Supervisor
Heather G. Lee
CSE Federal Credit Union (CSE) welcomes Heather G. Lee as Marketing Supervisor. Lee brings over seven years’ marketing and communications experience
in the financial sector. As a member of mid-level management, Lee will oversee the marketing and communications team for the credit union, under the direction of senior management member, Colleen Desselle, Director of Marketing and Business development. For more information, call (337) 562-3130.
First Federal Insurance Services Welcomes Dana Sorrells
First Federal Insurance Services is pleased to welcome Dana Sorrells to its insurance division. She will serve the bank’s Dana Sorrells Southwest Louisiana communities as Personal Lines Account Manager, working with customers to determine their specific needs and customizing just the right plan for those customers and their families. Dana brings over 20 years of insurance industry experience to First Federal Insurance Services’ team and will be a tremendous asset to its growth and continued success.
Hospitalist Collin Bowe, MD joins Memorial Medical Group
Memorial Medical Group welcomes Collin Bowe, MD, an internal medicine physician to its staff. Dr. Bowe serves Dr. Collin Bowe as a hospitalist, treating and caring for patients admitted to Lake Charles Memorial Hospital.
September 2018
Dr. Bowe was born in Raceland and went to high school in Natchitoches. He graduated Louisiana State University with a degree in biochemistry and received his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine, Commonwealth of Dominica, West Indies. His post-graduate training includes an internal medicine residency at Leonard J. Chabert Medical Center in Houma.
Hospitalist Jason Hagen, MD Joins Memorial Medical Group
Memorial Medical Group welcomes Jason Hagen, MD, a board-certified family medicine specialist to its staff. Dr. Jason Hagen Dr. Hagen serves as a hospitalist, treating and caring for patients admitted to Lake Charles Memorial Hospital. Dr. Hagen has been in private practice in DeRidder since 2014. He is also on staff at Beauregard Health System where he serves on the medical executive committee. His also served as medical director of the Tri Parish Rehabilitation Hospital. He is boardcertified by the American Board of Family Medicine and is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the Louisiana Academy of Family Physicians.
Psychiatrist Michael Wright, MD, joins Memorial Medical Group
Memorial Medical Group welcomes Michael Wright, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist to its Dr. Michael Wright staff. Dr. Wright treats patients at the Archer Institute, the area’s newest behavioral health hospital and holds clinic at the Institute for Neuropsychiatry. Before coming to Lake Charles, Dr. Wright was at Glenwood Regional Medical Center and New Day Recovery in West Monroe. He is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is also a member of the American Medical Association, American Psychiatric Association and Louisiana Medical Psychiatric Association. Dr. Wright is accepting new patients in his clinic located at 2829 4th Avenue, Suite 150 in Lake Charles. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Wright, call (337)477-7091 or visit www.lcmmg.com.
September 2018
Psychiatrist Mario Valencia, MD joins Memorial Medical Group
Memorial Medical Group welcomes psychiatrist Mario Valencia, MD, to its staff. Dr. Valencia treats patients at the Archer Dr. Mario Valencia Institute, the area’s newest behavioral health hospital and holds clinic at the Institute for Neuropsychiatry. He is a general psychiatrist, but has additional experience in addiction psychiatry, medical detoxification and telepsychiatry. He is a member of the American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry and American Psychiatric Association. He is licensed to practice medicine in Louisiana and Florida. Dr. Valencia is accepting new patients at his office located at 2829 4th Avenue, Suite 150 in Lake Charles. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Valencia, call 337.477.7091 or go to www.lcmmg.com.
The Eye Clinic Welcomes Dr. Lindsey Primeaux
Optometrist Lindsey Primeaux, OD, has joined the medical staff of The Eye Clinic. Dr. Primeaux is from Lake Charles, Louisiana, Dr. Lindsey Primeaux and earned a Bachelor of Science degree McNeese State University in Lake Charles and a Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Primeaux is licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Optometry and is a member of the American Optometric Association.
Appointments are now available with Dr. Primeaux. Call the office nearest you or (800) 826-5223. Information is also available at www.theeyeclinic.net.
Martin appointed to CIAA board
Kenneth B. Martin
Kenneth B. “Tad” Martin was appointed to the Board of Commissioners of Chennault International Airport Authority, the governing body for Chennault International Airport.
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Martin is a Senior Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch, where he has practiced since 2012. Before that, he was Executive Vice President of Operations at Martin Automotive Group. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial engineering from Louisiana State University. Martin was appointed by the Calcasieu Parish School Board. He joins Andy Hankins, Denise Rau, Rico P. Guillory, James G. Gobert, Charles Dalgleish and Bill Hankins on the seven-member CIAA board.
Vic Salvador Announces Candidacy for Ward 3 City Marshal
Vic Salvador announced his candidacy for Ward 3 City Marshal at a campaign Vic Salvador kick-off event las month for the November 6 election. This is his first run for public office. Raised in Lake Charles, Salvador is a graduate of Barbe High School and McNeese State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. He has completed numerous law enforcement training programs, including the FBI National Academy, Calcasieu Parish Regional Law Enforcement Academy and FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Command College. Salvador has dedicated his entire 30-year career to law enforcement. In that time, he held various leadership positions in the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office, including Chief Civil Deputy; Commander of Corrections; Captain of the Investigation Division, Crime Scene, Records and Narcotics; Violent Crime Task Force; Patrol Deputy and Detective; and Corrections Officer. He also served as Deputy Marshal for the Ward 3 City Marshal’s Office. Salvador recently left the Sheriff’s Office in order to run for Marshal after working for the past 14 years in the Command Staff for Calcasieu Parish Sheriff Tony Mancuso. Salvador is an active member of the FBI National Academy Associates, Louisiana Sheriff’s Association (LSA), McNeese Alumni Association, McNeese Petrochem Athletics Association, McNeese Quarterback Club, Kiwanis Club and St. Luke-Simpson United Methodist Church. He has been married to Cinnamon Salvador for 20 years and has one daughter.
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Money & Career
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Simple Ways
Productivity Leads to Your Best Self
Thrive Magazine for Better Living
What do you think of when you hear the term “self-improvement”? If you’re like a lot of people, you might imagine working your way through giant stacks of self-help books, starting an intensive new exercise regimen, or devoting more time to charitable causes – all of which are certainly worthwhile ways to improve oneself. However, the path to selfimprovement isn’t always about drastic lifestyle changes, says Johan Gunnars, CEO and Co-Founder of Simpliday, an app that allows users to achieve a more organized and efficient life by bringing together meetings, reminders, and emails. “Sometimes the easiest way to get started on the journey to a better version of you is just by doing the little things to get organized, make a plan, and recognize the everyday effort it takes to get there,” says Gunnars.
September 2018
Improving your productivity is a simple place to begin, and there’s no better time than now to start discovering your best self! Here’s how:
Simplify your life
People often equate doing a lot with getting a lot done. Unfortunately, science tells us this just isn’t the case. Not only can multitasking actually lower productivity, it also increases stress levels in the brain – and nobody is at their best when they’re constantly in fight-or-flight mode. Instead of trying to chip away at every item on your to-do list all at once, simplify your life by organizing day-to-day items into digestible bits. This will help you take things one at a time and accomplish tasks while also maintaining a positive and productive attitude.
Personalize your journey
Just looking at a calendar or day planner can induce panic in some people. The constant alerts, the inability to keep multiple calendars and notes in sync, the long list of appointments in crowded grid spaces that take an engineering degree
September 2018
to edit – it’s no wonder people forego the prospect of a more productive day in order to save themselves from looking at their calendars. That’s a shame because visualizing your day also helps you prioritize the things that matter, so you can focus on what needs your attention and eliminate (or reschedule) what doesn’t. One way to make your list of reminders more welcoming is to make it meaningful. Include pictures to beautify it, prioritize a calendar that easily adapts to your lifestyle and needs, and share it with others if possible. Staying productive is essentially about effective goal planning – and it’s always easier to envision success when it’s personal to you.
Celebrate the small victories
We tend to think of tasks as things you simply cross off a list, but each of these seemingly inconsequential items is a stepping stone to changing or improving your life (yes, even picking up the drycleaning). Sometimes life keeps you so busy that you don’t take time to stop and recognize how much you’ve accomplished or how far you’ve come. But it’s all these
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small wins that quickly add up and make a big difference to your success. At the end of each week, take stock of all you’ve accomplished. Review your list and relish in the tasks you’ve crossed off, appointments you’ve kept, and bits of everyday housekeeping that have helped you to achieve more. This reflection will not only keep you motivated, it will also continually sharpen your focus on whatever it is you’re working towards. Your priorities are often a pretty accurate reflection of who you are as a person. How you organize these priorities, acknowledge them, and accomplish them has a huge impact on the kind of person you are or aspire to be. That’s why improving your productivity is such a great way to approach self-improvement; it isn’t just something that makes you work better, it also has the potential to make YOU better – and that’s something you can start now and improve upon day by day.
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Money & Career
Millennials Are Shaking Up Money Management Millennials came of age during the Great Recession of 2008, causing an influx of young people to move back home due to rising student loan debt and an inability to find stable employment. A common trend for Millennials is to delay typical rites of passage such as marriage, having kids, and homeownership, instead focusing on their careers and getting their financial lives in order. Because of Millennials’ unique upbringing, as well as the economic circumstances surrounding their early adult life, they have become a
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generation of savers and are creatively shaking up money management and doing things their own way.
saving at the ripe age of 22 and roughly the same percentage of Millennials have opted-in to their 401(k) plans at work.
Millennials are Saving for Retirement More Than Previous Generations
Millennials are Saving More as Whole
Millennials saw their parents’ retirement accounts dwindle to frighteningly low levels and have responded to that by starting their retirement funds early. A recent study from the TransAmerica Center for Retirement Studies found that 70% of Millennials have started
While Millennials are saving more than their Gen X and Baby Boomer counterparts, the gender pay gap is still present, which is also affecting saving levels. A Bureau of Labor Statistics study found that women ages 16 to 24 earn just 89% of what their male counterparts make. Because of this wage gap, 26% of men
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are saving ten percent or more of their income compared to 9% of women saving at the same rates. Over 50% of female Millennials surveyed are only saving 1-5% of their income.
Millennials Fuse Technology and Personal Finance
Millennials grew up in the age of the internet, and social media is practically second nature to them. Millennials’ aptitude for digital technology and social media has completely transformed the way they live their lives.
September 2018
Everything is connected — the internet is ground zero. From dating, to ordering food, and downloading movies and music, Millennials are accessing technology and using it for nearly everything — including their money. Millennials are accumulating wealth and managing their money using the latest and greatest in technology. Recently, there have been a number of personal finance-oriented startups created by Millennials or targeted at Millennials ranging from everything from investing, paying off debt, managing retirement funds, and offering personal finance advice.
The Bottom Line
Millennials are a driving force in personal finance and are accruing wealth at a rapid rate
thanks to their saving ways. While they may have gotten a late start in some regards, the economic crisis has taught them to be creative with their money, life, and career, as well as instilling a penchant for saving. Most Millennials have little trust in the government to bail them out, especially when it comes to Social Security. As Millennials continue to save, while creating and participating in new technologies, the wealth management frontier will continue to shift and evolve in new ways. This oft-criticized generation is putting their savviness to use: by investing in themselves and their future.
Living the dream is a state of mind. Backed by a good retirement plan. No one wants to work forever. Whether you’re just starting to plan for retirement, deciding what actions to take when you do—or have already begun to enjoy your post-work life, I can help you achieve your retirement dreams.
• Investments* • 401K Rollovers • Life Insurance, Long Term Care Insurance
Source: investorjunkie.com.
* Registered Representative offering securties through NYLIFE Securities LLC (Member FINRA/SPIC). A Licensed Insurance Agency.
3105 Lake Street, Lake Charles | (337) 475-6226
for a
GREAT CAREER Record-setting industry expansion is taking place in Southwest Louisiana. Good jobs are available now and for years to come: operators, electricians, welders, lab techs, engineers and more. Average salaries range from $50,000 to $100,000 and up, with good benefits. Be part of the growth and get the training you need now to build your career into the future. The Industry Works’ website has all the information you need about jobs at local industries and the training you need to get them.
IndustryWorksSWLA.com
September 2018
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Money & Career
Co-Working Spaces:
The Pros, the Cons, and the Options by Keaghan P. Wier
Self-employed business owners, freelancers, and independent contractors may be familiar with settling in at the library or a local coffee shop to work on a project. But sometimes their needs exceed what those locations can provide. If they lack a brick and mortar office, they may need a professional place to work. For these people, co-working spaces offer a solution. Let’s take a look at these unique offices and why you might consider using one.
these spaces offer an environment more conducive to business than a coffee shop or library. Giving the selfemployed and teleworkers a chance to get out of their home while still working in an autonomous environment, co-working spaces offer the best of both worlds. Co-working spaces offer different tiers of membership, ranging from the less expensive options allowing you to sit at open tables, to those providing you with a private office.
What is a Co-Working Space?
Pros and Cons of CoWorking
Rising in popularity alongside the ever-growing workforce of freelancers and startups,
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Before committing to a coworking space, it’s important to consider the pros and cons.
Pros: Affordability
Cons: Lack of privacy
Community
Tight budget
The overall cost of a co-working space is much lower than renting an office, especially for freelancers or small businesses. A co-working space offers a good place to network and make connections with others.
Amenities
Co-working spaces are allinclusive, with features like Wi-Fi, furnished meeting rooms, office furniture, and other unique amenities like coffee bars, snacks, and notary services.
If your business handles sensitive information, then a co-working space may not be your best option. Even the most affordable membership could be too pricey if you are on a tight budget or just starting out.
Distractions
As with any public or open space, there are opportunities for distractions at a co-working office.
Structure
Getting out of the house, going to an office space, and having a beginning and end to your workday increases productivity and accountability.
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September 2018
Butch Ferdinandsen
CFP®, CLU®, ChFC®, CRPS, CRPC Investment Advisor Representative Ferdinandsen Financial Group is a marketing name. Securities and Investment Advisory services offered throughout Woodbury Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SPIC.
Office Hinge: Co-Working in SWLA
Office Hinge is a new coworking space in Lake Charles. Owner Heather Hebert says her business offers a wide variety of co-working spaces designed and customized to fit her clients’ needs. “Pricing is flexible, and at ‘the Hinge,’ you will find all of the amenities of a traditional office space at a fraction of the cost.” Office Hinge amenities include a space to network, learn, and socialize with the use of customized work spaces, meeting rooms and larger event spaces, consulting and training for professional development, and document, notary, and member services to help September 2018
your business flourish. “We encourage people to come by for a tour and check out our facility,” Hebert adds. “Whether it’s through utilizing our secured Wi-Fi or hosting an event, chances are you or someone you know can benefit from a space like ours. One of our goals is to encourage entrepreneurs in the Lake Area to tackle their dreams. We look forward to helping SWLA’s workforce for years to come.” To learn more about Office Hinge and their services, check out their website, www.officehinge.com, or call 337-419-1050.
HOLMES LA LAW LLC. Family | Criminal | Civil (337) 221-3028 416 N. Pine St., DeRidder | 3112 Enterprise Blvd., Lake Charles
HOLMES LA LAW LLC.
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Money & Career
SOWELA to Build $10.2 Million Culinary, Gaming and Hospitality Center Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards announced that SOWELA Technical Community College will build a $10.2 million culinary, gaming and hospitality center at its main campus in Lake Charles. The facility will house SOWELA’s Culinary Arts program, as well as new gaming and hospitality programs. The new center will be the first of its kind in Southwest Louisiana. The culinary, gaming and hospitality center is a direct result of the hospitality industry’s demand for skilled employees. According to the Louisiana Workforce Commission’s Industry Employment Projections for 2024 in the Lake Charles region, the gaming sector is projected to increase by 15.7% as compared to petroleum and coal manufacturing which is projected to increase by only 2.0%.
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SOWELA Receives Positive Growth Award SOWELA Technical Community College’s Regional Training Center received the Positive Growth Award for the Institutional category at the Alliance for Positive Growth’s “Growing SWLA Strong” Awards Program. The development of the SOWELA Technical Community College’s Regional Training Center began in 2012 to answer an urgent question in Southwest Louisiana, “How do we most effectively train the skilled workers demanded by multiple and diverse industry expansion projects?” The resulting 67,000 square-foot building includes offices, classrooms, labs, a 200-seat auditorium, a caterer’s kitchen, and large open instructional spaces that can be configured according to changing needs. The Regional Training Center’s modern
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appearance was designed by the Lake Charles architectural firm Champeaux, Evans, Hotard. Its location on the main street bisecting the SOWELA campus makes it highly visible, and a landscape plan by Hornsby Landscaping provides welcoming curb appeal. Since construction was completed in late 2016 the building has not only housed high-demand, high-skill training programs, it has played host to various community and educational forums and meetings. Additionally, Louisiana Economic Development’s FastStart division maintains a regional project office in the building, providing a local presence for regional FastStart projects.
September 2018
September 2018
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Mind & Body
Secrets to
Aging Well
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Thrive Magazine for Better Living
September 2018
Americans are living longer and healthier lives than ever before. The average life expectancy in America today (age 81.2 for females, 76.4 for men) is higher than in any other period in history. This is largely due to significant improvements in healthcare services, investment in medical research, and universal health coverage. But longevity and vitality can also be attributed in part to lifestyle choices. What you eat, how you spend your free time, and your mental outlook on life can significantly affect your health. In this special section, Thrive offers tips on how you can be your best – physically and emotionally -- and lead an enjoyable, productive life well into your “mature” years.
FIND A NEW HOME FOR YOUR FINANCES. For over 17 years, Denise Rau, CFP®, and the staff of Rau Financial Group have been fully invested in helping clients pursue their financial dreams. Whether its getting started with investing, saving for college, defending your family from financial uncertainty, preparing for retirement, arranging your estate, supporting an aging parent, or all of these, we’ll listen to your goals and dreams first. Then we’ll develop a sound strategy and customized financial plan to help you pursue them. There’s no time like the present to plan for your future. Give us a call today.
raufinancialgroup.com (l-r) Denise Wilkinson, Denise Rau, Debora Alexander and Latrana White
(337) 480-3835 | 1634 RYAN ST., LAKE CHARLES
Securities offered through LPL Financial. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Goss Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Goss Advisors and Rau Financial Group are separate entities from LPL Financial. September 2018
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Mind
& Body
Secrets to Aging Well
Fitness & Nutrition Keys to Aging Well
by Christine Fisher
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September 2018
A
ngela Lansbury, 93. Betty White, 96. Kirk Douglas, 102. Dick Van Dyke, 93. These are a few examples of celebrities who are currently re-writing the manual on aging; they are vibrant and involved. Along with these famous individuals, we can probably think of several in our own circles over the age of 80 who continue to be healthy and active. What is the secret to aging well? Good nutrition and consistent exercise make a significant impact on how well someone ages. A landmark study in 1998 known as the “MacArthur Foundation Study of Aging in America” found successful aging was largely a product of habits and less of heredity. High mental and physical function were key characteristics consistently found in men and women who were part of the study and aging successfully. “The ‘aha moment’ is when we realize that we are responsible for how we age,” said Cynthia Chantlin, registered dietitian with West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. “Yes, we inherit tendencies toward high
blood pressure or high cholesterol, for example; but often these can be controlled well with nutrition and exercise. For people who have chosen a lifestyle of eating nutritious food and getting consistent exercise, we’re seeing them continue to be active and engaged in life throughout their 60s, 70s, 80s, and beyond.” Aging doesn’t necessarily equal illness and decline. The risk for disease and disability increases with inadequate physical activity and poor diet. Feeding the body fresh vegetables and fruits that are filled with vitamins, minerals, and especially anti-oxidants, will keep it well-nourished. “Antioxidants are vitamins C and E, as well as other compounds like polyphenols. These nutrients protect from bacteria; they keep the colon and digestive system working properly and promote overall good health,” explains Chantlin. Choose foods such as berries; green, leafy vegetables; yogurt; and bright orange vegetables such as pumpkin, sweet potatoes, carrots, and butternut squash. In addition to quality foods, exercise plays an important factor in keeping
bones strong and healthy, improving flexibility, and warding off health concerns. Whether it’s a group fitness class, a treadmill, swimming laps, or playing a sport, moving your body for 30 to 45 minutes every day will significantly improve your overall health. “Balance and flexibility often decline as we age. Staying fit means staying strong,” says Suzy Trahan, wellness coach, ACSM certified exercise physiologist, registered dietitian, nutritionist, and director of Dynamic Dimensions Fitness Centers of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. “Consistent exercise will help you stay active and avoid, or reduce, the aches and pains that typically happen to older adults. In fact, exercise is one of the recommendations to ease the pain of arthritis. Working out helps both your mind and body stay sharp.” When you have your health, age is simply a number. While we can’t control getting older, we can do all we can to curtail a decline in health with smart choices along the way, and it’s never too late to get started!
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Trust your Legs to Experience
Carl Fastabend, MD Medical Director
www.VeinCenterSWLA.com | 711 Dr. Michael DeBakey Dr., Lake Charles (337) 312-VEIN
September 2018
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Covered by most insurance.
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Secrets to Aging Well
Aging Eyes
Cataracts May Cloud Your Vision, But Not Your Future “With aging comes change.” Our bodies tell us this every day. As we move through the decades of our adult life— our 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond – we have to adjust to bodily changes that can put limits on our activity.
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s our eyes undergo the aging process, cataracts can form, interfering with our vision. Cataracts occur when, over time, natural proteins build up in the eye’s lens, making it cloudy. Normally, the lens is transparent and allows light to pass unhindered to the retina, but if the lens becomes clouded, our vision may appear dim or blurred. There’s a common misconception that cataracts affect only those in their 70s or 80s. “It may surprise you to learn that cataracts may form in younger people, often in their 50s and 60s,” said ophthalmologist William B. Hart, MD, of Hart Eye Center. In fact, Dr. Hart has performed cataract-removal surgery on many “younger” patients who haven’t even hit retirement age. “Simply put, cataracts can form at any age,” Dr. Hart said. “Some cataracts progress slowly, and others progress rapidly. At some point, they interfere
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with a person’s vision.” How do cataracts affect your vision? You may notice these effects: • Blurred, cloudy, or even double vision. You may see “ghost images.” • Colors may seem faded and washed-out. It may seem that there’s a filter over your eyes. • Dim vision. When you’re reading or working closeup, it may seem like any light level is too dim. • After changing your eye prescription, your vision doesn’t appear to improve. Eyeglasses or contacts won’t slow the progression of cataracts. When you notice the effects of cataracts, it may be time to see your ophthalmologist for diagnosis and a “plan of action.” Your doctor can tell you how far the cataracts have progressed, and what options you have to improve your eyesight. You and your doctor might decide that cataract-removal surgery is the best choice. This
September 2018
corrective surgery can be a safe, efficient, and easy way to remove the cataracts and improve your vision. In fact, it’s one of the most common eye procedures performed today. “The procedure actually replaces the cloudy natural lens with a clear plastic intraocular lens,” Dr. Hart said. Cataract removal is an outpatient procedure, usually with little or no discomfort to the patient.
The Outcome
And after the cataracts are removed? Most patients report much-improved vision, and no longer experience the symptoms associated with cataracts. Significant improvements
in intraocular lenses – the ones that replace the cloudy, cataract-impaired lenses – make near-perfect vision a possibility after cataract surgery. “Many of our patients tell us that they no longer need to use their glasses,” Dr. Hart said. “They tell me the world is clearer and brighter again.” No one escapes the effects of aging, but today, cataract-removal surgery can reverse one effect of aging on our eyes. Cataracts no longer represent a “life sentence” of limited vision as we grow older. For more information about cataracts, cataract surgery, and free cataract screenings, call Hart Eye Center at (337) 439-4014.
IndustryInsider Q: A:
Straight Answers to Your Questions on Industry and the Environment I see the flares burning at industry by my house and can’t help but wonder what they’re burning, or if something is on fire. Is it dangerous?
Flares are a safety mechanism.
Flares process excess gas by burning it off. This safety mechanism minimizes air pollution and helps prevent industrial accidents. The noise that sometimes accompanies a flare is from the steam that’s used as a coolant. When the steam is introduced, it creates a hissing or rumbling noise. The steam cools the system, reduces smoke and minimizes air pollution. We know flares can cause concern and questions, and we try to minimize their use as much as possible because they’re so costly. Understanding why the flares are used can hopefully put any concerns to rest.
Joe Andrepont
LAIA
senior community affairs director with local industry
Lake Area Industry Alliance
September 2018
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Secrets to Aging Well
Caring for Aging Teeth
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century ago, dentures were seen as a necessary side effect of aging, along with wrinkles and gray hair. Today, thanks to advancements in dental care and improved awareness, most people keep their teeth well into their later years. Still, some degree of natural attrition is inevitable. The everyday wear and tear from a lifetime of eating, nighttime grinding, and drinking coffees and teas cause teeth to decay and lose their original luster. As a result, older people suffer higher rates of gum disease, oral cancer, mouth infections, and tooth loss. The good news is that adopting a solid, daily routine can make a world of difference when it comes to slowing tooth decay and avoiding serious problems. “Our teeth are incredibly strong and resilient, but they respond to how we treat them,” said Dr. Tim Robinson, DDS. “Through daily care and regular dental visits, our mouth can stay healthy well into our old age.”
Avoid Dry Mouth
Getting older often means more medications, many of which list “dry
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mouth” as a common side effect. Saliva keeps teeth clean, and without it our teeth are more prone to decay. A good method of staving off dry mouth is to drink more water and hold the water in your mouth a moment before swallowing. Also, sucking on sugarless candy or chewing sugarless gum can combat dryness.
Tobacco Linked to Cancer
Many people diagnosed with oral cancer have one thing in common: they use tobacco. Oral cancer most often appears on the lip, tongue or bottom of the mouth. The early stages are barely perceptible. If you notice white or red patches that last longer than two weeks, it’s time to see a specialist. Abstaining from tobacco along with limiting alcohol consumption and using protective lip balm can help prevent this type of cancer. It’s worth noting that other conditions commonly found in older people — such as sores, herpes, and yeast infections — are often confused for oral cancer. Good hygiene will help prevent these benign, but painful, issues.
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A Whiter Shade of Yellow
Teeth naturally yellow with age as the enamel thins and the dentin inside the tooth begins to show through. Culprits like coffee, tea, and red wine also contribute to discoloration by staining the enamel itself. To combat this, people have the option of either whitening at home — with toothpaste, strips or trays — or getting their teeth whitened under the supervised care of a dentist. Before starting a whitening routine, consult with your dentist. Available methods vary in effectiveness and some can damage sensitive teeth.
“Daily” is the Magic Word
As people age, their gum lines tend to recede and the protective outer layer on their teeth grows thin, leaving them vulnerable. The best way to fight this is with a good daily routine. The rule of thumb is to brush with fluoride toothpaste twice each day using a soft brush for at least two minutes and to floss at least once a day. Sometimes aging makes brushing difficult, so electric toothbrushes are often good investments for older people.
September 2018
Supports McNeese
Do you have a plan for your family? It’s important to avoid chewing ice or hard foods that can chip away at the outer covering on your teeth. Nighttime grinding is also a major culprit. Mouth guards are a common solution, as well as Botox, which fights damage by weakening the muscles through a series of injections.
From Mouth to Toe
Your overall health is critical to good oral health, and diseases like diabetes can take a toll on your teeth as well as your body. Good nutrition and regular doctor’s appointments are key to maintaining wellbeing in all areas. A good routine, combined with regular dental cleanings and preventative exams, will prepare your teeth to endure everyday wear and tear while maintaining their youthful brilliance long after the grays have started to show.
Many people wisely plan ahead in life, but if you’re like most, you may not have planned ahead for your funeral. When the time comes, having a plan in place will ease the burden on your loved ones and be one of the last, best gifts you can give your family. Our licensed and professional counselors are here to assist you. Take the next step and call us today to schedule your free pre-planning consultation: (337) 478-8687 Zeb Johnson and the staff of the Johnson Family of Funeral Homes have been serving the needs of families in Southwest Louisiana for 40 years.
For more information, contact Robinson Dental Group, 2629 Country Club Rd, Lake Charles, 337-474-3636, robinsondentalgroup.net.
September 2018
4321 Lake Street, Lake Charles johnsonfuneralhome.net (337) 478-8687
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Secrets to Aging Well
Being a Baby Boomer Doesn’t Have to be a Pain by Kristy Como Armand
T
he generation of peace and love has evolved into the generation of aches and pains. Baby Boomers — people born between the years 1946 and 1964 — are getting older. Approximately 10,000 Americans turn 65 each day. This means that nearly seven Baby Boomers are turning 65 every minute. The significance of these numbers is that within 20 years one in five Americans will be older than 65. As a group, Baby Boomers are living nearly twice as long as previous generations, and for the most part, are remaining much more active. And while this on-the-go population segment may not want to slow down, a wide range of aches and pains is starting to cramp their style. In a recent study, more than two out of three Boomers said they suffer from muscle and joint pain at least once a week. However, this generation is less resigned to simply accept injury and pain as an inevitable part of aging, and, according to Sarah Clevenger, MD, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist with Center for Orthopaedics, they don’t have to. “We often see older adults who want to keep doing all the things they did when they were younger, but find themselves struggling due to chronic pain. Fortunately, we have many more options to offer people who want to maintain an active lifestyle as they age.” 60 www.thriveswla.com
Dr. Clevenger says the original source of pain is typically just the natural wear and tear that occurs to joints over time. “As you get older, your joints start to show the signs of years of use, just like anything else, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to stop using them.” She explains that Boomers often unknowingly make their problem worse by cutting back on their activities when they experience joint pain. “Their knee or back hurts after physical activity, so they stop doing that activity. This results in a loss of muscle strength, decreased range of motion, reduced circulation to the area, and stiffness. So the next time they need to exert that part of their body, they experience more pain and stiffness due to inactivity. Pretty soon, that knee or back is painful any time they move. It’s a vicious cycle that can quickly lead to an extreme reduction in activity and chronic pain.” The good news is that Baby Boomers do not have to live with the pain. “There is so much we can do to provide pain relief. “Many Baby Boomers are reluctant to seek help because they feel surgery or joint replacement is their only option. But that is definitely not the case. We have an arsenal of non-surgical interventions that can often eliminate – or at least delay – the need for surgery for joint pain,” says Dr. Clevenger.
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She says the first step is a comprehensive physical exam to assess functional status, which helps identify the source and cause of the pain. “With older adults, it is very common for the muscles that stabilize and support the joint to be weak. This can lead to instability around the joint, which can worsen arthritis and pain. If we can correct that with a program of physical therapy and strength training, that patient can not only be pain-free, but also be able to return to a more active lifestyle.” Other non-surgical treatment options may include over-the-counter or prescription medications, injections, heat and cold therapies, electrotherapies, massage, bracing, rehabilitation programs, nutritional recommendations and therapeutic exercise. “The treatment is determined based on each individual’s unique situation – their pain level and functional capacity. When it comes to pain management in these cases, there is no ‘one-size-fitsall approach,” says Dr. Clevenger. And that’s something free-spirited Baby Boomers can certainly appreciate. For more information about joint and back pain treatment, call Center for Orthopaedics at 721-7236 or visit www.centerforortho.com.
September 2018
Improve Your Quality of Life as You Age
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hen it comes to aging, Americans harbor plenty of concerns, whether they be physical, psychological, or financial. But there’s no reason to believe that a few age-related concerns doom you to a dreary existence. “There are a number of things people can do right now that will increase the odds that their senior years will be healthy, productive and rewarding,” says Chris Orestis, a senior-care advocate and author of the books Help on the Way and A Survival Guide to Aging. “It’s important to help seniors and their families make the most of what should be the best years of their lives. A healthy diet and exercise are two of the better known ingredients for improving the chances you’ll lead a long and fruitful life. Others depend more on your mental outlook.
Attitude.
Life hands everyone challenges, but it’s how you deal with those challenges that makes the difference. “Keeping a positive attitude is important,” Orestis says. “Do you approach each day with zeal or with dread? Are you active or sedentary? It’s critical to live life with a purpose because it will make you strive to be healthy of mind, body, and in your attitude.”
September 2018
Adaptability.
People change as they age and so does the world around them. “You need to be prepared to manage a whole host of changes in a positive way,” Orestis says. “Your body changes. Your mind changes. There are changes in your career, in the community you live in, and in the technology we all use every day. Those who do the best job of adapting are the ones most likely to thrive.”
Relationships.
People who nurture relationships are more likely to live higher-quality lifestyles. “As we age, relationships will change and it’s important to stay engaged, whether in person or from afar,” Orestis says. “We also need to build new relationships throughout our lives.”
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Activities.
Filling your time with activities – coaching a youth soccer team, learning guitar, traveling – can help give you a more meaningful and healthy life. “One of the keys to people who live long lives is that their life continued to have meaning,” Orestis says. “Hobbies, volunteer work, learning new skills, or getting more involved with your family are all paths to an active and meaningful life.” “Aging shouldn’t be a oneway ticket to poor health, loneliness, boredom, and a declining quality of life,” he says. The key to enjoying a long and fulfilling life is often a matter of attitude. And it’s up to you.
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Your Memorial Wishes A Final Gift for Your Family by Kristy Como Armand
Few of us want to think of how our life will end, or how things will continue after we’re gone. But one of the most meaningful gifts you can give your family is a plan for your memorial service. When your wishes are left behind, it eases the burden on loved ones who will be expected to make decisions and answer questions about how to proceed in the hours and days immediately after your death.
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September 2018
“It’s about providing peace of mind to you, but most importantly, to those who are most important to you,” says Andy Hankins, licensed funeral director with Johnson Funeral Home. “When you plan your service beforehand, it makes things much easier for your family, who will already be going through a difficult time. We see the difference this makes for the families. Losing and saying a final farewell to a loved one is one of the most stressful situations a family faces. Having to make decisions about funeral and burial arrangements during this time just adds to that stress. Putting a plan in place ahead of time eliminates this burden.” According to Hankins, your wishes can be as personalized and detailed as you want. “Instead of approaching it as a sad or morbid task, think of it as a positive thing—a gift to your family. Think about how you want your memorial service to look or feel. Most of us would prefer that people celebrate our lives rather than mourn or deaths. If so, consider how you’d like your loved ones to do that,” Hankins said.
A few things to consider:
to consider whether you’d prefer a funeral service, memorial or graveside,” says Hankins.
Music and songs. Music is typically an essential element of a service. What do you want performed at your service? Something uplifting, that celebrates life? Something nostalgic from your past? Your favorite song, perhaps?
Who and where. Who do you want to officiate, and where?
Traditions. If you have specific traditions you want to follow, make sure that’s clear. “Don’t assume your family knows,” Hankins says. “Discuss it with them so you can be sure they know your wishes and they won’t have to debate the decisions with each other.” Readings. “If you desire a faith-based service, you may wish to include your favorite scripture or readings,” says Hankins. “Those who prefer a more secular service could choose inspiration readings and personal philosophies.”
Donations or gifts. “Many people prefer that the attendees give a donation in their honor, rather than flowers,” Hankins says. “If that’s the case, make those wishes clear.” Once you have all your wishes documented, make sure your family or loved ones know where to find them. Keep the document in a safe and secure place, preferably with your other important papers.
Eulogists. Is there someone specific you’d like to deliver your eulogy? If so, are there are key aspects of your life you want that person to talk about?
“You can also arrange payments beforehand so no one is left with a financial burden,” Hankins adds. “This can also be a huge cost-savings for your family. Pre-paying for your funeral years ahead of time allows you to lock in today’s lower costs.” Hankins says there are numerous options for pre-arrangement policies and that is something his staff can assist with, along with other funeral pre-planning services.
Visitation and service. Do you want a viewing, visitation or wake before your service? “As for the service itself, you may want
For more information on funeral pre-planning or to schedule a free consultation, call Johnson Funeral Home at (337) 478-8687.
Enhancing your face requires the skill of a surgeon and the eye of an artist. Making skin smooth and tight again is only a part of facial plastic surgery. Also, consider the balance and proportions of your face – the relationship of your chin, nose, eyes and ears to your total appearance. Adjusting this balance creates a face that is more youthful, more delicately shaped, more gently perfected. You want to look better, not different.
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 September 2018
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OFF YOUR
GAME?
How Allergies Can Hinder Athletic Performance by Haley Armand Tarasiewicz
If you’ve never been able to figure out why your athletic performance suffers during certain seasons, you may be relieved to learn that it may not be you; it might be your allergies. Allergies are increasing in prevalence, especially among youth. So much so, that many people are discouraged from participating in sports because they can’t seem to get their breathing to cooperate and write it off as being too difficult. The inhalation or contact with any allergens leads the body to produce and release histamine, causing an athlete’s performance to be all over the place. If they happen to be running during a flare up, they will simply be unable to push as hard as they typically could. “Athletes at any age feel the effects of allergy symptoms in every aspect of sports,” Dr. Brad LeBert, ENT and allergy specialist with the ENT and Allergy Clinic, an affiliate of Imperial Health, explains. “Allergy symptoms such as watery and itchy eyes can interfere with vision, and sneezing, headaches 64 www.thriveswla.com
and sinus pressure can interfere with concentration. Peripheral factors, like poor sleep quality, anxiety, and increased fatigue are other side effects of allergies that can impact athletic performance.” What are triggers that can sideline even the toughest competitors? Pollen, dust and dander are some of the most common, and they’re all airborne. Athletes tend to use more air as they push their physical limits, and all of that extra air means extra allergens. The result? Nasal inflammation, rhinitis, and rhinoconjuctivitis—the medical terms for a stuffy and itchy nose. “Nasal congestion is particularly problematic for endurance athletes because the nose functions to remove some allergens and irritants from the air, while warming and humidifying it as well,” Dr. LeBert says. “The cooler, drier, and more irritant-rich air can cause the airways in your throat to become inflamed. Additionally, the post-nasal drip of mucus down the back of your throat can irritate the airways as well.”
Allergies are increasing in prevalence, especially among youth. So much so, that many people are discouraged from participating in sports because they can’t seem to get their breathing to cooperate and write it off as being too difficult.
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September 2018
When it comes to allergies, there are a variety of treatment options, explains Dr. LeBert. Overthe-counter medications such as antihistamines can provide a quick, but temporary, relief of allergy symptoms. Some of these medications must be taken as frequently as every four hours, and may cause side effects, such as drowsiness. Another option is allergy shots over a duration of time that aims to reduce the effects of allergies and eliminate triggers. “Overall, prompt treatment of allergies will help to improve every aspect of an athlete’s play and game – from the stamina to participate in full practice sessions and games, to the ability to run at top speed,” says Dr. LeBert. “You don’t have to be benched by the pollen count. Armed with a little knowledge and a proper treatment plan, you can get back up to full performance levels by controlling your allergies.” Call the ENT and Allergy Clinic at (337) 312-8681 to schedule an evaluation, or visit www.entandallergyclinic.net, if you are experiencing symptoms that may be caused by allergies.
There’s strength in our numbers. We’re proud to be the region’s largest, independent musculoskeletal group. Our experienced specialists work together to provide our patients with the type of care they expect and deserve—personalized, attentive, respectful, and of the highest quality. And when it comes to technology, we’re bringing the latest advances to Southwest Louisiana so you won’t have to leave home to get the care you need. Our team of doctors includes these specialties: orthopaedic surgery physical medicine and rehabilitation foot and ankle care/surgery primary care sports medicine
interventional pain management hand surgery neurosurgery
Whatever your musculoskeletal concern, we’ve got you covered from head to toe.
Lake Charles | Sulphur
CenterforOrtho.com September 2018
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Home & Family
Fall into 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.”
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a Beautiful 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
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by Kristy Como Armand
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-a-half 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.
September 2018
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.” Everage 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.
YOUR CAREER IS CALLING The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office is actively recruiting dispatchers.
If you’re a high school graduate, can communicate well and remain calm under pressure, you could be a dispatch candidate. This position can be the first stop in a long-term law enforcement career. We offer a competitive starting salary and unmatched benefits package. Make the call today to learn more.
Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office
337-494-4519 September 2018
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Home & Family
Small Pests can cause Big Problems
Protect your Home
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September 2018
Your home is a major investment, yet its strength and value can be compromised by the tiniest of intruders. “Pests such as ants, termites, and mice can potentially invade the smallest nook and cranny of a home, wreaking havoc just beneath the surface and out of sight of unsuspecting homeowners,” says Robert Soileau, J&J Exterminating Lake Charles Branch Manager. For health and safety, it’s important for homeowners to be alert for these common pests.
Formosa Termites.
Soileau says Formosa termites are the most pervasive pest and can cause significant damage. They eat wood, insulation, and other household items. Formosa termites are an invasive species and can survive with less moisture than the native subterranean termites, making them even more of a threat.
Carpenter Ants.
These big, black ants are often seen in kitchens and bathrooms. They tunnel into wood that is moist as they make their way around your home, leaving a trail of destruction.
Carpenter Bees.
These large bees are easy to see as they tunnel through exposed, unfinished wood, leaving gaps in siding and exterior wood.
Mice.
Rodents are dirty and can cause significant damage. They gnaw on virtually anything, including electrical wiring, attic insulation, human food, pet food, and paper. They can also carry diseases such as hantavirus, the plague, and others. They can enter your home through surprisingly small openings or cracks.
We’ll Protect Your Ho m e f r o m Fall Pests
Any home can be vulnerable to pests, but homes that have poor maintenance are more susceptible due rotting boards, windows, and doors without weather stripping. Yards should also be maintained with regular mowing to decrease harborage and feeding of pests. Soileau also recommends homeowners keep their home water tight, painted, and caulked as a first line of defense. Consistent pest control will provide protection to your home and help safeguard you and your family from devastating problems from pests harming your home or your health. If you’re experiencing problems with pests, or to avoid future problems, talk with a pest control professional for expert service. It will provide protection for your home and your health. For more information, call J&J Exterminating at 337- 474-7377.
Cooler days and lo home for pests. nger nights are like a welcome mat at your Cockroaches, an name a few, are ts looking for a w , spiders and rodents, to arm place and darkness of fall the gives them tim e to find a way extended home. into your Get the shield an d As the largest in protect your home with J&J Ex term de in Louisiana, yo pendently-owned pest contro inating. u can trust J&J l company Ext years, we’ve prov ided safe and eff erminating. For over 59 with exceptiona l customer serv ective pest control, along ice. Call us today fo r a free consulta tion.
LAKE CHARLES • 474-7377 | DERIDDER • 463-4574 September 2018
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Home & Family
Get a Room!
Room Service Delivers Flair to Your Home by Stefanie Powers
After a long, hot summer, autumn is on its way, ushering in cooler weather and all the changes that a new season brings. Now is a good time to think about making some exciting transformations in your home – and there’s a new store in town that will help you every step of the way. Lance Thomas and Drew Hoffpauir are the proud co-owners of Room Service Home Décor and Design, which recently opened in Lake Charles. Thomas, who is also the in-house designer, said he and Hoffpauir decided to open a furniture store because of their love of home and commercial design. “We especially love boutique hotels, hence the name Room Service,” Thomas explains. “I have been an interior designer for seven years now and started my career on national television. I was a contestant on a reality show called Design Star: White Room Challenge on HGTV.” Thomas was also the owner/designer of another store in Lake Charles, but now, he and Hoffpauir have started a new and exciting venture. Thomas knows that having a designer on staff helps with the buying process in answering the age-old home furnishing question: “Does this go together?” “Our store is different because we hand
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curate our entire showroom collection from a multitude of vendors and then vignette out an entire vision pulling from all of our sources,” Thomas says. “This creates a truly designer space right at the fingertips for our patrons. We have found that many people who shop online or at other furniture stores may love a given piece of furniture, but aren’t sure how to finish out the look without being ‘matchy matchy.’ We do all that work for them and showcase it here at Room Service.”
So what are the trends for fall 2018? “Trends are a funny thing,” Thomas explains. “While there are clear evolving trends in the home décor world, as a retail store and design service, we take a bit of an unapologetic approach to home design. We believe that if there is clear intention with the design choices, trends don’t necessarily matter.” For example, if a customer loves red and geometric patterns, it may not be considered “on trend” at the moment, but Thomas says they love to make a client’s personal taste designer and intentional . . . and thus, on trend for them.
September 2018
Turf!
Take care of your
“With that being said, here at Room Service we are seeing a lot of velvet textures this fall season,” Thomas says. “Camel and nude-colored leathers are replacing the dark brown of seasons past. Exotic, exciting floral prints are making their way onto wall coverings, upholstery, and the like. Definitive black and white motifs are entering spaces to create a more succinct color spectrum, allowing basic neutrals to act as intentional color choices.” Thomas says they provide discounts for purchasing a ‘look.’ “We also provide at-home consultations and design renovation so that we can better bring the distinct Room Service look to our community’s doorstep,” he continues. “All you have to do is ‘Order Room Service’ via our email: orderroomservice@gmail.com.” Be sure to check out the unique items at Room Service and lift your home’s spirits this fall! Room Service Home Décor and Design, 131 W. 11th St., Lake Charles, (337) 2744755. Open Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.- 6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., closed Sunday and Monday. Find them on Facebook!
September 2018
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.
5005 Cobra Road in Lake Charles (337) 478-3836 M-F: 7am – 4pm Sat: 8am – 2pm (Seasonal Hours)
landscapemanagement.org
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Home & Family
HAPPENINGS MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital Hosts September Class for Delivery and Breastfeeding
West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital will host a class on September 18 from 6-8pm. on preparing for delivery and breastfeeding. The cost is $10 per participant and will be held in the North Conference Room at the Cypress Street entrance. Class space is limited and pre-registration is required. A childbirth educator as well as a certified lactation counselor will lead the discussion and will be available for one-on-one questions. To register, call (337) 527-4361.
Shots for Tots September Dates Announced
West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital will offer Shots for Tots on several dates in September. On September 8, the clinic will be held in Sulphur and Vinton. The Sulphur clinic will be held at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital near the Cypress Street entrance from 8:30am-noon. Walk-ins are welcome. The Vinton clinic will be held at the Vinton Medical Clinic from 2-4pm., by appointment only, call (337) 527-4361 to schedule.
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On September 13, the clinic will be held in Moss Bluff at Dynamic Dimensions East from 4-7pm. Walk-ins are welcome. On September 26, the clinic will be held in Westlake at the Westlake Diagnostic Center from 2-4pm by appointment only, call (337) 433-1395 to schedule. Shots for Tots offers immunizations for children six weeks of age through 18 years of age who are uninsured, underinsured, or have Medicaid, or are American Indian/Alaskan native. The cost is $10 per person.
Craft Scarecrows at Upcoming Breast Cancer Support Group
West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital will host its Pink Crusade breast cancer support group on September 13, at 6pm in the hospital’s board room. This month’s focus is having fun by crafting scarecrows and angels. Donna Nevils, RN, will lead the project. The group is open to the public and light refreshments will be served. For more information, call (337) 528-7320.
Preparing for a DiabeticFriendly Holiday is Topic at Upcoming Diabetes Support Group
West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital will host its diabetes support group on September 11, at 11:30am at the hospital’s cafeteria conference room. Guest speaker is Cynthia Chantlin, LDN, RD, to talk about how to prepare for the holidays in a diabetic-friendly way. There is no charge to attend and the group is open to the public.
The events kicks off on October 7, in the Golden Nugget Grand Event Center. Doors open at 6pm and the show begins at pm. Tickets are $50 per person and include the concert, a sweet and savory appetizer selection and a beverage. There will be a cash bar for patrons over 21 years of age. The round tables seat 8 people. A VIP table costs $600. Tickets are available at mickeysmithjr.com or musicmakers2u.org websites.
For details, call (337) 527-4282.
Sax In the City Featuring Mickey Smith Jr. & friends
Lake Charles Toyota presents Grammy-educator and smooth jazz saxophonist Mickey Smith Jr.’s Sax In the City benefiting Musicmakers2U. This concert, generously hosted by Golden Nugget Casino Lake Charles will feature some of the greatest songs from the 70s, 80s, 90s and today performed by a few of today’s greatest smooth jazz stars. And it all benefits a worthy cause, Musicmakers2U, a local nonprofit that helps area youth discover their sound by providing them with musical instruments at no charge.
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September 2018
2018 Keynote Speaker
Tamron Hall THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18 LAKE CHARLES CIVIC CENTER
8:00am - 4:00pm Featuring Various DIY Workshops Vendor Registration for MarketPlace Now Open!
WomensCommissionSWLA.com September 2018
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!
Solutions for Life
from Solutions Counseling & EAP by Keri Forbess-McCorquodale, MS, LPC, LMFT, CEAP
Trust Me! I read an article recently about the importance of trust in the business world. I realized as I was reading, I say a lot of the exact same things in therapy sessions with couples. Business and personal relationships really are all about trust. And when trust is broken, while it can be repaired, generally a scar of some sort is left. What is trust? Trust is when I can count on you to follow through with whatever you said you would do. Be it a marriage vow, a business contract, or simply your word, if you committed to it, I need to know you will do it. If I don’t believe you will follow through, then I am going to start pulling away to protect myself so you can’t hurt me. In healthy relationships, where people truly connect, trust is a major factor. If I trust you, I don’t need to protect myself. I can make myself vulnerable with you. I can be honest. I can disagree and know that our relationship will be fine. Imagine the impact in business if it’s OK to disagree, safe to share ideas, and everyone knows that promises are kept. Now, apply those same principals to any relationship you can think of. Talk about creating an environment for success! Relationships of all kinds are basically a series of agreements. I agree to come to work at a certain time. We agree to not yell at each other or call each other
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names in our marriage. I commit to my child that I will be a good example. When agreements are kept, the relationship grows. When agreements are not kept, distrust ensues. There are other things that can diminish and even kill trust. If I avoid conflict and refuse to discuss things that are uncomfortable but need to be addressed, I will not be trusted. If I micromanage you and don’t allow you to make decisions, you will not trust me. If I have bad news, but don’t share it so you get blindsided, you will not trust me. Trust is about openness, a desire to share the load (be it good or bad), and a belief that the other party will do what is right. How do you increase trust? You have to work on it. It does not develop on its own. You have to consciously note when you agree to do something, that your follow through or lack thereof will impact the relationship. Here are some other ways to build trust: Be Transparent. When I am working with couples where a transgression has occurred, we talk a lot about transparency. Don’t wait to be asked where you are; tell your partner before he/she has to ask. When asked a question, don’t be squirrely; answer directly and completely.
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Be Compassionate. As a leader, you must express care and concern for your employees. If they feel you don’t view them as people first and employees second, they will never trust you. Get to know them. Ask about their families. Genuinely be interested and listen. Have Character. Do the right thing no matter what, and no matter who is watching. Be the person you know you need to be. Live your life according to your values. It’s who you are when no one is watching that determines your character. Be a Contributor. You can’t build trust from the sidelines. You have to get in there and show that you are willing to do whatever you are asking others to do. People like working with someone, not for them. So, get out of your office at work, and your recliner at home, and do your part! Be Consistent. Steadiness builds trust. No outbursts. Conversely, no apathy. Stable emotions and commitment to excellence makes that person want to continue in their relationship with you. If you’d like to learn more about trust, I encourage you to embark upon therapy. It’s a great way to learn about yourself, and, more importantly, help you become the person you would like to be – trustworthy!
September 2018
McNeese Fall Registration Underway McNeese Names New Police Chief McNeese State University alumnus William Scheufens has been selected as the new chief of police for the McNeese Police Department. Scheufens has 36 years of law enforcement experience in physical security, budget preparation and management, investigations and training of law enforcement personnel. Scheufens holds a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice from McNeese and is a graduate of the 193rd session of the FBI National Academy. He worked over 30 years in the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office - serving as a corrections officer, patrol deputy sheriff, academy instructor, a criminal and an administrative investigator, an investigative supervisor and commander. He also served as a police officer and investigator at McNeese. Scheufens most recently served as director of security for Lake Charles Memorial Health Systems.
Leadership Conference in New Orleans. The McNeese fraternity received the coveted the Founders’ Award of Chapter Excellence for the second year in a row. The McNeese chapter was one of 21 chapters among the 320 national chapters to receive this award recognizing outstanding chapter management, achievement and program development. For the first time in McNeese chapter history, all five Kappa Sigma officers received national individual awards: Austin Pottorff, Sulphur, outstanding grand master; Hunter Misse, Sulphur, outstanding grand master of ceremonies; Levi Friend, Seattle, Washington, outstanding grand procurator; Christopher Ange Jr., Lake Charles, outstanding grand scribe award; and Andres Arias, Lake Charles, outstanding grand treasurer award. The chapter also received the Greater Cause for Dollars Award for raising $65,000 for philanthropy, the fourth largest amount among national chapters as well as the 100% Ritual Proficiency Award and the Academic Excellence Award for both fall and spring semesters. Pottorff, past Kappa Sigma president, was also one of 25 students to receive the Dr. John Ryan Scholarship, which goes to a student who demonstrates excellence in academics, campus involvement and fraternity leadership.
McNeese Names Interim Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Chris Thomas has been named interim vice president for student affairs and dean of students at McNeese Dr. Chris Thomas State University. Thomas has been serving as assistant vice president for university services at McNeese since 2015. His appointment is pending approval by the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors. In 2006, Thomas joined McNeese as student activities coordinator and has served in various positions related to campus life and student services. He serves on numerous university committees and has received several awards for outstanding service to students and the university. Thomas received his Bachelor of Arts degrees in English literature and psychology from Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, his Master of Education degree in counseling and guidance from Texas State University in San Marcos and his doctorate in education from the University of North Texas in Denton.
McNeese Kappa Sigma Fraternity Wins National Awards McNeese State University’s Theta Rho chapter of Kappa Sigma fraternity received nine national awards at the 2018 Kappa Sigma
September 2018
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3125 Ernest Street | 337.564.5818 | www.mimosa-boutique.com M-f : 10-5:30 pm | Sat : 10-4 PM | Closed Sunday 76 www.thriveswla.com
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September 2018
