Thrive September 2020

September 2020

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Rehabilitation Hospital

of Jennings

DIAgNOSeS THAT we TReAT

• Brain Injury

• Hip Fractures

• Strokes

• Osteoarthritis/DJD

• Amputations

• Neurological Disorders

• Burns

• Spinal Cord Injury

• Major Multiple Trauma

• Congenital Deformities

• Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Systemic Vasculidities

• Joint Replacements

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

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

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

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

Welcome New Physicians CHRISTUS Ochsner Health Southwestern Louisiana welcomes these new physicians to our medical staff. We are excited to be able to expand access to medical care in our community.

Brandon Leggio, M.D. OB/GYN | 4150 Nelson Rd. | Bldg. G | Suite 6

Brandon Leggio, M.D. is a board-certified OB/GYN. He comes to Southwest Louisiana from Ochsner/Louisiana State University Health System in Shreveport, LA. Dr. Leggio is now accepting patients at Ochsner CHRISTUS Health Center – OB/GYN.

Tashfeen Mahmood, M.D. Pulmonology, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine | 4150 Nelson Rd. | Bldg. G | Suite 4

Tashfeen Mahmood, M.D. is board-certified in internal medicine, pulmonology and sleep medicine. He comes to Southwest Louisiana from the University of Texas Health System Northeast in Tyler, TX. Dr. Mahmood is now accepting patients at Ochsner CHRISTUS Health Center – Pulmonology, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine.

Kamran Shahid, M.D. Hematology/Oncology | 4150 Nelson Rd. | Bldg. G | Suite 2

Kamran Shahid, M.D. is a board-certifed medical oncologist. He comes to Southwest Louisiana from the University of Texas Health North Campus Tyler – MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr. Shahid is now accepting patients at Ochsner CHRISTUS Health Center – Hematology/Oncology.

To find a physician, visit ChristusOchsner.org or call 337.491.7577.

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Contents In This Issue Home & Family

6-21 SPECIAL SECTION:

For the Love of Pets

Regular Features 60 62 64 66

22 Chiropractic for Mom and Baby 24 Help your Children Adopt Healthy Lifestyles

Who’s News Business Buzz Happenings Solutions for Life

10

Wining & Dining

26-29 Eateries that Dared to Open

27 Lulu’s Specialty Snocones

28 Lake Chuck Melts

29 The Village Coffeehouse

Mind & Body 30-47

COVER STORY:

Money & Career

48 Finding Employment in the Age of Coronavirus 50 American Sign Language Awareness Month 52 Dr. Joseph Gallien -- Fighting COVID-19

27

Places & Faces

54-59 Keeping the Arts Alive in a COVID-19 World

58 @thriveswla | thriveswla.com 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.

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

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

Managing Editor Angie Kay Dilmore Editors and Publishers Kristy Como Armand

Christine Fisher Creative Director Barbara VanGossen Design and Layout Sarah Bercier Business Manager Katie McDaniel Stevenson Advertising Sales katie@thriveswla.com 337.310.2099 Submissions edit@thriveswla.com

This is the age of a new Louisiana.

We built Louisiana’s largest pediatric health network to care for any of the one million children in our state and deliver on the belief that your child can be part of a stronger, healthier tomorrow. From check-ups to complex medical and emergency care, your child’s care begins here. Visit ololchildrens.org/believe for more.

Believe in me.

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Home & Family

For the Love of Pets

6

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

S

ixty-seven percent of U.S. households, or about 85 million families, own a pet, according to the 20192020 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association.

And those numbers may be climbing, in great part to the coronavirus pandemic. With more families isolating at home, there has been an increased interest in pet ownership. According to an August article in the Washington Post, pet adoptions have surged during the crisis.

In honor of all the new pet owners and those lucky dogs (and cats) who have found forever homes, this special section will help you take great care of your furry friends. You’ll find articles on how to care for your pet’s health, the costs involved with pet ownership, what to do regarding pets during a natural disaster, the best toys and treats for your pet, and how to deal with those stains and odors from inevitable accidents. Good dog . . .

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Home & Family | For the Love of Pets

Keeping your Pet Healthy

by Kristy Como Armand

As much as you love your pet, as connected as you feel to them, you can’t read their mind. And since pets can’t talk, it can be difficult to detect when they aren’t feeling well. So how do you know when they need to see a veterinarian?

“Not only can your pet not tell you if they have a health problem, most species instinctively hide their symptoms because they do not want to appear injured or weak,” explains Dr. Jae Chang, veterinarian with Prien Lake Animal Hospital.

Dr. Chang says although warning signs and symptoms of a health problem vary between species, there are some changes that can signal a potential health problem in the most common household pets, dogs and cats. These include:

• Change in eating habits • Drinking a lot more or less than usual • Difficult or rapid breathing • Vomiting • Changes in “bathroom” habits • Rashes or other skin or hair changes • Lethargy or lack of energy • Poor balance or difficulty walking • Irritated, watery or red eyes • Whining or wincing • Aggressiveness • Other unusual behavior While knowing these symptoms can be useful, if you are concerned about your pet’s health at any time, it’s best to take them to see a veterinarian,” says Dr. Chang.

The challenge of identifying health problems in a pet is the reason routine veterinary care is essential to helping pets live a long, healthy life, according to Dr. Chang.

He provides these general guidelines for veterinary care: ANNUAL HEALTH EXAMS Pets age more quickly than humans, making annual exams even more critical for preventing disease, injury, and pain. By establishing a baseline medical history for your pet, your veterinarian will be able to identify any abnormal changes in your pet’s health and begin treatment right away. Older pets may need more frequent exams.

VACCINATIONS Just like human children, kittens, puppies, and several other types of pets need a variety of shots to protect them from potentially fatal diseases. Vaccinations can start as early as six weeks for some, and re-vaccinations are needed for certain diseases. Your veterinarian will be able to give you the best vaccination schedule for your pet.

SPAY OR NEUTER In addition to preventing unwanted litters, spaying (females) or neutering (males) also has health benefits. These procedures may help modify behaviors that can make animals restless or aggressive and can even help prevent some cancers and other diseases.

Depending on the species, this procedure can be done as early as eight weeks of age.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

HEARTWORM PREVENTION Heartworm disease can be fatal, so prevention is essential.

Your pet should be given a blood test for heartworms at least once a year. Although heartworm disease occurs more frequently in dogs, other animals can contract them, too. We recommend your dog, cat, or ferret be given a heartworm preventative all year.

FLEA AND TICK PREVENTION Fleas and ticks are not just irritating to your pet; they also carry many dangerous diseases. Your vet can provide the treatment and products to protect your pet and advise you on how to safely treat infestations in your home and yard.

DENTAL EXAMS Dental exams are performed during annual health checkups to help prevent tooth decay, bad breath, gum disease, and infections that can lead to major illness and discomfort. Animals should get their teeth cleaned, just like people. Your veterinarian will be able to make individual recommendations based on their evaluation of your pet.

For more information about pet care, call Prien Lake Animal Hospital at 474-1526 or visit PrienLakeAnimalHospital.com.

Providing high quality, compassionate oral care to ensure the whole family is happy and healthy.

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Home & Family | For the Love of Pets

Natural Disaster Preparedness for Pets

Hurricane season doesn’t end until November 30 and there’s still time to add pets to your storm prep to-do list.

PACK AN EMERGENCY KIT Having a pre-packed “go bag” for your pet can be crucial during an emergency; here are the most essential items to remember:

• Vaccination documents – These are important to ensuring

that your pet will be able to stay at a shelter or hotel in case of evacuation.

• Bottled water – NEVER allow Fido to drink tap water immediately after a storm, as it could be abundant with chemicals and bacteria; be sure to pack plenty of purified / bottled water to keep him hydrated.

• Food – Pack at least one weeks’ worth of food (and if you use canned food, don’t forget a can opener).

• Medication – Pack at least one week's worth of medication.

• Toys/Blankets – Comfort items like a chew toy and a familiar blanket can keep your pet calm during an emergency, and therefore less likely to act erratically or run off.

• Leash/Collar – For your pet's safety, always have a leash and collar on-hand.

PLAN A SAFE HAVEN If you are away or cannot get to your pet when disaster strikes, find a local dog daycare, friend or pet sitter who can reach your pet. Never leave a pet behind in an emergency as they often cannot protect themselves or may get lost. Plan ahead to evacuate to a pet-friendly hotel or a friend or family’s home that is out of the affected area.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

ENSURE VACCINATIONS ARE UP TO DATE If your pet must stay at a shelter, important documents pertaining to vaccinations or medications are crucial. Vaccinations (including Bordetella) should be up to date so there are no issues leaving your pet in a safe place.

MICROCHIP YOUR PET Getting your pet a microchip could mean the difference between keeping him/her safe and making them a stray. Microchips allow veterinarians to scan lost animals and determine their identity so they are safely returned home. Be sure your microchip is registered and up to date so if your pet is lost, the correct information is accessible to whomever recovers your pet.

MAKE FIDO FEEL AT HOME Like humans, pets become stressed when their safety is at risk. If you evacuate, bring their favorite toys and a comfortable bed or kennel for security. If your pet is prone to anxiety, stress-relieving products like a dog anxiety vest or a natural stress-relieving medication/spray can help ease them in times of emergency.

IDENTIFYING INFORMATION If your pet is lost or runs away during an emergency, bring and be able to provide information that will help others find him/her such as recent photos, behavioral characteristics, or traits. These can help others identify your pet and return them safely to you.

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RESCUE ALERT STICKER Put this sticker on your home to let people know there are pets inside your home. If you take your pets with you, cross out the sticker and put “evacuated” or some other words to let rescue workers know your pet is safely out of your home.

EASE PETS BACK HOME Don’t allow your pet to run back into your home or even through your neighborhood once you and your family have returned. Your once familiar home could be disheveled and/ or changed, and this can potentially disorient and stress your pet.

Keep your pet on a leash and safely ease him/her back home. Make sure they don’t eat or pick up anything that could potentially be dangerous, such as downed wires or contaminated water.

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Home & Family | For the Love of Pets

Treats & Toys

WHAT’S BEST FOR YOUR PET

by Kerry Andersen

The real winners of recent life changes brought on by COVID-19 restrictions are our pets! Instead of watching us go off to work and school, they simply watch us – All. Day. Long. Behind that loving stare is a not too subtle plea for treats and it is hard to say no to our constant companions.

Which begs the question, how much is too much?

Veterinarian Dr. Wade Woolman with Downtown Animal Hospital warns that treats are the real culprits when pets are overweight. As a general guideline, treats should make up no more than 10 percent of the total calories your dog or cat consumes. Dr. Woolman recommends having an ulterior motive when you offer a snack to your fur babies.

“Try to address a medical issue with a treat and make it as beneficial as possible,” he says. For example, give older pets a treat that contains glucosamine chondroitin for their joints or give them something like a Greenie Dental Treat that will whittle away at the plaque on their teeth while they gnaw on it.

When it comes to cats, go easy with people food. Occasional small bits of cheese or cooked chicken are fine but avoid onions and garlic, grapes, raisins, or raw meat and eggs. These common foods can be toxic to all pets. Dr. Woolman likes Temptations Classic treats for cats because they are low calorie, high protein, and have few additives.

He says that anything for a dog or cat can be a treat. Even cooked veggies without salt will set tails wagging if they are offered outside of mealtime. His favorite pick for a healthy pet treat is unexpected – animal crackers – they are crunchy, have zero fat, and because they are made for children, they’re FDA approved (most pet treats are not).

Most importantly, become an avid label reader and avoid ingredients like corn syrup, xylitol, nitrites, propylene glycol and excessive salt.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

PLAYTIME

As with treats, ensure your pets’ toys don’t cause them harm. The Humane Society recommends the following when choosing dog toys:

• Look for BPA-free toys.

• To avoid broken teeth, chew toys should have some ‘give’ to them – you should be able to scratch the surface with your fingernail and leave an indent.

• Avoid animal bones, antlers, hooves, and hard nylon bones. Ask your vet about rawhide.

• Safe bets are rope toys, durable stuffed toys, and firm rubber toys.

All toys should be size-appropriate. Smaller balls can be a choking hazard.

• Aim for a good mix of soft comfort toys, those that distract such as a treat-filled Kong, and active toys for chewing, fetching, or tugging.

For cats, experts recommend daily vigorous play, even better if it engages their basic instincts to stalk and hunt. Look for toys made of natural materials such as feathers to mimic the look and feel of prey.

Avoid loose pieces and glued on decorations.

TOP PICKS:

• Bergan Turbo Scratcher: interactive scratch pad.

• Cat Dice: colorful, bouncy, and unpredictable – your cats will chase them through the house. simple but highly entertaining.

• Cat Dancer Wand Toy:

EASY 4-INGREDIENT DOG TREAT RECIPE -1 egg -1 ripe banana, mashed -1 cup flour -1 bag instant oatmeal, plain -½ cup smooth peanut butter (no sugar or sweeteners) -Mash up egg and banana in a bowl.

Add dry ingredients. Stir in peanut butter. -Roll dough out and use a boneshaped cookie cutter to form treats.

Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone sheet. Bake treats at 300-degrees for 20 minutes. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator.

LOCAL BUSINESSES OFFER PET TREATS Many local businesses feature special doggie menu items like the $2 beef, chicken or veggie snow cone at Lulu’s Specialty Snocones or gourmet baked treats at Great Harvest Bread Co. Others offer complimentary treats if your pup is in the car with you, just ask! Popular freebie treats include Dairy Queen Pup Cups (soft serve ice cream with tiny Milk Bones), the Starbucks Puppuccino (a small cup of whipped cream) and the Dunkin Donuts Puppy Latte. These local businesses have small treats ready and waiting for your pet to visit: Happy Donuts, Chase Bank, First Federal Bank, Lake Street Liquor, b1Bank, Main Street Juice Co., Sonic, and Chick-fil-A. PAWS UP GOURMET PET BOUTIQUE After reading the back of a dog treat bag, Katherine Pierce was moved to start cooking up more natural and healthy treats for her four family dogs. Friends and relatives loved them so much that Paws Up Gourmet Pet Boutique was born. Three years later, her gourmet treats with all-natural ingredients and no preservatives routinely sell out at local farmers markets. Popular flavors include Pumpkin Spice, Carrot Cake, Pizza, and the top selling Bacon Cheddar. Check out the Paws Up Facebook page for dates and locations (Cash & Carry Farmers Market, Charleston Farmers Market) or to order free treat delivery. Coming soon, a new line of healthy cat treats.

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Home & Family | For the Love of Pets

Don’t Let Pet Stains Cause Permanent Damage

by Kristy Como Armand

Whether you have a pet you consider a beloved member of the family or you’ve moved into a home where pets have left their mark, removing pet stains and odors from carpeting is one of the most challenging cleaning jobs anyone has to tackle.

If the extent of your pet odor problem is just a general pet smell, and not dealing with pet “accidents,” then your problem is pretty straightforward. In nearly every case, pet odor can be eliminated with simple deodorization treatment.

First, clean the affected areas as thoroughly as possible. Experts advise scrubbing and mopping hard surfaces with a vinegar or baking soda solution for odor control. If you’re dealing with pet odor removal from carpeting, there are products available in the cleaning aisle or from pet stores that claim to be able to remove pet odor, and they might work just fine for a new or minor problem. For pet odor that has permeated the carpeting and upholstery, you will likely need to hire a professional with the proper equipment to eliminate, not temporarily mask, the problem.

If your home has more severe pet urine stains and odor, you’ve got a bigger problem. Pet urine can cause permanent damage to your floors and fabrics, and also create an unhealthy indoor environment.

Pet urine is one of the most difficult smells to remove from any surface and can’t be treated like other stains and odors. The warm acid state of the urine offers a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, which begin to flourish almost immediately, and results in the strong odor. If left for days or weeks, depending on the fabric or floor type, it will change the dye structure, causing permanent staining. Even if the soluble deposits are removed, the damage to the dye structure may already be done.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

When dried urine is remoistened – such as when you try to clean it -- it gives off an ammonia gas. Dried urine is often easy to smell in the humid months because the salts attract moisture and the moisture evaporates, putting out even more odorous ammonia gas. Thus, cleaning existing urine spots will not remove the odor and could even increase the odor in the air temporarily. Remove the urine salts in and under the carpet to get rid of the odor.

Another reason to treat urine spots soon after they occur is to prevent the area from becoming a favorite “potty” spot for your pet.

Pets are creatures of habit and of smell, and will usually return to the same spot repeatedly if it is not treated properly.

If cleaning yourself, here are some do-it-yourself suggestions for getting rid of pet urine stains:

• Stay away from products with high pH such as ammonia and

oxygen bleaches. These products will leave the carpet with a residue and in a high pH state, which will attract dirt like a magnet. In some instances, the use of the wrong product can cause the urine stain to be permanent.

• Try a natural enzymatic-based odor remover available in many pet stores and from professional cleaners. Enzymes are the best cleaning agent for urine, vomit and feces because this is the only cleaning agent that actually eats up the bad bacteria.

• Pour the cleaner over the affected area and let sit for a long time.

The longer soak time allows for maximum effectiveness. No fans or open windows are needed. You could even place a piece of cardboard over the affected area to slow down evaporation. The solution eats away at the natural enzymes that cause the odor in initially, and they need time to do their work.

• Never scrub a stain. This will only drive contaminants deeper into carpet fibers.

• Steam carpet cleaning will only remoisten the crystals and make the odor stronger.

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A small wet vac can be used to quickly clean up accidents when they occur. Simply suck the urine right out of the carpet.

Then apply an enzymatic cleaner and let it sit a few minutes.

Pour a measuring cup of warm water on the spot and vac it out to rinse the carpet.

For tough and/or pre-existing pet stain and odors, your best option for successful removal is a deep cleaning by carpet cleaning professions, preferably a company that uses the hot water extraction method with truck mounted units to ensure the deepest possible cleaning power. This technique provides a deep clean down into the carpet pile, where much of the pet smell resides.

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Home & Family | For the Love of Pets

Financial Tips for Pet Owners More than half of all Americans own pets. Whether it’s a dog, cat, or less traditional pet like a guinea pig or lizard, animals are often an important part of the family. They can bring companionship and joy—but they also come with their own needs, expenses, and planning considerations. Follow these five financial planning tips if you own—or want to own—a pet.

EXPECT ONGOING COSTS Pets aren’t a one-time expense. After paying for any initial adoption fee and vet visit, expect recurring costs for food, supplies, grooming, vaccines, check-ups, boarding, and more. For example, the average first-year cost to care for a dog (across all sizes) is $3,085, and the average lifetime cost is $23,410. For a cat, the average first-year cost is nearly $1,200. It’s a good idea to estimate how much pet ownership will cost you—and whether your budget can support it—before you welcome a pet into your home.

CONSIDER ADDING TO YOUR EMERGENCY FUND Unexpected pet expenses may also affect your finances. In fact, 29% of dog owners said costs exceeded their expectations, and only 3% said costs were less than they anticipated. Like humans, pets can become suddenly or chronically ill. To be as financially prepared as possible, factor these unexpected veterinary bills, which can run to several thousand dollars, into your emergency fund. (Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) cannot be used for vet bills.)

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

TALK WITH YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY Pets can be a financial liability. Being a pet owner means being prepared to deal with a broken fence—or a broken leg.

Homeowner’s insurance may cover the cost of a broken fence, and an umbrella policy may extend liability coverage in case a dog bites or trips someone. Some insurers won’t cover homes in certain states if residents own certain dog breeds or “exotic” animals. Others exclude some breeds from liability coverage, or charge extra for them. Confirm your coverage with your insurance company, and consider modifying your policy if needed.

LOOK INTO PET INSURANCE If the cost of an emergency veterinary visit or serious illness would be a financial strain, pet health insurance may be a good option for you. As with your own policy, it’s important to read the fine print (what is covered, deductibles, pre-existing conditions, annual check-ups, dental care, etc.), because not all plans are created equal.

The average annual premium for a pet accident-and-illness plan was $529 per pet in 2018. Pet insurance is becoming an increasingly popular employee benefit, so check with your company about availability and discounts before purchasing a policy.

SERVING UP FINGER-LICKING FOOD FOR THREE DECADES

REVIEW YOUR ESTATE PLAN It’s important to have a plan for how your pet will be cared for after you die. Because animals legally can’t own an investment account or property, you can’t gift money or assets to your pet. Making advance personal arrangements, including discussions with family members, friends, and an attorney, can help ensure that your pet is cared for if you become unable to do so. Keep in mind that the average life expectancy for a dog is 10–12 years, and for a cat it’s 10–14 years. Some parrots have lived up to 100 years!

BOTTOM LINE The emotional benefits of owning a pet can be priceless.

However, pet ownership requires special planning considerations. Costs of care, what happens to a pet when it becomes sick, and what happens if you can no longer care for it are all important issues to consider, whether you already have a pet or plan to down the road.

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The new CloseWatch app from the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office provides an easy, anonymous way to report suspicious activity.

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Home & Family | For the Love of Pets

ANIMAL COMPANIONSHIP Provides Benefits for Older Adults

Experts say seniors who interact with animals feel less depressed and isolated Social isolation is becoming an increasingly common issue, with one in five Americans reporting they feel lonely. Seniors are especially vulnerable to these feelings, with nearly half saying they often feel lonely.

A new survey by Home Instead, Inc. found regular interaction with animals can help to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness in older adults.

“While we recognize that pet ownership isn’t for everyone, we find that interaction with pets, even on a small scale, can have a big impact on older adults,” said George Cestia, senior care expert and owner of the Home Instead Senior Care in Lake Charles, La.. “A simple act like petting a dog, holding a cat or watching a bird can bring so much joy to a senior who may be feeling lonely.”

Additional survey results found that nearly half of older pet owners cited stress relief, sense of purpose and exercise as leading benefits to owning a pet. Pets can also provide loving companionship for older adults who would prefer to age in place.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

In fact, 82 percent of senior animal owners surveyed said they would not consider moving to a senior living community without their pet.

These findings are no surprise to Steve Feldman, executive director of the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), a nonprofit research and education organization. “There is a strong connection between heart health and pet ownership or interaction,” Feldman said. “Pet owners are more likely to get recommended levels of exercise, have lower blood pressure and experience reduced levels of stress. Pets have even been shown to aid in recovery after a heart attack.”

While there are many benefits to owning a pet later in life, Home Instead also found that even occasional interactions with pets prove to be beneficial for older adults. Survey results indicate that older adults achieve the same positive feelings when spending time with animals in other capacities, such as visiting with pets owned by family, friends or neighbors.

“This interaction is especially important, as it also provides the opportunity to socialize with other people, further reducing feelings of loneliness,” Cestia said. “Our goal is to keep seniors safe and happy in their own homes for as long as possible

Other ways seniors can connect with pets: • Volunteer at a rescue organization or

animal shelter. Volunteers experience the benefits of interacting with pets, and they can provide some care to an animal in need.

• Get to know your neighbors’ pets.

Asking to join a neighbor for a walk might lead to new friendships.

• Connect with a therapy animal. Pet Partners therapy teams, made up of a pet owner and his or her registered animal, go into many locations where seniors live or receive treatment such as hospitals, hospice centers and care communities.

• Visit a pet store. Even just visiting with a pet can provide a boost, and pet stores are a good place to view and interact with animals.

and many times that includes helping them with their own pet, taking them to dog parks or visiting petfriendly businesses to gain that animal interaction they desire.”

Elisabeth Van Every, communications and outreach coordinator for Pet Partners, a nonprofit North American therapy animal organization agrees. “Research also shows animal interaction can help perceptions of pain and discomfort, and improve motivation for treatment protocols for diseases such as cancer by helping individuals feel more focused and positive moving forward. Even interactions for half an hour a week can make a difference.”

To help older adults determine what type of pet interaction is right for them, Home Instead Senior Care offers free information and tips to help seniors incorporate animals into their lives. To learn more, visit PetsandSeniors.com or contact the Lake Charles Home Instead Senior Care office at 337-480-0023.

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Home & Family | For the Love of Pets

In the Interest of Fido: WHO GETS THE PET AFTER DIVORCE OR COHABITATION?

by Taylor T. Imel

Best interest of the child has reigned supreme in most family law courts across the United States. Factors often considered include evidence of parenting ability, the child’s age, consistency, safety, and the impact of changing current routines. But what if similar factors weren’t only applied to the custody of children, but used to determine which party should have custody of pets following a divorce as well?

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

This area of law continues to develop on a state-by-state basis, as each state has varying levels of protection for pets during divorce. Some states focus on the best interest of the pet, seeking to ensure the pet is awarded to the spouse who can best provide for its daily needs. However, most courts simply determine the fair market value of the pet when making a final property division. Knowing how your jurisdiction treats these issues will ensure primary ownership is handled appropriately.

As any animal lover will attest, pets are an integral part of the family, often considered “babies.” Alas, unless you’re one of the fortunate few pet owners who live in California, Illinois, or Alaska, pets are considered personal property, not children. Period. As a result, courts have historically awarded pets to one spouse in a divorce based on its respective laws for the division of property, and don’t have legal frameworks geared toward awarding spouses joint custody of pets during and after a divorce. Therefore, financial planning and considerations must be made before entering a legal battle with your soon-to-be ex concerning the ownership of your pet.

Our new main office located downtown Lake Charles at 519 Kirby Street opening in September. Be the first to know! Sign up for updates at www.access.coop.

GET PET CUSTODIAL DESIRES IN WRITING A good rule of thumb: if you’re not able to provide the level of care that your spouse or significant other is willing to provide, don’t engage in a fight. The legal bills for fighting over a pet can be staggering – costing upwards of tens of thousands of dollars. Instead, consider working out a shared custody/visitation arrangement if possible.

Couples should also consider executing cohabitation, premarital or post-marital agreements governing what will happen to the pet in the event the couple decides to separate. Coined “pet-nups,” these agreements aren’t limited to married couples. Such agreements can be executed between cohabitating individuals, those who are dating, or friends who have simply co-adopted an animal. Given the favorability of these agreements, they’re likely to be upheld in most state courts provided that the language is specific and unambiguous and that both parties voluntarily signed the agreement.

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DOCUMENTATION IS KEY Given Louisiana and Texas’ treatment of pets as property, it’s important to present evidence that shows your right to the property or pet. For example, evidence that you bought the pet prior to marriage, received the pet as a gift, or purchased the pet with your separate property funds all help support a claim that you should be awarded the pet.

Taylor Imel is a board-certified family law attorney based in Houston, Texas with nearly a decade of experience in family law.

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Home & Family

MOMS AND BABIES You may be familiar with traditional chiropractic care. But are you aware that pregnant women and even babies can benefit from spinal care and adjustment? Lake Charles chiropractor Laurie Baynard DC focuses her practice on expecting moms, infants, and young children. “My very first patient in Lake Charles was a baby!” Dr. Baynard says. “I was the first chiropractor in our area to build a practice focusing solely on prenatal and pediatric care.”

The birth process is hard and can be traumatic to both new moms and newborns. In utero, babies do not have much room to move, especially during the third trimester. After birth, being held, diaper changes, and car seats can lead to spinal misalignment. “A baby’s job is to rest and digest,” Dr. Baynard says. “They should sleep, eat, grow, and be relatively content. If they are constantly fussy and uncomfortable, that can indicate a problem – colic, constipation, reflux, poor sleep. I check their spines for misalignments and adjust, and parents often see improvements. Adjustments for infants and children are not like adjustments for adults. They are very gentle.”

Dr. Baynard began her practice in 2012 and became certified in the Webster Technique, a technique specifically for pregnant women. She’s taken over 200 hours of continuing education in prenatal and pediatric chiropractic care. “Typically, OB-GYNs refer patients to me due to pain, for example back pain, pelvic pain, sciatica, headaches, and muscle spasms,” she says. “Many of my patients seek care either due to pain or wanting to prepare for labor. With chiropractic, they tend to have easier and quicker deliveries.”

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

Dr. Baynard’s prenatal program includes exercises that strengthen the core and help with pelvic imbalances, hydromassage, and adjustments via the Webster Technique. “It is difficult to strengthen your core during pregnancy, but my program engages the core in different and safe ways. You need a strong core to deliver your baby. Even my c-section mommas report better and easier recoveries because they went into the procedure with a strong core,” Dr. Baynard says. Hydromassage allows patients a bit of relaxation while improving circulation, relieving muscle soreness, and reducing the level of stress and anxiety.

The Webster Technique analyzes and adjusts the pelvis in pregnant women. Pelvic alignment in pregnancy can help prevent that pregnancy “waddle” and will open the pelvis to facilitate delivery. “Postpartum care is very important too!” adds Dr. Baynard. “After a vaginal delivery, the pelvis expands and separates so it is important to ensure it is in correct alignment during postpartum healing.”

Dr. Baynard says the benefits of chiropractic for expecting moms include less pain, more mobility, improved sleep, and great deliveries. Infants may experience improved sleep and relaxation. “Many of them start to hit their developmental milestones ahead of schedule,” she adds.

If you are unsure if chiropractic is right for you or your baby, Dr. Baynard understands. “It’s always a little nerve wracking to try something new while pregnant or with a baby but as with any doctor, find one whom you trust, are comfortable with, and will answer your questions.

Everyone should have a chiropractor because everyone has a spine, and it is a vital part of our health!

For more information or to make an appointment, call 337-240-6619 or see Dr. Baynard’s website, www.drlauriebaynard.com.

HOW TO BECOME A PATIENT 1

CALL 337-240-6619 TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH DR. LAURIE.

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FILL OUT YOUR PAPERWORK BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT.

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COME TO YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT AT 5656 NELSON RD STE D2 LAKE CHARLES, LA 70605 EXCITED!

WHY GO TO THE CHIROPRACTOR decrease pain --> improved function improved sleep improved posture to start feeling like you again

C H I R O P R A C T I C for everyone PEDIATRICS

The period from birth to age two is the most dynamic and important phase of brain development in humans. It is a critical period in the child's neurodevelopment. Spinal alignment is critical as they start to develop patterns that will set themselves up for the rest of their lives!

WHAT TO EXPECT 1

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THOROUGH HISTORY AND EXAMINATION

BY DR. LAURIE A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN INCLUDING REHABILITATION EXERCISES AND THERAPY

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CHIROPRACTIC ADJUSTMENT BY DR. LAURIE

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FRIENDLY STAFF AND EXTRA CLEAN ENVIRONMENT

PRENATAL AND POST PARTUM CARE So many changes happen during pregnancy and postpartum that your body has to adapt to. During pregnancy, your spine and pelvis actually changes to accommodate your growing uterus/baby. This causes s added stress and pain to your spine and pelvis. Your body even releases hormones to loosen up your ligaments. Your pelvis must be in alignment for a great delivery because it has to separate to allow the baby to come through. Postpartum your body is in a healing phase and is a great time to get chiropractic care!

LAKECHARLESCHIRO.COM

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Home & Family

C hildren AND HEALTHY LIFESTYLES

September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month – an ideal time for parents to take the initiative and support a healthy, active lifestyle for their children.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, 13.7 million children and adolescents are obese – nearly one in five kids. The National Institutes for Health indicates that the prevalence for childhood obesity in youth ages 12-19 years old has more than doubled in the past 30 years. This epidemic puts nearly one third of America’s children at early risk for developing Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease, or stroke. Consider the following to help your child maintain a healthy weight.

TALK TO YOUR CHILD A conversation about weight should be handled delicately. It’s important to be empathetic while educating yourself and your child on the detrimental effects of added weight. It’s best to let your child guide the conversation to keep an open line of communication. While speaking with your child about his/her weight, refrain from making statements and ask questions instead. For instance, instead of saying “You’re not very active” rephrase it into a question “How can you become more active?”

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

ENCOURAGE HEALTHY EATING HABITS Eating a balanced diet is a great way to help control weight. Be sure your child eats plenty of fruits and vegetables and buy whole grain foods instead of refined. Limit sugary beverages and opt for more water. Let your child get creative with his/her water by adding fruit to naturally sweeten it and make it more exciting.

GO SLOW If you introduce too many new things at once you may overwhelm your kids. Go slow and remember that every little step helps you accomplish the bigger goal of better health.

For example, every meal might not be 100% low fat or low sugar, but a good place to start might be to reduce the amount of salt or sugar you use to prepare a dish, slightly reduce portion sizes, exchange water in place of soda or juice, and offer a serving of veggies at each meal.

MAKE ACTIVITY A FAMILY EVENT Being active at least 30 minutes a day is a great way to help lose excess weight and strengthen muscles. Brainstorm with your child and plan some outside activities that he/she enjoys.

Even if you don’t have much time during the week to be active with your child, make activity a family event on the weekends. Go to a park, walk in nature, or visit a zoo.

SET THE EXAMPLE Children watch every move their parents make.

If you want them to eat better and be more active, you also should model this behavior.

You lose credibility with your kids if you tell them to do something you don’t do yourself.

INCLUDE YOUR CHILD IN HEALTHY DECISIONS

Children want to feel included in family decisions so let them contribute healthy ideas.

Ask your child what he/she would like to have for dinner or where he/she would like to go on family activity day. This increases the likelihood that your child will stick with a healthy lifestyle.

MAKE IT FUN After including them in the discussion, strive to make it fun. When your kids look forward to something and get enjoyment out of it, they are more likely to engage. For example, invite their friends to join.

GET HELP There are a lot of food choices, recipes, and recommendations out there, and sometimes it can be confusing. When in doubt about what’s right for your kids, talk to their pediatrician or seek the advice of a dietician or nutritionist who can answer your questions.

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Wining & Dining

that Dared to Open in an Economic Downturn

by Angie Kay Dilmore

It is said that the coronavirus has caused the greatest economic crisis since the Great Depression in the 1930s.

Some entrepreneurs might shy away from a new venture at a questionable financial time such as this. But for others, it was apparently the ideal time to hang out the open sign.

According to the Calcasieu Parish Sales Tax Collector’s office, an impressive 29 new food-related businesses have launched since March 2020. That’s a lot of gutsy risk-taking!

But at least for the following three eateries, it seems to be working out well.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

Specialty Snocones and More

Ashley and Jonathan Frantz, along with their daughter Lulu, opened Lulu’s Specialty Snocones early last month. They had dreamed of owning a family business for years, so when they found themselves with a lot of time on their hands during the pandemic and stay athome orders, they recognized an opportunity.

“Of course, it’s a scary time and even more scary to invest during a pandemic, but the flip side is ‘why not try?’” Ashley says.

They saw a need for a snow cone stand in South Lake Charles and credit Dan and Carol Elliot (retired owners of Elliot’s Cajun Snowballs) with helping them get started.

“They have been lifesavers in this journey and have been so encouraging and supportive,” Ashley adds.

The Frantz family takes the concept of snow cones to an entirely higher level. Their concoctions are creative, whimsical, tempting, and at times, shockingly large! Popular specialty items include their Berry Cheesecake, Rainbow Brite, and Cotton Candy Sweet as Gold. “You often see these fun types of desserts in larger cities like Austin or New Orleans. Well, Lake Charles is a great place and we can have what the bigger cities have, too!”

When Lulu’s first opened, the Frantzs and their staff were caught off guard by the community’s huge response.

Unexpected long lines and wait times were something they addressed and improved on quickly by tweaking their process. “We knew we would have a decent amount of support . . . but nothing like this!” Ashley says. “We prayed over this business before it was even ours and asked God to send us the people who needed a smile and a sweet treat to make their day better, and well, it seems we got what we asked for!” Ashley and Jonathon also thank their social media manager, Cherie Soileau, for getting the word out to the community.

The Frantzs say they love people and value relationships more than anything, and Lulu’s is an extension of that conviction. “It’s much bigger than a snow cone. It’s the overall experience, the interactions, the priceless time together with friends and family, and a chance for us to meet our customers.”

Ashley says snow cones are nostalgic. “Every person I told about our plans had great memories of working at a snow cone stand or going to one as a kid with their family.

Everything surrounding a snow cone stand is happy and joyful. That’s what we want for Lulu’s – sweet memories!”

Lulu Frantz sitting in center

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Wining & Dining

Melts

James Beck, II and fiancée Amanda O’Connor opened a big yellow can’tmiss-it food truck called Lake Chuck Melts in July. They primarily serve toasted sandwiches – aka melts – and homemade soups for lunch. They are also open for breakfast, dishing out hash brown bowls, hotcake sandwiches, and biscuits.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

ames says opening a new business anytime in life is stressful and never an easy choice, but doing so during a pandemic added even more pressure. Yet they recognized advantages to a food truck concept. “We saw opening a mobile food truck as a great opportunity. "Currently, many people are hesitant to eat indoors due to the virus. With a food truck, we’re in the open air and customers are not confined inside a brick and mortar establishment.”

James says he and Amanda have both always loved to cook. She has had food industry experience, but James’ background lies in the oil fields. He had been working in Illinois on a year-long turn around job when Covid-19 shut the refinery down early and prompted him to come home.

“We jumped right into searching for a truck and getting to work.”

James appreciates that his newfound profession allows him to be home with his family rather than traveling.

Big sellers include their Cajun Fire Melt, made with boudin, tasso, and sausage with caramelized onions, Pepper Jack and Smoked Cheddar Cheeses on a choice of marbled rye or garlic toast; and their Philly Cheese Steak Melt on garlic toast, made with sliced sirloin steak, caramelized onions, mushrooms, peppers, roasted garlic aioli, American and Swiss.

“Our roasted garlic aioli is made fresh in house.”

James and Amanda hope that Lake Chuck Melts will become a regular Southwest Louisiana dining option. They plan to participate in several community events such as the American Legion Craft Fair/Food Truck event in Kinder, Louisiana, hosted by Eric Kuyper on September 19, 2020.

Being a food truck, they move around day to day and can often be found at Lake Area Adventures, 5959 Common St. Check their Facebook page for daily hours and locations.

The Village he Village Coffeehouse opened for business late June. It never occurred to them that starting a new venture during a pandemic-driven economic downturn might be a risky time. “We were absolutely convinced this was happening before we took the first step and never looked back,” Foreman adds. And they were right! The Sulphur community has embraced them and exceeded their expectations.

And no wonder. The Village Coffeehouse specializes in a variety of premium coffee options, including cold brews. Too late in the day for caffeine? They also serve smoothies and other beverages. If you’re hungry, you’ll find fresh-made biscuits, scones, muffins, cookies, and sandwiches, including avocado toast.

They also serve enchilada and roasted red pepper soups. Then pick up a pan of cinnamon rolls to take home!

Two years ago, when co-owners Blake Foreman and Aaron Quinn, along with some close friends, first conceived the idea to open a coffee shop and bakery, they envisioned something much more than merely a place to pick up a cup of joe and a danish. “Our passion for authentic community has always been a part of who we are,” Foreman says. “We desire to meet people where they are in life. To better love our neighbors. To recognize those who are otherwise unseen. To bring unity in the midst of a diverse community. To discover and activate the best in every person. To create a culture of encounter where everyone is seen, valued, and given a fair shot in this world. And to passionately pursue this reality while providing excellent products and experiences.” Namely, great coffee and baked goods!

Unlike a food truck or a drivethru window, a coffeeshop is primarily indoors, though this establishment does include a drive-thru and outdoor seating, as well. Foreman says it has been difficult to balance social distancing while at the same time, “encouraging everyone to engage one another for the purpose of positive community, restoring significance to our neighbors, and contributing to the well-being of one another. We’ve been tough on our staff to love our neighbors well by following all health guidelines and have strongly encouraged our patrons to do the same.”

Located at 121 S. Huntington Street, Sulphur, LA. Find them on Facebook and thevillagecoffeehouse.org.

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Mind & Body The U.S. Census Bureau estimates the nation’s 65-andolder population has grown rapidly since 2010, driven by the aging of Baby Boomers born between 1946 and 1964.

Baby Boomers

1946 to 1964

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

The senior population grew by over a third (34.2% or 13,787,044) during the past decade, and by 3.2% (1,688,924) from 2018 to 2019.

And with an average lifespan of 78.5, U.S. seniors aren’t only aging, they’re aging well!

3/4 seniors happy and healthy The National Council on Aging reports that older Americans are optimistic about their health and say they are healthier than ever.

More than three in four seniors aged 60 to 69 expect their quality of life to stay the same or get better over the next five to 10 years.

In this special section on aging well, we invite you to “Bring your Glow to the Golden Years.” You’ll find relevant stories that will inspire you physically, emotionally, and financially.

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Mind & Body | Aging W ell in 2020

Time is on Your Side SECRETS FOR H E A LT H Y A G I N G

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

Dr. Andrew Bradberry, family medicine doctor with Imperial Health, says many people dread the thought of aging, worried that their bodies and minds will fail them as they age. “This is actually a common myth: the older you get, the sicker you have to be. Study after study shows that most of the factors that determine whether you will have healthy and successful senior years are in your hands long before your hair starts turning gray.”

There was a time when the idea of blowing out 100 candles on a birthday cake seemed impossible. In 1900, life expectancy in the United States was three decades shorter than it is today.

Antibiotics, better sanitation, and improved medical care deserve much of the credit for the increase. The average life expectancy at birth is now over 78 years, according to the U.S. Census. Even better, the longer you live, the longer you’ll

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

The idea that from midlife on it’s all downhill is as out-of-date as VCRs, cassette tapes and flip phones.

by Kristy Como Armand probably live, explains Dr. Bradberry. “Research shows if you live to celebrate certain milestones of age, your life expectancy actually expands. On average, a 65-year-old would have nearly 18 more years to live, while an 85-year-old would have about six years longer. That’s pretty eye-opening to most people.”

If your goal is healthy longevity, you may be focused on decreasing your cholesterol and blood pressure to prevent heart disease, the number one killer of Americans. And while these are obviously important, Dr. Bradberry says you may need to adjust your strategy to include some other lifestyle aspects – some of which might surprise you.

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

In many cases, the results were not even what the investigators themselves anticipated. Although some of the ingredients for longevity are genetically determined, the mountains of data gathered from the Harvard study and numerous others about aging show that the individual controls many other factors.

Perhaps the biggest surprise identified is how much influence personal behavior has on health and life span. Changes that a doctor or a scientist once might have labeled an inevitable part of growing older — such as high blood pressure, joint pain, and memory loss — are now considered pathology, not biology.

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

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

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

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

• Avoiding cigarettes • Resiliency - good adjustment or coping skills; positive outlook

• Keeping a healthy weight • Exercising regularly • Maintaining strong social relationships

• Pursuing education; staying mentally active

If the elements of healthy aging aren’t currently a part of your lifestyle, Dr. Bradberry says it’s never too late to start. “Think of it like an investment plan. The earlier you start saving, the better, but regardless of your age, it’s still worth doing. Every one of us can make changes that can move us in the direction of a healthier, longer life.”

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Mind & Body | Aging W ell in 2020

Safe at Home PA N D E M I C SOLUTIONS FOR O L D E R A D U LT S Stay home. It’s what we were all asked to do to protect ourselves and our community since the arrival of COVID-19 in mid-March. Now, as some restrictions begin to ease, many in our community are beginning to venture out. But for our older community members, home is still the safest place to be.

In addition to being at the highest risk for severe illness due to COVID-19, older adults also are faced with unprecedented challenges navigating the healthcare system and fighting prolonged isolation from their families, friends and communities.

Seniors have never been more at risk.

Local experts in caregiving, aging and in-home senior care, urge those with senior loved ones to keep this vulnerable population top of mind. To make this easier, they are sharing free informational resources to help local families navigate the many challenges impacting older adults in this pandemic.

“For many seniors, home is the foundation to both physical and mental wellness,” said George Cestia, owner of Home Instead Senior Care® serving the Lake Charles area. “But whether seniors try to return home, stay home or simply stay healthy, it can be daunting in the midst of a pandemic without support.”

GETTING HOME For families working to bring a loved one home from a hospital or a facility, Home Instead® recommends beginning discharge plans early and exploring all your options, including what services may be available at home vs. inpatient.

“Many seniors have not explored what their aftercare options are if they were to be hospitalized,” explains Lakelyn Hogan, gerontologist and caregiver advocate with Home Instead. “We know that, more than ever, home is not only the preferred but the safest place for older adults to recover from a recent hospital stay or heal from a health issue.”

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

STAYING HOME In a time when the number of available hospital beds is at a premium, keeping seniors safe and healthy at home is critical.

Home Instead recommends reviewing home safety checklists to remove potential home hazards, such as addressing fall risks, and simple, inexpensive home improvements like grab bars and improved lighting.

STAYING WELL No matter the location, staying healthy for seniors means paying attention to both physical and mental wellness.

“Families must remain vigilant with infection control practices but also with regular communications to address seniors’ emotional well-being,” stresses Hogan. “While we all have experienced isolation during this health crisis, the implications are most severe in older adults.”

Home Instead resources include recommendations to connect with your senior loved one safely, whether via technology or inperson, as well as a simple checklist to go through each time you visit your loved one to assess COVID-19 risk.

“Our goal in sharing these materials is to make it as easy as possible for families in our community to ensure home, wherever that may be, is a safe and healthy environment for older loved ones,” says Cestia. “Not just during this pandemic, but for good.”

All of the free guides, and more to help seniors get home, stay home and stay healthy during the pandemic, are available at www.

HomeInstead.com/COVID-19.

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Transportation

OPTIONS FOR SENIORS Seniors dread the day they are asked to hand over the keys. Driving their own vehicle symbolizes an independence that no one wants to lose. But not being able to safely drive does not mean they can’t get around town. Other options for transportation to go shopping, meet a friend for lunch, or run errands are available. For example: UBER WITHOUT A SMARTPHONE Even if a senior does not have a smart phone, they can call GoGoGrandparent. com to arrange for an Uber, Lyft or other affordable means of transportation. The service is 24/7 and text messages keep family members updated.

CARPOOLING Every pilot needs a co-pilot. If a friend lives nearby, arrange to run errands, go grocery shopping, or drive to a meal together. This is not only safe, but it saves gas, time, and money.

MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION SERVICES Going to dinner is one thing but getting to a critical doctor’s appointment is quite another. Call your insurance provider to see if your health coverage provides transportation from your home to the doctor. Medicaid covers most medical transportation costs.

TIMPERIAL H HEALTH I N FORK NEUROLOGICAL CARE

Dr. Nirmala Tumarada offers comprehensive neurological diagnostic and treatment expertise. She specializes in all general neurologic conditions, including: • Migraine

• Tremor

• Stroke

• Spasticity

• Epilepsy

• Dystonia

• Parkinson’s disease

• Multiple sclerosis

PARATRANSIT SERVICES See if you are eligible under the Americans with Disabilities act to quality for paratransit service. This is like public transportation, but they come directly to your home and are built to accommodate wheelchairs and disabilities.

NIRMALA TUMARADA, M.S., M.D.

PREPARE FOR FLIGHTS IN ADVANCE When traveling a long distance – perhaps for a wedding or the birth of a child – contact the airlines in advance. They will provide wheelchair access and accommodate dietary and health-related needs.

• Neurology Residency, LSU Health Science Center in New Orleans

For more information, find A Comprehensive Guide on Transportation for Seniors at SeniorLiving.org.

• Neuromuscular disorders

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To schedule an appointment, call (337) 312-8730.

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Mind & Body | Aging W ell in 2020

L O N G -T E R M CARE OPTIONS Which is right for you?

Can you receive proper care in your home?

Would it be best to move into an assisted living home? Do you require a skilled nursing facility to meet your long-term care needs? This is a question many people ask as they get older.

Advancements in technology and medical equipment make it more feasible than ever to benefit from senior care at home.

However, remaining in the home is not the best choice for everyone. To make the best decision possible, consider various factors from your ability level to your finances, and your available support network.

Assisted living homes are best for individuals who require very little daily senior care. Most assisted living homes provide residents with some help accomplishing various tasks such as organizing medications, but they don’t offer full-time long-term care. Most residents are mobile and over the age of 65. Those who require a wheelchair or suffer from behavioral or cognitive impairments are typically discouraged from moving to an assisted living facility since they require more specialized care.

Assisted living homes allow residents to maintain their independence as long as possible without compromising their safety. They support residents’ privacy, autonomy and dignity while focusing on community and family involvement. Visitors can typically come to an assisted living facility at any time of the day and even stay overnight. Pets are also allowed in many assisted living homes.

People living in an assisted living home typically live in their own private or semi-private apartments. These usually include a bedroom, bathroom and kitchen area, but can differ from one facility to another. Residents receive daily assistance with normal tasks such as eating, dressing, and bathing.

Dining programs offer meals three times daily, and activities for exercise and education are common. Other assisted living services may include housekeeping, health services, recreational activities, laundry services, social and religious activities, transportation services, third-party nursing care through a home health agency, 24-hour security, and wellness programs.

Skilled nursing facilities are for those who need a higher level of nursing care around the clock. These facilities often provide other services such as physical/occupational therapy and hospice care. They also tend to be the costliest long-term care option.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

In-home caregiving is one of the fastest growing and most requested services in the United States today. Agencies providing in-home care offer a range of different services from simple companionship to supervision and personal care.

In-home caregivers appeal to individuals who want to stay at home but need ongoing care that family members and friends cannot provide. It allows seniors to age in the comfort of their own home. Most in-home care plans include a combination of non-medical services and skilled health care services. In the past, there was no significant difference between “home health care” and “in-home care”; however, many people now refer to home health care when skilled nursing care is involved and inhome care when only non-medical care is required.

TIPS TO HELP YOU CHOOSE Even if you thoroughly understand the details of how each long-term care option works, the decision is rarely easy.

Before you make any decisions, determine the exact needs of your loved one. Once you understand these needs, you can compare them to the help that is already available. Make a list of everything your loved one needs assistance with on a monthly, weekly and daily basis. This will give you a clear picture of the right level of care required. Then consider how much you, your family and friends can actually help. It is essential that you look at this based on the long-term. Your loved one may need ongoing care for years, so a few months of help will likely not be enough.

After looking at both lists, you’ll have a better idea of how much additional help will be required. This may make your decision immediately clear, or it may not. Either way, it will be a helpful tool. All options offer pluses and minuses. A simple pro and con analysis can also be very helpful.

From aging.com.

One More Reason to Choose the Center for Orthopaedics The Center for Orthopaedics proudly welcomes orthopaedic surgeon Michael Garitty, MD, to our medical staff.

• • • • • •

From Baton Rouge, Louisiana Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana Doctor of Medicine, LSU School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana Internship in General Surgery, Greenville Health System, Greenville, South Carolina Orthopaedic Surgery Residency, Greenville Health System, Greenville, South Carolina Fellowship in Adult Reconstruction Surgery, Mississippi Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center, Jackson, Mississippi

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Garitty, call the Center for Orthopaedics at (337) 721-7236 or visit www.centerforortho.com.

www.centerforortho.com LAKE CHARLES • SULPHUR

THE CENTER FOR ORTHOPAEDICS IS THE REGION’S LARGEST MUSCULOSKELETAL GROUP, WITH 15 DOCTORS AND TWO LOCATIONS.

Your Skin’s Health Has Another Powerful Weapon Dermatology Associates of Southwest Louisiana is pleased to welcome dermatologist Jenna Roach, MD. Originally from DeQuincy, she received her undergraduate degree from McNeese State University and her medical degree from Texas A&M. Dr. Roach completed her dermatology residency at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center and internal medicine internship at Tulane University.

Call (337) 433-7272 to schedule your appointment.

Jenna Roach, MD, dermatologist

2000 Tybee Lane (337) 433-7272

dermswla.com

Micheal E. Cormier, MD Brian P. Ford, MD Kevin A. Guidry, MD Lee M. Miller, MD Kerri Davis-Fontenot, MD Jenna Roach, MD Jamie Burks, Family Nurse Practitioner Laina Bryant, Family Nurse Practitioner Angelina Doucet, Licensed Aesthetician Teri Bailey, Licensed Aesthetician

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Mind & Body | Aging W ell in 2020

BALANCE TR AINING

is key

T O FA L L P R E V E N T I O N September 21, 2020 kicks off National Falls Prevention Awareness Week.

FYZICAL Therapy and Balance Centers will host their annual “Fight the Fall” campaign, which includes free Fall Prevention Screening at their clinics during the month of September.

by Angie Kay Dilmore According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of non-fatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults. Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall and every 19 minutes an older adult will die from a fall. These are staggering statistics, but falls can be prevented with balance training. “Bad falls are a constant worry for seniors and others who have physical challenges, and those worries aren’t unfounded,” says Floyd Saltzman, co-owner and physical therapist at FYZICAL Therapy and Balance Centers. “A person who is afraid of falling is four times more likely to fall than someone who is not. Over one in four Americans ages 65 and above – 29% of seniors – fall each year. Although we hope they’ll get right back up, many cannot. They might sustain bumps and bruises, strains and sprains, broken bones, and lasting trauma.”

Falls are often caused by dizziness, which comes in many forms. “For most, it is vertigo, or feeling like you are turning or moving rotationally.

This is often caused by an imbalance between your right and left ears,” says Saltzman. “Dizziness can also be caused by imbalance, a sensation of tilting. You might feel like you are going to fall. Lightheadedness is also described by patients as a wooziness or a foggy feeling, often caused by an issue with blood flow to the head or with inner ear issues.

Motion sickness can cause dizziness combined with an irritated stomach, as you might experience as a passenger in a car or boat. When you feel dizzy, your behavior can sometimes make it worse and can increase your symptoms. Anxiety or fear can also cause dizziness symptoms to feel more intense.”

Balance and walking problems can result from orthopedic conditions, neurological disorders, or several injuries that involve the joints, muscles, and nerves. Emery DeSonier, PT, DPT at FYZICAL says three major systems are involved – vision, inner ear equilibrium, and sensory perception involving the skin, joints, muscles, and nerves. “Together, each system must do their job, tell the brain what they just did, and the brain interprets it and responds with an appropriate response and output.”

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

FYZICAL Therapy helps patients with balance issues through several treatment modalities: Vestibular Physical Therapy identifies the deficits of each of the above systems and trains the other systems to make up the difference while working to recover the abilities of the weaker system. Patients with leg weakness or who have had orthopedic surgeries or injuries and have never fully recovered can benefit from this type of therapy. The balance program focuses on strength, functional mobility, endurance, gait training, and coordination activities with other specialized equipment.

Static and Dynamic Balance Retraining benefits individuals who have loss of balance, unsteadiness, or may be falling at home. Most of these patients report dizziness, but in fact are describing disequilibrium or a feeling of being off-balance. This program emphasizes practical solutions to common problems, for example difficulty getting around in the dark, walking on uneven surfaces such as carpeting or grass, and negotiating steps and curbs. Fall prevention, movement coordination, and improved safe participation in everyday activities are all

Hip and ankle weakness often lead to balance problems, as does poor posture.

Lower extremity strengthening and flexibility movements can help counteract these problems. Saltzman suggests these exercises that patients can do at home to improve balance.

FYZICAL Therapy and Balance Centers’ therapists take a whole-body approach to consider whether issues with the spine, hips, knees, or feet contribute to imbalances, and they provide intensive one-on-one care to help you achieve the greatest independence possible. They offer free assessments to diagnose dizziness dysfunctions and identify individuals of all ages and conditions at risk of falling. By identifying risk, future injuries can be prevented. Their skilled physical therapists can create a program specifically tailored to your needs, so you can begin your quest to regain your footing, your confidence, and your freedom.

• Leg lifts while seated in a chair or knee

marching while holding onto the back of a chair.

• Sit to stand exercises from a chair to strengthen the quad and gluteal muscles.

• Practice standing on one leg while holding onto the back of a chair or walking heelto-toe down a hallway using the walls for balance.

Contact any of the three FYZICAL Therapy and Balance Centers located at 4080 Nelson Rd., Suite 500 (337) 494-7546, 2100 Oak Park Blvd. (337) 310-5116 in Lake Charles or 190 Gloria Dr. (337) 214-2930 in Moss Bluff, LA

The Lodge offers a truly unique experience for a temporary stay with 20 private suites, private restrooms, showers, dining, 24-hour nursing care, therapy and activities. Our experienced staff offers in-house physical, occupational and speech therapy for those with orthopedic, neurological and other diagnoses.

S T R E N G T H E N YO U R B A L A N C E AT H O M E

high priorities of FYZICAL’s balance retraining program, which utilizes a harness and ceilingmounted rails, allowing patients to exercise safely without the fear of falling.

2701 Ernest Street Lake Charles, LA For more information regarding admission to our community, contact Christi Miller or Regina Darbonne at 337-439-0336.

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FIGHT THE FALL CONTACT US FOR YOUR FREE FALL RISK ASSESSMENT!

MEET OUR TEAM:

SHARON SALTZMAN, PT FLOYD SALTZMAN, PT

LAKE CHARLES 40

J. TRENT LANDRY PT, DPT, COMT

KOURTNEY ELLIS PT, DPT, COMT

4080 NELSON ROAD, SUITE 500 (337) 494-7546 Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

LAUREN GRANT PT, DPT

KIMBERLY VAUSSINE EMERY DESONIER PT, DPT PT, DPT

2100 OAK PARK BOULEVARD (337) 310-5116

MOSS BLUFF

JARED AMIOT PT, DPT

FRAN EMILY PTA

190 GLORIA DRIVE, SUITE 100 (337) 214-2930

FALL RISK QUESTIONAIRE: YES

WHY IT MATTERS

NO I have fallen in the past year

People who have fallen once are likely to fall again

I use or have been advised to use a cane or walker to get around safelty

People who have been advised to use a cane or walker may already be more likely to fall

Sometimes I feel unsteady when I am walking

Unsteadiness or needing support while walking are signs of poor balance

I steady myself by holding onto furniture when walking at home

This is also a sign of poor balance

I am worried about falling

People who are worried about falling are more likely to fall

I need a push with my hands to stand up from a chair

This is a sign of weak leg muscles, a major reason for falling

I have some trouble stepping up onto a curb

This is also a sign of weak leg muscles

I often have to rush to the toilet

Rushing to the bathroom, especially at night, increases your chances of falling

I have lost some feeling in my feet

Numbness in your feet can cause stumbles and lead to falls

I take medicine that sometimes makes me feel light-headed or more tired than usual

Side effects from medicines can sometimes increase your chance of falling

I take medicine to help me sleep or improve These medicines can sometimes increase your chance of falling my mood I often feel sad or depressed

Symptoms of depression, such as not feeling well or feeling slowed down, are linked to falls

*YOUR SCORE: < 4: Minimal or No Risk of Falling 4-8 : Moderate to High Risk of Falling > 8 : High to Sever Risk of Falling

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Money & Career | Aging W ell in 2020

SCAMMERS FIND NEW W AY S T O AT TA C K THE SENIOR P O P U L AT I O N

“Your Social Security account has been frozen.”

“Once we receive your payment, we will drop all charges against you.” “If you don’t respond immediately to this call you will be arrested.”

Government impersonator scams followed by sweepstakes/lottery/prize fraud are two of the most common consumer fraud operations targeting the 60+ age group today.

It starts with a “government” phone call by scammers impersonating any one of many government agencies. Some claim to be Internal Revenue Service (IRS) tax officials or representatives from the Social Security Administration (SSA); others claim to be law enforcement officers and threaten legal consequences. All of them use fear and intimidation to trick victims into turning over personal information or money, often in the form of gift cards.

Scammers pay close attention to current events to modify their schemes, such as new efforts to exploit the COVID pandemic.

• Scammers have impersonated the IRS,

claiming to expedite benefits under the CARES Act for a fee payable by money wire or buying gift cards, scratching off the security code, and reading the numbers over the phone to the “agent.”

• The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) warns of scam calls displaying the CDC’s phone number in the caller ID and the caller is requesting donations for COVID research.

Emails and text messages sent, purportedly from the CDC, contain links to malicious programs that are downloaded when clicked.

COVID-19 Testing 24-hour turnaround for results

Lake Charles - 4201 Nelson Rd. (337) 310-CARE (2273) Moss Bluff - 277 Hwy 171, Ste. 10 (337) 217-7762 42

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

How can you spot and avoid someone impersonating a government agency?

• The IRS generally first contacts people by mail—not by phone— about unpaid taxes. They will never request personal or financial information by email, text, or any type of social media.

• Gift card payments. The IRS and other government agencies will not insist on payment using an iTunes card, gift card, prepaid debit card, bitcoin, or by sending cash.

• Social Security numbers are never “suspended.” Nor will the SSA threaten to arrest you because of an identity theft problem.

Sweepstakes, lottery, and prize scams are among the most serious and pervasive frauds operating today. Adults aged 60 and older remain overwhelmingly the largest group victimized by these scams. Schemes involve telling people they have won a lottery or sweepstakes. Victims send money, purportedly for taxes or other fees that must be paid before receiving a prize. Unfortunately, the winners never receive the promised prize.

Why are Seniors targets of fraud?

It is believed fraudsters hope to find victims diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease because they are an easy target.

Also, seniors may simply have more money and are likely to have been at the same address and phone number for a longer time and are easier to locate.

How can you detect sweepstakes/lottery fraud?

• True lotteries or sweepstakes will not ask for money before awarding your prize.

• Call the lottery or sweepstakes company directly to see if you won.

• Check to see if you won a lottery by calling the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries at 440-361-7962 or your local state lottery agency.

Protect yourself by following these guidelines:

• Never provide your bank account or other

personal information to anyone who calls you.

• Remember: Caller ID cannot be trusted to confirm the caller. Look

up the phone number for the organization or agency and call them to see if they are trying to contact you—and why.

• Talk to a trusted family member or your bank before you pay a fee for a prize or if you’ve been threatened by a government agency.

Liz Rentrop Trahan is the operations manager for the Better Business Bureau Serving Southwest Louisiana. To learn more tips for avoiding scams, visit BBB.org/AvoidScams. If you’ve been the victim of a scam, please report it on the BBB.org/ScamTracker. Your report can help others to stay alert and avoid similar scams.

Get a Clear Picture of Your Health Imaging technology provides vital answers regarding your health.

That’s why Imperial Health offers convenient access to the latest imaging services at our Imaging Center, including: MRI CT Ultrasound

Bone Density X-ray Fluoroscopy

Our experienced staff includes certified radiologic technologists and board certified, fellowship-trained radiologists.

We provide quick scheduling and reporting. Early morning and late evening MRI appointments are available for added convenience.

Our center features easily-accessible parking and covered drop-off.

We’re more than a doctor, we’re your healthcare team.

1747 Imperial Blvd., Lake Charles | (337) 312-8761 www.imperialhealth.com

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Money & Career | Aging W ell in 2020

COVID A ND RETIREMENT PL ANNING

by Kristy Como Armand

Now that we are over half a year into the pandemic, one thing we can probably all agree on is that no one really knows how long COVID-19 will continue to impact our lives.

This impact extends far beyond the obvious health risks. The economic consequences have been tremendous, leading to extreme market volatility. In the early months of the outbreak, the market suffered what some called the “coronavirus crash,” one of the steepest and deepest two-week declines ever experienced.

Since that alarming drop, the stock market has regained much of those losses, but it has certainly been a stressful period for investors, especially those nearing retirement age who are counting on their disciplined years of investing to provide a comfortable life when they retire. According to Certified Financial Planner™ Denise Rau, President of Rau Financial Group, it’s understandable that people may be uneasy, but it’s also important not to overreact to volatility in the market.

Rau says if you understand the history of the market and how it works, you also know that ups and downs are normal. In fact, market volatility is actually what drives market gains over time. Throughout history, the market has favored investors who have the patience and discipline to stick with their investment strategies even in the face of severe market declines. For example, many investors bailed out in the uncertainty after the 9-11 terrorist attacks and the Dow plummeted 17 percent. Those investors missed out on a 25 percent rally by the end of the year.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

“Now is not the time to panic and abandon your investment strategies and plans for retirement,” says Rau. “It’s a time to assess where you are and focus on your long-term goals. Work with a trusted financial advisor to make any needed adjustments to your plan.”

Rau offers these suggestions for minimizing stress during market fluctuations:

• Diversify. Asset classes typically perform differently under

different market conditions, so spreading your investments across a variety of different assets such as stocks, bonds, traditional savings and cash will help you manage risk.

• Stay with the plan. As the market goes up and down, it’s easy to become too focused on day-to-day returns. Keep your eyes on your long-term goals and overall portfolio.

• Don’t get overconfident. As the market recovers from a rough cycle, and you’ve hung in there and come out ahead, it’s easy to convince yourself that investing is a sure thing.

Becoming overly optimistic about investing during the good times can be as detrimental as worrying too much during the bad times. Have a plan, stick with it, and always strike a comfortable balance between risk and return.

• Don’t get lazy. While focusing too much on short-term gains or losses is unwise; so is ignoring your investments. Check up on your portfolio at least once a year, or more often in volatile times like these. You may need to rebalance it to bring it back in line with your goals.

“If you’ve been working with a financial advisor, you should have a retirement plan that is designed to withstand market volatility.

If that’s not the case, there’s no time like the present to start – whether you’re 30, 40 or 60. Find an advisor you trust to get your retirement goals in line with your life goals.”

For more information on retirement planning, call (337) 480-3835 or visit www.raufinancialgroup.com.

Securities offered through LPL Financial. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through GWM Advisors, a registered investment advisor. GWM Advisors and Rau Financial Group are separate entities from LPL Financial.

South Star U rgent Care BR IN GS N U RS E BACK TO SOUTH W E S T LOUISI A N A Sometimes a career path is filled with twists and turns that take you far from where you started.

Other times, that path takes you full circle after preparing you for a position that fits you perfectly.

This is the case for Lindsey Fontenot, BSN, RNBC, Senior Director of Clinical Operations for SouthStar Urgent Care, opening this month in Lake Charles.

SouthStar Urgent Care is the signature brand of Hulin Health, which was founded in 2011. SouthStar has grown to become the largest Louisiana-based urgent care network, with 22 locations across the state. The Lake Charles clinic is the first SouthStar to open in Southwest Louisiana.

Fontenot was born in DeRidder, raised in Metairie, earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, then spent the first 10 years of her nursing career at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital in Lake Charles. While at CHRISTUS St. Patrick, she gained extensive experience, working first as a staff/charge nurse and nurse manager of two different specialty units. She joined Southstar in 2018. “What really appealed to me about SouthStar was the mission and culture.

The golden rule is the foundation of everything we do, and it is much more than just something written on our walls.

It guides every decision and is part of every patient experience.”

Nationally recognized for their awardwinning customer service, SouthStar Urgent Care has built a reputation across the state for their focus on the patient experience. “You just get a different feeling when you walk into SouthStar,” says Fontenot. She says that customer service-oriented healthcare begins the moment you enter, from the warmly decorated, comfortable waiting area with refreshments available to the personal service provided by all team members.

Fontenot’s role gives her the opportunity to travel across the state, training and working with SouthStar’s clinical teams in each location. “I was very excited when I heard our next opening would be in Lake Charles, the place I called home for the first 10 years of my career.

I have so many great memories and friends in this area and am excited to bring our level of urgent care to the Southwest Louisiana community.”

Fontenot says that urgent care is to provide an alternative to an emergency room visit when someone needs care for minor injuries and illnesses, and to offer convenient access to routine healthcare services. SouthStar’s services range from treating allergies to onsite X-rays, flu symptoms to stitches, or simply a general sports physical for school. All ages can be seen. Occupational medicine services and rapid response COVID testing are also available.

SouthStar Urgent Care in Lake Charles is located at 3829 Ryan Street, next to Southern Spice. No appointment is necessary and all ages can be seen. Business hours are Monday – Friday, 8 am – 8 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am – 5 pm. For more information, visit GOSouthStar.com or call 337-399-0001.

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Money & Career | Aging W ell in 2020

ELDER FINANCIAL E X P L O I TAT I O N

and how to avoid it

As Baby Boomers continue to retire and advance in age, increasing numbers of American seniors are at risk of falling victim to schemes aimed at separating them from their money.

The risks are substantial. A 2014 survey by True Link Financial claims that 36.9% of seniors lose money to scams, financial exploitation, and abuse over any given five-year period. And while hard to quantify, a 2016 update to Allianz’s Safeguarding Our Seniors study estimated the average loss to victims at $36,000—considered a “major financial loss” or “financial ruin” by nearly half of caregiver respondents.

Those respondents also reported that 40% of seniors in their care experienced financial exploitation more than once, up from 20% in its 2014 study. Lamentably, such losses often aren’t reported when discovered and they’re rarely recovered.

Yet in many cases, there are warning signs, and caregivers and close family members are often in the best position to spot possible financial exploitation. Watch for these common red flags: LISTEN FOR TIPOFFS Take note if a senior you’re close to says something like:

• “People are asking me for money.”

• “I’ve been pressured to give money away or to change my will.”

• “My money seems to be disappearing.”

• “I think someone may be accessing my accounts.”

• “Sometimes I make loans or give gifts that make me uncomfortable.”

• “My bills are confusing to me.”

• “I don’t feel confident making financial decisions alone.”

• “I don’t understand financial decisions that someone else is making for me.”

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

LOOK FOR CUES Pay attention to behavioral changes or situations such as:

• Unusual or unexplained withdrawals, transfers, debits or changes in financial habits

• Abrupt or unexplained changes to wills, trusts, powers of attorney or beneficiaries

• Reluctance to discuss financial matters • Denied access to accounts or account statements • Frequent password or username resets • Unpaid bills or mail piling up • New friends or sweethearts, or withdrawal from existing relationships

• Fearful, distressed, submissive or confused behavior • Frequent mood swings • Changes in appearance or personal hygiene • The onset or worsening of an illness or disability • Third parties who insist on participating in all financially related

conversations or who take an inappropriate interest in a senior’s finances

IF YOU SPOT ANY OF THE ABOVE RED FLAGS:

• Act quickly. The sooner you take steps to halt losses and recoup

lost funds—which can include notifying law enforcement, Adult Protective Services, and the Federal Trade Commission to report scams—the greater your likelihood of success and your chances of preventing further financial exploitation.

• Have a calm conversation and don’t blame the victim. Your loved one may become more secretive and make a bad situation worse if they feel cornered or embarrassed.

• Contact your loved one’s financial institutions. Institute safeguards to help prevent unauthorized transactions, such as stepping in as a co-signer or establishing power of attorney, or even contact a lawyer.

AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION There are several ways you can help seniors avoid financial exploitation:

• Help your loved one get organized,

including locating and filing key financial records.

• Ensure that you and your loved ones designate Trusted Contact Persons for your accounts, so trustworthy people can speak to financial institution representatives in the event of suspected financial exploitation.

• Regularly review wills, trusts, powers of attorney, account statements, insurance policies, and beneficiary designations.

• Discuss your loved one’s goals and attitude toward money so that you’re attuned to any irregular spending.

• Talk about how to spot and respond to potential scams.

• Don’t delay having important conversations out of concern that they might become uncomfortable.

By staying attentive to your loved ones as they age, you can help them spot potential scams, minimize financial losses, and focus on what really matters: a happy and fulfilling life in retirement.

Call Ginger at (337) 478-9150 for more details!

2 Bedroom 2 Bath Cottages • For Seniors age 55 Plus • All-Inclusive Living • Upscale Retirement Living Available!

THE VERANDAH RETIREMENT COMMUNITY IS LOCATED IN BEAUTIFUL GRAYWOOD SUBDIVISION

Help and Hope At Heart of Hospice our mission is to serve all hospice eligible patients the way they desire to be served.

We work with each patient to develop a plan of care that is unique to their specific situation. Physical therapy, IV therapies, radiation and other comforting treatments approved by the physician may be included in the patient’s plan of care.

Our Heart of Hospice team works 24/7 to help eligible patients and families who need our care.

For more information please call 1.844.464.0411 or visit heartofhospice.net

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Money & Career

Finding Employment in the Age of Coronavirus

by Angie Kay Dilmore

As of July 2020, the unemployment rate in the United States was 10.2%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which means there are A LOT of people currently out there looking for a job. It is important for job seekers to understand that, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, employers have reassessed and altered their hiring practices. Some businesses hope to bring back experienced workers who were laid off or furloughed; and companies seeking to hire new talent are discovering new avenues for recruitment, such as virtual and driveup job fairs.

Ashley Ortego, PHR, SHRM-CP, SMC and Imperial Calcasieu Society for Human Resource Management (ICSHRM) President-Elect, says the Louisiana Workforce Commission has held multiple virtual career fairs, and universities are also transitioning to online recruiting events. “‘Booths’ are now five-minute commercials that are emailed to job seekers,” she adds.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

Experts agree there is nothing more fundamental to getting a job than interviewing well, but can you do it well via a screen? Consider these tips on video interviewing: • Find a quiet, private, well-lit place, free from possible interruptions.

• Ensure your internet connection is stable.

• Check that your computer’s audio is working.

• Test your computer’s webcam.

• Close any unnecessary web browser tabs and applications.

• Dress professionally and avoid bright colors.

• Have a pen, notepad and copy of your resume on your desk.

• When listening, nod and smile to show you are engaged.

• Use hand gestures when appropriate.

• Place your phone in silent mode.

• Avoid coffee shops and other communal spaces.

One of the biggest trends in the hiring process since the advent of coronavirus is a significant increase in the number of online job interviews. Ortego says that while virtual interviews were catching on prior to the pandemic, she has seen approximately a 50% increase in the percentage of interviews conducted virtually. Aside from the obvious reason – increased protection from the virus for both the interviewers and the candidates – employers have realized other advantages to online interviews such as reduced travel costs and an increase in productivity, says Ortego. Other hiring practices that have been adjusted include rescheduling or delaying hiring until a safer time, requiring masks during in-person interviews, social distancing in an area with good ventilation, sanitizing table and chairs after the interview, and no hand shaking.

Ortego says seeking employment is a job in and of itself. She offers the following advice to job-seekers: • Have a tracking sheet with data such as company name, position title, contact names, salary, and date applied.

• Update your LinkedIn profile and connect with professionals and groups in your community.

• Only apply to jobs for which you meet the minimum qualifications.

• Check your email daily.

• Try to only apply on the actual company website regardless of where you found the posting. Some postings are outdated and your application will end up lost in cyberspace.

• Follow-up with the recruiter or hiring manager for a status update, but do not come off as demanding. HR professionals are juggling even more than usual these days, so a single email may result in a faster response.

Connect with ICSHRM as an available resource to area businesses on LinkedIn, Facebook, https://icshrm.shrm.org/events or email us at ImperialCalcasieuSHRM@gmail.com. Membership is free in 2020.

You’ll need: • An internet connection with bandwidth speed of at least one megabit per second.

• A laptop or desktop computer with a webcam. In some cases, a tablet or smartphone may also be an option, but set up the device in a stationary position rather than hold it.

• Headphones with a built-in microphone or headphones and a separate microphone.

• Position your webcam so that you have a neutral background that’s free from distractions.

ICSHRM is the organization for professionals that handle human resources in the five-parish area. Whether you are new to the Human Resources field or have many years of experience, we are your resource for networking, information and continuous professional development. Our partnerships in the community lead to improvement and innovation in HR.

Learn more at ICSHRM.SHRM.ORG. thriveswla.com

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Money & Career

Seeing the Signs September is International Deaf Awareness Month

by Rachel W. Jones

American Sign Language (ASL) is our country’s third-most common language, according to Sign Language Services International, where Dr. Daniel Burch serves as Vice President. Burch has become quite a recognizable figure in Louisiana, sign language interpreting alongside Gov. John Bel Edwards during his COVID-19 press conferences.

Burch says opportunities abound to work with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, as he has for 47 years. “I tell everybody you cannot see God’s hand in your life until you look back. In college I was working with a special education program, and my first day they gave me two Deaf kids to work with. They hired a woman to teach us how to sign, and she really became like my second mother. It came to me as a gift.” Burch has signed with governors since Gov. Charles “Buddy” Roemer. But prior to 2020, has had never signed the word ‘coronavirus’ for the public.

“I love interpreting for (Edwards) – he’s got such a lovely pace,” Burch said.

“The challenge I have is I get there early to see who’s speaking to always spell their names right when they come up to the podium. Also, some speakers speak really fast, so that’s a challenge to listen that fast and try to understand what they’re saying to be able to interpret it, or they use specialty jargon, which people just don’t use on a regular basis.”

Burch said about 75 certified interpreters currently serve a Deaf population of approximately 4,500 in Louisiana; therefore, employment opportunities are immense. A bachelor’s degree is required to become certified – different from when his career began.

“Through the years, Deaf people have been going to college in droves and now are in every single profession you can name,” Burch said. “So as interpreters, we must have a better vocabulary and understanding of the world to be able to voice-interpret what they’re signing.

“You can really travel if you become proficient in ASL – there are Deaf people from America in positions around the world. There are plenty of jobs in education; there is more work out there than there are interpreters to fill the jobs.”

Burch’s best advice for someone starting in the field? “Read everything, watch the news, soak up all the information you possibly can!”

Christa Foolkes, M.S., is Coordinator for the Deaf/Hard of Hearing & Vision Departments at the Calcasieu Parish School Board’s Department of Special Services, serving over 125 students specifically with hearing loss.

Her interest in working with the Deaf community sparked in third grade, watching sign language videos with her mother as she pursued a master’s in Deaf Education and attending Mass at Lake Charles’ Catholic Deaf Center.

“It is fun to learn sign language, but it’s even better when you can use those signs and actually communicate with a Deaf child or Deaf adult because you’re now a part of their world and they have another friend – someone else to communicate with,” Foolkes said.

Rev. Aubrey Guilbeau, chaplain at the Deaf Center, agrees. He learned ASL as a seminarian and has provided religious services to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Lake Charles for 38 years.

“The Deaf have taught me so much,” Guilbeau said. “They don’t see their deafness as a barrier. I’ve been so appreciative to learn from them and be able to help them communicate and share in worship.”

Foolkes also teaches a Sign Language elective class to McNeese students (SPED 440). If you’d like to learn ASL, she recommends a self-paced online course from Dr. Byron Bridges. Access it at www.signlanguage101.com.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

Changing jobs, switching employers, or retiring?

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Money & Career

A Local Doctor’s Personal Journey

by Stefanie Powers

Dr. Joseph Gallien, a Lake Charles native, was in his final months of a four-year ER residency at New YorkPresbyterian Hospital, working between its campuses at both Columbia University Irving Medical Center and Weill Cornell Medical Center.

COVID-19 52

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

As a senior resident, Gallien handled not only his own patients, but the patients of the other residents, as well. A big hospital, New York-Presbyterian has approximately 130,000 patients, and days were long and exhausting.

In early March, COVID-19 hit New York hard.

As expected, ER cases increased considerably as the sick poured in. “We were fortunate to have a good supply of PPE, including masks and gowns, for protection,” Gallien says. But sometimes, that isn’t enough.

Within a month, Gallien fell ill. Mild aches got progressively worse, and he then became feverish. Despite being only 31 years old and having no underlying medical problems, Gallien had contracted COVID-19. One of the worst symptoms of his illness was a severe breathing issue. “My oxygen levels were so low that my breathing was fast and heavy,” Gallien recalls. “I was out of work for almost a month, and I ended up being hospitalized for five days.”

What Gallien learned, as a physician as well as a COVID-19 victim, is that symptoms vary from person to person. Some don’t have symptoms at all, which means they can easily pass on the disease since they are unaware that they are infected. And it appears to affect everyone differently.

Fortunately, Gallien fully recovered, completed his residency in New York City, and is back in Lake Charles, currently working in the Emergency Department at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital. While he appreciated his experiences in New York, he says he’s happy to be back home.

Gallien attended Washington-Marion High School and then set his sights on continuing his education, choosing Xavier in New Orleans, an HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) school. “I was the first in my family to go on to college,” he says. “It was a really big thing.”

As an undergraduate, Gallien’s fields of concentration were in math and science, and he initially did not plan on becoming a doctor. But that eventually changed. “I was fortunate to have some good mentors who steered me in the right direction,” he recalls. His decision to pursue medicine led him to LSU. “Up until then, I’d basically attended all-black institutions, from grade school on up,” he explains. “So when I was looking at medical schools, I decided to open things up and get a taste of the real world. And I really loved LSU; my classmates and the administration were great.”

Since the 1970s, the number of black male applicants to medical school has declined considerably, while the minority patient population has increased. “There needs to be a balance,” Gallien explains. “Minorities have a sense of not trusting the healthcare system, so prevention is lacking in our community.” As he continues on his journey, he hopes to someday create a mentoring program for minority medical students.

Gallien may be in a smaller hospital now, but COVID-19 remains a serious threat, with a vaccine still months away. “A lot of people with COVID-19 are wondering why they aren’t being admitted. Hospitals here just don’t have the bed space, so they are only admitting seriously ill patients,” he says. “And you will only be tested at the hospital if you have symptoms.” Gallien says that if you test positive, it is imperative to stay home and quarantine yourself for at least a week or more. And he believes masks are important for everyone. “Masks protect others,” he explains. “You really don’t know whether you have COVID-19 or not. You could be asymptomatic and still have it, so masks provide a barrier.”

“Having had COVID-19 has helped me to have a better understanding of my patients,” Gallien says. “But it’s frustrating. We haven’t yet seen the light at the end of the tunnel.”

Capital One tOwer • Class “A” office space • 6-story parking garage for tenants plus ample visitor parking • Affordable lease rates • Direct access to I-10 • Prominent location • On-site security • Level 5 Salon, Lakeshore Café, Black Tie Drycleaning pickup and delivery • Beautifully Landscaped • Flexible office design • On-site professional management • Overnight delivery drop stations • Nightly cleaning services Typical floor plan

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Places & Faces

s rt A e th in t n e m e lv vo In y it n u m Com Brook Hanemann says there are many ways for the community to support and experience the arts, even during a pandemic.

• Purchase a membership to an arts organization.

• Encourage your company or

employer to become sponsors.

• Support local companies that

sponsor arts in your community by giving them your business.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

• Volunteer and see shows as

compensation once your local arts organizations are operating with responsible safety measures in place.

• Enjoy free concerts, gallery showings, lectures, and arts programming available to your community.

• Explore the arts as a creator. “Pour your life story into poetry, song lyrics, a play script, or verse. Learn to play a musical instrument at any age. "

• Consider enrolling in visual and

performing arts courses at McNeese State University. You can teach your children to express their biggest emotions through painting or writing or music. Get your hands wet with clay, create a photo spread for your elder relatives in isolation, or create some sidewalk chalk art with your kids.

Puddles Pity Party

2019 Banners performance of Dorothy Parker (played by Claudia Baumgarten)

SAVE THE DATE Gallery Promenade: 9/25

ArtsFest: 10/17

Living History Cemetery Tour: 11/6

www.artscouncilswla.org • 909 Kirby St. Suite 202 • (337) 439-2787

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Places & Faces

56

Thrive Magazine for Better Living â&#x20AC;˘ September 2020

LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA 1001 RYAN ST 337.491.9147

ON VIEW OCTOBER - DECEMBER

AND

ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER

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COLLECTION J a p a n es e Wood bl o ck Pri nts

TUESDAY - SATURDAY 10 AM - 6 PM FREE ADMISSION thriveswla.com

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LABT, photo by Chad Moreno

Places & Faces

LCCB dancer Emily Heskett, photo by Romero & Romero Photography

LCCB dancer Drew Anderson and former dancer Clara Lang, photo by Romero & Romero Photography

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living â&#x20AC;˘ September 2020

LABT, photo by Chad Moreno

IndustryInsider

Straight Answers to Your Questions on Industry and the Environment

Q:

How safe is it to work at an industrial plant?

A:

Safety is the priority at every industrial plant.

Because of the safety mindset within the plant, an employeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s risk of injury decreases significantly once he or she enters the plant.

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

Safety is our culture, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s built into every job we do. The goal is to protect ourselves, our co-workers, our families and our community, because this is our home too.

Greg Satterfield

senior safety engineer with area industry

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

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Places & &Faces Faces

Movers and Shakers in Southwest Louisiana...

Carrier Assumes Leadership Role at Merchants & Farmers Bank Ken Hughes, President/ CEO of Merchants and Farmers Bank has named Catherine Carrier manager of the bank’s fullCatherine Carrier service location in Vinton, Louisiana. Carrier will provide new accounts customer service and ensure effective management of daily operations.

Carrier, a Sulphur native, earned her Associate Degree in Office Systems Technology from Sowela Technical Community College in 2004. She began her career with Merchants and Farmers Bank in September 2018 as a Vault Teller/New Accounts Representative and was promoted to Assistant Manager. She resides in Vinton, Louisiana with her husband of 12 years, Justin and their three sons—Landen (13), Cooper (8) and Kent (7).

Police Jury President Appointed to National Leadership Position Calcasieu Parish Police Jury President Tony Guillory has been appointed to a one-year term as vice chair of the National Tony Guillory Association of Counties (NACo’s) Community, Economic and Workforce Development Steering Committee.

NACo, which serves nearly 40,000 county elected officials and 3.6 million county employees, seeks to advocate for government priorities in federal policymaking, to optimize county and taxpayer resources and cost savings, and to foster the public’s understanding of county government.

NACo President Gary Moore appointed Guillory shortly after being sworn in as NACo’s president at NACo’s virtual annual business meeting on July 20.

For more information, visit www.naco.org.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

Empire of the Seed Hires Shay Watkins Empire of the Seed is pleased to announce the hiring of Shay Watkins as the executive assistant to Rick Richard, owner and president.

In her role with Shay Watkins Empire of the Seed, Shay will manage bookkeeping for the properties and serve as project support for the organization’s current undertakings.

For more information, visit their website: www.empireoftheseed.com.

Jenna Roach, MD, Joins Dermatology Associates Dermatology Associates of Southwest Louisiana welcomes Jenna Roach, MD, dermatologist, to their medical staff. Originally Jenna Roach, MD from DeQuincy, Dr. Roach received her undergraduate degree from McNeese State University and her medical degree from Texas A&M. To schedule an appointment, call 337-433-7272.

Eagle scout completes leanto project for Therapeutic Riding Center An eagle scout candidate recently built a lean-to for the horses at the Genesis Therapeutic Mason and Kristen Darbonne Riding Center of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital as her Eagle Scout project. Kristen Darbonne, 16, volunteers at the Riding Center in the summers and knows how hot it gets in the pasture and wanted to do something to help.

She completed the building project in three days. Darbonne is among five girls from Troop 8 of Westlake who will be the first females in the United States to earn the rank of Eagle Scout under the Scout BSA program through Boy Scouts of America.

The Therapeutic Riding Center of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital provides a natural, controlled environment for outpatient therapy using horses, known as hippotherapy. As the clients ride the horses they have improved mobility, balance, posture and function.

Those with multiple sclerosis, autism, Downs Syndrome, developmental delays and other challenges can receive therapy through the Genesis Therapeutic Riding Center and develop confidence and independence.

For more information about the Genesis Therapeutic Riding Center of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, visit www.wcch.com.

Hospitalist Joseph Dressler, MD Joins Memorial Medical Group Memorial Medical Group welcomes Family Medicine Specialist Joseph Dressler, MD to its staff. He serves as a Joseph Dressler, MD hospitalist, treating and caring for patients admitted to Lake Charles Memorial Hospital.

Dr. Dressler holds a degree in marketing from Louisiana State University and a Masters of Business Administration from McNeese State University. He went on to receive his medical degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in Shreveport. His post-graduate training includes a family medicine residency at the Memorial/LSUHSC Family Medicine Residency Program in Lake Charles.

Hospitalist Ashton Adekanmbi, MD Joins Memorial Medical Group Memorial Medical Group welcomes Family Medicine Specialist Ashton Adekanmbi, MD to its staff. He serves as a Ashton Adekanmbi, MD hospitalist, treating and caring for patients admitted to Lake Charles Memorial Hospital.

Dr. Adekanmbi holds a degree in biology from Prairie View A&M University. He went on to receive his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine, Roseau, Dominica. His post-graduate training includes a family medicine residency at the LSU Family Medicine Residency Program at Rapides Regional Medical Center in Alexandria.

Family Medicine Physician Christian LeBlanc, MD Joins Memorial Medical Group Memorial Medical Group welcomes Family Medicine Specialist Christian LeBlanc, MD to its staff. He joins Christian LeBlanc, MD fellow family medicine physicians Joshua Bacon, MD, Carl Nabours, MD, Robert Van Gossen, MD and Joshua Whatley, MD at the Memorial Medical Group medical office building on Nelson Road in Lake Charles.

Dr. LeBlanc has a degree in biology from McNeese State University. He went on to receive his medical degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans. His postgraduate training includes a family medicine residency at the Memorial/LSUHSC Family Medicine Residency Program in Lake Charles.

Family Medicine Physician Joshua Bacon, MD Joins Memorial Medical Group Memorial Medical Group welcomes Family Medicine Specialist Joshua Bacon, MD to its staff. He joins Joshua Bacon, MD fellow family medicine physicians Christian LeBlanc, MD, Carl Nabours, MD, Robert Van Gossen, MD and Joshua Whatley, MD at the Memorial Medical Group medical office building on Nelson Road in Lake Charles.

Dr. Bacon has degrees in biochemistry, biology and physics from the University of Arkansas. He went on to receive his medical

degree from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine. His postgraduate training includes a family medicine residency at the University of Missouri.

CSE Federal Credit Union Announces New President/Chief Executive Officer CSE Federal Credit Union (CSE) is pleased to announce the selection of Matt Koch as the credit union’s new President/Chief Matt Koch Executive Officer, as current President/Chief Executive Officer, Clark Yelverton, plans to retire later this year. Koch will take lead of the credit union beginning October 1, 2020.

Koch has been with CSE for over five years serving as the Chief Financial Officer. Koch began his career in the financial services industry as a Head Teller at Ouachita Independent Bank over twelve years ago. From there, he went on to work for Aneca Federal Credit Union, working his way up to the Director of Accounting role.

Koch holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Louisiana Tech University, a Master of Business Administration from Louisiana State University in Shreveport, CUNA Management School Certified Credit Union Executive Designation, as well as Certified Credit Union Investment Professional and Financial Counselor Designations.

Dr. Rebecca Curran

Dr. Richard Luneau

Lourdes Physician Group Welcomes New Family Physicians Family Medicine physicians Dr. Rebecca Curran and Dr. Richard Luneau recently joined the growing list of primary care providers Dr. Ray Quebedeaux in the Lourdes Physician Group backed by a network of more than 150 area providers.

Dr. Curran will share an office with fellow Lourdes Physician Group family medicine physician Dr. Ray Quebedeaux at 2932 Ambassador Caffery Pkwy., Suite B.

The practice is adjacent to the latest Lourdes Urgent Care near the intersection of Ambassador Caffery Parkway and West Congress Street. Dr. Luneau’s office is located at 601 W. St. Mary Blvd., Suite 210.

All are accepting new patients. Same-day appointments available. Virtual visits also are available to assist families during the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) response. Call (337) 470GoMD (4663) or visit LourdesPhysicianGroup. com today to schedule your appointment with these or any of the physicians in the growing Lourdes Physician Group.

Ware Joins Merchants & Farmers Bank Ken Hughes, President/ CEO of Merchants & Farmers Bank welcomes Amanda Ware as the new Loan Administrative Assistant at the bank’s full-service location in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

Amanda Ware Ware joins Merchants & Farmers with a background of over seven years serving local financial institutions as customer service representative, loan administration and assistant to upper management.

In operation since 1928, Merchants & Farmers Bank is an independent community bank headquartered in Leesville, LA with eight fullservice locations in seven cities. Among the first of Louisiana banks to establish online banking, Merchants & Farmers Bank offers a variety of products and services. Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender.

Foster Assumes Leadership Role at Merchants & Farmers Bank Ken Hughes, President/ CEO of Merchants & Farmers Bank announces Christopher Foster has been named Sr. Vice President of Lending at Christopher Foster the bank’s full-service location in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

Foster joins Merchants & Farmers with a background of 15 years serving local financial institutions in leadership roles including branch management, regional management and as a senior vice president.

In operation since 1928, Merchants & Farmers Bank is an independent community bank headquartered in Leesville, LA with eight fullservice locations in seven cities. Among the first of Louisiana banks to establish online banking, Merchants & Farmers Bank offers a variety of products and services. Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender. thriveswla.com

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New E-Card Option at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital Allows for No-Contact Method of Sending Well-Wishes to a Patient Due to the COVID-19 virus and the limited access visitors have to loved ones in the hospital, West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital has implemented a new “Send a Cheer Card” initiative to enhance the patient experience.

This e-card system allows family and friends to send a personalized greeting to a patient in the hospital directly from the WCCH website.

On www.wcch.com, click Patients and Visitors, then Send a Cheer card. Several designs are available depending on the occasion. Click the preferred option and add your message and submit. It will be electronically received by WCCH staff, who will print, seal in an envelope and deliver to the patient. The e-card is available at no charge.

If you’d like to send a cheer card to a current WCCH patient, visit www.wcch.com.

Waitr Looking for 200 Workers in Lake Charles Louisiana-based Waitr, a leader in ondemand food ordering and delivery, 62

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

announced today it is looking to hire 200 new contract drivers in the Lake Charles area.

Waitr provides masks, gloves and sanitation spray to all its drivers. It also offers no-contact delivery for all restaurant orders.

Waitr says the drivers, once activated as independent contractors, will be able to start immediately. Requirements for applicants include a valid driver’s license, proof of auto insurance and a smart phone. You must also be 18 years or older to be eligible.

To apply, please go to waitrapp.com.

Imperial Health Opens Primary Care Clinic in DeRidder Imperial Health is pleased to announce the opening of a new primary care clinic at 200 W. 5th Street in DeRidder, Louisiana.

Family Nurse Practitioner Kallie Holt, APRN-FNPC, and her staff offer experienced healthcare services for residents in the region, backed by the resources of Southwest Louisiana’s largest multi-specialty medical group, Imperial Health.

The DeRidder Primary Care Clinic provides convenient access to routine care, treatment for illness

and injury, CDL (commercial drivers license) physicals, lab draw services and management of chronic conditions for patients.

Office hours are Monday - Friday from 7:30 am - 4 pm, with a half-hour closure for lunch from 12:30-1:00 pm. Walk-ins are also welcome. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. For more information or to schedule an appointment at DeRidder Primary Care Clinic, call 337202-7850.

With Salad Dressing This Good, We Dare You Not to Eat Your Veggies There’s a new way to dress up your salads with more Creole flavor! Tony Chachere’s® Famous Creole Cuisine is proud to introduce its first-ever line of salad dressings. Creole-Style Ranch, Italian and French dressings are making their way onto your grocery store shelves.

Fans had a hunger for the robust flavors of Tony’s seasonings in a salad dressing, and Tony’s is delivering on this taste. These multipurpose dressings are the perfect complement to all the flavors found in Tony’s product lines.

With the trend to make healthier food choices, Chachere says it was important to create an option that caters to everyone without sacrificing flavor. Because of that, she feels these salad dressings are sure to be fan favorites.

From the peppercorn-like zing of the Ranch, to the sweet and peppery zip of the French, and the crisp herbal zest of the Italian, no one does Creole food better than Tony Chachere’s. These dressings are so versatile, they can be used on just about anything. From salads, chicken dishes, pastas and shrimp scampi, to braising, basting and marinating, these dressings bring endless possibilities to the table.

The Creole-style dressings are available at Publix, Albertsons, WinnDixie, Rouses, H-E-B, Tom Thumb, Brookshire’s Grocer, SuperValu and many more stores, as well as online at tonychachere.com.

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HAPPENINGS MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

Local Art Gallery Exhibits at Historic City Hall Gallery by the Lake’s “Cut and Paste” exhibition at Historic City Hall second floor gallery will run through Friday, October 16. The show features paintings, photographs, and sculptures by all Gallery by the Lake members. Featured artist in this show is painter Amy DeLand. Their next exhibition, “Nostalgia”, is scheduled to open on October 23 with featured artist Patsi Prince displaying her marvelous watercolor interpretations of Hubble space telescope images.

Help bars re-open and stay open.

Support a Smoke-free Lake Charles.

Smoke-free environments: Reduce the spread of respiratory droplets, which may contain the virus Eliminate exposure to secondhand smoke, which compromises heart and lung health Promote consumer confidence about the safety of indoor air environments Why take any more chances?

Let's get back to business.

Getting Back to Bu$ine$$ Now more than ever, business owners are concerned about their bottom line AND the health of staff and customers.

Create an environment that welcomes customers back AND reduces fears about coronavirus spread. Survivors of COVID-19 with lung damage will also need to avoid secondhand smoke when bars re-open.

Learn more at www.smokefreeSWLA.org.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

Black Heritage Gallery’s current exhibit, “A Pandemic Portfolio: Works Created in Isolation” closes September 24 and the new exhibit, “Cultural Expressions” will run Oct. 2 – Nov 24.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Louisiana To Host 7th Annual Golf For Kids’ Sake Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Louisiana will hold their 7th annual Golf For Kids’ Sake fundraiser on Friday, October 30th at the Lake Charles Country Club with lunch served at 11:30am. This year’s tournament will include two flights with start times of 8:00am and 1:00pm. BBBS-SWLA will host golfers from the local professional community who will be supporting the mentoring organization through sponsorships and team participation. Included in registration is one mulligan and 1 “Red Blast” hole. There will also be cash prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place golfers. Your contribution will help make a BIG difference in the lives of hundreds of local youths who participate in BBBS-SWLA mentoring programs annually.

Sponsorship information and team registration can be found on the BBBS-SWLA website at www.bbbsswla.org. Please note, the tournament is open to the first 50 teams that enter, so register soon! Sponsorship confirmations are needed by October 16th for material development. For inquiries, please contact Alex Stinchcomb, Marketing & Development Manager, alex@ bbbsswla.org.

It's time for bold action.

Let's re-open smoke-free.

Personal and Professional Legal Guidance

WE FIGHT FOR JUSTICE

JOHN M. WELBORN, III

PRACTICE AREAS:

REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

PERSONAL INJURY

Residential Purchases Loan Transactions New Construction Commercial Transactions Residential Development Short Sales R.E.O. Transactions Title Insurance Donations

Car Wrecks Drunk Driver Accidents Head-on Collisions Commercial Vehicle Negligence Rear-end Accidents Motorcycle Accidents Eighteen-Wheeler Wrecks Wrongful Death Brain Injuries

Two Locations to Better Serve You!

(337) 462-1200 DeRidder:

508 N. Pine St.

School Bus Accidents Premises Liability Offshore & Maritime Accidents Work Related Injuries Boating Accidents Intentional Torts Dog Bites & Animal Attacks Bad Faith Insurance Litigation

Lake Charles:

4216 Lake Street

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Solutions

for life

!

from Solutions Counseling & EAP

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

On Being A Rubber Band So, what’s new? Not much, right? Nothing major happening in your life that has impacted the way you live, work, socialize, breathe? Yeah, me either.

Well, on the off chance that, even though nothing new has happened, you are simply interested in bouncing back from challenges, I would like to discuss the topic of resiliency with you. We’ve been hearing so much about how to survive the pandemic, and I have had enough of it. I’m ready to move on from surviving to thriving.

You already know the benefit of being flexible, much like a rubber band. Rubber bands can be stretched, but healthy rubber bands return to their basic shape.

Unhealthy rubber bands (i.e. dry rotted ones), break when stretched. I’m telling you, it is the flexible, healthy rubber bands who are going to survive in this crazy world.

Moving on to resilience . . . simply put, resilience is the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

It’s about adapting well in the face of adversity. It’s also about using those challenges to learn and grow – actually coming out of the situation stronger and healthier.

So, how do you bounce back from major challenges?

First of all, make peace with the fact that things happen in our lives that are not of our choosing and not of our liking. When these things happen, the question should never be, “Why me?, but rather, “Why not me?” No one is exempt from tragedies. Everyone you know has experienced some sort of major pain/ loss/hurt/disappointment. Spending time thinking, “This isn’t fair!” or “Why do bad things always happen to me?” or “I can’t bear this” only guarantees you will not bounce back.

Secondly, in order to be that strong, healthy rubber band, you must take care of yourself. I know we are all sick of being told to not isolate, to be healthy, to not turn to alcohol, etc. We are sick of hearing it because it has been stated so many times. And it has been stated so many times because it is so true.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living • September 2020

When we have struggles, our tendency is to numb and isolate. And that is normal at the beginning.

However, resilient people understand they must get back on a healthy track quickly so they can begin the recovery process. So, remember that we need social connections, even if they have to be on a screen instead of in person. And remember that what we put into our bodies will determine what we get out of them. Good sleep, healthy food, and regular exercise are all hallmarks of resilient people. And, might I point out, are all things within our control (very helpful when we are feeling out of control).

The last thing I want to talk to you about today is your mindset. The way you think about things that are happening in your life will determine how quickly you will bounce back. Make sure you keep things in perspective; it is easy to catastrophize in these situations (“This pandemic is never going to end.”

“We’re all going to die.”). Stay focused on the facts and the things that are in your control (like wearing a mask).

Also in the “mindset” category is your outlook.

It is extremely important that you remain hopeful and grateful. Resilient people have the ability to find the good in all situations, even bad situations. They find things to be grateful for and keep those in the forefront of their minds. An exercise that helps with this is writing three things for which you are grateful each day. They don’t need to be big. Maybe the rain held off until you got home. Maybe you had light traffic on the way to work. Maybe someone showed you a kindness. Looking for good things in life reminds us there is much to be grateful for and hopeful about.

As we move into whatever our lives are going to look like, resiliency will be key. I hope these tips will help you!

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