Thrive September 2026

SEPTEMBER 2026

PERIMENOPAUSE:

Let’s Talk About It! COVER SPONSORED BY

In This Issue:

ROBIN BARNES

Award-Winning Singer and Songwriter

Bride guide the

WOMEN’S FALL CONFEREN CE

Amelia Rose Earhart 2026 Women’s Fall Confere Keynote Speaker nce

THRIVESWLA.COM Thursday, October 22

Lake Charles Event

Center

Women's 1 Commission of Southwest Louisiana

INSERT INSIDE

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

SEPTEMBER 2026

September is Life Insurance Awareness Month.

Make it a priority to review the plan in place for your family.

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Contents REGULAR FEATURES: 34 First Person: Robin Barnes, Award Winning

43

46

Singer & Songwriter Monthly Made: Jonathan Thomas, Bromethius Workshop Just Imagine SWLA

50 Cowboy Connections 62 The Bookshelf 68 Nonprofit Impact: SWLA Pro-Life Billboards 74 Family Works: Henderson Family Enterprises

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Wining & Dining 6-13 8-9 10-11 13

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SPECIAL SECTION: Rouge et Blanc 2026 Preview Party like a Rhinestone Cowboy New Digs. New Trails. Same Chance to Raise a Glass to the Arts Imbibing has its Perks

Mind & Body 14-25 18 20-21 24-25

SPECIAL SECTION: Pain Awareness Month Muscle Activation's Role in Reducing Pain How to Assss and Address Joint Pain Perimenopause: How to Advocate for Yourself

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Money & Career 26 28-29 31-32

First Federal Bank of Louisiana Wins National Award Why Does Insurance Matter?

Hometown Celebrity: Lynda Benglis

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Places & Faces 32-45 36 40 42 45

SPECIAL SECTION: Celebrating the Arts ACTS Theatre's New Season Displays the Importance of Community Lake Charles Little Theatre Celebrates its 100th Anniversary The 49th Season of the Louisiana Choral Foundation Lutcher Theatre Welcomes Audiences to 47th Season

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Style & Beauty 52-61 54 56-57 58-59

SPECIAL SECTION: The Bride Guide Bridal Bouquets are no Longer the Main Attraction '90's Style Nostalgia is Dictating Current Bridal Gown Trends Falling for the Outdoors: Wedding Trends for Cooler Seasons

Home & Family 64-75 66 70 72-73

SPECIAL SECTION: Family First Celebrating Grandparents' Day Have a Gouda Time: Lake Charles Gathers over Board Games Jason Tommasi's Flying Contraption has People Talking

THE COVER CAN BE

WOMEN’S FALL CONFEREN CE

Amelia Rose Earhart 2026 Women’ s Fall Confere Keynote Speaker nce

Women's Commission

FOR DETAILS & RATES

of Southwest Louisiana Thursday,

INSERT INSIDE

October 22

Lake Charles Event

Center

w w w. wo m

Managing Editor Editor and Publisher Creative Director Design & Layout

e n s co m m i s

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Kerri Cooke Kristy Como Armand Barbara VanGossen Kyra Labrie

CONTACT KATIE@THRIVESWLA.COM Business Manager Advertising Sales Submissions

Katie McDaniel Stevenson katie@thriveswla.com 337.310.2099 editor@thriveswla.com

@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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SEPTEMBER 2026

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WINING & DINING 2026 preview

C alling all wine lovers!

Rouge et Blanc—the best opportunity to taste and buy a fine selection of wines in Southwest Louisiana, is approaching. A yearly fundraiser for McNeese Banners, Rouge is bigger and better than ever. With a new venue, logo and an impressive entertainment line-up, this is an event you don’t want to miss, especially if you love supporting local initiatives.

Rouge et Blanc makes access to top artistic talent easy and available to McNeese students, staff and the community. And starting this year, Rouge will help keep that talent rolling through all year long.

Mark your calendars and join us on October 10, 2026!

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SEPTEMBER 2026

photos by Chad Moreno

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Wining & Dining

ROUGE ET BLANC

e n o t s e n i Rh a e k i l y t r Pa

y o b w o C Rouge et Blanc Welcomes Dani LaCour to the Stage

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SEPTEMBER 2026

Rouge et Blanc has always been an incredible mix of the best bites Southwest Louisiana has to offer, a staggering variety of great wines and a whole lot of entertainment.

But this year, with the Rhinestone Cowboy theme in full swing, the party will have you kicking your heels, as it will be nearly impossible to stand still.

Banners at McNeese is excited to announce Louisiana powerhouse Dani LaCour and her fiercely talented band will take over the main stage as this year’s headline musical entertainment.

Buckle up! A Louisiana native, LaCour has spent more than a decade taking stages across Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi and Tennessee by storm by bringing her blend of country, Southern rock, grit, swagger and serious vocal firepower to audiences throughout the region.

In 2018, LaCour took first place in the local competition for NashNext, and her talent has carried her all the way to some of the biggest rooms in the business. She made it to the final Hollywood round and into the Top 60 of American Idol, rubbing elbows with judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan along the way.

A singer-songwriter as well as a powerhouse performer, LaCour has worked across the country and Southern rock worlds and earned multiple nominations recognizing both her original music and live performances. She has opened shows for artists including Wayne

Toups, Dustin Sonnier, Bag of Donuts, Brianna Adams, and Billie Jo Jones, among others, and Southwest Louisiana audiences may also recognize her from appearances at Chuck Fest.

If you’ve ever heard LaCour live, you understand why she belongs at the center of this year’s Rhinestone Cowboy celebration. “I’ve seen Dani perform on multiple stages, and she is one of those singers who can literally make you stop what you are doing and go find where that voice is coming from,” said Banners Director Dr. Brook Hanemann. “She throws her head back and somehow channels pure passion, grit and power. Dani doesn’t just sing a song. She sings from somewhere down at the soul level. She has the kind of voice that can shake the walls and shake you right down to your core.”

That combination of country soul, Southern rock energy and powerhouse vocals makes LaCour a perfect fit for a Rouge et Blanc that is leaning all the way into rhinestones, boots, swagger and a little bit of honky-tonk glamour.

Pull out the denim, add an entirely unreasonable amount of rhinestones and gather around the main stage. You can eat, drink, dance your boots off and still call yourself a philanthropist at the end of the night, because every bit of the fun helps power Banners’ yearround cultural programming. And honestly, even if you took away the wine and food, Dani LaCour would still make this a party worth showing up for!

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Wining & Dining

ROUGE ET BLANC

New Digs. New Trails.

S ame chance to

raise a glass to the arts.

every sip

Supports the arts

Take pride in the fact that by supporting Rouge et Blanc, you're helping national and global talent reach stages across the region.

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SEPTEMBER 2026

There’s something in the

air at Mcneese this year, and it isn’t just the smell of Southwest Louisiana’s best bites and the aroma of 200 decadent wines being uncorked.

There’s a whole lot of new on campus—a new president, a spectacular new student union, a brand-new way into Rouge et Blanc, and a Banners cultural season that is no longer relegated to March and April. Banners is now year-round!

It seems only fitting that Rouge gets a new front door, too. This year, patrons can skip the wide-open lots of Rouge days past and park in the campus parking garage. Then walk straight into the back entrance of the new Elizabeth and Leslie Richard Student Union. Pick up tickets in the ballroom, mosey into Ballroom B for your glass, then make your way through the building and out those beautiful glass doors onto the Quad.

The gleaming new 50,000-square-foot gathering place stands where two pieces of McNeese history once stood: Farrar Hall and Memorial Gymnasium. Both were badly damaged by Hurricanes Laura and Delta, but part of that history survived. Original ironwork from Memorial Gym was saved and incorporated into the new building. You’ll walk right past it on your way to party with a purpose, and that feels pretty appropriate.

Because this building is about more than bricks and glass, McNeese students helped envision it, shape it and even voted to help fund it all while knowing some of them would graduate before they ever got to walk through its doors. After hurricanes took so much from campus, students invested in something they might never personally get to enjoy. They bet on what came next. And that sounds an awful lot like what Rouge et Blanc does.

Every ticket purchased, every bottle ordered, every glass raised at Rouge helps Banners bring arts, culture, education and extraordinary experiences to Southwest Louisiana. And now it’s happening all year long—spring, summer, fall and winter. Banners is no longer a cultural season but a yearround cultural presence.

So, this year, when you step through our new entrance, past a piece of the McNeese that was and into the McNeese that is becoming, take a second to appreciate the view. Join us as Rouge rides into its next chapter.

Get your Rouge et Blanc tickets at banners.org

photos by Chad Moreno THRIVESWLA.COM

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Wining & Dining

ROUGE ET BLANC

Rouge et Blanc

debuts new logo

For nearly two decades, Rouge et Blanc has raised a glass to the arts. This year, the fundraiser is getting a logo rebrand.

The longtime Bacchus did his job well. He was, after all, the god of wine, revelry and a good time, which is apropos for a day involving 200 wines and some of the best food SWLA has to offer. But this year, Bacchus hands over the glass to someone a little closer to home: McNeese’s own Horse and Rider, glass held high.

The message is clear. McNeese State University Rides for the Brand and raises a glass to the artists who make life richer, cooler and more beautiful.

To the visual and performing artists on campus; to our arts educators; to the musicians, actors, dancers, painters, writers, makers and dreamers working throughout Southwest Louisiana; to our shared culture, our shared history and every art

form that helps tell the story of who we are; we raise our glasses to you.

Whenever you raise that glass at Rouge, you are doing a whole lot more than toasting. You are fueling what Banners has grown into: yearround arts and humanities programming, multidiscipline master classes, all-ages workshops, artist residencies, and outreach and opportunities to bring extraordinary artists into our community. The community helps Banners practice philanthropy as the organization provides free and reduced tickets to military members and veterans, first responders, and educators, while keeping Banners programming free for McNeese and SOWELA students. Access to arts and culture raises the quality of life in our region.

new revenue stream to support the Louisiana Partnership for the Arts and statewide arts advocacy.

And Rouge is the party that makes it all possible!

Who knew a rhinestone-covered day of wine, food and joie de vivre could get so much done? That is why Rouge is incredibly proud to be Southwest Louisiana’s premier celebration of wine and food.

So, pull on the boots. Add some sparkles and some bling. Come hungry. Come thirsty. Come ready to party with a purpose. The Horse and Rider is raising a glass. We hope you will raise yours with us.

Purchase your Rouge et Blanc tickets at banners.org.

And Rouge patrons have helped make an impact far beyond McNeese’s campus. Support provided the resources needed to get Louisiana’s new arts license plate across the finish line, creating a

photo by Chad Moreno

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SEPTEMBER 2026

photo by Chad Moreno

imbibing

has its Perks

Bought wine from Rouge last year?

Then tip your hat, Rhinestone Cowboy. You’re not just a wine lover.

You’re part of what keeps the whole event in the saddle.

Rouge et Blanc works because wine distributors believe in this community and trust that the bottles poured at Rouge will find their way home with you afterward. That makes Imbibers essential. You’re not just tasting. You’re helping keep the wine flowing and the whole party possible.

And a special hats-off to those who couldn’t make it to Rouge last year but still earned their Imbiber status by purchasing online.

This year, Rouge is showing gratitude again with a little extra rhinestone treatment. If you’ve purchased $250+ in wine from Rouge in the past, before tax, congratulations, you’re officially an Imbiber. Crossed the $500 mark? Well, partner, you’ve ridden straight into Imperial Imbiber territory.

Either way, you’ve earned yourself some mighty fine perks: • Early Entry: Main Tasting opens just for you from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.—get the first sip, the first

bite and the best stroll before the crowd arrives.

Maestro Bill Rose will kick off the first hour with a private set just for our Imbibers, bringing some smooth charm to the start of the evening.

• Gold Ticket Access: You get dibs on two premium tickets during pre-sale.

• VIP Treatment: Mosey in through our brand-new entryway and new digs at the McNeese Holbrook Student Union before the crowd. Then enjoy your choice of stemmed or stemless wine glass, VIP entrance, and, if you move fast, the chance to snag VIP parking and table spots.

• Bragging Rights: You’re helping keep arts, culture and education riding strong across our entire region. That makes you more than a supporter. You’re a rhinestone-wearing, wine-pouring patron of the arts. So saddle up, stock the wine rack and help keep the wine and the arts flowing.

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MIND & BODY

AWARENESS

MONTH Pain can put a big dent in life, especially if it’s chronic and severe.

But that doesn’t mean you have to settle for living with it.

Whether it’s due to hormone fluctuations or joint, muscle or back pain, there are solutions. The first line of approach can include small lifestyle modifications and therapeutic adjustment of fascia and muscles.

And on of the best ways to prevent pain throughout the body is to keep muscle groups strong, especially your core, so one area of the body doesn’t overcompensate for a weakness in other. But don’t forget about nutrition and blood work to determine any deficiencies that need to be addressed.

During National Pain Awareness Month, make it a point to find the root of your pain and send it packing.

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SEPTEMBER 2026

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15

Mind & Body | PAIN AWARENESS MONTH

Elevation Massage Therapy Offers Relief from

Pain

Jerilynn Marque, LPN, LMT, BCTMB, La License #9815, founded Elevation Massage Therapy to provide medical massage services for physician referrals and personal injury case from attorneys.

Marque says, “I wanted to create a massage clinic that allows therapists to come in and provide their specialized services without the restrictions that spas and chain massage businesses impose. I also didn’t want an expansive menu. The therapist and client decide what services will be provided, including hot stones, aromatherapy, deep tissue, trigger point work, stretching, cupping and more. We also accommodate pregnant women, clients with dementia and those with past history of sexual abuse/ trauma.”

At Elevation Massage Therapy the goals are massage should be available everyone. The therapists offer relaxation and clinical massage, and the business is registered with the Louisiana State Board of Massage, LA 4904. Massages available include: • The rapid stress relief massage, which utilizes percussion technology and application of heat, ice or topical pain cream for quick stress relief or focusing on a targeted area.

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SEPTEMBER 2026

• The prenatal massage, which includes specially designed massage tables, cushions and side-lying postures used to prevent putting pressure on the abdomen.

• Customizable massage, including hot stone, hydro/thermotherapy, Swedish, deep tissue, cupping and passive stretching.

Massages can help the body function better and heal properly.

At Elevation Massage Therapy, therapists will ask what you’re looking for in a massage, explain what they will do and how it will help with any problems or concerns you’re having to ensure you’re feeling your best every day.

Here is an overview of the treatments Elevation Massage provides and what each one does: Deep Tissue Massage – It is used to break down knots and relieve pressure points throughout the body. This massage is beneficial for athletes and those who sit for long periods of time.

Swedish Massage – The goal of Swedish massage is to melt away muscle tension and increase the blood flow to your heart. It is extremely therapeutic as it decreases muscle toxins, increases oxygen levels in the blood and improves flexibility in the body.

Hot Stone Massage – Hot stone massage is often paired with Swedish massage. Stones are heated and used with oils to sooth, warm and massage your muscles.

This allows your body to relax and release tension and stress.

Thermotherapy/Cryotherapy – Thermotherapy and cryotherapy are often used in therapies for specific injury. They are also used to soften tissue and prepare for deeper massage modalities. They also can be used to change the sensation of pain and help with the healing process.

Cupping Therapy – Cupping therapy is an ancient form of complementary medicine in which a therapist puts special cups on your skin for a few minutes to create suction. People get it for many purposes, including to help with pain, inflammation, blood flow, relaxation and well-being, and as a type of deep-tissue massage.

Aromatherapy – Aromatherapy is the practice of using the natural oils extracted from flowers, bark, stems, leaves, roots or other parts of a plant to enhance psychological and physical well-being.

Modified Massage – Modified massage is used when a person cannot receive a traditional, face-

down table massage or they have special requests due to medical or mental health related reasons. Special pillows and other accommodations are made by the therapist to make sure that everyone can safely receive a therapeutic experience. This may include pregnant women, people receiving cancer treatments, people under hospice care and survivors of sexual assault/abuse.

Hot Bamboo – Hot bamboo sticks and rods are used similarly to hot stones. The bamboo can be used to manipulate tissues with heat and are shaped in a way that can be rolled along muscle groups and used with leverage against areas of the body to provide very deep pressure.

Trigger Point – Trigger or tender points are defined as a tender localized hardening that lies in the palpable taut band within a skeletal muscle. They happen more frequently with muscles that are overused or remain contracted for long periods. Special attention can be given to these with deep, sustained pressure, either with the therapist's hands or with specialized trigger point tools.

For more information about Elevation Massage, call 337-324-0288 or visit elevationlakecharles.com.

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Mind & Body | PAIN AWARENESS MONTH

Muscle Activation’s Role in

Reducing Pain Muscle activation gets to the root cause of the problem in the body by finding the source of the pain and correcting the issue.

It utilizes a non-invasive approach of identifying muscle weakness, neuromessaging deficits and muscle contractile deficiencies, which lead to compensatory patterns that can result in pain, tightness and injury.

The goal of muscle activation is to find which muscles are not contracting efficiently, identify the missing links and create a stable muscle system. A stable muscle system creates an environment for healing and pain prevention.

Our bodies are great compensators, and when a group of muscles is not contracting appropriately or is unstable, another group of muscles will step in to bear the brunt of the load. For a while our bodies can withstand the unbalanced load, but eventually the body will begin to break down, with resultant pain and often tightness.

Routinely when an individual presents with pain in a certain area of their body, 18

SEPTEMBER 2026

that area is most commonly treated with stretching, modalities and various pain regiments. If the compensatory patterns persist, pain will return or be exacerbated because the weakness or instability contributing to the pain is somewhere else in the body (muscles not contracting efficiently). Muscle activation is unique because it will assess the entire musculoskeletal system, starting from the feet to the cervical spine, not just the painful area.

Snap Fitness often witnesses a return in pain in clients when the individual resumes their previous activities because the body requires a stable muscle system to move, perform and work. Muscles contracting efficiently are vital to human motion.

Compensatory patterns can be easily overlooked and require an extensive evaluation of the entire muscle system, because, for example, knee pain may be originating from weak and specific unstable back or hip muscles. Piriformis syndrome is another example that is often a consequence of specific unstable hip muscles. Plantar fasciitis may be a result of a host of spinal muscle instability.

Once the deficits in neuro messaging and contractile deficiencies are identified, then begins the process of improving muscle weakness with palpations of tendon insertions to jumpstart tissue, followed by positional exercises and isometric exercises. The goal in pain reduction is to improve muscle downloading and the speed of contractions. Once the system is stable and firing, Snap Fitness incorporates a purposeful strengthening program, which means one should begin with exercises that will promote specific muscle activation and pinpoint muscles that are not firing appropriately.

Individuals want to do “fun and creative” exercises in the gym, but what they need to do is learn how to train to promote optimal neuro messaging, which will increase stability, mobility, balance and strength. This will prevent compensatory issues, muscle overloading and, in turn, reduce or prevent pain.

For more information on Snap Fitness, call 337-478-4525.

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19

Mind & Body | PAIN AWARENESS MONTH

How to Assess and Address

Joint Pain Anyone who has experienced pain, ranging from mild to overwhelming, will agree that it is subjective.

Pain is physically uncomfortable, and it affects your mental health.

For decades, it was treated primarily with medication, and often with opioids. That has changed. Today pain is managed with a wider set of tools like reducing inflammation, meditation, distraction, with a closer look at what the pain is actually costing a person.

Below Dr. Michael Meinhold, of Premier Joint & Orthopedic Care in Lake Charles gives his perspective.

Pain & Subjectivity I almost never start with a number. A seven for one person is a three for the next. What I ask instead is: better, worse or about the same? Front, side, or back? Sharp and stabbing, dull and achy, or burning? Different pain may have different sources.

Then I ask about life. Still getting the mail? Grocery shopping? Getting down on the floor with your grandkids? When somebody tells me the pain is manageable, but they've quietly given up their evening walk, that tells me more than any score.

Joint replacement While more common now, common shouldn't mean casual. Arthritis gets worse over time, but it doesn't follow that surgery is coming. How much is it running your day? When you plan around it, stop doing things you want to do or when stairs have become a safety question, that’s when we talk—and I don't start that conversation for you. Doing nothing stays on the table, and the timing is yours.

I try to be honest about surgery: You're trading arthritic pain for surgical pain, which gets better, unlike arthritic pain. A knee is a harder recovery than a hip, and I say so up front.

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SEPTEMBER 2026

The flip side is waiting forever isn't free. This isn't about holding out as long as humanly possible. It's about going at the right time.

Emotions & Pain Nobody comes into my office mourning their cartilage. They mourn gardening. Tennis. The evening walk. Sleeping on their side.

Kneeling down with a grandchild.

Chronic pain isn't only a sensation—it's a loss, and the grief is real.

I say out loud that doing nothing is a real option, because it takes the pressure out of the room. Mostly I want patients to know there's a difference between choosing to live with something and being afraid to ask about it. Pain isn't a volume knob wired straight from your knee to your brain. Attention and emotion are part of the circuit. That's why what you're doing and how you feel change what you feel.

Pain & Distraction Brain imaging has shown that listening to music you love lowers pain ratings—and appears to switch on the body's own built-in brake, quieting the signal before it ever gets upstairs. Good food, pleasant smells, being genuinely absorbed in something; all of it measurably turns pain down.

The point of treating pain was never to sit still more comfortably. It's to get back to what you enjoy. Pleasure isn't a trick for enduring pain. It's the whole reason we're treating it.

The information in this article is general and not a substitute for individual medical evaluation. Distraction and other non-drug techniques are intended to help manage pain, not identify its cause. New pain, pain following a fall or injury or a joint that gives way should be evaluated by a physician. Readers should consult a healthcare provider before beginning or changing any treatment.

For more information on Premier Joint & Orthopedic Care, call 337-628-4755 or visit premierorthoclinic.com.

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21

Mind & Body | PAIN AWARENESS MONTH

BACK PAIN The High Cost of

by Kristy Como Armand

Back pain does more than hurt. It can interfere with work, exercise, sleep and everyday activities, and when it becomes chronic, the financial impact can be significant for patients, employers and the healthcare system.

Low back pain remains the leading cause of disability worldwide. A recent Global Burden of Disease data report said that approximately 628.8 million people worldwide were living with low back pain in 2021, with about 266.9 million new cases occurring that year. While age-adjusted rates have declined somewhat over time, the total number of people affected continues to rise as the global population ages.

The financial burden is equally striking. The most comprehensive national analysis to date estimated that Americans spent $134.5 billion on healthcare for low back and neck pain in 2016, more than for any of the other 154 conditions studied. More recent research continues to document substantial costs, with a 2024 study finding average back-pain-related healthcare expenses of more than $7,100 per patient in the first year after a chronic low back pain diagnosis.

“Back pain has an enormous impact because it’s so common and because it can affect nearly every part of a person’s life,” says Craig Morton, MD, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist with the Center for Orthopaedics. “For some people, it’s a short-term problem. For others, chronic back pain can affect their ability to work, exercise and perform normal daily activities.”

cause. In fact, it’s estimated that approximately 90% of low back pain is “non-specific,” meaning it cannot be attributed to a specific disease or structural problem.

first or only option for most patients. Physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists focus on restoring function and reducing pain using nonsurgical approaches whenever appropriate.

“Two patients can have similar symptoms but very different causes and treatment needs,” Dr. Morton explains. “That’s why we look at the whole picture, including the patient’s symptoms, activity level, work demands, previous injuries and overall health. Treatment needs to be individualized.”

“Today we have many options that can help people manage back pain and return to the things they want and need to do,” says Dr. Morton.

“Physical therapy, exercise, activity modification, education, medications and minimally invasive treatments can all play a role depending on the cause of the pain.”

He says several factors can increase the likelihood of developing back pain.

The workplace is an important part of the equation. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, an estimated 8.3 million U.S. adults have low back pain attributed to work. Jobs involving frequent lifting, pushing, pulling, bending, twisting, vibration or prolonged positioning can increase strain on the back.

At the opposite extreme, inactivity can contribute to weak muscles and poor conditioning, making the back more vulnerable to injury.

Age also plays a role. Although back pain can occur at any age, its prevalence increases with age, with the number of cases peaking around ages 50 to 55.

The CDC reported that 24.3% of U.S. adults experienced chronic pain in 2023, while 8.5% had high-impact chronic pain that frequently limited their life or work activities. Back pain is one of the most common sources of chronic pain.

Other factors associated with back problems include previous injuries, smoking, obesity and prolonged poor posture. Stress, anxiety and other psychological factors can also influence how people experience and cope with chronic pain.

Why Does Your Back Hurt?

A Changing Approach to Treatment

One reason back pain can be challenging to treat is that there is not always an obvious structural

The good news is that treatment has changed considerably. Dr. Morton says surgery is not the

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Putting the Odds in Your Favor There is no guaranteed way to prevent back pain, but Dr. Morton says several habits can reduce risk. Regular physical activity helps strengthen the muscles that support the spine and maintain flexibility. Using proper lifting techniques, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and paying attention to workplace ergonomics can also help.

And while the old advice for back pain often involved extended rest, today’s approach generally emphasizes maintaining or gradually returning to normal activity when medically appropriate.

“The goal isn’t just to make the pain go away,” explains Dr. Morton. “It’s to help patients function better, stay active and reduce the chances that back pain will continue interfering with their lives.”

For more information about back pain treatment, contact the Center for Orthopaedics at 337-7217236 or visit centerforortho.com.

Lake Charles Urgent Care Launches

CARE+ MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM Offering Unlimited Visits

Access to affordable healthcare in Southwest Louisiana just became easier than ever.

Lake Charles Urgent Care has launched the Care+ Membership Program, providing individuals and families with unlimited access to urgent care services for one low monthly fee, without the need for health insurance.

Starting at just $30 per month, Care+ memberships eliminate the worry of paying out of pocket for every urgent care visit, making quality healthcare more convenient and costs more predictable for families, individuals and employers.

"I started Lake Charles Urgent Care 15 years ago, and over the years, we have seen more and more people delaying medical care when they really need it because they are concerned about cost or don’t have health insurance," says Dr. Jay Marque, owner and medical director of Lake Charles Urgent Care. "That’s why we created the Care+ Membership Program—to remove those barriers by providing affordable, unlimited access to care when it's needed most."

Members of Care+ can visit either of Lake Charles Urgent Care's two locations in Lake Charles or Family Physicians Urgent Care in Sulphur.

The Care+ Membership covers: • Unlimited urgent care visits • Walk-in or same-day access • Use of all three locations • Select in-clinic labs, X-rays and medications • A variety of discounts on additional services There are also membership options for individuals and families: • Individual Care+ Membership: $30 per month

• Family Care+ Membership: $90 per month for up to four family members, with additional children for $20 each per month Businesses can also take advantage of employer discounts, providing an affordable healthcare option for employees.

For those looking for more comprehensive healthcare, the Complete Care+ membership option combines unlimited urgent care with an established primary care relationship at Lake Charles Primary Care. This option includes preventive and wellness visits, chronic condition management and a 10% discount on wellness services.

Pricing for Complete Care+ provides membership levels for individuals and children: • Individual Complete Care+: $75 per month • Children (with enrolled parent): $30 per month “Care+ is designed for people of all ages and is especially beneficial for those without insurance, those with highdeductible health plans or anyone seeking a more affordable and convenient way to access healthcare throughout the year,” says Dr. Marque. “Our goal is to make it easier for people to get the care they need, when they need it.”

Lake Charles Urgent Care provides walk-in medical care for illnesses, injuries and preventive healthcare at three locations in Lake Charles and Sulphur that are open seven days a week.

To learn more or enroll in Care+, visit the membership page at lcurgentcare.com.

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Mind & Body

Perimenopau How to Advocate for Yourself and Protect Your Future Health

by Dawn Hinton, APRN, AGPCNP-BC, MSCP

It often begins with a feeling that something is off.

You may be sleeping poorly despite being exhausted. You may feel anxious, irritable, forgetful or overwhelmed by tasks that once felt manageable. Perhaps your menstrual cycles have changed, you've gained weight without explanation, your joints ache or your libido has declined. Many women simply say, “I don't feel like myself anymore.”

These experiences are common during perimenopause, the hormonal transition leading up to menopause that affects nearly every system in the body. Then comes the frustrating part.

You schedule an appointment looking for answers, only to hear that your lab work is normal, you're under stress or these changes are simply part of getting older. Unfortunately, this experience is far more common than it should be.

Perimenopause is one of the most significant hormonal transitions a woman will experience, yet many women enter it with little understanding of what is happening to their bodies. The good news is that knowledge is power. One of the most important things you can do is learn how to advocate for yourself and prepare for meaningful conversations with your healthcare provider.

Prepare Before Your Appointment Walking into an appointment prepared can completely change the conversation.

Before seeing your provider, take time to track the physical, emotional, cognitive and menstrual changes you have experienced. A simple symptom journal can help identify patterns and 24

SEPTEMBER 2026

provide your practitioner with a clearer picture of your concerns.

It is also helpful to write down your top questions and priorities ahead of time. Many women leave appointments realizing they forgot to ask about the issues that mattered most.

Find the Right Healthcare Partner Not every healthcare provider has specialized training in menopause and perimenopause care, making it important to find someone knowledgeable in this area.

A good provider listens without dismissing symptoms and takes a whole-person approach to care. They recognize hormones affect much more than menstrual cycles. Sleep, cognition, emotional wellbeing, sexual wellness and long-term health all deserve consideration. They should also be knowledgeable about the full range of treatment options and willing to discuss the benefits, risks and appropriate use of each.

use: Do Not Be Afraid to Ask Questions Many women hesitate to speak up during medical appointments, but asking questions is one of the most effective ways to advocate for yourself.

If you do not understand a recommendation, ask for clarification. If you have concerns about treatment options, discuss them openly. Shared decision-making leads to better outcomes and helps ensure your care aligns with your goals and values.

Looking Beyond Symptom Relief While many women seek care because they are not feeling their best, the conversation should not stop at symptom management. Hormones influence far more than reproductive function.

Estrogen, progesterone and testosterone contribute to bone health, cardiovascular health, cognitive function, body composition and metabolic health.

This does not mean every woman needs hormone therapy, nor is there a one-size-fits-all treatment plan. However, every woman deserves an informed discussion about her symptoms, medical history, risk factors and available options.

Perimenopause can serve as an important checkpoint in a woman's health journey. The best healthcare providers

view perimenopause through both a symptommanagement and prevention lens. The goal is not only to help women feel better today but also to support long-term health and quality of life.

If You Do Not Feel Heard Seeking a second opinion is not disloyal to your provider.

If your concerns are repeatedly dismissed or you leave appointments with more questions than answers, it is reasonable to seek additional expertise.

For generations, women have been told to simply push through this stage of life. Fortunately, we know better today. You deserve accurate information, evidencebased care and a healthcare team that takes your concerns seriously.

Most importantly, you should know that you are not alone. Effective treatment options exist, and with the right knowledge and healthcare partnership, perimenopause can become a turning point toward better health rather than simply a stage to endure.

Your voice matters. Your health matters. And your future deserves to be a priority.

For more information on Revitalized Health, call 337-214-0097 or visit revitalizedhealth.org.

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MONEY & CAREER

A Backpack Full of Hope:

First Federal Bank of Louisiana Wins National Award There’s a moment every August when a child slings a new backpack over their shoulders, and anything feels possible.

For more than 1,600 students over the course of three years, that moment came with the help of First Federal Bank of Louisiana, and now the rest of the country is taking notice.

First Federal Bank of Louisiana has been named the winner of the Emerging Community Bank Service Award, part of the Independent Community Bankers of America’s (ICBA) National Community Bank Service Awards. The honor recognizes the bank’s Backpacks of Hope program, and the story will be featured in the September issue of ICBA’s Independent Banker magazine.

Since launching in 2024, Backpacks of Hope has delivered more than 18,600 food items and 13,000 wellness essentials to economically disadvantaged students. The idea is simple but powerful: no child should start the school year hungry or without basic necessities. The execution, though, is anything but simple. It takes partnerships, planning and the entire bank rolling up its sleeves.

“The Backpacks of Hope program has expanded our brand’s reach and authenticity,” says Sam Wilkinson, president and CEO of First Federal Bank of Louisiana. “But more importantly, it has created more engaged and invested employees who are committed to our mission. We’ve been

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an important part of the fabric of our community since 1949, and this program has helped bring our mission to a new level.”

Employee energy is more than a talking point; it’s the engine of the whole program. Across the first two years, more than 90% of First Federal Bank of Louisiana’s employees in the market area took part in some form, whether donating food and hygiene items, packing backpacks, showing up at schools on delivery day or spreading the word. The bank’s Change Makers Volunteer Team led the charge.

With Children’s Miracle Network as the bank’s partner, year one brought the program to Fairview Elementary in Lake Charles, where nearly 92% of the school’s 600 students are economically disadvantaged. Year two carried it to Cypress Cove Elementary in Carlyss with Westlake Chemical as an additional partner. Year three took place with 400 backpacks going to Vinton Elementary in Vinton.

Principals have seen the impact up close. “The bank’s process of giving out the backpacks floored me,” says Maranda Lanham, principal of Cypress Cove Elementary. “The community truly showed up.

It wasn’t just words; it made the kids feel loved and valued and ready to tackle the new school year.”

ICBA President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey summed up why the program resonated with judges nationally: “First Federal Bank of Louisiana’s Backpacks of Hope program is a powerful example

of community banking at its best—identifying a meaningful local need and rallying employees, partners, and resources to meet it. By providing students with nutritious snacks and personal care essentials at the start of the school year, First Federal Bank of Louisiana is helping give children the confidence and support they need to focus on learning and thrive.”

First Federal Bank of Louisiana will continue to grow the Backpacks of Hope program with its partners in order to impact as many local students as possible.

For more information, visit ffbla.bank.

Independent Community Bankers of America National Community Bank Service Award Emerging Program Category

We’re always looking for ways to make change.

At First Federal Bank of Louisiana, the Change Makers Volunteer Team is dedicated to making positive impact through hands-on service. That’s why the Independent Community Bankers of America chose our Backpacks of Hope program for its National Service Award, which recognizes community banks doing good in their communities. Each year we work with our partners to select a school to receive hundreds of backpacks full of kid-friendly snacks and hygiene items, and these backpacks help give students in need a better start to the school year. We are incredibly honored for winning the Emerging Program category, and this prestigious national award reinforces what we already know - that creating positive change is the best return on investment. We’re here for it all!

(800) 860-1238 | www.ffbla.bank

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Money & Career

Why Does

INSURANCE Matter?

Because You Can’t Predict When Disaster Strikes

by Kerri Cooke

Going without insurance is a gamble.

And it’s a gamble you do not want to lose. Unexpected emergency expenses can ruin financial stability and haunt you for years.

Buy the Travel Insurance We all tend to think we’re invincible, especially if we don’t have extenuating health conditions. Buying travel insurance for a one-week trip can seem like an unnecessary expense and an easy corner to cut when planning a vacation out of the country. The chance is good that no medical emergency will happen, but if you end up in the hospital due to an accident, sudden health event or freak happening, you will regret not taking out a policy. Travel insurance is usually relatively inexpensive, and it will also protect your trip investment and belongings if things go sideways.

Invest in Flood Insurance It doesn’t matter if you’re not in a flood zone. It’s always a good idea to carry flood insurance on your home. It has been flooding in areas where it has never flooded before. Just remember that hundred-year flood event in Lake Charles back in 2021.

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Even if you don’t live in close proximity to a body of water, modern days storms have been dumping historic records of rainfall in very short amounts of time. Do you really have that much confidence that all the drains on your street are clear or that all ditches will flow seamless or that your local retention pond can’t overflow?

Flood insurance is cheaper than homeowner’s insurance, especially outside of flood zones. Do your research so you don’t accidentally end up losing your best investment to the power of water.

Consider Life Insurance Only God knows how long we will live. Some live to a ripe old age, while others drop dead of an unexpected health complication in a moment. Don’t leave your family unprotected when there’s proactive steps you can take to ensure they’ll be financially set if you unexpectedly pass away.

Life insurance is not just a good investment for the future of your family. It can also help them with immediate expenses, such as burial costs and medical bills. The last thing you would want for your family is for them to have to worry about money while they’re grieving.

Whatever type of insurance you’re in the market for, make sure to explore plans at different companies and see how they compare to get the most bang for your buck. And don’t delay taking out a plan indefinitely because the future waits for no one. Insurance policies have helped many people in their time of need. Ensure you’re not caught unaware and without protection if something happens to go wrong later in life or tomorrow.

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Money & Career | HOMETOWN CELEBRITY

In 2026, Lynda Benglis’ Art is as Relevant as Ever LAKE CHARLES BORN ARTIST INFLUENCING LUXURY FASHION

by Kerri Cooke

Lynda Benglis was born October 25, 1941, in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

She attended McNeese State University and eventually graduated with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Newcomb College in New Orleans after studying painting and ceramics. (Newcomb College was the women’s branch of Tulane University.)

Benglis then taught third grade in Jefferson Parish before moving to New York where she would meet other artists, such as Andy Warhol. She continued her education at Brooklyn Museum Art School. She has used

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mediums such as polyurethane, gold leaf, zinc and aluminum and later did metal casting. At 84 years old, she is still inspiring art today.

If you follow fashion designer Jonathan Anderson’s career, previously at Loewe and now for his self-named brand, Jonathan Anderson, and Dior, you’ll know he is known for being playful with his designs. They are wearable art—just take his famous balloon shoes for Loewe which consisted of a heel in the form of a semi-deflated balloon. Many of his pieces can be considered surrealist or avant-garde.

Anderson has not been shy about his love for art or its impact on his work. In fact, he has been inspired by sculptor Lynda Benglis, originally of Lake Charles, in several of his collections already. For the men’s Loewe spring/summer ’24 show, Anderson places some of Benglis’ sculptures on the runway.

For the Loewe women’s spring/ summer ‘24 collection not only were Benglis’ sculptures featured, she and Anderson collaborated on the jewelry for the collection with pieces being inspired by Benglis’ designs. Benglis has said, “Jewelry is the first thing I noticed when I was a kid. And that led me into making art.” Anderson said of their collection, “Every piece is like a miniature wearable version of one of her sculptures.”

Now, Benglis has been the inspiration for Anderson’s haute couture fall/winter ’26-’27 collection for Dior. The show took place in Musée Rodin in Paris, France, and featured clothing interpreted through the lens of Benglis’ practice

of making 3D objects using knotting and pleating. In fact, one of the staples of the collection, a silver pleated and knotted dress was in the style of “Toyopet Crown,” made by Benglis in 1989. Sculptures are tactile objects and the clothing in this collection appears to be as well. Other pieces in the show are tied to Benglis’ experiences while in Ahmedabad, India. (These are your more colorful and beaded items.) The Musée Rodin hosted a “Grammer of Forms” exhibition after the show which displayed the clothing alongside some of Benglis’ sculptures.

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Benglis’ works are on display at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City and the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C., with pieces frequently shown in rotating exhibits around the world. She also has a number of steel sculptures at the Imperial Calcasieu Museum, which have graced the grounds since 1992.

THE NEXT CHAPTER S TA RTS H E R E

Let us help you make a plan.

We’re honored to become part of the community and excited to welcome our new customers to Catalyst Bank. As a community bank, we believe banking is built on relationships, local decision-making, and a genuine commitment to the people and businesses we serve.

We're honored to become excited to welcome our While our customers will continue seeing the local team they’ve come to know and trust, they will also Bank. gain As a community ban access to enhanced technology, expanded products and on relationships, local dec services, and additional resources designed tocommitment make to the people banking easier and more convenient.

While our customers will co We're honored to become part of the community and come to know an We look forwardourtothey've serving excited to welcome new customers to Catalyst Bank. and As a community we believe is built tech access enhanced you being a bank, catalyst fortobanking on relationships, local decision-making, and a genuine and services, and additio growth in tothe commitment the communities people and businesses we serve. make banking easier and m we proudly call home.

While our customers will continue seeing the local team they've come to know and trust, they will also gain

Butch Ferdinandsen

CFP®, CLU®, ChFC®, CRPS, CRPC Investment Advisor Representative Securities and investment advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Osaic Wealth is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of Osaic Wealth.

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We look forward to serving growth in the communities

access enhanced technology, expanded products From left, Regina Thomas, AVP Branch Manager, Dorene T.to Gothreaux, From left: Regina Thomas, AVP Branch and and services, andT.additional resources designed to SVP Chief Commercial Lender, Joe Zanco, President CEO. Manager, Dorene Gothreaux, Southwest

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From left, Regina Thomas, AVP Branch Manager, Dorene T. Gothreaux, SVP Chief Commercial Lender, Joe Zanco, President and CEO.

We look forward to serving you and being a catalyst for growth in the communities we proudly call home.

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31

Arts

PLACES & FACES

Celebrating the

As a new art season kicks off, get ready to explore some of the coolest happenings in the local and Louisiana scene.

First up is singer and songwriter Robin Barnes who created an album dedicated to the culture we all hold dear in this state. Next, explore fresh productions—from theatre to ballet—that will set the stage for cultural enrichment through next spring.

And, if you’re bored, pick up a new hobby. Jonathan Thomas proves that creative hobbies don’t have to be just painting or creating ceramics. The arts have a place for everyone!

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photo by Chad Moreno

Flowers 2 Fabric Quilt Shop OVER 1,000 BOLTS OF FABRIC, NOTIONS & PATTERNS JANOME SEWING MACHINES CLASSES Open Saturdays 9-2 or by appointment

www.flowers2fabric.com Owner: Tonya LeBlanc Moak

217 W. NAPOLEON ST. (HWY 90) • SULPHUR • 337-274-1872

Join us!

1001 Ryan Street www.gallerybythelake.org

September Workshops Smart Phone Photography September 5 | 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM w/ Dan Plummer and Ryan Courville Central School Room 225

Cyanotype on Fabric September 19 | 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM w/ Kat Bertrand and Kaleb Davis

Central School Room 225

On View Now Creature Continuum | until September 12 group exhibition featuring Kat Bertrand and Kaleb Davis

Coming Soon Hit Me With Your Best Shot | September 16 juried bird photography exhibition National Parks | December 11 group exhibition featuring Tim Fontenot and Titus Bradford

Supported by a grant from the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury as administered by the Arts Council of SWLA

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Places & Faces | CELEBRATING THE ARTS

How do we joyfully celebrate the cultural melting pot that is Louisiana and pass on our history, traditions and language to future generations?

This is a question that award-winning vocalist and songwriter Robin Barnes, nicknamed the Songbird of New Orleans, began pondering when she discovered she had a tumor in her leg. Barnes’ new album Louisiana Love began brewing among the what-ifs and unknowns amid that experience. Now on the other side of her medical journey, Barnes is bringing Louisianans together and introducing our culture to countries around the world.

Louisiana Love not only tells the story of Barnes’ family. It brings together Louisiana through a mix of genres of collaborations with some of biggest names in local music. (See track list.)

When you were deciding to make this album, what was the process?

I had an entirely different album ready to go when I found out I had a tumor. I didn’t know if it was cancer, but I knew it needed to be removed. It brought to my attention the idea of mortality and being a mom and the way my family passes things down through oral tradition. The passing down in my family is from eldest daughter to eldest daughter, and as the eldest daughter, I thought instantly, “How am I going to explain nine generations of storytelling to a three-year-old?” My daughter was three at the time.

My family has learned what loss looks like without passing things down. I was supposed to learn from my mémé the recipes passed down through slavery—recipes that have lasted through nine generations. And then Hurricane Katrina took her from me. I’m the first generation that doesn’t have a recollection of those recipes. We think we have more time and sometimes we don’t.

I wanted to take on the major task of learning more about my history and how to create something beautiful that honors not only my lineage but all of Louisiana. My ancestry includes Nova Scotian, French and African. My mémére and pawpaw spoke Creole, and I was one of the generations that didn’t really know it.

ROBIN BARNES

by Kerri Cooke

Award-Winning Singer & Songwriter

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The album was a discovery of my family in music form. It took three years. I focused on understanding the music, really diving into my ancestry, diving into the zydeco, the Creole, the Cajun music. I grew up listening to the music, but I thought, “how do I put my spin on it?” This album has so many heavy hitters because I collaborated with some of the most amazing culture bearers and teachers of the music.

I wanted to bridge Louisiana—the history, the food …. I’m so excited about this album because Louisiana’s HOME. I took for granted, and I think a lot of us take for granted, that Louisiana is such a beautiful and unique place in the world, from its history to origin. You can be in two different parts of Louisiana, but you better believe people are excited to feed you. You better believe someone is going to make you listen to their favorite song … if they’re not going to play it themselves. It’s like you have a new cousin every time you meet someone.

We need projects to keep cultures alive so we don’t forget. I know what’s it’s like when people do forget.

I love the fact that music helps preserve culture very well. So many people who have heard this album may have never heard of me until now, but every single person could hear how much effort and time and intentional love I put in these songs.

No, I am not a Cajun artist or zydeco artist, but I did everything with due diligence to make sure it honored who it was representing.

The biggest compliment in the world is when you have these amazing artists and culture bearers who are honoring this album and some of them will go, “I really like that song. Do you think I can play that before it comes out?” and I’m like, “nooo.” It was a beautiful collaboration, and I’m so honored that this little girl from New Orleans who had this really big idea, this really big dream, had all these artists say yes. That is what’s so beautiful about our culture and our music, especially our musicians. Everyone cares about preserving, and they all care about the story. If we don’t do it, who will?

This album is full of collaborations with other musicians, including Southwest Louisiana’s Rusty Metoyer. Did you know them before or did you reach out to them?

The New Orleanians I knew. I did research on the music and the new zydeco. I knew I had to have Jordan Thibodeaux, Drake LeBlanc and Cedric Watson on the album. I was thinking, “How are these guys going to know who I am? How am I going to get in touch with these people?” Well, I said yes to being a gumbo judge at the NOLA Zydeco Fest, and I found them! It was such a God send. They were all doing a jam session right next to my table. A full festival with music all day, all night, and it’s just a coincidence the three people I was looking for were right next to me?! So, I went up to them and told them about the project. I think it’s one of those special moments when people are really excited about someone younger who is not

just interested in preserving their culture but also in learning more. I think the learning more was what was really important to them. And then doing the right thing with the music. I told them about my project and why I was doing it. I told them, “I’ll send you the songs. I’ve been so intentional about making this music sound amazing. I promise I won’t mess you up and put you on a horrible song,” and they were just like, “Ok. We’ll hear it first.” And they heard it, and they were so sweet.

Jordan and Drake were on Va Dansé. I couldn’t figure out this album without them. I couldn’t hear these songs without them. Seeing how much they have done for their own music and their own genres, they were the perfect people.

I always dreamed of having a beautiful Creole lullaby for my daughters. Regardless of what happens in life, I wanted to feel like they always had my voice to put them to bed. So, for the Creole lullaby, I could only hear my husband on base and a fiddle. I asked Cedric Watson, “Could you do a lullaby with me?” and he was like, “I don’t really do lullabies, but let me hear it.” He not only loved the melody, he went, “Wait, we need nylon guitar.”

I said, "ok. Should we call someone to play nylon guitar? He goes, “I think I can play it.” He comes over, and he’s fiddling around because he does not play guitar, and he did it! He just picked it up. He played the fiddle and the guitar on that song. We made sure all the terms were correct in Creole and Louisiana French.

I grew up listening to zydeco. I knew I had to have two people who would bring that fire, that energy, that I grew up listening to. It had to be Dwayne and Rockin’ Dopsie on the same track—Eh Ma Belle.

I also wanted to show love to the more contemporary zydeco. And to me, the number one person I love listening to is Rusty Metoyer. He came in for Va Dansé, but I wanted him to hear the more modern zydeco since that’s more his realm. All I wanted was for him to tell me, “You’re on the right track.” He listened to Never Let Go and said, “I really like Va Dansé, but I think this one’s more me. Could I be on this one?”

Have you heard any of your songs in an unexpected place?

to make it feel like you are taking a road trip through Louisiana. It includes the nostalgia of home and the joy of the present day—that instant joy when you’re around a family table or at a cookout or a barbecue or a dance hall or a parade.

It’s about enjoying life … celebrating life. I’m so proud to be a Louisiana music ambassador and to be taking our music all over the world. That’s what means the most to me—traveling and touring the world and showing people our culture, our joy and our music.

Barnes will be in Paris in October to headline a jazz festival. You can find Louisiana Love on Spotify, Amazon Music and Apple Music or order an autographed CD. Visit robinbarnesmusic.com or social media @NewOrleansSongbird.

LOUISIANA LOVE TRACKLIST: “The Water Remembers” (intro) ft Big Chief Bruce

“Sunpie” Barnes and The North Side Skull and Bone Gang

“Louisiana Love” featuring Louis Michot “Bienvenue en Louisiane” (interlude) featuring Cedric Watson

“Eh Ma Belle” featuring Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. and Dwayne Dopsie

“Va Dansé” featuring Jourdan Thibodeaux, Rusty Metoyer, and Drake LeBlanc

“Don’t Let Go” featuring Rusty Metoyer

I was touring in Australia and New Zealand. I went to this coffee shop and heard Rusty singing. He has this beautiful part in Never Let Go that says, “Your smile lights up the sky,” and then I realized I was singing with him. I went, “That’s my song!” I walked up to the cashier, and she said, “We love Louisiana, and this singer from New Orleans, Robin Barnes, has a show tonight. You should go.”

“Do Do BeBe” (interlude) featuring Bruce Sunpie Barnes

What do you want to express through Louisiana Love?

“Doctah” featuring Ivan Neville

What I want when people hear this album is to experience joy. It’s a musical journey from the first song to the end. Everything is placed intentionally

“Hey Na (Iko Iko)” featuring Big Freedia and Ha Sizzle

“A Creole Lullaby” featuring Cedric Watson “Dey Say Run” featuring Robin’s daughters “A Mother’s Love” (Interlude) featuring the great poet Sunni Patterson

“Hands Up” featuring Big Chief Monk Boudreaux and Chief J’Wan Boudreaux, with Herlin Riley

“Saw My Baby” featuring The Soul Rebels “Carry it Forward” (Outro) featuring Big Chief Bruce Sunpie Barnes and the North Side Skull and Bone Gang

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Places & Faces | CELEBRATING THE ARTS

ACTS Theatre’s New Season Displays the Importance of Community

Stories of love, hope and perseverance feature in ACTS main season this year.

Performances begin with Come From Away, the story of Gander, Newfoundland, in the aftermath of September 11, 2001.

“It’s a show based on what happened that day, and in the days to follow in Gander,” says director Kris Webster. “You have a place roughly the size of Jennings getting 6,000 extra people. You have to house them, and there’s so much uncertainty about how long they would have to stay. And the people of Gander welcomed their visitors with open arms.”

Come From Away is on stage starting on the 25th anniversary of 9/11 through the 20th of September.

For Halloween, there will be a special event showing of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, with participation bags being sold, as part of ACTS’ Underground season, which will wrap up in January with Neil Simon’s Rumors.

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ACTS’ main season includes The Holiday Channel Christmas Movie Wonderthon, a hilarious play that pokes fun at all of those Christmas movies on a certain channel that seem to have the same six storylines, on stage in December.

In April, Seussical the Musical returns to the ACTS stage, a mashup of a variety of Dr. Seuss stories that will be fun for the whole family. Horton the Elephant finds himself sitting on Mayzie’s egg AND protecting the speck of dust on a flower that is the Who’s entire universe. Meanwhile JoJo, a little kid with a big imagination, is sent off to military school for thinking too many “thinks” and navigating the world with The Cat in the Hat. The season concludes in June with Little Women, the classic story of the March sisters turned into a musical.

Full details on ACTS' shows, audition information and season tickets can be found on their website actstheatre.com.

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Places & Faces | CELEBRATING THE ARTS

Lake Area Ballet Theatre Announces New Season of Performances

Lake Area Ballet Theatre (LABT) is celebrating its 12th season.

The faculty and board are dedicated to staging full-scale ballet performances, producing new and innovative works, and providing a strong and diverse curriculum for the next generation of dancers. They are proud to showcase local talent and guest artists each year. Colleen Cannon Benoit serves as artistic director.

The Nutcracker is a full-length and family-friendly ballet that showcases the enchanting story of young Clara and her favorite toy, a nutcracker, brought to life. Dreams of The Land of Sweets, the Sugar Plum Fairy, dancing snowflakes and a duel between toy soldiers and mice are mesmerizing on the stage, complemented by beautiful vintage costumes, stunning scenery and a magical Christmas tree. The whimsy of Mother Ginger, the mystery of Drosselmeyer and the thrill of the music by Tchaikovsky provides a delightful classic that stands as a seasonal gift to the child in all of us.

LABT is offering one shortened, sensory-friendly version of Clara’s Land of Sweets. It is intended to

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create an inclusive, supportive environment for children and adults with sensory or developmental disabilities. Plus, our professional guest artist is a local native, bringing his homegrown talent back to our community.

Save the dates and join LABT at the Rosa Hart Theatre: School Performances: Thursday, November 19 and Friday, November 20 at 9:00 a.m.

Public Shows: Thursday, November 19 at 6:00 p.m.

(Sensory-Friendly Clara’s Land of Sweets) Friday, November 20 at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, November 21 at 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

The 2027 Spring Gala will feature a comedic ballet, Coppelia.

All local dancers train at Lake Charles Dance Academy in Lake Charles, Louisiana. For more information about tickets or sponsorship, visit lakeareaballettheatre.com or LakeCharlesNutcracker.com.

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PRESENTS

SCHOOL PERFORMANCE THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19 - 9:00 AM FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20 - 9:00 AM

TICKETS

SENSORY FRIENDLY PERFORMANCE

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19 - 6:00 PM

PUBLIC PERFORMANCE

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20 - 7:00 PM SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21 - 1:00 PM & 7:00 PM

Rosa Hart Theatre

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Places & Faces | CELEBRATING THE ARTS

LCLT Staging a Season of Blockbusters to Celebrate its 100th Anniversary For a century, Lake Charles Little Theatre, LCLT, has brought local talent, memorable stories and the excitement of live performance to Southwest Louisiana.

Its 2026-27 season celebrates that remarkable legacy—all over town, with all kinds of creative artistic partnerships—with four productions that span musical theatre, classic drama, Shakespearean comedy and a legendary Broadway musical.

Barbara Price Downer, LCLT president, said the historic variety of venues, guest directors and arts alliances secured for this 100th anniversary season reflects the collaborative leadership shown by LCLT ever since Rosa Hart founded it a century ago.

The season opens with Grease, the beloved musical that captures the energy, romance and rebellious spirit of 1950s teenage life—packed with unforgettable songs, colorful characters and plenty of dance-floor appeal. LCLT board member and local stage/radio personality Mike Brignac directs the show, which will be on stage September 1827 at McNeese’s historic Bulber Auditorium in partnership with the university’s Banners program.

Next comes Tennessee Williams’ Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, one of the most celebrated dramas in American theatre. Set during a tense family gathering on a Mississippi plantation, the Pulitzer Prize-winning play explores deception, inheritance 40

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The famous Rosa Hart, Lake Charles Little Theatre pioneer, directs a scene from Life With Father with trademark enthusiasm in 1947. With her from left are former Lake Charles mayor Tom Price, Henry Clark, and Garf Macdonald.

and the painful truths families sometimes try to hide. The November 5-8 production at McNeese’s newly renovated Ralph Squires Recital Hall is directed by Dr. Brook Hanemann of Banners and stars Southwest Louisiana Arts & Humanities Executive Director Lee Ann Stenvick.

The season then turns to Shakespeare with retired McNeese professor Greg Stratton’s adaptation of Twelfth Night, one of the Bard’s most enduring comedies. Mistaken identities, romantic confusion and clever wordplay fuel this exuberant story of love and disguise while filled with humor and theatricality. It’s onstage January 15-24 in the just-

reopened Ben Mount Auditorium at Central School Arts & Humanities Center.

The centennial season concludes April 9-18 with Cabaret, the iconic musical set in 1930s Berlin.

Against the backdrop of a society undergoing profound political and social change, the story unfolds inside the Kit Kat Klub, where performers and patrons seek escape through music, nightlife and spectacle. With its unforgettable score and darker themes, Cabaret provides a powerful finale to a season celebrating a century of artistic expression. Kayla Guidry directs.

CELEBRATING OUR PAST • BUILDING OUR FUTURE

The joy of community theatre has been our hallmark for 100 years. But we’re not just celebrating. We’re rebuilding.

A major investment in support of local arts and quality of life is coming soon. In the meantime, subscribe to our centennial season!

LCLT will be on the air, too. The season also will feature the free, popular live radio plays, hosted

by John Bridges, on KBYS-FM and streamed worldwide. The shows are War of the Worlds and It’s a Wonderful Life—and feature nostalgic “commercials” for long-lost local businesses.

Additionally, LCLT has joined forces with local historian Adley J. Cormier to rebuild LCLT’s own Enterprise Boulevard theatre, demolished after Hurricane Laura. A Centennial Capital Campaign is under way and a groundbreaking ceremony for the venue will take place later this year.

For show information, season subscriptions, patron opportunities, corporate giving and audition announcements, visit lclittletheatre.com or LCLT’s Facebook and Instagram platforms.

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Places & Faces | CELEBRATING THE ARTS

The 49th Season of the Louisiana Choral Foundation The Louisiana Choral Foundation’s 2026–2027 season titled Choral Treasures: Old and New offers a captivating journey through beloved masterworks and inspiring contemporary compositions.

The season opens with Music of the People on Friday, October 9, at 7:00 p.m., and Sunday, October 11, at 3:00 p.m., at University United Methodist Church in Lake Charles.

From the rich harmonies of Lloyd Pfautsch and Mozart’s Missa Brevis in F major to the moving messages of Randal Stroope’s Where the Earth Meets the Sky, the program celebrates the shared experiences that unite us. The concert concludes with an unforgettable medley from the Broadway masterpiece Les Misérables.

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Celebrate the joy of the holidays with Love and Joy, Come to You, presented on Friday, December 11, at 7:00 p.m. at St. Luke-Simpson United Methodist Church in Lake Charles and Sunday, December 13, at 3:00 p.m., at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Sulphur. Featuring Vivaldi’s radiant Gloria, Christmas Joy

by Reginald Unterseher, and performances by Les Petites Voix and the Bayou Bell Choir, these cherished concerts conclude with a stirring presentation of O Holy Night featuring all participating ensembles.

The season closes with Creation on Friday, April 23 at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 25 at 3:00 p.m. at St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church in Lake Charles.

Dan Forrest’s breathtaking oratorio Creation is a vibrant musical celebration of the beauty and wonder of the natural

world, performed with chamber ensemble, soprano and baritone soloists, and the full Masterworks Chorale.

Whether you are a longtime supporter of the Louisiana Choral Foundation or joining for the first time, experience a season of music that will inspire, uplift and move you!

For more information, visit lachoral.org.

MONTHLY

Jonathan Thomas BROMETHIUS WORKSHOP

One of Four 2026 Resident Artists at the Imperial Calcasieu Museum Before mass manufacturing, skills were traditionally passed down through apprenticeships.

local art community is something that I cherish.

Think about deeply historical jobs like blacksmithing. Those with the experience spent years teaching the younger generations how to master a complex task. These days, knowledge of traditional ways to do things is decreasing. Jonathan Thomas, self-taught woodworker, is helping share the art of stool making with the local community while running his own workshop.

Harvesting wood is daunting. An 8-foot log can weigh thousands of pounds and it takes hours to break down. Because it is so labor intensive, I try to be very careful with my use of materials. Usually, I work with the lesser material first and save the real premier materials for special projects. This residency has turned that idea on its head.

When I am working on projects for my exhibition in January, I gravitate to the very best of my wood supply first.

What piqued your interest in woodworking and how long have you been doing it?

When I was younger, I was interested in building houses. When I got to an age when I really had the chance to dig into these ideas, I discovered that house building is not a creative process. However, I discovered chairmaking along the way. Chairs are widely regarded as the most challenging task for a wood worker.

This was attractive to me. They are both decorative and durable.

Tell us about being a 2026 resident artist for the Imperial Calcasieu Museum.

The residency has been so much fun. They do a phenomenal job of documenting for socials and advertising work. They also have connected me with prospective students and commissions and given me a platform to show what I can do. The opportunity to be part of the

What is the process of harvesting your own wood?

A few years ago, I felled and split a tree. Ironically, that log ended up being mostly useless. Beetles had gotten to it and degraded the fibers, making them brittle and poor quality for furniture. This was a hard lesson.

I spent 20 hours breaking this log down, all for materials I wasn’t even able to work with. I learned how precious quality materials really are and how important it is to evaluate a tree before committing to breaking it down.

What is your creative process like when making a piece?

The task always follows three principles—is it strong, beautiful, and comfortable? I spend a lot of time reading and studying the work of other designers. One of the core ideas I wrestle with is what am I attracted to? What do I want to make?

There are days of daydreaming and sketching. When I have a clear idea of where I want to go, I sketch a model.

This is a quick sketch drawn at a very small scale. I will use that sketch to play with lines and geometry. When all the parts and pieces are decided upon, I will begin the process of creating full scale plans. These plans will be fully labelled with every joint marked and every angle identified.

I will use these blueprints when I begin laying out parts for the chair as a guide for construction. The plans get taped up on the wall of my shop and will be used to make any jigs and to help me stay on target once I start breaking down bulk materials.

You mention a passion for preserving the art of chairmaking.

What and who are you inspired by?

Inspiration is everywhere. I see it every time I step into my garden or walk around town. I am constantly moving things around to better understand them, picking them up and setting them on edge. I think my primary inspiration comes from Hans Wegner and Dawson Moore. Wegner is the classic mid-century modernist.

He is renowned for making the critical transition from rustic handmade chairs (imagine that of Appalachia) to modern design.

Moore's work is more reliant on hand tools. If Wegner was pushing the craft away from the rustic by introducing modern tools, Moore is a course correction bringing those designs back to the realm of handwork. Moore hand finishes every surface with a knife, rather than the belt sanders of the industrial shops of PP Moller (Wegner’s manufacturers).

I work at the intersection of these styles. I try to make sure my work is elegant and strong, but I also don’t have many heavy tools and rely on bushcraft skills passed down for generations. I like to say that I use traditional techniques to achieve modern designs.

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Places & Faces | CELEBRATING THE ARTS

Lutcher Theater Welcomes Audiences to Its 47th Season

The Lutcher Theater is welcoming audiences to its 47th Season with a lineup designed to bring Broadway, music, comedy and unforgettable live performances to Southeast Texas and Southwest Louisiana.

The 2026–27 season opens September 26 with 15-time Grammy® Award-winner Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder. In October, audiences can experience the return of The Magic of Kevin Spencer–A Sensory Inclusive Performance, followed by the 10th Anniversary Tour of Waitress, featuring music by Grammy® Award-winner Sara Bareilles. November brings The Carpenters Songbook: A Live Celebration and the new Broadway production Mystic Pizza, based on the beloved 1988 film.

The holiday season comes to life December 6 with Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol, featuring Parton’s songs and the spirit of her classic Christmas storytelling.

The new year continues with an eclectic mix of performances, including Chicken Wire Empire and the Tony® Award-winning musical comedy Shucked on March 18. April features Jason Scheff’s Chicago Nights with the Symphony of Southeast Texas, followed by the musical comedy Beetlejuice on April 27.

The season continues in May with A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical, a Broadway 44

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celebration of the legendary singer-songwriter, before closing June 9 with the Tony® Awardwinning musical The Wiz. “We are proud to once again present a powerful performing arts lineup to unite and inspire us,” said Lynae Sanford, executive director of Lutcher Theater. “From timeless music to groundbreaking new works, this season has been carefully curated to offer incredible events and world-class experiences.”

Beyond its main performance series, the Lutcher Theater continues its commitment to the community through educational programming.

Its Lutcher Incredible Kids Events series brings nationally and internationally recognized touring productions to area students, with performances designed to support classroom learning while keeping the arts accessible to local children.

Since opening in 1980 with a gala performance

by Liberace, the 1,500-seat Lutcher Theater has welcomed generations of audiences and some of the biggest names in entertainment. As the new season begins, the theater continues that tradition by creating opportunities for the community to experience the magic that happens when artists and audiences come together.

Tickets for all shows are available now at Lutcher.org.

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS of sharing Choral Music with SWLA

1977 - 2027 lachoral.org

Facebook LCF

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Places & Faces

Community Starts with You Why Civic Engagement Shapes the Future of Southwest Louisiana

Every thriving community has one thing in common: people who care enough to get involved.

Whether it's attending a public meeting, volunteering for a local organization, serving on a board or simply sharing ideas about the future of your neighborhood, civic engagement transforms communities from places where people live into places where people belong. It is also the foundation upon which the Just Imagine SWLA 50-Year Resilience Master Plan was built.

When Just Imagine launched, the goal was to build a plan with the community. More than 2,500 residents participated in public meetings, small-group discussions, interactive online tools and textbased engagement opportunities, sharing more than 7,000 comments about what they loved, what needed improvement and what they envisioned for the future.

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Those conversations became more than ideas—they became action.

The result was a communitydriven roadmap featuring 11 catalytic projects that are guiding investments and partnerships across Southwest Louisiana.

That process demonstrates an important truth: meaningful change happens when people participate.

Community engagement gives residents a voice in decisions that affect their daily lives and helps local leaders understand priorities they might otherwise overlook.

It creates solutions grounded in the experiences of the people who live, work and raise families here. When citizens participate, projects gain stronger community support, partnerships become more effective and investments better reflect local needs. Just as importantly, engagement creates a sense of ownership. Communities become stronger when residents see themselves not simply as observers

but as active partners in shaping the future.

Southwest Louisiana has long been fortunate to have leaders who exemplify that spirit of service. Few have demonstrated the power of civic engagement more than Willie Mount.

From helping lead the grassroots effort to save Central School to becoming Lake Charles' first female mayor and later serving in the Louisiana Legislature, Willie Mount has spent decades proving that one person's commitment can create lasting change. Her leadership has influenced countless projects, organizations, and initiatives that continue to benefit the region today.

On Monday, September 14, community members are invited to An Evening with Willie Mount: A Conversation About Community Leadership & Leaving a Legacy at the Central School Arts & Humanities Center. Moderated by Community

Foundation Board Chair Clair Hebert Marceaux, the talk will explore the experiences that shaped Willie's remarkable career, the importance of community leadership and how philanthropy and civic involvement can leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

The evening is in partnership with the Community Foundation Southwest Louisiana, Just Imagine SWLA, the McLeod Lecture Series and Banners at McNeese State University, with generous support from Catalyst Bank.

This free event is open to the public, and everyone is encouraged to attend and be part of this inspiring conversation about leadership, service and the future of our community.

To learn more and register, visit foundationswla.org or scan the QR code provided.

LegisGator Week Brings State Leaders Together in Southwest Louisiana for Unprecedented Gathering For 21 years, the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance’s LegisGator Luncheon has brought state and federal officials together with business executives and community leaders to discuss the policies shaping Louisiana's economy. The event is recognized as the largest gathering of its kind in the state, and it gives Southwest Louisiana a direct platform to raise regional priorities with the people who decide them. This year, an expanded three-day format strengthened the collective focus on our region and the state.

The first LegisGator Week made up the largest in-state gathering focused on Louisiana policy outside of the legislative session, drawing thousands of business leaders, policymakers, elected officials, nonprofit organizations, higher education representatives, and economic development professionals from every corner of the state. In addition to each day’s main events, there were receptions, meetings and hospitality suites that fostered additional opportunities for networking and collaboration during the week.

The Alliance presented the conference in partnership with the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry (LABI) and Leaders for a Better Louisiana.

LABI's Policy Forum opened the schedule on August19 with panels on insurance reform, energy, and workforce development, framed around what the 2026 legislative session delivered and what it means for Louisiana employers.

Better Louisiana's Future Louisiana Conference followed on August 20 with a slate of renowned speakers and a focus on practical solutions and collaboration among leaders. The 21st Annual LegisGator Luncheon closed the conference on August 21, recognizing legislators from across the state whose work advanced Louisiana's business climate, economic competitiveness, and quality of life over the past year.

This year’s recipients of the top honors were: LegisGators of the Year: Chairmen Glen Womack and Jack McFarland When faced with a $100 million revenue shortfall, Senate Finance Chairman Glen Womack and House Appropriations Chairman Jack McFarland worked side-by-side to deliver a responsible, balanced state budget for this fiscal year without raising taxes.

SWLA Chair's Award: Sen. Mike Reese Senator Mike Reese has been a steadfast advocate for the Southwest region throughout his time in the Legislature.

In the 2026 session, he was able to

secure substantial funding for the Port of Vinton, advancing critical infrastructure and economic development in our region.

Public Policy Award: Rep. Chance Henry Representative Chance Henry successfully advanced a meaningful package of bills addressing one of the persistent challenges facing communities across Louisiana. Through his leadership, a package of blighted property measures was passed that will create new tools to rehabilitate neglected properties and return them to productive commerce.

Rising Star Award: Reps. John Wyble and Stephanie Berault This year’s Rising Star Award recognizes two legislators who have worked tirelessly to strengthen Louisiana’s workforce system for the long term.

Representatives John Wyble and Stephanie Berault's leadership was paramount in better aligning training with employer needs, streamlining workforce programs at a statewide level, and creating more effective pathways for workers to gain the skills required for high-demand jobs.

Sen. Mike Reese – SWLA Chair’s Award winner with Michelle McInnis, Executive Vice President, SWLA Alliance

Rep. Chance Henry – Public Policy Award Winner with Michelle McInnis, Executive Vice President, SWLA Alliance

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50 YEARS

30 YEARS

Kasey Crowell Gilbert Franklin William Gormanous

John Gallien

45 YEARS Judy Malveaux

40 YEARS

John Conley Brent Fetzer David Vogel

35 YEARS

Connie Alleman Bart Bridges Craig Bushnell James Conley Lynette Cormier Pitre Anne Doss Debbie Esthay Manuel Fontenot Cathy Gauthier James Guidry Laura Heflin Donnie Istre Christopher Martin Doris Mudd Jason Reeser Sherwin Roy Jeffrey Shelton

25 YEARS

Gregory Bernard Scotty Brooks Mitchell Brown Cassandra Collins Brandon Derouen Jack Desselle Minda Doucet Harry Green Derek Hardie Robert Hubbard Robert Hughes Michael Istre Chellie Labove Michael Meche Jody Miller Matthew Perkins Kimberly Relford William Talbot Benjamin Touchet James Vallier Kandies Victorian Peter Woods

20 YEARS

Joshua Allen John Ammons David Castro Casey Chisholm Linus Conner Dale Cryar Robert Dale Dennis Dugas Dwight Dunham Jason Dupuis Travis Ellzey

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David Frazier Servando Garcia Ben Gentry Darryl Green Brandon Guillory Phillip Hughes Allyson Miller Michael Monceaux William Odom Christopher Pantely Eriberto Pena James Phipps Ronald Smith Patrick Swift Robert White

15 YEARS

Chad Bowles Jared Bruno Jason Chesson Justin Fontenot Stephen Harriman Jonathan Hornsby Ling Huang Ryan John Justin Landry Kristin Prejean Ryan Richard Renn Savoie Randal Scott Jonathan Shirley Stefan Smith Jennifier Smith Jon Zimmermann

10 YEARS

Anian Vincent Alcantara Eric Deason James Duplechain David Ellender Randall Jordan

John Lalanne Anthony LeBlanc Dave Manuel Amy McGarity Patrick McGrew Thomas Metzger Mark Morvant Kenneth Nelson Marshall Paris William Parker Fabian Parrett John Rawlings Judgery Rigdon Brittney Simon Marcus Smith Kevin Stanley Joseph Toups Scotty Trahan Jeffrey Verrett Jonathan Vogel

5 YEARS

Albert Anderson Nickolas Ardoin Joshua Auzenne Cody Avery Shane Baker Jeffrey Bass Emmett Bobbett Johsie Boggan Thad Bourque Morgan Broussard Jake Bruce Christopher Colley Dustin Collins William Conner Joseph Conrad Jacob Courville David Crawford Zachary Curry Gavin Davis

Jacob Deranger Miranda Dickerson Robert Duhon Kenneth Dukes Christopher Dupont Nicholas Ebarb Miles Fontenot Amanda Fontenot Krystle Fontenot Jonathan Gary Gregory Gaspard Bristi Gipe Derek Glaze Jennifer Gordon Matthew Graf Blane Green Nicholas Guidry Dustin Hilliard Darren Hume Joseph Hutchins Taylor Joseph Trent Larocca Derrick Larocca Anthony Lebato Anthony LeBlanc Benjamin Leger George Mcinnis Terri Olsen Joshua Orsot Kevin Phillips Joseph Primeaux John Pyle Zachary Richard Carroll Richard Ricky Soileau Kaleb Stark Kailen Thibodeaux Robert Vaughn Nathan Wolfford

Congratulations to these employees celebrating milestone anniversaries in 2026.

50 YEARS

45 YEARS

30 YEARS

15 YEARS

40 YEARS

35 YEARS

20 YEARS

25 YEARS

10 YEARS

5 YEARS

THEY’RE LOYAL. THEY’RE DEDICATED. THEY’RE HARDWORKING. And they’re some of the best people you’ll ever meet.

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From the Desk of the McNeese Prez Our McNeese campus is buzzing as the fall semester gets underway! It’s been wonderful meeting so many new students and their families who are excited about what earning a college degree can mean for their future. One piece of advice I always share is to get involved on campus. Joining student organizations is a fantastic way to make the most of the college experience while building friendships, leadership skills and connections that can last a lifetime.

Mike Reese

McNeese State University President

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During my first couple months as president, I've had the opportunity to listen, learn and build relationships with faculty, staff, students and community members. I have found tremendous support for McNeese from our community! These conversations are helping shape our next steps as we begin turning ideas into action

with a focus on strengthening enrollment, supporting our students and employees and positioning McNeese for continued success.

McNeese athletics is in full swing! I hope you have an opportunity to enjoy McNeese football, volleyball, cross county and soccer. We invite everyone to support our student athletes. Fall also means that the Block Party is back. See you there!

Whether we're strengthening student support, investing in our campus or building new partnerships throughout our region, every step we take is about moving McNeese forward.

McNeese Elementary Education Program Achieves Top Marks The bachelor's degree in elementary education program at McNeese State University has earned an A from the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) for how well future teachers are prepared to teach reading to elementary students.

dean of the Burton College of Education. “This honor reflects the expertise of our faculty, the perseverance of our candidates and a shared commitment to ensuring every child has access to high-quality literacy instruction.”

The report, Teacher Prep Review: Decoding Progress in Reading Preparation, published in June, spotlights McNeese for meeting the standards set by literacy experts for teaching future educators the most effective methods of reading instruction.

A child’s ability to read proficiently in the early grades shapes everything that comes next in school and in life.

According to National Assessment of Education Progress data, four in 10 fourth graders in Louisiana cannot read at a basic level. One of the best ways to change that is through strong, research-based teacher preparation aligned with the science of reading to ensure that future educators are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to help every child

“Receiving an A designation from NCTQ for our preparation of future elementary teachers in teaching reading is an accomplishment worth celebrating,” said Dr. Jan Robichaux,

become a successful reader, according to Robichaux.

“Receiving high marks from the NCQT is a testament to our unwavering commitment to academic excellence.

This recognition confirms that we are providing future educators

in Southwest Louisiana with the evidence-based tools they need to improve student outcomes,” said Dr. Michael Buckles, McNeese provost and vice president for academic affairs.

McNeese Titleholders Shine Across Campus McNeese State University students Darice Johnson and D’Mari Babineaux, and local high school student, Maddy Claire Thomas, are the current McNeese Titleholders. They serve as official student ambassadors for the university and represent McNeese at campus and community events throughout the year.

Johnson, an agricultural sciences major from Iowa, is Miss McNeese LeBelle Volunteer. She says holding this title has helped her discover that she can handle more than she thought.

Babineaux, a kinesiology major from Carencro, is Mr. McNeese LeBeau and says that being a titleholder is an opportunity to give back to the university that has given him so much.

“I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about recognition. It’s about consistency, humility and service,” Babineaux said. “I’ve become more confident in my ability to communicate, lead diverse groups and represent something bigger than myself.”

Thomas, a high schooler from Reeves, is Miss McNeese LeBelle

Teen Volunteer. She says being a titleholder has pushed her outside of her comfort zone.

“I’ve learned that I am stronger and more confident than I ever imagined,” Thomas said. “I am proud to be an ambassador for a university that invests so much in its students and community.

McNeese Titleholders receive a scholarship and the program provides leadership development, public speaking experience, networking opportunities, community engagement and professional development.

Maddy Claire Thomas, D’Mari Babineaux and Darice Johnson

At Cheniere, we strive to make a difference in our communities through job creation and investments in education and career training, which is why we are proud to be the founding sponsor of McNeese’s Cowboy Energy Club.

Learn more about Cheniere: cheniere.com

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Join Us for

B R I DA L E X P O 2 0 2 6 October 18 VIP 12:30 - 1:30pm | Bridal Show 1:30 - 4:00pm Ever After Under the Oaks is a bridal expo reimagined as a true wedding-day experience. Couples are invited to step into a fully-styled Oak Crossing ceremony and reception experience. Every detail is curated to create an atmosphere of understated elegance so guests can genuinely envision their own celebration.

Come experience an event that feels just as special as the day itself.

T I C K E TS O N SA L E N OW O N EVENTBRITE

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STYLE & BEAUTY

Bride guide the

While wedding season is hottest from May through October, in Southwest Louisiana the cooler months offer the best respite from weather woes.

Fall is the ideal time to get married in a beautiful gown with stunning floral arrangements in one of the region’s best outdoor venues.

If you’re about to tie the knot or plan your own big day after an engagement, tune into some current trends for ideas on what’s possible.

At the end of the day, weddings are about celebrating love, and if you can’t get enough of those butterflies, pick a few popular rom-coms to read while sitting on the couch under a blanket with a pumpkin spice latte.

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Style & Beauty | THE BRIDE GUIDE

Bridal Bouquets ARE NO LONGER THE

Main Attraction 2026 Weddings are Big on Greenery and Floral Displays

by Kerry Andersen

When Travis Kelce dropped to one knee to propose to music icon Taylor Swift, there was a collective gasp.

Not just for the romance and magnitude of the moment but also for the sheer scale, whimsy and beauty of the 20-foot domed arboretum covered in vines, moss, roses and lilies (estimated at 2,000 blooms costing in excess of $38,000) that created an enchanted-garden backdrop as he popped the question heard around the world.

Being the trendsetter Swift is, it will come as no surprise that her fairytale proposal represents a shift in the way florals are being used by brides and grooms in 2026.

Bouquets are shrinking – Installations are growing Gone are traditional round bouquets, giving way to smaller, fashion-forward shapes and compact hand-tied bundles of blooms or artistic “basket bags” of flowers. Brides are now pouring most of their floral budgets into big sculptural moments that create drama at their wedding venue— arches, botanical installations and cascading designs instead of the expected symmetrical shapes of years past. Organic arches and floral clouds suspended above reception tables also tap into a desire for social media aesthetics as the immersive displays create a multidimensional textured look for photographs.

Meadow-style – Grown, not placed florals Instead of tall centerpieces sitting atop tables, couples are now gravitating toward florals that look like they are actually growing through the tablescape. Look for blooms lining the aisle, spilling organically across the ceremony space, or forming low, meadow-style spreads instead of curated, towering arrangements. This style works especially well for garden weddings.

Sustainability – Reduce, reuse, re-bouquet Modern brides are eco-conscious and all about sustainability. As a bonus, the practice is also a way to execute a beautiful wedding without a big price tag or waste. Couples are increasingly choosing locally sourced blooms, foam-free arrangements and reusable floral decor.

Repurposing ceremony florals is becoming standard practice—moving the ceremony arch florals to the reception, using living greenery and arrangements that guests can take home or incorporating potted moss and natural grasses that create visual drama with a lower price tag.

Out with the matchy –In with the mood Modern brides are also ditching classic color-coordinated looks and tapping into the big national trend for 2026—warm, tonal palettes. Cooler blush and sage tones that dominated in recent years are being replaced with warmer pinks. Dark brown makes a strong appearance paired with terracotta, butter yellow and monochromatic bouquets (all shades of one color instead of a mixed palette), creating a mood that is ethereal and romantic. After all, it’s a love story.

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Style & Beauty | THE BRIDE GUIDE

Shine SUPERS like the

‘90s Style Nostalgia is Dictating Current Bridal Gown Trends

by Kerri Cooke

While styles continue to evolve over the years, there’s always a tendency for trends to recycle themselves.

Just think about jelly shoes. They’re popular once again, but the design has changed. You can now get jelly boat shoes! But “what goes around comes around” is not just applicable to the general fashion scene. The wedding industry has such cyclical patterns as well. As young adults, who never experienced the ‘90s, plan weddings, they are taking inspiration from one of the most pivotal times in modern history. The popularity of old school romcoms is an added driver.

Whether your favorite romcom is My Best Friend’s Wedding or The Wedding Singer, or you take inspiration from the famous supermodels of the ‘90s, there is going to be a beautiful dress for all personalities. Laurie Baynard, owner of L Bridal Couture, says selections right now are “very ‘90s romcom with a lot of satin/Mikado, clean lines, Basque waists, drop waists and sleek styles. The ‘90s had great wedding style, so I’m happy to see us trending in that direction again.”

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Sara Lasher, wedding and event planner, says there will be a significant number of halter dresses to choose from, along with cat-eye necklines, brocade textures and lace gloves that reach the elbow. And the colors don’t always have to be bright white. Soft, pastel-colored gowns continue to slowly gain popularity.

Lasher says brides are aiming for vintage romance vibes, “but not vintage in the same way we’ve seen in the past.”

Expect brides to favor silver jewelry over gold accessories to amp up the “storybook romance vibe,” she says.

Baynard indicates brides in Southwest Louisiana usually prefer classic, fitted styles, but in 2026, there has been a 50/50 split between fitted dresses and full ballgowns. “It isn’t very often you can wear a ballgown. One of the gowns we just ordered at market is very on trend but still classic.” (See middle photo.)

A personalized veil completes a wedding looking like nothing else can, blending tradition and modernity.

Baynard says at L Bridal Couture they’ve introduced

Allie Ann Photography SEPTEMBER 2026

Allie Ann Photography

embroidered veils to their product line. “Brides can get their new last name or wedding date added to their veil, which is really special,” she says.

As far as other accessories are concerned, Baynard mentions gloves and chiffon or tulle capes are popular.

Brides also have the opportunity to add sleeves to their dresses—off-

the-shoulder, beaded, flutter, lace and pearl. Introducing removable details can not only customize a dress but allows a bride to have two looks in one. The extras can be worn for the ceremony and removed for the reception if desired.

The choice of wedding attire is a very personal choice, and those at L Bridal Couture are ready to help a bride feel her best. “Wedding dresses are truly magical and when a girl puts HERS on ... it's as if you can see that transition of her becoming a bride. She radiates when she puts hers on. And while wedding dresses are truly magical, they're absolutely nothing without the beautiful woman who wears it. Our goal at L Bridal is to make the moment as special as possible with privacy (one appointment at a time) and an experience full of sweet memories.”

For more information, call 337-884-0621 or visit lbridalcouture.com.

Claudia Schiffer walks for Chanel by Lagerfeld.

Spring/Summer Haute Couture show in 1989.

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Style & Beauty | THE BRIDE GUIDE

Wedding Trends FALLING FOR for the Cooler THE OUTDOORS: Seasons

by Kristy Como Armand

For couples dreaming of an outdoor wedding in Southwest Louisiana, fall and winter can offer some of the most beautiful conditions of the year.

Cooler temperatures, changing light and the natural colors of the season create an inviting setting that requires less decoration and gives couples plenty of room to make the celebration their own.

The Gazebo outdoor venue in the heart of Oak Crossing in Lake Charles offers a naturally picturesque setting for an outdoor wedding.

Centered under the shade of beautiful, 100-year-old majestic oak trees, the 16 x 20-foot hand-crafted Gazebo structure adds unique, intimate elegance to the ceremony.

“One of the things we see couples appreciate most

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about a fall or winter wedding is how comfortable it can be to spend more time outdoors,” says Kirsten Chargois, wedding coordinator at Oak Crossing.

“In Southwest Louisiana, cooler weather gives couples an opportunity to really make the most of our outdoor setting and create an atmosphere that feels relaxed, romantic and very personal.”

ceremony with an indoor reception or the option to move activities inside if the weather changes.

The TreeHouse also offers convenient amenities, including a catering kitchen and a beautiful bridal suite on the first floor. The bridal suite provides a private, spacious, relaxing retreat for the bride and her bridal party before the ceremony.

That connection to the setting is driving many current outdoor wedding trends. Instead of trying to transform an outdoor venue with elaborate décor, couples are increasingly allowing the landscape to become part of the design. At Oak Crossing, century-old oak trees, landscaped green space and the handcrafted Gazebo provide a natural backdrop that can work with styles ranging from traditional Southern elegance to modern and understated.

Chargois says rich, nature-inspired colors are a trending, natural fit for cooler-season weddings.

Burgundy, merlot and deep greens are among the richer shades appearing in 2026 wedding design, often complemented by warm neutrals, candlelight and greenery. Couples can carry these colors through flowers, linens, bridesmaid dresses and smaller details rather than relying on a heavily themed seasonal look.

The Oak Crossing venue also features the 4,200-square-foot TreeHouse overlooking the grounds, allowing couples to combine an outdoor

Lighting takes on greater importance as the days get shorter. Bistro lights, candles, lanterns, chandeliers hanging from trees, and other warm lighting can transform an outdoor space as daylight

fades, adding both function and atmosphere. Oak Crossing’s Gazebo is already equipped with lighting and electrical outlets, giving couples flexibility for late-afternoon and evening celebrations.

“We’re seeing couples think about the entire experience rather than just how everything will look in photographs,” says Chargois. “They want their guests to be comfortable, the evening to flow easily and most importantly, for their wedding to personal rather than overly staged.”

That focus on experience is also leading to more creative transitions throughout the celebration.

“Couples might exchange vows outdoors, host cocktails under the oaks and then move inside for dinner and dancing,” says Chargois. “We love being able to offer that indoor-outdoor combination to our couples.”

For any outdoor wedding, however, flexibility remains essential. Louisiana weather can change quickly regardless of the season. Choosing a venue with both indoor and outdoor spaces gives couples the freedom to plan the outdoor wedding they want without allowing a stress over a questionable forecast to take over the week leading up to it.

“The best outdoor weddings have a good backup plan,” Chargois says. “Here at Oak Crossing, that backup plan is built in, and we feel the cooler months in Southwest Louisiana offers couples one of the best opportunities of all to take their wedding celebration outside, under the oaks.” ‘ For more information about scheduling events at the Gazebo or TreeHouse, call 337-421-6200, email events@oakcrossing.net or visit oakcrossing.net.

SAY “I DO” TO SOMETHING DIFFERENT. Your wedding celebrations should feel like you.

At Crying Eagle University, our brewery provides a one-of-a-kind backdrop for bringing your favorite people together. From intimate gatherings to big celebrations, our flexible event spaces make it easy to create an experience all your own.

Host your engagement party, bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, welcome party, wedding reception, or post-wedding celebration with great food, craft beer, cocktails, and plenty of room to celebrate.

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Family Friendly Environment

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Style & Beauty | THE BRIDE GUIDE

ALL IN THE

DETAILS

Content Creators and Fast Food

by Kerri Cooke

Nostalgia, comfort and innovation are leading the way in wedding planning this fall.

While the season is mostly associated with the golden hues of falling leaves, expect silver to emerge as a top contender, whether in bridal accessories or table décor such as candelabras.

(Imagine a scene like in Beauty and the Beast.) Sara Lasher, wedding planner, says, “Vintage silver trays with watercolor invitations are going to be on repeat,” but the tablescape can also be accented with bold colors for a strong visual treat.

While pastels are still in vogue, they aren’t completely dominating the wedding space anymore.

When it comes to food after the wedding, more couples are choosing to splurge their calorie count on fast food. Lasher 60

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says, “Whether it’s local fare like Mr. Gatti’s, or mega chains like Whataburger, fast food is fun food." That being said, late-night passed items are still popular as well.

A trending color palette is chartreuse and burgundy. The depth and versatility of these colors help serve the romantic mood of a wedding while feeling modern and sophisticated. Lasher says this color combo is often “paired with anthurium, orchids, tulips and hanging Amaranthus.”

However, she encourages brides to know their budget because this flower combo is not cheap. Brides can find similar flowers if they need to remain in a smaller budget.

Want your wedding to feel like a production? For those who love fireworks, specifically sparklers, cold

sparks are a safer way to achieve that big moment. Lasher says since popularity has increased it’s a lot easier to find machines and vendors now, but she emphasizes it’s best to hire a professional. “Hire the professional,” she says. “I can’t stress this enough. Bargain shopping for cold spark machines and powder on the web is a recipe for disaster. Inferior powder can generate smoke and set off sprinkler systems.

It can burn more sporadically, leading to the possibility of ignition of nearby décor and fabrics or hair, dried flowers and synthetics. As someone raised with Smokey the Bear, these machines excite me, but couples need to take the risks seriously and hire a pro.”

It's a sign of the times that social media content creators are being hired as a vital part of a big day to create memories to last a lifetime and upload to your feed. A good content creator needs to be a multitasker and a bit of a jack-of-all-trades. “Between mics,

arms, audio mixers, cables, stabilizers and lights, it’s not a job for someone wanting to dabble,” Lasher says. “The best content creators in my experience come from the world of professional photographers and videographers, and it’s easy to see why. They understand the pace of the day. They have care, concern and a sense of urgency. They understand blocking when paired with other pros trying to get the same shot. And they already have a level of professionalism with communication, contracts, and deliverables.” But don’t forget to hire a content creator who has a good track record behind them. Lasher adds, “Vet your vendors.

Ask your coordinator, planner, photographer, and videographer teams for content creator referrals they trust that support their work but stay out of their way. Protect your investment by doing your homework on vendors on the front end. You’ll enjoy the peace of mind later.”

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Style & Beauty

the

shelf

Fall is the perfect time to curl up with a good book.

Since we’re on the topic of love, what better time to honor one of the most famous romance writers, Jane Austen, of all time? As the cool fronts blow in, two new Austen adaptations will grace screens, a film version of Sense and Sensibility and a miniseries of Pride and Prejudice.

This has been a great year for Austen spin-offs as well. This first book became the subject of a very popular miniseries earlier this year. And if you want to get a jump start on Sense and Sensibility, the second book will give you all the butterflies.

The Other Bennet Sister

by Janice Hadlow

What if Mary Bennet’s life took a different path from that laid out for her in Pride and Prejudice?

What if the frustrated intellectual of the Bennet family, the marginalized middle daughter, the plain girl who takes refuge in her books, eventually found the fulfillment enjoyed by her prettier, more confident sisters?

Ultimately, Mary’s journey is like that taken by every Austen heroine. She learns that she can only expect joy when she has accepted who she really is. She must throw off the false expectations and wrong ideas that have combined to obscure her true nature and prevented her from what makes her happy. Only when she undergoes this evolution does she have a chance at finding fulfillment; only then does she have the clarity to recognize her partner when he presents himself—and only at that moment is she genuinely worthy of love.

Mary’s destiny diverges from that of her sisters. It does not involve broad acres or landed gentry. But it does include a man; and, as in all Austen novels, Mary must decide whether he is the truly the one for her. In The Other Bennet Sister, Mary is a fully rounded character—complex, conflicted, and often uncertain but also vulnerable and sympathetic.

Janice Hadlow worked at the BBC for more than two decades, and for ten of those years she ran BBC Two and BBC Four, two of the broadcaster’s major television channels. She was educated at Swanley School in Kent and graduated with a first class degree in history from King’s college, London. She is the author of A Royal Experiment, a biography of Great Britain's King George III. She currently lives in Edinburgh. The Other Bennet Sister is her first novel.

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Unromantic

by Ruth Mitchell In a family of hopeless romantics and dreamers, Elinor is the sensible one. Her mom is an artist, her sister is a poet and Elinor’s just doing her best to keep the family afloat.

After her father’s untimely death, she takes over his job managing Norland Park, a rustic family resort in Big Sur, California.

Elinor doesn’t mind unclogging toilets, smoking hornet nests and dealing with grumpy guests as long as it means she can continue to live with her mom and sister in their beloved Bumble Cottage rent fee—a perk of being camp manager.

But when Norland Park gets a new owner, Elinor’s idyllic life is threatened.

She can’t deny her initial attraction to the new owner’s son, Edward. But neither his charming smile, dry sense of humor, nor their shared childhood memories, can make up for the fact that he’s working to destroy her beloved home by turning it into a luxury resort.

Ruth Mitchell was born and raised in Salt Lake City, where she grew up writing plays for the neighborhood kids and “exploring” the woods near her home. In high school, she founded a Dead Poets’ Society, as well as successfully campaigning to make the school’s all-male service club accept female students.

She met her husband on her first day of class at the University of Utah, where she graduated with a BA in journalism. Working for the Deseret News, she reported on wildfires, shootings and human-interest stories. Her husband’s medical training took her to Dallas and then San Diego where they settled and raised their four mostly-grown children.

Currently writing a series of contemporary Jane Austen retellings, Ruth’s goal is to write “hospital waiting room” books—books that cheer and distract readers when their world is crumbling so they laugh and sigh and end with little more hope.

Landscape Management Services is proud to have examples of our work across neighborhoods in Southwest Louisiana.

In addition to a full range of landscaping, design and maintenance services, we offer a fully stocked garden center. You can pick up from our location, or we can deliver for your convenience.

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HOME & FAMILY

FIRST out family and the In Louisiana, it’s all ab gether. bonds that hold us to Especially in the related. have to mean blood Family doesn’t even mmunity can feel r region, the whole co ou t do t tha ns tow small in times of need. each other and help for t ou k loo We . ily like fam this month: you can get involved Here are some ways ’ Day with your lebrate Grandparents On September 13, ce nny. ts or your surrogate gra parents, grandparen o might not have ys to support those wh If you’re looking for wa th unplanned wi re ways to help those people to rely on, explo pregnancies. u, check out th those closest to yo For a fun night out wi fé, Gouda Games! new board game ca

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e world

"Grandparents fill th with love."

NTS E R A P D N A R G R U O Y nts' Day, re a p d n ra G l a n o ti Na 6 September 13, 202

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Home & Family | FAMILY FIRST

CELEBRATING

s t n e r a p ' d Gran Day

Kids Say the Darndest Things

by Kerri Cooke

Grandparents are an irreplaceable part of a family.

They have wisdom and knowledge to pass down to the younger generations, will babysit the grandkids in a jiffy and buy 100 boxes of Girl Scout cookies if that’s what it takes for their granddaughter to reach her sales goal.

But grandkids also have a unique way of giving.

No longer are grandma and grandpa called by those titles across the board. In fact, Kristy Como Armand, grandmother to six, says that when she became a grandmother for the first time, her friend, Fran Avery, told her the first grandchild would choose what she would be called. And that turned out to be the truth.

“Years ago, I got junk mail at my office addressed to Krispy Almond,” Armand says. “It became a joke and my kids, teenagers at the time, latched onto the name ‘Krispy’ as a nickname for me. I was not a huge fan, but they thought it was hilarious and said it would be a great grandmother name when they had kids. Fast forward to when my oldest daughter was pregnant with my first granddaughter. I was trying to decide on what to be called. I tested out KK, KiKi, and a few others but none felt right. ‘Krispy’ resurfaced and I thought it was different, and at least something I was used to, so that was going to be my grandparent name. When Anna Grace started talking, we tried to get her to call me Krispy, but what came out was ‘Brisket,’ then ‘Biscuit.’ I panicked a little. As much as I love brisket and biscuits, I didn’t want to be called that.

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I kept trying for Krispy and got ‘Bissy’ next. When faced with the alternatives, I decided I could live with that. It doesn’t make any sense, but it’s unique and I love it because it came from her.”

Carmen Ishee says a similar thing happened with her firstborn. “My son couldn’t pronounce ‘m’ properly as a toddler and calls me ‘baba’ instead of mama because of it. Fast forward to both his grandmas, he calls my mom ‘ba’ instead of mom and his Mimsy ‘bims’ instead of ‘mims,’ but we love his personalized names.

Katrina Creamer says her granddaughter has names for both her and her husband—Zsa Zsa and Dragon.

“Originally, we were going to be Lolli and Dragon. One day we were shopping, and I saw a company called Zsa Zsa and Lolli in a boutique and I was set once I saw Zsa Zsa! I loved how unique it was and knew I had never heard anyone call their grandma that before! My husband picked Dragon because he said when you become a grandparent, it usually is the only time you can pick out your name.”

These are the memories that will last forever. After becoming a grandparent, you assume a new and additional identity—and an additional capacity for love.

Celebrating

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Home & Family | FAMILY FIRST

IMPACT

SWLA Pro-Life Billboards Mary Guzzino Wilkinson, SWLA Pro-Life Billboard coordinator, made it her mission to help women and babies avoid abortion in 2021.

She says she was trying to figure out how she could make a difference when God kept reminding her about the saying that a picture is worth a thousand words. One night she searched for “soul at conception” online in an attempt to find a picture that would say more than a thousand-word story. She discovered a company which sold pro-life banners under this name with imagery she connected to. She delivered a few banners before she felt the Holy Spirit tell her to “go bigger.”

Wilkinson started SWLA Pro-Life Billboards in April 2021 and partnered with LA Right to Life and their ongoing educational efforts. Below she details the ongoing effects of the organization.

What are the goals when placing a billboard?

• Present the truth – pre-born life is human life.

• Provide the resources to empower a woman, and father of the child, with the immediate and long-term needs, to make life affirming choices.

We know that changing culture begins by reaching people where they are. As long as hearts can be changed, women can be supported and unborn children need advocates, we’ll continue finding innovative and effective ways to bring the message of life into our communities.

What are SWLA Pro-Life Billboard’s immediate goals?

Educate through FindHelpLA.com We let women and fathers know they’re not alone. There are a host of caring people ready to walk with them.

Save Lives Our billboards may be the only sign of help and hope a confused and overwhelmed person sees.

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Sustain and Extend We have six billboards in SWLA, with stationery and digitals rotating to a myriad of locations throughout. Other cities in Louisiana have displayed our graphics. We’d like to extend even more, especially in cities with colleges and universities. Young adults, ages 19-29, face the highest pressures, such as economic, resource and relationship instabilities which can lead them to seek abortions.

What’s the impact you’ve seen through SWLA Pro-Life Billboards?

Generations of hearts and minds have been affected as evidenced by numerous testimonies and observations. A 39-year-old mom stated, “I was stopped in traffic on Ryan Street and saw one of your billboards—the one that said, ‘I’m not a choice, I’m a child.’ I burst into tears as I was contemplating an abortion due to my age and pressure from family. Now, I’m going to show them this message. And I’m going to keep my child!”

Figures from 2023 to present show our pro-life billboards have been viewed by drivers and passengers over a quarter of a billion times throughout the state. That means we have shared the dignity of every human life, sparked conversations about life in the womb and pointed women facing unexpected pregnancies toward real, life-affirming help more than 250,270,092 times.

In 2026 alone, there were over 4,000 hits to the FindHelpLA.com. People are reaching out to resource centers and finding solid help and viable options for a positive future, even with an unplanned pregnancy. Our purpose is much more than preventing abortion. We want the power of SUPPORT to create something beautiful in its place!

For more information, visit swlaprolife.com.

Help Us Share a Message of Life Across SWLA Let your

LIBRARY CARD

be your path to community connections!

Tap into everything your library has to offer.

• Explore books, movies, and digital resources • Discover programs and events • Connect with people, ideas, and opportunities

Together, we can promote life-affirming messages throughout Southwest Louisiana and connect women, babies, and families with real help and hope.

M. Wilkinson at prolifeswla23@gmail.com 337-526-4015 Donations can be made at www.SWLAProLifecom.

Make checks payable to LRTL/SWLA Billboard campaign.

Mail to: LA Right to Life, 7121 Catina St., New Orleans, LA 70124

Get your library card today!

Visit calcasieulibrary.org or stop by your local Calcasieu Parish Public Library branch.

2026 Women’s Fall Conference

Amelia Rose Earhart

SAVE the DATE!

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22 LAKE CHARLES EVENT CENTER

8:00am - 4:00pm

Featuring Motivational, Empowering and Fun Workshops

WomensCommissionSWLA.com THRIVESWLA.COM

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Home & Family | FAMILY FIRST

‘Have a Gouda Time’ Lake Charles Gathers over Board Games

by Kerri Cooke Morami & Megan Engler

Having always connected with family over board games, Gouda Games is the brainchild of Morami and Megan Engler.

The determination to bring a communal space to Southwest Louisiana where the locals could relax, stay off of their phones and connect with others was sparked earlier this year after the two returned from a trip in Colorado.

“Throughout our travels, we fell in love with the atmosphere of board game spaces and that ‘third space’ feeling they offered,” Morami says.

“They felt welcoming, comfortable, and like somewhere people could simply gather and belong. With my background in education, I also understood and loved the impact games could have on students and how they help people connect and communicate.”

With two floors and a board game library that has games for all ages, even for children as young as two 70

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or three years old, the Englers have formed an affordable attraction where everyone can escape from the world for a while. “Gouda Games is affordable for a reason. It has multiple rooms and gathering areas for a reason. We want it to be a safe, comfortable space away from electronics where people can gather, play, connect, communicate and feel like themselves.”

The library has around 300 games in all categories including role playing games, strategy games, word games, puzzle-style games and party games.

“In the center, we have quick games and card games that can be played in about 15 to 20 minutes,” Morami says. “One of the things I love most about board games is if you have five minutes or five hours to play, we have something for you. If we do not have a certain game in our library, guests are also welcome to bring their own.”

The game of the moment nationally is mahjong and Morami says it became apparent early on the community would love a mahjong room. The area

is upstairs in the loft, available to ages 18+, but the sets can always be brought downstairs. There are three dedicated mahjong tables complete with tiles and racks.

Thursdays are reserved for Strategy Night at Gouda Games, which includes mahjong, chess and other similar games. In the future, Morami says they hope to host mahjong learning events and tournaments.

Gouda Games is filling a hole in modern society as it encourages in person interaction. “We have heard Gouda Games feels familiar, almost like a space people remember having when they were young, and something today’s younger generation is now searching for.”

Another exciting development coming soon will be an expanded availability of food. So far, Gouda Games just has pre-packaged snacks and drinks, but eventually they will serve grilled cheese sandwiches.

“We are considering several options, including a limited menu or working

with a food truck,” says Morami. “We are also exploring ways to work with local restaurants, caterers and other businesses in Lake Charles.”

Change is something Morami and Megan aren’t afraid of. “We want Gouda Games to continue growing into a place with as few limitations as possible. We want it to be a place where people of different ages, interests and backgrounds can come together and feel welcome.”

For more information, visit playgoudagames.com.

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Home & Family | FAMILY FIRST

A Different

View from

Here

Jason Tommasi’s Flying Contraption Has People Talking

by Katelynn Mouton

Spend enough time around Southwest Louisiana and you’ve probably seen it: a parachute floating across the sky with a small frame and someone sitting beneath it. It may look unusual, and perhaps a bit unsettling, but from Jason Tommasi’s seat, it offers a completely different way to see the place he calls home.

By day, Tommasi works as a mechanical engineer in the oilfield, a profession deeply rooted in machinery, precision and problemsolving. Away from work, however, he trades the oilfield for the open skies and a machine that seems almost whimsical.

The aircraft is called a powered parachute, but Tommasi has a more colorful description for it. “I always make jokes and describe it as my flying lawn chair with a bed sheet,” he says.

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While it may look unconventional, there is plenty of skill behind its simplicity. Tommasi’s introduction to flying came with a push from his cousin Eric, a pilot of more than 30 years.

After formal training with a certified flight instructor and plenty of practice, Tommasi took his first solo flight in August 2023.

Since then, the aircraft has become more than a hobby. It has become a way for Tommasi to share a different side of Southwest Louisiana with the people who climb aboard.

Tommasi documents his journeys on social media, where followers get a glimpse of what goes into each flight. One detail that often surprises people is that the powered parachute is a two-seat aircraft, built to carry both Tommasi and a passenger, and it’s even registered with the FAA. Before taking off, he typically shares a brief interview with whoever is joining him that morning, followed by an hour or so in the air over Southwest Louisiana.

For Tommasi, the appeal isn’t so much about the unusual aircraft or the views below; it's about the feeling that comes with being up there. “There is a peace in the air that can’t be understood until you go up,” Tommasi says.

That feeling is especially powerful when he flies over the marshes of Cameron Parish. “It’s something you can’t explain until you fly over them yourself,” he adds.

From above, the landscape reveals details that are often missed or taken for granted from the ground. Wildlife becomes part of the scenery, too. Tommasi says that while most South Louisiana hunters may only see a few deer in a year, he has spotted as many as 20 in a single day from the air. “I also like seeing the alligator nests and the wild hogs,” he says.

The views are memorable, but so are the reactions from people below. The first time someone sees the powered parachute flying

overhead, the response is often immediate. “Most people who see my powered parachute flying over for the first time usually take out their phone and start videoing,” he explains.

For those who see him more regularly, the novelty has worn off just enough to become something of a familiar greeting. “For those people who I fly over more often, they just simply wave.”

In a place where the landscape can become familiar, with the same roads, the same waterways and the same marshes, a view from above offers a reminder that there is always another way to look at home. For Jason Tommasi, all it takes is a flying lawn chair, a little open sky and a great view from above.

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FAMILY WORKS

Henderson Family Enterprises

Lance Hurt with Henderson Retail Team

Henderson Family Enterprises is a Southwest Louisiana family business that has been operating for more than 55 years.

During that time, the company has continued to evolve as opportunities, industries, customers and communities have changed.

What began as a local business has grown into a diversified family enterprise with operations in retail,

may change. Still, the basic principles of a successful business do not change: take care of your customers, develop good people, provide dependable service, adapt to change and do what you say you will do.

wholesale distribution, foodservice distribution, storage, real estate and other business interests. Today, Henderson Family Enterprises has approximately 100 associates and generates roughly $80 million in annual revenue.

One of the most important parts of Henderson’s story is their willingness to enter very different businesses when they believe they can add value to customers. They have learned that the product or industry

Today, Henderson Wholesale supports approximately 1,400 Hunt Brothers Pizza locations across Louisiana and Texas. Henderson Distributing is also developing the Big Easy Hot Food Convenience Store program.

A Family Business Family is at the center of Henderson Family Enterprises, but being family does not replace accountability, responsibility or performance.

Chuck, president, and Karen Henderson remain actively involved in the company. The next generation has significant operating responsibilities.

Tyler Henderson leads Henderson Wholesale.

Lance Hurt serves as COO of Henderson Family Enterprises and oversees Henderson Distributing, including the Big Easy Hot Food Convenience Store program, as well as the retail division.

Kelly Hurt leads the storage division.

Tyler's wife, Kelly Henderson, is also very active in the family business and holds board-level responsibilities on the Henderson family board.

Just as vital, Henderson Family Enterprises has non-family leaders and associates who play critical roles throughout the organization.

Henderson does not believe a successful family company can be

Tyler Henderson with Hunt Brothers Pizzas Team 74

SEPTEMBER 2026

built around the family alone. It must be built around the right people, clear responsibilities, accountability, trust and shared values. Their approximately 100 associates are what make these businesses work.

Local Impact Community involvement is also an important part of how Henderson defines growth and success.

Through their Community Care A Van, associates participate in more than 50 nonprofit and community events each year. They provide and cook pizza at these events to help organizations raise money, support their programs or serve people in the community.

“That connects directly to our vision: ‘To make a positive impact every day by delivering an unforgettable experience to our customers, team members and community.’"

Henderson’s goal for the future is not growth simply for the sake of getting bigger. Those behind the scenes want to build a healthy company that can successfully continue from one generation to the next.

Henderson continues to seek responsible opportunities to expand; add customers; develop new products and services; improve existing businesses; and invest in technology, artificial intelligence, improved systems, training, leadership development and succession planning.

“We don't simply want to pass businesses on from one generation

to the next,” Chuck says. “We want to pass along a healthy organization, strong values, capable leaders and a responsibility to make it better. For us, building a successful company means having the resources, people and willingness to give something back to the communities that have supported us for more than five decades.”

Giving back is important to the Henderson family and the company because these communities have supported Henderson Family Enterprises for more than five decades. “We believe we have a responsibility to support them in return,” Chuck Henderson says.

Chuck Henderson with Care-A-Van team

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