Times of Southwest Louisiana

WWW.TIMESSW.COM • MARCH 20, 2008 / VOL. 13, NO. 6

Growing a Business Out of Solid Rock Local Real Estate Market Faring Well • Port of LC Generates Jobs LAPAW Rescues Puppy Mill Dogs • The Shadow: The Butterfly Effect

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MARCH 20, 2008

GENERAL . . . . . . . . . . .

617 Drew St., Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-439-0995 Fax: 337-439-0418 PUBLISHERS Patrick Marcantel Scot Hebert

. . . . . . .

march 20, 2008 Volume 13 • Number 6

23

contents

NEWS . . . . . . . . . . .

EDITOR Kathryn Bergstrom timesedit@timessw.com ASSISTANT EDITOR Joseph Frazier CONTRIBUTORS Terry Backhaus Derenda Grubb Matt Jones Wright Levingston Patricia Prudhomme George Swift

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Andy Jacobson

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POLITICS John Maginnis

E N T E R P R I S E B O U L E VA R D Rita Recovery Roadblocks . . . . . . .5 . . . . . .

COLUMNS Inside Baton Rouge: Ethically Improved Legislature Gets Checkbook . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Who’s News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Business Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Patricia Prudhomme LeShai Brown GRAPHICS . . . . . . . .

ART/PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Darrell Buck BUSINESS . . . . . . . . .

BUSINESS MANAGER Romona Richard

The Times of Southwest Louisiana is published every two weeks

by Patsco Publishing, 617 Drew Street, Lake Charles Louisiana 70601. Phone (337) 439-0995. SUBSCRIPTIONS: $25 per year.

Bulk mailing permit #9 paid at Lake Charles, La. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Times of Southwest Louisiana, 617 Drew Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601. FAX to (337) 439-0418. The Times of Southwest Louisiana cannot be held responsible for the return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations, even if they are sent to us accompanied by a self-addressed envelope.

Copyright 2008 The Times of Southwest Louisiana all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited.

DISTRIBUTION: The Times of Southwest Louisiana is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. The Times of Southwest Louisiana may be distributed only by The Times of Southwest Louisiana authorized distributors. No person may, without prior written permission of The Times of Southwest Louisiana, take more than one copy of each monthly issue from its racks.

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COVER STORY The 2008 Swashbucklers: Playing for Keeps! . . . . . . . . . .15 FEATURES Home Grown: Growing a Business Out of Solid Rock . . . .8 LAPAW Rescues Puppy Mill Dogs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 A Review of Recessions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Reshaping Our Region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Port of Lake Charles Generates Jobs and Dollars . . . . . . .21 Small Business Borrowing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 ENTERTAINMENT Coffee Break Cross Word: Wiig Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Times Picks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 The Shadow: The Butterfly Effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Parting Shots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Visit us online at: www.timessw.com Cover Photo by Patrick Marcantel Pictured are Shawn Piper, Coach Darnell Lee, and Buc Harris MARCH 20, 2008

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INSIDE BATON ROUGE — by John Maginnis

Ethically Improved, Legislature Gets Checkbook aving agreed in the ethics special session to disclose their private income and fore go state contracts, free tickets and meals over $50, perhaps now legislators can be trusted to spend the $1.1 billion surplus in the second special session.

While this session’s agenda forms the dessert course, it could still descend into a food fight. That’s because there is always a battle over too much money, which everyone wants some of, instead of too little, when all tend to get along and share the pain.

Gov. Bobby Jindal defined the session agenda as a bold new step toward improving Louisiana’s business climate. Bold, yes; new, no. The business tax cuts that are being accelerated, like the new money being pumped into highway construction and coastal and levee work, continue the course set by the last governor and Legislature.

So too does this session continue the debate from last year over raising the constitutional spending cap, though the two sides of the argument have switched. Democrats will be raising the same objections made last year by Republicans, who tried in vain to keep the cap in place and hold the line on spending.

But Democrats won’t press that argument for long because they are just as eager to spend the money now as then. Also, the situations are different.

Last year, the GOP’s opposition was less toward using the previous year’s surplus than to Gov. Kathleen Blanco’s plans for spending unanticipated revenue in the current and following fiscal years. Some of that spending was on recurring programs, which Republicans feared could not be supported if future revenue declined.

In this session, the only money in question is from last year’s surplus, with all of it going to one-time expenses, as mandated by the constitution.

The Democrats might make some speeches laced with irony, but in the end, what are they going to do? The state’s $750 million rainy day account, said to be the fattest in the country, tops out with just a drop of new money. If the spending cap is not lifted, the surplus just sits there.

The real disagreement will not come over whether to spend the money but how. This will mark the first fiscal challenge of the Jindal administration, to have the spending bill he signs

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somewhat resemble the one he has offered. North Louisiana lawmakers already are questioning $300 million going to protect coastal areas and $67 million to improve ports, when that region has virtually none of either.

The appropriations bill was not out of committee before millions were sliced from the pension debt payment and deferred maintenance on college buildings and put into rural roads. The governor’s clout with the Legislature will be measured in part by how much of either already-depleted fund is left by the time the spending bill hits his desk. For legislators, there aren’t many votes in debt service or new roofs on college dorms.

Perhaps the most contentious debate will involve the sole personal tax break offered, a tuition tax deduction for parents of children in private or parochial schools, to which Jindal has included expenses for home schooling.

Teacher and school board groups

“...TRIED IN VAIN TO KEEP THE CAP IN PLACE ...” oppose the deduction as bad precedent, a first step toward vouchers. Yet the $20-million-per-year tax cut would be small enough, no more than $300 for a family paying $10,000 tuition, that it is not going to empty public school classrooms the way that full vouchers would.

It is more a sop to middle- and upper-class families than it is any real tax relief or educational benefit. But it is something Jindal can rally some public support for in order to get it passed.

Not so for his spending plan. Voters who responded to his out-of-control spending rhetoric won’t particularly care how much goes to which highway or port or research center. The phone lines are not going to light up in defense of deferred maintenance. He can line-item veto expenditures he doesn’t want, but he can’t pencil any in or move money around on his own.

He was able to force the Legislature to improve their ethical appearances, but to maintain discipline with the checkbook, in their hands now, will challenge his political skills much more.

NEWS

ABOUT

SOUTHWEST

LOUISIANA

ENTERPRISEBOULEVARD Rita Recovery Roadblocks

By Kathy Bergstrom he Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship took the unusual step of holding a field hearing in Lake Charles, February 20, to discuss the status of small business recovery in the area since Rita and Katrina. They learned that, in spite of our amazing local response, much needs to be done toward recovery and in planning for future disasters.

“Rebuilding the Gulf Coast: Small Business Recovery in South Louisiana” was co-hosted by Senators Mary Landrieu and David Vitter at the Lake Charles Civic Center, Buccaneer Room. The room filled to capacity with concerned citizens and business owners, anxious to learn if Washington was really listening to our continued recovery efforts.

Those giving testimony included Eugene Cornelius, District Administrator with the Small Business Administration in Washington, D.C.; Lake Charles Mayor Randy Roach; and John T. Landry, Director of Development with the University of Louisiana, Lafayette and Chairman, Infrastructure Committee, Louisiana Recovery Authority.

Mr. Cornelius noted that to date, the SBA has received over 422,000 loan applications toward rescue, relief and reconstruction of the Gulf Coast. In total, over $3.7 billion in SBA loans have been approved and disbursed to victims of Hurricane Katrina and $290 million has been disbursed to victims of hurricane Rita.

Mayor Roach reported that recovery in Southwest Louisiana has been buoyed by local initiatives including a $90 million bond issue for major infrastructure projects in the city and lake front development. He noted that issues and opportunities for small business recovery in the area include higher insurance premiums with higher deductibles and less coverage; and that new building regulations are stifling housing development in Cameron Parish. He further stated that affordable housing continues to be a critical issue in the area and is stifling the ability of growing a workforce for small businesses. He cited studies that recommend educational and economic development initiatives to insure necessary skills and training for growing the labor market.

George Swift, President and CEO of SWLA Chamber of Commerce reported that every member of the regional Chamber reported after Rita and that 63% had damage; 21% had severe damage; 74% were open but awaiting repairs; 12% were closed until further notice and 14% were inaccessible via telephone. Hindering recovery are frustrating insurance claims; particularly those disputed or denied.

Exacerbating recovery for small businesses was an immediate and continuing labor shortage. The Louisiana Recovery Act has been of value, says Swift, because it has served as “one voice for Louisiana” in acquiring a $29 billion Gulf Coast Aid Package. The LRA is using funding in part to create incentives and funding opportunities for businesses suffering because of the storms. Based on all that has been learned from Rita and Katrina recovery, Swift recommended that the SBA should have in place, a quick response team to get into devastated areas with 48 hours and capital available to businesses for immediate cash flow for recov-

T

ery. Additionally, he recommended to the hearing that 61+ days out from a disaster, technical assistance should be in place to establish micro-loans and grant/loan combinations to small businesses at competitive terms.

Carl Manuel, owner of Anna’s Pies, spoke first hand about the trials that area small businesses have endured since the twin hurricanes of 2005. Katrina impacted their customer base in New Orleans. When Rita hit, Anna’s Pies, like many small businesses, was shut down, with no cash flow but with bills to pay. They lost employees who permanently relocated after the storms. He noted that they applied for federal loans but three years later, have yet to hear from the SBA about the status of their application. He praised Mr. Adrian Wallace an the Small and Emerging Business program for their assistance. He noted the work of the McNeese Small Business Development Center and its director, Donna Little, for their help and information. He highly recommended this resource to other small business owners. And he noted that, in his case, the SBA Assistance Program, “Was not of any help. They turned a deaf ear on us…I feel that as a government entity, they should be more receptive to small businesses trying to recover.”

Donna Little also testified before the hearing about the work of the Louisiana Small Business Development Center at McNeese State University. She reported that small businesses “Still need in-depth technical assistance just as we provided after the hurricanes.” She noted that “What the LSBDC has been able to achieve…is pretty impressive.”

They have provided one-on-one counseling to 6,750 small businesses and entrepreneurs across south Louisiana. She reiterated the problems facing small business recovery, including lack of access to capital; insurance costs and disputes; new construction requirements; and record unemployment levels with a lack of available good workers. And noted that her budgets were cut even as demand for the SBDC was crucial.

David Darbonne, President of Grand Oaks, Inc. in Lake Charles; Sheri Lazare, Director of the Enterprise Consortium of the Gulf Coast Women’s Business Center, Lafayette; and Donald C. van de Werken, Director of the New Orleans U.S. Export Assistance Center also gave testimony that afternoon.

With only 5 minutes each to testify, area officials echoed problems facing small business recovery including lack of access to capital; using personal credit cards to attempt recovery; insurance costs and disputes; restrictive new construction requirements; and record unemployment levels with a lack of available trained workers. Both Senators expressed distress that experiences such as Mr. Manuel’s were the rule rather than the exception.

Among the suggestions given for the Senators to take back to Washington, were that governments and institutions on all levels need to “think outside the box” when faced with disaster recovery; that recovery and response plans need to be in effect and yet flexible to respond to the needs of a region; and that our area colleges and technical schools need support in order for them to grow the trained workforce needed for continued recovery.

Who’s News Martin W. Guillory, Principal of Oak Park Middle PDS School in Lake Charles, attended the annual Federal Relations Conference sponsored by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) in Washington, D. C. At the conference, Guillory made the case for a much greater federal investment in education, especially with regard to the President’s proposed FY09 budget proposal, which seeks to cut overall federal education funding, freeze the funding levels of many programs, and eliminate 47 programs, including School Leadership and Elementary/Secondary Counseling.

Guillory serves as Louisiana’s federal relations coordinator for NAESP. Mike Collins and Lance Guidry, two former McNeese State assistant football coaches, have rejoined the staff. Head coach Matt Viator made the announcement of the additions of the two coaches, adding that Collins will coach linebackers and Guidry will coach the secondary. Lark Hebert will conMike Collins tinue to serve as the defensive coordinator and coach the defensive line and that quarterback coach Tim Leger and wide receiver coach Broderick Fobbs will also serve as cooffensive coordinators. The remainder of the Cowboy football coaching staff has Carlos McGee as running backs coach, Reggie Nelson as offensive line coach, Jeff Breaux as the tight end coach, Zack Bronson as a defensive backfield assistant and Buck Lance Guidry Harris as a Continued on Page 6 MARCH 20, 2008

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Who’s News, Continued from Page 5

defensive line assistant. Collins was an assistant coach for the Cowboys during the Bobby Keasler era, serving as linebacker coach from 1991 to 1998 when McNeese won four Southland Conference titles and played in the FCS championship game in 1997. Guidry coached the secondary for the Cowboys under Tommy Tate from 2000 to 2004, McNeese winning three straight SLC crowns and making it to the finals in the FCS championship series.

Patricia Philmon, General Manager for Best Western Richmond Suites Hotel in Lake Charles has been appointed to the board of the Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau. Philmon, has a background in human resources and operations management, is appointed by the City of Lake Charles and represents the lodging industry. She is past president and chairman of the board for the Louisiana State Hotel and Lodging Association. She is current president of the Southwest Louisiana Hotel and Lodging Association and serves on various committees for the Louisiana Travel and Promotion.

Roxie Baccarisse and Becky Farque have joined the sales team at Knight Media, Inc. Baccarisse is a Lake Charles native with nine years of experience in cable media sales and nearly three years in radio sales.Farque, also a Lake Roxie Baccarisse Charles native, brings over fifteen years of sales experience to the Knight Media professional team. She has worked in retail sales for interior decorating, commercial printing and ad specialty companies.

Becky Farque

BUSINESS

notes

The Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau has partnered with North Star Destination Strategies to develop a “Brand” for marketing the region to potential visitors in the year 2008 and beyond. According to North Star CEO Don McEachern, at the heart of Southwest Louisiana’s brand is what makes the area special. North Star developed a survey to determine how the area is defined by residents. All residents are invited and encouraged to participate in this important initiative. The survey can be found on the Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau website at www.VisitLakeCharles.org until Friday, March 28. Surveys can be completed online. Go to the site, click on visitors, then click on “Resident Survey.” To learn more about Southwest Louisiana’s branding initiative, call Lisa Yates for the Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau, at (337) 426-9588. To learn more about North Star Destination Strategies, go to www.northstarideas.com.

The College Of Business at McNeese State University will offer free tax preparation and filing assistance to the public from 5-8 p.m. every Tuesday until April 15, in room 302 of the Burton Business Center. The service, which is offered through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, is designed for families who earn $40,000 or less and cannot prepare their own returns.

Clients need to bring two forms of ID, Social Security cards for all persons on the tax return and all additional documentation, such as W-2 forms and 1099s.

To date, the McNeese VITA location has filed the second largest number of returns for all Lake Charles sites. The site, which is staffed by McNeese faculty and students, will be closed on March 25 for spring break.For more information, contact the McNeese college of business at (337) 475-5514.

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Above: The McNeese State University Banners Series is annually supported by donations from area corporate sponsors such as Chase Bank, which donated $10,000 for this year?s Banners Series. In front of the 2008 Banners poster at the recent opening reception are from left Wayne Gabbert, president of Chase, Southwest Louisiana Market, Poncho Seaford, senior vice president and senior relationship manager of Chase, and McNeese President Robert Hebert. McNeese Photo McNeese State University and the Louisiana Consortium of Insurance and Financial Services at LSU-Shreveport will offer a property and casualty insurance pre-licensing course from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, April 11, 12, 18 and 19, on the McNeese campus. This course provides 32 hours of class time suitable to prepare an individual to sit for the Property and Casualty Licensing exam. The class material is designed to prepare the student for the exam and to provide a good education for a career in insurance. Topics include basic terminology, concepts, sales, the fundamentals of insurance law and agent responsibility. Registration deadline is Wednesday, April 9. Cost is $200 per person, including textbooks. For registration and additional information, contact Sarah Leonards at (337) 475-5075.

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MARCH 20, 2008

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Chinese King 723 Ryan Street Lake Charles Banquet and Reception Hall Available

MARCH 20, 2008

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S O U T H W E S T

L O U I S I A N A ’ S

H O M E G R O W N

B U S I N E S S E S

Growing a Business Out of Solid Rock

By Kathy Bergstrom t all started with a $700 deposit on a dragline.

In the early 1970s, Andrew Guinn left USL to make some money. “They were building 2-10 and I bought a dragline and went to work loading dump trucks and then I built levees in Hackberry and down in Cameron Parish with my older brother, George.” The brothers decided to form Guinn Dragline Works in 1973. They even hired their father and other brothers, James and Timmy.

In 1976 Guinn Dragline Works became Guinn Brothers, a construction company headquartered in Jennings. In 1979, Andrew, James and Tim split off and formed Port Aggregates to furnish limestone for their growing construction projects. By the 1980s, Port Aggregates moved to Westlake with Andrew at the helm and James and Tim as co-owners. George stayed in Jennings growing Guinn Brothers Construction. By the ‘90s, Port Aggregates dominated the west side of the lake, at the Port of Lake Charles, and boasted facilities in Lafayette, Mermentau, and Westlake.

“In 2004, we bought out Harless,” said Guinn. “We had been friendly competitors and after he died we bought the business. Then we acquired Angelle Concrete and put it all together.” They bought the site of their current headquarters on Bayou D’Inde Road in Westlake, says Guinn, “And we built our concrete plant in 2005 – right before Hurricane Rita!”

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MARCH 20, 2008

“We poured a lot of cement after Rita!” Guinn reminisced. “We built the plant in Ellender and in ’06, we signed a contract for construction of the LNG plant in Cameron Parish.” Then they acquired Decker Concrete in DeRidder and put six new trucks there.

“We are going north with concrete,” says Guinn. “We have a plant at each end of 2-10 and our rock source is in the middle. We’re strategically located with easy access to the interstates as they grow. Centrally locating in Lake Charles keeps our transportation costs down.”

“We delivered a lot of concrete to Lafayette from our Jennings plant in ’06,” says Guinn, “for all their growth and the River Ranch construction projects.” And because they saw the

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continued growth for the Lafayette area, the company bought a concrete plant and located it in Scott.

“Business is a moving target,” explains Guinn. Port Aggregates did a marketing survey prior to moving into the Lafayette area to make sure they were on target. “We opened the plant in Scott in July of ’07 and in six months had produced 70-thousand yards of concrete. We plan to do 150thousand yards of concrete in ’08.”

Guinn is an encyclopedia of knowledge on limestone, quarries, aggregates, concrete, chemistry, fuel pricing, diesel engines, hybrid fuels, trucks and draglines, environmental issues, transportation issues, the interstate system, railway systems, and any industry even remotely related to these subjects. He can explain the chemical processes involved in utilizing limestone in various construction industries. Guinn points out that “Every person in the United States will utilize 7.6 tons of limestone a year…Limestone byproducts are even in toilet paper and chicken feed!”

Guinn is fascinated by wind power and is contemplating the use of wind turbines on his ranch. He and his brothers have ranches in northeast Texas, so he can also talk at length about cattle, raising grasses, cutting sod and hunting and fishing.

His “little brother” Johnny is a State Representative, and Guinn loves politics. “But the legislature is a lot like making sausage,” he jokes. “It’s better at the bar-b-que pit. You don’t want to see the ingredients!” His love of politics and business has kept him and Port Aggregates at the top of the game.

As a family business, the brothers also employ sons, daughters, and grandchildren in their workforce, and offer not only good wages, but excellent benefits. “It’s a good mix of family in the business and it seems to work for us,” Guinn says. “We’re real proud of this thing. We invested in our communities, and in Louisiana, and we’re staying here.”

MARCH 20, 2008

PAGE 9

The spirit of the people of Southwest Louisiana is so strong and unique that the selection committee found it difficult to select one person out of so many who share of themselves, said Charles St. Dizier, President of the Samaritan Board of Directors. Also nominated for the Good Samaritan Award were Keith Dickerson, Program Director of Robinswood School; Father Henry Mancuso, Pastor of Sacred Heart

Nola Mae Ross Adams receiving the Good Samaritan Award from Mickey Shannon, Executive Director of Samaritan Counseling Center, and Charlie St. Dizier, Board President.

Nola Mae Ross Adams Honored as 2007 Good Samaritan of the Year

S

amaritan Counseling Center celebrated 20 years of offering people help and hope through faith-based counseling by honoring a woman who has spent her life bring hope and compassion to those in need. Nola Mae Ross Adams, a Southwest Louisiana author, writer, historian, flight instructor and airport manager, received the Center’s first annual Samaritan of the Year award at the anniversary banquet on February 29.

Samaritan, along with KPLC-TV and Thrive Magazine, created the award not only to recognize people who’ve made a major difference in people’s lives but also to raise awareness of mental illness and highlight the effectiveness of faith-based counseling in the therapeutic process, said Samaritan’s Executive Director, Mickey Shannon.

“Nola Mae consistently reaches out to those in need, sharing her experience and wisdom. She has helped many people in her life,” said Connie David, who nominated Adams for the Award. “At 82, she is active and exercises daily. She makes wise health choices for herself while encouraging others to do so also. Those who know her see her as a source of strength and encouragement.” Ross, David said, is an “encourager,” especially to people discouraged by life, and an advocate for persons with mental illness, children and those in pain. She has served as an advocate for women in prison, working with law enforcement, politiPAGE 10

MARCH 20, 2008

cians, prison ministers and medical practitioners to help incarcerated persons with mental illness.

A skilled pilot, Ross frequently flew search and rescue missions for the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Department and other law enforcement agencies.

She is one of the founders and among the most active supporters of the Circle Up support group for people affected by mental illness. Her strong spirit has enabled her to overcome many personal tragedies. In 1965, her son, Dennis, was killed in an airplane crash along with three of his friends. In her book, she wrote: ‘And when dear friends echoed words of comfort, which have been uttered since time began, sometimes I would shudder. They might say, ‘It’s God’s will,’ and I would think, ‘No. The God that I worship would never will the death of four young boys. This is the fault of ‘life’, not God.’ Nola Mae shares her strength through this experience of hope and healing.”

David said. “Eight months later, her husband was killed in an airplane accident. Exactly nine years later, her other son, Marshall died of cancer.

Within nine years, she lost two sons, a husband, both parents, both parents-inlaws, grandmother and a nephew and she writes: “But through it all, I felt God; I felt his power and I felt Him walking by my side every step of the way. He continued to hold me up through the numbing, nightmarish days and months that followed, until I was once again able to walk on my own.”

Catholic Church and Director of Catholic Charities and Social Services for the Lake Charles Diocese; Clarice Raichel, Executive Director of the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) of Southwest Louisiana; Lisa Sober, Executive Director of the Open Door Ministry prison ministry for women; and Terressitta Victorian, Day Program Trainer at Volunteers of America.

Sheriff Tony Mancuso Will Lead 2009 United Way Campaign

T

ony Mancuso, Calcasieu Parish Sheriff, has been appointed Chairman of the 2009 United Way of Southwest Louisiana campaign announced Vickie Wicks, United Way/SWLA Board Chairperson. “Tony has demonstrated his priority for commitment and service to our community,” said Wicks.

“The 2009 United Way Campaign will benefit greatly with Sheriff Mancuso at the helm.” He has also recently been appointed by Governor Jindal to the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement.

Tony Mancuso was elected Sheriff of Calcasieu Parish in October 2003 and began his term July 1, 2004. He ran unopposed in 2007 and will begin his 2nd term on July 1, 2008. Prior to that time, he was elected Ward 3 Marshal and served in that capacity for seven years. In his two terms as Marshal and his first term as Sheriff, Mancuso constantly redefined the standard for a productive, proactive, professional, and proud law enforcement agency.

Before being elected Ward 3 Marshal, Mancuso worked thirteen years for the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office in various divisions in the departments including Corrections, Patrol and the Youth Division, where he taught DARE classes for many years.

Mancuso’s law enforcement training includes graduation from the FBI National Academy; the Southwest Louisiana Regional Training Academy; the Louisiana Sheriff’s Association Civil Liabilities School; Louisiana Drug Abuse Resistance Education School (DARE), Council for A Better Louisiana Leadership

Class (CABL); FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development (LEEDA) Program; and the National Sheriff’s Institute. He also completed professional course work in satanic worship awareness, patrol tactics and public relations.

Mancuso is a graduate of McNeese State University and is a member of the Louisiana Sheriff’s Association, the National Sheriff’s Association, LEEDA, the Lake Charles Optimist Club, and the Sons of the American Legion. He was appointed by Governor Blanco to serve on the Domestic Violence Law Enforcement Task Force. The Veterans of Foreign War named him “Lawman of the Year 2004-2005.”

He has also been appointed to serve on the Governor’s Advisory Board of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention.

Sheriff Mancuso is a seasoned United Way volunteer having served as 2008 Campaign Vice Chair, and a past member of the United Way/SWLA Board of Directors.

Mancuso will be responsible for raising funds allocated to thirty-nine local United Way agencies in the five parish area, touching the lives of 1 in 3 people in Southwest Louisiana, and nineteen community health charities.

He will also select the chairs and vice chairs for sixteen divisions of the campaign. Along with United Way, Mancuso is involved in community organizations such as the Boy Scouts and Dixie Youth.

Mancuso is married to the former Mickey Pruden and they are the parents of Trey, Mary, and Morgan.

They are members of the St. Martin DePorres Catholic Church.

The

“Original”

Best Of SWLA

ReadersPoll 2 0 0 8

The Polls Are Open!

It’s that time again – time for “The Times Original Best of Southwest Louisiana Reader’s Poll.”

Since the Times readers have strong opinions and are not shy about sharing them, we were the first in the area to ask you to vote on your favorites in everything from boudin to banks, from barbeque to barber shops.

Polls close at midnight, April 4.

Voting is exclusively on-line at www.timessw.com.

Click on “Best Of Ballot” and find your "Best Of" in each category on our on-line ballot. Please check the drop down list FIRST. If you don't find your favorite in the drop-down list, write in your answer.

Some categories will be write-in only.

We will announce the 2008 "Original Best Of" winners in The Times May 15 and May 29.

ENTRY RULES Only one entry per person and only one entry per email address are allowed. Ballot stuffing is prohibited. The Times reserves the right to reject any suspicious ballot. At least 25 categories must be completed for the ballot to be eligible. However, participants are urged not to vote in a category if they are not familiar with it.

Vote Online At www.timessw.com

MARCH 20, 2008

PAGE 11

LAPAW Rescues Puppy Mill Dogs On February 21, at 11:45 am, a tiny dog rescued from a local “puppy mill” met her new adopter at the Lake Charles regional airport thanks to a partnership between a local animal rescue group, LAPAW, and an Ohio group, Marilyn’s Voice, Inc., dedicated to rescuing animals from puppy mills.

Kristina Lange, founder of Marilyn’s Voice, Inc. lost her beloved dog, Marilyn Monrow on November 23, 2007 as a result of the abuse and neglect the dog had suffered during her time as a breeder in a puppy mill, including having her vocal chords cut with scissors. Marilyn had served as the “spokes pup,” and Kristina’s inspiration, to start Marilyn’s Voice, Inc., a group of concerned Ohioans dedicated to putting an end to puppy mills in Ohio and throughout the United States through education, and rehabilitating dogs formerly in the puppy mill system and finding them loving homes.

Visit their site at www.marilynsvoice.org.

Two months after Marilyn passed away, Tina, a 3 pound Pomeranian, along with other pure breed dogs, was rescued from a Calcasieu parish puppy mill by members of the Lake Area Partnerships for Animal Welfare (LAPAW.) LAPAW volunteers work to provide a second chance for homeless, orphaned, abused, and neglected companion animals. Tina has been lovingly fostered by LAPAW activist Sheila Gilley, while Tina’s photo and biography were posted on the LAPAW website, www.lapaw.org, and accessible from the national website, PetFinder.

Tina’s Story Tina has lived all 8 years of her life in this local puppy mill in dirty, overcrowded conditions, being pinned down to have her teeth scraped with a pair of scissors until they eventually all fell out or were pulled out, along with pieces of her bottom jaw bone. Tina’s tongue hangs out because she now has no bottom jaw to use to close her mouth. Because of this barbaric treatment her mouth needs daily cleaning and she drools. Once Kristina heard about Tina, she could think of nothing else. She applied to adopt her and was approved. “I knew Kristina was the home we were waiting for before I even received her application,” said Gilley.

At the airport, it was a tearful meeting as Kristina first saw Tina and met her foster mom Sheila Gilley. Kristina also took Foxy, a 12-year old Pomeranian also rescued from the same breeder as Tina. “I felt that Kristina’s knowledge and experience in working with puppy mill survivors would best benefit Foxy’s special needs,” said Gilley.

Foxy is now in a wonderfully loving “forever” home, with another older Pomeranian for company.

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MARCH 20, 2008

Sheree’s Story Sheree is an 8-year old Maltese rescued from the same local puppy mill who also had Tina and the other Pomeranians. Sheree was at the vet’s for nearly two weeks where she had 10 malignant tumors removed as well as multiple kidney stones and was treated for a bad ear infection.

She also has some rotten teeth, but those will be addressed later. She has been back to the expert care of the veterinarians at Downtown Animal Hospital two more times with complications from the surgery, including wound drainage problems from the large empty pockets left in her body cavity from all the tumors that were removed. The cruelty Sheree, Tina and Foxy endured dramatically illustrates why we need legislation to give Animal Control a basis to prosecute “puppy mill” breeders and stop dogs from living for years in cages and in pain.

Sheree has been sleeping in bed with her foster mom, Anne Drake, a LAPAW volunteer, curled up as tightly as she can get next to her, and follows Anne everywhere she goes.

“Sheree doesn’t seem to be in pain,” said Drake, “although she’s so used to pain it’s second nature to her, unfortunately.” Sheree and Anne have spent long hours cuddling and watching TV. Anne reports that “Sheree likes Law & Order marathons because it means she gets to be held for a long time,” laughed Drake. “My Maltese puppy, Toby the Terrible, adores Sheree and loves to jump on her and make her play.

After producing so many litters, Sheree is right at home with this kind of “puppy love.”

Sheree is quickly learning about

Sheree, a Maltese, was also rescued from the same puppy mill and is finally receiving medical care.

housebreaking but can’t always help accidents because her kidneys are still healing. She likes the custom of getting “treats”, which is new to her, and walking in grass. But mostly she loves lying in bed, a real, soft bed, with a human cuddling and petting her. “I’ll be holding her close to me while watching TV in bed,” added Drake, “and I’ll look down at her and she’s always staring up at me with her sad, big, brown eyes, like she can’t believe her good fortune. I highly recommend rescuing puppy mill dogs - they are so grateful and endearing!”

Anne also pleads, “I hope people will consider becoming a foster parent to the rescued dogs still at 4 Paws on the Bayou Kennel, LAPAW’s temporary care facility,”continued Drake. “If you can foster a puppy mill dog, or any homeless dog, I guarantee it will be the most rewarding, heartwarming experience of your life!”

(Note: 4 Paws on the Bayou will hold an Adoption Day at their site at 465 Hardy Road in Carlyss on Saturday, March 29, from 10 am to 4 pm. All their homeless dogs, including some of the puppy mill rescues, will be there. Some puppy mill rescues are also available on the LAPAW website at www.lapaw.org. More will be posted as they recover from their variety of illnesses and spaying, and are healthy again. )

back of cars with hand-lettered signs saying “Pure Breed Puppies for Sale.”

Beware of buying a puppy raised under such inhumane conditions; they will often develop medical problems and you will be supporting the continued cruelty of the puppy mill toward the breeding dogs. Reputable breeders will have you come to their location and let you see the dog’s parents as well as the puppies, and most importantly will have records from a local veterinarian that you can check.

How You Can Help LAPAW has rescued 12 other dogs to date from the same local puppy mill

breeder, all with medical needs that had been neglected for their entire lives.

There a still more needing rescue.

LAPAW commits itself to rehabilitating rescues medically and relies on adoption fees and donations to cover the cost of vaccinations, spay or neuter, and any veterinary care these homeless pets need to get ready for adoption to their own “forever home.” LAPAW is a no kill rescue and the volunteers go as far as humanely possible to save their rescues and to nurture them back to health. For more information on how you can help by volunteering or making a tax-deductible donation, call 337-4787294 or visit www.lapaw.org.

What Is A Puppy Mill?

According to information on the Marilyn’s Voice website, many of those cute “pure bred” puppies for sale out of the back of cars, in front of grocery stores, in newspaper or internet ads, and even in some pet shops are frequently from puppy mills; “backyard breeders” wanting to make a few dollars at your expense and the dog’s health.

Simply put, a puppy mill is the equivalent to solitary confinement for dogs. The mothers are forced to deliver litter after litter. Dogs are frequently inbred to continually produce puppies, causing health problems for the puppies that live to be adults. Living conditions in puppy mills are characterized by overcrowding, filth and lack of food, water, adequate shelter and little or no veterinary care. Frequently, cages are stacked so the puppies and dogs below are urinated and defecated on by the dogs above. That is, if the cage floor has not yet solidified with waste from years of not being cleaned.

Fed and bred. That’s it. No walks.

No interaction with humans. No dog treats, toys or a soft blanket. Dogs live in the same two foot by two foot wire cage for about eight years until their breeding days are done. Rarely, if ever, will they ever set foot on grass.

Many puppy mill dogs can be seen in parking lots being sold out of the MARCH 20, 2008

PAGE 13

Another Success Story...

The Times of Southwest Louisiana has been an instrumental part in starting my business. You really do get your words worth going with The Times of Southwest Louisiana.

— Stacey Vezinot, Owner, Stacey’s Armoire

Big Brothers Big Sisters A True Treasure of Southwest Louisiana

By Troy Kiser

T

hroughout the history of Southwest Louisiana there are many stories of treasure buried along the banks of local bayous and lakes. Many have dreamed of discovering this treasure. Sometimes dreams do come true.

On March 1, pirates from far and wide gathered to celebrate a true treasure found right here in Southwest Louisiana. Big Brothers Big Sisters held its 25th annual ‘Bowl for Kids Sake’ fundraiser at PetroBowl in support of the various services the organization provides the community. This year’s theme was “Pirates on the Bayou.” Rowdy groups of pirates, buccaneers, and swashbucklers of all ages arrived eager to show their appreciation and support of such a wonderful organization.

Local companies, civic organizations, and schools gathered teams of bowling pirates to help raise money and to have a full day of fun. Just a few of the groups represented were Citgo, PPG, ConocoPhillips, Firestone, Westlake Chemical, Nelson Road and Hwy 14 Wal-Mart, The Buccaneers of Lake Charles, and SJ Welsh’s BETA Club. Even Lynn Jones, Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court and current president of BBBS Board of Directors, was there donating his time as DJ to keep the place bouncing.

With checks still coming in, Big Brothers Big Sisters easily surpassed their goal of $160,000, eclipsing the $139,000 raised in 2007. With these funds, the organization will continue PAGE 14

MARCH 20, 2008

to support and grow with the community. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Louisiana serves over 1,200 individuals through its core matching program as well as its faith-based, high school, lunch buddy, and foster grandparent programs.

There are currently 100 children in the core matching program with another 95 kids on the waiting list. And what are they waiting for? You! “The people of Southwest Louisiana are some of the most caring in Louisiana,” says Daryl Boyd, Marketing Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters. “It is wonderful to see so many people open their hearts for the children of this area. With so many on our waiting list, I’d also like to let the community know that there is a need and an opportunity for them to get involved and to have an immediate positive impact on a child and receive so much in return.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Louisiana would also like to thank their major sponsors ALCOA, Cameron State Bank, The William Dore, Sr. Family, and Sasol. Thanks also go to their media sponsors KPLC and First Federal Bank.

If you would like to contribute to or get involved with any of the programs provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Louisiana, please call them at 337-478-KIDS (5437) or email them at lakecharles@bbbsswla.net. Their Lake Charles office is located at 4135 Common St. For more information, visit www.bbbs-swla.net.

2007 Intense Bowl Champs Seek Repeat In 2008 2007 defending Intense Football League Champion, Louisiana Swashbucklers are back for another exciting year of jaw dropping, helmet knocking, in your lap excitement.

The Swashbucklers began their repeat campaign on March 8 in San Angelo as they rolled over the Stampede Express in that same old dominant Swashbuckler fashion taking home a 63 to 7 victory, despite losing key personnel from last year’s squad.

Swashbuckler Head Coach Darnell Lee, proclaimed, “We’re not rebuilding, we’re reloading.” And the Bucs have done just that. Gone from last year’s championship squad is QB Freddie Harrison, in his place Lee brought in two very different QBs in Lake Charles very own Alvin Bartie, a former Washington-Marion standout who played with the Lake Charles Riverkats, and from Louisiana Tech, Donald Allen. Both saw playing time at San Angelo, combining for 6 touchdowns.

Needless to say the QB position is in good hands.

Also gone is WR/DB Keith Smith, now with the Alaska Wild, some big

shoes to fill, but Lee once again managed to fill the void. In Smith’s place is former San Angelo All Star Henry Hunter and former Katy All Star, Sammy Knight. The Bucs also brought in Charles “Pac-Man” McRea from San Angelo as well. If Game One was any indication, this is going to be an exciting trio to watch this season.

Knight, the first Swashbuckler to touch a ball in a game this year, took the missed San Angelo field goal 50 yards for a touchdown. Hunter and McRea caught touchdown passes in the game, and McRea returned a kickoff for a touchdown, only to have it called back due to a penalty. They, along with Shawn Piper and Marcus Wilridge, promise to keep Swashbuckler fans on the edge of their seats this season. The Swashbucklers also return RB Phillip O’Neal, RB Kurt Duhon, OL Major Griffin, WR Raymond Harris, OL Dwight Hudler, and OL Jabari Hendricks. New to the Bucs backfield this year is Iowa native RB Lepeacus Celestine. Celestine was injured on the opening kickoff at San

Angelo, and has been placed on Injured Reserve.

Defensively the Bucs remain solid, and for the most part intact. LB Ryan Garrison, and DL’s Sabree Anderson and Kendall Shello, are gone, however the Bucs managed to bring back last years IFL Defensive Player of the Year in Damien Huren.

They also return DL John Paul Jones, Jerrel Zeno, and Buck Harris. LB’s Travis Moses and Rudy Johnson return to defend the title as well as DB’s Warren St. Junious, who was phenomenal in the 2008 opener, and Mike English.

New on the defensive side of the ball is DL Eddie White who is taking the place of last year’s league sack leader in Shello. White is from Louisiana Tech, and early indications show that the Bucs D-Line will be just as solid as ever. Anthony Camp is also scheduled to return to the team some time before the home opener to firm up an already firm line. The only other new face defensively is Brandon “BJ” Thomas, an amazing DB that Lee is excited to have on his side. Performing the kicking duties

once again will be a crowd favorite, Whitney “Disco” Hillen, the solid performer known best by fans for his dances after made field goal attempts.

The Swashbucklers make their 2008 home debut on March 29 in the Smugggler’s Den at the Lake Charles Civic Center at 7 p.m., when they host the Katy Rough Riders for the first of 4 meetings this year. Minus the playoffs and all-star game, the Swashbucklers will have 7 home dates this season in hopes of repeating as IFL Champions.

The 2008 Swashbucklers have some living up to do after the performance last year’s squad put together, and if all goes well and as planned, Coach Lee and owners Thom and Brenda Hager, will have not only given Southwest Louisiana seven nights of quality family entertainment, but another championship trophy for the case!

For more information on the 2007 defending IFL Champion Louisiana Swashbucklers or for tickets call (337) 310-PASS (7277) or go to www.labucs.com.

Come Meet The Swashbucklers March 22 If you’ve never been to a Louisiana Swashbucklers game, March 22 is your day! For just three dollars, general admission, the Swashbucklers will play a pre-season inter-squad game to help raise money for the Southwest Louisiana Harvest Foundation. Doors open at 6 p.m. and kick off is at 7:05 p.m. The very best seats always go first, so come early and enjoy two fifteen-minute halves a great indoor football. Then stick around after the game and meet the players and the FirstMates cheerleaders.

We’ve invited KPLC-TV’s News anchor, Mr. Marty Briggs to help us raise money by “Kicking For Kids”.

Every completed point after goal and every field goal that splits the uprights means fifty dollars for the Southwest Louisiana Harvest Foundation. Come out and cheer on Marty Briggs as he

“Kicks for Kids.”

Dominos Pizza and ice cold CocaCola products will be on sale throughout the game, so if you love pizza (and who doesn’t) come early and come hungry.

In addition to seven regular season games, the Swashbucklers will host the 2008 IFL All-Star weekend including the Banquet of the Best and the All-Star game played on August 9.

Every season ticket holder will receive a free ticket to the All-Star game. Heck of a deal! But wait!

There’s more…

This year, the Swashbucklers have teamed up with the local Chevrolet dealers, Gator 99, Star 92.1, The Lake, 107 JAMZ, and Coors Light to give away “Swashbucklers Swag”, one hundred Swashbucklers season tickets, and even a new 2008 Chevrolet Malibu! You can’t win if

you’re not a season ticket holder and no purchase is necessary. See official sweepstakes rules at www.labucs.com.

Remember, whether you are a season ticket holder or a casual Swashbucklers fan who attends just a few games, you are the ninth player on the team. We need you to be here to cheer your Bucs on to another championship. Here’s how you can help: • Spread the word. You can generate enthusiasm for your team better than we can.

• Bring your family and friends to a game. If each fan brings just one guest, we’ll oversell this arena.

• Wear your team colors and logos.

You raise the level of play when your team knows you care.

• Make some serious noise when your Swashbucklers are on defense. It

drives our opponents crazy. The league actually recognizes the loudest, wildest fans.

• Get to know your players as individuals. Most of them live and work here and are now raising families.

Our goal is to offer you affordable family entertainment and instill a sense of community pride by providing a winning team. Head Coach Darnell Lee, a graduate from McNeese State University, has set the bar for excellence by winning his first Swashbucklers championship for you last season and is determined to win it all again this season.

As always, we’ve sold you the entire seat, but you’ll only need the edge as we kick off this exciting season of Swashbucklers indoor football!

MARCH 20, 2008

PAGE 15

Swashbucklers 2008 Season

Swashbucklers’ Playing For Keeps in 2008

Saturday, March 22

Bye Week at Bye Week

Saturday, March 29

Katy Ruff Riders at Louisiana Swashbucklers

Saturday, April 5

Louisiana Swashbucklers at Centex Barracudas

Saturday, April 12

Louisiana Swashbucklers at Katy Ruff Riders

Special for The Times of Southwest Louisiana

Saturday, April 19

Centex Barracudas at Louisiana Swashbucklers

By Wright Livingston

Saturday, April 26

Katy Ruff Riders at Louisiana Swashbucklers

Saturday, May 3

Bye Week at Bye Week

Sunday, May 11

Louisiana Swashbucklers at Alaska Wild

Saturday, May 17

Louisiana Swashbucklers at Fairbanks Grizzlies

Saturday, May 24

Odessa Roughnecks at Louisiana Swashbucklers

Saturday, May 31

Frisco Thunder at Louisiana Swashbucklers

Monday, June 9

Louisiana Swashbucklers at Katy Ruff Riders

Saturday, June 14

Centex Barracudas at Louisiana Swashbucklers

Saturday, June 21

Alaska Wild at Louisiana Swashbucklers

Saturday, June 28

Louisiana Swashbucklers at Corpus Christi Hammerheads

The memories of a championship season in 2007 for the Louisiana Swashbucklers are still fresh. Memories of Whitney Hillin’s field goal late in the game to help win a semi-final battle at home against the Odessa Roughnecks, and of a packed Smuggler’s Den as the City of Lake Charles celebrated its first indoor football championship with a win over Corpus Christi; revenge for the only loss registered in the 2007 season.

It was a year of awards. The Swashbucklers won the Intense Football League trophy. Coach Darnell Lee was named IFL Coach of the year. The team owned by Thom and Brenda Hager was named Organization of the year. Fan favorite Shawn Piper won his second league MVP trophy in 2007. And Damien Huren was named defensive player of the year.

Much like most championships however, there is a very small window for celebration.

The off-season for Coach Lee and Hager was not spent basking in the sunlight of last season, but beginning to build for a better 2008.

Coach Lee’s signature line all off-season was “We’re not rebuilding, we’re reloading”. The Swashbuckler battle cry for 2008 continues to be, “This season, we’re Playing For Keeps.”

Step one of many began March 8, when the Swashbucklers dismantled San Angelo 63-7 in Texas. Yes fans, the 2008 season has begun. Local fans will get their first glimpse at this year’s team when they host the Katy Rough Riders for the home opener on March 29th.

The Reloading Begins While the Swashbuckler do return a core veterans that should make a run at a back-toback title, some of the faces and nameplates have changed. Quarterback Freddie Harrison accepted a job as the head football coach at Ferriday High School just before end of the Bucs season, and led that team to the school’s first playoff appearance in a while. With him he took linebacker and bone crusher Ryan Garrison as an assistant.

Knowing that this was an immediate need, Coach Lee has brought in Donald Allen, a 6’2, 210-pounder out of Louisiana Tech. Allen saw significant playing time while at college until a knee injury placed him deeper on the depth chart. Allen went overseas to play in Europe, helping his Italian team win a championship. Coach Lee com-

pares Allen to Donavan McNabb of the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles because of his arm strength and capability out of the pocket.

Also added as a quarterback this season is local player Alvin Bartie. Bartie played his prep ball at Washington Marion before playing semi-pro ball with the Lake Charles Rivercats, and brings size and a very strong arm. Lee feels that with time and experience in the indoor game that both could become very potent leaders in the backfield.

Leaning on the old adage, “if you can’t beat em, join em”, Lee has brought in three of the fastest receivers in the league not to wear a Bucs uniform last season. Charles “PacMan” McCrea will see plenty of time at defensive back and as a return specialist. He and Henry Hunter join the team after spending last season in San Angelo. Sammy Knight already has made his presence know, scoring the Swashbucklers first touchdown of the year when returning a missed field goal.

Knight and the others bring the speed that Coach Lee feels will compliment the arms of his two rookie quarterbacks, and help keep the team on pace to compete in the always improving caliber of play of the IFL. Lee is also excited about the arrival of safety Brandon Thomas, who also played previous years with the Rivercats. Thomas played his prep ball at football factory Carencro High School, and brings a punishing approach to the game as well as great game awareness and the ability to close on the ball quickly.

Also defensively, Eddie White, at 6’4, 285 pounds, will play a big role at defensive end.

White, from Houston, Mississippi, played collegiately at Louisiana Tech as well, and helps replace long-time pass rusher Kendall Shello.

The Swashbucklers return 17 players from last season’s championship squad. Among the familiar names returning are Shawn Piper.

Piper was called to Dallas in the offseason for a shot to play with the Arena I Desperados’.

After spending a week in tryouts there, he returns where his heart is to a team that he hopes contends for another title.

Buck Harris returns to find a different role as defensive end. The McNeese assistant coach and former player shows the speed and smarts to make the transition just fine. Another former Cowboy, John Paul Jones, looks to continue his front line disruption and be the force

that opposing quarterbacks always have to watch for. Also back are Marcus Wilredge, Warren St. Junious, center Dwight Hudler, Damien Huren, Rudy Johnson, Major Griffin, Jabari Hendricks, and the consistent leg of Whitney Hillin.

While the off-season was a busy one in filling key roles, Coach Lee points out that the return of his coaching staff of Marcus LeBlanc and Micheal Warren, seasoned veteran leadership, and the speed of key skills position players should bode well for a run at the IFL cup again this year.

Did he say, “Scaramouche”?

Thom Hager

Doing great, and getting better!

Thom and Brenda Hager begin their fourth season to captain the ship known as the Swashbucklers. Season tickets and sponsorships continue to grow as well as the popularity of indoor football in Southwest Louisiana.

Beyond winning the leagues crown last season, what excites Hager so much is the team’s Darnell Lee involvement in bettering the Lake Charles community and helping provide good, clean family entertainment. Local sponsors have supported the Swashbucklers Angel Care program very positively this season, allowing the team to send 700 underprivileged children and families to every one of the teams seven home games.

The organization has sold over 2,800 season tickets to date, helping close the gap in making every night an exciting, entertaining sellout. More than just a football game, a night with Swashbucklers turns into a fun filled Marcus LeBlanc night with constant promotion and the chance to take home a piece of the action.

The arena itself will have a new look, with a $ 1.6 Million renovation over the offseason.

The city has opened the ceiling, and provided over 102 sports lights and new ceiling tiles that should add to the fans enjoyment. Keep your memories of 2007, and know that 2008 brings even more. Because this season, your Swashbucklers are “Playing For Keeps”.

You’re going to be hearing this a lot throughout the season. It is more than just a “call to battle” for the Louisiana Swashbucklers. It is also a way of life!

Scaramouche (SCAIR a MOOSH) is defined as the spirit of the Swashbuckler.

It represents a zeal for life and the drive from within the heart of every swashbuckler. Backing down from any challenge or being caught in a lie is not an option. It is a defense of honor. Compromising their beliefs is unacceptable. Scaramouche ROSTER # Pos. 14 QB 7 QB 1 RB 15 ATH 18 WR 17 WR 5 ATH 4 WR 56 OL 77 OL 9 OL 92 DL 91 DL 32 DL 45 MLB 20 JLB 10 DB 11 DB 2 DB 19 K

means that a Swashbuckler will continue to fight and persevere until the fight is won! It describes the passion for what they do and an unparalleled love of life.

The reason so many well-known heroes are swashbucklers is because of their passion, honor, dedication, loyalty and commitment. Your Louisiana Swashbucklers are worthy of this honorable heritage.

Scaramouche! stMates The Fir

Name Alvin Bartie Donald Allen Kirt Duhon Shawn Piper Henry Hunter Sammy Knight Charles McRae Marcus Wilridge Dwight Hudler Major Griffin Jabari Hendricks Eddie White John Paul Jones Richard Harris Rudy Johnson Travis Moses Brandon Thomas Warren St.Junious Damien Huren Whitney Hillin

PRACTICE SQUAD 34 WR Phillip O’Neal 3 WR Raymond Harris 8 DL Jerell Zeno INACTIVE 58 MLB 6 LB 21 DB

Cecil Simien Carl Gilliam Mike English

INJURED 23 FB Lapeacus Celestine

Micheal Warren

PAGE 16

MARCH 20, 2008

MARCH 20, 2008

PAGE 17

A Review Of

By Terry Backhaus CFP

Recessions

This economic slump could be just another “bump in the road.”

Economists widely agree: America seems to be in a recession. Important economic indicators show declining manufacturing, a constricting retail and service sector, and poor GDP. So is the sky falling? Is this the end of the world?

No. Recessions have occurred throughout our history, and the economy has bounced back.

The National Bureau of Economic Research has identified ten American recessions since World War II; this would be the eleventh. Let’s take a look at some notable recessions in recent decades, and the way Wall Street reacted to them.

The 2001 recession. This one lasted eight months, by NBER’s estimation, and it followed the longest economic expansion in U.S. history (1991-2001).

It accompanied the last bear market, which lasted roughly from mid-2000 to late 2002. In 2002, stocks tanked: the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 16.8% for the year, the S&P 500 sank 23.4%, and the NASDAQ fell 31.5%.

But in 2003, the market made a powerful comeback: the Dow gained 25.3% on the year, the S&P 500 26.4%, and the NASDAQ an amazing 50%. The bulls kept running right on through 2007.

The 1990-91 recession. Some trace the roots of this one back to Black Monday in 1987, others to the S&L failPAGE 18

MARCH 20, 2008

ures and junk bond collapses of the late 1980s. The first three quarters of 1991 represented the depths of this recession, which did much to thwart the reelection of President George H.W. Bush.

Interestingly, this one occurred in the middle of an 18-year bull market.

Between the start of 1990 and the end of 1991, the Dow rose from 2,810 to 3,100.

The 1981-82 recession. This one was quite severe, lasting 16 months.

Some historians blame this recession on the Federal Reserve, which tightened its monetary policy in response to the runaway inflation of the late 1970s. But economists see it differently, arguing that Fed chairman Paul Volcker had to do something – and something drastic – to get the economy back on its feet. The Fed ended up hiking interest rates all the way to 21.5% in December 1980 (the all-time record), and during this recession, the jobless rate was higher than at any time since the Great Depression.

But the Fed’s tactic worked. By 1983, inflation was down from double digits to 3.2%. Between February 1983 and August 1987, the Dow climbed from the 1,100s to 2,700.

The 1973-75 recession. Ah, yes.

Remember waiting in line for gas?

Remember buying gas only on even or odd days according to your license plate? This one occurred not only due to

the OPEC embargo, but also as a byproduct of the U.S., U.K., and other key nations going off the gold standard in the early 1970s. That move devalued the dollar and other benchmark currencies. So in October 1973, OPEC decided to price oil relative to the price of gold instead of the value of the dollar. Its member nations also cut production levels. Over the next few months, crude oil prices quadrupled. Commodities prices took off. The bull market in commodities lasted until the dawn of the 1980s.

When the OPEC embargo hit, Wall Street was already in the middle of a bear market. Yet just a short time later, in July 1976, the Dow hit 1,011, its highest point between January 1973 and October 1982.

Some perspective. Until the last quarter-century or so, recessions commonly and cyclically occurred every few years. Only two post-WWII recessions have lasted longer than a year. Some analysts feel this is due to the evolution of the U.S. economy over the years: today, consumer spending and the service sector are huge drivers, not just manufacturing. While no one has a crystal ball, what is apparently the first recession in seven years may fall in line with recent economic examples, to have only brief and temporary effects.

So, now with this review of the past…what can you do to deal with the current economic slowdown (notice, I didn’t use the ‘R’ word!).

The stock market is unsettled … and perhaps its fluctuations are unsettling you. It’s a stressful time for the economy and Wall Street, and you may be concerned about your portfolio given what’s going on with oil prices, the real estate market, and rising unemployment figures. It may be a good time to review how your assets are invested.

Is your portfolio balanced? A balanced portfolio may help you ride out stock market turbulence. Stocks and mutual funds aren’t the only asset allocation choices you have, and you won’t be alone this winter if you decide to examine other investment options.

Fixed annuities and Treasuries become attractive to investors when the market turns volatile. Bonds tend to maintain their strength when stocks perform poorly; fixed annuities are simply contracts with insurance firms, not correlated to stock market performance (though certain types of annuities may enable you to take advantage of stock market gains while maintaining your principal). Fixed-income mutual funds, dividend income funds and bond funds also have their adherents.

Last but not least, you have cash, though cash holdings haven’t traditionally performed anywhere near the level of the stock markets.

Are you retired, or retiring? If you are, this is all the more reason to review and possibly even revise your portfolio.

Frequently, people approach or enter retirement with portfolios that haven’t been reviewed in years. The asset allocation that seemed wise ten years ago may seem foolhardy today.

Often, people in their fifties and sixties feel they need to accumulate more money for retirement, and that feeling leads them to accept more risk in their portfolio than they should. In the absence of a salary, however, you’ll likely want consistent income and growth, and therein lies the appeal of a balanced investment approach designed to manage risk while encouraging an adequate return.

Why not take a look into your portfolio? Ask your financial advisor to assist you. You may find that you have a mix of investments that matches your risk tolerance. Or, your portfolio may need minor or major adjustments. The right balance may help you insulate your assets to a greater degree against financial ups and downs.

Backhaus Financial Group LLC is independent of Questar Capital Corporation and Questar Asset Management.

Economic Development Alliance

Reshaping Our Region

There’s good reason to be optimistic about our future in Louisiana and Southwest Louisiana, in particular.

We are continuing to rebuild and recover and much progress has been made in our region. For example, Cameron Parish continues to face many challenges, but the spirit and strength of the people will prevail and will result in a stronger, safer coastal area.

Across the region affordable housing is a primary issue, but there are many exciting projects underway including housing subdivisions, apartment houses, hotels, retail developments, and several industrial prospects are good possibilities. Go Zone incentives are attracting local area developers as well as those from around the country to look at expansions in Southwest Louisiana.

By George Swift, President/CEO of the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance

Things are changing, and the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance is excited to be a part of the reshaping of our region.

Our region has been recognized as having established a true public/private regional economic development organization. That makes a statement that private business and public officials have come together to promote regional development. We may have differences from time to time, but we can all agree there is strength in working together. The Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance has many pans in the fire to take advantage of this time of change and spirit of regional cooperation.

• We have retained a representative for Southwest Louisiana to assist us

in marketing to the Houston Market.

• We are proactively marketing our region at trade shows and in industry publications and websites.

• We are developing a business retention program to help our current businesses expand.

• We are working on a larger business incubator facility which will foster entrepreneurship and growing local businesses in the region.

• We have stepping up efforts to deal with workforce development issues. Thousands of skilled workers are needed in our area.

Those wanting a good career in trades, crafts, and industries can get training locally at various

institutions and we are doing our part to create awareness of the need for a highly-skilled, trained work force and the availability of training and resources.

This is all in conjunction with the plans that Stephen Moret, the new Secretary of Louisiana Economic Development (LED) has for Southwest Louisiana. We are looking forward to working with Governor Jindal’s administration to effect change and make Louisiana a more competitive and business friendly state. Moret will be sharing his his plans for developing Southwest Louisiana and the future for Louisiana at the Chamber SWLA Issues Luncheon on April 4, 2008.

The successes of the Louisiana Legislature’s Ethics Reform Special MARCH 20, 2008

PAGE 19

www.banners.org Tickets available through membership, website, and at the door. $20 adult, $5 student, FREE to MSU students with ID Paragon Orchestra & The Mark of Zorro Saturday, March 29, 7:30 p.m.

F.G. Bulber Auditorium, McNeese campus

Zorro Mask Making Workshop and Party Central Library • Noon on March 29th Free to the public This event is partially funded by a grant from the Louisiana Decentralized Arts Funding Program as administered by the Arts and Humanities Council of SWLA.

Investments Financial Planning Insurance

George Swift at the Chemical Show

Terry Backhaus, CFP 800 Ryan Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601 337-437-9950 888-812-3695

Group Benefits Securities offered through Questar Capital Corporation. Member NASD & SIPC. Advisory services offered through Questar Asset Management. Backhaus Financial Group, LLC is independent of Questar Capital Corporation.

0303-07 8/2008

Session has set the tone and served notice to the world that there is a new Louisiana and we are open for business. We commend our entire Southwest Louisiana delegation and the Jindal administration for supporting this badly needed reform. In the months ahead, we expect this legislature to support more reform issues including business tax reform and major investments in our infrastructure such highways, bridges, and ports.

Paul Rainwater, a Southwest Louisiana native, has been named Executive Director of the Louisiana Recovery Authority which will ensure that the “Rita Region” will get attention we deserve. We also want to thank Chairman Donald Powell, of the Gulf Coast Recovery office, for his service.

Chairman Powell recently resigned his position and we wish him well. While we started off a little rough with Powell, once he realized that Southwest Louisiana had been severely impacted, he brought federal attention and funds to our area. We hope that his successor will have the authority Powell lacked to

direct federal agencies to respond and coordinate to assist disaster stricken areas.

One of the newest programs of the Alliance that we are optimistic about is the establishment of a new organization of young professionals in our five parishes. The group - Fusion Five - is open to young professionals between 21 and 45 working in our five parish region. This group will encourage involvement from our future leaders and jump starting them into leadership positions now.

We begin 2008 with many goals and objectives and it’s an exciting time. We urge you to get involved. So when you think about all of these items…it’s easy to be optimistic about the future of our region. There’s much to do….time’s a wasting….

Will you seize this opportunity?

For more information about the programs, projects and services of The Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance, call 337-4333632.

George and Pat Swift with Governor Bobby Jindal

APRIL 4-5 Call 480-1555 to Register FEATURING – Lisa Whelchel – Jane Bateman – Todd Broussard PAGE 20

MARCH 20, 2008

Albert Duplantis, general manager of Seabulk Towing, says his 35 employees are busy because of increased traffic on the Calcasieu Ship Channel. These 35 jobs are a part of the 31,375 area jobs generated directly or indirectly by the Port of Lake Charles.

Port Of Lake Charles Generates

Thousands Of Jobs, Billions Of Dollars The economic impact of the Port of Lake Charles can easily be viewed in numbers. Numbers like $3.5 billion— the amount of personal wage and salary income created through Port business activity. There’s $48,224—the average salary of those directly employed through Port activities. And there’s 31,375—the number of direct, indirect or induced jobs generated by the Lake Charles Harbor and Terminal District.

To appreciate the economic trickledown effects of the Port of Lake Charles, however, Albert Duplantis looks to a smaller figure: 35. That’s the number of employees at Seabulk Towing, where he works as general manager. Seabulk operates four tugs at the Port to help insure the safe transit of more than 1,100 vessels that enter the Calcasieu Ship Channel each year.

“If the Port of Lake Charles ceased to exist, these 35 jobs would be lost, along with a $20 million investment,” Duplantis said. “The Port’s presence is vital to Seabulk’s continued success.”

A recent study by Martin Associates, an economic consulting

firm, found that in addition to the 10,375 direct jobs generated by the Port, such as dockworkers, pilots and those at Seabulk, the Lake Charles Harbor and Terminal District also generates nearly 10,000 indirect jobs, such as those in office supply, communications, maintenance and repair services, and transportation services. According to the firm, the Port also generates more than 11,000 induced jobs, such as those in restaurants, retail outlets, grocery stores and local government agencies.

The study included marine cargo crossing the port’s City Docks and other terminals, and activity by port tenants such as Louisiana Pigment, Alcoa and PPG Industries. It also accounted for the impact of cargo going through privately owned terminals such as Citgo, Calcasieu Refining, Grace Davidson and Dunham Price.

The Port’s huge impact on the community may be surprising to many; the indirect—or “ripple”—effects are often unseen until pointed out by an outside study.

“The Port is not just a dock. It affects virtually every family in this community in some way,” said Adam McBride, port director of the Lake Charles Harbor and Terminal District.

“The Port itself has only about 110 employees, but it provides essential infrastructure for more businesses.

Other businesses are able to thrive and grow because this Port is here, and the Port is able to thrive and grow because it has the support of other businesses in the community.”

Davidson Darbone, president of the board of commissioners of the Lake Charles Harbor and Terminal District, called the Port of Lake Charles a “key element” in Southwest Louisiana.

“The Port’s economic vitality is crucial to this area,” Darbone said.

“And there’s still room to bring it to its highest potential.”

The Martin Associates economic impact study illustrates, in detail, how the Port can turn a single dollar into millions in revenue for the area. “A deepwater port such as Lake Charles contributes to the local, regional and

national economies by providing employment and income to individuals, tax revenues to local and state governments, customs fees to the federal government and revenue to businesses engaged in handling, shipping and receiving cargo via the port,” the study said.

The study also found that the 10,375 directly employed individuals received $500.4 million of personal wage and salary income, for an average salary of nearly $48,224. As the result of re-spending, this direct income in the local economy—which creates the induced jobs—$1.3 billion of additional income and consumption expenditures were created in the state.

“All those numbers can become cumbersome and difficult to relate to.

To understand the effects of the port, you really don’t need to look any further than the people in our community,” McBride said. “We will continuously strive to create an environment for success and for the opportunity for people here to have jobs. That’s what it’s about.”

MARCH 20, 2008

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Small Business

Borrowing

While poor management is cited most frequently as the reason businesses fail, inadequate or poorlytimed financing is next in line. If you own your own business, it’s almost inevitable that one day – if you haven’t already – you’ll be facing a decision about borrowing money.

“Whether you’re starting a business or experiencing growing pains, having sufficient, accessible capital is essential to business success, and borrowing money in one way or another is often the best way to make sure you have the money you need when you need it,” says Bobby Broussard, Senior Vice President with Cameron State Bank. “Just about every small business I’ve ever worked with has had to borrow money at some point.

Borrowing money for business is not a bad thing to do. In fact, used wisely,

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MARCH 20, 2008

debt can be a valuable tool for growing and expanding your business.

However, making the wrong choices about business financing, or poorly managing your business debt, can lead to serious problems in the future that can impact your business’s success.”

So, how does a business owner determine the right financing decision he or she should make? Broussard says the biggest mistake most small businesses make when it comes to debt is in their use of borrowed funds.

“In other words, how you use and manage the money you borrow is just as important as whether or not you borrow money in the first place.”

He explains that the key to using borrowed funds wisely is to have a well-thought-out business plan to guide these decisions. “One of the biggest mistakes we see in commer-

cial lending is people coming in not knowing exactly how much money they need. We can do a much better job of helping someone get the money they need to start a business, or to meet a new need of an existing business, if we are given a business plan.

The phrase ‘business plan’ intimidates a lot of people, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to bring in 2inch binder of data and written reports. However, being able to show potential lenders that you have a plan for your business, including projected expenses, income and profit, will not only prove your commitment to succeeding, but also help them structure your financing to meet your needs and budget.”

There are many different financing options business owners can consider, but the most common are line of credit and term loans. “A line of credit is one of the most useful financing tools for small businesses,” says Broussard.

“It allows you to borrow funds as needed to meet routine operating expenses, short term working capital needs or to cover temporary cash shortfalls. Once approved, you can borrow up to your predetermined credit limit at any time, usually simply by writing a check. The cautionary note with a line of credit is to use it judiciously. Interest is charged on any funds you access, and these should be repaid as quickly as possible.

Extending the term on repayment will lead to additional interest expenses.”

A term loan is one of the most common types of business financing.

Much like a personal loan an individual gets to buy a home or a car, this is a loan of a specific amount of money, usually at a fixed interest rate and repayment terms. The term may be short or long-term, and is usually made for a specific purpose, such as to finance equipment, property, acquisitions or major business expansion.

“An experienced commercial lender will work with the business owner to make sure the terms of this type of financing makes good business sense.

If you are using the loan to purchase new equipment that is expected to last five years, for example, you shouldn’t finance that purchase over seven

years,” says Broussard. “There are more restrictions on term loans, with personal or business assets often needed to secure the loan, depending on the amount needed. This is where having a good business plan really helps.”

The wide availability of credit cards makes them an increasingly common source of financing for small and start-up firms. Broussard cautions that credit cards should be used only for short-term expenses, such as travel, entertainment, office supplies, and other miscellaneous expenses. “If you are using your corporate credit card for operating expenses and carrying a large balance from month-to-month, you need to take a closer look at the financial picture of your company.

An experienced commercial lender can provide advice on how to secure more affordable financing.”

People with dreams of owning their own business never make the attempt because they don’t think they will qualify for a loan. But Broussard explains that there are a variety of state and federal programs available to help small businesses secure financing. For example, the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Louisiana Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) are both agencies that Broussard says helps banks make affordable loans to businesses that might not qualify for traditional commercial financing.

The process of securing financing is often confusing and frustrating for many small business owners, who are not always financially savvy about business credit processes, and who have probably never had to deal with these issues before. “That’s why it is important for business owners to go to a commercial lender they are comfortable with; someone they can trust. It’s definitely an educational process and we work very hard at Cameron State Bank to make sure our commercial clients understand all their options, so they can make the best decisions for their business. We are invested in their success, and our goal is to make the entire process easier for them.”

Why is The Local Real Estate Market Faring

SO WELL? Real estate is highly dependent upon local economy.

By Derenda Grubb, President of The Southwest Louisiana Association of REALTORS - 2008

I have advocated for some time that Southwest Louisiana was not only stable, but on the verge of a considerable growth spurt. I always contend that we should listen to our local leaders and economic experts who have repeatedly told us we were growing and moving forward. Southwest Louisiana is in an economic growth pattern that is so impressive we are now on the radar screens of Forbes.com, where Lake Charles, Louisiana was listed as the 9th out of the TOP TEN Up and Coming Tech Cities in the United States.

Why? An impressive list of area attributes such as: 12th largest port in the nation, source of 25% of Nation’s natural gas supply upon completion of 3 new LNG facilities, growing aviation industry, expansions of local petrochemical facilities, the projected Co-Gen facility, and with modifications planned to expand tourism and the gaming industry.

The list goes on to amaze one’s imagination as to what our area will resemble in the next 10 to 20 years. We have a lot of work to do. We have homes, schools, and infrastructure to build and improve in order to accommodate the magnitude of new businesses and people that will enter our community.

Proof of stability in the real estate market for the last two years was found in these statistics. The sales of residential listings by Southwest Louisiana Association of REALTORS® in 2007 versus 2006 showed a slight increase in units sold, an increase of total residential

volume sold by $19.5 Million. The average home price increased by $12,071, and an increase of $7 per square foot on the average with a 97% average sale price versus list price remaining stable for both years.

The market and sale increases in averages occurred when the daily news programs were filled with negative stories on the real estate market nationwide.

The insurance issues of 2007, added to the media hype of the real estate market and you might wonder that we sold anything? You might even wonder how the stock market will affect the real estate market. Historically, people always recognize real estate as a sound investment and will often turn to real estate in a down stock market.

Pair the above news with the fore sight of our leaders and we are scheduled for some exciting days. Thanks to the meticulous planning of the Lake Charles Downtown/Lake Front Project through Mayor Randy Roach and the City Council, the 18 month planning project of the Vision Calcasieu through the Police Jury which encompasses the entire parish we will be resolving our issues in a logical and planned format.

They are aware of the magnitude of growth and changes required in the next 10 to 20 years and know it will require planned finesse to accomplish what our community deserves. Real Estate in our area is healthy and will become very exciting in the next months and years as our area grows.

MARCH 20, 2008

PAGE 23

"Wiig Party" — cast off, cast on.

by Matt Jones • ©2008 Jonesin' Crosswords Brought to you by Melanie Perry, Agent State Farm Insurance

Last Issue’s Answers

Across 1 Gather 6 Like your chances after hearing "fat chance," ironically 10 Legal gp.

13 Children's author ___ Mayer 15 Prefix for "mechanics" 16 Chum 17 Amy who's an animal on the "SNL" set?

19 Type of tuna 20 The Ugly Duckling, really 21 Will's pet running around the "SNL" stage?

23 "Bubba Ho-Tep" actor Davis 25 Barnyard refrain 26 "Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2" composer 29 ___ nitrite (illicit inhalant) 31 Horatio holding the official "SNL" stopwatch?

35 Scotland ___ 39 "Survivor: Micronesia" return player Cusack 40 King, London and Tan 42 It holds one of your balls 43 Bugle call at a military funeral 45 Tough Jane in the first "SNL" cast?

47 Exhibit, as with smarminess 49 Word flashed at the beginning of some video games

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MARCH 20, 2008

50 Rental car company 53 "Buns of ___" 56 Demand for Jay to appear on "SNL" again?

59 If you look this way, you'll miss the sunset 63 "I'll take that as ___" 64 Studly "SNL" actor Bill?

66 Architect I.M. 67 "Million Dollar ___" (2006 "Simpsons" episode featuring Homer's dad) 68 Tahini ingredient 69 Word printed on a maze 70 Farm layers 71 Extra track on singles, often Down 1 Concert blocks 2 SPCA noise 3 Square footage, e.g.

4 Big ol' nose 5 Poivre's tablemate 6 Buffalo hockey player 7 Give a skeezy look 8 "Dies ___" (medieval hymn) 9 Newsman Safer 10 Swiftly 11 Faith founded in Persia 12 Samuel on the U.S. Supreme Court

14 Playing field figures 18 Camping World competitor 22 "Flirting With Disaster" actress Tomlin 24 Stick in the trunk 26 Hurdle for lawyers-to-be 27 Ryan Adams song "If ___ Stranger" 28 Vasectomy sound 29 "Right on!"

30 Soldier for hire, for short 32 Looney Tunes animator Freleng 33 Huge part of a monster truck 34 Lance of the "Trial of the Century" 36 "___ boy!"

37 Tara in the tabloids 38 Say no to 41 "OK!" 44 Not everything 46 Let out 48 Type of music played in beer halls 50 With jaw on floor 51 ___ closet 52 Steer clear 53 "Alright then, I admit it" 54 First word of every episode title of "Friends" 55 Makes a mistake 57 One of Hamburg's rivers 58 Chief 60 Don's "Reign Over Me" costar 61 Third Eye Blind hit " ___- Charmed Life" 62 "Jurassic Park" creature 65 "That girl?"

t i m e s

picks the best in lake area entertainment

Matthew Messmer "Shinjuku Minami Gucchi" 21ST ANNUAL MCNEESE NATIONAL WORKS ON PAPER EXHIBITION, MARCH 20 – APRIL 25 — Works on Paper opens with a reception honoring the selected artists from 68 p.m. Thursday, March 20, in the Abercrombie Gallery, Room 125, of the Shearman Fine Arts Center at McNeese State University. The exhibition, sponsored by the McNeese Visual Arts Department, is part of the 2008 McNeese Banners Series. Elizabeth Dunbar, curator of Arthouse in Austin, Texas, is juror for this year’s Works on Paper Exhibition. Arthouse is both the oldest statewide visual arts organization and the only one devoted solely to contemporary art.

Dunbar has selected 40 pieces from the more than 750 works submitted by 400 artists from around the country. The Abercrombie Gallery is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, contact the McNeese Department of Visual Arts at (337) 475-5060.

DENNIS STINE FEATURED SPEAKER AT LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS FETE, MARCH 27 — The League of Women Voters, will hold its Annual Banquet at 6 p.m., Thursday, March 27, at Reeves Uptown Catering, located at 1639 Ryan Street.

Dennis Stine, CEO and co-owner of Stine Lumber and Chairman of Governor Jindal Government Reform Advisory Council and Budget Advisor for Governor Jindal Transition, is the featured speaker. He will give us some “the scoop” on what is happening at the State Capitol. Registration and networking will take place prior to the meeting. Membership applications are available at the registration desk or at www.lwv-lc.org. The public is invited and encouraged to attend. The cost is $25 for members, $30 for non-members. To insure seating and sponsorship recognition, please make your reservation later than 2 p.m.

Tuesday, March 25, by emailing Alfred Doucette, Jr. at douce@bellsouth.net or calling 474.1864.

GET YOUR BURRO EARLY! WILD HORSE AND BURRO ADOPTION, BEAUMONT, TEXAS, MARCH 27-29 — The U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will hold a wild horse and burro adoption in Beaumont, March 27-29, at Ford Park, featuring 90 adult and yearling horses and burros that once roamed free on public lands in the West. Wild horses and burros - living legends that have roamed free in the West for over 500 years - are renowned for their strength, endurance, agility and intelligence characteristics bred into them in the wild which make them ideal for work or recreation. Since 1973, the BLM has placed more than 218,000 animals in approved homes across the country. Application approval is required and can be done on site. To qualify, one must be at least 18 with no record of animal abuse.

Adopters must have suitable facilities and can adopt no more than four animals.

BLM staff will be on hand to assist adopters through the application process. The minimum adoption fee, set by law, is $125 per animal. For more information, call toll-free 1-866-4-MUSTANGS or visit www.nm.blm.gov (select Wild Horse and Burro under Quick Links). Directions to Ford Park: From I-10 in Beaumont, take Exit #846 (Major Dr./Brooks Rd.) and stay on service road. Facility entrance is on the right.

TRINITY’S SPRING WOMEN’S CONFERENCE FEATURES “THE FACTS OF LIFE” LISA WHELCHEL, APRIL 4 & 5 — Trinity Baptist Church hosts Spring Women’s Conference April 4-5 in Lake Charles. The conference, features Lisa Whelchel, known from her starring role as Blair Warner on NBC’s “The Facts of Life.” Whelchel will discuss how she has heard God’s voice throughout her life in mighty ways and even in gentle whispers. Besides her acting abilities, Whelchel has a noteworthy vocal and musical writing talent. She received a Grammy nomination for her “Best Inspirational Album” for her critically acclaimed solo album “All Because of You.” Jane Bateman, a comical and powerful Christian speaker, will speak from personal experience about overcoming serious family trials. With an encouraging message full of hope, she will reveal how to hear God’s voice in a trying situation. After March 14, registration is $55. Tickets will not be available at the door. To register, call Trinity Baptist Church at 337480-1555. For ladies outside of southwest Louisiana, please call host hotels, Wingate by Wyndham at 337-527-5151 or Fairfield Inn by Marriott at 337-528-2629, to reserve a room. In order for the special group rate, reservations must be made under the group code: Trinity Baptist Church.

COSMETIC SURGERY QUESTIONS? LIFT, LASER & LIPO SEMINAR AT MEMORIAL, MARCH 27 — A free Lift, Laser & Lipo Seminar at 6 p.m., Thursday, March 27, at Memorial Hospital for Women (at Nelson and Gauthier Road), will feature Dr. Harold Bienvenu, III, facial plastic and cosmetic surgeon at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital for Women. Dr. Bienvenu will discuss such topics as cosmetic facial surgery, cosmetic laser skincare, cosmetic sink care, and body contouring

Lisa Whelchel MARCH 20, 2008

PAGE 25

with liposuction. A St. Martinville native, Dr. Bienvenu graduated from Louisiana State University with a Bachelor of Science in Zoology, and from LSU Medical School in New Orleans. He completed his internship, a general surgery and an otolaryngology residency at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock. Dr. Bienvenu is board certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Refreshments will be served and drawings for free Botox and Juvederm treatments will be held. Reservations are required; call 477-8551.

GHOST HUNTING 101: A SCIENTIFIC APPROACH TO PARANORMAL INVESTIGATING, APRIL 5 – 19 — Join “Louisiana Spirits” Paranormal Investigators as they take you through three sessions: a classroom presentation for the first meeting, then a handson investigation of a reportedly “haunted” location within an hour from campus, and finally a third meeting to discuss our findings. In this course you’ll study a scientific approach to paranormal investigating, using various types of high-tech equipment, as well as skeptical and analytical methods of evidence analysis. You will learn the proper methods of obtaining evidence, what types of evidence to collect, and how to debunk events that have logical explanations. Transportation to investigation site is on your own. Happy Hunting!

Instructor is Brad Duplechien. Go to http://www.mcneese.edu/conted/view.php?cat=15. Classes are Saturdays, April 5, 12, and 19, 7 - 9 p.m.

BANNERS EVENTS CONTINUE, MARCH 28 – APRIL 5 — Planting By Artists: Free lecture about container gardening and art by Dr. Larry Cipolla, co-presented with the SWLA Garden Festival 2008. Friday, March 28, 7 p.m. Parra Ballroom, McNeese campus.

Paragon Orchestra & The Mark of Zorro: Saturday, March 29, 7:30 p.m. F.G. Bulber Auditorium, McNeese campus. $20 adults, $5 students, free to McNeese students. Now touring for the first time since its 1920 release, the feature-length movie, The Mark of Zorro, is coming to Lake Charles. The original, Spanish-flavored score will be played by Rick Benjamin’s Paragon Orchestra. You’ll hear a full band perform great music — and you haven’t seen Zorro until you’ve seen Douglas Fairbanks! Supported by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council as administered by the Arts and Humanities Council of SWLA. Zydeco, Mardi Gras and Trail Rides: Tuesday, April 1, 7 p.m. Free Lecture about Creative Traditions in Louisiana Creole Communities by Dr. Nick Spitzer. Parra Ballroom, McNeese campus.

5th Annual McLeod Lecture Series: Thursday, April 3, 7 p.m. Central School Arts & Humanities Center, 809 Kirby Street. Free. This series is supported by an endowment established through the McNeese State University Foundation in honor of Bill McLeod, former legislator, judge and community leader. Previous panel discussions have included former Louisiana governors, U.S. Senators, state legislators and gubernatorial press secretaries.

Manhattan Brass: Saturday, April 5, 7:30 p.m. F.G. Bulber Auditorium, McNeese campus. $20 adults, $5 students, free to McNeese students.

Wayne du Maine, Dave Taylor, Ann Ellsworth, Lew Soloff and Mike Seltzer bring an unique experience and vision to the ensemble. Manhattan Brass has played together for 15 years. Members are intent on taking brass ensemble playing to another level — and they want to take you with them. www.manhattanbrass.org.

ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONAL WEEKS (APW) LUNCHEON, FASHION SHOW AND VENDOR EXHIBITION, TUESDAY, APRIL 22 — The Magnolia Chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) is hosting Annual Administrative Professional Weeks (APW) Luncheon, Fashion Show and Vendor Exhibition, Tuesday, April 22, in the Flamingo Ballroom at the Isle of Capri. This event will host a vendor exhibition.

The fashion show by Te-Ci’s will take place during the luncheon. Any merchants wanting to participate in the vendor exhibition can contact nborel@mail.mcneese .To purchase tickets for IAAP Luncheon, Fashion Show & Vendor Exhibition, go the www.iaap-magnolia.org to complete the registration form for the luncheon and to participate as a vendor. The Magnolia Chapter President is Mary Reeder and can be contacted at (337)491-3382 or at mreeder@iaap-magnolia.org.

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MARCH 20, 2008

Dr. Eli and Claire Sorkow enjoying Denim & Diamonds.

W

Twins with twins – Kaitlynn and Karlynn Louviere hug Buffy and Sadie at the Charlestown Market dog parade.

The Butterfly Effect hy are you sleeping late on Saturday mornings? Get out of bed and get on over to the Charlestown Farmer’s Market in downtown Lake Charles for the freshest garden and farm goods and some of the friendliest folks you’ll ever meet.

Irish eyes — canine and human — were smiling March 15 in downtown Lake Charles when the Market held the second annual St. Paddy’s Day Dog Parade.

Charlene Breaux and Christine DesJardine brought Sparkles and Joe Lee for the parade. Debbie Golman and Fran Chaisson were with Sha, a very friendly Boxer, and Pepper, a Golden Retriever. Twins Kaitlynn and Karlynn Louviere paraded their twin Chihuahuas, Buffy and Sadie who are both rescue pups. Lucky dogs! Their grandmother, Ruby DeRouen, was with Angel, a Border Collie who is the daughter of a Rita-rescued dog.

Howard and Dianne Bagwell sell “Mr. Howard’s” line of homemade hot sauces, tamales and breakfast burritos at the Farmer’s Market.

Cynthia and John Bailey sell stone ground corn meal at the Farmer’s Market, and chat with old friend, Garland Guillory.

Ellie and Tom Pollard came over from Beaumont to celebrate St. Patrick’s Balladeer Festival downtown.

MARCH 20, 2008

PAGE 27

Staci Van Hoose and Linda Wranosky with Deb Miss St. Patrick Emerald, Brenna Young at the Balladeer Festival.

Tip Harte brought Barney for the parade. Barney was rescued from a shelter in Texas. A most amazing one-of-akind, Barney is part Dalmatian, part Schnauzer. (What would that be? A Dauzer? A Schalmatian?) He was adorable and polite. They were shopping for fresh Hammond strawberries with Carol Thibodeaux and her Weimaraner, Gabby.

After the dog parade, I shopped the Farmer’s Market for wonderful homemade and home-grown goodies.

Carolyn Smith offers jars of beautiful pickles, candied peppers, jams and jellies

Danny O’Flaherty and Christian Chalvez played for the crowd at the Balladeer Festival.

and homemade soaps. Cynthia and John Bailey sell fresh stone-ground cornmeal that is divine. They chatted with their friend, Garland Guillory, between customers. Howard and Dianne Bagwell sell “Mr. Howard’s” hot sauces, breakfast burritos and wonderful hot tamales! Mr. Howard’s hot sauces are salted and unsalted. And what a better breakfast than a burrito at the Farmer’s Market?

Other vendors offered plants and blooming flowers, fresh fruits and vegetables, HUGE Hammond strawberries, bird and butterfly houses, and home

crafts. The weather was perfect. Get on over to the weekly Charlestown Farmer’s Market, open every Saturday morning.

A few blocks down, the second annual St. Patrick’s Balladeer Festival was getting underway. Danny O’Flaherty, Drowsy Maggie, Constant Billy, and the Lone Star Pipe Band entertained revelers of Celtic descent – and those who were Celtic for the day.

Tom and Ellie Pollard came over from Beaumont for the event. Kay Andrews, Jackie Dowden and Connie Shaw sold Arts and Humanities Gold Key Quest tickets to the crowds, and prepared to

Unique Gifts and Accessories 3204 Ryan St. • 337-433-6200

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MARCH 20, 2008

pinch anyone not sporting green! I met Deb Miss St. Patrick Emerald, Brenna Young and her mom Staci Van Hoose visiting with Linda Wranosky. Love Brenna’s tiara with the sparkling shamrock!

Dawn Harrington and Scotsman Martin Shamalian were selling Heather Gems at Dawn’s Harrington Gallery booth from Sulphur. Martin entertained the crowds with the story of Heather Gems and how they are manufactured from Scottish Highland heather. He also joked about his kilt and wool sweater.

“Fifty million sheep can’t be wrong,” he said, not breaking a sweat in the

Members of the Lone Star Pipe Band performed at the St. Patrick’s Day Balladeer Festival.

(James Dean (from Lake Charles) and Jeff Courts, Jim McLaughlin and John Scott from Beaumont.

Louisiana sun in his wool sweater.

“Whatever the weather, wool is right!”

At the neighboring booth, Brian and Patricia Prudhomme with Garden Paths decorative iron works, chatted with a young Irish musician, Duston Erwin. I could hear bagpipes so I followed the sound to the Lone Star Pipe Band where the musicians were tuning up their pipes for a performance. Jeff Courts, Jim McLaughlin and John Scott from Beaumont were joined by Lake Charles piper, James Dean for the festival. Local musician Christian Chalvez joined Danny O’Flaherty onstage for a song.

Meanwhile, MSU Athletic Foundation hosted their first Denim & Diamonds fundraiser, Thursday March 7. Tables were decorated with straw hats, cowbells, and hay bales. A wooden fence was set up with Rowdy cut out for photos opportunities. There was even an outhouse! That was the “denim.” The diamonds came from a wonderful selection of silent and live auction treasures including a MSU quilt, a day of spa pampering, a membership GiGi’s, chance to co-anchor KPLC Sunrise Show, a limo ride and roses, dinner at Hunter’s Harlequin, golf at Lake Charles Country club, a year’s worth of Happy

Meals from McDonald’s, home décor, and a signed Roger Clemons pennant.

The Shadow spotted lots of happy cowboys and girls in the crowd, including; Kristi Hatfield, Jason LeBlanc, Trina Johnson, Joey Hebert, Shireen Santhanasamy, Katy Large, Robert Large, Kellery Brame, Shelly Aguillard, Joey and Dianna Alcede, Cathy Chapman, Dave Brown, Lynn Jones, Cassondra Guilbeau, Leslie Harless, Don Dixon, Mark and Sharon Bonial, Matt and Annette Richey, and Philip and Dawanna Tarver.

Our master of ceremonies, John Bridges, kept the show on the road, while auctioneer Hal McMillin brought in the money for the MSU Athletic Foundation.

March 15, a once-in-a-lifetime event was celebrated in a big way. Christus St.Patrick Hospital commemorated their Centennial Anniversary with a black tie Gala at L’Auberge du Lac. Local glitterati gathered at 6 p.m. for the opening of the silent art auction with complimentary champagne. The Shadow spotted Billie and Kay Blake, Nancy Tower, Mayor Randy and Nancy Roach, Bishop Provost, Sarah Quinn Jones, Eddie Morman, Patsi Prince, Mark and Sara Judson, Jen Kober, Barbara

Lisa and David Perry chatted with Bishop Provost at the Christus St. Patrick Centennial Gala.

David and Sandra Semien looked over the art auction at the Centennial Gala.

and Brett Downer, Theresa Schmidt and Hector San Miguel, Senator Dan Moorish and his wife, Kathy and Rep. Chuck Keckly and his wife, Laurie.

Lisa and David Perry visited with Bishop Provost. Charlene and Tiffany Chaisson chatted with Vic Stelly. I spotted Jim and Debbie Serra and Peter and Mary Ellen O’Carroll.

Brenda Shelton and Len Ford looked quite elegant as they visited with friends. Kay Andrews and Irene Vandever admired the art auction items. Marie and Garland Prejean visited with artists Eddie Morman and David and Sandra Semien.

The Kober family gathered for the celebration including, Dr. Ron Kober, Jen Kober, Stephanie Kober and Laura Kober O’Conner. Maria and Beau Faul also had a family reunion. I gathered them for a photo op. The happy group included Lily Beth Sluatillo, Al and Theresa Alcantaro, Estalla Paulma, and Larry and Patsi Prince.

The Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word were celebrating the evening. It was their order that has served St. Patrick Hospital since 1908.

I met Sisters Shelia O’Beirne, Anne Margaret Savant, Beniga Mejia, Maria Otilla, Marta Irene, Francesca

Kerns, Katrina LeGrand, and Rachel O’Keefe.

As we entered the event center, the Gala committee members greeted us, including Ginger Patton and her friend Tanja Tate. The L’Auberge event center had been transformed into an elegantly decorated ball room. I have never seen it so beautiful as on this special night. The tables were covered with iridescent purple and gold. Large vases of orchids were lit with crystal-studded lamps. At each place setting, we received a lovely commemorative program and a CD of Michael McDonald’s greatest hits. Oh yes, the Gala committee and L’Auberge arranged for Mr. McDonald to perform for the special evening! Kay Morgan with Christus St. Patrick explained the arrangement came about, “Because L’Auberge has been a wonderful neighbor and supporter of the community.”

I met Julio and Maria Galan and Louise McDaniel. I spotted Phil and Lucie Earhart, Debbie Reed, Dr. Ordinario and his lovely wife, Evangeline, Malinda and Gary Hightower, and Dr. Keith Desonnier.

The program began with speakers and an invocation. Mayor Roach noted that, “There’s probably not anyone here tonight who has not been impacted by St. Patrick Hospital and the Sisters of

Senator Dan Moorish and his wife, Kathy, visited with Rep Chuck Kleckley and his wife, Laurie at the Centennial Gala.

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Barry Barnett, Lynn Jones and David Shaw attended the private reception for Mr. McDonald.

Charity of the Incarnate Word.” He asked for a show of hands of those of us born at St. Patrick Hospital, and he was one of them. So was the Shadow, but I was surprised that I was the only one at my table who could boast of that! So I must mention my delightful tablemates.

They were Nancy Burleigh, a member of the Board of Christus St. Patrick and her friends and cousins, Mary Sullivan, from Lafayette and Ruth Unkel and Ella Wakely of Kinder. We also welcomed Jay Fallo to our table. He is an entertainment manager from Gretna who was helping with the McDonald concert.

We had a wonderful supper of fresh salad and warm rolls. Our entree was a prime filet of rare beef, a filet of succulent fish, a sauce that complemented both, twice-baked mashed potatoes and asparagus with baby carrots. We had our choice of red or white wine with our meal. Dessert was, as always at L’Auberge, a work of art. A sinfully rich dark chocolate mousse was crowned with a white chocolate medallion with the Christus St. Patrick logo and “100th Celebration” in dark chocolate printed on it. The mousse was garnished with whipped cream, a sprig of mint and raspberries! It was so delightful that I had to take a photo of it before indulging!

The program included a short video that outlined the history and success of Christus St. Patrick for their past 100 years. Did you know that we have St. Patrick hospital here in Lake Charles because of the hurricane that devastated Galveston 108 years ago? Dr. John Greene Martin went to Galveston to administer aid to the survivors of that tragedy. He worked with the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word and was so impressed with their ministry that he requested that they come to Lake Charles where he was working to establish a hospital for the growing region.

On St. Patrick’s Day, 1908, the threestory, 50-bed hospital was open on its current location on South Ryan Street.

And I felt we were experiencing the “Butterfly Effect” – you know; the theory that the motion of mere butterfly wings can set off a chain of events that can eventually impact the world.

Because of the horror of the Galveston Hurricane in 1900, Southwest Louisiana acquired its first hospital, thousands of area lives have been touched by healing at that hospital and tonight, hundreds of us were dressed to the nines enjoying a wonderful evening of friendship, food, thanksgiving, and music.

So I must get to the concert! It was worthy of a Centennial Celebration.

Peter and Mary Ellen O’Carroll chatted with David Darbonne and Larry Lepnski at the private reception after the gala.

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MARCH 20, 2008

Kay Barnett and Kerry Anderson at the private reception for Mr. McDonald after the Centennial Gala.

Promptly at 9 p.m., Mr. McDonald and his musicians took the stage and played for over an hour. What a treat. He opened with “Higher and Higher,” and segued into smooth ballads. The clarinet/saxophone player was fantastic. Oh to be a back up singer! He sang, “Shine Sweet Freedom” with an extended jazz jam added on. He sang “Keep Forgettin’” and noted that it was written by the great Eddie Arnold and was one of Ray Charles’ favorite songs. He sang, “Grapevine” and “Walk on By” and “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing,” and “Taking it to the Streets,” and “What a Fool Believes.” And we sang along and the dance floor filled with couples.

What a delightful evening. We cheered and gave McDonald and the band a standing ovation, earning us an extended encore which closed with the Marvin Gaye classic, “What’s Going On?” After the concert, a private reception was held for a select group in the Cypress Room where we enjoyed afterdinner drinks and met with Mr. McDonald. I chatted with Barry Burnett, Lynn Jones, David Shaw, Julie Buck, Erin and Leslie Harless and Jill Breaux. Peter and Mary Ellen O’Carroll visited with David Darbonne and L’Auberge VP and

General Manager, Larry Lepinski. I got the committee members and Kerry Anderson together for a photo op including Kay Barnett, Louise McDaniel, Kay Morgan, Jessica Carlson and Ginger Patton. We each had the opportunity to meet Mr. McDonald and have our photo taken with him. (And yes, he is dreamy!)

It was a delightful Shadow assignment and I thank Kay Morgan and Christus St. Patrick for their kind and generous invitation to join the celebration. Here’s to your next 100 years!

Shadow Update: Aminah Trahan reports Gems and Stems was a success!

“Our fundraising goal this year was $50,000 for the Women’s Shelter, a United Way member agency. Our two major fundraisers are the annual Gems & Stems and the Shelter Golf Classic.

This year, Gems and Stems brought in $27,855.13. Yippee!”

And Ooops! Last issue the Shadow incorrectly identified beautiful baby Jolie Bolton was with her grandparents.

Not so – she attended the Family Foundation Philanthropy Awards with her proud parents, Joel and Sandy Bolton.

Members of the Christus St. Patrick Gala committee enjoyed the private reception with Mr. McDonald. L to R: Kay Barnett, Louise McDaniel, Kay Morgan, Jessica Carlson and Ginger Patton.

Below: Brydon and Becky Jacobson in New York City "Top of the Rock" with Empire State Building in background.

Below: This is Camrin O'Flaherty showing off her second grade toothless smile.

She is a student of Rosepine Elementary.

Daughter of Ken and Melanie Asbell.

Above: Ryerson Russell, son of John & Brandi Russell and Noah DeCurir, son of Eric and Natalie DeCurir with one of Lake Charles' finest!

Above: Sandy and Joel Bolton and their daughter, Jolie, attend a reception at L'Auberge.

Parting Sh o ts

1) Email your snap shots to myphoto@timessw.com. Must include a contact name and phone number.

2) Photos should be attached as a file and not imbedded in copy or photoshopped into a format. Original size, please, do not compress the file. No mailed or fax photographs can be used.

3) Subjects in photo must be identified by name. Children should also be identified by parent or guardian. Unidentified or anonymous photos will not be considered for publication.

4) The Times reserves the right to decline publishing photos of questionable taste or subject matter, or for space limitations.

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