January 29, 20152 Vol. 6 • No. 21

January 29, 2015 3Vol. 6 • No. 21

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January 29, 2015 • Volume 6 • Issue 21

715 Kirby St.Lake Charles, LA 70601Phone: 337-436-7800Fax: 337-990-0262www.thejambalayanews.com

Publisher/Executive EditorLauren Abate de Albuquerquelauren@thejambalayanews.com

ContributorsNicole Shuff ArabieGeorge ClineAngie Kay DilmoreDan EllenderJulie Ann FayeMike McHughRoger MillerJustin MorrisRon MunizPatti PhillipsBrian PitreBritney Blanchette PitreTerri Schlichenmeyer Karla TullosDavid Yantis

Salessales@thejambalayanews.com

GraphicsArt/Production DirectorBurn Rourk

BusinessOffi ce ManagerJeanie Taggart

Legal Disclaimer

The views expressed by The Jambalaya News columnists are their own and do not necessarily refl ect the position of The Jambalaya News, its editors or staff.

The Jambalaya News is solely owned, published by Jambalaya Media, LLC, 715 Kirby Street, Lake Charles Louisiana 70601. Phone (337) 436-7800. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. The Jambalaya News cannot be held responsible for the return of un-solicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations, even if they are sent to us accompanied by a self-addressed envelope. The views expressed do not necessarily refl ect those of the publisher.Copyright 2014 The Jambalaya News all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited.

COVER STORY24 WCCH Women’s Center

REGULARS6 We Are SWLA!8 The Dang Yankee8 Adoption Corner9 Tips from Tip10 Huntin’ Tales12 Soul Matters13 A Ruff Life15 Stir Dat Pot

FEATURES5 Federal Permit Needed for Golden Eagle

28 Step Right Up! Circus Exhibit

SENIOR HEALTH17 Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: The Silent Killer

19 Small Changes Can Lower Stroke Risk

20 Pharmacists Protect Patients’ Best Interests

23 Dental Implants: What Your Smile Could be Missing

THE SPICE OF SWLA30 Event Guide33 Hashtag Dat34 Family Fun Night at the Movies35 Acting Up!36 Nightlife Guide38 Daiquiri Delights43 Justin Morris’s Lake Charles44 Bookworm Sez...45 Funbolaya 46 Society Spice

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On cover: West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital’s Maternity Ward

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January 29, 20154 Vol. 6 • No. 21

We all have our memories of the decades that we’ve lived through. We remember the clothes we wore, the music we listened to, our favorite perfume and TV shows and restaurants, and even our favorite foods back then. When we get together with family and old friends, we invari-ably reminisce. And it’s at these times that we realize how much we’ve forgotten. Oh, all the memories are there, buried somewhere deep in our subconscious. But there they remain, completely stuck, until a comment brings them to the surface, or an old photo jogs the memory. And if there’s nothing or no one to pry those memories loose, they remain hidden.

I’ve always thought I had a pretty good memory. But Facebook has proven me wrong.

Th ere are all kinds of groups you can join on Facebook for whatever interests you. I joined one for Retro Ads, and as the ads and photos are posted, oft en several an hour, I am suddenly seeing long-forgotten products

that I used regularly decades earlier—and never thought about again.

Take Crazy Foam, for exam-ple. Apparently, it’s actually still around, but that’s news to me. It was a big deal for us kids in the 60s. It was basically an aerosol can of soap, and its slogan was

“Th e Toy Th at Cleans.” Th e tops of the cans came in various shapes: a duck, a dog, Fred Flintstone, etc. You could squirt it all over the tub and tiles and no harm done, and when you were through making a mess, it got you clean. I even remember the smell. It made bath time fun. Th at may have even been another one of their slogans.

Ands speaking of baths, there was the scented pow-der bath mitt. Aft er I saw it on Facebook, I remember

getting one for Christmas one year and loving it. It was deco-rated with fl owers and the fra-grance was heavenly. We had one of those magnifi cent old claw-footed tubs that puts today’s tubs to shame. Once fi lled, the water stayed hot for hours, if that’s how

long you wanted to stay in and didn’t mind getting wrinkled like a prune. I have to say that it was probably one of the best things about living on Barnes Ave. Of course back then, I wanted every-thing modern and despised that old tub because it was, well, old. I didn’t appreciate it until it was gone. But just imagine soaking in that wonderful tub, up to your chin in bubbles, patting yourself all over with this lovely fragrant mitt aft er your bath and getting into a warm nightgown and going off to bed. A wonderful memory that has eluded me until now.

Does anyone remember Fizz-ies? Th ey were fruit-fl avored tablets that you could drop into a glass of water for a refreshing drink. I remember Tang, which I thought was so cool because the astronauts brought it to the moon, and that’s how it was promoted back then, but I forgot all about Fizzies, which I now remember I enjoyed. Apparently they didn’t last too long; they contained cyclamates, an older version of aspartame that report-edly caused cancer in lab rats, so it was promptly discontinued. But like everything, it’s been brought back in a newer, improved (which means it doesn’t taste as good)

version available on the Internet. Th ere are plenty of things

that I do remember vividly: St. Joseph’s Aspirin for Children; Jiff y Pop Popcorn, which you prepared over the stove; Chock’s Vita-mins (actually tasted like chalk); Smith Brothers Cherry-Flavored Cough Drops (let’s face it, candy); Play-Dough (my favorite color was blue and I loved the smell); Trimline telephones, sticky Ah-So Sauce that my mother would use to make Chinese Spare Ribs; Bri-oschi, a lemon-fl avored, eff erves-cent antacid that we would put on our tongues because it tickled. All this and more created a backdrop to our existence as we went about the business of living.

And this makes me wonder what other things I’ve forgot-ten through the years, and why certain things are remembered and others are not. Who knows? It’s all a mystery, and life is for learning.

A Note From Lauren

Lauren Abate de Albuquerque

Memories Nudged

January 29, 2015 5Vol. 6 • No. 21

By Lauren Abate de AlbuquerqueIn January 2011, a golden eagle was

found injured north of Baton Rouge. Loui-siana Wildlife and Fisheries (WLF) brought him to the LSU School of Veterinary Medi-cine, where surgery was performed on his fractured leg.

That June, LSU called WLF to release him, believing he was well enough to return to the wild. He was taken to Rockefeller Refuge, but unfortunately, it was discovered that he could not fly.

At this point, Suzy Heck was called in.Heck runs Heckhaven Wildlife Reha-

bilitation Center in south Lake Charles. Its mission is to release wild-born creatures that have found themselves in the hands of man back into their natural environment.

“He came to me with a wing injury,” she says. “I thought he had a fractured elbow, but when it was x-rayed, it showed a heavy calcium deposit in his right elbow joint.”

The big bird has been with Heck ever since. Named “Calcasieu,” which means “Screaming Eagle,” he is called “Sieu-Sieu” for short.

“I spent six months doing physical ther-apy with him,” she continues. “We got the calcium down, but he still can’t fly above about six feet, and he’ll come down after 15-20 feet. And he can’t maneuver in flight due to a feather deformity on the dorsal right wing (over his elbow joint area) which hasn’t been corrected after several molts.” In addition, the eagle still has seven pins in his leg. Therefore, Sieu-Sieu has been deemed non-releasable.

With the growing human population and the push for a better, cleaner energy environment, more and more land is being taken from the natural eagle territory, caus-ing a greater intervention between man and wildlife.

“This intervention is causing an increas-ing number of injured eagles being sent to rehabilitators,” Heck explains. “After rehab, many of these eagles are able to be released and returned to the wild. But the ones with injuries (wing, eye, leg, etc.) while not life-threatening, are deemed non-releasable, and they are being euthanized because most of the now-acceptable eagle holding facili-ties are full and are not accepting any more eagles. And, many of these facilities have

the eagles only for display, or for feather collecting, and do not use the eagles for the purpose of education.”

Heckhaven is a registered Louisiana and federal 501(c)3 corporation. It carries both state and federal permits for rehab and edu-cation with hawks and owls, but the eagle permit is a separate, more involved permit.

“The federally permitted rehabili-tation centers have years of experience and knowledge in the handling and care of eagles,” Heck says. “The centers do education programs, which bring the non-releasable raptors to the attention of the general public.”

The euthanizing of perfectly healthy non-releasable eagles, when they can be used for education, goes against everything a wildlife rehabilitator stands for, and Heck is understandably upset.

In March of 2012, she filed an application for an Education Possession Permit with the federal permit office in Atlanta that handles our region’s bird permits. She heard nothing from them until January 2014, and the news wasn’t good.

According to regulations, “Only zoo-logical parks, scientific societies and museums that are open to the general public and are either established, main-tained, and operated as a governmental service or are privately endowed and organized but not operated for profit are eligible for an Eagle Exhibition Permit 50CFR10.12and50CFR22.21...”

“As I am none of the above, Resee Col-lins, the federal permit handler for this region in Atlanta, stated that if I could get one of the above to put the permit in their name, but with my name and address indicating where the eagle will stay, there would be no problem,” Heck explains. She

says that an association with Heckhaven, or herself personally, would require absolutely no responsibility to the associated organi-zation, monetarily, or otherwise. “All care, enclosures, insurance, permit fees, etc., are already covered by Heckhaven and will

remain that way.”Heck has spoken

to many of these enti-ties already. “McNeese State University, LSU, the Louisiana zoos, etc., are all sympathetic, but none want any more involvement with the government than they already have. Ft. Polk was very interested as the golden eagle (known as the Warrior Eagle) is the ‘unofficial’ mascot of the military, but Sieu-Sieu has been pushed to the back now because of the re-emerging of the talk of cuts to many of the military bases. And, many of the politicians are just getting over the elections.”

In the years they have been together, Heck and

Sieu have bonded completely. “I have glove-trained him and Sieu enjoys the attention and is gentle,” Heck says. “He would make a wonderful ambassador for Heckhaven, and a great educational addition that everyone visiting would remember their whole lives. But, until we get the federal permit, we can-not use our golden eagle in our educational programs.”

Federal Wildlife and Fisheries is discuss-ing allowing an individual to have an Eagle Education Permit, but it is still just in the talking stage. But Heck remains optimistic.

“The future of the wildlife, and our planet earth, rests in the hands of those we educate today.”

Heckhaven Wildlife Rehabilitation Cent-er is a 501(c) non-profit, non-government funded, totally self-supported agency, rely-ing on public donations and out-of-pocket contributions. For more information, go to heckhaven.com.

Heckhaven Wildlife Rehabilitation CenterFederal Permit Needed for Golden Eagle

January 29, 20156 Vol. 6 • No. 21

Family & Youth Announces 2015 Board Offi cersFamily & Youth Counseling Agency, Inc. is proud to announce

the 2015 officers of the board of directors. Ann Barilleaux, Center-Point Energy, will serve as chair of the Family & Youth board. Mark Hanudel, R&H Refractory Services, will serve as vice-chair; Randy Davis, Lake Charles Toyota, will serve as secretary; Donald Brinkman, Port of Lake Charles, will serve as treasurer; and Buddy Hamic, Calcasieu Parish Sheriff ’s Office, is Immediate Past Chair.

McDonald’s and Tyson Foods Donate to Abraham’s Tent

McDonald’s and Tyson Foods, Inc. partnered recently to donate 960 cases of chicken to Abraham’s Tent in Lake Charles. The food bank serves more than 250 meals daily in Southwest Louisiana. It provides food for emergencies through the United

Way, clothing and basic medical services including blood pressure checks and physician visits.

New Executive Director of Autism Services of SWLA

Toby Osburn has been appointed execu-tive director of Autism Services of Southwest Louisiana and DirectCare Inc. effective Janu-ary 12. From 2004 to 2011, he was dean of stu-dent services at McNeese State University and most recently served as associate vice president for university services. A graduate of Abilene Christian University, Osburn has a master’s degree in counseling and a doctoral degree in higher education, both from the University of North Texas. He serves as co-chair of the board

of trustees of Lake Area Medical Center and is a volunteer with the Calcasieu Medical Reserve Corps.

Calcasieu Community Clinic Board Elects New Offi cers

Calcasieu Community Clinic of Lake Charles has elected new board members for 2015: Josh Darby, president; George Cestia, VP, Dr. John Stubblefield, secretary and Karen Drewett, treasurer.

Genesis Riding Center of WCCH Receives Donation from Krewe de Karoline

Krewe de Karoline recently held their Seventh Annual Benefit Poker Run for the Genesis Therapeutic Riding Center of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. Thanks to the support of the com-munity, the event, which consisted of a poker run, chili cook-off, silent auction, and live auction, raised $7,000 for the center. Since 2008, Krewe de Karoline has raised $63,000 for the Genesis Thera-peutic Riding Center and has been honored for its fundraising efforts by the Association of Fundraising Professionals. For more information on the services of the center, call (337) 625-3972.

Imperial Calcasieu Museum Announces Sasol Grant for Mossville History ProjectThe Imperial Calcasieu Museum, in partnership with the Louisi-ana State University/T. Harry Williams Center for Oral History and local writer/journalist Bill Shearman, was awarded a grant from Sasol of more than $275,000, to capture, record, preserve and

(L to R) Blake Roberts, Tyson Foods; Pearl Cole, Abraham’s Tent; Gena Johnson, Tyson Foods;

and Doug Gehrig, McDonald’s of SWLA.

Toby Osburn

President Josh Darby presents outgoing President, Robby Guillory with a service award along with Kayla Rigney, Executive Director

of the Calcasieu Community Clinic.

Margaret Hoffpauir, president of Krewe de Caroline, along with several members of the organization, present the donation to Carmen Steward, equestrian tech for Genesis.

January 29, 2015 7Vol. 6 • No. 21

make available the written and oral history of the people and community of Mossville. Complete written and oral histories, copies of family photo-graphs, aerial photographs, video and photographs of standing structures and artifacts will be collected and made available for public viewing. The project is expected to be completed and made available to the public by the fall of 2015.

CITGO Employees Donate to United Way SWLACITGO Lake Charles Refinery employees recently gave more than $620,000 to United Way SWLA. The funds were raised by employees

during the 2014 CITGO United Way, “See the Need and Take the Lead” campaign. CITGO Employees are generous contributors to United Way every year and CITGO continues to be the largest benefactor of the organization, contributing more than $12.7 million since 1975.

(L to R): Marvin Lubin and Karla Edwards, Rain CII. Standing: LC Mayor Randy Roach

and Nicholas Fountaine, Rain CII.

New Restaurant Concept at L’AubergeL’Auberge Casino Resort held a ribbon cutting recently to for-

mally unveil a new restaurant concept, Favorites Southern Kitch-en. The casually elegant bistro is open daily for breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night, and patio dining is available. For more infor-mation and menus, visit www.llakecharles.com/amenities/dinin.

Phillips 66 Donates to McNeesePhillips 66 has donated $25,000 to the McNeese State Univer-

sity College of Engineering through the McNeese Foundation.

LC Recreation and Parks Dept. Receives Grant

The City of Lake Charles Recrea-tion and Parks Department recently received a grant for $3,500 through a partnership between the National Recreation and Park Association and Rain CII Carbon LLC. The funding provided for a community project, which included new benches and receptacles at Lock Park.

Phillips 66 representatives Laurie Hatton, Lake Charles refinery; Jennifer Campbell, senior adviser for engineering recruiting; Thad Satterfield, director of university relations; Dr. Nikos Kiritsis, college dean, and McNeese President Philip C. Williams. McNeese Photo

January 29, 20158 Vol. 6 • No. 21

Th e thing that amazes me about today’s society is how we don’t think twice about paying for things that used to be free. Take water, for instance. If you walked into a store during the 1960’s and paid two dollars for a bottle of water, everyone would think you had the sense of a Milk Dud.

Th e same is true with televi-sion. It used to be that everyone got his or her programming for free over an antenna. You can still do that, in fact. Sure, you wouldn’t get as many channels as you do with a pay subscription. Instead of over 200 channels with nothing worth watching, you may get only fi ve. But you save a lot of money, enough perhaps to buy a round of water for everyone in the stands at your next high school basketball game.

Even at that, you’d probably still have money left over sub-scribe to a service such as Netfl ix or Amazon Prime that streams Video on Demand. Th e beauty of these services is that they al-low you to watch what you want

whenever you want. I made the switch myself a few months back.

My old pay TV provider keeps calling to try to get me to come back. Ironically, they usually call when I’m watching something on Netfl ix.

“You’ve called at a bad time,” I’d say. “I’m in the middle of watching Break-ing Bad.

“Th at’s fi ne, sir. We’ll try back in an hour.”

“You’d bet-ter make it next Th ursday,” I reply. “I’ve still got 39 more epi-sodes.”

Th is illustrates one of the risks involved with Video on Demand. With VOD, our society has found a brand new obsession (as if we really need one) called ‘binge watch-ing.” Folks will get so wrapped up in a TV series that they will watch every season, from the fi rst episode to the last, without getting up off the sofa even to eat or take a shower. In fact, many

water districts have reported a sharp drop in usage since the advent of Video on Demand for this very reason. It’s either that or people are showering with bottled water. I wouldn’t be surprised.

Th ere’s another risk that comes with Video on Demand—

one that I have faced person-ally and that I completely didn’t foresee. Because all of the program-ming is off ered for streaming only aft er it has run on the network chan-

nels, there’s a distinct likelihood that someone you know has already seen it before you and will give away all of the juicy plot points before you get the chance to watch it for yourself.

Recently, I was part of a con-versation where the topic was television. By the time it was over, I’d been robbed of every surprise twist in Walking Dead,

Th e Wire, Game of Th rones, and the devil knows what else. Th is was despite my best eff orts to steer the conversation towards Th e Beverly Hillbillies, which is perhaps the only series that I’ve yet seen in its entirely.

I have a solution to this problem, and that would be for producers to institute a secret handshake that would be re-vealed during the series fi nale. If you start talking to someone and he doesn’t know the secret handshake, then you’d know that any discussion involving that particular series would be strictly taboo.

Such issues aside, I’m totally sold on streaming video. I’m thinking of off ering my services as a spokesperson. I’ve even got a line:

“I’m Binge Watching ‘Dang Yankee’, and I have Video on Demand.” Eat your heart out, Rob Lowe.

Mike McHugh is a syndicated columnist from Lake Charles. You can follow him on his blog at thedangyankee.com or on Twitter @dang_yankee.

Bingeing Bad

Cooper is a male Chihuahua mix and weighs less than 10 pounds. He is a beautiful boy with the markings of a red heeler. He has nothing but love in his eyes and heart to give to his new adopter. We believe that Cooper is around two years old. He was rescued from a kill shelter just in the nick of time. Cooper is crate-trained and working on house training. He is great with both

dogs and cats. If you have room in your heart and your home for this sweet boy, then please call or email: (337)478-7294, lapaw@bellsouth.net. A vet check and home visit are required. Hurry, Cooper is waiting!

January 29, 2015 9Vol. 6 • No. 21

The Price of OilGas prices have fallen

dramatically, with oil prices declining from over the $100 per barrel range down to well under $50. This will have both beneficial and detrimental effects on our lives. Filling the car’s gas tank is costing less than it has in many years; we never dreamed that gasoline would be under $2 per gallon ever again. It will eventually return to $4 and more in the future; my crystal ball is in the shop so I can’t tell you when, but it will.

Unfortunately, there is a downside to lower oil prices. Southwest Louisiana is oil-infused in its essence. It does not take a genius to realize that higher oil prices mean a lot more of those higher pay-ing jobs for us and for our neighbors. The industrial ex-pansion forecast for our area is fueled (pardon the pun) by our oil processing industrial base. Lower oil prices could have long-term detrimental effects on us if they last for too long.

Jobs, jobs, jobs are at risk, as well as the production profits to companies, stock-holders and retirees depend-ent on oil revenue. Those banking on alternative en-ergy sources to replace fossil fuels will also be hindered as lower petroleum product prices will put the brakes on the non-competitive priced alternatives. Supply and

demand have and will rule the market.

Crawfish Time!Of interest to crawfish lovers will be the ef-

fect that lower fuel prices have on the

price of these tasty little critters. It has been the

mantra of the crawfish produc-

ers and thereby, the sellers that the cost of fuel has caused the un-believably high prices of crawfish that we

have had to endure the last few years. Unfortunately, businesses are loath to reduce the price of a product once they have achieved higher pricing. They always want to establish the higher price as the baseline for the future.

This year, the industry can-not blame the high price on fuel; that’s not going to fly. Note that some of the boilers have started with very high prices for the early part of the season, where they are nor-mally much pricier for sure. It will be interesting to watch how competition will work as fast as the price of fuel has fallen. Remember, we did not expect to see gasoline under $3 ever again. It would be wonderful to eat boiled crawfish under $3 a pound once more.

Taxes. Checkpoints. Again.

As you should expect, just about every government en-tity from the federal level on down is moaning and groan-ing for additional revenue measures. Prepare yourself for the onslaught: sales tax and fee increases, and hidden and unhidden taxes are aiming at your pocketbook. No agency ever seems to want to reduce their size and numbers; on the contrary, they want to grow themselves to bloat their worth. We will hear heartrending ac-counts of how this and how that are the most necessary needs that could have ever existed. We

are told that employees’ salaries are not being competitive, that their costs are rising (like yours never do) and therefore, there’s a need for deeper penetration into your wallet.

Thankfully, we can vote against those that require voter approval. Some have been lev-ied by legislative action, such as the 20 percent salary increase for state police funded by tick-ets issued to those of us that don’t carry proper automobile insurance. The city of Jennings has recently announced that they will increase the ticketing of Interstate travelers to bolster their coffers (they lamented the ticket count has fallen to ap-proximately 500 a month from 1,000. I’m sure they wouldn’t call that a quota--NOT).

I would be remiss if I failed to mention the double time pay these off-duty officers receive for this work; it doesn’t make me wonder why profit patrol-ling is preferred to “Protecting and Serving.” Even worse, they have announced that if you challenge the ticket in court and lose (heh, heh, heh), the fine will double and go on your record. Nothing like a little coercion to make you go along with the program.

The roadblock checkpoints that routinely examine your seatbelts, insurance, inspec-tion sticker, license and breath are intrusions that also com-pensate the officers at higher pay rates. I would think that violent crimes would deserve more of the focus, but I’m just a taxpayer. You know the routine. If they can call some-

thing for “Public Safety,” they most certainly will, valid or not. The pursuit of the illusive greenback continues.

Supermarket RoundupMardi Gras parties, balls

and the accompanying mer-riment leads to the demand for adult beverages. We have checked on some of these items before Thanksgiving and will check on them in the future. Here are some prices of popular brands many of us will serve to our friends this season. The prices were ob-tained on Tuesday, January 20 and reflect posted prices where the products were placed for sale. Stores were: Albertsons-Country Club Road, Market Basket-Nelson Road, Kroger-McNeese Street and Walmart-Nelson Road.

Korbel Champagne, Brut. 750 ml bottle: Albertsons $14.99, Market Basket $13.89, Kroger $14.19, Walmart $10.97. Crown Royal Blended Cana-dian Whisky, 750 ml bottle: Albertsons $24.99, Market Basket $26.50, Kroger $27.99, Walmart $26.11. E&J Brandy, VS, 750 ml bot-tle: Albertsons $9.99, Market Basket $9.69, Kroger $9.49, Walmart $9.97. Budweiser, 12-pack, 12-ounce bottles: Albertsons $11.99, Market Basket $13.89, Kroger $14.19, Walmart $10.97.

January 29, 201510 Vol. 6 • No. 21

Hiding behind an oak tree is not the deer-hunting norm. Neither is in front of it. “Up in” is the usual route. Yet, I took the hides less traveled by, in front and behind an oak tree. It is the stuff of legend. My jour-ney from trophy buck doofus to self-proclaimed Hawkeye has become Bolan Hall Plantation and South Carolina folklore. This is the tale now known throughout the Palmetto State as “Roger’s Trees.”

Having made several an-

nual trips to visit and hunt with Bob Phipps and his wife Lee, I observed two things of great importance to my now fabled Cajun expertise. Deer, when flushed from the fields at Bolan Hall, usually fled left to the peninsula that extended out into the Broad River, or bolted straight across the open ground toward the levee.

Having spent a year await-ing and planning my next deer hunt astride a horse, I now had the chance to put my cunning

to the test. This time, when the deer flushed and fled, I astutely rode to the right of the penin-sula. The other hunters rode in chase, just as I had envisioned it. In pursuit, they drove the game up the point. The deer’s flashing white tail was easily spotted from atop my mount beneath the limbs of a massive oak. Our leaping quarry fol-lowed the land’s neck and be-came visible above the palmet-tos and scrub brush with every white flagged bound. Then he

ran down the abutment and fled directly toward me. Continuing that course would necessitate running smack dab into me un-der the tree. To flee right would be into a marshy bog. A left would follow the riverbank and up onto the open. That deer and every deer after him slowed almost to a halt to decide.

Sitting astride my mount like a Frederick Remington Cowboy, Model 97 Winchester 12 gauge shotgun shouldered and cocked, I didn’t let that first one pass. The shot at that range literally knocked him. I dismounted, pommeled rope in hand, tied his feet, and began the haul back to the barn with visions of deer sausage and roasts two-stepping merrily in my head. The rest of the hunt-ing cavalry trailed behind me, most assuredly singing my praises.

That‘s the Tale and I’m stick-ing to it.

However, the title of this tale is “Roger’s Trees,” so here’s the second tree. I had noted the other deer flight path was across the open fields to an expansive oak along the riv-erbank. There they fled right or left along the levee. I set up there sans horse, Model 97 shotgun in hand. The mounted hunters were tiny black shapes in the distance, spread out in a line four horses abreast. The riders began their hunt in

Roger’s Trees

January 29, 2015 11Vol. 6 • No. 21

hopes of flushing a deer close enough to shoot. Luck was with them and I heard the shotgun’s booms.

Edging my head around the oak, I could see the deer fleeing ahead of them. Behind him was some damn fool riding wide open in full chase. On they came, deer and rider dodging downed trees, leaping gul-lies, and swerving or crashing through brush. Crazier yet, the horseman was gaining on the wounded deer. When they got within fifty yards of me, the rider spurred his horse, swung abreast of the deer and pulled off a one handed shot that crashed the deer down within ten feet of me.

That’s the Tale and I’m stick-ing to it.

Sorta. In the first tree tale, I did purposely ride to the oak back off the peninsula in hopes of getting a shot. I was astride no horse; he was tied to the brush behind the tree. Yet, I did see all as I described it. Yours truly was as surprised as the

fleeing deer when he almost halted to turn left or right. With my shotgun resting on a scrub tree limb, even I couldn’t miss a stunned stupid stopped deer.

I was to take three more deer there over the years with the same trick; thus, Roger’s Tree I. As for Bob Phipps’s Comanche ride, that’s a fact Jack. He’d nev-er tell you, way too much like bragging for Bobby, but in his youth, he was New York State’s Champion Equestrian. And as for Roger’s Tree II, I bagged two deer from behind it but without Bob’s accompanying horseman-ship display.

Make note also that this time, the deer were actually running when I stepped from behind the tree and shot them from about ten yards away. As Bobby would say with his English boarding school accent, “I say Roger, it is much more sporting to shoot them running, one can‘t get them all to stand still.”

So there you have it. Two trees. Six deer. It’s the thing of Legend.

January 29, 201512 Vol. 6 • No. 21

began to happen. Stay in faith no matter

what. Ask to be shown love and truth about what you are feeling. Be still and listen to your heart as it reveals the truth. When we begin to give the most valuable gift we can, we grow and heal. That gift is giving ourselves to others. Just remember to continue opening the door of your heart as fully as you can. Be at peace. Ask to be shown the way you should approach others when love steps for-ward in your life.

It will be step-by-step process. Most of us hide the pain behind laughter, by keeping busy, and by simply ignoring it and pushing it back down. You might have even begun to start wearing it very well. It’s time to remove it and face the mirror that has been waiting for your reflec-tion. The feelings that rise up to the surface may be painful.

Know that this is all part of your spiritual journey. The journey to become the person you have always been des-tined to be. There is so much more for you. It’s time to move, even though you might not like to be led. You must forgive and love yourself back to wholeness.

Choose to be honest and real with yourself. Move forward and face fears. Most important is to live the life that God intended for you. Don’t waste another minute, hour, day, week, month or year in a place that is sad and unhappy. Unlock the in-ner door to your heart, even though it may be double-bolted, chained, padlocked and nailed shut. There are many things knowingly and unknowingly that have caused this door to be firmly secured.

In the gospel of Luke, Zechariah closed the door

As one door is closed in your life

a new one opens before you.Pause briefly at this

threshold and know that what you are leaving behind is for the best...

-M.E. MiroHave you ever

experienced leav-ing behind a part of your past and embracing the person you hope to become? What do you wish to tear up...to give away...to burn...to remove? Do you want to give away whatever keeps you from be-ing your true self, from living freely and simply? To burn old memories and experi-ences that wounded you? To remove obstacles that keep you from being a loving per-son again?

I personally can relate to all that I have described. I long to plant seeds of kind-ness, to be healthy spiritually and to plant those seeds in myself and others I meet. I want to sing the song of my soul, to create the book wait-ing in my heart. To be and feel freedom and love.

All of those things are gradually happening in my life, but only because

I am leaving some things behind. You have to delib-erately choose to not carry old wounds and unloving patterns across that door. I have opened the door to other encounters. Part of us

wants to grow and the other part resists and wants to remain planted firmly right where we are.

I no longer welcome suffering when it knocks on my door. Instead, I hang the “Do Not Disturb” sign on it. It has not been an easy journey

to leave behind what I know and who I once was. My heart was hidden away and pro-tected. Then, on July 4, 2011 my sleeping heart was awak-ened to life by a tremendous blow to my head. This impact that awakened my heart was like a death...I feel as though I lost several pieces of me. You can look at it as a seed that God planted within me that day when he picked me back up off of that marble floor. I guess I had to “fall to the ground and die” so that I could become the woman I am now. I had to learn to close the doors before an-other opened. I breathed in a gust of grace and growth

Closed Doors

January 29, 2015 13Vol. 6 • No. 21

Many of us have been around dogs all of our lives. So, many of us believe we know dogs pretty well. However, there are still some com-mon mistakes that a lot of us make due to old myths that are still widely believed. The most common myth that I hear and read about most often is that dogs will attack when unprovoked, especially certain breeds of dogs that are often considered “dangerous.”

UNLESS the aggression is caused by medical (thyroid problems, tumors, etc.) or neurologi-cal issues, aggression is a learned behavior that is usually caused by one or a mixture of the following: no socialization (or late socializa-tion), using physical force and/or punishment as discipline, being tethered for long durations of time, and/or lack of proper management. Aggression is not breed-exclusive. Any breed can become aggressive or show aggressive tendencies. So, that debunks certain breeds being “aggressive breeds.” Some dogs can do more damage than others, so this is one of the reasons why some breeds have that reputation. Obviously a Rottweiler will do more damage than a Chihuahua.

Dogs never attack unless they are provoked. We see photos on social media all the time of a dog lying down with a baby or small child crawling on top of the dog, or even attempting to ride the dog like a horse. These photos ter-rify me because 75 percent of the time, the dog is giving clear signals that he is stressed.

We’ve all been told that a dog wagging his tail is a happy dog, and that when a dog’s hair stands up he is scared or ready to attack. Well, that’s not always true. Dogs do wag their tails when they are happy, yet they also wag when they may be nervous, on alert, or feel threat-ened. Their hair may stand up when they are scared or ready to attack, but sometimes it is because they are super excited and a bit over-stimulated. This can lead to “redirected energy” or “redirected aggression,” so this is still some-thing you need to be aware of.

Zoologist and animal behaviorist Dr. Muriel Brasseur states in an online magazine, Mirror, “The tail is an essential part of the dog’s com-

munication system, and the height, motions, speed, and whether tense or relaxed are all im-portant factors… For example, a low to mid-tail wagging slowly could signify a relaxed dog or a worried dog, while a tail held up higher, and wagging faster could mean a dog is happy and excited, OR on the alert.

“Th e direction of movement also appears to be signifi cant. A 2007 study led by scientists at the University of Trento, in Italy, revealed that dogs wag their tails to the right when looking at some-thing they want to approach, such as their owner. However, they wag their tails to the left when faced with something they want to back away from, such as an unfriendly or aggressive dog.”

Something as simple as a dog yawning can sometimes mean a dog is stressed out. Most people would not think twice about a dog yawning when a baby is climbing on him…until…SNAP! Then, the dog is blamed, rather than the guardians for not listening to what the dog was trying to say and/or managing the situ-ation properly.

The most common stress signals are: yawn-ing, nose licking, shaking the head or body, side glances, stiff body, grooming, wide eyes and scratching. However, you cannot just look at one part of the body to determine what your dog is trying to tell you. You must look at the body as a whole, as previously quoted by Dr. Brasseur. I always encourage my clients to search the Internet for documentation and videos of dog body language and stress signals so that they can have a better understanding of communicating properly with their dogs. I en-courage you to do the same. It is so important to have clear and effective communication with both our own and others’ dogs…not only for our dogs’ overall happiness, but for everyone’s safety, as well.

That’s all for now! Until next time, Happy Training!Britney (Blanchette) Pitre, CPDT-KABons Chiens Dog Training, LLC.(337) 422-4703Facebook.com/BonsChiensDogTrainingwww.bonschiens.com

Busting Dog Myths: Part One

to his heart by refusing to believe his prayers have been answered. The angel tells Zechariah his aging wife will bear a son, but he rejects the amazing news. Zechariah then becomes mute until the birth of his son, John the Baptist, at which time his “mouth is opened.” This story symbolizes how the inner door locks when we close the mind or heart to mystery (Lk 1:5021,57-80)

Question:Have I locked a door that

keeps me from expanding my relationship with God, my-self, or others?

(Heart Sharing)Sit quietly. Enter into still-

ness. Place your hand over your heart. Now, focus on a part of yourself that has a locked door or is resist-ant to growth. Imagine these words being whispered to you: “Peace, peace to your heart.” Allow the words to be repeated until peace flows and settles within you. The message should begin to root inside of your heart. Allow the locked door to gradually open. Ask God to give you the strength to do what you feel is right. Just say what’s on your mind and speak to God from your heart. Trust that God is present in your prayer.

PrayerChrist,Come through the locked

doorsof my inner dwelling place.Bring your comforting peace to where I am most in need

of it.I open the door of my

heart to you.Do not let your hearts be

troubled. (Jn 14:1)To book a Soul Matters

Session with Nicole Shuff Arabie, call (337) 540-6573. You can also go to her Face-book page at www.facebook.com/DeclutteringYourSoul

January 29, 201514 Vol. 6 • No. 21

January 29, 2015 15Vol. 6 • No. 21

Hello, everybody!Today we’re going to visit one of my favorite dishes, “Chicken

Bonne Femme.” This dish has its roots in France but is a true Creole Classic. Bonne femme means “good wife” or “good woman.” This dish is prepared in the a la menagere manner. It’s a rustic and simple way to prepare a dish, since you will serve in the same container in which it is cooked.

What You’ll NeedAbout 3 pounds of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighsSalt and pepper8 – 12 slices of thick bacon (if you know me, you know I’m using 12)2 pounds of small red potatoes, washed and halved1 large onion chopped fine4 – 6 cloves of garlic, minced2 teaspoons of fresh thyme, minced2 cups of good white wine (separated into 1 cup portions)½ cup chicken broth1 teaspoon of “Louisiana” brand hot sauce4 green onions sliced thin from end to end2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

What You’ll DoCook the bacon over medium heat until somewhat crisp in a Dutch oven. When done (should take 7 -8 minutes), use a slotted spoon and

transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and brown all over. Th is should take about 10 minutes. Transfer to a plate to rest.

Arrange the potatoes cut side down and brown over medium heat. Once browned, stir in the onion, cook a few minutes and then add the garlic and thyme and cook for about 30 seconds. It will smell fantastic. Stir in half of the wine (one cup), the chicken broth, hot sauce and half of the bacon. Bring to a boil.

Return the chicken and any juices that may be in the plate to the pot. Cook over medium-low heat covered, until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is at 175 degrees. Th is should take about 20-25 minutes. So, while that’s happening enjoy the other cup of white wine. When done, sprinkle with the green onion, parsley and the rest of the bacon. Season with salt and pepper and enjoy.

Th is is a great dish to pre-pare on a lazy day with friends and family. Th ere are several variations of this dish and some friends I have shared it with have added ingredients to their liking and made it their own. Feel free to do this but keep the basic recipe the same, please.

Until next time, don’t forget to…. STIR DAT POT!

Chicken Bonne Femme

January 29, 201516 Vol. 6 • No. 21

January 29, 2015 17Vol. 6 • No. 21

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (or AAA) is caused by a weakening of the aorta due to age, disease or other condi-tions. As the bulge grows, the wall of the aorta becomes weaker. This condition, if left untreated, could cause the aorta to rupture or burst. A rupture of the aorta leads to serious internal bleeding or death.

“An aneurysm can occur in any artery in the body, but it usually occurs in the abdominal aorta, just below the kid-neys,” says Dr. J. King White, a cardiolo-gist at the Heart & Vascular Center, a part of the Memorial Medical Group.

AAAs are known as the silent killer since they tend to grow over time and are usually asymptomatic. The likeli-hood of having an AAA is increased if you have a family history of aneurysms, a history of smoking and/or high blood pressure. AAAs are more commonly found in men over 50 years of age, al-though younger people and women may also have them.

Early detection of AAAs is crucial to prevent rupture and death. AAAs

are usually detected by ultrasound or computerized tomography. They are occasionally found on routine physi-cal examinations by their primary care physician.

If the aneurysm has reached a certain size, the abdominal aneurysm can be treated by either open surgical repair or more commonly by a minimally invasive technique called endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR).

Open surgical repair involves making an abdominal incision from below the breastbone to the top of the pubic bone, and then sewing a graft into the artery

above and below the aneurysm. EVAR is non-surgical, can be done

under local anesthesia and usually requires only an overnight stay in the hospital.

“To perform an EVAR, we make two small puncture sites in the groins. We put half of the graft through one side and the other half of the graft through the other side and connect them once they are inside the aneurysm,” Dr. White says. “The blood flow is cut off to the aneurysm and overtime the aneu-rysm will decrease in size.”

There are several stent graphs avail-able, but the Ovation Prime is the least invasive stent graft on the market today. It offers a unique sealing technology that utilizes polymer-filled sealing rings to maximize seal and conformability in both straightforward and challenging anatomies.

“This allows a less invasive procedure and quicker recovery for our patients,” Dr. White says.

You can contact the Heart & Vascular Center by calling (337) 494-3278.

January 29, 201518 Vol. 6 • No. 21

January 29, 2015 19Vol. 6 • No. 21

When it comes to your risk of stroke, small changes can yield big results – results that could lower your risk of stroke, according to a study published in the journal Stroke.

Cardiologist Michael Turner, MD, member of the CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital Regional Heart Center medi-cal staff, explains that stroke is caused by a blocked blood vessel or bleeding in the brain. He says the signs of a stroke include a sudden severe headache, weakness, numbness, vision problems, confusion, trouble walking or talking, dizziness and slurred speech. Accord-ing to the American Stroke Association, stroke is the leading cause of long-term disability and the fourth leading cause of death in the United States.

Dr. Turner says the greatest risk reduction tool for stroke and heart at-tack if you know you are at high risk is medication management with a pre-scription statin, but he adds that life-style factors are something everyone should be aware of.

In the new study, researchers looked at seven factors known to affect stroke risk: cigarette smoking, body mass in-dex, blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, physical activity and diet. They traced over 30 thousand people, all over age 45, for four years to see how much improvement in any of these areas it takes to prevent stroke.

The good news is it doesn’t take much to make a difference. Each risk factor for stroke was scored from 0 to 2, with 0 being crummy, 1 kind of okay, and 2 terrific. Even a one-point improvement in the total score across all seven fac-tors was found to significantly reduced stroke risk. Each improvement of a point on the 14-point scale meant an 8 percent reduction in stroke.

“We all know we need to manage

these known risk factors for heart dis-ease and stroke, but many people feel overwhelmed by the big changes they feel they need to make,” says Dr. Turner. “The big message from this study is that even a small improvement in any one area makes a difference. You Making a small change that will actually lower your risk should feel less daunting than completely changing your lifestyle. Any change is better than non improvement at all, and hopefully, small changes will lead to bigger ones down the road.”

If you are curious about which one of the seven risk factors studied to tackle first, Dr. Turner recommends focusing on blood pressure, because that leads to the greatest risk reduction, which was also confirmed by the study. “For ex-ample, every 20 millimeters of lowered systolic pressure lowers your risk of stroke by 50 percent.”

You can learn more about stroke risk and take an online cardiac risk assess-ment at www.christusstpatrick.org/car-diacrisk.

January 29, 201520 Vol. 6 • No. 21

By Patti Phillips R.Ph.Pharmacists are committed to helping

patients receive their medications as well as have a favorable response to their medi-cation regimen. Pharmacists are known

for being drug therapy ex-perts. What other health-care profession is so accessible to patients and provides a service free of

charge?Pharmacy is an evolving profession

where constant changes in healthcare lead to many new responsibilities for the pharmacy team. In other words, pharma-cists are no longer just dispensing medi-cations. They are dealing with insurance issues, administering vaccines, monitor-ing drug use in an effort to thwart illegal activities, counseling on over-the-counter medication, answering phones, and other multi-tasking activities--all while trying to perform the main task of filling prescrip-tions.

Insurance companies now require more information from the pharmacist and doc-tor to approve processing and payments.

This is called prior authorization and adds additional responsibilities and delays to the processing of the pre-scription.

Pharmacists have also become im-munizers and are now offering flu, shingles and various other vaccina-tions. We need time to screen the

patient, administer the injection

and monitor the patient once the shot is given for possible adverse effects.

One thing that has improved our ability to read the prescription is the processing of e-scripts, or electronic prescriptions sent through the computer. It has not reduced the amount of errors on prescrip-tions; it has simply just made them more legible. The errors require a clarification or correction from the physician’s office, which results in a delay for the patient. Another downfall of e-scripts is that the patient does not receive the paper pre-scription and does not know when the ac-tual prescription arrives at the pharmacy. Many times, the patient arrives before the prescription has been received.

Pharmacists run a monitoring program before filling narcotics or pain medica-tions. This is due to the high rate of abuse of these medications. It helps prevent peo-ple who see multiple doctors and receive multiple prescriptions from acquiring these medications and selling them on the street.

There is yet another level of nonpre-

Protect Patients’ Best InterestsPharmacists

January 29, 2015 21Vol. 6 • No. 21

scription medications referred to as “behind the counter” medications (e.g., pseudoephedrine products) that require the additional step of enter-ing the patient into a database. This ensures the patient is not excessively purchasing the main ingredient needed for methamphetamine laborato-ries.

The addition of drive-through windows to phar-macies was initially a luxury for dropping off and picking up prescriptions. It has become a night-mare for most pharmacists. It has given the public the perception that your prescription order should be filled in the same amount of time that it takes to receive your fast food items. This hinders the pharmacist from being able to gather the proper information from the patient before processing the prescription and the ability to counsel the patient afterwards.

Every time a pharmacist fills a prescription, there are multiple things that must be taken into account: Is it the right drug? The correct dose? The right route? Does it include the correct times to be taken daily? Are there any drug interactions? Is it a therapeutic duplication? Will the patient get the right outcome?

Additionally, there are constant interruptions, such as answering the phone, counseling patients on prescription and over-the-counter medications, enduring harsh attitudes about price increases that are out of our sphere of influence, trouble-shoot-ing insurance problems, and supervising techni-cians and cashiers.

I am a pharmacist, but I am a human being first. I became a pharmacist to help people and I am proud of what I do. Shopping for pharmaceuticals is not like shopping for fast food. Pick a pharma-cist and a pharmacy you trust, and then give them the proper information and the time to fill your prescription. Take an extra minute to allow the pharmacist to counsel you on your medication. The doctor, the pharmacist and the patient are all crucial elements of the healthcare team and must work together for a favorable outcome.

CPSO To Host AARP Smart Driver Safety Program

The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff ’s Office will host an AARP Smart Driver Safety Program Thursday, February 12 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the CPSO John Scott Doyle Building be-hind the Calcasieu Sheriff ’s Prison at 5400 E. Broad Street. Upon completion of the program you will receive a certificate, which may entitle you to discounts on your car insurance for up to three years.

The cost of the class is $15 for AARP members, and $20 for non-members. There is limited seating available. To reserve your seat ,please call (337) 263-4563 or (337) 263-4370. Lunch will be provided at no cost.

January 29, 201522 Vol. 6 • No. 21

West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital to Offer Foot Screenings

West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital will off er complimentary foot screenings on Monday, February 2 from 5-6:30 p.m. in the hospital’s Wound Healing Center.

Foot and ankle specialist Dr. Kalieb Pourciau with Center for Orthopaedics will be conducting the foot screenings, and will provide patients with information on how to prevent, detect, and manage foot complications. A representative from Center for Orthopaedics will also be on hand to assist patients with specialty shoes. Diabetes patients are encouraged to attend.

Appointments for the screenings are limited. To register, or receive additional information, call (337) 528-4708.

January 29, 2015 23Vol. 6 • No. 21

Your mouth is the most critical component of your outward appearance. Transcending all cultures and backgrounds, a smile can denote amusement, relief, gratitude and triumph. It can represent happiness and even pride for its owner.

Unfortunately, smiling doesn’t come easy for everyone. Some are self-conscious about missing or diseased teeth. Many are un-comfortable with the idea of dentures or a bridge or have experienced discomfort due to dentures or a bridge. Dental implants are a great solution for some, helping you regain a strong, healthy bite—oft en in as little as one or two trips to the dentist.

“Dental implants can be a more conven-ient and stable option for tooth replacement,” says Dr. Steven Park, a dentist at Robinson Dental Group in Lake Charles. “Implants are the closest thing to regaining the natural tooth—providing a more natural feel that not only makes a patient feel more physically at ease, but also helps them regain confi dence in their smile.”

A dental implant is an artifi cial root that is inserted into the jaw to replace the tooth, mimicking its original, natural structure. Th e implant consists of three pieces—an anchor-

ing root, an abutment and a crown. Placement of the implant is a three-stage

procedure. Th e fi rst stage involves implanting the anchoring root into the jawbone to serve as a strong and stable base for the crown. Aft er the root is given time to merge with the jawbone, then the second stage focuses on removing a protective cover on the anchor. Th en an abutment goes into the anchor and impressions are made so that a crown can be fabricated. In stage three, the new tooth, which is the crown, is fi tted as the fi nal resto-ration.

Th e dental implant process is a medical advancement in itself, but the precision of the procedure is advanced by the latest 3-D den-tal imaging technology. Th e 3-D digital CT scanner provides highly accurate and detailed three-dimensional views of the anatomy of a patient’s mouth with a high-resolution, real-time scan of bone, teeth, tooth orientation, tooth and nerve relation, airways and sinuses.

“Th e new CT scanner gives us the abil-ity to place an implant with the utmost precision,” says Dr. Park. “Its detailed scans allow us to perform a practice surgery on the computer, enabling us to prepare for any problems and achieve the best possible

results. Besides assisting with the procedure, the scanner also allows our patients to better visualize and better understand the implant process.”

Dr. Park lists the following as benefi ts to dental implants: Implants: •Can replace one or more missing teeth•Can be customized to fi t your personal needs. •Can provide a long-term solution for tooth replacement. •Do not rely on other teeth for support. •Can enhance food choices. •Can improve speech. •Can improve self-esteem.

Dr. Park says, “If you are in good health, have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant—you are probably a good candidate for a dental implant. Your dentist will carefully review your medi-cal history and conduct a thorough dental examination to determine if you are a good candidate.”

For more information on dental im-plants, visit robinsondentalgroup.net or call Robinson Dental Group at (337)474-3636 in Lake Charles or (337) 429-5057 in Moss Bluff.

Dental Implants: What your Smile Could be Missing

January 29, 201524 Vol. 6 • No. 21

The birth of a baby is one of life’s most precious and memorable events. West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital’s (WCCH’s) recent $2 million renovation and expansion, and the sheer number of deliveries that they perform each year – in addition to how long they’ve been doing it – make them a serious contender when deciding where to have your baby. At WCCH, the goal of the physician and nurs-ing staff is to make a mother’s childbirth experience as pleasant and perfect as possible.

“The renovation was necessary due to a growth in pa-tient volume,” said Karen Lambert Clapp, director of mar-keting at WCCH. “We’ve seen a significant increase in the number of deliveries performed at our hospital over the past couple of years. Such an increase made us rethink sev-eral aspects of our facility as our goal was to have a space that complimented that growth.”

Named For a LegendDelivering babies for over 60 years is a big accomplish-

ment for a healthcare facility in this area, and it takes the dedication of a team to make that happen. Years before the

renovation, WCCH’s labor and delivery unit was named af-ter Dr. Sallye Jean Toniette, a well-known and well-respect-ed physician of obstetrics and gynecology and the first female obstetrician in Calcasieu Parish. The official name of the unit is the Sallye Jean Toniette, MD, Women’s Center.

“She started practicing in 1959 and was the cornerstone of labor and delivery in this area for years,” said Clapp.

Toniette retired in 2003, but still plays an active role at WCCH by serving on the WCCH Foundation Board. “We’re proud to house a unit named in the honor of Dr. Toniette,” said Clapp. “It inspires us daily to carry on her dedication and passion for women’s care.”

The TeamThe primary physicians serving

WCCH’s labor and delivery unit are Dr. Ben Darby, a member of the WCCH Medical Staff since 1976, and Dr. Scott Bergstedt, a member of the WCCH Medical Staff since 1995, both of who practice at OBG-1 of WCCH. Their team also includes Certified Nurse Midwife and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Allison Hansen and Marilyn Watson, a women’s health nurse practitioner.

If a newborn is in critical condition and requires care beyond WCCH’s Level II nursery, WCCH collaborates with neonatologists Dr. Juan Bossano and Dr. Chih Hoa Lin and other local facilities to provide the appropriate level of care. The pediatricians at the Pediatric Center

By Angie Kay Dilmore

Nurses’ Station

January 29, 2015 25Vol. 6 • No. 21

of SWLA and the Children’s Clinic all have privileges at WCCH, as well as numerous family physicians in addition to other local physicians.

During a delivery at WCCH, the patient is assisted by a physician and two nurses; one for the mother and one for the baby.

Jessica Buxton, Maternal Child Care Nurse Manager, said that everyone in her department is cross-trained to work in all three areas: labor and delivery, post-partum care, and nursery. According to Buxton, “this is beneficial for our patients and helps the unit run more smoothly. Any nurse can care for any patient, regardless of the situation. All the nurses in the unit know what is going on in all areas of the unit.”

New Look, Improved ServicesWhen planning the renovation and expansion of the

labor and delivery unit, the WCCH marketing department and administration wanted the aesthetics of the facility to match the exceptional care and state of the art technology offered. The unit now has a very modern, contemporary feel. Patient rooms and the new waiting area are family friendly. They incorporated convenience into the plan by allowing patients and family members to get coffee and snacks on their own, which provides a sense of freedom. The space is open and comfortable.

“Our new unit is much more efficient,” said Brenda Quesnel, Vice President of Patient Care and Chief Nurse. “The renovation is aesthetically pleasing and comfortable, but it also provides clinical benefits for the patients, physi-cians, and staff,” she said. Buxton said the new design also allows for better communication between staff members and physicians.

As part of the expan-sion, WCCH added one labor and delivery room, bringing the total to three. They also added an additional post-partum room, an area where new moms can recover after delivery. The nursery and all patient rooms in that area have also been renovated.

Originally, the unit had two separate nurses’ stations divided by a wall. With the renovation, they now have a single nurses’ station with an open floor plan. A new high tech central patient monitoring system allows a physician to access real time progress of their pa-tients via a smartphone. No matter where they are,

doctors can observe vital signs, fetal monitoring strips, and other clinical data.

“It’s like having the patient’s chart in front of them,” said Buxton. “If necessary, a doctor can order a C-section and by the time he gets to the hospital, the patient is on the table ready for surgery.” This technology provides patients with increased safety and a sense of security and peace of mind.

Part of the plan to expand the labor and delivery unit resulted from the foresight of WCCH Administration to ac-commodate the potential increase in Sulphur’s population due to anticipated industrial growth. “We know we’re going to have younger families coming into the area,” said Clapp.

More Than Birthing BabiesA wide range of services is offered at the Women’s Cent-

er at WCCH. In addition to labor and delivery services, they provide routine and high risk pregnancy care, outpa-tient monitoring with a physician order, many educational classes including gestational diabetes education, general gynecological surgeries, and Level II nursery care. A Level II nursery cares for infants born between 32-40 weeks ges-tation that may require help with weight gain, feedings, IV therapy, jaundice treatment, or oxygen therapy.

WCCH has a breastfeeding counselor on staff to help mothers who may be having lactation issues or infants who are struggling with breastfeeding. Quarterly breastfeeding classes are offered. They also have a breast pump rental program, using the most up-to-date Medela hospital-quali-ty pumps and supplies.

Childbirth classes are offered online. Expectant couples meet with the childbirth educator to get materials and review how to access the course. Then they access course

Delivery room

January 29, 201526 Vol. 6 • No. 21

content and watch the educational segments that accom-pany the course at home at their convenience. Online classes offer several benefits. Sometimes it is difficult for couples to attend classes at the same time. Some women may be on bed rest. Online classes allow couples to learn on their own time at their own pace. If an older brother or sister struggles to transition to life with the new baby, sibling classes are also available.

Midwifery ServicesAllison Hansen is a certified nurse midwife and wom-

en’s health nurse practitioner at OBG-1 of WCCH. As a midwife, Hansen assists expectant mothers with alter-native natural labor and delivery techniques, but also attends and delivers mothers who choose epidurals or medication for pain control. According to Buxton, a large number of all vaginal deliveries at WCCH are assisted by Hansen, who is described as active and supportive of her patients and dedicated to her profession. “Allison loves her job, and her patients love her,” added Buxton.

The practice of midwifery has been around for centu-ries, if not since the beginning of humanity. But the com-mon perception of midwifery – the wise elderly woman traveling on horseback to a backwoods cabin in a snow-storm to deliver a baby – is outdated. Modern midwifery has come a long way. For instance, Hansen does not make house calls.

“We have a new opportunity to educate the residents of

Southwest Louisiana about this service and its availability here with this renovation,” said Clapp. “We have dedi-cated resources to ensure this option is available for those who want to take advantage of it. What makes midwifery at WCCH so great is that Allison is fully supported by Dr. Darby and Dr. Bergstedt. When needed, she has the ex-pertise of these doctors, as well as the nurses on the unit, to assist her.”

WCCH planned some of their renovation around the needs of a midwife and her patients. One delivery room has a spacious modern shower with a bench to soothe women in labor. Another room has a special tub for women in early labor. Other equipment, such as birthing bars on the beds and birthing balls (like exercise balls that women can lean, sit, or rock on) assist women in labor. Portable fetal monitors allow the patient freedom to get out of bed and walk around.

Good ReviewsThe Sallye Jean Toniette, MD, Women’s Center at

WCCH is open, ready, and eager to serve patients. “Since we have completed this project, we have received much positive feedback from the community,” said Quesnel. “We are very pleased with the outcome of this renova-tion.”

West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital is located at 701 Cypress Street in Sulphur. For more information or to schedule a tour of the facility, call (337) 527-4361.

Nursery

January 29, 2015 27Vol. 6 • No. 21

Waiting Area

Patient Room

January 29, 201528 Vol. 6 • No. 21

Internationally acclaimed variety entertainer Timothy Noel Tegge will hold a gallery talk at Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center. Th e talk will take place during the opening reception for Step Right Up! Behind the Scenes of the Circus Big Top, 1890-1965 on Jan. 30. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. with a preview of the exhibition in the third fl oor gallery. Th e talk will begin at 6 in the second fl oor gallery, aft er which Tegge will guide the audience through the gallery.

Tegge, a third-generation showman and performer, was born and raised in the circus. He fi rst donned clown makeup at age three, ap-pearing with his father, also a clown at the time, in a parade. Th at was all it took to ignite a lifelong love aff air with the world of sawdust and spangles. By the time he was fi ve years old, Timothy was applying his own makeup and performing in the ring of the family-owned TNT & Royal Olympic Circus.

Now, 50 years later, Tegge can still be seen in the spotlight of some of the nation’s largest circus productions--sometimes as a clown, oft en an illusionist, and more regularly as the ringmaster and perform-ance director--traveling several months every year across the U.S. and Canada.

He founded the Tegge Circus Archives (www.teggecircusarchives.com) in 1985 to help preserve and promote the history and culture of the traditional circus through touring exhibitions, informative lectures, educational workshops, and the media. Th e holdings in his collection date back to the late 1700s, integrating thousands of original posters, advertising materials, photographs; motion picture footage and audio recordings; and hundreds of vintage costumes, artifacts, and specialty items.

Step Right Up: Behind the Scenes of the Circus Big Top, 1890-1965 produced by Exhibits USA and curated by Tegge, is on a national tour of museums through March 2018, and will be on exhibit at Historic City Hall from January 30-March 14, 2014. Th e core exhibit features nearly one hundred individual items, all selected exclusively from Tegge’s massive collection.

Also opening the same evening will be Visible Visions of Southwest Louisiana and Beyond by Timothy Fontenot. Fontenot will host a reception in the fi rst fl oor gallery at 5:30-8 p.m. Everyone is invited to stop in and meet this local fi ne art photographer. Visible Visions will hang through April 11.

Historic City Hall is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are gladly accepted. Charlestown Farmers’ Market is open on Bilbo Street behind the center every Saturday 8 a.m.-noon. For more infor-mation, please call 491-9147 or visit www.cityofl akecharles.com.

Internationally Acclaimed Entertainer and Curator at Historic City Hall for Step Right Up!

Timothy Noel Tegge

From Timothy Fontenot’s Visible Visions exhibit

January 29, 201530 Vol. 6 • No. 21

Robbie Austin: Glimmer Twins Jan. 16-Feb. 27This exhibit will showcase new works by Lake Charles native Robbie Austin.

The opening reception will be held Fri., Jan. 16 from 6-8 p.m. in the Gibson-Barham Gallery of the Imperial Calcasieu Museum and a gallery talk will be given. The exhibit will be on display until February 27. (337) 439-3797.

Step Right Up! Circus Big Top Exhibit Opens Jan. 30In an era spanning the early 20th century, through depression-ridden times

and the Red Scare, the Big Top was a thrilling spectacle that burst into towns along the American road and railways. Explore a history fraught with intrigue and majesty and run away with the circus! Exhibit runs through March 14. 1911 Historic City Hall, 1001 Ryan Street, Lake Charles. (337) 491-9159.

McNeese Baseball/Softball Diamond Dinner Jan. 30The McNeese baseball and softball teams will officially kick off the 2015

season by holding their annual Diamond Dinner on Fri., Jan. 30 at Treasure’s of Marilyn’s located on 3510 5th Avenue in Lake Charles. Social hour from 6-7 p.m., cash bar throughout the evening and dinner at 7, live and silent auctions. Premium table for $300 (seats eight) or individual tickets for $20. For table/tickets call the baseball office at 575-5903 or the softball office at 562-4245.

Beethoven, Buffet & Bubbly Jan. 31Bingo Buffet to benefit the Lake Charles Symphony at the Lake Charles

Country Cub on Jan. 31! Enjoy a glass of champagne punch or sparkling bever-age as you listen to the sounds of the symphony’s string trio along with finger

sandwiches, fettuccine, mini quiches and petit fours. Then, grab your bingo cards! Exciting prizes donated by local businesses will go to the winners of eight bingo games, and door prizes will be given out to many lucky guests. Individual tickets are $50; half tables of four are $200; full table of eight is $400. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. (337) 433-1611.

Fashionably Red SLAC Benefi t Jan. 31Come to the Chateau du Calcasieu on Sat., Jan 31 for a 1950’s-Vintage Style

Benefit sponsored by Lake City Entertainment. Doors open at 6 p.m. There will be food, drinks and live entertainment along with a silent auction and fashion show. Tickets are $20 per person. Portion of proceeds will go towards client services at the Southwest Louisiana AIDS Council. (678) 763-4532

Shrek Jr. The Musical Jan. 31 - Feb. 1The LaGrange Choral and Theater Department are back again with their

production of Shrek Jr. The Musical at LaGrange High School. Come and be transformed into a world of Fairytale Creatures and Smelly Ogres! $5 General Admission Tickets! Sat., Jan, 31 @ 2 & 7 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 1 at 2 p.m. (337) 217-4960.

Picasso at the Lapin Agile Feb. 4-8McNeese State University’s Department of Performing Arts presents Picasso

at the Lapin Agile, which features the characters of Albert Einstein and Pablo Picasso, who meet at a bar called the Lapin Agile (Nimble Rabbit). Both men are on the verge of an amazing idea (Einstein will publish his special theory of

January 29, 2015 31Vol. 6 • No. 21

relativity in 1905 and Picasso will paint Les Demoiselles d’Avignon in 1907) where they have a lengthy debate about the value of genius and talent while interacting with a host of other characters. Performances are Feb. 4-8 at 7:30 p.m. (337) 475-5000.

SW District Livestock Show & Rodeo Feb. 5-7The District Livestock Show & Rodeo returns to the Burton Complex in

Lake Charles for “The Greatest Show on Dirt.” There will be a variety of rodeo performances, livestock shows, a Queen’s Pageant and more. The “mane” attraction is the professional rodeo performances that kick into gear each night featuring bucking broncos, thundering hooves and cheering fans. Go to www.southwestdistrictlivestockshowandrodeo.com or call (337) 515-9115.

Lutcher Theater Presents Guys and Dolls Feb. 6The Broadway classic Guys and Dolls will play the Lutcher Theater in

Orange, Texas Fri., Feb. 6 at 7:30 p.m. Bustling with gamblers, gangsters, and sassy showgirls, Guys and Dolls celebrates Broadway’s golden era with one of the greatest scores ever written for a musical. Tickets from $45-$65 are on sale now at www.lutcher.org or by calling the Lutcher Box Office at (409) 866-5535.

Stellar Beans Annual Patrons’ Art Show Feb. 6-28

Stellar Beans presents the third annual Patrons’ Art Show for friends and pa-trons who have not had an art show of their own before. Artists’ reception Feb. 6. 319 Broad Street, Lake Charles. (337) 564 5739; stellarbeans@yahoo.com.

Death by Chocolate Murder Mystery Dinner Feb. 12

Sulphur’s Community Theatre, The Mines, present Death by Chocolate at the West Calcasieu Arena & Events Center in Sulphur on Feb. 12. Admission is $50 and includes dinner and the show. Starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now. (337) 215-1301.

Valentine’s Cruise Feb. 14Cruise the river aboard the Lady of the Lake and enjoy food, fun, danc-

ing and music by JC Melancon and the Bayou Band! Cruise will depart from Riverside Resort (Loggerheads) and runs from 6-9 p.m. Cash bar available. Menu: (buffet style) ribeye steak, potatoes au gratin, fried okra, crab-stuffed mushrooms, shrimp cocktail, garden salad, bread roll, fruits and cheeses, hors d’oeuvres, desserts. Tickets are $100 per person. (337) 491-6794, must be 21 to attend.

Boat, Sport and RV Show Feb. 20-22This three-day event at the Lake Charles Civic Center is touted as the re-

gion’s largest. See 43 brands of boats & 99 brands of RVs in one easy to shop location, plus campground info, scuba gear, jet skis, resort information, guides, ATVs, fishing tackle and much more! Adults $8; children 15 and under free (with paid adult). (337) 436-4355.

Winter Beer Festival Feb. 21The inaugural Louisiana Winter Beer Festival will be held 1-4 p.m. at

the Calcasieu Marine Bank Building and will feature over 50 craft beers, ciders, and meads from Louisiana and other American Craft Breweries as well as local food selections, prizes, a home-brew competition, and live music. Regular admission is $40, VIP admission is $80. Tickets Available at: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/2015-louisiana-winter-beer-festival-tickets-14935005002?aff=efbevent

January 29, 201532 Vol. 6 • No. 21

propriate. Th e more music, the better, but

please keep it appropriate so that the parade will be a pleasant expe-rience for all age viewers. Th is is a family event. Th rows are allowed. Parade units should have walkers to prevent people from getting too close.

Line up will begin at 12:30 p.m. and all units should be in place by 1:30 p.m. Th ere is no entry fee.

Parade participants will enter from Beglis Parkway onto the West end of Maplewood Drive (between Walgreen’s and Kroger’s). Units will be lined up in the “S” curve between Novus and City Savings Bank, utilizing three of the fi ve lanes. Lineup is fi rst come aft er initial spaces are reserved by the City of Sulphur.

For more information, contact Sulphur City Hall at (337) 527-4500.

Th e Lake Area Runners are excited to announce their newest race, the Mardi Gras Madness 5k--a race unlike any the Lake Area has seen before! During the peak of the carnival season, you’ll be running the parade route down Ryan Street an hour before Th e Children’s Parade! Th e parade crowds will cheer you on along the way, and there will be food, beverages, and Zydeco at the fi nish! Th e

route will start on Gill Street near the Lake Charles Civic Center, and will fi nish near the end of the parade route near Sale Road. Th ere will

be an epic fi nish line festival, and you’ll enjoy food, drink, and dancing as you watch the parade go by! Have your family members pick you up at the fi nish, or use the race day shuttles available take you back to your car for a small fee. Times: Registration is at 1:30 p.m.; race starts at 2:30. Admission is $30. To register, go to http://www.active.com/lake-charles-la/running/mar-di-gras-madness-5k-2015.

Mardi Gras Madness 5k Feb. 15

Th is year, Sulphur is celebrating in grand style, and you should be a part of it! Enter the Sulphur Mardi Gras parade!

Each group, fl oat, or vehicle

should have a sign on both sides of the unit that indicates the theme. Make your sign large enough to be read from the sidewalk on each side of the street. Each fl oat

or unit in the parade should be a representation of the Mardi Gras season. All music used in the presentation of your fl oat, vehicle or performing unit should be ap-

Be a Part of Sulphur’s First Mardi Gras Parade!

January 29, 2015 33Vol. 6 • No. 21

It all started in a little apartment, with an old home oven and a very ambitious young lady. Lake Charles native and owner/operator of SweetChic Cupcakes, Roxie (Boston) Smith, began her baking career in 2009 while completing her sen-ior year at McNeese State University.

Roxie’s chic little cupcakes and her gourmet flavors quickly earned her a “sweet” reputa-tion. With this rising success, Roxie expanded her business in true Support Local fashion by selling her confectionary gems to several lo-cal restaurants and food vendors. Her delectable cannolis and irresistible cake pops can still be purchased at 121 Arti-san Bistro. The collaboration was such a success that Roxie dedicated herself to baking and really started to grind. With orders increasing daily, desserts flying out the door, and hundreds of new ideas brewing, it was time for a much bigger kitchen.

Growing pains behind her, Roxie opened doors to the public, as well as her imagination. Armed with an official storefront and some brand-new equip-ment, SweetChic quickly became much more than your average dessert shop. Branded with her new pink seersucker logo, Roxie set out to make SweetChic a household name. A new location, mixed with new clients, and tossing bundles of new requests was the recipe for a whole

new menu. Picking inspirational fruits from her

family tree, Roxie jammed together a load of new dessert ideas. Dusting off her apron, Roxie stepped out of her kitchen with a diverse new selection of cupcakes, cookies, cinnamon rolls, and

dozens of other homemade treats. Combining old family flavors with new age techniques and gourmet presentation, these guilty pleasures brought business to a rolling boil. Though, it doesn’t stop there…

In the course of the last three years, Roxie has honed

her skills in cake design, as well as a multitude of signature desserts that have truly set her apart from any other bakery in the area. Since introducing them, her custom cakes have become one of the most sought after items on the menu. Using everything from Rice Krispies™ treats to airbrush kits and custom-built stands to finely craft together her mas-terpieces, SweetChic has introduced the Lake Area to cake designs that have been compared to those of Buddy Valastro, of TLC’s Cake Boss.

From birthdays, to weddings, to baby showers, to children’s parties, to gradu-ations, Roxie works closely with you to ensure you get the perfect cake for your special day. Roxie’s design skills are lim-ited only by her customers’ needs. Prac-ticing new techniques with every new

design, she never stops building on what her business can offer.

Nonetheless, the colorful creations that can be found at SweetChic don’t just look good; they are a mouthwatering blend of exquisite flavors. The mini cup-cakes are as unique in design as they are in taste--German Chocolate, Red Velvet, and Cookies & Cream just to name a few. The home-style sugar cookies get two huge crumby thumbs up and the choco-late chips are a chocoholic’s dream.

Roxie never stops experimenting. By testing out her genius ideas with friends and family, she keeps new creations pouring out of the SweetChic kitchen almost daily. The real treat this year is the infamous “King Cake” Cheese Cake. A creamy homemade cheesecake atop a layer of strawberry filling, piled on a flaky shortbread crust, baked to perfec-tion, and covered in a rich stick-to-your-fingers-icing.

Selling more cake than she can bake is not a problem for her, either. Roxie has recently moved to a shop on Prien Lake Road, equipped with an ever-growing menu, speedy drive through, and a talented, and friendly staff. SweetChic’s ability to keep our city away from bor-ing, cookie-cutter desserts is worth more than highlighting. It’s worth supporting! So if you or someone you know has not had a chance to try one of these delec-table goodies, then stop in, sweeten up, and HASHTAG DAT! As always, eat, sleep, drink, and Support Local.

#SweetChicCupcakes#LocalsSupportingLocals#SupportLocal

Sweet Chic Cupcakes

Sweet�Chic’s�King�Cake�Cheesecake

January 29, 201534 Vol. 6 • No. 21

Toss it up to my geocen-tric upbringing, but I’d never heard of the Paddington chil-dren’s books until this movie came out. But the series is well known in Great Britain, where the original author is still living.

I gathered from my re-search that Paddington is as much an English Product as Harry Potter and Mr. Bean. But he has a much stronger pedigree: The first Padding-ton book was publish in 1958.

All of this to say that Paddington is a very sim-ple movie, but a very sweet

one. Here we have a small bear from darkest Peru who has made his way to London. All he wants is a home and family, but he’s left by him-self alone at the train station until late evening. Then along comes a proper English fam-ily, the Browns: Father Henry, his wife Mary, and two tween children, Judy and Jonathan.

Seeing the bear alone, Grumpy Henry wants the family to move along and ignore him, but Mary goes up to the bear and finds a tag on him that reads “Please take Care of this Bear.” Her heart

is warmed and she convinces her husband and children to take him home, just for the evening. Before leaving the station, they give him a name, Paddington (because they are at Paddington Sta-tion.)

Remember, this movie is based on a children’s book. Paddington talks, very well, and even has British man-ners and wears a wonder-ful red hat, under which he keeps a spare marmalade sandwich. The beauty of the story is that no one, includ-ing the Browns, expresses any surprise over Paddington’s remarkable qualities. Which, when you stop and think about it, is exactly the way a child would react to a cute talking bear.

If Paddington’s London is reminiscent of that in Mary Poppins, its plot reminds us of 101 Dalmatians. Here, the villain is an evil taxidermist (played by Nicole Kidman), who picks up on Padding-ton’s presence in London and plans on stuffing him for display in the Natural History Museum.

I’m not a fan of mov-ies about anthropomorphic

animals. Usually the special effects are clumsy and the story is weak, but Padding-ton transcends these quali-ties. First of all the acting is first rate, with Hugh Bonnev-ille (Downton Abbey) as Mr. Brown, Sally Hawkins (Blue Jasmine) as Mary, and in a wonderful supporting role, Julie Walters (Harry Potter) as their relative, Mrs. Bird. Never will you find such a likeable and appealing fam-ily as they work through the problems of dealing with a wayfaring bear like Padding-ton.

And the storyline, though quite simple, brings to bear all the trappings you would expect in a movie based on those proud Britons. At one point Paddington encounters a guard from Buckingham Palace and receives hospital-ity British-style. Practically every side character is Eng-lish Weird, straight out of a BBC network sitcom. There’s a character listening in on conversations with a glass pressed against a wall, a bit of Monty Pythonesque Drag, even a Calypso band (Tobago Crusoe) adding to the sound-track at appropriate times

as Paddington passes in front of them while walking down the street.

But above them all, there is Paddington himself, who will make you forget you’re watching a mix of special effects and real life actors as he pulls you into his heartwarming story of a bear who needs a home.

Children of all ages and adults will enjoy this movie. It goes a little slow at times, but then, I’m comparing it to Sponge Bob and other American Childhood icons. In summary, a splendid time is guaranteed for all. God Save the Queen. Pad-dington is rated PG be-cause, Britain. Right!

Paddington(Weinstein, 2015)

January 29, 2015 35Vol. 6 • No. 21

In the coming weeks, you’ll be able to watch Oscar winners and nominees old and new on the big screen in Lake Charles. Let’s get our Oscar predicting muscles warmed up by taking a look at movies that have already won the coveted little gold man. Th en you’ll have a benchmark to com-pare the current Oscar nominees to before marking your ballot. But before I discuss the Oscar clas-sics on the big screen, I want to propose a rental fi rst.

All About Eve may not be about the Oscars but it certainly winks at it. Th e fi rst scene is set at an awards ceremony with a fi ctional gold statue with the movie’s char-acters seated around fancy tables Golden-Globes-style. Th roughout the rest of the movie, we learn the actress about to win the night’s biggest theatre award wormed her way into and out of her co-work-ers hearts as she connived her way to the top. Th e fi lm’s fi nal image is of someone we suspect may back-stab her in the same way.

Th e true Oscar-worthy genius of the image is how it accomplish-es this without a word of dialogue. Not only will this young actress attempt to give Eve a taste of her own medicine, so will another actress and another, and another before her and aft er her on to infi nity. Let’s hope that today’s Os-car nominees got where they are through talent and hard work!

Some fun facts on this fi lm include Bette Davis’ infamous

line “Fasten your seatbelts. It’s going to be a bumpy night.” And a young Marilyn Monroe appears in a small role. Monroe’s spot-on comic delivery makes it obvious this newcomer would be taking on Bette-Davis-size roles herself in future movies.

Now on to the Oscar oldies on the big screen: Funny Girl is also about the entertainment indus-try. Only this time, it’s Barbra Streisand singing and joking her way to the top playing real life entertainer Fanny Brice. Th is bio pic traces Brice’s rise to fame from the slums of the Lower East Side to the razzle dazzle of the Ziegfeld Follies.

As a teen, I used to rent this movie and cut it off aft er the fi rst two thirds of the fi lm. It’s all fun and games and laughter and mu-sic for the fi rst part of the story. But everyone’s biography is not happy-go-lucky all the time and the last part of the fi lm refl ects the real life family troubles of Miss Brice.

Some fun Oscar facts: Th is fi lm was Barbra Streisand’s feature fi lm debut. Also, when she was nominated for the Oscar she was a member of the Academy and like most nominees, voted for herself. If she hadn’t, she would have tied with Katharine Hepburn for the year’s Best Actress Oscar.

Oh Audrey! Oh how I love thee in Breakfast at Tiff any’s. Th at’s the next big screen Oscar classic. Interestingly, the main character

Holly Golightly has become one of Audrey Hepburn’s signature roles, but author Truman Capote envisioned Marilyn Monroe for the role. Marilyn’s drama coach said playing a call girl was not good for her image. Yet, today, we oft en think of Audrey Hepburn as the epitome of class. Oh well, Mr. Ca-pote, you don’t’ know everything.

A fun Oscar note: Th e song that won the Oscar, “Moon River,” was almost not included in the fi lm. Audrey Hepburn insisted that it stay in. In my opinion, she may not have a perfect singing voice, but I’ve always loved her sweet, wistful version the best.

Th e fi nal Oscar Classic in the series is the original full-length 201-minute version of Giant. Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson and James Dean bring to life the rivalry of a Texas cattle rancher and an oil tycoon. Th is movie marks the legendary James Dean’s last fi lm due to a tragic twist of irony. During the shoot, Dean appeared in an interview-style TV commercial promoting safe driving. His last advice was “Drive safely, because the life you save

may be mine.” Sadly, James Dean died a few weeks later in a car crash.

Actor Nick Adams provided Dean’s voice for a few lines to fi n-ish the fi lm. One of Dean’s contri-butions to the look of the fi lm is seen when he gives a long drunk-en soliloquy. He asked that they fi lm it in a long shot to emphasize his character’s hopeless isolation.

You can catch all these Oscar classics at Cinemark:Funny Girl: Feb. 1, 2 p.m.; Feb. 4, 2 and 7 p.m.Breakfast at Tiff any’s: Feb. 8, 2 p.m.; Feb. 11, 2 and 7 p.m.Giant: Feb. 15, 2 p.m.; Feb 18, 2 and 7 p.m.

I hope to have watched all the new Oscar nominees before the ceremony on February 22. Until then, if you’re really obsessed with the Oscars and want to be sure you catch every single one of the new 2015 nominees on the big screen, Cinemark in Baton Rouge is having a marathon week-end, a half marathon weekend, and a week showing two of the nominees per night. Go to www.cinemark.com for details.

Getting into the Oscar Mood

January 29, 201536 Vol. 6 • No. 21

Thursday, Jan. 29Happy Hour4 p.m.-1 a.m. @ Bourbonz3436 Ryan St., LC

Jenny Slaydon6 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Chubby Carrier & Bayou Swamp7 p.m. @ Mikko LiveCoushatta Casino Resort777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Karaoke Night9 p.m. @ Crystal’s112 W. Broad St., LC

DJ Trey9 p.m. @ Bourbonz3436 Ryan St., LC

DJ Crush11 p.m. @ Jack After DarkL’Auberge Casino Resort777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Th ree short fi lms focused on aspects of the environmental movement will be screened starting at Stellar Beans Cof-fee House in downtown Lake Charles on January 30 at 6:30 p.m.

Th e Great St. Tammany Fracking Re-bellion is a 17-minute fi lm that chronicles the grassroots response of St. Tammany Parish residents to a proposal to bring fracking into that parish — which had not seen an oil well drilled there in more than 25 years. Th e proposal to frack was made in April and the rebellion began immedi-ately. Th e video is by Mike Stagg of Lafay-ette.

Lost Paradise: Th e GreenARMY’s No Big Oil Bailout Tour is a 40-minute docu-mentary by New York-based musician and fi lmmaker Moss Robeson. He accompa-nied a small group from the GreenARMY in a four-day tour through Louisiana’s Coastal Zone in late April 2014 that start-ed in New Orleans and concluded in Abita Springs, with stops in Th ibodaux, Erath, Cameron, Westlake, Lafayette, Baton Rouge and Hammond in between.

GreenARMY: Year One is an 11-minute video by Mike Stagg that chronicles high-

lights from the fi rst year of the Green-ARMY’s activities in Louisiana. It features leaders from community and statewide environmental groups in action across the state.

Stellar Beans Coff ee Shop is located at 319 Broad Street, Lake Charles. For more information, email geolaker@msn.com.

Stellar Beans Hosts Environmental

Movement Films Jan. 30

January 29, 2015 37Vol. 6 • No. 21

Friday, Jan. 30Jenny Slaydon7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Tom and Mick7 p.m. @ Loggerheads3748 Hwy 305, LC

Members Only8 p.m. @ Jack After DarkL’Auberge Casino Resort777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

LA Roxx9 p.m. @ Mikko LiveCoushatta Casino Resort777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

LA Express9 p.m. @ Gator Lounge

Delta Downs 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton

Mr. DJ9 p.m. @ Bourbonz3436 Ryan St., LC

Acoustic Pie9 p.m.- midnight @ Cigar Club1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., Lake Charles

Bag of Donuts10 p.m. @ Luna Live710 Ryan St., Lake Charles

Dance Night9 p.m.- 4 a.m. @ Crystal’s112 W. Broad St., Lake Charles

DJ Crush11 p.m. @ Jack After DarkL’Auberge Casino Resort777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Saturday, Jan. 31Jenny Slaydon7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine Bar777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

John Cessac7 p.m. @ Loggerheads3748 Hwy 305, Lake Charles

Merle Haggard8 p.m. @ Golden NuggetTickets start at $392550 Golden Nugget Blvd., LC

Jamie Bergeron & the Kickin Cajuns9 p.m. @ Mikko Live

Coushatta Casino Resort777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

LA Express9 p.m. @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton

Mr. DJ9 p.m. @ Bourbonz3436 Ryan St., LC

Jessie Taylor9-midnight @ Cigar Club1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., LC

Special Event Night9 p.m. – 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s112 W. Broad St., LC

Hazy Ray10 p.m. @ Luna Live710 Ryan St., LC

January 29, 201538 Vol. 6 • No. 21

DJ Crush11 p.m. @ Jack After DarkL’Auberge Casino Resort777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Sunday, Feb. 1Mckenzie Mill11 p.m. @ Mikko LiveCoushatta Casino Resort777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Monday, Feb. 2Open Mic Night9 p.m. @ Luna Live710 Ryan St., LC

Tuesday, Feb. 3Guys Night@Bourbonz3436 Ryan St., LC

Two for Tuesdayon Everything!9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s112 Broad St., LC

Wednesday, Feb. 4Karoake with DJ Cornbread7 p.m. @ Bourbonz3436 Ryan St., LC

Mardi Gras is just around the corner and in the spirit of all things festive, I was given an assignment: Go drink. Then write about it. What? Finally, something I can do! Don’t argue with the boss, right? I took the task eagerly and set my sights on the per-fect carnival drink. But, with day-long parades, block par-ties, and bouncing from one group to the next, this con-coction had to be portable, sustainable and stay cold.

Enter the frozen daiquiri. This delightful drink came out of necessity. When other forms of alcohol were ra-tioned during WWII, rum was readily available, thanks to trade agreements with Latin American. Rum-based, early daiquiris were poured over ice and became quite fashionable in the 1940s.

Probably the most popu-lar drink among revelers on Bourbon Street is the famous New Orleans Hurricane. But, since the Crescent City is over there and I’m over here, I set off on a serious journey to find the frozen Lake City equivalent.

By Ron Muniz

Daiquiri Delights

Alyssa Broussard and Maile Spurlin at Funky Monkey

January 29, 2015 39Vol. 6 • No. 21

Kory Fontenot aka One Man Band8 – 11 p.m. @ Cigar Club1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., LC

Talent Night9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s112 Broad St., LC

Thursday, Feb. 5Happy Hour

4 p.m.-1 a.m. @ Bourbonz3436 Ryan St., LC

Backyard Boys7 p.m. @ Mikko LiveCoushatta Casino Resort777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

DJ Trey9 p.m. @ Bourbonz3436 Ryan St., LC

Karaoke Night9 p.m. @ Crystal’s112 W. Broad St., LC

Brick Floyd-Pink Floyd Tribute10 p.m. @ Luna Live710 Ryan St., Lake Charles

DJ Mig

11 p.m. @ Jack After DarkL’Auberge Casino Resort777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Friday, Feb. 6Live Music7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine BarL’Auberge Casino Resort777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

FUNKY MONKEY DAIQUIRISMy first stop was Funky Monkey Daiquiris on Prien Lake

Road. I’ve heard about their signature drink, “The Category 5 Hurricane” and in the mood for a bit of monkey business, I thought I should try it.

Owner Nate Arnold met me at the counter and claims his Cat 5 to be the strongest daiquiri in town. Feeling adventur-ous, I ordered the large! The drink was inspired after a trip to New Orleans with his wife who wanted to bring the classic Hurricane back to the Lake Area, but with a twist.

“We use five different types of rum in our Cat 5, from light to dark” said Arnold. Yes, that’s right. A Category 1 has one shot of rum, a Category 3, three shots and so on. In a cup the size of a bowling pin, bartender Alyssa Broussard gave me all five, grinning cheek to cheek. With this massive serving of frozen goodness before me, chuckles filled the room. “I’ll check on you in about 20 minutes” said Arnold.

While sipping my drink at the tropical depression stage, a good friend of mine, Stratton Doyle tells me a story of how he once out-drank an Englishman in Europe: “Ah, you’re a Yank? You Yanks can’t drink worth a (expletive),” said the Englishman. “I’m from Louisiana, man. We’re the most drinkingest state in the country,” Doyle replied.

The bet was on. Loser pays the tab. “Thanks for the free drinks, mate” said the Englishman, sure of himself for the win. Pint for pint, shot for shot, Doyle and the Englishman went on until the Brit was on the floor and the boy from the bayou state, barely holding on to his chair, proclaimed his victory “See, I told you we could drink, you (expletive)!” Doyle said proudly.

Since this was “research,” I drew lines down my cup from Cat 1 to Cat 5 and monitored my progress, or decline, so to speak. Let’s just say the drink made landfall in my brain just after Cat 3. Bartender Hannah Breaux, creator of another Funky Monkey original, “The Jumper,” coined the term “In-stant Amnesia” for my Cat 5. Good thing I took notes. En-joying every last drop, I somehow made it to the bottom of my cup. Arnold did come back to check on me, so I was told. The Category 5 combines a classic Hurricane mix with five different types of rum.

You know there’s some serious booze in there, but the sweetness of the mix helps to offer a smooth finish to this

amazingly delightful drink. If you want a lot of bang for your buck try a Category 5 Hurricane. With something for every-one the Monkey offers 40 different daiquiris to choose from.

Crystal LaVergne at Coolers Ice House

January 29, 201540 Vol. 6 • No. 21

FROSTY FACTORYOne cannot do proper analysis without

visiting the first frozen drink establishment in Lake Charles, the Taj Mahal of daiquiris, The Frosty Factory. Owner Dorothy Branch or “Miss Dot” as everyone calls her, opened her business back in 1983 on Prien Lake Road. The Frosty later moved to Ryan Street in 1987 and in 2002, settled across from the McNeese Football stadium on Common Street where it stands today.

It was karaoke night, the place was packed and I made my way to the bar. “What can I get you?” Bartender Morgan German said with a smile. “I have no idea. What’s popu-lar?” I replied. That’s all it took as German proceeded to serve me sample after sample from more than 25 different varieties. “This is called a Popsicle,” she said, bringing over a favorite among the regulars. But, so was the Monkey Shine, which tasted like bananas, and the Jungle Juice, and Ruff Stuff and the Bayou Rum, with spiced rum straight from the Lacassine distillery.

Then German gave me something called the Banana Split, which was a combination of the Monkey Shine and their Pina Colada. Great taste without all the guilt! Sample after sample kept coming and I kept tasting. I was amazed at just how much she knew about every frozen drink along the bar. Eventually, I settled on the Kajun Kooler, which had rum and brandy and came highly recommended by Miss Dot. This was a great drink and after a long day, it helped to take the edge off.

With plenty of pool tables, shuffle board, karaoke and dozens of drinks to choose from, there’s lots to do at The Frosty. You’ll also find a knowledgeable staff, plenty of room and friendly patrons. I will definitely be back.

Danny O’Flaherty: Songs & Stories7 p.m. @ Stellar Beans Coffee House319 Broad St., LC

Greywolf8 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Karaoke with Avid Sounds9 p.m. @ Coolers3622 1/2 Ryan St. LC

Joe Harmon & the Harmonics9 p.m. @ Gator LoungeDelta Downs 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton

Triggerproof9 p.m. @ Mikko LiveCoushatta Casino Resort777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

Logan Soileau Band9 p.m.- midnight @ Cigar Club1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., LC

Dance Night

Morgan Germanat Frosty Factory

January 29, 2015 41Vol. 6 • No. 21

9 p.m. – 4 a.m. @ Crystal’s112 W. Broad St., LC

DJ Mig11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Saturday, Feb. 7Live Music

7 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine BarL’Auberge Casino Resort777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Mr. DJ9 p.m. @ Bourbonz3436 Ryan St., LC

Special Event Night9 p.m. – 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s

112 W. Broad St., LC

Joe Harmon & the Harmonics9 p.m. @ Gator Lounge, Delta Downs 2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton

Skipper Drost9 p.m.- midnight @ Cigar Club1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., LC

COOLERS ICE HOUSEMy final stop in the quest

for the perfect daiquiri led me to Coolers Icehouse on Ryan Street. A smoke-free establishment, Coolers is a great place to bring a date who doesn’t want smoke in her hair. But, if you need a cigarette there’s plenty of space on the front deck outside to mix and mingle. Once inside, there were folks everywhere. A solo guitarist provided live music at a good volume allowing people to chat away about their day.

At the bar, I met the hus-band and wife team of Colby and Crystal LaVergne. These two worked well together slanging dranks for the crowd and keeping everyone hydrated and happy.

Some of their popular frozen drinks like the Ca-jun Storm, Walk Me Home, Liquid Marijuana, and the Cooler’s Greenade came highly recommended, but Colby insisted on one in particular. “You gotta try the Swamp Thing.” This was awesome. Hints of rasp-berry, margarita, and hur-ricane along with melon to top it off were all working in perfect harmony in my cup. The color was tomato red, the taste was amazing and

it was a joy to drink. But I’ll have to come back for that Greenade and perhaps the Cajun Storm.

Nestled along Ryan Street Midtown, Coolers is also a great place to catch the Mer-chants’ Parade, Children’s Parade or come Fat Tuesday, the Krewe of Krewes’ Parade.

If variety is the spice of

life, then frozen daiquiris are the fuel that funnels the soul. Try them all, I say. Whether it’s Funky Monkey Daiquiris, The Frosty Fac-tory or Coolers Icehouse you’ll surely find your drink of choice this Mardi Gras season and maybe you too can out-drink an English-man. Cheers!

January 29, 201542 Vol. 6 • No. 21

The Kodiax/Brother Jac10 p.m. @ Luna Live710 Ryan St., Lake Charles

DJ Mig11 p.m. @ Jack After Dark L’Auberge Casino Resort777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

Open Mic Night9 p.m. @ Luna Live710 Ryan St., LC

Tuesday, Feb. 10Guys Night@ Bourbonz3436 Ryan St., LC

Dancing9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s112 Broad St., LC

Wednesday, Feb. 11Karaoke with DJ Cornbread7 p.m. @ Bourbonz3436 Ryan St., LC

Jim Pharis8-11 p.m. @ Cigar Club1700 E. Prien Lake Rd., LC

Karaoke with Avid Sounds9 p.m. @ Coolers3622 1/2 Ryan St. LC

Talent Night9 p.m. - 2 a.m. @ Crystal’s112 Broad St., LC

Thursday, Feb. 12Happy Hour4 p.m.-1 a.m. @ Bourbonz3436 Ryan St., LC

Live Music6 p.m. @ Ember Grille & Wine BarL’Auberge Casino Resort777 Avenue L’Auberge, LC

Richard LeBouef & Two Step9 p.m. @ Mikko LiveCoushatta Casino Resort777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder

DJ Trey9 p.m. @ Bourbonz3436 Ryan St., LC

Karaoke Night9 p.m @ Crystal’s112 W. Broad St., LC

DJ San-D11 p.m. @ Jack After DarkL’Auberge Casino Resort777 Ave. L’Auberge, LC

January 29, 2015 43Vol. 6 • No. 21

YOU SHOULD BE DANCING

You know, I really like ABBA. A strange thing for a mid-30-something male from Southwest Louisiana to say but, yeah... I really do like ABBA.

I’m sitting here watching the first rays of sun just start to creep from below the horizon after a night at the disco. Now, some 40 years after the fact, the scene/genre has remained a cultural and musical milestone in our lives, even to those such as myself who were just arriving, or some of us who weren’t even born as the disco era itself was dying.

Despite the vitriol it received in its later days, it still has nostalgic affinity and a definite quirky charm that appeals to anyone looking to cut loose and have some shameless fun. Whether it’s the flashy fashions of the day, putting one’s best Travolta on the dance floor, or belting out some Bee Gees or Donna Summer, there is uninhibited silly fun if you’re willing to break out the polyester, slip on the platform shoes and go out and get some of it.

Disco was born in the early ‘70s with its heyday running from 1976 through 1979. Musically, it had a certain style of tempo, rhythm and structure that produced smash hits but also became a genre that was defined, deified and demonized by its driving dance beats, excessive flair and the penchant for a crazed, drug-fueled, sexy vibe that rolled through the Ameri-can night clubs of that era. Club-goers explored, indulged, experimented and immersed themselves in music and dance, abandoning their own apprehensions and that of those around them. It was a bit of that latter interpretation of the theme that came through to me tonight.

As many of you may know, beloved local staple Cigar Club not only features live music three nights a week but has also been known, on occasion, to throw the varied shindig or two with the annual January Disco an easy favorite of the bunch.

The 2015 edition was complete with the mirror balls, swirl-ing lights, custom cocktails and the sounds of K.C. and The Sunshine Band, Gloria Gaynor, ELO, Barry White, The O’Jay’s, Village People and all of the usual suspects that took you right back to ‘78. Something in the sounds and style of the night found the normally quiet people talking and laughing and the shy ones out dancing. While the scene was certainly no Roxy nor Limelight nor the famed 54, it certainly was disco, and hardly a soul in attendance didn’t get swept up into it before the night was done.

What I felt that night was, in many ways, that same carefree and almost hedonistic impulse that fueled the discotheque scene--not the extreme behaviors that unfortunately became

associated with the clubs and the demise of the Disco Era--but just that desire to cut loose and feel good. That’s what the music itself was about.

The songwriters weren’t trying to change the world with their lyrics or their craft, like Dylan, for example. They pro-duced something commercial that consumers enjoyed and wanted more of.

So, whatever your scene is, whether it be Sinners at My Place, Oh Rhien ay Luna Live, Entrenched Defilement at Center Stage, D.J. Tyski at 3topia, The Kadillacs at The Isle, The Molly Ringwalds at Party By The Pool, or Reba McEntire at Coushatta, or if it is indeed ABBA playing on the jukebox at a crazy disco party, realize that it’s not what type of music you like that’s important. It’s finding the music that makes you feel that abandon and happiness and getting out there to the events so you experience it. Find the music that moves you and go be a part of it.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I have some Dancing Queen to listen to...

SOMETHING’S HAPPENING HERE...January 30 – Bag Of Donuts – Luna Live

Admittedly, my favorite of such similarly themed bands in the region. Fun, fast-paced show from a group of New Orlean-ians that are capturing the flamboyant spirit of the Crescent City with big costumes and lights behind their set of “Super-pop” that will smack you with hit after hit all night long. One of the most enjoyable acts I’ve had the pleasure of working with. GO SEE THEM!

February 6 – Joe Harmon and The Harmonics – Delta Down’s Gator Lounge

A former Platter singing your favorite classic soul and R&B hits backed by musicians hailing from Lil’ Alfred’s band. Not much more needs to be said. Soul and Swamp Pop fans... GO SEE THEM!

February 6th – Trigger Proof – Mikko Lounge at Coushatta

Baton Rouge-based Trigger Proof has been making their way back and forth across the Gulf Coast for a while now and delivers a great show with all of your classic and modern hits. Featuring former Soul Vacation chanteuse Katie Pilipauskas, TP gives all of you who aren’t going to see Joe Harmon at Delta an alternative. Very talented and entertaining. GO SEE THEM!

NA NA NA NA, NA NA NA NA, HEY HEY HEY, GOODBYE...

Stay tuned for stories, anecdotes, reviews criticisms and cri-tiques on all things musical or entertaining in the months and issues to come. Until then, I’ll see you at the show!

January 29, 201544 Vol. 6 • No. 21

You are a chip off the old block.You’re just like your father. Just like

your mother. Cut from the same cloth and the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree – which was okay when you were a kid. Back then, you wanted to grow up just like them, anyhow.

Or not. When you’re the child of a parent with an unusual career – for instance, if you’re The Undertaker’s Daughter you might, as did Kate May-field, pick another path.

Kate Mayfield spent most of her young life surrounded by death. Just after she was born in the late 1950s, her parents moved the family to tiny Jubilee, Kentucky, where Mayfield’s father had decided to open a funeral home. There were two funeral homes there – one for Jubilee’s black residents and one for whites – but he reasoned that there was room for competition.

He didn’t reckon on the town’s Old Guard, which closed ranks among themselves and almost stopped the new-comer in his tracks.

Slowly, though, and with the help of one of the town’s most eccentric and forward-thinking residents, Mayfield’s father was accepted in the small town and his business thrived. He hired a few locals for help when times were busy and, as was the norm then, he also ran

one of the town’s ambu-lances. The family lived in an apartment above the coffins and embalm-ing room, Mayfield’s mother worked her way into the town’s social life, the Mayfield chil-dren settled into Jubilee’s schools, and the dead came and went at Mayfield and Son Funeral Home.

But Jubilee was no Mayberry.Racism was a way of life there and,

though Mayfield says that the family maid was sometimes her only friend, there was an otherwise strict separation of black and white. As time passed, life in the small-town became a cauldron of gossip and sniping; Mayfield was reprimanded by teachers and taunted by schoolmates for liking a black boy; and The Old Guard continued to plague her father, whose secrets began to affect everyone around him. Mayfield, a teen-ager by then, knew her family would never leave Jubilee…. but she couldn’t wait to go.

Have you ever gotten a gift that was different – and better – than you ex-pected? That’s what happens when you open The Undertaker’s Daughter.

You might think, for example, that the title indicates a tale of living with

a funeral director, but you’d only be partially correct. Author Kate Mayfield includes plenty of funny, heartfelt, sad memories of life above death, though she starts her book with a game of bridge and a love letter to small town life, a lifetime ago.

And yet – we see the dark spots, and the love letter soon becomes a Dear John letter. For that, I buried myself in this book.

While you may (rightly) see com-parisons to a couple of popular works of fiction, remember that this book is a memoir - and a good one at that. Look for The Undertaker’s Daughter and you’ll be glad to block off your time for it.

“The Undertaker’s Daughter” by Kate Mayfield

c. 2015, Gallery Books $24.99/ $29.99 Canada, 368 pages

Th e Undertaker’s Daughter

January 29, 2015 45Vol. 6 • No. 21

January 29, 201546 Vol. 6 • No. 21

Michelle Thomas and Lucin Thibodeaux Heather Hebert and Sara Gorsulowsky

Kristy Duos, Cody Guilbeaux, Abigail Schmitt and Samantha RathjenApril White and Thomas Outhouse

Latoya Reado, Chantelle Stubin and Jennifer Robinson

CARC MARDI GRAS BALLThe 18th Annual CARC Mardi Gras ball was held at the Isle of Capri Event Center, and the good times

rolled! This non-profi t organization supports persons with disabilities and gives them opportunities such as this wonderful evening to celebrate with friends

and supporters. Party on!

Grant Racca with Kendal and McKenna Henry Grady Arbour and Keri Vic

Abbie Pearce, Carsyn Berry and Rachelle Dunn Katherine and Claire Leonards

Devin and Dalton Guillory and Joshua and Jessie Vincent

CALCASIEU PARISH JUNIOR LIVESTOCK SHOW

The 4th annual Calcasieu Parish Junior Livestock Show was held at the Burton Complex. Over 400 stu-dents from around 60 Calcasieu parish schools com-peted at this three-day event, showing the animals

that they have cared for throughout the year. Lots of oinking, mooing, cackling—and lots of blue ribbons!

See y’all next year!

January 29, 2015 47Vol. 6 • No. 21

Tammy Truax, Craig Boudreaux and Keith Wimberly Carrie Kudla and Stevie Bubeck

Colleen Phillips, Jennifer Ren and Charlotte Roan

Janie Duplechin, Libby Richards, Lisa Perry, Leslie Truax and Tina Bertrand

MARDI GRAS BALL MADNESSIt was a fabulous night of glitz and glam, partying, presentations, food, dancing and more as the vari-ous Krewes put on their annual balls at the Civic Center. Whether it was a formal or costume ball, members and guests got into the spirit of Mardi

Gras! A toast to one heck of a celebration!

Nicole and Scott Jackson

Shelby Perry, Bailey King and Alyssa Ceasar

Garry Marshal and Lydia Carroll Kimberly Lopez and Hillary Lein

Lewis Vincent and Jelena CarrollButch Faust, Sarah Whitlock,

Mark Lavergne and Karen LaRocca

MARDI GRAS COMMUNITY DANCEA swinging, blinging, “free” good time was had by all at the Mardi Gras Community Dance at the Lake Charles Civic Center. Presented by the City of Lake

Charles and Community Inclusion, folks danced the night away to great music and enjoyed free hot

dogs and beverages. Thank you, Lake Charles!