Thrive November 2012 Issue

November 2012 Thrive Magazine for Better Living www.thriveswla.com 11 www.thriveswla.com Thrive Magazine for Better Living November 2012

NOVEMBER 2012

HappyThanksgiving

FROM A VETERAN’S PERSPECTIVE

Caregiver’s guide

50 may just be the new 30

2 www.thriveswla.com Thrive Magazine for Better Living November 2012

A Familiar Name in Urology,Now Practicing in Sulphur.

914 Cypress Street, Sulphurwcch.com

Urology Clinic

Urology ClinicFollow us on Facebook.

Thomas Alderson, MD, FACS

Thomas Alderson, MD, FACS, urologist, has returned to Southwest Louisiana with the opening

of his new office, the Urology Clinic of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. Dr. Alderson is now

seeing patients for a variety of urological issues, including:

Office Hours:

Monday – Friday • 9 a.m. – noon

(337) 527-6363

Same day appointments are available.

• Kidney stones• Prostate problems

• Sexual dysfunction• Urinary incontinence

Dr. Alderson graduated from American University of the

Caribbean School of Medicine. He practiced urology in

Southwest Louisiana for over 20 years before joining the

medical staff of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital.


Louisiana’s Premier Center of Excellence

155 Hospital Drive • Lafayette, LA • 1-888-499-VEIN • www.DoctorIngram.com

Since 1992, the Vein Center ofLouisiana has offered comprehensivediagnosis and treatment of veindisorders such as varicose veins andspider veins. Dr. James Ingram, a vascular surgeon, and Acadiana’s only Board Certified vein specialist, certified by the American Board of Phlebology, was first in the state to perform the newest treatments, including: • Endovenous Laser • VNUS RF Closure • European Microsurgery • Foam Sclerotherapy

Most procedures are covered by insurance.

Louisiana’s Premier Center of Excellence

155 Hospital Drive • Lafayette, LA • 1-888-499-VEIN • www.DoctorIngram.com

Since 1992, the Vein Center ofLouisiana has offered comprehensivediagnosis and treatment of veindisorders such as varicose veins andspider veins. Dr. James Ingram, a vascular surgeon, and Acadiana’s only Board Certified vein specialist, certified by the American Board of Phlebology, was first in the state to perform the newest treatments, including: • Endovenous Laser • VNUS RF Closure • European Microsurgery • Foam Sclerotherapy

Most procedures are covered by insurance.

According to Rebeca Sloan, agent with Century 21 Bessette Realty, it’s important to understand that home listings are written to entice potential buyers. “Sellers are going to highlight what they consider the best features of their property, and they are going to push the limits in putting a positive spin on the description. Some will go beyond positive into the realm of fiction, and that’s where reading between the lines – and the assistance of an experienced agent can help.”

For example, Sloan says “cozy,” which could be appealing in some circumstances, is often a creative way of saying “very small.”

“As is,” could mean you’ll be looking at a fixer upper, or it could mean the same as, “move in condition.” It’s all in how you interpret the wording.

Sloan says phrases like “needs TLC” and “great fixer-upper” should be evaluated carefully. “I usually find that homes with these types of descriptions are in at least slightly worse condition than the listing indicates. That doesn’t mean it might not be worth the trouble, but you need to take a closer look with realistic expectations.”

Confusion can also occur simply based on individual interpretation of a word. Sloan says the word “modern” is a great example of this. “To some people, ‘modern’ means built in the last 10 years; to others, it means updated last

year. The same caution about perception applies to ‘like new’ and ‘remodeled.’ Language is subjective and this definitely comes into play in home listings.”

Sloan says the digital age makes it easier to sort through slanted language because you can see photos of the property online. “If there is a great description but no photos to showcase all the positive features, you should definitely be more skeptical, but keep in mind, photos can also be deceiving. Consider the angle used and what is not shown as well as what is. ”

Another confusing aspect of understanding real estate listings are the abbreviations commonly used to save space. At first glance, some listings may appear to be just gibberish, especially if you are a first-time home buyer. “This can be particularly challenging because not every property owner or listing service uses the same abbreviations for the same features. We can help you sort through the acronyms and shorthand,” says Sloan. “We’re here to help you navigate the world of real estate and that includes serving as your interpreter along the way.”

For more information about real estate listings, contact Century 21 Bessette Realty at 474-2185 or visit century21-bessette.com

House Hunting? Learn the Lingo Buying a home can be exciting. It also can be somewhat overwhelming, even if you’ve done it before. You’ll face a barrage of information, much of it written in code. Learning how to interpret the terminology and decipher commonly used real estate acronyms in property listings can mean the difference between an exciting day of

looking at potential dream homes and a frustrating day of disappointment.

ba - bathblt - built-inbkporch - back porchbrk - brickbr - bedroom cac - central air conditioningdk - deckdr - dining roomeik - eat-in kitchen gar - garagefdr - formal dining roomfha/va-qualifies for fha/va financingfamily room fml - formalfrplc, fplc, fp - fireplace frog - finished room over garagefsbo - for sale by owner gmt kit - gourmet kitchenhdw, hwf, hdwd - hardwood floorshi ceils - high ceilings

hvac - heating, ventilation, and air conditioningingrd pool -inground poollr - living roommk modern kitchenmls - multiple listing servicemstr - master bed room/suitepvt - privatepvcy - privacypwdr rm - half bathroom or powder roomscrnd porch - screened porchsec sys - security systemth - townhousetxs - taxesu/g sprk-underground sprinkler system upr - upper floorvw, vu, vws, vus - view(s)wbs - wood-burning stovew/o - walk-outyd - yard

Common Real Estate Abbreviations


Editors and Publishers Kristy Armand Christine Fisher

Creative Director/Layout Barbara VanGossen

Assistant Editor Katie Harrington

Business Manager Katie McDaniel

Assistant Designers Shonda Manuel Kris Roy

Advertising Sales Shanteé Gotte [email protected] 337.310.2099 Submissions [email protected]

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

Contents

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Thrive is designed for people focused on living a happy, healthy life, one that is balanced, full of energy and contentment. Thrive readers want to make the most of every day and be successful in all areas of their lives – family, health, home and career.

FOLLOW US ON:

Don’T jusT live, THrive!

50

Regular Features 14 By the Numbers 40 Business Buzz 44 First Person: with Gray Stream 52 Best Impressions 58 Who’s News 72 Ready to Wear 75 Solutions for Life! 78 Community Contributors 82 Happenings

In This Issue Home &Family 3 House Hunting? Learn the Lingo

Happy Thanksgiving!Special Sectionette 6 - 13

16 Hunting Safety18 - 25 time is on your side the new age of aging

a Caregiver’ guideThis special section dedicated to caring for our aging parents and grandparents will provide you with insight and the tools needed to be prepared for the months and years ahead. 28 - 35

Money &Career 36 Every Season is Tax Prep Season 38 What Not to Buy New

Places &Faces 50 Angola Prison Rodeo 54 Veterans Day from the Veterans’ Perspective

Mind &Body 60 Diabetes from Head to Toe 64 Attention Men: Listen to Your Body

Style &Beauty70 Tailgate Attire 75 Jewelry with Options


NoshemberNoshemberNoshember

No-Shave November

It’s a movement that started several years ago and has grown stronger each year, with Noshember and Movember (Moustache November) efforts sprouting up across the country. As a fundraiser, the concept is simple. Participants do their last shave on October 31 and don’t shave again until the end of the day on November 30. The questions and comments they get about their unusal facial hair throughout the month give them the opportunity to increase awareness of their cause, and to raise money for prostate cancer research. Each CFO participant is soliciting sponsors and contributors in support of their efforts, and the medical group will match the contributions collected during the month. Contributions can be made at any their office locations: Lake Charles, Sulphur or DeRidder. And in the spirit of competition, a Hairy Hero will be named at the end of the month to recognize which staff member sports the best facial hair.

Follow the group’s progress on their FaceBook page and their website: www.centerforortho.com.

CFO If you see some scruffy faces on the doctors and male staff at Center for Orthopaedics in November, it’s all for a good cause. The guys are joining forces through facial hair growth in support of prostate cancer awareness and research.

Celebrates


Home &Family Happy ThanksgivingTalk of turkey and all the fixings and family gathered ‘round watching football or the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day is upon us once more. The weather is finally turning cooler and the busy pace of back to school is giving way to the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Check out the pages ahead for turkey tips, Thanksgiving traditions and much more.


Turkey has been synonymous with Thanksgiving since the holiday first began, but many families have adopted a new tradition that takes turkey to a whole new level. It’s called the Turducken, and is an idea that first originated in Louisiana in the 1980s.

Based on the principle of engastration, a recipe method in which one animal is stuffed inside another, a Turducken is made of three layers of fowl, turkey, chicken and duck, each stuffed inside one another, and typically layered with different types of stuffing.

Big Easy Foods in Lake Charles has been making their popular version of Turducken since1999 and now sells over 50,000 annually. Owner Larry Avery says the product grows in popularity each year, a fact he attributes to both the savory taste and the ease of preparation. “It’s a great way to serve a Thanksgiving turkey with stuffing, without having to spend hours of preparation in the kitchen. We’ve done all the work for you.”

Big Easy Foods’ Turducken starts with a partially deboned turkey, which is stuffed with a boneless chicken, duck breasts and two different kinds of stuffing. They offer seven varieties of the product, with different combinations of stuffing. “By the time each turkey is fully stuffed, it weighs in at 15 pounds and will serve 15 – 20 people,” says Avery.

Preparation is easy and involves just opening the package and cooking for a few hours, removing the threading and slicing into delicious servings of flavorful meat and dressing.

Avery says they prepare 500 Turduckens on a normal day at Big Easy Foods, but over the next two months, that will jump by 300 percent to meet the holiday demand.

Big Easy Foods’ Turducken are available at over 18,000 retail outlets across the country. For more information, visit www.bigeasyfoods.com or www.turducken.com.

Thanksgiving is for the Birds

by Kristy Armand

5 great reasons to trust us with your family’s healthcare.Excellence.

*Comparative data reported on Hospital Compare by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Results are from patients who had overnight hospital stays from July 2010 - June 2011.**Women and Children’s Hospital received the award for HealthStream© Excellence Through Insight Award for Inpatient Satisfaction in 2010. HealthStream represents more than 1,100 healthcare facilities nationwide.

1. We have the highest overall patient satisfaction scores in the Lake Charles area, as rated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).*

3. We are the only hospital to receive an Excellence Through Insight Award for Inpatient Satisfaction.**

4. We are nationally ranked among Modern Healthcare’s 2012 Best Places to Work in Healthcare.

5. We are designated as a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence® and have been since 2006.

2. We are the only hospital in the five-parish Southwest Louisiana area with GIFT (Guided Infant Feeding Technique) designation.

Find out more about our scores, national recognitions and quality services

at Women-Childrens.com/Quality.

4200 Nelson Rd., Lake Charles • 337-474-6370

63447_WCH_5Reasons_9x5_4c.indd 1 9/28/12 12:39 PM


Home &Family | Thanksgiving

“Food is such a central part of our holiday gatherings and with so much going on at once, it is easy to make some simple mistakes that can have serious consequences,” says Debbie Gary, LDN, RD, Director of Food and Nutrition Services at Women & Children’s Hospital.

To prevent your holiday gathering from being marked by food poisoning, Gary offers these tips.

Prepping the prep areaYou can reduce germs in your kitchen by cleaning counters and sinks with an antibacterial product after preparing or rinsing food, especially raw meats or unwashed fruits and vegetables, which can carry lots of potential pathogens like salmonella, campylobacter, and E. coli.

“Sanitize sponges by running them through the dishwasher’s drying cycle, which has been shown

to kill 99.9 percent of the bacteria on the sponges,” according to Gary. “Another source of bacteria and germs are your dish towels and rags. Be sure to change them out regularly if they have been contaminated by raw, uncooked foods.

PreventingUnwanted Guests

this Holiday Seasonby Katie Harrington

Every cook wants to be a hero during the holiday season. Uninvited holiday guests can put a damper on every party – and we’re not talking about your in-laws. According to the Centers for Disease

Control, one in six Americans or 48 million people fell victim to a food-borne illness in 2011.


Dr. Hezekiah Sobamowo has joined the Imperial Health physician team. Dr. Sobamowo is board certified and specializes in adult primary care needs and preventative medicine. After earning a medical degree from Ogun State University in Nigeria in 2002, Dr. Sobamowo received extensive training in emergency medical care, critical care and adult primary care needs prior to moving to the United States. Once state-side, he received additional training at Nashville General Hospital in Tennessee and Richmond University Medical Center in New York. He most recently served as a Hospitalist at the Ochsner Clinic in New Orleans.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sobamowo, call (337) 312-8414.

www.imperialhealth.comNew Patients Accepted – Medicare Welcome

Meet the Newest Member of our Medical StaffHezekiah Sobamowo, M.D.

Internal Medicine Physician

Southern Hospitality & “Sweet” Specialty Items

Whole pecansCandied pecans

FudgeCustomized gift baskets

& holiday tinsSend a taste of home anywhere

with our shipping service!

Monday–Friday 10–6Saturday 10–5 • Sunday 12–5

12220 Hwy 171 Longville, LA

337-725-4055www.thibspecancottage.com

Thib’sPecan Cottage

by Katie Harrington

Preparing the bird and stuffingIf your turkey is frozen, be sure to allow a couple of days for it to thaw. “The best way to thaw a frozen turkey is in the refrigerator,” Gary says. “Be sure to place the turkey in a pan to avoid cross contamination with other items in the refrigerator.”

If you are purchasing your turkey fresh, pay close attention to the ‘use by’ date stamped on the packaging.

To cook your turkey, place the raw, stuffed or unstuffed bird, in a preheated oven set to 325 °F or higher. “The minimum safe internal temperature of 165 °F should be met,” adds Gary. “It’s best to

determine this by inserting a calibrated food thermometer into the innermost part of the thigh, the wing and the thickest part of the breast.”

When it comes to stuffing, baking it outside the turkey in a separate casserole dish is the safest method If you plan to use raw meat, poultry or shellfish. It is also important not to mix the wet and dry ingredients of the stuffing together until it is time to spoon it into the turkey.

storing the leftoversA smaller container is better when it comes to storing leftovers, according to Gary. “It’s better to use several smaller containers instead of a few large ones. This allows the food to cool more evenly.” Gary adds that leftovers should immediately be placed into the refrigerator or on ice to cool and not left on the counter.

Leftover poultry should be cut into small pieces and placed into a container separate from the stuffing within two hours of cooking. “It’s best to use refrigerated leftovers within three to four days, or freeze them,” Gary says. “Be sure to reheat your leftovers to a minimum internal temperature of 165 °F.”

By following these simple tips, you can avoid a potential holiday disaster. For more information, call Debbie Gary at 337-475-4128.


Home &Family


It’s all about the bird when preparing the Thanksgiving meal. It’s the center of attention, the main attraction, the star of the show and thankfully, with newer out of the box recipes and cooking methods, no longer just a baked bird.

Today’s turkey is prepped and cooked in ways other than the traditional baked method our mothers and grandmothers mastered over the last 100 years. The holiday turkey varies from North to South. By taking an unofficial survey of friends

and family from Southwest Louisiana, Thrive found that most people never stuffed their own turkeys with rice dressing or cornbread dressing, but instead served those fabulous carbs as a side dish.

Traditional baking methods are time consuming. If you are looking for a quick cooking method, look no further than your crawfish pot and burner; convert it into a giant Fry Daddy, perfect for frying your turkey. Fried turkeys are a southern specialty

Let’s TalkTurkey

The bird, bird, b-bird, the bird is the word! In 2011 nearly 88 percent of Americans ate turkey for

Thanksgiving, meaning that approximately 736 million pounds of turkey were consumed in the good ol’ U.S.A.

on Thanksgiving Day! That’s a lot of turkey!

Continued on p13



SimpleThanksgiving Centerpieces

Create a dazzling centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table using fall bounty and color as your inspiration.

Golden HuesSoft white and golden colors look great in natural lighting. Fill vases with dried white beans, berried branches and golden wheat to add texture to any centerpiece.

Corn and CandlesPlace candles surrounded by dried corn in a plain glass jar. This is a simple and easy way to pay homage to the harvest.

CornucopiaThe classic cornucopia is made up of a palette of soft gray, cream and shades of yellow. Purchase a craft-store horn of plenty basket, line the inside with cream burlap and fill with squash, apples, pears, quince and other bountiful fruits and vegetables.

Nuts and StandsCreate a striking table display by placing silver compotes in varying heights and fill them with nuts, small pinecones or other items found in the grocery store aisles.

Table RunnerFor a refreshing table runner, arrange a line of miniature pumpkins or gourds in the center of the table and weave a double-faced ribbon around them. Top with a bittersweet stem for a blaze of color.

Source: Better Homes & Gardens


and are full of flavor when injected with seasoning. Frying

takes about 3-4 minutes per pound, or about 35-42 minutes for a 10-12 pound turkey as opposed to baking a turkey of the same weight for three to three and a half hours.

If you’re ready to try something different this year, and you know your way around a charcoal grill, throw your big bird on the rack and crank up the heat. Grilling your turkey is not an easy task because you have to maintain the temperature at 350 degrees for the duration of grilling the bird. To do so you must replace the briquettes about every hour. Grilling takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the size of the bird.

For the traditionalist, who just can’t step away from a good old fashioned baked turkey, a new way of baking your bird may be worth a shot. Baking your turkey in a brown paper bag will give your family a crispy-skinned, golden brown and juicy turkey every time. Another way to step up your game if baking is your game plan is to create a seasoned butter mixture and brush it under the skin of your turkey before baking.

Before the holidays arrive, take some time to research which method is best for your household. Be adventurous and step out of the box with something new this year. With so many recipes and cooking options, any way you cook the big bird, your guests are sure to gobble it up.

Let’s Talk Turkey | continued from p11

Turkey RecipesPaper Bag Turkey1 whole turkey, 23-25 pounds 1 large brown paper bag (grocery bag) Butter, soft but not meltedSalt or garlic salt and pepper to taste

Remove neck and giblets from cavities. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels. Stuff, if desired.

Thoroughly coat the turkey with butter using your fingers or a paper towel. Season generously.

Place the turkey in the paper bag. Seal the bag with staples, paper clips or a needle and thread. (Use 2 bags if 1 is too small.)

Place the turkey on a sturdy shallow baking pan. Bake at 325° for about 5 hours. Reduce the cooking time to 4-4 1/2 hours for an unstuffed or smaller turkey.

And no, the paper will not burn, and the turkey will not taste like paper. But you will enjoy all those little gasps of appreciation when you “unwrap” your perfect paper bag turkey.Source: www.greatpartyrecipes.com

Butter-Basted Turkey4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature1 tablespoon fresh thyme leavesSalt and Pepper1 18 pound turkey--rinsed and patted dry, giblets and neck reserved for another use1 large onion, quartered

Position a rack in the lower half of the oven and preheat to 400 degrees . Mash the butter, thyme and 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and fold in the wingtips.

Using your fingers, loosen the skin at the neck end. Grasp the skin with one hand and work in your other hand to loosen the skin down to the thighs and legs.

Spread the butter mixture under the skin, then, working with your hands on top of the skin, spread the butter evenly all over the meat. Season the bird with salt and pepper.

Place the onion inside the cavity, then tie the legs together using kitchen string.

Roast the turkey until it registers 170 degrees on an

instant-read thermometer, about 2 1/2 hours; cover with foil during the last hour to prevent the skin from browning too quickly. Let rest for 20 minutes before carving.Source: www.rachelraymag.com

Delicious

Fried turkey

Butter-basted turkey


800number of clowns in the 2011 parade

nbcnewyork.com

1Santa Clause: The 86th annual

parade will end the way it always

had: With the one-and-only Santa

Claus riding into Herald Square and

kicking off the holiday seasonnbcnewyork.com

3.5 Millionnumber of spectators that will line the parade route

macys.com

2.65 Mileslength of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade route

macys.com

1927year macy’s introduced the world famous giant helium balloonsmacys.com

BY THE NUMBERS

year of the first Macy’s Christmas Day Parade (now known as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade)macys.com

192459number of balloons in the 2011 paradenbcnewyork.com

Did you know that clowns are the only members of the parade who directly interact with spectators?



Stanley Kordisch, M.D.Board-Certified Gynecologist

Member of the Medical Staff at

New location. Same strong commitment to women’s health. Lake Area OB/GYN Associates is pleased to welcome board-certified

gynecologist Stanley Kordisch, M.D., to our practice. For more than

25 years, Dr. Kordisch has provided quality care for the women of our

community. He offers comprehensive gynecological services, including

wellness checkups, family planning, laparoscopic hysterectomies and

other minimally invasive surgical procedures. He is now accepting new

patients. For your appointment with Dr. Kordisch, call 337-562-3747.

4150 Nelson Road, Bldg. G, Suite 6Lake Charles • 337-562-3747

65145_WCH_Kord_3_875x9_875.indd 1 10/18/12 7:17 PM

1. Insert your knife between the center breastbone and one half of the breast meat. Cut down, gently pulling the meat away from the bone.

2. Slice across the bottom of the breast half, separating the breast meat from the thigh meat. Cut down top of the breast half along the wishbone.

3. Remove the breast half and transfer it to a cutting board. Repeat steps one and

two with the other side. Slice the breast meat again the grain (crosswise) and fan onto a platter.

4. Fold the drumstick forward and cut through the joint where the bones separate. Repeat with the other side. Cut the thigh meat away from the body, bending the joint as you did the drumstick to separate it. Slice the meat off the drumstick and remove the bone from the thigh. Slice the dark meat crosswise into pieces.

Turkey Carving MadeYou’ve cooked your Thanksgiving turkey to perfection but now comes the daunting task of carving it up. Follow these four simple steps to carve the perfect turkey.

Easy


Home &Family

Whether you are buying or selling your home, there are questions around every corner. CENTURY 21 Bessette Realty and our staff of experienced agents have the answers. We’ve won numerous awards for superior service, sales excellence and community involvement. That’s what we’ve built our reputation on for over 20 years.

We Have the Keys You Need

474-2185century21-bessette.com

live chatEach office independently owned and operated.

Bessette Realty, Inc.

HuntingSafely

EACH yEAR, MORE THAN 270,000 HUNTERS TAKE TO THE LOUISIANA RICE FIELDS, MARSHLANDS AND WOODS BEFORE DAWN TO HUNT EVERyTHING FROM DEER TO WATERFOWL, HOPING TO HEAD HOME WITH THEIR FAMILy’S NExT MEAL BEFORE THE DAy IS OUT. THESE TRIPS CAN BE A TIME OF GREAT FUN AND ADVENTURE, BUT CAN ALSO BE DANGEROUS IF PROPER PRECAUTIONS ARE NOT TAKEN.

Since states began requiring hunters to complete state-approved hunter education courses, there has been a tremendous decline in the number of hunting-related incidents across the United States, making hunting one of the safest outdoor sports.

Currently, in the state of Louisiana, all hunters born after Sept. 1, 1969, must take and pass the course before they can legally hunt. Once the hunter safety license is acquired, it is good in other states with mandatory hunter education requirements.

Several options are available for those wishing to meet this requirement. The website www.hunter-ed.com offers a Louisiana state-approved online course that allows hunters to complete the classroom requirement in only a few hours. Hunters pay only $15 once they pass the test. Aspiring hunters must be at least 10 years old to take the online course.

After successfully completing the online course, hunters must attend a Hunter Education Field Day provided by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. It is here that they will complete a fire arms handling and field course as well as a second written exam. The next nearest Hunter Education Field Day will be held at the LSU Ag Center in Abbeville on Saturday, December 1, from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.wlf.louisiana.gov.

by Katie Harrington


IMPERIAL CALCASIEUIMAGING

www.imperialhealth.com

You don’t have to wait on the future of healthcare.

We’re delivering it, now. It’s time for a new approach to healthcare; one that puts patients first and allows

doctors to remain independent, with the freedom to offer even more. That’s why over 40 local doctors have formed an exceptional multispecialty group.

We’re working together to deliver care with integrity, compassion and a renewed commitment to excellence. Our goal is to give choices back to our patients.

Our name is new, but we are the doctors you know and trust.

For hunters who have already met their safety course requirements, here are some timely reminders to follow the next time you head out to the blind this fall.

• Everytimeyouseeagun,pickupagunorpoint a gun, assume that it’s loaded.

• Makesureyoursafetyisalwaysonandthatthe barrel is pointing down when you are walking with or transporting your gun.

• Becertainofyourtargetbeforeyoutakeyour shot. That is, make sure that you are shooting at an animal and not a human and that there are no people anywhere near the targeted animal.

• Weartherequiredamountoforangesothat you don’t become another hunter’s target.

• Makesureallanimalsaredeadbeforeyouput them in or strap them onto your vehicle.

• Donotbringsmallchildrenwithyou.• Donotclimbupordownatreeorovera

fence with a loaded gun. Instead, hand your gun to a hunting partner with the safety on and allow them to hand it back to you when you are in position.

• Staysoberanddonottakeanymind-altering drugs before or during your hunting sessions.

• Lookwellbeyondyourtargetbeforeyoushootashigh-poweredammunitioncantravel up to a mile.

• Huntwithabuddy. If you can’t hunt with a buddy, make sure that someone knows where you are, and a time to expect you back.

• Ifusingatreestandtohunt,wearasafetybelt.

• Beforeyoubeginthehuntingseasonand before you use any new or borrowed equipment,makesuretogoovereverything and make sure that it is working properly.

• Storeandtransportammunitionseparatelyfrom your guns.

• Keepbothyourgunsandyourammunitionunder lock and key.

• Nevershootatasoundormovement.• Enjoyyourself!


time is on your sideLife isn’t over at 50, in fact, 50 may just be the new 30. The idea that from midlife on it’s all downhill is as out-of-date as VCRs, cassette tapes, poodle skirts and leisure suits.

Many people dread the thought of aging, worried that their bodies and minds will fail them as they age. This is actually a common myth: the older you get, the sicker you have to be. New research suggests most of the factors that determine whether you will have healthy and successful senior years are in your hands long before your hair starts turning gray.

Aging experts agree that reaching the 50-year milestone signals the beginning of the second half of life, only today’s 50-year-olds have the wisdom, experience, resources and time to make their second 50 their best 50.


Teeth WhiteningCosmetic Dentistry

Crown & BridgeExtractions

implant crownsRoot Canals

DenturesFillings

Dental Emergencies

Michelle E. Swift, DDSCharles S. Mackey, DDS

CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT

337-478-2960MICHELLESWIFTDDS.COM

1333 Oak Park Blvd.Lake Charles, LA

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Just a century ago, the idea of blowing out 100 candles on a birthday cake fit better in the realm of fiction than fact. Life expectancy in the early 1900s in the United States was three decades shorter than it is today. Antibiotics, better sanitation, and improved medical care deserve much of the credit for the increase. The average life expectancy at birth is now over 78 years, according to statistics from the U.S. Census. Even better, the longer you live, the longer you’ll probably live after reaching each successive year. Studies show if you live to celebrate certain milestones of age, your life expectancy actually expands. On average, a 65-year-old would have nearly 18 more years to live, while an 85-year-old would have about six years longer.

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

The results of a landmark study shine new light on what factors impact healthy aging. The Harvard Study

of Adult Development is the longest, most comprehensive examination of aging ever conducted, It began in the 1930s and follow-up is ongoing. A major report was first published a few years ago. Researchers studied several large groups of men and women, following them from adolescence into old age, and seeking clues to the behaviors that translate into happy and healthy longevity.

In many cases, the results were not even what the investigators themselves anticipated. Although some of the ingredients for longevity are genetically determined, the mountains of data gathered from the Harvard study and numerous others about aging show that you control many other factors. Perhaps the biggest surprise identified by the researchers is how much influence personal behavior has on health and life span. Changes that a doctor or a scientist once might have labeled an inevitable part of growing older—such as high blood pressure, creeping weight gain, and significant memory loss or intellectual impairment—are now considered pathology, not biology.

Experts now believe that as much as 75 percent of the factors that control how a person will fare in later life are determined by lifestyle factors such as diet, mental and physical exercise and meaningful existence.

“This means living a long and productive life is within most people’s grasp if they have the knowledge of what to do and the motivation to do it,” says internal medicine physician Hezekiah Sobamowo, M.D., with Imperial Health. “You must have the desire and means to avoid and treat disease, sustain a high level of mental and physical function, and engage actively in life. Successful aging is not simply a matter of genes or fate. There are no guarantees, but staying active and making healthy choices can pave the way for a long, vital life.”

Dr. Sobamowo says one of the biggest misconceptions he hears from patients is the belief that there isn’t much that can be done about your health as you age. “When in actuality, the things we do right at every age and stage of adulthood that will help us as we get older.”

The Harvard study found the following factors to be most predictive of whether you’d move successfully through middle age and into your 80s:• Avoidingcigarettes• Goodadjustmentorcopingskills(makinglemonsoutoflemonade)• Keepingahealthyweight• Exercisingregularly• Maintainingstrongsocialrelationships(includingastablemarriage)• Pursuingeducation;stayingmentallyactive

What many people may be surprised by is the importance of social relationships. Apparently, aging successfully is best done with another person. Whether your social connections are with a spouse, offspring, siblings, neighbors, or friends, these links to other people are critical to good health while growing

surprising secrets for healthy aging by Kristy Armand


older. No one is certain exactly how a social network may help you stay healthy, although some research has shown that men and women who live alone tend to eat less healthily, which could jeopardize their physical and mental well being. Experts say people with social connections also remain more mentally alert with less age-related mental decline than people who were more isolated, which is another key element found among healthy older adults. This might mean anything from simply doing the crossword puzzle to keeping up with current events. Individuals who are always learning something new about the world, maintaining a playful spirit and finding new friends as they lose older ones are more likely to make the most of their aging process.

If the elements of healthy aging aren’t currently a part of your lifestyle, Dr. Sobamowo says this is something you definitely have control over. “Think of it like an investment plan. The earlier you start saving, the better, but regardless of your age, it’s still worth doing. Every one of us can make changes that can move us in the direction of a healthier, longer life.”

Over 12.5 million people had some type of cosmetic procedure last year, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. “Advances in technology, along with the expanding range of non-surgical options has contributed to an increased interest in cosmetic treatments,” according to Mark Crawford, MD, oculoplastic specialist and medical director of the Aesthetic Center in The Eye Clinic

Nearly half of all people having cosmetic procedures fall between the ages of 40 and 54. Coming in a close second are people 55 years and older. This older group had more surgeries, cosmetic procedures and minimally invasive procedures than the younger 20 to 39 age group.

Even more surprisingly, the fastest growing segment of the cosmetic treatment market is the over 65 age group. Statistics show the number of cosmetic surgery patients over 65 has grown more than 352 percent in the past five years

Dr. Crawford says these statistics clearly illustrate the willingness of today’s adults have in using modern tools to minimize the signs of aging. “The stigma once associated with cosmetic procedures has faded, and today’s Baby Boomers are taking advantage of modern technology to look as young as they feel.”

He says the most popular procedures are cosmetic injections to reduce wrinkles and smooth out facial

areas. Noninvasive treatments, including chemical peels and microdermabrasion have also become very popular. “People like these options because they don’t take much time and provide quick results,” says Dr. Crawford. “You can come in over lunch and go right back to work or doing your normal activities.”

Regarding facial cosmetic surgery, Dr. Crawford says the eyelid and brow areas are among the most common areas of the face people want to change after midlife. “These are the most visible areas of the face and also among the first to show the signs of aging. New surgical nuances allow us to correct sagging lids and drooping brows with greater efficiency, restoring a more youthful, rested appearance.”

For more information about facial cosmetic treatment options available at the Aesthetic Center, call 310-1070 or visit www.facehealth.net.

The mythological fountain of youth has remained elusive for centuries, but today, millions of people would swear they have found the next best thing – cosmetic treatments.

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But ageism in the workplace has become a booming problem. For decades, hard-working American Baby Boomers kept their eyes on the prize: retirement. Now that the oldest of the Boomers have passed age 65, they are finding they want to – or need to – continue working. Their employers don’t always agree, and workers over the age of 55 have been especially hard hit in the recent economic downturn. Unemployment among workers 55 and over is at its highest level since the Labor Department began collecting data in 1948. Older workers not only are enduring record-high levels of unemployment, but also stay jobless longer than others, according to the Labor Department, typically taking three months longer to find employment than the average job seeker.

“Great strides have been made in eliminating racism and sexism from the workplace, but ageism is often an overlooked bias,” says Keri Forbess-McCorquodale, MS, CEAP, LPC, LMFT, president of Solutions Counseling and EAP. “Once workers hit 50 or 55, they start to worry about how their age is perceived and whether they will be passed over for a job or promotion, or let go if their company faces cutbacks. In a tighter economy, this problem has become more of an issue.”

She says unlike other types of discrimination, ageism is difficult to identify. Employers often use early-retirement plans, restructuring, and downsizing to cull older workers. Many are denied promotions, terminated and unwillingly ushered into earlier-than-planned retirements.

According to the Sloan Center on Aging & Work at Boston College, age discrimination lawsuits have been increasing dramatically over the last five years, but the cases are difficult to prove because ageism is committed more on a case-by-case basis.

Forbess-McCorquodale says another factor that contributes to ageism in the workplace is our society’s view of age. “We all make jokes about getting older, buy birthday cards that say someone is ‘over the hill.’ There are no societal sanctions against insulting someone’s age, compared to making a negative remark about someone’s sex, religion or race. This makes it much more difficult to eliminate bias in the workplace.”

There are steps older workers can take to minimize the potential for discrimination against them based on their age. A carefully written resume can help. Career experts suggest removing the dates from your education and your

With age, comes wisdom, which should be an asset in the workplace. or so you would think.

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earliest work history. Forbess-McCorquodale says many people believe that you can’t be asked your age during an interview, but that’s a common myth. “It’s not illegal to ask a person’s age; it’s illegal to use a person’s age to discriminate against them in a hiring decision. But again, this is difficult to prove. Keeping your exact age vague on your resume can increase the odds of you being judged on your qualifications and get you in the door for the interview.”

It’s also important for older workers to keep their skills current, particularly when it comes to computer and digital technology. “Seek out opportunities to learn new skills to make sure you don’t lag behind younger co-workers and/or job seekers. This is critical for everyone in the fast-paced world we live in, but even more important when you feel your age might be a negative factor,” says Forbess-McCorquodale.

Perception is everything. “It may be a cliché, but it’s true at every age,” says McCorquodale. “You may be a grandmother, but you don’t have to look or act like one. Fight the stereotype of older workers being outdated, slow, tired and forgetful – whether you’re on the job or interviewing. Appearance counts. Dress the part for whatever position you have and don’t be afraid to change with the times. Be enthusiastic, energetic and willing to do what it takes to get the job done.”

She also advises looking into which companies have hiring friendly policies towards mature workers. Don’t overlook the importance of networking. “This is an advantage you have over younger people. You’ve been out in the world; you know people.”

Fortunately, all is not doom and gloom for older workers. “Older workers have a lot to offer, and many companies realize this. In addition to experience, older workers are typically more reliable, professional and have better writing and communications skills than those just entering the workforce. The key is making sure your employer or prospective employer recognizes that.”


Age 50 or 60 doesn’t necessarily mean a decline in health. Here are more examples: In April, Jamie Moyer, 49, became the oldest pitcher to win a game in the majors. Japanese mountaineer Tamae Watanabe, 73, set a world record in May, becoming the oldest woman to scale Mount Everest. She broke her own record, set when she was 63.

Good nutrition and consistent exercise make a significant impact on aging well. A landmark study in 1998 known as the MacArthur Foundation Study of Aging in America found that successful aging was largely a product of habits and less of heredity. High mental and physical function was one of the three key characteristics consistently found in men and women who were aging successfully.

The researchers followed 1,200 highly functioning Americans between the ages

of 70 and 79, tracking their habits and health. They found that 70 percent of aging is not inheritable. “You are responsible for your own age and how you do; that was probably the landmark finding,” said John W. Rose, MD, president of Mount Sinai Hospital and School of Medicine in New York, and one of the principal researchers in the MacArthur study.

“Exceptionally healthy adults are transforming how America ages,” said Homer Williams, M.D. a family medicine physician with CHRISTUS St. Patrick Medical Group. “For people who have chosen nutritious foods, who have consistently exercised, we’re seeing them continue to be active and engaged in their 60s, 70s and beyond.”

Aging doesn’t have to equal illness and decline. The risk for disease and disability increases with inadequate physical activity and poor diet.

Feeding your body fresh vegetables and fruits that are filled with vitamins, minerals and especially anti-oxidants, will keep your body nourished. “Antioxidants are vitamins C and E, as well as other compounds like polyphenols. These nutrients protect from bacteria, they keep the colon and digestive system working properly, and promote overall good health,” said Dr. Williams.

These powerhouse foods include berries; green, leafy vegetables; yogurt; and bright orange vegetables such as pumpkin, sweet potatoes, carrots and butternut squash.

Exercise is an important factor in keeping bones strong and healthy, improving flexibility and warding off health concerns. Whether it’s an aerobics class, a treadmill, swimming or playing a sport, moving your body for 30 to 45 minutes every day will significantly improve your overall health.

“Balance and flexibility often decline as we age. Staying fit means staying strong. Consistent exercise will help you stay active and avoid the aches and pains that typically happen to older adults. In fact, exercise is one of the recommendations to ease the pain of arthritis,” said Dr. Williams. “Working out helps both your mind and body stay sharp.”

Colin Powell. susan sarandon. steve Martin. Condoleeza rice. no, this isn’t a list of people to invite to your next shin-dig (although, what a party that would be!); these are just a few examples of people over the age of 55 who continue to re-write the manual on aging.

fitness and nutrition: key components to aging well

by Christine Fisher


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“A man is but the product of his thoughts. What he thinks, he becomes.” ~ Mahatma Ghandi

think better, feel betterby Christine Fisher


The way you think affects the way you act and feel. People who dread aging usually end up in a general downward spiral. People who cultivate friendships have a positive outlook, and continue to actively learn and remain engaged in life usually lead independent, full lives, according to researchers from Pew Research Center.

The secret is to not think of yourself as old and frail. In a seven-year study of over 1,500 healthy seniors, those with positive attitudes were much less likely than the pessimists to show signs of frailty as they aged.

“Your thoughts can dramatically affect your outlook,” said Mickey Shannon, M.Ed., co-owner and CEO of Resource Management Services, a local mental health agency serving children and adults. “Focusing on the good in your life can build resilience in times of stress or grief. People who are optimistic and thankful have fewer bouts with sickness and are overall healthier people. Feeling good about yourself has a protective effect on both your mind and your body. A good attitude can help you recover faster after an illness or surgery.”

She continued, “It is important for older adults to enjoy the positives of now, refusing to get caught up in pessimism resulting from fear of the future or focusing on everything that could go wrong. Fear creates a burdensome stress that deprives today of its joy.”

It may help to know that people who are currently 65 or older are reporting that life is better than they thought it would be. The Pew study found these facts about people 65 and older:• Sixin10saidtheyfeltyoungerthantheir

age.• Sevenin10saytheyenjoymoretimewith

family.• Twooutofthreesaytheyaremore

financially secure now.• Sixin10saytheyfeellessstressedthan

when they were younger.• Forty-fivepercentsaytheirlivesare

turningoutbetterthantheyexpected.

A positive attitude results in magnetizing others to enjoy your company, draw from your energy and reap the same fulfillment in life. “Find something about which you can be passionate. Do those things that infuse you with positivity and give yourself the gift of avoiding people who drain you. Attitude is a choice. Everyday is a new opportunity to live your life to the fullest. Count your blessings, not your aches and pains,” said Shannon.

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as the Baby Boomer population reaches their 70s and beyond, more and more children are faced with having to care for their aging parents. Home care, hospice,

assisted living facilities and decisions about pre-planning funerals can seem daunting and overwhelming. Our Caregiver’s guide offers up tips and advice on

how to handle these difficult decisions and more.

a Caregiver’s guide


dealing with the stages of alzheimersaccording to the alzheimer’s association, 2012 alzheimer’s disease Facts and Figures report, Louisiana is home to 83,000 people living with alzheimer’s and more than 224,000 caregivers. Behind every statistic there is a person, and that person has family and friends who are often tasked with the time consuming and emotional caregiving tasks that alzheimer’s introduces into their lives. Therefore, the need for education, information and supportive services is critical.

There are three main stages of Alzheimer’s disease but since no two people experience Alzheimer’s alike, the symptoms and the degree of assistance needed from a caregiver in each stage varies. “Early stage” refers to people, irrespective of age, who are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or related disorders and are in the beginning stages of the disease. A person in the early stages may experience mild changes in the ability to think and learn, but he or she continues to participate in daily activities and give-and-take dialogue. In the early stages, a caregiver’s role is one of support, love and companionship.

During the middle stages of Alzheimer’s, damage to the brain can make it difficult to express thoughts and perform routine tasks. Being a caregiver for someone in the middle stages of Alzheimer’s requires flexibility and patience. The Alzheimer’s Association offers educational workshops and resources that can provide you with the caregiving skills needed to deal with changing needs of someone in this stage of the disease.

The late stage of Alzheimer’s disease may last from several weeks to several years. As the disease advances, intensive, around-the-clock care is usually required. During the late stages, the caregiver’s role focuses on preserving quality of life and dignity. Since care needs are extensive during the late stage, they may exceed what you can provide at home, even with additional assistance. This may mean moving the person into a facility in order to get the care needed.

For individuals with the disease, family caregivers, professional caregivers, and all those interested in assistance and information, the Alzheimer’s Association offers a variety of services that provide reliable information and support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A toll-free, 24/7 helpline (800-272-3900) has highly-trained and knowledgeable staff to serve people with memory loss, caregivers, health care professionals and the public. Furthermore, the Alzheimer’s Association offers caregivers several options for support groups. Their new telephone support group is available for those family members and caregivers who can’t attend a support group meeting in person but still need the assistance and engagement from other caregivers dealing with Alzheimer’s. The telephone support group meets regularly and is open for new members. Call the helpline at 1-800-272-3900 to enroll today. Also, the Emeritus Senior Living facility offers an Alzheimer’s Association support group. For more information on this support group, please call

Emeritus Senior Living in Lake Charles at 337-478-4030. For more information about the Alzheimer’s

Association, Louisiana, visit www.alz.org/louisiana. There you can access a virtual research library, community message boards, a calendar of various educational events hosted throughout the state, as well as find information about how you can get involved by volunteering and donating.

Source: Louisiana Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association

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Being a responsible Financial Caregiver

Care in the Home

Millions of people serve as caregivers for their elderly parents or other family members; for many, this includes taking responsibility of the finances – paying bills, maintaining bank statements, filing taxes, handling investments, keeping track of money coming in and money going out. Having control over someone else’s finances while still trying to keep control of your own life can be a daunting and exhausting task. if you don’t live in the same town, it can be even more overwhelming.

There is no ‘easy fix’ to make this task stress-free, but there are things caregivers can do to make the job easier and more efficient, according to Mike Harmison, President and CEO of Lakeside Bank.

“As far as paying bills go, that can be taken care of fairly simply by enrolling in direct deposit and automatic bill pay. Most payments are available through direct deposit. It’s safer and more secure. Automatic bill pay allows for payments to be drawn from the checking account on a specified date. Even though both these methods are automatic once enrolled, it’s important to still balance the account and keep regular tabs on the bank statements,” Harmison says.

Also, keep all financial documents organized and accessible. If you live away from the person whose finances you’re caring for, make sure there are copies of all the financial documents in the individual’s house and make sure someone else knows where they are, preferably another trusted family member. Statements that need to be collected in one organized area include insurance policies, wills, credit card and bank statements, and Social Security and Medicare records.

“If there is a trusted family member who lives in the same town, consider a durable power of attorney, which gives more than one person the authority to handle finances or other personal matters,” Harmison says.

Make sure your loved one has a living will, which gives instructions about future medical care. A living will gives specific instructions on what they want or don’t want in a situation where they are unable to communicate. It’s also wise to ask the person who they want to serve as their

health care power of attorney. In many cases it’s the same person who handles the finances, but there may be special circumstances in which they would prefer one person to handle the money and another person to make decisions about health care.

Another important tip for caregivers is to keep their eyes and ears open for potential frauds. The elderly are one of the most vulnerable groups when it comes to cons and scams. These scams can be caused by everyone from relatives to contractors. If your loved one is talking about hiring a new roofer or mentions a friend or family member who is inexplicably dropping by and discussing financial matters, you should double-check that everything is what it appears to be. Harmison says this is just one of many reasons why you should keep in close contact with your loved one, particularly if you are responsible for monitoring or managing their finances.

“Assuming this type of role for someone is a big responsibility, especially if the financial situation is substantial and complicated,” he added. “It’s a good idea in this situation to ask your trusted banker for guidance.”

According to a 2007 report from the Centers for Disease Control, 1.5 million people over the age of 65 sought the services of a homecare agency for at least one day. These numbers have risen in recent years and will continue to do so as a result of longer life expectancies and an aging baby boomer population.

Services commonly received include skilled nursing services, physical therapy, and assistance with the activities of daily living, homemaker services, occupational therapy, wound care and dietary counseling, according to 2012 Natural Health statistics.

The National Association of Homecare & Hospice offers these tips for selecting a homecare agency.• Howlonghastheproviderbeenservingthe

community?• Dotheysupplyliteratureexplainingtheir

services,eligibilityrequirements,feesandfunding sources?

• Howaretheemployeesselectedandtrained?Are nurses or therapists required to evaluate the patient’s home care needs? If so, what does this entail?

• Dotheyconsultthepatient’sphysiciansandfamily members?

• Arethepatientandhisorherfamilymembersincluded in developing the plan of care? Are they involved in making care plan changes?

• Isthepatient’scourseoftreatmentdocumented, detailing the specific tasks to be carried out by each professional caregiver? Does the patient and his or her family receive a copy of this plan, and do the caregivers update it as changes occur? Do they take time to educate family members on the care being administered

to the patient?• Doestheproviderassignsupervisorsto

overseethequalityofcarepatientsarereceiving in their homes? If so, how often do these individuals make visits? Who can the patient and his or her family members call with questions or complaints? How does the agency follow up on and resolve problems?

• Whatproceduresdoestheproviderhaveinplace to handle emergencies? Are its caregivers available 24 hours a day, seven days a week?

For more information or to find a local provider,visit www.nahc.org.

by Kristy Armand

by Katie Harrington


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Key Warning sign an aging relative May be in Troubleduring a weekend visit at his father’s house, a man opens the refrigerator and finds spoiled milk that is weeks past the expiration date, along with a stack of mail from the month before.

A woman stops by to visit her great aunt and notices several completely full prescription bottles of medicine on the cabinet. When she asks her aunt if she is taking her medication as prescribed, she looks confused and replies that she doesn’t really need the pills.

The details change from family to family, but the story is a familiar. People today are living longer, and many adult children find themselves in the caregiver role for elderly parents or other family members. An aging family member may say they are doing just fine, but certain observations raise some red flags. How do you know when an elderly adult may really need help?

“The key is to look for changes,” says Amanda LaComb, MD, family physician on staff with Jennings American Legion Hospital. “If you are in regular contact with your elderly family member, be alert for changes in appearance and behavior, which could mean a number of things. It could be the individual needs to see a doctor to for an exam or to have their medications adjusted. It could mean that they are suffering from depression and need treatment for that. Changes could be a sign of illness, increasing forgetfulness, or a deceasing ability to handle all of the daily chores involved in living independently.”

Dr. LaComb adds that seeing unusual behavior from time to time is not necessarily cause for alarm, but if you see a pattern of behavior changes, it’s time to intervene and talk to the them. She says there are several key warning signs that could indicate a serious problem:

Weight loss or weight gain. When an elderly person loses weight without even trying, it could be a symptom of depression or another illness. A significant weight gain could also indicate the person is not eating a nutritious diet or getting enough physical activity.

Neglects personal grooming. If your loved one is wearing dirty clothes, has bad breath or body odor, or forgets brush their teeth or hair, they may need help, especially if the person has always been conscious of his appearance.

Neglects home. If they’ve always kept a neat and clean home, and you suddenly notice signs of dirt and clutter, this is cause for concern.

Spoiledfood,orlackofadequatefoodinthehouse.This could be a sign that your loved one is growing forgetful, is incapable of shopping or cooking on their own, or that they have lost their appetite.

Stacks of unopened mail or unread newspapers. Piles of unopened mail or stacks of untouched newspapers may signal forgetfulness, confusion, or lack of interest in daily living details.

Unusual physical problems. Burns or bruises may be signs of forgetfulness or possibly problems with medication or alcohol. It’s also important to take note of how they are managing chronic diseases, such as high blood pressure or arthritis, that may affect their ability to live independently. Falling or dizziness are also symptoms of a variety of potential medical problems.

“If you do see any of these more common signs of trouble, or any other symptoms that concern you, it may be time to make an appointment for an assessment with your loved one’s physician,” says Dr. LaComb. “They can conduct a comprehensive physical evaluation and let you know if there are any health problems that need to be addressed. The physician can also recommend any additional testing, and provide referrals to any other resources they feel are needed, such as home health or daily living assistance.”

by Kristy Armand


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Andrew BellardOwner/President

Locally owned Bonded and InsuredPersonal and Caring Assistance

Pre-planning Your eternal FutureNo one wants to think about dying, much less plan what will happen when they do. The reality, though, is that pre-planning your funeral can be a liberating experience, and the loved ones you leave behind will appreciate it.

“Unfortunately, death is a fact of life and there is no way to avoid it,” says Jody Barrilleaux with Hixson Funeral Homes. “By pre-planning your funeral, you prevent your family from having to make major decisions during a time of great sorrow and stress.”

Pre-planning, when done properly, can provide you peace of mind, because once all of the details are handled, you can rest easy knowing that all of your arrangements are complete and funded.

“Pre-planning allows you to do several things,” says Kyle Ardoin with Lakeside Funeral Home in Lake Charles. “You are able to make your wishes known during a time of peace; you can control the cost of your funeral and protect it from inflation; and you ensure that your personal records are organized and easy to locate for your survivors.”

As overwhelming as the task may seem, pre-planning a funeral really involves a few simple steps, according to Barrilleaux and Ardoin.

“Today’s funerals are more about celebrating life than mourning death,” Barrilleaux says. “Funerals provide closure to the family left behind and since every person’s life if different, their funeral should be just as unique.”

The first step to pre-planning is to make sure you have an updated will in place. Whether you have a large estate or a small one, it’s best to clearly spell out how you want your assets to be distributed. Make sure you’ve signed your will and it is witnessed by two people. You will also need to appoint an executor and provide them or your lawyer with a copy of the final will.

After your will is complete and in a safe place, it is time to select your funeral home.

“It’s important to shop around and compare not only prices but also services offered before selecting a funeral home,” says Ardoin. “Many

people select a funeral home based on family tradition, but costs on things like caskets and associated professional services can vary greatly. It’s important to find a good balance between getting your needs and wants met and being able to afford it all.”

There are several types of services available so it’s important to make your preference known.

“Depending on religious background and family tradition, you may want to have a wake and a rosary service followed by a Mass and then burial,” adds Barrilleaux. “You also need to arrange for a final resting place. If you are going to be cremated, you need to specify what you would like to have done with the ashes. If you want to donate your organs to others or your body to science, make sure you have a donor card and have looked into the requirements for this.”

It’s also a good idea to state whether or not you would like a eulogy given or special memories shared by those attending your service.

“Options range from having a member of your clergy perform a service to having a special friend or loved one give your eulogy,” Ardoin adds. “If you would rather have a simple memorial service in your church or home of a family member or friend, make this wish known as well.”

Once all of your affairs are in order and all of your planning is complete, it’s time to tally the final cost and decide how to pay for it all. Options range from prepaying with your savings account to having the money deducted from a trust or life-insurance policy after your passing.

For more information, call Hixson Funeral Home at (337) 439-2466 or Lakeside Funeral Home at (337) 656-2628.

by Katie Harrington

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127 Williamsburg Street • Lake Charles, LA 70605 337-474-3743 (local) • 800-267-5634 (toll free) [email protected] • www.SouthernCareHospice.com


a salute to Hospice Workers

Taking Care of the Caregiver

When a loved one is faced with a terminal illness and there is nothing more that can medically be done for them, a special group of caregivers stand ready to step in and make their last days as comfortable as possible.

Caregivers may need to take a little of their own advice. as they care for their loved ones, it’s easy to lose a sense of themselves in the process. “They’re busy making sure things are just right for their loved one, they forget to check in with themselves,” said Brian gamborg, Md, family medicine physician with gamborg and Cavanaugh Family Medicine and the medical director of The Home Health agency of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital.

The hospice care concept finds its roots in medieval times and symbolizes a place where travelers, pilgrims and the sick, wounded or dying could find rest and comfort. Modern-day hospice offers a comprehensive program of care to patients and families who face a life-threatening illness.

“Hospice emphasizes palliative rather than curative treatment or quality of care rather than quantity of life,” says Leslie Cubbage, executive director with Southern Care Hospice in Lake Charles. “With hospice both the patient and their family are included in the program and emotional, spiritual and practical support is given based on the patient’s wishes and family’s needs.”

The overarching goal of hospice is to affirm life and help patients and families come to terms with the impending

death of a loved one.“Hospice neither speeds up nor postpones death,”

Cubbage says. “Our goal is to simply provide personalized services and a caring community so patients and their families can better cope with what is to come. Whether it’s cooking meals, helping with everyday hygiene or just simply providing companionship, hospice workers are a soothing, calming presence within the home.”

According to Cubbage, each patient has a unique set of needs that must be met so there is no set formula for hospice care. “We work to be sensitive and responsive to the requirements of each individual and family.”

For more information on hospice care, call Southern Care Hospice at (337) 474-3743.

The number of people who care for a chronically ill, disabled or aging family member is astounding: more than 65 million, or almost 30 percent of the U.S. population. They spend an average of 20 hours per week caring for their loved one, which can include buying groceries, running errands, managing mediation, going to the doctor, bathing, feeding and grooming, according to the National Alliance for Caregiving in collaboration with the American Association of Retired Persons.

The same Alliance for Caregiving also estimated that the value of the services that family caregivers provide is about $375 billion a year.

Caregiving, no matter how noble the intention, can be stressful. “It often falls on one person to manage the needs of the older adult; this could range from their daily meals to providing emotional support. There are times when it is physically and emotionally draining,” said Dr. Gamborg. “Home health care can ease the burden when it comes to many of the activities of daily living, such as bathing, grooming and medication management. Our staff works with the patient and the family to ensure the needs are met. It gives the caregiver a little respite. For those without home health services to rely on, caregivers should be aware of the potential problems that often occur in the process of caregiving.”

Caregiving can often be rewarding for the caregiver, as they selflessly work to make life better for one they love, but it can also be a time of high stress. While many factors contribute to this, the amount of energy the caregiver puts into maintaining his or her own health plays a significant role.

“Many caregivers end up being stressed out, frustrated and dealing with their own health issues,” Dr. Gamborg said. “Stress is often a result of continuous caregiving when there aren’t boundaries set in place.”

Stress symptoms can be varied, depending on the person. Common signs of chronic stress include:• Fatigueandexhaustion• Anger• Bodyaches• Recurringcoldsandflu• Troublesleeping• Depression• Frequentheadaches

If stress is not dealt with, it can lead to more serious health problems, such as heart disease or depression. A sense of sadness and burden is also frequently cited among caregivers.

“Caregiving can be consuming. It can take every minute you have, but we all need a break. Caregivers need to take time off and know their loved one is in good hands, whether it’s another family member, a friend, a home health agency, or someone in their church. You have to take time for yourself so you can enjoy your life and have something left to give back,” Dr. Gamborg said.

It’s important to relax, enjoy time with friends, and ask for additional help so that one person isn’t shouldering the burden alone.

Here are tips to help caregivers:

• Stayasorganizedaspossible,from medications to doctors’ appointments. Writing everything down on a calendar or a notebook will help you stay on schedule and hopefully avoid a stress-inducing crisis.

by Katie Harrington

by Christine Fisher


It’s All About Helping People.®

LHCgroup.com

© 2012, LHC Group Inc. All rights reserved.

HOME.We bringhealing

At Southern Home Health, it’s all about helping people. Our local professionals work together every day to deliver the high-quality home health care you need.

Call us today to learn more about health care in the comfort of home.

Lake CharlesPhone: 337.479.2233Toll free: 877.479.2233

DeQuincy Phone: 337.786.8231Toll free: 888.241.8231

• Askforhelp,morethanonce.People are often willing to help, but they don’t know what to do and they don’t want to create more work for you. Caregiving can be done in many different ways: cooking several meals, chauffeuring to the hairdresser, managing finances, etc. Let interested parties know how they might help.

• Dosomethingyouenjoy. Whether it’s a long walk, getting a massage, reading a book or getting coffee with a friend, schedule time for yourself every week, if possible. It will give you something to look forward to.

• Attitudeiseverything.Approaching your caregiving tasks with the right attitude can make a significant difference. If you’re low on energy, you’ll be more easily frustrated, which can lead to stress.

The main thing is to remember that caregivers also require care. If you are providing consistent care for a loved one, remember to take time for yourself. It’ll help you maintain your mental and physical health as well as provide the best care possible for your loved one.


Money &Career

Every Season is Tax Prep Season

by Ann McMurry


People may think tax season begins on Jan. 1 in anticipation of the April 15 deadline for federal filing income tax returns, but a Lake Charles CPA said if you do it right, it’s actually a year-long process.

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sfinancialfcu.org • 337.437.3994

“Preparation for tax season should take place throughout the year when accumulating receipts and data for all aspects of your tax return,” said Suzanne Walker, certified public accountant and a manager with McElroy, Quirk & Burch, APC. She suggested maintaining a mileage log to support employee business expenses, collecting charitable donation receipts for itemized deductions, and establishing and maintaining a filing system – manual or computerized – for any Schedule C businesses, farm activity, or rental property.

“In so many cases, persons tend to delay their tax data gathering until the last minute,” Walker said. “This creates the need to file an extension and make a tax payment, based on estimated income and expenses.”

The 2012 extension deadline was Oct. 15 and Walker said there are a significant number of returns that are filed at that time. In some instances, the extensions were the result of S corporation, partnership, and trust K-1s that had a Sept. 15 deadline. There may be other valid reasons for filing that extension, but in some cases, taxpayers may simply procrastinate.

While the Oct. 15 date isn’t as hectic as the April 15 deadline, it is still busy for tax preparers. Walker said people were contacting the MQB office as late as Friday prior to the Monday, Oct. 15, deadline, wanting the company to accept them as new clients. They had filed their extensions, but wanted the CPA firm to work toward getting their tax returns filed by Oct. 15.

“The solution would be to establish an accounting and filing system that could be maintained throughout the year,” Walker suggested. In addition to the Schedule C business activities that could be tracked, it would also be beneficial for maintaining records of itemized deductions and investment sales transactions.

“Keeping income and expenses close at hand in a real-time environment allows a taxpayer a better understanding of his or her tax picture, especially if the need arises to pay quarterly estimated tax payments,” Walker said.

Other tax tips suggested by Walker include:• Charitablecontributionsmustbemadebythe

end of the year, but IRA contributions may be made up until the filing deadline of the return –notincludingextensions. When dealing with IRA plans, one needs to consider the calculation and payout of a RMD – or Required Minimum Distribution. Once the taxpayer reaches the age of 70 ½, the distribution must be made by Dec. 31 of each year following the year of the initial RMD.

• Fortaxpayerswhohaven’taccumulatedtaxdata throughout the year, yearend is a good time to begin pulling together supporting documents, including donation receipts, yearend paycheck stubs, social security numbers of new dependents, and investment sales/purchase documents.

• Iftaxpayersarepreparingtheirowntaxreturns, they should watch for newspaper articlesreferencingtaxlawchangesforthe2012 returns as well as any local workshops and seminars offered to the general public.

“This year especially is proving to be very hard to plan,” Walker said. With the fall elections, tax planning was in a wait-and-see mode.

“The best thought would be to review the tax incentives due to expire at the end of 2012 and consider what might possibly be ahead to replace them in 2013,” she said, adding that the IRS website offers good information for taxpayers who are filing their own returns.

by Ann McMurry


Money &Career

What to Buy NewFor the most part, you can save a lot of money without sacrificing quality by

purchasing many things used. In fact, it may change your life.

Here are 6 things you can save money on and still get great value from when you buy them used.15

62

3

Cars – We’ve all heard it before; cars depreciate the second you drive them off the lot. According to Edmunds.com, that’s a true statement. They revealed that new cars lose 12 percent of their value the second you drive away. By buying used, you can save thousands of dollars.

College Textbooks – The high price of college textbooks makes buying used especially attractive. Fortunately, you can save even more by finding a textbook exchange to buy and resell your books back when you’re finished.

Formal Wear– You should never pay full price for something that you’ll only wear once, but nowadays, there are thrift stores and websites that offer discounts on gently used gowns and accessories.

Maternity and Baby Clothes – Compared to everyday outfits that can be worn any time, maternity clothes don’t get much wear outside the few months of pregnancy when they fit. The same goes for baby clothes that are quickly outgrown. You can save quite a bit of money by purchasing used maternity and baby clothes at yard sales and thrift stores.

4

Jewelry – Instead of paying full price for a new ring or necklace, browse your local pawn or antique shop. They have amazing deals on gorgeous pieces of jewelry at discounted prices. Just make sure the store has a good reputation and has been in business for a while.

Not

Recreational Toys – From boats to RVs and four wheelers, buying used makes sense for a number of reasons. They are expensive when bought new, they depreciate rapidly, and if someone is selling, they may not have had the free time to use it very much.


FIGHT PANCREATIC CANCER!

www.purplestride.org/lakearea

2 Mile Awareness WalkPlus raffle, silent auction, children’s activities and more!

December 8, 2012 • 7:00 a.m.Prien Lake Park

Black Friday App Browse by product category or view ads from major retailers. You can save your favorites and share them with friends via social media outlets like Facebook and Twitter. Available on iPhone and Android devices.

redlaserThis handy app allows you to scan the barcode of an item to see if a nearby retailer or online outlet store is selling it for less. You can then purchase it directly from your phone. Available on iPhone, Android and Windows phones.

TGi Black FridayUse this app toe search thousands of Black Friday deals being offered by major stores or sign up for real-time updates. Availble on iPhone and Android devices.

shopping by The FindCreate a shopping list that syncs with TheFind.com. You can shop from your computer or phone with TheFind or set price alerts. Available on iPhone and Android.

steal of a DealSnagging great Black Friday deals is second only to turkey, pumpkin pie, football and family when it comes to Thanksgiving Day favorites. While there are a lot of great bargains to be found, not all of

them are worth the early wake-up call or fighting through crowds of people.

These free Black Friday apps can help you find the best deals while you are out and about.


WCCH Opens New Urology Clinic in Sulphur West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital announces the opening of Urology Clinic of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, under the medical direction of Thomas P. Alderson, MD, FAC, urologist. For more information, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Alderson, call (337) 527-6363.

CSE Named One of the Strongest Credit Unions in the NationCSE Federal Credit Union received a 5-Star Rating from BauerFinancial, Inc. for the 75th consecutive quarter. For more than 18 years, CSE FCU has excelled in areas of capital, asset quality and profitability. For more information, call (800) 625-5747.

Tony Chachere’s to Launch “Bold” SeasoningLouisiana will be the launch site for Tony Chachere’s newest product—Bold Seasoning, Bold is the first new seasoning blend released by the company in more than 20 years, and its spiciest blend to date. The seasoning is available in most Louisiana stores this month and online at http://www.tonychachere.com/.

Women & Children’s Hospital ReceivesTobacco-FreeHealthCareGrantWomen & Children’s Hospital (WCH) is the recipient of the 2012 Tobacco-Free Health Care Project grant, awarded by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals Tobacco Control Program

and its partner, Southwest Louisiana Area Health Education Center (Southwest Louisiana AHEC). WCH will receive $150,000 over a 30-month period to implement research-based strategies for comprehensive tobacco prevention, control and awareness. The grant is funded through a federal grant from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Program initiatives include eliminating nonsmokers’ exposure to secondhand smoke, promoting tobacco cessation, reducing tobacco-related health disparities, and preventing youth initiation of tobacco use. Students and community members will have access to the program literature and will be invited to participate in numerous events throughout the 3-year term.

City of Lake Charles Department of Community Development and Services Publishes Helpful Materials The City of Lake Charles Department of Community Development and Services is distributing two lists to help individuals and families in the Southwest Louisiana area link with local agencies and organizations. Your Guide to Community Connections is a brochure containing information about fulfilling immediate needs such as housing, food, clothing, counseling, support and education. Community & Family Resource Guide of Southwest Louisiana, compiled by the Leadership Team for Community Diversity and the Education and Youth Development Committee, is a more comprehensive booklet containing information about topics including education, emergency preparedness and recovery, employment, family support, health, housing, legal assistance, recreation, special needs, volunteerism and youth services.

myPhoneMD Smartphone Repair Store Opens in Lake CharlesOne of the nation’s fastest growing smartphone repair center chains, myPhoneMD, recently opened its Lake Charles store at 630 W. Prien Lake Road (in front of Prien Lake Mall, near Men’s Wearhouse).

myPhoneMD repair technicians provide service for Apple, Blackberry, HTC, Samsung, Motorola and other smart phone devices, as well as additional products including iPad and iPod. myPhoneMD provides business services for companies wishing to reconnect their staff with their mobile communications devices.

All you need to know to stay in the know!

Money &Career

Thomas P. Alderson, MD

Tobacco-Free Education Staff from l-r: WCH staff members Christine Bergeron, NNP and Sandra Priest, NNP display a wide range of tobacco products from the U.S. and around the world.

The way banking should be.

Migrate, then Navigate to our New Website.

LakesideBanking.com


Women & Children’s Hospital Named a 2012 Best Places to Work in Healthcare Modern Healthcare recently announced its fifth annual list of the Best Places to Work in Healthcare and Women & Children’s Hospital (WCH) has been named one of the top 100 healthcare employers across the nation.

WCH staff members pose for a photo to celebrate their Best Places to Work designation. Standing from left to right: MaxineDion,LaurieMayeaux,PatDavid,CEOBryanS.Bateman, Scott Rider, Kevin Gobert, CQO Kathy Armentor and LataniaRamirez.Kneeling from left to right: Keith Guillory, Daphne Marti, Deidre Bath and ChristinaKratz.

JeffDavisBankReachesTermstoAcquireGuarantyBankJeff Davis Bancshares, Inc. and Guaranty Capital Corporation (“GCC”), the holding company of Guaranty Bank based in Mamou, Louisiana, announced the signing of a definitive agreement for JD Bancshares to acquire GCC and Guaranty Bank by merger. Following the merger, JD Bancshares’ subsidiary, Jeff Davis Bank & Trust (JD Bank), will add four branches to its footprint, as well as approximately $145.5 million in assets and $128.9 million in deposits. Upon combination of the southwest Louisiana-based banks, JD Bank will have approximately $704 million in total assets and $614 million in deposits.

OLQH School Plans Campus Improvements Our Lady Queen of Heaven School recently launched a capital campaign to “prepare the school for the next generations of students,” said the Rev. Msgr. James Gaddy, pastor of Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church.

The Cornerstone Capital Campaign will raise funds to construct a new middle-school building and a new early-childhood center, renovate existing buildings, and consolidate

all pre-kindergarten through 8th-grade classes on the main campus west of Creole Street.

School kids with campaign sign. Pictured left to right, clockwise from Grace Jester with hands on hips, Jake Hanks, Meredith Henning, Haley Beth Cain, Gus Milligan, Abby Zembower, Grant Mathieu, Anna Watson, James Thompson, Sophie Stine, Charlie Ehlers, Catherine Weise, Landen Eason and Charlie Drost.

All you need to know to stay in the know!

Many businesses and individuals throughout Louisiana may qualify for compensation in the BP settlement.

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION.

SOME EFFECTS OF THE BP OIL SPILL ARE EASILY RECOGNIZED;

OTHERS, SUCH AS BUSINESS ECONOMIC LOSSES, ARE NOT.

MATT LUNDYAttorney

LUNDY, LUNDY, SOILEAU & SOUTH, LLP

(800) 259-1005 • (337) 439-0707501 Broad Street, Lake Charles

Serving Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi and Arkansas

www.lundylawllp.com

Architect’s drawing of new middle school building.


www.iberiabank.com |

Phil EarhartSouthwest Louisiana President,

IBERIABANK

Lisa Verrette President & CEO,

Community Foundation of Southwest Louisiana

Denise DurelPresident & CEO,

United Way of Southwest Louisiana

Dan EllenderExecutive Director,

The Children’s Museum

Kayla RigneyExecutive Director,

Calcasieu Community Clinic

Leif Pedersen Senior Vice President of Philanthropy,

The Foundation at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital Jason Martinez

Business Banking Relationship Manager, IBERIABANK;

Allocation & Review Committee, United Way of Southwest Louisiana

Karen DrewettCommercial Relationship

Manager, IBERIABANK; Chairman of the Board, The Foundation at Lake

Charles Memorial Hospital

Patricia Prudhomme: Director, Banners Cultural Series

Julio GalanExecutive Director, Family Foundation

George SwiftPresident & CEO, SWLA Economic

Development Alliance

Dr. Phil Williams President,

McNeese State University

Moolah MallardIBERIABANK’s Kids Savings Club Mascott

Amanda McElveen President, Junior League

of Lake Charles, Inc.

RowdyMcNeese State University

Mascott

Leading the Way in Southwest Louisiana


www.iberiabank.com |

Phil EarhartSouthwest Louisiana President,

IBERIABANK

Lisa Verrette President & CEO,

Community Foundation of Southwest Louisiana

Denise DurelPresident & CEO,

United Way of Southwest Louisiana

Dan EllenderExecutive Director,

The Children’s Museum

Kayla RigneyExecutive Director,

Calcasieu Community Clinic

Leif Pedersen Senior Vice President of Philanthropy,

The Foundation at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital Jason Martinez

Business Banking Relationship Manager, IBERIABANK;

Allocation & Review Committee, United Way of Southwest Louisiana

Karen DrewettCommercial Relationship

Manager, IBERIABANK; Chairman of the Board, The Foundation at Lake

Charles Memorial Hospital

Patricia Prudhomme: Director, Banners Cultural Series

Julio GalanExecutive Director, Family Foundation

George SwiftPresident & CEO, SWLA Economic

Development Alliance

Dr. Phil Williams President,

McNeese State University

Moolah MallardIBERIABANK’s Kids Savings Club Mascott

Amanda McElveen President, Junior League

of Lake Charles, Inc.

RowdyMcNeese State University

Mascott

Leading the Way in Southwest Louisiana


first personwith Gray stream

story and photo by Brett Downer

First Person is a monthly Q&A that features compelling people who excel in their chosen endeavors. Ideas for future Q&As? Email [email protected].

Places &Faces


is the president of the ever-growing Graywood master-planned community and the vice president of the Stream Companies, a family office of diverse private enterprises. He is the chairman of board of the National Hurricane Museum & Science Center, a transformational project intended for the eastern shoreline of the lakefront.

He is also a member of the Louisiana Committee of 100 for Economic Development. Before returning to Lake Charles to take leadership positions in his family’s business interests, he worked for the 7th Congressional District in Washington, D.C.

He shared his thoughts on civic, business and economic topics during a wide-ranging conversation with Thrive at his home and office on Shell Beach Drive. He spoke with optimism about Southwest Louisiana’s economic outlook and enthusiasm for the National Hurricane Museum effort. Here are some of his thoughts.

The National Hurricane Museum & Science Center project would be a major attraction in Lake Charles. What are its greatest benefits to both local residents and visitors?Education would really be the baseline mission. The museum’s meant to have utility on several levels. For one, it’s meant to have an industry utility, as far as preparation and recovery from storms, which plays into storm-impacted industries like oil and gas. It can create, consolidate and disseminate the kind of educational information that can save lives and prevent property losses and property damage by making people better educated and better prepared. The other level is its application to math- and science-based education. The lessons to be learned are robust and complex. There’s an awful lot of meat there to take away; it involves a lot of different sciences. We’re trying to create an enrichment, an enhancement, to the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics ) learning philosophy. The third level is the historical and social education about the real impact of these events – remembrances of the sometimes tragic impact of them; how they have literally reshaped certain parts of the country, their economies, and their cultures; and how storms impact the economics behind opportunities for development. We look at this both broadly and locally. And there’s a reason we want it here. We’d be the beneficiaries of the impact you can create, from a reputational standpoint, of having a national facility here, as well the economic impact (of tourism). So we wanted to be bold with the design, something that would really leave an impression on the tens of thousands of people who’ll get to view it each day from the bridge. We are perfectly located here. We’re the perfect central location along the Gulf, we’ve been impacted by these storms, we’re right on the major east-west corridor of the southern United States, and we have a unique vista point, the I-10 bridge. Also, we’ve already been developing educational curricula to go out to schools. McNeese’s Education Department is helping us.

The Pinnacle Entertainment Foundation recently awarded us a gift toward our educational efforts. We hope to work with the National Science Foundation, NOAA and other top-notch research groups to create intellectual capital and research.

Cameron has more coastline than any other parish. Where does our area stand in preserving and restoring Louisiana’s eroding coast?The problems are a little simpler here than in the southeastern part of the state, because erosion’s effects are multiplied over in the “’bird’s foot” (of the Mississippi Delta). Here, it’s all at right angles – straight along the coastline, straight up the Ship Channel, straight along the Intracoastal – instead of fingers. Also, we have better coastal chenier plains. I don’t want to minimize the issue, though, by saying that it’s “simpler” here. The good thing is that it’s not as bad as it is in Southeastern Louisiana – but because of that, we sometimes sort-of get brushed aside. It still affects tens of thousands of acres of property here – and the more that land erodes, the easier it is to erode the next bit of land. Restoration and protection work hand-in-hand. If you do the restoration, then you need to continue the protection as well. We have some really successful projects here in the southwestern part of the state that do that.

For a generation now, Louisiana has lost too many smart and talented young people to other states. What can we do to keep these people?Well, I hear a lot of lip service paid to it. The problem’s almost like water. It moves in ways you can’t predict and control. From a state policy perspective, state leadership can incentivize the entrepreneurial class and the innovators. The incentives for the film industry are an example. But the impact of state government can be limited. New Orleans, for example, is now a draw, but it did that on its own. In New Orleans, post-Katrina, a lot of energy and pluckiness built up, and a bit of a “flywheel” got going. Now, New

Orleans has pretty good flywheel. It’s considered around the country to be a cool place to be, a good place for a young person to live and work.

you’ve worked in Washington before. Will the post-electionpoliticalclimatetherestandachance of warming up, even a little bit, after the January inauguration and the seating of the new Congress?Absolutely not. Not a chance. The only reason it could get any better is because it has never been worse. Only in the 1860s and 1870s was partisan politics so prevalent in Congress. Until there’s real reform in how (congressional) districts are drawn, this will embed itself deeper and deeper. What we should understand, though, is that most people are not fire-breathing extremists, but as a voting public, we don’t reward balanced, judicious behavior from our elected representatives.

What can help Southwest Louisiana become anever-betterplacetoliveandwork?Once there’s a chance to get the flywheel moving, you want to keep it going. We’re at one of these points. We’re going to have billions of dollars in capital expenditures here. In a region with our population, how can that not have positive economic ramifications? We as a region benefit when people come here. These companies have decided to take the risk, and they have other choices where to go. Sometimes we don’t realize –very insensitively – that they don’t have to come here. They’re kind-of going out on a limb. To an extent, we need to be asking, “What do you need from us?” We’re under the assumption that they’ve got it all figured out. We ought to be asking, “What can we do for you?” Having said that, though: I think we’re just so fortunate to have these issues.

Gray Stream


Places & Faces

The McNeese Foundation would like to

CongratulateRichard H. Reid

on receiving the McNeese Alumni Association

2012 Distinguished Service Awardwww.mcneesefoundation.org ~ 337-475-5588

Richard Reid, vice president for university advancement and executive vice president of the McNeese Foundation, recently received the 2012 Distinguished Service Award from the McNeese State University Alumni Association. The award recognizes an alumnus who has given years of personal and professional service to the alumni association and to the university.

An Arkansas native, Reid joined McNeese as director of the Frazar Memorial Library in 1980. He brought energy and a philosophy of community engagement to the library and began raising funds to support library programs and activities.

In 1987, McNeese President Robert Hebert asked Reid to launch a new office on campus dedicated to coordinating all fundraising activities and, to mark the university’s 50th anniversary in 1989, to lead a new fundraising initiative to raise $5 million for the McNeese Foundation endowment.

With Reid working with individuals in the community and with leaders from local business and industry, the 50th anniversary campaign exceeded its goal, and Reid became the university’s new executive director of development. The duties also included supervising the alumni and media services offices. He was named executive vice president of the Foundation in 1988.

Twenty-three years later and with a foundation endowment valued at more than

$50 million, Reid is laying the groundwork for a campaign to celebrate the university’s 75th anniversary in 2014.

As university advancement vice president, Reid directs the fundraising efforts for the Foundation, and Office of Alumni Affairs and the McNeese Banners Cultural Series are also in his division. His community service includes the Calcasieu Arts and Humanities Council, Christus St. Patrick Hospital, Calcasieu Historical Association, Lake Charles Symphony Society, Salvation Army and the Pioneer Club.

Reid earned his bachelor’s degree in zoology from the University of Arkansas, his master’s degree in library science from Louisiana State University and a master’s degree in literature from McNeese.

Reid Receives 2012 Distinguished service Award

Blake McCaskill, left, president-elect of the McNeese State University Alumni Association, presents Richard Reid with his award at the October 13 home football game.


Doug Thornton, senior vice president at SMG, the world leader in venue management, was named the 2012 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, the highest honor presented by the McNeese State University Alumni Association. The award recognizes graduates who have distinguished themselves in their chosen field of endeavor.

A former Cowboy quarterback and 1980 general business administration graduate, Thornton worked 14 years in the oil and gas industry and served three years as president of the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation before joining SMG as general manager of the Mercedes-Benz Superdome and the New Orleans Arena in 1997. He currently oversees the operation of multiple SMG facilities and he continues to play a key role in the development of the sports and entertainment landscape in New Orleans.

Thornton led the $336 million renovation and upgrade of the Superdome in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, which was viewed by the industry as the largest stadium reconstruction project in American sports history. The recovery project was completed within one year and led to the Saints return in 2006. Prior to Katrina making landfall, Thornton and his wife moved in to the Superdome and stayed on-site until the last evacuee was moved to safety.

Thornton is also actively involved in local tourism efforts, having recently co-chaired the New Orleans Hospitality Strategic Task Force’s development of a comprehensive Master Plan for the tourism industry. He is a member of the New Orleans Aviation Board, the Board of the New Orleans Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, New Orleans Sports Foundation and Greater New Orleans Inc., the city’s economic development organization.

Thornton and the SMG staff were presented a 2007 Sugar Bowl Hall of Fame Award for their efforts in the Superdome’s recovery from Hurricane Katrina. The New Orleans Public Relations Society of America named Thornton and his wife, Denise, its 2008 “Hornblower Award” recipients, while the New Orleans Chapter of the National Football Foundation presented Thornton its “Distinguished American” Award in 2009.

“Doug’s leadership in rebuilding New Orleans after Katrina was not only evident in the Superdome but also with his work at the airport, the New Orleans Arena and in bringing our beloved neighborhoods back to life,” said Ron Forman, President and CEO of the

Audubon Nature Institute and Chairman of the Louisiana Stadium and Exposition District, which oversees the Superdome.

Thornton Named 2012 Distinguished Alumnus

Dr. Phillip Williams, left, president of McNeese State University, presents Doug Thornton with his award at the October 13 home football game.


Places & Faces

The average six year old these days knows more about using an iPhone than his parents do. According to a national survey conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation, today’s 8 to 18-year olds spend an average of seven hours and 38 minutes per day on entertainment media such as television, video games, computers, and cell phones.

As a result, a new term has emerged to describe the problems that may develop as a result of too much technology and not enough good old-fashioned fun outdoors. Nature Deficit Disorder is the combined psychological, physical and cognitive costs we suffer due to alienation from nature, especially affecting children in vulnerable, developing years.

The term, “Nature Deficit Disorder” or NDD, was originally described by author Richard Louv in the book, Last Child in the Woods. The condition is becoming more common as children spend more time indoors due to a combination of factors including parental fears, restricted access to natural areas and increasing consumption of electronic media.

“It’s a growing phenomenon among young people these days,” said PPG Naturelab coordinator Gary Kratzer. “Fortunately there are many ways we can attack the problem. One is by simply engaging and challenging students to explore nature in new and different ways. “

He says the solution to today’s nature-technology enigma is quite different than one might expect. “Rather than forcing children to explore nature without their favorite technological devices, many educational experts have found that students respond better to outdoor learning when they can incorporate technology in their studies.”

PPG Industries has recently joined forces with McNeese State University

to transform its original 600-acre Naturelab into a technologically advanced outdoor learning center ready to tackle the way students learn in a 21st century world. Located just west of the PPG complex, Naturelab features more than 10,000 feet of trails and provides a multitude of learning opportunities about natural wildlife and plants, ecology, conservation, species diversity and much more for area students.

“Our goal is to help individuals build personal connections with nature and move them toward a healthy relationship with our local habitat and our planet,” Kratzer said. “We have equipped Naturelab with state-of-the-art technology that helps students relate to nature in ways that were not possible for the students of previous generations.”

Today when Southwest Louisiana students visit Naturelab, they have the opportunity to interact with nature through the use of scientific technology including iPads, Proscope hand-held wireless microscopes, scientific probeware, compound and stereo microscopes, pH meters, moisture meters, Garmin hand-held GPS devices, Nikon laser rangefinders, a hand-held weather station, and a variety of conventional laboratory equipment.

For more information or to schedule a class field trip to Naturelab, contact Kratzer at 337-475-5817 or by email at [email protected].

Using Technology to Bring Kids Back

to Nature


Paisley was born October 30, 2010. She was full term weighing 7lbs 3oz. At her two-week check up a murmur was detected. That same day Paisley and her parents were referred to a pediactric cardiologist who diagnosed her with tetralogy of fallot, more specifically right ventricular hypertrophy. At just three months old Paisley had open heart surgery to repair her heart. Although she will need another surgery when she gets older, she is and will always be the light in so many lives.

“The American Heart Association was with us every step of the way,” said Samantha Boudreaux, Paisley’s mother. “Volunteers, people like you and me, who believed in building healthier lives free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke years ago made it possible for doctors to properly diagnose her condition, for the medication researched and developed to treat her condition, for the technology to make her surgery a success, and for the knowledge to help her become a walking, talking, very active two-year-old.”

“Imagine all of the other stories you have not yet heard, those that are being told around dinner tables, waiting rooms, and soccer practices. You are needed and your dedication to this mission makes a difference. We are hoping to help change those statistics through research dollars and awareness about congenital heart defects,” Boudreaux said.

FACT: 1 in 100 babies are born with a heart defect every year. Some are thriving, many are barely surviving while others are no longer with us.

You can help make a difference today by registering for the American Heart Association SWLA Heart Walk on November 10th at the McNeese State University Quad at www.swlaheartwalk.org or call 800-257-6941 x6174 for more information.

Paisley Breaux Named 2012 Heart Walk

survivor


Places & Faces

For the last 47 years, the Angola Prison Rodeo has taken place on Sundays in October. What began as way to entertain inmates and employees in 1965 is now the longest running prison rodeo in the nation and provides a major tourism boost for West Felciania Parish each year.

In 1967 the rodeo opened to the public on a limited basis and as the popularity of the rodeo grew, so did the number of events and the size of the arena. Today, the rodeo is held in a 7,500 seat arena and is professionally produced under the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Rules. Organizers contract with professional rodeo stock providers, professional judges and even professional rodeo clowns to ensure the safety of the inmates.

Proceeds from the rodeo cover the expenses of producing the shows and supplement the Louisiana State Penitentiary Inmate Welfare Fund. This fund provides tools for inmate education and recreation and aims to provide positive behavior change opportunities.

For more information on the rodeo, visit www.angolarodeo.com.

Prison rodeo - 2012by Katie Harrington photos by Dr. Craig Crawford

Inmates compete in front of thousands of spectators each year at the Angola Prison Rodeo.


Thursday, November 15, 5:30pmCenter for Orthopaedics • 1747 Imperial Blvd., Lake CharlesSeating is limited and pre-registration is requested. Refreshments will be served.

Call 721-7291 or register online at www.centerforortho.com

Wrist pain can make everyday activities—even sleeping—painful. There can be manydifferent causes, including overuse, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, arthritis and injury.

Learn more about common wrist problems from Dr. Andrew Foret, hand and wrist surgeon with Center for Orthopaedics, at this free seminar. Dr. Foret will discuss causes and prevention, as well as non-surgical and surgical treatment options.

LET GO OFWRIST PAIN

WRIST PAIN?

Andrew Foret, MDHand & Wrist Surgeon

Original artwork, woodwork and other craft items created by inmates are available for purchase at the Angola Prison Rodeo each year.


Places & Faces

Q: I was a Mother of the Groom and my son married a few weeks ago. When I married, it was pretty cut and dry as to who paid for what. Bride’s family paid for the wedding and the groom’s family paid for the rehearsal dinner. However, every time Iturnedaround,thebride’sfamilywasbillingmeforanotherexpense.Whatistheprotocoltoday?

A: The way you described the division of responsibilities is traditional; however, today, there is a blurring of the lines. The wedding budget now can involve more people (bride, groom, both families, step families, grandparents, etc.) as well as different types of expenses that weren’t considered a generation ago, including destination weddings and technology. Yours is a perfect example of why sitting down and talking out the details and financial responsibilities should be a very early step in the planning process. That way there are less surprises and possible awkward moments.

Q: I saw a friend’s son and he was involved in something I know my friend would not approve of. How do I tell her?

A: How would you want to be told if the circumstances were reversed? You’re a good friend and if your friend’s son knows you are aware of his inappropriate behavior, he’s waiting for that other shoe to drop.

Best ImpressionsModern Day Manners & Everyday Etiquette

by Rose Klein



NOvEMBERISTHEMONTHINWHICHAMERICAOBSERvESvETERANSDAy–A24-HOuRWINDOWTOSALuTETHEMENAND WOMEN WHO HAVE SERVED THEIR COUNTRy IN ONE OF THE BRANCHES OF THE MILITARy. HERE, THRIVE OPENS

THAT WINDOW A LITTLE WIDER TO LOOK INTO THE VIEWPOINTS OF SOME SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA VETERANS.

Deployment was nothing new to the military-minded household of Bobby and Ann Moore, but it didn’t make leaving any easier. On this day, it was time to head overseas once again. This time, the destination was Iraq. Bobby gave Ann a farewell hug. And with that, Ann Moore went off to war.

A FAMilY AFFAir

Bobby Moore indeed saw his wife off as she prepared for deployment. He reached for a photo behind his desk.

“I was there in Baghdad when she was promoted,” he said, tapping at the photo of the ceremony. “Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army Reserve.”

That might seem like a role reversal, but it’s a misconception that’s far too common in an era when thousands of American women have been dispatched from their homes to serve their country. And for the Moore family, it’s only a fraction of the story.

Bobby Moore is himself 30-year Army veteran, retiring in 2009 as Post Command Sergeant Major – the senior enlisted man – at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Calif. He was deployed four times – for Operation Desert Storm, the Balkans/Bosnia crisis and, twice, for Operation Iraqi Freedom. Also, the Moores’ two sons, Capt. Robert Wayne Moore and Sgt. Michael Ryan Moore, are back from Afghanistan deployments, making military service truly a family affair.

Today, Bobby Moore is the general manager of the Million Air facility in Lake Charles, where military pilots are among the many people passing through.

“Only 1 percent our country serves, and there’s

something people should understand,” said Moore, as he returned his wife’s photo to his office shelf. “You’ll see all kinds of things on Facebook, Twitter, CNN and Fox News Channel when somebody burns an American flag. People say (in posts) to ‘Throw them out of the country!’ and all that. Well, we defend that right. They have that right, the right to do things that I may completely disagree with. That right is there because we go into harm’s way to protect it.”

Freedom can be an ugly process. Moore said that’s when service people are at their

best.Moore shared a story about his own Humvee

ride down a roadway near Ramadi, Iraq, in 2004. The vehicle was ambushed and hit by an IED, wiping out its front end. But in Moore’s storytelling, those details were secondary.

“There was an 8-year-old boy standing near the roadside.” Moore said. “And right before the IED went off, about one second before, the boy held his hands to his ears.”

The IED exploded. Moore and the others safely scrambled from the damaged Humvee.

“I grabbed my rifle. We all grabbed our rifles. And I want to tell you something: Our driver jumped out and rescued that boy. He carried him to safety without the first thought about himself,” he said. “That’s the American soldier. You won’t hear that story in the media.”

Examples like that shape Moore’s view of veterans past and present.

“Tom Brokaw defined the post-Depression World War II generation as the Greatest Generation, and I take nothing away from what they did – coming together, fighting horrible battles. But the greatest generation, to me, is the young soldiers who are serving today. They’re the smartest, best kids you’ll see, and they’re serving” –he slowed down here for emphasis– “at a time

VETERANS DAYfrom the veterans’ perspective

Places & Faces

Veterans Day, usually marked each Nov. 11 –but

this year, a federal holiday that will be observed

on Monday, Nov. 12 – is not just a gauzy salute

to people and times long past. It is an active

observation of the people who have served their

country, many of whom still walk among us.

These veterans are men and women. Young and

old. Black and white. North and South. East and

West. Singles and grandparents. Conservatives,

liberals and independents.

Army. Navy. Air Force. Marines. Guard. Reserve.

Coast Guard.

A “veteran” may be:

• TheelderlyAfricanAmericanmanwho,

despite laws that limited his freedoms back

home, signed up to put himself in harm’s way

overseas.

• The24-year-oldwomanwhosechildrenhad

to rely on their father, grandparents, and

mom’s precious communications from the

other side of the world.

• TheKoreanWarsoldierwhocamehomewith

a stoicism that others admired, even if it was

hard-forgedbyahorrorhewitnessed.

Whether they’re a first-time parent or they’re

welcoming their first great-grandchild, veterans

share a sense of service that spans the generations.

Not that they say these kinds of things. Area

veterans invited by Thrive to comment for this

story didn’t make speeches. Instead, they told

personal stories. They didn’t seek or expect credit

for their service, but all of them said that other

veterans deserved that kind of appreciation.

Bobby and Ann Moore

by Brett Downer


when they know that they’re going to war.”“These young warriors today are phenomenal,”

he said. “They’re not drafted. They’re not required to serve. They could easily sit here in the United States and let someone else do it. Instead, they enlist, they train, they deploy, and they fight our nation’s battles.”

Moore made one more point, unprompted, about others connected to military service:”There’s also the spouses. They’re the ones who stay back and have to be both the mother and the father. That can be much worse than deployment. You have to realize that family members back home are paying as much as the person wearing the uniform.”

voiCe FroM vieTnAM

Jerry Theunissen of Jennings, best known for his years in Louisiana Legislature, spoke about his own military experiences during the turbulent Vietnam War era.

After being plucked from Saudi Arabia with little warning, Theunissen was sent to Washington, where he was given quick training in survival skills and key Vietnamese phrases. He was then sent overseas to pilot an L-19 aircraft over potential fighting fields.

Theunissen would fly at 1,200 feet, pull up to a near-stall, wing over and point almost straight down before hand-dropping a smoke grenade out the window to mark a target.

While he said he did not endure personal trauma or homecoming hostility, Theunissen acknowledged that many Vietnam vets did.

“A lot of people were under horrible, horrible conditions over there,” he said. Also, after the My Lai massacre and the Kent State shootings, “the war was becoming very unpopular in a hurry.”

Still, though, “If I had to do it all over again, all 21 years, I would. In a heartbeat. It was a great life experience. It taught me so many great lessons, like discipline and integrity. Even it did give me a couple

of bullet holes in my airplane.”Theunissen concluded his Air Force career in the

Pentagon, where he met Henry Kissinger.“I wrote one paragraph of the 1973 Paris peace

agreements,” he said. “So I guess I’ll always be able to say that.”

veTs ACross THe YeArs

Ronnie Williams of Jennings served four years of active duty in the Air Force and eight years in the Louisiana Army Guard.

“I was proud to serve my country and believe it made me grow up, for one thing,” Williams said. “It also prepared me to handle anything that came along.”

Former Lake Charles resident Doug Thomas, a third-generation serviceman, served in the U.S. Army’s 82 Airborne Division from 2000-2004. His given name, Douglas, is a tribute to the late Douglas Fournet, the Lake Charles native who received a posthumous Medal of Honor.

“I got to serve the greatest country on the Earth,” Thomas said. “Not everybody can do it or wants to do it. I was one of the lucky ones.”

John Needham of Lake Charles served a dozen years in the Army, completing his service as a Staff Sergeant E-6.

“Being a veteran kind-of makes you feel like maybe you paid some sort of dues, or you earned some type of right. But really, the truth and best part is being a fellow citizen along with people who had no desire or reason to serve whatsoever,” Needham said. “They chose not to for various reasons, but have the very same liberties as I do. In the end, that’s the whole purpose of being a veteran in my mind. Freedom to choose.”

As for Nov. 11, “I kid with my family a lot about being a veteran and what my prize will be on Veterans Day, but I don’t really believe that,” Needham said. “Being a veteran was a choice I made, and I was proud to serve the country.”

WHAT veTs suGGesTWhat might a person do on Veterans Day to show their appreciation?

“Tell them thank you,” Thomas said.“Thank them for their service,” Williams said.

“Many Vietnam-era veterans were never thanked for their service.”

“A simple thanks,” said Moore, though his own preference is to go one step further:

“When I’m traveling, and I see a soldier eating in a restaurant, I pay for their meal. Especially if it’s a younger soldier. I still remember what I use to make back then.”

In 1964, Jerry Theunissen was flying risky missions over Vietnam to mark targets. Nearly a decade later, with America in turmoil and thousands dead, he contributed a written passage to the Paris Peace Accords, the framework to end the war.

In 1941, Doug Thomas’ grandfather, then 17 years old, listened to radio coverage of the attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. The next day, his grandfather turned 18 and turned his thoughts toward enlisting in the Navy. In 2000, Doug Thomas entered the service, just like his grandfather (and father) before him. Thomas’ choice was the Army. Within a year, the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, plunged the nation into war once again.

Jerry Theunissen

Doug Thomas

Ronnie Williams

Johnny Needham, bottom left.


Places & Faces

Larry Wise is a natural at his craft – with good reason. The printer and publisher is the son of Major General Erbon Wise of Sulphur, who owned and published newspapers throughout Southwest Louisiana,

and the nephew of Jerry Wise, who owns newspapers in DeQuincy and Cameron. His brother and his cousin are both in the newspaper business. The younger Wise grew up printing newspapers after school at his father’s Sulphur paper.

Three decades ago, Wise made the decision to stick with what he knew, but instead of following in the footsteps of his father and his uncle, he took a slightly different path and opened a commercial print shop, Wise Publications Printing. When he began that venture, it’s unlikely that he could have imagined the twists and turns the industry would take.

“The history of printing has been the history of inventions,” Wise said. He remembers the old linotype machines and the move to the more efficient lithography process.“With offset lithography, you take a photo image of the content and you make a printing plate. The machines run faster. The offset presses are responsible for the

flowering of newspapers across the nation.”Then came the digital revolution, which allowed

for the distribution of material to an even wider area. While the offset process allowed for material to blanket an area, “the Internet brought it into the home with us,” he said.

When Wise initially opened his commercial business, he printed newsletters for clubs and bulletins for churches, in addition to other items. “When the first computer came out, I thought, ‘this will make our job easier.’ Then it dawned on me that everyone else can produce their own material...It’s all about the distribution of information, and now even churches and clubs can distribute their information digitally.”

So Wise Publications Printing made changes. They printed school yearbooks, where they took 500 pictures of smiling faces and checked and rechecked to make sure the names matched the photographs, and shifted into book binding.

Antique book restoration is a key component of Wise’s company, and Bible restoration is very popular. “It is the most mass produced, but most used, book, and they wear out,” Wise said. “But people become attached to their Bibles, so we rebind it.”

They restore about 20 to 30 books, most of which are Bibles, per month. On the Bibles, Wise replaces the leather cover, hot stamps the gold foil lettering, and binds the pages to the cover. “It’s quite

PassionA for Printing

Continued on p59

by Ann McMurry

photo by Shonda Manuel


Continued on p59Lake Charles Complex

TM

For more information or to book your trip, contact Gary Kratzer,

Naturelab’s project coordinator, 337-475 5817 or [email protected].

ReflectionsTeachers and students from throughout Southwest Louisiana are taking advantage of a newly designed opportunity to explore nature in a convenient, easy access location. Naturelab - a joint facility between McNeese State University and PPG Industries - provides a comprehensive environmental outdoor learning center to local schools and educational groups. The Naturelab Curriculum is filled with exciting hands-on activities that involve students in meaningful engaged learning. With programs uniquely designed for each specific age group, teachers can pick from a variety of activities that can be tailored specifically for their classroom. Naturelab also offers an opportunity for K-12 teachers to participate in a mini-grant program which can be used to cover expenses involved with a Naturelab field trip. Last year, many SWLA teachers took advantage of this opportunity and were able to bring their classes to Naturelab with all expenses paid.

CYPRESS COVE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS RECENTLY VISITED PPG’S NATURELAB. HERE ARE SOME OF THE RECOLLECTIONS FROM THEIR FIELD TRIP EXPERIENCE.

“I learned that it is fun to be in nature. I also learned that

there are different types of thermometers.” – Gabby

Cypress Cove Elementary School students

“I learned when we are quiet you can measure the sound

with this little device. This little device can measure sound,

moisture, and light. The moisture was high at the pond.” – Kylie

“I learned that there are no gators in the pond, but there are

snakes, turtles and other animals. It was as fun as can be.”

– Jared


WCH Announces New Assistant Chief ExecutiveOfficerWomen & Children’s Hospital (WCH) announced that Assistant Administrator (AA), Tom Sledge has been appointed Assistant Chief Executive Officer (ACEO). Sledge holds 12 years of

healthcare experience. He has been at WCH since 2011.

Huntin’ for a Loan Giveaway Winners Announced

During the month of September CSE Federal Credit Union members entered to win a hunting package in their Huntin’ for a Loan promotional giveaway. Christopher Brown of Sulphur and Rene’ Gibson of Lake Charles were chosen as winners.

Dr. J. Trappey Earns Board CertificationGeorge “J.” Trappey IV, MD, orthopaedic surgeon with Center for Orthopaedics, has been awarded certification by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, one of the 24 certifying boards of the American

Board of Medical Specialties. Originally from New Iberia, Louisiana, Dr. Trappey received a Bachelor of Science from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge and earned his Medical Degree from LSU Health Sciences Center in Shreveport. He completed an orthopaedic surgery residency at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, and a fellowship in shoulder and elbow

reconstruction surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Medical School. Dr. Trappey joined Center for Orthopaedics, an affiliate of Imperial Health, in 2010.

Anders Receives Inaugural Lt. David Anders CIT AwardNAMISWLA established the Lt. David Anders CIT Award in honor of his work with mental illness in the community. The award was recently established at the NAMI Annual Membership

Dinner, and presented to Lt. Anders. Each year this award will be presented to an outstanding Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) officer.

L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles Appoints Director of Hotel OperationsL’Auberge Casino Resort in Lake Charles, La. Recently named Michael K. Pendergast Director of Hotel Operations. Pendergast has more than 28 years of innovative

hospitality experience, recently serving as Regional Vice President of Resort Operations for Caesar’s Entertainment. Amerisafe Employees Receive Designation

Nancy Hunt, Underwriting Regional Vice President at Amerisafe, recently completed the requirements to earn her designation as a Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) from the National Alliance for Insurance Education and Research. She has more than 17 years’ experience in insurance and holds a Louisiana Property and Casualty Insurance License, a Certified Workers’ Compensation Professional

certification, and a Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR) designation. Tasha Eaglin, Assistant Underwriter, has received the Louisiana Property and Casualty License. She also holds a Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR) designation and has gained over five years of insurance experience since joining Amerisafe, Inc. in 2007.

Flavo appointed Senior Vice President of Enterprise Risk Management Bruno P. Falvo was recently appointed Senior Vice President of Enterprise Risk Management at Amerisafe. In this position, Falvo will oversee the

financial analysis and potential impact of risks to the company.

Marriage at MemorialJerome and Madeline Leger were married on October 18 in Jerome’s hospital room at Lake Charles Memorial

Hospital. The couple was engaged to be married, but an unexpected illness landed Jerome in the hospital and the bride and groom didn’t want to wait any longer.

Dr.HezekiahSobamowo Joins Imperial HealthInternal Medicine Physician, Hezekiah Sobamowo, M.D., has joined the Imperial Health Physician Team. Dr. Sobamowo is board certified and specializes in adult primary care

needs and preventative medicine. He earned a medical degree from Ogun State University in Nigeria in 2002 and received extensive training in emergency medical care, critical care and adult primary care needs prior to moving to the United States. Dr. Sobamowo received additional training at Nashville General Hospital in Tennessee and

Tom Sledge

Bruno P. Falvo

HezekiahSobamowa,MDNancy Hunt Tasha Eaglin

Jerome and Madeline Leger

Christopher Brown

George “J.” Trappey IV, MD

René Gibson

Lt. David Anders

Michael K. Pendergast

Movers and Shakers in Southwest Louisiana... Who’s News? You tell us! Send press releases to

[email protected] with the subject line “Who’s News.”

Places & Faces


Richmond University Medical Center in New York. He most recently served as a Hospitalist at the Ochsner Clinic in New Orleans. Dr. Sobamowo’s medical practice is located at 501 Dr. Michael DeBakey Drive in Lake Charles. Call (337) 312-8414 to schedule an appointment.

OnxleyAttends2012EducationalTheatre Association’s Conference Kerry A. Onxley, artistic director of The Children’s Theatre Company and Director of Theatre at Westlake High School attended the 2012 Educational Theatre Association’s annual conference in San Diego, CA entitled “Developing the Innovative Mind.”

KerryOnxley, right, took classes from the award winning artist Dean Pitchford.

satisfying as a craftsman to know something you are doing as a job is something people will bring home and treasure,” Wise said.

In the printing/publishing industry, regional non-fiction is a strong market, and Wise has printed many church cookbooks, inspirational books by ministers, genealogy books and local histories. They have also printed books by local authors, as well as numerous other materials.

Wise has printed over 2 million books for 6,000 authors. The company can produce hardback and paperback books, and after designing, typesetting, and printing the material, Wise can reformulate the files to go onto a Nook, Kindle, iPad, or for Amazon.

At one time, national publishers essentially cornered the market on book publishing, “but publishers can only publish so many books. That’s why it’s such an accomplishment to get a book published. There were many, many talented authors who would not get published.”

Wise designs and prints about 200 non-fiction book titles a year, but he has also printed novels and children’s books. If an author has written a book designed for children but has no one to illustrate it, he refers the author to an illustrator. He also makes sure that the book is printed in a font that a child can read with a vocabulary that a child can understand.

When authors want to get their worked produced without a national publisher, Wise usually recommends that they print 200 to 300 copies. “Authors can make a nice, comfortable living selling books on local interest,” he said, pointing to the success of Nola Mae Ross, who wrote Hurricane Audrey and about two dozen other books about Southwest Louisiana. Louisiana storyteller Curt Iles of Dry Creek sold so many books that he was contacted by an agent, who now represents him, and he sells books nationally. DayDreamers, the Day’s Café cookbook compiled by Pauline “Bo” Day Rentrop, is in its sixth printing.

According to Wise, more books are being published than ever before.He marvels at the changes that have taken place, but knows there are

more to come. “I was pretty good at cutting and pasting, but that’s long gone. I was pretty good at the manual typewriter, but that’s long gone. Whenever I became skillful at a technology, they would go and invent another one. It’s hard to predict technology--where we will be in 30 years. But books will evolve to whatever the next platform is.”

A for PrintingPassion Continued from p56


Mind &Body

Diabetes from Head to ToeDiabetics are faced with all sorts of problems in nearly every part of the body, from the head to the toes. Check out these common complications, courtesy of The National Diabetes Association.

EyesBlurry vision and cataracts can cause

vision problems.

MouthToo much glucose in the

blood stream can cause

infections in the teeth.

HeartOne of the most serious

complications of diabetes

is heart disease. If diabetes

is not well-controlled, lipids

can build up causing a

narrowing of the blood

vessel walls.

KidneysKnown as the body’s filtering system, the

kidneys take the toxins out of the blood. With

diabetes, the kidneys are at risk for damage due

to elevated glucose levels for an extended time.

Sex OrgansReduced blood flow can harm

sexual organs in both men and

women.

Blood VesselsPoor blood circulation causes problems throughout

the body, including blood vessels, making diabetics

susceptible to amputations, heart attack and stroke.

NervesDiabetic neuropathy affects 60

to 70 percent of diabetics. The

resulting muscle weakness and

damage to internal organs can

cause serious problems.

FeetCuts that are slow to heal,

loss of sensation, and a slow

circulatory system can cause

poor foot health.


TriCia Guidry, MD, F.A.C.O.G.

4150 Nelson Rd • Bldg C-10Lake Charles, LA 70605Phone: (337)474-0653 • Fax (337)474-0639

• ThermaChoice Ablation (for heavy periods) & Essure Tubal can be performed in the office• We take most insurances

Obsterics and Gynecology • Board CertifiedStill accepting new OB/GYN patients

Diabetes is a serious disease that should be monitored carefully by a doctor. Many of these symptoms can be treated and prevented by following a good exercise and nutrition plan, as well as adhering to prescribed medication. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns about diabetic symptoms.

Beauregard Memorial HospitalDiabetes/Nutrition Education SeminarNovember 16th at 12:30 pm in the Beauregard Memorial Conference Room. The class will be given by Neely Oglesby, R.D., L.D.N and is free and open to the public.

CHRISTUS St. Patrick HospitalMonthlyPre-diabetesclassesofferedatCHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital’s Management Center. For more information and to see if you qualify, call (337) 491-7532.

Lake Charles Memorial HospitalMonthly Diabetes support group offered the first Tuesday ofeachmonthfrom10-11:00amatLCMH’sDiabetesEducation Office. Call (337) 494-6425 for more information.

West Calcasieu Cameron HospitalLiving Well with DiabetesNovember 7 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Dynamic Dimensions in Sulphur. Lunch will be provided. The seminar is free and open to the public. Abdel Abu Shamat, MD, nephrologist will speak on Diabetes and Kidney Complications and Lacey Cavanaugh, MD, family medicine physician will speak on the ABC’s of Diabetes. Seating is limted, to reserve a place, call (337) 527-5459.

Diabetes Events Make a note of this important information


Mind &Body

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No matter how small or superficial a wound is, doctors will say you should never ignore it if you have diabetes.

The chronic disease can cause wounds to not heal properly through complications such as nerve damage, a weakened immune system and narrow arteries. This leads many wounds to become hypoxic, meaning they lack an adequate oxygen supply.

“Diabetic foot complications are the most common cause of non-traumatic lower body amputations in the U.S.,” says Dr. Gerald Mouton, medical director at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital’s Wound Care Center. “Fifty percent of all lower body amputations in the U.S. are due to diabetes. And many diabetics suffer circulatory disorders that create inadequate levels of oxygen to support healing of those wounds.”

The vast majority of diabetic foot complications resulting in amputation begin with the formation of skin ulcers. Early detection and appropriate treatment of these ulcers may prevent up to 85 percent of amputations.

Inside Memorial’s Wound Care Center, patients “dive” into a treatment program that can help diabetic patients treat their wounds and avoid amputation.

Patients enter one of two hyperbaric oxygen chambers and breathe in 100 percent pure oxygen at an atmospheric pressure about two times what we are typically used to. It

is equivalent to diving 33 feet under the ocean. “When a patient is given 100 percent oxygen under

pressure, the body dissolves more oxygen within the blood and, in turn, more oxygen reaches the wound area,” Dr. Mouton says.

Patients undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) are typically prescribed between 30 and 40 treatments, five days a week, and they last anywhere from 90 minutes to two hours.

In addition to treating diabetic ulcers, Memorial’s Wound Care Center uses HBOT to treat other conditions such as crush injuries, compromised skin grafts/flaps and infections of the bone (osteomyelitis).

HBOT was originally developed to treat divers experiencing disorders such as “the bends,” or decompression sickness. Treatments can actually be traced back to 1662 when the first well-known chamber was built and run by a British doctor named Henshaw. Memorial started using hyperbaric chambers in 2008 and was the first hospital in Southwest Louisiana to use such a treatment.

For more information about Memorial’s Wound Care Center call 337.494.6700.

Diving for Wound Treatment


(337) 436-3354www.safetycouncilswla.org

Safety Council ofSouthwest Louisiana:

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Imperial Calcasieu Surgical Center is proud to announce that we have again been awarded The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for demonstrating compliance with national standards for health care quality and safety.

Unlike hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers are not required to participate in the Joint Commission review process, but our physician owners voluntary sought this rigorous evaluation. We are the only Joint Commission-accredited surgery center in the region and one of only a handful in Louisiana.

In addition to this Gold Seal, we are proud of several other accomplishments we’ve achieved since our opening three years ago:

0% Infection Rate*100% Patient Satisfaction Approval Rating

It’s all part of our mission to provide exceptional surgical care for every patient, every day.

Imperial Calcasieu Surgical Center is independently owned by 15 community surgeons. The facility features six surgical suites, two minor procedure rooms, state-of-the-art surgical equipment, integrated technology, electronic medical records, and a wide variety of waiting area amenities.

1757 Imperial Blvd., Lake Charles | (337) 312-2832

www.icsurg.com

We’ve Earned Another Seal of Approval!

Geoffrey Collins, MD P. Mark Crawford, MD Tyson Green, DPM Steven Hale, MD William Hart, MD

Alan Hinton, MD Alan Lacoste, MD Craig Morton, MD Virgil Murray IV, MD John Noble Jr, MD

A.J. O’Byrne, MDJames Perry, MD George Trappey IV, MD Roger Mark Williams, MD Jon Yokubaitis, MD

PHYSICIAN OWNERS

* calculated according to ASCA guidelines


Mind &Body

Prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in American men, claiming one in every 36 male lives. It is the second most common form of cancer among men in the United States, exceeded only by skin cancer, occurring in one out of six men.

The key to successfully treating prostate cancer lies in early detection according to Farjaad Siddiq, MD, urologist with the Urology Center and director of robotic surgery at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital.

“Finding it early helps tremendously in the treatment of prostate cancer,” says Dr. Siddiq. He adds that prostate cancer is often called a “silent killer” because by the time there are symptoms, it’s too late. Very often, the cancer has spread beyond the prostate when symptoms are first noticed.

“Key warning signs to look for include blood in semen or urine, or difficulty urinating,” Dr. Siddiq says. “When the cancer has spread, it can also present itself in bone and back pain.”

Regular health exams should be scheduled to provide you and your doctor the opportunity to discuss your prostate health and perform any indicated tests to check its condition.

“Standard tests for prostate health include the DRE and PSA,” says Dr. Siddiq. “The DRE, or digital rectal exam, is the standard prostate test in which a doctor feels the prostate through the rectum, checking for things such as size, lumps and firmness.”

Prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, is a protein produced by cells of the prostate gland. The PSA test measures the level of PSA in a man’s blood. Elevated levels may indicate cancer. This is not considered proof that a man has prostate cancer. Levels may be elevated with non-cancerous prostate conditions such as an enlarged prostate or prostatitis, or they may be low in a person who has prostate cancer. “Screening for prostate cancer is controversial and being evaluated,” adds Dr. Siddiq. “We do recommend having this screening, but the results should be considered with other information from your health history and discussed with your doctor.”

If cancer is detected, several treatment options are available, including radiation, hormone therapy and a surgical procedure known as a prostatectomy or the removal of the prostate or affected portions of the prostate.

“With advances in technology, the surgical removal of the cancer is quickly becoming a gold standard treatment,” says Dr. Siddiq. “We have successfully used the da Vinci system, robotic surgery, to perform hundreds of prostatectomies at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital. Because the surgeon movements are more precise, there is less trauma, resulting

Attention Men: Listen to your Bodyby Katie Harrington


Attention Men: Listen to your Body

in quicker return to urinary control, better potency and an overall faster recovery for patients.”

CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital is the only hospital in the region to offer robotic prostatectomies. The procedure allows physicians to complete more intricate maneuvers during surgery. During a procedure, ports are placed into the surgical site on the patient. These ports are thin, hollow tubes about half an inch in diameter. Specialized cameras and surgical instruments are inserted in the ports and are controlled by the surgeon. “The da Vinci system provides us with the means to be even more precise with complicated or small-space surgical procedures,” says Dr. Siddiq. “In return, the patient enjoys a less traumatic surgical experience and a much quicker recovery time.”

Dr. Siddiq encourages men to discuss routine prostate screenings with their doctor, especially by the age of 50, to see which tests are appropriate for their specific situation. Studies show the rate of prostate cancer deaths has dropped since these screening methods have become more common.

He also says having a family history of the disease is the most important risk factor to be aware of. “If you have a close relative who had prostate cancer, you should begin annual screenings at an early age.”

Other risk factors include: • Age – more than 75 percent of men diagnosed

with prostate cancer are over the age of 65.• Race – African American men have a higher risk

of developing prostate cancer than other racial groups, and they are also more likely to develop more aggressive forms of the disease

• Nutrition – a diet high in animal fat may add to the risk“It’s important to keep in mind that while

prostate cancer is a serious and all-too-common health problem for men, it is not a death sentence,” says Dr. Siddiq. “Most men diagnosed with prostate cancer will not die from it. This is a disease millions of men have survived.”

For more information, contact CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital at (337) 491-7577.

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Dr.Siddiq is shown using the da Vinci robotic system.


Mind &Body

Pain and blurred vision plagued Mandeville resident Val Zimmer for some 20 years. Zimmer, now 47, first noticed the problem in his early 20s.

“At first it felt like something was in my right eye. It was irritating and then became painful,” he recalls. “I saw an eye doctor here in New Orleans and was told I had a pterygium.”

It is difficult to pronounce - te rij jee em – and even more difficult to live with. Ophthalmologist A. J. O’Byrne with The Eye Clinic explains that a pterygium is a benign growth at the surface of the eye.

“A pterygium occurs when the conjunctiva, a membrane that covers the white of the eye, grows into the cornea, the clear covering over the front of the eye,” he says. “We call it ‘benign’ because it’s not invasive, or cancerous, but that doesn’t mean it’s harmless. A pterygium can be very painful. These growths may be small, but can grow large enough to interfere with vision.”

In his work with a film production company, Zimmer spent a lot of time outside and under lights, elements which Dr. O’Byrne says likely contributed to his condition. Exposure to ultraviolet light, such as the sun, and dust are believed to be contributing factors to development of a pterygium.

Zimmer’s New Orleans doctor told him the only treatment was surgery to remove it, but warned him that the growths often return. He had the surgery, which involved an incision and stitches.

“It was not a pleasant experience. My stitches came undone and I had to go back in to have the tissue repaired,” Zimmer recalls. “A few years later I had a growth in the left eye and had that one removed the same way. Then I found out my doctor was right several years later. The growths came back – in both eyes.”

The last thing Zimmer wanted was to have to go through that surgery again. He set out to find a better solution. Phone calls would be made to doctors all over the country with no luck. His researched continued and an online article brought his quest to Lake Charles.

Dr. O’Byrne has teamed up with Lake Charles Memorial Hospital (LCMH) radiation oncologist Dr. James Maze for a relatively new, minimally-invasive procedure that provides a more successful outcome for pterygium removal.

“We remove the growth and instead of stitching it closed at the site, we put an amniotic membrane graft over the site to promote healing,” Dr. O’Byrne says. “This heals much more quickly and with much less chance of scarring.”

The next step involves a short course of low-dose radiation therapy administered by Dr. Maze.

“This type of radiation is comparable to an X-ray, so it’s painless and very low-risk,” Dr. Maze says. “The radiation suppresses the growth of blood vessels that can lead to the return of the pterygium. It’s this additional step that helps prevent recurrence with such a high rate of success.”

Dr. O’Byrne has performed the newer removal technique more than 700 times and has had a less than one percent recurrence rate over six years. With a traditional pterygium surgery, there is a greater than 50 percent chance of a recurrence.

The Eye Clinic and LCMH are the only team in Louisiana that currently offers this type of treatment and has seen patients roll in from the south’s bigger cities.

People with this condition are often desperate for a better option, and unfortunately, many cases go untreated because most eye doctors believe that the pterygium will recur. So, they tell their patients it is not worth the pain, time or expense to treat it.

Luckily for Val Zimmer, he searched for the right treatment himself.

“I wish I had known about this when I was first diagnosed, and I wish I had not put off looking for a better treatment as long as I did,” Zimmer says. “It was so much simpler than the surgical treatment and it’s such a relief to have the pain and irritation removed.”

For more information about pterygium treatment, call The Eye Clinic at 478-3810 or 1-800-826-5223.

recurrent Pterygia? High Tech-Option Makes Painful Eye Condition Disappear

by Kristy Armand

Pterygium patient Val Zimmer, of Mandeville.

Dr.JamesMazeand Dr. A. J. O’Byrne

Dr.JamesMazepreparing for post pterygium removal radiation treatment.


With over one billion colds in the United States each year, there’s a reason it’s common. In fact, it’s the top reason children miss school and parents miss work.

If a child catches a cold, it may seem as though it’s quickly shared among family members, but new research says parents get fewer colds. The Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, a private research university, studied cold tendencies among parents and found that among 795 adults ages 18 – 55, the risk of developing a cold was 52 percent lower for parents.

“Parents build up more immunity as their children get colds, which helps develop antibodies against the viruses,” explained Mary Sherk, family medicine physician with Imperial Health. “Although, most parents will tell you it seems as though they get their fair share of colds from their children.”

Cold symptoms usually include nasal congestion, runny nose, scratchy throat and sneezing. Because a cold is a virus, it can’t be treated with antibiotics. “There are many over-the-counter remedies to help

Fighting the Common Cold is Mostly CoMMon sense

A little sniffle doesn’t seem like it should be a big problem, but when combined with congestion and a headache, the common cold can drag you down.

Continued on p68

by Christine Fisher

The da Vinci Si™ Surgical System features much smaller incisions which mean less pain, shorter hospital stays and quicker recoveries. With hundreds of procedures performed since 2006, benefits include:

technology on the cutting edge — the tiniest cutting edge.

Farjaad Siddiq, M.D. –Urologist, Director of Robotic Surgery

The CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital da Vinci SiTM Surgical system for prostate surgery

[ __ ]Typical da Vinci incision size

Call (337) 430-3400 to schedule a consultation or visit www.christusstpatrick.org/robotassistedsurgery

for more information.

• Improvederectilefunction• Betterurinarycontrol• Highercancercurerates


Blow your Nose. When you have a cold, it is important to blow your nose regularly rather than sniffling mucus back into your head.

Stay Rested. Resting when you first come down with a cold or the flu can help your body direct its energy toward the immune battle.

Gargle. Gargling can moisten a sore throat and bring temporary relief. Try a teaspoon of salt dissolved in warm water, four times daily. If you have a tickle in your throat, try an astringent gargle made with tea that contains tannin.

DrinkHotLiquids.Hot liquids relieve nasal congestion, help prevent dehydration, and can sooth the uncomfortably inflamed membranes that line your nose and throat.

Take a Steamy Shower. Steamy showers moisturize your nasal passages and help you relax.

SleepwithanExtraPillow.By sleeping with an extra pillow under your head, this will help with the drainage of nasal passages.

you feel better as your body fights a cold,” said Dr. Sherk. In fact, several studies show that zinc can help you recover from a cold faster.

Researchers reviewed evidence from 17 studies where over 2,000 people were randomly assigned to take either zinc tablets or a placebo. Their findings showed that people taking zinc reduced the length of a cold by an average of just over a day and a half. People who took higher doses of zinc gained the most benefit; their colds were cut by nearly three days. The supplement zinc acetate showed the most effectiveness.

Whether you decide to take zinc or simply find comfort in chicken soup and getting rest, there are a few common sense things you can do to hopefully stop a cold from spreading:

Wash your Hands. We all know it and if we all did it, there would be fewer colds. “The majority of infectious diseases can be spread by touching a surface with germs and then touching the eyes, nose or mouth,” Dr. Sherk explained. “Keeping clean hands will go a long way to reducing the number of germs entering your body.”

Disinfect.The usual suspects, such as doorknobs, phones, remote controls and handles on grocery store carts are indeed prime places for cold germs to linger. Anytime you can, wipe down the area with disinfectant. “The goal isn’t to have

a completely sterile environment because that’s unrealistic and your body doesn’t require it, but keeping germs at bay during the cold and flu season is a good idea,” she said.

Practice Good Respiratory Hygiene. Avoid sneezing all over a surface or on someone. When you need to cough or sneeze, do so in the crook of your elbow or in a tissue.

Don’t Share.A hand towel in the bathroom or a shared toothbrush mug may be harboring a multitude of germs. Disposable napkins are more sanitary than sharing a hand towel and individual toothbrush covers are a better idea than a communal area for toothbrush storage. If someone has a cold, have them use a separate blanket and pillow than the rest of the family.

Colds are difficult to contain because people become contagious two or three days before their symptoms begin and they remain contagious until their symptoms have gone. If you do come down with a cold, getting plenty of rest and fluids will help you recover as quickly as possible. Talk with your doctor about taking zinc to lessen the duration.

For more information, call Dr. Sherk’s office at (337) 312-0030. Her office is located at 277 Highway 171, Suite 8, in Moss Bluff.

H o M e r e M e D i e sInstead of heading straight to the drug aisle of your local pharmacy when you get the sniffles, try these

gentle, effective and safe home remedies.

Fighting the Common Cold continued from p67

Source: WebMD


Sacking hip pain

For a quarterback, aches and pains are just as much as part of the game as touchdowns and tackles. But for Seth Bohannon, quarterback for the Sulphur High School Golden Tor football team, the pain in his hip wasn’t the result of a hard hit or overuse. It was the result of an abnormality within his hip joint called FAI.

FAI (femoro-acetabular impingemet) is a relatively common condition defined in simple terms as too much friction in the hip joint. According to Dr. John Noble, orthopaedic surgeon at Center for Orthopaedics, patients with FAI experience a sharp, stabbing pain when they turn, twist or squat. It may also be a constant, dull ache. “The condition can lead to numerous pain-causing conditions, including cartilage damage, labral tears, early hip arthritis, hyperlaxity, sports hernias, and low back pain.”

Dr. Noble says a common misconception is that exercise causes FAI, but in actuality, active athletic people may work the hip joint more vigorously so they are more likely to begin experiencing pain much sooner than those who aren’t as active.

In Bohannon’s case, the painful friction resulted from an aspherical shape of the femoral head, meaning it was more elliptical than round as it should be, explains Dr. Noble. “This created a ‘cam’ lesion, or an elliptical prominence, where the ball meets the neck, which damaged the labrum, the ring of cartilage that surrounds the edge of the bony socket of the joint.”

Bohannon says he had experienced pain in his hip for a while. “I saw Dr. Noble after football season ended my sophomore year. He explained the problem and what I needed to do.”

Dr. Noble says minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery is usually the best option for FAI correction and this is what he performed on Bohannon’s hip. “With just a few small incisions, we were able to go in and remove the prominence and prevent future problems by smoothing the joint surface and reshaping the femoral head to eliminate the friction. We also released some tension in a tendon that was adding to Seth’s problem.”

Although Dr. Noble had told him what to expect, Bohannon was still worried about being back in top form for the new season. “The procedure and recovery weren’t a big deal and I was ready by the time practice started. I have more mobility and I’m playing without hip pain this year.”

Dr. Noble points out that early diagnosis of FAI is important. “Recent studies are consistently showing that untreated FAI can lead to early arthritis in the hip.”

For more information about hip pain, call (337) 721-7236 or visit www.centerforortho.com.

photo by Special Touch by Trish

by Kristy Armand


Style &Beauty Score One For The Home Team

Dedicated fans show their creative style with home team color-coordinated outfits from hair accessories, scarves and jewelry to dresses, skirts, dressy shorts and tops to rain boots, riding boots and cowboy boots.

“ We keep a special section of the store stocked with game day clothing, accessories and outerwear,” said Rhonda Kleckley at Accessory Zone.

Wardrobe and accessories provided by Accessory Zone


(337) 474-0080 • Across from the Mall on Prien Lake Road

MONDAY–FRIDAY10:00AM–5:30PM

Think outside the box…

Now this is a Married Christmas!

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The Vein Center of Southwest Louisiana offers comprehensive medical and cosmetic treatment services for peripheral vein disorders, including varicose and spider veins.

Our founder and medical director, Dr. Carl Fastabend, has over 30 years of experience in the cardiovascular field, and specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of vein conditions. He provides minimally invasive, outpatienttreatment options that deliver excellent results in a short period of time. Take the first step. Call us today to schedule a vein assessment.


I do it for a living and hopefully I can pass on a few tips that will ease the frustration. Let’s start with the things that are overwhelming: sensory overload, sizing and, well, rude people.

It’s Too Much!The situationThe number of choices out there is often too much for the senses – the colors, the big walls of displays, and racks of options everywhere. It’s enough to make you want to run.

The solution Preparation is the key. Each season of changing-out our clothes presents us with different reasons for going shopping: needs and wants.

neeDs: We may find that our favorite shirt from last winter is looking worn out. Even if it’s not the same exact item, stick to the same shade of color so it will blend with the rest of your wardrobe. These are items that we should focus our budgeted money on, because we know that this item should last us a long time.

WAnTs: With each season the fashion world creates a ‘Want List’ with its new trends. However, decide what trend would work best for your lifestyle and body type before thinking you need it all.

Distinguishing between “needs” and “wants” can help you be more focused and block out the excess items in the stores.

Sizing, Schmizing!The situationThe fact that every brand has decided to take sizing into their own hands has caused women to almost record what size they are at each store so they can remember. Who wants to go to that much trouble?

The solutionI know it’s time consuming, but take time to analyze the piece itself: does it look like it

would fit you properly and does it look like it would flatter your figure? Then try it on before tossing it aside simply because it is larger than what you normally wear. I highly recommend this when shopping for pants. If you do know a style or brand that fits you well, stick with it to help alleviate the stress. If you are in a nice department store or a one-brand store, take advantage of the sales associates. They should be knowledgeable about their products and most receive information on what styles or brands work best with what body type. Here is a side note on sales associates: Use your instinct on whether or not to believe them when they tell you it looks amazing on you. If you want a second opinion, ask another customer. If I see someone in a dressing room area with something that looks amazing on them, I tell them. We might as well make sure more people are walking around the world looking great!

How Rude!The situationNo one enjoys being around or being spoken to by a rude person, and typically, after encountering a rude person, our mood sours.

The solutionOne way to help overcome this situation is to remember that we don’t know what has happened to that rude person in their life today. Granted, they should not take this out on you, but if you can be the one thing in their day to cheer them up, why not take advantage of that?

Shopping can be tiresome and stressful, but I hope I was able to pass along a few ways of alleviating some of the negativity to help make it a more enjoyable experience because we all know the thrill when we find that amazing piece at a great price. It’s worth it!

Overwhelmed by shopping? Help is Here!

Whitney Manns is the owner of WM Wardrobe Consulting. For more information, visit WMwardrobeconsulting.com

Style &Beauty

to WearReady

Remember, if you have a fashion question for me, just email it to [email protected] or post it on the Thrive Facebook page. It could be answered it an upcoming column. If yours is chosen, you’ll receive a Thrive t-shirt.

For many people, the headache of shopping can kill any desire to step into a shopping mall. Too many brands, colors, and styles, coupled

with the crowds of people, just make it all overwhelming.

Perfect


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DONUTS WITH SANTA

November 14th - 17th

LAKE CHARLES CIVIC CENTER

For more information or toobtain tickets, please call:

All proceeds benefit community projects sponsored byThe Junior League of Lake Charles, Inc.

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The Junior League of Lake Charles, Inc.

presents

HOLIDAY MARKETGENERAL ADMISSION

Generously sponsored by the Mays Family Foundation. Organized by the National Museum of Wildlife Art in collaboration with the National Geographic Society and Museums West. Stark Museum of Art is a program of the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation in Orange, Texas. © 2012 Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation. All Rights Reserved.

712 Green Ave. • Orange, Texas • 409.886.ARTS (2787) • starkmuseum.org

Monument Valley, Utah, 2001 (detail). Bruce Dale/National Geographic Stock.

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Visit the Stark Museum of Art, one of only ten museums in the Nation to house

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AMERICAN WESTGREATEST PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE

Ever wonder how much is enough when it comes to applying beauty products? Use this helpful chart the next time you go to apply your favorite potion.

PerfectPortions

EyE CREAM Concentrated formulas mean a raisin-size dab goes a long way.

FACIAL SPF A Lifesaver’s worth may seem like a lot, but it is the perfect amount to cover your face and neck.

FACIAL MASK There’s no need to lay it on too thick. Two grapes worth should be plenty for a light, full-face layer.

LIQUID FOUNDATION An almond-sized dab on each cheek is plenty. Add more only if you are not getting enough coverage.

ACNE TREATMENT This is strong stuff so be sure not to use more than a kernel of rice’s worth.

FACIAL CLEANER A cherry tomato is just enough to whisk away dirt and makeup, not to lather, rinse and repeat.


WITH COLD WEATHER COMES BOOT SEASON AND WHILE IT MAy SEEM LIKE THERE ARE A LOT OF OPTIONS TO CHOOSE FROM, FIGURING OUT HOW TO WEAR THEM CAN BE TRICKy. HERE IS A LIST OF DO’S AND DON’TS THAT

WE HAVE FOUND WORK BEST FOR BOOT WEARERS.

To Boot Or Not To BootStyle &Beauty

Equestrian

Put together a pair of riding boots with a tailored blazer and skinny jeans for a comfortable and trendy look.

Rubber Boots

We know that rainy weather is sometimes fun for puddle jumping, but don’t make it an outfit. Instead, wear equestrian boots for a chic and waterproof look that can be worn in rain or shine.

Tights

Don’t be afraid to throw on some tights with a pair of boots and a dress or skirt.

Jeans

Instead of stuffing

your too-wide jeans into snug boots, try wearing leggings or skinny

jeans that will fit in much easier.

Cowboy

To avoid looking too-cowgirl, choose a neutral color that can be worn with just about anything.

Short Shorts

Don’t wear boots with short shorts.If you want to go for a wintery look, try pairing a pair of winter shorts with tights and a pair of boots.

Neutrals

When shopping for boots, buy a pair that you can wear with just about everything. Neutral colors will last the longest when it comes to different seasons.

Double Up

Stay away from fur-trim boots and a fur-trim jacket or plaid boots and a plaid sweater.

DO

DON’T

Keeping your feet warm in the winter is key to your overall warmth, and to that end having high-quality, good-condition winter boots are key. Check out these tips to learn how you can clean and maintain your winter boots and keep them looking good and warm as can be.

LeatherKeep leather boots polished and clean. A regular wipe-down with warm water for many boots will help remove dirt and other encrusted elements. If you have scuffs on the boots, dip a soft cloth in water, then baking soda, and rub the spot gently to remove the marks.

SuedeThe wet cleaning remedies that work for smooth leather isn’t good for suede, which needs to stay dry so it doesn’t lose texture. Instead, quickly rub off overall dirt with an eraser or just lightly sand away obvious stains with an emery board. To raise the nap of suede that has flattened, scrub briskly with a clean toothbrush or terry cloth towel.

RubberWash boots with warm water and mild liquid soap when they become dirty as mild soaps will not break down the silicone coating on the boots. When storing these boots, keep in mind that heat and light can damage the rubber so it’s best to store vertically at room temperature and avoid direct sunlight.

At winter’s end, never store boots without cleaning them first and ensuring that they are completely dry. Otherwise, you risk finding moldy, smelly boots next winter.

Take Care of Your Boots


in theINTEREST OF ART

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A Bank for a New Generation!

Local artists, through their talent and vision, help us see ordinary things in a new light. First National Bank DeRidder salutes the

dreams and efforts of local artists with their program In the Interest of Art.

Main l EastsidePark Terrace l Westside • DeRidder l 463-6231

Mortgage Loan Office • 4031 Nelson Rd., Unit 200Lake Charles l 477-6693

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Dr. A. W. Sibley, BS, DDS, has captured the heart and soul of the Deep South in his trilogy Ain’t Life a Hoot! The Life and Times of a Country Dentist. Dr. Sibley recounts rural farm life in Louisiana’s Sabine Parish, growing up during the Depression, entering the service during the Korean conflict, and then establishing his dental practice. In addition, he describes his hobbies of small- and big-game hunting, fresh- and salt-water fishing and raising horses and cattle. He also describes camping and hunting trips to the great Rockies. The three books depict the challenges of humble beginnings, the rewards of hard work, and the strong ties of faith, family and friends.

Now retired, Dr. Sibley lives in Merryville with his wife, the former Margaret Jacobs. They have four grown children and five grandchildren. His books may be purchased from www.aintlifeahoot.com, www.Amazon.com or at Two Sisters Deli & Pecan House in DeRidder.

Dr. A. W. Sibley

Mixing and matching has never been easier now that so many jewelry lines offer transformable jewelry. These pieces have components that change, whether it’s from a necklace into a bracelet, or from one stone to another.

In fine jewelry, transformables first appeared around the 20th century, when jewelers created tiaras that became necklaces. Regal women of the day embraced the versatility, much like today.

Today, the Coco Chanel line has launched its new 1932 Collection, paying homage to the beginning of her famous jewelry. Included in the collection is the Etoile Filante, an extra-long necklace with baguette-cut diamonds held by a large diamond star that can be removed and as a brooch.

Annette St. Romain, jewelry designer and owner of Bijoux Fine Jewelers, said many women enjoy the ability of changing a stone in an existing piece. “It offers more options from one piece of jewelry. Women can get more mileage out of it and their piece can be just the right accessory for an outfit,” she said.

Bijoux offers several transformable jewelry lines, including the Kameleon Collection, which allows the wearer to insert several interchangeable inserts called JewelPops. “They can pop

them in and out, depending on the

color and style they want that day,” St. Romain said. The line has traditional jewelry pieces, such as necklaces and rings, as well as belt buckles, sunglasses, and watches.

One of the challenges for creators of these mix ’n match lines is to design the piece so that the change is not noticeable. “It must be easy to change but secure once it’s in,” St. Romain explained.

The settings need to be either hidden or incorporated into the design of the piece. Obviously, more work is involved in creating a transformable piece than one single piece of jewelry. “The entire piece has to be elegant and seamless, even though it has several components,” she said.

One ring could go from a fleur de lis design to a piece with an initial on it, just by popping out one component and changing to another. “It all depends on what you want to wear that day. You could base it off your outfit, the season or just how you feel,” said St. Romain.

Whether it’s costume jewelry, fine jewelry or jewelry from long ago, women continue to enjoy having options.

For more information, contact Bijoux Fine Jewelry in Sulphur at (337) 625-9971.

Jewelry with Options

by Christine Fisher


sponsored by

La Cuisine de BeauregardHistoric downtown DeRidder will host the 5th annual La Cuisine de Beauregard on November 10. Come experience authentic Louisiana food, music, heritage and much more.

Each chef will prepare a different dish to be sampled. The area will be roped off for a food court with chefs lining both sides of Washington Street, competing for a “People’s Choice” and “Booth Design” award.

Advanced tickets will be sold for samples of all the culinary delights.No admission fee to the festival. This event sponsored by the DeRidderMain Street, Historic Downtown Alliance & Louisiana Main to Main.

For more information, call (337) 462-8900.Pictures and information provided by Beauregard Tourism.

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

Solutions for Life

Changing TimesWell, it finally happened. I knew it was coming. I knew it

needed to happen. I also decided to postpone it until it could wait no longer.

At first, I was hopeful that it would work itself out. Maybe my instincts were off and this wasn’t a foreshadowing of major change. Maybe I wouldn’t have to do anything, and everything would be OK. That’s called denial, folks, and it’s a double-edged sword. Denial is a beautiful thing at first because it allows us to function in times of great upheaval. I’m sure you can think of many instances in your life where if you really knew the total impact from the start, you would have been a deer in the headlights. Denial at the beginning of one of those journeys allows us to think, plan, and process.

But denial turns ugly when it’s allowed to stick around too long. It keeps us stuck in situations that have long been unhealthy. Denial-gone-bad convinces you that you have to stay. It’s eventually got to get better, right? Besides, things could be worse elsewhere.

After I decided this change not only was going to happen, but actually needed to happen, I was able to move into the next phase of change adaptation: resistance. Many times resistance shows itself as apathy: “I don’t even care anymore; whatever happens happens.” Along with the apathy comes grumbling, complaining and general negativity. This stage is also full of processing; I talked – a lot (just ask my poor husband). I expressed my frustration, my fear, and my regrets. And that’s exactly what I needed to do. I was looking for a way to say “goodbye” to one phase of my life and “hello” to the next. All that talking and expressing allowed me to get everything I had been holding in for so long out. It needed to come out to make room for what was ahead. If you are full of negativity, you don’t have any room to receive the good stuff. Remember that if you ever have to deliver news of major change: people need to talk it out in order to move on.

Unfortunately, the phase I got to move on to is a little frustrating itself: exploration, otherwise known as “chaos.” Once I was finished with denial and had processed my way into reality, I quickly became overwhelmed with all that needed to be done. I had lists upon lists of all that had to be accomplished within a short period of time. And so many things on that list seemed to drag on without completion. Fortunately I have great people around me who were willing to jump in with me and help out. Now, that didn’t stop the panicky “can I really make this happen” feelings at times, or keep me sleeping restfully so I would be at my best. My first wake-up call that I am stressed is just that – I wake up.

At 3 a.m. Every morning. I have learned to use the early morning hours either productively or as a way to catch up on all my DVR shows (which I also consider productive).

The chaotic phase does finally settle down. The last phase of the process of change is commitment, and I think I’m in the beginning of that phase. I really do see a light at the end of the tunnel when I will be able to get focused on functioning at the high level I’m used to. I am actually checking a few things off my list because they have finally been completed. I’m not replacing the one thing I’m checking off the list with three new ones. “It’s going to all work out and be even better,” is no longer something I tell myself, hoping I’ll believe it. I actually do believe it because it is happening.

from Solutions Counseling and EAP!


sponsored by

La Cuisine de BeauregardHistoric downtown DeRidder will host the 5th annual La Cuisine de Beauregard on November 10. Come experience authentic Louisiana food, music, heritage and much more.

Each chef will prepare a different dish to be sampled. The area will be roped off for a food court with chefs lining both sides of Washington Street, competing for a “People’s Choice” and “Booth Design” award.

Advanced tickets will be sold for samples of all the culinary delights.No admission fee to the festival. This event sponsored by the DeRidderMain Street, Historic Downtown Alliance & Louisiana Main to Main.

For more information, call (337) 462-8900.Pictures and information provided by Beauregard Tourism.


Family & youth Accepts $20,000 from ALCOAFamily & Youth accepted $20,000 donation from ALCOA Carbon Products to benefit The Leadership Center for Youth’s Leadership Development, Career Exploration, and Civic Engagement Institute for Youth programs.

L to R: Julio Galan, President & CEO of Family & Youth; Kevin Boll, Human Resource Manager; Maria Riggins, member of The Leadership Center for Youth; Tiffany Fontenot, member of The Leadership Center for Youth; and Steven Thompson, ALCOA Plant Manager.

L’Auberge Casino Resort Donates Tasting on the Terrace Proceeds to Children’s Advocacy CenterFamily & Youth’s Children’s Advocacy Center received $12,500, the proceeds raised at the sold-out Tasting on the Terrace Event hosted by L’Auberge

including ticket sales, raffle tickets, and wine sales. L to R: Stephanie Miller, L’Auberge Assistant Food & Beverage Director; Julio Galan, Family & Youth President & CEO; and Kerry Andersen, Corporate Director of Media Relations & Public Affairs for Pinnacle Entertainment. Not pictured: Mike & Martha Holleman, Owner – The Wine Store.

L’Auberge Casino Resort Sponsors Walk a Mile in Her ShoesFundraiser;Donates$2,500toOrganizationsFocusedon Ending Violence Against WomenL’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles recently took part in the Walk a Mile in

Her Shoes event held at the Prien Lake Mall. Proceeds from sponsored walkers in the event will benefit Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Programs in Southwest Louisiana, the Oasis Sexual Violence Program and The Children’s Advocacy Center. The L’Auberge floral team created gaming themed high heels for male team members to strut in for the awareness march. L to R: vivianReed-Guillory,Sexual Violence Prevention Educator & Trainer; Tammy Vincent, RN SANE; Keith W. Henson, L’Auberge Sr. Vice President & General Manager; Lucinda Peltier, Floral Retail Shop Supervisor. The L’Auberge floral team created gaming themed high heels for male team members to strut in for the awareness march.

Mark Hanudel Makes Endowment to Family Foundation of Southwest LouisianaThe Family Foundation of Southwest Louisiana accepted a $5,000 endowment from Mark and Kathy Hanudel to benefit the programs of

Family & Youth.

Nancy Sylvester Makes Endowment to Family Foundation of Southwest LouisianaThe Family Foundation of Southwest Louisiana accepted a $5,000 endowment from Nancy Sylvester to benefit the programs of Family & Youth.

L to R: Julio Galan, President and CEO of Family Foundation, Nancy Sylvester, and David Duplechian, Vice President Advocacy of Family & Youth.

LCMHvolunteerAuxilaryDonates New Scope to Radiation Oncology The Lake Charles Memorial Hospital (LCMH) Volunteer Auxiliary and Foundation recently donated a new Olympus® Airway Mobilescope to the hospital’s radiation oncology department.

The mobilescope has an LED light, display screen, still image and digital recording capabilities. It will be used to evaluate the extent of lesions in the mouth, nodes and throat. The scope will also be used to monitor patient progress with radiation treatments. L to R: LCMH Auxiliary members Bridget Barnes and TessieBoulet;Radiation Oncologist Dr.JamesMaze;Olympus® representative EricRausch; and Radiation Oncology Director Karla David.

35th Annual Shine Flournoy Golf Tournament Donates to Family & youth’s Children’s Advocacy CenterThe Mallard Cove Men’s Golf Association (MCMGA) and First Federal Bank proudly presented $12,000 from the 35th Annual Shine Flournoy Golf

Tournament to Family & Youth’s Children’s Advocacy Center.L to R: Troy Higginbotham, Mallard Cove Men’s Golf Association Treasurer; Kerry Andersen, Chairman of the Family & Youth Board of Directors; Leslie Harless, First Federal Bank; Steve Couch, Mallard Cove Men’s Golf Association President; and Julio Galan, President and CEO of

Family & Youth.

L’Auberge Casino Resort Hosts ‘WalkforWellness’;Raises$4,150 for Team member Assistance FundNearly 200 L’Auberge Casino Resort team members gathered at Touloulou’s to Walk for Wellness recently.

Participants walked throughout the expansive property and Contraband Bayou Golf Club and were then treated to chair massages, healthy snacks and treats plus door prizes. L’Auberge also held a comprehensive health fair for all of its team members including complimentary flu shots, screenings and tips for healthy living plus fitness giveaways and workshops.

Community Contributor$

L to R: Mark Hanudel, Candis Carr, Vice President of Family & Youth and Julio Galan, President and CEO of Family Foundation.


Leader in Me Funded at Henning Elementary

The Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance Foundation is pleased to announce a partnership to fund The Leader in Me process at W. T. Henning Elementary in Sulphur. This partnership is composed of the I AM A LEADER FOUNDATION providing $48,800 in grant funding for training and training materials. PPG Industries is contributing $10,000 and Lonza is contributing $3,000 to cover annual training, software and web service licenses, and the school’s annual membership renewal in the program. This is a five year partnership that will serve every student from kindergarten through fifth grade.

WCCHAuxiliaryDonatestoHospital’s FoundationThe West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital (WCCH) Foundation received a donation of $7850.00 from the WCCH Auxiliary. The donation, made possible by proceeds from sales in the Auxiliary’s Gift Shoppe, was

made to assist the WCCH Foundation achieve its core mission of assisting the hospital in providing advanced, quality health care to the community.L to R: Bill Hankins, WCCH CEO; Ira Fontenot, WCCH Foundation president; Sharon Comeaux, WCCH Auxiliary president; and Debby Nabours, WCCH Foundation executive director.

Foundation for Fairplay donates to La Grange High SchoolThe Foundation for Fairplay Fund (F3) recently donated $6,000 in athletic equipment to La Grange High School. The money went towards the refurbishment of four training tables and the purchase of 20 new Riddell® Revolution® Speed Helmets. The

helmets offer the latest technology in football safety. Helmets are a huge expense for local football programs as schools are Dr. Brett Cascio (front left), medical director of sports medicine at Memorial presents a $6,000 check to La Grange Head Coach Jules Sullen. Also pictured (left to right) are La Grange football player Martell Hawthorne #1, Calcasieu Parish District 7 School Board Member Mack Dellafosse and Memorial Sports Medicine director Jamey Rasberry and trainer Sherie Bates.

L to R: Tom Hatfield, PPG Quality Coordinator; Nancy Kelley, Alliance Workforce & Talent Director; Jon Manns, PPG Works Manager; PrincipleTerryCollins;and George Swift, Alliance President/CEO.

L to R: Nancy Kelley, Alliance Workforce & Talent Director;PrincipleTerryCollins; Mark Kern, Lonza Plant Manager; and AnnBarilleaux,Alliance Foundation Development Director.


It doesn’t take much insider knowledge of the local petrochemical industry to know that these companies are the biggest player at the Southwest Louisiana economic table. What many may not be aware of is the familial connection and sense of tradition within the CITGO Lake Charles Manufacturing Complex. A recent media tour of the local complex, conducted by management team members provided new insight of the daily operations.

“Many of our employees, a good portion of them have been here for 25 years or more,” says Dana Keel, government and public affairs manager at the Lake Charles Manufacturing Complex of CITGO Petroleum Corporation. “We also have generations of families working here. We have fathers and sons, mothers and daughters and even husbands and wives working here, making for a great family environment.”

Another fact people may not know about CITGO in particular is that the Lake Charles Manufacturing

Complex is the fifth largest refinery in the United States and the 17th largest in the world. The complex that first opened in 1944 was built to provide fuel for bomber aircraft during World War II. Today, the refinery is situated on 16,000 acres of land.

“Each day, 179,000 barrels of gasoline are produced right here at our complex in Lake Charles,” Keel says. “This equates to 7.5 million gallons per day and is enough to make 5,700 trips around the equator!”

It’s not all about making a profit though, according to Keel. “In addition to paying out $177 million in annual payroll and benefits to nearly 1,100 employees, CITGO aims to be a good community partner. In 2011, between our company and our employees, $1.1 million in total charitable donations was spread through Southwest Louisiana.”

The CITGO Employee United Way Campaign is the largest in Southwest Louisiana and the third

largest in the state. Their annual fundraiser for the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Southwest Louisiana is the largest single day fundraiser in Louisiana.

“Team CITGO, which has been in existence for 25 years and the first of its kind in the Lake Area, is a familiar face on the area volunteer scene,” says Keel. “Last year, nearly 3,000 volunteer hours were completed thanks to our employees who make up Team CITGO.”

The success of the complex as Keel says lies in more than just making a product. “The CITGO mission states that our strength is in our people. Our core values rest in creating a safe and environmentally-friendly workplace.”

For more information or to arrange for a group tour of the Lake Charles Manufacturing Complex, contact Keel by calling (337) 708-8039 or visiting www.citgo.com.

In the true spirit of Thanksgiving, non-profit agencies, businesses, and individuals from the area are coming together to serve a community-wide dinner on Thursday, Nov. 22, at the Sulphur Recreation and Aquatic Center, 933 W. Parish Road.

The 19th Annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner, sponsored by the Maplewood–Hollywood Lions Club in conjunction with the Southwest Daily News, Sulphur Parks and Recreation, City of Sulphur, Entergy, Care Help, Coca Cola, and others, is expected to serve 800 to 1,000 persons, according to William Arceneaux, first vice district governor of the Maplewood-Hollywood Lions Club, who also serves as chair of the event. Other volunteers include Girl Scout groups, the Sulphur High LEO students, and various local community groups. “It’s a big undertaking,” Arceneaux said. But the support through the local community is outstanding. Each year, approximately 75 - 100 individuals volunteer to help prepare and serve the meals.

Arceneaux and his wife Belinda, both active in the Lion’s Club, have been working with the community dinner for the past seven to eight years, he said. The various groups all come together to fulfill a need in the community. For volunteers, it’s a way to give back to the community by providing a Community Thanksgiving meal that is open to all who wish to attend. “Thanksgiving is a day that no one should be alone,” Arceneaux explained. “Several individuals who have attended in the

past have stated that they would have been alone for Thanksgiving Day if not for the Lions Club providing this meal and time for fellowship.”

On the morning of the event, volunteers will begin preparing the meal at 5:30 a.m., when they begin firing up the big pots to fry the 60 turkeys. CITGO donates turkeys for the dinner. Then the hams will be cooked on rotisseries, and between then volunteers will begin carving turkeys and slicing ham. Cornbread dressing, rice dressing, corn,

green beans, yams and desserts will be served. Grocery stores, restaurants, churches, and other businesses contribute to the meal, and people throughout the community donate desserts. “We can serve 800 to 1,000 people and not run out of dessert,” Arceneaux said.

A Prayer Service will get under way at 9:45 a.m., and volunteers will begin serving the meal at 10:30 a.m. Following the meal, participants play Bingo, and nice prizes are awarded, Arceneaux said.

Fueling Something Good

A Community Thanksgiving

by Katie Harrington

by Ann McMurry


We’re your one-stop Shop for Holiday Storage and Shipping Hide your holiday gift surprises safely out of sight at one of our three covenient area locations. And after the holidays are over, we’re also the perfect place to store your holiday decor.

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The Greater Lake Charles Rotary Club is inviting the public to a new, Thanksgiving-themed event to support higher education in Southwest Louisiana.

The Turkey Trot 5K and Kid-K will take place on Saturday, Nov. 17 at the Enos Derbonne Sports Complex, 7903 Lake St. The family-friendly event is an off-road, 5-kilometer fun run/walk with a 1-kilometer kid’s race.

Proceeds will help to fund student scholarships at SOWELA Technical Community College and McNeese State University.

The first 100 registrants -- and all Kid-K participants -- will receive a limited edition Turkey Trot T-shirt.

Winners in various age groups will receive a frozen Thanksgiving turkey.

Registration is $25 for adults, $15 for children ages 4-17 and $70 for a family of four or more. Advance registration is available at www.Active.com (Search “Lake Charles.”). To register by mail, or to make a donation, send a check payable to GLC Rotary to Greater Lake Charles Rotary Club Turkey Trot, P.O. Box 1245, Lake Charles, LA 70602. On-site registration at the event begins at 7 a.m. Event start times are 8:15 a.m. for the Turkey Trot Kid-K and 8:30 a.m. for the Turkey Trot 5K.

The Turkey Trot sponsor is Edward Jones and local financial advisor Vickie Wicks.

For more information on the event, visit the Greater Lake Charles Rotary Club Turkey Trot page on Facebook.

Turkey Trot to Benefit Sowela, McNeese


Mark Your Calendar!Volunteers of America’s Cruising for a Cause to support National Adoption Awareness Month November is National Adoption Awareness Month. To bring attention to this important issue, Volunteers of America is hosting the “Cruising for a Cause” motorcycle ride on Saturday, November 10th. Registration begins at 8:30 am and the ride starts at 9:00 from Lake Villa Apartments at 645 15th Street in Lake Charles. For more information, call Kay at Volunteers of America at (337) 497-0034.

Brother Ronnie Burke Celebrating 10 years as Pastor at Maplewood First Baptist ChurchMaplewood First Baptist Church, located at 4501 Maplewood Drive, is celebrating 10 years of having Brother Ronnie

Burke as its senior pastor. The church has been a cornerstone in the Sulphur community for over 50 years, and the congregation is inviting the community to a special commemorative service on Sunday, Nov. 11, at 10:15 a.m. with Pastor Robert Carter as the guest preacher.

Stylin’ at the Fashion Pageant at Party on Wheels Style it up at the Fashion Pageant November 10 at noon at Party on Wheels, 650 Petro Point Dr., in Lake Charles. Registration is $65 and begins at 10 a.m. Attendance is $5 and kids under 10 get in free. Concessions will be available. This event is hosted by Kiddy Quad Clothing and Party on Wheels. For more information, please contact Indrea Gordon at 337-309-0945 or visit www.quadclothingcompany.com.

Tickets on Sale Now for LCCB Christmas PerformanceLake Charles Civic Ballet (LCCB) honors Louisiana’s bicentennial year by presenting Christmas in Louisiana, Once Upon a Time, sponsored by L’Auberge Lake Charles. This one hour original ballet is choreographed by artistic director Lady Holly Hathaway Kaough with settings by local artist Fred Stark. All performances are at the Lake Charles Civic Center’s Rosa Hart Theatre. School Group Performances are December 6, (9:00 AM, 10:30 AM)

and December 7, (9:00 AM, 10:30 AM). Tickets are $5 per student. For School Group Reservations and information please call (337) 802-5779 or (337) 477-1581 or visit the website: www.lakecharlescivicballet.com .

Memorial Gift Shop plans Holiday Open House The Wishing Well Gift Shop at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital (LCMH) will hold its Holiday Open House on Thursday, November 8 from 7:30 am until 7pm. In addition to a wide selection of holiday decorations/holiday items, an assortment of unique gifts will be available: including LSU items, Elf on Shelf items, costume jewelry, scarves, purses, and home décor. For more information, call The Wishing Well Gift Shop (337) 494.2353.

Wrist Pain and Treatment Options to be Discussed at Seminar Andrew Foret, MD, hand and wrist specialist, will be the guest speaker at “Get a Hand with Wrist Pain,” on Thursday, November 15, at Center for Orthopaedics in Lake Charles. The seminar will begin at 5:30 pm. The wrist has multiple bones, tendons and ligaments that work together to help the hand grasp, push, lift – and many other daily tasks. But wrist pain can make everyday activities—even sleeping—painful. Dr. Foret will explain the most common causes of wrist pain, including overuse, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, arthritis and injury. He’ll also discuss prevention strategies, non-surgical treatment options and advanced surgical techniques. Call 721-7291 or register online in the event section of www.centerforortho.com. Center for Orthopaedics is located at 1747 Imperial Blvd. in Lake Charles.

Book and Art SaleSt. Andrew Presbyterian Church, 4020 Hodges Street, will host a Book and Art Sale 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday, November 10 in the fellowship hall. The church is located near the corner of Hodges and Sale Streets, across from the McNeese State University campus. Hundreds of books and several works of art donated by students of local artist/art teacher Nancy Melton will be available. Also on sale will be beautiful handmade art including quilted and crocheted work from the St. Andrew Sewing Circle. Quilted holiday table runners are always a favorite. For directions or more information, please call

(337)477-6166 between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Monday - Friday, email us at [email protected], or visit standrewpres.com.

Annual Christmas Card Workshop1911 Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural CenterFrom November 30-December 22, create handmade Christmas cards with your own design or use the many Nutcracker-themed designs ready to paint or color. All ages are welcome to apply their creative skills using several mediums, all supplies will be provided. The Calcasieu Council on Aging will distribute the cards to area nursing home residents through its Ombudsman Program.

Westlake High Theatre presents ALICE IN WONDERLAND. The production is based on the 1951 Disney film “Alice in Wonderland” and novels “The Adventures of Alice in Wonderland” and “Through the Looking Glass” by Lewis Carroll. The school performance of this comical production will be at Westlake High School’s state-of-the-art theatre located at 1000 Garden Drive in Westlake, LA on Thursday, November 15, at 10:00AM. Tickets are $7.00 per person and may be purchased by calling the box office at (337) 217-4950.

Adoption Seminar ScheduledTrinity Baptist Church will hold and Adoption Seminar on Saturday, November 10. The seminar will be held at the church which is located at 1800 Country Club Rd. in Lake Charles. For more information or to register, send an e-mail to [email protected].

Pancreatic Cancer Action Network Announces Purplestride Lake Aarea 2012 5K WalkThe Pancreatic Cancer Action Network will host it’s annual Purplestride Lake Area 5K walk through Prien Lake Park on Saturday, December 1. Visit www.purplestride.org for more information or contact Kristy Remy, event chair at (337) 515-0416.

CallingallGingerbreadHouseBuilders!Entry forms are now available for the Annual Gingerbread House Contest to be held at noon Saturday, Dec. 1, in conjunction with the Lake Charles Annual Christmas Lighting Festival. Sponsored by the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau, the

Brother Ronnie Burke


contest and awards ceremony will be held at the bureau located at 1205 North Lakeshore Drive in Lake Charles. Entry divisions include amateur, professional and school groups. The deadline for entering the contest is Friday, Nov. 9. Entries must be delivered to the Convention & Visitors Bureau between 1-4:30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 30. For registration information, contact the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau, at 436-9588 or visit www.visitlakecharles.org/cajunchristmas.

Autumn Fair Scheduled at Shangri LaShangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center will host its Autumn Fair on November 10. For more information, visit www.shangrilagardens.org or call (409) 670-9113.

Lake Charles Christmas Celebration ScheduledThe City of Lake Charles will present the Light up the Lake Christmas Celebration on December 1st at the Lake Charles Civic Center. All events are free. For more information, call (337) 491-9159 or visit www.cityoflakecharles.com.StreetParade-2pmSanta’sWorkshop-3-5:30pmLakeCharlesCommunityBandChristmasConcert-4-5:15pmLightingceremony-5:30-6pmBlockParty-6-9pmBoatParade-6:30pmFireworks-8pm

Lil’BandO’Gold’s-TheReturnoftheSwampPopChristmasConcertOn December 5th at 7:00 pm, Central School Theater presents the return of the swamp pop Christmas concert. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door

and can be purchased in advance by calling (337) 439-2787 or visiting www.louisianacrossroads.org.

Thousands of Walkers Raise Critical Funds and Increase Awareness of Heart Disease at Annual Southwest Louisiana Heart Walk On November 10, over 2,500 participants are expected to attend the annual Southwest Louisiana Heart Walk, an event to benefit the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association. The walkers will unite to celebrate the campaign beginning at 8 a.m. at McNeese State University, in the Quad. This year, thanks to Isle of Capri, we will

be entertained by Jo’El Sonnier better known to some as “The King of Cajun”. For more information about the Heart Walk, please contact Lori Russell at (800) 257-6941 ext. 6174 or [email protected] or visit our website: www.swlaheartwalk.org.

SWLA Arts and Cultural Symposium to be Held at Lake Charles Civic Center

The SWLA Economic Development Alliance, the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Arts & Humanities Council of SWLA and the City of Lake Charles, will host the SWLA Arts and Cultural Symposium: The Business of Art on November 8, from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Lake Charles Civic Center Contraband Room. The summit will provide important information to attendees on the economic and cultural impact of the arts in Southwest Louisiana and provide ideas and strategies on how to execute profitable arts and cultural programs. The keynote Speaker will be Malcolm White, Executive Director of the Mississippi Arts Commission. Admission is $10, which includes lunch.

An RSVP is requested by November 1 to Lynette Clark, [email protected], or (337) 433-3632.

2013 marks the beginning of the Imperial Calcasieu Museum's 50th year of serving our community, providing excellence in visual arts and arts education programs, and preserving the unique cultureand history of the region.

To commemorate this milestone, the Board ofDirectors commissioned renowned designer,Mignon Faget®, to create two special designs using the crossed dueling pistols symbolic of the frontier spiritof the old Imperial Calcasieu region.

Order before November 14th for glassesand November 21st for pen/pendentfor Christmas delivery.

I M P E R I A LC A L C A S I E UM U S E U M

337-439-3797

Pen/Pendant brushed sterling silver• $110 eachSet of 4 glasses• $45/set

*prices include sales tax

MATINEE & GALA PERFORMANCESDecember 8 | $10 for Students, $15 for Adults

SPECIAL SCHOOL PERFORMANCES December 6 & 7

Christmas in Louisiana: Once Upon a Time

(337) 474-0311 | www.lakecharlescivicballet.com

A truly classic holiday performance of Santa’sjourneys to Louisiana throughout the state’s history.

Jo’El Sonnier


Documents

Thrive November 2012 Issue