The Times A & E

The Shadow

Merton-cum-Middlewick

The fun had already begun when The Shadow and friend, Jessie Kelly arrived at The Harlequin Restaurant for the 2008 Whistle Stop Wine Tour. We were graciously greeted at the entrance and directed to a table for two by the fireplace that proved to be, in our opinion, the best seat in the house. Close by, Dr. Barbara Belew aptly coaxed into our midst the mystical, magical sounds of the harp creating a backdrop of placid ambiance as the guests began to arrive.

Huddled around Al Simon’s Cajun MicroWave were Kirk Moore and Henry Liles sampling some hot-off-the-microwave treats. The White Girls, Leah, Cookie and Kelly White Allain were intrigued by the silent auction items as were Debbie Reed and Mike Terranova. Edwin Hunter along with Jude Hilliard and Claude Devall were all set with auction paddles, but I am not sure if they were able to hang with the stiff competition and take home a prize. I also spied Powell Smith, Jeanne Williams, George and Evelyn Paret, and Rick Richard. The always elegant Matilda Stream was escorted by her grandson, Gray Stream.

Agnes Gandy and daughter Kim Melton were readily available to answer any questions regarding the fabulous auction items available. There was an array of elegant, unique and fashionable items that included original works by Patsi Prince, Nancy Melton and Rick Norman (to name a few), designer sunglasses fit for a queen, whimsical decorative pieces, autographed work of noted authors and more; and this was just a small listing of the silent auction items.

The live auction was an animal of a different color, sporting offerings such as a private jet flight to New Orleans for dinner including the finest wines and cuisine, a big game fishing trip, private dinners prepared by the finest chefs, romantic sail-away evening, autographed sports memorabilia, and “Butterscotch” the smart pony. There were too many items to list. It was a location thing; you just had to be there. All the stops were pulled and no holds were barred when the bidding started. The competition was fast and furious and together with the silent auction made for a hugely successful event. Say, Edwin, Jude and Claude were you successful bidders?

Yes, dinner was served. Make no mistake about it, The Harlequin’s sterling reputation remains in tack. A four course meal served with a variety of the finest wines for each course. The main course of Tenderloin Medallions with Sautéed Lump Crab Meat was served with Dry Creek Cabernet Sauvignon, 2005. That should give you an idea of the lavish fare enjoyed by the guests and if that isn’t enough the fourth course (dessert) was Mrs. Hunter’s Baked Fudge Topped with Crème Anglaise and Strawberry.

My compliments to Nic Hunter and Sharon Boniol for their hard work and I congratulate them on the success of the event. Thanks to all The Harlequin staff for your excellent service and especially to Devin who took such good care of The Shadow and Jessie.

The Calcasieu Cameron Retired Teachers meet each month for a luncheon at the Pioneer Club. Lena Roach invited the Shadow to their May meeting and I was delighted to accept. Sixty-seven members attended. I sat with Doris and Bennett Lewis. Dr. Lewis is a retired MSU math instructor.  Margaret Ewing, retired from Barbe High, Linda Finley, Cornie Moon and Brad Goins rounded out our table of lively folks.

Mr. Moon pointed out that the group’s membership has grown to 463. After we visited the fabulous buffet (love the carrot cake!) we said grace, the pledge of allegiance and then the “Famous Trio” of the CCRT treated us to America the Beautiful and God Bless America. The Trio is Dot Hanna, Millie Hobbs and Daniel Ieyoub.

Guest speaker Bryan Beam with the Calcasieu Police Jury presented an informative update on “Vision Calcasieu”, the newly opened Prien Lake Park and the status of the “C-Gov” channel on area cable that makes government meetings and functions open to the public.

After his speech, Cornie Moon and Gabe Barkate were honored for their years of service to the association and then new officers were installed. They are Edie Keys, President; Lena Roach, Vice President; Nancy Hurlbert, Secretary; and Linda Findley, Treasurer. 

The annual artistic Battle of the Red Berets was fought May 1 for the Children’s Miracle Network at Louviere’s Fine Art and Bridgepointe Custom Framing in Moss Bluff. I spotted Peter “PicassO”’Carroll when I arrived. He was composing a portrait and confessed that the whole process was “Scary! It’s one thing to show off your lack of artist talent,” he quipped, “But to do it in front of people!” But he conceded that the fear (and humiliation) was worth it for the Children’s Miracle Network!

Nearby, Laura “Lichtenstein” Leach with support from her daughter-in-law, Jenny, granddaughter Laura and other family members, worked on a gold and purple LSU Tiger design that was sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Nic “Homer” Hunter, sporting an artistic moustache with his red beret and smock, was working on a southwest Louisiana themed design. Hector San “Van Gogh” Miguel, took artistic advice from his mother, Patsy, in designing his “Superman Reporter” composition.  Bob “Chagall” Chandler, with support from Kendall Chandler, was working on his masterpiece. I asked if he had ever taken art lessons. “Does it look like I’ve painted before?” he laughed.  Allen “Toulouse” Tumey was getting assistance from the artist Elton Louviere himself.  John El(vis) Greco Ieyoub received coaching from artist Nancy Czejkowski as he recreated his own version of the famous “Blue Dog.”

Tom Henning received excellent coaching from Cookie Phillips for his ambitious first attempt ever at painting. His son wanted a painting of speckled trout and Cookie showed Tom how to layout a grid to get his proportions and composition transferred to the canvas.  Good job!

The battling berets were cheered on by family and friends and kept fed by the happy volunteers from CMN which included Jim and Becky LaFargue, Elton and Pat Louviere, Jessica Carlson, Jill Breaux and Poddy Champeaux. The winning artist is determined each year by votes cast for one dollar (vote early, vote often), and that make the real winner the Children’s Miracle Network, of course!

That evening, the fun continued over at the Brick House when the Lake Charles Symphony hosted their popular Wild Beast Feast. The parking lot was full of cars and the delicious aromas from the Wild Beast chefs, grilling out back. We were welcomed into the Brick House by Roxie Boxie, Melody Jackson, Kathy Scoggins and Debbie Reed.

After donning my bright green WBF wristband of honor, I immediately scouted out the tables of beasts for eating. Kevin and Stephanie Richardson served up “Jammin’ Jambalaya” and Rib Tips from Trail Blazin’ BBQ & Grill. Mary Jo Canik and Briant Smith (from the Blue Duck Cafre) served up Verde Venison Chili, Hobeaux Gumbeaux and Spicy Caribou Bites. Jammin’ to the music of City Heat while they dished up Breakfast on the Bayou, Dave Morgan, Greg Percle, John Needham, and Carl Fastabend were having their own party within a party!

At the O’Charley’s buffet table, you could get generous samples of VooDoo Peanut Soup with Shrimp and Jambalaya Pasta. Other delicacies begging to be gobbled up were spicy grilled wild hog, Cozy Cassoulet, Chicken and Sausage Sauce Piquant, boiled crawfish, Wild Duck wrapped in Bacon (yum!), Wild Duck Gumbo, Cluck & Squeal Jambalaya, and  Bar-B-Que Brisket and rice.

For dessert there were Symphony Sweets which included Coffee Kissed Baked Bananas, and samples of recipes from the Junior League cookbook, Mansions to Marshes (which was also on sale!)

I spotted Leslie and Britney Streeter visiting with Susan and Rob Price.  Anne Marie, William and Craig Hebert mugged for the Shadow’s camera with Cecile Cutrer. Nearby, Kay Andrews, Heather Fazzio and Theresa Needham, Pam McGough, Brian and Patricia Prudhomme and Jolyn Slate were having fun comparing taste tests of all the goodies.

Dale Mann and Todd Stone filled their plates with Wild Beasts – this is manly food, after all! Buccaneers were even lured from Contraband Days fun for the food and music of the feast. Lauren and Phil de’Albuquerque were dressed in their pirate finery to enjoy Beast Feast.

I chatted with Bob and Marilyn Dunn enjoying the Wild Beast Feast. The Howrey Family, Brett, Abigail, Emma, Chloe and Kristen, arrived ready for music and good food.  At a nearby table, beauties Hannah Leger and Anna Liggio tackled platters of crawfish. 

While we stuffed ourselves with great Louisiana food, we were entertained by the amazing talents of City Heat playing and singing everything from jazz to rock and roll, golden oldies and R & B -- a perfect combination for Wild Beast Feast!

As usual, the Lake Charles Little Theatre has pulled of another remarkable season.  They should, they have been doing it for over 80 years and on the night of May 3, they proved what they have learned through the decades-give an audience a cast with a great sense of comedic timing, four doors, and a drunk church lady, mix well, and voila!  A hit!  That was the recipe for the opening of the final show of their season, Philip King's “See How They Run”!  Set in a small vicarage at “Merton-cum-Middlewick” in England near the end of WWII, Director Barbara Downer's cast had the audience literally rolling in the aisles!  Not to give too much away, let me just say that appearing as the vicar, Clint Comeaux, James Johnson, Louis Barrilleaux, Paul Land, and Brett Downer led the strong cast with outrageous antics and lots of mistaken identities!  Laura Heller, as the chanteuse, and Kirsten Bush as to the saucy maid, Ida, kept the audience in stitches and the story moving!  BUT the true scene stealer was Ellie Marquez, as the teetotaling snoop of a church lady, Miss Skillon.  This woman deserves a Tony for her inebriated performance!  Not to be outdone by the cast of outrageous hams, Greg Stratton makes a timely entrance near the end, sorting out the “are's from the are-nots” in typical English fashion. 

On hand for the opening night I spied Jay Rypma, Chad Reeves, Hector SanMiguel, Billy Fee, Charles Mullins, Paul and Estelle Thibodeaux, Bob Muterbaugh, Jimmie Moriarty, Suzanne Germany, David LeBleu, Heather Kelly, Len and Oili Barchak, and Charles Mullins.  Of course, no opening night at Little Theatre is ever complete without the appearance of their most honest and lovable patron in the front row, Adelaide Cole, who put her stamp of approval on this four-door farce.  Following the sell out evening, the cast treated the audience to a wonderful reception in the lobby of the New Stable Playhouse. 

Spotted enjoying a “spot of tea and crumpets” with friends were Jose and Stephanie Marrerro, Dr. and Mrs. Louis Barrilleaux, along with their gifted family, Billie Morris, Joseph Frazier, Thomas Cole, Brandy Comeaux, Conrad and Cheryl Fuselier, Ron and Roni Kemmerly, Heather Fazzio, James Carter, Dave “Smootches” Brown, and Cathy Chapman.  On a closing note, let me just add that while there, and working my sources, I was thrilled to learn they have set their next season, and it promises to be one of the strongest and best in many years.  Next year’s shows include:  “A Raisin in the Sun,” “Room Service,” “The Foreigner”, and the musical “You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown”.  Now if that is not enough to make your entertainment taste buds water….! 

The Children’s Theatre Company presented the classic, “James & the Giant Peach” the weekend of May 2. The popular story attracted fans of all ages, including Savannah, Heather, Jason and Gabe Adams. The Shadow also spotted Andrew Wingate and Keith Matte, and Will, Finn, Cassie and Shreve Gage. Maya Johnson and Elizabeth Campbell, Michelle Horak and Jennfier Allbritton, and  Jessica Gatte, Elizabeth Datherage and Emily Wingate all shared in the fun.

Thursday, May 8, Cameron State Bank invited us to, “Get it Together, Girl!” This workshop and social at the CSB main office on Nelson Road attracted a standing room only crowd. I met Christine Fisher, Mona Richard, Aminah Trahan and Sabrina Schwabb at the sign-in area. We all received goody bags of information and sparkles and trinkets! What fun. Mary Dixon, Samia Heard and Judy Chiasson chatted as we waited in line. 

Leslie Harless and Mary Williams worked behind the scenes to prepare for the workshop, while workshop mavens Debbie Alexander, Dorene Gothreaux and Keri Forbess-McCorquodale readied their presentations for “Get it Together, Gir!”  Debbie Alexander, with the Worth Collection, shared secrets for creating a great wardrobe in spite of your budget or your size.  Dorene Gothreaux inspired the group with her presentation, “It’s Time to Profit from Feminine Intuition!” and literally make your financial dreams a reality.  Keri Forbess-McCorquodale, Solutions EAP, presented “Give Yourself Credit, Girl!” as you juggle the many roles that our lives demand.

The “Nashville Portraits” exhibit by photographer Jim McGuire premiered at 1911 City Hall Gallery Thursday evening, May 8. The sixty black and white photos celebrate 30 years of country music’s most influential talents.  The first portrait McGuire made was of the amazing John Hartford (one of the Shadow’s favorite musicians ever!) in 1972. There is a striking 1976 portrait of the legend, Chet Atkins and a 1974 print of Dolly Parton. 

All the portraits are rather straightforward, very honest and relate the love the musicians have for their music and their instruments.  Bill Monroe caresses his music in a 1989 print. Lyle Lovett and The Boys is a stark image from 2005. There is Carol King in 1978, Waylon Jennings in1985, Bela Fleck from 1999, John Prine from 1984, and Johnny Cash with Dr. Billy Graham in 1978. 

On hand for the opening reception, and having great fun with the country music theme, were Carol Anne “Minnie Pearl” Gayle, Steven “George Clinton” Boshier, Kay Andrews, Marilyn Cox, Mayor Randy Roach and Nancy Roach, Jessie Kelly, Connie Shaw and Carol Cox. I also spied John Cardonne and Lenn and Oili Barchack.  Down-home country vittles – baked beans, biscuits, potato salad -- were served on a table with red and blue bandanas. 

And guests could have their photo taken with the stars. I watched as photographer Hillary Gayle posed Rhonda Babin with Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton (life-size cardboard cutouts) as a souvenir of the evening.  The exhibit will be on display through July 19, so you have plenty of time to go spot your favorite stars.

Times Picks

Get Your Spin On at GiGi's, May 17 --

Gigi’s Fitness Centers is hosting a “Spin-A-Thon” on Saturday, May 17, from 9 a.m. to noon, at their 4429 Nelson Road location, to benefit the Children’s Miracle Network of Southwest Louisiana. Participants will bike to live music by the local up and coming band, Eight Year Break. Great prizes will be awarded to the top fund raisers, including a one-year free membership to Gigi’s Fitness Center. For more information, or to reserve a bike, call (337) 474-6601. Hurry, space is limited. Call today!

The Business of Art at LC-B, May 17--

The Louisiana Small Business Development Center at McNeese State University and the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana will present a day-long summit for entrepreneurs in cultural industries from 9 am-4:30 pm Saturday, May 17, at the Lake Charles Boston Academy of Learning, 1509 Enterprise Blvd. For more information on the “Business of Art” or to register, call 337-439-2787. “The Business of Art” is the first of its kind in the state and is designed for entrepreneurs in culinary arts, preservation construction, visual and performing arts, architecture and interior design, publishing, film and video, and web-related design. The summit will allow entrepreneurs to share their experiences and attend two of four one-hour training sessions – “Creative Marketing on a Shoestring,” “Recordkeeping: Don’t Underestimate the Power of the Manila Folder,” “501(c)3: Pros and Cons of Becoming a Non-Profit” and “Grants: The 5 Ws of Funding.” The event includes a small lunch. Co-sponsors include the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, the Louisiana Cultural Economy Foundation, the Louisiana Crossroads Concert Series and the McNeese Banners Series.

Downtown At Sundown Kicks Off with Chubby, May 16--

As the sun goes down, things really heat up in Downtown Lake Charles. After pulling your final Friday shift, get your boogie shoes ready for the swampadelic sounds of Chubby Carrier and Bayou Swamp Band. Chubby Carrier is the third generation of zydeco artists in one of the great musical families of Louisiana. Located at the Downtown Merchants’ parking lot at the corner of Ryan and Broad streets, the concert series features a variety of music from zydeco and Cajun to classic rock and swamp pop. Local artists will exhibit their talents in table top galleries and booths along side entertainment for kids. Bands perform from 6-9 p.m. on four consecutive Fridays: May 16, May 23, May 30, and June 6. The concerts are made possible through corporate sponsorships and a partnership between the City and the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana. This week’s concert is sponsored by Entergy.

Zigler to Exhibit Local Talent, May 17 – July 6 --

The Zigler Art Museum presents Home Is Where the Art Is, an exhibition of Jefferson Davis Parish artists. The exhibit runs from May 17 to July 6. Artists showcased include Tammy Broussard, Troy Broussard, Ronnie Collins, Katrina Johnson, Maxine Krielow, Lanette LeJeune, Pat Love, Zula Lyon, and Billy Precht. Works range from paintings and photography to porcelains and stained glass. An opening reception honoring the artists will be held May 17, from 7 to 9 p.m.; the public is invited to attend. The Zigler Art Museum, 411 Clara Street, Jennings, Louisiana, is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and $2 for students.

Rhinestone Cowboys on Display Thru July 19 --

The City of Lake Charles is proud to present Nashville Portraits: Photographs by Jim McGuire, Organized by the Morris Museum of Art, Augusta, Georgia, at Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center, 1001 Ryan St., now through Saturday, July 19. This exhibition of sixty black and white photographs was selected from thousands of portraits shot over a period of more than thirty years by one of country music’s most celebrated photographers, Jim McGuire. The exhibition reflects a continuing project that commenced in 1974 with a portrait of musician John Hartford, and it documents many of the leading figures in the world of country music, from such icons as Bill Monroe, Minnie Pearl, and Lester Flatt to contemporary stars like Emmylou Harris, Nanci Griffith, and Marty Stuart.

Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are gladly accepted. For more information, call 491-9147 or visit www.cityoflakecharles.com.

Greg Ginn at Luna Café, May 24 –

Punk icon Greg Ginn has been working a more roots-based sound with “”Jambang's distorted guitars and combination of electronica/rock ambiance, and with the "Corrugators" blend of groovin' country, jazz, and blues instrumental tracks. Ginn will be on tour with these two groups in the summer and will be performing 10:30 p.m., Saturday, May 24 at Luna Café, 719 Ryan Street, Lake Charles.

Look What the Cat Dragged In! Thursday, May 29 --

Animal Angels, Inc. is sponsoring a FUNdraiser to benefit Neuter-N-Spay SWLA on Thursday, May 29 at 6:30 p.m.  “Look What The Cat Dragged In” promises to lift the heart of all animal lovers with silent  and live auctions, a doggone-good dinner buffet, kittylicious desserts, a cash bar, and entertainment by Skipper M. Drost and the Six Dollars a Day Band.  The event will be held in the Buccaneer Room of the Lake Charles Civic Center. Tickets are $35 and may be reserved by calling 436-7800.  Seating is limited.

Fishing Guide Permits Sign-up Now!

The Southwest Louisiana National Wildlife Refuge Complex (Refuge Complex) is now taking permit applications for the new annual fishing guide permits for the East Cove Unit of Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge. This permit gives qualified fishing guides or “Permittees” and their pre-identified guiding employees’ permission to take paying clients on fishing excursions into the 14,927 acre East Cove Unit when the area is open to public fishing. To apply for a permit, fishing guides must call the Refuge Complex permit branch at 337-598-2216 to set up an appointment. Only qualified fishing guides may apply for the Refuge fishing guide permit. Proof of qualifications will be required to apply for the permit. Additionally, each applicant will need to provide documentation of boat registration numbers for each vessel that they would like to have permitted. Permits are good for one fishing season and must be renewed annually, in January. For additional information about any of the SW LA National Wildlife Refuges call 337-598-2216 or go to www.fws.gov/swlarefugecomplex.

Join The Outriders Visit to Pompeii, June 10--

Openings are available on a chartered bus to see the “Pompeii: Tales from an Eruption” exhibit June 10 at the Houston Museum of Fine Arts that is being sponsored by “The Outriders,” the McNeese Retiree Association. Cost is $109 per person and includes a ticket, lunch at the museum's Café Express, snacks and beverages during travel and information on the Pompeii events. Seating is on a first come, first serve basis. Departure is at 8 a.m. from the parking lot behind the University Police Department on Ryan Street. Expected return time is about 8 p.m. For more information, contact Jennifer Griffith in the McNeese Office of Planned Giving at (337) 562-4191. For more information about the exhibit, visit the Houston Museum of Fine Arts Web site at http://www.mfah.org.

Brimstone Heritage Festival Great Jambalaya Cook-Off, May 24 --

T-Boy, get out the Magnalites! Find your best Jambalaya recipe and brush up on your cooking skills because The Brimstone Historical Society is pleased to announce a new event this year’s upcoming Heritage Days Festival: The Great Jambalaya Cook-Off , May 24, from 10 a.m. to noon, on the Henning Cultural Center grounds, where participants will be able to set up their cooking station. All cooking must be performed on-site, and participants must provide their own ingredients and cooking equipment. The entry fee is $25 per team. Tables can be rented for $5 per table, or the participant can bring their own. The competition, will offer 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places prizes, and is open to businesses, individuals, and non-profit organizations who think they have the best jambalaya in Southwest Louisiana. Proceeds from this event will help to support the Brimstone Historical Society. For more information, call the Brimstone Historical Society at 527-0357.

Project 7th Grade “notMYkid” at Maplewood, May 20--

Maplewood School is hosting Project 7th Grade, a national initiative of the notMYkid organization that educates parents, schools and children on substance abuse prevention. Project 7th Grade serves as a family-oriented prevention resource that helps parents develop plans to communicate and maintain an early, ongoing dialogue with their children about the perils of substance abuse. This presentation will be Tuesday, May 20, at 6 p.m., at the school 4401 Maplewood Dr Sulphur.  All area parents are invited to attend this program but please note it is not open to students. Parents will learn about drug issues, trends, terminology, see photos of paraphernalia and be given tips on talking to their kids about drugs. Each family that attends is also given a First Check drug test kit to take home with them, that tests for seven illicit and five prescription drugs. Often just having the kit in the home is enough of a deterrent for middle school students.  Kids are the most susceptible to peer pressure and drug experimentation during the transition years, from grades 5-9.  The average age a child tries drugs for the first time is 13 years old. notMYkid was founded in 2000 and is dedicated to helping parents, teens, educators and communities with adolescent behavioral health issues. Project 7th Grade and notMYkid educated over 100,000 people in 2007. For additional information, contact Rachel Gordon at (602) 652-0163 or rachel@notMYkid.org.

The Shadow

NOLA MoJo & Kudos for Caroline

“Take A Hike!” That was a polite suggestion April 16 from the Chamber SWLA and the American Heart Association's 2nd Annual National “Start!” Walking Day -- a day devoted to helping Americans improve our health.

The Chamber SWLA recruited members for the American Heart Association with promises of friends, fund and a free lunch!  We gathered at the Willis Noland Resource Center on West Pujo Street at 11.  Early arrivals included Chriss Pace, Amy Nyberg, Stacy Thibodeaux, Kevin Mattingly and Mona Richard.  The team from Elmer’s Radiator was a family event. I met Lollion, Sheena, Amber and Pamelia Villa and Lollion Elmer all decked out in their team shirts (with their trademark pink!) ready to walk. Pam Mattingly arrived just in time for the start and tied on her walking shoes so she and husband, Kevin, could walk together.

Mona Richard and Patricia Prudhomme participated in Start!, representing The Times of SWLA. A huge crowd of enthusiastic walkers represented Christus St. Patrick Hospital.  I also spotted Liz DeVille, Amanda White, Mike LaVergne, Neal Smith, Celia Case, Liz Fruge, Joe McNeal, Sabrina Barker and, of course, our leader, Cassandra Guilbeaux with the AHA. 

We walked for a brisk 20 minutes in the sunshine and cool breeze, working up an appetite, and then enjoyed a light, delightful (and heart-healthy!) lunch provided by O’Charlie’s, Pure Foods, Subway and Treasures of Marilyn’s. And while we chatted and lunched, the Chamber staff drew numbers for some great door prizes! For our $5 suggested donation, it was a great way to spend a lunch hour. And all money collected goes, of course, to the good programs at the American Heart Association.

“Cherry Picking” assignments are great!  Now that I have said that, let me start this by saying that Susan Reed, the executive director of the Imperial Calcasieu Museum was working not only her MoJo on the night of April 19th, but also that of those around her and it REALLY paid off. The MoJo I am referring to is the annual ICM fund raiser, “Calcasieu Boogaloo”. 

This year’s theme, “A Wild Night in the Vieux Carre,” certainly lived up to its name!  Hosted at 710 Downtown Bar and Grill, this shindig was rocking early and continued on til well into the morning hours!  As I made my way from the valet parking area (nice touch), I was excited to run into some old friends that I had not seen in many moons.  Those folks included Joe Timpa, Scotty Higginbotham, Dale Mott (a lost blast from the past), Charles Mullins, Bruce and Kayla Rigney, Gibson Barham, Ann Collette, and Marc Ferguson. 

After passing though the door and walking “the gauntlet” to the bar, I was impressed.  Susan and her staff of elves (including Blaine Miller and Amie Herbert) had created a true French Quarter feel and look, but what awaited me past the bar was even better.   

Stopping for a refreshing adult beverage and chatting with Bobby and Sarah Jones, Dub Henning, Mike Tremonte, and Billy and Della Rose, I glanced over the heads of those in front of me and spied the NEXT room, where the buffet was situated.  Flanking the buffet in the beautifully appointed room was Tico Soto, Shelley Johnson, Cathy Chapman, Dave “Smooch the Pooch” Brown, Derrick Guidry, Paul Piceloup, Chris Allen, and Monty Hurley.  The food was FANTASTIC!  If you read or saw any press release mentioning the food for this event, believe me, it was as great as it sounded! (And went soo well with my “adult beverage”!) 

But wait, there was more!  No sooner had I taken a couple of bites of heaven, I suddenly saw a flash of silver waiving a white towel and then it happened!  The Rebirth Brass Band from New Orleans appeared, blazing a path through the party-goers with some of the best live “New Orleans” style music this town has ever seen....and the flash of silver?  It was Susan Reed, leading the band like the Pied Piper of Fun! 

Following the band around a pillar, I found myself in yet another section of this maze of fun...a dark bar with seats and a stage!  The band took its place and began to howl like you have never heard.  On the dance floor was Drew and Sheila Ranier, Lynn Reed, Denise Foster, Jan Theilen, and many more, but the crowd was so tight on the floor, I could not make out more faces in the dim lighting. Spying a door with a guard, I figured it was my duty to investigate and found the final section of the evening, the bar/grill 710 itself!  What a delight, from here you could hear the band, have a drink, shoot some pool, and have a conversation. 

This is where I planted myself, until I saw Terry Parker, Dr. Robert Arango, Marc Moore, Steve Branch, and Mike Tremonte walk through the door.  Now the party was on!  After a couple more “adult beverages”, I found my way back to buffet and bumped into a sight for some very sore eyes, Dr. Charles Smith.  The Shadow goes WWAAYY back the Doc, and must say, on a personal note, it was great to see you again, and you look great. Deciding that the evening's fun had been enough for now, I ATTEMPTED to make my way to the door, of course, the best laid plans of mice and men being what it is, I could not help but stay after seeing such Lake Charles luminaries as, Lydia Guillory-Lee, the recently announced judicial candidate for the 14th JDC , R. Keith O'Neal, Jim McGough, Rick Condit, Kathy Bergstrom (looking ravishing as usual), Greg Klumpp, Laurie Moffat, and Gilbert and Kathy Franklin ( I promised I would not call Kathy “Heavy Duty” in this column, so I am keeping my promise…hehehehe).  So, realizing how late it was, and that there was no end in sight for the festivities of the evening, I made my way to the door. 

As a parting shot, Houston Jones and Amy Green-Brown (or as we called her in college, “Amy Khaki”) posed for an old fashioned party pic and I hope you all enjoy it.  It was the cherry on the cake for the best, and most fun, fund raiser I have attended in many moons.  Oh, and before I forget, to the young man wearing the madras plaid sports coat, I have only two words for you; “No Ma’am!”

On Wednesday evening, I was blessed again with primo seats for the Louisiana Premiere of hometown done well Tony Kushner's  “Caroline, or Change”.  (Is anyone jealous of this job yet?)  Greeted at the door of the Squires Auditorium at McNeese by Stephanie Marrero, I clutched my ticket to my breast and began to take note of those around me. 

Those present in the lobby for the opening included Lynn and Ann Knapp, Len and Oily Barchak, Angie and Chloe Camel, Connie Cox, Lois Ferguson, Adelaide Cole, Phyllis Gain-Derise, Greg Stratton, Heather Kelly, Kay House, “Sam”, Carolyn Woosley, and Brenda Bachrack.  As always, Anita Tritico marshaled her Alpha Psi Omega troops and made sure everyone was comfortable and excited.  Assisting “Ms. T.”, were Annette Tritico and Andrea Arceneaux (her daughter and granddaughter, respectively.) 

Making my way into the house, I bumped into some very old friends Rhonda Babin, Deann Bartels, Kay House, Juanita Poland, Libby Looney, Eli Sorkow and his wife Claire, Freddie Chenet and her daughter Susan, and down front center, Maestro Emeritus Bill Kushner and his wife Marsha.  Beside them sat Maudie Lee Davis, the woman “Caroline” was based on. 

On a bright side note of “it's a small world”, it wasn't until later in the evening that I realized that Maudie Lee Davis' daughter, Jackie, another person personified on stage, was someone I had know for years and just loved!  (Five degree more and I will know Kevin Bacon.) As the show started, I realized it was going to be magical.  I have that talent...to know things like that…and I am never wrong!  The cast absolutely sparkled! 

Owning the show, in the lead role of Caroline was Tracy Bryant.  (You made me cry, and I DON'T CRY!)  The Greek chorus, played by Lacey Howard, Alyssa Fobbs, and Corey Dotson, moved the action along, while the “agitator”, Jasmine Baker, showed the audience the conflicts within Caroline. Stand out performances were given by all in the case, bar none, but particularly bright as the morning star were Carey Camel, in the role of “Noah Gellman” and Heather Fazzio, as his step mother “Rose” (Lake Charles already knew Heather was a “Mama Rose” in the making, she just confirmed it on stage this night!)  These two left me slack jawed by their performances.  BRAVO! 

Costumes, sets, props, all blended together to form a cohesive, coherent production that I feel was the best the MSU Theatre Department has done in MANY years. Kudos to director Lewis Whitlock, you are my new hero.  Following the performance, select audience members were invited to a private reception at LaTruffe Savage.  Quiet, elegant, simple, and stimulating.  I cannot think of other words to describe the class this event evoked. Nibbling on delicious cheeses and fruits, sipping on my always welcome “adult beverage”, I chatted away with Michelle Martin, David Reinauer, Mary Beth Woods, Nancy Pledger, Charlie and Tracy McNeely, Charles and Carole St. Dizier, Ethel Macdonald and her daughter Marian, Julian and Sallie Dondis, Cissie McCleod, Sarah Judson, Joy Pace, Ellie Marquez, and Frank and Ginger Pruitt.  By the time this is published, this play will have closed, and all I can say to those who did get the opportunity to see it, “Shame on you!”  You missed a great piece of theatre, done locally, and done exceedingly well.  The Louisiana Premiere of “Caroline, or Change”, in Olympic terms, took the gold. My hat is off to all involved.

The Westlake High School Theatre Department offered a very special program for area schools Thursday, April 24.  Directed by Kerry A. Onxley, and presented by Lee Crick; Principal, Carl McGee and Jon Powers, Assistant Principals, the talented theatre students at Westlake High performed “BANG, BANG YOU’RE DEAD The Columbine Story.”

Chelsea Joubert, Michelle Breaux, Josh Ledet, Danny Hesse, Ashley Manual, Ashley Fontenot, Haliagh Jackson, Brandi Rosselor, and Samual Owens. The plot centers on the lead character Josh, a teenage boy who shoots his parents and five schoolmates, and is then haunted by physical manifestations of his memories of them.

The play was created to end violence and teasing between teenagers in schools. It has been performed widely in the United States, as well as in other countries such as the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Uruguay, Gibraltar, Sweden, Romania, Venezuela, India, Canada, Germany and Bulgaria. The play has also been produced by Showtime and won a Peabody Award and four 2003 Daytime Emmy awards, including Outstanding Children's Special. The production was presented in association with Ribbons of Hope, a non-profit organization dedicated to ending school violence. 

It was a brave and stirring production by the talented students of Westlake High.

The Shadow

Kung Pao, Yappy Hour, Plantain Chips & Birthday Cake

Have you ever ordered your favorite dish at your favorite restaurant and thought, “I wish I knew how to make this?”  Well, now you can – Kung Pao Chicken or Chow Bok Choy – you can learn to create your Chinese favorites. Jack Wong recently started evening classes in Chinese cooking at his restaurant, the Chinese King, in downtown Lake Charles. Students learn the basics of creating their favorite dishes from chopping vegetables to the proper care of utensils.  With lots of laughter, friends (and a couple of glasses of wine!), we watched the professional chefs whip up a few dishes and then we each picked our favorite dish, chose our ingredients and seasonings, and at our cooking stations, we created a meal under the watchful tutoring of Mary Ann, Jack, and Henry Wong. A special guest at our class was McNeese student Fu-Ling Nong, from Taiwan. The classes are held regularly at the Chinese King downtown, so get your friends and family together for culinary classes that are fun – and yummy!

Meanwhile, young entrepreneur, Michael Seaberry, owner of Jamelia Fashion Productions, organized the Street Rush Spring Fashion Show March 15 at Central School Theater. Local young people presented dance, theater, singing, and the hottest fashions. The talent and fashions were great! Congrats to Michael and all the young stars.

When you work like a dog, says the SWLA Chapter of the Humane Society of Louisiana, you gotta take time out to smell the margaritas! And so we gathered at Luna Bar and Grill courtyard, Tuesday, April 8, for the first-ever Lake Area "Yappy Hour."

Taking happy hour to the dogs, were HSL-SWLA board members and volunteers Marsha Montgomery, Tod Ardoin, Sabra Noland, Elizabeth Roche and Beth Zilbert. We were greeted with wet nose kissies and tail wags from therapy dogs Luke, Libby, and Gidget.  The canines at Yappy Hour were all certified therapy dogs who participate in the parish-wide Pet Therapy Project.

Marsha explained that Yappy Hour was organized so that friends and supporters in Calcasieu Parish can help with the Humane Society’s program, “End Cruelty - No More Homeless Pets,” a component of their Pet Therapy Project. The $5 suggested donation to enjoy Yappy Hour supports the HSL-SWLA Campaign to End Cruelty - No More Homeless Pets. 

The weather could not have been more perfect. Warm sun, low humidity and cool breeze on the Luna courtyard made for relaxing after-work experience. Michelle Alexander, Sabra Noland and Libby, the therapy dog, greeted folks. Marsha Montgomery, Elizabeth Roche and Tod Ardoin chatted with Renee Prejean, Lester Robertson and Liz Short. Beth Zilbert and therapy dog, Luke, greeted Erin Cormier, Justin Sells and Sally Stride.  Sally is a dog trainer with “Proper Pooches” so I pumped her for information on how to deal with my spoiled rotten duo – a Lhasa-Shih and Shih-Tzu. 

According to Sally, it seems like “someone” has not been exerting her authority and has not taught her pups that “nothing is free” and that someone shouldn’t let them run the house dictate suppertime and sleep on the pillow and if I figure out who spoiled my babies I told Sally I’d get back to her…Meanwhile, I had a Leinenkugel’s Honey Weiss with a great Luna burger and shared my French fries with Libby, Luke and Gidget. (Is that how dogs get spoiled?)

Cameron Duhon was at Yappy Hour photographing the event with his mom, Pat and brother Adrian. Darryl Boyd, May Gray, Renee Prejean, Lester Robertson, Liz Short, Richard Hogarth, Nancy Sanner, Louise Marks, Mike Dever and Aleis Henry were also enjoying the first Yappy Hour. Even some of LC’s off-duty fireman stopped by to support the Humane Society. We chatted with Jay Reeds, Dustin Richard, Randy Saraunt, Brandon Connor, and Dave Perrodin.

For more information on the SWLA Chapter of the Humane Society of Louisiana, go to www.gohumane.org.  And watch for the next Yappy Hour – it’s more fun than a regular Happy Hour because you can celebrate with your canine friends, too!

The Eljay Foundation’s annual fundraiser for Parkinson’s awareness took on an exotic flair Friday evening, April 11, with a “Tour of Nations Extravaganza.”  We experienced the culture, food, wine, fashions, art and traditions of African nations. The Extravaganza transformed the newly renovated Lake Charles Country Club into a magical land of tropical ferns, flowers and flavors. 

Morgan Wilson and her grandmother, Anne Drake, were hardworking volunteers at the 505 Imports boutique table which offered a shopping experience for jewelry, textiles, art, wines and crafts from Africa – to raise money for the evening. Eljay Foundation president, Eligha Guillory and Brad Evans welcomed guests to the Country Club.

I caught up with Marvin Williams, Katherine Cox and Phillip Williams who were admiring the amazing works of African art on loan from the extensive collection of Alford Green.  Mr. Green has been collecting authentic African art works for decades and he loaned some striking pieces for the Tour of Nations evening, including “Mother of Spirit” from Cameroon, “Baga Snake” from Guinea, brass and bronze “Oni King of Ife” from Nigeria.  There were masks from the Ivory Coast and dogans from Mali. The art works certainly added to the exotic essence of the evening.

Adding to the ambience was fabulous floral creations from Paradise Florist, Donella’s Flower Shop and Albertson’s. Beautiful shields and head pieces from the Krewe Chetu Jadi sparkled on the walls. Throughout the evening, we were treated to the music of Chester and Jairus Daigle. Delightful!

Guests were encouraged to wear African fashions or formal dress, so the event was gorgeous with textures, colors and styles. Tyrone Holden and Linda Stagg looked regal in gorgeous African-inspired evening wear.  Agnes and Ella Guillory were absolutely glamorous at the Tour of Nations. Yvonne and Wilfred Guillory sparkled in traditional African dress.

Young Dennis Paul was escorted through the Tour of Nations by Daphne Haskin. I also visited with Patricia and Brian Prudhomme, Joey Alcede, Penny and Louis Hauxthausen, Phil and Lucie Earhart, Dr. and Vangie Ordinario, and Keith and Ann Bruner.

Keith Frank, looking very dapper in a white suit, escorted his grandmother, Barbara Cahee, through the Tour of Nations. Ron Miller and BJ Fuller enjoyed the evening. And didn’t you just love BJ’s fabulous blue dress and head wrap!

The food was an adventure through four African nations.  With guidance from McNeese International Students, Dami Bello, Gregory Meju and Yvonne Eke; the mastery of Chef Keith Jageneaux; and the careful attention to detail by the LC Country Club’s assistant general manager and food and beverage director, Barry Whitten, we experienced authentic cuisine from Ghana, Nigeria, Ethiopia and Senegal.

At beautifully decorated serving stations, each country presented native dishes. From Ghana there was hot pepper soup (and it was HOT, but totally delicious!), avocadoes stuffed with smoked fish and hot plantain chips (which proved to be delightfully habit-forming!)

Ethiopia offered a beautiful vegetable stew (Vegetable Alecha), Queen of Sheba salad (a colorful mixture of tomatoes, onions and sausage), and Sega Wat – a lamb stew with hard-boiled eggs.

Mr. Whitten explained that, with the help of the McNeese international students, and recipes gleaned from the internet, the selections offered an authentic “Tour of Nations.” 

At Senegal we were treated to Salad Cote Cape Verte (chopped egg salad), bar-b-que chicken in rich onions and lemon-sauce rice, and Avocat Aux Crevettes (avocado stuffed with shrimp).  At the Nigerian station, we sampled pumpkin and pork stew, black bean salad and Wolof Rice. 

The varied (and delicious!) wines of Africa were offered at the wine-tasting station. I was very glad to sip a cooling pinot after the spicy hot pepper soup!  I shared a table with a lively group that included Carol and Charlie St. Dizier, Judy Reeves, Faye, Carla and Carrie Chrisco, Anne Drake, Morgan Wilson, Nancy Roach and Mayor Randy Roach.

Our co-emcees for the evening were the distinguished gentlemen, John Bridges and Russ Bordelon. John was delighted that he actually got to bang the gong to signal the end of the silent auction! “I’ve never banged a gong before!” he said and gave it a whack.

The silent auction, by the way, was full of delights…art, wine, gift baskets, jewelry. Roni Kemerly, Heather Fazzio and Brian and Patricia Prudhomme were among the hard-working volunteers making the silent auction a success. 

Pastor Carlos Ross of Open Arms Baptist Church gave the invocation and then John Bridges introduced a very special guest, Mr. Nathan Slewett, Chairman Emeritus of the National Parkinson Foundation. Dr. Ewell Stevens announced the winner of the 2008 Butterfly Award – Dr. Reynard Odenheimer, who was surprised and touched by the honor.

The entertainment continued with The Drummers of Kumbuka. Three men in authentic dress, make fabulous music using only African drums. Three women, dressed in colorful African garb, dance to the drumming and invite audience members up for a chance to learn dance steps. It was great fun to watch!

The Eljay Foundation definitely “raised the bar” on fundraisers with this Extravaganza. I can’t wait to see what this creative group presents next year – all for the important work of raising awareness and offering support to area families affected by Parkinson’s disease.

Early the next morning, the garage sale crowd had a special treat – a stop at the Lake Charles Little Theatre for their first Porch Sale fundraiser. Jo Anne Rigney and James Johnson enjoyed the spring morning as they assisted shoppers. LCLT volunteers Barbara Downer, Joann Hanks, Penny Palermo, Joey Frazier, Brett Downer, Jay Rypma, Paul Land and Carla Chrisco were also on hand to help out and ham it up with old props and costume pieces that were for sale. Emma Burk and her grandmother, Irene Vandever stopped by to pick up a few treasures. Two of the most prized offerings were authentic pool tables donated by Darrell’s. Joey Frazier reported that the first one sold very, very early to a very determined shopper who showed up about 5:30 in the morning! 

I left the shoppers to get downtown where the Children’s Museum was celebrating their 20th Birthday, complete with cake and candles (of course). The Junior League was on hand to help with the celebration and Denise Fasske, on behalf of Mayor Randy Roach, presented a certificate of appreciation for the Children’s Museum from the city of Lake Charles to Phil de’Albuquerque, board president. Then Dan Ellender, Poddy Champeaux, Mari Wilson and Phil and Lauren de'Albuquerque, with help from youngsters Gracie Watson and Abigail Stack, blew out the candles on the Children’s Museum birthday cake and we all enjoyed big slices! The day-long celebration included lots of fun and educational events including story time, art contest, a Sasol science show, a tour of a LC Fire Department fire truck, Chico the Clown, magician Perry Vincent and Perry Medix and the Sirens Puppet Show.

That evening, the Lake Charles Symphony Orchestra presented their final performance of their 50th Season with a very special homecoming. Lake Charles natives Eric Kushner and Paul Groves performed for a standing room only crowd at the Rosa Hart Theatre. 

I met Rose Katz and Reve Greenberg in the lobby before when I arrived. They both looked fabulous in red! Young  Sydney Terranova and her grandmother, LCSO Executive Director Debbie Reed, chatted with patrons as the lobby filled. I spied Kathy and Craig Griffith, Phil Battestin, Lorie Labbe, Carol and Charlie St. Dizider, Sandra Dally, Hope Fuller, and Sarah and Lily Zaunbrecher, and Maestro William and Marsha Kushner in the crowd.

Guest conductor, William Grimes, looking very elegant in his formal tux, led the symphony through Rossini’s “Overture to La Gazza Ladra” to open the performance. Then Eric Kushner, on French Horn, and tenor Paul Groves treated us to Britten’s “Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings, Opus 31”.  They certainly earned the standing ovation we gave them! Beautiful and haunting music.

After intermission, Paul Groves delighted the crowd with operatic arias from Bizet, Verdi, Donizetti, Offenbach and Gounod. It was a special homecoming for two extremely talented Lake area sons and a musical treat for all Symphony patrons. What a perfect way to end a special 50th Season.

The Shadow

Easter Eggs and Big A** Fans!

    

What do you get when you put 30,000 stuffed Easter eggs together with over 1,100 children? An Egg-stravaganza! When I arrived at the Trinity Baptist Church grounds for their annual Easter Egg hunt, my first order of business was to hit the lemonade and popcorn stand. As I waded through the crowd of 3,000, I spied several familiar faces. Rev. Steve James was in a playful mood, greeting the children and families. I also spotted Gary Meek wandering aimlessly among the amusement attractions with a “stunned” look on his face!

      

At the face painting booth, Lauren Gaskin went with a “Spring” theme for her Easter makeup. Katey Struck and her daughter Amber waited for their turn at the fun-jump. Map in hand, Bryce Waldrop planned his strategy for the big egg hunt. Young Grant Lyons as “Spiderman” was ready to search out the prize eggs.

At about 11:30 a.m., I decided to go and check out the BIG lawn area where the Easter eggs were strategically placed. This is really cool. Trinity ropes off the area by age groups, infant through fifth grade, so nobody gets trampled when the horn sounds at noon. Danny Henderson and Dawn Brand are the preschool and children’s ministers at the church, and had the plan formulated right down to each egg. I could tell it was getting close to the BIG MOMENT -- The moment everybody had been waiting for! Parents and children with baskets in-hand were heading toward the secured area in hopes of loading their baskets with those surprise-filled eggs.

Noon finally arrived, the horn sounded -- It looked like the “Running of the Bulls”! Kids screaming and scampering, parents leaping and hollering and everyone else just getting out of the way! 90 seconds later, it was over…yes, 30,000 eggs gone in just 90 seconds! I believe everyone who participated was very satisfied, and anticipating another great festival next year! Oh yeah, I forgot to mention the 5 pounds I gained in a two hour span.

Meanwhile, on March 2, artists and art lovers gathered at Gallery by the Lake for a reception to celebrate the gallery’s new addition. “Whimsical Art” was on exhibit, creation of students and ALA artists. Guests had the opportunity to guess what the artworks meant, such as; worm in a book = bookworm! 

The Shadow spotted Amie and Mark Herbert. Pat San Miguel visited with Eileen Piper as they admired the art on exhibit. I also chatted with Beth Hebert, Trudy Carbello, Jane Dufrene, Sue Didelot, Connie Shaw, at this delightful reception at the Gallery by the Lake.

On March 27, the United Way Annual Meeting and Awards Luncheon was at Treasures of Marilyn’s. We packed the room – United Way supporters, volunteers, and staff to celebrate a very successful ’07 campaign. More than $4.6 MILLION was pledged to support 58 health and human services agencies in our 5-parish area!

Our master of ceremonies, Don Stevens, the Delta Downs track announcer, certainly kept us on track through this lively luncheon! While we enjoyed our luncheon of chicken breast in a cream sauce with mashed potatoes (yummy!) United Way Board President, Vickie Wicks singled out retiring board members Monsignor James Gaddy, Marianne Leigh, Danielle Morrissey, Al Prebula and Jeffery Rippel to honor them for their service. Vickie also presented the Corporate Pride award to SASOL North America. Pat Brown graciously accepted the honor on behalf of SASOL employees.

The Harper Clark “Spirit of Southwest Louisiana” Award was presented to a very surprised Chin Liang from the Westlake Group. “Now I know why they insisted I come to the free lunch!” Chin joked as he accepted the award. He said he considers himself “Cajunized Taiwanese.” He said that he was drawn to the work of United Way since there is no such organization to help people in his native Taiwan. He was so impressed with the work of United Way that he became an enthusiastic volunteer – and a very deserving recipient of this year’s Harper Clark award.

The 2007 Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Tom Shearman by last year’s recipient, Ronnie Oustalet.  The United Way Agency Staff Person of the Year Award was presented to Kathy Williams for her dedication to the United Way family of agencies. Legare Clement presented the award to a surprised Kathy!

The Jim Leigh Campaign Award was presented to Bill Schmidt, Beauregard Parish Division Chair, by Bob Chandler, the 2008 Campaign Chair.  And then Bob passed the gavel to the 2009 Campaign Chair, Sheriff Tony Mancuso.

Through all the awards, at the Shadow’s table, we visited with Amanda Johnson (City of Lake Charles Housing Authority), Marsha Landry (Junior Achievement of SWLA), Shelia Babineaux, Joey Frazier and Patricia Prudhomme. A very busy Daphne Oliver dropped by our table to say hello. I also spied Kay Fox, Susan Reed, Maria Faul, and Megan Monsour among the crowd.

That evening, the League of Women Voters hosted their annual banquet at Reeves Uptown Catering. The featured speaker was Dennis Stine, CEO and co-owner of Stine Lumber, Chairman of Governor Jindal Government Reform Advisory Council, and Budget Advisor for Governor Jindal Transition, who gave us the latest update on what is happening at the State Capitol.

We were welcomed to the event by LWV President Alfred Doucette, Jr., Leslie Landry and Lollion Elmer. I spied Ronald and Troye Ware, Vicki Sissou, Lynn Calles and Russell Castille. Edwina Meaderis and Kay Andrews visited at a corner table. I also met Sharon and Kerrel Wilson, Patsy Manuel and Carolyn Vest. 

The stellar crowd included Mayor Randy Roach, Ann Polak, Charlie St. Dizier, Helen Curel, Terry Backhaus, May Gray, Mary Werner, Eligha and Nomica Guillory, Billy Navarre, Richard Baggett, and Nancy Tower. I joined David Palmer from the Southwest Daily News at the “media” table, which we shared with May Gray.

Our dinner was delightful. We had our choice of grilled chicken breast in an artichoke, mushroom Beurre Blanc sauce or pepper roasted pork loin with a red wine reduction. The steamed green beans with sweet onions were warmed by a hint of pepper. Dessert was a light fruit crepe with a cream cheese and fruit filling.

Dennis Stine spoke enthusiastically and optimistically about the changes happening in the State.  “My excitement is for the ‘Golden Era’ of Louisiana politics,” he noted.  “It’s amazing how much it’s improved. We never could have imagined this 20 years ago.”

He outlined how his work with the Public Affairs Research Council (PAR), the Council for a Better Louisiana (CABL), Blue Print Louisiana and Louisiana Recovery Authority placed him in the middle of dramatic and swift changes sweeping across the state. 

He has been a confidant to Governor Jindal and says, “I was never so shocked when I got a call from Bobby to serve.”  Because he felt his role as a businessman might be a conflict of interest, Dennis declined the governor’s invitation to join the administration, but accepted the challenge of four tasks the Governor asked him to undertake.  They included making recommendations for the roles of commissioner of Administration (Angelle Davis) and Secretary of Revenue (Cynthia Bridges).  Mr. Stine also serves on the Government Reform Advisory Council and Interim Budget Advisor for the current budgeting session. 

Dennis told us that the Governor intends to have the legislature focus on developing Louisiana's workforce during the upcoming regular session, and he's set to allocate millions of dollars in the budget for workforce development. 

"That's the emphasis. I thought it was going to be health care, but it's going to be workforce development, and I think he made the right choice," Dennis told us.  "We will redevelop Louisiana's efforts to ensure our employers have the skilled workers they need, and our people have the skills they need to hit the ground running," Dennis said.

He also noted that the cooperative spirit in Baton Rouge and the consensuses on ethics, budgeting and rebuilding priorities speaks highly for a new era.  He told us, "Earl Long once said, 'One of these days the people of Louisiana are going to get good government, and they ain't gonna like it.' Well, not only do they like it, they love it, and they want more of it." Dennis told us in closing.

It was a delightful, thoughtful and entertaining evening for all in attendance. Oh – and check out the League of Women Voters website at www.lwv-lc.org for information. Their new guide to elected officials is out and this brochure is well worth having, especially for those who want to stay informed during this very important election year.

The next day, I joined a happy and diverse group at the new Prien Lake Park for a preview and luncheon.  Bryan Beam and Jason Barnes greeted us at the Harbor’s Edge Pavilion. Our group included Mary Richardson, her father Stanley Crist, Dr. Larry Cipolla, Shelly Johnson, Katie Harrington, Kay Andrews, Irene Vandever, Peter O’Carroll, Harriet Green, Jim Beam, Carol Cox, Wayne Shaddock, Denise Faske, Delton Landry, Tami Chrisope, and LaDonna McKnight.

We boarded a “train” of golf carts (courtesy of Sulphur Parks and Recreation, SPAR) for a guided tour of the new 29-acre park.  The original boat launch on about nine acres was Prien Lake Park since it was purchased by the Parish in 1940.  In 2000, the Parish purchased the adjacent 20 wooded acres. A citizen’s task force began planning a vision for a new Prien Lake Park. 

Plans were derailed only slightly after Hurricane Rita when the site became a staging area for work crews and the “saw dust hill” for disposing of all the Rita tree debris. You’d never know it was the same place today!

Now Prien Lake Park is a pristine facility that includes paved walking paths, open grassy areas for play, SprayGround water park, soft-landing playground, a “soft launch” for kayaks and canoes, updated boat launch, beautiful fountains and streams with natural native plant landscaping, and covered picnic areas throughout. And for you workaholics, there’s even WiFi internet connection!

During our tour, Bryan Beam and Jason Barnes would stop the “train” and point out highlights such as the beautiful Prien Pointe Amphitheatre which seats 100. Even before the park officially opened (March 31) the Amphitheatre was the site for an outdoor wedding ceremony. It is also a beautiful spot to watch the sunset.

Indian Bay Pavilion is an open-air facility cooled by three “Big Ass Fans.”  I’m not making that up or being crude. That’s the name of the company in Kentucky that manufactures fans for industrial and commercial cooling on a huge scale – The Big Ass Fan Company! Their mascot is, of course, a donkey. Their website is too clever. Check them out at www.bigassfans.com. Not only functional, Big Ass Fans are works of art. They are green and red and really interesting sculpture…and sure to keep your crowds cool during a crawfish boil. The Indian Bay Pavilion (with restrooms and food prep area) is available for rental to groups. Call (337) 721-3540.

We stopped at a barren area opposite the boat launch. Bryan Beam told us that this prime piece of real estate would eventually be a café! How delightful. Waterfront dining! I can’t wait.

We were amazed at the attention to detail. From the fountains that take their overflow down meandering rock creeks bordered by Louisiana iris, to the delightful buckets and sprays at the SprayGround water park. Convenient restroom facilities and water fountains are strategically placed throughout. The best use was made of the mature trees that survived Rita and new plantings will ensure shade for future generations. Throughout the park, you can watch traffic climb and descend the 2-10 bridge which rises like a gigantic brontosaurus out of Prien Lake. 

We ended our tour back at Harbor’s Edge Pavilion which was being decorated for a wedding reception that evening. The Pavilion boasts a state-of-the-art sound system, a large caterer’s kitchen, air conditioning (as well as two huge pale green Big Ass Fans!), two meeting rooms, restrooms and a covered wrap-around porch. For rental information, call 721-3540.

As we enjoyed our picnic lunch on the porch, Bryan and Jason answered our questions.  Security? Provided by extra patrols by the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Department and Lake Charles City Police. It is hoped that good citizen monitoring and reporting will keep vandalism in this gorgeous new venue to a minimum.

Funding?  “We can thank Texas,” Bryan quipped. “It was entirely built with funds from the casinos.”  Are dogs allowed? On leashes and please clean up after your best friend, Bryan asks. 

On April 4, the Police Jury will present “Movies Under The Stars” to celebrate the opening of Prien Lake Park. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and watch “Over the Hedge.”  Friday, April 18, “Grease” will be shown and Friday, April 25 is “Singing in the Rain”. All movies begin at 7 p.m. and are FREE! What a deal.

It was hard to return to an office after an extended lunch hour at Prien Lake Park. You MUST go. It’s a sparkling new jewel for the Parish and our visitors. 

However, I intended to go to the Banners lecture by Dr. Cipolla that evening (as well as the annual Banners Pie Contest) and Zorro on Saturday evening. But all that lovely pollen I ingested with my picnic meant I spent the weekend indoors with Benedryl.

I also must mention the opening – or rather – reopening of the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge’s Wetland Walkway on the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road. Destroyed by Rita and for over a year, used as a staging area for the clean-up crews, the preserve has now been restored and is open for nature lovers to enjoy.  I missed the grand re-opening because of print deadlines, however, over the Easter break, I took my out-of-state guest from Michigan to experience our lovely spring weather on the Sabine Walkway.

We delighted in the recovery powers of nature. Alligators, birds (even Roseate Spoonbills!), turtles and crabs were easy to spy from the rebuilt walk ways and viewing platform in the marsh. And for an Easter Sunday, many others had the same idea. There were picnickers and hikers and nature-lovers filling the preserve.  It was good to be home!

The Shadow

The Butterfly Effect

Why are you sleeping late on Saturday mornings? Get out of bed and get on over to the Charlestown Farmer’s Market in downtown Lake Charles for the freshest garden and farm goods and some of the friendliest folks you’ll ever meet.  Irish eyes -- canine and human -- were smiling March 15 in downtown Lake Charles when the Market held the second annual St. Paddy’s Day Dog Parade.

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

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

After the dog parade, I shopped the Farmer’s Market for wonderful home-made and home-grown goodies.  Carolyn Smith offers jars of beautiful pickles, candied peppers, jams and jellies and homemade soaps.  Cynthia and John Bailey sell fresh stone-ground cornmeal that is divine. They chatted with their friend, Garland Guillory, between customers.  Howard and Dianne Bagwell sell “Mr. Howard’s” hot sauces, breakfast burritos and wonderful hot tamales! Mr. Howard’s hot sauces are salted and unsalted. And what a better breakfast than a burrito at the Farmer’s Market?

Other vendors offered plants and blooming flowers, fresh fruits and vegetables, HUGE Hammond strawberries, bird and butterfly houses, and home crafts. The weather was perfect. Get on over to the weekly Charlestown Farmer’s Market, open every Saturday morning.

A few blocks down, the second annual St. Patrick’s Balladeer Festival was getting underway.  Danny O’Flaherty, Drowsy Maggie, Constant Billy, and the Lone Star Pipe Band entertained revelers of Celtic descent – and those who were Celtic for the day.  Tom and Ellie Pollard came over from Beaumont for the event. Kay Andrews, Jackie Dowden and Connie Shaw sold Arts and Humanities Gold Key Quest tickets to the crowds, and prepared to pinch anyone not sporting green! I met Deb Miss St. Patrick Emerald, Brenna Young and her mom Staci Van Hoose visiting with Linda Wranosky.  Love Brenna’s tiara with the sparkling shamrock!

Dawn Harrington and Scotsman Martin Shamalian were selling Heather Gems at Dawn’s Harrington Gallery booth from Sulphur. Martin entertained the crowds with the story of Heather Gems and how they are manufactured from Scottish Highland heather. He also joked about his kilt and wool sweater. “Fifty million sheep can’t be wrong,” he said, not breaking a sweat in the Louisiana sun in his wool sweater. “Whatever the weather, wool is right!”

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

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

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

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

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

Lisa and David Perry visited with Bishop Provost. Charlene and Tiffany Chaisson chatted with Vic Stelly. I spotted Jim and Debbie Serra and Peter and Mary Ellen O’Carroll. Brenda Shelton and Len Ford looked quite elegant as they visited with friends.  Kay Andrews and Irene Vandever admired the art auction items. Marie and Garland Prejean visited with artists Eddie Morman and David and Sandra Semien.

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

The Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word were celebrating the evening. It was their order that has served St. Patrick Hospital since 1908.  I met Sisters Shelia O’Beirne, Anne Margaret Savant, Beniga Mejia, Maria Otilla, Marta Irene, Francesca Kerns, Katrina LeGrand, and Rachel O’Keefe.

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

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

The program began with speakers and an invocation. Mayor Roach noted that, “There’s probably not anyone here tonight who has not been impacted by St. Patrick Hospital and the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word.” He asked for a show of hands of those of us born at St. Patrick Hospital, and he was one of them. So was the Shadow, but I was surprised that I was the only one at my table who could boast of that! So I must mention my delightful tablemates. They were Nancy Burleigh, a member of the Board of Christus St. Patrick and her friends and cousins, Mary Sullivan, from Lafayette and Ruth Unkel and Ella Wakely of Kinder. We also welcomed Jay Fallo to our table. He is an entertainment manager from Gretna who was helping with the McDonald concert.

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

The program included a short video that outlined the history and success of Christus St. Patrick for their past 100 years. Did you know that we have St. Patrick hospital here in Lake Charles because of the hurricane that devastated Galveston 108 years ago? Dr. John Greene Martin went to Galveston to administer aid to the survivors of that tragedy. He worked with the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word and was so impressed with their ministry that he requested that they come to Lake Charles where he was working to establish a hospital for the growing region. On St. Patrick’s Day, 1908, the three-story, 50-bed hospital was open on its current location on South Ryan Street. 

And I felt we were experiencing the “Butterfly Effect” – you know; the theory that the motion of mere butterfly wings can set off a chain of events that can eventually impact the world. Because of the horror of the Galveston Hurricane in 1900, Southwest Louisiana acquired its first hospital, thousands of area lives have been touched by healing at that hospital and tonight, hundreds of us were dressed to the nines enjoying a wonderful evening of friendship, food, thanksgiving, and music.

So I must get to the concert! It was worthy of a Centennial Celebration. Promptly at 9 p.m., Mr. McDonald and his musicians took the stage and played for over an hour. What a treat. He opened with “Higher and Higher,” and segued into smooth ballads. The clarinet/saxophone player was fantastic. Oh to be a back up singer! He sang, “Shine Sweet Freedom” with an extended jazz jam added on. He sang “Keep Forgettin’” and noted that it was written by the great Eddie Arnold and was one of Ray Charles’ favorite songs.  He sang, “Grapevine” and “Walk on By” and “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing,” and “Taking it to the Streets,” and “What a Fool Believes.” And we sang along and the dance floor filled with couples. What a delightful evening.  We cheered and gave McDonald and the band a standing ovation, earning us an extended encore which closed with the Marvin Gaye classic, “What’s Going On?” 

After the concert, a private reception was held for a select group in the Cypress Room where we enjoyed after dinner drinks and met with Mr. McDonald. I chatted with Barry Burnett, Lynn Jones, David Shaw, Julie Buck, Erin and Leslie Harless and Jill Breaux. Peter and Mary Ellen O’Carroll visited with David Darbonne and L’Auberge VP and General Manager, Larry Lepinski.  I got the committee members and Kerry Anderson together for a photo op including Kay Barnett, Louise McDaniel, Kay Morgan, Jessica Carlson and Ginger Patton. We each had the opportunity to meet Mr. McDonald and have our photo taken with him. (And yes, he is dreamy!)

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

Shadow Update:  Aminah Trahan reports Gems and Stems was a success!  “Our fundraising goal this year was $50,000 for the Women’s Shelter, a United Way member agency. Our two major fundraisers are the annual Gems & Stems and the Shelter Golf Classic. This year, Gems and Stems brought in $27,855.13.  Yippee!” 

And Ooops! Last issue the Shadow incorrectly identified beautiful baby Jolie Bolton was with her grandparents. No so – she attended the Family Foundation Philanthropy Awards with her proud parents, Joel and Sandy Bolton.

The Suite Life –

– Or How to Spoil The Shadow

It’s a simple recipe for spoiling a Shadow reporter. Give her a night in a new suite at the just-opened hotel tower at L’Auberge, allow her to steep in a fabulous tub of fragrant bath salts in a luxurious bathroom, add in sweets (chocolate at beside and complimentary breakfast scones) and a shopping spree through The Shops at L’Auberge where free gifts were given out at each store. Suite life indeed!

This “Briar Patch Assignment” came in the way of an invitation to explore the latest expansion at L’Auberge du lac Casino Resort. Kerry Anderson, Manager of Community and Public Relations greeted us as we checked in Thursday evening, February 28, and gave us each a personal tour of our suites in the new VIP wing for the evening.

Oh, how nice to be pampered. My suite was sweet! It was comfortable and luxurious without being frou-frou. A dark wood tray ceiling crowns the suite and recessed lighting provides ambient illumination. I loved the rheostats so that one can create just the relaxing atmosphere desired. And a special gift from Pinnacle awaited us – a plush kitten-soft, chocolate-colored robe. Yummy!

The furnishings are comfortable and the color scheme is a refined burgundy and tan. Plaid carpeting warms the space and the comfy sofa and chairs. Cork wall covering wraps you in quiet comfort. I love the silky iridescent drapes with sheen of bronze, gold, green and burgundy. The view from my wall of windows was the new adults-only pool with private cabanas and tropical palm trees. Lovely. 

And the bathroom! Oh my…It’s all marble and dark wood and glass. The tub is a work of art, surrounded by cast metal cattails. On one side the large walk-in shower is enclosed with clear glass. On the other side, frosted glass provides privacy for the toilet and bidet. Vanities on either side of the room of dark wood and shiny granite allow for plenty of primping room.

But back to the tub.  I must admit I felt very backwoods when I realized that there was not a spigot for the tub.  How do you fill it with water? Oh, surely there wasn’t some awful mistake in such a luxurious room and they forgot to install a faucet! After puzzling over it for a while, I finally turned the elegant handle on the marble tile wall and water poured from the ceiling and into the tub without making so much as a splash! Oh, and the recessed lighting over the tub is also controlled by rheostat so that you can tailor your lighting for your own bathing comfort. On a nearby ottoman, the remote to the TV on the bathroom wall allows you to catch your favorite program while you bath.

I couldn’t wait to have a nice long soak in that heavenly tub.  But first, supper. I met my publisher and his wife, Scot and Bea Hebert, my co-worker Patricia Prudhomme and her mother, our newest best friend, Kay Andrews at Jack Daniel’s Bar and Grill for supper. Lance, our server, recommended the delightful shrimp appetizers and we made short work of the creamy spinach dip.  Our entrees were perfect (of course). I chose the rare filet mignon. Patricia tried the ribs and announced them to be perfection. Lance cheerfully joined us for photo ops and after my luscious frozen vodka martinis, I retired to my room -- and that tub!

Well, first I turned on the hot water and dropped a bath fizzy tablet into the oversized tub. While it filled, I stepped into the shower and washed my hair in the luxury of not only the complimentary herbal shampoos, but also the wonderfully soft water. (It’s not just my imagination, is it? Hasn’t the city water become even harder since Rita? I swear it comes out of my faucets at home in chunks. But I digress…) I slathered on fragrant hair conditioner and stepped into the hot tub. I turned on the TV to Family Guy and luxuriated in the sinful comfort. And actually, that was the only time I cared to turn the TV on. The suite also had a wonderful TV, but the quiet restful ambiance kept me from allowing the electronic intrusion. I wanted to just rest and enjoy. After my soak, that kitten-soft robe felt wonderful and so did the bed. Oh, the bed is waaaay too comfortable, with four generous sized pillows -- right over the top on the snuggle-factor scale!  I drifted off to sleep– best sleep I think I’ve had since Rita, actually.

Morning came too soon, but breakfast was being served at Le Coup Buffet so I joined Scot and Bea for delightful coffee, eggs, ham and scones. And then there was actual work to do. The grand opening and ribbon cutting, and the tour of the new garden suites was scheduled for noon. So you see, it wasn’t all play and pampering. We had to actually prepare to report on the event. L’Auberge welcomed elected officials, representatives from the Parish Police Jury and the City of Lake Charles, the Port of Lake Charles, the Convention and Visitors Bureau and the media to the formal ribbon-cutting ceremony and tour of the new suites and the new retail outlets

At noon we gathered at the VIP reception area to check in and received our special gift/shopping bag. We were given a tour of the exclusive Garden Suites which offers butler service and private gardens. You know you are in exclusive lux territory when the suite numbers are Roman Numerals! L’Auberge staff offered us delightful iced lemon drinks (with a nice punch to them) and delicious hors d’oeurvres including tiny cheeseburgers garnished with a pickle slice. The tiny sesame buns were so cute, I imagined the Keebler Elves must have baked them!

I visited with Willie King, Gary Shannon, Julio Galan, Blanche Landry and Stitch Guillory as we began our tour. Lovely harp music greeted us from musician Paula Page. Frances Walker, Aimee Monk and Anne Trapp admired the marble outdoor tubs that grace each Garden Suite. Maria and Beau Faul were taken with the resort amenities of each suite and began planning an anniversary getaway.  I chatted with Eligha Guillory, Jr. and Calvin Collins. Celia Case, Patricia Philmon, Brad Goins and Greg Webb visited with L’Auberge VP Larry Lepinski. JoAnn Fontenot, Glenda Bennett, Wanda West, Peter O’Carroll and George Swift were enjoying the tour.  I also spotted Lynn Hohensee, Lee and Anne Monlezun, Mark Herbert, Darlene Manuel, Marshall Simien, John Cordone, Mark Abraham, Mark McMurry, Hal McMillin, Greg Wise, Katie Harrington, Leslie Harless, Hector San Miguel, and Eric Cormier.

We gathered in front of Studs of L’Auberge, a new menswear shop for the official ribbon cutting. Kerry Anderson welcomed us and then introduced Wade Hundley and Larry Lepinski. According to Pinnacle President Wade Hundley, the addition of the 250 rooms and suites in the new tower brings the total accommodations at L’Auberge to 1,000 rooms, making the resort the largest hotel in Louisiana outside of New Orleans.

Vice President and General Manager, Larry Lepinski told the assembly at the grand opening and ribbon cutting Friday, February 29, “We exceeded the budget and we took more time completing this project, but it was well worth waiting for…We have hosted visitors from every state in the union. We thank the community. We wouldn’t be here without your support.”

The retail outlets include Loved Ones, a pet boutique; L’ove with fabulous lingerie; Desserts, a confectionary featuring gelato, pastries and candy. Studs of L’Auberge offers elegant resort clothing for men; L’Arcade offers high tech fun and classic video games. These new retail shops join Modele, The Floral Shop, L’Sundries and Ambalo, as well as the golf pro shop. We each had a special card and with each visit to the retail outlets, we had our card stamped and received a welcome gift. We also received coupons for discounts for shopping through the weekend.

So that’s how you spoil a Shadow.  Let her luxuriate in a spacious suite, steep in an oversized tub of fragrant bath salts, offer her sweets and libations and then turn her loose for a free shopping spree!

I figure, why bother to travel and take off your shoes for TSA and count the number of tiny bottles you can fit in a zip lock just to fly to a resort. Right across town, you can enter another world of pampering and relaxation. You’ll feel a million miles away and return home rested.

Thank you Kerry and L’Auberge for a great Briar Patch Shadow assignment!

The Shadow

Why? I wish I knew! 

Newly inaugurated Governor Bobby Jindal was the special guest as the Chamber Southwest Louisiana presented their 104th Annual Banquet, January 22 at the Lake Charles Civic Center.

We were welcomed by George Swift. Deacon Reverend “Bud” Wagner gave the invocation and then Chair Clyde Mitchell passed the gavel to 2008 Chair Dick Kennison. CITGO’s Randy Carbo introduced Governor Bobby Jindal and we all enjoyed his speech. And the prized (and surprise) annual Civic Service Award given presented to Billy Navarre. His son, Ryan, accepted the honor on behalf of his father.   

Dinner was delicious! We enjoyed grilled chicken breast with sautéed mushrooms & artichokes in a citrus cream sauce, rosemary roasted new potatoes, green beans with sweet onions, and dessert of lemon pound cake. The Shadow spotted many friends in the crowd, including Jon and Carmen Manns, Kelly and David Sickey, Maurice and Anita Fields Gold, Katie Harrington, Cynthi Price, Nancy Hickman, Jim Beam, Mayor Randy and Nancy Roach, Len and Ann Knapp, Kevin Guidry, Nancy Tower, General Erbon Wise, Kevin and Pam Mattingly, Julio Galan, Dr. Andrea Miller.  We all were delighted by The Capitol Steps, a group who satirized political topics with their music.

The magic of Mardi Gras kept the Shadow and her “Shadowettes” running all over town the last two weeks. The Romance of the Renaissance was recreated at the Krewe de la Famille’s 29th Annual Mardi Gras Ball, January 26 at the Civic Center. His Royal Majesty, King Famille XXIX Bobby McLamore and Her Royal Majesty, Queen Famille XXIX Lydia McLamore were presented to their subjects by Captains Scot and Bea Hebert. Janelle and Donald Vincent represented Renaissance England and Sherry and David Boling represented Renaissance Spain.

Dale Mann narrated the dazzling show Eleisha Eagle sang the National Anthem. Krewe de la Famille debutantes presented at the ball were Miss Erin Armentor, Miss Kelsey Elizabeth Guidry, Miss Kelli Diane Hemphill, Miss Amanda Moreno, Miss Jenny Price and Miss Katherine Sorkow. The Red Hat Tappers danced to “I Will Survive.” Ashworth School of Performing Arts honored the Royal Court with their entertainment. And a motley krewe performed “Men in Tights” -- which they were literally! After the traditional “We are Family” Grand March, revelers danced into the night to the music of Bobby and the Rockets. Enjoying the Romance of the Renaissance were Jim and Janice Pauley, Patsy and Herman Manuel, John Vest, Chuck and Karen Henderson, F.J. and Tillie Lungaro, Lee J. and Anne G. Monlezun, Phil and Lauren de Albuquerque, Joe and Flo Lanza, Kevin Hodge, Wes and Lynn McFadden, Jerry and Kay Gabbert, Dr. Michael and Dorrie Branch, Kay Andrews, Al and Patricia Prebula, Gene and Thelma Fontenot, Doug and Adele Hamer.

The Imperial Calcasieu Museum hosted a delightful media appreciation reception, Thursday evening, January 24.  The Museum staff, Susan Reed, M. Blaine Miller, Amie Herbert and Erica J. McCreedy and ICM board members Jim McGough, Daniel Vidrine, and Larry Turner, greeted us. We chatted over delightful hors d’oeurvres and got a final look at the Schuh-Antoon exhibit in the Gibson-Barham gallery. Enjoying the reception and fabulous conversation were Jackie Dowden, Kay Andrews and Irene Vandever with the Arts & Humanities Council, Patricia Prudhomme and Joseph Frazier with The Times and Eric Cormier and Vanessa Deggins with the American Press.

LifeShare Blood Center presented their annual appreciation luncheon for area donors, Friday, January 25, at Reeves Uptown. I shared a table with Bill Hankins, CCO of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, Libby Murphy and Daphne Terral from LifeShare corporate headquarters in Shreveport, and Don Raborn, co-founder to the Jake Owen Raborn Foundation. The room was packed with blood donors who would later receive awards and thanks for their amazing generosity including 12-gallon donors, 8-gallon donors, corporations, media and businesses who support and encourage blood drives. Among those honored at the luncheon were the Sweets.  Destiny Sweet was a recipient of life-giving blood. She was there with her mother Gwen and sister Dyneisha. We chatted while we enjoyed lemon snapper or roast pork loin, roasted potatoes, mixed vegetables and salad.

Our special guest speaker was Don Raborn, from West Monroe. He and his family formed the Jake Owen Raborn Foundation to provide support to families, organizations and facilities touched by pediatric cancer.  Jake, the Raborn’s young son, was diagnosed with liver cancer in 2004. Jake bravely endured 857 days of treatment at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.  He “earned his wings” at home, when he went to heaven, Oct 5, 2006.  Don told us that throughout the illness, Jake needed over 200 units of blood and 200 units of platelets. “He would tell us, ‘I need blood,’ when he would start feeling bad – he knew it would make him feel better and give him energy. The family started the foundation to continue to finish the mission Jake began. You can access their webpage at www.jakesfoundation.org. To learn more about LifeShare Blood Centers or to donate, call 436-4932, of go to www.lifeshare.org.

Mardi Gras brought Cupid to town early when Krewe of Charlie Sioux members from southwest Louisiana and Sioux City, Iowa gathered at the LC Civic Center seawall, Friday evening, February 1 at sunset. Two Charlie Sioux crew members from Iowa met in the Krewe, love grew, and so they naturally, wanted to have a Mardi Gras wedding. Local Charlie Sioux Krewe members put together a ceremony at the Lake at sunset and, in spite of a brisk cool breeze, a crowd gathered to witness the nuptials of Marty and Kandy Pottebaum. They were dressed in regal Mardi Gras gold and burgundy. Best Man was Mike Glackin and Maid of Honor was Trudy Glackin.  The 12th Night Revelers and Tony Comeaux and Delores Beaco and other Krewe members waved as the happy couple boarded a boat for a cruise of the lake. 

Meanwhile, over at the Imperial Calcasieu Museum, an opening reception was underway in the Gibson-Barham Gallery for the annual McNeese Student Juried Student Exhibit. Juror was artist and special guest for the evening, Elemore Morgan, Jr. The talented student artists showing their works are Natalie Villamizar, Tina Dutile, Karly Frazier, Torrey Boyd, Elizabeth Kirby, Sabrina Seamon, Mary Donaldson, Rachel Rhoden, Jerry Zambrono, Mary Sneddon, Audrey Smith, Tierra Carter, Utsav Shrestha, Amanda Wallace, Megan Richard, Amber Smith, Michael Melder, Ashley Feagin, Jennifer Sibley, Michelle LaVoie, Angela Byerly, Sandra Lewis, Devin Morgan, Evan Friesner, Charlie Huang, Quientella Jackson, John Viator, Katherine Thompson, Morgan Paige, Anna Mallet, Anna M., Robin Stodder, Erin Casteel, Megan Marcantel, Ashton Cessac, Marielle Myers and Mike Stanton. The exhibit will be on display through February 23.

I met artist Erin Casteel who was enjoying the opening with family member Michael and Tyler Casteel.  Gabrielle and Marielle Myers and Selma Thompson admired Marielle’s works in the exhibit. Artist Mary Seddon visited with her husband Steven and Elizabeth Tarkington who held baby Elizabeth Seddon. Gerry Wubben and Lewis Temple chatted with Lynn Reynolds, Amie Hebert, Leah Bastien, Susan Reed, Adley Cormier, Melinda Antoon Cormier, Hillary Gayle and Gibson Barham.  Among the art lovers enjoying the reception were Emilo Hidalgo, Jorge Kollatso, Charlie Huang, Kathleen McNally, Morgan Fiser, David and Elizabeth Dronet, and Gene and Belle Richardson.

And over at the Art Associates Gallery and the Black Heritage Gallery at Central School, an opening reception was underway for Alvin Batiste’s, “Women in the Art of Alvin Batiste,” the third and final show of a three-part series about Louisiana folk artist Batiste. The show is chaired by Dr. Joe Cash, Ms. Stella Miller and Dr. Delma McLeod-Porter. It will be on display through February 26, so do get over to see it. The Shadow had every intention of attending the reception, but, like many other art lovers, I was stuck on the other side of Ryan when the Merchant’s Parade began and so I took the long way home. My apologies for missing the lovely reception, Ms. Miller and thank you for your invitation!

The next day, a Shadow spy snapped some wonderful photos of the Krewe of Barkus parade. What fun to see Dalmatians, Pugs, Corgis and mutts in costume! And I love that people bring their pooches to cheer on the Krewe of Barkus members, tossing beads and dog biscuits for the parade participants.

That evening, The Krewe of Illusions presented their 18th Annual Extravaganza and Ball.  As I entered the Rosa Hart Theatre, I met Scott Higginbotham and John Hillenbrand, and Helen and Darnell Daniel. I also spied Barbara and Brent Downer, Laura Heller, and Dr. Lee J. and Anne Monlezun in the lobby.  As we found our seats for the opening of the show, I waved to Anne Drake, Stella Miller, Mayor Roach and Nancy Roach, Angie Quinalty, Lori Marinovich, Barbara Cahee, Elcie and Ruby Guillory, Phil and Lauren de Albuquerque, Kay Andrews, Lonie Hamilton and Bridgett Williams.

At the opening of the show, Mayor Roach did a terrific impersonation of Rod Serling, welcoming us to a “Twilight Zone” where Mardi Gras and Easter are unusually early this year. “Why?” he asked. “I wish I knew.”  He went on to explain various calendars and moon cycles that determine Easter and Mardi Gras and then gave us the good news, “It will be 152 years before Easter is this early again!” And the crowd roared!

MC Desiree Devereaux and co-captain, Judy Reeves introduced the show “Celestial Celebrations” with banter and skits. Kevin Hodge stole the show with the opening number and his fabulous costume! And “lounge singers” Jan and Corey “entertained us” between scene changes. And where did Cory find that gosh-awful polyester baby-blue tux. Yipes!

Illusions King XVIII Cornell Thomas was El Sol, the Sun, in a glittering costume with a bright sun on the front of the back piece and a setting sun on the reverse. Illusions Queen XVIII Emily Margaret “Kitty” Clark, La Luna, the Moon, created a costume with a glowing moon on the front of the back piece and a glow-in-the-dark moonlight scene on the back. 

Unfortunately, Kitty missed the Extravaganza and the Ball because of an illness and all our thoughts and prayers go out to her. Her beautiful La Luna back piece was worn by Carrie Chrisco and our thanks to her for modeling Kitty’s beautiful work of art.

The Extravaganza presented festivals from around the world that celebrate the sun and the moon.  Millicent “Katie” Jones was Jeanne Canoe of the Bahamian Junkanoo festival. Her tall costume had ever possible color of feature on it. The Asian New Year festivals were presented by the Geisha and Samurai, Elizabeth and Zane Long, in beautifully elaborate costumes that were crowd-pleasers. The Beltane Spring Festival featured Carl Reeves as an energetic Celtic Warrior whose costume reflected the Beltane fires of ancient Ireland.

Ball Captain, Carla Chrisco took the stage as the Aztec Mother Goddess of the Earth, Coatlicue in a dazzling costume interpretation of Meso-American art. Ramona Primeaux represented the Goddess of the Vine at the Tuscan wine festival. Her costume featured a bottle that poured “wine” from the huge back piece.

Shelbie Huggins maneuvered the tallest costume of the Extravagaza as Maria, Lady of the Dead, celebrating Mexico’s Day of the Dead. She could move the puppet-costume’s hands and heads from inside the incredible creation. The final stop was “Samiland” to celebrate the ice and snow. Dancing penguins (too cute) and formally tuxedoed polar bears introduced Kippy Carpenter Greicar as the Snow Princess in a sparkling multi-dimensional snow flake costume.

After the Extravaganza, we moved to the Exhibition Hall for the Ball, where Laurel and the Untouchables played our favorite dance music. LCPD officers David Streva and Franklin Lewis very nicely took the time to help us with snapshots of friends while doing their security duties. I visited with Anne Drake, Valerie and Kenny Norwood, Bobby Dower and Ann Tobola, David and Kelly Sickey, Hector San Miguel and Theresa Schmidt, and Eleisha Eagle and Millicent Jones. And I met Dr. Ramona Patterson who came over from Baton Rouge for Cornell Thomas’ coronation as King XVIII. It was a wonderful evening of fun, food, dance and celebration.

A note of apology in closing:  I misspelled Stacey Shearman’s name in my report on the last first class dinner on the Titanic in my last Shadow report. That was a “My Bad!” I do apologize Stacey. My only excuse is all the lovely libations between and during courses messed with my note-taking that night…and my lazy proofing. I do apologize. And BTW – Stacey looked fantastic that evening in a vintage-inspired skirt and wrap that were very 1912!

A note of thanks to my “Shadowette Spies” – Patricia Prudhomme and Kay Andrews. I always said the Shadow needed to be cloned, but having their help is even better!

And finally, a note of best wishes for a speedy recovery to Kitty Clark. We missed you!

The Shadow

A Hearty Helping of Christmas Cheer

Election season wrapped up as the Chamber SWLA hosted a reception for the newly-elected in the Willis Noland Resource Center. Our Shadow spy reports that the mixer was a great time for local business folks, politicos and newly-elected officials. Courtney Hearod with Senator Vitter's local office, visited with Jimmy and Mayor Carolyn Louviere of Welsh, and Mark Herbert of Senator Landrieu's local office. Our spy also noticed Sulphur City Councilman Stuart Moss, Representative Elcie Guillory, and Chamber board member Mandi Mitchell visiting with Mayor Ron Roberts and wife Martha Lou, and Dale Bayard of the BESE Board. Newly-elected police juror Shannon Spell chatted with Senator Willie Mount and Dick Kennison, who is chair-elect for the Chamber SWLA board of directors.

Also enjoying the reception were Clyde Mitchell, the Chair of the Chamber SWLA Board, Representative-elect Mike Danahay, Representative-elect Johnny Guinn, Representative Chuck Kleckley, Representative Herman Hill, Representative-elect Dorothy Sue Hill, Representative-elect A.B. Franklin, Mayor Kenny Stinson of Vinton, Eddie Sens and Megan Knapp,  Katie Chaisson, Gray Stream, Shelly Johnson, Ben Bourgeois, Greg Webb, Wes Gautreaux and Mike Heinen.

Each year, Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana presents Night of the Child, an event to honor all those who work to prevent the abuse and neglect of our state’s children. This year, Sheila and Drew Ranier opened their lovely home on Wilson Avenue to host the cocktail buffet honoring Poddy Champeaux. She is the recipient of this year’s White Knight Award. We were greeted by Joy and Philip Breaux, Chris Farr and Sheri and John Hogg.

The Ranier home was beautifully decorated, inside and out, for the holiday season. Barbara DuBose, Lola Carpenter and Jane and Denny Dennison admired the Ranier’s lovely family Christmas tree as they visited. The Ranier’s welcomed Mayor Randy Roach, Senator Willie Mount, and John and Leigh DeRosier. I spotted Julio Galan, Dr. and Mrs. Ordinario, Phil and Lucie Earhart, the DeSonnier family, Penny and Louis Haxthausen, Reed Mendelson, Fred Sahlmann, William Kushner, Daphne Oliver, Michael Kearney, Jim McGough and Steve Lacey.

Poddy and Joe Champeaux arrived to hugs and kisses. Laura Leach, past recipient of the White Night Award visited with Poddy while the staff of Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana gathered the crowd from the many lovely rooms for the presentation. The White Knight Award is given each year to a philanthropist in Southwest Louisiana who works on behalf of children and children’s issues. Truly our Poddy is a White Knight for all her enthusiastic work for children. The evening was a perfect way to begin the Christmas season and honor a wonderful woman.

Saturday, December 1, the Sowela Technical Community College Student Art Show opened in the Art Associates Gallery in Central School. After Hurricane Rita damaged Sowela, the art department was unable to hold their annual exhibit. Last year, the art department had a one-day-only show at Central School. This year they applied and were awarded the Art Associates Gallery for the month of December for their first off-campus exhibit since Rita.

Instructors Gray Little, Tracy Beaugh, Gerry Spell, and advisory board member Chuck Ehlers welcome guests to the exhibit. Chancellor Andrea Miller attended the opening reception. Pat Paxton, Jimmy Ducet, Kate and Patricia Broussard, Laurie Ducet, and Ted Spell were among the crowd admiring the designs, drawings and graphics produced by Sowela graphic arts students. Chris Shepherd’s “Disciple Tour” and Kaitlyn Mitchell’s “Flower Petal Perspective” took Best of Show awards. The exhibit will be open through December 31, so you have time to take in the amazing works of these very talented students.

The 17th annual Ribbons of Hope Gala filled the Exhibition Hall of the Civic Center with glitz, great music and wonderful food the evening of December 1. The Southwest Louisiana AIDS Council and Humans Involved in Victory Over AIDS present Ribbons of Hope each year to raise funds to help those individuals and their families living with HIV and AIDS.  SLAC Executive Director Terry Estes and volunteers Kim Kay James and Faye Jones welcomed guests and Caldon Crochet, Kelli Barnes and Roland Housley sold tee’s and mugs at Ribbons of Hope. (Love the design!) You could also buy a raffle ticket for a chance to win a plasma HDTV and home theatre system.

I chatted with Cathy Chapman and Dave Brown and then moved to the tables to peruse the silent and live auction items. The room was fragrant with delicious aromas from the buffet being prepared by Marc Moore catering (details to come!). Tables were beautifully decorated with centerpieces by Chris Allen of Paradise Florist. The jazzy music of “Ja” made the party lively.

At the display of items to be auction later by auctioneer Maurice Tynes, Sydni Dunn modeled beautiful fleur de lis jewelry by Mignon Faget from M.B. Rich. Patsy Manuel showed me the gorgeous poster by artist Parris Duhon to commemorate SLAC’s 20th year. The poster was framed by the Frame House and Gallery.

Over at the silent auction tables, Lisa and Jonald Walker shopped and made bids. Peter Stevens, Robin Abraham and Marilyn and Bob Dunn visited with Sally Cappel and Debra Guillory. Elizabeth Helman, Anne Drake, Faye Chrisco, Carla Chrisco, Robert and Eileen Piper, Carrie Chrisco, Dr. Robert Cooper and Charlie and Carol St. Dizier shopped the silent auction tables.

Michelle Horak and Jennifer Allbritton, Chuck Styron, Kerry Onxley and Dennis Craft all sat at a table of lively revelers. Nearby, Melanie Spangler, Bea and Scot Hebert, Patsy and Herman Manuel, Tillie and F.J. Lungaro, Joe and Flo Lanza and Vicki LeDoux partied.

I also spotted Tom and Denise Morris, Mayor and Nancy Roach, May Gray, Marilyn and Jim Cox, Cornell Thomas, Brenda Bachrack, Phil Caddy, Mike McHale, Winnie Guillory, Richard Reid, Len and Ann Knapp, Sonny and Louise Marks, Randy Fuerst, Chris Allen, and Larry Turner. I shared a table with a delightful group including Anne Drake, Carol and Charlie St. Dizier, and Faye, Carla and Carrie Chrisco.

Sara Smith, Susan Marriner, Andrea Prejean and Tootsie Helman all looked lovely as they chatted in the buffet line. And that leads me to the fabulous buffet tables. Marc Moore and his staff created a culinary cruise around the world. And just as the diner line opened, the fireworks exploded over the lake from the city Christmas celebration and lit up the sky. How festive!

There was a Greek orzo and pesto salad. Irish Channel “Beef Debris” was served over mashed potatoes in elegant stemware. From Lebanon, we were treated to green beans cooked in olive oil, garlic and tomatoes. There were French glazed baby carrots and from Italy, a pecan-parmesan crusted chicken breast with Alfredo sauce. Very (and I do mean VERY) spicy chipotle pork tenderloins in salsa verde was the offering from Latin America. A beautiful dish of shrimp and crabmeat in a mango coconut sauce over balsamic rice represented India. Of course I had to sample everything and it was all delightful! And then there was the cheesecake dessert buffet! The cheesecake was fabulous plain, but no – we had our choice of hot chocolate ganache, hot caramel sauce or hot raspberry sauce. Some of us, who shall remain nameless, tried all three toppings and it was heaven on a plate!

As we dined, the silent auction counted down, and folks checked to see if they had been out-bidded on their desired items. There was wonderful art work. I loved “Mr. Frank N. Ferter” by Tara Bufkin. There were prints by Gary Wubben and Marty Bee, jewelry, furniture, clothing, and garden decor among the many fine articles just waiting for final bids.

Maurice Tynes conducted the live auction. Fabulous treasures included antique furniture, desserts from Sweets and Treats, getaways to Houston and New Orleans, a dozen roses every month from A Daisy a Day, garden decor, and fine art. Ribbons of Hope was a delightful evening of food and friends for a very good cause. Don’t miss it next year.

Our Shadow spy tells us that the Christmas Spirit was alive and well at the ACTS Theatre that same Saturday night as an illustrious cast of characters presented “Scrooge, The Musical.”  This classic heralds the beginning of the Christmas Season in Lake Charles. The audience, comprised of young and old alike, demonstrated their approval with rousing applause as the cast danced and sang through the performance sending everyone away with a hearty dose of Christmas Spirit.

Before the performance, we spotted Jermaine Davis, Katie Conner, Dina Pierson, Alex Pierson, Cade Pierson, Grace Chapman, Landon Arnold, Logan Arnold, Sara and Josh Arnold, Kate Fontenot and Trey Brown in the lobby. Gwen LaFleur-Taylor, the mother of actor Jeff Taylor who played a Christmas Present, Castle C. Cohron, Jr., and Tonice LaFleur, Jeff’s grandfather, all anxiously waited to see his performance and that of Michelle Racca Taylor. A very supportive house included long time contributors, Mr. and Mrs. Mark Castille in concessions.

After the performance Lee and Anne Monlezun congratulated cast members on a job well done.  Belinda and Bill Sommers were spotted in the audience as well as Kay Andrews, Katherine Petty and friend, Dr. Ringelstein.  Others enjoying the show were Elizabeth Hixon with family and friends.

KVHP Fox 29, and Gary and Heather (LA 92.9) from GAP Broadcasting joined forces with the Marine Corps League Detachment 1157 for the annual marathon Toys for Tots Donation Drive on Friday, November 30th and Saturday, December 1st at Wal-Mart on Highway 14.  The event was a success thanks to the Lake area elves and their generous donations of toys. During the marathon, new bicycles and toys to fill over 30 bags and boxes were given by shoppers. L’Auberge du Lac donated L’Bears in red tee-shirts. And L’Auberge employees donated over 1,000 toys from their Toys For Tots drive. The Shadow was invited to the Toys For Tots warehouse on December 3, where volunteers Frank Landry and Commandant John Lamar showed me Santa’s bounty. They expressed thanks to the community and remind us that because of the many toy recalls this year, they are still gratefully accepting all donations of new, unwrapped toys to make Christmas merry for many area children!

The Shadow

The Fine Sport of Yard Sale’n

When artists, musicians, and other Celtic performers began arriving at Lake Charles for the Celtic Nations Festival, generous local citizens opened their homes to guests for the weekend. Kay Andrews was hostess to musicians.

She says, “Christy and Aodh Og proclaim themselves to be professional house guests that are house-trained and indeed this is true. Arriving on a Thursday evening they proceeded to unload the entirety of their earthly possessions and move into my guest room.” Kay explained that, “with years of practice at packing for travel you can imagine that every single space of their vehicle, with the exception of an opening just large enough to see out the back window, was used and then some. It was akin to the magician who keeps pulling a scarf from his fist, they just kept bringing stuff in.”

Kay said, “Once we had a chance to talk and become somewhat acquainted, it was immediately clear to me that this host/guest pairing was just right for me. Unobtrusive and self-sufficient, Christy and Aodh Og (pronounced a-yo g) handled their daily routines and schedules efficiently while I maintained my work schedule and attended to my obligations. The weekend provided us some social time at the Celtic Festival and after.  I enjoyed the privilege of joining them as they visited with Irish friends that they had not seen for some time.  It must have been a poignant time for all as they laughed and talked about home, music, friends and life.

“It was a great pleasure to sit with them at night and listen to their story; to hear the kindness and compassion in their voices and to see the gentleness of their touch. Having traveled all over the United States staying in homes, parks, campgrounds, their car and probably some places that would not be a consideration for us, it is certain that they have seen and heard more than the majority of us will hear and see in our entire lives. Their story is seasoned with the reality of life but their philosophy and zest for a simple life enables them to seek out pure and natural accouterments for their unpretentious lifestyle not desirous of the trappings with which society has adorned itself,” says Kay. “They are a wonderfully unique pair and I count their friendship and the opportunity to welcome them into my home as one of my most valued treasures.” For more information about Christy and Aodh Og, Kay says you should visit their website at 4ss@art.net.

Next year’s Celtic Festival will provide opportunities for you to also share your home and hospitality with performers from all over the world and make great new friends like Kay Andrews did. Let the Celtic Nations Festival know if you want to be a host to a visiting musician or artisan. 

A bit of a buzz surrounded the inaugural performance of the 50th Season of the Lake Charles Symphony, Sunday, October 21. And those in attendance were not disappointed -- they were treated to a stellar performance by the illustrious Lake Charles Symphony Orchestra lead by Joshua Zona, Conductor with selections from the timeless compositions of Robert Schumann.

The new Junior League cookbooks were on display in the lobby along side samples of delicious treats prepared from recipes in the cookbook. Keri Forbess-McCorquodale gave opening remarks and recognized Maestro William Kushner, encouraging the audience to express their appreciation to Maestro Kushner for his years of support for the Symphony and arts in the Lake Area. With a round of applause, a very heartfelt and loving standing ovation was given was given to Mr. Kushner.

A huge decorated birthday cake adorned with 50 candles was brought onto the stage. Absolutely fabulous performance of some of Schumann’s most beautiful music, and a chorus of “Happy Birthday” sung to the Symphony, the candles were blown out by and everyone was invited to have a piece of cake served in the lobby of the Rosa Hart Theatre. Thank you Lake Charles Symphony Orchestra, Maestro Kushner, Joshua Zona and David Friend for a warm opening to a new symphony season.

Over 600 school students had an early Halloween treat at the Westlake High School Theatre Department’s presentation of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” and over 400 folks turned out for the evening performance, Thursday, October 18. The actors presenting the spine-tingling tale included Jackie Tademy, Samantha Ned, Nesia Gallien, Ashley Fontenot and Michelle Breaux. According to Onxley, “Most of Washington Irving's work has been largely forgotten, but the characters of Ichabod Crane and the Headless Horseman have lived on as part of American folklore.” The Westlake High School Theatre Department is directed by Kerry A. Onxley. The production of Sleepy Hollow was presented by Steve Powers, Principal, Lee Crick and Carl McGee, Assistant Principals at Westlake High School. 

In the fine sport of Yard Sale’n, LAPAW claims they offer the best goods in town for bargain hunters – all for the benefit of the canines helped by the Lake Area Partnership for Animal Welfare. Hostess Anne Drake opened her back yard to the annual sale on a beautiful, cool Saturday, October 27. A steady stream of shoppers came and went all morning, taking away bargains and leaving valuable support for LAPAWS.

Landon, Lay-nee and Crystal Spell found new treasures at the sale. Shelia Gilley, a LAPAW volunteer, helps out with the sale as she puppy-sits with her former foster dog, Scooter Cochran, a St. Bernard/Lab cross.  A young shopper, Kiara Praylor, visited with Shelia and Scooter while her mom looked over the yard sale items.

Yard sale hostess, Anne Drake visited with shoppers and introduced Corky, the adorable poodle she is fostering until he can be adopted into a forever home. Anne explained that proceeds from the sale will help with supplying medicines, food, shelter, and spay/neuter for homeless, abused and abandoned dogs and puppies.

Volunteer Mona Chiasson, Shelia and Anne help Maria Choate bag up all the treasures she purchased.  Roy and Patsy Chysel and Charlie and Carol St. Dizier stopped by looking for bargains to support LAPAW.  Wes and Amanda Hart shopped with their infant son, Cameron. Cheri and Randy Montie found a bounty of books with the help of their rescue pup, Rusty. As the Shadow moved on, more and more shoppers were arriving to shop for the cause of LAPAWs. 

Across town at the Lake Front Amphitheatre, the annual Arts & Humanities Arts Fest was also attracting quite a crowd on this cool, sunny morning. Tents, music, clowns, Halloween costumes and a train all tell of a festive time to come.

Lamar and Linda Ory and their granddaughter, Taylor Naquin, visited with Joe Toups and Joann Garland at the entry to the festival.

Londyn Soileau and Jessica Robertson made glittered Halloween cards at the First Federal art tent under the direction of Faith Soileau and Tiffany Wasson. Sarah Judson battled with young Bryce Glapion with balloon swords.

There were lots of creative activities under the sun. Youngsters could fashion a hat at Le Chateau des Chapeaux; make bookmarks at the Public Library tent; create patriotic pins with the Sulphur High French Club and a cascade of colorful stars with the Junior League. There was corn-on-the-cob and popcorn for quick snacks. 

You could make pottery with the McNeese Arts department and Anita Ahrens, have your portrait or caricature made by Sue Didelot, Imogene Dewey and David Garbarino. Kay Kusman and the scouts attracted a crowd at their tent where kids could weave their own pot holders. Shane Jeans demonstrated the art of blacksmithing, Mrs. Syron showed how to spin and weave cloth and Mr. Hershel Frazier helped children ground corn into cornmeal.

While area dance groups entertained on the amphitheatre stage, friends Allison O’Quinn, Janie Lunn, Emily Romero and Katie Hood checked out the Native American tee-pee. Angela and Brianna Simon took in all the sites. Brianna was dressed in a ghoulish Halloween costume.  Scotti Moffett was dressed as a precious kitten. Other fairies, ghouls, ghosties and beasties enjoyed the Arts Fest. 

As the Shadow was leaving Arts Fest, more families continued to arrive, keeping B.E.S.T. volunteer Tina Griffin busy putting paper bracelets on Malik Francis, Ariana Thomas and Renaldo Anderson.  Cousins Jayden, Jordon, Jacob Robinson and Nikolas Wukovits posed for a photo proclaiming that Arts Fest was their favorite time of the year!

On my way home, I noticed a half-dozen cars in the parking lot of the Lake Charles Little Theatre. Since Shadows are naturally nosey, I dropped in to see what was going on.  Volunteers Jay Rypma, Tom Cole and Joey Frazier were busy painting scenery for the opening November 3rd of “Trip to Bountiful.”  Penny Palermo was busy in the lobby vacuuming and cleaning preparing for guests. Outside, Joanne Rigney and James Johnson were artistically making a perfectly good screen door into a wonderfully aged relic for the play.

Curiosity satisfied, I headed home, making a note to return Saturday to see production created from all that paint and hard work.