thrive february 2015 issue

February 2015 Thrive Magazine for Better Living www.thriveswla.com 11 www.thriveswla.com Thrive Magazine for Better Living February 2015

FEBRUARY 2015

1

February 2015

Thrive Mardi Gras Guide www.thriveswla.com

www.thriveswla.com

Mardi Gras Insert_2015.indd 1

1/19/15 7:52 AM

Insert Inside

Weve Got it Growing On!

SWLA Economy

Preventing a Broken HeartSpecial

Section

2 www.thriveswla.com Thrive Magazine for Better Living February 2015

Rehabilitation Hospital of Jennings

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2014

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For nearly 40 years, we have held a firm commitment to the patients we serve throughout the community. It is this commitment with the successful treatment of our patients, using the latest technology and techniques that has allowed us to achieve such a high standing among the countrys top cardiac facilities.

Experienced cardiac physicians working together with the latest treatments and technology, giving patients and families hope and healing with successful, long-term results is why were the only cardiac center of excellence in southwest Louisiana.

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36

20 31 Special Cover Section:

Contents

6Regular Features 15 Cameron Connection

18 Whos News 34 Business Buzz 38 The New Family Tree 57 By the Numbers 63 Happenings 64 McNeese Corral 66 Solutions for Life!

In This Issue Wining &Dining 6 Building a Better Smoothie 9 Mixing the Perfect Martini

Places &Faces 10 McNeese State University: Innovation 12 Game Point: The Sports Club at Graywood Serving Up Tennis Education with New Pro 14 Bottoms Up for the Lake Charles Winter Beer Fest

Money &Career 32 4 Ways to Remember Peoples Names

Home &Family 36 Local Couple Shares Secrets for Long-Term Marriage 39 Routine Pet Care Recommendations 40 Financial Aid: What You Need to Know

Style &Beauty 42 Finding the Right Pair of Jeans 44 Men In Pink 56 Hair Crimes and Misdemeanors

Mind &Body

60 Looking into LASIK Myths

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

DONT JUST LIVE, THRIVE!

20

Editors and Publishers Kristy Armand Christine Fisher

Creative Director/Layout Barbara VanGossen

Assistant Editor Katie Harrington

Business Manager Katie McDaniel

Assistant Designers Shonda Manuel Kris Roy Mandy Gilmore

Advertising Sales Lauren Tarasiewicz [email protected] 337.310.2099

Submissions [email protected]

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

44

SWLA Economy: Weve Got It Growing On!

New

How to Make Your Own Luck

Small Yard Makeovers

Striking Out on Your Own Making the Rules for Entrepreneurs

Sneak Peekat Marchs Thrive:

Preventing a Broken Heart50 57 Special Section:


All our wonderful dogs are available for adoption through 4Paws Society. Call 287-3552 for more information and to learn about other programs that are available.

I KISS YOU!Suzie is an 8

year old pekinese that

considers herself a diva.

She really feels

shes the best kisser arou

nd. Cant you

tell?

TWINSIES!These precious baby girls were re

scued

from hoarders. As sweet as these

darlings are, they are shy, and will not do

well with small children. Together they

weigh 8 pounds - 4 pounds per arm.

ROOM TO RUN!This 1 year o

ld

terrier mix is sweet

and affectionate,

but does best with

friends to play with.

He prefers a nice area

to stretch his legs.

SUZIE

big hoss

oliveselena

Advertising Sales Lauren Tarasiewicz [email protected] 337.310.2099

Submissions [email protected]

A simple Facebook post made last fall, complaining about the endless rain Southwest Louisiana seemed to be receiving, became a catalyst for Fred Sebren, a local businessman and Army veteran, to start a movement in 2015.

Last September I made a post to my personal Facebook page, claiming that if it rained one more day, I was packing my family up and heading west, Sebren, owner of local independent insurance agency, The Simmons Group, says. My wife, Dana, commented on it asking me what I was going to do about it.

That simple question got Sebrens wheels turning. A Lake Charles native, he enlisted in the Army when he was a senior in college, pursuing a criminal justice degree. He served two tours of duty in Iraq as an infantryman.

During his time of service, Sebren achieved the rank of sergeant and was awarded the Combat Infantry Award, an award given to only 40,000 total service members from Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanastan).

While he found success in the structure provided by the Army, he says adapting to civilian life proved to be a bit of a challenge. The first job interview I went on after I returned home, I was offered $10 an hour. I had recently completed my four-year college degree but being an infantryman meant I didnt really have a lot of skills applicable to the civilian world. I was fortunate to have grown up in the insurance business with my grandfather and mom, though. With those past experiences and the support of my wife and family, I was able to forge a new path for myself.

Sebren is quick to point out, however, that he is a minority. I went into the service when I was well on my way to getting a college degree so I was a bit older when I got out. For kids going in at 18 and getting out at 22, the road ahead isnt quite as smooth. This transition from soldier to civilian, while battling things like PTSD is not a good situation for anyone to be in.

It was with this reflection last fall that Sebren decided exactly what he was going to do about all

the rain the area was receiving.Every day in America, 22 veterans take their

own lives. By the time we sit down for lunch each day, 11 veterans will have already committed suicide, Sebren says. The scars are not necessarily visible. For every five inches of rain accrued in Lake Charles during 2015, I am going to donate $22 to the United States War Veterans PTSD Foundation. By myself I cannot make a huge difference, but together we can raise a lot of money and help out a great cause.

Sebren emphasizes that Operation Rain Twenty-Two is an idea built on everyone being capable of affecting positive change in their community. I simply took something that I was complaining about, the amount of rain we get in Southwest Louisiana, and turned it into something positive to help make a difference. Anyone can do this.

The numbers on veteran suicide are staggering. According to www.facethefactsusa.org, one out of every five (about 300,000) suicides nationwide is committed by a veteran, but that number is even more alarming when considering the fact that veterans make up only about 10 percent of the population.

Twenty-two in a day, this needs to stop, Sebren adds. Most of these men and women were throwing lead down range before they were even old enough to buy a beer at their favorite dive bar. They answered the call when we needed them, so now its time to return the favor.

Operation Rain Twenty-Two is currently looking into opportunities with groups like Paws and Stripes, who provide service dogs to veterans suffering from PTSD. Community members can help by purchasing an Operation Rain Twenty-Two shirt from the groups website. All proceeds will go to various charities dealing with veteran PTSD.

For more information on Operation Rain Twenty-Two or to hear Sebrens story, visit www.rain22.org. You can also follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/operationrain22.

Operation Rain Twenty-Twoby Katie Harrington


Wining &Dining

Its a new year, and for many, the holiday bloat has to go! Its time to get serious, and a healthy option to consider is a smoothie.


There are many versions including fruits, vegetables, green drinks, weight control, muscle makers, energy, lean mass, and more. A smoothie can be a healthy choice if its balanced with fruit and healthy ingredients, and can even serve as a meal substitute.

Terri Stovall, owner of Get Healthy, a full service health food store, coffee house, wellness center, and spa, serves up tasty and healthy smoothies.

Most people have a hard time getting in their servings of fruits and vegetables on a daily basis, Stovall said. Skipping a meal or having a meal without protein can wreak havoc on your health.

A good smoothie should have protein, fat, and carbs. Calories can add up, and non-dairy options include almond, coconut, hemp, cashew, oat, or quinoa milks.

Smoothies just may be the perfect nutritional boost, said Stovall.

Begin with fresh, pureed, or frozen fruit, veggies for vitamins, and healthy thinners such as water, ice, apple or white grape juice. In lieu of white sugar, consider stevia, cane or beet sugar, xylitol, honey, or agave nectar. Throw in a banana for texture.

Popular fruit smoothies at Get Healthy are strawberry, strawberry banana, mango, peach, banana, apple, carrots, and butternut squash.

Keep a meal replacement smoothie under 300 calories, with 20 grams of protein. Whey, soy, hemp, and pea or brown rice are good choices when it comes to protein sources. Use three servings of fruit or vegetables in each smoothie.

Fresh vegetables and greens balance flavor and nutrients. Vitamineral Green, a powdered formula, contains spirulina, wheat grass, chlorella, dulse, algaes, and enzymes. Bee pollen, ginseng, probiotics, vitamins, and ginkgo biloba are just a few of a wide array of popular additions.

Get the glass you will drink your smoothie from, add in fruit, vegetables, protein, additives, and liquid. Pour it all into a blender, blend on high, and enjoy!

Keep track of calories, including liquids, and be creative. Tofu or low-fat yogurt can be mixed with wheat germ, blueberries, and honey. A summer smoothie can be made from watermelon, banana, and yogurt. Berries, banana, yogurt, and orange juice is a great morning drink.

Stovall is a traditional naturopathic doctor and a certified natural health professional.

Get Healthy is located in historic downtown DeRidder at 107 S. Washington St., and is on Facebook.

Building a Better

by Angela Hauser


Wining & Dining

When you dine out, the brief relationship you share with your server should be a two-way street. Yes, you should expect good servicebut you should also behave like a respectful patron. You dont expect to be treated badly at a restaurant, and neither should the wait staff. Better attitudes often equate to better service.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind.

5Ways to Treat Your Server

Listen. When your server app

roaches the table to take your order, put

down your cell phone. Take out the earbud

s. Listen to the specials

so they dont have to be repeated. Remem

ber: Youre not the only

table being served.

Make room.

When the server arrives with your plates, m

ake room on the table

so the food can be placed where you want

it. Sure, the server can

shuffle things around on the table, but that

means arranging

your drinks and touching your plates in way

s that may make you

uncomfortable.

Dont blame the server for things that are

nt their fault.

Sure, theres such a thing as bad servicen

eglecting tables, taking

incorrect orders, and so onbut servers o

ften get stiffed for things

over which they have no control. If the food

s coming out slow, its

not the servers fault. Cold soup? Also not t

he servers fault. The

entire burden of your dining experience sh

ouldnt fall on your

servers shoulders.

Dont stack plates.

Sometimes customers clear the table and s

tack plates

themselves. This is a considerate practice in

theory, but it can

be counterproductive. Servers often have th

eir own process of

clearing the table. Believe it or not, there is

logic behind stacking

and clearing. Let the server do it. Thats thei

r job, after all, and its

part of the reason youre paying to eat.

Always leave a tip.

The tip isnt just for the server. The tip is for

the hostess, cook, and

bartender, too. When you stiff the server, y

ou stiff them all. If you

feel like you received truly poor service, tal

k to the manager. But

dont let the tip go dry. Also, remember tha

t the standard tip is 20

percentnot 15 percent and certainly not

ten.

12

3

4

5

by Erin Kelly


My StorySOWELA was one of the best choices for me. We do a lot of work in the classroom and in the kitchen but when you can serve and cook for the customers out there and see the expressions on their faces its likeWow! Its a lot of fun. I retired from the military after twenty-one and a half years, and this is a new chapter in my life. I love cooking and put my heart and soul into itand thats my story.

LanceSOWELA StudentCulinary ArtsLet your story start with

Martinis are among the most popular of the mixed drinks. Although the origin is debated, martinis became a part of the standard bartending repertoire in the late 19th century.

Traditionally, a martini is made with gin and dry vermouth, and over the years the gin-to-vermouth ratio has moved from near equal parts of each to about 6:1, with more gin than vermouth. This cocktail is typically garnished with a green olive or lemon twist. Often, a dash of olive juice is added to the mix to make a dirty martini.

More recently, vodka martinis have become popular. The vodka makes a drier drink than the gin, but with the popularity of the Cosmopolitan, fruity drinks in a martini glass have become the standard perception of a martini. Purists will argue that these sweet versions are not martinis, but simply inferior drinks in a martini glass. Perhaps they are not true martinis, but their popularity cannot be denied!

Making the perfect traditional martini requires a shaker, ice, a high quality gin, and dry vermouth. Simply fill the shaker halfway full of ice, pour in a capful of vermouth and swirl it around to coat the ice. Pour out the excess vermouth and add 2.5 ounces of gin (a little over cup) and shake. Use a strainer to pour the mix into a martini glass and add a single olive or twist of lemon peel. Voila! There is your perfect martini.

If thats a little too dry for you, try some of the following variations for your perfect martini drink.

Gibson: exchange the olive for a cocktail onion

Third degree: add a couple drops of absinthe

Hoffman House: 3:1 ratio of gin to vermouth with 4 dashes of bitters

Vodka martini: follow the traditional martini recipe and exchange the gin for vodka (Dirty Vodka martinis are also great.)

Cosmopolitan: 2 ounces vodka, 1 ounce Cointreau,

1 ounce cranberry juice, and 1 ounce Roses lime juiceSidecar: 1.5 ounces cognac, .75 ounces Cointreau, .75 ounces

lemon juice

Mixing the Perfect Martini

by Allie Mariano


InnovationPlaces &Faces

MCNEESE STATE UNIVERSITY:

Innovation

by Allie Mariano

One year ago, McNeese expanded its innovation program when it moved into the SEED Center. The Innovation Center, located on the first floor of the SEED Center located at 4310 Ryan Street, includes an interactive high-tech lab, classroom and business incubation studio.

McNeese was just the second university in the country to implement the Innovation Engineering minor in 2012. The program is open to all majors and it is designed to teach students a systematic approach to innovation. Over the course of six classes, students learn how to create, communicate, and commercialize their own innovative ideas. The students come up with and develop their own original project.

Innovation Engineering strives to be an interdisciplinary endeavor. According to the programs website, the topic only exists as a minor because the program wants to graduate innovators in a variety of disciplines: nurses, teachers, computer scientists, English, theatre, art, and history majors. The program wants its graduates to possess the tools and confidence to lead the creation, communication, and commercialization of meaningfully unique ideas in their disciplines!

The three different rooms of the Innovation Center provide students with all of the tools required to be a new generation of innovators. In the classroom, students learn to work in groups to generate ideas and use their communication skills to solve problems. The Innovation Lab (iLab) is a room where students are able to utilize all of the latest technology to test their theories. Students have access to everything from Google Glass to a Playstation 4, from the full suite of Apple devices to the latest graphic design and video editing software, from a non-linear writeable wall space to a 3-D printer, scanner, and pen. Students enrolled in Innovation Engineering, as well as students accepted into the Student Business Incubation Studio, can use all of this and more in the iLab, and they can also check it out during the day at school. As stated on the programs website, the Student Business Incubation Studio (BIS) is a space to facilitate the development of sustainable student businesses. Students have to apply to utilize the space, and it provides them a workspace tailored to their business development needs.

Last semester, students and faculty were able to take advantage of the Innovation Center during Innovate McNeese Week. Leading up to the event, student and faculty teams were able to use the Google Glass during one-week periods. Teams used the Google Glass for a variety of projects, including an Art History lecture, a mosquito identification project, an Organic Chemistry class, a Washington D.C. trip, an engineering treasure hunt, and a project that monitored coastal erosion. The results varied, but they all demonstrated the variety of ways Google Glass can be put to use.

Art History Professor, Bridget McDaniel used the technology to record a lecture on a Van Gogh painting while viewing the painting itself. In her post-project interview, McDaniel said she saw

enormous potential with the technology and planned to use it when abroad in order to bring the artwork home to her students.

Caleb Ardizzone and Dr. William Dees used Google Glass for a mosquito identification project in which they photographed and later identified the mosquitoes. This project demonstrated some of the limitations of the technology because they were not able to zoom and ended up photographing the mosquitoes through a microscope, which defeated the overall purpose of using Google Glass. However, they identified the potential the technology has to aid in other, future projects.

Ryan Bradford and Mary Kaye Eason used the Google Glass while completing the Innovation Engineering Skill 5 Application Treasure Hunt. The purpose was to view a place and notice things that you havent noticed before like smells, sounds, things you hear, things that are unexpected, surprising, amusing or inspirational. The Google Glass was particularly helpful in allowing them to go back and view their route with fresh eyes: Each time they watched, they noticed things they didnt notice before.

Students and faculty are developing new, fresh, innovative ideas and solutions this semester.

For more information on the center, visit www.seed.mcneese.edu/innovation-classes.


by Allie Mariano

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Places & Faces

His parents, both top-rated tennis players, got him started as soon as I could hold a racquet, he said.

Essary, who has played tennis all over the world, now calls Lake Charles his home he is the tennis director at Graywood Sports Club and he is teaching a whole new generation to love the game as much as he does.

Essary said he took his first official tennis lesson by age 10. By 14, he knew he wanted to make tennis his profession.

While he grew up in Jackson, Miss., he spent many holidays with family in Memphis, Tenn., where he often played matches while in town. Memphis hosts a large professional tennis tournament each year and such tennis greats as Jimmy Connors, John McEnroe and Andre Agassi have all played in it and won.

Then a junior player, Essary said he was always invited to volunteer as a ball boy in the tournament. But, he always turned the invitation down.

Why would I want to ball boy for guys I plan to beat one day? he would always say. I knew what I wanted.

By the time he was 13, Essary said he started qualifying for national tournaments.

Back then, this was not an easy task, he said. To qualify, you had to have a southern ranking somewhere around the Top 24.

At 14, Essary won the Mississippi overall championship. He ranked in the Top 20 in the nation in junior tennis and competed in the Nationals in Kalamazoo, Mich. The Nationals is the most highly regarded junior tournament in the United States and the winner gets straight into the main draw of the U.S. Open professional event, he said.

By the age of 16, Essary was competing in and winning high level professional and adult events. During his freshman year at Jacksonville State, Essary scored wins over players ranked in the Top 120 in the world and he was ranked as the no. 1 player in the south.

After college, Essary played with the Futures Professional Tour before deciding to teach full time.

He taught tennis for 15 years in Memphis, including his job as the tennis director for Germantown, Tenn., a suburb of Memphis.

Essary moved to Lake Charles about three years ago when two of his former coaches recommended him for the tennis director job at Graywood.

He wasnt sure he wanted the job until he made his initial visit.

After visiting Lake Charles and seeing Gray Plantation, I was hooked, he said. Ive traveled all

over the world playing tennis and I have rarely seen any neighborhoods or facilities prettier than Gray Plantation.

Tennis isnt the only sport Essary has mastered. Growing up, he played baseball, football, and even BMX bike racing. He excelled at all, but finished second in the nation in BMX racing. He also won the United States Professional Tennis Associations Professional of the Year award for Tennessee in 2008.

As a teacher, Essary said he focuses on making sure his students get better at tennis every time they step onto the court.

Tennis is an all-or-nothing sport. Even when you are practicing, you have to give 100 percent, he said. Tennis is all about giving maximum effort on every movement or shot. This means practice sessions have to be very intense or they could actually get worse if not coached correctly. I try

Kevin Essary said he has been playing tennis since he was in diapers.

Game Point: The Sports Club at Graywood Serving Up

Tennis Education with New Pro by Lauren Jameson


to develop my students overall athletic ability. Playing and participating in all these sports has helped me communicate to athletes and it gives me a better overall idea of how the body most properly functions athletically.

Essary said he strives every day to be the best coach he can be.

A coach can have a lifelong impression on students lives and that responsibility shouldnt be taken lightly. With all of my students, I try to help guide them to becoming better and more responsible individuals on and off the court, he said.

Essary is certified in both strength conditioning and movement in sport specifically to train professional athletes -- and as an elite level professional by the United States Professional Tennis Association.

What the combination of those certifications allows me to do is not only identify where the technique is breaking down and correct it while on the court, but also identify the exact muscle groups or imbalances that are not performing at an optimal level. I then can give them exact exercises that specifically target those inefficiencies while training specifically for tennis while cross training or in the gym, he said.

For more information about Essary or the Sports Club at Graywood, call (337) 477-1114.

Invested.Care starts here, and spreads through a whole community.

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Every year, Lake Area Medical Cen

ter provides quality medical care to

thousands of people from our comm

unity. But the care we offer extends

beyond our doors. If youve ever be

en to our hospital, you know that w

e

take care personally. And now, you

know just how personally invested

we are in making this community a

better place to live and work.

2014 STATEMENT

Providing Quality Care:

Inpatient Admissions ......................

................................................... 2,96

5

Outpatient Visits.............................

.................................................. 48,8

14

ER Visits ..........................................

.................................................. 26,3

96

Surgeries ..........................................

.................................................... 4,8

96

Financial Benefits:

Payroll (404 Employees) .................

........................................ $22,439,84

5

Property & Sales Taxes ....................

.......................................... $1,309,62

3

Capital Investments ...........................

........................................ $9,370,756

Caring for Our Community:

Charity & Uncompensated Care ....

......................................... $1,333,74

2

Charitable Contributions ...............

................................................ $46,5

40

Total Community Investment ......

......................................$34,500,506

*

*Dollar amounts are approximate

.

Bryan S. Bateman

CEO, Lake Area Medical CenterThe information contained in this publication is not intended as a substitute for professional

medical advice. If you have medical concerns, please consult your healthcare provider.

LakeAreaMC.com

Bryan S. Bateman

82585_LAMC_CB_8x4_875c.indd 1 1/16/15 12:02 PM


Places & Faces

We chose The Verandah because of the friendliness of the managers,

staff and fellow residents, plus the food is amazing!

Welcome to The Verandah!Proudly Managed by Sunshine Retirement Living

Sit Back and Enjoy all the Perks of All-Inclusive Living Restaurant-Style Leisure Dining with Home-Cooked Meals Safe Living with Caring Live-In Managers & Dedicated Staff

Wellness Program, Fitness Center with Trainer, Heated Swimming Pool, Sauna & Spa, Beauty Salon,

Movie Theater, Tavern, Chapel, Art Studio and More!

JOIN US FOR OUR MARDI GRAS BALL Friday, February 9th | 6pm-8pm ~ Call to RSVP!

NEW YEAR, NEW SAVINGS! Limited-Time Specials are Waiting for You! Call Today!

(337) 347-7204 5851 Gray Market Drive | Lake Charles, LA 70605

EMAIL: [email protected] | WEB: TheVerandahAtGraywood.com

ACCREDITEDBUSINESS

This month the beautiful Historic Calcasieu Marine National Bank Building will host a new event for those who really enjoy a good brew. Beer, that is. The Lake Charles Winter Beer Fest, scheduled for Saturday, February 21, is a beer-tasting event that will feature over 60 different craft beers from multiple brewers.

Nick Villaume, who works with Tom Bobak on americancraftbeer.com, has launched this event. He describes the festival as highly curated. It will feature beers of the highest quality from a variety of American brewers, including a Louisiana favorite, Bayou Tche.

The event will showcase special releases and unique brews. Several of the brewers will have beers special to the festival, providing a unique opportunity for those who attend. In addition to beer sampling, the event will feature live music from Beau Gs Band of Ojin and Shearman & the Magic Tones, and a variety of food from local vendors.

Tickets are available for regular admission, VIP, and designated drivers. Regular admission is $40 and includes a 1 p.m. entry, unlimited beer tastings, and a commemorative 4-ounce tasting glass. The $80 VIP passes give the attendee a noon entry, unlimited beer tastings, the tasting glass, a $10 food token, and access to the VIP area with special release beers. Designated drivers can attend the event for $15 and will receive the commemorative glass when they leave.

In addition to tasting a variety of beers, festival attendees will have the opportunity to talk to industry reps and ask any questions that they have.

This event is geared toward beer connoisseurs, not just beer drinkers, says Vallaume. He adds, though, that this is a great event for people who want to learn more about craft beers. You can figure out what you like by talking to the brewers.

Mark your calendars and make your way to the Historic Bank, downtown on Ryan Street. For more information and tickets visit www.lawinterbeerfest.com.

by Allie Mariano

Bottoms Up for the Lake Charles

FestWinter


CAMERON PARISH HIGH SCHOOL CAREER FAIRThe Cameron Parish School Board and the Cameron Parish Police Jury

Department of Economic Development will host a Career Fair Tuesday,February 24, at the Cameron Parish School Board Conference Center. This will be an all-day event, with students from all schools participating. If you are interested in attending and setting up a booth for display of your company, please contact Clair Hebert, PCED, Director of Economic Development [email protected] or (337) 739-1098.

MONKEY ISLAND PROJECT GETS LICENSEThe U.S. Department of Energy on Wednesday awarded Southern California

Telephone & Energy a license to export LNG from its proposed plant on Monkey Island in Cameron Parish to free trade agreement countries.

SCT&E executives initially applied for their FTA license in June to export 4 million metric tons from the Monkey Island site. They rescinded their application shortly thereafter when the company decided to expand the projects scope from four trains to six, tripling the size of the facility. The company then reapplied in July for an FTA license to export 12 million metric tons.

The estimated $9.2 billion project is expected to create about 2,000 construction jobs. Work on the project is expected to begin by the fall of 2016.

CHENIER PLAIN ALLIANCE FORMED BETWEEN SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA AND SOUTHEAST TEXAS

Officials from three Southwest Louisiana parishes, Calcasieu, Cameron and Vermilion, and three Southeast Texas counties, Chambers, Jefferson and Orange, signed a memorandum of understanding to cement their pledge to work together in the areas of bank stabilization, hydrologic restoration, marsh creation and ridge restoration. The Chenier Plain covers a five million-acre coastal region with two-thirds of the plain located east of the Sabine River in Louisiana and one-third west of the Sabine in Texas.

Cameron Parish has more wetland acres than any Gulf Coast state, county or parish and the second highest rate of net wetland decrease. If you combine the Chenier Plain commercial fishing ports of the Port of Cameron in Cameron Parish with Delcambre and Intracoastal city in Vermilion Parish and Port Arthur in Jefferson County the annual catch is greater than the rest of the Gulf States other than Louisiana. According to Americas Wetland Foundation, more than 95% of Gulf of Mexico marine species spend part of their life in Louisianas wetlands yet approximately 25 to 35 square miles of Louisiana wetlands are lost each year.

Nature tourism in addition to hunting and fishing in the Chenier Plain offers some of the most varied outdoor recreation in the nation. Due to its variety of wading water and marsh birds the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge has been designated an Internationally Important Bird Area and the refuge is a part of the Creole Nature Trail All American Road and Americas Wetland Birding Trail. The Texas Birding Trail, located at the western edge of the Chenier Plain, leads the nation in visitor participation.


Places & Faces

Tis the season for, well, love. February 14th marks the day couples everywhere will celebrate their love. Valentines Day is named for a Christian martyr and dates back to the 5th century, but has origins in the Roman holiday Lupercalia. This fertility celebration used to be observed annually on February 15, but the rise of Christianity in Europe saw many pagan holidays being renamed for and dedicated to the early Christian martyrs and Lupercalia was no exception. In 496 AD, Pope Gelasius turned the celebration into a Christian feast day and set its observance a day earlier, on February 14. He proclaimed February 14 to be the feast day in honor of Saint Valentine, a Roman martyr who lived in the 3rd century and it is this St. Valentine whom the modern Valentines Day honors.

On this day, flowers, cards and candy are the typical gifts used to express ones love, but for some, an engagement ring will be the gift bestowed. According to the American Express Spending and Savings Tracker, an estimated six million marriage proposals will take place on the holiday.

With this statistic in mind, and the fact that love is in the air, Thrive took to Facebook to get the back story behind some proposals. Read on for the stories of two local couples, in their own words.

Best Pr posals

Tayler Ryan Richard and Sean Kennon

On our five-year anniversary, we had plans to go out to dinner. At the time, I was in nursing school taking evening classes. So, before I left for school, I went ahead and got dressed and ready for our date night. I went to class and actually got out early, I was so excited! I text messaged Sean to let him know I was out early and that I was headed home so he could start getting ready to go to dinner. He replied and told me he was at his parents house and asked if I would run to our house and grab him a change of clothes because he didnt feel like driving all the way back home. Every Friday night his family has family night, where they cook a big dinner and all get together at someones house. So, when I called him, he said his mom was hosting family night this week and that she cooked a huge meal and asked if I wanted to just stay and hang out there. Of course, I said yes and he said since my parents were there they were going to stay for family night too. When I got out of the car at his parents house, I saw a line of people in the backyard all wearing black shirts. So I started walking towards them and when they turned around I realized it was our closest family wearing shirts that spell out will you marry and Sean is wearing a shirt that says me? I walked straight to him and he got down on one knee with the most beautiful ring I have ever seen in my life and, of course, I said yes! It was amazing!


Shannon Weeks and Morgan Smith

A few weeks before I proposed, I was praying because I knew that I wanted to propose, but I had no idea how I would do it at all. I said, God, You know her way better than I do. What should I do? And clear as day He said, Send her on a quest. I stained paper with coffee grounds and water and burned the edges to make it look old and rolled it up into scrolls. Inside of the scrolls, I put instructions just like for a scavenger hunt, but I made it more epic.

On the day of the proposal, I was kind of freaking out a bit, but by the grace of God, I was able to hide my nervousness for most of the time. I went inside and shes got this legit treasure chest with pictures of us and all of the notes I had written her and a pair of jeans from Express. Great anniversary presents from her, and she knew I had gotten her something, so I told her I had something for her but I needed to get it out of my car. So I went and came back and gave her the first scroll.

She read through it and she looked a little confused and excited and amused and adorable. We set off on our adventure before finding the final scroll that read: If you have successfully completed the previous quests, you have proven yourself worthy of my treasure. Although

I will soon leave this earth, I am still hesitant to give you the location. Alas, if the truth shall ever be known, I must. The coordinates are 30 11 18.142 N 93 16 4.054 W.

So she typed the coordinates into Google Maps and we head to Prien Lake Park (the local park where we had our first kiss). When we were headed there, I texted our photographer to let him know and he hid the Bible that I got her and hid in his car. She had told me she wanted it about a month before, so as soon as she saw it she knew what it was. She opened up the Bible and in between the pages was a folded piece of paper that said:

As I conceal this book of great wisdom and knowledge, I have but one more treasure that I have no need of at this time. Its location is near here, in fact, closer than you might imagine. To find it, you must look, not with your eyes, but with your mind.

I told her I didnt know how she was supposed to do that, but fortunately I had a blindfold. So I put it on her. When everything was set, I said, Hey! I found a box. It says, Treasures fade but love remains. Love is key. I dont know what that means...I love you? No, that didnt work...I guess I need more. Then I went on a big spiel and told her that the box had opened and to take off her blindfold. When she took it off, I was already on my knee. Will you marry me?

Quest Complete!


Girl Scouts of Louisiana Welcomes New CEOGirl Scouts of Louisiana Pines to the Gulf has announced the new Chief Executive Officer, Rachel Broussard. Girl Scouts of Louisiana Pines to the Gulf serves the 42 parishes west

of the Mississippi River, including the cities of Shreveport, Monroe, Alexandria, Lafayette and Lake Charles. GSLPG serves nearly 8,000 girls and 3,000 adult volunteers. Rachel is moving up from Chief Operations Officer of Direct Services.

Maureen Lannan, MD, Elected 2015 President of WCCH Medical StaffMaureen Lannan, MD, family medicine physician, was elected president of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospitals (WCCHs) Medical Staff. As president, Dr. Lannan will

work to ensure the quality and efficiency of clinical services and performance within the hospital. In her term, Dr. Lannan will serve as chairperson of the medical executive committee and organized general medical staff, and will actively participate on the board of commissioners of WCCH. Dr. Lannan practices alongside Dr. Ken Thomas, family medicine physician, and Dr. Amy Soileau, family medicine physician, at Cypress Medical Clinic, located at 622 Cypress Street in Sulphur.

Fontenot Obtains CertificationMelissa Fontenot obtained the PHR-Professional in Human Resources certification in December 2014. Melissa is a member of the local ICHRMA group. She also holds the CAP-OM certification-Certified

Administrative Professional-Organizational Management and is a member of the International

Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). Melissa has been employed as the Senior Executive Assistant for Bill Dor at Dor Energy since August 2001, where she also performs the HR duties for the company.

Dr. Jake LeBeau Earns Interventional Cardiology Board CertificationDr. Jake LeBeau, Cardiologist with Cardiovascular Specialists, an affiliate of Imperial Health, has been awarded Board Certification in Interventional Cardiology

by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Board certification is a voluntary step in an intensive educational experience that recognizes a physicians knowledge, skills and experience integral to the delivery of high standards in patient care in their chosen field. His office is located at 501 Dr. Michael DeBakey Drive, 3rd Floor. To schedule an appointment with Dr. LeBeau, call (337) 312-8281.

Dowden Named COO, Pollard VP at Merchant & Farmers Bank

Ken Hughes, President/CEO of Merchants & Farmers Bank has announced the promotions of Rhonda Mitchell Dowden to Chief Operations Officer and Holly Pollard to Vice President/Lending Compliance, for the multi-parish bank. Dowden most recently served as Vice President of Information Technology and Pollard most recently served as Assistant Vice President.

Dr. Gerald W. Mouton Joins Lake Area Physicians Medical GroupLocal Family Medicine Physician and Wound Care Specialist, Gerald Mouton, M.D. has joined Lake Area Physicians and the medical staff of Lake Area Medical Center (LAMC). Dr. Mouton has practiced medicine in the Southwest Louisiana area for over

28 years, offering comprehensive medical care and preventive health services to patients of all ages. Dr. Moutons medical practice is now located at 4150 Nelson Road, Building I; on the Lake Area Medical Center campus. For more information, visit www.LakeAreaPhysicians.com or call (337) 475-4001.

Schmidt Named Marketing/Sales CoordinatorKnight Media Inc. has announced the addition of Krickett Schmidt as their new Marketing/Sales Coordinator. Schmidt will be developing and implementing an overall

marketing strategy, directly engaging and advising the sales team, and translating the companys business objectives into marketing strategies that drive revenue. Before joining Knight Media Inc., Schmidt was an Account Executive at Fox 15 Lafayette, where she worked closely with the sales team to implement and achieve sales initiatives. Prior to Fox, She worked as Brand Marketing Manager for a small restaurant chain, based out of Southaven, MS.

Eckard Attains Certified Financial Planner DesignationMark Eckard, financial advisor with Rau Financial Group, recently earned the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation from the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards.

Earning the designation requires at least three years of qualifying full-time experience as a financial planner, successful completion of a CFP Board-registered education program or equivalent, and a passing score on the 10-hour CFP Certification Examination. For more information, call (337) 480-3835 or visit www.raufinancialgroup.com.

Rachel Broussard

Dr. Jake LeBeau

Krickett Schmidt

Mark EckardHolly Pollard Rhonda Dowden

Maureen Lannan, MD

Melissa Fontenot

Movers and Shakers in Southwest Louisiana... Whos News? You tell us! Send press releases to [email protected] with the subject line Whos News.

Places & Faces


Sewall Retires after 32 YearsSusan (Sue) Sewall, CEO of Girl Scouts of Louisiana Pines to the Gulf retired on December 31, 2014. For over three decades, Sue has provided leadership and vision for the development and achievement of the organizations mission in partnership with the councils Board of Directors. Girl Scouts of Louisiana Pines to the Gulf consists of the

42 parishes west of the Mississippi, including the cities of Shreveport, Monroe, Alexandria, Lake Charles and Lafayette.

Allison Named West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital Safety Award RecipientWest Calcasieu Cameron Hospital (WCCH) recently named Lameka Allison, human resources secretary, as the recipient of its Safety Award. The award, which honors employees for their promotion of safety and safety awareness in and around the hospital, is distributed to those employees that demonstrate extraordinary awareness and action in minimizing potential safety risks.

Lameka AllisonSue and Robert Sewall

Rau Financial Group was established with the simple idea of helping people pursue their financial dreams. The group has steadily grown over the past 10 years and now includes three CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS and three LPL Financial Advisors. Together we offer our clients over 100 years of combined experience in the investment field. Three years ago, we moved into our new larger office on Ryan Street to better serve our clients.

As we celebrate this 10th anniversary milestone, we sincerely thank our clients for the trust they have placed in us, and we remain fully invested in helping every client pursue their financial goals.

(337) 480-3835 www.raufinancialgroup.com1634 Ryan St., Lake Charles, LA

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Money &Career

Change is inevitable. Its difficult for an individual, but equally challenging for a community. When executed well, however, change becomes a beacon of hope, a new standard of excellence, and a positive and uplifting shift toward something better. Southwest Louisiana has experienced substantial change in the past few years and has many more to come.

SWLA

Econ

omy

At of the start of this year the total tally on economic development projects either on the horizon or underway in Southwest Louisiana came in at around $85 billion. Projections of more than 22,000 new residents mean that somewhere around 8,000 permanent homes will be needed. There will likely be about 6000 new students in kindergarten through 12th grade and those travelling area roadways can expect traffic delays to increase by 45 percent.

All of these projections are part of the results from a Regional Impact Study (RIS) conducted last year by the GO Group, and sponsored by Sasol. Results of the study were released last November and are providing a roadmap of sorts for community leaders to follow for smart growth.

The study was conducted by CSRS and Travis Woodward, who is with CSRS, said in comments at a news conference following the release of the study that results predict tremendous employment growth for the area. Out over the next five years, we modeled employment growth of almost

five percent annually. To put that in perspective, should that happen, Lake Charles will likely be the fastest growing employment center in the country.

Take a second and allow that to sink in, fastest growing in the country. This employment growth and resulting new residents predicted to happen by 2019 will largely be concentrated in Calcasieu Parish.

Woodward cited education and workforce development as two top priorities for area leaders to focus on.

People are very concerned that young families here have the ability to get their kids in quality education and beyond a quality education, how do we make sure that our young people are prepared to fill the jobs that industry has, Woodward commented.

According the executive summary the RIS consists of three major components: baseline assessment of current systems; socioeconomic modeling analysis of changes that will happen; and determination of impacts on each

Weve Got it Growing On!

Results of Regional

Impact Study

Releasedby Katie Harrington


major community system along with recommendations on how to best address those impacts. The key thing to realize about this study is that its a tool for area leaders to use to ensure smart growth for the Southwest Louisiana region.

In comments following the release of the study last fall, Hal McMillin, Calcasieu Parish Police Juror and chair of the GO Group. This is our opportunity to shine. We dont want to look back some 30 to 40 years and feel like we dropped the ball or squandered a golden opportunity.

The community systems analyzed by the RIS, as selected by the GO Group members, were workforce development, transportation, education, utilities, public safety and welfare, health and medical, housing, environmental, small business development and planning for growth.

More than 200 stakeholders within the community were interviewed for the study. Participants included elected officials, governmental employees, civic leaders, religious leaders and many others. Also, a specific outreach to the minority community was conducted to ensure inclusiveness in stakeholder input.

The executive summary and full study results can be viewed at www.gogroupswla.com. Below is a brief synopsis of some of the major community systems analyzed.

Workforce DevelopmentAccording to the study, this is

where the most immediate impact is being felt. There is a surge in the demand for trained employees to the tune of 13,000 jobs that need to be filled. This estimate does not include journeyman craft laborers, which represents more than 8,000 additional jobs.

TransportationImpacting public safety, quality

of life and the local economy, transportation and traffic are a key piece of the growth puzzle. Using current trends and growth patterns, researchers generated baseline traffic models that predicts significant increases in traffic congestion over a 10-year period.

EducationAs mentioned above, its estimated

that an additional 6,000 students will register for kindergarten through 12th grade education. There is concern over the current limitations placed on individual bonding districts. If the district cant bond themselves for improvements and expansion, then it will be difficult to meet the needs of the growing student populations at some area schools.

Public Safety and WelfareFire protection, law enforcement

and medical first responder services in the region will all see different types of impacts during various phases of expected growth. During the construction phases, when large groups of workers are expected to be housed in worker villages, law enforcement agencies are expecting the need for increased law enforcement presence.

HousingThe demand for housing will grow

as the number of jobs grow. One hot bead topic when it comes to housing has been proposed worker villages to house temporary workers. The total demand for housing for workers during the construction phase is estimated to peak at more than 14,000 temporary residents during 2016. Current supply levels of these homes are placed at somewhere around 2,500, leaving a shortfall of 11,500. The worker villages are seen as an important solution because they will minimize the impact of these workers on the overall housing market.

Quality of LifeCurrently Southwest Louisiana

residents typically remain within the region throughout their lives, in part because of the existing quality of life. During the study, one industry veteran was quoted as saying, In my 20-plus years here, I only know of only two plant managers who have retired and moved to other areas. While most are not from here, they all tend to stay. The Alliance is already making efforts to ensure that quality of life remains a priority during this time of growth. Stories with details on these projects can be found in this special section.

(337) 436-3354safetycouncilswla.org

SafetyandHealthTrainingDrugandAlcoholProgram forWorkers(DOTCertifiedCollectors)ContractorSafetyPrograms IndustrySiteOrientationProgramsOSHAComplianceTrainingDefensiveDriving,SubstanceAbuseStudies,CommunityServiceProgram,severalother CourtMandatedTrainingPrograms,andaNewDriverProgramClassroom,Computer-based,and Web-basedTraining

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Money &Career | SWLA Economy

Hang a big Pardon Our Dust sign over Southwest Louisiana for the next few years. Next to it, hang another one: Help Wanted. Call them signs of the times. Watch the nation read them with envy.

We stand before the mightiest era in Southwest Louisianas industrial history and we stand to thrive from all that surrounds it.

The time ahead will bring: More construction and capacity. Thousands upon thousands of new jobs. Greater consumer spending and quality-of-

life opportunities.Industrial expansion will drive a surge of

unprecedented growth in the area, with $86 billion in projects expected to be completed in the next two to three years.

Half of those are already underway, said George Swift, president and CEO of the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance. The majority are the design process. Some are awaiting permitting. Its the most in the history of the area.

In short: When it comes to large-scale economic expansion, Southwest Louisiana continues to lead the nation, Swift said.

The projects range from Sasol Ltd.s massive expansion in West Calcasieu to natural gas handling and delivery networks in Cameron that poke to the Gulf of Mexico.

To complete these projects, construction workers lots of them will be needed in the time ahead.

In fact, the biggest challenge will be the workforce, Swift said.

Mammoth ProjectThe local Sasol project, a monster by any

measure, will be gobbling up many of those workers.

The South African company is building an $8.1 billion petrochemical complex an ethane cracker and six chemical manufacturing plants to complement its existing facilities in Westlake. The complex will be built on 650 acres of land secured from the Port of Lake Charles.

There will be 5,000-plus construction jobs generated by the project.

The plan also calls for another $800 million for land and improvements to infrastructure and utilities, boosting the total project cost to $8.9 billion.

When the project is complete, the ethane cracker complex will produce about 1.5 million tons of ethylene per year. The output will be converted into a chemicals used to make such products such as detergent, cleaners, packaging, paint and adhesives.

If nearly $9 billion sounds like a huge figure, well, wait and there could be even more coming. More than twice that.

Sasol will decide sometime next year, or beyond, on whether to spend another $11 billion to $14 billion for a gas-to-liquids (GTL) facility. The state and federal government back the plan U.S. Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker has called it a landmark investment and Sasol has environmental and construction permits well in hand. If Sasol proceeds with the mammoth GTL proposal, the total number of new direct jobs would surpass 1,250.

LSUs Division of Economic Development projects that the Sasol project will produce a total economic impact of $46.2 billion,

including its direct and indirect effects, over the next 20 years in Louisiana.

There are other projects as well. Some of them: In West Calcasieu, Westlake Chemical will

complete a $330 million expansion of its ethylene capacity and make other capital improvements by this time next year. When done, 25 full-time jobs and $2 million in payroll will be added. The Louisiana Economic Development Office estimates that the expansion will result in 164 new indirect jobs as well.

In Hackberry, Sempra Energy is expanding by building a $10 billion terminal to export liquefied natural gas. Its a joint venture by Sempras LNG unit and Mitsubishi. Construction jobs will hit a peak of about 3,000. When completed in 2018, Cameron LNG will have 200 permanent jobs in Louisiana and Texas and will be able to ship out 1.7 billion cubic feet of product per day.

A trio of new LNG plants are proposed for Cameron Parish.

Thats just for starters.

Sasol has two major projects on the horizon for Southwest Louisiana.

Numerous LNG projects are on the horizon.


Jobs, Jobs, JobsWe anticipate that there will be a need for

35,000 construction workers or 25,000 people, because some people work more than one job and 20,000 permanent workers, Swift said.

People can have a great career. They may need to start at the entry level, but they can be promoted in any number of industries. There are lots of opportunities.

Transient workers move from place to place as opportunities arrive, so were reaching out to community groups to make our local people aware of the required skills and training for these jobs, Swift said. A lot of our people could get these skills and get these construction jobs.

To train people in skills needed by employers like Sasol and others, SOWELA Technical Community College has received $20 million to build and equip a regional training facility. The college will open the center next year.

Sowela is already training students who move into high-demand local jobs in aviation maintenance, process and industrial

instrumentation technology, healthcare, welding and other fields. Its among the reasons SOWELA was named last month No. 8 among the nations fastest-growing two-year colleges.

Quality of LifeThe industrial boom will reshape

the region. Beyond the steel and concrete, though, is the opportunity to re-imagine our areas future.

What will life be like, and what can we do now to help steer it?

For example, its projected that the regions population will grow by 50,000 people in the next 10 years. What will we, and our new neighbors, demand of Southwest Louisiana?

Our challenge as a region is to look 15, 20, 25 years down the road and decide what kind of quality of life well want, Swift said. Citizens need to think about their children and grandchildren, not just ourselves.

The Alliances own Quality of Life Task Force, chaired by Matt Young, has already started that conversation. Read more about the Task Force on page 30 of this section.

Swift spoke of generational projects intended to change the Southwest Louisiana landscape

literally or figuratively such as the National Hurricane and Science Museum effort or perhaps converting part of Enterprise Boulevard (the stretch named for jazz great Nellie Lutcher) into an arts and cultural district.

He also talked of other quality-of-life issues: The appearance of areas around Interstate 10

as drivers approach. Parks and recreation. We have parks, but not

a lot of continuity among them, he said. If you have to get in a car to get to a park, its defeating the purpose. We might want bike lanes, dog parks, other gathering places like this.

Downtown development. Thats in all communities, not just in Lake Charles and our arts and cultural components can be an attraction for these downtown areas.

National Hurricane Museum and Science Center

CONSTRUCTION



JD Bank has always been an early adopter of the latest advancements, such as online banking, online account origination, or our convenient mobile banking app. Its just one reason why weve thrived in helping the region grow for over 66 years. Of course, new technology will never take the place of our genuine personal service. Itll just help make your life a little bit easier.

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Jeff Davis on the MoveThe one-of-a-kind Zigler Art Museum, long nestled in

residential Jennings, wont be a best-kept secret much longer. Thats good news for arts, culture and tourism in Jeff Davis Paris.

Therell be a new college facility and a new jail coming in the parish.

First, the Zigler.The museum has long

held more than 200 works of art and wildlife dioramas on quiet Clara Street inside the home of the late philanthropists Fred and Ruth Zigler, whose own house was among their many donations to the community. The trick for outsiders, though, has been knowing about the museum, then finding it.

Now, the ZAM is moving downtown into the

substantially renovated 1902 City Hall building.Its an incredible new venue, museum board

president Greg Marcantel says in a promotional video about the move.

In its new/historic digs, the museum will have more exhibit and elbow room. There will be a 2,000-square-foot main gallery, an area for receptions, an atrium with 30-foot ceilings, a new gift shop and space upstairs for offices and storage.

Other tourism in Jeff Davis is generated by such attractions as the W.H. Tupper General Merchandise Museum, Muddy Water Rentals in Lake Arthur, the Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge and the alligators at Louisiana Oil & Gas Park along I-10 in Jennings.

Pulling it all together, perhaps, is the annual collaboration by Jennings and the Jeff Davis Art Council for the Jennings Alive Arts and Craft Festival, which will mark its 35th year this fall.

Jeff Davis economy has roots in petroleum Jennings is the Cradle of Louisiana Oil but rice, other agriculture, retail and tourism are also economic components.

To help meet workforce training needs, SOWELA Technical Community Colleges Morgan Smith site in Jennings is getting a new home.

Morgan Smith, which has long taught classes at a former grade school, is looking forward to a $10 million, 36,000-square-foot building.

Also, construction will begin later this this year on a new regional consolidated jail. The 200-bed facility will be built off U.S. 90 west of Jennings.

The Jeff Parish Economic Development and Tourist Commission, Jeff Davis Parish Office of Economic Development and Jeff Davis Parish Film Commission all help boost economic and quality-of-life issues.

Casino CelebrationsFresh off its 20th-anniversary celebration in January,

a blowout at which country megastar Reba McEntire sang her regards, Coushatta Casino Resort is taking another step in 2015 to burnish its presence in Southwest Louisianas gaming market.

The casino and its attractions, which include golf, are all enterprises of the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana.

I think its especially important for Native Americans across this country to take every moment and to celebrate every little achievement they can, Coushatta Tribal Council member David Sickey said about the anniversary.

The Coushatta have good reason to celebrate their achievements. They operate the biggest gambling

complex in the state.

In the year ahead, Coushatta will complete a down-to-the studs renovation of the resorts Grand Hotel. The project will crown a $40 million effort to update Coushattas array of accommodations options. The work includes replacing 60,000 square feet of

roofing, windows and outside lighting.The finished product will better complement its

younger sister, the Seven Clans Hotel, and join the Coushatta Inn, Red Shoes RV & Chalets and offsite properties to add hotel rooms in the casino area.

With 100,000 square feet of gaming space 2,800 slots, 70 table games, 20 poker rooms, live bingo and off-track betting Coushatta employs more than 2,200 people.

The anniversary comes as the $700 million Golden Nugget is making it mark in Lake Charles. The 1.3 million-square-foot hotel and casino opened just before Christmas. It offers 1,600 slots, 72 table games, six poker rooms and a high-limit area. The complex has 740 hotel rooms, golf, a 2,000-seat performance space, seven restaurants, shops and a marina.

Golden Nugget joins Coushatta, Delta Downs, Lauberge Casino Resort and Isle of Capri in the Southwest Louisianas casino cluster.

Zigler Museum i will soon make a move to downtown Jennings.

The Coushatta Tribe recently celebrated the 20th anniversary of their casino in Kinder.

QU

ALIT

Y O

F LI

FE


JD Bank has always been an early adopter of the latest advancements, such as online banking, online account origination, or our convenient mobile banking app. Its just one reason why weve thrived in helping the region grow for over 66 years. Of course, new technology will never take the place of our genuine personal service. Itll just help make your life a little bit easier.

JD Gets Me

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Cameron: Energy PowerhouseCameron Parish is busy with forward-looking industrial

construction that is adding a powerful element to its economy.

Its becoming a global go-to for a growing world commodity liquefied natural gas.

LNGs growth is rooted in domestic production and foreign demand an ideal export situation, one thats far cry from, say, Americas 1970s dependence on foreign oil.

As mentioned earlier, Sempras Cameron LNG expansion effort will top out at $10 billion.

The site will be getting big-ticket company, growing the parishs profile.

Just last month, Venture Global LNG leased additional land near the base of the Calcasieu Ship Channel in preparation for a proposed $4.25 billion, 200-acre facility of its own.

Venture Global intends to build a liquefaction/export site to supercool up to 10 million metric tons of natural gas a year. The LNG will be loaded onto visiting bubble-decked tankers for shipment around the globe. Louisiana Economic Development pegs the project at 1,500 peak

construction jobs (into 2019), 100 permanent jobs and 300-plus indirect jobs.

Adding such a project puts Cameron Parish at the forefront of liquefied natural gas trade, said Stephen Broussard, West Cameron Port District director.

That, in turn, helps the local economy.We look forward to seeing this community grow and

prosper economically from the impact of the export and storage facilities, said President Kirk Quinn of the Cameron Parish Police Jury.

Two other plants are planned as well.

In 2016, work is expected to begin on a $9.2 billion LNG plant on Monkey Island by Southern California Telephone & Energy. Also, Waller Marine LNG plans a $200 million facility.

Additionally, Cheniere LNG plans an $18 billion expansion at its site near the Louisiana-Texas border.

Success in Beauregard

In DeRidder, quality of life and economic opportunities go hand-in-hand.

Harnessing the tremendous strengths, talents, creativity, and diversity of our people is a tremendous task. I know DeRidder can realize its full potential as a leading city of the 21st century, Mayor Ron Roberts says in his greeting statement on the city website.

The citys volunteer Main Street Program, based on the national model, blends restoration with economic revitalization.

Four colleges offer classes are taught at the Historic First Street School through the Beauregard Education Link partnership.

Sempras Cameron LNG expansion is expected to top out at $10 billion.

Southern California Telephone and Energy will begin work on their Monkey Island terminal in 2016.

Southern California Telephone and Energy will begin work on their Monkey Island terminal in 2016.

Downtown DeRidderHOUSING

EDUCATION


WERE A GLOBAL

PPG INDUSTRIES LAKE CHARLES PLANT

LEADERWITH DEEPLOCAL ROOTS.PPG silicas plant has produced innovation and progress in Southwest Louisiana since 1968. Our facility is proud of its local workforce, nearly half of whom have been with PPG more than 10 years, and our long-standing history of community involvement.

The silica we produce in Southwest Louisiana is used in a variety of products used around the world and right here at home, including tires, batteries, food, footwear, printing and much more.

With global demand for silica increasing, PPG remains a growing, vital part of the Southwest Louisiana economy. We are dedicated to the areas success because this is our home, too.

To learn more about our vision and employment opportunities in SWLA, visitjobsppg.com or ppg.com.

DeRidder has also earned designations as a Playful City USA for childrens recreation and a Tree City USA for its community forestry.

The city-supported community pool operated by the non-profit agency BeauCARE is expected to reopen to swimmers after being closed repairs in 2014.

The Greater Beauregard Chamber of Commerce board of directors has a new president, Chance Lewis. The economic issues dont at the parish borders; eyes are watching the troop numbers at Fort Polk in neighboring Vernon Parish. Thats because Army officials will hear public comments March 3 about the Supplemental Programmatic Environmental Assessment, which indicates that Fort Polk could see its troops cut by 6,500 as the Army seeks reduce its overall force over the next five years.

Alliance Stays BusySwift sees the $86 billion figure as only a

running total. Were also working on additional announcements this year, he said. And more to come.

He wont say what they are.Also, to chat up more business support, Swift

and other local leaders jetted to the nations capital last month to talk about workforce matters, Calcasieu Ship Channel and other issues. He was part of an annual local delegation to the Washington Mardi Gras celebration.

In all, Swift said, the Alliance aims to: Facilitate the immediate needs and growth

of business and industry. Recruit more economic prospects. Emphasize and encourage business

development at the Southwest Louisiana Entrepreneurial & Economic Development (SEED) Center at McNeese State University.

Be a catalyst for change.

Reported by Brett Downer. Additional informational for this report came from corporate and municipal statements, Gov. Bobby Jindals press office and the Louisiana Economic Development office.


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Economic Development Projects in Southwest Louisiana

Cheniere Energy: $20 billion Ventura Global LNG: $4.25 billion

Sasol: $19.9 billion Magnolia LNG: $3.5 billion

Cameron LNG: $10 billion Axiall/Lotte Chemical: $3 billion

Southern California Telephone and Electronic LNG: $9.25 billion Big Lake Fuels (G2X): $1.3 billion

Lake Charles LNG: $8.965 billion BP Biofuels: $400 million


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10Were your link to local industries.

www.laia.com is your link to local industry and jobs.

Local industries are hiring. Finding out who, where, and what just got easier. Visit www.laia.com for links to websites for all LAIA member companies. Their job openings are regularly updated on their sites.

In addition, www.laia.com provides information on industrial programs, initiatives, community projects, and Industry Insider, a look at local industry practices designed with safety and productivity in mind.

WHOS HIRING?



When it comes to recruiting skilled workers for the many new jobs resulting from economic growth, quality of life is a key factor in convincing potential recruits to move their families to the area. It is with this in mind that area economic development leaders are making sure people looking to move to the area are in on the secret. Southwest Louisiana is a great place to live, work and raise a family. From a Quality of Life Task Force to a trip to Oklahoma City to study their efforts to improve their citys quality of life, large efforts are being made to preserve, promote and enhance the culture and heritage of the area.

If we want Southwest Louisiana to retain its culture and charm during our upcoming growth, a deliberate effort must be made to preserve what is great about our region. While the Growth Opportunity (GO) Group will address issues like infrastructure, housing, and other large-scale initiatives, the Alliance has formed the Quality of Life Task Force to address the livability issues of the region, such as:

What are we doing to ease the transition for

newcomers to the region? Are we doing what we can to promote healthy

lifestyles? What are we doing to address recycling in the region? Are downtown Lake Charles and the lakefront

vibrant, after-hours districts? Will it draw in young professionals that have lived in other regions?

Can these things be improved? How?

Our goal is to entice incoming workers and graduates to stay and fuel our ongoing workforce needs, said Amanda White, vice president of communications for the SWLA Alliance. Our regional industrial base needs workers and we need to make Southwest Louisiana a place that people want to move, stay, and raise a family.

The task force began meeting in January 2014 to tackle recommendations made by Rebecca Ryans Next Generation Study, the Market Street Study, an International Economic Development Council report, and the Cultural Economy Initiative. Working closely with groups like the Partnership for a Healthier Southwest Louisiana, Arts and Humanities Council, Community Foundation, Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau, local municipalities, police juries, as well as other civic and regional organizations, the task force pools existing knowledge, players, ability and funds to get these tasks done.

Our economic prosperity can be managed in a way that leaves the region a better place for our children and grandchildren, but we have to be relentless in our commitment to protecting and nurturing our regions quality of life, said Matt Young, chairman of the taskforce.

The four 2015 Quality of Life Sub Task Forces are:1. Healthy Lifestyles will work primarily with Famers

Markets this year.2. Living Southwest (formerly Orientation, Branding

& Events) will organize orientation programs for newcomers and work with existing organizations to make sure that the task force informs residents of what there is to do, see, hear, and eat in Southwest Louisiana.

3. Recycling will work on broadening the scope and venues for recycling in the region.

4. Downtown Development/Lakefront Development will work with the DDA to provide for downtown street performers, establish a dog park, and corridor beautification projects.

The Quality of Life Task Force Leadership Team includes Patricia Prudhomme, McNeese Banners Series; Erin Tucker Howle, Josephs Electric; Erica McCreedy, Arts Council; Angie Manning, Convention and Visitors Bureau; Angela Stutes, Calcasieu Parish Library; Sara Judson, Community Foundation; and Ashli Waldrep, Arts Council. More than 60 volunteers from media, business, government and nonprofit sectors carry out the work of the Quality of Life Task Force.

For more information or to get involved, contact Amanda White at [email protected] or Matt Young at [email protected].

Focusing On Quality of Life

Quality of Life in Southwest Louisiana

photo by Ron Johnson

photo by monsoursphotography.com


Eight Southwest Louisiana residents participated in an economic development mission to hear and observe how progressive ideas in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma have resulted in an enhanced quality of life and a vibrant business community In December, the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance led a mission team that included Alberto Galan, Calcasieu Parish Police Jury; Brent Lumpkin, Lumpkin Properties; Byron Hardy, CenterPoint Energy; Celia Case, Southwest Call Center and the 2015 Alliance Chair; Sara Judson, Community Foundation; J. Hardtner Klumpp, Investors Group of Louisiana; Eric Cormier, Alliance, and George Swift, President and CEO of the Alliance. Oklahoma City is a model for bringing a community together. The city set a goal and implemented it. And that is something we can do in our five parish region, Swift said. The people in Oklahoma Citys eyes were opened to the possibilities. Sometimes we can see things just as they are and not the possibilities, Swift said.

Residents in Oklahoma City, which experienced an economic downturn in the 1980s and 1990s, reinvested in their community through the Metropolitan Area Projects (MAPS) program with the approval of three separate one-cent sales taxes that generated $1.8 billion. The first tax was passed in 1993 and generated $350 million over five years. Funds were used for capital improvements in the city that included the Civic Center Music Hall, Chickasaw Bricktown Park, Cheasapeake Areana, Bricktown Canal and the Riverfront and Recreational Dams, which led to the construction of the Boathouse District that houses the USA Olympic Rowing team. In November 2001, voters approved the second one-cent sales tax that would last seven years and collect $700 million. Those funds were used to build new schools in the city.

Voters approved the third one-cent sales tax in 2009 which will continue to generate revenue until ends in 2017. It will collect $777 million and is dedicated to quality of life projects in the city like construction of a new downtown convention center, a 70-acre public park, a modern streetcar/transit system, a whitewater training facility in the Boathouse District, and the expansion of sidewalks to create a walkable community. Case was impressed by the finished projects as well as the positive attitude that the residents, business community and governmental leaders in Oklahoma City shared. I was impressed by the commitment to make Oklahoma City a better place to attract more business. The people there recognized the need to improve the quality of life and they all made a long-term commitment to that goal, she said. Judson said the work that Oklahoma City residents accomplished gives her reason to believe that Southwest Louisiana can continue to grow and be successful in improving quality of life too. They (OKC residents) have had awesome results through public and private investment because of aligned goals and a willingness to try new things. Their transformation of an almost dry river into an Olympic training location for rowing is just one of the many examples of what they accomplished. The Community Foundation is ready to use best practices like those found in Oklahoma City to enhance our quality of life now and for future generations. MAPS improvements have resulted in an estimated $5 billion in economic impacts throughout Oklahoma City. None of the projects received state or federal funding. Members of the mission intend to share details of their trip with residents and leaders throughout Southwest Louisiana.

Standing (left to right): Byron Hardy, Sara Judson, George Swift, Eric Cormier, Celia Case, Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett, Brent Lumpkin, Hardtner Klumpp and Alberto Galan.

Boats shelved inside the Boathouse District which is headquarters for the USA Canoe, Kayak and Rowing teams

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Lessons from Oklahoma City


Money &Career

Fusion Five

Pay attention. This seems like an obvious tip, but youd be surprised how easily we hear things without listening. This is especially true in social situations. Sometimes its because were preoccupied with how we look, the strength of our handshake, or if were making a good impression. Sometimes were just distracted by whats going on around us. Make a point to hear, listen, and pay attention.

Repeat their name. This is one of the easiest and most effective ways to remember names. When youre introduced to someone, repeat their name back to them. For example: Nice to meet you, Amy. Try using their name casually throughout the conversationbut dont overdo it.

Associate the person with an object. If youre better with faces than names, try using visual aids to remember the people you meet. If youre introduced to a CPA named Bryan, picture him sitting at an adding machine with his name plastered over it.

Associate the person with other people. If youve just been introduced to a woman named Nancy and you once knew a Nancy in high school, try relating the image of high-school Nancy with modern-day Nancy.

Ways to Remember Peoples Names

Lets see if this sounds familiar: Youre introduced to someone new. You shake hands and make introductions. One second later, the name is gonealmost as if you never heard it. Now youre in a conversation and you dont know if youre chatting with Bob, Bill, Gary or Bryan.

You probably make excuses by claiming to be better with faces than names. But when youre building social connections, there are few pieces of information more important than someones name.

Here are some tips to strengthen your name-remembering muscles.

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by Katie Harrington


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