The Voice of Southwest Louisiana

February 2016 

Julie Branden 

of Vivid Image 

Consulting pictured 

with the faces of #FWLC 

Cheyanne Horner 

and LeeZa Marie 

Thibodeaux 

Also Inside: 

Bridal 

Early Childhood 

Roundup 

DeQuincy Mayor 

Lawrence Henagan

The month of February has always been a time of happy enthusiasm 

for me. I attended Audrey High School, first through 

twelfth grade, Creole La. The building still stands today. Our 

classroom was divided, first grade desks on the right, second 

grade desks on the left. Miss Allen, an older woman with silky 

mocha skin, managed her classroom with order, structure, discipline, 

intellect and professionalism. I was in the first grade, 

1963. First thing in the morning, she instructed first graders 

while second graders performed board work, then instructed 

second graders while first graders performed seat work. But, for 

Negro History Week, she stood in the middle of the classroom, 

everyday for that week, and spoke life into all of us about our 

rich history and heritage. Large cardboard head shots of W.E.B. 

Dubois, Harriet Tubman, Madame C. J. Walker, Booker T. Washington, 

George Washington Carver, Dr. Carter G. Woodson and others, 

were displayed high upon the walls around our classroom. 

She taught us about their intellectual strengths and achievements, 

while emphasizing their unique problem solving ideas, 

services and products. The main attraction was a huge calendar 

of the month of February with Abraham Lincoln’s head shot on 

day twelve and Frederick Douglass’ head shot, shared with a big 

Multi-Cultural Positive Jounalism 

LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS, STORIES & PEOPLE 

thevoiceofsouthwestla.com 

Dr. Carter G. Woodson, 

known as the Father of Black History Month 

red heart, for Valentine’s Day, on day fourteen, to commemorate 

their birthdays and achievements. This ritual educational routine 

was repeated throughout my elementary school years and 

in my home with my mother. My character formulated in a profound 

way, during the sixties. 

In 1976, President Gerald Ford designated the entire month 

of February as Black History Month, the same year I graduated 

from Washington High School. 

I learned to live like my life mattered. 

2 EDITOR’S PEN 

4 LAKE CHARLES FASHION WEEK 

6 VIVID IMAGE CONSULTING 

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | Brenda Hill 

brenda@thevoiceofsouthwestla.com 

GENERAL MANAGER | Tracy Clark 

tracy@thevoiceofsouthwestla.com 

OFFICE MANAGER | Kay Andrews 

kandrews_thevoice@yahoo.com 

GRAPHIC LAYOUT | Kyra Labrie 

voiceofswlagraphics@gmail.com 

EVENTS COORDINATOR | Carl Hubert 


10 LOUISIANA BELIEVES IN EARLY EDUCATION 

#POSITIVE IS ME 

11 GRACE, FAVOR AND PRIVILEDGE: HARRY VICTORIAN 

MAYORS NOTES: 

12 DEQUINCY MAYOR LAWRENCE HENAGAN 

14 BRIDAL 

16 DETERMINED TO CARRY ON: KELLY BIGWOOD 

BEHIND THE SCENES: 

17 ADRIAN WALLACE 

SWLA ENTERTAINMENT: 

18 LARRY GATLIN 

22 WORTH THE LOVE: FOR THE LOVE OF LIFE 

24 DISHING WITH RONALD LEE “RONNIE” MESH 

26 POWER TALK WITH PASTOR MARY 

February 2016 

thevoiceofsouthwestla.com 

ADVERTISING 

SALES MANAGER | Faye Drake 

fayedrake@sbcglobal.net 

337-794-5678 

ADVERTISING SALES | Chester Rogers 

chesterdrogers@yahoo.com 

337-215-0547 

CONSULTANTS 

Gene R. Hill, Sr., Reginald Clark 

Published and distributed by 

TEAM PUBLICATIONS LLC. 

4310 Ryan St. Ste. 134 

Lake Charles, LA. 70605 

In the McNeese SEED Center 

(337) 474-2210 

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS 

Kris Welcome, Cecely Clark, Pastor Mary Ringo, 

Angie K. Dilmore, LeNae Goolsby, JD, 

Joyce R. Kebodeaux, Rhonda Babin, 

Dr. Nauman Qureshi, MD, Mark Wayne Allen, 

Marilyn Monroe, Shey O’Shey, Lisa Addison 

All materials contained in the publication are copy-righted and may not be reproduced or 

reprinted in part or its entirety without the expressed written permission of The Voice of 

SWLA. The views expressed in articles of The Voice of SWLA are not necessarily the views of the 

ownership or sponsors in this publication. The Voice of SWLA assumes no liability for errors or 

omissions. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all content. 

FEBRUARY 2016 THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 3 • Number 7 Volume 3 • Number 7 THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM FEBRUARY 2016

By Angie Kay Dilmore 

Calling all 

fashionistas! 

Mark your calendars for Fashion Week Lake Charles 

2016, April 13-17. Local image consultant Julie Branden 

has joined fashion forces with Indrea Gordon, a local 

clothing designer, to put together four days of fun, 

fashion, and a few famous people to sweeten the experience. 

“I’m excited about Fashion Week Lake Charles!” 

says Branden. “This event will bring attention to our 

area. We DO have fashion in Southwest Louisiana!” 

Details are still in the works, but the event schedule 

includes a Media Soiree Party Wednesday evening, 

7:30p.m., at Heist Wine Bar. On Thursday, Branden will 

host a Patron Launch Party at Blue Martini Lounge, 

7:30p.m. Isle of Capri is the venue Friday and Saturday 

for the Designers’ Competition and Runway Shows. 

Doors open at 5:30p.m.; shows begin at 7:30p.m.. An 

invitation only “That’s a Wrap” party will take place at 

11:00 a.m. Sunday. At least twenty vendors from area 

boutiques, salons, and department stores will exhibit 

merchandise along “Fashion Avenue.” Designers from 

Houston, Canada, and Lake Charles will compete for 

cash prizes. VIP ticket holders will have full access to all 

events, front row seats to the runway shows, a private 

shopping lounge including bougie food and top of the 

line libations, and a goody bag. Ticket prices start at 

$25.00, VIP tickets $100.00. 

Notable personalities coming to the event include 

actress/model Ania Spiering (American Horror Story – 

Freak Show) and Tyrone Hughes (NFL Hall of Fame). 

The event serves as a fund raiser for the Juvenile Diabetes 

Research Fund, the leading global organization 

funding research for Type 1 diabetes (T1D). T1D is an autoimmune 

disease that afflicts both children and adults 

suddenly and is unrelated to diet and lifestyle. There is 

no cure. Branden’s 15-year-old granddaughter Gabrielle 

has Type 1 juvenile diabetes. “That’s how I got the name 

for Fashion Week, ‘Beautiful Chaos – Coloring Outside 

the Lines.’ When her sugar drops, it’s chaotic!”, says Branden. 

Fashion Week Lake Charles will also benefit Diva 

Dolls Girls Enrichment Program, a camp for girls focused 

on hygiene, grooming, fashion and etiquette, and Fashion 

Without Limitations Foundation, an annual runway 

show for children and adolescents with special needs. 

Don’t miss this one of a kind event! 

For more information on events, sponsorships, 

or to buy tickets, go to their website, 

www.fashionweeklc.com, or call 

Julie Branden, 338-912-7463. 

Ania Spiering 

American Horror Story – 

Freak Show 

Tyrone Hughes 

NFL Hall of Fame 

Indrea Gordon Designer and Creative 

Director of Fashion Week Lake Charles 

PHOTO CREDIT AND SPONSOR 



Julie Branden grew up loving clothes 

and accessories, hair styling, and makeup. 

She pored over fashion magazines like 

Glamour, Self, Ebony, and Essence. To earn 

extra money, she’d braid her neighbors’ hair. 

With her infectious drive and determination, 

this fifty-something firecracker could 

have succeeded in any career. But it was no 

surprise when she attended beauty school 

immediately after high school graduation. 

At age nineteen, she opened her first hair 

salon. To supplement income, she worked 

at Harrah’s Casino on the side. 

One day in 2004 while at work in the casino, 

Branden attended an image seminar. 

She was impressed with the speaker, an image 

consultant. Branden knew she could do 

that job equally well – if not better! “I went 

home that very night and started making 

plans for my new business venture, Vivid 

Image Consulting.” 

In her desire to be the best she could 

be, Branden drove herself to Atlanta, Ga. to 

attend a week-long course at the London 

Image Institute. According to Branden, she 

is the only AICI (Association of Image Consultants 

International) certified image consultant 

in Louisiana. AICI consultants are 

trained in the ABCs of image: appearance, 

behavior, and communication. “I love image! 

Image is what you see. Image tells me 

a lot about a person: where they buy their 

clothes, do they care about their hair and 

makeup, do they wear jewelry. Speech tells 

me where a person is from. Word usage tells 

me a person’s education.” 

Branden’s business goes further and offers a 

myriad of services – training on appearance 

standards, behavior, business and dining etiquette, 

weight loss coaching, closet makeovers, 

personal shopping, and financial advice 

on how to save money, what items to 

spend money on and what to skip. Branden 

advises her clients to go all out on leather 

goods, suits, classic clothing and shoes that 

never go out of style. She instructs employees 

on the importance of quality customer 

service, offering workshops and seminars 

to large corporations and small businesses 

alike, as well as individual one-on-one training. 

Working with Branden on their image 

can give individuals and businesses an edge 

over their competition. “My brand is a lifestyle 

brand,” says Branden. 

In 2005, Hurricane Katrina forced Branden 

to evacuate to Houston. Her home and 

business in New Orleans were severely damaged. 

Because her son was attending Mc- 

Neese State University at the time and had 

already made Lake Charles his home with 

his wife and daughter, Branden decided to 

buy her dream home on Enterprise Boulevard 

and settle into life in southwest Louisiana. 

She still owns and operates a styling 

salon (hair, nails, make-up and wardrobe 

consulting) in New Orleans, but home base 

is in Lake Charles. 

Diva Dolls 

Branden offers an enrichment program 

called Diva Dolls for 10-15-year-old girls. Her 

students learn hygiene, 

grooming, make-up application, 

fashion and 

etiquette. The older 

girls also learn tips on 

interviewing, how to 

get into college, and 

more. “Teen and preteen 

girls need guidance,” 

says Branden. 

“I want them to 

understand their 

worth so they 

won’t lower their 

standards. I coach 

them early on 

what to do and 

what not to do. I teach them to be fabulous.” 

Branden conducts these one-week classes 

during the summer months in Lake Charles, 

Hammond, and New Orleans. 

Branden is clearly passionate about her 

work. As a result, she is great at what she 

does. “I love helping people reach their full 

potential, beyond what they knew they 

could be.” For more information about Vivid 

Image Consulting, see Branden’s website, 

www.vividimageconsulting.com. 

Julie Branden 

Image Consultant 

A Wide Variety of Services 

Branden has worked in the beauty, fashion, 

and hospitality business for 35 years. 

Image consulting includes hair, makeup, 

clothing, mannerisms, and communication. 


Child 

Care 

Pre-K 

Head 

Start 

Non-Public 

Pre-K 

Calcasieu Early Childhood 

Coordinated Enrollment 

February 22—March 4, 2016 

Head 

Start 

Child 

Care 

Non-Public 

Pre-K 

Pre-K 

Community Child Care Centers 

Accepting Birth - 5 year olds 

Tuition and CCAP Accepted 

Calcasieu Early Childhood 



Head Start Roundup –3 yr olds 

J. D. Clifton, Brenda Hunter, 

Jake Drost, J. I. Watson, and DeQuincy 

Primary 

Time 8:30 a.m.—12:00 p.m. 

Eligibility criteria apply providing guidelines are met! By law, 

Calcasieu Parish School Board Head Start must provide services 

to families with a family income at or below the Federal poverty 

guidelines. 

NOTE: Documentation of child’s complete physical along with 

immunization up-to-date and dental exam upon acceptance into the 

program. 

J. D. Clifton Elementary Head Start 

100 N. Prater Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601 

(337) 217-4215 ext. 2844 

Brenda H. Hunter Head Start Center 

(Formerly Wonderland of Play Head Start) 

2200 Elder Street – Lake Charles, LA 70601 

(337) 217-4213 Ext. 2825 or 2845 

Jake Drost Head Start 

1100 N. Crocker Street – Sulphur, LA 70663 

(337) 217-4515 Ext. 1174 

J. I. Watson Head Start 

215 S. Kinney, Iowa, LA 70647 

(337) 217-4670 Ext. 2864 

DeQuincy Primary Head Start 

304 McNeese Street – DeQuincy, LA 70633 

(337) 217-4650 Ext. 5619 

Pre-K Roundup –4 yr olds 

Register in School Zone 

Must bring two current utility bills 

2016-2017 Guidelines: 

 

2016-2017 Guidelines: 

Must be three (3) years old on or before September 30, 2016 

 

Must be four (4) years old on or before September 30, 2016 

Child’s certified birth certificate 

 

Child’s certified birth certificate 

Child’s Social Security Card 

 

Child’s Social Security Card 

Child’s up to date Shot Record 

 

Child’s up to date Shot Record 

Proof of Income (TANF, Child Support, 2015 W-2, SSI Income or 

your 12/31/15 Check Stub) 

Must complete Early Childhood Program Eligibility Survey 

Court Orders or Legal Documentation of Guardianship 

(if applicable) 

 

 

Must register child only in school zone 

Must adhere to Attendance Guidelines 

IEP or Early Steps Documentation (if applicable) 

Must provide verification of income (W-2 or Tax Return) 

Official Diagnosed Disability Information (if applicable) 

Out of zone permits are not required 

*For more information regarding any of the 

programs listed, please call 

337-217-4210 Ext. 2805/2806 

Check local schools for specific guidelines for: 

Transportation 

Before and After School Enrichment 

Non– Public Private Pre– K 

Tuition Applies 

St. Theodore Holy Family Catholic School 

785 Sam Houston Pkwy 

Lake Charles, LA 70611 

Phone: (337) 855-9465 

Network Lead Agency 

Lake Charles 

All About Kids Childcare/Development Center, 700 Reigel Street, Lake Charles, LA 70607, 337-562-1200 

All About Me Childcare Center, 2508 Common Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601, 337-656-2849 

Bee Haven Childcare & Learning Center, 1801 Corbello Road, Lake Charles, LA 70615, 337-433-1007 

Benjamin’s After School Center, 3800 Hodges Street, Lake Charles, LA 70605, 337-436-2202 

Children’s Playworld Preschool, Inc. 2129 East Mill Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601, 337-433-4981 

First Methodist School, 812 Kirkman Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601, 337-433-4570 

Glad Tidings Preschool, 3400 Texas Street, Lake Charles, LA 70607, 337-478-9241 

Happy Days Daycare, 904 East Prien Lake Road, Lake Charles, LA 70601, 337-411-7855 

Harts’ Childcare, 400 East School Street, Lake Charles, LA 70605, 337-477-0674 

Hayleigh’s Childcare Learning Center & Development Center, 711 11th Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601, 337-491-8975 

It’s A Small World Childcare, 2238 8th Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601, 337-496-0002 

Kid’s Kastle Daycare, L.L.C., 3934 Common Street, Lake Charles, LA 70607, 337-477-7529 

Kids World Child Care and Learning Center, 2812 Broad Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601, 337-436-3560 

Kidz Karousal Academy West, 3424 Power Center Parkway, Lake Charles, LA 70607, 337-564-6788 

Kinder Care Learning Center, 4630 Nelson Road, Lake Charles, LA 70605, 337-478-8086 

Leap Into Learning Child Development Center, 1277 Ham Reid Road, Lake Charles, LA 70605, 337-474-3955 

Moriah’s Christian Preschool, 332 South Goos Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601, 337-439-4331 

Ms. Ellen’s Daycare, 1503 W. McNeese Street, Lake Charles, LA 70605, 337-478-9214 

New Beginning Learning and Development Center, 4332 Kirkman Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601, 337-480-3802 

Our Lady Queen of Heaven Early Childhood Center; 3903 Creole Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601, 337-477-8439 

Precious Treasures Daycare, 5104 Weaver Road, Lake Charles, LA 70605, 337-480-0210 

Ship’s Ahoy Children’s Academy, 1639 Ryan Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601, 337-494-0280 

St. John’s Little Lambs, 600 University Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70605, 337-478-2659 

United Christian Fellowship (Little Kingdom), 2900 E. Opelousas Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601, 337-433-1517 

University United Methodist Day School, 3501 Patrick Street, Lake Charles, LA 70605, 337-478-4347 

Sulphur 

Appletree Kids, Inc. Child Development Center, 919 Henning Drive, Sulphur, LA 70663, 337-528-2662 

Building Blocks Preschool and Learning Center, 5255 Highway 27 South, Sulphur, LA 70663, 337-583-8687 

Explore and More Learning Center, 943 Prater Road, Sulphur, LA 70663, 337-533-2098 

Gingerbread House, 226 S. Cities Service Hwy., Sulphur, LA 70663, 337-313-3880 

Heaven’s Precious Angels, 732 W. Burton Street, Sulphur, LA 70663, 337-527-2860 

Henning Memorial United Methodist Childcare Center, 404 South Huntington, Sulphur, LA 70663, 337-527-3838 

Kids Too and Adventure Camp, 619 Henning Drive, Sulphur, LA 70663, 70663, 337-528-2662 

Prize Possessions, 111 Park Street, Sulphur, LA 70663; 337-527-6527 

Wee Wisdom, 701 East Cypress, Sulphur, La. 70663, 337-527-4949 

Iowa 

Angel Babies, 320 E. Miller Avenue, Iowa, LA 70647, 337-582-1975 

Kidz Kuntry Childcare & Learning Center, LLC, 701 East Miller Avenue, Iowa, LA 70647, 337-582-2330 

Moss Bluff 

Linda’s Bright Beginnings, 1967 Sam Houston Jones Pkwy, Lake Charles, LA 70611, 337-855-3989 

Little Thinkers Learning Center, 786 Belle Avenue, Lake Charles, LA 70611, 337-582-1234 

Ready Set Grow, 188 East Telephone Road, Lake Charles, LA 70611, 337-855-9190 

Westlake 

Kiddin Around, LLC, 2418 Westwood Road, Westlake, LA 70669, 337-433-2121 

Vinton 

Lion’s Den Day School, Inc., 1810 Hampton Street, Vinton, LA 70668, 337-589-7712 

Call Center for information or tour of the center 

Call Center for information or tour of the center 

For more information call Calcasieu Resource & Referral 

337-217-4210 Ext. 2824 

For more information call Calcasieu Resource & Referral 

337-217-4210 Ext. 2824 


#PositiveIsMe 


The state of Louisiana recognizes 

the importance of early 

childhood education. Their goal 

has always been to adequately 

prepare preschool-aged children 

for kindergarten. Research 

shows that children who participate 

in a high quality early 

education program are more 

likely to enter school kindergarten-ready, 

making a lasting 

impact on their future academic 

outcomes. In Louisiana, only 

54% of the students entering 

kindergarten are academically 

and developmentally ready to 

succeed. We can do better. To 

improve their services and meet 

this need, the State recently 

made several important changes 

to their early childhood education 

programs. 

Increased Funding 

Effective last month, the Louisiana 

Department of Education 

and the Board of Elementary 

and Secondary Education increased 

funding for their early 

education programs for children 

up to age five. This increase 

helps low-income families better 

afford quality early child care 

and raises the funding levels 

for qualified child care centers 

and teachers. This new plan increases 

the stipend available to 

parents to pay publicly-funded 

child care centers by up to 250 

percent. 

In the past, the state stipend for 

early childhood services covered 

only about 28% of expenses, 

often making the services 

unaffordable. Teachers of these 

programs were underpaid, 

making quality teacher recruitment 

and retention difficult. 

Also, families would lose Child 

Care Assistance Program (CCAP) 

payments if a parent lost employment. 

The new changes to 

the system have helped resolve 

these issues. 

Online Applications 

Available 

In addition to more funding, 

the application process for the 

CCAP has been simplified, allowing 

families to apply online 

for early childhood benefits via 

the Department’s CAFÉ web 

portal. CAFÉ streamlines the 

application process and helps 

the Department run more efficiently 

so that more families can 

be served quickly to provide 

the best possible child care. No 

longer dependent on the postal 

service, parents can now file an 

application, submit documents, 

and check the status of their application 

online. 

Unification of 

Services and Programs 

Parish programs, Head Start 

providers, child care facilities, 

and pre-kindergarten programs 

. . . until recently, these various 

childhood education organizations 

were fragmented within 

the state, causing confusion, 

inefficiency, and poor usage of 

funds. The State is currently in 

the process of correcting this 

problem by coordinating and 

networking these different programs 

so the enrollment process 

is simplified and ultimately, 

more children benefit from the 

programs. 

With the Louisiana Education 

Department striving to achieve 

these positive changes, more 

children in our Bayou State will 

enter kindergarten prepared 

and ready to succeed. 

For more information, 

see their website, 

www.louisianabelieves.com/ 

early-childhood. 

By Cecely Clark 

Harry Victorian lives life with 

unfailing faith. When faced with 

the dreaded “C Word”, he took a 

proactive, confidence-filled approach 

that has stood the test 

for his testimony. This is perhaps 

due in large part to his determined 

attitude, his lack of fear, 

and his total trust in his Maker. 

But for the past 10 years, he has 

been through quite a trial. 

When he experienced some 

suspicious symptoms in 2005, 

he promptly went to his doctor, 

who recommended a colonoscopy. 

Rectal cancer was diagnosed, 

which was a very serious 

form, and quite rare. Thanks to 

prompt attention, and the fact 

that it had not spread to other 

parts of his body, radiation 

treatment began, and had just 

started when Hurricane Rita 

hit Lake Charles. Mr. Victorian 

evacuated to Mississippi. Upon 

getting settled there, he established 

himself with the GI 

doctor there in a local hospital. 

Radiation treatments resumed 

in Mississippi, even during his 

evacuation! 

When he was finally able to 

return home to Lake Charles, 

he had surgery to remove the 

cancer. He took many rounds 

of chemotherapy. However, he 

thanks God that he didn’t get 

sick. He also notes that 

even though he is a widower 

who lives alone, 

he was always able to 

eat really well during 

treatment. He has some 

really good friends in 

the restaurant business 

who saw to it that he 

had big, home-cooked 

meals that included 

plenty of protein 

and vegetables. He 

avoided starches. He 

credits his healthful 

eating with being 

able to almost totally 

avoid nausea. 

Even though since that time, 

Mr. Victorian has really been 

through the wringer. Having 

had a three year period of remission, 

relapsing, then undergoing 

a second treatment phase, 

he is once again cancer-free. He 

continues to make it perfectly 

clear that all of the glory goes 

to God. 

Harry is an avid gardener who 

believes in the principle of sowing 

whatever you wish to reap, 

and he believes God is keeping 

him on this earth for a reason. 

He doesn’t believe in complaining, 

stating, “As well as God has 

taken care of me, to complain 

would be pure blasphemy.” Instead, 

he believes in staying 

busy, investing his energy in 

FEBRUARY 2016 THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 3 • Number 7 Volume 3 • Number 7 THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM FEBRUARY 2016 

church activities, looking after 

the needs of others, and especially 

the prison ministry. He 

confidently affirms that God 

blesses you, and you are happy 

to do what you are supposed 

to be doing. If this be the case, 

Harry Victorian is going to be 

with us for quite a while, and we 

love having him with us Today! 

To improve memory, 

focus & reaction time. 

Supports long-term brain 

health & enhances 

mental sharpness & 

protects against normal 

age-related mental 

decline. 

Pat Landreneau 

Nutrition Consultant 

pat@cajunslick.com 

337-230-3598 

www.patsnc.myshaklee.com

MAYOR’S 

By Joyce R. Kebodeaux 

Lawrence Henagan is serving 

his third term as mayor of 

his hometown. He served two 

terms as a town councilman 

before being elected mayor. 

The mayor’s job in the town of 

3,235 is a part time job. Mayor 

Henagan’s other job is with 

Union Pacific Railroad. He says, 

“My staff does an excellent job 

of handling city business while 

I am not in the office. Our council 

meetings start with prayer 

and the pledge. There are five 

people on the city council and 

I know I can always depend on 

every one of them.” 

Mayor Henagan spoke of 

The Railroad Museum and its 

president of the board. Gary 

Wayne Cooper passed away in 

January and is already greatly 

missed. In his second term, 

shortly before he died, he gave 

the mayor his plans and ideas 

for the museum, his pet project. 

For many years he and 

other volunteers worked hard 

to make the museum, a great 

tourist attraction to people of 

all ages. 

Work has already begun 

on De Quincy’s Old Town Hall 

Museum. The front has been 

restored to its original state and 

the old jail inside looks like it 

did in years past. Local residents 

and tourists can see how the local 

government operated then. 

Inside this building are the offices 

of The Gravity Drainage 

Board, Chamber of Commerce 

and Senator John Smith. The articles 

in The Railroad Museum, 

not related to the railroad have 

already been moved to the 

town hall. One example is the 

collection of the military uniforms 

once worn by DeQuincy 

Generals. The Southwest part 

of DeQuincy was once known 

as “Stump Town” because in the 

past this was where turpentine 

was manufactured. Equipment 

used to do this work will also be 

displayed in the new museum. 

Mayor Henagan said, “It was 

rough on Dequincy when 

Phelps Correctional Center 

closed down. The town had 

gained laborers provided by 

the prison and at the same time 

the prisoners learned skills to 

use when they were released. 

Some of our local people lost 

their jobs too. We fought as 

hard as we could to keep the 

place open but the governor 

ordered it closed anyway. Louisiana 

Work Force Commission 

went in and set up their own 

training program and this helps 

the community some. The city 

owns The Natural Gas Company 

which also brings in revenue to 

the town.” 

Mayor Henagan talked 

about the alcoholic free Railroad 

Days Festival filled with 

events for the whole family. “It 

is listed as a Top 20 Event for the 

month of April by the SouthwestTourism 

Society. Held on 

the grounds of the 1923 Kansas 

City Southern Depot near 

the Railroad Museum, there is 

no admission charge. The big 

name concerts are also free. 

One night is Gospel night which 

is also free. Proceeds from the 

carnival rides, food booths, 

beauty pageant, etc. go toward 

scholarships for the youth and 

other worthwhile community 

needs. This year the festival will 

start on the second Thursday of 

April. ” 

The mayor said Dequincy 

was named Safest City in Louisiana 

for the year 2015. He said 

“This is a testament to our police 

force. The police chief said 

it is a testament to people who 

live here. They are both proud 

to add that their officers are 

trained professionals who do 

a great job. Our officers have 

been wearing body cameras 

for a long time now and their 

police units are up to date also. 

Dequincy’s fire department is 

strictly volunteer and they are 

provided with the same equipment 

as those where workers 

are paid for doing the same 

job. The men and women who 

volunteer are certified and 

dedicated to their jobs, reporting 

every Tuesday night for extra 

training. They are known for 

their quick response and outstanding 

service. They have a 

good rapport with other Ward 

6 fire departments. They help 

the neighboring firefighters 

when called on and they return 

the favor aid when asked. 

Mayor Henagan laughs 

when asked “What do you do 

in your free time?” His answer 

in part was “I volunteer with 

Louisiana Operation Lifesaver. 

I am second vice president of 

Louisiana Municipal Association, 

First vice-president of 

Louisiana Municipal Gas Association 

and I work for the 

railroad. “It is fair to say that 

he loves his work and his community. 

He and his wife both 

are DeQuincy natives, as are 

their parents. This makes their 

whole town one big family. 

When I asked “what is the most 

intimidating part of your office?”, 

his answer was, “Taking 

care of the people’s money. 

I try to handle it as if it were 

my own,” He added “We six 

mayors in this area meet once 

a quarter in each other’s city 

halls. This is the perfect way to 

know one another and share 

information and a meal. It is 

an honor to be associated with 

others like myself, trusted to 

do our best for our people and 

our homes.” 

By Lisa Addison 

You don’t have to ignore 

Valentine’s Day if you’re single. 

Instead, embrace it and have 

some fun with it! Who knows, 

you might even get hit with Cupid’s 

arrow in the process. Here 

are a few things to consider doing 

if you’re single but still want 

to enjoy and celebrate Valentine’s 

Day. 

• Many of the local restaurants 

that are known for being 

great places for romantic 

dinners, such as Calla, Harlequin, 

1910, Pujo Street Cafe, La 

Truffe Sauvage, and others, 

get booked very early for Valentine’s 

Day lunches and dinners. 

But even if you can’t get 

reservations, you can still grab 

a friend or two and head to a 

favorite restaurant, whether it’s 

one of these or one of the more 

casual eateries, sit at the bar 

and order appetizers and have 

a great time. 

• Make your way to Booksa-Million 

and enjoy browsing 

for books or your favorite magazines. 

Bookstores are interesting, 

stimulating places to 

be, great for people watching 

and there may be other singles 

doing the same thing. You can 

even grab coffee, hot chocolate, 

or pastries at the in-house 

coffee shop. Joe Muggs. Booksa-Million, 

2934 Ryan St. 

• Cook a casual dinner at 

home or have a fondue night 

and invite friends over, instructing 

each friend to bring a dessert 

and then you can have fun 

at the end of the meal trying 

out the different desserts. 

• Get a few friends and go 

bowling! Since it’s all about 

having fun, you don’t have to 

be the best bowler in the world. 

Enjoy some laughs, bowl a few 

games, and then go to one of 

the local ice cream or yogurt 

places and relax while having 

a snack and talking about who 

bowled the best game of the 

night. Petro Bowl, 630 Petro 

Point Dr. 

• How about a few games of 

Putt-Putt? See if you can round 

up two or three friends and get 

ready to have fun playing some 

miniature golf! Putt-Putt Golf, 

620 Petro Point Dr. 

• For a Valentine’s Day gift to 

yourself that you can enjoy for 

days to come, buy a big bunch 

of cheerful flowers in bright 

colors and arrange them in a 

pretty vase at home. 

• Check out the entertainment, 

dining, and music scene 

at the local casinos and, with all 

of the various options, you may 

find something to your liking! 

• Gear up for a movie night! 

Grab some friends and head to 

a relaxing night at one of the 

local theaters. 

Instead of lamenting the 

fact that you’re single, give the 

perfect gift to yourself (and 

others) and practice a random 

act of kindness! That’s something 

you can do that will leave 

you feeling great long after Valentine’s 

Day is over. 

Happy Valentine’s Day! 


Overlooked 

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By Shey O’Shey 

Dating and Relationship Coach – Author 

www.thesoulmateproject.com 

www.thesoulmatecoach.weebly.com 

He popped the question, and 

you said yes. Now, what? You 

have been dreaming about 

the big day since you were a teenager. 

However, times have changed and so have 

you. Your dream wedding of childhood 

might have been one reminiscent of Cinderella 

and Prince Charming. Today you 

have dreams of a more grown up and sophisticated 

event, but bringing your ideas 

into reality can be quite an undertaking, especially 

if you and your fiancé cannot afford 

to hire a wedding planner. 

Extensive planning will allow you to make 

the best decisions and help safeguard 

against overlooked details. The following 

are a few overlooked details concerning 

the big day that may slip 

the minds of the most organized 

brides and grooms. 

Book a car rental in advance if the ceremony 

and honeymoon are at a location that 

requires air travel. This will ease the need to 

seek a rental upon arrival. 

Several of your guests may bring their 

children to the event and often, the flower 

girl and ring bearer are of a young age 

also. Many children cannot sit still throughout 

the reception and will become bored 

quickly. Setting up a corner of the banquet 

room as a child zone will help keep the children 

from running around and bumping 

into the adults. The corner could have child 

size chairs and tables along with games and 

puzzles to keep the little ones occupied. 

Pack a bag of emergency items, such as 

headache medicines, daily medicines, bandages, 

and a small sewing kit. 

We carry sizes 0-34 

Bridal Gowns • Mother of the Bride Dresses 

Mother of the Groom Dresses • Evening Bags 

Special Orders • Prom & Mardi Gras Dresses 

We also have jewelry and accessories for every bride. 

Also limo and tuxedo rentals, call for details. 

426 N. Main St. 

Jennings, LA 

337.824.7272 

Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm • Sat 9am-3pm 

Catering & 

Banquet Room 

337.583.4063 

Owner-Becky Fuselier 

• Corporate Events 

• Receptions 

• Off Site Catering 

These days many couples are choosing 

to have their ceremony in distant and exotic 

locations. Considerable thought as to 

whether the budget allows for the bridal 

party, family members, and officiant’s accommodations 

and travel expense, before 

a distant location is chosen. Not everyone 

can afford this added expense and might 

decline to participate. 

Make a master list of all the wedding plans. 

Ask family and friends if any important details 

are missing from the list. After you and 

your fiancé examine any additions made 

by others, decide if they are relevant and if 

changes are needed to your plans. 

Another thought when considering an 

outdoor wedding venue is to check if 

it can accommodate your guests if 

inclement weather should arise. 

Whether your wedding is large or small, 

simple or elaborate, it should celebrate the 

love that you and your fiancé have for each 

other. 


SWLA 

BEHIND 

Adrian Wallace: 

By Mark Wayne Allen 

I present an article on a woman who, after 

weeks of undergoing a number of medical 

tests, was diagnosed with stage-four colon 

cancer. Most people would react with 

high anxiety at the news, but 

not Kelly Bigwood. 

At last her illness was 

diagnosed. She was anxious 

to get started with the 

treatments. They made her 

very sick, but she was determined 

to carry on. You see, 

Kelly is unusually young at 37, 

has a husband, and five young 

children, ages 1 through 8. 

She and her husband of 9 

years, Joshua, are co-pastors 

at Church Of The King in Lake 

Charles because of their love of 

the Lord. For Kelly, it is the culmination 

of her childhood dream of 

helping people. She started out 

helping children in child-care and later in 

children’s church. 

Currently, she is on round seven of her 

chemotherapy treatments. She thought she 

would be virtually alone through her painful 

ordeal. To her surprise, there has an outpouring 

of helping hands. I can say from personal 

experience that anyone who goes through 

trials such as what Kelly and her family are 

going through need all the help they can 

get from moral support. 

But Kelly does not fear her diagnosis 

or even the life complications. She trusts in 

the Lord to make all things well. Her and her 

family have adapted themselves to a new 

life that revolves around her condition, establishing 

a “new norm.” 

This involves not being able to do many 

things for her kids, husband, or church the 

way she wants to. Her kids have to have 

Cast of 

“The Heritage”-5 

women in the lineage of Christ. 

Lauren Graham, Jancy Hogan, Bianca 

Siplin, Marcela Jowette, Sophie Trancina will 

be replaced by Caroline Arrington (not pictured) 

Above L-R: Abigail, Kaleb, Elizabeth (mom’s lap) 

Hannah, Samuel (dad’s lap), pictured with their 

parents Joseph and Kelly Bigwood. 

things done by other people since she is not 

able a lot of the time. Yet, she is optimistic 

about her life by virtue of faith. 

“I have already shocked the Drs. by the 

fast way my cancer had shrunk down when 

I was last scanned in November. I am just 

taking it day by day and enjoying the time I 

get to spend with my husband and children. 

They are the ones that give me the most 

joy and the determination to keep fighting. 

Most days are easy for me but it is like a long 

distance run! I have to pace myself and I am 

very confident I will win this race! I will beat 

this cancer battle! “ 

I’ve seen people take chemo and have 

gone through it personally. It makes days 

anything but easy. I have to admire her optimism 

and strength. 

Throughout my talk with Kelly, she 

showed a lack of fear and open contentment. 

That shows a high measure of faith. 

She has to be the model patient and great 

representative for her church. I will leave 

you with Kelly’s favorite verse that I think 

represents her well. 

Isaiah 26:3 “ You will keep in perfect 

peace all who trust in you, all whose 

thoughts are fixed on you.” 

Fundraiser: March 12, 2016, 

Where: Lake Charles Civic Center 

Time: 3-7 p.m. 

Tickets: $25, includes Food and 

The Heritage (Production: Five 

women in the lineage of Christ) 

Limited Seating 

Fellowship, silent auction with 

designated sports section and a 

live production, The Heritage. 

The art backdrop for The Heritage 

will be on sale for $11,500. 

Jill Holland, the artist, states that 

with this purchase there will be a 

professional installation by Connelly 

Fine Art...the backdrop for The Heritage 

is called “When Heaven Speaks”. ) 

(A portion of the proceeds from this sale 

with benefit Kelly Bigwood.) 

By Kris Welcome 

Everywhere you go, there 

is work to be done. No matter 

what city, town, state, or country, 

there will always be a mouth 

to feed, a body to clothe, or a 

cause to stand proud for. This is 

true in SWLA as anywhere else 

in the world and there are many 

who help and get no recognition 

for the great works that 

they do. 

KZWA presented Adrian 

Wallace,at the MLK Breakfast, 

with an Unsung Hero award to 

honor his work in the community 

that seems to go unnoticed. 

Mr. Adrian Wallace, an entrepreneur 

and mentor, is definitely an 

“Unsung Hero” as the award describes. 

Mr. Wallace is a humble 

man who has never needed, nor 

searched for, recognition for the 

great job he does. 

“I like to let my work speak 

for me. It’s more than just the 

right thing to do, it’s the best 

thing to do! I’m doing it for the 

service to others,” said Wallace. 

Wallace most recently aided 

in getting an MLK memorial 

Adrian Wallace, 

Executive 

Director, 

McNeese 

Seed Center 

Business 

Incubator 

erected in Washington, 

DC. Passion 

about anything 

we work 

on is important 

and after I called 

the memorial 

a “monument” 

during our interview, 

he quickly 

corrected me. 

“It’s a memorial… that commemorates 

the Man, the Movement 

and the Message. We want to 

memorialize Dr. King for generations 

to come. The memorial is 

important to me because of the 

legacy and message of Dr. King,” 

Wallace explained. 

You can’t talk about Dr. 

Martin Luther King, Jr. without 

looking back in retrospect of 

his era in contrast to now, especially 

with it being Black History 

Month. Wallace is well aware 

of how far we’ve come, but still 

knows how far we still must go. 

“We have the same problems 

here in SWLA as anywhere else. 

MLK’s fight for his dream of 

equality is still relevant now as it 

was then: intolerance, injustice, 

and, dare I say it, hate instead of 

love,” Wallace stated when asked 

about the obstacles needed to 

overcome in the area. 

Wallace’s efforts didn’t stop 

with the memorial. He has been 

active in his immediate community 

for quite some time. He 

moved to SWLA from Southeast 

Louisiana almost four decades 

ago and has worked with entrepreneurs 

to help get their businesses 

established or growing. 

Wallace was involved in a tutoring 

program for 10 years, and 

has worked with Boy Scouts of 

America. He is a member of the 

Lake Charles Rotary Club and 

works with several ministries 

within his church, New Sunlight 

Baptist Church. 

“My family and I are definitely 

excited about the award. 

It was a great surprise! I was not 

expecting that, but it was great 

to be recognized,” Wallace said, 

though recalling someone at 

the table having to remind him 

that it was his name they called. 

KZWA surely has the right 

idea in mind when it comes to 

FEBRUARY 2016 THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 3 • Number 7 Volume 3 • Number 7 THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM FEBRUARY 2016 

recognizing those who make 

their communities better for no 

exchange other than a sense of 

accomplishment and change. 

It’s always a reassuring feeling 

when you hear stories of our 

men and women doing their 

best to make the world a better 

place for their posterity and 

neighbors. 

Mr. Wallace’s main ambition 

was to make sure that coming 

generations would have a vision 

of hope in the memorial, and 

that is most admirable. Thanks 

Mr. Adrian Wallace for being an 

Unsung Hero here in SWLA! We 

appreciate all you do and hope 

that you continue to soar to new 

heights in all your endeavors!

By Marilyn Monroe 

Award-winning country music 

singer and songwriter Larry 

Gatlin will open the 2016 Banners 

season with a members-only performance 

on Friday, February 19, 

at the Isle of Capri Casino and Hotel 

in Westlake. 

“One of the things that we 

have heard from our patrons is 

that they would like more name 

recognition in our artist roster. 

This show spotlights that change 

as we continue to feature a diverse 

offering of the same Banners 

quality,” said Patricia Prudhomme, 

Banners Director. 

The event will bring Gatlin 

back to the area, but this time as 

a solo act. He and his brothers 

Steve and Rudy, as Larry Gatlin 

and the Gatlin Brothers, had previously 

performed here. 

“We have sung here before, 

and if I remember correctly, we 

had a good crowd,” recalled Gatlin, 

“I look forward to coming 

back.” 

Born in Seminole, Texas in 1948, 

Larry is the oldest of the three 

Gatlin brothers. He began singing 

at the age of three and by the 

time he was seven, his younger 

brothers were accompanying 

him at family and church events. 

During those formative years, a 

strong root in gospel music was 

established. 

“I tell people that I’m a gospel 

singer who got some really good 

breaks in country music,” said Gatlin, 

emphasizing that he and his 

brothers’ harmonies come from 

SWLA 

listening to old gospel groups 

like the Blackwood Brothers, 

the Statesman Quartet and the 

Weatherfords.” That has been and 

always will be our first love.” 

As Christians, Gatlin said that 

he and his brothers aren’t hesitant 

to stand up for the things in 

which they believe. But when performing, 

they don’t talk about religion 

and politics on stage. Gatlin 

instead offers up social and political 

commentary on the Fox News 

Channel. “People don’t want that 

at a show,” he said, “But having 

said that, we do poke a little fun 

at politicians – good natured fun 

– and we also sing gospel songs 

at the show.” 

A point of personal pride for Gatlin 

is that he and his brothers 

were able to attend college. They 

were the first members of their 

family to do so. Larry attended 

the University of Houston, where 

he majored in English and played 

football. 

“I wasn’t a very good football 

player. I was too little and too 

slow. So I played 13 minutes in my 

college career at the University of 

Houston. The coach said I had deceptive 

speed - I was slower than 

I looked,” he said with a chuckle. 

Gatlin went on to attend law 

school at the University of Houston, 

but a career in music was 

what he truly wanted. During this 

time period, Gatlin said that he 

sent tapes and songs - and even 

a video - to country music legend 

Glen Campbell. 

“I always wanted to be a musician 

but back then we didn’t have 

The Voice or American Idol. They 

didn’t have all that,” he said, “I 

knew that I wanted to sing. I had 

known since I was three years old, 

but it was very hard to break into 

the music business. It’s still hard 

to break into the music business. 

In the meantime, I also knew that 

I had to do something to further 

my education and get a real job 

to support my young wife,” he 

said. 

Hearing about a possible spot 

as a singer for the gospel group 

The Imperials, Gatlin went to Las 

Vegas to try out for the position. “I 

didn’t get the job I was auditioning 

for, but I did work with The 

Imperials when they worked with 

my friend, the late great Jimmy 

Dean,” he said. 

It was during his time in Las 

Vegas that Gatlin met country 

music star Dottie West, who invited 

him to Nashville and helped 

him along the way. 

“That was the big turning 

point in my life, and it put me on 

a different path,” he said. 

Gatlin arrived in Nashville in 

1971, and on the strength of his 

songwriting talents, he became 

known throughout Nashville’s 

music industry. 

“I cherish the ability to write 

songs. I think I have been given 

a gift for both songwriting and 

singing,” he said. “But I’m a craftsman, 

and I know my way around 

a pencil and a piece of paper.” 

Gatlin would lay out a successful 

solo career while waiting 

for his brothers to finish college 

back in Texas. By the late 1970s, 

the brothers officially became 

Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers. 

“We have sung together 

since we were little boys,” said 

Larry. “They are not background 

singers. They are what the Gatlin 

Brothers are all about.” 

The trio would find their 

greatest success during the late 

1970s and the 1980s with songs 

that showcased their three part 

harmonies and Larry’s trademark 

falsetto. Among their accolades 

include induction into the Grand 

Ole Opry, a Grammy award and 

numerous Academy of Country 

Music awards. According to Gatlin, 

the brothers have eight No. 1 

and 34 Top 40 records. The first 

big hit was 1975’s Broken Lady, 

which received the 1976 Grammy 

award for Best Country Song. 

“And I wrote all of them,” he 

said, “They are my songs and our 

songs.” 

The Gatlin brothers were also 

able to take time out and perform 

for American troops stationed 

around the globe. 

“My brothers and I have been 

all over the world, literally, singing 

for our men and women in 

the military. We honor them; we 

love them; and we pray for them,” 

said Larry. 

In 2015, Larry Gatlin and the 

Gatlin Brothers embarked on a 

new tour after a 10-year hiatus. 

“We just had some different 

things to do,” said Gatlin about 

Broaden your mind, learn something new, and 

experience unique events with Banners at McNeese. 

Season Membership 

Available 

Let us Entertain You! 

Season Preview Party 

featuring Larry Gatlin (Members Only) 

Friday, February 19 

5:30pm Reception; 7pm Performance 

Isle of Capri Hotel & Casino 

Paul Taylor Dance Company 

Tuesday, February 23 | 7pm 

Rosa Hart Theatre 

SELMA 

(PG-13; 122 minutes; 2015) 

Saturday, February 27 | 6pm 

Cinemark Movie Theater 

Jill McCorkle 

Ada Vincent Visiting Writer 

Saturday, February 27 | 7pm 

Venue TBA 

the break. “But we love singing 

for people and as long as God 

will help us put people in the 

seats wanting to hear what we 

do, we will be out there.” 

The brothers also released 

their 60th anniversary album, 

The Gospel According to Gatlin, 

in November. 

“We have a new song called 

‘I’m An American With A Remington,’ 

which I think America needs 

to hear it,” said Larry. The song has 

been featured on Fox & Friends. 

Gatlin resides in Nashville 

with his wife, Janis. They are the 

proud parents of two children, 

Josh and Kristin, and two granddaughters, 

Parker and Campbell. 

A 5:30 p.m. reception will be 

held before the 7 p.m. show on 

February 19, and the event is for 

Banners’ members-only. 

Visit www.banners.org 

for more information on how 

to become a member and to 

see the 2016 Banners 

Tickets 

on Sale 

Now! 


SWLA 

Lt. Govenor Speaks about 

Importance of Tourism 

The Louisiana Travel Promotion 

Association came to town 

today and The Voice of Southwest 

Louisiana was there. Our 

newly elected Lt. Governor, Billy 

Nungesser, spoke to the assemblage 

about the importance 

of tourism, concerted efforts 

throughout the state as well as 

some history of the state tourism 

industry. Lt. Governor Nungesser 

spoke to the struggles 

encountered by the tourism industry 

in the past and currently. 

Nungesser also recognized past 

Lt. Governors and their contributions 

to the industry. 

In his first address since 

his inauguration, Lt. Govenor 

Nungesser commented about 

frequent questions concerning 

any changes to be made, Nungesser 

stated any changes would 

be a team effort, saying “We 

as a team will make decisions.” 

Lt. Governor Nungesser proclaimed 

himself our Champion 

for tourism in Louisiana. 

In closing, Lt. Governor Nungesser 

welcomed questions 

and/or comments from the audience. 

Nungesser responded 

with understanding and compassion 

to questions concerning 

small towns with small budgets, 

areas that need assistance 

with local improvements and 

other important issues from 

throughout the state. 

FOR SALE: 2005 Boulder 38ft. 

3 slides • 35,000 miles new tires • washer/dryer 

350 hr cat deisel 

$56,000 337-215-0547 

Books for Sale! 

Lots of food! 

Kids – Read to a 

Miniature Horse! 

Face Painting! 

Crafts! & Story Time! 

SATURDAY 

February 20, 2016 

CENTRAL SCHOOL 

809 Kirby St., Lake Charles 

10 am till 2 pm 

FREE! 

If you are looking for a good time 

that involves books, this festival 

is for you! READINGS, BOOKS, 

WRITERS—Meet your favorite 

local author. 

Every member of your 

family will have a blast! 

Plan to be there from 

the start! 

Contributed by: 

Dr. Nauman Qureshi, MD 

333 Dr. Michael DeBakey Dr., 

Ste. 250 Lake Charles, LA 70601 

Internal Medicine - 

Board Certified with over 

15 years experience. 

“Doctors for Adults” 

You’re fondly remembering 

the recent holidays and then you 

step on the scale. Year after year 

holidays contribute to gaining 

“some” weight. Snacking, eating 

out, eggnog and punch, alcohol 

and plain old overeating are the 

usual offenders. For most people, 

it is just a nuisance, but for 

some it can mean serious trouble 

especially if dealing with diabetes, 

high blood pressure and/or 

high cholesterol. Obesity is an 

epidemic and can be life threatening. 

We always return to the 

big question: How to do I lose 

weight? 

Simply stated, weight loss is 

a balance of caloric intake and 

burning of those calories. Indeed, 

this is an over simplistic statement. 

The reality involves individual 

metabolism, environment, 

everyday stresses, economic factors 

and access to personal support. 

A simple New Year’s resolution 

is often not enough to insure 

success in reaching a healthy and 

sustainable target weight. 

Before beginning any dietary/weight 

loss program, always 

consult with your primary 

physician. Multiple medical conditions 

can affect weight, like thyroid 

problems that can be easily 

checked by your physician. Exercise 

- especially aerobic exercise 

- is a significant and often necessary 

component for any weight 

loss program. However, people 

with medical issues like heart or 

blood pressure problems must 

be checked by a physician before 

embarking on such a program. 

Weight loss is a team sport. 

Choose your team/ friends/ 

physicians carefully as they can 

influence you in a positive or 

negative way. An effective and 

lasting weight loss program is 

a realistic combination of diet, 

exercise, FDA approved medication 

and in extreme cases, 

weight loss surgery. Your support 

team can include a nutritionist 

to help shape a realistic diet, a 

professional trainer to design a 

manageable and safe exercise 

plan and a friend or sympathetic 

family member to report successes 

or admit temporary setbacks. 

Your insurance may cover professional 

fees but the initial financial 

investment will pay dividends in 

improved health and lifestyle. 

Again, do not start any diet/ 

exercise program or any over the 

counter medications for weight 

loss without consulting your doctor 

first. Your goals are to remain 

healthy during your program and 

to design a realistic and effective 

plan to meet and maintain your 

goals. Your physician can also decide 

to prescribe FDA approved 

weight loss assistance medication 

to augment your diet and exercise 

plan to increase the chance 

for sustainable success. Please 

remember, medication is not a 

shortcut to lose weight but can 

help in cases where diet and exercise 

alone fall short. Proper consultation 

and planning can result 

in the ultimate goal of a lifestyle 

modification to keep you happy 

and healthy. Talk to a doctor who 

has experience in dealing with 

weight loss..... soon. No need to 

wait until the next New Year. 


Who Votes in the 

March 5th Election? 

By LeNae 

Goolsby, JD 

“If you cannot be positive, 

at least be quiet.” 

~ Joel Osteen 

One of my core beliefs is that life happens 

for me, not to me. This is not a belief 

that I was imprinted with during the 

formative years of my childhood, nor was 

it a belief that I bought into from church 

or school, or other potential influencers 

growing up. In fact, for a better part of 

my young adult life, it did not at all appear 

that my life was doing anything other than 

pulling me down and working overtime to 

hold me back in the muck and the mire of 

struggle and lack. 

It was not until a few years ago, actually, 

that I consciously chose to shift myself out 

of the subconscious and innate belief that 

I am destined to be “like a plastic bag drifting 

through the wind,” as Katy Perry puts it. 

I chose to adopt a new belief, a belief that 

actually serves me, that actually puts me 

more into alignment with faith, peace, and 

joy. Ergo, life happens for me. 

The biblical corollary to this is, “And we 

know that in all things God works for the 

good of those who love him, who have 

been called according to his purpose.” Romans 

8:28. Guess what? As all people are 

aspect of the Divine, and all aspects of the 

Divine are “called,” life is happening for all 

of us, all of the time. 

“When you complain you make 

yourself a victim. Leave the situation, 

change the situation, or 

accept it. All else is madness.” 

~ Ekhart Tolle 

Last week I had the oddest day. The kids 

were 20 minutes late for school because 

we sat in traffic for 40 minutes. The dog 

got sick in the back of my car on the way 

to taking him to the vet. After waiting for 2 

hours for the auto detailer to clean what I 

could not, I had to wait another 40 minutes 

because for some bizarre reason they neglected 

to so much as vacuum the back of 

the SUV where the incident occurred. 

At the end of the day I calculated that 

I had spent about 4 hours of my day just 

waiting. If this kind of day had happened 

to me a few years ago I would have complained 

myself into an absolute state of 

disgust, angst and ire. But here’s the thing 

with complaining, not only does it self-induce 

unnecessary stress, but doing so actually 

creates more opportunities to complain 

about. What we speak about, we 

bring about. 

“If you don’t like something, 

change it. If you can’t change it, 

change your attitude. 

Don’t complain.” 

~ Maya Angelou 

Instead of putting more and more negative 

energy into a situation that I do not 

prefer, I choose to pivot my attention to 

what I do desire. One of the most practical 

methods I have discovered for accomplishing 

this is to consciously choose to step 

outside of my immediate emotional state 

and become an unattached observer to 

the experience. 

For example, when I am sitting in traffic 

on a clear sunny day for no apparent 

good reason, and I notice that I am getting 

stressed out because being late is something 

that I do not prefer to be, I choose to 

release my state of frustration and agitation, 

and just notice that yep, I’m in traffic. 

Yep, I’m probably going to be late. It is what 

it is, and this is happening for me, even if I 

do not understand why or how. My mantra 

of choice becomes, “All is well,” because, 

even if it does not immediately register in 

our reality, all really is well. 

LeNae Goolsby, JD 

is a Personal 

Empowerment Life 

Coach and the 

Practice Administrator for Infinite Health 

Integrative Medicine Center. She is also an 

adored wife, blessed mother of three 

awesome and amazing kids, and an 

infinite being in a body working on 

counting her blessings at every stoplight. 

The upcoming 

March 5th 

Presidential 

Preference 

Primary is a 

CLOSED PARTY 

PRIMARY by the 

choice of the Democrat and Republican 

parties in Louisiana. 

That means only Democrats 

will vote for candidates on the 

Democratic Party Ballot and 

only Republicans will vote for 

Republican candidates on the 

Republican Party Ballot. 

Angie Quienalty, Calcasieu 

Parish Registrar of Voters, reminds 

us to exercise our right to 

vote. “A lot of people have sacrificed 

and given their lives so we 

have the right to vote on leaders 

who make decisions that affect 

our daily lives,” Quienalty said. 

“Other countries would love to 

have this election process.” 

Echoing Quienalty’s statements, 

Lynn Jones, Calcasieu 

Parish Clerk of Court, said, 

“While you read this, there is a 

soldier in a foreign land fighting 

for his or her life – and for your 

safety. This soldier has left family, 

parents and children behind. 

This soldier is not the first. He 

or she is one of so many who 

fought or died for you and me 

and our freedoms. This should 

give us great pause. To cast your 

vote, even if you can’t agree fully 

with the options or the candidates, 

is to honor those who 

have literally given everything 

to help you keep the right to do 

so.” Continues Jones, “Your vote 

is an affirmation of freedom. It 

is a privilege some would, and 

have, given their life to exercise.” 

The March 5, 2016 Presidential 

Preference Primary and Municipal 

Primary is a Closed Party 

Election in Louisiana. A Closed 

Party Election means voters 

wishing to vote in this election 

must be registered Democrat 

or Republican. If you are registered 

as No Party, None, Other 

Party, Green, Reform or Libertarian 

Party Member you will NOT 

be eligible to vote in the Presidential 

Preference Party Primary 

on March 5th. The opportunity 

to change your party affiliation 

has passed for this election. This 

is the only election in the state 

that is restricted to party affiliation. 

Independents and members 

of other parties will only be 

able to vote on local issues. For 

additional information regarding 

your voting status, ballot 

information, registering to vote, 

upcoming election dates and 

more go to: www.sos.la.gov/ 

electionsandvoting, www.calclerkofcourt.com/elections, 

or 

geuxvote.com. Additional information 

can be obtained by 

calling the Registrar of Voters’ 

office at 337-721-4000 or the 

Clerk of Court’s office at 337- 

437-3500. 

The Open Primary Presidential 

and Congressional Election 

will be November 8, 2016. All 

registered voters will have the 

opportunity to participate in 

this election. Exercise your right 

and privilege to vote by going 

to the polls on every Election 

Day and voting. Early Voting 

dates: Saturday, February 20th 

– Saturday, February 27th (excluding 

Sunday). Locations for 

Early Voting: Registrar of Voters 

Office hours: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM; 

West Cal Business Center at 500 

A N. Huntington Bldg. B (next 

to police station); Moss Bluff Library 

261 Parish Road. 



By Rhonda Babin 

Ronnie’s Ingredients: 

Birth Date: August 23, 1944 

Parents: The Late Lorice & 

Homer Mesh 

Spouse: Linda 

Sibling: The Late Richard Mesh 

Child: Christina 

Grandchildren: Ricky, Jacob, 

Caleb, Micah, Moriah, Jake, 

& Austin 

Great-Grandchildren: Kiersten, 

Liam, Autumn, & Levi 

Pets: Dogs: Jolie Noir, Lucy, 

Ricky, & Blacky 

Hometown: Lake Charles 

Current Residence: 

Lake Charles 

Standard “Dishing With” 

Questions: 

Q: What is your favorite food? 

A: I like any kind of food. 

Q: What did you last cook? 

A: A bowl of cereal. It’s been 

a while since I cooked. The 

last thing would have been 

eggs that I mixed with left 

over vegetables and meat 

to make an omelet. 

Q: What would your last 

meal be? 

A: Something that takes a long 

time to cook and a longer 

time to eat. 

Q: What do you ‘dish’ about 

at the dinner table? 

A: People and what they are 

posting on Facebook. 

The month of hearts is here. 

February brings to mind all 

things heart related. This year 

the celebration of Valentine’s 

Day and Mardi Gras happen 

within the same week and for 

29 days American Heart Month 

is observed. 

Someone who knows a lot 

about all things involving the 

heart is Ronald Lee “Ronnie” 

Mesh. His experiences range 

from a five bypass open heart 

surgery to being Krewe du Bon 

Coeur (Good Heart) King this 

year. Mesh’s history involves 

several things that warm the 

heart. 

Near and dear to his heart 

are church, country, and family. 

Mesh spent his early years 

in Carlyss before the family 

moved to Lake Charles. He became 

a parishioner of Immaculate 

Conception Cathedral in 

1948. He continues to worship 

there today and is the Head 

Usher for the Sunday 11:15 a.m. 

Mass. 

He graduated from Landry 

Memorial in 1962. After graduation, 

Ronnie joined the Air 

Force, serving for four years 

during the Vietnam War in locations 

throughout the Orient. 

After serving his country, 

Mesh returned to Lake Charles 

and, with his brother Richard, 

started the first fiberglass business 

in the area as a result of 

not being able to find parts to 

repair a wrecked car. Mesh Plastics 

specialized in 

boat repair and 

offshore work. 

For a time, 

Mesh drove 18 

wheelers cross country. 

His heart filled with love 

when he met Linda in 

Houston, Texas. They 

married and she rode 

with him until daughter 

Christina came along 

and Mesh wanted a 

non-traveling occupation. 

Continuing 

to work with 

anything on 

wheels, 

Mesh opened Towaways 

Wrecker Service and ran the 

business for years with his wife 

Linda at his side. Today he takes 

an advisory role while his wife 

and daughter are responsible 

for the daily operations. 

In 2004, Mesh suffered a 

heart attack which led to bypass 

surgery. With lifestyle 

changes including not smoking, 

no longer drinking beer 

(which he loves), and staying 

active, Mesh leads a full life and 

King Ronnie 

Mesh and 

Queen K J 

Smith in 

their full 

regalia. 

The dogs 

Lucy, 

Blacky, 

and Ricky 

wait for a 

treat. 

Newest 

edition 

to the 

family is 

German 

Shepherd 

Jolie 

Noir. 

continues to do the things 

that keeps his heart as healthy 

as possible. 

Having a good time is one 

of the best things Mesh believes 

you can do to keep your 

heart healthy. He joined Krewe 

du Bon Coeur in 2008 and is a 

lively member. He was Duke of 

Tee Mamou in 2012 and proudly 

reigns as King this year. Other 

activities include membership 

in Idlers Car Club, being a fourth 

degree Knight in the Knights of 

Columbus and attending the 

original Cursillo. 

Mesh plays the piano, gardens, 

grills, bass fishes, attends 

hot rod car shows, and is a German 

Shepherd owner and enthusiast. 

He is known for pulling 

jokes and pranks on his friends. 

A proud Cajun that enjoys 

the joie de vivre of living in 

Southwest Louisiana, Mesh encourages 

the community to get 

involved with all the beauty and 

activities that surround Lake 

Charles. It will do your heart 

good! 

Mary Gentry 

General Manager 

Hampton Inn 

mary.gentry@hilton.com 

3175 Holly Hill Rd. 

Lake Charles, LA 

337.480.6443 

Fax: 337.480.6436 

hampton.com 


WITH 

PASTOR 

MARY 

What’s Love Got To Do With It 

Matthew 5:44 …, Love your 

enemies, bless them that curse 

you, do good to them that hate 

you, and pray for them which 

despitefully use you, and persecute 

you. 

Forgiveness is the spiritual 

antidote for healing from a broken 

heart, anger, disappointment, 

bitterness, hatred, or betrayal. 

When you commit to live 

according to the Word which instructs, 

“Owe no man anything 

but love,” you will become pleasantly 

astonished at how you can 

bless those who have hurt you 

through distrust, malice, deceit, 

jealousy, and being fair-weathered. 

Solid relationships, fruitful 

partnerships, and true friendships 

are valuable and should 

be respected, so use wisdom 

and discernment to recognize 

and identify toxic and unhealthy 

behavior such as: 

• that which is not mutually 

beneficial, and even 

debilitating. 

• that which does not increase, 

encourage, or empower you. 

• all that alienate you from 

wholesome & healthy 

relationships. 

• anyone who causes you to 

doubt your own self-worth. 

• anything or anyone who leads 

you in the wrong direction. 

Guard yourself against unhealthy 

and toxic relationships, 

especially if your resistance is 

low (needy, insecure, timid, 

fearful, codependent). You can 

unknowingly become infected 

with those same toxins you 

were trying to ward off. 

I know you love your Boo, 

BFF or Running Buddy. But examine 

your partnerships closely. 

If you find yourself making 

too many excuses to justify the 

liabilities of the relationship or 

friendship, you may need to love 

them enough to “lose them.” 

Learn to love yourself 

enough to know your own value, 

self-worth and in whose image 

you were created. Become 

the CEO and President of your 

own fan club. Only then will you 

be able to enjoy and appreciate 

the benefits that come with real 

relationships: whether it be that 

once in a lifetime love relationship, 

or a friendship that survives 

the span of distance and 

time. 

You are invited to worship with us at 

Faith Vision Ministries, 8000 Frontage 

Road, Iowa, La 70647, 10:30 a.m. 

Sundays, & 6:30 p.m. Thursdays. 

(337-582-1634) 

Variety Gift Shop 

Specializing 

in Fashion 

Jewelry 

‘Nearly New’ 

All Sizes for All Ages 

1822 Horridge St. • Vinton, La. 

337.589.5600 

Open Tuesday-Saturday 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. 

Contact Agnes Ceaser 

Post 

7321 

Hall Rental For Weddings, 

Reunions, Birthdays, etc 

Hall accommodates up to 250 people! 

•Kitchen •Changing Room •Tables & Chairs Furnished 

Call 337-764-5754 For Rates and Availability 

2668 Hwy 171 N Moss Bluff, La 

WWW.THELAB4COLOR.COM 

Banners, Business Cards, Postcards & Flyers 

1111 Hwy. 14 

Lake Charles, La 

Phone: 337-437-3900 

Fax: 337-439-1009 

deltaworldtire.com 

4851 Lake St. 

Lake Charles, La 

Phone: 337-474-1240 

Fax: 337-474-1256 

McCarty Ins and Fin Svcs Inc 

Dave McCarty, Agent 

Fri. March 4th - Sun. March 6th 2016 

Lake Charles Civic Center 

For more info: www.bhflc.org 

www. 4zacks .com 

Everything for trailers & trailers for everything 

PARTS• SERVICE • ACCESSORIES 

337-626-9925 • 115 S. CITIES SERVICE • SULPHUR 

2108 Oak Park Blvd 

Lake Charles, LA 70601-7864 

Bus: 337.478.7052 

Toll Free: 888.478.7052 

dave.mccarty.b202@statefarm.com 

The greatest compliment you can give is a referral. 

(We’ll take care of the bugs) 

We all know that anytime is the right time for a party, whether 

it’s a cochon de lait or a fais-do-do, and that the only good bug 

is the one in the crawfish pot. 

Trust J&J Exterminating to keep your home and business 

protected from unwanted bugs. We’re the largest Louisianabased 

pest control business; we know common and native 

Louisiana pests and how to eliminate them. 

Get the Shield, cher, and pass a good time. 

LAKE CHARLES 

474-7377 

1717 Prien Lake Rd. 

DERIDDER 

463-4574 

514 N. Pine St. 

jjext.com 

Southern Tire Mart 

Solutions Provider to the 

Transportation Industry 

102 Dennis Ave. 

Sulphur, LA 70665 

Office: 337-882-0777 

Fax: 337-882-0216 

UTEC 

Utility Truck & Equipment Co. 

Boat Trailer Axles &Springs Flat Beds • Service Bodies 

Truck Cranes • Tool Boxes • Fabrication • Big Truck P & B 

We’re At Your 24 Hour Road 

Service! 

Service 

1432 BROAD ST. • 433-5361 

BUILDERS SAV-MOR 

LUMBER & BUILDING SUPPLIES 

Mon-Fri 7-5 

For all your 

building needs! 

477-1311 

1910 E. McNeese St. • Lake Charles, LA 

Joseph C. Duhon 

Vice President / Branch Manager 

Lake Charles & Grand Lake 

Lake Charles (337) 477-8661 

Fax (337) 477-1019 

Grand Lake (337) 598-2177 

Fax (337) 598-2668 

joseph.duhon@citysavingsbank.com 


• In caring for your health care needs, our goal is to provide the 

best medical care for you and your family. 

• We strongly emphasize health maintenance and preventive medicine, 

taking care of multiple problems including those relating to general 

health conditions. 

• Comprehensive Medical Clinic concentrates on the treatment of 

diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, cholesterol, quitting smoking, 

heart problems, dementia and other memory issues, COPD, asthma 

and stomach ailments, among other medical conditions. 

• In our office we can check for diabetes, anemia, urinary infections and 

monitor for Coumadin (blood thinner). We also do EKG’s, holter 

monitor, 24 hour blood pressure monitors, breathing test and on site 

ultrasounds. Some of the ultrasounds include kidney, echo (heart), 

carotid, abdomen and liver. 

Contact us today and we can 

work you in as a NEW PATIENT 

within 24 hours!

The Voice of Southwest Louisiana

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