The Voice of Southwest Louisiana July 2017 Issue

July 2017
Vol 4 No 10
Sasol is building
careers, and much
more in Southwest
Louisiana
Carlton Avery
Instrument Technician, Sasol
WORKFORCE
TRAINING
SCHOLARSHIP
The Community
Foundation of SWLA
Sarah Judson
LYFT OFF!
Jessica Hunt Shadows
Lyft Driver Jared Nixon
SWLA
SPORTS
From Little League to LSU
Beau and Bryce Jordan
Partners in Education
Children: Our Greatest Assets,
Our Greatest Investments
I-10
Traffic
Report
New & Ongoing Projects

2 July 2017 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 4 • Number 10

editor’s
By Brenda Hill
A Passover...
It seems to be a peculiar norm
In our dear old SWLA
A hurricane or a tropical storm
Enters the Gulf-headed our way
We rush around and begin to prepare
To fuel up, to shop, to pack and to wait
As the waters surge and the winds blare
From parish to county, from state to state
Prayers go up, blessings come down!
Disaster, devastation, destruction, disease
Submit themselves without a frown
Because a praying people is down on their knees
Do I believe prayer is found only here?
Do other people turn their faces,
Stiffen their necks; turn a deaf ear
Is prayer unheard of in modern places?
God forbid! I dare not even think
A thought like that would enter my head
But also, I don't for one second blink
At the amazing power of one prayer said
From the lips of a loyal and faithful believer
Who scoffs at the luck of a four leaf clover
Divinity is right here
God is our Highest Achiever
Rendering to us a gift...His grace...
A Passover.
Volume 4 • Number 10 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM July 2017 3

July 2017
The Voice's Choice will spotlight groups,
individuals or topics that spread love, joy
and peace throughout SWLA.
3 EDITOR'S PEN
A PASSOVER...
5 I-10 TRAFFIC REPORT
CALCASIEU PARISH OFFICE OF HOMELAND
SECURITY AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
6 SWLA NEWS
CRIMINAL REFORM LEGISLATION
8 ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA
SORORITY INCORPORATED
ZETA PSI OMEGA CHAPTER
EMPOWERING FUTURE GENERATIONS!
10 COVER STORY
SASOL IS BUILDING AN $11 BILLION, WORLD-SCALE
PETROCHEMICAL COMPLEX AND...
14 PARTNERS IN EDUCATION
CHILDREN: OUR GREATEST ASSETS, OUR GREATEST
INVESTMENTS
15 INSPIRED REVELATIONS
FROM A MALE PERSPECTIVE
BEYOND IMAGINATION
16 MY SENIOR MOMENT 2.0
THE CALCASIEU PUBLIC LIBRARY CENTRAL BRANCH
18 SWLA SPORTS
BEAU AND BRYCE JORDAN
20 SWLA EDUCATION
SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA CHARTER ACADEMY
22 THE COMMUNITY
FOUNDATION OF
SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA
A COMMUNITY WHERE DREAMS COME TRUE
23 LYFT OFF !
MY SATURDAY SHADOWING A LYFT
24 Q&A
M. STEVEN BEVERUNG, ESQ., ATTORNEY AT LAW
Freda Stokes, Dealer-L'Auberge Casino, is
married to Eddie Stokes and they are the
proud parents of three children.
Freda has been very active as a Jr. Daughter
Counselor of KPC St. Rita Ct. #31, a Catholicaffiliated
organization for 8-18 year old girls,
for over 10 years. They host senior citizen
luncheons & annual Easter egg hunts, visit
the sick and shut-in, work around the church,
attend state and national conferences and
assist wherever else there is a need. She cochairs
the annual church bazaar and Creole
festival also. The words from a former pastor,
"IF NOT YOU, THEN WHO?," are forever planted
in her mind. With God's Amazing Grace and
the support of her husband, she is able to
work and help make our community a better
place for all of us to live.
COVER PAGE STORY & IMAGES
Provided by Sasol
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | Brenda Hill
brenda@thevoiceofsouthwestla.com
GENERAL MANAGER | Tracy Clark
tracy@thevoiceofsouthwestla.com
ART DIRECTOR | Vinh Alexander
tvswlart@gmail.com
SALES | Lori Ross
loriross3422@gmail.com
MARKETING & PUBLIC RELATIONS
Shawdashian Group
www.thevoiceofsouthwestla.com
COPY EDITORS
Jason Clark, Cecely Clark,
Ann Champagne
CONSULTANTS
Gene R. Hill, Sr., Reginald Clark
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Brenda Hill, Tori Hebert,
Ronald J. Blanchard, Joyce R. Kebodeaux,
Jessica Hunt, Ianander Thibodeaux,
Derrick D. Kee, Esq., Judith Washington
Published and distributed by
TEAM PUBLICATIONS LLC.
4310 Ryan St. Ste. 134
Lake Charles, LA. 70605
In the McNeese SEED Center
337.474.2210
DISCLOSURE: All materials contained in the publication are copyrighted
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.
4 July 2017 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 4 • Number 10

SWLA news
New Projects for week ending 7/7/17
Location Project Route Start Date End Date
DOTD
5 th Avenue Bridge
I-10
Bridge
Replacement
Utility
Maintenance
5th Ave Bridge over Contraband Bayou
will be removed and replaced
Shoulder closures on I-10 West/East from
Westlake (MP 27) to Texas State Line (MP 0)
7/5/17 January 2018
7/10/17
7:00AM – 5:30PM
7/31/17
I-10
Traffic
Report
Calcasieu
Parish Office
of Homeland
Security and
Emergency
Preparedness
Due to the industrial
and economic growth in
Calcasieu Parish, there
has been a sharp increase
in traffic and congestion.
This document can be
used as a planning tool. It
contains current and future
road closures as well as
other variables that may
influence traffic conditions
in Calcasieu Parish.
Interstate 10 and 2-10
Bridge Update
The joint repair project on
I-10 is currently scheduled
for setting on July 12, 2017,
which will be complete prior
to the work beginning on the
Interstate 2-10 bridge.
The I-210 re-decking project
is currently scheduled for
setting on February 14, 2018.
DOTD
Parish
Sulphur
RESOURCES:
Ongoing projects as of 6/30/17
Location Project Route Start Date End Date
LA 14
Patch St
(Sulphur)
North Hazel St
(Sulphur)
LA 27 & LA 1256
Pearl St
Houston River Rd
(Sulphur)
Roadway
Improvements
Volume 4 • Number 10 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM July 2017 5
7/14/17
Overlay Patch St - .246 miles East of Hwy 27 1/10/17
7/16/17
Overlay
Bridge
Replacement
Bridge closed
LA 27 & LA 1256 will have lane closures from
Sam Vincent Rd to Interstate 10 (MP 78 – 82)
Replacement of the Pearl St Bridge at the
intersection of Picard Rd has begun
Between Avondale St and West of Hwy 27
(Near Houston River Baptist Church)
6/23/17
9/1/16
Patch St Overlay Patch St - .246 miles East of Hwy 27
1/10/17 7/16/17
Ham Reid Rd
Metzger Rd
Intersection
Improvements
Bridge
Replacement
3/6/17
Closed to all traffic 6/2/17
Anthony Ferry Rd Overlay
Anthony Ferry Rd from Willow Springs Rd
5/26/17
to Bankens Rd
Penton Rd Overlay Penton Rd from LA12 to Beauregard
5/26/17
Parish Line
Pine Forest Rd Overlay Pine Forest Rd from Dequincy Rd to LA 27 5/26/17
Houston River Rd
(Sulphur)
Pearl St
Between Avondale St and West of Hwy 27
Bridge closed 9/1/16
(Near Houston River Baptist Church)
Bridge closed
LA 14 North lane between Power Center
Pkwy and Dillard Lp will be closed
Overlay Hazel St at the intersection of Hwy 90 1/10/17 7/16/17
Intersection of Picard
2016
Bridge Closed Coordinates: 30.226454, -93.381170
5/8/17
3/20/17 September 2018
North Hazel St Overlay Hazel St at the intersection of Hwy 90
1/10/17 7/16/17
W Crocker St
West approach of Ham Reid Rd at Nelson
Rd will be closed
6/26/17
Traffic Maps:
https://www.google.com/maps/@30.237634,-93.237093,11z/data=!5m1!1e1
https://www.waze.com
Sasol Construction/Heavy Haul Route:
http://www.sasolnorthamerica.com/sasoltext
http://www.sasolnorthamerica.com/HHR
November 2017
Unknown
8/18/17
8/31/17
10/2/17
10/2/17
10/2/17
Unknown
Unknown
September 2017
I-10/2-10 Bridge Update:
http://wwwapps.dotd.la.gov/administration/announcements/announcement.aspx?key=13180
Editor's Note: This is the seventh in a series of stories that
will focus on the Interstate 10 Bridge replacement project.

SWLA news
By Derrick D. Kee, Esq.
Criminal Reform
Legislation
It is no secret that the state
of Louisiana incarcerates
more of it’s citizens, per
capita, than anywhere else
in the WORLD. During the
last legislative session, there
were significant changes to
Louisiana’s criminal laws.
These changes in legislation
come as a result of the
recommendations from the
impact study conducted
by the Louisiana Justice
Reinvestment Taskforce
from 2007. It is suggested
these changes will reduce
the prison population in
Louisiana by 13%, saving
taxpayers up to $305 million
over the next 10 years.
Some critics of the legislation believes
that it failed to comprehensively address
pivotal issues related to, among others,
offenders who battle mental illness and
substance abuse, the lack of uniformity or
standards for setting bonds (which forces
some to accept plea deals simply because
they cannot afford to bond out and
defend their innocence), and, of course,
the controversial topic of abolishing
capital punishment (whether for fiscal or
moral purposes).
Certainly this article cannot describe in
detail the numerous pieces of legislation
that were enacted to achieve the cause of
criminal justice reform. However, below
you will find some of the highlights. The
majority of the 2017 reforms will become
effective as of November 1, 2017.
Sentencing Guidelines
• Allows deferral and suspension of
sentence for third under the same
circumstances for certain third noncapital
offenders.
• Mandatory minimums reduced for
drug and property crimes
• Sentences for drug distribution
reduced
• Misdemeanor Theft and property
damage crimes dollar value raised
from $750 to $1000
• Reduced sentences for property
crimes of theft and burglary
• Probation and suspension of
sentence allowed for simple burglary
of an inhabited dwelling
• Removes the offense of illegal use
of weapons, mingling of harmful
substances and extortion from the
list of violent crimes
Habitual Offender
• Reduces the cleansing period from
10 to 5 years
• Reduces the maximum sentence
from 3 times the maximum sentence
to 2 times; and reduces the minimum
sentence from one-half to one-third
the sentence.
Release/Medical Needs and
Non-violent
• Crimes of violence time to parole
from 75% to 65%
• Non violence offense time to parole
from 25% for first time felons, 33%
for 2nd time felons
• Good time eligibility for violent
offense reduced from 85% to 75%;
40% to 35% for non-violent felonies
• Parole eligibility for juveniles
sentenced to life for 2nd degree
murder
• Expansion of good time for voluntary
participation in prison programs
which allows for back-end early
release
Supervision
• Maximum probation for non-violent
offenses reduced from 5 to 3 years
• Additional probation credit of 30
days for each month of compliance
while on probation
• Probation technical violation term
adjusted to 15/30/45/90 for first,
second, third and subsequent
violation, as opposed to normal
90 days jail time for most technical
violations
• Expands Alternatives to Incarceration
• Probation eligibility for 1st time
violent offenders where the offense
6 July 2017 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 4 • Number 10

Derrick D. Kee, Esq.
HAWKINS KEE LAW GROUP, LLC
1417 Hodges Street
Lake Charles, LA 70601
(337) 210-8811 office
(337) 210-8855
is less than 10 years and not related
to domestic violence
Reentry/Recidivism Reduction
• Tailors fines and fees to
probationers/parolees ability to pay
and allows forgiveness for those
who cannot pay
• Allows for SNAP and TANF benefits
for person released from custody
• Suspends child support obligation
while person is incarcerated
• Simplified process for non-violent
offenders in obtaining professional
licenses
The aforementioned reforms are a
necessary start towards reducing the
prison population and effectively set the
stage for future reform of the Louisiana
criminal justice system. Central to the
legislation was the establishment of the
task force to study classes and grades
of felonies which will assist in giving
latitude to prosecutors, defense lawyers,
judges and juries to appropriately
apply the particularized conduct of
an offender to the attendant law and
penalties of specific acts. The task force
is scheduled to report its findings and
recommendations to the legislature prior
to the 2018 session. I look forward to
the recommendation, and implore law
makers to consider reinvestment of the
taxpayer savings towards rehabilitation
and reformation services, which puts
people to work and allow them to
become taxpayers rather than tax
burdens.
Volume 4 • Number 10 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM July 2017 7

SWLA non-profit
2017 ASCEND Graduating Class: L-R Davien Harmon, Joemil Spencer, Dylans Wilson, Zavier Crumb, Chiara Guillory, JoNae Williams, Kierra Pouchie, Damonte
Gant, Kierston Stevenson, Darin Nixon Jr. and Xavier Iles.
This year’s Graduation ceremony was held at Central School Arts & Humanities Center
Benjamin Mount Auditorium. Graduation Speaker was the Honorable Judge Sharon D.
Wilson 14th Judicial District Court. Darin Nixon Jr presented the 2017 graduates' challenge.
Alpha Kappa Alpha
Sorority Incorporated
Zeta Psi Omega Chapter
By Judith Washington
Empowering Future Generations!
Zeta Psi Omega Chapter Alpha
Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. in
partnership with the Chapter's
Foundation "Women of Excellence
Educational and Charitable Foundation,"
is proud to present the 2017 ASCEND
graduating class.
ASCEND is the signature program
of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.
Target 1 educational initiative.
ASCEND
This acronym represents Achievement,
Self-Awareness, Communication,
Engagement, Networking and
Developmental Skills. Judith Washington
serves as Chairman and primary grant
writer of the program. She is assisted by
CO- CHAIRS Elmira Trent and Lisa Moore.
Alosia Sterling is chapter President, and
Shaalom St. Mary serves as Women Of
Excellence Board President.
In 2015 ASCEND became the recipient
of the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury
Community Block Grant. The Foundation
has received the grant for 3 consecutive
years. Monies obtained from the grant
are used to support the programs and
initiatives of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority
Inc. Target I initiative ASCEND. These
funds along with monetary support of
the Foundation and the community are
used to aid students and better enable
8
July 2017 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 4 • Number 10

them as they transition to college life and
the workplace. Zeta Psi Omega members
are known for their creativity and ability
to think outside the box, yet still plan
effective programs on a limited budget.
“Being awarded this grant
has truly been a blessing. The
grant funding combined with the
hard work and dedication of Zeta
Psi Omega members serves as a
catalyst in preparing and molding
the minds of the next generation,”
says Washington.
This year’s program consisted of 22
students. Students are selected from
an all call selection and search process
which includes, a mandatory 2.5 GPA
school and community involvement,
as well as letters of recommendation.
The class makeup is representative
of students throughout the 5 parish
area. The ASCEND students are guided
through the 6 month program by trained
members of the Zeta Psi Omega Chapter.
The program begins in January and ends
in June.
ASCEND 2017 STEM 2nd Place Winners: Pictured L-R: Lisa Moore, Judith
Washington, Zavier Crumb, Xavier Iles and Elmira Trent.
Not pictured are the ASCEND 2017 STEM 1st Place Winners: Davion Harmon,
Joemile Spencer and Chiara Guillory
“The major component of
the program is comprised of
activities related to STEM (Science
Technology Engineering and
Math) and Alpha Kappa Alpha’s
Target 5 initiative UNA/USA
Global Classroom. Other monthly
activities include cultural and
community service, engagement,
job skills exploration, educational
preparation and fieldtrips,” says
Washington.
Applications for the 2018 ASCEND
program will be available October 1,
2017. Applications may be obtained
through high school counselors or
via email jwashi4568@aol.com or
lasmoore24@gmail.com
Wanda DeVille with the Sylvan Learning Center Robotics Camp and Sorors Cheryl
Bernard Winey (Front), Altha Jordan Green (Back) and Lisa Moore (Grey shirt next to
student in purple shirt) assist ASCEND students.
ASCEND is designed to meet the needs of 9th -12th grade male and female students.
Planning and selection for the program begins in August of each calendar year.
Volume 4 • Number 10 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM July 2017 9

Cover Story
Sasol is
building an
$11 billion,
world-scale
petrochemical
complex
and ...
Carlton Avery
Instrument Technician, Sasol
“Working for a good company
with good people makes me
want to come to work every
day with a smile on my face.”
Sasol is building an $11 billion, world-scale petrochemical
complex adjacent to its existing facility in Calcasieu Parish near
Westlake. The facility will include an ethane cracker, six new downstream
derivative plants and associated utilities and infrastructure. It will roughly
triple Sasol’s chemical production capacity in the United States and
increase its U.S. employee base by about 50 percent. As of March 2017, the
project was about 68 percent complete. It is expected to begin operations
in 2018/2019.
The project is creating hundreds of new jobs,
generating business for many local companies and
making a positive impact on the local community.
... local careers
Sasol hired 400 of the more than 500 new, full-time positions, ranging
from engineers to operators to accountants, chemists, laboratory
technicians and others. About 87
percent of those new employees are
Louisiana residents, the majority
from Calcasieu Parish.
Sasol’s project will also generate
hundreds of indirect jobs. Local
businesses doing work for or providing
services to Sasol are expanding and
hiring new people to accommodate the
increase in activity. A study conducted
by Louisiana State University economist
Dr. Jim Richardson in May 2017 projected
Sasol will generate nearly 1,900 direct
and indirect jobs during operations, with
personal earnings of $104 million.
800
750
700
650
600
550
500
450
400
350
300
250
200
150
100
50
500+
to be hired for
the project
400
FULL-TIME
employees
HIRED
87%
Louisiana
residents
73%
are from
Calcasieu
Parish
10
July 2017 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 4 • Number 10

... local business
Sasol expects to spend about $4 billion directly in Louisiana during
construction of its project. The project contracted with major Louisiana
construction contractors representing more than $3.5 billion.
Additionally, Sasol has also spent nearly $450 million with Louisiana
suppliers, much of which was with Calcasieu Parish businesses.
Additionally, the company uses local businesses for services like printing,
health screening, catering, information technology and many other
day-to-day needs.
... growth in Southwest Louisiana
Dr. Richardson’s study projected Sasol will generate $135 million in local
taxes during the construction phase and $6.2 million in local taxes annually
during operations. As of 2017, Sasol has already paid $108.5 million in state
taxes and $90 million in local taxes. These tax revenues help pay for things
like roads, bridges, fire trucks, teacher salaries, school equipment, parks
and many other critical components for local governments.
$161 million
in state taxes
paid during
construction
$7.5 million
paid to the
state annually
during operation
$135 million
in local taxes
paid during
construction
$6.2 million
paid in local
taxes annually
during
operation
“We anticipate doubling
our Lake Charles workforce.
To prepare, Turner opened a
new personnel and training
center in Sulphur, and we
used local firms to design
and build it.”
Preston Jourdan,
Turner Industries
... community
Sasol has invested millions of dollars in programs
that benefit the local community. From developing
educational programs to advancing small business
development to protecting the environment, Sasol is
dedicating time and resources to help make a positive
difference.
Southwest Louisiana WORKFORCE Resource Guide
A step-by-step guide to prepare you for a job in support of area industry
Sasol aims to improve school-based education in science,
technology, engineering and math; higher education and
workforce readiness. In partnership with the local community,
Sasol developed the Southwest Louisiana Workforce Resource Guide, a
step-by-step guide that helps individuals choose a career, acquire training,
certifications and basic life skills, prepare a resume and ultimately land
a job in support of area industry. Following an overwhelming interest
in the guide, Sasol established a Workforce Training Scholarship Fund
Learn
Begin
Southwest Louisiana WORKFORCE Resource Guide
A step-by-step guide to prepare you for a job in support of area industry
Gain
Succeed!
Southwest Louisiana
WORKFORCE
Resource Guide
A step-by-step guide to prepare you
for a job in support of area industry
www.SWLAresourceguide.com
1
Updated July 2014
To apply for scholarships go or to
www.foundationswla.org.
be a m
Volume 4 • Number 10 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM July 2017 11

Cover Story
250 volunteers planted 500 trees of 10 different species at 15 sites in 5 hours
that provides financial support to cover tuition, training costs and
support services for individuals participating in the Southwest Louisiana
Workforce Resource Guide program.
To help promote the establishment and growth of small
businesses in Southwest Louisiana, Sasol partnered with
local business development organizations to develop a
Small Business Resource Guide, which provides step-by-step guidance
on how to start a new business and information about how to work
with Louisiana industry. Sasol also funds monthly certification
workshops and other small business development trainings for
area businesses and entrepreneurs.
Sasol’s environmental programs focus on restoring,
preserving and enhancing local ecosystems. One of
Sasol’s ongoing programs, 1,000 Trees in 1,000 Days,
aims to plant 1,000 trees in Calcasieu Parish, with a focus on the
city of Westlake, by spring 2019.
To nominate a planting location and learn about project progress,
visit: www.foundationswla.org.
For more information
about Sasol’s community
initiatives, visit:
www.SasolNorthAmerica.com.
380 guide downloads over
last three months
93 workforce scholarships
awarded
75% of recipients found
employment
4 Workforce Readiness Training
courses offered
74 trained mentors
SMALL BUSINESS
RESOURCE GUIDE
x x O
O
x
O
develop a plan
market your services
make it official
grow your business
A step-by-step guide for starting a small
business and working with local industry
989 guide downloads
1,044 attendees at 16
workshops
163 jobs created & retained
43 new business starts
$7M+ in capitalization
reported
or to
.
be a mentor, visit:
The resource guide and latest workshop schedule are
available at: www.allianceswla.org/businessresourceguide.
12
July 2017 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 4 • Number 10

Iron Plus C Complex
Supports Oxygen-Rich Blood
Iron functions as a structural component of
hemoglobin, an essential compound that carries vital
oxygen from the lungs to tissues throughout the body.
When diets provide too little iron, iron deficiency
can result, which may lead to fatigue, impaired
concentration, and compromised immune function.
• One tablet contains 100% of the Daily Value of iron
• Contains vitamin C for better iron absorption
• Vegetarian formula
Your best defense against disease and harmful
pathogens is to maintain a strong immune system. At
Shaklee we help you "Bullet Proof" your immunity!
Call or Visit our Website
for More Details!
Pat Landreneau
Nutrition Consultant
Lake Charles and Jennings
337-230-3598
www.patsnc.myshaklee.com
PERFECT CREDIT SOLUTIONS, INC.
• Raise Your Credit Scores for Home and Business Loans
• Establish Business Credit
• Business Incorporations (Profit and Nonprofit)
• Creation of 501 (c)(3) for Nonprofit Organizations
• Life Insurance
390 E. Prien Lake Road
Lake Charles, La. 70601
Office: (337) 429-5050
Call For Free Consultation
Ahmed Muhammad
CEO/Founder
Joseph Thomas
Vice President
“FIRST TIME HOME
BUYERS PROGRAM FOR
WORKING MOTHERS.”
Volume 4 • Number 10 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM July 2017 13

Reflective Light INSPIRED REVELATIONS FROM A MALE PERSPECTIVE
An investment
within our
children is an
investment within
our community
which guarantees
an investment
within the future
of the world.
PARTNERS IN
EDUCATION
By Ronald J. Blanchard
Several years ago, Hospital Chaplain
Scott Lee made a timeless and
profound statement, “The Greatest
Investment we can ever make is to invest
our life in the life of someone else.”
These words resonate with the efforts of
educators to make a difference within the
futures of every student that enters the
classroom. There must be a conscientious
effort to gain support beyond the
faculty and staff of schools and parents.
Educational systems must create effective
bonds with industry and businesses
to ensure that children are given solid
foundations that prepare them for
the globally competitive nature of
employment. This can be accomplished
through the initiation and perpetuation
of Partners In Education.
Partners In Education define efforts
of schools and businesses to develop
partnerships that support schools and
students. There is a multiplicity of specific
activities intended to benefit students,
improve student achievement and
accomplish school improvement goals.
Schools must recognize the invaluable
potentials that are available through a
viable partnership. This primarily begins
with a school’s recruitment of a partner
from the business community. This can
also be accomplished when a prospective
partner seeks to contact an individual
school or communicate with Partners
In Education statewide or nationally.
Businesses, government agencies and
community-based organizations are
eligible to become partners and do not
need district approval. If the activities
that the Partner hopes to assist with are
appropriate, there are no restrictions on
the partnership. Local, state, and federal
laws, policies, and guidelines guide a
Partner in maintaining compliance.
Considering one’s children, the life gifts
that one can nurture and cherish for
numbered moments, it is essential that
learning environments are orchestrated
that address a number of vital facets
of student growth and development.
It begins with supporting positive
academic achievements of students
through businesses that contribute to
programs and award incentives that
recognize educational excellence. In
addition, partnerships open productive
communication between schools and
businesses that greatly inform students
about the development of resumes that
create competitive advantages. Linking
industry with education programs in
schools ensure that students of today
are prepared to be the workforce of
tomorrow.
Partners In Education can provide
powerful influences within the lives
of children that dream in living color.
Beyond the limitations of black and
white, there will always be a need
to encourage and inspire. Effective
educational systems offer immediate and
long-term rewards to students through
strong foundations that successful
partnerships create. Economic stability is
assured but the shaping and molding of
independent men and women is more
significant. Fathers and mothers continue
to face the continuous challenges of
rearing children and hopefully “train(ing)
a child in the way that he should go”, but
this cannot be accomplished without the
assistance of the schools’ efforts to form
positive partnerships. An investment
within our children is an investment
within our community which guarantees
an investment within the future of the
world.
14
July 2017 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 4 • Number 10

Beyond
Imagination
By Ronald J. Blanchard
Amidst failed efforts to educate
thousands of students across
America, there exists several
amazing children from amazing parents
that truly value the foundations and
preparations that quality learning offers.
Moving in an elevated direction, one
discovers lovers of learning—individuals
that have an excitement and zeal for
gaining insight into the reality and
relevance of life lessons taught. This
significant observation became more
intensely and crystal clear with the
visitation of Los Angeles native, Jada
Smith, an inquisitive eleven-year-old
intellectual with dreams (perhaps visions)
beyond imagination.
The essence of Jada’s divine makeup
reflects the infallibility of spiritual
architecture and design. However,
beyond her invisible DNA, there is the
visible presence of parental nurturing
and cultivation of her father and mother,
Barry and Anita. It is no accident or
happenstance that she models their
values of kindness, respect, and purpose.
Beyond the physical embrace and
elevation of her father’s arms and the
proud approval of her mother’s smile,
Jada can readily see and understands the
nature of unconditional love.
Understanding this uniquely precocious
young lady, one learns that her thoughts
and words express ideas that belie her
age. Her early beginnings as a toddler
revealed a wonderful appreciation for
her family, especially her grandparents,
Fifth grade scholar Jada Smith demonstrates advance levels of technological skills.
Wesley and Dorothy Smith. Her infectious
smile and playful laughter demonstrated
a fondness that created countless
moments of mutual adoration. Over a
thousand miles from Lake Charles, Jada’s
return to her paternal roots is essential to
the continued molding and shaping of
her giving personality.
Jada’s perception of a world of endless
opportunities to learn allows her to take
advantage of all areas of academics.
From english language arts to science
and social studies, she has enhanced
her inner qualities and character traits.
Whether developing her writing skills or
perfecting her Spanish, Jada knows that
every part of her make up benefits from
these educational experiences. Therefore,
her endless efforts to learn as much as
she can will never be in vain.
Jada aspires to make a difference in the
world. The possibilities are unlimited.
Perhaps her passion for water will create
a marine biologist. Veterinary medicine
could also be considered due to her
love for animals. Her technological
proficiency could easily allow her to work
within cyber security. However, her most
important role is productive future citizen
and motivator for her peers.
For nearly twelve years, Jada has inspired
the young as well as the old. She brings
hope and optimism to a community that
often shares negative views and apathy.
Her love of learning has the potential to
change the world—something that every
child needs to know. As the consummate
student, Jada has become the teacher.
Ultimately, she is an unwrapped life-gift
to learning, beyond imagination.
Volume 4 • Number 10 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM July 2017 15

My Senior Moment 2.0
The Calcasieu Public
Library Central Branch
By Joyce R. Kebodeaux
The Calcasieu Parish Public Library
Central Branch parking lot on
Ernest Street is always full. That’s
because there is always so much going on
inside! I remember when most people my
age thought libraries were only for children
and the old or very boring people who went
to check out books. The silence inside was
kept by the librarian sitting by the door at
the check-out desk who put her finger to
her lips and shhhhhed at anyone who dared
to make a sound. If anyone hasn’t been in
a library since then, they are in for a big
surprise. Central Library is the best place to
get acquainted with today’s libraries.
First of all, there are still books, the
children, and me, this boring AND old
person going there. I enjoyed the library as
a child, with my children, grandchildren and
now my great-grandchildren. Libraries just
get better and better all the time. I never hear
anyone being shushed here. Books are still
checked out, but so are many other things,
like computers, movies and videos, cakepans
and games.
Megan Thomas, the programming
supervisor, stays busy with the many
activities, but she is never too busy to
help anyone. This month she booked The
Hampstead Stage Company, featuring “The
Beauty and the Beast.” The talented cast of
two, Earnest Roberts of California and Lina
Marie of New Jersey, interacted with the large
audience of children and adults. The summer
reading program is well under way and keeps
Megan running, but she takes it all in stride.
The program is divided into three parts: five
16
and under, six thru twelve, and adults.
Book-A-Librarian is a program that
benefits adults who didn’t grow up in the
computer age. Megan gets the applications
signed at the information desk and makes
appointments. For one hour library
associates like Grant Fontenot, Kim Cascio
and Jacob Hughes give undivided attention
to the applicant. Answering questions and
helping with what the patron is dealing with
saves the patron a lot of time. This is superior
to taking classes that contain some material
that the student already knows or has no
interest in.
Library Assistant Tara Holland believes
in the Accelerated Reading Program but
also encourages children to read for fun.
She said “I am from a family of readers. We
recently found my mother’s first library card
from the library in Hayes, La. She was three
years old. I’ve been in the library system for
over 26 years, and I love to read. In our family,
I always get the youngsters to read the book
before seeing the movie. After reading and
seeing them we discuss the similarities and
differences between the two.”
Library Assistant Erica Koop is in charge
of children’s programs. She appears
to never be too busy to help, yet her
schedule is always full. Her marvelous
communication skills are an asset to these
programs and account for their success. She
leads children of the art club [children in
elementary grades] in making birdhouses,
paintings, planting flowers or tooling
leather. She explains, “I give directions, but
let each budding artist develop their own
masterpiece. This artistic outlet lets them
express themselves.”
On one Saturday each month at 10-
11AM, Erica engages those on the autism
spectrum in Sensory Story Time. There
are no age requirements, but a parent or
guardian must accompany participants.
Along with the reading of a story, finger play,
songs and an activity are included.
Britney Cash is good at providing topics
of interest for the Teen Program. They
do many different activities but one they
especially like is Anime/Manga. In this
Japanese comic style, the book is read from
back to front and pages are from right to left.
There is a similar comic program for adults.
It challenges readers and is a time to share
common interests and enjoy coffee together.
Throughout the year Central library has
programs for adults. In one program,
lawyers volunteer to answer questions about
legal matters. In another, taxes and finances
are discussed. Other events like Painting
with a Librarian and Cookbook Exchange
are artistic and fun. The Innovation Center
attracts patrons of all ages.
If I missed anyone or anything, I apologize,
especially to those library associates that
didn't get mentioned by name. However,
it's good commentary when there's too
much to mention! Everyone on the library
staff is part of the team that works together
to serve, educate and entertain. Patronize
your local library this summer; you will find a
whole new world inside those doors!
July 2017 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 4 • Number 10

Nathaniel Williams invites you to come visit our library. He especially enjoys
Erica Koop's Art-CLUB.
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Volume 4 • Number 10 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM July 2017 17

SWLA sports
From Little
League to LSU
By Tori Hebert
Beau and Bryce
Jordan eat, sleep,
and breathe baseball.
These identical twins,
born one minute apart,
have lived a dream that
would put any young
player in baseball heaven.
Beau and Bryce were
team mates during the
2008 Little League World
Series; the South Lake
Charles team represented
the Southwest in the
United States Semifinal
and Championship
rounds.
Fast forward four years and the
Jordan brothers were Barbe
Buccaneers. Beau led the Bucs with
57 hits, 58 runs, 12 home runs and
drove in 43 runs. Bryce followed him
with 50 hits, 37 runs and 10 doubles.
This duo helped the team gain the
2012 and 2014 state championships.
Beau was the 2014 state tournament
MVP.
Both of them were 2014 Louisville
Slugger All-Americans. Beau was a
2012, 2013, and 2014 All-Southwest
Louisiana and All-District winner.
Bryce was also a two-time All-State
and 3-time All-District winner.
Their journey is still only beginning,
and their latest destination is one of
prestige: Omaha, Nebraska.
The LSU Tigers ended the 2017
regular season with a 39-17 record,
and then remained undefeated in
the post season until the team lost
to Oregon State during the College
World Series. During the 7 games
LSU played against Florida State and
Oregon State, Beau had 2 hits, 3 RBI,
and 2 runs. Bryce, who suffered a
severe knee injury in early February,
was still next to his brother as he
always has been.
In the 2015 season, Beau played 20
games and gained a .219 batting
average with one double and four
RBI. Bryce played 21 games and
batted .130 with three doubles
and six RBI. In 2016, Beau played
65 games batting .286 with nine
doubles, four home runs, 39 RBI,
and five stolen bases. Bryce played
59 games batting .293 with seven
doubles, five home runs, 33 RBI, and
40 runs.
Beau and Bryce Jordan are proof that
the wildest dreams of small town kids
can in fact come true.
*Special thanks to LSU Sports and
Nola.com for sports information.
Photo: twitter/@LSUTigersBook
Beau and Bryce Jordan during an
LSU media gathering.
18
July 2017 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 4 • Number 10

You can’t always predict the weather.
That’s why we stay storm ready.
We prepare for storm season 12 months a year — trimming trees, inspecting lines,
improving the grid. So when you see clouds on the horizon, you can be sure that
we’re ready. Learn how you, too, can be storm ready at entergystormcenter.com.
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Volume 4 • Number 10 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM July 2017 19

SWLA education
By Brenda Hill
Southwest
Louisiana
Charter
Academy
2016-17 School Year
Front L-R: Careion Franklin & Izabella Hood, 4th Graders. Back L-R: Oscar Torres, 6th Gr., Mackenzie Collins, 5th Gr., Jayme
Aguprre, 5th Gr., Amyrah Godette, 5th Gr., Sarah d’Entremont, 6th Gr.
Southwest Louisiana Charter
Academy 4th-6th Gr. students
were asked, “How does Science,
Technology, Engineering and Math
(STEM) impact you?"
“I like the way STEM challenges me. It
makes me think about how to get better
results in life,” says MacKenzie Collins,
Future Engineer.
“STEM helps me try harder when I work
with a ‘Team.’ When we fail, we all start
over together,” says Amyrah Godette,
Future Social Worker
“STEM helps me figure out how things
work and how they affect other
things,” says Sarah d’Entremont, Future
Astrologist.
“I am able to figure out how much
something needs and how far it will go
with STEM,” says Oscar Torres, Future
Engineer.
“We like to work together making
structures taller, like a pyramid. We
focused on building the bottom at first,
but if you do that the structure will
topple over. We thought about putting
something beside it to stand it up but
we could not build other structures to
it. STEM helped us learn to build the up
parts first in a pyramid,” says Careion
Franklin and Izabella Hood, Future
Contractors
“STEM gives us lots of practice so that
when we become an adult we can do
more things better, like communicate
with our team,” says Jayme Aguprre,
Future Doctor.
Southwest Louisiana Charter Academy hosted a 'Community Helpers Breakfast' to honor and show appreciation to men and women from all departments throughout
the city. Policemen, firemen, men, women, etc., dressed in honor and dignity were served a southern style breakfast by a caring staff.
Gene Thibodeaux, President of the Board, is proud to be considered a part of public education. "We are part of a choice! We are proud of what we do, and of our partnerships,"
he says. Henry Mancuso, Secretary, understands the importance of community helpers and says, "We survive because of our community helpers."
20
July 2017 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 4 • Number 10

Volume 4 • Number 10 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM July 2017 21

SWLAbusiness
Imagine if there was a place in
your city that could make all
your dreams come true (No it’s
not Disney World). Well in Lake
Charles, Louisiana, that place is
the Community Foundation of
Southwest Louisiana.
The Community Foundation is a
non-profit organization that does
two things:
1. Backs civic initiatives to help
improve our larger community of
Southwest Louisiana.
2. Helps people, companies
and organizations to do their
charitable giving in a meaningful
and strategic way.
By Ianander Thibodeaux
The COMMUNITY
FOUNDATION
of Southwest Louisiana
A COMMUNITY WHERE DREAMS COME TRUE
SOWELA Technical Community
College and ABC (Associated
Builders and Contractors) by
offering tuition and other resources
like career counseling, resume
building and volunteer mentors
to its program participants.
Anyone interested in applying for
the program and volunteering
as a mentor can do so at www.
foundationswla.org.
in a family and ultimately in a
community, that’s what this is
able to do,” says Judson. There are
several people from the beginning
of the program who went to school
to study process technology at
Sowela and are now working as
operators at different plants.
The Community Foundation
is constantly breaking down
boundaries and removing
stereotypes in the workforce. The
people who come into the program
come from diverse backgrounds.
Many people who enter the
program end up in non-traditional
positions, for example, there is a
female heavy equipment operator
and there are female welders. The
average age of program members is
33 years old. In fact though, people
of all ages can find help with the
organization has partnered with
businesses, churches, the Calcasieu
Parish Police Jury, the City of Lake
Charles and other entities to get
the word out. The Community
Foundation is always looking for
new ways to improve the process
and aide their cause.
Those who work at the Community
Foundation have a genuine desire
and drive to give help where it is
needed. They also invest in local
development projects and are
always searching for new resources
to improve the community. One of
those endeavors even helped with
the development of a dog park
located in downtown Lake Charles
behind the city court building.
As of December 2016, the
Community Foundation has $17.5
President and CEO, Sara Judson,
stated “The Community Foundation
connects people who care with
causes that matter”. One of those
causes is the Workforce Training
Scholarship program. Sasol came
to the Community Foundation
saying “This is our dream, we want
to support Southwest Louisiana.
We want to support the people
in Southwest Louisiana and the
opportunity for them to take
part in this economic boom with
local industry”. Lake Charles LNG
also sees the value in developing
the workforce and has been a
supporter of the program for the
last two years. The Community
Foundation partnered with these
companies and developed the
Workforce Training Scholarship
program.
This program helps individuals
who are looking to better their
circumstances by giving them
training to get jobs. The Community
Foundation is partnering with
22
Eric Mitchell attended Sowela for the
welding course.
Program participants have attended
SOWELA and ABC for courses such
as welding, pipefitting, electrical
and heavy equipment operation.
Many program participants have
gained new jobs in these and other
crafts.
According to Judson, these
programs can be life-changing
opportunities for many. The
programs are targeted at people
who have been unemployed
or underemployed and making
minimum wage. Some of these
people are now making over $20 an
hour, plus receiving benefits.
“When you talk about changing
lives of people and giving them
the opportunity to be a good
role model for their children and
to really turn the tide of poverty
Bark Du Lac Dog Park ribbon cutting ceremony.
Community Foundation.
One real life example of someone
who was helped by the program,
is a stay-at-home dad in his 40’s
who owned a lawn care business.
Because his work was seasonal, he
struggled financially. Someone told
him about the program and now
he has year-round employment
as a crane and heavy machine
operator. This shows that it is never
too late to better yourself and the
Community Foundation wants to
help.
Judson says that the Community
Foundation’s biggest challenge
with this program is connecting
with people in our community who
want the opportunity to learn a
new skill and have a new career.
In order to support this effort, the
million in total assets that can be
used toward similar good causes.
$1.5 million of that was turned
into grants made by donors. The
Community Foundation is a place
where people can turn their ideas
to improve the community into
reality. So if you want to better
yourself and the community, the
Community Foundation is the place
to make your dreams come true.
July 2017 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 4 • Number 10

By Jessica HuntLYFT
Zippy was dead.
Zippy's death was unexpected as he was just
15 years old. My husband and I traveled with
Zippy to cheer on sports teams in Dallas,
catch a concert, music scene in Nashville and
adventure together in the French Quarter of
New Orleans.
Zippy was there for our first date. Zippy was
there all dressed up for our wedding.
And now Zippy, loyal friend, faithful SUV was
gone…just until the folks at Pumpelly Tire
could fix him.
Although my husband and I were grievously
ill-prepared for Zippy's death, we found
the answer on our smartphones. Lyft, a
ridesharing app, gives customers a safe
transportation option.
Lyft is only a few months old in Lake Charles,
having arrived on March 22, 2017. Since it
was relatively new to the area, I was a little
worried I might be in for a long wait.
I woke up extra early to go to work, had the
app downloaded on my phone, and was
ready to go. A Lyft driver was at my door
less than 20 minutes after I placed my ride
request.
A day in the Life of a LYFT
OFF !
My Saturday shadowing a Lyft
As I waited outside after my day at work,
I saw a black truck pull into the driveway,
sporting the lavender “Lyft” sticker I had
come to recognize. The driver's name is
Jared. He offered to let me shadow him for a
day for an inside look at what it's like to be a
Lyft Driver.
Jared Nixon had been a Lyft Driver for 3
weeks.
“You do have customers who choose Lyft for
Safety reasons,” I asked?
“Yeah, I have picked up several people who
have gotten DUI's in the past. They know the
dangers of driving while intoxicated. So, they
would much prefer to use Lyft rather than
drive intoxicated. A ten dollar Lyft ride is way
better than the thousands of dollars a DUI
would cost you,” Jared said as we drove to
pick up a Lyft at the Prien Lake Mall. We were
there in less than ten minutes from when the
bell chimed on Jared's phone—alerting him
of a new client.
“What is the approval process like to become
a Lyft Driver,” I asked?
“They have a stringent list that they go over
to make sure your car is road ready and safe.
They are definitely concerned with safety.
They check your driving record,” Jared said.
I was very impressed by the comprehensive
personal check and vehicle requirements
drivers must meet. According to Lyft's
website, every driver is vetted before they are
allowed to drive with a professional thridparty
background check and DMV check.
Jared has a five-star rating and it is easy to
see why. He is personable, and his vehicle is
clean. When I met him for the first time, he
waited for me to safely open my door before
driving off for another passenger.
“Whenever I drop someone off it allows me
to rate the rider and the rider to rate the
driver. The rider can't see what I rate them
and I can't see what the rider rates me. If
someone rates me one star and leaves a
nasty comment, then someone from Lyft will
actually call me and say 'Hey look. We have
an issue,” Jared said.
“I would say that Lyft is making a positive
impact on Lake Charles. It has got to be
cutting down on DUI risks and cutting down
on drunk drivers on the road. I don't mind
driving someone home who has the good
sense to say 'Hey, I've been drinking and I
want to get a safe way home,” Jared said.
Another benefit to Lyft? If you are exploring
a new city, often times in addition to a ride to
your destination, you have a complimentary
tour guide to the city.
“I had one girl who was in town. They
ask, where's a good place in town for a
conference. She asked where a good place to
eat in town was. Over the course of a week, I
brought her back and forth to Raising Canes
at least fifteen times. Apparently, they didn't
have that where she was from in Dallas.”
“Half the people I pick up, it's there first ride.
They were very hesitant to use Lyft. My best
advice to someone, take a ride during the
day. Go to the mall, just try it out. I have yet Lyft provides a safe, personable and
to give anyone a ride who has said they had reasonably priced form of transportation for
a bad experience with Lyft. I have yet to have travelers and locals alike. I can safely say this
anyone that said that their driver was rude or won't be my last Lyft experience.
their car was dirty,” Jared said
Sorry Zippy.
Volume 4 • Number 10 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM July 2017 23

Q&A
M. Steven
Beverung, Esq.
Attorney at Law
By Jessica Hunt
What many people know (or think they know) about
being a lawyer, they've learned from watching
television. I spoke with Attorney Steven Beverung
who has practiced Law in Southwest Louisiana for 35 years to
find out about what it is really like.
QWhere are you from?
AI'm from Crowley which is a town
about 60 miles east of Lake Charles.
I graduated from Crowley High. I went to
undergraduate school at LSU and I went
to Law School at LSU Law Center.
QWhen did you open your own
practice?
AI came to work with Mr. Fred Book in
1982 after one year with the Court
of Appeal. I became a partner about
three years later. He retired May of 2016
so I've been holding down the fort since
then. I've been doing private practice for
35 years.
24
QWhat areas of Law do you practice?
AI have a general practice—general
civil office litigation practice. I do a
lot of successions, wills, collections. I also
do family law.
QDo you have a favorite area?
AI prefer to do successions and office
practice, some litigation and I do
personal injury which is fun to do.
QWhat about those areas drew you
in?
AGenerally dealing with people is
what I like to do. Dealing with
people is got a reward in itself. Family
Law can be depressing because of the
situations with children. I do enjoy
helping people. On personal injury cases,
Money cannot replace a lot of the things
that you do but you can put people in
the right direction. Successions help
distribute property to the heirs and
settling any disputes that they may have.
QWhat is Civil Law?
AIt's very broad. Civil law, as opposed
to criminal law, is anything that
is not a violation of a criminal statute.
Civil law, Family Law, divorce, domestic
relations, contract law, successions,
things like wills and sales and real estate.
Criminal law is if you are prosecuted by
the District Attorney or city Attorney for
a city statute or a federal crime, such as
July 2017 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 4 • Number 10

Clients need to have a
realistic view of what
can be done and listen
to the lawyer and
hope that he doesn't
tell you what you want
to hear but what is
going to happen...
In his spare time, Mr. Beverung
enjoys gardening, hunting,
watching LSU sports and
spending time with his family.
robbery and fraud.
QFor many, what they know about
law stems from what they see on
TV—what is it really like practicing law?
AOne of the problems on TV is
everything is in condensed form.
They put something in an hour program
that would take two or 3 years in real
time. Particularly in the criminal field
and civil litigation. It takes time. And
it's expensive. You have to pay for it as
you go along. On a personal injury case,
especially on a big one, the client doesn't
pay until it's resolved so then it's taken
out of the fee they are awarded. You see
the court room scenes, they get away
with, like hearsay, and some of the stunts
you see you would not be able to pull.
QHave you seen any changes in Law
in over 30 years?
AYes, it's completely changed. What
really hit me most is the lawyer
advertising they have now. When I first
started practicing, there was no lawyer
advertising or very little. Now you can't
turn around without seeing an ad for a
lawyer.
Other than that, the basic premise of
everything has not changed too much.
A few things have been streamlined.
Family court is different. When I first
started practicing they had no family
court. Cases were assigned to judges. All
the judges did family law.
QI think it is fair to say that many
people who seek legal guidance did
not plan to do so. What is something you
wish more clients did to be prepared?
AWell, if they come in with a
problem they need to bring all the
documentation that would affect that.
You get one year in which to file the suit
or you will lose all rights to that.
Clients need to have a realistic view
of what can be done and listen to the
lawyer and hope that he doesn't tell you
what you want to hear but what is going
to happen. There are some things that
you may feel that you have a right to that
you really don't and some things that
you don't realize you have something,
you really do. You need to seek the
professional help. Find an attorney you
can talk to. You can consult an attorney,
you don't have to hire them.
Volume 4 • Number 10 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM July 2017 25

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1: Success Planning
Success Planning presents tools for self-assessment, financial goal setting, setting
boundaries, communication skills, selling skills, and contingency planning.
2: Market Planning
The importance of matching your business with the needs and wants of customers and
how to identify the features and benefits of your product or service and learn about
imaging, packaging, pricing, selling, promotional planning, and contingency planning.
You will learn how to target your customers, analyze your industry and competition, and
identify your position in the market.
3: Cash Flow Planning
Cash Flow Planning presents detailed strategies for planning the financial future of
your business with emphasis on projecting sales, setting sales goals, and contingency
planning.
4: Operations Planning
Operations Planning presents key issues and strategies that helps the business owner
identify what work must be done, how it will be accomplished, and by whom, including
legal standards and requirements.
Contact Adrian L. Wallace at 433-0977 or awallace@allianceswla.org
for more information.
Call Now for information and to reserve your place.
If you answered yes to any of the above questions, or if you are interested
in proven business techniques and tools, these programs may be for you.
For program details and eligibilities contact:
Adrian L. Wallace
Executive Director SEED Center Business Incubator
436-0977 · awallace@allianceswla.org
www.seedcenterswla.org
Program & Services
Available Include:
Managerial &
Technical Assistance
~
DiSC Workplace/
Leaders Programs
~
Market Analysis/
Planning Workplace
Training Solutions
~
Business Coaching
Program
~
Pre-Incubation
Program
26
July 2017 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 4 • Number 10

Pick up your copy of The Voice of
SWLA while you’re out and about.
SULPHUR
West Cal-Cam Hospital
Stines
Pitt Grill
SPAR
Goodwill
Hollier's
Dairy Barn
LAKE CHARLES
Pujo St. Cafe
Chase (Downtown)
Steamboat Bill's
Civic Center
Carnegie Library
Luna Bar & Grill
MOSS BLUFF
Peto's
Market Basket
Southern Spice
VINTON
Post Office
Market Basket
Love's Truck Stop
DERIDDER
Brookshires Bros.
City Hall
DeRidder Hospital
Post Office
Steamboat Bill's
Volume 4 • Number 10 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM July 2017 27

Investing in Louisiana.
Powering the future.
Louisiana is growing. Entergy Louisiana is investing in the power grid today in
order to provide clean, reliable and affordable energy for generations to come.
CUSTOMER SAVINGS
Entergy Louisiana delivers some of the most affordable rates in the country. With
rates more than 30 percent below the national average, our customers save money
and our region attracts new industry.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Community is at the heart of everything we do. That’s why we do more than just
provide reliable electricity. We help our communities flourish. We employ over 4,000
people across Louisiana who are committed to serving the communities where we
live and work.
FUTURE GROWTH
As Louisiana grows, Entergy Louisiana is committed to powering that growth.
Last year, we invested over a billion dollars, while maintaining some of the most
affordable rates in the country. These investments help stimulate our economy,
create jobs, and provide clean, reliable and affordable energy for years to come.
Learn more about our plans for Louisiana at wepowerlife.com.
A message from Entergy Louisiana, LLC ©2017 Entergy Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
12757-4 Entergy ELL Investing 9x11.indd 1 6/8/17 11:34 AM