06.12.2018 Views

The Voice of Southwest Louisiana December 2018 Issue

The Voice of Southwest Louisiana News Magazine December 2018

The Voice of Southwest Louisiana News Magazine December 2018

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

Create successful ePaper yourself

Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.

<strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

Vol 6 No 5<br />

12-7-2017 Gillis, LA<br />

Giving<br />

Back<br />

16<br />

12 2019 Martin Luther King<br />

Jr. Festival Schedule<br />

14 Christmas with Doug<br />

and Millie<br />

Q&A with Dr.<br />

Christal Waller<br />

Let Go or Let Live<br />

24<br />

ADVENTURES<br />

<strong>of</strong> the Lake<br />

It’s Not Your Birthday<br />

22<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Voice</strong>'s Choice<br />

Lake Charles Community<br />

Band Christmas Concert<br />

13


DIANETICS<br />

T HE MOD ERN S CIENCE OF<br />

MENTAL H EALTH<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

'GO..Vote..<br />

GROW!!<br />

<br />

Stevens’ Funeral Home<br />

823 N. Shattuck Street Lake<br />

Charles, <strong>Louisiana</strong> 70601<br />

Stevens’<br />

Funeral Home<br />

<strong>The</strong> beginning <strong>of</strong> a legacy <strong>of</strong> service<br />

“Pr<strong>of</strong>essional, Personal, & Caring”<br />

337-433-3712<br />

Email: stevensfuneralhome@yahoo.com<br />

Website: www.stevensfunerals.com<br />

2 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 6 • Number 5


editor’s<br />

By Brenda Hill<br />

A New Season…<br />

Same Reason<br />

It’s that time <strong>of</strong> year again<br />

to receive gifts, and possibly give one…or two,<br />

from the hustle and bustle <strong>of</strong> shopping, though viewed by some as vain<br />

when observing large crowds looking for that perfect gift, seemingly without a clue<br />

<strong>of</strong> what the search is for.<br />

It can be confusing and doesn’t make sense, you see<br />

when they dash across the threshold <strong>of</strong> a department store<br />

swinging and slinging during a Black Friday shopping spree.<br />

And outside the holiday carolers are singing “Silent Night, Holy Night.”<br />

<strong>The</strong>n upon your exit from the store they are singing “Jingle Bells.”<br />

Leaving you to try and forget that full-fledged fight<br />

And how it hindered you from getting all the best sales.<br />

Now you are thinking all the saved, borrowed and stashed money<br />

You spent on that special he or she<br />

(such as a significant honey)<br />

Just to hear them say<br />

“Awwwww, you shouldn’t have.”<br />

So, you blankly stare back and say, “Yeah, you right, Bae!”<br />

Provoking your emotions to just about split that relationship in half.<br />

It is amazing how good intentions can certainly go awry<br />

when you set out to do the right thing…within reason<br />

and all the time thinking you were being a good guy<br />

just trying to celebrate the holiday season.<br />

However, there is an uplift<br />

to all this uncertain fuss<br />

He IS the Gift<br />

His Name Is JESUS.<br />

Merry Christmas<br />

Volume 6 • Number 5 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> 3


Dec <strong>2018</strong><br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Voice</strong>'s Choice<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Voice</strong>'s Choice will spotlight groups, individuals or topics<br />

that spread love, joy and peace throughout SWLA.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Lake Charles Community Band is an all-volunteer<br />

group dedicated to sharing the love <strong>of</strong> music with<br />

the public. It will hold a concert <strong>December</strong> 14, at 7 p.m.<br />

at Trinity Baptist Church, 1800 Country Club Road. <strong>The</strong><br />

concert is open to the public with free admission.<br />

16 Giving Back<br />

Sasol,<br />

Entergy &<br />

DA's Office<br />

giving back<br />

8 NUTRITION TIPS:<br />

Healthy<br />

Recipes<br />

Editor-In-Chief<br />

Brenda Hill<br />

brenda@thevoice<strong>of</strong>southwestla.com<br />

General Manager<br />

Tracy Clark<br />

tracy@thevoice<strong>of</strong>southwestla.com<br />

Art Director<br />

Vinh Alexander<br />

tvswlart@gmail.com<br />

Sales<br />

sales@thevoice<strong>of</strong>southwestla.com<br />

Copy Editors<br />

Jason Clark<br />

Cecely Clark<br />

Ann Champagne<br />

Consultants<br />

Gene R. Hill, Sr.<br />

Reginald Clark<br />

(See more on Pg 13)<br />

3 A NEW SEASON…SAME REASON<br />

EDITOR'S PEN<br />

5 IMPERIAL CALCASIEU REGIONAL<br />

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT<br />

COMMISSION<br />

US DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – ADVISORY<br />

COMMITTEE ON HUMAN TRAFFICKING<br />

6 SWLA NEWS<br />

DECEMBER TEEN CONNECTION SESSIONS ARE ON THE MOVE<br />

AND FOCUSED ON: TEEN BANKING BASICS AND BECOMING A<br />

BETTER WRITER<br />

7 SWLA HEALTH, WEALTH &<br />

WELLNESS<br />

THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS<br />

8 SWLA HEALTH CENTER<br />

HEALTHY RECIPES<br />

10 WHY NOT TEST?<br />

HIV AND AIDS IN THE AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY<br />

CONTENTS<br />

12 SWLA NONPROFIT<br />

2019 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. FESTIVAL SCHEDULE<br />

13 THE VOICE'S CHOICE<br />

LAKE CHARLES COMMUNITY BAND CHRISTMAS CONCERT<br />

14 MY SENIOR MOMENT 2.0<br />

CHRISTMAS WITH DOUG AND MILLIE<br />

16 SWLA FEATURE STORY<br />

GIVING BACK<br />

20 ‘TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY –<br />

RIGHT?<br />

PEACE FROM PIECES<br />

22 ADVENTURES OF THE LAKE<br />

IT’S NOT YOUR BIRTHDAY<br />

24 Q&A - LET GO OR LET LIVE<br />

A CONVERSATION WITH DR. CHRISTAL WALLER, SWLA CENTER<br />

FOR HEALTH SERVICES, OAKDALE, LA<br />

DISCLOSURE: All materials contained in the publication are copy-righted and June not be reproduced or reprinted in part or its entirety without the expressed written<br />

permission <strong>of</strong> <strong>The</strong> <strong>Voice</strong> <strong>of</strong> SWLA. <strong>The</strong> views expressed in articles <strong>of</strong> <strong>The</strong> <strong>Voice</strong> <strong>of</strong> SWLA are not necessarily the views <strong>of</strong> the ownership or sponsors in this publication. <strong>The</strong> <strong>Voice</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />

SWLA assumes no liability for errors or omissions. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy <strong>of</strong> all content.<br />

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS<br />

Brenda Hill<br />

Cheri L. Soileau, AICP, Executive/<br />

MPO Director<br />

Emily Ashworth RN, BSN<br />

Debra Guillory<br />

Joyce R. Kebodeaux<br />

Carra Sergeant, Ph. D.; LPC-S<br />

Lela Gholar Tizano<br />

Dr. Christal Waller<br />

PUBLISHED AND DISTRIBUTED BY<br />

Team Publications LLC.<br />

4310 Ryan St. Ste. 123<br />

Lake Charles, LA. 70605<br />

In the McNeese SEED Center<br />

337.474.2210<br />

4 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 6 • Number 5<br />

Cover By<br />

Vinh Photography


SWLA news<br />

Editor’s Note: This series <strong>of</strong> articles provided by Imperial Calcasieu Regional Planning<br />

& Development Commission (IMCAL) will inform, educate and update our readers on<br />

events affecting transportation and economic development in <strong>Southwest</strong> <strong>Louisiana</strong>.<br />

Imperial Calcasieu Regional Planning<br />

& Development Commission<br />

US Department <strong>of</strong> Transportation<br />

– Advisory Committee on Human Trafficking<br />

By Cheri L. Soileau, AICP, Executive/MPO Director<br />

Human trafficking is a<br />

topic that is difficult<br />

to discuss but is<br />

something that needs to be<br />

brought up from time to time.<br />

Different organizations in the<br />

US and throughout the world<br />

are working to eliminate this<br />

exploitation <strong>of</strong> humans but we<br />

all must be vigilant. Human<br />

trafficking isn’t something that is<br />

just happening in large cities or<br />

in other countries. It happens in<br />

small towns and throughout all<br />

parts <strong>of</strong> the US. People are being<br />

transported throughout the US<br />

on major interstates, including<br />

I-10 and through <strong>Southwest</strong><br />

<strong>Louisiana</strong>.<br />

<strong>The</strong> US Department<br />

<strong>of</strong> Transportation<br />

recently created the<br />

Advisory Committee<br />

on Human Trafficking<br />

that will provide<br />

information, advice and<br />

recommendations to<br />

the US DOT Secretary<br />

Elaine Chao. This is in<br />

addition to activities<br />

that the US Homeland<br />

Security, FBI and<br />

state and local law<br />

enforcement agencies<br />

are involved.<br />

While there are many agencies<br />

involved in trying to identify<br />

human trafficking victims, how<br />

does the average citizen help<br />

educate themselves about this<br />

subject. One <strong>of</strong> the best websites<br />

is www.polarisproject.org. It goes<br />

into detail about the variety <strong>of</strong><br />

jobs that traffickers use -and it’s<br />

surprising. Domestic workers,<br />

restaurants, construction, hotels,<br />

and other industries have people<br />

who have been trafficked.<br />

American citizens are trafficked,<br />

it’s not just foreign nationals.<br />

Men are just as likely to be<br />

victims as women and children<br />

and, many times, the victims are<br />

used by those they trust.<br />

How to identify human<br />

trafficking? It must involve fraud,<br />

coercion or force. <strong>The</strong> trafficker<br />

must force or coerce or somehow<br />

use fraud to get the victim<br />

to participate in the action.<br />

However, if a minor is involved,<br />

it’s always a crime no matter if<br />

there is or isn’t coercion or fraud.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re are many signs that can<br />

indicate a person is a victim.<br />

Some <strong>of</strong> them involve physical or<br />

poor mental health-always tired,<br />

always scared, never allowed<br />

breaks, never paid directly, poor<br />

hygiene or may have a large debt<br />

that can never be paid <strong>of</strong>f. <strong>The</strong>y<br />

may also not know where they<br />

are, have inconsistent stories, lost<br />

sense <strong>of</strong> time or just generally<br />

confused.<br />

<strong>The</strong> State <strong>of</strong> <strong>Louisiana</strong> requires<br />

that every truck stop, highway<br />

rest stop, or hotels have signage<br />

posted with the National Human<br />

Trafficking hot line number.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re are people who can speak<br />

in over 170 languages and can<br />

help with services, training and<br />

general information.<br />

If you suspect somebody is a<br />

victim, the National Human<br />

Trafficking Hotline Number is:<br />

888-373-7888 or text Be Free<br />

(2337333)<br />

Another group that has eyes<br />

on the highways at all times<br />

is Truckers against Trafficking,<br />

http://truckersagainsttrafficking.<br />

org/ Take a look at their website.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y have information and<br />

training materials.<br />

Learning about human<br />

trafficking, identifying victims<br />

and alerting law enforcement<br />

goes a long way to helping stop<br />

this crime. Get involved. Get<br />

educated.<br />

Cheri L. Soileau, AICP,<br />

Executive/MPO Director<br />

Imperial Calcasieu<br />

Regional Planning &<br />

Development Commission<br />

Lake Charles Urbanized<br />

Metropolitan Planning<br />

Organization (MPO)<br />

4310 Ryan Street, Suite 330<br />

Lake Charles LA 70605<br />

O: 337-433-1771<br />

C: 469-964-2015<br />

www.imcal.la<br />

Volume 6 • Number 5 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> 5


SWLA news<br />

<strong>December</strong> Teen Connection<br />

Sessions are on the Move<br />

and Focused on:<br />

Teen Banking Basics and Becoming<br />

a Better Writer<br />

Teen Connection seminars are scheduled for Thursday, <strong>December</strong><br />

6 and Thursday, <strong>December</strong> 13. This month’s free sessions will<br />

be held from 5-6 p.m. at the Ward 3 Recreation Huber Park<br />

Community Center, located at 2401 4th Avenue.<br />

On Thursday, <strong>December</strong> 6, Teen Connection will tackle Banking<br />

for Teens. Representatives from Hancock Whitney will be on hand<br />

to provide valuable information on what teens need to know<br />

when entering the financial world for the first time.<br />

On Thursday, <strong>December</strong> 13, Teen Connection will focus on<br />

teaching teens how to Become a Better Writer in Five Easy<br />

Steps. Even in today’s digital world <strong>of</strong> sometimes shorthand<br />

communication, the written word remains vitally important. <strong>The</strong><br />

ability to communicate ideas, opinions and information in a clear,<br />

concise manner remains a top skill for any pr<strong>of</strong>essional.<br />

In October 2017, the City <strong>of</strong> Lake Charles began hosting “Teen<br />

Connection” for teenagers, 13 to 18 years old, in Calcasieu Parish.<br />

Teen Connection is designed to help teenagers learn job skills,<br />

college prep, social media, interview skills, and ACT prep among<br />

others. <strong>The</strong> classes are instructed by educators, government<br />

<strong>of</strong>ficials, and business leaders in the community.<br />

<strong>The</strong> City <strong>of</strong> Lake Charles fully complies with Title VI <strong>of</strong> the Civil Rights Act <strong>of</strong> 1964 and related<br />

statutes and regulations in all programs and activities. For more information, or to obtain a Title<br />

VI Complaint Form, see the City <strong>of</strong> Lake Charles website- www.city<strong>of</strong>lakecharles.com or call the<br />

Mayor’s Action Line at (337) 491-1346, or contact the appropriate Department Head, or call the<br />

Title VI coordinator at (337) 491-1440.<br />

Katie C. Harrington, TMP<br />

Public Information Officer<br />

Office <strong>of</strong> the Mayor<br />

326 Pujo Street – 10th Floor<br />

Lake Charles, LA 70601<br />

Office: (337) 491-9176<br />

Fax: (337) 491-1206<br />

www.city<strong>of</strong>lakecharles.com<br />

6 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 6 • Number 5


SWLA health, wealth & wellness Inform, Educate, Empower<br />

Gil and Allonah opening<br />

Christmas gifts, playing in<br />

the snow and Christmas<br />

in San Antonio with mom,<br />

dad and Tweety.<br />

<strong>The</strong> True Meaning<br />

<strong>of</strong> Christmas<br />

By Emily Ashworth RN, BSN<br />

Becoming a mom and<br />

holding our children<br />

in my arms was and is<br />

one <strong>of</strong> the greatest gifts the<br />

Lord has given my husband<br />

and me.<br />

When our children were<br />

younger, every Christmas they<br />

gave me a list <strong>of</strong> items they<br />

would like to receive, and we<br />

showered them with many<br />

gifts. Some would end up in<br />

the corner after they played<br />

with them for only a few<br />

months.<br />

It seems that for many,<br />

Christmas has become a<br />

holiday more about gift giving<br />

and less about time reflected<br />

on what the holiday truly<br />

means to us and our families.<br />

Talking to our children<br />

about Christmas helped us<br />

to understand what was<br />

truly important because<br />

their memories were not<br />

<strong>of</strong> the toys, we purchased<br />

them. <strong>The</strong>ir memories were<br />

<strong>of</strong> time we spent together,<br />

and <strong>of</strong> times we traveled or<br />

played in the snow; roasting<br />

marshmallows in the back<br />

yard, and times we spent with<br />

extended family and friends.<br />

It is those memories that<br />

become soothing moments,<br />

during holiday seasons, when<br />

we have experienced the loss<br />

<strong>of</strong> some <strong>of</strong> our loved ones as<br />

my family has this year.<br />

Major life changes such as<br />

the death <strong>of</strong> a loved one,<br />

job changes, and other<br />

occurrences can cause<br />

increased fatigue, anger,<br />

and/or increased use <strong>of</strong><br />

alcohol and drugs. In<br />

our children, changes in<br />

behavior in the classroom,<br />

refusal to complete<br />

work, and disinterest in<br />

activities can all be signs <strong>of</strong><br />

depression.<br />

Though many <strong>of</strong> our family<br />

members are smiling on the<br />

inside they may be hurting<br />

and dealing with sadness,<br />

loneliness, and feelings <strong>of</strong><br />

worthlessness that they hide<br />

day in and day out.<br />

According to the Anxiety<br />

and Depression Association<br />

<strong>of</strong> America, depression is<br />

one <strong>of</strong> the leading causes<br />

<strong>of</strong> disability in the United<br />

States from ages 15-44.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re are many forms <strong>of</strong><br />

depression and seeking<br />

pr<strong>of</strong>essional help is not a<br />

sign <strong>of</strong> weakness or a lack <strong>of</strong><br />

faith. Imbalances in thyroid<br />

hormones, estrogen, and<br />

testosterone can also lead to<br />

these symptoms.<br />

Visit these following links for more<br />

information:<br />

https://adaa.org/understandinganxiety/depression<br />

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/<br />

publications/depression/index.<br />

shtml#pub1<br />

I pray that your family will plan<br />

‘time sharing moments’ this<br />

holiday season. I challenge<br />

you to make memories <strong>of</strong><br />

time spent with family and<br />

friends this Christmas.<br />

Yes…gather with family and<br />

take a few photos. <strong>The</strong>n put<br />

the phone or camera down,<br />

take a break from social<br />

media, and make intimate<br />

memories <strong>of</strong> storytelling that<br />

you may go back and recall on<br />

your life’s journey.<br />

De- stress yourself by giving<br />

back; help supply needs and<br />

wants to others who are poor<br />

or have experienced disasters<br />

or even invent something<br />

that makes a difference to<br />

someone in these trying<br />

times.<br />

Most <strong>of</strong> all, give your most<br />

precious gift <strong>of</strong> time with and<br />

to those you love.<br />

Be Well!<br />

Volume 6 • Number 5 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> 7


SWLA Health Center<br />

Healthy Recipes<br />

NUTRITION CONTENT<br />

Per Serving<br />

Makes 6 servings<br />

calories: 245<br />

total fat: 5.69g<br />

saturated fat: 2.33g<br />

carbohydrates: 21.09g<br />

protein: 25.8g<br />

cholesterol: 56.61mg<br />

sodium: 476mg<br />

dietary fiber: 4.56g<br />

1. Pre-heat oven to 350°. Spray a<br />

medium baking pan with cooking<br />

spray. On waxed paper, mix bread<br />

crumbs, cheese, cornmeal, and<br />

ground red pepper.<br />

2. In pie plate, beat egg white and<br />

salt. Dip each piece <strong>of</strong> chicken in<br />

egg white mixture, then coat with<br />

bread crumb mixture. Place chicken<br />

in pan; spray lightly with cooking<br />

spray.<br />

3. Bake chicken for 30 minutes or<br />

until coating is crisp and juices<br />

run clear when chicken is pierced<br />

with the tip <strong>of</strong> a knife. Add mixed<br />

vegetables to chicken. Bake for 5<br />

more minutes. Serve with garlic<br />

mashed potatoes.<br />

INGREDIENTS<br />

non-stick cooking spray<br />

½ cup plain dried bread<br />

crumbs<br />

½ cup grated Parmesan<br />

cheese<br />

2 tablespoons cornmeal<br />

½ teaspoon ground red<br />

pepper<br />

1 large egg white<br />

½ teaspoon salt<br />

1½ lbs boneless, skinless<br />

chicken breast<br />

3 cups mixed vegetables<br />

NUTRITION CONTENT<br />

Per Serving<br />

Makes 6 servings<br />

calories: 387<br />

total fat: 1.04g<br />

saturated fat: 0.07g<br />

carbohydrates: 88.64g<br />

protein: 9g<br />

cholesterol: 0mg<br />

sodium: 747mg<br />

dietary fiber: 6.70g<br />

1. Bake or buy an angel food cake.<br />

2. Cut tops <strong>of</strong>f one pint <strong>of</strong><br />

strawberries. Combine with ½<br />

pint <strong>of</strong> blackberries, ½ pint <strong>of</strong><br />

blueberries, and strawberry glaze.<br />

Reserve remaining berries for<br />

garnish.<br />

3. Mix well so that berries are<br />

thoroughly coated with glaze.<br />

4. To serve, spoon ½ to ¾ cup <strong>of</strong><br />

glazed berry mixture over each<br />

slice <strong>of</strong> cake. Garnish each slice<br />

with a slice <strong>of</strong> lemon and a few<br />

unglazed berries.<br />

INGREDIENTS<br />

1 angel food cake<br />

1 pint blueberries<br />

2 pints strawberries<br />

1 package strawberry<br />

glaze (1 cup prepared)<br />

1 pint blackberries<br />

1 lemon (sliced)<br />

8 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 6 • Number 5


Find more DOWN HOME HEALTHY COOKING Recipes at https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet/down-home-healthy-cooking.pdf<br />

NUTRITION CONTENT<br />

Per Serving<br />

Makes 10 servings<br />

calories: 151<br />

total fat: 0.5g<br />

saturated fat: 0.2g<br />

carbohydrates: 30g<br />

protein: 6g<br />

cholesterol: 2.3mg<br />

sodium: 118mg<br />

dietary fiber: 3.1g<br />

1. In a blender, blend cottage<br />

cheese, milk, lemon juice,<br />

vinegar, celery seed, dillweed,<br />

dry mustard, and white pepper<br />

until smooth. Chill for 1 hour.<br />

2. Scrub potatoes; boil in jackets<br />

until tender. Cool; peel. Cut into<br />

½-inch cubes. Add celery, green<br />

onion, and parsley.<br />

3. Pour chilled cottage cheese<br />

mixture over vegetables; mix<br />

well. Chill at least 30 minutes<br />

before serving.<br />

INGREDIENTS<br />

3 lbs potatoes (6 large)<br />

1 cup chopped celery<br />

½ cup sliced green onion<br />

2 tablespoons chopped parsley<br />

DRESSING<br />

1 cup low-fat cottage cheese<br />

¾ cup skim milk<br />

3 tablespoons lemon juice<br />

2 tablespoons cider vinegar<br />

½ teaspoon celery seed<br />

½ teaspoon dillweed<br />

½ teaspoon dry mustard<br />

½ teaspoon white pepper<br />

Volume 6 • Number 5 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> 9


SWLA Health Center<br />

World Aids Day <strong>2018</strong>, is an international day designated on <strong>December</strong> 1 since 1988. It<br />

raises awareness <strong>of</strong> the AIDS pandemic through the spread <strong>of</strong> the HIV infection and to<br />

mourn the loss <strong>of</strong> those who died from the disease.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Word on<br />

HIV &<br />

AIDS<br />

Why not<br />

test?<br />

HIV and AIDS in the African American Community<br />

By: Debra Guillory<br />

HIV-Human Immune Deficiency<br />

Virus is a virus that in most<br />

cases is sexually transmitted<br />

by blood or other body fluids that<br />

causes an infection or attack on the<br />

person’s immune system and if left<br />

untreated can lead to full blown AIDS.<br />

AIDS-Acquired Immune Deficiency<br />

Syndrome is the most serious phase <strong>of</strong><br />

the disease in which the immune system<br />

fails and life threatening infections and<br />

cancers take over the body.<br />

<strong>Louisiana</strong> ranks eleventh (2015) in the<br />

nation in the number <strong>of</strong> reported HIV<br />

cases with New Orleans and Baton Rouge<br />

leading the state <strong>of</strong> reportable cases<br />

and notably in the African American<br />

community. African Americans make up<br />

about 15% <strong>of</strong> <strong>Louisiana</strong>’s total population<br />

but 68% <strong>of</strong> the reported cases are African<br />

Americans and more women <strong>of</strong> color<br />

are being newly diagnosed and are<br />

disproportionately affected.<br />

<strong>The</strong> increased frequency in sexually<br />

transmitted diseases, improper or<br />

no use <strong>of</strong> condoms with every sexual<br />

encounter, knowing how many sexual<br />

partners your partner has had, men on<br />

the down low and needle sharing are also<br />

contributing factors for HIV+ diagnosis<br />

and greatly puts the individual at risk for<br />

contracting the virus.<br />

Many African Americans may be HIV+<br />

and don’t even know it due to the<br />

fact that many do not seek routine<br />

healthcare screenings or services<br />

from a medical provider and may<br />

only seek treatment after signs and<br />

symptoms appear. Among those<br />

who seek treatment, many are fearful<br />

or reluctant to discuss sexual health<br />

issues or concerns with their doctor and<br />

refuse testing. A great number <strong>of</strong> these<br />

individuals continue to have unprotected<br />

sex with multiple partners and<br />

unknowingly pass the virus along to their<br />

partners. African American women are<br />

significantly more at risk for contracting<br />

the virus becoming infected and<br />

impacted by the disease. Accessibility<br />

to continued care and support services<br />

also continues to plague those in care<br />

post testing results <strong>of</strong> being HIV+ and<br />

late confirmation <strong>of</strong> an AIDS diagnosis<br />

and the ability to follow through with<br />

the advised medical regime. Other<br />

factors/contributing factors are: socioeconomic<br />

issues, low self esteem, no<br />

support system, fear, denial, shame or<br />

stigma attached to diagnosis, financial<br />

dependence on a partner, not in a<br />

monogamous relationship, distrust on<br />

the healthcare delivery system.<br />

Some common myths and false<br />

misinformation especially in the African<br />

American communities also leads to a<br />

lack <strong>of</strong> treatment for the disease.<br />

1) Everyone who has HIV is infectious<br />

and can transmit the disease.<br />

2) Condoms are the only way to prevent<br />

10<br />

<strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 6 • Number 5


Human<br />

Immunodeficiency<br />

Virus (HIV)<br />

HIV causes<br />

progressive failure <strong>of</strong><br />

the immune system,<br />

making the body far<br />

more susceptible to<br />

infections and cancer.<br />

For some patients,<br />

HIV develops<br />

into acquired<br />

immunodeficiency<br />

syndrome (AIDS).<br />

the transmission <strong>of</strong> the virus.<br />

3) Persons newly diagnosed should wait<br />

for signs and symptoms to be treated.<br />

4) HIV+ test is bad news (automatic<br />

death sentence).<br />

5) Only gay men are at significant risk for<br />

the disease.<br />

<strong>The</strong> simple truth <strong>of</strong> the matter is<br />

you can’t look at someone and tell<br />

if they are HIV infected as signs and<br />

symptoms may vary from person to<br />

person. <strong>The</strong> only way to know what your<br />

status is to seek testing from a trusted<br />

medical provider who can weigh all your<br />

options, concerns and issues that you<br />

may have regarding your total health.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re are many healthcare choices,<br />

treatment options, and medicines on the<br />

market (Truvada) today that were not<br />

available even as little as 10 years ago.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re are four steps we can take to<br />

help prevent HIV.<br />

1. Know how HIV spreads.<br />

2. Understand the chance <strong>of</strong> getting HIV<br />

from different sexual activities.<br />

3. Get tested. Ask your partners about<br />

their test results. And tell them about<br />

yours.<br />

4. Talk to a healthcare provider about all<br />

the ways to prevent HIV.<br />

PROTECT YOURSELF AND THE PEOPLE<br />

YOU CARE ABOUT<br />

Start by getting tested, and take these<br />

steps.<br />

Sexual activity:<br />

Try talking to your partners about HIV<br />

first. Ask whether they have been tested<br />

and what the results were, and always<br />

use condoms.<br />

Injection drug use:<br />

Never share needles, syringes, or other<br />

drug injection equipment.<br />

Breastfeeding and Pregnancy:<br />

Do not breastfeed if you have HIV.<br />

<strong>The</strong> virus can be passed to your baby<br />

through breast milk. If you are pregnant,<br />

a healthcare provider can help you<br />

understand how to prevent passing HIV<br />

to your baby.<br />

By having an open and honest<br />

discussion with your healthcare<br />

providers will you then be able to<br />

make choices that can significantly<br />

make your life healthier. <strong>The</strong>re are<br />

many options and advancements being<br />

made for those with a HIV+ diagnosis to<br />

improve the quality <strong>of</strong> life for individuals.<br />

More and more people are leading<br />

normal lives, holding full time jobs,<br />

having families and living advanced<br />

years with the diagnosis. SWLA Center<br />

for Health Services <strong>of</strong>fer FREE Testing and<br />

Counseling services. GET TESTED.<br />

Reference Source: www.helpstopthevirus.com<br />

Volume 6 • Number 5 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> 11


SWLA non-pr<strong>of</strong>it<br />

2019<br />

Martin Luther King Jr.<br />

Festival Schedule<br />

<strong>The</strong> MLK Coalition announces plans for Martin Luther<br />

King Jr. Festival Jr. 2019 held January 18-21, 2019. <strong>The</strong><br />

theme this year is “Not Everybody Can Be Famous But<br />

Everybody Can Be Great Because Greatness Is Determined<br />

By Service… You Only Need A Heart Full Of Grace And A<br />

Soul Generated By Love.” We celebrate the 35th anniversary<br />

and being chosen as a top 20 Event by the Southeast Tourism<br />

Society for the first quarter <strong>of</strong> <strong>2018</strong>, a coveted honor among<br />

12-member states.<br />

<strong>The</strong> MLK Jr. Festival honors the courageous efforts and sacrifices <strong>of</strong><br />

Martin Luther King Jr.<br />

January 18th - Friday Morning Kick Off<br />

7:30 a.m. — Annual Memorial Breakfast @ Mount Olive<br />

Baptist Church (Honoring outstanding individuals in the<br />

community)<br />

Guest Speaker - Chief Of Police Baton Rouge, <strong>Louisiana</strong> Chief<br />

Murphy Paul. Local high school choirs performing include:<br />

Barbe, Lagrange, Sulphur, St. Louis and Washington Marion,<br />

led by each school's choir director, and accompanied by Mr.<br />

Don McZeal and Ms. Belinda Williams.<br />

9:00 a.m. — MLK Unsung Hero Award<br />

First place winners from each division <strong>of</strong> the essay contest will<br />

read their winning essay. Open to the public and televised live<br />

on KPLC TV.<br />

Saturday January 19th<br />

8:00 a.m. — MLK Community 5K Run/3Mile Walk and<br />

Health Fair @ Lake Charles Civic Center<br />

3:00 p.m. — MLK Community Clean-Up @ 12th Street/<br />

Ryan Street (Featuring the Boy Scouts <strong>of</strong> America and<br />

Washington Marion ROTC)<br />

6:00 p.m. — Gospel Extravaganza @ Throne <strong>of</strong> Grace<br />

Fellowship, 2401 6th Street, Lake Charles, LA (Featuring<br />

performers from throughout <strong>Louisiana</strong>)<br />

Free Admission<br />

Monday January 21st<br />

8:30 a.m. — Annual Parade<br />

Line up at the Lake Charles Civic Center<br />

11:00 a.m. — Parade Roll Out<br />

Family Day Celebration (Zydeco, R&B, Blues, and Southern<br />

Soul Music)<br />

Celebrity Gumbo Cook-Off Contest<br />

Local Vendor Exhibition (Arts, Crafts, Creole, and Cajun<br />

Foods)<br />

Purchase T-Shirts at KZWA and Unlimited Fashions<br />

Those wearing Commemorative MLK 2019 T-Shirts are<br />

invited to march in the parade and the admittance into<br />

Monday events are all free.<br />

Pay fees and/or pick up entry forms at the business <strong>of</strong>fice,<br />

address listed below, and for more details contact:<br />

Roxie Smith<br />

Call: 337-491-9955 or fax: 337-433-8097<br />

KZWA LIVE 104.9<br />

mail@kzwafm.com<br />

305 Enterprise Blvd<br />

Lake Charles, LA 70601<br />

12<br />

<strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 6 • Number 5


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Voice</strong>'s Choice<br />

Lake Charles Community Band<br />

Christmas Concert<br />

<strong>The</strong> Lake Charles Community<br />

Band will hold a Christmas<br />

Concert on Friday, <strong>December</strong><br />

14 at 7 p.m. at Trinity Baptist<br />

Church, 1800 Country Club Road.<br />

<strong>The</strong> concert is open to the public<br />

with free admission. <strong>The</strong> band will be<br />

accompanied by the Our Lady Queen<br />

<strong>of</strong> Heaven Youth Choir and the Saint<br />

Louis High Choir. <strong>The</strong> program will<br />

include many traditional favorites<br />

such as “Jingle Bell Fantasy” and “Do<br />

You Hear What I Hear” as well as<br />

selections from “Polar Express” and a<br />

few surprises.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Community Band is under the<br />

direction <strong>of</strong> retired Fred Roeder and he<br />

is assisted by Leo Murray. <strong>The</strong> makeup<br />

<strong>of</strong> the band includes pr<strong>of</strong>essional<br />

musicians, band directors, teachers,<br />

retirees, housewives, craftsmen,<br />

pr<strong>of</strong>essionals and students. <strong>The</strong> band<br />

is an all-volunteer group, which is<br />

dedicated to sharing love <strong>of</strong> music<br />

with the public.<br />

<strong>The</strong> band is supported by grants from<br />

the City <strong>of</strong> Lake Charles, Lake Charles/<br />

<strong>Southwest</strong> <strong>Louisiana</strong> Convention &<br />

Visitors Bureau, and the Calcasieu<br />

Parish Police Jury as administered by<br />

the Arts and Humanities Council <strong>of</strong><br />

SWLA. Funding is also provided by<br />

Phillips 66, “Note-Donations” and the<br />

“Friends <strong>of</strong> the LCCB” donations at<br />

different levels. For more information<br />

contact Brenda Harrington, President<br />

at 713-825-6864 or e-mail at<br />

bmhtrmpt@aol.com.<br />

Volume 6 • Number 5 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> 13


My Senior Moment 2.0<br />

By Joyce R. Kebodeaux<br />

Christmas<br />

with Doug<br />

and Millie<br />

Visiting with Doug Hebert and<br />

Millie Wherland during the<br />

Holidays is a joyful experience.<br />

<strong>The</strong>ir telling <strong>of</strong> their past holidays as<br />

children makes one feel like you were<br />

right there with them. Millie said, “I grew<br />

up in Brownsville Texas. At Christmas,<br />

we girls from the church went from<br />

house to house singing Christmas Carols.<br />

Afterward we’d have supper at the<br />

Pastor’s house.”<br />

Doug grew up in Lake Charles where<br />

the Holidays were all about Church,<br />

family and food. “Both my parents were<br />

excellent cooks and enjoyed cooking<br />

for their families,” he said. “<strong>The</strong> smells<br />

from the kitchen mixed were with the<br />

smells <strong>of</strong> the Douglas Fir Christmas Tree,”<br />

he said. “How well I remember those<br />

days. One Christmas we five children<br />

snuck out one night while Mom and Dad<br />

were sleeping. I was five years old. My<br />

brother got the keys to our 1957 Green<br />

Plymouth. It had those high taillights.<br />

When he opened the trunk we all saw<br />

these beautifully wrapped gifts. We<br />

snuck back into bed without getting<br />

caught and on Christmas Eve we all<br />

pretended to be surprised,” he laughed.<br />

“My dad made wooden scooters and<br />

refurbished old bicycles to surprise us<br />

girls at Christmas. We didn’t get a lot<br />

<strong>of</strong> gifts, maybe one or two,” Millie said.<br />

“But we always got a stocking filled with<br />

huge apples and oranges and mixed<br />

nuts. When I got a doll, I mothered it<br />

the whole year. For us girls, [there were<br />

six <strong>of</strong> us] our gifts were the dolls and<br />

paper dolls and tea sets. And we got new<br />

dresses to wear to church every year.”<br />

For Doug his gifts were baseballs, a bat<br />

or small plastic figures that he played<br />

imaginary wars and other action games.<br />

One year there was a croquet set. “<strong>The</strong><br />

whole family enjoyed that gift,” Doug<br />

said.<br />

Both Doug and Millie say they grew<br />

up poor. <strong>The</strong>re was always food on the<br />

table, a ro<strong>of</strong> over their heads and neither<br />

realized they were poor until they were<br />

grown-ups. One thing not missing in<br />

both families was love. <strong>The</strong>y had enough<br />

for themselves and then some to share<br />

with others.<br />

14<br />

<strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 6 • Number 5


MINISTER<br />

COURTNEY D. JONES<br />

courtney.jones24@yahoo.com<br />

Minister: 337.532.2729<br />

Church: 337.419.1911<br />

Doug Hebert 6 years and ready for church<br />

Mill-Street-Church-<strong>of</strong>-Christ<br />

Millie Wherland 8 years old and playing with<br />

a doll she received at Christmas.<br />

Volume 6 • Number 5 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> 15


SWLA feature story<br />

Giving Bac<br />

Sasol Gives<br />

to Student<br />

Scholarships<br />

SOWELA Chancellor Dr. Neil Aspinwall and SOWELA<br />

Foundation Board Members Martin Guillory and Bill<br />

Hankins accept a donation on behalf <strong>of</strong> the SOWELA<br />

Foundation <strong>of</strong> $123,000 for the Workforce Training Scholarship<br />

Program which is made possible through the Community Foundation<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>Southwest</strong> <strong>Louisiana</strong> and Sasol. <strong>The</strong> Presentation was made by the<br />

President <strong>of</strong> the Community Foundation <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Southwest</strong> <strong>Louisiana</strong>,<br />

Sara Judson, and Sasol Vice President <strong>of</strong> Operations: West Plant<br />

Michael Kane.<br />

16<br />

<strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 6 • Number 5


k<br />

Sasol/Curt<br />

Eysink Endowed<br />

Scholarship<br />

SOWELA Chancellor Dr. Neil Aspinwall<br />

and SOWELA Foundation Board<br />

Members Martin Guillory and Bill<br />

Hankins accept a donation on behalf<br />

<strong>of</strong> the SOWELA Foundation <strong>of</strong> $10,000<br />

for the Sasol/Curt Eysink Endowed Scholarship<br />

from Sasol Vice President <strong>of</strong> Operations: West<br />

Plant Michael Kane.<br />

CONTINUE ON NEXT PAGE ---><br />

Volume 6 • Number 5 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> 17


SWLA feature story<br />

CONTINUED FROM PAGES 16-17<br />

Giving Back<br />

Photo includes (left to right):<br />

Anthony “Chip” Arnould, Sr., Region Manager, Entergy<br />

Mayor Nicholas E. Hunter, City <strong>of</strong> Lake Charles<br />

Denise Fasske, City <strong>of</strong> Lake Charles<br />

Entergy<br />

Supports<br />

Lake Charles<br />

Events<br />

Anthony “Chip” Arnould, Sr. Region Manager,<br />

Entergy <strong>Louisiana</strong> presented Mayor Nicholas<br />

E. Hunter with a check for $15,000 on behalf<br />

<strong>of</strong> Entergy in support <strong>of</strong> several <strong>of</strong> the City’s<br />

community events. Programs such as Downtown at<br />

Sundown, Red White Blue & You, and the Light up the Lake<br />

Christmas Celebration rely strictly on corporate sponsorships<br />

such as Entergy’s. This year’s check included an additional<br />

$5,000 for sponsorship <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Louisiana</strong> Municipal Association<br />

annual convention hosted in Lake Charles.<br />

“Entergy is proud to partner with programs which enhance<br />

the quality <strong>of</strong> life and contribute to the cultural economy in<br />

our community,” said Arnould.<br />

For more information on community events go to www.<br />

city<strong>of</strong>lakecharles.com or call 337-491-9159.<br />

18<br />

<strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 6 • Number 5


Pictured L to R: John F. DeRosier, Calcasieu Parish District Attorney and<br />

Julio R. Galan, President & CEO <strong>of</strong> Family & Youth.<br />

Calcasieu Parish<br />

District Attorney’s<br />

Office donates<br />

in support <strong>of</strong><br />

the Children’s<br />

Advocacy Center<br />

Family Foundation <strong>of</strong> <strong>Southwest</strong> <strong>Louisiana</strong> (Family<br />

Foundation) was presented with a $100,000.00 donation<br />

from the Calcasieu Parish District Attorney’s Office in<br />

support <strong>of</strong> the Children’s Advocacy Center. Proceeds were<br />

donated through the Family Foundation Capital Campaign, which is<br />

raising funds to expand Family & Youth’s current facilities.<br />

<strong>The</strong> donation will provide vital services to children who are seen at the<br />

Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC). <strong>The</strong> CAC is a child friendly facility<br />

where victims <strong>of</strong> abuse and/or neglect can tell their story in a safe and<br />

comfortable environment.<br />

Family Foundation <strong>of</strong> <strong>Southwest</strong> <strong>Louisiana</strong> is committed to<br />

meeting the needs <strong>of</strong> families in <strong>Southwest</strong> <strong>Louisiana</strong>. <strong>The</strong>refore, as<br />

our community grows, so must Family & Youth. <strong>The</strong> Family Foundation<br />

Capital Campaign’s purpose is to provide funding for a building<br />

expansion, which will ensure that Family & Youth’s division will have the<br />

resources and capabilities to welcome and serve anyone who needs our<br />

help in our community.<br />

Volume 6 • Number 5 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> 19


Peace from Pieces<br />

By Carra Sergeant, Ph. D.; LPC-S<br />

Licensed Pr<strong>of</strong>essional Counselor<br />

‘TIS THE SEASON TO<br />

BE JOLLY – RIGHT?<br />

It's <strong>of</strong>ficial — we're right in<br />

the middle <strong>of</strong> the holiday<br />

season. Is your first<br />

response "Bah, humbug!?"<br />

Well, you're not the only one.<br />

With all the hustle and bustle,<br />

the lack <strong>of</strong> sleep, the relatives,<br />

and the fatty or sugary foods,<br />

you may be feeling drainedphysically<br />

and emotionally. For<br />

you, the holidays may not be<br />

a cause for celebration. <strong>The</strong>re<br />

are a million different reasons<br />

that holiday stressors can turn<br />

into the holiday blues. You may<br />

feel overstretched financially;<br />

your daily routine may become<br />

disrupted due to parties and<br />

shopping; you may be eating<br />

unhealthily; you may feel<br />

increasing stress dealing with<br />

family members; or you may be<br />

feeling lonely. Financial, social<br />

and physical strain can all lead<br />

to holiday depression.<br />

Many <strong>of</strong> the reasons for<br />

“holiday blues” are centered<br />

around the pressure to create<br />

the perfect holiday. People<br />

romanticize what is going on in<br />

everyone else's life and try to<br />

live up to that ideal. Holidays<br />

are not as magical as some<br />

people believe. Your family<br />

won’t suddenly be on their<br />

best behavior, things won't go<br />

exactly as you had planned, so<br />

it's important to adjust your<br />

expectations accordingly. Just<br />

as no one has the perfect life,<br />

no one has the perfect holiday.<br />

Take heart… It's not<br />

uncommon for some people<br />

to become mildly depressed<br />

during this time <strong>of</strong> year. Don’t<br />

let the pressure <strong>of</strong> the season<br />

steal your joy. Fortunately,<br />

there are some simple steps<br />

you can take to lift your spirits<br />

and get you through the<br />

holiday season:<br />

••<br />

Spend time with people<br />

you care about: Reach<br />

out to the people with<br />

whom you can be yourself.<br />

Just seeing a loved one's<br />

smiling face can make a big<br />

difference in your mood.<br />

••<br />

Give back: If you're<br />

feeling isolated or lonely,<br />

try volunteering in your<br />

community. Volunteering<br />

is a great way to surround<br />

yourself with other people<br />

and take your mind <strong>of</strong>f <strong>of</strong><br />

your worries for a while.<br />

••<br />

Don't compare yourself<br />

to others: Life always looks<br />

better on the other side, but<br />

things are not always what<br />

they seem. It might even be<br />

helpful to minimize social<br />

media exposure during the<br />

holidays. People tend to<br />

share their best moments on<br />

social media, but remember,<br />

their life has bad times, too.<br />

••<br />

Get some exercise: Exercise<br />

has a long list <strong>of</strong> benefits,<br />

including helping you deal<br />

with stress and anxiety.<br />

••<br />

Have fun without<br />

overdoing it: Enjoying<br />

good food and drink is part<br />

<strong>of</strong> what the holidays are all<br />

about. Be sure to set limits<br />

for yourself, especially with<br />

alcohol. Overindulging<br />

doesn't solve any problems.<br />

••<br />

Be honest about how<br />

you're feeling: Sometimes<br />

the hardest part <strong>of</strong><br />

this season is thinking<br />

you should feel a certain<br />

way, even when you don't.<br />

Don't force it. When friends<br />

or family ask how you're<br />

doing, be honest. You never<br />

know who else might be<br />

feeling the same way.,<br />

••<br />

Stick to a budget: Instead<br />

<strong>of</strong> spending to excess,<br />

determine how much you<br />

want to spend on gifts, and<br />

don't go over the limit. Tell<br />

family and friends, "With the<br />

economy so uncertain, I’m<br />

trying not to overdo it this<br />

year."<br />

••<br />

Don't dwell on the<br />

past: Memories <strong>of</strong> happier<br />

times—or not-so-happy<br />

times—can disrupt your<br />

life now. If these holidays<br />

are nothing like the joyous<br />

20<br />

<strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 6 • Number 5


Love is what you’ll find in the<br />

room with you at Christmas, if<br />

you stop opening presents long<br />

enough to listen.<br />

--Anon<br />

times you enjoyed as a<br />

child, don’t let it sadden<br />

you. If you had a big fight<br />

with your parents last year,<br />

don’t automatically think<br />

that you’ll fight again this<br />

year. Instead, allow yourself<br />

to enjoy the present<br />

moment.<br />

••<br />

Eat just enough: Overeating<br />

can make you feel ill and<br />

contribute to weight gain,<br />

so don’t feel obligated to<br />

consume everything your<br />

host puts in front <strong>of</strong> you.<br />

To politely decline extra<br />

helpings, say, "Everything<br />

was delicious, but I couldn’t<br />

eat another bite."<br />

••<br />

Keep to your routine: When<br />

you’re shopping, cooking<br />

and going to parties, you’re<br />

less likely to spend time<br />

on self-care—but those<br />

healthy habits help protect<br />

you against negative<br />

emotions. So, don’t disrupt<br />

your exercise routine,<br />

continue your relaxation<br />

regimen, and get good rest.<br />

You may find that you’ll<br />

be less bothered by family<br />

squabbles and upsets.<br />

••<br />

Say “no”—and skip the<br />

guilt: You don’t have to<br />

accept every invitation, if it<br />

means you’ll be losing sleep<br />

or precious downtime.<br />

We need private time to<br />

recuperate and regain<br />

our energy, Feel free to<br />

leave the party a bit early<br />

or to politely decline an<br />

invitation.<br />

••<br />

Focus on what you have,<br />

not what you don’t: Ignore<br />

the commercials where<br />

someone surprises his<br />

partner with a new luxury<br />

car or a sparkling diamond<br />

ring. Those commercials<br />

only leave you wondering:<br />

“What about me”? Remind<br />

yourself that it’s not stuff<br />

that makes the holidays<br />

special. It’s the people.<br />

••<br />

Focus on the true<br />

meaning <strong>of</strong> the<br />

season: Forget about<br />

making your home spotless<br />

for company, and instead<br />

focus on celebrating the<br />

true spirit <strong>of</strong> the season:<br />

Attend religious services,<br />

spend time with people<br />

you care about and who<br />

care about you, count<br />

your blessings and do<br />

something for someone<br />

else. Turn the holidays into<br />

a win-win season.<br />

••<br />

Allow yourself to grieve: If<br />

a friend or family member<br />

has recently died, practice<br />

the lost art <strong>of</strong> grieving.<br />

Create an altar with<br />

pictures <strong>of</strong> those you love;<br />

light candles every night<br />

for someone you have lost;<br />

play sacred music and allow<br />

yourself to cry, remember,<br />

heal.<br />

••<br />

Offer love to everything:<br />

Love it all. Even the hard<br />

times and the difficult<br />

people; the good, the<br />

bad and the ugly; even<br />

the cranky and crooked<br />

people <strong>of</strong> the world.<br />

Most importantly, love<br />

yourself. ALL OF YOU -<br />

with all <strong>of</strong> your faults and<br />

shortcomings.<br />

Remember, the holiday<br />

season will end and the<br />

holiday blues should pass.<br />

In the meantime, the best<br />

thing you can do is treat<br />

yourself gently during this<br />

overwhelming time. May the<br />

spirit <strong>of</strong> the season gently fill<br />

your heart and home with<br />

love and may this Christmas<br />

remind you that joy and<br />

goodwill are the true things<br />

that uplift our lives.<br />

If you continue to feel sad<br />

and blue beyond the holiday<br />

season, you may have<br />

something else going on.<br />

Do yourself a favor and seek<br />

the help <strong>of</strong> a mental health<br />

pr<strong>of</strong>essional.<br />

ONLINE RESOURCES ON<br />

HOLIDAY DEPRESSION<br />

Holiday Anxiety and<br />

Depression: Survival Tips<br />

https://www.medicinenet.<br />

com/holiday_depression_<br />

and_stress/article.htm<br />

Dealing With Holiday<br />

Depression? You Don't<br />

Have To Suffer Alone<br />

Holiday Depression and<br />

Stress<br />

https://www.forbes.<br />

com/.../dealing-withholiday-depression-youdont-have-to-suffer-...<br />

www.bhsn.org/holidaystress.php<br />

Carra Sergeant, PhD, LPC<br />

PEACE FROM PIECES<br />

COUNSELING SERVICES<br />

For an appointment, call<br />

337-515-6716<br />

Website: peacefrompieces.net<br />

Volume 6 • Number 5 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> 21


ADVENTURES <strong>of</strong> the Lake<br />

It’s Not<br />

Your<br />

Birthday<br />

By Lela Gholar Tizano<br />

Big Momma opened the present from her grandchildren,<br />

“ooo weee!” she exclaimed when she carefully removed<br />

the black and white wide-brimmed hat from the box.<br />

“Jessie Lou is gonna be jealous <strong>of</strong> me come Christmas morning<br />

when I show up in church struttin’ in this beauty right here.” She<br />

placed the hat on her head and cocked it to the side and put her<br />

nose in the air like she was royalty.<br />

“You like it Big Momma?” her daughter<br />

Althea asked.<br />

“Of course I do, my grandbabies got me<br />

this; that makes it really special.”<br />

<strong>The</strong>y had just as much pride giving<br />

the gift as she had receiving it. With<br />

anticipation, they sat waiting for their<br />

gifts from her. <strong>The</strong>y had been eyeing the<br />

red foil gift-wrapped boxes marked with<br />

each <strong>of</strong> their names since she placed<br />

them under the Christmas tree right after<br />

Thanksgiving. <strong>The</strong>y could tell from the<br />

fancy wrapping paper that she spent a<br />

whole lot <strong>of</strong> money on them this year. A<br />

pair <strong>of</strong> socks was their gift last year but<br />

this time they could tell this was not a<br />

pair <strong>of</strong> socks. As a matter <strong>of</strong> fact, they<br />

believed it had to be something they<br />

really wanted. <strong>The</strong>y had given her hints<br />

and even put pictures on her refrigerator,<br />

so she would have no trouble getting<br />

them the perfect gift.<br />

“I bet it’s some headphones,” Jessie said,<br />

“that’s what I asked for”.<br />

“Unh-unh, I think it’s a new cell phone,”<br />

Karen said.<br />

“Both <strong>of</strong> Y’all are wrong, I bet it’s a video<br />

game,” Austin stated.<br />

Rebecca sat silently, listening to the<br />

others.<br />

“Can we open ours now?” Morgan asked.<br />

“Sure, you can,” Big Momma scooted<br />

out <strong>of</strong> her recliner and hobbled over to<br />

the Christmas tree. Special time and<br />

attention were given to making sure<br />

they received the perfect gift. When she<br />

thought about the best thing she could<br />

possibly give them there was only one<br />

thing that came to mind. So, she did her<br />

best to deliver that gift to them.<br />

Each child sat with their gift in their<br />

hands until everyone received theirs.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y looked over at each other grinning<br />

from ear to ear. “Now before you open<br />

your gifts, I want to tell you something,<br />

always remember Christmas is not<br />

about you and it is not your birthday,<br />

therefore, whatever you get you should<br />

be appreciative,” Big Momma added. “OK,<br />

you can open them now.”<br />

Big Momma watched the expressions on<br />

their faces change. <strong>The</strong>y held the gift in<br />

their hands like it was a foreign object<br />

that they had no idea how to operate.<br />

“What are we supposed to do with this?”<br />

Jessie asked.<br />

Austin opened his gift then shot Big<br />

Momma a look <strong>of</strong> disgust. “Are you<br />

serious?” he sc<strong>of</strong>fed.<br />

“Is there a problem with your gifts?” Big<br />

Momma asked with sincerity.<br />

22<br />

<strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 6 • Number 5


<strong>The</strong>y just looked at one another. After<br />

all the murmuring and complaining<br />

suddenly none <strong>of</strong> them could speak.<br />

“Remember, I told you it’s not your<br />

birthday.”<br />

“What do you mean Christmas is<br />

not our birthday? We still should get<br />

presents.” Morgan said with a little bit<br />

<strong>of</strong> attitude. She was only five years old.<br />

Big Momma was sure she didn’t fully<br />

understand what Christmas was about.<br />

But what disappointed her were the older<br />

ones who acted like they didn’t know<br />

either. She expected more from them.<br />

She figured they’d have a little more<br />

gratitude, but she was wrong. All five <strong>of</strong><br />

them received the same gift but Rebecca<br />

was the only one that said “thank-you.”<br />

Each <strong>of</strong> them had been given a leather<br />

Bible with their names engraved on the<br />

cover in gold letters.<br />

“I want you to crack open those Bibles<br />

and inside you will find a blessing. You<br />

will even discover the real meaning <strong>of</strong><br />

Christmas,” she informed them.<br />

Her words went in one ear and out <strong>of</strong> the<br />

other. As the day went on Big Momma<br />

found one Bible on the floor in the<br />

kitchen, one was being used as a coaster<br />

on the c<strong>of</strong>fee table and she wasn’t sure<br />

where the others were. One thing she<br />

knew was that her gifts were not well<br />

received. <strong>The</strong>y said their goodbyes and<br />

left for the evening.<br />

Moments later Big Momma heard a s<strong>of</strong>t<br />

knock on the door. She peered through<br />

the peephole at Rebecca waiting to come<br />

in.<br />

“You forget something, Sugah?”<br />

“No ma’am, but I did what you told me<br />

to do; I opened my Bible and I found the<br />

letter inside and it said to come back<br />

here, so I did.”<br />

Big Momma’s heart was filled with joy.<br />

“Thank you for listening. Like I told you<br />

the real meaning <strong>of</strong> Christmas is in that<br />

Bible. Jesus is the reason for the season.<br />

We celebrate His birth and we need to<br />

remember Him on this special day.”<br />

Together they read Luke 2:1-20 and<br />

Rebecca learned all about Jesus’ birth<br />

that day. “So that’s why you said it’s not<br />

our birthday,” she remarked.<br />

Big Momma nodded her head and<br />

watched her granddaughter grasp<br />

the meaning <strong>of</strong> what she had just<br />

discovered. “Go look in that jar on top <strong>of</strong><br />

the refrigerator, I got an envelope with<br />

your name on it.” Rebecca opened the<br />

envelope and found fifty dollars inside.<br />

“That’s for you, go and get what you<br />

want.”<br />

“Thank you,” she said.<br />

This is our little secret. Don’t you tell the<br />

rest <strong>of</strong> them. <strong>The</strong>y got to discover the<br />

gift on their own. If they don’t open their<br />

Bibles, they are gonna miss the blessing. “<br />

Volume 6 • Number 5 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> 23


Q&A<br />

Dr. Christal Waller - SWLA Center for<br />

Health Services - Oakdale, La., enjoys<br />

dancing, driving, going to the movies,<br />

laughing and relaxing for leisure.<br />

Let Go or<br />

Let Live<br />

By Dr. Christal Waller<br />

<strong>The</strong> Christmas Holidays are<br />

here, and families will gather to<br />

celebrate their faith, enjoy good<br />

food, have fun and watch football. My<br />

family has just experienced a life and<br />

health concern with a close family member<br />

who now needs to make serious decisions,<br />

so I called upon Dr. Christal Waller.<br />

QWhat must we do for end-<strong>of</strong>-life care<br />

when no plans are in place?<br />

A<br />

Imagine<br />

your spouse goes to the<br />

hospital for a simple procedure and<br />

something terrible happens. <strong>The</strong> medical<br />

team is now asking you to make one <strong>of</strong> the<br />

most difficult decisions <strong>of</strong> your life. You have<br />

planned for your annual vacation. You have<br />

planned for the children’s college tuition.<br />

You have planned for retirement. But not<br />

many people plan for end-<strong>of</strong>-life-care. Why is<br />

this? Dying is an inevitable part <strong>of</strong> living. It is<br />

going to happen. Why are we not preparing<br />

for it? Let’s talk about it.<br />

I have asked several friends and<br />

coworkers this question: If your spouse<br />

was in the hospital and his/her heart<br />

stopped beating and they stopped<br />

breathing, what would they want you to<br />

do? Many began the answer with what<br />

they would want to do for their loved<br />

ones or what they think their loved ones<br />

would want done. I reminded them that<br />

the question was asking if they knew<br />

what the “person” wanted. No one knew!<br />

Most <strong>of</strong> us think we know the end-<strong>of</strong>life-care<br />

desired by our loved ones but as<br />

a community, we do not know for sure.<br />

We are not talking about it. We are not<br />

planning for it. We know how important<br />

it is but we have not engaged in<br />

conversation about it. Some believe that<br />

this conversation should come later in life<br />

when they are older, but we all know that<br />

death is not just for the elderly. Simply,<br />

we procrastinate having this conversation<br />

because we are uncomfortable talking<br />

about it. For some <strong>of</strong> us, the very thought<br />

<strong>of</strong> it brings on a tremendous amount <strong>of</strong><br />

sadness, therefore, we avoid it.<br />

Nevertheless, whether the end-<strong>of</strong>-life<br />

experience is expected or not, if death<br />

does not happen suddenly, we will be<br />

faced with the seemingly impossible<br />

task <strong>of</strong> deciding to Let Go or Let Live.<br />

At that time, the person cannot tell you<br />

what they want done. Your heart will be<br />

hurting and you will not be in the best<br />

mental state to make a decision <strong>of</strong> this<br />

magnitude. Free yourself <strong>of</strong> the burden.<br />

Take some time for yourself to determine<br />

what it is you would like to be done for<br />

you. Be sure to sit down with your<br />

family members and answer these and<br />

similar questions:<br />

1. If you stop breathing and your heart<br />

stops beating, what do you want me<br />

to do?<br />

2. Are you an organ donor? Would you<br />

like to be an organ donor?<br />

3. Is there a life insurance policy?<br />

Where is it kept? Who do I need to<br />

contact in the event <strong>of</strong> your death?<br />

4. Where do you want to be buried?<br />

Which funeral home would you like<br />

to perform the services?<br />

5. Is there a living will or advanced<br />

directives?<br />

Let Go or Let Live. We know God controls<br />

the outcome. However, if you are ever<br />

asked these or questions like these, be<br />

prepared. You should only have to make<br />

this decision for you!<br />

24<br />

<strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 6 • Number 5


HOURS OPEN<br />

Mon-Fri: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.<br />

Sat 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.<br />

Ph: 337-439-9554<br />

tommiejohnwell@yahoo.com<br />

1617 N. Martin Luther King Hwy<br />

Lake Charles, LA 70601<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

DIANETICS<br />

T HE MOD ERN S CIENCE OF<br />

MENTAL H EALTH<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

CONSIDER A<br />

CAREER with<br />

Jonald J. Walker III, CPA, CGMA<br />

Kelly Love, CPA<br />

Lake Charles, LA<br />

337-494-6900<br />

www.lakecitytrucking.com<br />

Supplementation is no<br />

longer an option<br />

Plant foods are the medicine that powers your<br />

body to be able to heal and function optimally<br />

as well as improve your quality <strong>of</strong> life. Shaklee<br />

products are as close to nature’s food as possible and are<br />

easy to consume.<br />

Today’s food supply is greatly deficient in nutritional<br />

value! So for better health and more energy we must<br />

supplement daily with pure unadulterated supplements.<br />

Ask about this month’s savings.<br />

Call or Visit<br />

our Website for<br />

More Details!<br />

Mon-Sat 11:AM-9:PM<br />

Sun 11:AM-4:PM<br />

Dine In ~ Order To Go ~ Catering<br />

337<br />

477-8557<br />

Also Known As:<br />

4415 Nelson Road<br />

Lake Charles, LA 70605<br />

PHO SAIGON<br />

Volume 6 • Number 5 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> 25


337.475.1053<br />

208 West McNeese Street<br />

Lake Charles, LA 70605<br />

PROJECT<br />

BUILD A<br />

FUTURE<br />

Charla Blake, Assoc AIA<br />

Executive Director<br />

337-439-7191 OFFICE<br />

337-990-5316 FAX<br />

469-767-5035 CELL<br />

charlab@projectbuildafuture.org<br />

2306 THIRD STREET • LAKE CHARLES, LA. 70601<br />

337.528.2828<br />

702 1st Avenue<br />

Sulphur, LA 70663<br />

Some would say the<br />

perfect Christmas<br />

morning happens at<br />

home, opening presents<br />

around the Christmas<br />

tree, family gathered,<br />

celebrating love and<br />

togetherness. For some,<br />

this may only be a<br />

dream, because they<br />

do not have a home<br />

to call their own. This<br />

Christmas consider<br />

giving a donation <strong>of</strong><br />

your time, services,<br />

or finances towards<br />

helping a family achieve<br />

the goal <strong>of</strong> home<br />

ownership in 2019. Let<br />

the joy <strong>of</strong> giving be one<br />

that continues to give<br />

for a lifetime.<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

DIANETICS<br />

T HE MOD ERN S CIENCE OF<br />

MENTAL H EALTH<br />

<br />

<br />

Pick up your copy <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Voice</strong> <strong>of</strong> SWLA while<br />

you’re out and about.<br />

SULPHUR<br />

• West Cal-Cam Hospital<br />

• Stines<br />

• Pitt Grill<br />

• SPAR<br />

• Goodwill<br />

• Hollier's<br />

• Dairy Barn<br />

LAKE CHARLES<br />

• Pujo St. Cafe<br />

• Chase (Downtown)<br />

• Steamboat Bill's<br />

• Civic Center<br />

• Carnegie Library<br />

• Luna Bar & Grill<br />

MOSS BLUFF<br />

• Peto's<br />

• Market Basket<br />

• Southern Spice<br />

VINTON<br />

• Post Office<br />

• Market Basket<br />

• Love's Truck Stop<br />

DERIDDER<br />

• Brookshires Bros.<br />

• City Hall<br />

• DeRidder Hospital<br />

• Post Office<br />

• Steamboat Bill's<br />

Committed to the highest level<br />

3116 Ryan St.<br />

<strong>of</strong> customer service possible!<br />

Lake Charles, LA 70601<br />

Phone: (337) 564-6009<br />

www.lakecharles-la.minutemanpress.com<br />

26<br />

<strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 6 • Number 5


Jason Bland<br />

Operations, Lake Charles West Plant<br />

Cindy Comeaux<br />

Information Management<br />

“<strong>The</strong> people at Sasol are the reason<br />

we have such a great company.<br />

Sasol cares about its employees and<br />

its impact on the community.”<br />

Cindy Comeaux<br />

Tammy Fontenot<br />

Safety, Health & Environmental<br />

We’re building ...<br />

CAREERS<br />

Sasol is delivering on its commitment<br />

to hire local workers for its world-scale<br />

petrochemical complex.<br />

620+ new employees hired:<br />

• 85% are <strong>Louisiana</strong> residents<br />

• 72% <strong>of</strong> those from Calcasieu Parish<br />

Learn more at www.SasolNorthAmerica.com<br />

Volume 6 • Number 5 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM <strong>December</strong> <strong>2018</strong> 27

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!