COMPLIMENTARY

MARCH 2013, VOL. 11 ISSUE 1

See Page 22

Publisher / Editor Mike Strong Sales Manager Dottie Godberry Staff Photographer Jimmy Dunkley

Table of Contents
DREAMS COME TRUE ...........4 ASCENSION HOUSEWISE .....10 SWEET EYES W/ TANYA.... ....12 ASK YOUR REALTOR ............. 18

Contributing Writers Bill Delaune Marilyn Bowman Linda Melancon Calvin Bessonett

BOUARI COVER STORY....................22 JAMMIN WITH GOOSIE........ 25 BILL DELAUNE........................26 THOUGHTS FROM BULLY ....32

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Goosie Guice Orhan McMillan Kellie Seymour Tanya Stilley Roland Doucet Denise Smith Karlin ONeal Jimmy Dunkley

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Community Service Award Single Effort Dreams Come True Radiothon

In January of 2012, Guaranty Broadcasting continued its commitment to the community by hosting its Third Annual Dreams Come True Radiothon. Guaranty utilized all five of its stations to hold a two day radiothon at Guaranty Broadcasting in effort to raise money for this wonderful organization. Dreams Come True is a local organization designed to grant dreams to local children with life-threatening illnesses. Dreams Come True grants upwards of seventy five dreams per year to children and their families in Louisiana. Guaranty Broadcastings Dreams Come True Radiothon was held January 19th and 20th. As listeners tuned in to the stations, they heard heart-breaking stories of children with life threatening illnesses and their families struggles. These children have either already had their come true or were currently waiting for their dream to be made. Listeners were encouraged to radiothon wouldnt have been so successful. Through this radiothon, Guaranty Broadcasting helped Dreams Come True raise over $20,000 to help grant dreams to these local children with

either call in or visit any of Guarantys websites to make a donation to help in efforts to make these childrens dreams come true. The radiothon was supported by many distinguished members of the community including Mayor President Kip Holden, LSU Baseball Coach Paul Maineiri, Baton Rouge Sheriff Sid Gautreaux, Baton Rouges Hilar Moore, WAFB and many more! These guests came and donated their time on the radio and answered the phones at Guarantys Phone Bank! Without their support, the 4

life-threatening illnesses! Not only did Dreams Come True receive a substantial sum, they also received countless contacts wanting to donate time, resources, and services to help grant dreams to these children. Guaranty Broadcasting looks forward to hosting this radiothon for years to come. Guaranty Broadcasting is so happy to be a part of such an amazing organization, granting dreams to children with life threatening illnesses in the area. Its events like this that keep Guaranty live and local and always willing to serve the community.

The Ascension Parish Relay for Life event will be held April 20, 2013
The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives, and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy, and service. In Ascension Parish in 2012, the American Cancer Society provided 902 services to 273 families at no charge to them. If you are a cancer patient that is receiving treatment in New Orleans and you do not live within a 40 miles radius of New Orleans you can stay at Hope Lodge. This is free of charge and is 100% funded by the American Cancer Society. There have been 48 families from Ascension Parish that have benefited from Hope Lodge totaling 573 night. There is no limit on how long you are able to stay as long as you are in treatment you are allowed to stay at Hope Lodge. Since 1991, there has been a decrease in the mortality rate due to clinical trials, treatment, awareness, and research. The Ascension Parish Relay for Life event will be held April 20,2013, from 3:00 p.m. till 3:00 a.m. April 21, 2013, at Lamar Dixon Expo Center. Our goal is to have 30 teams signed up and to raise $125,000.00. If you have never experienced a relay or not heard of this event we invite you to come out and see what it's all about, and if you have been before we invite you back. People that have been touched by cancer of every kind come together in celebration to raise awareness and raise money that will go to the American Cancer Society in Purpose, a beauty pageant, and scrapbooking. Congratulations to Lexie Breaux, and Tristyn Laborde our 2013 Queens.

The American Cancer Society

hopes that one day we may live in a world with no Cancer and we can celebrate more birthdays. Each team sets up and decorates their campsite according to the theme. This year's theme is " Crusin For A Cause". During the event at least one member from each team must have someone walking. The way teams raise money at relay are raffles , and lots of good food . There will also be a car show, 5k run/walk, balloon launch, and luminaria ceremony. Many teams have already been fundraising with activities such as a golf tournament, Jambalaya sale, raffles, selling cookbooks, Painting with a 6

There are many activities planned for Relay starting off with the EA Jazz Band performing at 5:00 p.m. followed by the opening ceremony at 6:00. Donna Britt from Channel 9 and Parish President Tommy Martinez will be the guest speakers. There will be the survivors lap and caregivers lap . If you or anyone you know is a cancer survivor you may sign up to take part in the laps by going to relayforlife.org/ascension. It is free and you will receive a survivors t-shirt. Center Stage Performing Arts Academy will be there as well as The Gonzales Black Belt Academy

and EBBA and the Gatorettes will perform. The Luminaria ceremony is sponsored by Ms. Sharon Saia and the Dutchtown High School Allied Health. They do such a great job in allowing us to honor those who have beaten cancer and to remember those who have lost their battle . We will have a DJ, live music, line dancing and zumba, a night full of fun and excitement. Kriste Haydel from Amanda's Gang relays for her daughter Amanda Haydel Sininan who lost her life to Gliobastoma "Brain Cancer" at the age of 28. Family and friends of Brandi Chaney became involved in Relay for Life shortly after her diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer at the age of 29. Although she lost her battle in March of 2012 they continue on in her honor. Awareness, early detection , and proper diagnosis is a huge part of improving the survival rate of this disease. Together we can make a difference. Noelle WaguespackFranz relays in memory of her husband, Joel "TJ" Franz ll. Relay for life hit home when her husband was diagnosed with cancer. This is her second year

having a team in memory of him and it is a way of healing. Many times we hear people don't come out or participate because they don't know what Relay is all about. Relay is not just for people affected by cancer it's for everyone to come out and support the cause. There are too many people affected by this disease , but if we all come together and raise money and awareness , then one day the survival rate will increase. Noelle relays in memory of her husband and all those who were lost to cancer, who are still fighting , and to those who are survivors. Let's change the world and find a cure . There are so many stories of cancer survivors and those lost to the disease. Please come out and celebrate, remember and fight back. If you would like to join a team, start a team or even donate to a team you may do so by visiting relayforlife.org/ascension or contact Lindsay turner, Ascension's ACS Community Representative. at 225- 287-5177.

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Jambalaya Queen, Meredith Conger, Takes a Look Back

My year as the 2012 Gonzales Jambalaya Queen is slowly winding down - and though I am sad its coming to an end - looking back, I realize I have had an absolutely amazing reign. I have traveled over 3,695 miles across the state of Louisiana and to Washington, DC representing the Jambalaya Festival and City of Gonzales. I have picked Oranges in the Orange groves of Plaquemines Parish, learned how to sew a bag of harvested rice in Crowley, and picked fresh Strawberries on the farm of the Ponchatoula Strawberry King - just to name a few. During my travels I have

made many memories and friends that will last a lifetime and for that, I am forever grateful.

It has been a blessing to spend my reign with my champ and jambalaya King, Danny. We have

had so much fun this year serving Jambalaya in our community at the Senior Citizens sock hop, the Gonzales Veteren's Day Celebration, and multiple fundraisers for St. Jude Children's Hospital. He and his helper, Kurt, are always such good sports about the numerous pictures my wonderful "queen mother" insists on taking and they always keep me laughing! I am truly a lucky girl to have had this year as queen and to have forever gained a second family in the Jambalaya Festival Association. With the 2013 pageant steadily approaching I am excited to meet all of the lucky ladies vying for the chance to be Miss Gonzales Jambalaya and to have the best year of her life representing this amazing organization. The pageant will be May 4th at the Gonzales Civic Center. Anyone interested in competing please visit www.jambalayafestival.org for more information and forms! Thank you to everyone for all of the love and support this year,

Meredith Claire Conger

Miss Gonzales Jambalaya 2012

Tim Godso

Kari Godso

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Fixing The Bedtime Blues
By Dr. Dawn Zitman
Many parents struggle with the bedtime blues, o en doing anything possible to coax a child to stay in his or her room. Whether it is one last story, the remainder of their favorite television show or another sip of water, children nd ways to keep themselves from falling asleep. Parents, o en exhausted themselves from the nightly ritual, sometimes feel forced to give in and suggest a peace o ering to entice the child to go to sleep. While no child is exactly the same, all children generally respond well to nightly routines. is is particularly important from 1 to 3 years of age, when the child is learning to put his or herself asleep with little parent interaction. Consistent, planned bedtime routines help minimize strain on both parent and child. Here are a few things when planning a routine: Give night time baths to help calm and relax a child before bed. Turn o the television 30-45 minutes before bed. Television causes the brain to become stimulated, making it di cult for a child to fall or stay sleep. O er a story before bed, and read aloud in a so calming tone. Have a de ned bedtime and stick to it. ough you may need to deviate from this time every now and then, this is an important step in creating a routine. Minimize liquids 30-45 before bed, and encourage the child to use the bathroom before getting in bed. Learn to walk away. Reassure the child that everything is alright, but be rm and let him or her know that it is time to go to sleep. O er a nightlight if the child seems uneasy in the dark, but remember that too much light can cause stimulation. Consider using a so glow night light. When beginning your routine, it is normal for your child to wake during the night. If your child is not calmed easily and seems scared, he or she may be su ering from night terrors. It is important to discuss any problems in your childs sleep patterns with his or her Pediatrician. e Pediatrician can help determine what treatments are available.

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Do's & Donts of Furnniture Placement

Many mistakes in furniture placement are made because its difficult for many people to visualize the three-dimensional effect of furniture in advance. A floor plan is a necessary ingredient of furniture placement pre-planning, BUT you must also take into consideration the dimensional qualities of furniture as well! This is where a professional decorators expertise will save you time and money! DONT block a view from a picture window especially if its a good one! So placing tall chairs and a lamp on a table placed smack in the center of a picture window is a big no-no. Choice and placement of furniture should complement, not conflict with architectural features. DO plan a furniture grouping that wont conflict with your window. A sofa might fit below it, flanked by two end tables with lamps creating symmetrical furniture grouping, and allowing your picture window to take center stage.

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DONT place only wooden pieces of furniture along one wall or at one end of a room. Too many wooden pieces in one cluster ten to have a cold, inhospitable look. DO mix wooden pieces with upholstered furniture for texture contrast and interest. Rich, polished wood tones look more so when contrasted by handsome fabric, and vice versa. DONT use too many matched pairs of tables, lamps or chairs in one room. Matching pieces help unify a room, but too many pairs will make your room resemble a furniture store. DO achieve variety by choosing some similar but not exactly matching pieces to balance each othertwo non-matching lamps of similar size and shape, for instance, would be the perfect solution.

wall opposite a high wall in a room with a vaulted ceiling. Balance and symmetry will immediately fly out the window! DO try angling your furniture. When your furniture pieces chairs, sofas, love seats are all lined up flat against a wall, you lose the opportunity to create interesting conversational groupings. When selecting furniture to be placed in smaller rooms follow these simple rules: 1. Pieces with rounded corners will work best 2. Dont select large or oversized pieces 3. Open shelving styles will help your space seem more expansive DO place large furniture pieces first. Its definitely a mistake to start with your smaller pieces. I guarantee your frustration level will definitely increase if you try to start the process with small tables and accent pieces. DONT place a large entertainment center on a small 4. Opt for a more tailored look in upholstered furniture pieces

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eight to ten more pounds, and Im determined to get there. Many Thanks to Liz at Ideal Weight Loss in Gonzales for her motivation and continued support through this process.

Its Hypnotic!
I actually intended to talk about something else in my beauty bit for Sweet Eyes, but Ive had a change of plans. I have a new favorite mascara. Its called Hypnose Star and its

Spanks Anyone? Um..No!

Every year around this time I get a little anxious. Spring is near and all the comfort food from the holidays, and the king cakes during Mardi Gras has caught up with my waistline. When Spanks dont get you into your tried and true jeans, then its time to get refocused on proper nutrition and real exercise! I know Ive really got to kick my sugar cravings. You ever noticed how when you eat something high in carbohydrates, or sugar, your body tends to just want more? Well, the cravings have been in full effect in my body for the past several months. I want this

monkey off my back! So, I decided to try Ideal Protein. A friend of mine thats a Nurse Practitioner that opened an Ideal Protein clinic, so I thought Id visit her, find out more about the program and give it a try. During my visit with Liz Melancon, NP at Ideal Weight Loss in Gonzales, I learned that the Ideal Protein program was developed in Canada by Dr. Tran Tien. Dr. Tien realized that most weight issues were due to an insulin imbalance from too many processed foods. When your pancreas produces an overabundance of insulin it tells your body to store energyAKA fat. Not good! So, in order to burn my bodys fat reserves, Ive got to keep my insulin low and stay away from high sugar and processed foods. This is not a new concept, but what I really

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liked about this program is that they offer low carb, high protein, easy to fix foods and snacks. Ive been through low carb diets before, but I like a little variety. I get tired of just eating tuna, chicken, egg whites and protein powder. So after hearing about the ABCs of Ideal Protein, my measurements were taken and my weight was recorded (oy vay)! Then I went into a large room to choose my weeks reserves of completely compliant foods and snacks. I shouldnt have started on a Friday, because I had a few slip ups during the first weekend of my program. I really like the taste and the flavor of the IP foods I chose. I especially liked the soups. The protein in these products really helps you to feel full; however, you may still experience some cravings. Its not necessarily because youre hungry, but because your body is craving those foods that are high in carbs. I noticed I did have a little headache the first few days, but nothing some Advil didnt help. Its day four of the program and Ive lost three pounds. I am staying completely hydrated, so I know its pounds and not just water weight. Best of all, I feel lighter and better about myself. I have a goal of

made by Lancome. The unique brush is so easy to use. One side of the wand is a bit stubbier and is useful for applying more mascara at the

base of the lash, while the flip side of the wand creates long and lush lashes. I am HOOKED on this mascara. I received a sample and already purchased a full size. The mascara comes in one color only, Noir Midnight, and runs about $28.00. For more information go to www.lancome-usa.com.

Im Springing Forward
We spring forward this weekend. I always feel so conflicted every Saturday night or Sunday morning I go around the house to change all the clocks. It always seems like a good idea, but really, its tough for me! When we spring forward, it stays darker later in

the mornings and its much tougher to get out of bed. But enough complaining; Im going to focus on the productive things I will do with an extra hour of daylight in the evenings. I will enjoy barbequing and eating dinner outside while the sun sets, taking a swim, catching a baseball game, working in my garden, taking a walk AFTER dinner, and spending more time with family and friends with an extra hour of daylight in the evenings. Id say that certainly beats a little grogginess in the mornings. What will you do with an extra hour of daylight? Send any questions or comments to sweeteyesascensionmag@yahoo.com

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Cajun gal does Sundance

by Jennifer Rhea Cross The Sundance Film Festival is an American film festival that takes place annually in January at Park City, Utah. It is one of the largest independent film festivals in the United States. It is a showcase for new documentary and dramatic films, from American and international independent filmmakers.. Earlier this year, I discovered that my parents would be going to Utah for business during the same time that the Sundance Film Festival was being held. I knew that this would be a chance of a lifetime, since I'm a film enthusiast and writer. So the process of getting my press credentials, or, as I like to call it, "the golden ticket" began. The best way to describe it is that it's sort of like getting stadium seats for an LSU game rather than those nosebleed seats. The press cre-

dentials gave me admittance to theatres and public venues on a spaceavailable basis. It permitted me to enter theatres to photograph film introductions and Q&A sessions with the actors and filmmakers, as well as access to press conferences, media areas, and press events. Once I got my press credentials, Operation Cajun Sundance began. I had to prepare for the "freezing" snow and therefore bought the proper boots, pants, sweaters, and obnoxious snow hats (I didn't wear any of them). As a matter of fact, it was hot. Not LSU-game hot, but more like Mardi Gras hot. Four suitcases for my parents and I, and we never wore half the clothes, hats, gloves, cuddle duds, thermal socks, and earmuffs that we bought. It snowed, but it was a "dry" cold. Even when it got down to the teens, it was never as bone cold as we get here in the 40's. However, the dry cold did amazing things for my hair. You don't need a blow-dryer because your hair dries as soon as you walk out of the shower. The cold does make your nose hurt and you take a million deep breaths because of the altitude. Combine the two, and you're a sight to see...or maybe just a Cajun. The first person that I met was Harvey Weinstein, legendary execu-

tive producer of films such as Pulp Fiction, The Aviator, and The Artist. He was casually dressed sitting next to us at the restaurant at dinner. He was interesting, not at all what I expected. I learned quickly that you have about thirty seconds to choose what you want, get a picture or an autograph. One of the most interesting aspects of the festival was the "gifting suites." I had the opportunity as a press member to attend many, and discovered the importance of them. As a non-

and we left with some goodies. We walked down Main Street like celebrities until we got on the shuttle. Side note: Salt Lake City has incredible and clean shuttles. Deb Durkins "Eco-Hideaway" at The Chateaux in Deer Valley was an honor to attend because everything that was given, decorated, or presented was eco friendly. Durkin chooses a non-profit organization to be highlighted at all her events. At Sundance, it was Save the One Campaign with

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celebrity (a.k.a Cajun), I just thought of gifting suites as places for famous, rich people to get free products that most people could never afford or even think about owning. Let me explain what a "gifting suite" is really all about. The premise of a "gifting suite" is for a brand to get the opportunity to have a celebrity be photographed wearing their product, an applied endorsement, if you will. While some were only for the "important people," I was honored to attend a couple as a press member. I'm still trying to find out how to get a free pair of Ugg boots to replace my Cajun Reeboks; a Cajun gal can only dream. L'Oreal Sundance Gifting Suite was fabulous because my mother and I got to get our hair and makeup done,

Guard a Heart Foundation. I got the chance to speak with one of the brand owners Deb Miller President/CEO Hugrz Boot Wraps and asked her how gifting suites have benefited her product. She said, "The company is only 19 months old and I can't afford the advertising in high- profile magazines. Festivals give me the opportunity to not only get my product out there, but it allows me to interact on a personal level with many different people." The Outdoor Retailers Innovation Gallery at Sundance gives the public a glimpse into brands that capture the spirit of the outdoors, as well as its role in independent film. Although this Cajun gal doesn't get to use much winter gear, I found the "Outdoor Retailer" to be the Fashion

Week of Sundance! The Outdoor Retailer assisted with promoting the Louisiana International Film Festival in Sundance, which will be held in Baton Rouge on April 18- 21. The Louisiana Film Festival staged a traditional "Second Line" up Main Street led by Jonathan Batiste, as well as people with Mardi Gras Beads, umbrellas and some funky moves! Throughout my trip the most memorable celebrity sightings were: Amy Poehler from Saturday Night Live, who was not only adorable, but surprisingly petite. I introduced her to my parents (they're not up to date on celebrities) as "mom and dad, this is Amy Poehler!" She shook their hands and then kept re-introducing herself to them, on purpose. I was so excited to get a picture with her that I overlooked her Parks & Recreation co-star Adam Scott. Sorry Adam, you're fabulous and thanks for photo bombing my picture with my new BFF (Best Friends Forever). Catherine O'Hara was a delightful and beautiful surprise to meet. It took everything in me to not ask her to yell "Kevin!" (Home Alone) or sing "Dayo" (Beetlejuice). Must see Sundance Festival Films: A.C.O.D. is a hilarious comedy film directed by Stu Zicherman and starring Adam Scott, Amy Poehler, Jessica Alba, Catherine O'Hara, and Jane Lynch. The name of the film is an abbreviation for Adult Children of Divorce. I had the pleasure to meet first-time director Zicherman and see his film; it's definitely a must see, and I promise that you'll cry from laugh-

ing with the stellar cast. Sound City is a documentary about the famed recording studio in Van Nuys, California, which was the origin of records by Fleetwood Mac, Nirvana, Rick Springfield and Tom Petty among many others. Rock musician Dave Grohl, of Nirvana and Foo Fighters, sets out to tell the story of a recording studio in his first film. The studio became famous for a single piece of recording equipment a

Blood Brother is a documentary feature film directed by Steve Hoover. It captured the grand jury prize and the audience award for U.S. documentaries at the Sundance. Hoover traces the journey of his best friend, Rocky, who travels to India and changes his life forever. Rocky establishes a bond with children and their families with AIDS, who face life and death situations on a daily basis. This documentary made me cry, smile, laugh, and

1970s era sound board that became a "hope diamond" for musians. Sound City is a musical time machine that allows film and music enthusiasts to travel back through time to when music was recorded with raw, pure imperfections that led to many remarkable careers. It made me want to throw out my iPad and computer, and start typing on a type writer while rocking out to the Sound City soundtrack.

want to scream all at the same time. Hoover captures the pure innocence of AIDS as well as the horror with an end result that will transform views on AIDS. "The funding of this film is quite unique. It was all supported through donations. This means we have no debt and no one to pay back for the film, allowing any/all of the proceeds from the film to be used to help support the orphanage and the children with HIV in India, as well as

supporting Rocky and his continuing efforts," Hoover explained in his humble interview. Hoover admitted his ignorance towards AIDS at the beginning of filming. By falling in love with the children, his passion and need to help transcended his own thoughts on AIDS. When asked if Hoover felt like an activist for AIDS, he admitted Im not sure if I consider myself an activist because I don't know what an activist feels." It was at that moment that I knew that I was interviewing not only an AIDS activist, but a film director that will change the world through his lens. Operation Cajun Sundance was challenging with a few disappointing moments. I may not have gotten to meet the most famous celebrities or watch every film at Sundance. I didn't get to attend any of the premiers, or cover the red carpet. But the experiences that I did have were unforgettable and unimaginable. Besides the festival, I also took the time to visit the Utah Olympic Park. It was a competition venue for the 2002 Olympic Winter Games for Nordic jumping and the sliding sports of bobsleigh, luge and skeleton. I highly recommend taking the time to visit to see a glimpse into the Olympics. Sundance took a little piece of my spicy Cajun heart. As I flew over the mountains on my way home to Louisiana, I smiled knowing that this Cajun will be back next year!

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YOUR ESTATE MATTERS

By Linda Melancon
someone 60 years old; therefore, planning is not just for older people. An accident can occur at any age that can leave you unable to make financial or health care decisions for yourself. Therefore, its important to have financial and health care powers of attorney in place to allow the person you choose to make decisions for you if you cannot make them for yourselves. Further, you should consider whether you want to be kept alive artificially if doctors have determined that you are never going to recover. All of the cases that have reached the U.S. Supreme Court that dealt with end of life decision making involved young people. So, even if you dont believe you have enough assets to warrant a will or a trust, make sure you at least have the proper decision making documents in place in the event you become incapacitated. Another common mistake is failing to coordinate beneficiary designations with the remainder of your plan. All too often, peoples lives change and they change their will or trust but do not coordinate these changes with their beneficiary designations. As

a result, the bulk of their assets, such as insurance, retirement plans, and IRAs, end up going in ways that are no longer desired. This mistake occurs because assets controlled by beneficiary designations are not controlled by wills and trusts. Many people leave assets outright to their children or others without consideration of other options. This can often be a mistake. Often, leaving assets in trust provides advantages for the beneficiaries. By leaving the assets in trust, the assets can be protected from the creditors or ex-spouses of the beneficiary, as well as from the beneficiarys own indiscretions. Another common error is forgetting to update you estate planning documents when there is a change in their circumstances. Life is constantly changing. The birth of a child or grandchild, divorce, re-marriage, substantial increase or decrease in assets, change in health, and many other circumstances can have significant impact on your estate plan. Periodic review of your estate plan can keep it current and in step with changing circumstances as life goes on. Of course, the greatest is estate planning mistake is the failing to

plan at all. None of us like to contemplate our own mortality and everyone always thinks that an accident that causes incapacity will always happen to the other guy. Therefore, we put off planning sometimes until it is too late. One of the most common comments I receive from those who complete their planning is what a relief it is to know that their family and loved ones will be taken care of if something happens to them. As you can see, estate planning is not just for the wealthy. Estate planning is life planning and it is for all adults, regardless of age or condition of health. To find out what you need to do to protect you and your family consult a qualified estate planning attorney can help you implement a plan that fits your life and your wishes.
Ms. Melancon has engaged in the practice of law in Louisiana for the past 14 years. The primary focus of her practice is estate planning, special needs planning, elder law and probate. She is also accredited by the VA to give advice regarding veterans benefits. For more information, please contact her at 744-0027 or visit her website at www.LegacyCenterLa.com or her facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/PrairievilleLA/Legacy-Center-ofLouisiana/267942070212.

Estate Planning Mistakes

Many think that estate planning is only for the rich, but that thinking is wrong. Estate planning is life planning and its for everyone. Whether you or young or old, healthy or ill, you never know what life holds and it is best to be prepared. In this article we discuss some of the come mistakes that people make or actions they fail to take with regard to their planning. The death rate from automobile accidents is more than double for someone 20 compared to

17

ASK

with Marilyn Bowman

r o t l Rea
YOUR
It should be avoided at all costs.

Starting from where I left off last month, this article will explain which option is better.

THERE IS NO UPSIDE TO FORECLOSURE.

SHORT SALE vs. FORECLOSURE:

Which is the Better Option? Losing your home to foreclosure due to inability to keep up with your monthly payment is one of life's most unpleasant experiences. It is also an event that keeps on affecting you long after your home is history by devastating your credit score. People cannot be 100% sure that they will remain safe from foreclosure because they can't foresee the unexpected like serious illness, divorce, job loss and other hardships people experience in life.

Almost any option is better than foreclosure Simply stated, do everything you can before foreclosure occurs and do it as quickly as humanly possible. Don't sit back and keep thinking, "What can I do?" Instead consider that short sale and call me before your options become more limited. The One Best Tip I can Give You:

DON'T DO THIS ALONE

Facing Foreclosure is a scary thing. Having someone who knows who to talk to, when to talk to them and how to handle all the paperwork is key to getting the job done and saving your credit. You need my professional help so call me today(225) 936-8534, don't wait until it's too late. I am free of charge to you and will work to help you avoid foreclosure. The lender pays the commission at the time of a sale.

Of all available options,

FORECLOSURE IS THE WORST

The inevitable result of a foreclosure is the lender taking your house. Not only will you lose your house, but the lender can get a judgment against you for the arrearages you owe plus his costs for the foreclosure action. If that isn't enough, your credit report will be in terminal condition for many years into the future, worsening an already bad financial situation and making it very difficult to obtain any other kind of credit.

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By Connie Braud Brock

Grinding Time
home during this time. This was Grandpas only cash income for the year with the exception of the little money coming in from selling eggs. Grandpa raised most of his own food; cows for milk, butter, cream, calves for meat, pigs for bacon, pork, chickens , vegetables, etc. Times were hard and you didnt pass up a chance to make some cash money. As a young girl, I had a chance to visit the Cora Texas. Living in Calcasieu Parish, we

In the late 1930s and early 1940s my grandfather, Joseph Alexander Braud, had a rendezvous with Cora; Cora Texas that is. Cora Texas is a sugar factory located on Hwy. 1 just down the road from Donaldsonville in White Castle. It is still a very lucrative and productive business. Each year in September, Grandpa Braud would ride his horse from Bluff Road in Ascension Parish to Cora Texas. There he would stay until Grinding Time was over, usually a period then of about six weeks. There was no going

didnt get to visit my grandparents very often. One of our visits was during the sugar cane grinding season. I was scared while riding the ferry across the Mighty Mississippi and couldnt believe Grandpa did it on a horse. If you had a horse with

19

four white stocking feet you didnt have to pay the nickel that it cost to ride. For those reading this that aren't familiar with this term, four stocking feet meant that your horses legs were white from above the ankles to the hooves. Grandpa had one of these. The men who worked during sugar cane grinding during this long-ago time, stayed in a tin building somewhat like an old Army barrack; very plain and

austere. The building that serves as living quarters today is known as the boarding house and is equipped with all the amenities of a hotel. The migrant workers today come from many different countries and I am quite sure, none rode a horse there! I remember enjoying the guided tour we were given of the small sugar factory and being terrified when the man showing us around told us kids that if we fell in to the boiling vats of sugar we would immediately be cooked until we too became sugar and never found again. That remark has always stayed with me. My photographer daughter, Stacie Crawford, and I thoroughly enjoyed our visit and reminiscing about days gone by. Mr. Robert Young made us feel very welcome and shared some interesting facts and Ms. Barbi Hood gave us some interesting information. For more information about this very lucrative and still thriving factory go to their website, CoraTexas.com. It is a much larger operation now and very interesting. I think my Grandpa would be pleased that I shared this little story about Grinding Time

GUM DISEASE
By Calvin Bessonet, DDS,FAGD

Are there other factors?

Yes. Genetics is also a factor, as are lifestyle choices. A diet low in nutrients can diminish the body's ability to fight infection. Smokers and spit tobacco users have more irritation to gum tissues than non-tobacco users, while stress can also affect the ability to ward off disease. Diseases that interfere with the body's immune system, such as leukemia and AIDS, may worsen the condition of the gums. In patients with uncontrolled diabetes, where the body is more prone to infection, gum disease is more severe or harder to control. Pregnant women experience elevated levels of hormones that cause the gums to react differently to the bacteria found in plaque, and in many cases can cause a condition known as "pregnancy gingivitis."

What does periodontal treatment involve?

In the early stages of gum disease, most treatment involves a special cleaning called scaling and root planning, which removes plaque and tartar around the tooth and smoothing the root surfaces. Antibiotics or antimicrobials may be used to supplement the effects of scaling and root planing. In most cases of early gum disease, called gingivitis, scaling and root planing and proper daily cleaning achieve a satisfactory result. More advanced cases may require surgical treatment, which involves cutting the gums sometimes with the assistance of a laser and removing the hardened plaque build-up and recontouring the damaged bone. The procedure is also designed to smooth root surfaces and reposition the gum tissue so it will be easier to keep clean.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, or periodontal disease is a chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissue. It is the major cause of about 70 percent of adult tooth loss, affecting three out of four persons at some point in their life. Periodontal diseases include gingivitis and periodontitis.

early stages. Some general dentists have acquired additional expertise to treat more advanced conditions of the disease. If the general dentist believes that the gum disease requires treatment by a specialist, the patient will be referred to a periodontist. The dentist and periodontist will work together to formulate a treatment plan for the patient.

How can I maintain treatment at home?

Sticking to a regular oral hygiene regimen is crucial for patients who want to sustain the results of periodontal therapy. Patients should visit the dentist every three to four months (or more, depending on the patient) for spot scaling and root planing and an overall exam. In between visits, they should brush at least twice a day, floss daily and brush their tongue. Manual soft nylon bristle brushes are the most dependable and least expensive. Electric brushes are also a good option, but don't reach any further into the pocket than manual brushes. Proxy brushes (small, narrow brushes) and other interdental cleaners are the best way to clean between the recesses in the teeth and should be used once a day. Wooden toothpicks and rubber tips should only be used if recommended by your dentist.

What causes gum disease?

Bacterial plaque a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on the teeth is recognized as the primary cause of gum disease. If plaque isn't removed each day by brushing and flossing, it hardens into a rough, porous substance called calculus (also known as tartar).Toxins produced and released by bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. These toxins cause the breakdown of the fibers that hold the gums tightly to the teeth, creating periodontal pockets that fill with even more toxins and bacteria. As the disease progresses, pockets extend deeper, and the bacteria moves down until the bone that holds the tooth in place is destroyed. The tooth eventually will fall out or require extraction.

What are the warning signs of gum disease?

Signs include red, swollen or tender gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, gums that pull away from teeth, loose or separating teeth, pus between the gum and tooth, persistent bad breath, a change in the way teeth fit together when the patient bites and a change in the fit of dentures. While patients are advised to check for the warning signs, there might not be any discomfort until the disease has spread to a point where the tooth is unsalvageable. That's why patients are advised to get frequent dental exams.

How do you prevent gum disease?

Removing plaque through daily brushing, flossing and professional cleaning is the best way to minimize your risk. Your dentist can design a personalized program of home oral care to meet your needs.

What is the role of the general dentist?

The general dentist usually detects gum disease and treats it in the

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21

PRAIRIEVILLE

It was exactly one year ago that this crazy, yet exciting new journey in my life would begin. It all started when a longtime friend asked Pat and I to attend the grand opening of a new weight loss clinic in our area. As lifelong residents of the parish and owners of several businesses over the last 30 years,

Maximizing your Weight - Health Journey to Weigh less and Live longer with Bouari Clinic.
was very impressed with the lay out of the clinic and the professional atmosphere. As we talked to the owners, they told us all about this new and innovative way to lose weight. I listened half-heartedly, because they were talking to someone who had struggled with her own weight issues and had battled with a negative body image her entire life. I had tried numerous diets and programs, joined health clubs, and even resorted to surgery, all to no avail. So what could possibly be so different about this program? I was about to find out. After meeting with this young couple, I was asked if I would help them to spread the word about their business. They were not from here and did not have any business connections. I told them I could not promote a business unless I knew that it did in fact do what they claimed it could do, so I was offered a 30 day trial program to see what I thought of it, which I hesitantly accepted, but thought what did I have to lose, except weight. I agreed to follow the plan to the letter because I wanted to be able to tell them I had done everything exactly as they told me to but it just didnt work this would be yet another program to add to my list of failed attempts. Or would it? Within the first two

The Bouari Program will help you lose an average of three to seven pounds a week. Without surgery, prescription drugs, packaged foods or the need to exercise. Call for your FREE consultaion today.

weeks of the program, I had lost 14.4 lbs. and over 7 inches. By the end of the month I was at the 20 lb. mark and over 10 inches.

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he thought we might be able to help the young couple just starting out. I must admit I did not want to go, but agreed after much persistence from Pat. When we arrived I

Pat &Karen Sigur

My trial period was over, but I agreed to keep going, this was actually working. I was not hungry, I loved the food, and I loved the results. I continued the program for the next 5 months, taking breaks in between because I also wanted to test for myself that if I stopped the program, would I gain the weight back? (I do not recommend this by the way, because it is very hard to get back into the routine. Its better to tough it out, so once you are on a roll stay on it!!) But even on the breaks, I was able to maintain my weight. After all was said and done, I was 40 lbs. lighter and had lost 23.5 inches all over my body. I could not have been happier and I was ready to spread the word. In August, I was asked if I would consider working part time at the clinic. I agreed. Within three

Youll be amazed at how you can achieve substantial weight loss and feel healthier and happier with little effort.
This is NOT an HCGprogram.

months of working there I would be managing the clinic and this year would become the owner. Wow, how your life can change in just a few short months! If you would have told me at the beginning of last year, that by the end of the year I would not only lose 40+ lbs., but keep it off; I would become a weight loss consultant - and would eventually end up owning my own clinic, I would have told you to lay off the sauce for a little while because it was beginning to affect your brain. But God, is all I can say. It was His plan all along. For I know the

The Time to Plan for a Hurricane is NOT after you see it on Television.
Contact: Patrick Sigur Jr.
LA Arborist Lic# 1070

Use our metabolismboosting products and follow our scientifically designed meal plan, made up of fruits, vegetables and lean meats. Benefit from weekly sessions with our nutritional counselors, to make sure you are fully accompanied on your journey to healthier living. Let your bodys metabolism do the hard work in helping you achieve your optimum weight, and then rely on the nutritional awareness you will have achieved with Bouari to help stay that way.

All you have to do is:

The Bouari program consists of three simple steps:

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plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Thank you Lord, for renewed hope, a bright future and the opportunity to teach others how to weigh less and live longer.

The Bouari Clinics were founded by Dr. Carol Ann Chaney, an RN, with a PhD in nutrition, who has 17 years of experience in the weight loss indusdtry.
Bouari Clinic of Prairieville is a part of a rapid expanding national franchise. Currently, there are 5 locations in Louisiana. Check us out at www.bclouisiana.com

Specializing in:
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PRAIRIEVILLE

17534 Old Jefferson Hwy, Ste. B2 Prairieville

(Next to Oak Grove Primary School)

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P. O. Box 1626 Prairieville

225.819.3741

225.622.6475

INTRODUCING THE OFFICIAL PROGRAM OF THE JAMBALAYA FESTIVAL ASSOCIATION

Finally, there is an Official Program that represents the Greatness of the Festival and Showcases Our Community with photos, schedules, pageants, events and history.
ATTENTION ADVERTISERS:
THE O F FICIAL PROG RAM O F THE JA MBAL

AYA F ES

The Official Program will be the

ONLY
publication distributed at the Jambalaya Festival.
In addition to distribution at the Festival, the program will be distributed at local grocery stores and businesses. Also, advertising revenues raised go to The Jambalaya Festival Association which, in turn, are used and put back into our community.
To purchase ad space contact: Wally Tallion 225.806.6579 Mike Strong 225.622.1324

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24

Fishing Line Ain't Just Fishing Line Anymore

As far as I can remember, when I first started fishing there was only one type of fishing line. We called it salt and pepper because it had black and white colors on it. At some point monofilament fishing line was introduced and it became a mainstay for years to come. Well, not anymore. Types of fishing line today has gone far beyond most of our expectations to say the least. I recently attended a seminar at the Louisiana Outdoor Writers conference where a representative from Berkley fishing lines gave a talk on the entire realm of the past, present, and future of fishing line. Some of the materials used in certain types of line makeup were actually invented for use in WWII. Most of the components for today's different types of lines are produced from our chemical and petroleum plants. Some lines are optimized for spinning reels such as Trilene XL. Some are optimized for bait casting such as XT. There are lines that allow for stretch and shock absorption and there are others that do not. Some lines sink, which is good for fishing baits that need to sink, while other lines float or sink slowly and are designed for top water lures. Fluorocarbons are resistant to UV light and will disappear under water. This line is sensitive to heat and friction. Things such as clinching a knot too fast or clinching the knot when the line is too dry can cause knot failure. Gel-spun polyethylene super lines, more commonly called braided line has made it's mark in the fishing line industry. Again. Although very tough line, they are not for everyone or for all types of fishing reels or fishing methods. Berkley is now offering its newest category offline to the market. It's a unifiliment fishing line called NaNo-fil. This line is not a mono, braid,or fluorocarbon. One may think that if you go out and buy the most expensive line on the market you will have all the bases covered. That's not the case here by far. All these lines are designed for certain types of reels, rods baits, and methods of fishing. Things such as lb. test, diameter range, buoyancy in water, water absorption, effect of UV light, stretch, shock absorption, sensitivity, abrasion resistance, spool memory, and colors should be taken into consideration before purchasing fishing line. And by the way, there's no one type knot that's a cure all for for these different types of line. Most of them require different knots for ultimate results. Some lines require different types of eyes on the rod for abrasion control. Your line is a direct link from you and what's on the end of the line. It could be your fish of a lifetime. It could be that one you need to win a tournament. Maybe it's your kids' or Grandkids' biggest fish, whatever it is, you don't want to lose it even if you intend to release the fish after you catch it. (But you want to catch it don't you?). I DO. I would suggest that you do a little research before buying line these days, because one thing is for sure, fishing line ain't just fishing line anymore. Till next time, " Are you confused yet?" James " Goosie" Guice
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The Fab Four Picks the Final Four or Weve Got a Ticket to Lie
by Bill Delaune

Nothing should surprise me anymore concerning my annual spring pilgrimage into the bowels of the Bluff Swamp to find the elusive, reclusive All-Seeing, All-Knowing Sports Ninja. But this year even the Great One (his preferred titled) truly outdid himself. He was certainly easier to find this March as high water in the basin had forced him to relocate at the old Alligator Hilton Bar-but the props around him were all different. For starters there was a classic cherry-red Mustang parked outside the establishment instead of his usual 49 manure truck with the whiskey dents in the side. Then, the costume he wore looked like he should be playing in the Golden Band from Tigerland instead of predicting the outcome of sporting events. And then there was the music blaring from within the Hilton where cowboys, hippies, bikers and LSU frat kids had once danced across the warped floor to Uncle Jims one-man show on Sunday nights. It was unmistakably the Beatles bemoaning the inevitable fate of the ageing process If Id been out till quarter to three, would you lock the door? Will you still need me, will you still feed me, when Im sixty-four? Even Ninjas mood was more jovial than his usual stoic manner but his greeting hadnt changed. Hello, Fishwrap. You dinosaur tree-killers havent been put out of business by the Internet yet? How do you like the new digs? Frank and Jim are letting me stay here a while until these bureaucrats figure out how to drain a swamp. The water at my place is higher than a Keith Richards post-concert party right now. I took a second look around and measured my reply carefully. Is that your car? An original 64 Mustang complete with the 289 cubic inch V-8-best engine Ford ever made, he announced sounding like a proud papa. And the outfit-the music? Come one-youre the detective wannabe. Give some investigative reporting, Ninja encouraged.

Okay, I ventured. Youre dressed like you belong on the cover of the Sgt. Pepper album and-if my fading memory serves-When Im 64 was the second song on Side 2. Bingo! he exclaimed. That calls for a beer. How about a Miller 64? he asked almost gleefully. Say, all this wouldnt have anything to do with the fact that I turned 64 on March 19, would it? I finally surmised.

26

Its the best surprise party I could come up with under the circumstances, he admitted. From inside the Alligator Bar came the first song from Side 3 of the White Album You say its your birthday screamed Lennon and McCartney. Well, I must say Im impressed, I confessed. How on earth did you remember? The Great One knows all and sees all, he preached majestically

before dropping the faade just as quickly. Besides, when you came here four years ago in March you were turning 60 and you had a depressed face so long I thought Men in Black were coming to pick you up. So I did a little math and figured some 64 references might cheer you up for this landmark occasion. And if these rednecks down here had passed a law like Amendment 64 like they did in Colorado, we couldve had a real party. Whats Amendment 64? I asked innocently. Legalization of marijuana, Birdcage Bottom, he scolded. They regulate if just like alcohol. The Beatles had now launched into a satirical song-number six from Side 1 of the White Album Hey, Bungalow Bill, what did you kill? Well, the effort is appreciated, I managed, but But the reason youre here is to find a winner in the NCAA basketballs field of-dare I say it-64, he interrupted. And dont give me that field of 68 nonsense with play- in games between teams that sound like they should be on Rocky and Bullwinkle-Barely Normal, Tick Tock Tech and Wossamotta U., Ninja ranted. The cars a 64, the songs a 64, the beers a 64, the Beatles arrived here in 64, youre 64 and the March Madness teams number 64 and thats just the way it is, he concluded. We have no quarrel, I assured him. But four years ago, you pulled me out of my doldrums-and also out of some debt-with the advice to move a Tom Izzo-coached team a couple rounds farther then one would have them in the brackets. I penciled longshot Michigan State in all the way to the finals and although they lost to North Carolina, I still made a bundle, I recalled. The Great Sports Ninja got a pensive look on his face and admitted honestly. Look, Rag Writer, this years tougher than bear meat. The tournaments wide open and its a long and winding road to On cue the third song from Side 2 of Let It Be began

from inside The long and winding road Dammit, I told them to sing Delaune and winding road in your honor, but I guess they forgot, sighed Ninja. For the umpteenth time that day I was taken aback. What do you mean by that? I asked. Look I appreciate the tape by my all-time favorite band but Tape? he shouted incredulously. I go to all this trouble to arrange a Beatles reunion for your birthday and you think its a tape? The Miller 64s were starting to take effect and I was not to be intimidated. Listen, Ninja, Ive seen you do some amazing things-some bordering on the miraculous-but John Lennon and George Harrison are dead. So was Paul McCartney in 1969, he countered. But all that Paul is dead bullsquash was just a hoax to resell old albums as was that business about him having a double, I argued. Or maybe all four of them had doubles, stated the Ninja calmly. But that would mean that the guy Mark David Chapman killed in New York and the quiet Beatle who died of cancer were not really John and George-is that what youre saying? At that moment a startlingly exact replica of John Lennon stuck his head outside the Alligator Bar door and demanded, Any chance of getting a beer in here, mates. Were all the way through Side 6 of the White Album and our throats are bloody dry. Ninja smiled and nodded in my direction, but I was reduced to stammering. How-what-who? Oh please, let me get you a 64. Thanks, mate. You must be the birthday boy. Hey guys, come out and meet Bungalow Bill, John called. One by one, they emerged from inside the Hilton-Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr. But how? I was still in shock. It wasnt easy, said Ninja, but I have friends in low places. Then a sudden brainstorm hit him without any test of the emergency warning system. Hey! Why dont we let these guys pick your Final Four? In a tournament as unpredictable as this years, their guess is as good as any. He seemed very pleased with

his idea. Come on, Beatles. Youve been in the States long enough to know something about this March Madness. George, you go first. All right, said the most spiritual one of the group. I pick Georgetown. Wait a minute. The deep-thinking, Hare Krishna, sitar-playing disciple of the Maharishi of India just chose a team based solely on his name? I like to keep things simple, understated George noticing my astonished look. That could be good advice for a lot of people, Ninja noted. Okay, Ringo, youre next. The Cockney accent of the drummer once known as Richard Starkey was unmistakable. Well, since we were once known as the Fab Four-or Fab Five if you include our producer George Martin who was known as the Fifth Beatle, Ill take the team who once had a Fab Five in the 90s-Michigan. Sound reasoning that doesnt meet a beat, agreed Ninja. John, youre up. Now if this was really John Lennon, the next response would be clever, satirical, and perhaps a bit crude and vulgar-depending on your taste. After all, this was the man who had proclaimed the band more popular than Jesus and had mocked repetitive blues artists with the not so subtle Why Dont We Do It in the Road. He did not disappoint Ill honor bonny Prince Charles with my selection of Indiana, John pause for effect. After all, he was In-Diana more than anyone else. The group roared with laughter but the merriment was shortlived when Paul made his choice. Speaking of royalty-and since I am knighted-Ill take a team with a royal title-Duke, proclaimed the southpaw bass player. John was swift to react-as perhaps some old wounds were still festering. I figured youd go with those blue-bloods, you elitist pig. Sir Paul, indeed. Why dont you mind your own business, Mr. Power to the People-or should I say your Ono business, shot back Paul. Just when it seemed a brawl would break out, another figure emerged from the bar carrying a Fender Stratocaster. Whats all the commotion out here? Somebody shot the sheriff? Arguably the greatest white guitar player that ever lived

strolled out to join the historic gathering. Eric Clapton? I gasped. But you werent one of the Beatles. Eric played lead on While My Guitar Gently Weeps, admitted George. I was busy on the production end and thought we could use the help. Ninja was not ready to let go of his selection process just yet. What about it Slow Hand-you got a favorite in the tourney? Claptons eyes began to twinkle and he began to strum the Fender while launching into a variation of one of his classics Bay-la, youll bring them to their knees, Bay-la Excuse me, Mr. Clapton-and this is no reflection on your clever parody-but I dont even know if Baylor made the tournament, I said sheepishly. Then give them to me in the Womens Tourney, he replied. Ive always liked women better than men anyway. Ill say, interjected George. You stole Patti Boyd away from me. Before another argument could ensue, the Great Ninja intervened with still another surprise. Cmon guys, lets load up. Well be late for our gig. Paul

and George, you ride with me. John, you take Ringo and Eric in the Mustang. The amps and mikes Wait a minute, I interrupted. You mean this band is going to perform somewhere? Were playing at the old Gonzales Country Club tonight, announced John. Going under the name of Banana and the Bunch-the group with appeal and well see who shows up. Itll be like the old Cavern days in Liverpool. Have a great birthday mate-and I hope we passed the audition. I watched them ride away with three superstars in a 64 Mustang and two others in a 49 Manure truck with a crazed Ninja screaming, I always wanted to be a roadie for a rock group, with equipment in the back. That night when I went to bed, I put on my God forgive Mark David Chapman-I dont t-shirt, cued up When Im 64 on my sound system and dreamed of Strawberry Fields Forever. Oh, and I also made a small wager on Georgetown, Michigan, Indiana and Duke to make the Final Four. Give peace a chance.

Hey Dr. Rob, I Love What You Do for Me.

ASCENSION PA RISH

A N I M A L H O S P I TA L
225.7 44.4905
27

Monday
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Useless Random Facts

A wolf pups eyes are blue at birth. Their eyes turn yellow by the time they are eight months old. Some cultures use urine mixed with coal dust to make dye for their tattoos. As businesses and farms closed during the Great Depression, an alarming number of Americans began turning to crimesuch as Bruno Hauptmann, who kidnapped and murdered Charles Lindberghs 20-month-old son; John Dillinger; Lester M. Gillis (Baby Face Nelson); Machine Gun Kelly; Pretty Boy Floyd; Ma Barker and her Boys; and the famous Bonnie and Clyde, who were actually despised by other Midwestern bandits who felt they lowered the standard of the profession. Iran controls 50% of the Caspian Sea caviar market. The eggs of the Caspian beluga sturgeon can fetch up to $160 per ounce. The beluga sturgeon was swimming in lakes at the time of the dinosaurs but the sturgeon, which can live to be 100 years old, are rapidly disappearing. Environmentalists argue that a full ban on caviar would help the ancient creature. Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming sits on the site of an ancient super voclano. It erupted around 2 million years ago, 1.3 million years ago, and 640,000 years ago. If it follows the same pattern, another eruption is due any time now. Of the eight bear species, four live in the Southern Hemisphere and four in the Northern Hemisphere. At around 6 months old, a baby learns that each object is unique. Before this time, whenever it sees a bird in a tree, it always assumes it was the same bird. The humpback whale breaches more often than any other whale, sometimes leaving the water completely during a leap. The whale leaps by swimming quickly for ward and then turning its spout suddenly upward to send its for ward momentum skyward. This is quite a feat considering that a humpback whale can weigh as much as 30 tons. Ultrasounds show that in the womb, 90% of babies appear to favor the right thumb, which corresponds to population breakdowns of right-handers and left-handers. The inner ear is the only sense organ to develop fully before birth. It reaches its adult size by the middle of pregnancy. August 13th is Left-Handers Day. Launched in 1992, this yearly event celebrates left-handedness and raises awareness of the difficulties and frustrations left-handers experience ever y day in a world designed for right-handers. Those with Russian ancestr y have the highest concentration of millionaire households in America. The Scottish rank second and Hungarians rank third. English ancestr y groups rank fourth. The Russian American millionaire group has approximately $1.1 trillion, or nearly 5% of all the personal wealth in America.

with Kellie

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THE GIVING QUILT 2013 QUILT EXHIBIT

WHERE: Lamar Dixon Expo Center, Trademart Bldg., 9039 St. Landry Rd., Gonzales, La. 70737 WHEN: Sat., April 6, 2013 10AM - 4PM INFO: Food and drinks will be sold on the premises 2013 QUILT EXHIBIT All displayed quilts are donated by the quilter to the charity of her/his choice. Quilt submission is free. Admission and parking are free. Door prizes will be awarded throughout the day. Must be present to win. There will be cash prizes and ribbons for Viewer's Choice, Challenge Choice and Judges' Choice Quilts. SPECIAL EXHIBITS We are privileged to present a heartwarming Quilts of Valor documentary produced by Iowa Public Television about The Quilts of Valor Foundation. Host and co-producer

Marianne Fons, of Fons & Porter's Love of Quilting, tells the story of the unique and important work of this foundation. Free QOV patterns will be available. A fidget apron for patients with Alzheimer's Disease will be displayed with free patterns available. The following Vendors will be available with a wide variety of fabric and accessories: Accurate Sewing Machine LLC., Bright Hopes Quilt Shop, Cottage Creation Quilt Shop, Mama's Quilt Shop, Martelli Enterprises, Mes Amis Quilt Shop, The Borne Quilter. The Scissors Man, Dennis Glass, will be here to sharpen your scissors for a fee. Enjoy ongoing demonstrations of some of the newest quilting tools and gadgets. Contemporary Fabric Artist of Louisiana Exhibit. ACTIVITIES Kits will be available, at no cost, for sewing pillowcases on-site for the children of GRACE camp. GRACE camp is a 5-day non-denominational camping experience for children ages 1018 who have a parent incarcerated. Kids Draw for Kids sponsored

by National Quilting Association, is a community outreach project in which school age children can help make a quilt to be donated to a child through Baton Rouge Quilt for Kids. Children will have the opportunity to stuff fabric bears which will be donated to Our Lady of the Lake Children's Hospital. PRESENTATIONS Blessing of Quilts will take place at 11:00 A.M., by Father

W. Patrick Edwards, of St. Margaret's Episcopal Church Awards and Ribbons Ceremony will begin at 2:00 P.M. The winner of the 2013 Raffle quilt will be announced at 3:45 P.M. The quilt, Blue Willow, was made and quilted by Jessie Comeaux. Winner need not be present to win. For directions and more information please see www.thegivingquiltinc.org

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BUGGIN OUT
with Ron Barattini Total Pest Elimination is just a Phone Call Away.
Your homeIt's your personal sanctuary, your refuge from the world. You've worked hard to create an environment that your family can enjoy. So when you want to take in the pleasures of your own yard -- landscaping or pets, patio or pool, fun with the kids or parties with adults -- you deserve to do so in complete comfort. For all that you've put into your home and yard; you shouldn't have to be at the mercy of annoying insects and their painful bites. Fortunately, you won't with J&J Exterminatings Mosquito Elimination program because Mosquitos stay away from J&J. Whether you are planning a One-Time event, or you want everyday comfort from whats bugging you, J&J Exterminating has the answer. There has never been a more effective, convenient method for preventing mosquito bites in your yard. J&J Exterminatings Mosquito Elimination program works automatically and is virtually maintenance free. Youll never again have to spray your kids with messy repellents or remember to

fog your yard before an evening cookout. J&J Exterminatings Mosquito Program, takes care of treating the grass and landscaping, killing any mosquito that comes in contact with it. This program is designed to leave behind a residual chemical that will completely effect the life cycle of all mosquitoes. It also kills or repels other unwanted pests, like spiders, flies, gnats and no-see-ums. For a broader protection package, J&J Exterminating offers our Year Round Gold Shield 365 program. With Gold Shield 365 all pests become a thing of the past. Now you dont have to worry about spiders in the corners, mice in the walls or roaches in the cabinets. Well visit your home four times a year to treat all of the hiding places and entry pointsinside and outsideand make your home off-limits to pests. Gold Shield 365 is dependable Protection at your convenience. You schedule our quarterly visits when its convenient for you.

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Thoughts from Bully

Ooweeee Maui
I am a lucky man. I think? This past month my Sister invited to spend 10 days in Hawaii. Maui to be exact. First it takes an entire day to get there. I flew from New Orleans to Denver. Connected with family, flew to San Fransisco, picked up more family and flew to Maui. I had left my home at 5:30am central and am in Hawaii 9 oclock, Hawaiian time. I dont even know what time zone. We rented a car and found out we had an hour drive to the resort. Sure is tiring try to enjoy a trip of a life time. There was an entertaining moment on the plane. A passenger walked on the plane at one of the connections. He was dressed in Oklahoma red and white. Some Texas Longhorn fans immediately starting razing him. He had some good comes backs for the Longhorn fans. Then a Longhorn asked out loud, Hey Tiger fan? Whats your thoughts? My simple reply was, We love Oklahoma in the Dome! We finally arrived at the Kanapalli Alli resort. It was dark, I was tired so I passed out and when I woke, I was in paradise. I decided to purchase some beer at the turn. I purchased a few Buds in the alluminum bottle shaped can. The catch was these cans did not have twist off tops. I inquired how I was to open the beer. She pointed to a small sign. Bottle Openers for Sale, $1. What a jip.

Who said Swimming with the Turtles is Fun?

The next day we woke early again to take a boat trip to a reef to snorkle. The boat ride was fun. About an hour to our destination and at this time of year the Hawaiian waters are perfect for whales to breed. All around us you could see whales breaching and blowing. I learned these were males trying

Let the Vacay Begin with a Round of Golf.

Like most good vacations the first morning should start with a round of golf and our tee

to impress the females to try get close to her at just the right moment. Reminds me of a few guys Ive seen at Park Place on a Friday night. One whale lifted his tail out of the water and spanked it up and down over-and-over. I couldnt tell if he was making an impression or got lucky. As we approched the swimming area I must have been distracted by the whales. I looked around an 60% of the people on the boat were sea sick and hurling everywhere. I put my flip flops back on and faced up wind. After swimming for an hour we headed to the next destination, Turtletown. During the travel time the deck hands, also known a Naturalist, educated us on identifying the fish we were about to see. I learned that the fish munch and survive off the coral reef and after crunching and munching the coral becomes fish waste and up to 30% of the beaches in the area is fish poo. A smile came across my face. I remembered the nephew I had lost the bet to was buried in the said by his niece. He was like Joe Dirt. I got the POO on me!. Once we arrived to Turtletown I jumped in the water and looked for the docile Sea Turtle. Before entering the water it was explained that the turtles were protected and anyone violating the turtles space can be fined up to $10,000. With little success I started to give up when this giant turtle came up by me. His

time at 7:02, sunrise. The course was magnicant. The wind sucked. I chipped real high one time and thought the ball was going to land behind me. As many of my golfing Buddies know my putting stroke has a lot to be desired. I was 10 ft. from the hole when my nephew spoke up and said, If you 2 putt from here hed wear the coconut bikini top on the beach however if I missed, I had to wear the top. You can see by the photo I missed. After a razing from Tim 32

head was bigger than a softball and we were 2 ft. apart and I can here him breathing. Docile or not Im getting a little nervous because he is a distant relative to a snapping turtle. Then a turtle flipper or leg scrapped across my inner thigh. Oh crap. Hes was violating my territory. I may need Pegram to defend me from the Turtle fondler. His flipper was right where it shoudnt be. Please dont anyone startle this turtle because flipper thrust would be a bad thing. Once I was back on board, the turtle was identified as a female. I didnt feel so violated.

Dont Judge a Book by Its Cover at the Luau

It was a beautiful sunset afternoon. Totem poles everywhere. A pig was cooking underground. It almost had a feeling of the hunting camp but not quit. When we entered, we were profiled immediatley. My nephew from Colorado had a camo hat on so the staff thought he was from Louisiana. As the night went on things werent always as they seem. First we received free drinks with our table but not free beer. I was givin my first FREE Fruity Hawaiian drink. Dang! This drink taste good. I had a couple more when a skirt wearing, grass halo kinda Hawaiian fellow came to meet me. He looked at me and said, SEC Number 1! Are you kid-

Lets Hang Out on the Beach.

After a few days into the vacation it was a day for hanging on the beach. Wow. Palm trees, sailboats and 7 shades of blue colored water. I sat down, took my shirt off and everyone on the beach put their sunglasses on. I was white but didnt care. Tide would have been proud. Lets get the sunscreen out and hope that it works. Just think. I was on Little Prairie Road just a few days ago and now I am on the beach in Maui. Im feeling social and walked the beach and tried to meet a few people. I spoke to a couple for a few minutes. They then looked at each other and shrugged and walked away. Dang it! I hate when foreigners look like Americans. They didnt understand a word I said. Maybe? You never know about those multilingual foreigners. Their schools systems must teach phonics. During my walk I drifted into a Sea Walk Mall. A booth just off the beach had oysters on the half shell. They were a little brown and golden but Ive been away from home and thought a taste home would be nice. As I picked one up to eat an attendant stopped me from sucking down the delicacy because it was a pearl oyster and the booth was making jewelry. The attendant pointed out that my LSU hat was a oyster warning sign because some weeks earlier a group of people from Louisiana had eatten about $650 worth of pearl oysters in no time. Just teasing.

were hitting up on me. Left and right, everytime I stopped by one of them, they would strike a pose for the camera. I guess it was their job but I was thinking I might be sweet on the one in the blue dress. The other dancer, dressed in Saints colors, had my attention also. She was slim as my pantry back home and was making some hip sign with her hand. I later learned it meant, Hang Loose. I was down with that because the free fruity drinks had me loose.

anything funny about this heroic ground. The Battle Ship Missouri stands proud with my kind of gun control.

Paradise Must Come to an End.

Ive spent many remarkable days and I have seen many remarkable sites but all good things must come to an end. I woke at 4:30 to pack for a 12 oclock check out. Then we had 9 hours to kill before we boarded our plane for the flight to Los Angelos. We arrived around 4:30 California time. At this point, I believe, I had been awake for 20 hrs., at least. My family left me for their flight to Colorado at 6:30. I tilted on my side in the airport with no one around and fell asleep for an hour or so. I woke to to hundreds of people sitting waiting on a flight. A young girl said, Look Dad. The passed out LSU guy woke up! Thank God I woke up. I was dreaming of the beautiful Hawaiian girls and a mental image of their mother came to me and their future looks. Also the young girls Dad had an Auburn t-shirt on and I was impressed he hadnt drawn a mustache on my face while sleeping. Or worse?

Pearl Harbor
What an experience. My father was in the Army Air Corp at Hickem Air Base. He was there on December 7th. He survived and I will not write

ding? He ad learned about our table and his brother works on the University of Arkansas coaching staff. The food, atmosphere and people were great. The show ended and as we walked out. I thought Hawaiian Dancers

33

Spring is in the Air and Baseball is Everywhere ...

Photos By Jimmy Dunkley and Mike Strong

Cooking Gourmet at Home with SNOS SEAFOOD & STEAKS

Louisiana Crawfish Dressing

Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 1 hour Ingredients:
2 lbs peeled Louisiana Crawfish Tails (with fat) - Rough chop approx. lbs 8 cups long grain rice (cooked) 3 cups green onions- thinly sliced (do not cook) 2 Tbsp chopped parsley 3 cups diced onion 2 cups diced celery 1 cup diced green bell pepper 2 Tbsp minced garlic 6 cups bread crumbs 1 Tbsp salt 2 Tbsp granulated garlic 1 tsp cayenne pepper 1 tsp black pepper 1 tsp onion powder 1 Tbsp Crab Boil (if desired) 3 eggs Method:
In a small pot cook all of the vegetables until tender. In a large mixing bowl add all of your seasoning, bread crumbs, green onions, eggs, and crawfish. Incorporate the cooked vegetables and rice then mix thoroughly. This is a great recipe to use as a stuffing for fish, chicken, or pork chops. Cook stuffed chicken or pork for approx. 30 minutes at 375 degrees or until proper doneness has been reached. Stuffed fish will only take approx. 10 to 15 minutes. You can also form the stuffing into balls and fry them for a great appetizer. First, heat your frying oil to 350 degrees in a cast iron Dutch oven. Then, simply form into approx. 2 ounce balls and roll them in Japanese Panko bread crumbs. Fry for approx 3 to 5 minutes or until golden brown.

Executive Chef Ben Jarreau & Sous Chef Brandon Kling

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GARON BEE COMPANY: A LOUISIANA ODYSSEY

S u b m i t t e d b y J i m m y D u n k l e y, L o u i s i a n a B e e k e e p e r s A s s o c i a t i o n In seeking information on Garon Bee Company, I had the opportunity to meet Vallery Val Garon, the last owner/operator of a family business started by his father, Emile, in 1926. In my query on the origin of the company, Val produced a book written by one of his older brothers, Henry Garon, in 1978. The family history entitled, A Louisiana Odyssey was all I needed to accurately relate the story of a Louisiana beekeeping pioneer but I found it to be much more. It seems Henry had written the book as a gift to his aging mother and father shortly before their deaths. From the time I opened the pages and started to read, I lost sight of the beekeeping aspect of the story, paying more attention to the origins of his mother and father, their family backgrounds, introduction to each other, and their love affair. It was in short, a love story. Jeanne Catherine Rodriguez was born on April 29, 1889, the eighth of fourteen children of Prosper and Odalie Rodriguez. Jeannes father was a friendly man who loved the outdoors. He operated the Bayou Lafourche toll bridge between Donalsonville and the village of Port Barrow. Jeanne attended St. Vincents Institute, graduating in a class of three in 1903. After remaining home for two years, she enrolled in a summer session at Louisiana State Normal School in Natchitoches where she obtained a teaching certificate. She taught at several elementary schools in Ascension and Iberville parishes for the next couple of years, resigning in 1912. By 1913 she started as a clerk with Western Union in Donaldsonville at a salary of $10.00 a month. Emile Louis Garon was born on March 14, 1890 near New Roads, the fifth of twelve children of Louis and Eliska Garon. Emiles father was a carpenter and farmer, a hard working man, the son of a blacksmith. The large family lived in the country and suffered through hard times, living hand-to-mouth off the land. While his father did carpentry work, the children worked the farm. From an early age, Emile chopped wood, cut grass, hoed the fields, picked cotton and corn, and, in the fall, picked pecans from their trees on the farm. By the age of ten he had learned the alphabet but was unable to read or write. At eleven he entered the first grade. Although his small stature and speech difficulties placed him at further disadvantage, following four years in a one room schoolhouse, he entered Poydras Academy in New Roads and completed grade six at age 17. This was the extent of his formal education and he went to work as a messenger boy for Western Union at 18. During the next three years he learned telegraphy on his own initiative. He left Western Union and pursued several opportunities with the railroad, in farming, and as a sawmill hand but by 1914, at age 24, he again joined Western Union and was assigned to Donaldsonville. It was there that he met Jeanne. On his first day of work at Donaldsonvilles Western Union office, Emile Garon was introduced to Jeanne Rodriguez as her new boss. Emile was overburdened with work in his new job and Jeanne helped by phoning in the messages to their recipients. Emile also provided her instruction in Morse code. They worked well together and became good friends. A year later, in 1915, Western Union transferred Emile to Plaquemine and the twenty miles of Western Union lines hummed with messages between Emile and Jeanne. They devised a secret code between themselves consisting of the letters TI; that is, T, the letter following S which stood for sweet and I, the letter following H which stood for heart. There came a day, however, when the code was cracked and Emile was known for the rest of his life by family and friends by the nickname Ti. Emile left Western Union and took several jobs over the next few years. He even returned to his family home in New Roads for a time. Jeanne, however, alerted him to a one month opening for a Texas and Pacific agent position at the small railroad office at Belle Alliance Plantation, three miles down Bayou Lafourche from Donaldsonville. No telephones were available in this remote area and communications with the outside were made entirely by telegraphy, which Emile new well.

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The one month assignment developed into a seven year tour of duty in Belle Alliance for Emile and permanent employment with Texas and Pacific Railroad. Emile and Jeanne loved and appreciated each other, and on June 27, 1919 they were married in Ascension Catholic Church. They honeymooned in Colorado for 2 weeks and, upon returning to Donaldsonville, they moved in with Jeannes aging father at his home in Faubourg la Pipe. They both resumed their jobs but Jeanne was unable to continue once their family started to grow. For the next two years Emile rode his bicycle daily from Faubourg la Pipe into town where he swapped over to a one man railroad handcar for the remaining three mile journey to Belle Alliance. It was not until 1922 that he purchased his first automobile. In all they stayed with Jeannes father, Prosper, for six years. It was Prosper who introduced Emile to honey bees. He had been given a dozen or so hives in the 1890s by Father Ceuppens, an area priest, upon his recall to New Orleans. Prosper kept the bees with more or less success but was unable to take care of them by the time Emile and Jeanne were married. Emile helped Prosper with the bees until he gave them up entirely, and it was left to Emile to care for them. In 1925, Emile was transferred to McCall, a community four miles upriver from Donaldsonville. There the Texas and Pacific maintained a small railroad office for the purpose of handling shipments of farm produce. Prosper joined them a month later. Emile removed the trunk from his Model T, converting the vehicle into a truck, and moved the 50 colonies of bees to McCall. In 1926, Emile acquired the bees from Prosper and started Garon Bee Company. He increased his hive numbers to 100 at that time. No sooner had he accomplished this task when more bees became available. A 500 colony outfit went on the rocks giving him the opportunity to buy them cheaply. The company he purchased was Sherburne Industries and the bees were managed by Mr. Etienne C. Bessonet. This was the start of a 40+ year family business. Emile established a bee shipping firm at McCall, Louisiana, near Donaldsonville in 1927. Throughout the Great Depression, Emile continued to work as a Texas & Pacific railroad agent. Etienne Bessonet was hired to continue to manage bee operations for Garon Bee Company. This arrangement lasted until 1941. At that time Emile resigned his position with T & P Railroad to assumed full operation of his bee

company and Mr. Bessonet established his own bee company at Donaldsonville. The picture provided is from the mid to late 1930s. It shows the collection of packages of bees by weight, and offered for sale to northern beekeepers by Garon Bee Company. At the start of World War II, Garon Bee Company was in prime condition physically, but with little cash in the bank. However, the great demands and high prices for honey and package bees, due to the sugar shortage, came just in time, and Emile profited during the war years. Emile continued making a living with his bees after the war but he was to find that it was a complicated business. Such businesses were usually operated with one or more of the following goals: 1. to market individual queen bees, 2. to market bees in bulk quantities, or 3. to market honey in containers ranging from small jars to barrels. Garon Bee Company was engaged in all three operations at one time or another, sometimes simultaneously. The years 43, 44, and 45 were peak business years for Garon Honey Company, however, at the height of the 1943 shipping season they discovered American Foul Brood (AFB) in several bee yards. This highly contagious bee disease had been known to put thriving bee companies out of business, and Emile took it as a serious threat to his livelihood. The problem was compounded by the fact that they had unknowingly spread the disease in the process of taking bees from a diseased yard to established new colonies in several healthy yards. Disinfecting of hive tools and other equipment was followed from hive to hive using Clorox. They also isolated the honey taken from diseased hives and even burned some colonies. The burning was costly and a sad sight to behold but was successful. Within two years, and after burning 10% of his colonies, Emile finally overcame the AFB problem

39

in his apiaries. The condition was not seen again in Garons bees. Emile recalled that he was fortunate to have many good men working on the bee farm over the years. During shipping seasons, when a days work meant 10 or more hours, they labored in the high temperature and humidity. Their heavy clothing, meant to protect them from painful stings, added to their discomfort. It was not unusual for an employee to receive two or three dozen stings per day. It took a certain brand of courage to ignore the pain and keep going, but they endured. The sketch shows Garon Bee Company in 1942. Garon Bee Company generally offered three kinds of employment; permanent, seasonal, and temporary. A manager and two permanent employees formed the core of the staff. Joseph Carbo and Robert Hidalgo had long service records with the company and both became highly skilled beekeepers. Mr. Carbo specialized in the bee production and Mr. Hidalgo in queen breeding. Additional employees were hired on a seasonal basis during the spring and summer and teenagers were often employed on a temporary basis. By 1954 Emile was in his mid 60s. Val Garon, Emiles youngest son, returned home from the Army that year with the intention of continuing his college education, previously interrupted by the Korean Conflict. Val enrolled at Louisiana State University and attended classes until he got married and started a family. Emile offered the company to Val at that time. Having worked with his dad for years, Val pretty well knew the bee business except for the financial end. He was successful for a while, but it slowly became obvious that he had inherited a dying business. The price of queens and package bees slowly decreased. Italian queens that had sold for $1.25 to $1.35 each in 1948 brought only $1.05 to $1.15 in 1955. A 3 lb. package with a queen sold for

between $5.25 and 5.55 each in 1948, but brought only $4.15 to $4.35 in 1955. In addition, honey prices were only 8 or 9 cents per pound and the trend continued. By the 1960s industrial plants became established in the area and Val soon found out that labor costs had gone up to a point that he could no longer hire good people for the salary he could afford to pay. As older workers retired, it was hard to find anyone willing to do the hard work required of good bee men. Garon bees were often killed by pesticide applications from crop dusting companies. Finally, the bees had come down with a dwindling disease which added to Vals beekeeping burden. Val gradually realized that he could not support a family and he began to look for other work. Eventually he was hired and trained by Honeywell to work in industrial instrumentation at a great salary, plus, a car and benefits. At one time Garon Bee Company had as many as 2,000 colonies and 4,500 mating nuclei. But it was with little regret that Val gave up the family bee company in 1967. Emile (d. 1978) and Jeanne (d. 1974) provided a great life for their children and are fondly remembered. Valery lives in the Galvez area and contributed greatly to this story. His brother Henry lives in New Orleans. Henrys written memories of his family and the bee business are a loving tribute. Footnote: Henry A. Garon was one of seven children born to Emile and Jeanne Garon. Henry wrote, they were ordinary people, devout folks who took life seriously but who, in spite of its tribulations, giggled over the ridiculous things they sometimes did; who work hard, yet manifested little aspiration for recognition by the world; who grew old cheerfully without for a moment hesitating to reveal their ages; who experienced joy over good in the highest meaning of the concept; and who found contentment in the unsophisticated things of life. Ascension Parish Beekeepers Association: If you are interested in learning more about honey bees and beekeeping you are invited to attend the monthly meetings of the Ascension Parish Beekeepers Association. Meetings are held at 6:00 PM every second Tuesday of each month at the Gonzales Public Library located at 708 South Irma Blvd., Gonzales, LA 70737. Please contact Michael Bourgeois at 225-647-7117 (H) or 225-323-3963 (C) for additional information. Join us and please, Help Save the Honey Bee!

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"The Best Surprise is No Surprise"

Barter Fills Empty Restaurant Tables and Expands Small Businesses

Jonathon Marino, owner of The Italian Bowl, was having one of those days. He had just received notice of a big price increase on his meats, the air conditioning in his restaurant went on the blink, and a waitress had just dumped a tray of full wine glasses on the carpet. All of this on top of a leak in the ladies room. Fortunately, Jonathon was a member of the Jambalaya Trade Exchange, a professional barter network. With a simple phone call to his trade broker, Jonathon was able to get one of the areas best HVAC companies to service his restaurants air conditioner, arrange for a professional carpet cleaner to clean his carpet and a plumber to fix the ladies room - all without spending a dollar of his hard earned cash. Jonathon even had new menus printed to reflect the increase in his food prices . . . on barter. We average about $25,000 of business a year through our barter exchange membership, Jonathon said. That equates to more than $15,000 of additional gross profits and about $5,000 a year in tips for our wait staff. Thats a lot of business to pass up. Bartering is an idea as old as civilization itself. By strict definition, bartering is the cashless, item-for item trading of goods or services. Where our ancestors might have been trading chickens for cows, todays savvy business

people are bartering dental work for printing, accounting for automotive repair or like Jonathon, food for just about anything - all this through the help of a professional barter exchange like Jambalaya Trade Exchange(JTEX). Part accountant, part matchmaker, todays barter organizations exist to bring their members NEW BUSINESS. According to Tim Bergstresser, Executive Director of JTEX, there are about 400 barter exchanges in North America, with more than 350,000 business members doing in excess of $4 billion annually. Trade exchanges like JTEX, help cash-strapped entrepreneurs stimulate sales, develop new clients, convert excess capacity or inventory into revenue, and acquire the goods and services they need to conduct business. The most important benefit of barter is that the new business helps conserve cash. Businesses can trade for things they need and keep their cash for the expenses they cant barter for. Bartering also can be an ally to the small business owner looking to expand. Normally a business owner would have to go to the bank for a loan or save enough from receipts to finance an expansion project. Barter is a way businesses can use the value of their own products and services to fund company growth, interest free. Bartering enabled Dr. Gray Bailey, a local dentist in Prairieville, to renovate and expand his office, and lease the space out. Without spending much cash, he added space for a physicians office. Through his affiliation with JTEX, Dr. Bailey was able to acquire his ironwork, floors and landscaping, as well as the painting and window treatments he needed. Dr. Bailey also added a great new building sign. I use cash to pay the employees, my taxes and my vendors, Dr. Bailey says. Everything else is up for grabs. We dont spend cash unless something is not currently available through barter. One-on-one bartering is common in many businesses, but joining a trade exchange or barter company (a group of businesses that barter among themselves) can give you more flexibility and opportunity. The barter company also gives you a great record keeping system so youll always know where you stand with your barter account. Theres no additional bookkeeping on your part. When you join Jambalaya Trade Exchange, your initial investment will be $300. Your annual renewal fee will be $200 paid in trade dollars. ($T200) Youll pay a 10 percent transaction fee on your trades. In return, the exchange will provide you with constant promotion of your business, ongoing account maintenance, a monthly statement, membership directory, a personal trade broker to find what youre looking for, and most importantly, lots of NEW CUSTOMERS. I had a real hard time with paying fees to

barter when I had been doing it on my own for 10 years, says Jonathon owner of The Italian Bowl. But when I sat down and took a serious look at all the accounts I was running a tab on, and how many I never received anything from, I saved a lot of money by paying the barter company. Weve even moved most of our direct trades into the barter exchange. It just makes good sense! Ive always disliked coupons and two-forones, says Jacob Couvillion of Nooleys Poboy and Wing Shop - Sports Bar. Trade works much better for us than coupons, you shouldnt have to give away your food to attract customers, and the people who use coupons are usually one time customers, and not so great tippers. With barter I get paid for everything we serve and the trade members are repeat business. And they tend to be better than average tippers. A new customer filling those empty tables is the biggest benefit I get from barter, shared Jay Sadeq owner of Charlie Browns Family Sports Grill and Bar. Most of my barter busi ness comes during the week when we really need it. I suppose thats because JTEX is made up of business owners, and thats when they do business. Sadeq goes on to say, Another benefit is they usually bring in associates who arent barter members and those people come back and pay cash. The most important part of bartering is getting new business, shares Tim Bergstresser Executive Director of JTEX. When someone joins an exchange theyre exposed to hundreds of NEW potential customers locally and thousands around South Louisiana. With competition so stiff today barter helps drive those customers past your competition and into your door. Always keep in mind that barter is still a business deal. That means you should use the same good sense in making barter decisions as you would if you were paying cash. Check out the Jambalaya Trade Exchange. Visit one of their networking meetings. Meet the Executive Director. Find out what other members have to say about JTEX. View the website. These are all important things you need to know before you decide to join JTEX. Lastly, remember that both parties are customers in a transaction. You should expect and extend courtesy, high standards and a commitment to providing a great product. With these guidelines in mind, restaurateurs can take the ancient practice of barter and put it to work in the modern world.

Here are a few restaurant members of the JAMBALAYA Trade Exchange

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Jeremy Langlois, Executive Chef

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