337 Magazine- The Innovators Issue- July 2023

337 Internship Get to know the wonderful Celeste Denova and her amazing contribution to this issue

“WE’LL R U O Y R E V O C ASSETS”

RECONCOATINGS.COM

DIGITAL MARKETING

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337 Joie de Vivre Music

337 Joie de Vivre Music To have the privilege of meeting the Legend- Tommy McLain was just a life moment highlight. The brilliant C.C. Adcock has taken his precious relationship with the rock star of Swamp Pop, and crafted an album that even after 40 years of waiting to record, is only the beginning. The rasp and soul that pours out of Tommy leaves chills on the skin.

How we are so lucky to have this gift of music to our ears. I am forever grateful for my brief encounter with Tommy, and his music has imprinted on my soul. This, in a way, is my love letter to him and his story of lyrics and time….

Tommy McLain and his “I ran down every dream” album.

THE LIGHTS ARE OUT AND TWO CANDLES ARE LIT. BATHWATER WELCOMING AND THE ALBUM OF CHOICE IS “ I RAN DOWN EVERY DREAM” - TOMMY MCLAIN. All the accolades and here we are. A new era of listeners getting the chance to hear the raspy soul of time lived and lived well, and I fell in love in the bath. I fell in love with the story, the art of painting a moment in words, carefully laid over a strategic set of instruments and time that gives us what we call a song.

But what is a song? We connect to music that lies in its own window in time. What happens when time comes out of hiding and slaps us in the face with poetic justice of the word?

How is it even possible to create a moment that transcends generations, ages and connects to every emotional fiber in my body.

Tommy McLain’s melancholic way of shooting it to us straight while touching the strings we call life is, in a word, perfection.

Most recently, Tommy has blessed Australia and London, United Kingdom with his cajun style of pop. Keeping to his routes, Tommy mostly performs in the United States, primarily in Louisiana and Texas.

Returning from their tour in Australia, Tommy and fellow musician C.C. Adcock felt an intimate return was appropriate.

Performing on June 25, the swamp pop musicians felt refreshed in the historic venue of Columns Hotel in New Orleans.

PROMOTING THE ALBUM HAS BEEN A WHIRLWIND OF REJUVENATION FOR THE INSPIRATIONAL TOMMY MCLAIN.

337 Joie de Vivre Music

Relevance- “ The quality or state of being The glamorous city of angels can impact you closely connected or appropriate.” in many ways, but when he says, How does he release an album 40 years later than his last gift to us, but yet resonates with a very broad bracket of listeners? That is the eternal magic of Tommy McLain and his story telling of reality in moments.

It started with California- As I spent most of my time as an adult living in California, Los Angeles to be exact, his poetry hit home. He shares heartbreak and blues but has somehow painted California as the woman he loved.

“I've lived in motels, I've slept on beaches.. In California.” He instantly captures the loneliness of sitting on the strand, watching the waves pour over a sunset and forces you to take in the silence. The moment of reflection and blues… it is beautiful.

“PRAY FOR ME.. SOMEONE IS WALKING DOWN STREETS OF GOLD AND THEY ARE PRAYING FOR ME, ME AND YOU IN CALIFORNIA.” Somehow in this closing lyric, you feel hope.

You are not alone on that strand of sand in the city of LaLa land… I will take that and smile. Thank you Tommy.

I RAN DOWN EVERY DREAM… “ I recall when time stood still, but now the clock is tickin’…” This one lands on all the dreamers and the souls who can fall into themselves with wonder, regret, impulse, and the drive to do more- “I remember…”

337 Joie de Vivre Music

So long, goodbye. It looks like I am going to cry,cry,cry…

337 Joie de Vivre Music

“I GOT A CALL FROM HEAVEN, JUST A WHILE AGO…I DID NOT WANT TO LEAVE, BUT I HAD TO GO. HERE FOREVER MORE I’LL WAIT FOR YOU… YOU’LL LOVE THIS HEAVEN TOO…”

337 Joie de Vivre Music

This morning on my front porch swing, I heard redbirds sing. If those birds sing, oh, why can’t I? -LIVIN’ ON THE LOSIN’ END

An artistic look at Pamplona's beautiful creations in video below!

“Every time I put my arms around you, I felt that I was home.”

-Ernest Hemingway

The feeling of “Home” is found in Hemingway’s love affair with Pamplona, Spain. The medieval, quaint town is known for The Running of the Bulls, and of course the famed writer of the 1920’s. The connection to the Spanish Culture, Cuisine and Mixology met with Hemmingway’s obsession, has gifted our part of the world with a venue worthy of the intolerable, master-of-words, adoration – Pamplona Tapas Bar and Restaurant.

Hidden in plain sight sits the inspired space that has captured the hearts of those craving “more” here in Lafayette. Claiming the coveted downtown location, Pamplona has been gifting our pallets with delectable tapas and innovative mixology for fifteen years.

As you walk up the mysterious front door, it feels like you are stepping onto a Tarantino movie set. The Pamplona sign swinging above in the wind is met with the eerily quiet mood of the night. The adventure begins.

Guests step inside and are met with the most divine aroma – garlic, in all its fragrant glory. It is as if the kitchen is saying hello alongside the friendly host, waiting to take you to your seat. The dimly lit room’s walls are lined with photos inspired from Pamplona Spain, that instantly transport you to a “Speakeasy of Spanish Flare.”

Excitement is around every corner, as the bustle of the cozy restaurant is in full swing. From Flaming Cocktails to the Absinthe Drip, the bar has a whole vibe of its own. The Pamplona bar staff are fully equipped to take you down whatever rabbit-hole you desire. Did I mention Absinthe – yes….the green licorice dare is a focus here as they offer a lovely variety of the “Green Fairy.”

As you find your table, settle in and dive into the menus placed in front of you. The range of bites are there to please and you will not be disappointed.

Chef Joshua Fenston has carried the Pamplona torch to new delights as he took over as head chef. In presentation I would say Chef Joshua has hit the bullseye with his many circular dishes. Each tapa holds a unique taste ranging from the infamous ciabatta bread with garlic chili oil to crawfish croquettes and gambas al ajillo, a shrimp dish.

The team of Pamplona, led by GM Andrew Payne and Bar Manager/ Sommelier Phillipe Calais, would like to share Pamplona’s “Top Chef” inspired video that takes you on a tour through the restaurant.

You can almost smell the garlic and taste the various spices watching how the team artistically prepares foods and drinks.

Their fast-paced motions are exact in the placement of each garnish. Hearing from the creative minds behind Pamplona offers a personal look into how the restaurant opporates.

Pamplona's innovative take on Spanish cuisine allows guests to step into the beautiful country. The small plates reflect Spanish dining, yet the hearty ingredients fill each guest.

The intimate dining is perfect for a couple's night, and guests can order plenty tapas to share with each other the varying flavors provided. I like to think Ernest Hemingway would love to dine here- he did refer to Spain as the, "last good country left."

-- Elisse

PAMPLONA

337 Local Business Spotlight

Buff City Soap

Self- care- the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one’s own health.

As we become more aware of our health and wellness everyday, we are constantly evaluating labels of what we eat, staying on top of vitamins, rotating through health shots, juices and shakes all while monitoring our skin care and cosmetics. So why not take it to the next level with our Soap?

Not just any soap- our Local Business Spotlight welcomes one of Lafayette’s newest additions- Buff City Soap.

As I sat down with Katelyn Lauseng, one of the owners of this family run business, we dove into this amazing business spotlight that just opened their 5th location in Lafayette this August. They are “colorfully” introducing us to the most amazing plant-based product lines locally!

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Local Business Spotlight

Buff City Soap was born from this self-care-body-awareness-era that we are growing full throttle in. There was a need to fill in this specific genre as people inherently have become more aware of what they are not only putting into their bodies, but on their bodies as well. “We make handmade, plant-based products that not only smell amazing, they are good for your skin too!”- She says.

Her parents along with herself and her brother are all owners of the now six locations! Shreveport, Ruston, Monroe, Alexandria and coming soon to Hammond. We of course are thrilled for our Lafayette addition.

Tucked in prime real estate off of Ambassador Caffery in the same block of Costco and Marshalls, Buff City Soap’s stunning “makery” is now added to the list of necessities in Lafayette.

Community and Family are such a beautiful core drive for them and their business. They seem to share a solid goal alongside their bond, to not only create a wonderful guest experience through their top notch staff on board, but there is a genuine passion behind providing a product they believe in.

She smiles and says- “We offer a little bit of everything for the whole family as well as a men’s line and kid’s line! With Simple ingredients.”

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Let’s Dive into the fun- the products, the ingredients and the process.

Products: They offer on average 15 different products with customizable scents reaching over 30.

To name an impressive few: • Laundry Soap • Scent Booster • Bar Soaps • Shower Oil • Bath Bombs • Bath Truffles • Shower Fizzies • Body Butter • Body Scrub • Shave Soap • Beard Balm • Beard Oil • Lotion Bars • Bath Salts

It was so informative to learn the level of ingredients they provide truly give them a stand out performance compared to other shops that are around the states. What are some of these key factors you ask?

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Local Business Spotlight

Buff City Soap stands out as a leader in creating products that are free of Harsh Chemicals, Detergents, Dyes and Animal Fats.

However, ingredients aside, it is an “experience” to be had the moment you walk through doors. Imagine a colorful candyland of heavenly aromas and smiling faces. I can’t help but compare the bright and open floor plan to an adult aromatherapy dreamland that fell into Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. Of course at Buff City Soap, they target your senses in a completely different element that triggers the same happy gene. Future relaxation at its finest.

What also builds more of an immersive experience: Customers have the chance to see the whole making process live in the Soap Makery.

Located in the center of the store, customers can follow the process of creating the most sought after delights, made by their team of Makers, daily. They give their customers a chance to choose scent and some color options for the masterpiece. Something that has become quite popular is having different organizations come in and create products in their brands colors. The studies on team building are through the roof and I can’t think of a better way to bond in zen and creativity.

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Local Business Spotlight

As they continue to connect with the local community I was thrilled to learn that they offer Bath Bomb Making parties in store. Katelyn shared that guests can come in and create and customize their own bath bombs to take home! Perfect for a kids birthday party, girls night out, corporate event or just a unique experience with a group of friends and family!

It was so special to learn that they also offer Give Back Nights for Non- Profit Organizations where a portion of our sales go right back to that organization.

Another unique discovery at Buff City Soap is each “Makery” or location creates a ‘Local Line’ where there skilled makers curate a line of custom products that are exclusive to their unique “makery”. What allows a business to stand out and shine is its ability to learn their community and offer something unique. They do a phenomenal job of staying so current and fresh with offering seasonal scents every Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall in addition to their location specific magic found in our very own 337.

In a store of so many wonders, discovering that their laundry detergent is a huge fan favorite and a top one of Katelyns.

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Local Business Spotlight

She says, “My Favorite Product is our entire Laundry Line! Laundry Soap, Dryer ball and our new scent booster. Being a mom, it was important to me to ensure my child was getting the best in everything! And I do a lot of Laundry in my house! I love the fact our Laundry Soap only has 3 ingredients (Washing Powder, Citric Acid and Coconut Soap) so it’s safe for delicate skin and that I have the option to customize it with the different scents we offer.”

What is so special about this is it showcases the investment in their line as well as their families health and well being. The everyday bustle of life can easily fall into neglecting something as important as laundry detergent. They give their customers a chance to target the whole family’s wellness and safely bring a line into their lives that they can “truly” trust.

As we continued on our journey of all things Buff City Soap, it was so special to come across a moment that impacted her from a customer. It was one of those moments where the rainbow found its pot of gold and the reason for creating this business was right there…BOOM! She recalls a guest coming in who in the past has been using commercial soap products and hasn’t had the best skin reaction. After using their products they were thrilled because they finally found something they can use that smells amazing and works for them. Business Mission accomplished.

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Local Business Spotlight

She says- “I love how our ingredients are simple and easy on the skin! It’s good for anyone and everyone to use.”

The energy is clear and directly sincere when their message as a family is, they wanted to create a high quality product, with simple ingredients, while educating their customers. They strive to have them leave the store with a product they will love and have a connection with.

From the in-store team who takes pride in creating clean and rewarding products for their customers, to the mission of being the premier provider to offer high end soap products. Lafayette is so happy to welcome them with open arms.

The feeling is mutual as they were so fond of the community here and knew right away that this was their next home. It always brings a smile to hear a new business feel so loved and supported here. Our “Joie de Vivre” carries on in all who call this area home. Buff City Soap is rapidly becoming a staple here in our 337 and I know they will continue to impact our community, with one plant- based epic product at a time.

337 Local Business Spotlight

We are what we eat..you are what you eat…” In a world of constant shifting and manufacturing of where our food comes from and the long list of what is in it – what has been done to it – and do I feel this is the best for my body…..We land on the new world of quality choice and custom selection. This is the story of pure innovation from Coastal Plains Meat Company and their master accomplishment of “Pasture to Plate.”

When I came across this company I was drawn in by the custom box option for me to order a variety of quality beef, locally sourced and delivered to my door. What I learned from my conversation with David Billings, one of the owners of Coastal Plains Meat Company, was that this was a mission to create a brand developed on values, and fueled by a vision of true innovation. The combat Veteran owned business’ drive to lead the Louisiana beef movement has been accomplished. They are not only giving back to the community, they are helping Veterans find education and employment, while giving our local farmers a safe and sustainable environment to source their cattle.

337 Local Business Spotlight INNOVATION MILESTONE #1 – Create a Local Branded Program Coastal Plains Meat Company’s founders, Chip Perrrin and David Billings, knew they needed to create a strong brand that would stand tall, while representing who they are and their goals. They knew full well which direction to grow and it all began as they developed, registered, and trademarked – The Louisiana Beef Brand.

This can be found all over their website, marketing materials down to the boxed packaging their customers receive with their custom order. The brand is something they wanted to articulate the initiative they call “Pasture to Plate” – This is something born and bred for the consumers that want to know where their beef comes from.

As an avid foodie and someone who finds cooking is a love language, we both agreed that most consumers now are very keen to know what is in their food and how it is made.

“The trend is now leaning towards food that is less processed and less adulterated.”

- David Billings These southern Cowboys are truly leading this movement here in the South. The Louisiana Beef Brand was their driving mission to create the first consumer connection – to the farm. Do you have chills like I do? As this is only the beginning of my journey from “Pasture to Plate” – the level of enthusiasm and genuine passion that David brings in this conversation, is something that should be bottled for every new business.

INNOVATION MILESTONE #2 – Bringing the Pasture to the Plate “The whole idea/story behind “Pasture to Plate” was for them as a company to relieve the bottleneck in the supply chain locally, for locally sourced and produced meats.” - David Billings

They pride themselves on hitting the ground and going to the farmers directly. They work alongside them, with the ranchers and a variety of sale barns around the state where they buy their beloved cattle. They then bring the cattle into their state of the art facility in Eunice, La. This is how they, as a whole, are able to provide an in demand product for their community.

I was so moved when I ran into a lovely farmer who works with Coastal Plains. She raises her cattle and wants their purpose to be fulfilled in the most humane way possible. She told me that Coastal Plains Meat Company has built their facility to work in terms with “The Temple Method.” Temple Grandin created a method that rocked the cattle-handling system back in 1991.

This system starts at the blueprints, so it is not a shock that Coastal Plains started from the beginning. The enhancements for the facilities target a tranquil approach to the harvesting process. The designs are there to create a calm for the cattle from how they are received and greeted: their pens and walkways are created to not startle these lovely creatures. Her work has been well received around the world. What an impressive step these cattlemen have taken for the animals they respect and share.

337 Local Business Spotlight INNOVATION MILESTONE #3 – “By local, Buy Local.”

David shares how he coined the phrase, and the uber popular hashtag, “By Local, BUY LOCAl.” This dives into the underbelly of truly buying local. The importance of purchasing from local companies that are producing here in Louisiana.

He emphasizes that just because you purchase something locally, doesn’t mean it originated here in the community.

I mean, I know we are all focused on “Made in the USA” – but how many items are not? They are offering a huge opportunity to fully support your local businesses while offering a top-tier product. Supporting the true products and the local producers. The ultimate service in giving support to our communities, while feeling safe in that purchase.

INNOVATION MILESTONE #4 – Launching their ecommerce platform.

Bringing Coastal Plains to life by developing an ecommerce platform is where they connected all the dots of their beautiful vision. It is here that they can directly make contact with the consumer.

As a meat production facility, they strongly bring products through the wholesale area. They work with restaurants that carry their delicious delights and market their logos, but now it is time for the true pasture to plate experience – their ability to make a direct connection with “us.”

Their focus lies in this “circular” environment. They have been able to do this almost seamlessly. They are connecting the Louisiana consumer directly with the local farming in the state. Coastal Plains Meat Company procures the beef , they produce the product, and share this full circle moment with our families.

I told David that when I first came across Coastal Plains Meat Company that I thought it was almost “too good to be true.” He starts to laugh a bit and shares with me a rumor that would be in line with my initial thought process – a China run company.

They make buying direct effortless on their website and with a partnership with UPS, they are able to deliver anywhere in the state of Louisiana. The box options are incredibly packed to cover whatever you and your family’s cravings desire.

They offer boxes grouped as follows – Bold BBQ Box, Ground Beef Box, Beef Patty Box, Louisiana Link Box, Slow-N-Low Box, Smokin’ Box, Black Label Steak Box, and drumroll….. Their newest innovation of Live HARD. They also have an option for the “undecided fan” to call them directly and let the team help you create a custom box for your heart’s desire.

337 Local Business Spotlight Live Hard is followed by “Eat Like a Warrior”- as they have manufactured a ground beef blend with heart and liver. The result of this is 57% higher iron content, 23g of protein per serving with 24% fewer calories. This makes for a wonderful partner in a balanced diet. You can find this now at our other Local Business Spotlight, The Refined Pantry alongside Parish Rice.

Veteran Owned and operated – Giving back to their Military Roots.

“The Mission is to empower, mentor, and partner with current and future veterans in the Louisiana beef cattle industry. With the assistance of organizations like Acadiana Veteran Alliance, Bunker Labs, and Farmer Veteran Coalition, that Mission will be realized day one and provide the workplace fuel for economic success.”

- Coastal Plains Meat Company Their mission as Veteran’s and Cattlemen was to empower and hire veterans. Their experience in both “fields” has led them to see the benefits in agriculture as a career outside of the military. This drive led them to work with LSUE and unleash the largest grant the college has seen. Veterans can go back to school in the newly streamlined two- year program in agriculture. The company itself has 40% employees that are proud veterans, a goal they are shocked to have so early on and a goal they plan on breaking.

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337 Local Business Spotlight Whether it be – Utilizing sustainable practices in beef cattle management to ensure the highest compliance with quality and safety, serving our communities with locally sourced beef, and giving back to Louisiana through impactful workforce development in agriculture – All the way to the accomplishments of starting the Louisiana Beef movement; creating a space for farmers to have a source, and the consumer to have a product of the highest quality …

These gentlemen and their team at Coastal Plains Meat Company have impacted our community in so many meaningful ways. They are testing the new waters of innovation in a timeless industry, and for that, they are immensely unique.

Thank you all for your service, love for our country, and the State of Louisiana.

https://www.coastalplainsmeatcompany.com/ https://www.facebook.com/coastalplainsmeatcompany

Written by: Elisse Nielson

337 Local Business Spotlight

Home Sweet Organized continues to grow in merger with Garage Solutions!

“Simplifying your life is my main goal by creating functional spaces to fit your lifestyle. I want you to LOVE your home even more.”

- Erica Doyle

337 Local Business Spotlight Home Sweet Organized began working with Garage Solutions years ago, and Erica Doyle, owner of the organization company, described it as a great partnership. In January of 2023, the businesses officially merged together, allowing Home Sweet Organized to operate in a custom space.

“This partnership has been going amazing these last couple of months, and I can’t wait to see what our future holds,” Erica said.

"From closets and pantries to flooring and custom garage designs, our team has the knowledge, expertise, and resources to help you get the most out of your space."

-Home Sweet Organized

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Erica explained that organizers are able to go to the home to measure the closet, design a dream space, then remove the old closet and install a custom-made closet. After the closet is installed- they organize it!

The fantastic team also designs and builds custom pantries, mud rooms, office spaces and playrooms.

The website for Home Sweet Organized offers a link for free consultations, and the company posts great organizational product recommendations on their Instagram and Facebook pages.

Written by Celeste Denova

For free consultation click here.

www.pixus.com /PixusDigitalPrinting/photos

Local Business Business Spotlight Spotlight 337 Local

Local Business Business Spotlight Spotlight 337 Local

What makes an outfit are the accessories worn to create a personal look. Having been used for centuries, jewelry can come in all shapes, sizes and colors, yet what makes a piece valuable is the attention to detail in creation.

Living in Youngsville, Tammy Ronsenet decided to create her own pop-up jewelry store to be named – Agape XL. Through her breathtaking pop-up, Tammy provides Acadiana with many varieties of well-crafted, beautiful pieces of jewelry, at an affordable rate.

Having built sturdy relationships within the jewelry world, Tammy was able to find a source to create custom-made demi-fine jewelry for her business.

Through this relationship, Tammy is able to provide affordable variations of more expensive designer pieces, while not turning people green. Instead of paying $100 on a ring, Tammy offers similar styles for $30. Shining as brightly as the jewelry she sells, Tammy’s passion has truly gifted Lafayette with beautiful pieces.

Local Business Business Spotlight Spotlight 337 Local When Tammy isn’t searching for her newest additions to the collection she is planning the next event or pop-up.

“It's a lot of work.

But I do really well when I do pop-ups.”

Frequenting store openings to display her pieces, businesses in Lafayette are able to support each other as well as provide ample choices for patrons. To be a fly on the wall when she sets up her space would be one for eyes. She carefully takes out her displays and works through the process of laying out her space for the eager patrons to see. It's so special to see her take a step back and observe- she is always evolving and each piece has a home.

Originally beginning in 2021, Tammy Ronsenet excitedly recounts,

“It hit me like a ton of bricks Agape.”

Local Business Business Spotlight Spotlight 337 Local

S TE MM ING F RO M G REE K ORI GIN S

The word Agape roughly means the love of mankind. The word is meant to represent the love God shares with humans and the reciprocal love towards him. In naming her business Agape, Tammy sought to honor the love and devotion behind the word. Getting along with anyone she encounters, Tammy seems to truly live by the word agape.

Having an unyielding passion for jewelry of all kinds, her very goal is to inspire confidence and beauty in each woman in Acadiana.

Local Business Business Spotlight Spotlight 337 Local Her attention to detail and eye for quality is unmatched as she spends hours searching online for the latest trends in pieces. Tammy noted that hearts are going to be big this year and that bracelets are coming to her collection.

Tammy is constantly adding to her collection, from the daintiest rings to the most bold necklaces. In addition to her custom-made pieces, Tammy also purchases from her seller account as well as her contacts overseas.

Agape jewelry is only available through pop-up shops presently, but she plans to expand her business.

Tammy expressed she is reinvesting at the moment so that she can expand online. Having many people in the industry already supporting her as well as many satisfied clients, Agape can only grow.

As every detail is so crucial, it is the eye who searches them out. Each bag she pulls, each necklace she places, was thoughtfully found to share with our special part of the world. She radiates a love for her business of bringing beauty, and has the most adoring support from her family.

Editor-in-Chief

WHERE THERE IS A DREAM THERE IS A WAY, AND WITH THE WILL TO BE AN ORIGINAL FORCE, MAGIC IS BOUND TO HAPPEN. THAT LIGHTNING IN A BOTTLE MOMENT WAS JUST THAT WHEN THE UNSTOPPABLE BRAND MOTIER CAME TO LIFE.

With every brand there is an origin story that showcases the mission that lies ahead.

In the world of fashion, the question is how does one find their originality- their voice?

What is the message that lies in the clothing? How does an up and coming “local” brand put themselves on the map?

Well- This highly motivated and inspiring innovator behind Motier Lafayette has done just that.

Ezra Angelle started the brand Motier, and with a lack-luster budget, he hosted his premier launch out of his bedroom in 2014.

His first batch of forty hoodies sold out in one day through promotion via Instagram and Snapchat. Welcome to the era of innovative marketing and the use of social media!

Ezra had always wanted to own his own business.

His drive was only fueled by inspiration from lines by skateboarding brands such as Supreme, Stussy, and The Hundreds. Ezra knew that using the skills he had learned through earning his college degree in marketing and from his mother’s T-shirt embroidering and screen printing business, he decided to just go for it.

EZRA SAYS, “HE KEPT HIS HEAD DOWN, WORKED VERY HARD, AND STUCK TO HIS PLAN WHICH ALLOWED US TO EVENTUALLY LAUNCH ON AUGUST 11TH, 2020.”

The official flagship store of Motier Lafayette opened at 340 Kaliste Saloom Rd., and the community fell head over heels in love with this athleisure brand that is setting new standards in this competitive industry.

Combining the urban streetwearyouth culture of Los Angeles and New York, with a distinctly southern Louisiana flair, MOTIER is Lafayette’s one real, truly authentic casual and athleticwear-clothing-brand for everyday lifestyle. Their quality, locally-made goods, starting with T-shirts and hoodies, and eventually expanding into just about everything else, are carefully produced by hand in limited quantities and sell out extremely fast. This should be evident by the amount of people that can be seen anywhere around Lafayette sporting the T-shirts and other items, as well as around the world, as the brand has quickly spread by word of mouth and has even shipped to places like Hawaii and Germany. The clothing offered by Motier is designed to be practical, focusing on what people around Lafayette need and would like to wear everyday, with each item in a collection being easily matched with another to make an array of outfits.

They made their first pair of shorts in 2018, and have followed that with jackets, sweaters, pants, hats, skirts, and more. The products offered by Motier appeal to a very broad demographic, being popular with men and women of all ages.

Their Summer Collection included bathing suits, slides, and beach towels; Club De Motier, a country club themed collection, included polo shirts, umbrellas, golf towels, and even golf balls. A brilliant way to bring their fans deeper into their world.

Perhaps their most important collection, one that they do every year, is their Roots collection. This collection explores the meaning behind Motier, which is actually named after the great Marquis de Lafayette, and as such, is heavily rooted in Acadian culture.

Last of the year- their holiday collection that had the utmost focus on quality and unparalleled craftsmanship. The vision, the color palette and the campaign is a stunning collection of work to wrap an impressive year of Motier.

This makes Motier Lafayette not only a great brand, but also a very pleasant experience to shop at, as the guest feels valued.

“Even though I created the company, all the people that shop there are really the ones that make the brand.”

From the moment you pull up to the store front and make your way into the ever evolving space, take note of the music, the custom aroma that fills the space, the friendly hello that doesn't feel forced, the eclectic artwork and unique assortment of everything Motier. Touch every piece and feel the difference in fabric and the layout in each design, look at the details- the pocket placement, the cuffs or no cuffs, the innovative use of Zippers and buttons and then discover they are all hand-died and locally printed. Is the neckline detail designed for comfort or for functionality?

The phrase “ It is all in the Details” rings diligently true here. Every angle of each design has been acknowledged and meticulously thought of, and provided with the vision of originality, no two pieces are alike.

What is so special and well valued at Motier, besides the “painted story” so far, is the team.

Ezra is very vocal that his staff are all involved in the “making of” process. The team work and effort from design to fabric selection is a group effort and he highly respects their options.This is a true sign of a promising designer and brand innovator- and with Ezra being an under thirty year old entrepreneur, with a natural eye for detail and creation, it is no wonder they are reaching demographics all over the world.

Their target reach is all ages and they are eager to get a hold of an “original” Motier collection piece. With zero signs of slowing down I am sure we are all eager to see what this Local Business Spotlight- Motier- will bring in the new year.

Written By: Michael Comeaux and Elisse Nielson

PARISHRICE HIGHER PROTEIN

PARISH RICE The Innovators Issue is proud to have the Parish Rice brand on board as they have set the bar at a level above in an industry that is a necessity, but has now evolved to a higher standard in the health arena - Rice. Where other countries excel in their development of food sources and produce, here in southern Louisiana, things have stayed the same. That was until Michael Frugé, a second generation farmer– decided to “reinvent the rice-wheel” with his remarkable new rice.

Imagine a world where those who are unable to have certain dishes because of the high glycemic index of white rice can enjoy their favorite meals again! It took our very own local farmer to follow his drive for the future of rice. Michael believes advancing agriculture is the solution, here is that story.

With a strong passion for farming, Michael had an opportunity to travel around the world and embrace other countries’ farming cultures. He was especially impressed with the variety of farming techniques he observed in Japan and South America. With knowledge gained about higher quality of rice being grown in Japan, South America, and Costa Rica, Michael was inspired to grow and package a high quality variety of rice here in Louisiana. "There's so much emphasis on quantity over quality in the rice industry in America, I want to help change that."

In 2010

The United States lost its spot as one of the world's top 3 exporters of rice. Michael shares that he believes the reason for this was that the overall quality of rice had deteriorated. .

Eventually, there was a downturn in the local industry. Michael started to collaborate with like minded colleagues in the rice industry on how they could create a quality product that would put the US back on the map in rice export.

He says.

“The plan was in motion and a committee was formed to put together a Louisiana brand that would not only service our part of the world, but be a source for other countries as well.”

A break in the development of this plan finally came when he discovered a variety of rice developed at the LSU AgCenter that maintained a higher protein content.

“Through breeding and genetics, a new variety of rice called Frontier was created,” he says.

In addition to the higher protein content in this variety of rice, he discovered it also offers a low glycemic index value. Simply put, it is a measure of how quickly a food causes our blood sugar levels to rise.

Michael decided to dive down the rabbit hole of the glycemic index world and prided himself on the education he gained, quickly realizing that he was on to something truly special..

After he returned from his travels, Frugé was determined to bring the practices he learned back home. "I came home and wanted to not only work in the rice fields, but to also be part of bigger conversations that involved moving our industry forward."

“It is so important to understand the index, because it is the number one reason people do not eat rice.”- he says. Next stop was getting the product scored.

Unfortunately, like most businesses hitting any stride or development in 2020, they were impacted by the “covid-era.” or, as he says, “ The Covid- Hangover. ” He and his team continued to strive forward despite any obstacles thrown their way.

In the fall they established a relationship with Inquis Clinical Research Lab in Toronto, Ontario, Canada that had agreed to score their new variation of rice. The results were fantastic. “What we found was way more than we ever dreamed of.”- he shares.

He informs me how this works- white rice scores around 73 on the glycemic index– brown on average will come in around 10 points less – and their hope was to have a score close to brown rice. The test results of Parish Rice scored a 41 on the glycemic index. They knew they had a game changing product. Here's the breakdown of the science; Parish Rice contains 53% more protein than the average consumer brand of white rice. The higher protein slows down the rate at which the carbs are turned to glucose which results in a low glycemic index value of 41.

With these test results in hand, Michael knew he had to make sure his brand was showcased and marketed effectively. He brought in a marketing agency, brandRUSSO and they officially created the Parish Rice label and brand. Michael explains, "Food is our culture here in south Louisiana, it only made sense to tie the brand to where we are from."

He shares with us that like any start-up company he has a lean team of employees helping to increase brand awareness and move the product. He goes on to explain, "We are growing quickly but we still have to be resourceful and thoughtful about our efforts. I'm fortunate to have dedicated team members."

His world changed around Christmas 2021 when the LSU AgCenter posted a video about Michael's story on their social media. "Suddenly our online sales skyrockted, I didn't know what was going on! That video changed everything for us."

Shortly after, Parish Rice welcomed Rouses Markets as a retail partner and went on to add stores like Albertson's, Super 1 Foods, Nu-Nu's Markets and several others. The company is also popular online, "We have shipped to all 50 states, people are always sending messages telling us how they are so happy they can enjoy rice again."

Since then, the Parish Rice team has been working to expand their footprint. Michael is proud to tell us, "We have some exciting things in the works for our customers. Y'all stay tuned."

“ I wanted to put my own rice in a package to help change the industry- the mindset of the industry- and maybe I can play a small part in that.” “ I am a rice farmer, and my ultimate goal is to get people to eat more rice.” Michael…

It is quite true that we as Americans do not eat as much rice as those around the world.

Increasing domestic consumption is the goal and if we bring people back to rice, with Parish Rice, our culture will be impacted for decades to come.

This isn't just our land It's our heritage. And I want to thank you for helping to sustain our culture. parishrice.com

337 Local Business Spotlight

Health and Wellness in Acadiana comes in many shapes and sizes!

H

ow exciting to see our community embrace the importance of catering to such a unique group of people with many needs and wants in health. The uptick in growth reminds us to stay local and connect with the people behind the businesses- the owners full of passion and a staff who puts a smile on your face while listening to your needs. You will find just that in one of the bustling central complexes in Lafayette, Nutrition Krewe.

337 Local Business Spotlight

Nestled in the prime real estate of Shops at Martial on Kaliste Saloom Rd., Nutrition Krewe has elevated Lafayette as the go-to spot for a wellness beverage. Ashley and Michael Hebert own and operate this healthy smoothie, coffee and herbal tea store. When you get the chance to speak with them, you will quickly learn they are an extremely kind couple. Their drive shines bright in the commitment to serve locals by encouraging healthier daily choices. They radiate a sense of pride in their staff and will jump at any opportunity to help their community thrive in any way they can.

Ashley and Michael were already small business owners in our beautiful Acadiana with their Card My Yard franchise. While visiting out of town friends, they discovered the high-quality cafe concept and decided to share their vision of it with Lafayette.

Having since sold their Card My Yard business, they can now focus on their nutrition cafe.

Their main goal is as simple as it is effective...to help you reach yours.

It could be weight loss, weight gain, more energy or simply enjoying delicious drinks and snacks that are also health-conscious. The “Krewe” has quite an impressive array of products including smoothies that can be prepared gluten-free and certified vegetarian. The shop even has a new vegan line coming soon.

337 Local Business Spotlight Nutrition Krewe features over three hundred different herbal energy teas to help you “kick the can” of sugary sodas and other unhealthy drinks.

These teas give you sustained energy from natural caffeine plus include vitamins like B6 and B12 while also being very low in sugar, carbs and calories.

They also boast an impressive sports nutrition line that is NSF-Certified For Sport which provides certainty that the athlete and/or consumer is taking a safe, high-quality supplement, free of banned substances. These offerings include hydration and pre-workout drinks, post-workout recovery shakes, protein bars, BCAAs, and more. Supplements with this global certification are recognized and recommended by many professional organizations including the NFL, MLB, NHL, NBA, PGA, LPGA, Ironman and NASCAR.

Nutrition Krewe’s brand name and logo pays homage to South Louisiana’s culture reflecting how beautifully and deeply they fit into our Acadiana community. Many of their customers have become genuine friends that visit daily, with some even opening their own similar cafes inspired by Nutrition Krewe.

Ashley reflects, “It’s truly been a blessing to help several other healthy cafe brands open across Acadiana. We are very humbled and grateful to see our organization serving the communities of Lafayette, Broussard and Youngsville.”

For a supportive and friendly environment to start your wellness journey or to meet other likeminded people taking steps to improve their health, Nutrition Krewe is there to welcome you.

Come in and stay awhile!

Written by: Michael Comeaux

/Kajunkoatings

337 Local Business Spotlight

The Phrase “Home is where the heart is” is used to describe so many key moments in our lives. The home is a sanctuary of security and love that gives us a chance to tap into our best selves. We do this by creating a reflection of our energy in a chosen environment. In the busy lives we lead, keeping your space in its true zen nature can be a challenge. This brings us to the question that is becoming more commonly asked- what service do you use to clean and organize your home? The competition is out there but with most businesses and the wonderful people behind the curtain, they are not all of the same quality or offer the same level of skill. Let me introduce you to the wonderful faith and family based Cornerstone Cleaning Solutions, and their lovely message of consistency and care in what they give to their clients.

337 Local Business Spotlight I had the pleasure of speaking with the owners Cory and Bethany Babineaux and was so impressed with their message and story behind Cornerstone Cleaning Solutions

T

heir journey to this adventure started from a challenging season in their lives. Bethany needed to step back into the workforce from being a stay at home mom. After a vigorous search to find the best fit for her she landed on working as a housekeeper for a family in Lafayette. The opportunity allowed her to work with this family five days a week, maintaining their home and helping care for their children.

She grew very fond of the position and her work with them only to be met with devastating news; they were moving on.

The cause for this decision was the family wanting someone who was licensed and insured which Bethany was not.

This is where the Cornerstone brand was formed. The couple sat down and decided “Why don’t we open our own cleaning business?” and within a few short months Cornerstone Cleaning Solutions was licensed, insured and open for business January 11, 2021.

When I asked how the name “Cornerstone” was chosen, Cory took me down the path of their love and belief in their faith. “The Bible refers to Jesus as the chief cornerstone. We wanted to lay a firm foundation in our company that Jesus would remain the cornerstone of everything we set our hands and minds to.

The cornerstone of any structure is the first stone set in place when beginning construction. It is this very stone that sets the standard for every other stone which will be positioned within the structure. Hence, we resolved to set a new standard in the cleaning industry and to become the “Cornerstone.”

337 Local Business Spotlight

I find it so genuinely refreshing to listen to his passion shine through. “We felt we could offer something to people that would make us distinct. We wanted to express the nature and love of God in all that we set our hands to. We hoped that the grace and mercy so generously poured upon us would be translated to our customers and the employees of Cornerstone Cleaning Solutions. We believed that we could be a company that would truly go above and beyond for our customers and employees,” Cory shares.

When a potential client is looking to bring this elevated service on board their home, there is a level of reassurance and consideration that needs to be met. Cornerstone has just that.

The process they take on to make their clients feel secure and heard is quite impressive. They are very keen on answering all questions from the start of this partnership.

Once they have heard the level of detail to expect on their future service, clients, which become so much more to this team, are met with the thorough list of vetting and screening of each of Cornerstone’s solid technicians. Their mission of integrity runs strong with their hiring and maintaining of staff. Their commitment to providing exemplary service that the grace and mercy so generously from their staff starts at the beginning. After they have been cleared and chosen to come on board they remain supervised for several months before the owners feel they are ready to take on assigned clients.

When a customer comes on board with Cornerstone, they are actually given the background information for each technician that will be servicing your home. If that doesn’t scream safe, secure and above and beyond from the hilltops, I don’t know what would.

Cory tells me, “As a company, we have made it a pillar to express the heartbeat of Cornerstone to our technicians to remove any ambiguity from our mission and vision. Our focus is to demonstrate honor, integrity and love…

337 Local Business Spotlight ...to our customers. We do this best by respecting their property and family. Bethany and I are proud to say that we have not had a single incident of malfeasance in almost two years of operation, having serviced over 3,000 properties.”

What they seem to lead with is building a customer- centric business. They 100 percent guarantee customer satisfaction and have not faltered. They share that there have been several moments where their customers were so shocked that they were so willing to come back to their property and address any concerns. A company that remains loyal to their core and the customer is a true gem in any industry.

What really shines with CCS is their structure that runs through every angle of their business. They are on a constant trajectory of improvement by maintaining their standards of operating, policies and the training for their employees.

“One thing we asked God when we started CCS was that he would send us people who needed our help. We have always prayed that God burdens us with those in need!” he says. “Bethany and I have had some precious employees who have found themselves in terrible situations. We Our focus is to provide them with love demonstrate and an environment honor, integrity, where they can be vulnerable and share their and love to our struggles and adversities customers. We with the other team do this best by members, free from respecting their judgment.”

property and Their staff is family. Bethany family.”

Cornerstone Cleaning Solutions and Cory rave over their team and put a great deal of effort and has created an environment and love into highlighting them. They stress team that treats each other and their that they realize every day what a customers with care and respect. This blessing each member is to them and message of ownership of the company their family. Their pure joy in that flows through every element says identifying the unique traits of each so much about CCS and their individual is so warming to witness. commitment to excellence.

337 Local Business Spotlight

With the goal to have Cornerstone Cleaning Solutions to become a household name across Louisiana, 2023 is the start to just that. They are strategically expanding and hiring in other state regions starting with the Walker and Denham Springs area.

They plan to follow with Lake Charles in the first part of the year. Cory has been an advocate for Bikes for Tikes with other businesses he has worked with in the past. This connection and desire to give back inspired him and Bethany to build Cornerstone Cares Mission 25:40. This is a non-profit organization that came to life in 2021 that provides a special vehicle to engage the community in outreach events. Bikes for Tikes is under this umbrella.

I can’t help but feel so lifted with the message this couple breathes. It is so much more than a business, it is a way of life. Cory shares with me the beautiful way they launched Cornerstone Cares Mission. “We developed Cornerstone Cares so that our team of employees could share in the experience of accomplishing the company’s vision: Pierce Darkness, Bring Hope, Restore Lives, and Change the World.”

I always love to remind our businesses of how unique and needed they are in our community. There is a reason they are here and deserve to be shared with our wonderful community. I asked the Babineaux’s if there was a moment that landed on them that told them they were exactly where they needed to be. Cory shares.

Our business is people. Loving them, caring for them, supporting them, and building them up!”

337 Local Business Spotlight “Ms. Elisse, we have been so blessed with amazing customers who have encouraged and praised CCS. They have celebrated with us and have become ambassadors for our business. They have supported us in every way and promoted our services to many people in the Acadiana area. We love our customers so much! It must be said that we would not be where we are today without them!”

For Cornerstone Cleaning Solutions, they stress that cleaning homes is a byproduct of their company.

“Our business is people. Loving them, caring for them, supporting them, and building them up!”- Cory Babineaux

STAFF Vicky Duhon Sabrina Sullivan Daelyn Laviolette Mataya Credeur

Director of Operations Senior Cleaning Technician Senior Cvleaning Technician Cleaning Technician

Kimberly CormierCleaning Technician Cleaning Technician Jardin Hall Cleaning Technician Trudy Richard Cleaning Technician Sharon Berard Cleaning Technician Casha Montgomery

facebook.com/cornerstonecleaningsolutions

Local Business Business Spotlight Spotlight 337 Local

LAFAYETTE PREFERRED FLORIST

LES AMIS FLOWERLAND DELIVERED WITH CARE

337 Local Business Spotlight

Les Amis Flowerland

D

elicately placed flowers providing intricate textures and depth can only be accomplished by a passionate florist. Each arrangement draws a different emotion, providing living art for those that stop to admire.

Walking into a flower shop, you are hit with a wall of various fragrances even the most expensive perfumes can only hope to mimic.

Buying a dozen roses seems cliché with so many options of shapes and styles.

Watching the florist work is to witness flowers becoming a representation of admiration, comfort or gratitude. A pile of greenery on the ground shows the creator’s hours of work. Their eyes move as quickly as their hands to place each stem at just the right angle, showing the full blossom of each flower.For one grieving fiancé, a dozen roses is simply not enough.

Having just lost her love, she orders $5,000 worth of red roses. With the help of florists, the funeral home transformed from a building of grief to one of passion. Three trucks carried the delicate flowers, allowing the room to bleed in red. A florist’s duty is to manipulate delicate life to express the raw emotions that can be difficult for some. For Ben and Maxie Troy, it was a passion that took many years for them to realize.

Ben, a traditional southern man, became interested in flowers when his brother-in-law propositioned him to purchase a flower shop in 2015. Ben still claims to be more of a books guy in saying, “I’m the world’s worst florist.” Ben spent much of his free time doing what many southern men do, fishing and then cooking the catch, so flowers were a completely new territory. Having business experience yet not knowing the difference between a carnation and a rose, Ben sought to dive into the world of flowers by going to school and earning his florist license.

337 Local Business Spotlight He grew the business into what it is today with the help of his wife and the team that makes up Les Amis Flowerland. Having seven florists and designers working under them, the flower shop is able to provide not only to Lafayette, but to the surrounding Acadiana area and as far north as New Roads.

The company has a primary location at 2815 Johnson St. Lafayette, La 70503. A second store, Wanda’s and Durio’s Flowers and Gifts, is located at 2014 S Union St. Opelousas, La 70570. The Troys divide themselves typically, with Ben working at one and Wanda at the other, but the large team of florists handle each job with the same attention and care that a flower takes to bloom.

“There's no project that's too big,” is perhaps the easiest way Ben could describe the capability of his team. Casually, Ben explained that one of their florists has crafted for $10,000 weddings and two of the florists have previously owned their own shops.

Kristy has been in the business for 40 years and Colin for 35 years. Working at his parents’ shop since childhood, Colin knows how to create a true masterpiece, and has done so for many hotels in Nashville, Tennessee.

No matter where or for what, Les Amis strives to provide for those that chose to express their emotions through flowers.

Maxie expressed that her clients seem to always want to share their story when purchasing arrangements, but she listens because she cares.

337 Local Business Spotlight

She notes to tell their story to the florists so that it can translate into living art. Maxie’s very joy of the job is customer service and it is what she is most comfortable with. At the end of the day her goal is to provide a smile, whether it's a sad yet comforted smile or one of pure joy.

They both have such a warmth about them that truly shows how genuine their hearts are in this career. COVID-19 provided the team with an emotionally impactful time. Instead of using hugs, Les Amis embraced Lafayette with flowers of all varieties. A special pass was allowed for fulfilling funeral duties, and working extra hours, the team made sure to comfort as many people as they could.

Ben expressed that while it can be heartbreaking, he has enjoyed learning the business and the art of emotion. He defines his joy as helping people grow, or as he put it, “teaching them how to be the best they can be, no matter what position.”

The Troys are adamant that the job begins when a customer makes contact and it ends when they are smiling. Every job is important, from the florist to the delivery driver, and Ben sees to it that everyone finds pride in their work.

Ben’s face lit up when discussing the growth of the people around him, just as his face lit up when explaining the science behind the bloom.

Once the right type of flowers are chosen, florists then choose which flowers will bloom at the right time. Flower arrangements capture an emotion in time, but because it is living art, it often fades before the feelings do. Ensuring the art lasts as long as possible is tricky, but it can be done.

Even if they only last for a few days, it is worth the effort to preserve the arrangement. Flowers are kept fresh in coolers and by changing their water frequently. The ends of the flowers are cut to open the stem’s pores, allowing more water in

337 Local Business Spotlight Some flowers have a low threshold for manipulation, so flowers like lilies can’t be painted.

To best ensure quality, the florists at Les Amis attend ongoing training, both in person and online.

Stockholder meetings occasionally have speakers, with the most recent being a traveling florist giving a presentation on the recent trends in florals.

Our worst nightmare is when our cooler goes out.

Ben said when that happens, they end up throwing $1500 worth of flowers in the trash.

Effort is also required when a flower is hesitant to bloom. Ben and Maxie explained that good florists can manipulate a lily, one of the most delicate kinds, to open. The birds of paradise flower can similarly be manipulated to open by pinching them a certain way, allowing the bright oranges and blues to flutter.

Even color is considered when manipulating a flower to do what's needed from it. Passionate red roses tend to last longer in holding than innocent white roses. For Mardi Gras some flowers are spray painted, using a special paint, to reflect the colors of the holiday.

Even with trends, people can’t help their preferences. Spoken like a true southerner Ben joked, “I'm a traditionalist. I would probably just stick with a rose even though it's got thorns.” His deep laugh that followed showed his similarities to the flower, hard appearing yet representing passion.

Although she loves her husband, Maxie doesn’t feel as similar a connection to the rose. She prefers to admire different lines and curves in a flower, noting the hydrangea as her preference. Hydrangeas can be fascinating, appearing as a larger ball of color, but upon closer inspection, it is a cluster of smaller flowers that grow closely in a pattern.

Everyone has a different like to a flower. I'm not a traditionalist and I like the bolder colors, the oranges and the hot pinks.

337 Local Business Spotlight Maxie has an appreciation for the rare flower, explaining that she was able to witness sugar cane bloom. Only during a “perfect storm” can the cane produce a feathery purple flower, meaning perfect weather conditions are needed year round.

Ben believes he has learned a lot from his time in the flower business. With talk of retirement, Ben notes that for flowers they are either moving and growing or in the process of dying. Ben strives to keep moving, to keep growing, no matter his age, for both himself and for Les Amis Flowerland.

Maxie Troy and her daughter Danielle are eager to greet you when you walk in their doors. Their mission will be to help share your memories with loved ones through the magic of a flower. The store truly is a gem in itself, it is filled with little moments to bring joy for any possible occasion.

Written by : Celeste Denova

/ Le Chien Pet Lodge

www.pearcebespoke.com

337 Local Business Spotlight

-PETER F. DRUCKER

337 Local Business Spotlight

Recon Coatings, Inc. was originally founded in 1999

by Martin Francois, a Vietnam Veteran with the Marine Corps. Martin founded Recon, named for Special Forces Recon, to rebuild a Trust within the paint industry between customer and supplier.

A look into how Recon Coatings got started.

337 Local Business Spotlight Most people who knew Martin regarded him as the most Honest Salesman. After all, he created the company to bring back transparency. Lance recounts, “Everyone knew my dad, and everyone liked my dad,” which is perhaps why Martin decided to dive straight into the Industrial Paint market.

At the age of 46, Martin said, “It's now or never,” and Recon Coatings, Inc. was born in Milton, Louisiana. Martin brought paint tint machines and pallets of Industrial Coating paint to his personal workshop at home, and the spare bedroom became his office. At this time, Lance was in his second year of college in pursuit of a Business Management Degree. He recounted visiting for holidays and weekends, always finding his father mixing paints in the workshop.

In 2004, Recon had grown in scale enough to move into a better location off of HWY 90 in Broussard, Louisiana.

337 Local Business Spotlight To hear his time bonding in business with his father while paving the groundwork for his future is so special to witness. He shares stories like, “The rainy season was not kind, because the workshop was surrounded by grass. We would hop in our boots to trek 20 gallons of paint on dollies along a muddy path to load up the pickup truck. After loading up, we delivered our customers order hours away only to return and repeat the process.”- Lance

- ELISSE

Lance recounted, “It was hell but it was gratifying.” “I learned so much.”

WHAT IS INDUSTRIAL COATINGS? To understand the quality of Recon’s product, it is important to understand what Industrial Coatings means. The coating is a type of paint known for its long-lasting properties because of its higher solid content levels than regular house paints. Lance explained that the paint contents are noticeably different just in the weight, which makes sense considering the higher density of Industrial Coatings products.

Because of its long-lasting durability, Industrial Coatings can be found on many metals and concrete to create a protective layer against rusting and corrosion. Industrial Coatings systems typically last between 20 to 30 years, usually on the lower end of the scale when it comes to offshore rigs due to the harsh salinity elements. Water towers and billboards typically have Industrial Coatings as well as industrial workshops and restaurant kitchens. Oil rigs typically use Industrial Coatings because it is considered the best product for protecting against UV and salt water corrosion.

337 Local Business Spotlight WHY IS RECON NEEDED? Big name brands selling Industrial Coatings, such as PPG, need “little guys” to help open avenues that aren’t attainable by large corporate companies. In a sense, Recon offers a personable approach to selling high performance paints.

07.

“PPG is my bread and butter in a sense,” Lance said, reflecting on his 23-year-old relationship with the Paint Brand. Based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, PPG is not as close to oil rigs as Recon. Recon helps PPG as a distributor in capturing more of the market by building relationships in Louisiana.

If customers seek to purchase over 50 gallons, Lance will have the order drop shipped directly from PPG, allowing for free shipping, to anywhere in the Continental United States. If something goes wrong with the order, Recon speaks with PPG on behalf of the customer.

337 Local Business Spotlight

Recon at present has an Aerosol filling Machine, two Paint Shakers and Three Tinting Machines.

The company is aligned with Five Brands, the longest standing relationships being with PPG, Sherwin Williams, CPS Coatings and Mirka Sandpaper.

In 2012, Lance took over Recon following Martin’s passing. Lance recalls, “I took over Recon to prove to myself that I could be someone in life.”

“There is something that reaches deep to the core in that statement. “- Elisse. Although his father taught him much of what he understands from the industry, both in paint formulas, business strategy and in honor, Lance sought to make his own path. “To continue my Father’s Legacy in my own style is the most important,” said Lance.

As the world around quickened in pace, Lance kept up with the rapid changes surrounding.

Although he has set out to break from his father’s shadow, he maintains the ideals of being direct and honest with each customer.

337 Local Business Spotlight In advising new business owners, Lance suggests being proactive in saying, “Learn, grow, evolve, and change your strategy.” Always think ahead because efficiency is key. Lance pointed out that there is never an easy year when it comes to business, yet he always strives to do his best. “I take failure personally,” Lance said. “It’s okay to fail one time in one area, but if you fail twice it's on you.”

What makes Recon unique is their ability to take a current customer paint sample and create matching colors using a camera to develop a formula that can be tweaked into higherquality, custom Industrial Paint products. Lance proudly said, “I almost always get it exact or very close to exact.” Hardware stores typically hold standard quality paints. Some stores may hold products similar to the quality of Industrial Paint for a cheaper price because the paint has less solids inside the chemistry makeup. Some of these stores can even mix paints to match customer samples, but are not always accurate.

-Seth Godin

www.therefinedpantry.com

/therefinedpantry

337 Local Business Spotlight

Flawless Aesthetics and Anti-aging Medical Spa “Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it.”

- Confucious

Scarlett Hebert opened her own clinic in 2017. She had a dream of following in her dad’s footprints of owning her own business and creating that work life balance she dreamed of. She was ready to run her business in the manner that represents her work ethic, mission and drive – introducing Flawless Aesthetics and Anti-Aging Medical Spa. What separates Scarlett and her clinic from others in our area, is that she is so personable on a very grounded and real level. She says, “I have new clients who will come in and tell me that they feel like they have known me forever.”

She gets to know her patients on a friendship level that creates such a comfort and ease when they plan to see her.

I also find that her adorable location is cozy and non- corporate. As she has a tight knit team here at Flawless, they all seem to effortlessly keep a relaxed environment that takes you out of the “med-spa” non-zen space and can let go and be yourself. Their goal is to erase the intimidating stereotypes that are in line with the medical field they operate in.

When you see what she offers at her Med-Spa, there are some interesting therapies that you do not see across the board. She says that they work in the “off label” market. Meaning, they work with the traditional filler injectables but have stepped out to offer the not so conventional treatments here in 337. She enjoys working with Sculptra which is a filler that rebuilds the collagen that helps to fill in spaces where you have lost volume, and is a product that can be used in the body. So they work on the nose, leg enhancements as well as targeting the sought after “glute” - as Sculptra can be used in those specific areas.

337 Local Business Spotlight When their clients enter into Flawless Aesthetics, she shares, “Their hope is they are comfortable in their environment and that they know they are in a safe space with zero judgment.”

When someone is going to be enhancing your body, face and well-being, it is crucial to understand a gentle, natural approach. Scarlett says, “We are not trying to make you look like charac-a-tures.” with her friendly raspy laugh that follows.

I’ll second that– There is a confidence as she talks about her approach and vision for her business, but it is layered with an energy that truly does feel like she has been in your life for longer than say- the 30 minutes I have had with her.

Clearly I am not alone in this thought, as she shares how rewarding and validating it was when some of her older clients sought her out to find her new business. It was so nice to see all these familiar faces and just see how many clients and friends had kept their ongoing support for her and her business.

She says, “I still have people who say, after six years, saying I have been looking for you!”

She is such a fan of administering and working on herself with cheek filler. The thought that comes to mind is some over the top older soap opera character made to look – over the top of course, when I think of cheek filler. She says, Ah…. I do it differently. She does not treat cheek filler the traditional way. She always addresses the face to create the balance and shape of the desired look, not go in for the kill, and the results are flawless… literally.

She works tirelessly to maintain her lovely relationships with representatives of the brands they work with so they are on top of all trends and advanced education. She has a rotating schedule of paid training from reps who come to her location from all over to make sure they are on top of their skill in this notone-fits-all industry. From Kentucky to work on body sculpture, PDO Threads from Dallas, Hyperdiluted Radiesse training from Galveston and so much more. She is truly invested in knowledge and education and of course – perfection in her craft.

337 Local Business Spotlight Her early on training in injectables was an added bonus when she went back to school to be a Nurse Practitioner – this helped land her first job out of school with a Plastic Surgeon's office. “I was always involved in surgery, from neuro – to ortho…I did it all.” She says. Just knowing that her career was molded in that arena should scream volumes to future clients as she not only has been injecting since 2009 – she has a deeper understanding of our “body map.”

She has her own tricks of the trade that she has developed over time and works through the kinks. She's earned her skill set and some of the miracle accomplishments she has accomplished have me quite impressed. I will keep her secrets and she can show you her gifts in person.

She has a lovely crew consisting of Danielle, their orchestrator and appointment booker and the first face you see. She is happy to have Victoria on board who handles all the esthetician sides of the Med-Spa. They are equipped with all the tools from dermaplane treatments, to the sought after hydrafacial.

They carry the classic Obaji lines, which I am a die hard fan of the Vitamin C line. It is a line to the point that delivers. She says “It’s one box that can solve a vast amount of problems.” I admire that Scarlett sticks to what she loves and delivers in the smoothest way for her clients.

New clients have a classic consultation – she listens and suggests what can help the bottom line of what the client comes in for. They may have their own idea, but she prides herself on getting them there, through educating them on placement and movement and the end result. She says, “I get some clients who will send Instagram images asking if they can do that,” and she is the first to say, “You do not need that.” In a world of sell – sell – and sell – she wants to keep her clients naturally enhanced and happy.

Scarlett as a NP, offers hormonal therapy on locations. She goes over an extensive lab she will take and send off herself. She wants it done right and she knows when it is in her hands – it is just so. She aims to find the best route for both Men and Women in the hormonal therapy treatment, and if she can stay more natural, she will.

337 Local Business Spotlight She is however always on the look for what is best and happens to be the only Med-Spa in our area that carries the brand Hydrinity line. It is a brand new product line that offers two steps, first a mist to tone followed by a Hyaluronic serum. The other exciting note is some of the owners are in Abbeville, La. She was found by a representative for the company who she used to work with who was adamant on her being the one to carry the line here. If that doesn't speak mountains, I do not know what does. I will just say “Supercharged Hyaluronic acid meets Poly Peptide Matrix.” The list goes on with the magic they have up their sleeve for the future, but I would test it for yourself. You are welcome.

They love to create a laid back environment at Flawless. They do not want a doctor office vibe at all – She talks about families and lives with her clients and they are truly her friends. I appreciate the level of care she offers them for after services, where if she says she will follow up –she will.

When you find someone who cares like Scarlett does, you know you can leave her Med-Spa feeling like you are leaving a safe space that you can reach out to at any time. You are welcomed and appreciated and she wants you to feel like the most confident version of yourself, because you deserve it.

Scarlett Hebert is a real soul, full of passion and honesty, who lays it all out on the line. Her keen eye, attention to detail, and wizardry in her field are top-tier here in 337. I trust the clients she treats and the future clients who would be lucky to let her work with you, will feel like they found their new home. Her future goals are a one-stop shop for all wellness and beauty needs, and with some very promising things on the horizon, she says “Stay Tuned.”

https://flawlessaesthetics-antiaging.com/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php? id=100038066929677 Written by: Elisse Nielson

337 Local Business Spotlight

THICK AND GOOEY COOKIES

Caroline’s Cookies

has quickly become a staple of the Acadiana area with its signature thick and gooey cookies.

Locally Owned Cookie Shop

in Lafayette Louisiana that creates hand made, seasonal, thick & gooey cookies and cookie cakes!

Everything is always made fresh right in our store!

ALL OF OUR COOKIE DOUGH IS HAND MADE AND ALL OF OUR COOKIES ARE BAKED FRESH IN OUR STORE! WE DON'T USE ANY PRESERVATIVES!

337 Local Business Spotlight Caroline Merryman opened her storefront at just 20years-old, and her kindhearted nature combined with her fast-paced talking makes her a perfect southern baker.

Getting to know Caroline in the kitchen was truly a wonder to witness. She gracefully frosted the freshly baked cookie cakes as she answered each employee’s passing questions with ease.

Caroline shared that her hope is for children to think of her cookies when wanting a sweet treat after dinner. With the bakery’s signature customer service and phenomenally tasting product, it has started on its path to becoming a namesake.

Half of the bakery’s menu changes monthly, keeping flavors creative and interesting for dessert lovers. Each month Caroline will introduce two new flavors as well as bring two “throwback” flavors back. The bakery maintains four regular flavors including a classic chocolate chip. The creative flavors reflect many southern desserts including king cake and cornbread, Caroline’s late grandfather’s favorite. Cookies are baked fresh daily, and leftovers are boxed and delivered to businesses around Lafayette.

337 Local Business Spotlight She enjoys being able to surprise various businesses with free treats, showing a bit of her southern heritage. Caroline said she can count on her hands how many times they have not sold out as she has gotten better at gaging customer traffic on a day-by-day.

“I’m still amazed that people even like the cookies but it's made with love.”

Caroline credits her baking skills to YouTube, Pinterest and Google, but hopes to eventually attend a baking and pastry school.Opening a bakery was something Caroline had always dreamed of as a girl, but saw it as, “just one of those things you think you're never gonna do.”

Caroline graduated high school in 2020, and when COVID-19 caused the infamous shutdown, Caroline began baking in her parents kitchen. She began baking out of boredom, seeking to make a similar cookie to that of Levain Bakery based in New York.

Remembering the thick, gooey cookie led her to bake day after day, perfecting her recipe.

Soon after her baking venture began, Caroline’s brother, Reece Merryman, encouraged her to create an Instagram account to show off her creations. She created the account not thinking of selling the cookies, but decided to pursue the opportunity once she began receiving requests. Caroline began doing pop-up events at local boutiques, coffee shops and flower shops, baking each cookie by herself. Caroline noted that her mother would help where she could, typically with dishes, by saying, “She’s a phenomenal person, but she doesn’t know how to bake.”

337 Local Business Spotlight Caroline and her family realized there was something special about her cookies during their first time as a creator at the Lafayette Farmers and Artisans Market. Around Christmas time in 2020, Caroline looked up from her register to see roughly 40 people waiting patiently to try her creative cookies.

As her cookies gained more and more followers on Instagram, Caroline baked more and more, roughly 900-1,000 per event. She credits her brother to her 10,000 follower milestone on Instagram, growing the business without having to use traditional ads.

Beginning college didn’t stop Caroline from baking as she still put much of her energy into her craft.

Caroline’s Cookies quickly reached a point where the business capped out on the legal selling limit for an at-home bakery. Reaching a point where Caroline had to decide between her cookies and her degree, she asked Brandon Robinson, her best friend’s father and a businessman, for advice.

Brandon encouraged her to pursue the cookie business, explaining that college would always be there if she sought to return. Becoming her business partner, he helped her lease a small storefront. Once she had the lease, she discussed the opportunity with her parents, and they cautiously encouraged her to pursue her dreams of opening a bakery. Caroline sought out a new take on desserts, noticing that many of the bakeries around Acadiana were older. She sought to keep the menu simple, focusing on cookies, and intended to keep with the gooey consistency. Caroline recounted when preparing to open her storefront, “It was so hard to go from my parents' kitchen to this massive kitchen.” After purchasing a commercial-sized oven and mixer, Caroline realized, “I didn’t know how to make my batch of 12 cookies go to 60 cookies.”

337 Local Business Spotlight She spent weeks with her best friend, Faith Robinson, getting each recipe just right. She recounted that they, “wasted batch after batch,” but that it was well worth the effort.

For the grand opening, 2,500 to 3,500 cookies were prepared. From 3:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., the bakery had customers wrapped around the store. Noting one employee ran the register for all five hours of opening, Caroline is still grateful for the hardworking staff she has.

After that first day of opening, Caroline thought, “It was bigger than we thought it would be,” and she rented an additional kitchen for preparing dough. The bakery quickly jumped from 4 employees to 20 and now sits at 35 employees.

Now offering cookie cakes, catering and deliveries, Caroline at present is trying to perfect a system for the many employees of her small business.

“I can't make every batch of dough,” Caroline commented, even if it makes her nervous. Caroline explained, “It's hard taking your hands off,” especially if the business is your baby.

During the first year of opening, Caroline spent much of her time stressing about the quality of the cookie with so many hands involved. She noted it was easy to maintain consistency when she was baking the same cookie every day, but it took some leadership practice to be able to train employees to maintain that consistency. Caroline hopes to soon be able to step away from the day-to-day tasks to focus more energy into creating a test kitchen to perfect new recipes!

337 Local Business Spotlight

Caroline intends to stick to simplicity, no matter how much the bakery expands.

As for the present Caroline’s Cookies, the beloved baker is beginning to step out of the kitchen to see what her employees need and what she can do as a leader. She plans to never stagnate and always improve by listening to customer reviews.

Caroline is beginning to have records to reflect on as the bakery settles into the community, allowing her to note how varying flavors sell.

Believing that they are about ready to consider a second location, Caroline holds the mentality of, “if it's not broken, don’t fix it.”

“I don’t want to take over the world or anything,” emphasized Caroline, “I really love small businesses.” Caroline appreciates the impact she can have on Acadiana as a small business, explaining that she is able to directly give to families and other businesses.

Caroline sought to take this opportunity to thank all the women who have worked so hard to make the bakery what it is today.

337 Local Business Spotlight She began by saying when the bakery sells out, the girls don’t just go home. They spend hours preparing dough for the next day as well as cleaning and sanitizing. The bakery may open at 11:00 A.M., but prep starts at 6:00 A.M. Caroline seeks to create an environment where workers feel valued because she finds herself extremely lucky and blessed with the team she has. The first thing Caroline did when she raised the price of her cookies was give her girls a raise.

Believing in a work/life balance, Caroline’s Cookies is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and she provides employees with a flexible work schedule. She keeps shifts short enough that employees aren’t overworked, but long enough for them to be fairly paid. expressed that she is genuinely A message from Caroline Caroline appreciative of every person who walks the door, but that the best to Acadiana: “Thank you through compliment is to recognize a customer’s for supporting local and face. someone leaves a comment online for giving us a chance!” When for her to read, she considers it going out of their way to show appreciation for her cookies. Caroline knows she’s making tasty treats when customers travel miles to her bakery or when someone puts on a smile after a bad day.

Caroline hopes to keep customers coming back for her cookies and will forever be grateful for Acadiana’s patience with their “growing pains.”

337 Local Business Spotlight Without the continued support of her family, Caroline believes she wouldn’t have been able to do it without them.

Caroline wanted to especially thank her brother Reese for encouraging her to create the Instagram account that started it all. She credits him as her rock that always lends a listening ear or shoulder to cry on. Haley, Caroline’s sister, has continued to show support for the bakery.

Caroline is very thankful for her parents, Dawn and Jim, for finding the courage and confidence in their daughter and her dreams. Caroline noted that her mother would do anything for her, often coming to the store during late hours to sit with her or help in the kitchen.

Caroline is a true force of nature in her wonderful shop of cookies. To be a “fly” on the wall and witness this team enjoy what they do and put so much “love” into every step is a joy to experience. Her heart and talent is merging with her growing business and places her way beyond her young years. I only see great things to come for Caroline’s Cookies and the wizard behind the scenes. She is the definition of an Innovator and we are so lucky to have her on board this issue and here in our 337.

Interviewed by: Elisse Nielson Written by: Celeste Denova

337 Local Business Spotlight

FLASH SECURITY INTEGRATOR INC. No one knows security like a military veteran.

EFFICIENT SECURITY ANYTIME, ANYWHERE

337 Local Business Spotlight “WE PRIDE OURSELVES IN TREATING ALL OUR CUSTOMERS THE SAME,” TOM SAID. “WE WANT OUR CUSTOMERS TO UNDERSTAND THAT THEY’RE NOT JUST A NUMBER.”

When providing a security system, it is essential to take into account the client’s comfort and peace of mind as that is the essence of security.

The goal of Flash Security Integrators is not only to ensure protection for clients, but to create a strong relationship based on trust.

Before becoming a businessman, Tom Bargonzone was an active military man. Tom was in the Navy from 1995 to 1999, and delved into electronics when he returned from duty. Seeking to continue in his servitude to the country, Tom

Tom noted his attention to maintaining the relationship with one of his larger clients, primarily because of the work the organization does. The organization gives shelter for wards of the state, both for children and elderly people, providing their own form of security for those in need.

Independent elderly clients receive discounts, as fire alarms and Life Alert button monitoring can be essential at an older age.

Tom expressed just knowing that the company has these capabilities means a lot to him personally.

“YOU’RE FAMILY AND WE’LL TREAT YOU AS SUCH,” “We’re here to stay, and we’re here to help,” said Tom TOM NOTED. Bargonzone, partner at Flash Security Integrators. Tom may be from the North, but he has a southern soul. “We’re all “SIMPLE AS about people,” emphasized Tom. “It's one of our core values.”

THAT.” Tom explained the team tends to hire based on personality over experience. Almost anyone can be taught a skill, but attitude and work ethic are dependent on the individual.

Continuing to pride himself in securing the safety of his country, Flash Security provides a variety of services for both commercial and household needs. Deaf homeowners seeking a safe fire alarm system can find comfort in bed shakers connected to the alarm system. Tom considers it special and honorable to be able to serve active members of the military; many bases along the East Coast are clients of the company.

337 Local Business Spotlight A LOOK INTO HOW THE BUSINESS HAS GROWN.

His plan is to slowly allow for company representatives to take over his clients so he can focus his attention towards other duties.

Although Tom was originally based in New Jersey, he has long had ties with Lafayette. Tom’s brother moved to the city years prior to his southern business venture. Family combined with his love for the culture enticed Tom to visit frequently, sometimes during Mardi Gras and sometimes just to stop by. After moving his mother to Louisiana, Tom thought to officially set roots in the state by moving his girlfriend and pets down.

The company was originally founded by Micheal Laterza in Staten Island and quickly moved headquarters to Hazlet, New Jersey. He began as an electrician out of high school and built himself up from there.

In 2019, Micheal, alongside Nathan Cabral, grew the business further, focusing on customer service. Other Flash Security locations include Lafayette, Louisiana and Boston, Massachusetts.

The merger not only allowed Tom to be closer to family, it allowed for quicker travel to projects in Florida and Texas. As an investor, Tom has multiple LLCs, or small companies, and branching to Louisiana seemed like the right move for him.

Tom explained that the merger was between a group of friends that met up during one fateful Mardi Gras season. Tom came in as a partner, but handles a few of the larger clients of the company.

z

Because many of the partners in the company moved from larger to smaller companies, they had an understanding of what larger groups lacked- customer service.

Tom explained they wanted to be able to provide exceptional customer service, but couldn’t do that through the red tape of large corporate companies.

337 Local Business Spotlight A LOOK INTO HOW FLASH SECURITY OPERATES. The considerably small yet mighty security company consists of several lead technicians, technicians and helpers that make up the tiered staffing system, based on experience and knowledge. Project managers, a service manager, an office manager and various assistant managers ensure projects run smoothly and communication flows between the company and customers. Micheal and Nathan are the president and vice president of the company, while Tom is an involved partner. The general manager is Jim Segreto, who has been in the industry for more than 30 years, adding further merit to the company’s honorable reputation.

Flash Security naturally conducts background checks as well as drug tests to ensure employees are not only meeting a standard, but exceeding it.

The company maintains relationships with multiple technical community colleges to hire recent graduates. As a veteran, Tom prides himself in hiring fellow veterans to integrate back into the workforce.

Flash Security Integrators provides consistent company representation to each client to ensure comfort and confidence in their security provider. No matter commercial or household, the process remains the same. The company representative consults with the client, meeting them on location to see if there are any special aspects of the property. After a walkthrough and discussing what the client is looking for, the representative meets with one of the engineers to create a few plans based on need and budget, typically taking a week or two to create.

337 Local Business Spotlight

A ONE-STOP-SHOP: THE COMPANY’S RANGE OF EMPLOYEES COMBINED WITH SERVICES BEING IN-HOUSE ALLOWS FOR A BROAD CAPABILITY IN SERVICES. The delicate balance of attention to detail and offering as much as possible to clients is a dance only Flash Security could waltz to. Services include camera and alarm installments as well as integrating smart home functions to the company’s app. Further keeping pace with technology advancements, the company offers key fobs for apartments and commercial buildings.

Flash Security also offers computer system network infrastructure set-up for commercial buildings.

Essentially, they will set-up hardware and software for companies’ complex security and computer functions.

Tom explained, “We do a lot of new construction, and a lot of companies don’t do that.”

Flash Security provides an easy-to-use app, named after the company, that provides pocket access to fire and security alarm notifications as well as controls for smart home functions. Being able to control home temperature and lighting as well as having access to camera footage away from home can provide an added layer of security for some.

“WE HAVE A LOT THAT WE CAN OFFER FOR A SMALL COMPANY,” TOM SAID.

337 Local Business Spotlight

FLASH SECURITY OFTEN GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITIES THAT SHARE THEIR SUPPORT. Tom enjoys giving back to communities that support the company, primarily in northern states where the business has been established for longer. Tom mentioned involvement in a children’s autism awareness festival as well as their many donations of alarm systems to schools. To become more involved with Lafayette, Tom is considering veteran aids.

“I LOVE HELPING PEOPLE AND THAT SOUNDS LIKE A CLICHÉ, BUT I REALLY DO,” LAUGHED TOM. When looking towards what's next for Flash Security in the realm of expansion, Tom has put some thought into heading to the West Coast saying, “Not yet and I emphasize yet.”

The Lafayette location can already look forward to growth with its latest addition of office space. Tom isn’t one to stagnate, holding a true appreciation for learning and progression. “I wouldn’t still be in the industry if I didn't enjoy it,” Tom laughed.

We are so thankful for this opportunity to share the story of Flash Security and welcome them to our 337. They are truly a business that is for our locals and is here to give back.

INTERVIEWED BY: ELISSE NIELSON WRITTEN BY: CELESTE DENOVA

337 Local Business Spotlight

PROVIDING SUPERIOR SERVICES WITH COST EFFECTIVE SOLUTION Yellowjacket Oilfield Services strives to provide unparalleled expertise with superior quality service through continuous improvement via our most valuable assets – OUR EMPLOYEES.

337 Local Business Spotlight

Yellowjacket Oilfield Services

Here in Louisiana, and specifically our part of 337, we have to give a thank you to the industry that keeps the world running. It is a way of life for families, and gives the gift of stability – “The Oilfield.”

As a daughter of one of the hardest working men I know, first hand, growing up with a father in this industry is a tough but empowering journey to witness. Now as I am older and in a position to share their story, I wanted to highlight the impressive expansion of Yellowjacket Oilfield Services to our 337 community. They are a core unit of men who collectively have gained top tier knowledge in their field. They are “Innovators of their craft”gained through extensive knowledge, in-field experience, and the trials of the past.

As one of the very few independent, off-shore companies left here in the Lafayette area, this is YellowJacket and their journey to bring innovation to a field that has spanned the test of time, powered the world, and continues to provide rewarding careers for families here in 337.

How it Began

With their starting point being in Midland, Texas, Yellowjacket quickly expanded to serve five states around the country: Louisiana, Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Alaska. Because of the company’s growth, the corporate office has relocated to Houston, Texas. In Louisiana, their wireline services’ home base is in Broussard and pipe recovery services are in Houma.

The Broussard division has grown rapidly . In just two years, the location went from a 4-employee operation to a 25-employee operation with 10 trucks. They now have 5 offshore skid packages and 5 land trucks.

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337 Local Business Spotlight

ABOUT THE OWNERS

They both are well known for their success in business as well as their generous hearts.

Recently receiving the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, the couple received rightful acknowledgment for their philanthropy and success.

The Harber Family Charitable Foundation has donated to Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, and the couple plans to donate 95% of their assets to the hospital after their passing.

Lacy’s family struggled with finances during his childhood, and his severe scoliosis threatened his ability to walk.

The Texas hospital offered a trial treatment to young Lacy, paying for his transportation during the healing process. Being able to join the track team in high school, Lacy has cherished what kind hearts can do. Now 87-years-old, Lacy seems to have never forgotten the life changing care he received at the hospital. Even at his age, Lacy enjoys visiting the field, showing his hard-working, involved leadership.

337 Local Business Spotlight

Yellowjacket Oilfield Services brought its technology and state of the art equipment to an impressive office and building space, right here in Broussard, La.

Yellowjacket services the oil industry with well-trained, ready-to-work employees.

The opportunity to sit down with Titans in their industry and discover how much heart is found in this business, was truly a beautiful insite to gain. David Gautreau, the RSO - Land and Offshore Geo Market Manager, David Pitre -Special Ops Manager, Heath Perez- Operations Manager and a special cameo from John Gubb, my dad, a skilled legend in the field of Electrical Wireline services. What gives Yellowjacket Oilfield Services such an honorable reputation are the employees, carefully picked. With so much passion for the oil field, Geautrau, Pitre, Heath, and Grubb each believe every problem has a solution. These very special men working with the company have opened the doors behind the industry. Combined they have been able to set a specific standard in a work field that won't settle for anything less than perfection. The constant thread that connects the success of the company here is reiterated over and over- the personnel.

This is so important because it is their people, the behind the curtain wizards who make the business successful. Their drive and will to succeed can not be taught, it is earned and welcomed here at Yellowjacket.

337 Local Business Spotlight

This is what makes Yellowjacket a truly unique oil services company; the many hard-working and passionate employees. “I don't think there's another team that could come in and do the same thing,” - David Pitre Knowing that a team is only as capable as the weakest link, Yellowjacket ensures everyone maintains a similar skill level. David Gautreau emphasized, “What we have done is very impressive.” The company is surely doing something right, having so many amazing people on the team.

Yellowjacket Oilfield Services created a mission statement to provide valuable expertise and an incomparable quality of service through consistent improvement. Yellowjacket requires their personnel to exceed the expectations of customers by bringing a positive attitude to any issue that may arise as well as by prioritizing both communicating efficiently and safety for employees and the environment.

337 Local Business Spotlight

“What makes us successful is our efficiency in how we do the job,” -David Gautreau.

Yellowjacket provides many services including pump services, wireless pipe recovery, rentals and wireline services. It was interesting to learn that their expansion here and to the Gulf of Mexico was where Yellowjacket welcomed their first wireline offshore project. In fact in speaking with John Grubb, there were quite a bit of “firsts” with the new venture. There was extensive work off the coast of California where the offshore work was operational through Yellowjacket.

It is so impressive to see the underbelly of how they work together on communication. How they bounce off each other so well shows their time together and work experience is being used for good. “To be a fly on the wall over the years would be the golden ticket for anyone stepping into their field.”- Elisse

Based on their success, Yellowjacket plans to remain consistent in their services as they expand. When discussing their crew, David Gautreau says,

“I respect them wholeheartedly.” With truly honorable intentions he explained, “It's not about being a leader of men, it's about the love of people.”

Education and safety are perhaps the most valuable qualities in the industry. Safety in the oil field has drastically changed since its first boom and all three men agreed.

“Everything written in the safety manual is written in blood,” David Gautreau.

Yellowjacket’s Health, Safety and Environmental Program creates proactive leaders in safety. The program is updated often, keeping up with industry standards.

337 Local Business Spotlight In regards to the environment, they explain “The number one goal is not to repeat history,” especially considering the ever changing safety protocols and new technologies and advancements. Discussing the importance of preserving the world, regulations consistently stay up-to-date with environmental concerns.

The industry historically relied on tradesmen, but is pushing towards college-educated workers.

David Pitre explained that with the increase in technology use, many companies seek employees with higher-levels of education to better understand the workings of new machinery.

One of the things that separates Yellowjacket from the rest is their willingness to hire and teach inexperienced men and women. “We give them the tools and the knowledge,” Pitre says. David Gautreau explained “we’ve done it in the past and they have become some of the best operators.”

Although some move on to other companies, he doesn’t mind. He finds excitement in simply teaching people and watching them succeed for themselves.

In searching for employees, the main criteria is finding someone with true dedication. Pitre believes he knows people’s true hearts after the second-round of interviewing, believing it is when he sees their “real face.” The three men believe it is critical to hire the right person, even if they lack experience. Often they find someone who lacks experience is the best choice, as they can mold the worker to the expectations and standards of Yellowjacket.

I found this so interesting in such a complex field, that their beliefs in people to the core, with the right ability and skill set, can be trained and molded to fit the job at hand. To me this is a true sign of Innovation in being open to create the perfect fit for the job. It isn’t always about what is on the resume, rather do you have it– or not. These wise men know what they see, and the team they have clearly represents that.

The oil industry is truly a field made for the people, by the people.

In any industry, service should be a top priority. “The name is all you have,” David Gautreau said.

Heath Perez chimes in and explains there will always be ups and downs in this industry. “No matter what companies do, oil and gas will be here,” State legislation is what matters most and a majority of the country’s oil and gas is supplied from Texas and Louisiana.

With oil and gas being the “backbone of our whole nation,” according to Pitre, Yellowjacket doesn’t plan to go anytime soon. Windmills and solar power are on the rise, yet with the amount of single-use plastics being used, even just in the medical industry, oil and gas will always be necessary in providing many products for the country.

337 Local Business Spotlight

The Demands of the Industry The industry is not for the faint of heart, as often workers will be away from their families and friends. “An oilfield wife takes an exceptional woman,” remarked Gautreau. I can attest to this, as my mom is a rock solid woman who has shown what a partner is in the oilfield. From growing up, to now, hearing them communicate over the phone about my dad’s work and the understanding support she gives, is true love and irreplaceable. She actually stresses the importance of understanding all aspects of what the job is for my dad.

He says, “ Five minutes of quality time is all you need.” I think it's the work ethic added to be there, to show up, even when it can be hard, that gives him the edge.The drive in each of these men is powerful. Different people with individual personalities come together for the common goodsafety, efficiency, strategy, power in knowledge, to give, to educate, and heart.

Speaking on marriage, Heath explained that he would jokingly tell his wife, “If somethin’ is wrong, fix it. If somethin’ is right, tell me.” This team understands the importance of service alongside their work ethic. Their amazing sales team encompasses offshore, land and inland waters. They provide the bids and communicate the services that Yellow Jacked can provide to the oil companies. The early call times are not just for those heading out on a job, the relationships made within the sales aspect take just as much time and energy. Heath Perez and the sales team have stepped above and beyond and will be there to surprise a contact with breakfast long before the sun has come up.

Calm and collected but fueled with passion for his team, David Geautreau shines in his message. He joined the force that is Yellowjacket when it was just a thought. He saw that through and knew what was needed. His open door policy and long hours so his team has him is a trait they can not teach today.

To sit next to David Pitre and “feel” his drive in knowledge and skill, his observational ways that guide, and not dictate, is just wonderful.

337 Local Business Spotlight Heath has been on all sides of this field and understands what is needed and wanted and respected. This is an industry built on trust and respect. That is a message to be passed down to those, brave enough, to listen and accept the task.

John Grubb willingly shares his wisdom to those who need it, the skill to those that are learning, and provides the phone call all oil field families love to receive- whether an update or the “I'm coming home”.

The resilient men and women of the oil and gas industry provide ample for our country, not just for our cars, but for supplies in the medical field and other resources. Taking a deeper look, one may find a new found respect for the hardworking individuals in this field.

Thank you for your safety, skill and force, the families that are there supporting them and the pride of a company willing to take care of its TEAM. That is what Yellowjacket Oilfield is and stands for.

Written by: Elisse Nielson and Celeste Denova

337

ACADIANA Pain Relief in Lafayette, LA

DR. DERRIC K HINES D.P.T.

NATURAL

CERTIFIED: SPINAL MANIPULATIVE THERAPIST, INTEGRATIVE DRY NEEDLING AND SPORTS MEDICINE MASTERS DIPLOMA IN OSTEOPATHIC MANUAL THERAPY

PAIN AND

PERFORMANCE REHAB

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Reinventing western medicine is a task only the most insightful and open minded people can accomplish when considering the advancements made even within our decade.

Advanced technology allows for even the most precise surgeries, yet there is no set permanent solution for pain.

Dr. Derrick Hines, originally from Louisiana, traveled the world searching for the best ways to cure patients of their pain. During his travels to Brazil, Thailand and Europe, Dr. Hines found that many eastern practices focused on the patient’s overall health before treating individual symptoms. He noted that in the western world, it is uncommon to focus on the patients, instead focusing on their symptoms.

“It has to always go back to people,” Dr. Hines found. “How do we focus on making our patients more successful in their health journey?”

This very question led Dr. Hines to open Acadiana Pain and Performance Rehab located in our beloved Lafayette at 325 Oil Center Dr.

Dr. Hines explained that pain is motivation to get better, but once better it can be the memory of that pain which causes a patient to strive for a better, healthier life. In the words of Dr. Hines, “let's make sure we don’t go back there.” Through his worldly experience, Dr. Hines has found that aiding the body to heal has a better overall impact on a patient’s health rather than treating a symptom. These innovative practices speak for themselves in the results.

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“WHEN WE ARE

CONSISTENT, THOSE

RESULTS ACCUMULATE,” said Dr. Hines. For one 88-year-old woman, cryotherapy is her scheduled dance time. Often used by athletes to assist with recovery time, full body cryotherapy is a treatment that lowers the body’s temperature. The extreme temperature drop forces blood to the core where the body’s given filtration system can cleanse the blood. Once out of the chamber, the healthier blood can begin to recirculate and replenish all the joints and muscles. Patients have reported reduced pain and inflammation levels as well as higher energy levels within 48 hours of treatment. The elderly woman dances, perhaps because it is cold in the chamber but perhaps it's because she knows she will feel relief soon.

Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy, PEMF, is truly unique in that it regenerates cells that can be considered sick in a way. Patients will lie on a mat that sends electromagnetic pulses through the body, yet it will not feel like a shock. This treatment has shown to improve blood flow, speed healing of wounds and it has some anti-aging effects for cells in their life cycle.

This effect is caused by a recharging of sickly or dying cells. A new practice, Cryo+ combines the three forms of therapy to truly provide the body with the tools needed to thrive. After a patient completes their cryotherapy treatment, they then move to the infrared room. After the blood is replenished of oxygen and nutrients in the core, infrared therapy assists in the flow of this replenished blood. PEMF therapy is introduced to optimize the health of cells throughout the body. This practice can provide similar benefits as the individual therapies such as improved blood flow, reduced inflammation and cell recovery.

337 Other practices at Acadiana Pain reflect the experiences Dr. Hines has gained in his travels.

These practices include dry-needling and Kaatsu technology, a compression band.

Innovation is to think outside of the box which is just what Acadiana Pain has done. Non-invasive therapies aid in numbing pain for patients without the need for surgeries. The goal is to give the patient everything needed for them to be successful. Dr. Hines believes surgery should be a last resort when treating patients ,

“If you track back five steps there was a solution that could’ve been done that would’ve helped them.”

T

ruly looking at outside perspectives to best aid his patients, Dr. Hines found himself at a dentistry conference due to curiosities about a new technology designed to aid in respiratory issues.

Having many connections in different medical fields, Dr. Hines is able to bounce around ideas with many differing minds. The doctor himself speaks at conferences, roughly four times a year, to promote the benefits of treating a patient rather than a symptom.

“people first”

In striving to promote the mindset to others, Dr. Hines has gained an honorable reputation from those in his field. Oftentimes at these conferences, fellow doctors will ask Dr. Hines why he isn’t practicing in a bigger city to which he replies – he enjoys Lafayette.

Dr. Hines believes Lafayette deserves good health, and his patients show their gratitude to him daily. Dr. Hines’s patients often participate in studies, either by completing surveys during their visits or by collecting data from their case. He has found that most of his patients are happy to help in his studies as it can aid many others around the country, if results are effective.

Dr. Hines further promotes knowledge he has gained with the creation of The Pain and Performance Podcast.

His podcast has over 50 episodes, most being around an hour long. It was made not only to educate, but to reestablish trust with patients by explaining researchbased studies. Rather than taking advice from selfclaimed health gurus on social media platforms, people can now listen to trusted resources.

Acadiana Pain supplies truly innovative practices to their patients so that they can further spread valuable knowledge to not just other doctors, but to their patients.

Written by: Celeste Denova

337

Headaches

Back Pain

Joint Pain

Extremity Pain

Neck Pain

Nerve Pain

Cancer Pain

TMJ Pain

Dr. Derrick B. Hines, D.P.T.

Certified: Spinal Manipulative Therapist, Integrative Dry Needling Masters Diploma in Osteopathic Manual Therapy

Dr. Derrick Hines is the owner and founder of Acadiana Pain & Performance Rehab. He obtained his doctorate degree from Louisiana State University Medical Center in New Orleans. A post graduate focus in areas of pain, sports and manual medicine, lead to certification as a Spinal Manipulative Therapist and Integrative Dry Needling. In 2012, he also received his Diploma in Osteopathic Manual Therapy. Prior to attending LSUMC, he attended the University of Louisiana, graduating with his Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science.

Dr. Hines has extensive clinical experience and training in treating: pain, sports, orthopedic, and nerve pain; along with headaches, dizziness and TMJ dysfunction. He believes that if we can give patients higher quality, evidence based pain treatment, we can significantly improve their quality of life and greatly improve their chance of returning to a pain free lifestyle.Following this belief, Dr. Hines has studied under some of the best pain practitioners around the world to provide the highest quality and most effective treatments for every patient. As a native of Louisiana, he is an avid outdoorsman, spending his free time, hunting, fishing and cheering on the ULL Ragin' Cajuns, the LSU Tigers and New Orleans Saints.

Chris Davis, P.T.

Certified: Spinal Manipulative Therapist, Integrative Dry Needling

Chris Davis is a manual manipulative Physical Therapist who specializes in the treatment of all musculoskeletal dysfunction and pain from general soreness (aches and pains) to chronic conditions (bulging/herniated discs, headaches, etc). Davis is certified in Spinal Manipulation as well as Biomedical Dry Needling.

"I am driven by the challenge of figuring out pain problems that most people don't understand and helping people to get out of pain. I do feel that God has blessed me with a gift in helping people, I love being able to alleviate pain with my hands and the talents God has given me. I have had so many musculoskeletal problems from meniscus tears, RTC tears, sprained ankles, fractured elbows, fractured ribs and dislocated shoulders, and had a lumbar fusion at L4-S1 due to stenosis, and I believe I have had all of these things to better be able to identify with what patients are going through. It is very rewarding helping people who did not think they could get better and getting them better." - Chris Davis

Dr. Jay Ashley, D.P.T.

Certified: Spinal Manipulative Therapist, Integrative Dry Needling, Titleist Performance Institute

Dr. Jay Ashley is a graduate of The University of Saint Augustine for Health Sciences. A lifelong love of Human Science led him to Southern University A&M College where he majored in Therapeutic Recreation as an undergraduate student. He followed his passion to USA in Saint Augustine, Florida and finished with a focus in manual therapy. His love and loyalty for family and Louisiana brought him home where he has practiced in acute, rehab and outpatient care for the last 10 years.

Dr. Ashley has acquired specialized learning in Sports Specific Training, Diet and Nutrition. While maintaining certifications in Spinal Manipulation, Integrative Dry Needling and a Titleist Performance Institute Medical Professional designation, he believes that his most valuable skill set is his people first approach. He often says that “Every touch should be a healing touch.” and “No one cares what you know, until they know that you care!”. These truisms have successfully guided his practice over the last decade.

Sri Satya P Medidhi, P.T.

Masters: Exercise Physiology Certified: Spinal Manipulative Therapist, Integrative Dry Needling

Sri graduated with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy in 2010 from Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences. She then completed a Masters degree in Physical Therapy in 2019. She is also currently completing her transitional Doctorate Studies to attain her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.

Sri is Certified in Biomedical Dry Needling. She has extensive training and experience with Joint manipulation, Joint mobilizations, post-op rehabilitation and pelvic health.

LOUISIANA ORTHOPAEDIC SPECIALISTS

ACADIANA’S LEADER FOR ORTHOPEDICS, SPINE & SPORTS MEDICINE Visit Us Today in Scott!

Our new Scott location offers Orthopedic Urgent Care and PT/OT services. Orthopedic Urgent Care is currently open Monday through Friday for orthopedic care and digital x-rays, casting, bracing and splinting onsite—all without an appointment or referral. Saturday hours will become available beginning in August.

Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy services are offered Monday through Friday by appointment.

Learn More at InjuryNotIllness.com

Acadiana’s leader for Orthopaedic, Spine and Sports Medicine is a label proudly earned and very deserving of Louisiana Orthopaedic Specialists, LOS. When I was given the opportunity to tour their main facility located in Lafayette, La off the renowned medical row of Rue Louis, I jumped at the chance to get to know this incredible team.

This wonderful adventure to

and see the specialists in motion was a unique way to get to know the true team of LOS.

As I begin the tour of what seems to be a masterfully designed labyrinth lightly dotted with conference rooms and break rooms, I am told each doctor has their own “pod” that acts as its own clinic within the clinic. This allows them access to their team outside of exam rooms and X-ray labs where they have fast access to everything needed to address their patients' concerns. Each specialist is staffed with multiple medical assistants as well as nurse practitioners.

The key factor with LOS is each doctor on board is a certified specialist in their field. This allows patients the opportunity to be seen by a master in their element within a smooth time of request.

They pride themselves on being able to be available to all without needing a referral.

Our first stop is with the renowned Adam Perry, MD founder of LOS. Dr. Perry said he, “started off doin’ a lot of everything,”

but explained that as LOS grows, doctors of varying specialties have joined, allowing Dr. Perry and others to focus on just their specialty.

Dr. Perry expressed that he is a “leg guy” as he mostly works in the hip and knee fields. and he has proven just that. After opening in 2008 with just three specialists, the orthopaedic facility has grown to 15, soon to be 16 specialists, and enough supporting staff to maintain a smooth workday. The main facility has multiple X-ray machines and an MRI machine to help quickly get results to doctors. Surgical procedures on the other hand do take place in separate facilities.

LOS primarily provides procedures out of Our Lady of Lourdes, Park Place, Iberia Medical Center, Abbeville General and Iberia Surgical Center and Lafayette Surgical Specialty Hospital.

Dr. Perry expressed. Many of the specialists at LOS have some of the same patients, each helping with a different body joint or other specialty. Because of their expertise, specialists are able to inform their patients of multiple options of treatment before proceeding.

The specialists at LOS ensure the highest level of care for their patients, whether it's through continued education, furthering research or presenting at meetings with other orthopaedic doctors. To offer a strong variety of specialists is such a true gift they are giving to our ccommunity.

Walking through LOS, medical jargon bounces from wall to wall, igniting the halls in sound. Michael Duval, MD is next on the agenda. He just so happens to be the head sports medicine doctor for the Ragin Cajuns. He shares with me, “There has been a huge sub specialization within orthopedics that has been present in major metropolitan areas for years.”As our community grows, the need for these specialties increases. Through the tour, I found that most of the doctors at LOS go through fellowship training, an additional year of learning, when they finish their required level to reach the status of specialist.

“They continue to learn.

They continue to evolve.”

Dr. Duval is just one of the doctors here that attained his Sports Medicine Fellowship and with that, the skill set to help not only our beloved Cajuns, but patients that come from near and far to utilize what LOS offers.

Dr. Duval, alongside Dr. Perry, Dr. Penton, Dr. Williams and Dr. Montgomery, cover all Ragin Cajun Football home and away games.

Seth Rosenzweig also assists with coverage for Ragin Cajun Athletes mainly attending basketball and baseball games, while the entire LOS team cares for all Ragin Cajun Athletes in clinic.

I find that Dr. Duval has such a calm and charismatic presence that is genially fueled with both his love for his work and admiration for his fellow doctors and staff. It is very heightened behind the scenes, but they seem to all be in their perfect element.

This group feels like a family and in one case it is- the Baronne brothers. Benjamin Baronne, MD works closely with his brother Lon Baronne II, MD, both in the neck, back and spine specialty. Both men were inspired by their father, Lon Baronne, DPM, to join the medical field, and the brothers have gone above and beyond to ensure their father’s pride.

They both strive for minimal invasion when treating patients whether it be robotic surgeries or alternative treatments, and Lon Baronne, MD, has published many works related to spinal research.

His message shows in the results of the clinic, both in the satisfaction of patients as well as the expansion of care across Acadiana. Matthew Williams, MD may be a prime example of this.

Dr. Williams specializes in the shoulder and elbow fields as well as sports medicine. He is both nationally and internationally recognized for his research and practice in various shoulder surgeries. He has presented many scientific papers both in and out of the United States, yet he makes time to support the Cajuns both on the field and off.

This facility is home to so many people and career opportunities. LOS is always looking for qualified staff ranging from physical therapists to X-ray technicians to schedulers. What an inspiring place to work and thrive. The maze of buildings and suites leads me to the Lafayette Physical Therapy Annex. This is most clients' final step on the road to recovery. After any surgery, and sometimes before, it is important for clients' to attend physical therapy to regain mobility. What makes LOS special, is the collaboration between surgeans and therapists.

Instead of waiting for an email or call back, staff can meet with each other in person to discuss the best course for recovery for any given patient.

While speaking with Lindsey Quin Champagne, DPT, I found her demeanor to be calm and sophisticated. Any patient would be in wonderful hands working with her, not only because of her knowledge in the field, but by how she comforts in what can be considered an uncomfortable experience. Being the Director of Rehabilitation at LOS, she acts as a great role model for her fellow PTs.

Where does it hurt?

Sports Medicine Total Joint Replacement

Arthroscopy Surgical and Non-Surgical Spine Treatment

Hip Procedures Physical Therapy Hand and Wrist Procedures

Shoulder Procedures

Foot & Ankle Procedures

ADAM T. PERRY, MD Adam T. Perry, MD, is a fellowship-trained and board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, athletic injuries, arthroscopic surgery, fracture care, and total joint replacement with Robotics. He is highly qualified and has extensive experience in the direct anterior hip replacement procedure, minimally invasive ROSA Robotic Hip and Knee replacements, and Persona IQ Smart Knee. Dr. Perry is also the first in Acadiana to train and perform the Anterior Approach for Hip Replacement and both ROSA Robotic Knee Replacement and ROSA Robotic Hip Replacement.

Dr. Perry is a founding physician of Louisiana Orthopaedic Center for Athletes, which in July of 2009 was renamed Louisiana Orthopaedic Specialists. He completed his orthopedic sports medicine fellowship training in San Antonio, Texas. During his fellowship, Dr. Perry led anatomic direction workshops during the 35th Annual Symposium on Sports Medicine. Prior to his fellowship, Dr. Perry completed both his medical school and residency at Louisiana State University in New Orleans. During residency, he was honored with the Chief Research Award.

Dr. Perry obtained his undergraduate degree from the Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, where he completed his football career and was honored as Team Captain.

Dr. Perry was raised in Covington, LA, and gained an appreciation for medicine from his mother, whom was a registered nurse and instructed at “big charity” for 32 years in the school of nursing. He currently is a fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) and a member of the Louisiana Orthopaedic Association (LOA) and Louisiana State Medical Society (LSMS). Dr. Perry also provides orthopedic coverage as a team physician for all sports at the University of Louisiana Lafayette Ragin Cajuns and Teurlings Catholic High School.

Dr. Perry practices at our Rue Louis XIV location in Lafayette, LA.

NEIL C. ROMERO, MD Neil C. Romero, MD is a fellowship-trained and board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon, specializing in minimally invasive spine surgery, arthroplasty including artificial disc replacement, and cervical and lumbar spine surgery.

Dr. Romero has cared for patients at Louisiana Orthopaedic Specialists since 2009. He completed his orthopedic spine surgery fellowship training at Stanford University. Prior to his fellowship, Dr. Romero completed his orthopaedic surgery residency at the Medical University of South Carolina.

He received his medical degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans and undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, where he graduated summa cum laude.

Dr. Romero is a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) and practices at our Rue Louis XIV location in Lafayette, LA.

ROBBY LEBLANC, MD Robby LeBlanc, MD is a fellowship-trained and board-certified orthopedic surgeon, specializing in hand, wrist, and elbow surgery, with special qualifications in minimally invasive surgery and advanced reconstructive surgery.

Dr. LeBlanc has cared for patients at Louisiana Orthopaedic Specialists since 2010. He completed his fellowship training at The Indiana Hand Center in Indianapolis.

Prior to his fellowship, Dr. LeBlanc completed his orthopaedic surgery residency at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. He received his medical degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans, where he graduated in the top ten percent of his class, and his undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge where he graduated magna cum laude. Dr. LeBlanc is a member of the Arkansas Medical Society, American Medical Association (AMA) and the Alpha Omega Alpha.

Dr. LeBlanc practices at our Rue Louis XIV location in Lafayette, LA.

MATTHEW D. WILLIAMS, MD Matthew D. Williams, MD is a fellowship-trained and board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery of the shoulder and elbow. He is nationally and internationally trained in shoulder replacement surgery and is a specialist in total shoulder replacement, reverse shoulder replacement, and revision shoulder replacements (the treatment of painful or failed shoulder replacements). Dr. Williams completed his fellowship training in shoulder and elbow surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston.

In addition, Dr. Williams completed a highly coveted fellowship program in shoulder surgery at the renowned Clinique St. Anne Lumiere in Lyon, France with Dr. Gilles Walch and the coinventors of the internationally recognized reverse shoulder arthroplasty procedure. Prior his fellowship, Dr. Williams completed his residency training at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. He obtained his medical degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine and bachelor’s degree from Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi.

Dr. Williams is academically active and has authored articles and book chapters on shoulder replacement, shoulder arthritis, shoulder instability, and shoulder stiffness. He has presented scientific papers at national and international meetings. In 2008 The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons recognized Dr. Williams with the Mel Post research award for research concerning reverse shoulder replacement surgery. Dr. Williams is an Assistant Professor of Orthopedic Surgery for the LSU Medical Center in New Orleans and takes an active role in educating current orthopedic surgery residents at UMC in Lafayette. Dr. Williams serves with his partners as team physicians for the University of Louisiana Ragin Cajuns. Dr. Williams’ top priorities are to keep open communication with patients and referring physicians and to be accessible and approachable for any orthopedic problems, especially challenging shoulder issues.

Dr. Williams practices at our Rue Louis XIV location in Lafayette, LA.

Christopher K. Hebert, MD Chris Hebert, MD is a board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon, specializing in foot and ankle surgery. He grew up in Lake Charles, but the majority of his family is from Lafayette and Vermilion Parish.Prior to joining Louisiana Orthopaedic Specialist, Dr. Hebert cared for patients at Acadiana Orthopedic Group and University of Texas Medical Branch, where he also served as an Assistant Professor.

Dr. Hebert received his fellowship training at the University of Washington in Seattle and studied with Dr. Sigvard Hansen, pioneer in orthopaedic surgery and author who has written textbooks in orthopedics and foot and ankle surgery. He completed his orthopedic surgery residency program at Tulane University Medical Center. Dr. Hebert obtained his medical degree from Tulane Medical School, where he was awarded an Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society Membership by finishing in the top ten percent of his medical school class. He completed his undergraduate studies at McNeese State University.

In 1998, he moved home to Louisiana to establish a private practice specializing in foot and ankle surgery in Lafayette. Dr. Hebert is a member of several professional societies including the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS), the Louisiana Orthopaedic Association (LOA), and the Lafayette Parish Medical Society (LPMS).

Dr. Hebert practices at our Rue Louis XIV location in Lafayette, LA.

MICHAEL J. DUVAL, MD Michael J. Duval, MD, is a fellowship-trained and board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, arthroscopic surgery of the upper and lower extremities, and total joint replacement with Robotics, including minimally invasive ROSA Robotic Hip and Knee Replacements.

Dr. Duval serves as the head team physician for the University of Louisiana Ragin Cajuns Sports Medicine Program and serves as medical director for the university’s athletic department. He has been a team physician for UL and has been involved in the orthopedic care of Acadiana athletes since 1995.

Dr. Duval completed his orthopedic sports medicine fellowship training at Orthopedic Research of Virginia. Prior to his fellowship, he completed both his residency and medical school training at Louisiana State University in New Orleans. He is a member of Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society and is an active member of the American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine.

KEVIN J. LASSEIGNE, JR., MD Kevin Lasseigne, Jr., MD is a fellowship-trained physician specializing in interventional spine as well as physical medicine and rehabilitation. Dr. Lasseigne focuses his practice on nonsurgical management and treatment of musculoskeletal injuries with a primary emphasis on spine related pain. In addition, Dr. Lasseigne specializes in electrodiagnostic medicine, performing nerve conduction studies for common nerve related injuries as well as the treatment of chronic migraine headaches utilizing botulinum toxin (“Botox”).

Dr. Lasseigne received his interventional spine fellowship training at The Orthopedic Clinic Association (TOCA) in Arizona. He completed his residency training at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he was appointed Chief Resident. In addition, he completed a transitional year internship at Baptist Health Systems in Alabama. He obtained his medical degree from the Louisiana State University Health Science Center in New Orleans, and his bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, where he graduated magna cum laude.

Dr. Lasseigne is a member of the American Medical Association (AMA), American Academy of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (AAPMR), and North American Spine Society (NASS).

Dr. Lasseigne practices at our Rue Louis XIV location in Lafayette, LA.

JUDSON L. PENTON, MD Judson L. Penton, MD is a fellowship-trained and board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder, elbow, hip and knee. He treats a wide variety of athletic injuries and holds a certificate of advanced qualification in Sports Medicine from the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. Dr. Penton completed his fellowship in Sports Medicine at Mississippi Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center.

There, he gained further expertise in the latest arthroscopic surgical techniques while training under two past presidents of the Arthroscopy Association of North America.

He received his orthopedic surgery residency training at Louisiana State University in New Orleans. He obtained his medical degree from the University of Mississippi Medical Center and his undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame.

Dr. Penton is currently a member of the medical staff supporting men’s and women’s Division I varsity sports at the University of Louisiana. Previously, Dr. Penton was the head team physician and orthopedic surgeon for all men’s and women’s Division I varsity sports at Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond. He also served as the Medical Director of Sports Medicine for North Oaks Hospital System and was recognized as a four-time recipient of the North Oaks Health System Champion, awarded for excellence in healthcare.

Dr. Penton is an active member of the Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA), the American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM), the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery (AAOS), and the Louisiana Orthopedic Association (LOS).

Dr. Penton practices at our Rue Louis XIV location in Lafayette, LA.

Lon M. Baronne, II, MD is a fellowship-trained and board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon, specializing in minimally invasive spine surgery, robotic spine surgery, arthroplasty including artificial disc replacement, and cervical and lumbar spine surgery. Dr. Baronne has cared for patients at Louisiana Orthopaedic Specialists since 2014. He completed his orthopedic spine surgery fellowship training amongst pioneers in complex cervical spine surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Prior to his fellowship, Dr. Baronne completed both his residency training at the University of Utah – Department of Orthopedic Surgery. He received his medical degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine, where he graduated magna cum laude and was a member of the student ethics committee. He obtained his undergraduate degree from Emory University, where he graduated summa cum laude.

Dr. Baronne’s published research includes work on traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, and lumbar fusion surgery. He has also authored book chapters on spondylolisthesis and spinal trauma. He is a member of American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), North American Spine Academy (NASS) and Cervical Spine Research Society (CSRS).

Dr. Baronne practices at our Rue Louis XIV location in Lafayette, LA. As of July 2023, Lon Baronne II, MD, has performed 702 robotic-assisted spine surgeries with the Globus System at Park Place Surgical Hospital and Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center. This milestone marks a huge achievement for Lon Baronne II, MD of Louisiana Orthopaedic Specialists, who is the most experienced surgeon using this robotic technology, in the world.

James Kyle, MD, is a fellowship-trained, board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacements and revisions, including minimally invasive ROSA Robotic Knee Replacements and Persona IQ Smart Knee.Dr. Kyle received his fellowship training from Harvard’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. He completed his residency at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center. He earned his medical degree from Tulane School of Medicine in New Orleans.

Prior to his medical degree, Dr. Kyle was a practicing veterinarian, having earned a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine.Dr. Kyle is a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS) and the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association.

Dr. Kyle practices at our Rue Louis XIV location in Lafayette, LA.

Prior to joining Louisiana Orthopaedic Specialists, Dr Rosenzweig practiced with Legacy Medical Group and lberia Medical Center. He completed fellowship training in Sports Medicine at the Campbell Clinic and Foundation in Memphis, TN and a joint replacement fellowship at Tulane in New Orleans, LA. Dr Rosenzweig completed residencies in adult and pediatric orthopedics at, Tulane and Charity of New Orleans, Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital of Atlanta, and the University of Alabama in Birmingham.

He received his undergraduate degree in Biomedical Engineering from Tulane University and his Medical Degree from Tulane in 2002.

-Team physician for Iberia and St Mary Parish high schools -Assistant team physician for University of Louisiana's Ragin Cajuns -Board-certified in orthopedic surgery -Subspecialty in sports medicine -Mako (Robotics) certification in hip, partial knee and total knee He is married to Julie DesOrmeaux of Abbeville and has 7 children. Dr. Rosenzweig practices at our New Iberia clinic.

His surgery locations are in New Iberia (Surgery Center and Iberia General and Abbeville General.

Benjamin Baronne, MD, is a fellowship-trained interventional spine specialist. Though surgery is occasionally needed, he is passionate about accurately diagnosing the source of patients’ spine discomfort and managing it conservatively. He is expertly trained to perform guided epidural steroid injections, diagnostic and therapeutic selective nerve root blocks, medial branch blocks, radiofrequency ablations, vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty, discography, and spinal cord stimulator lead placement in the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine.

He also performs sacroiliac joint blocks and radiofrequency ablation, as well as peripheral joint injections.Dr. Baronne joins the LOS team after completing his fellowship under Dr. Derek Buck at the Advanced Spine and Pain Center in Little Rock, Arkansas. Prior to his fellowship, Dr. Baronne completed his residency at Louisiana State University in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. During his residency, he managed inpatient rehabilitation for spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, strokes, neurologic conditions, amputations, joint replacements, deconditioning, performed nerve conduction studies/EMG and interventional spine procedures. Dr. Baronne received his medical degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine and graduated Cum Laude from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas with a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience.

Dr. Baronne was raised in Lafayette, LA and found his love of medicine working as a medical assistant for his father, Dr. Lon Baronne, while he was in high school. Dr. Baronne is an avid football fan, snow skier and enjoys history and documentaries.

Dr. Baronne practices at our Rue Louis XIV location in Lafayette, LA.

Bryce Fugarino, MD is a fellowship-trained, board certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in orthopedic hand, wrist, and elbow surgery. He is a member of the Louisiana Orthopaedic Association and the Board Certified American Academy for Orthopaedic Surgeons. Dr. Fugarino is a Louisiana native, growing up in Hammond, and chose Louisiana Orthopaedic Specialists because of “their reputation around the state for providing excellent medical care. They have a great quality of character and are great people on top of being excellent physicians.”

Dr. Fugarino joins Louisiana Orthopaedic Specialists after completing his Fellowship in Surgery of the Hand and Upper Extremity at NYU Hospital for Joint Disease. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame and went on to gain his medical degree and complete his residency at Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans. Due to Dr. Fugarino’s time practicing medicine in both Louisiana and New York he passed the intensive medical exams twice to be fully licensed in both states.

Dr. Fugarino is an avid golfer and a fan of Notre Dame and Saints football. Most of his time off is spent with his wife, Jessica, and his three children. Dr. Fugarino practices at our Rue Louis clinic in Lafayette.

Thomas J. Montgomery, MD, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon with experience in adult reconstruction, arthroscopic surgery, and sports medicine. His practice specializes in sports and occupational injuries, arthroscopic surgery, hand and foot surgery, and total joint replacement, including minimally invasive ROSA Robotic Knee Replacements. Since 1994, Dr. Montgomery has provided excellent care and treatment to patients. With a new perspective, Dr. Montgomery brings his knowledge and expertise to our team of physicians at Louisiana Orthopaedic Specialists.

Dr. Montgomery joined Louisiana Orthopaedic Specialists in March 2021. He received his MD from Louisiana State University Medical Center in 1988, where he ranked in the top five percent of his class. During his education, he was awarded the Chancellor’s Award from the L.S.U. School of Medicine. He completed his residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in orthopedic surgery.

He was awarded a limited A.O. European Trauma Fellowship in 1991 in Graz, Austria and Interlochen, Switzerland. He was also awarded a fellowship in Adult Reconstructive Surgery and Sports Medicine at the Center for Hip and Knee Surgery in Mooresville, Indiana. Dr. Montgomery is also a recipient of the Charles S. Neer II Award from the American Society of Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons and received the Outstanding Resident Presentation at the Richards Orthopaedic Resident Conference.

Dr. Montgomery also provides orthopedic coverage as a team physician for all sports at the University of Louisiana Lafayette Ragin Cajuns. He has published several articles in peer-reviewed journals and holds a patent in orthopedic equipment.

Dr. Montgomery practices at our Camellia Blvd location in Lafayette, LA.

Dr. Peter Vizzi is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with over 25 years of experience as an orthopedic physician. He specializes in total joint replacement including ROSA for robotic knee replacement, arthroscopic surgery, sports medicine, and general orthopedic care. His practice encompasses a wide range of orthopedic and sports injuries including arthritic conditions, athletic injuries, and broken bones/fracture care.

Dr. Vizzi merged his practice with Louisiana Orthopaedic Specialists in March of 2021 in order to provide Acadiana with a more comprehensive network of Orthopedic care. He attended Loyola University and received his MD from the University of Florida College of Medicine. He completed his residency in the Orlando Regional Healthcare System in Orthopedic surgery after an internship in general surgery within the same hospital system.

He has published research papers in Orthopedic surgery and Orthopedic basic sciences.

Dr Vizzi is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, the Louisiana Orthopaedic Association and the Louisiana State Medical Society, among other professional associations. Dr. Vizzi has been an avid sports fan and participant since childhood and still competes today. Through his participation, he has gained a deep understanding of sports injuries and the implications they have on daily life.

Dr. Vizzi practices at our Camellia Blvd location in Lafayette, LA.

337 Local Buisness Spotlight- wellness

337 Local Buisness Spotlight- wellness

THE NATURAL PATH

In the world of health and wellness and Youngsville- one name- one business- has been circulating around me with countless recommendations, The Natural Path and Nichole Moore. After a third, highly respected friend of mine mentioned her name and location was the source of their clear happiness and health, I had to meet her. Little did I know “our mutual acquaintances” wanted her to meet me, and the rest was history.

When you walk into The Natural Path, the store radiates positive energy and is full of feel good aroma’s and colorful products tucked perfectly in every nook available. One could easily roam around the store for hours building quite the list of questions. Thankfully, the staff and team led by their Doctor of Traditional Naturopathy and Certified Natural Health Professional, Nichole, are in perfect hands to have all and any questions answered.

The location also is home to a beautifully quaint salt room, where guests can sit down in plush chairs and enjoy the incredible benefits of their “ Salt Session''. ”The 45 minute experience promotes balanced breathing, better sleep and what we all love, healthier skin. Dry salt therapy, Halotherapy, is an all natural treatment that uses micro particles of salt that are inhaled through the air and work wonders on the mind, body and soul. Of course I knew I needed all of this in my life and it started with sitting down with the wonderful woman making magical health happen in 337- Nichole Moore. After learning she relocated with her family on a new adventure down south from Michigan at the age of 18, I dove into getting to know the driving force behind the Natural Path brand.

What led you to this path of wellness, leading to the launch of the Natural Path?

“Like many other natural health professionals my own health issues were what catapulted me into a natural healing journey. When conventional medicine didn't have an answer I had an encounter with an MD that was naturally minded. Natural health actually worked and my life was better than it. had been for as long as I can remember. From that moment on I was sold out on natural health and the role it had in long term benefits it could provide!”

337 Local Buisness Spotlight- wellness WHAT WOULD BE THE FIRST STEP YOU WOULD RECOMMEND TO SOMEONE COMING TO SEE YOU WHO IS WANTING TO RESET THEIR HEALTH AND WELLNESS? “A consultation is a great first step. It allows me to meet you, find out some of your current challenges, history, and what your day to day looks like. This is an opportunity to get to the root of the issue. Be prepared to make changes if necessary, but it will be worth it! I would never ask a client to do something I wouldn't or haven't done myself. I am right there with you on this wellness journey.”

Nichole has received training and certification in testing and simplifying genetic interpretation.

This allows her to know what to look for via bloodwork to get you on the right path of “ balance.” I was blown away by this after asking a few questions on my own health . Her goal was to find where I stood before having me purchase supplements that I may not need. This is a true tell-tale sign of a genuine person who wants to see you succeed in your wellness journey, and wants to get it right the first time.

Is there a main question or concern that new clients present themselves with to you, and what would be your advice to someone curious about coming to the Natural Path?

“Questions and concerns vary so much. I think people are afraid of price points in natural health. They may think it's a process that costs thousands, but honestly most everything can be done with great water intake, food, movement, and sleep. Everything else should be supplementing those foundations of wellness.”

What makes your products stand out from other wellness destinations, making The Natural Path the go to source?

“We carry mostly professional lines. These products are superior to most consumer brands. They contain higher quality ingredients typically with higher concentrations so you are getting what you are paying for. These companies subject themselves to pre and post production testing as well as supply chains that don't compromise for profit. That's huge when it comes to products you are ingesting for a purpose.”

337 Local Buisness Spotlight- wellness You are such a lovely and passionate soul, I am so thankful that so many people have sent me your way! What do you love most about what you do and offer and what are your future goals with the Natural Path?

“I love love love my clients. Everyone that walks into our shop is family. We know our clients, what is happening in their lives. We know their families & friends. We strive to make sure you get products you need that match your goals. Education is #1! When we educate our clients they are empowered to make choices that influence them and their families lives.”

The Natural Path is preparing for their spring and summer seasons. They are always on the top trends in their field and I highly recommend following them on social media, where they are actively posting advice and keeping their followers in the loop of specials going on When you have one body that you rely on to get you through the days, weeks and years, give back to it with proper guidance and nutrients. It will never fail to impress me how the smallest change in your daily regime can feel like the world has shifted- for the best!

The Natural Path and the lovely Nichole Moore truly care and will move mountains to get their clients where they need to be in a manner that is comfortable, safe and effective for each unique individual.

337 Local Buisness Spotlight- wellness

MEET THE TEAM

337 Local Buisness Spotlight- wellness THE NATURAL PATH PRODUCTS- ON THE RADAR FAN FAVORITES FOR BODY AND MIND

Are you having GI issues?

GI Revive contains a blend of ingredients that offer comprehensive support for optimum gastrointestinal (GI) health and function. Gastrointestinal, or ‘gut’ health, is very important to a person’s overall health and well-being.

Although the process of digestion begins in the mouth, it is within the gut where the absorption of nutrients must take place. The lining of the gut must have proper permeability and integrity so that it can absorb nutrients while preventing toxins, allergens and microbes from gaining access to the bloodstream. Therefore, it is critical to our overall health to support the health of the intestinal mucosa or lining of the GI tract. – The Natural Path OmegAvail Smoothies are delicious tasting, high potency fish oil products.

They are manufactured using a proprietary emulsification technology that significantly reduces the size of fish oil molecules, resulting in enhanced absorption and easy digestion. These novel products are ideal for children and those who do not prefer to swallow softgels. They have the taste of a fruit smoothie without any oily taste or texture.

337 Local Buisness Spotlight- wellness OmegAvail Smoothies are very convenient to use, as they quickly dissolve for easy mixing in water, juice, or blended beverages. They may also be taken alone. All of the fish oils in Designs for Health omegas are molecularly distilled and filtered to ensure purity and to maximize the removal of heavy metals, pesticides, solvents, PCBs, and other contaminants.

OmegAvail Smoothies may support: • Heart health • Normal cholesterol and triglyceride levels • Immune system function • Brain health and development • Joint mobility • Healthy skin and hair • A balanced inflammatory response • Eye health and development • A healthy pregnancy

Humic & Fulvic SC promotes a healthy, balanced gut microbiome while supporting every cell in the body. Humic's high molecular weight keeps it in the gut longer, where it can support healthy gut wall junctions. Meanwhile, the smaller, highly-energized Fulvic molecules are quickly absorbed, delivering nutrients to cells throughout the body.

Humic & Fulvic SC promotes: •Promotes healthy GI bacterial balance •Supports cellular nutrient absorption, kickstarting vital metabolic processes •Supports natural cellular detoxification & safely removes heavy metals from cells and tissue.

•Provides powerful antioxidant support, reducing advanced cellular aging and damage.

•Detoxes chemicals that cause leaky gut while supporting the gut wall •Sourced and made in the USA in small batches from rich humates, NOT coal or shale, like others.

337 Local Buisness Spotlight- wellness Botanical-C Serum culminates in a potent blend of skin nutrients and synergistic cofactors, delivered in a luxuriously smooth serum with a wonderful scent. Botanical-C Serum delivers more than just Vitamin C to your skin. It offers an entire complement of nutritional constituents--constituents of the skin itself--plus important co-factors which stimulate healthy skin function and healthy assimilation of nutrients.

Key Ingredients: -Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) -MSM (Methyl Sulfonyl Methane) -Ferulic Acid -Hyaluronic Acid -Glycerin -15 Synergistic Essential Oils -Colloidal Silver -Colloidal Gold -Trace Minerals.

Liposomal Collagen Liposomal Collagen by Desbio offers great tasting support for skin and joints with hydrolyzed marine collagen. Collagen sourced from wild caught pollock offers a smaller particle size than other forms of collagen and is an excellent source of collagens type 1 and 2. This small particle size along with the liposomal delivery system optimize absorption and bioavailability to support for skin and connective tissues from within.

Come by and see us at 100 Sabal Palms Row Suite 2 in Youngsville. Can’t make it in?

Call us at 337.451.6563. We ship.

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Elena Ladmirault Our Realtor for 337 As we take the next step in this Innovators issue to our “ Home” section, we start the journey visiting a truly magical soulElena Ladmirault. In the industry of realestate and the set steps of home buying, we are met with an unmatched energy that is setting a new standard in helping her clients dreams come true. Her approach is formed from her heart and soul with a plan to “gift” this life-changing experience for her clients. Through devoted time, research into her business, Elena has found a way to Innovate in a field that has been set in stone.

A new look into real estate agents reveal they aren’t all just in it for sales.

Roughly 10 years ago, Elena Ladmirault began her real estate journey, but it was roughly 5 years ago that her spiritual journey began. She has a beautiful connection to her faith and works to bring that connection with her in her work. It serves more as her guide in her day and that reflects in her actions and approach to this career.

To simply put it, she sought to help her clients but knew she had to help herself first, starting with her daily routine. There is truth behind the over-used advice, as cliché as it sounds.

337 Local Business Spotlight Immediately after waking up, she takes a moment to check-in with herself, actively thinking about how she is feeling both physically and mentally to assess what is needed for the day. Once she is out of bed, she will begin meditation, often thinking of past, present and future clients. Sometimes yoga follows, usually the best of days for her, to check off all the self-care boxes.

As she works within her faith and selfcare it adds a sprinkle of fairy dust to her ability to connect with her clients.

Elena is notably sensitive to people’s needs and their varying ways of thinking. For her, problem-solving comes naturally, making clients feel more comfortable. This unique ability she has to observe and adjust to what her clients’ emotional needs are caters to the home buying process in the most sincere way.

“Emotional Innovation in real-estate.”

The call to real estate seemed like an almost natural path for Elena. Seeking to avoid the restraints of the corporate world but wanting to connect with others, Elena turned towards real estate.

Licensed since late 2013, she has had much experience in the industry.

Acknowledging that the business is about connection and building relationships, Elena was thrilled to become an agent. She noted a natural desire to get to know people, as humans are naturally social beings.

“I don’t expect anyone to trust anyone off the bat,” Elena said. Applying to both other workers in the industry as well as clients, Elena feels this is one of the main reasons connection and communication is key.

337 Local Business Spotlight “Every dollar counts,” Elena emphasized.

“It’s not just a sale, it’s someone’s home.”

For Elena, real estate is about fitting a home to a person. She approaches each task based on a client’s needs and wants.

“To sit with her and hear her journey, she just radiates this energy force that is so true and genuine. The conversation is with a long lost friend who has found her place in life, not a realtor. It is so welcomed and refreshing.”- Elisse

“You're always a person, always a beating heart to me,” Elena expressed.

Providing a new outlook on purchasing homes, Elena leads the way for agents.

Getting to know a client outside of their wants in a house proves to be beneficial when Elena sees the smiles on their faces. “I can walk into a house and it hits me,” Elena said, imagining that smile. “I just know it's for them.”

Being used to the constant change in real estate, Elena is used to pivoting direction when a client changes their mind or if a deal falls through.

Elena explained that sympathy is often needed in the job. She may often see houses not close, but many people aren’t used to that heartbreak. She noted that she has to “hold it together for them” in a supportive manner. In the business of homes it is important to always care for clients as it is the place where they will host loved ones or the place where they seek comfort after a long day.

Elena explained the importance of going at the client’s pace, reflecting that she is not pushy when it comes to making a sale. “For me it's meeting people where they're at,” Elena said. “Listen to their desire and their goal and let's figure out a game plan and get there.” If something doesn’t work out in the deal she is quick to pivot as it is important to her for the clients to have their perfect home, not just a house.

337 Local Business Spotlight In recounting each closing table, “It is the most exhilarating feeling,” Elena excitedly expressed.

“They always get a gift, but it's always very specific to the person.” She does this to celebrate the client’s milestone and the experiences they shared. Occasionally there are tears, as it can be an emotional time, but Elena is by their side, as she was throughout the process. “I’m gonna do this forever, until I die,” Elena said, letting out a light laugh.

Often her clients will come to mind when meditating in the morning. She explained that they are always at the front of her intentions, always wanting what’s best for them. Only when a client is satisfied, is Elena satisfied.

For many salespersons, it is about numbers rather than people. Elena was disheartened when sharing that many people consider real estate agents similar to car salespersons.

Elena seeks to ensure, not just to her clients but to anyone she meets, “You are worthy and that is important.” She truly believes that and it flows out of her tenfold. Her connection to the human soul is so grounding and raw, but effortless and relaxing to encounter.

Because the process can be nervewracking or anxiety inducing, Elena breaks the process up in “digestible pieces.” She insists the best time for a client to approach her is when they are thinking of changing homes rather than after they have decided.

Elena provides her clients with as much knowledge as they need before making any decisions, and she frequently states deciding to wait is a decision itself.

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The business of real estate through the eyes of Elena.

Elena fondly recounts her memories at Sugar Mill Pond Realty, then, Southern Lifestyle Realty, later absorbed by Latter and Blum. Each business taught Elena something new. Blum provided a familyoriented experience for Elena, but didn’t suit her preferred inner business model. She has now worked for EXP Realty for three years and explains it as more suitable for her business goals as it is a place for entrepreneurs to grow.

Elena explained the best way to grow a reputation in the industry is by referrals and word of mouth, but both client and builder relationships are essential for growth.

When Elena first began at Sugar Mill Pond Realty, she compared herself to a kid in a candy store. “I was just there to absorb,” Elena said. She did just that in attending various open houses and social events as well as sitting in with various architects and builders, truly learning the ins and outs of a home and its amenities.

Shivers Brothers Construction, developer of River Ranch, was building Sugar Mill Pond in Youngsville at this time. She described the construction company as a family feel yet the brothers as being polar opposites, one all jokes and the other all business. Elena slowly developed a relationship with the builders, again mentioning the importance of getting to know others. She attended every open house she could, eventually gaining listings from them. Elena remarks that she considers herself very blessed to have a trusting relationship with the brothers, creating pride within the agent.

Elena described architecture as an art form, each builder having their own style.

“I can walk in a house and probably tell you who built it,” laughed Elena. Humbly, Elena named a couple builders and their preferences to specific trims and styles.

Elena hopes to never lose her connection with the brothers, but is always open to building relationships with developers.

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Looking towards her future, Elena hopes to encourage others to grow with her.

Elena seeks to dip into the luxury home market once she gets her designation. After completing her course, she will be able to truly practice what she has learned. Elena explained that as the money on the table increases, the flow of the market decreases, yet it is still a necessary market. Elena has an eye for detail and was confident in saying, “I provide what they’re looking for.”

Working at EXP Realty, Elena said she found, “more opportunity to build my dream.” Elena hopes to help others in the industry, reflecting on those that have helped her. She plans to develop her own business, but assist other agents through this business. Elena seeks a team of passionate, motivated individuals.

Elena has found a small but mighty team with the help of EXP. She described Matt Long as very thorough, which is very helpful during paperwork. Rebekah Guidry is more similar to Elena, hoping to match the client with the perfect home.

Elena explains her dream as, “having my own team of powerful people. I want to build them up.” This is why the dream team of Elena, Matt, Rebekah and Shivers makes up our home section in this issue of Innovation.

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“Elena Ladmirault, to me, is the definition of fresh air and kindness. Her ability to use her unmatched skill-set in the realestate industry, yet merge it with her faith and empathy, sets her in a league of her own. To “Humanize” this world of home buying, building and transitioning to the next level of a client's life, is a journey that will never be forgotten. She has found a way to efficiently innovate a field full of competition, while staying true to herself. She is a valued part of that journey and anyone who has the chance to meet this exuberant soul will agree wholeheartedly.”- Elisse

website: https://elenaladmirault.exprealty.com/ Written by Celeste Denova

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Matt Long – with – Andrus Boudreaux, Complete Title Elena Ladmirault has highly recommended working with Matt Long as her go to lawyer to assist in her clients needs when closing on their future home.He is the second part of her “Home-BuyingDream Team” – and within one minute of chatting with him, I can see why.

As he sits to talk with me and take me through his part of the real estate world, he just gives off the most joyful and passionate energy. I can tell he is as eager to share what he gives to the community, as I am to tell his story.

As a lawyer for over 8 years, he made quite the jump from Assistant Attorney General to the real estate/ title industry. A move he does not regret one bit. He has a sincere passion for real estate law because, “People are actually happy with their legal experience.”- Compared

to litigation –family law he spent over four years practicing. He stresses how he gets to help people and his environment is surrounded by positive patrons and energy. It was a great move for him and his growing family.

He has such pride when talking about his firm at AB. He shares with me that this local firm has been successfully operating in Lafayette for over 30 years. The firm is made up of six attorneys, including Matt.

The other members of the team are Phil Boudfreaux, Mitch Landy, Jean-Paul Coussan, Sara Szuschlag and Chris Aafeman.

I was so curious to know what the role of a Title Company does for our future home buyers, and what really separates this Title Company from the others found here in 337. I would think that would lie in the details and human connection, and I was right in thinking so.

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Many companies boast of having a family culture, but we truly live that daily at AB, and that starts at the top with excellent leadership.”

- Matt Long Their main role in the home buying process is to run all the transactions back to when the home had been purchased. They make sure that the current owner is saying what is correct and make sure that the successions have been done correctly and zero liens or judgements are involved with the property.

He tells me – “If he had to represent someone, it would be the lender, as they are the ones putting the money on the line.” He then, after diving in on the research, can let the buyer, lender, and realtor know they are in the clear and there are zero debts on this property. This is followed by notarizing the documents. “Crossing all the T’s and dotting all the I’s.”

Matt says that Real Estate Attorneys are problem solvers. “The lender may need something done one way, from the seller to the agent all needing a specific thing done for the purchasing agreement where everyone is protected.” The goal – selling this home.

Matt shares, “What I love about working here and what sets AB apart from just any other title company, is that everyone is treated like family from the moment they walk through the doors.

Many companies boast of having a family culture, but we truly live that daily at AB, and that starts at the top with excellent leadership.

Whether it is employees, first-time clients, or repeat clients, everyone is treated like family with personal interactions along the way. Our attorneys are accessible and approachable, always willing and ready to problem solve and be a resource for our clients.”

When learning about this 30 year timeline you have to think that they have streamlined a method that keeps them in the top-tier of their field.

He tells me that during that time they worked to develop processes and procedures that make for a “second-to-none” real estate experience.

“We are all one big team working together to provide excellent service in every transaction. If one team member is out, someone is always willing to step up and take on whatever task needs to be done. A real estate transaction has many moving parts, so having a team of experienced processors and staff is vital.” - Matt Long

337 Local Business Spotlight

As they work together, they aim to bring a joyful experience to your closing process.

They are not in a courtroom setting while being part of their clients’ big moment, in the next steps of their lives. He says one of the most rewarding parts of this job is when he gets to meet a new client that was referred by someone to him by name. “That means I spent under an hour with a client, and I made enough of an impact for them to send someone my way.” It’s the human connection. You could very easily have an attorney who says sign the dotted line, not share anything about themselves and will see you on your way.

Matt does things differently– “I want them to feel like they know me and I am truly here for them. I give them my card with a cell and email and let them know I am a call away with any legal questions.”

With working with this team and Matt, you are in the genuine, capable hands of pure kindness. Their goal is to make this as smooth and personable to each client who trusts them in this life changing journey. In a step so final, that could be intimidating – I firmly believe that anyone working with Elena and Matt in their future home, are in the arms of the most magical people who live life with care and honesty.

www.andrus-boudreaux.com

www.rootfloralco.com

/rootfloraldesign

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Event Venue

We'll Bring

YOUR DREAM WEDDING TO LIFE WE'RE ACADIANA'S FINEST WEDDING VENUE

“THERE ARE DREAMERS AND THERE ARE PLANNERS; THE PLANNERS MAKE THEIR DREAMS COME TRUE.” – EDWIN LOUIS COLE WE CAN’T WAIT TO SHOW YOU OUR BEAUTIFUL WEDDING VENUE!

Local Business Business Spotlight Spotlight 337 Local

A place that was equally adorable and dreamy as it is functional and practical. A garden oasis that elevated your occasion either in the day or night. Delicious bites are to be found and a team that handles everything – including the things you didn't even know you needed. Oh- and it happens to be right here in Youngsville, La. This is the story of the Cajun Mansion event venue and the incredible owner who dared to “plan her dream” and help others along the way, Sandra Booher.

WHEN YOU ASK SANDRA where her happy place is, she’ll be the first to tell you it’s at the Cajun Mansion. She truly loves to make people happy by creating magical, unique events at her house-turned Bed and breakfast and event venue.

After retiring from her corporate job, a friend suggested that she turn her house into a bed and breakfast. What started out with chic glamping tents has evolved into designer guest suites and photogenic spaces for weddings, wine tastings and romantic Valentines’ evening soirees.

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THE CAJUN MANSION sits on 5 acres of gated property in Youngsville, LA and was lovingly restored with one thing in mind: southern hospitality. Sandra and Joseph have created an amazing getaway and venue – indoors and out. The home includes signature décor with arches, vaulted ceilings and columns while outdoors you will find beautiful landscaping with plenty of quaint areas for relaxing.

Sandra used the organizational and business skills she developed when working in the corporate world to create well orchestrated, unforgettable experiences and memories at her events. With her amazing vision and her talent for event planning, Sandra has created events that are completely unique and have received countless favorable reviews.

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SANDRA BELIEVES IN THE POWER OF SENSATION AS AN IMPORTANT KEY TO CREATING A SUCCESSFUL EVENT AT THE CAJUN MANSION.

She has combined the beautiful architecture and décor, the fresh smell of the floral arrangements and elegant background music that drifts throughout the grounds to achieve her goal. Although she has created a master plan that can be duplicated for all types of events, she couldn’t do what she does without her team of ‘captains’. She is so blessed to have put together a well organized team of people complete with portable headsets that can still smile after being on their feet for 11 hours straight.

The piece de resistance, however, has got to be her wedding events. When a bride chooses the Cajun Mansion for her venue, Sandra has made it her goal to give her a stress free event from start to finish. Days and hours of behind the scenes preparation go into these weddings, regardless whether it is an elopement, a micro wedding of 20 – 25 guests, or a larger wedding. Although her events are completely customized, everything has been planned for. She has connected with some of the best bakers, chefs, florists and music providers so that the bride can focus on her day. There is no nickel-and-diming of extra costs because everything has already been decided on. She provides a beautiful folder with pricing for all her different packages.

Local Business Business Spotlight Spotlight 337 Local The Cajun mansion has a generous amount of space for a bridal party as well as rooms for the groomsmen. The 24 hour experience also includes the rehearsal. On the day of, the bride has a concierge completely dedicated to her needs so she and the rest of her wedding party can focus on making great memories.

It is very rare to find an all-inclusive venue that offers just about every service you can think of that will make your wedding day perfect and memorable. There are very few brides these days that have the time to plan out her perfect wedding with all the details completely taken care of. Louisiana Cajun Mansion has it covered – from your complimentary event planner to your wedding officiant; your entire wedding experience is planned; leaving you to relax and enjoy your engagement. Sandra has a great staff and a well-coordinated system – you even received automated alerts to keep you on track with a ‘to-do’ list.

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“This once-in-a-lifetime occasion is every couple’s dream. We want to build even more perfect occasions for more couples in Louisiana!”

Their website covers all the amazing packages, specials and events Cajun Mansion has to offer.

“All packages can be personalized – let us create your memorable experience while all you have to do is SHOW UP.” Sandra says.

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AMAZING EVENTS & PERFECT PACKAGES INTIMATE ELOPEMENTS Unforgettable Elopements are our business.

We include Stress Free All inclusive Elopement Packages with your complimentary Wedding Planner.

WEDDING PACKAGES Exchange vows and embrace romance at a dream-worthy reception.

Our Stress Free All-Inclusive Wedding Packages assure your day will be a life time of memories.

BRIDAL PACKAGES Make your wedding day truly relaxing with enhanced features by spending the day doing hair & makeup with your bridesmaids & moms.

Our Bridal Packages includes your own private dressing suites, makeup sessions, pre-wedding stay-overs and more.

BRIDAL SHOWERS Our Bridal & Baby Showers are elegant, the venue is already decorated, comes with bussing staff and it’s stress free. We handle all the details or you plan your own; it’s totally your choice.

Just determine which Shower Packages works best for you. Tea Party Packages work great for Showers also!

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AMAZING EVENTS & PERFECT PACKAGES OVER THE TOP TEA PARTIES Enjoy a worry free Tea Party gathering surrounded by your besties amid the smell of freshly baked pastries and soft music filling the Louisiana Cajun Mansion.

Select from our Tea Party Packages

REHEARSAL DINNER PACKAGES We’re known for hosting over-the-top Black Tie Rehearsal Dinners, simple Buffet Style Dinners or even Casual Back Yard BBQ’s.

You’ve got choices!

Our Rehearsal Dinner Packages provide you with a variety of stress free packages.

SO MANY OPTIONS Whether you want an elegant formal affair , a buffet style spread or even a good old fashioned Cajun crawfish boil, the Cajun Mansion Event Venue is ready to provide the most delicious good time you’ll ever share with family and friends.

Check out our Wedding Packages too!Wedding Packages

PRIVATE PARTY PACKAGES The Cajun Mansion Event Venue makes it so easy to throw a fun party for any celebration.

Private Party Package options are available for entertainment, food, beverages, and so much more!

Complimentary event planning.

Local Business Business Spotlight Spotlight 337 Local After sitting with Sandra, you can not help but feel she has the best non-job in the world. She radiates joy that is perfectly balanced with confidence and structure. No wonder she has attracted so many wonderful talents in her team of captains, staff and of course, guests to build a dream on.

You are welcome to schedule a tour of their facility where you’ll see for yourself how organized and caring the team at Cajun Mansion is. Countless 5-star reviews attest to their ability to make every event a total success. One of their recent brides commented that it was the most amazing wedding day experience she could ever have dreamed of.

CAJUNMANSION.COM As the Cajun Mansion is equipped as a bed and breakfast, I would recommend checking in and enjoying one of their romantic suites. Get to know the lady behind the curtain, Sandra, and fall in love with the Cajun Mansion event venue for your next occasion to be planned.

Written by:

ne Grubb Elisse Nielson and Roxan

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reflecting the birds and flowers of spring. Shoe boxes stacked tall, filled with the latest trends in footwear.

Various colors of glimmering jewelry welcome the patrons. Beautifying Louisiana one woman at a time, Hanna Herrington Lavergne has expanded the family business into the thriving company it is today Hanna doesn’t have a can-do attitude, but more of a will-do.

Accomplishing everything she has set her mind to thus far, Hanna has expressed gratitude for the people that have helped her along the way.

HerringStone’s Boutique originally opened in Monroe in 1989 by Debbie Herrington and Cindy Stone.

Debbie, Hanna’s mother, worked in a boutique during college and when the owners retired, she purchased the shop. Debbie and her sister Cindy named the store by combining their married names.

Hanna grew up in the business, being the daughter of Debbie, and propositioned her mother to expand the business outside of Monroe. On one December morning at 2:00 A.M., Hanna awoke from a dream and called her mother to say she was going to open her own boutique. When her mother asked what she would name it, Hanna had to think of this for weeks before deciding to expand the already thriving business she grew up in.

337 She had fallen in love with the Acadiana area, which made choosing Lafayette an easy decision for her first go at business ownership. She saw the potential in River Ranch when the shopping centers were still new. Her mother, being an experienced shop owner, questioned the location of the shop. Hanna seemed to have a vision for her future by saying,

“I'M FAR AWAY RIGHT NOW, BUT ONE DAY I'M GONNA BE IN THE MIDDLE.” Her vision has come to fruition being at 111 Settlers Trace Blvd., in Suite 1001, surrounded by well-established businesses.

Years after opening her shop, she suggested her sister open another boutique in Baton Rouge.

Now with five locations, HerringStone’s Boutique is able to dress Louisiana women of all ages in colorful, stylish fabrics. Hanna has treasured where she started and to hear her share this journey is so inspiring. She radiates this drive that is all wrapped up in kindness and confidence.

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Being the unique business owner she is, Hanna prefers to gauge her clientele off emotion rather than age. She believes age is too broad, and the proper way to create a brand is to center it on an emotion.

She believes the clientele is anyone who “wants to feel sexy and sophisticated.” If she had to choose an age range, it would be 28-35 years of age, but she emphasizes it is more of an emotional age. During these years, women typically gain a newfound confidence in themselves, and Hanna wants her boutique to represent this.

“MY GRANDMOTHER IS 76 YEARS OLD. WE HAVE THE EXACT SAME WARDROBE,” HANNA NOTED. “SHE MIGHT HAVE PUT UP THE LEATHER SHORTS NOW, BUT WE’RE STILL ROCKIN THE SAME FEATHER TOP.” Walking into the store, whether it be the Lafayette or Monroe location, the welcoming aura is felt with smiles and beautifully bright clothing. Because her stores are based on emotion, Hanna highly values visual merchandising when setting her stores. The goal is to create an experience within the store, from a worker’s welcome to the glisten of gold jewelry on display. Keeping consistent with trends, yet staying true to the HerringStone’s brand, each customer can leave feeling stylish and bright. Hanna’s “newest child” is growing the online side of the business. She has found there is much potential with an online store and social media promotion, but it is difficult to truly reflect the energy of the store onto a screen.

337 Displaying brightly colored clothing, the website not only reflects the store, it reflects Hanna’s energetic and bubbly personality.

Herringstone’s Boutique has an active social media presence as many other companies, being on Tik Tok, Pinterest and Instagram, but the boutique has a unique approach with their text messaging platform. Notifying frequent customers of sales or new arrivals, they are able to stop by as soon as the clothing is on the hangers. “You have to be everywhere to get as many eyes on you as possible,” emphasized Hanna. If customers can’t get to a physical store, the website is perfect for ordering clothing and accessories. Hanna is perhaps most excited about Herringstone's app as she sees much potential for the platform. The app has a live video feature where customers can watch a try-on for clothing and accessories they are interested in as well as live-feed shopping events.

Hanna explained that figuring out a target market is intriguing and fun for her.

337

Customer service is a priority, as with many businesses, yet what sets Hanna apart is her commitment to put action behind her words.

“Thats who its for.

We’re here to serve,” and by making this a priority she has gained notable recognition from prestigious awards such as recognition from Marquis Who’s Who. The award recognises innovators of every field from politics and business to art and entertainment. Hanna was awarded for not only being head of five stores, but for her capabilities and ease with which she has managed sales, visual merchandising and bookkeeping. Her adaptability in business has led the boutique to strive through changing times, whether it be for the age of electronics or for recessions, past and future.The most recent shop to open is the Heirloom location in Youngsville on Chemin Metairie Pkwy

Hanna fell in love with Youngsville and knew she wanted to live there with her husband and children.

Opening a location there felt right, but being 15 minutes from the Lafayette location, it opened as a sister store.

337

“I APPRECIATE WHAT WE HAVE HERE IN THIS AREA AND HOW SPECIAL IT IS TO ME,” HANNA HANNA SAID, SAID, REFLECTING REFLECTING ON ON HER HER TIME TIME IN IN ACADIANA, ACADIANA,

“I WON’T GO ANYWHERE BUT HERE.” HANNA’S THANKFUL AND WONDERFUL PERSONALITY CONSISTENTLY REFLECTS IN THE EVER-EVOLVING HERRINGSTONE’S BOUTIQUE, BRIGHTENING NOT ONLY ACADIANA BUT LOUISIANA.

CLAIRE KOSTELKA TEXADA HAS OWNERSHIP IN THE YOUNGSVILLE STORE, AS IT IS AN "HEIRLOOM"- SHE IS A MAGICAL ADDITION TO THE HERRINGSTONES FAMILY.

herringstonesboutique.com

337 The Spotlights

Wildcat Brothers Distillery “Cool kids on the block is an understatement. Gator Cove is the address and Wild Cat Brothers is the destination.”- Elisse

WILDCATBROTHERS.COM

Wild Cat Brothers has set the bar where creativity meets intelligence and offers the flavor packed gift that keeps giving- Rum. Future plans spanning across the country are fueled by snake oil, rogue peacocks, and sugar cane dreams.

Founders Tait Martin and David Meaux have created an award winning rum that can pull the deepest of Bourbon lovers down the rabbit hole into their Gator Cove Haven. This is the introduction to the Wild Cat Brothers Distillery and their product is here to stay.

Tait Martin is one side of this crazy train that is taking the south by storm. He considers himself a “Recovering Professor and Scientist” and is using his colorful resume and creative genius to push the boundaries of the mixology world.

When my dear friend and uber talented artist, Victoria Lane Alleman, told me I need to meet the wonderful human that is Tait Martin, she told me to prepare for quite a fun experience.

This was quickly encouraged by the first of many text conversations with my new favorite person, “Ready to plan world domination” - Tait. I knew the game was afoot and I could not wait to meet this mysterious visionary.

It has been many years since I have crossed the property line of Gator Cove and I can honestly say this team is giving this local landmark a very respectful make-over.

Cultural preservation is a motivating force that these gentlemen have inherited and are proud to maintain.

As I cross the construction line from the front property, I make my way to the original building’s top floor and find myself in the land of Rum and Wilderness -executed in Acadian flair.

The log cabin inspired space oozes a cozy vibe that is the perfect layer to invite guests in, and stay a while. The “star attraction” rum bar is located when you walk in on the left, and then I hear- “ Hey Boo”. An instant connection was formed and what was a scheduled one hour meeting turned out to be a 3 hour conversation on world domination, Acadiana Culture, how to make waves here and all things Louisiana Rum.

How it all started.

The journey of the Wild Cat Brothers began in college when David and Tait bonded through the realms of fraternity survival and, I'm sure, debauchery. David was chapter president of Theta Chi when Tait pledged, initiating the impactful relationship. The pair have stayed in close contact over the years after their fraternity days, and when the lightbulb turned on, they came together to make some magic happen. Who knew this “Recovering Lawyer and Professor” were about to begin an adventure in the world of flavor invention and elevated intentions.

In 2011 David Meaux developed the recipe for the award winning Suite Crewe and “LuLu” his homemade still, was the mastermind that brought all the clean and local ingredients together, beginning the journey we are all so thankful for. David decided to test the waters outside of Louisiana and get a true idea if they were on to something unique.

The Washington Cup Awards in 2013 gave them the news they were hoping for- winning one of five Washington Cups. This platform is a place where all liquors compete against each other and Tait says, “It's the only true way to know where they stand. After all, friends love free booze and it's become quite challenging to get honest opinions.” Award in hand and sharing the title with the great Buffalo Trace’s Pappy Van Winkle and top vodkas on the market, they knew they were onto something and continued on the path of excellence to see what was next.

French style rum is a drastic departure from English rum, as it is made from sugar cane juice - not the god awful molasses we all seem to think Rum is made with.

“Agriculture- Water and Yeast” - Tait Tait’s Tip for smelling and deciphering what is a good liquor with clean ingredients, is the tequila-like smell you pick up. If you are not getting that “scent” chemicals have been added to alter the quality.. Lesson learned!

They consider themselves a cocktail distillery and their business is taking off in New York, Los Angeles and Nashville- to name a few. Lafayette is quite the “drinking town” he says and they are working hard to help expand the flavor pallet here. Many of the top mixology bars downtown are carrying a variety of Wild Cat Distillery Rum. The bread and butter here in 337 is the classic daiquiri and not the drive through kind.

“ I am still getting adjusted to the immense amount of drive through daiquiri shops here in Louisiana.

This is the only place in the states I have visited that has this wizardry.”- Elisse

Tait says this is a traditional 2-1-1 Daiquiri. 2 Parts “good rum”- 1 part fresh squeezed lime juice- 1 part clean sugar cane simple syrup.

My personal favorite and Wildcat’s best seller is Noire- known as Bourbon’s Cajun Cousin in their booming Kentucky market. Noire is also one of the stars of this issue’s behind the scenes shoot of the cover as well as the Cajun Hatter’s sip of choice in his shop downtown. I learned quite quickly why so many people favor Noire as their Bourbon of choice, knowing darn well this is a Louisiana Rum. I am sure the Buffalo Trace barrels they use to make this scene stealer adds the perfect smoked flavor.

Tait took me on a renegade tour of the Grounds of Gator Cove as most of the area is in its renovation phase. The front building that sits at the edge of the entrance area is nearly ready to host the official distillery that will relocate here. They plan on inviting guests for a unique experience through the process of creating their Cajun Rum. The Brother’s are already hosting Thursday night Happy Hour events that bring talented musicians to the distillery to play live for guests while they enjoy custom cocktails and food truck snacks.

You may get the chance to see Major Handy play here from time to time. If you are really lucky, sit on the patio for storytelling time with Tait and listen to a downpour hit the tin roof. I think that was one of the most southern moments I have ever encountered.

Great conversation among new friends and southern energy.

What I find so special about this tour and getting to know Tait is his exuberant energy and genuine passion for what this space will really bring to the area. As Gator Cove- Wild Cat Brothers Distillery sits quite centrally for most of the parish, this cove along the water is the ideal space for any adventure to be had.

He has this vision that his home away from home will be the place to be before your evening out on the town. However, what Tait has planned for this elusive location, would easily sway me to stay long past sunset. The property is quite endless and has the potential of so much more than just a libation. Of course, Rum is the star, but the venue will become a space for creatives, movie lovers, art experiences and a true haven for open minded and happy individuals. The potential is endless but I can say- think Tiki Bar- think speakeasy- the mystery has been laid out for guests on a silver platter and the twinkle in the eyes of the team of Wild Cat is fueling the process to come.

Tait takes me on a tasting rollercoaster of their eclectic snake oil experiments from last year.

This is what separates the greats from the moderates, stepping way out of the box and reaching for the stars of flavor and adventure.

Tait believes why not? Why not infuse King Cake with Rum? Why not let the creative team go crazy and come up with a new infusion for every month of the year. He does admit that when December came around, they were ready for the chaos to “ C'est fini.”

He has a unique pulse on our blossoming area here in the south, and with that understanding comes a plethora of ideas of awesomeness for growth. We started diving in on our world travels, and what seems to work beautifully in these other places. The constant thought process being, how do we bring that here?

I can honestly say that in my few encounters with this magical soul, I feel so truly lucky to have earned his respect and most importantly, his valued time. The creative genius that lives in these walls is only elevated by the brain that is “Tait Martin.” With David separating from the company and Tait stepping down as CEO, the men have both focused much of their attention elsewhere now that the business is established.

However I feel- the show will go on and we are only in the beginning of greatness here with the Wild Cat Brothers.

Wildcat Brothers Distilling- Our Story

The relaxed atmosphere in The Cut House makes guests feel comfortable and welcomed instantaneously, whether they’re wearing pearls or still in their workout clothes. Even though they are a larger salon, this does not mean that they feature an elaborate price tag, as clients will find that they are very flexible with services and want to give as many guests a chance to feel amazing. This lovely group of stylists and estheticians are passionate about helping you while giving their knowledge in their industry to those

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Miss Reba’s Greenhouse refreshes Lafayette with a new outlook on natural wellness drinks.

Immaculate lighting only the natural sun can create graces the store, giving life to the various plants hanging around. Cozy seating placed just so offers a high-end coffee shop feel. One wall is decorated with various art pieces, many modern and a few abstract. The other holds shelves lined with natural creams, tinctures and gummies. A goldendoodle greets each customer at her shop, letting everyone know her name is Reba.

Gracing Lafayette with Reba Water, Miss Reba’s Greenhouse focuses on providing natural, quality products to customers.

Owner of the store, Joe Louque, expressed that natural wellness is the future. His drink offers a calming effect on the body, relaxing each joint. With the mango and tangerine flavor being perfect for summer, the drink can be used as an alcohol alternative.

“QUALITY AND SOURCE IS SECOND TO NONE,” Joe confidently expressed. “You can feel it.”

The sparkling water has zero calories and sugar, and it has 5 MG of CBD and 5 MG of high-quality Delta-9 THC, both being active components of the hemp plant. The ratio can be considered perfect for anyone who wants to dabble in the realm of natural

“It feels like we’ve been in it for a

health. The water has no synthetics and is

decade but it's only been a little over a

not an intense feel, making it great for new

year,” Joe said, believing the drink will

users. The drink is not as carbonated as a

accelerate the growth of his business.

typical sparkling water, leaving a better after-taste.

The

water

differs

from

traditional edibles in that it is quick acting.

Where edibles have more variables such as metabolism and time of effect, the water has no unsettling variables.

As for the shop mascot, Joe’s beautiful goldendoodle, he proudly said, “Reba is very appealing and I wouldn't have it any other way.”

Looking back at how it all started, Joe is thankful for the people of Acadiana.

Growing up in Lafayette, Joe has always wanted to give back and help his community. He noted the value of learning from others and how that has helped his business grow. Joe believes that he has become a better person just by being around so many others.

Located at 315 Jefferson St., Joe’s plans to open a store downtown fell into place. His original plans did not include a physical location, but through the various connections he has built, both from living here and his previous work in the oil and gas field. The brick and mortar allows him to truly learn the ins and outs of the industry as well as get to know his clientele. Joe finds that with the many events and new businesses popping up, downtown has revitalized itself.

Festival International de Louisiane occurring during the first quarter of initial opening was substantial for promotions.

Looking out the window at his office desk, Joe wondered how he could do more, how he could get away from the office.

His father was a generational geologist, but Joe’s heart was elsewhere. He described it as an “itch” in needing to do more for himself and for his community.

Joe thought a natural wellness store would benefit Lafayette, and having experience with the sleep-aiding, pain-numbing substance, he opened Miss Reba’s Greenhouse, laying the foundation for future wellness businesses.

As for Reba Water, Joe initially sought after local sources, but decided to follow his traveler’s heart and looked towards Minnesota for his cannabis. At the time, Minnesota farmers were talking with breweries in northern states, so it felt natural to Joe to seek out the state’s expertise. In looking for quality, Joe said, “we didn't want to just slap our brand on anything.” Striving to provide for his customers, on the night of April 19, he unloaded 5,000 cans of Reba Water solo.

Many have benefited from both the product and education Miss Reba’s is providing to Acadiana.

He described his customers as a wide-range of Joe believes as owner of Miss Reba’s it is “important to bridge the gap between ages but typically low-tolerance users. Many elderly people with various chronic pains and different ways of thinking.” Some recovering prescription users will choose Miss wouldn’t expect a regular customer to be Reba’s over apothecaries because of the price an elderly woman, yet she has found comfort in his products. Joe regards his comparison and the amount of options. work as a responsibility to provide for Specific licenses and regulations separate apothecaries from shops such as Miss Reba’s his customers, whether it be in product or in education. As he passionately put because apothecaries sell medical cannabis. it, Many customers walk into the shop, “EDUCATION IS NOTHING sharing their stories, and Joe welcomes WITHOUT PERCEPTION.” this. He finds value in the experiences of others and seeks to change CBD offers various aids ranging from the outlook on the work of apothecaries. In sleeping to focusing to relaxing. It has creating a calm, comfortable space for his been associated with helping in joint and customers, Miss Reba’s is able to provide a muscle aches as well as helping with true welcoming feel while educating opioid addiction and anxiety. customers about the benefits of the cannabis plant.

Looking forward, Joe believes if cannabis is legalized recreationally, people should hold less judgment towards the plant. In doing so, they may find its many benefits to be helpful.

The wellness shop keeps close tabs on legislation as the business continues to grow.

In order to continue to serve Lafayette, Miss Reba’s Greenhouse must comply with Louisiana law. While he is satisfied with where his business is at, Joe believes legislation is still “in its infancy, at least on the flower side.” When attending state capitol hearings, having learned a lot from the industry himself, Joe is able to quickly spot the legislators who lack knowledge on the topic. Joe is almost as sure that it will be a slow evolution as he is sure that there will be heavy regulations.

The medical side of the industry is not yet where it should be in regards to farmers. Having only two growers, Louisiana State University and Southern University and A&M College, the supply is short of the demand. He expressed frustration over the speed of government proceedings as he knows the plant can help many. In order for the business to be successful, Joe had to learn his customer base. Many of his customers were familiar with CBD, so Joe stuck with the same few brands that many other areas provide.

What Joe found to be more important was perfecting the ratio of ingredients in a product. He explained that elderly customers prefer a higher CBD content for various body aches or pains.

“THE WORLD OF RETAIL IS AN INTERESTING PLACE,”

Joe seems to adapt well. Promoting heavily on social media, the business has gained sizable support. His website allows customers to “shop by solution” including sleep, focus, joint and muscle or relax.

Miss Reba’s continues to grow!

Joe often tests his own products as well as relies on the opinions of patrons to truly inform customers of the various effects or benefits of the product. Miss Reba’s helps customers with arthritis in providing 400 MG CBD tinctures. Ensuring that Miss Reba herself doesn’t miss out, the shop carries dog shampoos and oils as well as various dog treats that help with joint pains and anxiety. The shop also sells coffee grounds, and more recently, seltzers. Some smoking accessories are currently being sold for half the price of the maker’s.

missrebas.com

Miss Reba’s Greenhouse has plans to expand, if all things go well with legislation.

Joe described his passion similarly to the one he had for sports when younger. He said he had a fire in high school and college and didn’t want to lose it. He noticed the people around him running out of fuel, but decided he would continue to seek passion. In continuing to build that passion, Miss Reba’s hopes to expand past Louisiana borders.

Written by: Celeste Denova

25 Dec 2023 | $ 3,99

UNDATION FOUNDATION

RAIN-BOWIE 337 Giving Back

Our mission

337 Giving Back THE LOSS OF A BABY DUE TO

STILLBIRTH REMAINS A SAD REALITY FOR MANY FAMILIES AND TAKES A

SERIOUS TOLL ON FAMILIES’ HEALTH AND WELL-BEING.

Catherine and Bobby Brignat, residents of Youngsville, LA, have experienced this heartbreak.

When Catherine was 31 weeks pregnant, their baby girl, Bowie, entered this world sleeping.

Parents are often alone in a hospital with a limited source of comfort and little, if any opportunity to say goodbye to their baby. Some parents never get to see their baby, and the intense grief can seem endless.

Studies have shown women whose babies were still born or died soon after birth found that they were four times more likely to be depressed and seven times more likely to experience symptoms of post traumatic stress. High levels of psychological distress could have been lessened if they would have been able to have some closure and time to grieve with their baby.

Catherine and Bobby were able to spend 28 additional hours with Bowie after their delivery, because a CuddleCot was available. The CuddleCot is a kind of refrigerated baby bassinet that helps preserve the newborn for days. The device gives parents a chance to bond with their babies – to love and hold them, take pictures and create memories to last “We found that the CuddleCot played a huge role in our a lifetime, giving grieving parents grieving journey. We wanted to make sure that the next family to more time to come to terms with experience this didn’t have to go without.”- The Brignacs their loss and gain closure.

337 Giving Back At this time, only a couple thousand hospitals in this country have CuddleCots available, and most were donated. Catherine and Bobby lovingly opened their hearts, and created the RainBowie foundation in memory of their daughter. Their goal was to hold an annual benefit to raise money to supply as many hospitals as they could, with CuddleCots. Sharing this grief, and offering other families the opportunity to do the same, is one of the motivating factors that led the Brignacs to establish the Rain-Bowie Foundation – rainbowiefoundation.org –, through which they’ve donated CuddleCots to numerous hospitals, including Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center. The wonderful community and generous donors of Acadiana have showered the family with support and great compassion. Bobby and Catherine have been making a huge difference in the lives of grieving parents and continue to support families with beautiful events every year.

This

past

year

through

many

magical events they have hosted to raise awareness and funding for families in need, they have raised $90k. They have been able to furnish local hospitals here in our 337 as well as surrounding cities reaching towards

Mississippi

with

CuddleCots.

They have distributed over 11 cots and have the ability to purchase 20 more as they continue their mission to give back to what means so much to families.

337 Giving Back The Rain-Bowie foundation will be teaming up with a local fertility clinic here in Lafayette, Louisiana.

“With us teaming up with Fertility Answers, this will allow some families to help complete their circle with the help of financial aid from the foundation.”- Cat The Cuddle Cot truly gives the parents time to be able to create lasting memories and promote healthy coping that is required to heal from such a devastating event: the loss of a child.

337 Giving back

Save Them ALL! INC.

“..... for I will contend with those who contend with you, and I will save your children.”

- Isaiah 49:25 (b)

337 Giving back

H

ere in our very own 337 we have so many wonderful humans making a difference in this world, and one magical unicorn doing just that, is Carrie Simon- a true superhero.

Her work with Save Them All, INC. is nothing short of super human. We are so honored to help share the word of what they are working on in helping end the many layers of child abuse. From working with abducted and missing, to a focus on runaways, and bringing more awareness to child trafficking. They offer mentorship programs and have so many avenues to not only educate the community on this cause, but how we as a unit can help. They have a wonderful system in place called – S.A.F.E – Sponsor –Assist –Fund –Educate Let us dive into what Save Them All’s mission and moment to discovery was, and learn how we can all make this 337 – S.A.F.E.

337 Giving back

Save Them ALL! Who We Are Save Them All, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to fighting against abuse by raising awareness, providing resources for abused and neglected children who are often silent victims of domestic violence as well as those who have been abducted, trafficked and those suffering with thoughts/ ideations of suicide and bullying. Our commitment is to ensure that your donations reach their intended purpose as we work together to end abuse and bring encouragement, hope, freedom and healing to all those affected by such atrocities. We recognize that EVERY child matters and it has been and is our mission as we work with law enforcement, other non-profit organizations, schools, churches and communities to give a voice to those who have none. Please join us in this movement as we work diligently, bravely and compassionately to Save Them All! All donations are tax-deductible and we thank you in advance for your generous contribution to this noble and much needed cause.

ALL Children Matter National Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention is acknowledged in the month of April, however, every day we should be raising awareness on child abuse and neglect as a society.

337 Giving back

How We Began- One Woman’s Promise Save Them ALL, Inc. began in the heart of one womanone woman who witnessed the suffering of a loved one as a child. Being a child herself, she was helpless to run to the defense of her friend, but she never forgot the struggles her friend endure, or the helplessness she felt in being too young to have a voice. She vowed to herself, one day, she would make a difference in any child’s life who was suffering.

Save Them All, Inc. was founded on that promise to herself as a child... That woman’s name is Carrie Simon. Welcome to her dream and her passion. One woman’s quest to “SAVE THEM ALL.”

Carrie has been an outspoken advocate for children and youth for nearly a decade. Her passion has only grown stronger through the years. With the release of her first book, Save Them ALL, in 2014, she realized her writings could grant her another portal to reach the public and raise awareness to serious issues plaguing our children and youth. The latter part of 2016, Carrie decided to move forward creating an online presence, despite her desire for privacy. She had a website for her career as an author designed along with several social media accounts opened. In 2018. Save Them ALL Inc. received its recognition as a non-profit organization.

Although all profits for Carrie’s novels have always been allocated to her charity, Save Them ALL, Inc. is a stand alone non- profit.

(You may view her author site by clicking her picture below.)

Through the years Carrie has made countless appearances in churches, schools, book signings, and events, speaking to children and youth to guide them on the right path. She has mentored hundreds of lost youth over the years, several of whom chose life instead suicide through her mentoring programs.

Some of these young overcomers have joined her cause, speaking openly about their battle and their victories, and how one woman believing in them has changed their life forever. Meeting an incredible amount of our youth who were contemplating suicide is what prompted her journey for her third novel, Maker of Difference.

With the help of local law enforcement, Carrie has also organized public events like fingerprinting to ensure all parents have quick access to their children’s file in case of abduction or other tragedies. Her personal author page and her Save Them ALL page on Facebook help spread the word when Amber Alerts are given. Her pages are not limited to Acadiana children and neither is her speaking.

337 Giving back Let us come together for this cause and help support the children.

Follow Save Them ALL On Facebook and other social media.

/SaveThemALLinc /SaveThemALL

/carriesimonauthor

8443177233

Scan the QR code to Donate

www.carriesimonauthor.com

211

337 Secret Supper

SECRET SUPPERS AT BED AND BREAKFAST

337 Secret Supper

Secret: something kept hidden or unexplained: mystery: something kept from the knowledge of others or shared only confidentially with a few.

There are a variety of ways to describe the word “secret” as it can play its card in many scenarios. It packs a punch of mystery, the unknown, excitement and forces things to be not shared and hidden.

I find this definition of “secret” to be quite fitting for this article.

What happens when you take a secret and apply it to a theme, say dinner? Well some secrets are meant to be shared and a Secret Supper at Maison Madeleine is an enchanting event that is meant to delight all senses and connect you to the moment.

Imagine gathering around a dinner table, with beautiful surroundings and great company.

Dinner, so you have been told, will feature a multi-course tasting menu and drink pairing, fused with local music from talented musicians. The caveat being, you won’t know who you are sitting at the table with, and your dinner menu will be a surprise. Wait, what?

337 Secret Supper

Secret suppers are dining experiences choreographed by a talented team of hosts whose one mission is to provide you with an amazing dining experience through sight, sound, texture, and taste. A recent secret supper experience at Maison Madeleine in Breaux Bridge Louisiana with Hosts Walter and Madeleine Adams did not disappoint.

Tucked right along the mystical shores of Lake Martin was our destination for the evening. The ethereal cypress trees seem to be floating in the water as they command your gaze. The tone for this Secret Supper that seems to be hidden in time.

Maison Madeleine has been a part of Louisiana History since the 1840s, just in a different location in Louisiana. In 1997, this historic home was moved to its location – in the heart of the Atchafalaya basin right next to Cypress Island Preserve. Walt and Madeleine lovingly restored the home and furnished it with amazing art and historic furniture. This home, which also is a bed and breakfast, has earned its place on the National Register of Historic Places. This couple have perfected and orchestrated secret suppers at Maison Madeleine.

A leisurely walk down a landscaped path brought us closer to catching the first rich haunting sounds of a fiddle.

The French Creole Cottage came into view, and were warmly greeted by the Maison Madeleine hosts, Walt and Madeleine Adams. The music drifted ever so gently off the covered porch and through the landscaped grounds.

337 Secret Supper

The team from Wild Child wines, located in downtown Lafayette, welcomed us with a glass of rosé from Vending Machine Wines out of Napa, Ca. Owners Katie and Denny and Store Manager Yetta from Wild Child, provided all the wine pairings for the evening.

Amazing hors d'oeuvres were offered. A smoked gulf fish mousse canape as well as duck poppers with peach pepper jelly teased our taste buds with a hint of what was yet to come.

We learned about biodynamic wines from Katie. Biodynamic wine is the product of winemaking with the lowest intervention possible. That means no chemicals to artificially nourish the soil, no pesticides for short-term crop defense, and no additives for post-harvest “corrections.”

337 Secret Supper Our unparalleled dining experience soon began with the ringing of a dinner bell. Every room of this home was elegantly furnished with period furniture and colorful artwork, two rooms furnished with dining tables, beautiful place settings, complete with handwritten written place cards for each of the guests.

Walt introduced himself and gave us a brief history of his home and the story of romance with his lovely wife Madeleine. How fun and spontaneous to be sitting around a table with complete strangers, and just letting the conversations flow naturally.

An appetizer of chargrilled oysters rockefeller with smoke trout caviar was presented to us, and we knew we were in for a treat. Yetta followed the first course with Big Salt, a wine from Ovum Wines. This was my first introduction to the wine region of Willamette, Oregon.

337 Secret Supper While we were enjoying our appetizer, the very talented musical guests for the evening introduced themselves. Ann Savoy on vocals and guitar, Jesse Lege on vocals and accordion and Cameron Fontenot playing the fiddle.

These three Grammy-winning Cajun musicians played and sang not more than three feet away from us while we drank amazing wine and revealed their music, stories and beautiful vocals.

337 Secret Supper

Chef Devan Giddix created a delectable menu. The first course was soon brought out with the chef following to introduce himself and talk about his opening number.

The chef shares a deliciously crafted chilled sweet corn soup with blue crab, okra and cherry tomatoes. A rosé from Stein out of Mosel Germany was perfectly paired with this refreshing dish.

Between each course that was served, our musicians returned for another memorable, intimate performance.

The conversations around the dinner table became more animated, strangers no more. The beautiful home, the food, the wine, travel experiences and plenty of laughter were woven into the conversations and our dinner.

The second a colorful and

course was delicious burst

of flavors. Chef Devan brought out a summer garden bruschetta with a creole cream cheese, summer fruits and vegetables on a toasted baguette.

337 Secret Supper

The never ending creativity of Chef Devan's food was not lost on the guests. Our third course was a Louisiana surf and turf made of blackened wagyu coulette, with grilled gulf shrimp, crispy eggplant and creamed shishito peppers. It was truly a farm to table dinner experience with Chef sharing he shopped at the Lafayette Farmers market for provisions for our meal. We started to shift to a Gamay Noir red wine from Division Wine- Les Petit Fers. The second recommendation from the Willamette Valley, Oregon.

Our secret supper ended with a bourbon and coke beignets topped with bourbon whipped cream, served in a rocks glass. The Wild Child team’s closing pairing did not disappoint, with a Niepoort LBV Porto from Douro, Portugal.

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By this time we had all developed a connection with the musicians, marveling at their talents. The 11 other dinner guests at our table were talking to everyone.

Walt invited everyone to join together for a fun sing along. After hours of enjoying the most delicious food and drink, sharing stories and laughter, the evening came to an end. We had to say goodbye to our very first secret Supper at Maison Madeleine, an experience that warmed our hearts and made us hope to be back very soon!

The drive home was filled with electric energy. We had encountered a rare moment in time that will stay with us forever. To create an experience of such an elevated level that connects people together, to food, music, history and slows time- A true one of a kind memory at Maison Madeleine.

We want to wish a sincere thank you to the kind and charming Walt and Madeleine for gifting us with such a timeless event.

Cheers…

WRITTEN BY: ROXANNE GRUBB AND ELISSE NIELSON A collection of wonderful music from the secret supper can be found on Spotify: Spotify – Maison Madeleine For more information on the secret supper series at Maison Madeleine, click here: Secret Suppers — Maison Madeleine Join the invite list on their website to be kept up to date with all Secret Supper Series info.

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Local Business Business SpotlightSpotlight- Travel Travel 337 Local

A FULL SERVICE TRAVEL AGENCY

LAFAYETTE'S TRUSTED TRAVEL AGENCY SINCE 1978

Specializing in global, land, sea and air travel packages. We have been Acadiana’s one-stop shop for custom designed, service oriented trip planning for over 40 years.

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Every beach has the same welcoming smell of salt water just as every historic library has the same smell of old texts. Every hike offers the sounds of a lively forest, perhaps even the sound of rushing water from a nearby fall. Every cruise welcomes guests with smiling faces and a full buffet, all while offering exciting excursions.

Traveling, being present in what the world has to give, can be a step out of everyday life to experience different perspectives and even cultures that many are unaware of.

Whether it's across the country or across the world, each corner of our Earth has its own traditions and ways of life to appreciate and admire.

Venturing past one's comfort zone to feed the soul what the world has to offer can be seen as dangerous or expensive, but it doesn’t have to be.

That is where sitting with the female powerhouse team of Maegan Sonnier and Kristy Smith of The Travel Machine comes in.

They have such a grounded nature about them in the fact that they truly understand their craft and the world of travel.

Local Business Business SpotlightSpotlight- Travel Travel 337 Local

“YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW” is a phrase many have heard, typically from concerned parents, but the quote truly applies to traveling. Often said by Kristy Smith, co-owner and office manager of Travel Machine, the phrase is not meant to frighten but to share a desire to help. Tucked away off Johnson St. at 102 Westmark Blvd., Travel Machine provides Lafayette with many well-informed travel agents, each with their own specialty.

The agents often use their own travel experiences mixed with their clients’ reviews to suggest the best fit travels for anyone in need.

Whether it's staying in a cozy bed and ordering-in exquisite foods or staying out from sunrise until well after sunset to enjoy the unfamiliar surroundings, the agents of Travel Machine pride themselves Turkish Pilav in searching out and solidifying client’s wishes.

Because everyone travels differently, the company provides a check-list before consultations to learn the best fit for a client’s needs. Kristy said many are surprised at the detail of the questions, but as much information as possible is needed to ensure comfort and confidence for their clients.

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said Kristy.

They don't know what they don’t know.

Many travelers are unaware that most hotels and restaurants in Europe and South America do not have air conditioning, which may be a preference. Some hotels list air conditioning while only supplying it to the lobby. Some travelers are foodies and would like more local restaurant options while others prefer a familiar taste. Some travelers may not even want to leave their hotel, so agents will ensure amenities and restaurants are accessible within. Maegan Sonnier, co-owner and Director of Operations, passionately expressed that the goal of Travel Machine is to ensure value for a client. Having traveled many times herself, Maegan can attest to the pure bliss of experiencing a trip of value.

Travel Machine’s goal is to make not only the journey as effortless as possible, but the stay as well as the trip home. Travel Machine provides Lafayette with a variety of specialty travel agents including Disney, corporate, destination wedding and honeymoon, cruise, luxury and romance travel agents. As some agents are more familiar with certain fields than others, the office relies on the communication of the team to best advise clients.

Local Business Business SpotlightSpotlight- Travel Travel 337 Local As traveling can sometimes be unreliable, Travel Machine’s services do not stop when they clock-out. Agents remain on-call and will answer at any time to assist travelers with any urgent needs. The company runs a phone app where agents can update any changes made to the itinerary, booking information and documents so that travelers have everything needed on hand. Even experienced travelers can benefit from an agent’s assistance, especially when in a new area. The agents keep tabs on deals on flights or destinations to inform clients, even if they don’t have plans to travel.

“We are better than sliced bread

because we got them out of a pickle,” said Maegan, sharing stories of clients quickly trying to gather proper documentation. The agents often bring files home when they know a client is on a trip just in case documentation needs to be uploaded or if the itinerary needs changing.

One shouldn’t have to worry about the details in the writing when appreciating masterfully crafted works of art or experiencing the open sea. Booking online is quick and easy but reviews are not always reliable, as they can be dated, and pricing can vary depending on the website.

When on a ship with a loved one, traveling from one tropical beach to the next, splurging on a cruise’s drink package doesn’t seem as necessary when the daylong excursion is allinclusive. Yet some prefer cruises just for the all-inclusive packages and the view from the ship. For a newlywed couple or for one celebrating 30 years, Lindsay Boudreaux is the cruise specialist on hand and can advise clients based on their desires.

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What stands out is the honest fight they give to create exactly what each individual needs and desires when traveling.

It is not a one size fits all agency, and to witness the connection they have to “custom” is rare in this popular arena.

Let’s talk Disney- With each resort and hotel at Disney feeling like living inside of their own story tales, it's important for the glass slipper to fit just right when deciding. The company’s Disney travel specialist, Tricia Romero, has visited the infamous Mickey Mouse both at the park and on the ocean’s waters. Tricia not only has a passion for the land of fantasy but ample knowledge of the inner workings of the park.

They have carefully crafted such a dream team that covers every angle of the world and is able to deliver consistent results. What is really special to witness is the relationship between the owners, Maegan and Kristy. There is a trust and balance in how they work together.

In fact, when it comes to traveling, the company as a whole strives to know “99% of everything.”

Having opened in 1978, Travel Machine has been helping Acadiana travelers for almost 50 years, all while maintaining its relevance and credibility.

Travel Machine provides in-house industry training for the employees, and agents attend travel shows and conferences. The feedback questionnaire seems almost as extensive as the initial consultation to gain a true understanding of the best recommendations for their clients.

What makes Travel Machine unique is their independence from commissions. They explain that many travel agencies will partner with various hotels or resorts, paying agents a small percentage of profit, typically from 5% to 18%, for sending clients to these destinations.

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Travel Machine instead primarily relies on fees, ranging from $50 to $300, depending on clients’ needs and the time it takes planning and booking. They fairly handle the fee as being on a scale. The higher end of the scale is typically for a month-long trip around Europe whereas the smaller end is typically for a week at the beach.

Agents are paid after a travel is complete, so COVID-19 was a difficult time for the group. Agents spent day after day fighting for clients’ refunds on flights and other bookings, all while being unsure of the next time they may get a paycheck. While travel troubles brought in more clients, it was a while before the company saw income again. Due to the extended period of uncertainty, there is now a $50 consulting fee that goes towards the total costs of planning the trip.

“Travel is back!” they expressed, almost with a sigh of relief.

Apparently the growing trend in traveling is forming groups between friends or couples, sharing unique experiences with one another. Travel Machine offers their support to groups by noting separate budgets within the group when planning a trip.

The agency also eases the nerves of the group leader by handling all bookings, keeping everyone on the same page using the phone app. Travel Machine truly acts as it's called, many working parts come together to create a service for its consumer. The agents pride themselves in providing quality experiences for their clients by knowing what the average person may not know. Maegan so confidently stresses that her service is to the client. She will move mountains to ensure they are getting what they pay for. After all, the more someone can save on one trip, the more they can travel. To travel is a gift for the soul. The experiences made a person evolve and ground them to nature. What a magical gift Maegan, Kristy and their rockstar team of agents are giving to our very own 337.

Written by: Celeste Denova and Elisse Nielson

337

Travel

Welcome to 337 Magazine Travel Travel in any form is an awakened experience. You can get lost and found in new cuisine, hidden streets, and connecting with new personalities to call friends. Travel is so important to grow and evolve but to also remember what is home- In a way, finding your “Home away from Home” can connect you deeper to your roots and give you new insights to share with others.

We are so excited to branch out of 337 and introduce our readers to a few select hotel venues that are in reach of Louisiana.

Bayfront Marin House

St. Augustine

Like many of you who grew up here, Ft. Walton Beach and Destin Florida was the go-to family escape, only six hours away. We spent many wonderful days and nights with family and my wonderful Grandpa who retired as an Air Force Veteran in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida.

The question came to be, what is past that beautiful stretch of powdered white sands and tranquil water?

What about all the history and beauty along the Florida coast? We went out on an adventure to explore the “Historical Florida Coast” to find ways to get lost and connect with one of our favorite states within reach.

These hotels were selected for their story, the people that bring that story to life, and their incredible dedication to their culture and location.

So sit back, take some notes, and start planning your next tropical getaway. Get to know the brilliant Hotel Effie in Sand Destin, the Bayfront Marin House’s romantic charm in St. Augustine, relax and enjoy the Old Hollywood Glamor and modern vintage delights from Fenway Hotel in Dunedin, and lastly- dream of an all inclusive luxury experience for the senses at the majestic, “Live Aqua Resort” in Cancun.

We even decided to take it up a notch for those with a passport and in need of an “all inclusive- luxury experience”- in the Yucatan Peninsula’s Cancun.

Hotel Live Aqua

Thank you for letting us open your eyes to new places and adventures in our first Travel Section.

C’est la vie……Cheers- Elisse

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Hotel Effie Sandentin

A Luxury Hotel in Miramar Beach Unlike Any Other.

You’ll find an extraordinary treasure nestled between the white sandy beaches and emerald green water of the Gulf Coast and the living shorelines of Choctawhatchee Bay in Northwest Florida. Vibrant and elegant, comfortable and refined.

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The emerald coast of Florida’s Panhandle is something fit to find in the Caribbean, right here in our USA.

The famed stretch that passes through Pensacola to Destin will find its stopping point, at least for a few glorious days, at the hidden oasis of Hotel Effie, in Sand Destin.

Palm trees grace the outside of the building, letting each guest know they have arrived at Miramar Beach in Florida. Walking into the modern lobby, thick, dark wood beams stand out against the lightly colored ceiling.

Spots of soft blue seating and various artworks illuminate against the contemporary feel. The welcome cocktail, provided with the spa package, was simply incredible. It was a craveable balance of refreshing mint with a hint of flavor fun.

Modern, well-crafted chandeliers glisten throughout the hotel, reflecting off the quartz surfaces, bringing light to the muted color furnishings. Textures in the curtains and plant pots reference beautiful, pale shells found along the shore. Wall art and rugs reflect ocean waves and oyster shells.

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Finishing his first piece the day he turned 21, back in 2007, his art is heavily influenced by the beach he grew up near. Each resin-based piece gives reference to the shape and colors of waves and oyster shells. The hotel supports many local artists, displaying around the hotel their creations reflecting the beautiful beach ecosystem.

Local musicians occasionally gift the hotel with beautiful sounds of varying genres.

Hotel Effie Sandestin,” a grand boutique luxury hotel”, was named after Effie Burns, owner Tom Becnel’s grandmother and Sara Becnel’s great-great-grandmother.

Effie was known by her family as a true southern host, greeting each guest with open arms and a glass of sweet tea. The hotel has many unique details referencing Effie’s strong family ties, ranging from the names of amenities to the recipes used in desserts. Much of the hotel’s interior designing was done by Sara, the general manager at the neighboring Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. Sara carefully decided on each detail, holding both memories of her matronly relative and memories of her beloved beach close.

337 Travel Located at 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd.,

One of the most notable features of Hotel Effie is the Ara Rooftop Pool and Lounge, named after the constellation. Sara is quite known for treasuring a setting under the sun or the stars to get to know strangers. Walking up to the pool area, eyes immediately dart to the view. Looking past the many buildings and trees, one can spot the glistening emerald ocean. As the sun sets, guests grab drinks to wait for the fireworks as the local DJ plays his favorite songs. The smartest of guests secured cozy cabanas earlier in the day, relaxing in the shade, poolside. The bar is located centrally with an industrial feel. Iron lanterns on the bartop and pipes strung along the ceiling provide a feeling of an open submarine. TVs bring guests back to reality, featuring sports and other events. The heated pool itself is very relaxing, both because of the atmosphere and the jets. Some nights, the hotel hosts adult only night swimming events, perfect for a couple’s night.

the hotel began as an empty lot with plenty of potential. Hotel Effie quickly became the newest luxury leisure hotel after opening in 2021.

With 250 rooms and suites, many guests ranging from small family trips to larger groups or events can enjoy the amenities offered by Hotel Effie.

Being able to cater to any size, the hotel hosted a rooftop wedding. Providing for these guests is important to Hotel Effie, but vacationing as a couple can unlock a new side to the hotel.

Providing wine tastings and cocktail classes as well as rooftop yoga on Saturdays, the hotel adds multiple unique experiences. Meditation and yoga classes are provided a couple times a week, allowing guests to fully relax and embrace the getaway. The goal is to have each season at the hotel, to introduce a new class for guests, taking note of which classes are popular and answering what their lovely guests are wanting more of.

Keeping with the southern take on luxury travel, the hotel provides cookies made with Effie’s special homemade recipe. Much of the food would make her proud as all concepts and menus are provided by Georgia-born Chef Hugh Acheson.

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Having been a Top Chef judge and Top Chef Masters competitor as well as owning The Five & Ten and Empire State South, Chef Hugh has made a name for himself in the culinary world. The chef gifts Hotel Effie with his years of expertise in the culinary industry, ranging from the local foods at Ovide to the coffee and tea blends at Sweetbay Coffee.

Chef comes a few times a month to ensure quality matches his expectations, but also to incorporate seasonal changes to the menus.

“Chef Hugh aims to ensure there is something new to try each time a guest arrives.”

Ovide, named after Effie’s husband, feeds guests local foods of the Gulf Coast, but sprinkled with French influence. A beautiful floral mural shows intricate flowers of deep reds and soft pinks against a dark background. The cushioned wooden furniture and glass fixtures remind guests they are at Miramar. A taste of the emerald ocean is skillfully prepared then artfully displayed for guests to enjoy.

To pair with the food, high-end wines are handpicked by Steven Grubbs, brought on by Chef Hugh, and cocktails are crafted by Kellie Thorn. As head of mixology and beverages at the hotel, Kellie is in charge of all drinks flowing out of the various bars, ranging from artfully crafted cocktails to perfectly blended coffees. Through Kellie’s guidance, both Ara and The Lobby Bar, TLB, provides beautiful works of art in a glass.

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Spa Lilliana

named after Sara’s grandmother on her mother’s side, is one of the highlights of Hotel Effie. Upon entering, all senses are activated in a calming manner. Soothing smells and running water immediately relax guests. The waiting room is co-sex and will give any couple a new dream of crafting their own relaxation room at home. The most welcoming chaise lounges are fit for royalty and paired with plush robes and champagne cocktails.Tranquil music is played at the perfect volume as the masseuse works her magic.

The employees of Hotel Effie are often overlooked, but provide much for the guests. Many employees come to the hotel during the summer months, utilizing a work visa, and are welcomed with open arms each season. Noting each detail, employees ensure they do what is needed to provide a comfortable stay for each guest. Summer employees travel from many areas, including Howard, a self-taught bartender, serving TLB. While in the process of opening his own bar in Atlanta, Georgia, Howard visits during the summers. He is the star of the show on the main level and each guest feels his warm energy and passion for crafting the most delightful beverages your heart desires. Hotel Effie attracts a top tier group for their immaculate service.

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Many of the amenities of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort are available to guests of the hotel, providing for various desires. If guests are more active, they may consider the four championship golf courses or 15 world-class tennis courts, clay and hard options. For outdoor lovers, the resort has a few miles of trail as well as a marina where kayaks and paddleboards can be rented. The Village of Baytown Wharf, associated with the resort, has many family options with piers, restaurants and a farmers market. There is a convenient shuttle service that brings you to a private section on the beach for guests of the Hotel. Chairs and umbrellas are readily available with food and drinks for purchase.

They have been able to carve out part of their own oasis right here on prime real-estate of ocean tranquility. With pets being a part of the family for most, Hotel Effie stays true in their brand of welcoming all families. Naturally there is an additional fee, not applicable to service animals, but each pet is given a bed, water bowl, toy and bag of healthy treats to make for a comfortable stay.

Throughout staying at Hotel Effie, one may find tranquility and an immersive yet modern nauticaltheme. The family-take on hotels truly adds something special to the emerald coast.

From the luxury services, to five star cuisine, the location and energy all wrapped up in Hotel Effie is one that should be experienced, any time of the year. A boutique feel with five star service is- Hotel Effie. Their hospitality and goal to create the ultimate experience on the Florida Panhandle was received with a full heart and a plan to return as soon as the wind carries us back to “Effie”. Thank you

Written by: Celeste Denova and Elisse Nielson

Bayfront Marin House HISTOTIC INN & COTTAGES

STAY AT THE #1 WATERFRONT HOTEL IN SAINT AUGUSTINE SPACIOUS DOWNTOWN ROOMS, BEACH COTTAGES & HISTORIC HOUSE RENTALS

337 Travel BAYFRONT MARIN HOUSE Passing the tables shaded by large red umbrellas and the quaint gazebo, yellow walls of the outside create a feeling of cheer and welcome as guests approach the doorstep. Beautiful yellow flowers complement the walls, separated by the light gray porch and bright white railing.

The bed and breakfast was originally built in the 1800s, was transformed into apartments and is now a wonderful and historic place to enjoy the Florida waters. The first structure, a simple wooden home, was mapped in 1788. During the Second Spanish Period, a popular historic period for the area, Captain Henry Belknap purchased a colonial home he called Hopkins Cottage. Shortly after, the captain purchased another home known as Burgess Cottage, which he moved to his own home and attached. The Marin home, Hopkins Cottage and Burgess Cottage make up what is today’s 17 room Bayfront Marin House: Bed and Breakfast Inn. Looking out at the feeling of tranquility body, just as the shore. The sunset is vivid pinks and sky. Sailboats rock putting their sailors almost touch the while sitting on the on the private curtains close on the to retreat back doors and into the room. It was difficult as each has its own with names such as

bay, time stops as a washes over the waves wash up to indescribable with purples igniting the against the water, to sleep. One could palm trees below wicker seating out balcony. After the sun’s show, it is time through the balcony beautiful, cozy settling on a room, unique characteristics Marie Antoinette,

King George and Captain Henry reflecting the traits of each space. The owner has an eye for architecture, highlighting the intricate designs made prior to the modern age of squares and simplicity.

The Lyndsay Michelle Suite turned out to be a wonderful stay. The vivid purple walls make the deep wood furnishings stand out all the more. The dark Victorian bed frame holds gentle blue and white sheets and soft pillows making it feel at home. The stunning white fireplace has curved woodwork and an attached large mirror above. Many of the rooms have spa tubs, some with gorgeous views of the water. The Marin House at 142 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, Florida is truly an adorable place to stay with a long history.

337 Travel Early birds seeking a spot next to the water can enjoy the ocean breeze with their warm pancakes and cold orange juice. The southernstyle breakfast service is provided each morning at the downtown location. Guests are welcome to eat wherever they may like, indoor or outdoor, but what makes their breakfast service special is the beach delivery by request.

The cocktail hour is also complementary, providing guests with beers, wines and sangria.

Mike and Sandy Wiber, owners of the beautiful B&B since 2010, treat the property as their favorite baby, as they don’t have any children themselves. Both are on property often, but Mike tends to stay behind the scenes, usually reserving his socializing time for the breakfast service. Sandy explained their passion for the B&B in sharing her love of architecture, primarily Victorian styles, and her husband’s love for history. With their passion and charm, the couple make for a perfect pair in sharing the history and the home with every guest.

Sandy is a precious woman with a beautiful soul. She loves getting to know each guest and how they arrived at the bayfront home. With a special place in her heart for florals, Sandy herself planted the yellow flowers out front.

When first purchasing the lot, Sandy noted it, “didn't have any color. Not a single flower.”

Remarking that she does miss tulips and daffodils, as they are sensitive to heat, Sandy still enjoys Florida as it has a year-round growth season.

Sharing a bit of her own history with the property, Sandy displayed various prints her mother had made. Sandy sought to add a sentimental touch, fondly remembering her time growing up on a dairy farm originally owned by one of William Penn’s sons.

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She described services of the B&B as non-intrusive and comfortable. Sandy has a natural way of making people feel at ease, even in casual conversation. Her voice sounds like a gentle hug, and she makes sure guests leave judgments at the door. Sandy said the B&B has multiple mattress options so guests may ask to switch rooms if they prefer. Any request within reason can be met by the couple as guests should feel relaxed when unplugging from reality.

Sandy’s reason for running a B&B is getting to meet people’s families. She loves connecting with people, whether it's finding out how their day was or by hearing stories of their lives. A special guest Sandy recalled is an Englishman living in the United Kingdom.

"WHERE THEY CAN BE THEMSELVES BUT BE TAKEN CARE OF." He had to cancel initial reservations due to medical circumstances, but the very understanding Sandy refunded the man and wished him better health. A year later he was able to visit, immediately falling in love with the historic property. Even having his own house in Florida and a son living in the state, the man has visited the B&B roughly 30 times now. Bringing his friends or family along, Sandy has gotten to know many of his loved ones, sharing a deeper connection with the guests.

The B&B receives frequent foreign guests, many drawn to the European feel of the property. The most frequent of foreigners are German, typically visiting the state for business. Claudia, an innkeeper who speaks 9 languages, is resilient in breaking language barriers for guests.

“We’re lucky,” said Sandy, “We have really good people.” Many of the employees came with the place, one chef recently retiring at the age of 72. Lavern, a cook at the inn, has been with them since their beginning. Breakfast foods he serves include omelets, fresh fruits, blueberry waffles and their famous french toast.

337 Travel In keeping up with renovations, the last was roughly late 2018. Hurricanes Matthew and Irma, 2016 and 2017 respectively, flooded the first floor. Looking towards the brighter side, Sandy explained they were able to renovate after the first storm and complete what they needed to after the second.

With so much history behind the property, it's hard not to include a long-lasting love story.

Acquiring the venue next door took three years for the Wibers, but was well worth it for both the business and historical satisfaction. With the Wibers’ purchase, the Sanchez home and Marin property were united, decades after Sanchez’s son and Marin’s daughter married. The venue used to host weddings, often ending considerably late in the night. Sandy recalled having to be at the venue at 10:30 sharp to meet with the DJ about timing. Now owning the property, weddings start earlier and promptly end at 8:00 P.M. A couple that visited the lodging developed a sentimental attachment to the destination, eventually using the inn’s wedding services. First visiting as a couple, they quickly gained an attachment for the home. Not just returning to get engaged, but returning to get married made Sandy’s heart beam with joy. Witnessing their relationship grow showed Sandy she is in the right business for her. The couple came for yet another visit, baptizing their first-born at the church they wed in.

“We did really well in 2022,” Sandy said. “The rest of the town was dead, but I don't know a single other B&B that changed anything.” The inn switched to keyless locks and a text platform, both more modern methods. Noting that most guests prefer privacy, often having breakfast in their rooms and heading straight up when arriving, Sandy thought the texting platform would be a perfect way to communicate to these guests.

337 Travel Food and water bowls as well as supplies to fill both are provided for the four-legged guests. Treats and loaner leashes are also welcome to guests, but a favorite are the puppy popsicles given during summer months.

The Bayfront Marin House separates itself from the normal expectation of a bed and breakfast, rejuvenating the industry with their historic take on cozy getaways.

Sandy seeks to put a smile on the face of anyone she meets. As she put it, “we just want them to want to come back.”

T

he text message program helps staff stay on top of guests’ needs yet doing so in a way that is comfortable for both parties.

Unlike most text programs, there is truly a person on the other side. Utilizing a program called Whistle, employees are actually whistled at until they respond. Sandy pointed out the program is amazing for communicating during emergencies, such as power outages or storms, as she can efficiently notify all guests at once.

Having been through a few difficulties with the business, she believes everything has worked out for the better, always finding the good in nervous situations. As dog lovers themselves, the Wibers have made seven rooms available for pet families. “We get more Christmas cards from the pets who have stayed here than the people,” Sandy fondly recalled. She believes the downtown area is perfect for a morning walk, and she has plenty of recommendations for dog-friendly restaurants and beaches.

Interviewed by: Elisse Nielson Written By: Celeste Denova

337 Local Business Spotlight

A Place Humming with Soul Well-Appointed Rooms & Suites. Welcoming for all, our cozy living spaces are soothing, restful and restorative.

337 Local Business Spotlight

Fenway Hotel is known as, “a place humming with soul,” according to their website. Combining older influence with modern luxuries, Fenway has gifted Florida with a unique take on luxury hotels. A member of the Autograph Collections Hotels. The standard is set high here at Fenway and the experience to be had is meant to be savored… every step along the way.

Located at 453 Edgewater Dr., Dunedin, the historical hotel is protected from the Gulf of Mexico

by Caladesi Island. It is here in this charming town where the “Hotel” is a destination in itself. Old Hollywood soul on Florida’s stunning coast, This is the Fenway Hotel.

The hotel was constructed from 1924 to 1927 and was home to the county’s first radio station, WGHB Radio. In 1929 it was reopened, seasonally, as a resort. A few years prior to WWII, the hotel evolved into a private club called The Fenway, and during the war, it was one of the only hotels open on its coast. A pool was added in 1956, celebrating the hotel opening publicly, year round. After years of success, the hotel experienced many transitional years, including becoming a university. In 2018, the hotel was once again reopened as the Fenway Hotel known today.

337 Local Business Spotlight The rooms and suites are a “vintage inspired design” that live up to their description. Mirrors with curved edges and fun-shaped mirrors reflect the 70s era. White curtains and bed sheets allow the patterned pillows and eclectic art to take the space. The themed flare doesn't stop with the room, art continues in the bathroom with tiles colored in blues, reds, oranges and yellows. Their modern take on vintage gives each room a “soothing” vibe.

Guests are transported back to the era of prohibition all while enjoying the luxuries an elevated hotel has to offer.

Hew Parlor and Chophouse holds double-meaning, named for Herman Everett Wendell though the word hew meaning to cut or chop. The restaurant overlooks the hotel pool as guests are served each course. The blue plaid cushions and intricate marble tabletops make for a “masculine setting in contemporary interpretation.”

The cuisine is as divine as the unmatched service Fenway provides. Do not let the “boutique” fool you, this venue goes above and beyond to make sure their guests feel like they are VIP and most welcome. The menu is reasonably priced with the highlight being steaks and burgers.

Seafood such as scallops and a catch of the day are also options, including a seasonal sushi menu. Guests can devour the classic beef tartare that is infused with a modern twist of chipbar-b-que, to be exact. A perfectly cooked filet may woo you in, but the scallops were made to perfection and literally, melt in your mouth.

337 Local Business Spotlight To end the night off with a light treat, the restaurant serves fruit sorbet or strawberry shortcake.

The parlor bar serves the finest of whiskeys and Scotch, inspired by Dunedin’s Scottish history.

As beautiful the parlor and restaurant are by design, it all comes back to the people behind the scenes. Their gift to detail and kindness is a trait the Fenway Hotel holds on to with consistency and well earned pride.

Hi-Fi Rooftop Bar has perhaps the nicest view in the hotel. Overlooking the water, the bar was home to the historic radio station’s studio. The bar serves both red and white wine, but what makes the place special is its draw back to its musical history. Both the radio station and a basement speakeasy allowed music to flow through the halls of the hotel. Each cocktail is named after an artist, song, musical reference or clever pun with the most expensive being only $12.

The sunset view is one that can not be missed from the panoramic view Hi-Fi Rooftop Bar provides. Locals from the Dunedin area call this spot a “Home-away-from-home”- with a view to live for. “Set the Tempo” with various activities provided by Fenway.

With a variety of events including pool parties, wine pairings and local jazz performance nights, guests can enjoy a taste of artistic history. The historic lawn used to provide space for guests to play crockett and other games, but guests may now use it for walking or picnicking. The long rectangular pool reflects the history of the hotel in its older design. Fenway Hotel even rents bicycles for guests to visit downtown. The smooth voice of the radio station host plays from time to time and adds for a poolside delight. Guests can be taken back in time while enjoying a cold glass of historymixology at its finest.

337 Local Business Spotlight Dunedin’s activities aren’t out of reach as downtown is within walkable distance. With its rich history, Dunedin has multiple museums as well as an art museum and many galleries. A cluster of local breweries are located downtown, including Dunedin Brewery, the state’s oldest microbrewery. Clearwater Jolley Trolley offers one of the largest brew crawls from Clearwater Beach to Tarpon Springs, a 17 mile trek.

Caladesi Island State Park, only accessible by boat, has beautiful waters. The park’s services include a ferry to the island as well as burgers and fruit smoothies. A neighboring park, Honeymoon Island State Park, provides hiking trails and birdwatching, accessible by bridge. Honeymoon Island is also where guests may purchase ferry tickets to Caladesi Island.

The Fenway Hotel is a remarkable, “not so hidden gem” right in the heart of Florida’s coveted coastal towns of Dunedin.

There is such a level of class and charm that transfers you back into a time long ago. The feeling of “if these walls could talk” lingers the halls. As tempting as the thoughts of the past eras are, Fenway Hotel allows guests to make new memories and enjoy the architectural beauty of the venue, with the soft touch of its delightful staff. Whether you are passing through or wanting to make Dunedin a destination, Fenway Hotel is a must stay and visit hotel worth experiencing time and again.

Our 337 Magazine is lucky to have you on board our first travel section. Your hospitality and kindness were unmatched on our visit around the Florida Coast.

Until next time- Cheers.

Written by: Celeste Denova and Elisse Nielson

Dunedin In the heart of central Florida’s west coast, the picturesque open waterfront community of Dunedin is the perfect place to relax and enjoy all that nature has to offer. There is something for everyone in this coastal town. In the mid 1850’s, two Scotsmen renamed the settlement Dunedin (‘Dun Eideann’) after the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh. It was an important trading center back in the day and Scottish ancestry still shines through with their festivals and celebrations. You will find a village-like atmosphere that attracts people from around the world. From the relaxed lifestyle to fishing, kayaking and sailing, Dunedin showcases a unique scenery made up of beautiful parks and a 4-mile long waterfront.

Honeymoon Island and Caladesi island are both barrier island state parks that offer miles of beaches, hiking trails and plenty of wildlife to view. Pinellas Trail in the heart of Dunedin runs the entire length of the county including through the quaint eclectic downtown. You will experience numerous restaurants, breweries and galleries. You can rent bikes locally, and it's a great way to experience the adorable town of Dunedin.

FloridasHistoricCoast

337 Travel

LIVE AQUA

BEACH RESORT CANCUN

THE AWAKENING OF YOUR SENSES AT LIVE AQUA BEACH RESORT CANCUN.

337 Travel IN A SNAP OF A FINGER YOU CAN BE EXACTLY WHERE YOU DREAMED OF- EVEN IF THAT DREAM WAS A DISTANT THOUGHT, IT TAKES A SINGULAR DESTINATION TO MAKE THAT DREAM A REALITY. THAT REALITY IS LIVEAQUA RESORT CANCUN.

- Elisse

As you exhale when the plane touches down, you have that tingle of a moment that says- “ We have arrived to paradise”- not just any paradise, Cancun, Mexico. What could possibly be missing from the combination of a tropical oasis, sunny skies and freedom from our daily worries?- Luxury-AllInclusive Resort. Live Aqua Beach Resort in Cancun is the definition of paradise only a short flight away from our 337. An adults only, 4.5 star retreat, that has every thought covered for your needs and desires. They are ready for any request you have while visiting your new home - awayfrom- home.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS A handsome and friendly face awaits us in our personal airport pickup. I was lucky to be met with Live Aqua’s head of Social Media Marketing for Live Aqua Cancun, Graciel Montañez. He insisted on meeting us for our journey to Live Aqua. “ Welcome to Cancun”- he says. The hotel is only a twenty minute drive from the airport in Cancun, which is a lovely thought after a flight from Louisiana and working our way through customs.

We had no idea the magic we were about to experience during our stay with our new familia- this is not just a resort, this is a community of beautiful people who thrive on creating each moment for you.

Here Luxury is redefined by the senses. A lifestyle experience that is balanced by the pure heart and soul of this wonderful culture. It is found in the details and details are everything.

Placed perfectly in the middle of “ Hotel Row” in the highly coveted “anytime” vacation destination of the Yucatan Peninsula, is HOME for the next 5 days.

Little did I know what a haven, connection and life long memory would come from this place. I can only tell you as a traveler and lover of stories, I cried when I left- Honest truth there.

337 Travel THE WELCOME TO LIVE AQUA Hands on hearts with the most sincere head tilt, we are greeted with smiles, warm towels and a welcome beverage.

The entrance is breathtaking. Light pours in from the beachside into the massive entrance of the venue. The Live Aqua fountain is filled with its “icon” , the Live Aqua little rubber ducks. We are whisked away to the Aqua Club Lounge that is accessible with our

“ AQUA LOVER EXPERIENCE.”

We are greeted by our wonderful butlers for the trip.

They work 24 hours so you actually have two helping hands to make your experience perfect. I feel like Maggie and Mario were more of our best friends who knew everything about Cancun and Live Aqua.

Maggie set us up via What’s Ap and had everything easily handled with non-invasive, but responsive and thoughtful communication.

What we did not expect was the impact of the suite we were walking into. The Aqua Suite. Champagne and chocolate covered strawberries… but more…

They had created cookies with their welcome that were made from my pictures from social media. It was so impactful and impressive to see. A welcome message was colorfully written on the floor with art designed decorations as well.

As she showed us around the suite, which has a lovely kitchen, living room, whirlpool hot tub in the center of the vanity area and two- full bathrooms, there was a photo montage of my life on social media on the television. For first and second impressions, we were just blown away.

337 Travel

Views

THE

There are two sets of double doors that lead to the expansive balcony and lounge area that overlooks all of the Live Aqua ground and the majestic turquoise waters of the Caribbean. We could hear the waves crashing at any moment we wished.

“ AQUA LOVER EXPERIENCE.”

We found delectable treats during the stay in our room and were met with our initials monogrammed on slippers for our cozy nights.There was so much time and thought put into these details and Maggie’s energy was nothing short of genuine perfection. Each room provides a comfortable stay whether it's the aqua suite or presidential. The regular suite has a kitchenette with a small bar and stools.

The open concept provides a spacious feel, and the large bed has beautiful artwork behind. A gorgeous tub with jets helps rid each guest of the sands from the day. The presidential suite has a glass wall overlooking the ocean waters.

The modern concept offers a full bar and plenty of comfortable seating options, both inside with the L-shaped couch and outside on the private balcony.

337 Travel

TIME TO EXPLORE

The center of Live Aqua is a tropical oasis home to exotic birds that melodically create the soundtrack of the resort. A canopy of trees frame two of the resort's exterior restaurants, The Hidden Garden and Verenna, reinventing the term of an outdoor sanctuary. Every mood that can be created is found here and I advise you to allow yourself to get lost in whatever moment you can here. It is a welcomed escape and Live Aqua is home.

It was time for lunch with Graciel at Varrena. Sitting at a table with your eyes closed you hear the “conversational” calls of the tropical birds and open them to see nothing but jungle canopies and thatched roofing. If you were dropped directly in that moment you would truly believe you were the tropics of Costa Rica inside a hidden hideaway deep in the lush jungles of the most exclusive Caribbean destination.

The Coconut beverage will snap you back into the present with the perfectly carved logo of - Live Aqua Cancun. He sits across from us with the most confident and grounded energy. The resort is lucky to have him as one of the focal faces of the Marketing team. His confidence beamed as bright as his smile as he laughed with me and allowed me into the behind the scenes of the resort's amazing mission to “gift” perfection.

337 Travel Gracial explained that many of the guests come as couples, sometimes in pairs of couples. He said roughly 85% of guests come from the United States, and many others come from Mexico and Brazil. He noted when guests from the United Kingdom come, they often stay for multiple months at a time without leaving the resort. Multiple programs are offered, Gracial explained, including friend programs, Aqua Lover and Aqua Friend. Friend programs provide fun activities for groups of individuals, and Aqua Friend is primarily for travel agents.

WHAT MAKES AQUA LOVER UNIQUE IS MEMBERS ARE AUTOMATICALLY ADDED AFTER THEIR SECOND STAY AT THE RESORT.

The atmosphere offers a truly unique experience. He advised us to explore the grounds and the different floors as the entire resort is designed and oriented to connect to your senses. We did just so…. I noticed a different scent on each floor of the resort, relaxing herbal fragrances in the spa and citrus smells heading to my room.

They even have aromatherapy for your room with a Dream Menu selection. The five fragrances, each equally divine, Aqua, Relax, Energy, Romance, and Tranquility can be sprayed on your pillows or used via an incense burner. They provide these delicious scents for purchase to take a little bit of Live Aqua home with you. It really is an elevated element that adds a whole new dimension to hotel creativity and sensory experience.

337 Travel

THE TROPICAL GROUNDS OF PARADISE The pools are indescribable. Guests can hop from pool to pool and find a unique attribute at each. The main pool has many cushioned lounging spots with umbrellas for shade.

The pool is split in two sections- one square and one circular. The circular pool outlooks the ocean, providing an incredible view and relaxing sounds of waves. The two smaller, circular pools on either side of the main provide a more intimate environment. Both the Azur and the Aqua pools have steps for easily getting in and out. The Azur Pool has glistening lights strung above a dark wood bar just a few feet away. The Aqua Pool has plenty of cozy beds with umbrellas placed around.

Maggie, our butler – magical unicorn- human, had us all set with a private cabana on the beach. The “there when needed” staff fulfilled our thirsty drink orders and helped us book our complimentary foot massage on the beach. Let’s just say that moment has ruined pedicure massages for me… it was the ultimate relaxation treatment each day.

DIVING INTO CUISINE AT LIVE AQUA many restaurants and bars provide ample options RESTAURANTS The for guests. Each of the seven restaurants provide different experiences from artistic-inspired to tropical takes to AND BARS Italian vineyard themes.To close our first day, Maggie booked us at the star restaurant on the property, MB. It happened to be Earth Day during our visit, so we were told to be prepared for a candlelight dinner, as they honored mother earth by going dark for an hour. MB has elegant dining with Latin cuisine made with local ingredients. Glass walls and a partially shaded ceiling allows for a wall of greenery and natural lighting. Woodenframed glass tables add to the natural feel of the restaurant.

337 Travel

Chef Caesar and his incredible team crafted a special menu for our palettes and we were blown away. Each dish presented was full of balance and flavor. The colors jumped off the plate and each design was almost too pretty to eat. This was five star cuisine through and through. Their habanero soup is a cult favorite and they are kind enough to even give you the recipe. It was the epitome of the right amount of heat with the right amount of flavor.

AS AN AVID FOODIE AND Wine was served by candlelight and the night could not have been more perfect.

We felt the heart and soul of each member in MB that night and were so blessed to be given the opportunity to share cuisine with them, and give them the smiles they deserve.

All of the restaurants on property were there to please. The variety is so wonderful to have on property. It is a gem to stay in one place, but get the culture and culinary experience from around the world.

“HOME-CHEF” I WAS IN LOVE.

337 Travel

Siete provides casual dining with Mexican cuisine and an Italian buffet. The restaurant has a partial vivid green ceiling and white marble tables with light gray chairs. Accent green lights and green mosaic art on each column, showing a beautiful portrait, compliments the color theme.

Carnivore provides barbecue, staying true to its name. The beautiful teal chandeliers are accentuated against the white tablecloths.

Azur’s

casual dining atmosphere is complemented by grand, tall columns and geometric woodworkings. An “olive bar” provides options of fresh olives and oils to top salads.

The wicker sphere lights provide a perfect environment for the Mediterranean cuisine served. Bamboo arcs to meet at a point, creating a tall ceiling with a spacious feel.

337 Travel Staying on theme with its name, offers a variety of seafoods in a casual, outdoor dining experience. The cover shade is made of multiple wicker half-spheres resembling sea shells.

If guests are seeking a different style of seafood, the Sushi Station offers a casual corner where guests can order fresh sushi rolls while admiring the view.

SEA CORNER

HIDDEN GARDEN seeks to bring the outdoors in with its “Avant-garde concept.”

Tree branches stretch into a perfect arch over the seating area. Dining is Asian cuisine in a casual environment, providing a lovely lunch or dinner experience.

VARENNA brings Italian vineyards to tropical paradise. White cloth hangs above guests, shading from sunlight yet providing natural lighting. The Italian cuisine matches the upbeat music. The casual dining experience offers pastas and pizzas with fresh fruits such as pear and pineapple for toppings.

337 Travel Each bar presents a different experience for guests, yet remains consistent in the attention to detail in both the cocktails and atmosphere. Both the Egos Bar and AKA Bar provide an elegant yet casual atmosphere. AKA provides a modern, gray look with cozy seating and a white marble bar. Large screens play football games and other sports. Egos is drastically different in ambiance with deep blue seating and gold frays dangling around the overhead lights.

The house music playing matches perfectly with the bright red bar. Café Deli Boutique looks similar to a local Starbucks and provides many coffee and tea blends for guests to get their day started or for an afternoon pick-me-up.

After a delectable breakfast where Chef Caesar himself crafted our omelets in front of us and made us our mimosa’s with fresh squeezed orange juice, we were treated to the ultimate sensory experience- The Feel Harmony Spa. The spa includes, “Aromatic rituals and relaxing treatments that merge the healing traditions of cultures from around the world.” The spa executes this goal wonderfully with 16 treatment areas, indoor and outdoor. Steam baths, saunas and a jacuzzi provide ample options for guests. Running water, soothing smells and soft music immediately relaxes the body when entering.

337 Travel

For those looking to work up a sweat they have a lovely fitness center.

The fitness center provides just as many wellness opportunities with Taichi and Yoga sessions as well as Life Fitness and Kinesis equipment.

Garden of the Sense offers a truly unique experience for guests. The architecture can be described as a cement wall enclosing a fountain.

The circular wall creates an echo effect when standing in the center, making the trickling fountain sound like a rushing waterfall.

Various amenities are offered by Hotel Live Aqua outside of the restaurants and fitness options. Free airport transportation is offered if guests book for four nights or longer. The close beach access can be assumed,

but the hotel offers perfect picture opportunities with large angel wings standing in the sand in front of the hotel. An arena offers movie nights and the Grand Aqua Ballroom can be used for events and weddings. Guests can even bring their furry family members and know that their dog will find comfort with the “dog kit” including bowls and a bed.

337 Travel My closing farewell If I had to dream of what my perfect Caribbean vacation would be and all that would entail I would have never come close to what Live Aqua and the angelic souls that represent this resort were capable of. Graciel, Maggie, Mario and the glorious Samantha- I have never experienced anything like what you represent for Live Aqua and the Posadas Brand.

Chef Caesar and your incredible team of talented sous chef’s and staff- your gift is beautiful, your story is told

through works of art- hand on my heart, I thank you to the moon and the stars. Our departure was full of tears.

Yes, in five days I found a new family and their send off had been crying until I sat on the plane and just smiled.For those who have researched and dove into their homework on what separates Live Aqua from its long line of competitors, just know whatever lovely highlight you have read, is all true- yet more magical than you can ever imagine. Senses are stimulated at every turn. Guests are met with the definition of hospitality, cuisine is unmatched and ready to fulfill whatever craving you desire, the beauty of the Caribbean is on full display here- close your eyes and embrace what they have to offer you in paradise.

337 Travel

MY STORY OF LIVE AQUA

is something of a dream, however, my dream seemed to be shared with many of the

lucky souls getting to explore here as the theme runs true to each guest calling Live Aqua Resort their safe haven. Hands are placed over hearts and a pure connection is made, as their signature way of saying thank you is so touching. As I was there to tell their story, I feel they were meant to ground me to this earth and show me something rare- Genuine, human connection fueled with kindness and navigated by heart.

From one Aqua Love to another- Thank you - Elisse Nielson

Cancún

The island of Cancún is a small yet magnificent place to travel with each activity providing excitement and adventure. Known for its beaches and dive spots, the island acts in perfect harmony with the nature surrounding.

Locally known as “Museo Subacuático de Arte,” the Cancún Underwater Museum is home to many well-known underwater sculptures. Anyone can visit this museum, whether by boat, snorkeling or glass bottom boat tours. Interactive Aquarium Cancún provides alternative options to admiring what the beautiful blue has to offer. Interaction tanks allow guests to pet starfish and stingrays. Guests can either look at fish through their tanks or hop in and swim with dolphins. Perhaps the most unique experience is Aquarium Trek, a full-face scuba excursion through the aquarium.

Also known for throwing a good party, Cancún has many music oriented activities. Carnaval de Cancún can’t go without mention.

The vivid lights and local music compete with New Orleans for the honor of best parade. Sparkling, feathered clothing shimmers as each dancer hits every beat. For travelers visiting outside of the festival can still enjoy local music and fun lights at Xoximilco Cancún by Xcaret. Xoximilco sections guests off into separate boats based on the type of party they are looking for. A long table makes up the center of the small boat as lights of all colors hang above. A mariachi band plays as waiters serve the guests.

Thank you to our Contributors This issue of the Innovators would not have been possible without the endless support and help from so many people.

I want to thank every business who trusted me with their story and allowed me to share their passion and goals with our 337.

I thank them for their patience and excitement!

I want to thank our contributing writers who did beautiful work with this issue.

Thank you Michael Comeaux for your work in the Local Business Spotlight section.

Thank you Katie Anderson for your dedication to the cuisine section and creating such a magical article that highlights our culture here.

Thank you Adeline Miller for painting the most perfect 48 hours in Breaux Bridge. Your voice shines so bright in the article that anyone would be so lucky to follow your footsteps through the adorable town, in music, cuisine and culture.

Thank you to the team at Wild Cat Brothers for creating a dream space for entertainment and innovation here in 337.

To the incredible team at Pamplona, your skill in mixology and cuisine is unmatched and sharing your story was a dream.

Thank you Matt Valentin and his team for capturing Pamplona Tapas Bar in our next Kitchen and Mixology Chronicles. Your talent and belief in me will never be forgot- ten.

Celeste Denova, you were my perfectly timed Angel gifted from God. I was praying for you and he answered. You're a force to be reckoned with in both talent and work ethic.

You have captured the essence of so many interviews and painted their story in words. You saved me with your energy and enthusiasm for this vision of mine. I would have not been able to launch this issue without you. I will be forever grateful from the bottom of my heart for my coeditor, writer, travel writer and design – partner in crime.

Thank you to my mom, Roxanne Grubb, for her talented insight as an Editor, writer, visionary and support system. I am so thankful for my parents' support and encouragement and the endless love they give.

I could not do this without my boyfriend Lance, as he has been through the blood, sweat and tears it takes to launch this as a one woman show.

“She was a storm, not the kind your run from, the kind you chase.”

- RH Sin

Love, Elisse

337 Internship Hello reader, My name is Celeste Denova, and I'm excited to share with you a but about myself.

Originally from Brusly, Louisiana, I have always sought after more than my small town could offer. I have considered myself beyond lucky to have been able to travel not only around the United States but around the world. Much of my enjoyment is found in all things outside- hiking, paddleboarding and SCUBA diving- but I have always held an appreciation for reading and writing.

I enrolled at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, as my mother, grandmother and great-grandmother all have. I fell in love with Lafayette almost immediately, gaining a layer of appreciation with each year I’m here.

I have met so many incredible people in Acadiana and am so honored to have been given this opportunity to work with 337 Magazine. Getting to know Acadiana from a closer perspective has truly been a blessing to me, and I credit my family and Elisse to this opportunity.

I hope you enjoy what I have to share!

337 Back Cover Story

“There are not enough character spaces allowed to tell how great this production company is. Mostimportantly they are no doubt called by God to spread his word through the power of film making.”

- The words of a cast and crew member with Ardent Flame Media Group.

337 Back Cover Story

A

s someone who has worked in the world of Hollywood and all aspects of the industry for over a decade, I was blown away by a chance meeting with Carrie Simone and the Ardent Flame Media Team. The industry is not for the faint hearted and the darkness that is attached is very real. In a way I feel that was my God-given guide to find this like-minded connection here in 337. To find the brave voices to put value and religion back into entertainment is sadly a rare

find, but not an impossible one.

Carrie Simon

John Busby

How fortunate for us that we have this broadcasting and media production company right here in Lafayette, La. Ardent Flame Media Group is a one stop stop for commercial and film projects, including film scoring and music production. They currently have 3 major film projects in various stages of either development or pre-production in the works, at least one is slated for production and release later this year.

The multitalented team behind this faith based group began their journey in 2017 when Carrie Simon (who’s an author as well) was doing a book signing when a woman who purchased one of her books said she could see it becoming a film.

This suggestion sparked the passionate endeavor between herself, Mark Davis, the founding member and John Busby, co-founder . A film production company was born and has been thriving ever since.

These three with their amazing passion and talent, are creating memorable projects.

Mark Davis

Their completed film projects: Freedom, Life is My Choice, and Pavy have collected quite a bit of recognition. Each story is meant to reach out and touch something within, to elevate the viewers to a higher level, and connect with life. The message is so strong here, so powerful and well completed.

With multiple film festival awards to their name, they have enjoyed putting down roots in Lafayette. They love the culture, the local talent and of course the tax incentives offered. “ The true stories and documentaries have been some of my most favorite,” Carrie said, “because it gives them an opportunity to shed light on social injustices, as well as being able to give a voice to people who may not have had one otherwise.”

Ardent Flame media can take a vision from inception to completion, all in-house.

The ability to offer a well-oiled- machine as a one-stop shop for all production needs is pure gold in this industry.