Parish News - Acadiana Vol. 1 No. 4 April/May

ACADIANA May 2018 - Vol. 1 No. 4 Complimentary Copy

Business & Industry | Community Affairs | Events & Entertainment

COMMUNITY AFFAIRS

COVER STORY

CYT Lafayette Hosts Fundraising Performances at AcA

On April 16th, Christian Youth Theater (CYT) Lafayette presented its annual fundraising event, Evening with an Encore, at the Acadiana Center for the Arts in downtown Lafayette.

One-hundred and sixty attendees enjoyed performances by more than 50 Acadiana-area students.

The students performed scenes, songs and dances from popular Broadway productions including “Shrek”, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” “The Lion King, Jr.,” and “Peter Pan.” The evening also included a four-course meal

CYT

ENTERTAINMENT

Robideaux Administration Tackles City Innovation, CREATE in Second Annual Address

MORE ENTERTAINMENT on page 21

IN THIS ISSUE: • Youngsville Chamber Host Banquet • City Buzz • People In Business • Business On The Grow • Surrey Street Bridge • Lafayette Pharmacists Granted Medical Marijuana Licenses • Events & Entertainment • Opinion

CREATE PAGE 3

Continued on page 23

May 11

COMMUNITY AFFAIRS Mail Slot

Women’s & Children’s Longtime CEO, Kathy Bobbs Dies At 59 LAFAYETTE, La. – In a statement released by the Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Kathy Bobbs, president and chief executive officer for Women’s & Children’s Hospital, passed away from an apparent heart attack on Saturday, April 21, she was 59. Bobbs leaves behind her husband Ken, five children and 11 grandchildren.

“Kathy was passionate, inspirational and a very civic-minded individual. Her death is a

profound loss to all that knew her and were impacted by the work she did,” said M.L. Lagarde III, President of HCA MidAmerica Division, a division of HCA Healthcare and owner of Women’s

BOBBS Continued on page 4

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PARISH NEWS

May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

CREATE Cover Story

By Kailey Broussard

“Smart Cities” and innovation took center stage in the Heymann Center auditorium as Lafayette’s mayorpresident updated constituents on city initiatives and projects during the second annual Robideaux Report.

In an hour-long speech open to the public, Joel Robideaux told residents that the city is “poised to become a global innovation hub, if we dare to” through the development of partnerships with emerging and prominent technology companies and businesses. Most importantly, he said, the community needs to focus on maintaining and attracting young innovators.

“We need to commit to build a future that motivates and retains our best and brightest and allows us to compete for the best and brightest from all over the globe,” he said.

In the long term, Robideaux said, he envisions Lafayette embracing emerging blockchain technology to utilize its own form of cryptocurrency and use revenue to foster research and innovation.

However, he said the community should also “have some really frank discussions” about improving systems that already exist.

“We need to find money to invest in upgrades to the current utility infrastructure and we need to take advantage of 21st century energy technology that’s out there,” he said.

Robideaux announced a slew of new mobile apps such as The Hub of Lafayette, a one-stop service for local government information, access to event and entertainment information and animal control.

He also mentioned Gnome Nation, a community service app that incentivizes community service and allows organizations to list projects.

Lafayette City-Parish Government received approval to enter an agreement with CGI Technologies and Solutions to develop and maintain the app at a recent council meeting.

In an update on the CREATE Initiative, which he unveiled at his inaugural report, Robideaux continued discussion on technological advancements. The program, an acronym for Culture, Recreation, Entertainment, Art, Travel and

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PARISH NEWS Economy, targets capitalizing on Lafayette’s cultural scene — or, as Robideaux said, the “low-hanging fruit” — to stabilize the city and parish’s budget.

As part of the CREATE Initiative, Robideaux’s administration is also building a Cultural Asset Inventory Portal, which would list every performer, performance venue and event that the region has to offer.

Kate Durio, who serves as Robideaux’s assistant and leads the initiative, told Parish News that a dozen film production companies have either expressed interest in moving to or beginning production in Lafayette.

He announced that Lafayette was selected as host for the South Louisiana Songwriters Festival, offered by the Buddy Holly Educational Foundation based in England. Robideaux said the foundation heard about Lafayette and the CREATE initiative through word of mouth.

Set for May 24-25, the festival draws from talent such as Zachary Richard, Marc Broussard and Louis Michot, as well as numerous songwriters from out of state. The festival is the culmination of a four-day workshop, during which songwriters create original work.

“That’s a huge win for our music community,” said Durio. “The fact that it’s a four-year commitment really shows some sustained investment. If you just look at the names on solosongwriters. com, you can see just some real momentum building there.”

Robideaux also gave an update on the University Avenue Corridor project, for which LCG has held two public meetings.

“We’re going to turn this into a gateway corridor that is reflective of how we all feel about where we live, and we want people coming into Lafayette to feel and experience the Lafayette that we love. This is a project that desperately needs to happen,” he said.

Above all, Robideaux said, residents should keep an open mind to emerging technology while minding the “digital divide” in households — or the inability for some to access the internet or utilize smartphones and tablets.

“When you hear, big data, AI, augmented reality, machine learning systems, the internet of things, distributed ledger technology, blockchains, cryptocurrency, don’t let your mind go blank like it just did,” he quipped.

GET OUT AND FISH!

LDWF Campaign a Big Success in Youngsville

On Saturday, April 7th, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, The East Regional Library in Youngsville, and the Lafayette Consolidated Government partnered together to host a Get Out and Fish! event at the newest site at Southside Regional Park – Fabacher Field in Youngsville. Prior to the event, the pond was stocked with 600 pounds of adult size channel catfish. Over 300 anglers participated in the fun fishing competition and fishing activities for all ages.

Winners in the “Catfish” Category included: Little Angler 1st Wes Ouber (8.09 pound catfish) 2nd Gunner Simon (8.04 pound catfish) 3rd Alayna Lafleur (3.08 pound catfish) Junior Angler 1 st Jackson Lavin (4.08 pound catfish) 2 nd Aiden Smith (3.12 pound catfish) 3 rd Landon Hotard (2.14 pound catfish) Adult Angler 1st Rygan Bourge (2.12 pound catfish) 2nd Randy Boudreaux (2.11 pound catfish) 3rd Megan Louviere (2.09 pound catfish) Winners in the “Other” Category included: Little Angler 1st Ben Broussard (largemouth bass) Junior Angler 1st Grant Martin (largemouth bass) 2nd Landon Hotard (largemouth bass) 3rd Luke Robinson (warmouth)

Adult Angler 1st Joe Zetty (bluegill) The event was made possible through the generous donations from our sponsors including: Academy Sports and Outdoors, Buckfins N Feathers, Acadiana Cane Cutters Baseball, Raising Cane’s, Walmart (415-Broussard, LA), Starbucks, LA Soar, Lafayette Oil Men’s Bass Fishing Club, The Lafayette Public Library, and the Louisiana Master Naturalists.

Lunch was generously provided by the Kiwanis Club of Lafayette.

There is still a good opportunity to catch a stocked channel catfish at Southside Regional Park – Fabacher Field so grab your fishing gear and try your luck. For more information about future stockings and directions to all of our community fishing sites, you can visit www.wlf.la.gov/get-out-andfish-1 .

The Get Out and Fish! Program seeks to increase the number of people with access to quality fishing and to promote outdoor activities for future generations. In order to accomplish this mission, public water bodies that meet the required specifications are chosen by LDWF biologists to join the Get Out and Fish! community fishing program. These community fishing sites are stocked in the Spring and Fall with adult size channel catfish and in the winter with rainbow trout if weather permits.

LDWF Get Out & Fish is hosted in conjunction with the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation. The LWFF was formed to provide a means for individuals and corporations to become partners with the Department and Commission in the challenge of conserving Louisiana’s wildlife and fisheries resources.

The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources. For more information, visit us at www.wlf.la.gov, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ldwffb or follow us on Twitter @LDWF.

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PARISH NEWS

COMMUNITY AFFAIRS BOBBS Continued From Front Page & Children’s Hospital. “For her nearly 40-year career, most of which has been in healthcare administration, Kathy had a significant role in shaping healthcare as we know it today in Louisiana.

“Having worked alongside her for many of those years as a colleague and a friend, I know firsthand of her steadfast commitment to the health and wellbeing of not only our patients, but the community as a whole. Likewise, we remain committed to ensuring her spirit of service and compassion continues...

We will miss her greatly.”

“Kathy was such a giving, caring, hard-working person who dedicated so much of herself to the hospital and the community,” said Louis Perret, Lafayette Parish Clerk of Court and Women’s & Children’s Hospital board of directors chair. “This is such a tremendous loss to families in Acadiana and across Louisiana. And, this is such a great loss

to me, personally, having worked so closely with her for so many years. At this time, we will mourn as a hospital family along with her husband, children, and grandchildren. Together, we will ensure her legacy of service in the community, and her legacy of healing at Women’s & Children’s Hospital will live on for years to come.”

Kathy possessed a fierce passion for the health and wellness of Louisiana families that defined most of her extensive career with HCA, the parent company of Women’s & Children’s Hospital, and Women’s & Children’s, where she served as chief executive officer for the last 18 years.

A longtime community volunteer, Kathy most recently served on the boards of One Acadiana, Home Bancorp and the Woman’s Foundation.

Kathy Bobbs, healthcare leader, activist, and innovator for nearly 40 years, leaves behind a living legacy of better healthcare for women and children.

JD Bank Helps Vietnam Veterans Replace Stolen Patriotic Ceremony Items

JENNINGS, La. – In February, the unthinkable happened to Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1058.

Vandals stole the trailer where many of the veterans’ flags, banners and other valuables used for patriotic ceremonies are stored. The damaged trailer was eventually recovered by law enforcement, but the precious items used by VVA Chapter 1058 for events throughout Jeff Davis Parish, including the Fallen Warrior Ceremony, were lost forever.

“This VVA Chapter provides such a valuable service to our community, delivering gift baskets for veterans in local nursing homes, attending funerals in uniforms and always being there

when asked. It is disgraceful what happened and JD Bank is honored to be able to replace the stolen,” “said Boyd Boudreaux, President & CEO of JD Bank.

JD Bank obtained a list of the stolen items from Chapter Treasurer George Conner and delivered a check for $5,000 to replace the items. “We’re so grateful to JD Bank for stepping up to help us,” Conner said.

“Our veterans are all about continuing our public service and this made it possible for us to get back to helping our fellow veterans very quickly,” Conner added.

May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

Surrey Street Bridge Repairs Begin

After months of delays to repair the Surrey Street Bridge following an emergency closure after officials discovered corroded bearings that support the steel beams under the structure, construction is now underway.

The bridge was closed suddenly to motorists Oct. 25 after the state Department of Transportation and Development found the structural inefficiency. The report found that one of eight bearings that support the structure had failed and another was in danger of failing. The bridge was closed over fear that heavy truck traffic could cause the bridge to drop, the deck to fracture and the bridge to collapse.

Alison Lognion, planning director for the project, said the project was deferred from its original start date at the beginning of June as contractors with Gibson and Associates from Balch Springs, Texas, prepared for the travel and assembly related to the project.

Construction began April 17.

Lognion said she was unable to give

details on the project’s timeline; however, she said the delayed start date should not be pushed back from its August completion date. However, she said, inclement weather could stall completion.

Mark Dubroc, public works director for LCG, said in 2017 officials were “very taken aback” by the 2017 state findings.

The reports in previous years, which alternate between the city-parish and the state, showed only signs of light rust in previous years.

He said the floods of August 2016 were the only logical reason for the bridge’s progression.

A new bridge would have cost $3 million and require two years of construction, according to Mark Dubroc, LCG public works director, said to cityparish councilman William Theriot.

Dubroc said in earlier media reports that the repairs are expected to keep the bridge in operating condition for three decades.

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May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

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PARISH NEWS

Youngsville Chamber of Commerce Hosts 8th Annual Banquet

Mandi Pooler with Angie Eckman

Mandi Pooler with Brandon Held

Youngsville Mayor Ken Ritter delivered

paralyzed, has evolved into a lifetime

the Annual Mayor’s Message.

of lessons and victories which touched

The night concluded with motivational

each member to make the best of any

speaker Mike Schlappi. Mike is a Hall

situation. He inspired the attendees with

On Tuesday, April 10, 2018, the

of Fame Gold Medalist, author of Shot

some workable strategies, tools, and

Youngsville Chamber of Commerce

Happens, professional speaker, husband

mindsets that can be used to enrich your

held its 8th Annual Banquet. The

and father of five. His story, which began

life.

evening started with nineteen local

with a tragic accident that left him

Photo credit: Kaptography

restaurants serving their signature dishes while attendees enjoyed an hour of networking. Youngsville Chamber

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President, Mandi Pooler, delivered the president’s message in which she shared Mandi Pooler with Rev. Tommy Faulk

the story of the Chinese Bamboo Tree as inspiration of what it means to plant a seed and gave an update on the Chamber’s progress during the previous year.

The Chamber then presented its annual awards to members. Award recipients were Lois Melancon, Member of the

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and Rev. Tommy Faulk Sr. was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Angie Eckman was also recognized for serving as past president of the chamber, having served from 20142017. The Chamber also awarded Brandon Held, son of Jacob & Mona Held and a senior at Comeaux High School, its annual scholarship in the amount of $2,000 scholarship to

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PARISH NEWS

May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

CITY BUZZ Lafayette

Lafayette Pharmacists Granted Medical Marijuana Licenses The Louisiana Board of Pharmacy awarded nine licenses for medical marijuana pharmacies throughout the state, one of which was in Lafayette.

Apothecary Shoppe, owned by local pharmacists Eric Vidrine, was granted the green light to open shop as the city’s only medical marijuana pharmacy. The shop will be located at 620 Guilbeau Road.

Vidrine, along with his partner, David Meyer, own four pharmacies, with one in Baton Rouge and three in Lafayette.

Other recipients include Medicis in Lake Charles; Green Leaf Dispensary in Houma; and H&W Drug Store in New Orleans.

Patients qualified for medical marijuana suffer from these conditions: cancer, HIV, AIDS, Cachexia (wasting syndrome), Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, epilepsy, spasticity or seizure disorders.

and City-Parish Recreation Advisory Commission members.

Mayor-President, SLCC to Work Towards New Training Course South Louisiana Community College (SLCC) may be getting resources to train electrical linemen following the passage of an ordinance by the Lafayette CityParish Council.

The council voted 8-0 to allow Mayor-President Joel Robideaux to enter the agreement with the twoyear college to create a lineman training course. The agreement stipulates that LCG will work with SLCC to create an underground facility yard, pole climbing yard and a bucket and line truck. The cityparish government will also, under the agreement, help SLCC find manufacturers and material supply representatives to possibly obtain donations, materials or discounted rates for the council.

In return, SLCC would provide a training yard, instructors, class materials, and classrooms appropriate for the course.

The ordinance passed referenced a “shortage of trained electrical linemen” and noted that the trend could pose a threat to “public welfare and safety.”

City-Parish Council Votes To Cut Free Golf for City Tapped As 4-Year Home Officials to Songwriters The Lafayette City-Parish Council Festival voted unanimously to eliminate free golf for city officials.

The resolutions axes the fee exemption that city officials were granted for the city’s golf courses.

Non-official golfers are required to pay cart and green fees, which vary by course. The resolution, introduced by District 3 Councilman Kenneth Boudreaux, mentions all “at-cost recreational facilities.”

It also specifically mentions the council members, mayor-president

Come May; Lafayette will be a temporary home to seasoned and burgeoning musicians alike as part of the South Louisiana Songwriters Festival and Workshop.

The event, a five-day event dedicated to challenging lyricists to partner up with unconventional colleagues and create original work, the SOLO Festival culminates with a weekend of songs from May 26-27 at Warehouse 535 and the

Blue Moon Saloon. In addition to the live performances by unusual collaborations, the festival will also feature traditional solo and group performances, as well as sessions curated by Barry Ancelet, Ph.D.; Herman Fuselier; and Christiaan Mader.

Before that, however, workshop participants will spend days creating songs and evenings performing them for their fellow contestants for a chance to refine their work. The event’s Thursday evening performances will feature original songs that defy genres and stereotype.

Performers set to perform include Marc Broussard, Louis Michot, Zachary Richard and Kimmie Rhodes.

Organized by the Buddy Holly Educational Foundation, the festival has two components: one of a workshop, and the other a festival celebrating the lyrical fruits of their labor. Lafayette Mayor-President Joel Robideaux said during his annual report that the city was selected among other musically inclined cities such as Austin, Texas; Los Angeles; and Nashville.

Kate Durio, Robideaux’s assistant who spearheads the CREATE initiative, described the festival as a “big win” for the region’s music community.

“The fact that it’s a four-year commitment really shows some sustained investment,” she said after the Robideaux Report.

terminate its partnership with the state in operating UHC if the state does not appropriate full funding by the end of the anticipated second special session.

“The continued reduction in funding for UHC makes its operation untenable and creates systematic risk for our not-for-profit, community-owned health system,” said LGH President David Callecod in the news release.

The health system, which oversees hospitals and clinics in nine Acadiana parishes, operates UHC under agreement with Louisiana State University and the state.

University Hospital and Clinics is home to the Graduate Medical Education training programs and employs more than 800 staff members.

Before LGH assumed responsibilities for UHC in 2013, LSU operated state charity hospitals in the state as training sites for residents and fellows. The facilities offer free and reduced charity care for people who meet financial eligibility requirements.

Last year, UHC saw more than 54,000 patients and conducted more than 149,000 clinic visits. According to the Lafayette General website, LGH has contributed more than $1 million into UHC for various upgrades and new equipment for surgical imagery and cardiac testing. Lafayette General Health has invested over $11.5 million into improvements.

Cuts in State Funding May Force LGH to Close University Hospitals and Clinics

LUS and LUS Fiber Director Terry Huval Announces Retirement

The future of University Hospital and Clinics continues to hang in the air as Lafayette General Health took its first step towards shuttering the institution Tuesday, April 3.

Lafayette General Health announced its intent to close UHC June 30 in a letter to Gov. John Bel Edwards and LSU’s governing board.

The letter stated that LGH will

Huval, who announced his retirement date as Oct. 31, was instrumental in the establishment of LUS Fiber. He said in a Lafayette City-Parish Government press release he is leaving at “the height” of LUS Fiber’s success, and while LUS “is an industry leader in reliability and customer service.”

His tenure marks the longest a utilities director has served in LUS’

May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

history, having served under four mayor-presidents.

“Simply put, Lafayette is a better city because of Terry Huval’s service,” said Mayor-President Joel Robideaux. “LUS and LUS Fiber are both shining examples of his successful leadership and strengths as a director.”

Huval said he made his announcement in order to help Robideaux with the transition.

BreauxBridge

Bayou Teche Bridge in Breaux Bridge to Remain Unnamed

Scott

City of Scott Grants Ordinance Variance to Fright Trail The Scott City Council granted Fright Trail a variance to the Noise Ordinance Section 14-27 for the month of October. Rich Hanf, Fright Trail owner, spoke about safety along the trail, as well as measures being taken to prevent incidents.

Fright Trail is a twenty-acre haunted trail experience located on Cameron Street in Scott.

her family. In October 2017, she was honored at a Carencro City Council meeting with a declaration as the “Oldest Living Carencro Resident.”

She was laid to rest on April 21, 2018.

Iberia

Students Required to Carry Clear or Mesh Backpacks for 2018-2019 School Year

Diocese Celebrates Centennial in Abbeville

Members from multiple churches around the city celebrated the 100year anniversary of the formation of the Diocese of Lafayette at St. Magdalen Catholic Church in Abbeville.

The event featured performances by the Vietnamese, Hispanic and St. Mary Magdalen choirs and students from Mount Carmel School who welcomed the procession on the walkway outside of the church.

On April 13, 1918, the Apostolic Delegate made a formal decree to a Diocese of New Orleans administrator to erect the Diocese of Lafayette.

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PARISH NEWS

The Breaux Bridge City Council decided that the area’s iconic bridge over the Bayou Teche will remain unnamed after suggestions were made to rename the bridge in honor of a late councilman.

The city council decided at the April 10 meeting against naming the bridge in honor of longtime councilman Gary “Bimmie” Champagne, who passed away in March. Champagne was instrumental in the support and upkeep of the bridge.

Instead of renaming the bridge, the council will honor Champagne with a plaque near the bridge.

Carencro

Oldest Living Carencro Resident Dies The oldest living woman in Carencro has died at 105.

Ozeta Carmouche Woods, a lifelong city resident, passed away at the Evangeline Oaks Guest House, where she had lived since she was 96.

Mrs. Woods was a homemaker and loved baking and spending time with

Come the 2018-2019 school year, middle and high school students in Iberia Parish schools will be required to tote clear or mesh backpacks following a vote by the school board.

Officials described the rule as a safety measure for public schools.

Tete Bayou Repairs Greenlighted The New Iberia City Council voted unanimously to enter into a supplemental intergovernmental agreement with Sewerage District No. 1 to repair the Tete Bayou Wastewater Treatment Plant detention pond.

The Tete Bayou Plant is owned jointly with Iberia Parish’s 1st Sewerage District and treats a flow of 2.5 million gallons per day.

Jeanerette Mayor, Iberia Parish Councilman, and Other Family Members Surrender to Authorities Jeanerette Mayor Aprill Foulcard, along with her brother Berwick Francis, a councilman in Iberia Parish, their sister Antigone Anthony, and mother Jacqueline Francis turned themselves into the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff ’s Office on April 16th.

The four were indicted by a 19th judicial district grand jury on multiple charges ranging from Medicaid fraud, racketeering, conspiracy to commit forgery, money laundering, and filing and maintaining false public records for business dealings with JABA Enterprises; a home-health company owned in part by the Mayor and other family members.

Auditors in February found that employees with JABA recorded nearly 800 hours that were not actually worked, as well as more than $1 million paid directly to Medicaid instead of to the state.

JABA allegedly submitted more than 275,000 claims to the state under Medicaid totaling more than $18 million. The investigation was triggered by the high rate of rejections of the claims — about 20 percent of the claims totaling around $2.6 million.

If convicted, all four face up to 142 years in prison and up to $1.2 million in fines.

The state has appointed David Greer, formerly the town’s fiscal administrator, as interim mayor.

Send your company news, press releases, and new hires to News@ MyParishNews.com

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PARISH NEWS

May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

COMMUNITY AFFAIRS

DISCOVER LAFAYETTE: Lafayette Police Chief Toby Aguillard Community Builder and Man of Faith

On a recent edition of Discover Lafayette, an audio podcast hosted by Jan Swift, Lafayette Police Chief Toby Aguillard graciously opened up to share his career path which led him to Lafayette in November 2016.

The interview may be heard at www.discoverlafayette.net.

As a student at St. Joseph’s Seminary College, a Benedictine college and monastery in Covington, Lafayette Police Chief Toby Aguillard wasn’t always focused on a career in law

enforcement. Growing up with “the best pastors in the world, phenomenal men of God,” he initially felt called to study theology.

During summer breaks, however, he worked as a part-time deputy for Cameron Parish Sheriff Sono Savoie, and his interest in law enforcement was piqued. Aguillard realized his true calling was law enforcement, and he’s never looked back.

A friendship with legendary attorney J. B. Jones led Aguillard to understand that a career in law was also a ministry.

Jones helped Aguillard navigate the path into law school; he studied at Southern University Law Center while working as a patrol deputy for the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff ’s Office.

Aguillard returned home after law school graduation to serve as an assistant DA in Cameron Parish and established the 38th Judicial District’s first crime victim assistance program.

He missed Baton Rouge, however and

yearned to return.

A chance meeting with Louisiana Attorney General Richard Ieyoub at a silent retreat at the Jesuit Spirituality Center in Grand Coteau led to Aguillard being hired as a special agent at the Louisiana Department of Justice. He served dual roles as prosecutor and investigator and was the only lawyer “walking around with a gun on his hip” as he jokingly recounted.

While at the Louisiana Attorney General’s office, Aguillard was a founding member of the High Technology Crime Unit. Aguillard credits Ieyoub for his far-sightedness and early understanding that the proliferation of cell phones would transform the manner in which crimes are perpetrated. The AG’s office took steps to effectively combat the consequences of digital media in criminal activity and Aguillard served as the first commander of the Louisiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. This service led to his niche in prosecuting and deterring online sexual exploitation of children.

Aguillard served as director of the Internet Crimes Division of the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff ’s Office immediately prior to his appointment as Chief in Lafayette.

Warm-hearted and humble, Chief Aguillard jokingly says that he has taken the road less traveled. Yet, he is serious when he affirms his belief that maintaining the trust of the entire community is crucial to preventing and solving crimes. His faith remains with him, step by step, in ensuring that all citizens receive the justice to which they are entitled.

Continuing the community outreach program initially begun under Deputy Chief Reginald Thomas, officers walk

door to door to meet with residents, which has gone quite well. In fact, Chief Aguillard recently received a call from a British member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police to inquire about Lafayette’s walking program. The force is also receiving more training on how to deal with mentally ill people and de-escalate situations before they lead to deadly outcomes. Each uniformed officer is outfitted with a body camera to help document interactions with the public.

In closing, Aguillard shared effective ways to protect yourself. First, lock your possessions up! Whether it’s your vehicle or your home, thieves look for easy targets. Make it hard on them by taking a moment to double-check your locks. Take your gun out of your car so it’s not targeted for theft. Don’t use your cell phone while driving or walking around; people get hit by cars while distractedly crossing the street, especially on UL’s campus. And last, if you see a crime or witness suspicious activity, pick up the phone and dial 911.

We can all make a difference working together.

Jan Swift is host of Discover Lafayette, an audio podcast focused on the people and rich culture of Lafayette, the Gateway to South Louisiana. www.discoverlafayette.net.

A n attorney experienced in government and commercial law, she is affiliated with Swift & Rhoades, LLP. Jan most recently served as Executive Director of Upper Lafayette Economic Development Foundation.

May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

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PARISH NEWS

Hospice of Acadiana Selected as 1 of 15 Sites in Country to Assist with Understanding of Advanced Care Planning Hospice of Acadiana Working with Penn State University Research Project Funded by the John & Wauna Harman Foundation

April 18, 2018 (Lafayette, LA) - Hospice of Acadiana has been selected as one of 15 research sites across the country to join in a nationwide project to conduct a community game event, The Hello Project. The event will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Broussard, in May. The project will engage participants about what matters most when it comes to making decisions about critical health issues.

Karl Broussard, CEO of Hospice of

Acadiana, shared the significance of this event. “In utilizing a game concept, people are immediately more at ease. This format takes what can be a challenging topic for many and breaks it down into practical questions that often arise when discussing advanced care planning – ultimately making it more meaningful.”

Advance care planning can be difficult, but it is necessary. The Hello game day event will bring people together for an enjoyable discussion about living well, and quality end-of-life care. It is the perfect first step to advance care planning, and every participant will leave

with information that gives them the opportunity to continue the conversation with their family, friends and loved ones.

This Hello event, and others across the country, is supporting a study led by Lauren Jodi Van Scoy, M.D. at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, through her research program, Project Talk. Hospice of Acadiana will also host a focus group following the game activity as part of the research project.

“Our goal is to educate the community and help get the conversation started,” according to Mary Bergeron, Project Manager and Director of Public Relations for Hospice of Acadiana. “These decisions can sometimes be quite challenging. The game format puts people at ease and helps build confidence in having these hard

conversations.”

Hospice of Acadiana, established in 1983, is Louisiana’s oldest hospice and palliative care provider, and the only non-profit provider in Acadiana. As a non-profit provider, patients receive all of the care they need, regardless of the cost or their ability to pay. HOA also offers several programs and services to the community at-large free of charge, including: Grief Counseling, Loss and Transition Workshops, Camp Brave Hearts, Pet Peace of Mind, and the “We Honor Veterans” Program. For more information contact Mary Bergeron, 337-232-1234 or mbergeron@hospiceacadiana.com.

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PARISH NEWS

May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

PEOPLE IN BUSINESS

Realtor Sylvia McLain is proud to announce Lexi Langlinais as the newest member to her team.

Lexi and the McLain’s relationship Paul A. Fontana, OTRL, FAOTA has

Keller Williams welcomes Justin

With continued positive and exciting

accepted an appointment by Gov. John

Thibodeaux to their family of real estate agents.

Justin Thibodeaux was born and raised in St. Martin Parish. He is a 35-year-old family man married to a beautiful wife, Julie, and they have two beautiful daughters. Raised in the service industry since he was 5 years old helping in the family’s grocery store, he has enjoyed working with and helping his community in all his business endeavors. His love of homes started years before when buying his first home and remembering the joy and sense of freedom home ownership brought. When he is not buying and selling homes for his clients, he enjoys remodeling a 100-year-old farmhouse for his growing family, jujitsu, woodworking, and farming. He is a realtor at Keller Williams, the world’s largest real estate franchise.

To contact Justin email justinthibodeaux@kw.com. *Justin Thibodeaux is licensed in the State of Louisiana. Keller Williams, Broker – Lafayette, LA - 337-735-9300

change for our team at Standard Title,

Bel Edwards to serve a five year term on the Louisiana Professional Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors Board of Examiners. Mr. Fontana, an Abbeville, LA native and LSU graduate, is owner and President of The Center for Work Rehabilitation, Inc. at The Fontana Center in Lafayette and the CWR Clinic in Houston.

Throughout his 40 year career in occupational therapy Paul has served on many local, state, and national boards and associations in the fields of rehabilitation and political advocacy.

He is past recipient of The American Occupational Therapy Association’s Lindy Boggs Award. Paul’s work at The Center for Work Rehabilitation leads his profession in the field of Work and Industry with his programs in injury prevention, return to work after injury, ergonomics, work hardening and rehabilitation. He is recognized in local, state and federal courts as an expert witness in his field. In 2017 Mr. Fontana was recognized and listed among The American Occupational Therapy’s Top 100 Occupational Therapists in the

we are proud to announce the expansion of our title and escrow services into the New Iberia market. We are honored to have the opportunity to partner with David Groner, a prominent and respected member of the Iberia Parish Bar Association and valuable community leader and volunteer. David has successfully run a professional real estate closing office for several years in New Iberia and we feel his personality and legal abilities are a perfect match for us at Standard Title.

David has been recognized by Louisiana Life Magazine as “Super Lawyer” in Louisiana and has been included in “Million Dollar Advocates Forum” for his success in large jury verdicts. He is currently serving as Trustee for Louisiana Public Facilities Authority and has served as Trustee and Chairman of the Board of Iberia Medical Center as well as Chairman of the Iberia Industrial Development Foundation.

Groner is married to his wife Carolyn, and they reside in New Iberia.

Along with the expansion into the New Iberia market we are looking forward

profession’s 100 year history. Fontana

to the grand opening of our brand new

and his wife, Rose raised their four

state-of-the-art facility in May. This

children in Lafayette and when not

growth allows us to provide Acadiana

working, enjoy spending time with their

with the finest real estate closing facilities

five grandchildren.

along with making our quality of service

Something on your mind!

We want to know, email Editor@MyParishNews.com

available throughout our area.

began while Lexi was a leasing specialist for a modern development, the Cottages. Lexi’s dedication and hard work was quickly noticed, and soon after, Sylvia McLain and her partner, Cody Musgrove, entrusted her as their transaction coordinator. Once Lexi also mastered that role, McLain and Musgrove decided she would make a great addition to their real estate team.* McLain says, “We are constantly striving to provide the most accommodating and professional service for our clients. Due to the growth that Cody and I have experienced this past year in our Professional Realtor® Group, the need to expand was inevitable. We are so happy and proud to welcome Lexi Langlinais as our newest associate realtor. Lexi’s experience and ethical values are exceeded only by her enthusiastic personality! Welcome to the Professional Realtor® Group, Lexi!”

With Sylvia’s years of experience and knowledge in the real estate industry, Cody’s marketing expertise, and now the attributes of Lexi, there is no doubt that this team will accomplish great things in the future.

For additional information visit www.sylviamclain.com *Team members are licensed real estate agents in Louisiana. Van Eaton & Romero (Latter & Blum), Broker – Lafayette, LA - 337-233-9700.

May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

11

PARISH NEWS

Acadian Ambulance CEO Donates $50,000 Matching Donation Through South Louisiana Giving Day to Support St. Pius Elementary Students LAFAYETTE, LA – Elaine and Richard Zuschlag of Lafayette have made a matching donation of $50,000 through South Louisiana (SOLA) Giving Day to support the St. Pius Monsignor Richard von Phul Mouton Scholarship Fund. The couple is encouraging the community to match their donation and fundraise an additional $50,000 for the scholarship fund by visiting www. southlouisianagivingday.org/stpius.

The fund will provide scholarships to students who attend St. Pius Elementary School in Lafayette.

The St. Pius Monsignor Richard von Phul Mouton Scholarship Fund has been established as a lasting tribute to Monsignor Mouton to encourage families of St. Pius X Church Parish to give their children the gift of Catholic education. The scholarship will be awarded annually to parishioners of St. Pius X Church Parish who are actively involved in ministries of the church and who are dedicated to family faith formation and are leaders in ministry and service.

“Monsignor Mouton was a great friend and mentor to the Zuschlag Family,” said Richard Zuschlag, chief executive officer of Acadian Ambulance Service. “He was a strong advocate for the improvement and expansion of catholic education in our diocese.

My family is honored to build upon his legacy by partnering with St. Pius Elementary School to establish the Monsignor Richard von Phul Mouton Scholarship Fund,” he said.

SOLA Giving Day will be held on Thursday, May 10 and begins at midnight and ends at 11:59:59.

SOLA Giving Day is a 24-hour online fundraising campaign for nonprofit organizations, churches, and schools throughout Acadiana.

More than 130 nonprofit organizations, churches and schools are participating in SOLA Giving Day. Their purpose is to raise funds for a specific cause, a program or to provide free services to the community.

Donors can schedule their donation today through May 9. Or, donors can make an online contribution during the

Richard Zuschlag

day of giving on Thursday, May 10 by visiting www.southlouisianagivingday. org. All donations are tax-deductible.

Any donors who have a Donor Advised Fund at Community Foundation of Acadiana (CFA) can make a donation through an interfund transfer. The donor can make this request by emailing Katie Lahey at donorservices@cfacadiana.org.

South Louisiana Giving Day is a project of Community Foundation of

St. Pius Monsignor Richard von Phul Mouton

Acadiana. CFA is a tax-exempt, donorcentric, entrepreneurial foundation whose core purpose is building legacies and improving communities by connecting generous people to the causes they care about. CFA has realized cumulative gifts exceeding $225 million and has made cumulative grants of over $107 million. Learn more at www.cfacadiana.org.

Rotolo’s Craft & Crust Takes Home Gold During the 2018 World Pizza Games BATON ROUGE (April, 2018) – Rotolo’s Craft & Crust’s Vice President of Research & Development Mitch Rotolo Jr. has trained under pizza masters in Italy and has helped create the scratch kitchen creations that made Rotolo’s a household favorite.

So, it comes as no surprise that Rotolo Jr. won more events than any other competitor and for the third consecutive year he won the Fastest Dough Stretch Competition during the World Pizza Games. Representing the Baton Rougebased pizzeria known for its good food, good vibes and no bullsh*t, he competed against pizza connoisseurs from across the world and won honors in three of the five competitive events: Pizza Triathlon (Gold), Fastest Dough Stretch (Gold), and Fastest Box Folding (Silver).

The World Pizza Games are an Olympics-style competition for Pizzaioli. It’s a two-day battle that brings energy and excitement to the International Pizza Expo – the largest pizza show in the world.

“I’ve been competing in the World

Pizza Games for six years, so it’s always something that I really look forward to each year,” said Rotolo Jr., member of the World Pizza Team. “I train for these events throughout the year because I’m representing my amazing city, so it’s important that I succeed. This year, I had the honor of representing our new prototype – Craft & Crust – which was exciting because it created great brand exposure. It’s an awesome experience because you get to meet people from all over the world that share the same passion for pizza. I look forward to continuing to compete for many years to come.”

Rotolo’s Craft & Crust menu features 34 beers on tap and new options like the Chicago Style Deep Dish and the 13inch Stone Crafted Pizzas cooked at 600 degrees in an Italian stone deck oven.

Several of these new pizzas have won international awards. The Figgy Piggy – pulled mozzarella, fig spread, prosciutto, gorgonzola, shaved asiago, oil and balsamic reduction – recently took home the gold medal during the Food Network’s “Pi Champions Challenge.”

Mitch Rotolo Jr.

The new menu also includes a variety of salads, hot and cold sandwiches, Italian entrées and its famous calzones to satisfy all palettes.

For more information, visit Rotolos.com

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PARISH NEWS

May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

BUSINESS BRIEFS

MERCEDES-BENZ OF LAFAYETTE NOW OPEN

Take a little trip down Johnston Street past the Acadiana Mall, and you will see the newly opened Mercedes-Benz of Lafayette dealership. This dealership is Louisiana’s only AMG Performance Center for high-end, high-performance Mercedes-Benz cars. At 35,000 square feet, the facility is one of the most modern and advanced dealerships in

the country. Headed by Sharon Moss and backed by an incredible sales and service team, the new Mercedes-Benz of Lafayette carries the latest models of Mercedes-Benz and offers a wide range of Certified Pre-Owned Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Visit their new location today or view it online at www.mboflafayette.com.

Meche’s Donut Opens Pinhook Road Location

Rickey Meche’s Donut King, a local favorite since 1968, recently held their Grand Opening for their newest location at 2025 W. Pinhook Road in Lafayette.

This location is one of three franchise/ licensed locations owned by the Lim family who also own the Kaliste Saloom and Youngsville locations.

Louise Lambert, General Manager for the new location, tells Parish News that business has been booming since opening and that they have seen a huge influx of

new business from Waitr orders.

Patrons can expect the same sweet treats and hot glazed donuts they have become accustomed to at all of the Meche’s Donut King locations, along with fried boudin balls, boudin rolls, kolaches, and their famous King Cakes.

Most locations open at 5 AM. For additional information visit them online at www.rickeymechesdonuts.com.

Nimlok Louisiana Becomes VOXX Exhibits

New company offers customized interactive experiences

Nimlok Louisiana, a Lafayette-based business providing exhibit solutions and design, storage options, and trade show services for more than 13 years, is now VOXX Exhibits. The re-named company continues to offer custom exhibit experiences and strategic consulting, but has expanded into providing emerging technology services to festivals, concerts, and balls, along with consumer interactive environments for retail businesses as well.

The name change and expanded offerings into retail and festivals are part of a multi-phase, multi-year strategic digital transformation for the Louisiana-based company led by CRRNT, a Seattle-based accelerator agency. Rooted in the Latin word for “voice,” VOXX’s mission is to bring to life the unique voice of each business through strategically leveraging emerging technologies, like virtual reality, artificial intelligence, augmented experiences, as well as interactive retail

and large-format video installations.

VOXX amplifies the unique voice of brands by creating unique, dynamic environments for retail, exhibits, and festivals. The company offers a range of strategic and creative services including custom design, multi-touch, and video with smart animated content.

“We create interactive experiences intended to ignite emotional connections between customers and brands by helping them cut through the noise and stand out,” said President and CEO Bill Carney.

Carney purchased VOXX Exhibits from Casey Hoyt, who along with a committed team of employees and family, has helped grow the business for more than a decade.

VOXX will be hosting a series of technology and industry trend events in the coming months focused on sharing the latest technologies and interactive experiences available to local and regional exhibit, retail and festival partners who want to stand out in an ever-changing marketplace.

To learn more, visit www.voxxexhibits.com.

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May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

PARISH NEWS

13

Super 1 Foods Announces Opening Dates for Acquired Winn-Dixie Stores Brookshire Grocery Co. has announced details for the opening of Super 1 Foods stores in former Louisiana based Winn-Dixie locations in Breaux Bridge, Crowley, New Roads, Franklin, Rayne, Abbeville, and Eunice.

In a story we published in March, Brookshire Grocery, who owns and operates Super 1 Foods announced the acquisition of eight Winn-Dixie locations in Louisiana.

The Winn-Dixie stores closed on Saturday, April 21, to transition the locations to the Super 1 Foods banner.

The locations in Breaux Bridge, Crowley, Franklin, New Roads and Rayne reopened as Super 1 Foods stores on April 26, at the following locations: • 924 Rees St., Breaux Bridge • 2004 N. Parkerson Ave., Crowley • 204 Northwest Blvd., Franklin

• 420 Hospital Rd., New Roads • 1411 The Blvd., Rayne The Super 1 Foods stores in Eunice and Abbeville will continue to operate in their existing locations until Thursday, May 3, when they will reopen at 2210 Veterans Memorial Drive in Abbeville and 1800 W. Laurel Avenue in Eunice.

The pharmacies in Crowley, Breaux Bridge, New Roads, Eunice and Abbeville will continue to operate daily in their original locations during the brief conversion process.

The Winn-Dixie store in New Iberia has consolidated with and relocated to the Super 1 Foods store at 939 S. Lewis Street. Prescriptions from Winn Dixie have been transferred to Super 1 Foods.

Official grand opening celebrations are being planned for this summer and will include special promotions and

events. The new locations will remain open during renovations later this spring, which will be scheduled to have minimal impact on customers.

“We are very excited to welcome the employees who have joined us from Winn-Dixie, and we look forward to serving customers in these stores,” said Brad Brookshire, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for BGC. “Customers

will recognize many friendly faces, and we truly hope they will enjoy our everyday low prices, unexpected value, great variety of quality fresh meats and produce, and clean stores.”

The Super 1 Foods stores will operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

For pharmacy hours and additional information, visit super1foods.com.

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PARISH NEWS

May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Walk-On’s Ranked #1 Among Fastest-Growing Full Service Chains

BATON ROUGE, La. Following a record-breaking year of franchise expansion, Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar has captured the top spot in two categories of Technomic’s 2018 Top 500 Chain Restaurant Report.

The Baton Rouge-based brand known for its unique “taste of Louisiana” was ranked No. 1 among the fastest-growing Full-Service U.S. Restaurant Chains under $200 million in annual sales, as well as in the Full-Service Sports Bar category. Walk-On’s grew by 84.8 percent in year-over-year sales and 77.8 percent in total U.S. units.

“We didn’t set out to be the fastestgrowing restaurant in our category, but we’re awfully proud to have achieved that level of success,” said Brandon Landry, Walk-On’s Enterprises Founder and Co-Owner. “We have been extremely selective in choosing our franchise partners, and that has paid dividends in so many ways. We also know that

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truly set us apart from the pack.”

To underscore the elevated nature of

its menu, Walk-On’s also recently won Nation’s Restaurant News’ coveted Menu

Masters Award for “Best Menu Line Extension.” The award called out the chain’s “new kids’ items, signature drinks and distinctive dishes that highlight its Cajun heritage, including a crawfish BLT salad, venison chili nachos, and po’ boy sandwiches with protein options including catfish and alligator.”

“We’re about to open our 20th restaurant, and we have several more in the works to open this year and next,” said Scott Taylor, President & COO of Walk-On’s Enterprises. “We hope to continue this momentum and would be thrilled to make the fastest-growing list again next year.”

Walk-On’s now has 19 locations: four in Baton Rouge, two in New Orleans and San Antonio, and one each in Lafayette, Houma, Shreveport, Lake Charles, Covington, Broussard, Alexandria, Gonzales, and Bossier City, La., and Lubbock and Tyler, Texas.

Other locations are coming soon in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee and Texas, with several additional markets across the Southern U.S. likewise on the drawing board.

New Orleans Saints superstar Drew Brees and his wife, Brittany, bought in as co-owners in May 2015. Drew pointed out that Walk-On’s is “a great place to bring my family, teammates and business colleagues” and that they were excited to help “expand the brand across the nation.”

For a complete menu and more information, visit walk-ons.com.

May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

15

PARISH NEWS

Shore Capital Partners and Hulin Health Announce Partnership LAFAYETTE, La. - (BUSINESS WIRE) - Shore Capital Partners, a Chicago-based private equity firm focused on the healthcare industry is pleased to announce an investment in Hulin Health, LLC (“Hulin” or the “Company”). Founded in 2011, Hulin is a leading provider of urgent care services in Louisiana and the broader Gulf Coast region.

Shore has partnered with founder and CEO Clayt Hulin who continues to lead Hulin Health through a period of tremendous growth while also maintaining a strong commitment to clinical excellence. Clayt founded Hulin following 13 years as an emergency medicine healthcare provider and after serving in the Army Special Forces and multiple Special Operations units. The company’s services include treatment of fractures / lacerations, basic lab

work, occupational health, infection treatment, gynecological testing, x-rays and travel vaccines. Hulin operates three urgent care centers in Louisiana and plans to open four to six additional clinics in 2018 throughout the state.

Potential new markets include Lafayette, Iberia, Eunice, Opelousas, Lake Charles and Sulphur.

“We believe Shore is the ideal partner to help Hulin Health become a premier urgent care provider on the Gulf Coast,” said Mr. Hulin, who will remain as CEO of Hulin Health and maintain a significant ownership position. “From day one, we have been committed to providing a unique experience for both patients and team members. We are excited for the opportunity to bring our legendary service to new customers in more markets. Shore’s support of strategic growth initiatives and proven

expertise in partnering with familyowned healthcare service businesses is impressive. We look forward to increasing our growth through de novos and select add-on partnerships.”

In conjunction with Shore’s investment, a highly experienced Board of Directors has joined Hulin Health to help execute the company’s vision and growth plan. Joining Hulin are Cameron Perkins, an experienced urgent care operator and founder of FastMed Urgent Care; David Stern, former partner of Physicians Immediate Care and founder of Practice Velocity, a leading billing and EMR solution for urgent care clinics; Paul Rutledge, former president of HCA’s 61-hospital Center Group; Dino Eliopoulos, former CFO of MedExpress and current CEO of Behavioral Innovations; and Joe Matarese, founder and CEO of Medicus

Healthcare Solutions.

“Hulin Health is a leader in central Louisiana and we share a vision with Clayt to grow the company into the premier urgent care provider of the Gulf Coast,” said Ryan Kelley, a Partner at Shore Capital Partners. “As evidenced by their outstanding net promoter scores, the company provides customers with exceptional care and a “WOW” experience. This focus on the customer sets Hulin apart from competitors and creates an excellent foundation for growth. We are pleased to have the opportunity to work with Clayt and his team to bring the Hulin experience to more markets throughout Louisiana and surrounding states.”

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PARISH NEWS

May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

Unanimous Jury Requirement for Felonies Legislative Session at Considered by House Mid-Point but State Budget Criminal Justice Committee Woes Continue STATE NEWS

(LA Radio Network) The switch to make Louisiana juries come to unanimous decisions will face a tough test in the House Criminal Justice committee today. Currently only 10 out of twelve jurors have to agree if someone is guilty of a crime. A proposed constitutional amendment seeks to make all felony convictions unanimous.

Christie Smith is the legislative liaison for the Louisiana Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys.

“This bill seeks to install the same system that works in 49 other states and which works in in all federal courts including those in Louisiana.”

The measure has already passed the Senate, despite concerns the proposal will make it more difficult to get convictions. Smith says that’s not the case.

“The truth of the matter is… if you look at our own experience in Louisiana, in the federal system the conviction rate is somewhere in the high nineties... 98 percent or better.”

Smith also says if you compare Texas and Mississippi they both are getting their share of convictions with a standard of unanimous juries.

“A unanimous jury is not at all a bar or a barrier for reaching a verdict.

I mean, just look at Texas… our neighbors Texas and Mississippi… they don’t have any difficulty reaching verdicts or convictions for that matter.”

That House committee is made up of 10 Republicans, 8 Democrats, 1 independent.

Senate Approves Legislation to Allow Riverboat Casinos to Operate on Land

(LA Radio Network) The regular legislative session is at the halfway point, with issues like TOPS reform, gun control, and gambling expansion mostly dead, while new sexual harassment policies, tougher hazing laws, and medical marijuana expansions have received broad support. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat says the session has been bogged down by one issue “This is a really interesting session… a lot of moving parts, but most of those moving parts need revenue and we have no idea what kind of revenue we’re going to have or what kind of budget we’re going to have.”

The yearly attempt at altering TOPS hit a brick wall on the house floor, and Pinsonat says at this point legislators should just give up trying to change the universally popular program.

“Everybody has an idea how of fix TOPS and there’s lots of legislation every year and you sit there and you wonder why these people put these bills up… virtually none of them ever pass.”

Governor John Bel Edwards and Democratic lawmakers are calling on the legislature to abandon efforts to craft a budget that includes a 648 million dollar budget gap, but Pinsonat says entering a special session without a Senate approved budget would be unprecedented.

“You risk going into a special session trying to pass a budget and trying to raise revenue or pass taxes. You know, I don’t know if that’s ever been or tried.”

Lawmakers have until June 4th to wrap up the regular session.

(LA Radio Network) The Senate passed a bill 22-14 that would allow riverboat casinos expand their operations on land. Louisiana is the only state that requires floating gambling halls to keep all gaming operations over water. Franklin Senator Bret Allain says the proposal is an expansion of gaming.

But Metairie Senator Danny Martiny says the bill allows the riverboats to invest more into their properties, which will bring more tax dollars to the state.

“We’ve got an industry that’s providing us with income, thank God,” Martiny

said. “Everybody that’s against it, sure doesn’t shy away from coming to Appropriations and asking for some of that money,” said Martiny.

Opponents argue that an expansion of gaming would lead to more gambling addiction, but the Metairie Republican says gamblers will find a way to get their fix whether we legislate against it or not.

“Go back in your office, get online and you can gamble all you want and you know how much Louisiana gets out of it, NOTHING,” said Martiny.

The measure now heads to the House for more debate.

Another gaming bill which would have called for a referendum in Tangipahoa Parish to see if they would want a riverboat casino to move from Bossier City to a location near Hammond, failed on an 18-15 vote.

May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

17

PARISH NEWS

$9.4 Billion Chemical Manufacturing Plant Coming To St. James Parish Formosa Petrochemical Corp. executive Keh-Yen Lin announced the company has selected St. James Parish in Louisiana for a $9.4 billion chemical manufacturing complex and has purchased a 2,400acre site along the west bank of the Mississippi River.

Located just downriver from the Sunshine Bridge, the complex would be built in two phases and produce ethylene, propylene, ethylene glycol and associated polymers. Formosa plans to operate the complex under its subsidiary and Louisiana registered company, FG

Photo Source: Formosa Petrochemical Corp.

LA LLC, and is branding the site as “The Sunshine Project.” Pending the completion and approval of permits for the site, FG could begin construction as soon as 2019 in what projects to be a 10year building and development process in two phases.

The Sunshine Project would create 1,200 new direct jobs averaging $84,500, plus benefits. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project also would result in 8,000 new indirect jobs, for a total of more than 9,000 jobs in the River Parishes and surrounding regions of Louisiana.

“For more than 50 years, the Sunshine Bridge has connected the River Parishes in a strategic fashion that has enabled tremendous industrial growth and thousands of new jobs along both sides of the Mississippi River in Louisiana,” Gov. John Bel Edwards said. “The new Sunshine Project continues that bridge

Smoothie King Corporate Headquarters Leaving New Orleans (LA Radio Network) Smoothie King is moving its corporate headquarters out of New Orleans, and taking most of it’s 80 jobs to a new location in Dallas.

Greater New Orleans Inc. President Michael Hecht says Smoothie King owner Wan Kim, who is Korean, wanted better access to his overseas holdings.

“Dallas is really the national headquarters for food and beverage franchises and the second is flight connectivity, particularly to Asia.”

The loss of an internationally recognized, home grown company, will sting for the New Orleans area. Hecht says the direct economic impact may

be small, but…“I think these issues of prestige and optics, which are real and do matter, are actually the bigger issue here.”

It’s a setback for New Orleans which has seen some big business wins recently, but Hect says it’s not an indicator of a greater shift away from the growing city. He says the city is still on an upward trajectory.

“I call this ‘the cha-cha of progress.’

It’s two steps forward, one step back, but you make progress.”

The Smoothie King Center will retain its name.

into a brighter economic future for Louisiana, one with an estimated 8,000 construction jobs at peak, even more permanent jobs upon completion, and a multibillion-dollar impact on earnings and business purchases for decades to come. As a major global manufacturer based in Taiwan, Formosa has operated in Louisiana for several decades, and we applaud the company’s responsible and thorough approach to developing this project.”

With over 100,000 employees worldwide, Formosa Plastics Group operates three existing Louisiana facilities with 410 employees in East Baton Rouge and Pointe Coupee parishes. Years in the making, the St. James Parish complex will create one of the world’s most innovative, single-site ethylene hubs. Production at the Louisiana complex will support a host of plastic goods, ranging from sports equipment and food packaging to

Photo Source: Formosa Petrochemical Corp.

clothing and healthcare and technology products.

To secure the project, the State of Louisiana offered a competitive incentive package that would include a $12 million performance-based grant to offset infrastructure costs. Following company performance in building the complex, FG would receive the grant in four annual installments of $3 million beginning in 2021, the projected first year for hiring permanent jobs. FG also would receive the services of the nation’s No. 1 state workforce development program, LED FastStart®, and the company expects to utilize Louisiana’s Quality Jobs and Industrial Tax Exemption programs.

Lafayette Man Sentenced to 18 Months for Trying to Access Trump Taxes

Photo Source: East Baton Rouge Parish (Mugshot)

Jordan Hamlett, a former Louisiana private investigator, was sentenced in April to 18 months in prison for repeatedly trying to access Donald Trump’s federal tax information several weeks before the 2016 election.

Hamlett, 32, of Lafayette, pleaded guilty in December to misusing Trump’s Social Security number. He faced a maximum sentence of five years and up to $250,000 in fines from U.S. District Judge John deGravelles.

Judge deGravelles ordered Hamlett to report to federal prison by May 28 to begin his 18 month sentence

and ordered him to pay $14,794 in restitution.

Hamlett apologized to the court for his actions stating, “…he was trying to help and just made a bad decision which cost him everything…”

Court records unveiled that prior to the 2016 Presidential election, Hamlett used Trump’s name, Social Security number, and date of birth to open an online application for federal student aid. After obtaining a username and password, he then attempted to access IRS server systems to obtain Trump’s tax information. He made six attempts but was unsuccessful.

Federal agents confronted Hamlett in Baton Rouge several weeks before the presidential election and questioned him. Special Agent Samuel Johnson testified that Hamlett immediately took credit for his “genius idea” to get Trump’s tax returns.

It has been reported that after his sentencing, Hamlett stated he had obtained Trump’s Social Security number through a simple Google search.

18

PARISH NEWS

May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

BUSINESS & INDUSTRY

Metal Shark Delivers new Pilot Boat and Port Security Boat to the Virgin Islands JEANERETTE, LA – Louisiana-based shipbuilder Metal Shark has delivered two new custom welded aluminum vessels to the Virgin Islands Port Authority (VIPA).

The vessels, designed by Metal Shark and built at the company’s Jeanerette production facility, were recently delivered to St. Thomas and transferred to VIPA. Both vessels are now operating from the Edward Wilmoth Blyden IV Marine Facility on the Charlotte Amalie waterfront where they serve the island of St. Thomas and also nearby St. John.

The new pilot boat is a 45-foot Defiantclass monohull pilothouse vessel with a military-proven hull design and a unique deck arrangement specifically designed for pilot operations.

Additional features include a galley, enclosed head compartment, v-berth, and large walk-in mid-cabin storage compartment.

VIPA has named its new pilot boat the “George Freeman” in honor of its first coxswain, George Elwin Freeman Sr., who worked for VIPA for 33 years until his passing in 2000.

For its new port security patrol boat, VIPA selected Metal Shark’s 32’ Defiant, a proven patrol platform with over 100 units in military and law enforcement service worldwide.

Funded in part by a FEMA Port Security Grant, the vessel has been outfitted with a positive-pressure

Photo Source: Metal Shark Boats

Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and high-yield Explosive (CBRNE) crew protection system to assure safe and uninterrupted operation in a wide range of disaster response scenarios.

Powered by twin Evinrude E-TEC G2 300HP outboard engines, VIPA’s 32 Defiant port security vessel cruises at 35 knots and achieves top speeds approaching 50 knots.

“Both of these vessels offer

significant improvements over the boats they’re replacing, in terms of crew safety, comfort, and efficiency, and port operations will undoubtedly be enhanced as a result of these acquisitions,” said Carl Wegener, Metal Shark’s Vice President of Commercial Sales. “With additional pilot boats now in production, we look forward to demonstrating to pilots and port operators everywhere the many advantages a custom Metal Shark pilot boat can bring to their organizations.”

Established in 1986, Gravois Aluminum Boats LLC, and its government/commercial boat entity Metal Shark Boats are leading suppliers of custom boats for defense, law enforcement, and commercial entities.

Key customers include the United States Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force, Army, foreign militaries, law enforcement

agencies, passenger vessel operators, pilot associations, fire departments, and other operators worldwide. Under the direction of its owner/operator Allard and Gravois families, Metal Shark has produced over 600 vessels in the past three years at its two fully self-contained South Louisiana production facilities.

Metal Shark produces a wide range of custom monohull and catamaran vessels up to 250’, for more information visit www.metalsharkboats.com.

May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

Hess Donates $300,000 to LA 1 Highway Initiative

LEEVILLE, La. - (BUSINESS WIRE) - The LA 1 Coalition, today received a $300,000 grant from Hess Corporation (NYSE: HES) to help build phase 2 of the Louisiana Highway One

(LA 1) Improvement Project.

The project supports the ongoing redevelopment of Louisiana Highway One, which is located in the state’s southern Lafourche Parish. The region

MidSouth Bancorp, Inc. Reports First Quarter Results April 26, 2018 LAFAYETTE, La. - (BUSINESS WIRE) - MidSouth Bancorp, Inc. (“MidSouth”) (NYSE:MSL) today reported a quarterly net loss available to common shareholders of $450,000 for the first quarter of 2018, compared to net earnings available to common shareholders of $1.7 million reported for the first quarter of 2017 and an $11.3 million net loss available to common shareholders for the fourth quarter of 2017. The first quarter of 2018 included an after tax charge of $691,000 resulting from the transfer of loans to held for sale, an after-tax charge of $3.1 million for regulatory remediation costs, an aftertax charge of $115,000 related to the branch closures during the quarter and an after-tax charge of $70,000 for legal fees related to the bulk loan sale. For comparison purposes, the fourth quarter of 2017 included an after tax charge of $3.9 million resulting from the transfer of loans to held for sale, a $3.6 million

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charge for the write-down of net deferred tax assets as a result of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, an after-tax charge of $1.2 million for regulatory remediation costs, an after-tax charge of $512,000 resulting from the write-down of assets held for sale, an after-tax gain on sale of branches of $484,000 and an after-tax charge of $111,000 for severance and retention accruals. Excluding these non-operating income items and expenses, diluted earnings for the first quarter of 2018 were $0.21 per common share, compared to a loss of $0.15 per diluted share for the fourth quarter of 2017 and diluted earnings per common share of $0.15 for the first quarter of 2017.

Jim McLemore, President and CEO, remarked, “The first quarter of 2018 represents the first quarter of our threeyear strategic plan submitted to the regulators in November 2017. Although we are making progress on our strategic plan, progress is not yet measurable in terms of positive financial results. Our

is the gateway to energy production from the Gulf of Mexico, supporting 18 percent of the Unites States domestic oil production and 4 percent of its natural gas production.

Speaking at a ground breaking event for the phase 2 construction in Leeville, Louisiana, LA 1 Executive Director, Henri Boulet thanked the oil and gas industry for its financial support and singled out Hess Corporation for its generous contribution: “The LA 1 Coalition is extremely grateful to Hess Corporation for their recognition of the importance of Louisiana Highway One to south Louisiana, and for recognizing the value of this donation as a tool for leveraging other stakeholder participation. This represents the strong partnership that exists between our community, industry, state and federal governments to advance the LA 1 Project to completion and strengthen the resiliency of our working coast.”

Hess Corporation Vice-President for the Offshore, Gerbert Schoonman, noted that, “the highway is a critical corridor for the nation’s energy supply, and an important route for Louisiana’s seafood and tourism industries. Hess

recognizes that the upgrade of LA Highway 1 will not only help improve commerce, but also improve the quality of life for the many thousands of people that depend on this important state highway for their livelihoods.”

The significance of the highway to the national economy was confirmed in a U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) authored study in 2011, which assessed the national consequences of disruptions to LA Highway 1. The report by DHS concluded that a 90-day closure of 7.1 miles along existing atgrade LA Highway 1 could result in up to a $7.8 billion loss to American gross domestic product.

The LA 1 Coalition was established in 1997 by a group of area residents and businesses, to advocate for improving the highway system between Grand Isle and U.S. Highway 90 - an area that has been subject to severe flooding for a number of years. The goal of the group has been to see the highway rebuilt well above any possible storm surge heights.

More information is available at http://www.hess.com.

execution focus in 2018 is to reduce risk and build a solid foundation for future growth. In those terms, we are making good progress. Our focus has expanded to include addressing operational and compliance issues in addition to reducing our criticized asset levels. We are committing significant resources and expertise to accomplish this in a timely and efficient manner. In this regard, we invested approximately $3.9 million during the first quarter in remediation efforts related to our written agreement and strategic plan. These costs are consistent with our communication in January regarding the investment of approximately $10-$12 million in 2018 related to remediation efforts with costs concentrated in the first half of the year.”

28 bps sequentially to 4.17% on lower loan yields due to paydowns on higher risk loans and lower yields on FTE municipal investments • Core deposits remain at 88.3% of $1.5 billion total deposits and funding costs are low at 41 bps.

Cost of deposits increased 5 bps sequentially due to increased pricing competition for deposits • Tangible common equity to tangible assets declined 5 bps to 9.07% sequentially • Reduced branch count to 42 with closure of 6 branches to improve efficiencies, bringing total closures to 15, or 25% of branch network

Quarterly Highlights • Net loss of $450,000 for Q1 which includes $5.0 million of nonoperating charges • Bank level classified assets to capital ratio declined to 54%, down from 56% • ALLL to total loans is 2.23%, down 4 bps sequentially with no loan loss provision in the quarter due to a reduction in specific reserve allocations on impaired loans and a decrease in the overall loan portfolio • FTE net interest margin decreased

To read the full report, visit www.MyParishNews.com. Business & Industry Section

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May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

OPINION

Say No to Another Round of Net Neutrality

By Stephen Waguespack, President LABI – Louisiana Business and Industry

Many of us watched with interest this week as Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg endured hours in the Congressional hot seat, stoically defending his company’s consumer privacy protocols in the face of mounting allegations of data mismanagement. While his testimony was fairly vanilla, the real action was with the barrage of pointed questions thrown his way from various members of Congress. In fact, it was somewhat ironic this week to see Facebook feeds dominated with scrutiny of Facebook itself. For instance, a picture of Zuckerberg sitting on a bumper seat to prop himself up while testifying became even more popular on the social media platform than vacation photos and food pictures for a day or two.

While the whole circus generated a chorus of clicks, and plenty of reasons to give an “angry” face, “heart” or even a “haha,” it also raises some thoughtful questions of Congress’s role in regulating the Internet in general.

Congress is right to take a closer look at this social media network and how our data is used by all that hold it. This review must be thorough as a matter of protecting privacy, consumer welfare and national security. But Congress should also be careful not to fall into the trap of over-regulating when it comes to Internet usage.

According to a recent national Internet ranking, Louisiana ranks 23rd out of 50 states in what the survey calls “ultra-fast” Internet access. This is advanced service with speeds of one gigabyte per second – enough to download a two-hour HD movie in about the time it takes to read this sentence.

This level of speed and service is exactly what is needed to compete for investment in the new economy. Access to other high-speed tiers of service have us on par with states like Virginia, Michigan and South Carolina. This level of high-speed Internet service, especially in rural and underserved areas, helps economic and job growth, healthcare access, worker training and numerous

other market possibilities that require fast Internet service.

This momentum did not occur thanks to a heavy-handed government approach, rather; it is from a competitive and robust technological marketplace that continuously evolves each day.

This vibrant market must be protected, and any governmental efforts to throw obstacles in its path must be stopped.

One example of such a threat is a partisan attempt by some in Congress to restore one of the most damaging technological, regulatory abuses of the Obama administration.

Back in 2015, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) upended decades of successful, bipartisan policy by approving a dramatic extension of federal regulation over the Internet.

They did this in the name of “protecting neutrality,” but the results were anything but neutral. Costs rose, and so did delays in high-speed deployment. Lawyers suddenly had to weigh in on technical decisions that previously were resolved by engineers.

Even worse, in the years after the rules went into effect, the U.S. saw its first-ever decline in Internet investment outside of a recession and in 2017, broadband investment was actually lower than it was in 2015.

The pain was especially hard for rural communities where these new rules forced suppliers to cancel or scale back efforts to deploy high-speed Internet service. As a Crowley, La. Internet provider explained in a joint statement last year; the impact was to “delay buildout to unserved areas and service to small businesses and residential consumers.”

Last December, the FCC, under new leadership, agreed to cancel this federal overreach and replace it with a more reasonable approach. While thankfully cooler heads prevailed at that time and these destructive policies were rescinded, there is now once again a move afoot in Congress to restore some of these rules. The vote is apparently closer than it should be – a surprising development given the overwhelming evidence of

problems with the previous rules.

For Louisiana, restoring heightened federal control over our high-speed Internet service would be a disaster on many levels. About a third of Louisianans live in small towns and rural areas, a much higher percentage than the national average. Those residents’ ability to access the best in healthcare, education and other necessities increasingly depends on having quality high-speed Internet service. A vote in favor of restoring the overreaching rules would once again slow Internet investment and build out, negatively impacting a significant portion of Louisiana residents.

We urge our entire congressional delegation to resist any efforts to reimpose net neutrality rules.

Governmental micro-management of the Internet was a bad idea when first imposed by the Obama Administration, and it remains a bad idea today.

Consumers across the country are starting to reap the benefit of a technological evolution that stems from healthy and competitive markets rather than bureaucratic federal regulators.

The last thing the market needs is more government…which is a message everyone should be willing to “like” and “share.”

MAY 2018 - VOL. 1 NO. 4 ONLINE: www.MyParishNews.com @MyParishNews www.facebook.com/ParishNews EDITORS DESK: Editor@MyParishNews.com NEWS DESK: News@MyParishNews.com ADVERTISING AND MARKETING: 337-456-5536 Office Info@MyParishNews.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & RESEARCHERS: Caitlin Marshall, Kailey Broussard, Samantha Ronkartz, Erin Trahan, Jan Swift, Wendy Hornung, Savannah Ludwig CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Samantha Ronkartz, Caitlin Marshall , Face Media Group Staff LAYOUT & DESIGN: Greg Knight – W Knight Advertising & Design Face Media Group PUBLISHER: Flint Zerangue, Sr. Info@FaceAcadiana.com Parish News © 2018 All Rights Reserved.

Parish News is printed twice monthly and distributed free of charge throughout Acadiana. Direct mail subscriptions are available for a fee. For more information, visit MyParishNews. com or email: Info@MyParishNews.com (Subject: Subscription).

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Stephen Waguespack is the President and CEO of the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry (LABI). As the state’s chamber of commerce and manufacturer’s association, LABI is the largest business advocacy group, representing more than 2,200 business members and 324,000 employees. Under Stephen’s leadership, LABI has developed innovative research and policy initiatives as well as a number of other successful initiatives, including LABI’s Free Enterprise Program, Federal Outreach Tour, and the Emerging Leaders Council.

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May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

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EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT WEDNESDAY, MAY 2

-CRAWFISH BOIL ON THE ROOFTOP; PARC-AUTO DU CENTREVILLE GARAGE NEXT TO PARC SAN SOUCI - 6:00 PM -MERCREDI CONCERT SERIES - GREGG MARTINEZ & THE DELTA KINGS; PELICAN PARK - 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM -CAJUN JAM; BLUE MOON SALOON - 9:00 PM

THURSDAY, MAY 3

-RHYTHMS ON THE RIVER - BAG OF DONUTS; RIVER RANCH - 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM -PERFORMANCE BY THAT 90’S SHOW, A 90’S TRIBUTE ACT; THE GROUSE ROOM - 8:30 PM

MAY 3 - 6

-NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL 2ND WEEKEND; NEW ORLEANS - NOJAZZFEST.COM

MAY 4 - 6

-BREAUX BRIDGE CRAWFISH FESTIVAL; BREAUX BRIDGE BBCRAWFEST.COM

SATURDAY, MAY 5

-FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH FOOD TRUCK ROUND UP AT THE LAFAYETTE FARMERS AND ARTISANS MARKET

SUNDAY, MAY 6

-BRIDAL SHOWCASE; WILLOW WOOD PARK IN NEW IBERIA - 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

MONDAY, MAY 7

-MACBETH SCREENING: ROYAL SHAKESPEARE COMPANY; ACADIANA CENTER FOR THE ARTS - 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM

WEDNESDAY, MAY 9

-MERCREDI CONCERT SERIES - RYAN FORET & FORET TRADITION; PELICAN PARK - 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM -CAJUN JAM; BLUE MOON SALOON - 9:00 PM

THURSDAY, MAY 10

-RHYTHMS ON THE RIVER - KEITH FRANK; RIVER RANCH - 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

FRIDAY, MAY 11

-UL LAFAYETTE SPRING 2018 COMMENCEMENT AND GRADUATION; CAJUNDOME AND CONVENTION CENTER - 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

-DOWNTOWN ALIVE - MARCIA BALL WITH SPECIAL GUESTS RODDIE ROMERO & YVETTE LANDRY; PARC INTERNATIONAL 6:00 PM

MAY 10 - 12

-RAYNE FROG FESTIVAL; RAYNE - RAYNEFROGFESTIVAL.COM

MAY 11 - 13

-EL FESTIVAL ESPAÑOL DE NUEVA IBERIA “SPAIN ALIVE”; DOWNTOWN NEW IBERIA NEWIBERIASPANISHFESTIVAL.COM

WEDNESDAY, MAY 16

-MERCREDI CONCERT SERIES - HIGH PERFORMANCE BAND; PELICAN PARK - 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM

THURSDAY, MAY 17

-THOMAS RHETT: LIFE CHANGES TOUR 2018; CAJUNDOME - 7:30 PM

FRIDAY, MAY 18

-DOWNTOWN ALIVE - STEVE RILEY & THE MAMOU PLAYBOYS; PARC INTERNATIONAL - 6:00 PM

MAY 18 - 20

-MID-CITY BAYOU BOOGALOO MUSIC FESTIVAL; NEW ORLEANS THEBAYOUBOOGALOO.COM

SATURDAY, MAY 19

-MELTING POT SHOW 7: DR. C & THE GRIS GRIS, SHRUGS, NEW NATIVES, SCENIC WORLD; BLUE MOON SALOON - 9:00 PM

WEDNESDAY, MAY 23

-DUELING PIANOS WITH JULIE & BEN; THE GROUSE ROOM - 8:00 PM

FRIDAY, MAY 25

-DOWNTOWN ALIVE -DYLAN LEBLANC & THE POLLIES, JOURDAN THIBODEAUX ET LES RÔDAILLEURS; LOCATION TBA 6:00 PM

THURSDAY, MAY 31

-PERFORMANCE BY GARY CLARK JR.; ACADIANA CENTER FOR THE ARTS

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FREE ADMISSION for job seekers.

For more information visit www.lafayette.org/jobfair

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Tuesday, May 8th 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Cajundome Convention Center, Lafayette, LA

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May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

FEATURES

STRAIGHT UP:

By Wendy Hornung

Question: My boss is very emotional and I never know how to react. It makes me uncomfortable because I don’t react to things the same way at all.

How do I handle this?

Randy (IT Support Desk) Answer: Randy welcome to the

world of working with others! We are all different and it is great that you recognize you just don’t respond to things the same way as your boss. It’s hard when your boss or coworker is different from you, but I would ask you this. Are you uncomfortable because they are different, or are you uncomfortable because your

Ask a Communication Coach

boss’ emotional reactions are directed personally at you?

If your boss is having a meltdown and blaming you for problems at work, that is not appropriate. It is never ok in a professional environment to take out your frustration on others. Frankly, it is not appropriate to do that in a personal relationship either!

On the other hand, if your boss is just a passionate guy and you are not used to a person with big emotions, then you need to explore what is making you uncomfortable. It could be a personal thing to you where “emotional” people make you nervous because of a negative experience or it might be that it feels disruptive to the way you work.

If it’s the latter then you need to express to your boss how much you are glad he shares problems or frustrations with you, but you work better when you can stay focused. Ask your boss if there could be designated times to go over new challenges that have risen that need to be

Business and Personal Accounting and Tax Services

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talked about or tackled.

That does not mean you need to be more expressive any more than your boss needs to be less expressive, but you need to take steps to figure out how to handle it. Often people that are less emotional don’t easily understand the changing emotional surf of someone with a very different personality. It’s about finding a balance with mutual respect and boundaries.

Some work environments and cultures have codes about how to behave and communicate regardless of the individual’s personality, however the more fluid cultures utilize the best of everyone and are the most successful. Just remember it is never acceptable to attack or insult another person just because you feel upset.

Good luck Randy!

Question: I work at a non-profit and our Director stresses how everyone that works here needs to focused on serving others 100%, yet she treats us poorly.

She asks us to give more, do it better, and is constantly adding to our work. The staff feels burned out and frustrated, what should we do?

Burnt out on good work-Sally Answer: Sally this is a cultural

Lafayette 337.984.9717 Opelousas 337.948.4848 www.jsdc-cpas.com

Licensed in Louisiana

challenge that I see a lot in non-profits as well as businesses. My heart goes out to you because most people who work in the non-profit sector are givers! They want to help, and therefore they put their whole self and heart into what they do.

If the whole team feels the same way, it may be time to take matters into your own hands as a group. Here are a couple of ideas. When morale is low and the culture is not being properly supported, perhaps

as a group, you could all take the initiative to do a “Morale-Reset.” Plan to have a breakfast or lunch all together at work and let your boss know you are doing it and invite your boss. Don’t ask anything of your boss, but take the time to support each other.

• Put everyone’s name in a hat (including your boss) • Each person could pull one name and admire a quality that person has and how it adds to the good work of the team.

• Write these positive words and comments about each of you on a board or poster to hang in a visible area.

It might sound corny, but seriously, when do you hard working giving people stop to acknowledge what you do?

Everyone needs a battery reboot!

Sometimes people that are very task oriented in their head lose sight of the emotional energy involved in work. It might seem unfair that you and the team would have to do something else, but to course you must take a step in the direction you want to go. This is a positive move that could help shift the cultural mindset.

I hope this helps give you hope Sally!

If you have a question you would like answered here, or on my YOU TUBE channel “Wendy Hornung” email me at Wendy@wendyhornung.com.

Wendy Hornung is a business consultant offering training courses focusing on strengths and their impact on Team Building, Problem Solving, Managing Stress, and Leading Others. Wendy’s passion is helping others discover their greatest potential to create and manifest personal, professional, and business goals. Her tool box includes Gallup Certified Strengths Coach®, Educator, Equestrian Coach, Competitor, Writer, Filmmaker, Astrologer and more.

For more info call Wendy at 337-278-1274 www.wendyhornung.com wendy@wendyhornung.com

May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4

CYT

Continued from Front Page

catered by Executive Chef Ryan Trahan of Blue Dog CafĂŠ.

Evening with an Encore helps provide financial support to this local nonprofit organization that is dedicated to developing character in children through training in the arts

and by producing wholesome family entertainment.

CYT is an after-school theater arts training program for students ages 4-18.

CYT nationally has grown to be the largest children’s theater organization in the country with more than 40 locations

in 26 different cities and enrolling 18,000 students annually.

CYT Lafayette offers three 10week class sessions teaching drama, voice, dance, and specialty theatrical workshops at weekly two-hour classes.

Enrolled students have the opportunity to audition and perform in several Broadway-style musicals. CYT also offers summer camps where the kids spend a week learning musical theater skills.

For more information about CYT Lafayette, visit cytlafayette.org.

PARISH NEWS

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May 2018 Vol. 1 No. 4