Parish News - Vol. No. 3 - April 2018

ACADIANA April 2018 - Vol. 1 No. 3 Complimentary Copy

Business & Industry | Community Affairs | Events & Entertainment

COMMUNITY AFFAIRS

COVER STORY

ENTERTAINMENT

Moncus Park Groundbreaking Ceremony a Huge Success

LUS Warns of Utility Billing Scam

April 21

LAFAYETTE, LA - Lafayette Utilities System (LUS) is warning about scam phone calls being made to customers from people claiming to represent their utility company.

The scam callers threaten to disconnect electric service unless a delinquent bill is paid. The imposters then request customers to call an 800 number to make a payment over the phone.

These types of scams are constantly occurring across the country. According to the Federal Trade Commission, which works to prevent fraudulent, deceptive,

MORE ENTERTAINMENT on page 21

PAGE 20

IN THIS ISSUE:

• Community Briefs • LUS Warns of Scammers • People In Business • Business On The Grow • UL Solar Farm • Toys R Us Closing • Economic Pulse • Events & Entertainment

LUS warns Continued on page 4

COMMUNITY AFFAIRS Mail Slot

Shaquille O’Neal Supports Lafayette High School through SOLA Giving Day Lafayette, LA – NBA superstar and LSU legend Shaquille “Shaq” O’Neal scheduled a generous donation to support Lafayette High School through South Louisiana (SOLA) Giving Day. After making the announcement, O’Neal sent Rob Pool, head coach of the Lafayette High School Football program, a video with words of encouragement.

“Hello mighty Lion boosters of Lafayette, “O’Neal said. “I wanna wish you well with your fundraiser, but I may have a surprise for you. I’ll let you know.

Shaquille Continued on page 3

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PARISH NEWS

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

ATTENTION High School Students and Educators!

LAUNCH

CREATIVE IN

AR T

AND

YOUR

FLIGHT

WRITING

FACE MAGAZINE’S 7TH ANNUAL SCHOLASTICS HIGH SCHOOL ARTS & WRITING COMPETITION ~ WILL SOON BE ACCEPTING ENTRIES! ~ Competitors will be competing for prizes, college scholarships, and a chance to have their entry published in FACE Magazine.

For a complete list of rules and category descriptions visit www.FaceAcadiana.com and click the FACE Scholastics link.

SCHOOLS IN PARISHES OF LAFAYETTE,

FREE TO ENTER. The competition Includes multiple

Hope to see your work soon!

IBERIA, ST. MARTIN, ST. LANDRY,

categories in Writing (Poetry, Essay, Non-Fiction) and Art (Painting, Photography, Drawing).

THE COMPETITION IS OPEN TO ALL AREA HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ATTENDING PUBLIC, PRIVATE, CHARTER OR HOME

AND VERMILION.

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

Shaquille Continued from Front page Lafayette High guys, students, work hard. You can be whatever you want to be. Alright. I’ll talk to you soon. Bye, bye.”

The video can be found online at www.SouthLouisianaGivingDay.org/ LafayetteHighSchool.

LHS is raising funds to remodel its weight room. The cost of the project is $42,000. Lafayette Parish School System has given the school a $21,000 matching donation through the SOLA Giving Day

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PARISH NEWS event, but the school must fundraise an additional $21,000 before it can receive the LPSS matching donation.

“Shaq gave us a jump start in our fundraising efforts,” said Pool. “When I got here two years ago, there were a lot of things I wanted to fix. I want to give the students a first class experience, but remodeling the weight room was at the bottom of the list because of the renovation cost. Shaq and our school board are making this a realistic goal for us.”

You can support LHS by making a tax-deductible donation of any amount online at www.SouthLouisianaGivingDay.org/LafayetteHighSchool.

South Louisiana Giving Day is a 24-hour online, fundraising event for nonprofit organizations. The goal is to inspire the community to come together for a 24-hour period to contribute as many charitable dollars as possible to support the work of local nonprofit organizations, churches and schools.

Using a personal computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone, members of the general public can visit www.SouthLouisianaGivingDay.org and make an online donation. A donation can be scheduled from now through May 9.

Or, supporters can make a donation during the SOLA Giving Day event on

Thursday, May 10.

South Louisiana Giving Day is a project of Community Foundation of Acadiana. CFA is a tax-exempt, donor-centric, 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.

LCG seeks public input about University Ave. Corridor

Lafayette Consolidated Government (LCG), in conjunction with the Acadiana Planning Commission (APC), will hold the second in a series of public meetings to provide information and gather citizen feedback as a part of the University Avenue corridor study. The purpose of this meeting is to present alternative corridor features and design options and provide an update on the project status. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 10 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Bridge Ministry of Acadiana, located at 512 N. University Ave. Those in attendance will be asked to vote on or rank the feature and design options as the study moves towards the next phase in finalizing a plan for the corridor.

At the first public meeting to on January 29, CSRS, the consulting firm

hired to conduct the planning study and make recommendations for the corridor, participants viewed mockup renderings of possible alternatives to existing infrastructure including sidewalks, shade trees, landmark signs and roundabouts, and were asked to indicate their preferences for certain images. Approximately 120 University Corridor stakeholders, residents and business owners turned out to provide their input and hear the initial presentation from CSRS. Those in attendance were asked to share their needs and hopes for the corridor relating to recreation, entertainment and dining, housing and amenities, as well as identify areas or landmarks of significance to be preserved and highlighted.

Since that time, CSRS has been

analyzing stakeholder input on the corridor alternatives. At the April 10 meeting, attendees can expect to provide additional feedback on concepts and projects proposed by CSRS based on the results of the first public meeting. The meeting also provides an opportunity for stakeholders to hear an update on the corridor study in general.

Representatives from APC, LCG, and CSRS will be on hand to answer questions and discuss issues related to the project. The meeting is open to the public and all interested parties are encouraged to attend.

The purpose of the University Avenue corridor study is to identify opportunities to improve the transportation efficiency and mobility options of the corridor, as well as enhance its potential for economic

revitalization. The project aims to unify planning along the state highway by bringing together various efforts to identify implementation steps to happen over the next few years. The plan will span from Cameron St. to just north of I-10. CSRS will deliver the Final Report in May or June of this year, and will propose priority projects, budgets and timelines for implementation based on community feedback and corridor analysis.

Early in his administration, Lafayette Mayor-President Joel Robideaux identified University Avenue as a priority project and has been working towards the revitalization of the corridor. “The University Corridor is a crucial gateway to our community and is worthy of reinvestment. It is my hope that with renewed focus, we can begin the process of returning this area to its former cultural, social and economic status for those who live, work and travel along the corridor.”

University Avenue, also known as Louisiana Highway 182, is an important roadway that stretches from Carencro to the north to the Lafayette Regional Airport at its southern end. The corridor connects I-10, the historic Four Corners area, City Hall, the Police Headquarters, Downtown, the University of Louisiana and the Vermilion River.

For more information about the University Avenue Corridor Study visit lafayettela.gov/ComprehensivePlan/ Pages/UniversityAvenue or PlanAcadiana.org.

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PARISH NEWS

COMMUNITY AFFAIRS

LPSS to begin new city bus pilot program

For those Lafayette High Magnet Academy students who live out-of-zone, a new city bus pilot program is in the works for the 2018-2019 school year.

Lafayette Parish School System is offering an alternative busing option for students who do not live near the LPSS bus routes after the number of buses were cut down last year. This pilot city bus option would affect nearly 100 students who attend the Academy of Health Career and Gifted Program at Lafayette High School.

According to LPSS officials, the bus routes available for students are city bus routes 10, 50, and 60.

Bus vouchers will be given to students. A transfer will take place at Rosa Parks Transportation Center in downtown Lafayette where students will then board another bus which will

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

LUS warns Continued from Front page

and unfair business practices, “Scammers can use computers to make it look like they’re calling from one

place – when, in fact, they’re someplace else. If you get a call from someone telling you to make a payment via PayPal, or to buy a GreenDot card or a gift card, it’s probably a scam.”

Things LUS Customers need to know regarding scam identification: - When a payment is past due, customers are sent friendly reminders via automated calls or mailed post cards.

- Before a bill status is discussed with a customer, account verification is ALWAYS required.

- When customers speak with a Customer Service Representative, they may be given the option to pay over the phone, but that process will NEVER be performed by a live person.

- The automated methods LUS provides for our customers to pay a bill would NEVER include methods of payment such as Paypal, Western Union, or GreenDot. - If you get a call, email, text, or even a visit from someone telling you to make a utility bill payment, and you believe it could be a scam, contact your utility company on the phone number that appears on your bill, describe what happened, and report the scammers to the Federal Trade Commission and local law enforcement.

LPSS Launches E-Newsletter: Asking the Community to Help Choose Name

name Your drop them off near Lafayette High. An uniformed police officer will be on duty at the Rosa Parks Center.

These city buses are equipped with GPS devices so parents can keep track of where their children are when in route.

Cameras will also be in place, similar to LPSS buses.

Parents are being given the chance to ride the route with their children before hand to teach them how to safely and properly make the transfer.

Letters and bus vouchers are expected to be sent to students after Easter according to LPSS.

newsletter Mo n t h ly New s l et t er PREMIERE ISSUE

|

LAFAYETTE PARISH SCHOOL SYSTEM

MARCH 2018 J . WA L L A C E J A M E S E L E M E N TA R Y L I B R A R Y

The Lafayette Parish School System and school board members have asked published its first monthly electronic for help naming it. Parents who have newsletter in March to showcase the registered email addresses with LPSS, K-5 English Language Arts coaches — achievements students and teachers 6th grade students and above with Heather Deshotel, of Monica Machno, and Mandy Smith — have been working on throughout the parish. email addresses and LPSS employees flipcharts for Journeys reading lessons, grade students at J. Wallace James Elementary recently studied a which we pushed out in January. We’ve “There are so many positive andThird received their first E-Newsletter today unique twist to a literary classic. The Louisiana Association of Educators gotten positive feedback from various kicked off its Read Across America Day celebration with a wonderful reading schools/teachers on howIhelpful interesting tidbits heartheabout every with a link to offer suggestions of what of Louisiana author Shelia Hebert-Collins’ book Jacques et la Canne a Sucre flipcharts are during lessons. They (A Cajun Jack and the Beanstalk). The Louisiana Association of Educators day, both and the name should be. Dr. Aguillard says started withinside Unit 4, and Unitoutside 5 is also of thedonated a copy of the book to every 3rd Grader at J. Wallace James and provided a luncheon for the staff. now available, with Unit 6 coming classroom, “ states School Superintendent the monthly E-Newsletter will also be soon. They’ll begin working on the BOY units in May. Dr. Donald Aguillard in a recent press archived and available to the public on release. “In this day of emails and the LPSS website at www.lpssonline.com/ I N S P I R A T I O N smartphones, we decided an electronic newsletter. newsletter thethink bestyou way for everyone in The deadline for Name Your Newsletter Whether is you thecan system to see many or think you can’t,of the good things entries is April 7. The winner(s) will be weyou’re see.” right. announced later this month.

Meaux, left, LAE President, author Shelia Shelia Hebert Collins sharing her book with 3rd Since the E-Newsletter belongs toDebbie — Henry Ford Hebert Collins and Paula L. Graffeo, Librarian Graders at JWJ Library everyone within LPSS, Dr. Aguillard

SHOUT - outs!

Read across america day

celebration

and luncheon

Name your Newsletter SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS AND DR. AGUILLARD INVITE YOU TO

We welcome your input as we launch this monthly initiative to recognize and celebrate

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

Senate committee votes against making major changes to TOPS (LA Radio Network) A bill seeking to make major changes to TOPS faced opposition from LSU students. The Senate Education Committee defeated the measure to make TOPS a flat $4,000 annual award and provide additional stipends for students who perform well on the ACT. LSU Student Body Vice President Rachel Campbell says the proposed legislation would force some LSU students to leave the state.

“I’m a TOPS recipient. Without it I would not have been able to have the experience at LSU. In fact when funding was not met last year, my parents actually encouraged me to transfer out of state without looking back.”

Campbell says reducing TOPS award amounts for some students is not the way to build a strong economy.

“In order to strength the state’s workforce and the state’s crippling economy, legislators should reinvest in higher education and TOPS.” Fifty-two hundred students receive the TOPS award and Student Government President Stuart Locket

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PARISH NEWS

says this legislation would hurt a large majority of LSU students.

“It just seems counterintuitive that we are taking away money from a majority of students here at LSU.” Senator Blade Morrish proposed the legislation as a way to lower the cost of TOPS for the state. It costs an estimated $290 million dollars. He says if the legislature is unwilling to overhaul TOPS then it will continue to struggle paying for it every year.

“It’s a one year program and until we as a legislature, we need a sustainable source of income to continue this program.”

It’s still unclear if TOPS will be fully funded next fall as a budget, possibly with a one-billion-dollar shortfall, has not been approved yet.

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Drug and Alcohol Abuse: A Growing Problem for Those Growing Old (StatePoint) Misuse and abuse of drugs and alcohol among the elderly is one of the fastest growing health problems in the U.S., according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), yet it can often be mistaken for normal aging behavior.

The statistics are alarming: according to The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc., 2.5 million older adults have an alcohol or drug problem; while a SAMHSA report shows that the use of illicit drugs, combining drugs with alcohol, and the nonmedical use of pharmaceuticals, results in an average of nearly 300 emergency room visits nationwide each day for those aged 65 and older.

Despite these disturbing trends, substance abuse among the elderly often goes unrecognized and untreated.

According to “The Tough Talk: Aging Parents and Substance Abuse,” a new survey commissioned by WellCare

Health Plans, Inc., adult children of elderly parents know very little about the drugs and alcohol their parents consume, and three-quarters say it’s possible that they may not even know if their parent had a substance abuse problem, likely mistaking the signs -- such as slurred speech, dozing off and confusion -- for normal behaviors of aging.

“While family members may not feel equipped to identify an abuse problem, they are often the ones who can best spot changes in behaviors that could indicate one exists,” said Kevin Middleton, Psy.D., vice president, behavioral health, WellCare. “Given the serious consequences that overuse or abuse of drugs and alcohol can have on seniors, it’s important to look for those signs and also ask questions that will help determine if and what kind of help is needed.”

Dr. Middleton advises those with aging loves ones to be aware of the following.

• Life Changes Can Trigger Abuse:

PHOTO SOURCE: (c) Halfpoint/stock.Adobe.com

Retirement, the death of a spouse or dear friend, the loss of a pet and other significant life events, are times when the elderly are most likely to begin misusing or abusing drugs and alcohol.

• Signs of a Potential Problem: Many older people will hide their problem out of shame, and while substance abuse can mimic symptoms of other diseases, always consider the possibility of abuse if there are any major changes in behaviors, such as loss of interest in hobbies, activities or socializing, as well as changes in appetite and sleeping habits. Other signs to be aware of are noticeable memory loss, slurred speech and confusion.

• Asking Questions is the First Step: At times when loved ones appear sober and alert, start asking questions about their use of drugs and alcohol and if they think they have a problem. Speak frankly

about your concerns and the risks of substance abuse, but also be sympathetic to the difficulties with which they are dealing.

• Seek Help: If you do suspect a substance abuse problem, contact his or her health care provider and discuss the best approach to getting appropriate treatment.

Identifying substance abuse can be challenging, particularly when it comes to the elderly. However, addressing the issue quickly is critical. If you’ve detected signs of a problem, start by asking the right questions.

For more tips and information on managing substance abuse for aging parents, consult with a qualified specialists and visit WellCare’s blog at tinyurl.com/ycu6e7g2.

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PARISH NEWS

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

STATE OF AFFAIRS...

City of Lafayette

Coding enthusiasts to work towards solutions to opioid crisis Calling software developers of all ages: an event at The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is seeking inquisitive minds to create systems to address the U.S.’ opioid epidemic for a cash prize -- and some free crawfish.

Set for April 13-14 at the Cecil J. Picard Center for Child Development and Lifelong Learning, CajunCodeFest, hosted by the university’s Center for Business and Information Technology, brings developers in K-12 schools, college and the professional realm together to create innovative solutions to problems that affect both the state and the nation.

While teams build their software, the public can attend the Opioid Healthcare Summit from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. in the Abdalla Hall Auditorium.

Healthcare officials such as U.S. Sen. Dr. Bill Cassidy, state Department of Health Secretary Dr. Rebekah Gee or U.S. Rep. Clay Higgins, all confirmed to attend the summit and discuss solutions to addressing the opioid epidemic, as well as treat and prevent addiction.

Developers can work in teams of oneto-six-person teams, and contestants as young as 10 years old can participate in the 23-hour coding event. Teams may start developing software at 1 p.m.

Friday, April 13, and contestants are able to work through the evening and next morning. Developers can also enjoy a crawfish boil on the hall’s patio.

Previous CajunCodeFest events tasked participants with developing software tools for treatment for diabetes, as well as community improvement.

Voting slated for April 28

has seen growth in the creation of music

Voters in Lafayette will vote whether

McComb-Veazey’s coterie, or group of

to renew taxes for both city and parish

people dedicated to area revitalization,

services come April 28.

championed the movement. In the

Lafayette city residents will decide

past few years, the coterie has rallied to

whether to renew a 1.29-mill tax that

honor neighborhood

generates $2 million annually for street

“We are actively working towards

and road maintenance, as well as a1.92-

building wealth and building prosperity

mill tax for recreation and playgrounds

in the McComb-Veazey area, and we

maintenance and operations that

would like to continue our efforts with

generates more than $3 million a year.

the installation of our cultural district,”

The parish will be asked to renew

said coterie chair Tina Shelvin Bingham

a 1.61-mill property tax for library

to the council.

maintenance, operations and

The neighborhood, she said, hopes to

improvements, as well as a 1.92-mill tax

draft its form for approval in June.

that generates more than $2.6 million

District 4 Councilman Kenneth

annual for juvenile detention facilities.

Boudreaux said the resolution and

The taxes up for renewal generate $3.6

application would address the area’s

million and $2.6 million, respectively.

blighted, abandoned or adjudicated

parks, signage to denote Cajun and zydeco legend Clifton Chenier’s home and a community garden.

property.

“It’s a lot of work that has gone into it, and they have succeeded from that

McComb-Veazey to apply for cultural district distinction

aspect,” he said.

Lafayette city officials received the

and cultural district, as well as why the

green light to create a cultural product

distinction would not be issued to all of

district for the one of the oldest

the parish.

neighborhoods to benefit both local

“I would dare to say that every part of

artists and historic revitalization in an

Lafayette Parish tries to achieve the same

area.

goals on a daily basis,” he said.

The city-parish government voted

Boudreaux replied: “Although it may be

unanimously to apply to the state for

the desire of all of Lafayette to accomplish

the distinction, which provides sales

that, there are only certain areas of

tax exemptions from artwork from

Lafayette that have already done it.”

artists who live within the district, for

The movement was unpacked for 20 minutes in the city council chamber as District 9 Councilman William Theriot, who represents South Louisiana, questioned city officials on the difference between an historical

the McComb-Veazey neighborhood.

The neighborhood is slated to join Downtown Lafayette as the second city area designated as a cultural mainstay.

Cultural district distinctions are granted and are in effect indefinitely. Cultural districts are located in Scott, Carencro and Breaux Bridge.

In the last five years, McCombVeazey, the city’s oldest neighborhood,

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

Republic services chastised for late garbage collection

Facing a fine of over $27,500 for late or missed garbage collections, Republic Services representatives apologized to the Lafayette city-parish government and residents Tuesday.

The company collects residential garbage, recycling and yard waste in both the city of Lafayette and the unincorporated parts of the parish.

According to its contract with cityparish government, the business must pay $25 per day for each missed home.

The money will go to city-parish government’s environmental quality fund.

Republic Services General Manager Steve Sytsma said the company was short staffed but “immediately jumped into action,” bringing in emergency staff. The company, he said, is “caught up,” and collection services should be on time.

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

City of Scott

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PARISH NEWS

City of BreauxBridge

Admission Sunday - the festival’s

interview.

designated family fun day - is free.

Students will be judged on their

City police to launch burglary awareness program

Festivities include a Catholic mass, arts

community and civic involvement,

and crafts and a boudin eating contest.

financial need, educational preparation

Attendees are able to shuttle to and

and desire to attend college.

from the festival to sites such as the

Applications are live at Scottsba.org,

Holiday Inn Express off Interstate 10,

and applications are due April 1.

Scott residents may return to their

“We’re expecting a great turnout,”

One of Breaux Bridge’s largest festivals

says Rosalyn Noel, Boudin Festival

is returning to the city in a little over a

vehicles to find an orange ticket and letter on their windows as part of a city police initiative.

The city police department will increase vehicle and foot patrols in

Scott Park and KOA, a service new to the festival.

secretary-treasurer.

For more information, visit scottboudinfestival.com

City of Youngsville

City gears up for May crawfish festival month to honor the region’s mightiest crustacean: the crawfish.

The Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival, slated for May 4-6, includes

light of an increased amount of vehicle

performances by Chubby Carrier and

burglaries around Scott, as well as

the Bayou Swamp Band and Corey

Lafayette Parish, and pull on car doors.

Ledet, as well as traditional Louisiana

If unlocked, officers will leave an orange

fare boiled, fried or placed into étouffée.

door hanger that reads “Please help us

Crawfish that have not been cooked

by locking your vehicle and removing

will race, and revelers will honor the

valuable items that are visible,” or a

king and queen of crawfish in its annual

letter that states the name of the officer who detected the unlocked vehicle.

Business Association scholarship, deadline announced

Chamber of Commerce prepares for banquet

parade.

Three-day admission is $15, and admission ranges from $5-$10.

More information can be found on bbcrawfest.com.

Youngsville business owners and supporters are set to hear from Paralympic olympics medalist and world champion Mike Schlappi.

Schlappi, who was shot in his chest in a shooting accident at 14 years old, is a

Officials seek to honor late councilman in bridge refurbishments

City gears up for annual Boudin Festival

The Scott Business Association

motivational speaker, having published

is awarding three scholarships to

books such as “Bulletproof Principles

graduating seniors in the city who plan

for Personal Success” and the video “If

to attend college come fall 2018.

You Can’t Stand up, Stand out.” Schlappi

The program, which awards three

was honored by the state of Utah as one

As spring nears, so does the weekend

college-bound graduates $1,000 each,

of its Top 50 Athletes of the Century.

Breaux Bridge city officials are

will be awarded to a senior from

Tickets are available for the

looking to honor late councilman Gary

Acadiana High School and Carencro

Youngsville Chamber of Commerce’s

“Bimmie” Champagne, who died in

High School. The third award will be

eighth annual banquet at 6 p.m. April 10

early March following heart surgery.

issued to a graduate from a school of

at the city’s sports complex recreation

The bridge is up for a $1.2 million

choice or home school student whose

center.

set of refurbishments in the 2018-

of delectable Cajun delights, live music and Acadiana joie de vivre.

The sixth annual Scott Boudin Festival is weeks away from hitting the stage April 6-April 8, featuring acts such as Kevin Naquin, Geno Delafose and Keith Frank. Admission is $5 Friday and Saturday, and attendees have the option of purchasing a $45 Boudin Carnival Passport, which offers free admission and unlimited rides throughout the weekend.

parent is a Scott resident, business

2019 budget. Champagne’s campaign

owner or SBA member.

urged city officials to move the project

Applicants must submit a completed

up on the city’s list of priorities, and

application, a personal essay, an official

convinced a grassroots campaign to

high school transcript, ACT scores

raise thousands of dollars for the bridge

and two reference letters. Students

before the city overtook the project.

considered will also undergo a personal

Acadiana Strong

City officials have proposed that the

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PARISH NEWS

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

STATE OF AFFAIRS...

City of Carencro

TECHE project receives grant for more docks, educational resources

UL Lafayette’s $5M solar farm near completion

The TECHE Project received an city’s downtown bridge, for which Champagne urged city officials to save, be named the Gary “Bimmie” Champagne Memorial Bridge.

Champagne served on the council for 11 years and was not seeking re-election at his time of death.

$89,908 federal grant to install canoe and kayak docks and launches in areas along Bayou Teche, along with additional learning resources about the waterway and the communities it affects.

Fielded through the Recreational Trails Program, the grant will allow the installation of exhibits detailing the Teche’s geography, as well as stories unique to the areas along the waterway.

Roundabout under construction near St. Martinville

The Bayou, hailed as Louisiana’s most historic and culturally significant waterway, is regarded as a National Water Trail, one of only 21 in the U.S. and the only in Louisiana. The designation was made by the U.S. Department of the Interior in 2015.

The RTP is a federal program that draws funding from taxes on fuel sales for recreational vehicles and is administered by the Federal Highway Administration.

The TECHE Project, a nonprofit organization that manages the Bayou Teche National Water Trail, leads

(ST. MARTINVILLE, LA) DOTD contractors have begun construction of a $3 million roundabout near St.

programs that focus on the area’s historical, natural, scenic, recreational and cultural resources.

Martinville at the intersection of LA 31 and LA 92 in St. Martin Parish. The project is designed to improve public safety by slowing down drivers at the busy intersection. Drivers should expect delays during normal work hours. The project is expected to be completed in October of this year.

Photo credit: UL Lafayette

Although not specified.

Something on your mind!

We want to know, email Editor@MyParishNews.com

By Erin Trahan

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is nearing completion of the state’s second-largest solar facility that will reduce the university’s energy consumption by up to 10 percent and lead the way for student research into solar power.

Construction of UL Lafayette’s Photovoltaic Applied Research and Testing laboratory, stationed across six acres of land near the corner of Eraste Landry Road and Cajundome Boulevard, is slated to end in the coming weeks. It joins other institutes such as the Center for Visual and Decision Informatics and the USGS Wetland and Aquatic Research Center in the university’s 143-acre Research Park.

The $4 million facility - with an additional $1 million set aside for maintenance over the next 25 years will produce around 2,269 Megawatthours per year, according to Terrence Chambers, Ph.D., department head of mechanical engineering at UL Lafayette.

“This will be the equivalent to taking 362 vehicles off the road each year,” he said.

The project was fully funded by a grant from Louisiana Generating, LLC, a subsidiary of NRG Renew.

Chambers said the energy from the solar farm will be used to power the university’s athletic complex. This will reduce the university’s power bill, allowing for more money to be used for student educational activities.

The facility will make UL Lafayette one of the only universities in the U.S. to utilize its solar energy facilities to offset fossil-fuel energy consumption, according to a university press release.

“This will be one of the largest solar facilities in the state and the largest renewable energy project to date in Lafayette,” Chambers explained.

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

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PARISH NEWS

Discover Lafayette Focuses on Marcelle Citron, Hub City Ford

By Jan Swift

On a recent episode of Discover Lafayette, Todd Citron of Hub City Ford spoke from the heart about his family’s ties to the Ford Motor Company, their faith, and love of community. Hub City Ford is celebrating 75 years of business this year, and he traced the legacy of his grandfather, Brown Fortier, who had worked for Ford for 25 years prior to opening their dealership in Lafayette in 1943, through the years of the family’s successful run as a Ford dealer. It’s a great business story and I encourage you to visit discoverlafayette.net to hear it!

We focused a great deal of attention on Todd’s mother, Marcelle Fortier Citron, who was a beloved philanthropic force in the Lafayette area. Anyone who has had any connection with nonprofits in our area has crossed paths with Marcelle and can easily attest to the faith that compelled her to help the under-resourced in our

community. Marcelle passed away on March 3, 2018. I’d like to dedicate this article to the outstanding life she lived and the many ways she impacted our great city.

A native of New Orleans, Marcelle moved to Lafayette in the 1940’s. A product of a Catholic education at Ursuline in New Orleans and The Academy of the Sacred Heart in Grand Coteau, she dedicated her life to serving our neighbors most in need. One of her first and greatest gifts to the faith community was starting the Women’s Cursillo in Prairie Ronde in 1954.

The primary objective of the Cursillo Movement is to develop in adult Christians a consciousness of their power and mission to become leaders in the work of Christian renewal, and to sustain them as they provide a Christian leaven in civic, social and economic life.

In 1987, Marcelle founded FoodNet,

the Greater Acadiana Food Bank. She went on to found Project RX in 1989, a free prescription drug program to aid the needy. In 1990 she was honored as “Outstanding Woman” by Business and Professional Women and was also named as the prestigious Lafayette Civic Cup recipient.

An active member of the Downtown Lafayette Rotary Club since 1991, Marcelle served as a Board Member and Community Service Chairperson. She donated four Paul Harris Fellowship Grants and was named Rotarian of the Year for 1991-1992.

Other accomplishments include serving as 1993 Chair of the Monsignor Alexander O. Sigur Foundation; Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital Board Member; 2005, Jefferson Award to act as Ambassador representing Louisiana in Washington, D.C.; Ford Motor Company 2006 recipient of the “Salute to the Dealer”

award where eight dealers out of 9,000 are recognized; 2010 “Woman of Excellence” award by the Lafayette Commission for the Needs of Women; Upper Lafayette Economic Development Foundation 2012 “Philanthropist of the Year”; 2012 Lafayette General Hospital honored her as founder of the Lafayette General Auxiliary formerly known as the Pink Ladies and Candy Stripers.

Marcelle Citron lit up my life and while I will miss her dearly along with so many others who loved her, the example she provided will continue to live on. She taught me that we all have greatness inside us, waiting to be unleashed and to be used to serve others. In her memory, let us draw inspiration for our own lives, that we may make a difference in others’ lives in the way that we are particularly called upon.

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10

PARISH NEWS

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

PEOPLE IN BUSINESS at LOGA. Chase is head of membership

Clients are in capable hands with

step to become Keller Williams Real

recruitment and retention. She will

Albrecht, Keaty added.

Estate agent.

also be coordinating with sponsors and

“I’m honest and forthcoming and will

participants for all networking events.

represent myself and my clients with the

Chase will be in charge of presenting

highest standards,” Albrecht added. He

to schools and civic organizations the

said believes his determination will be a

importance of the oil and gas field as

complementary addition to Keaty’s team

part of her role as director of marketing.

of experts.

When he is not working, Albrecht is an avid outdoorsman who spends his time snowboarding, hunting, skydiving, among others. He also participates in the family business – ice sculpting.

Andre Higginbotham, former business banking relationship manager with JPMorgan Chase & Co., is now working as a commercial lender with Gulf Coast Bank. Higginbotham graduated from the University of Louisiana Lafayette with a Bachelor of

Stacy Romero has joined the

Science and has been in commercial and

Broussard Chamber of Commerce

retail banking since 2003. Andre said

as the new community development

he enjoys meeting with consumers and

manager. Romero will be utilizing her

business owners and providing them

experiences to help further Broussard.

a best in class banking and customer

A former educator, program manager

service experience.

and master trainer for the Louisiana Department of Education, Romero has The ever-growing Keaty Real Estate®

also supported around 50 schools across

has expanded its team with the addition

six parishes working with United Way of

of Tyler Albrecht.

Acadiana’s Leader in Me program.

Tyler Albrecht has been a Lafayette

Romero also opened and managed

resident for over a decade. He received

her own business ,which was rooted in

his MBA from the University of

Keller Williams Realty Acadiana has

real estate advertising and marketing

Louisiana at Lafayette while also being

welcomed a fresh face to its real estate

industry. While managing her business,

a member of the Ragin’ Cajun football

agent team.

she was awarded opportunities to

team. After graduation, Albrecht opened

Dillon Mouton formerly worked

network and connect with people

an independent property management

at Benjamin Moore Paints, where he

across Acadiana and trusted with their

company of his own.

worked one-on-one with homeowners

advertisements.

“I’ve been there. As an experienced

and assist them in the process of

real estate investor, I know what to look

choosing colors for their homes.

for and what to avoid when it comes to

Mouton said he felt accomplished after

properties,” says Albrecht. “And I want

seeing homeowners’ excitement after

Meg Chase has joined the Louisiana

to use my experience to help others

finding the perfect color.

Oil & Gas Association as director

make the right choices with regards to

“I look forward to experiencing the

of marketing and membership

one of the biggest purchases they’ll ever

same excitement when I hand someone

development. With over 25 years

make.”

the keys to their new home,” Mouton

of experience in the field of public

Keaty owner Jim Keaty said, “Aside

said. The feeling of accomplishment

relations, marketing and event

from his industry experience, Albrecht’s

helped push him into the real estate

coordinating under her belt, Chase’s

constant drive and can-do attitude make

field. Inspired by friend in the Real

skills will come into play in her position

him an ideal realtor.”

Estate community, Mouton took the

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

11

PARISH NEWS

her time management to be of no

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LAFAYETTE, LA. - IBERIABANK Corporation announced that Monica R. Sylvain, Ph.D., has joined the Company as its first Chief Diversity Officer. The new position is responsible for the company’s diversity and inclusion strategy. Dr. Sylvian will create, implement and manage programs and initiatives designed to attract and promote a diverse workforce and foster an open and inclusive work environment, as well as develop a supplier diversity policy.

“IBERIABANK has long strived to employ a workforce that reflects the markets it serves. I am excited to build upon this mission and put development programs in place to ensure we are both attracting and cultivating top, diverse talent,” said Dr. Monica Sylvain, Chief

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12

PARISH NEWS

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

BUSINESSES ON THE GROW

Sawbriar Brewery Coming to New York Bagel Company Lafayette Opens in Lafayette

By Erin Trahan

A new microbrewery is being constructed at 124 South Buchanan Street in downtown Lafayette.

Owner John Paul says he wants to “make a better beer than average,” reflected in their motto of “brewing better beer.” He hopes Sawbriar will be open for business by October of 2018.

Paul wants Sawbriar to have an “old world pub” feel while serving as a cozy community space. The taproom and the brewery will be one in the same at

Sawbriar. The venue will be 2000 square feet with a small section for live music and hosting events.

The beers will be made using local ingredients to create unique flavors. Paul hopes to have at least eight microbrews on tap at a time, which will only be available at Sawbriar and not sold at retailers. In addition to Sawbriar’s microbrews, there may be other Louisiana beers on tap. Sawbriar will not serve food, but local food trucks are invited to feed the patrons of Sawbriar!

Home Bank’s acquisition of St. Martin Bank & Trust now complete

After months of negotiations and regulatory hurdles, the merger/ acquisition of St. Martin Bank & Trust

by Home Bank is now complete, making Home Bank the third largest bank in Louisiana with an approximate $2.2 billion in assets, $1.7 billion in loans and $1.8 billion in deposits.

With systems integrations in their final stages and new Home Bank signage being hoisted at the former St. Martin Bank locations, account holders and clients are encouraged to continue using their same favorite and convenient banking location.

also partnered with Rêve Coffee and have their own specialty blend on the menu.

All bagels are made fresh daily with its offerings unchanging between Baton Rouge and Lafayette locations.

By Erin Trahan

New York Bagel Co. is now in business at 4510 Ambassador Caffery Parkway.

The New York Bagel Company brand was originally opened by a brother and sister duo who moved from New Jersey to Baton Rouge. After several years of success in the state capital, the business was sold to Jay Gomez of Baton Rouge.

Lauren Bodin and Bo Bodin, Louisiana natives, contacted Gomez to open their own New York Bagel franchise in Lafayette.

The Lafayette franchise had its soft opening March 2.

New York Bagel serves more than bagels. In addition to the classics, it carries breakfast bagels, sandwiches, croissants, bagel pizzas and bagel chips - a fan favorite. New York Bagel Co. has

La Pizzeria to open second location in Carencro A Lafayette favorite, La Pizzeria, is opening the doors to its second location.

This authentic Italian restaurant has been gracing Lafayette for the past 17 years with its traditional dishes and casual atmosphere.

With a soft opening scheduled for April 23 and plans to be fully operational within the first weeks of May, Christine Mhire, who purchased the restaurant six years ago, is ecstatic to continue to serve

her community and bring her passion for food to her new location. La Pizzeria Carencro is located at 3730 Northeast Evangeline Thruway Suite F. The layout of the new restaurant is similar to the Lafayette location but with an added, larger cocktail bar area. La Pizzeria Carencro is sure to provide patrons with the same delicious food, fun atmosphere and great dining experience.

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

PARISH NEWS

Bentley’s to open on Ambassador

By: Samantha Ronkartz

There’s a new restaurant in town!

Bentley’s is locally owned by Bentley Suire and opened up in early March. If you recognize Suire’s name that would be because he owned and operated the Filling Station that used to be located in downtown Lafayette.

Bentley’s is a beach themed restaurant and sports bar located at 3546 Ambassador Caffery parkway – where Hurricane Grill used to be. Bentley’s offers outdoor seating and bar, which is pet friendly and it features a sand pit!

Ben Zaunbrecher on the staff said

his favorite part of working at Bentley’s is that “It is a very relaxed place. Our customers come here to relax and have a lunchtime beach stay-cation right here in Lafayette.”

Bentley’s offers a complete AmericanBeach style menu, and has 24 beers on tap from basic to specialty brews, their wine is even on tap! Suire said he is planning to start hosting live music and entertainment occasionally on weekend nights.

13

Five regional banks merge to form Pedestal Bank The recent merger of City Savings Bank, Coastal Commerce Bank, Kaplan State Bank, Teche Bank & Trust and Tri-Parish Bank has allowed for the formation of Pedestal Bank.

Now, as a consolidated regional banking institution, Pedestal Bank is said to have roughly $1.2 billion in assets, with 24 locations in 11 parishes, making them one of the ten largest banks originating in Louisiana.

14

PARISH NEWS

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

STATE NEWS

Minimum wage increase and Bill to allow video cameras equal pay legislation fails on in nursing home rooms Senate floor passes House committee (LA Radio Network) Minimum wage increase, pay secrecy and equal pay for women legislation all died on the Senate floor Tuesday night. The bills are a major part of Governor John Bel Edwards agenda.

New Orleans Senator Troy Carter’s bill would have increased the minimum wage from the federal level of $7.25-per-hour to $8.00 in 2019 and $8.50 by 2020.

Carter says raising the minimum wage would reward those who chose to work, instead of living off of government assistance.

“These are people who say I don’t want your welfare, I want work for your money, I want to get up in the morning and put in a full day’s work and I want a living wake,” Carter said.

No one spoke in opposition to Carter’s legislation, but business groups have raised concerns that a higher

minimum wage would lead to fewer jobs and less opportunity for businesses to expand.

The bill failed on a 21-17 vote.

Senators also rejected two bills by New Orleans Democrat J.P. Morrell.

One of the measures would require businesses who have contracts with the state to follow equal pay policies.

Another bill defeated was one that would prohibit employers from taking action against employees who talk about how much they make.

(LA Radio Network) Despite opposition from nursing home owners, a proposal that would allow for surveillance cameras in nursing home rooms has cleared a House committee.

New Orleans representative Helena Moreno says her bill would allow an extra set of eyes on a loved one who is in a nursing home.

“I view it as a matter of safety to have peace of mind if you’re back home,” Moreno told the Health and Welfare committee.

She crafted the bill so nursing homes would not be responsible for paying for the equipment.

“The cost burden goes to the family member who wants it installed so none of the cost goes to the nursing home,” Moreno says.

Lucy Titus testified how her mother who was ninety years old and suffering from Alzheimer’s mysteriously had a

black eye.

“I contend if there had been a camera present I could have gotten her treatment much sooner than we did,” said Titus.

Several nursing home representatives filled out opposition cards, but no one spoke in opposition. The bill now goes to the full House.

AG Jeff Landry: No criminal charges We're Hiring in Sterling shooting

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(LA Radio Network) Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry has ruled criminal charges are not warranted against two white Baton Rouge police officers who fatally shot a black man during an altercation in front of a convenience store in July of 2016.

Landry’s office reviewed the evidence of the Alton Sterling shooting for nearly a year.

“Our investigation has concluded that officers Lake and Salamoni attempted to make a lawful arrest of Alton Sterling based on probable cause.”

Officers Blane Salamoni and Howie Lake were the called to the scene after receiving reports of a man with a gun.

Landry says the justifiable shooting of Sterling came after the 37-year-old failed to cooperate with the police and the encounter happened very quickly.

“It involved two officers who had good reason to believe that Mr. Sterling was armed with a firearm and he was continuously resisting.”

Landry says after the shooting, officers pulled a gun from Sterling’s pocket.

He says toxicology reports from the autopsy also showed Sterling was under the influence of illegal drugs, which contributed to his noncompliance.

“Therefore their attempt to gain control of Mr. Sterling’s hands were well founded and reasonable under the circumstances, and under Louisiana law.”

The attorney for the Sterling family, Chris Stewart, says justice was not served.

“These guys had an attitude and a behavior and operated in a culture where they thought they could be bullies, that they could take the life of this black man.”

Stewart says a civil lawsuit has already been filed against the city and the officers and they anticipate the truth will come out.

“All of America will know exactly how poor the policing was in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.”

Attorney John McLindon represents Officer Salamoni and he says they are not surprised by today’s announcement from Attorney General Jeff Landry.

“I think it is very consistent with what the department of justice found, that there was no criminal activity and this was a justified shooting.”

McLindon says the evidence is clear that this was a justifiable shooting, but no one feels good about what happened.

“No one wanted Alton sterling to be shot, especially Salamoni. He was very upset that he had to use lethal force, but he did.”

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

Uber, Lyft Gov. Releases Riding High Plan for Spending $123 Million in Surplus Funds (LA Radio Newtork) Ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft may soon be regulated by the state rather than parishes or cities in Louisiana. A bill to create statewide regulations over Uber drivers has been introduced.

Nick Juliano Uber spokesperson says we have been lagging behind other states when it comes to regulations.

“Louisiana is currently only one of five states left where regulation takes place at the local level. That means the rules for drivers and ride share companies like ourselves differ, “he says.

Currently individual parishes and cities control the Uber and Lyft rules.

This puts control of the ride share companies under the blanket of the state.

“So what the bill would do is ultimately allow companies like us to expand to every corner of Louisiana,” says Juliano.

Juliano says individual cities will no longer have jurisdiction of the cars and trucks. “it moves regulations from the local level to the state level. A locality would not be able to opt out,” says Juliano.

“Right now If you’re a driver you might be able to travel from one place but not to another. What this would do is allow us to grow state wide so no matter where you were in Louisiana you could drive anywhere and make money.”

Last year, the House of Representatives passed a similar bill but the measure died in the Senate.

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PARISH NEWS

(LA Radio Network) Governor John Bel Edwards is seeking legislative approval for his plan on how to spend 123 million dollars in surplus dollars from the last fiscal year. If he has his way, 40 million dollars of the excess would be dumped into transportation projects. Edwards says the money would be spread out across the bayou to improve critical infrastructure.

“From north Louisiana to south Louisiana we will build and replace bridges that are used by over 9,000 Louisianans every day. We will repair roads and ramps to improve traffic flow and safety” according to John Bell Edwards.

A total of 80 million dollars will be spent on “strategic investments.”

Ten million dollars would be put into deferred maintenance on college campuses. Louisiana has a few billion dollar backlog of projects that would patch up state buildings. Edwards says many higher education facilities are becoming unsafe due to years of neglect.

“I have seen first-hand the crumbling buildings washed out roads and bridges and moldy library’s at LSU, Grambling, and Southern. Similar issues exist at campuses across the state.”

31 million dollars will go into the rainy day fund, and 12 million dollars will be reinvested into the state employee pension.

The use of these funds is highly restricted, and cannot be dumped straight into the impending one billion dollar budget deficit. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says one time money is not a long term fix.

“We need to make certain that the legislature resist the temptation to take this one time money in the current years excess and try to save part of the fiscal cliff, because this is not the intended use of one time money.”

Edwards’s plans for spending surplus money will be contained in a supplemental appropriations bill that will be debated during the regular session.

Hidden gambling addiction affects thousands of Louisiana families Learn the warning signs and know where to go for help

Gambling addiction plagues thousands of Louisianans, putting a strain on not only themselves but also their families, friends, co-workers and society as a whole. Any urge to continuously gamble despite harmful negative consequences or a desire to stop is considered problem gambling.

A Louisiana study on problem gambling revealed that as many as 275,000 Louisianans are involved in problem gaming activities.

To raise awareness about Louisiana’s services for those experiencing problems with gambling, Gov. John Bel Edwards declared March 2018 as Problem Gambling Awareness Month, a move which coincides with the National Problem Gambling Awareness Month movement.

The study found it is a problem that crosses all ages, genders and races. There are an estimated 179,239 potential adult problem gamblers statewide. A problem gambler is someone who is at-risk for addiction. Louisiana has an estimated 98,020 potential adult pathological or compulsive gamblers. Also, a 2010 Louisiana youth survey found that more than 40 percent of sixth-, eighth-, 10th- and 12th-grade students have engaged in some form of gambling in the previous year.

Calls to the toll-free Problem Gamblers Helpline show that females represented 44 percent of the callers and males represented 56 percent.

Most of the callers identified themselves as either Caucasian (49 percent) or African American (45 percent).

“It is important to remember that our efforts to improve health in Louisiana must include the availability of treatment and prevention for problems such as gambling addiction,” said Department of Health Secretary Dr. Rebekah Gee. “Louisiana offers a wide variety of treatment programs aimed specifically at problem gamblers, and we will use this month to spread awareness of the problem and shine light on the resources available to address it.”

Signs of a gambling problem include:

- Lying to loved one about gambling activity.

- Deterioration of work performance - Trouble concentrating - Missing deadlines and important responsibilities - Worrying about mounting debts and inability to pay them “Gambling becomes a serious problem when you can’t stop,” said Karen Stubbs, assistant secretary of the Office of Behavioral Health. “A problem gambler loses control and cannot stick to limits, even when gambling is causing serious financial, family, work or other problems.”

There are multiple resources in Louisiana to provide support to gamblers and their families. The state offers counseling and treatment programs at no cost to Louisiana residents including the country’s premiere residential treatment facility, The Center of Recovery (CORE), located in Shreveport. Since it opened in 1999, CORE has treated more than 3,200 compulsive gamblers.

If you or a loved one is struggling with problem gambling, hope and help is available anytime. Please call the Louisiana Problem Gambler’s Helpline at 1-877-770-STOP (7867), chat live at www.helpforgambling.org.

This toll-free helpline handles on average, 2,400 calls or direct requests for help each month.

About the Louisiana Department of Health

The Louisiana Department of Health strives to protect and promote health statewide and to ensure access to medical, preventive and rehabilitative services for all state residents. The Louisiana Department of Health includes the Office of Public Health, Office of Aging & Adult Services, Office of Behavioral Health, Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities, and Healthy Louisiana (Medicaid). To learn visit www.ldh.la.gov or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, or our blog.

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PARISH NEWS

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

BUSINESS & INDUSTRY

Louisiana Transportation Infrastructure receives $87 million boost from Union Pacific Louisiana’s transportation infrastructure will receive an $87 million boost from Union Pacific Railroad in 2018. The company’s planned private investment will enhance safety, operating efficiency and support customer service.

Union Pacific builds and maintains its track without taxpayer funds and its trains reduce traffic on Louisiana’s congested highways. A single Union Pacific train can carry as much freight as 300 trucks and move one ton of freight 452 miles on a single gallon of diesel, generating a carbon footprint that is 75 percent less than trucks.

Union Pacific’s private investments sustain jobs and ensure the company meets growing demand for products used in the American economy. The company’s planned investment covers a range of initiatives, including $48 million to maintain railroad track and $18 million to maintain bridges in the state. Key projects planned this year include:

$16 million investment in the rail line between Alexandria and Shreveport to replace 149,977 railroad ties and install 56,869 tons of rock ballast. $12 million investment in the rail line between Luling and Livonia to replace 82,152 railroad ties and install 39,693 tons of rock ballast.

This year’s planned $87 million capital expenditure in Louisiana is part of the company’s ongoing investment strategy.

In the last five years, 2013-2017, Union Pacific invested more than $396 million strengthening Louisiana’s transportation infrastructure.

“Our targeted investments support customers and enhance our efficiency to deliver the goods American businesses and families use daily,” said Brenda Mainwaring, Union Pacific assistant vice president - Public Affairs, Southern Region.

Union Pacific plans to spend $3.3 billion across its network this year, following investments totaling approximately $34 billion from 20082017.

UL Lafayette to offer earth and energy sciences doctoral program The University of Louisiana at Lafayette will offer a new doctoral program in fall 2019 that challenges students to examine both traditional and new energy sources.

The degree, an interdisciplinary earth and energy sciences program, will combine courses in geology, chemistry, physics and environmental studies, will also focus on the consequences of energy acquisition on ecosystems, pollution and soil and water chemistry.

“Students will understand the issues central to meeting the energy and environmental challenges of today and the future,” says Azmy Ackleh, Ph.D., dean of the Ray P. Authement College of Science. “They will be prepared to make fundamental contributions to the areas of earth and energy research.”

The 72-credit hour curriculum requires that students take classes in the university’s physics and chemistry departments, as well as the school of sciences. Degree candidates must also write dissertations based on original

research under faculty supervision.

The program proposal was approved by the University of Louisiana System Board of Regents and cited state Workforce Commission data that projected that 3700 jobs will be created annually through 2024 that require the analytical and research skills the doctoral program will emphasize As more research is done into earth and energy sciences, around 2,000 positions in colleges and universities that focus on that and closely related fields are expected to open annually through 2024.

Students interested in the program can contact the program at sciences@ louisiana.edu. The program requires students to hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in geology, environmental science, physics or chemistry.

Source: Doug Dugas, UL Lafayette

Photo courtesy of UL Lafayette

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

17

PARISH NEWS

Toys “R” Us and Babies “R” Us Stores to Close As Toys “R” Us prepares to shutter its 735 locations in the U.S., employees at the Lafayette location are unsure when their doors will close.

Toys “R” Us announced on March 15 that it has filed a motion seeking Bankruptcy Court approval to begin an “orderly wind-down” of its stores, which entails a liquidation of inventory at all stores.

An employee at Lafayette’s Johnston St. location said although employees were told the store would remain open for 60-90 days, no closing date has yet been confirmed; however, liquidation sales began nationwide March 23.

Rewards coupons for the store are no longer valid; however, Endless Earnings may be used online until April 21. Customers holding a store credit card may use it through the end of liquidation. Although rewards may accrue in users’ accounts, the figures listed on accounts are null.

State Attorney General Jeff Landry has urged Toys “R” Us gift card holders or

those with store credits and/or endless earnings to use them as soon as possible.

Although set to close in the U.S. Toys “R” Us has also filed bidding procedures for Canadian branches of the store. The corporation is seeking to find a buyer for its 200 plus stores in Canada.

The closing jeopardizes more than 30,000 employee jobs as the 70-year-old

company succumbs to trends such as mobile gaming and online shopping.

Louisiana currently houses six Toys “R” Us locations, one each in Lafayette, Baton Rouge, Monroe, Lake Charles, Metairie, Slidell and Bossier City.

For breaking news follow us on Twitter @MyParishNews

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PARISH NEWS

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

BUSINESS & INDUSTRY

LED Seeks Louisiana’s Top Manufacturers

Nominations now being accepted for 2018 Lantern Awards

BATON ROUGE, La. — Louisiana Economic Development is now accepting nominations of the state’s leading manufacturers, with the highest performers to be honored at the 2018 Lantern Awards in June.

The awards are presented annually to

outstanding manufacturers from each of Louisiana’s eight regional planning and development districts.

The deadline to submit nominations is Monday, April 23.

Nomination packets may be obtained at the Louisiana Association of Planning and Development Districts website, www.lapdd.org. Packets nominating a manufacturer should be returned to the corresponding planning district office.

Anyone may nominate a manufacturer for the award.

“In every region of our state, Louisiana manufacturers are creating high-quality jobs and delivering innovative and essential products to customers across the globe,” LED Secretary Don Pierson said. “I encourage everyone in Louisiana to consider nominating a deserving manufacturer for the 2018 Lantern Awards, in order to provide the recognition that these companies and their workforces have earned.

At LED, we are proud to honor the manufacturers who serve as the backbone of our economy by creating true economic impact throughout Louisiana.”

Awards will be presented Tuesday, June 5 at a reception held at the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion. Awardwinners are chosen for their excellence in manufacturing and their community involvement during the three years prior to the nomination. Louisiana has honored more than 300 manufacturers since 1979 through the Lantern Awards.

Last year’s winners included a range of companies that illustrate the diversity of Louisiana manufacturers, including Peppers Unlimated of Louisiana of St. Martinville; Baumer Foods of Reserve; Gnarly Barley Brewing of Hammond; Boise Cascade of Lena; Drax Biomass of Bastrop; Roseburg Forest Products of Simsboro; Orleans Coffee of Kenner; and Dupont Building of Bell City.

Award-winners receive lanterns that are handcrafted and donated by Bevolo Gas and Electric Lights of New Orleans.

Since 1945, Bevolo has manufactured traditional and antique lighting. The Lantern Awards are a partnership of LED, the Louisiana Industrial Development Executives Association, the Louisiana Quality Foundation and the Louisiana Association of Planning and Development Districts.

For more information about the 2018 Lantern Awards, contact Skip Smart at 225.342.4321 and Smart@la.gov; or Stacey Neal at 225.342.4703 and Stacey.

Neal@la.gov.

LHC Group and Almost Family announce merger of equals and transaction

(LAFAYETTE, LA) LHC Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: LHCG) and Almost Family, Inc. (NASDAQ: AFAM) have announced that stockholders of both companies have overwhelmingly approved the previously announced merger between the two companies at their respective special meetings held in March. The merger became effective on April 1, 2018.

The transaction creates the second largest in-home healthcare provider

in the country with an expanded geographic service territory of 36 states covering over 60 percent of the U.S. population aged 65 and over, and more than 780 locations, including those related to 76 joint venture partnerships with health systems that consist of 336 hospitals.

Commenting on the announcement, Keith G. Myers, LHC Group’s chairman and CEO, said, “This is an exciting time for our employees, joint venture

partners, and stockholders. For months, we have worked tirelessly to prepare for combining our two companies.

Today’s vote and closing bring us closer to realizing our potential as leaders in the ongoing evolution of the in-home healthcare industry.”

Pursuant to the merger agreement between the two companies, each outstanding share of Almost Family common stock will be exchanged for 0.9150 of a LHC Group share at the effective time of the merger. The combined company will operate under the LHC Group name, with common shares traded on the NASDAQ under ticker symbol “LHCG.”

About LHC Group, Inc.

LHC Group, Inc. is a national provider of non-acute healthcare services, providing quality, cost-effective healthcare to patients primarily within the comfort and privacy of their home or place of residence. LHC Group

provides a comprehensive array of healthcare services through home health, hospice, community-based services agencies and facility-based services. LHC Group operates 320 home health services locations, 92 hospice locations, 12 community-based service locations and 15 long-term acute care hospitals (LTACHs). www.lhcgroup.com

About Almost Family, Inc. Almost Family, Inc., founded in 1976, is a leading national provider of home healthcare services, with 332 branch locations in 26 states, including its joint venture with Community Health Systems, Inc. Almost Family, Inc. and its subsidiaries operate home health, other home-based services and healthcare innovations segments. wwwalmostfamily.com Source: Business Wire

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

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PARISH NEWS

ECONOMIC PULSE - March 2018 EMPLOYMENT Parish Unemployed Unemployment Rate Acadia 1220 5.1% Iberia 1625 6.4% Lafayette 4610 4.1% St. Landry 1870 5.9% St. Martin 1110 5.0% Vermilion 1221 5.1% State Unemployed Unemployment Rate Louisiana 94,000 4.5%

ENERGY Crude Oil (WTI) Natural Gas (Henry Hub)

Gasoline State Inland Rig Count (LA) Offshore Rig Count (Gulf)

$62.25 Barrel (Floating average) January $3.84 February $2.67 (Per Mil Btu) $2.47 Gallon (Floating average) 45 12

LFT AIRPORT

GAMING REVENUE – STATE

(Jan – Feb Totals 2018) Enplanements 31,299 Deplanements 30,803

RIVERBOAT January $139,820,552 February $157,418,803 RACINOS January $26,528,051 February $28,917,631 LAND BASED January $20,444,006 February $23,617,512 VIDEO GAMING January $44,282,485 February $50,090,978

RESIDENTIAL HOUSING STATS - YEAR TO DATE As of March 25, 2018 Parish Currently Active YTD Sold Average Sales Price DOM CDOM Lafayette 1576 620 $221,561 107 129 Iberia 246 73 $125,860 131 150 St Landry 336 67 $110,182 143 173 St Martin 186 61 $143,055 131 158 Vermilion 194 50 $143,648 122 144 DOM: Average Days On the Market CDOM: Continuous Days On the Market % of List: The average sales price ratio to the asking price (Percentage of list to sale)

% Of List 97.4 93.4 92.8 93.6 93.1

Sources: Lafayette, Iberia, St Martin, St Landry, and Vermilion Parish Clerk of Court records, Realtors Association of Acadiana (MLS Jan 1 - Mar 25 2018), LA State Police, LA Dept of Tourism, U.S. EIA, Baker Hughs, LA Dept of Revenue, U.S. Dept of Labor, U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics.

Available data as of March 30, 2018: All Information is deemed accurate, but not guaranteed.

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PARISH NEWS

Moncus Park

OPINION

Waguespack: Give credit where credit is due Lost in the countless stories about the silly fights, soap operas and blame game that dominate the State Capitol these days is some credit given to where credit is due.

Some Republicans in the House broke out of their comfort zone to support a partial sales tax extension in the special session…some Democrats are doing the same by supporting some regulatory reform bills in the general session… and a bipartisan group of stakeholders are taking some risk by expressing their support for a constitutional convention to rewrite that document for the first time in 44 years.

Another person that deserves some credit this year is Cindy Rougeau.

Ms. Rougeau is the executive director of the Louisiana State Employees’ Retirement System (LASERS) where she administers the retirement plan for state employees. She is known in the Capitol as a smart, aggressive advocate for her members and has traditionally been the lead voice against major efforts to overhaul the defined benefit system. This year, however, she is breaking out of her comfort zone and recommending a new hybrid approach.

The legislation LASERS has proposed, SB 14, is authored by Sen. Barrow Peacock, Chairman of the Senate Retirement Committee. This bill would establish a mandatory new hybrid retirement plan for rank-and-file state workers hired after January 1, 2020. The hybrid would include both a defined benefit plan with a secure base benefit for employees – that acts like Social Security – and a defined contribution plan to add a level of portability for workers. The bill also allows existing LASERS members hired after July 1, 2006, to make an irrevocable choice to join the new hybrid plan after it is established.

The member contribution to the new plan would be set at eight percent – four percent to the defined benefit component and four percent to the defined contribution component. The state would

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

continue to pay an actuarially determined percent of payroll to the defined benefit component that includes payment toward the existing Unfunded Accrued Liability (UAL) as well as three percent of payroll to the defined contribution component.

The members would have individual defined contribution accounts with the ability to manage those accounts.

Members would be eligible to retire at age 65, and Cost-of-Living-Adjustments (COLAs) are pre-funded in the new plan at two percent every other year – but only when the system is at least 65 percent funded. In 2032, the actuaries estimate the UAL would be $100 million less in the proposed hybrid plan than it would be under the current plan.

The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry (LABI) supports SB 14, and I personally commend Ms. Rougeau for taking the bold initiative to propose a well thought-out and actuarially sound compromise to a state challenge.

The Pew Center on the States recently estimated Louisiana’s unfunded pension costs at $19 billion, which represents more than 10 percent of state personal income and ranks the state at #12. The main retirement system for state workers – the LASERS – was 63.7% funded in 2017.

The Louisiana Constitution guarantees a pension to state workers, but many states have already moved away from a defined benefits program to a plan that is more like the private sector that combines a guaranteed benefit of Social Security with a 401(k) or another type of defined contribution plan.

Today’s workforce – in the private and public sector – is more likely to be mobile, agile and interested in pursuing various job opportunities throughout their career. In fact, LASERS research indicates that younger members of the state workforce are leaving the system at increasingly higher rates, and 70 percent of current members will receive no benefit and simply seek a refund of their contributions. The days of 30

years of service with one employer or industry in exchange for a gold watch and guaranteed pension is becoming less common. The market is changing, and commendably LASERS is trying to get ahead of that trend.

Several years ago, the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana estimated the state spent $2 billion on state retirement programs out of a total state budget of $25 billion, noting this “figure well exceeds the state’s general fund appropriation for all state colleges and universities.” Furthermore, LABI estimates that the annual state payment for employer contributions for LASERS increased 80 percent between 2005 and 2018, putting a strain on the budgets of state agencies in an already challenging fiscal climate. The issues are real, and the solutions are complex.

LASERS has offered up a solution that will be more cost-effective to the state and friendlier to the next generation of state workers as well. Like most compromises, it is not perfect and will not be applauded by everyone. However, it is a good faith proposal on their part and for that reason, folks should give them credit where credit is due.

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.

From Front page After years of preparation and planning, Moncus Park at the Horse Farm had its groundbreaking for phase one of construction.

On March 27, nearly a thousand attendees watched as a row of city officials and dignitaries dug into the earth under the Live Oak Grove to symbolically kick off construction. Attendees were treated to cake and champagne to mark the first improvements made to the area including a dog park, amphitheater, pathways and bridges.

Phase one of construction, which will focus on the front half of the park (closest to Johnston Street). Construction is predicted to last until mid-2019.

Close to $20 million has been raised for Moncus Park and its many phases of construction; however, in order to fully reach its true potential, the board of directors are looking for another $10 million to complete the last 40 acres of the park. For more information or to donate, visit moncuspark.org

APRIL 2018 - VOL. 1 NO. 3 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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PARISH NEWS is a tradename of Face Media Group LLC.

PARISH NEWS is a tradename of Face Media Group LLC. Face Media Group LLC P.O. Box 61096, Lafayette, LA 70596

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

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PARISH NEWS

EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT FRIDAY, APRIL 6

APRIL 6 - 8

-STERLING GROVE HISTORIC DISTRICT HOME TOUR & FESTIVAL; LAFAYETTE SENIOR ART STUDIO - 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM -BUBBLES & BRUNCH: AN OUTDOOR BRUNCH EXPERIENCE - 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM - TICKET INFO SOCIALENTERTAINMENT.NET - 2ND ANNUAL LOUISIANA BOIL-OFF: WAREHOUSE 535 - 4:00 PM - PERFORMANCES BY TERRY & THE ZYDECO BAD BOYS AND THE KREOLE KOOL KAT; THE WURST BIERGARTEN - 9:00 PM - 1:00 AM -DONNA AND THE BUFFALO; BLUE MOON SALOON - 10:00 PM

SATURDAY, APRIL 7

-BOTTOMLESS MIMOSA BRUNCH; ARTMOSPHERE BISTRO - 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

-DOWNTOWN ALIVE - CONNIE G & CREOLE SOUL; PARC INTERNATIONAL - 6:00 PM -PERFORMANCES BY FORMING THE VOID AND SPYGLASS; THE WURST BIERGARTEN - 9:00 PM -PERFORMANCES BY LOST BAYOU RAMBLERS, FEUFOLLET AND TASCHE & THE PSYCHEDELIC ROSES; HOLIDAY LOUNGE IN MAMOU - 8:00 PM - 2:00 AM -PERFORMANCE BY GYPSY STICKS; THE GROUSE ROOM - 9:30 PM -SCOTT BOUDIN FESTIVAL: SCOTT LA - LION CLUB ST. - SCOTTBOUDINFESTIVAL.COM -FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH FOOD TRUCK ROUND UP AT THE LAFAYETTE FARMERS AND ARTISANS MARKET -ACADIANA PO-BOY FESTIVAL; PARC SAN SOUCI, ALL DAY EVENT -ACADIANA BIRD FAIR; LAFAYETTE EVENT CENTER, 10:00 AM -WALK FOR HOPE 2018 - AUTISM SOCIETY OF ACADIANA - 8:00 AM - NOON - BLACKHAM COLISEUM -BOOM! BOOM! BURLESQUE PRESENTS: “JIMMY TWO TIMES” A BURLESQUE DRAMA; CITE DE ARTS - 7:00 PM -DOWNTOWN BROWN & THE STEAMROLLERS; BLUE MOON SALOON - 10:00 PM

SUNDAY, APRIL 8

-BOTTOMLESS MIMOSA BRUNCH; ARTMOSPHERE BISTRO - 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

MONDAY, APRIL 9

-JANKY KARAOKE & SERVICE INDUSTRY NIGHT; ARTMOSPHERE BISTRO - 9:00 PM - 2:00 AM

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 11

-MERCREDI CONCERT SERIES - RON RICH BAND; PELICAN PARK - 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM -STYX AND REO SPEEDWAGON WITH SPECIAL GUEST DON FELDER - CAJUNDOME - 7:00 PM -DUELING PIANOS WITH JULIE & BEN; THE GROUSE ROOM - 8:00 PM -CAJUN JAM; BLUE MOON SALOON - 9:00 PM

THURSDAY, APRIL 12

-RHYTHMS ON THE RIVER - LOUISIANA RED; RIVER RANCH - 5:30-8:30 -FRENCH QUARTER FESTIVAL; NEW ORLEANS - FRENCHQUARTERFEST.ORG

FRIDAY, APRIL 13

-DOWNTOWN ALIVE -ALL-STAR TRIBUTE TO TOM PETTY, THE VIATONES; PARC SANS SOUCI - 6:00 PM -BEST WURST COMEDY SHOW, EVER - A STAND UP COMEDY SHOWCASE; THE WURST BIERGARTEN - 8:00 PM

APRIL 13 - 15

-FRENCH QUARTER FESTIVAL; NEW ORLEANS - FRENCHQUARTERFEST.ORG -PONCHATOULA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL; PONCHATOULA - LASTRAWBERRYFESTIVAL.COM

SATURDAY, APRIL 14

-THE BIG EASEL ART FESTIVAL; 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM - RIVER RANCH TOWN SQUARE -SOUTHERN BOARD GAME FEST; LAFAYETTE SCIENCE MUSEUM - 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

APRIL 14 - 15

-BATON ROUGE BLUES FESTIVAL; BATON ROUGE - BATONROUGEBLUESFESTIVAL.ORG

SUNDAY, APRIL 15

-BOTTOMLESS MIMOSA BRUNCH; ARTMOSPHERE BISTRO - 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

SUNDAY, APRIL 22

MONDAY, APRIL 23

-JANKY KARAOKE & SERVICE INDUSTRY NIGHT; ARTMOSPHERE BISTRO - 9:00 PM - 2:00 AM

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25

-MERCREDI CONCERT SERIES -KEVIN NAQUIN AND THE OSSUN PLAYBOYS; PELICAN PARK 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM

APRIL 25 - 29

-FESTIVAL INTERNATIONAL DE LOUISIANE; DOWNTOWN LAFAYETTE FESTIVALINTERNATIONAL.ORG

THURSDAY, APRIL 26

-PERFORMANCES BY LOS TEXMANIACS AND SABRA & THE GET RIGHTS; ARTMOSPHERE BISTRO - 9:00 PM

FRIDAY, APRIL 27

-PERFORMANCE BY THE PINE LEAF BOYS; ARTMOSPHERE BISTRO - 9:00 PM

APRIL 27 - 29

-NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL 1ST WEEKEND; NEW ORLEANS NOJAZZFEST.COM

SATURDAY, APRIL 28

-PERFORMANCE BY THE REVELERS; ARTMOSPHERE BISTRO - 9:00 PM -GIVERS FESTIVAL INTERNATIONAL AFTER PARTY WITH SPECIAL GUESTS; THE PLATFORM AT DAT DOG - 10:00 PM - 2:00 AM

SUNDAY, APRIL 29

-BOTTOMLESS MIMOSA BRUNCH; ARTMOSPHERE BISTRO - 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

MONDAY, APRIL 30

-JANKY KARAOKE & SERVICE INDUSTRY NIGHT; ARTMOSPHERE BISTRO - 9:00 PM - 2:00 AM

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

MAY 3 - 6

MONDAY, APRIL 16

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

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18

-BREAUX BRIDGE CRAWFISH FESTIVAL; BREAX BRIDGE - BBCRAWFEST.COM

-JANKY KARAOKE & SERVICE INDUSTRY NIGHT; ARTMOSPHERE BISTRO - 9:00 PM - 2:00 AM -MERCREDI CONCERT SERIES - CLAY CORMIER AND THE HIGHWAY BOYS; PELICAN PARK 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM -CAJUN JAM; BLUE MOON SALOON - 9:00 PM

THURSDAY, APRIL 19

-RHYTHMS ON THE RIVER - WAYNE TOUPS & FREDDIE PATE; RIVER RANCH - 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM - PERFORMANCES BY RODDIE ROMERO AND THE HUB CITY ALL STARS - RHYTHMS AFTER PARTY; THE GROUSE ROOM - 9:00 PM

FRIDAY, APRIL 20

-DOWNTOWN ALIVE - CHUBBY CARRIER & THE BAYOU SWAMP BAND; PARC INTERNATIONAL - 6:00 PM -TOAST OF THE TOWN GALA: BENEFIT HOSTED BY MADDIE’S FOOTPRINTS - 7:00 PM 11:00 PM LE PAVILLON - PARC LAFAYETTE -JAKE THE SNAKE ROBERTS & HACKSAW JIM DUGGAN UNSPOKEN WORD TOUR; THE WURST BIERGARTEN - 7:00 PM -OLD SKOOL ZYDECO & BLUES; WAREHOUSE 535 - 8:00 PM -1:30 AM -PERFORMANCE BY KYLE NAQUIN & THE OSSUN PLAYBOYS; THE GROUSE ROOM - 9:30 PM

SATURDAY, APRIL 21

-MOMMY & ME - KIDSFEST; PARC SANS SOUCI - 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Acadiana Bird Fair April 7th & 8th www.acadianabirdclubinc.com

MAY 4 - 6

SATURDAY, MAY 5

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

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

MAY 10 - 12

-RAYNE FROG FESTIVAL; RAYNE - RAYNEFROGFESTIVAL.COM

POST YOUR EVENT FOR FREE ON THE FACE MEDIA EVENTS CALENDAR AT WWW.MYPARISHNEWS.COM AND WWW.FACEACADIANA.COM LAFAYETTE EVENT CENTER 4607 JOHNSTON ST. LAFAYETTE Sat. 9:00 A.M. --- 5:00 P.M. Sun. 10:00 A.M. --- 4:00 P.M. Admission $4.00 Children Under 6 Free

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April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

FEATURES

STRAIGHT UP:

By Wendy Hornung

Question: I work in fiefdom land. People seem out for themselves and no one works together. Should I just look for another job?

I need help!

Louise, Engineering Firm Answer: That’s a tough one Louise.

The fiefdom syndrome divides people and erodes morale. It seems poor leadership, unclear values, and shaky ethics have been cultivating this mindset in workplace environments for a while. Over the years, I have seen many businesses and institutions function with the same conditions you describe.

So, you are not alone. Even though you feel alone. This is not an easy choice because if you want to try to break

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down the silos around you, you have to break down walls. I don’t want to be discouraging, because you may be able to improve some relationships within the “fiefdoms” but it sounds like it is part of a culture.

Let’s look at what causes them in the first place and this may help inform your decision about staying or leaving your job.

There are a lot of different reasons that companies end up with situations where employees don’t trust each other and hence don’t work together. I want to break it down into two areas (though there are many possibilities).

The first one has to do with how leadership sets the tone for the workplace environment that fuels low trust and discourages full capacity team work. The second one is about why people don’t trust other people as it relates to their behavior.

Three reasons that you might not trust another person that has more to do with the workplace environment.

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a challenge to access information you employees need which creates what “appears” to be a fiefdom, but is actually a symptom of a different problem.

For example: In the situation where a boss is micromanaging, if you ask someone for information and they won’t provide it, they may not have access to it. The person you ask may be frustrated but what can they do? Tell you they don’t have what they need to do their job because their boss is a poor manager? They don’t want to look bad, or make their boss look bad. It’s a catch-22, but that doesn’t help you!

2. The culture may be competitive which means departments are vying for credit, numbers or recognition to increase their value to the organization.

So instead of one big team there are lots of little teams. This is a “Hunger Games” scenario where there is no big picture goal for everyone, instead, each team focuses only on their bottom line and winning. It’s not that competition is bad in itself, it can be great, but good leadership creates the vision and shines light on pathways to end results.

Without a proper context, competition can be very divisive.

3. Then there is pure lack of understanding about the shared goals of an organization that comes down to communication. It seems obvious but it isn’t and I will tell you why.

I have worked with bosses who did not want employees to know what the goal was, because employees were hired to do their job. They didn’t need to know why they did their job. This makes zero sense to me, but perhaps there are some industries this makes sense in, but I have worked with companies in manufacturing, design, jewelry, teaching, counseling, and creative fields, and it doesn’t apply to them. People work better, when they work together.

These three issues demonstrate how poor leadership can cultivate distrust amongst coworkers creating fiefdoms.

The other way walls are created between people is because of how people behave and interact. The “me first” attitude is a primary cause of personal fiefdoms.

Three reasons that you might not

trust another person because of the person.

1. They are only interested in making

Lafayette 337.984.9717 Opelousas 337.948.4848 www.jsdc-cpas.com

1. Bosses that micromanage makes it

Licensed in Louisiana

themselves look good. This is obvious

when they are not supportive of your work, after you have been supportive of theirs.

2. They take credit for ideas, even when they are the work of others. They are not honest about what they actually did.

When people take credit, but do not acknowledge who has supported them, it creates distrust.

3. Their credits lack substance- though their voice is loud. This is not the same thing as confidence. When people want credit but have no record on delivery it creates doubt and raises questions of credibility. The “proof is in the pudding” as the old saying goes. Show me, don’t tell me.

As to your question Louise, “Should I look for another job?” It is a tough call. If you need to stay, you can choose to work on worthwhile relationships, whenever you can. If the fiefdoms stem from the culture dictated from the top, I would recommend using it as an opportunity to study how people behave in a system that discourages collaboration and growth while you are there. Hopefully, things will change, but if not, you sound like you would be a great asset to an organization that has their culture compass set due North!

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 337-2781274 www.wendyhornung.com wendy@wendyhornung.com

April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3

PARISH NEWS

SAVE THE DATE PUBLIC MEETING UNIVERSITY AVENUE CORRIDOR Where We've Been Where We're Headed Finding Solutions

Tuesday, April 10, 2018 6 - 8 p.m.

Bridge Ministry of Acadiana 512 N. University Avenue Hosted by

For more information visit PlanAcadiana.org or LafayetteLA.gov

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April 2018 Vol. 1 No. 3