Thrive Homegrown 2023

Creative Director Barbara VanGossen

Design and Layout Shonda Manuel

Business Manager Katie McDaniel Stevenson Advertising Sales katie@thriveswla.com 337.310.2099

Submissions edit@thriveswla.com

& High Fiving

A bright spot in the mix of media available these days, Thrive brings information to help you live your best life. Whether it’s money management and financial planning, new healthcare technology available in our area, the latest fashion trends or new restaurants, we cover the spectrum of things to help you, well, thrive.

Some of the best things about putting together each issue of Thrive are the people we meet and the stories we are honored to tell. Southwest Louisiana is filled with people making a difference, bringing their talent and positive energy to the table to benefit others; and it’s our pleasure to cheer them on.

From humble beginnings of a quarterly, black-and-white publication on newsprint, then to bi-monthly, and now a monthly full-color magazine, Thrives’s journey is just as winding and challenging as many others’ we’ve had the pleasure to share. We understand starting small, even though the vision is enormous and the hope of reaching what you have in mind is the fuel needed to keep at it.

As we’re featuring locally owned businesses in this issue of Home Grown, know that we’re standing right there with each of you, celebrating the triumphs and wins every day, no matter how small. Those high-five’s matter!

In the 20 years we’ve produced Thrive, we’ve seen many challenges, both locally and globally. With all of them, we’ve shared positive angles, tips to find a clear path, and ways to navigate through. And, there have been plenty of reasons to celebrate and lots of great news to share. As we all know from living in Southwest Louisiana, we can stir up a celebration in no time!

There’s always a good story to tell and we’re excited to continue sharing them with you. Thank you for your support and encouragement along the way, it means everything to us. You can count on Thrive to keep bringing what you need to grow, flourish and be your best. Cheers to 20 years!

ZEALOUSLY PROTECTING YOUR LEGAL

Founded in 2007, Todd Clemons and Associates provides superior legal representation in several areas.

“We’re best known for criminal defense because of my background and success we have in court. However, we also provide aggressive advocacy in family law, personal injury, and civil litigation,” explains Todd S. Clemons, attorney and founder.

Clemons is a former state and federal prosecutor and District Judge Pro-Temp. He has practiced law for over 35 years and he is most passionate about defending citizens who have been accused of criminal activity. With extensive trial experience in both state and federal courts, he has litigated approximately 125 jury trials with a very high success rate.

In 2022, Micah O. Clemons joined the firm. A graduate of LSU and cum laude graduate of Southern University Law Center, and a former law clerk in the 14th Judicial District Court, Micah is a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association, Southwest Bar Association and Southwest

Micah O. Clemons

Todd S. Clemons

AMERISAFE has been providing workers’ compensation insurance for small to mid-sized employers in high hazard industries, principally:

• Agriculture

• Construction

• Logging & Lumber

• Manufacturing

FOUNDED IN DERIDDER

When a local agency called Morris, Temple and Company bought a Georgia insurance company known as American Interstate Insurance Company of Georgia. The first policy was written on May 1, 1986. The company would grow rapidly in the years to come and become a publicly traded company in 2005. You can find it listed on Nasdaq under AMSF.

Today, AMERISAFE is in the top 10 of publicly traded companies located in Louisiana based on market capitalization. The company operates in 27 states and employs some 380 people. It is led by President and CEO Janelle Frost, who was born and raised in Oberlin. Frost has spent her entire professional career at AMERISAFE, starting as a staff accountant and working her way up through the ranks.

• Maritime

• Oil & Gas

• Telecommunications

• Trucking Safety is a primary focus at AMERISAFE, providing safety training and resources to policyholders so they can reduce exposure to accidents. Importantly, the Field Safety Professionals are located in the same areas as the policyholders so they can provide inperson guidance and make practical recommendations. With valuable on the ground experience, AMERISAFE understands the unique challenges its policyholders face.

When accidents occur, a claims process is the last thing policyholders want on their plate. AMERISAFE’s

streamlined claims submission and handling process ensures claims are handled swiftly, with personalized assistance offered every step of the way. Field Case Managers carry low claims workloads to allow them to provide policyholders and their injured workers with highly personalized service, facilitating prompt resolution of claims. Individualized, informed service sets AMERISAFE apart from other providers and continues to make AMERISAFE a preferred workers’ compensation provider today.

OUR SERVICES

COMMITTED TO BEAUTIFYING30 Years

Landscape Management has been serving the Southwest Louisiana area since 1991, maintaining its commitment to quality, integrity, and service. The company specialize in providing quality services to residential, commercial, industrial and municipal customers.

LANDSCAPING

We are full-time planners of fine landscapes, utilizing the most current and practical designs mixed with knowledge and understanding of various plants and what they have to offer.

EROSION CONTROL

We offer a wide range of erosion control solutions to optimize growth, reduce water and protect your investment to maintain a healthy, beautiful water-smart space.

OUTDOOR LIVING

Outdoor living is a growing trend, and for good reason. Increase the value and function of your home by expanding your living space to the outdoors.

MAINTENANCE

Our year-round maintenance crews offer timely and reliable maintenance consisting of mowing, edging, trimming, pruning, weed control, fertilization programs and clean-ups. For commercial clients we offer parking lot maintenance.

BEAUTIFYING SWLA FOR OVER Years NURSERY

We offer a fully-stocked retail nursery for the “do-it-yourself” landscaper or landscape contractors. You can pick up from our location or we can gladly deliver all of your plants, soils, mulches, decorative stone, aggregates and much more!

If you’re ready to revamp your current landscaping or do a complete new install, brainstorm a list of all your different goals, including activities you like to do outdoors and features you’d want your landscaping to have.

Once you know what you have and what you want, our team of professional landscapers can help you create a plan within your budget, choosing plants from our nursery, laying out your beds and guiding you as you create the yard of your dreams.

WE DELIVER

Our prompt delivery system will make sure you get your supplies delivered to you quickly, so you can start working on your landscaping project in no time.

No Mosquitoes. No Contracts. GUARANTEED.

While nothing can eliminate every mosquito from your property, our service works so well we guarantee you won’t be bothered by mosquitoes between treatments. If you become bothered by mosquitoes, all you have to do is call and we’ll be back, typically within 24 hours, if not the same day! And, we’re so confident in our mosquito treatment services, we don’t require a contract. Ever.

Locally-Owned. Family-Operated. Community-Oriented.

As a local, family-owned and operated business, we take pride in not only minimizing the health risks associated with mosquitoes across the Lake Area, but also in supporting and donating to local worthy causes, organizations, and events. We established Mosquito Authority of SWLA in 2011 and have been proudly serving the Lake Area ever since.

As a locally owned and managed community bank, Lakeside’s goal is to always provide the most up-to-date banking products and services available. We take great pride in being small enough to know you and big enough to serve all your banking needs. Lakeside’s excellent performance for our customers has been recognized year after year by national banking organizations, but nothing means more to us than our customers trusting us for their banking needs.

Our Team is Ready to Lend.

Our experienced lending team is proud to work with some of the most successful home grown businesses across Southwest Louisiana. Decisions are made quickly, right here by people who know your business and our community. Give us a call to see how we can help you achieve your business goals.

Kala Kuhlthau | Twenda Hanson | Aimee Gilmore | Bryan Armentor Dillan Rainwater | Jonathan Boudreaux | Aaron LeBoeuf | Roy Raftery | Bobby Broussard

On Tuesday, July 18, Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter joined City Council members to announce LC REBOUND, a major infrastructure and quality of life investment to strengthen and secure the City’s future.

The news conference provided details of two November 18, 2023, ballot propositions. These propositions, if passed, will modernize the City’s tax structure, paving the way for a series of transformational projects. LC REBOUND asks voters to renew the City’s existing sales tax rate. LC REBOUND is not a tax increase; it is a tax neutral proposal.

“LC REBOUND will bring the City’s current revenue structure into the 21st Century. Our current model is complicated and antiquated,” said Mayor Nic Hunter. “This restructure would help place the City in a much more secure financial position moving into the future and allow us to spend infrastructure dollars wisely and effectively.”

With the passage of LC REBOUND, the City would act on dozens of projects focused on hard infrastructure, quality of life, parks, education and more.

“LC REBOUND offers consistency with the City’s Capital Improvement Plan, the catalytic projects proposed by the Community Foundation Southwest Louisiana’s Just Imagine SWLA and the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury’s Long-term Recovery Plan”, said Dr. Daniel Groft, Director of H.C. Drew Center for Business and Economic Analysis at McNeese State University. “Long-term, it will improve quality of life, enhance the City’s ability to compete for new businesses and industries and increase tourism in the City, while also providing short-run economic activity. All of these elements together will create opportunities for higher employment and incomes within the Lake Charles economy.”

“LC REBOUND offers the opportunity for transformational change in every corner of the City of Lake Charles,” added Lake Charles City Council President Mark Eckard. “In addition to creating a more secure financial future for the City, LC REBOUND is a once-in-a-generation opportunity that will benefit every citizen of Lake Charles with improved infrastructure, enhanced quality of life and new economic opportunities.”

“We have worked with citizens, City Council Members, other elected officials, and master plan efforts to develop a series of projects that will bring our City into a modern era and make us more competitive with other major American cities. LC REBOUND will create better roads, better drainage, economic diversification, educational opportunities and family-friendly activities. All of these efforts will improve the quality of life of current residents, encourage our youth to stay in Lake Charles, and attract others to want to move to Lake Charles,” says Mayor Hunter.

In the near future, the City will schedule meetings in every Council District to present the plan and answer questions. A complete video of the news conference as well as the complete proposal are available for public viewing at www.cityoflakecharles.com/LCREBOUND

IF YOU ARE IN BUSINESS, THE CHAMBER SWLA WANTS TO WORK FOR YOU.

YOU MAY NOT REALIZE IT, BUT THE CHAMBER SWLA AND ITS MEMBERS ARE ALREADY WORKING TOWARDS YOUR SUCCESS.

Chambers of Commerce were founded across the world starting as early as 1599 under many names like Board of Commerce or a Merchants or Trade Association. The goal then is the same as today, to band the power of many businesses together to act as the voice for the business community, to advocate for the business community, and recruit and develop new businesses for the community. In that regard, the only thing that has changed is the technology.

As one of the largest Chamber in the state, the Chamber SWLA is proactive in attracting industry and growing our economy, developing leadership, and undertaking programs for the benefit of our regional quality-of-life. The Chamber SWLA tackles workforce issues by working with SOWELA Technical Community College, McNeese State University, and other area schools to match the needs of our regional business community with the training programs being offered.

The Chamber SWLA works for you in the halls at the State Capitol, in Washington, D.C., and locally. We are part of several national and international movements to make it easier for you to do business here in our region. We also track down and meet with developers and industry leaders nationally and internationally, to share all the things that make Southwest Louisiana great and why they should open their next venture here.

OTHER PERKS OF MEMBERSHIP ARE:

• KNOWLEDGE – Our staff keeps up-to-date on industry trends, legislative issues, and national programs that can benefit our members, so we do our best to share this information through our bi-weekly e-newsletters, newspaper articles, and luncheons.

• CREDIBILITY – Even if they don’t realize it consciously, when your customers see that you are a member of the Chamber SWLA, they know that you are a reputable part of our community. “When customers know that a small business is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 49% more likely to think favorably of it and 80% more likely to purchase goods or services from the company in the future.” (Shapiro Report, 2012)

• NETWORKING – The Chamber SWLA provides many opportunities to make one-on-one connections with regional business leaders. It’s not just who you know, it’s who knows you.

• LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES – Being successful in business requires staying up-to-date on trends, technology, and other issues that might affect your business. The Chamber SWLA hosts many online and in person training opportunities to provide the information businesses need to stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.

With the support of Chamber members – and future members – we will continue to lead the nation in new jobs, business opportunities and unprecedented growth!

For information, contact Paula Ramsey at PRamsey@allianceswla.org or (337) 433-3632.

For nearly three decades, Signatures Salon has been transforming more than just hairstyles; it has been transforming lives. This extraordinary salon has become a hub of creative expression, empowerment, and unwavering Christian values. An award-winning salon, Signatures offers a full range of hair, makeup, cosmetic, and skincare services to clients. With a staff that is constantly striving for excellence and learning new techniques, it’s no wonder that clients chose Signatures as the best hair salon in 2022 and nominated again in 2023.

From Stylist to Owner

Twenty-one years ago, Cortney Blalock embarked on her hairstyling career, armed with a passion for creativity and a deep desire to make a difference in people’s lives. Over the years, her talent and dedication propelled her to new heights, earning her a loyal clientele and recognition within the industry. However, Cortney’s aspirations reached far beyond personal success. Driven by her faith and a calling to create a space that honored her Christian beliefs, she made the bold decision to establish sole ownership of Signatures in April of 2023. Continuing the legacy of a place where beauty would be nurtured from the inside out.

A Sanctuary of Beauty and Belief

Stepping into Signatures means being more than just a client, it means becoming part of a family. “We have a strong culture among our team, and we really try and translate that into the attention we show our clients,” says Blalock. “We love our clients – as much as we’ve laughed, cried, and prayed with each other, we’ve done the same with them.” More than feeling beautiful, the Signatures team strives to leave you feeling renewed when you walk out of the doors.

A Talented Team

The success of Signatures can be attributed to the exceptional team of stylists who share Cortney’s vision and passion. Each member of the team is not only highly skilled but also deeply committed to creating a transformative experience for every client who walks through the door. “We really encourage our stylists to attend workshops and learn new techniques,” Blalock says. “We even offer financial support

to allow for that and sometimes participate as an entire team. Continuing education is a big piece of our business.” Bound together by their shared Christian values, the team supports and uplifts one another, creating a sense of family and unity that extends beyond the salon walls. Their genuine care for each other and their clients is palpable, making every visit to Signatures a memorable one.

More Than Just Hair

Signatures Salon offers a comprehensive range of services that cater to the diverse needs of men, women, and children. From precision cuts and expert coloring to stunning extensions and rejuvenating treatments, the salon’s stylists excel in their craft. “Extensions, Keratin lash lifts, and brow lamination are all really popular right now,” Blalock says. “We focus on providing a full range of services so that we can be a one stop shop for our clients beauty needs.”

Signatures Salon continues to exemplify the power of faith and artistry coming together to create a haven of beauty and belief. With Cortney’s unwavering dedication and a team united in their Christian values, the salon has continued to be a place where both inner and outer beauty are embraced. “I’ve been here for over 21 years,” says Blalock. “I’m looking forward to continuing and enhancing what everyone has already come to know and love about Signatures.”

MANAGED BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

Office Equipment

From reliable, state-of-the-art printers and copiers with lightning-fast speeds, impeccable quality and a variety of options from different document sizes and formats, to computers, servers and routers, you can count on the AOP team to choose high-quality vendors and technology to build your company’s network and infrastructure. And, our team can manage your printer and copier software to improve efficiency and effectiveness.

Managed Network Services

Our team is your team, just without taking up your office space. With data and document archival we can take a room full of files and make them digital, searchable PDFs on a regularly scanned, secure network. Hacking is everincreasing. Let us neutralize potential threats.

Cloud Services

Moving to the cloud helps you improve security and experience incredibly fast speeds. AOP offers its own proprietary cloud infrastructure named Advanced Cloud Services (ACS). As cloud hosting experts, we will guide you through our cloud service options for public, private or hybrid environments to meet your needs with security, protection and full support in mind. As remote work continues to grow, so does productivity with AOP’s virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI)—keeping your teams securely connected virtually anywhere.

Fiber Internet

We ensure you have the service you need at the speed you need when you need with fast, reliable, weather-proof, limitless fiber with symmetrical upload and download speeds, without any data caps or throttling. AOP fiber speeds start at 500 mbps and go up to 20 gigs.

A Partner in Success

We take pride in our exceptional customer service and unwavering commitment to building long-term partnerships with our clients. By understanding the unique needs and goals of each business, AOP empowers clients to reach new heights of productivity and success through embracing cutting-edge technologies, streamlining processes and optimizing workflows, ultimately saving valuable time and resources. AOP is the partner businesses can trust to propel them into the future.

Protecting the Community with Heart and Dedication

Insurance can often seem impersonal, but local State Farm agent Jennifer Mabou knows that going above and beyond, not only in protecting their clients’ assets but also in supporting the community she serves, is worth it every time. Led by compassion and dedication, the agency has become a household name for trust, care, and community support.

“I waited 14 long years to be an agent in my hometown,” says Jennifer. “It’s an opportunity I never take for granted – to be able to give back to the town that built me.” A native of Sulphur, Jennifer’s network expands into nearly every crevice of the community, and she rarely misses an opportunity to support within each one. Jennifer Mabou State Farm is more than just a business; it is a reflection of Jennifer and her team’s genuine passion for the community.

Recognizing the importance of education and extracurricular activities, she has made it her mission to support the local high school in all its endeavors, ranging from sports teams to academic clubs and community organizations. “It’s a natural fit to sponsor activities my kids are involved in,” says Jennifer. “But, it has actually led to so many opportunities to meet people and get connected to other opportunities to support the youth

of Sulphur.” The agency is a regular supporter of Sulphur High School swim, football, fishing, baseball, track, and the Twisters dance team. Additionally, they are official Partners in Education to both Sulphur High School and Our Lady’s School. As a product of the closeknit community of Sulphur, Jennifer’s commitment knows no bounds. She knows that by investing in the youth, she is investing in the future of the community.

Another avenue for supporting Sulphur students is the scholarship given out annually by Jennifer and her agency. “We’re in the fifth year of giving that scholarship to a Sulphur High School senior,” she says. “Being able to financially assist someone with a bright future is something we are proud of and always look forward to.”

While community support often looks like donations and time volunteered, it also ventures deeper into sustaining the local economy. “When it comes to the work needed to keep my agency running – think marketing, printing, maintenance – I always choose to do business with a client of mine,” Jennifer says. “They have given me their business and when possible, I always want to reciprocate that.”

While Jennifer’s dedication to the community is commendable, her

agency’s primary focus remains on providing top-notch insurance services to her clients. Whether it is auto, home, renters, or liability coverage, Jennifer and her team go the extra mile to ensure that their clients’ needs are met with care and expertise. They take the time to understand each client’s unique circumstances and tailor insurance solutions that provide the necessary protection and peace of mind.

What sets Jennifer Mabou State Farm apart is not only their comprehensive coverage options but also their commitment to building lasting relationships with their clients. Jennifer and her team are known for their warm and friendly approach, always ready to lend a listening ear or provide guidance. They prioritize communication and transparency, ensuring that clients are well-informed and empowered to make informed decisions about their insurance needs. This dedication to personalized service has earned them a reputation as a trusted insurance agency within the community.

To learn more about Jennifer Mabou State Farm, visit www.jennifermabou.com or visit their new location in Sulphur at 1524 Maplewood Drive.

Jennifer Mabou

CUSTOM BEEF PROCESSING BRANDED PROGRAMS • PREMIUM MEATS

At Coastal Plains we work very closely with producers to support them through our USDA inspected harvest and processing facility located in Southwest Louisiana. We strive to provide the highest quality products through the safest means necessary, deploy state-of-the-art technology to ensure humane handling of your cattle and beef, and focus on communication with producers and consumers to grow local, source local, and buy local sustainable beef.

“Raising cattle is not only in our blood but has been a passion our entire life. We look forward to integrating passion with purpose to make an impact in Louisiana.”

CEO David A. Billings, MBA (pictured left)

“Coastal Plains Meat Co. was built to showcase Louisiana cattlemen and give them a spotlight. Pasture to plate isn’t just a slogan to Coastal Plains, it’s our mission for the future of the industry.”

COO Chip Perrin (pictured right)

BUY LOCAL, BY LOCAL

• 22,000+ square foot facility

• 161 years of combined experience

• All products vacuum packaged

• Private label/Ranch Beef Direct

• Boxed beef primals

• High-capacity grind facility

• Value Added Products (Patties, Sausage, Bacon, etc)

HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS ON THE RISE

WOODRING APARTMENTS

Woodring Apartments is currently under construction. Located at the corner of Division and Bilbo streets, this investment from New Orleansbased HRI Communities, is a two-phase 110-unit multifamily development consisting of one multifamily building and three townhouse buildings located on an entire city block in downtown Lake Charles.

“The property will provide a mix of housing opportunities,” said Josh Collen, President of HRI Communities. “These units will serve the Lake Charles downtown workforce, providing a diversity of housing options at different rent price points that are walking distance from various jobs and employers.”

Amenities will include off-street parking, a community center, fitness center, a grill area with picnic tables, and pocket park on the corner of Division and Hodges Streets. Additionally, the property will incorporate

best practices in sustainability directed by the Enterprise Green Communities criteria and best practices in disaster resiliency and building techniques under the Institute for Business and Home Safety’s FORTIFIED Multifamily Gold resiliency objectives.

“Both of these programs aim to mitigate nuisance and major damages often resulting from hurricane-force winds and displacing residents in the worst of post-storm circumstances,” added Collen. “After Hurricanes Laura and Delta made landfall and caused major destruction in Lake Charles, with thousands of residents displaced from their homes, HRI Communities recognized the major need for safe, disaster-resilient housing in the area, which led to the pursuit of this development.”

Woodring Apartments is anticipated to complete construction and welcome its first residents in late summer/early fall 2024.

Multifamily Phase 1

Townhouse Phase 1

Townhouse Phase 2

Woodring Groundbreaking

New housing developments for the Lake Area have made headlines in recent months as a trio of projects have been announced or gotten underway in the city of Lake Charles.

CALCASIEU HEIGHTS

On Friday, July 14, Monroe-based MGM Development Group officially announced plans for their $19.1 million hurricane-resistant retirement community to be built along the banks of the Calcasieu River in the 1400 block of Fitzenreiter Road.

Calcasieu Heights will be a 72-unit, gated, hurricane and flood resistant, certified green retirement community.

“Mayor Hunter and his team have been great to work with and together we are partnering to improve the quality of healthcare and recreation in Lake Charles. Calcasieu Heights will be a state-of-the-art retirement community in a beautiful location,” said MGM Development Partner Jeff Glover.

Calcasieu Heights will be open to residents 55 years or older and will feature 12 one-bedroom units and 60 two-bedroom units.

MGM Development is working with additional partners to offer several unique amenities at Calcasieu Heights.

“We plan to offer free WiFi service in the common areas throughout the development and we hope to partner with McNeese and local medical providers to deploy remote medical monitoring technology and other healthcare initiatives in Calcasieu Heights,” said Glover.

Calcasieu Heights is expected to break ground in the fourth quarter of this year or start of 2024.

All of these projects signal major positive developments for the City of Lake Charles, than will create a ripple effect of positive impacts on a number of sectors.

“Investments like these help us lure services like grocery stores or other professional offices back into areas of the City that have seen disinvestment,” added Mayor Nic Hunter. “These developments will offer transformational change for the area in which they are immediately located, as well as providing an economic boost for the City as a whole.”

continued on pg 24

A Commitment to care

Care is woven into the fabric of our organization. From each member of our team to the services we offer, we are committed to providing exceptional care. Every day, compassion and healing happens within our hospital and in the outpatient services and programs we provide.

Our Services:

Breast Health

Cancer Care

Cardiology

Community Health Center

Ear, Nose & Throat Care

Emergency Care

Endocrinology

Family Medicine

Home Health Care

Laboratory

Nutrition & Wellness

Obstetrics & Gynecology

Orthopaedics

Pediatric Care

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Pulmonary & Respiratory Care

Radiology & Diagnostic Imaging

Rural Health Centers

Sleep Medicine

Surgical Services

Wound Care

wcch.com

Calcasieu Heights Announcement

CAPSTONE AT THE OAK SENIOR LIVING

Late last year The Banyan Foundation, Inc. (TBF), a nonprofit affordable housing organization, announced plans to construct Capstone at the Oaks at 2401 6th Street. TBF specializes in developing multi-family housing with an emphasis on providing senior housing.

“We’re incredibly excited to bring a new housing development that will be able to cater towards the elderly members of the Lake Charles community,” said Bailey Coats, Development Manager for The Banyan Foundation, Inc. “Our primary goal is to give people a place to call home, something that pours an investment back into their community.”

TBF is partnering with the Calcasieu Council on Aging (CCOA) for the development of Capstone at The Oaks. Additionally, the CCOA will be providing supportive services to the property focused on improving the quality of life for the residents of Capstone at the Oaks.

The Banyan Foundation is expected to break ground on Capstone at the Oaks within the next quarter and will feature 120 total units, with 66 one-bedroom units and 54 two-bedroom units. Citizens will need to be 62 years or older to be potentially eligible for residency.

Capstone at the Oaks

Inspired senior living

Catherine Furs Private Banking

Will Henning Business Banking

Eric Mire Manager/ Business Banking

Russell Castille Business Banking

Logan Fontenot Business Banking

Trey Hays Manager/ Private Banking

Kyle Duplantis Business Banking

Award -Winning Ross By rle y

As a child, Ro B y rl watched his dad, Mar tin Byrley, work in the insurance industry and dreamed of the day he could work alongside his father in the company and eventually assume ownership of the business. Ross graduated from LSU in 2009 and joined Mar tin in 2011.

“Since I started with this agency, we have been honored to receive the company’s most prestigious award – the Conference of Champions – a total of eight times!” Ross says.

“This award is only given to the top 150 agents out of 1,400 in the entire company and is based not only on outstanding sales performance but also the quality in which we take care of our clients. We pride ourselves in taking personal care of our customers and truly listening to them before o ering suggestions.”

Byrley says his company specializes in protecting consumers’ assets such as homes, autos, boats, recreational vehicles, and more.

“We hope our policy holders don’t need to use their insurance because it can be traumatic, but

in that event, it is very rewarding to be able to hug them and let them know we will help them. We also o er life insurance and take pride in protecting families’ futures and incomes. A death of a family member is catastrophic, but bringing a survivor who just lost a loved one a large check to help with burial expenses or paying o debt can provide them with some comfort in their time of need. This is why I love what I do! Insurance is intangible – you can’t see, smell, touch, or taste it. The client pays for a promise from their insurance company to act in good faith at their time of need.”

When it comes to insurance, sometimes coverages can match up from company to company. What sets Shetler apart is the compassion and dedication to serving their customers. “We’ve recevied great feedback from our customers and want to ensure that we continue to be deserving of that,” Ross says. “Shelter Insurance is a large company with a small-town family feel. The company allows our agents to be involved and to voice their opinions or problems to di erent departments, to make sure we are taking care of our customers.”

Shelter also encourages their agents to be involved in the community. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Shelter gave all customers 30% of their April and May premiums back, amounting to over $100,000 from Ross Byrley Shelter Insurance alone. In 2021, The Shetler Insurance Foundation made a $10,000 donation to the McNeese Foundation to support the e orts on campus after Hurricanes Laura and Delta. “We were able to give back to our local communities in a big way. I could not have been prouder to work for Shelter Insurance.”

If you’re in the market for new auto, boat, RV, life, or homeowners insurance, give Ross Byrley a call at 337-478-8349. He says, “I may be able to save you some money, and you can rest assured you’ll be joining a great team backed by a fantastic company!”

Ross Byrley |

Sky High Impact is our Economic

Situated on nearly 2,000 acres, the Lake Charles Regional Airport provides over $310 million in annual economic impact for Southwest Louisiana.

• Serving the 200,000 residents of Southwest Louisiana.

• Direct flights on larger aircraft to Houston and Dallas, connecting to virtually anywhere worldwide.

• Over 30 entities operate on the Airport’s property, including Acadian and Air Med, providing medical emergency flights and Bristow Group, global leader in vertical lift flight solutions.

Shayne Laughlin State Farm

An Advocate for her Clients in Times of Need

So, it is no surprise that Laughlin also became an entrepreneur. She opened her State Farm o ice in 2012. “My husband, Stephen, has worked for State Farm corporate for 23 years and he encouraged me to pursue an insurance agency. He felt that my general love for people and ability to quickly establish genuine relationships would be the perfect mix for a successful insurance business.”

The last few years have been extremely di icult for Laughlin, her family, her team, and the entire community. Even though they are no longer dealing with hurricane claims, they are not done dealing with the aftermath. “The insurance environment in Louisiana is a complete mess with

no easy fix in sight,” says Laughlin. “I am often asked why so many companies have left the state and it’s because they were underpriced for this area. State Farm has long been seen as the ‘expensive’ insurance, but the obvious truth is that we were just priced

Shayne Laughlin has deep roots in Lake Charles. Three of her four grandparents were born and raised in the area and both her parents grew up in Lake Charles. Her paternal grandparents owned Cormier’s Meat Market on 18th street for years, which later became Shop-A-Lot, owned by her parents.

correctly, which is why we are still here.”

There is no magic button to fix the problems with insurance in Louisiana, but Laughlin says writing to your legislators is a great start. “It’s everyone’s responsibility to voice their concerns in order to promote change. Until then, my o ice will continue to educate and communicate with our community through articles like this, social media, and face-to-face meetingsour favorite. We live here, we work here, and we love it here, so we will do our best to help our customers navigate this chaos.”

Laughlin has always prided herself on having integrity and being transparent. She understands how challenging the current insurance climate has been for homeowners and o ers the following advice:

• Choose your insurance company, your agent, and their o ice very carefully.

• Interview your agent. Ask them what their plan will be after a catastrophe and how quickly they will be able to assist you. Ask them if they’ll go to bat for you when things don’t seem right.

• Although price is a factor, it should not be the most important piece of the puzzle. Remember, you get what you pay for.

Laughlin says, “No insurance o ice is infallible and humans make mistakes, but it’s how an agent responds and handles those potential mistakes that matter. We don’t win every battle, but my o ice will do everything in our power to ensure our customers are heard and treated fairly. If you need an insurance advocate, come see us at 4415 Lake Street Suite A and let us take care of you.”

At Phillips 66, supporting our people, our environment and our communities guides everything we do.

Serving Southwest Louisiana for 25 Years

Landmark Title has been providing trusted title work for customers across Southwest Louisiana since 1997. We proudly provide homeowners and businesses with comprehensive title and general notary services, along with the peace of mind that comes from choosing a trusted, experienced title company.

We are fully licensed as a title insurance agent by the State of Louisiana, Department of Insurance and are an approved agent for Fidelity National Title Insurance Company. We maintain Errors and Omissions Insurance to protect all transactions. Every title examination is handled by a licensed, experienced real estate attorney who also maintains Errors and Omissions Insurance. All of Landmark's escrow accounts are independently reconciled daily by Qualia, the nation’s leading digital real estate closing platform.

Landmark takes pride in delivering quick turnarounds to better serve our clients.

At Louisiana Marine Construction (LMC), we take pride in delivering beautiful and long-lasting marine construction projects. LMC stands out as a fully insured and licensed company within the state of Louisiana. We uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ensuring that every aspect of our work reflects our commitment to excellence. With a focus on residential, commercial, and industrial construction, LMC takes immense pride in the quality craftsmanship we bring to each project we undertake. Our team is driven by a shared passion for delivering exceptional results that not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clients. We consider it a privilege to contribute to the growth and development of our community through our construction endeavors, and we are deeply invested in the lasting impact our work has on the surrounding environment.

For more than 15 years, our clients have entrusted us with their marine construction projects. LMC is the first choice when it comes to performing jobs safely, professionally, and on time. For older structures requiring repairs, such as corroded hardware and deteriorated pilings, LMC has the expertise to replace or repair damaged components without the need for complete structure removal, saving time and costs. We prioritize the wellbeing of our team, adhering to strict safety protocols to ensure a secure work environment. Our extensive 15-year tenure in the industry has encompassed over 300 projects, each leaving a different impact on our valued customers.

“We thoroughly enjoyed working with Louisiana Marine Construction from start to finish. Their attention to detail, reliable workers, and excellent communication impressed us. Glenn and his crew were fantastic collaborators, and we highly recommend LMC for any water-based project. Thanks to their creative input and craftsmanship, our project exceeded our expectations!”

In 2022, LMC achieved the certification of ISNetworld Membership, solidifying Louisiana Marine Construction’s authorization to undertake projects within oilfield and industrial facilities. This certificate empowers us to engage in a wide range of projects, in oilfields and industrial settings. Contact our 24hour call service today and speak with one of our knowledgeable project managers.

Louisiana Marine Construction is your trusted partner for exceptional marine construction.

LMC is equipped to handle projects of all sizes, from large-scale undertakings to smaller, intricate works. Our clients value their waterfront properties and seek to maximize their use and preserve their investment. Whether it is resolving erosion issues with wood, vinyl, or steel sheet piling, or creating a relaxing and functional space over the water with piers and boathouses, LMC is committed to achieving both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Trust us to handle your specialized projects with precision and efficiency.

By choosing Louisiana Marine Construction as your trusted partner, you can be confident that your significant projects will be handled with the utmost professionalism, expertise, and attention to detail. Experience the peace of mind that comes with collaborating with a reliable contractor that prioritizes your project’s success as much as you do. Louisiana Marine Construction is ready to bring your marine construction vision to life.

Like Father, Like Son

Passing on the tradition of homegrown healthcare.

In 1993, Brian Clements, MD moved to Lake Charles to practice Internal Medicine. At the time, his son, Taylor, was two years old. In no time, the Clements began to call SWLA their home, and it became the place where they raised their family, went to church, and cared for their neighbors. In 2001, Dr. Brian Clements joined Team Memorial.

Growing up, Taylor was unsure about pursuing a career in medicine, due to watching his dad work tirelessly to care for his patients. It wasn't until he got older and began excelling in biology, math, and chemistry that his career path became clear.

While in school, Taylor spent a couple of years working in Memorial’s emergency room as a technician. As he saw patients come in and out of the emergency department, he realized he may never have another opportunity to treat them again. It was during this time that he realized he wanted to make an impact in people’s lives by taking care of them throughout their lifetime and their health journey, and like his father, Internal Medicine would fulfill that calling.

During his residency, Dr. Taylor Clements completed additional training in lifestyle medicine. This specialized training uses common lifestyle modifications such as diet and physical activity to help reverse or manage common chronic diseases. This opened up a whole new world to treating patients that potentially could set them free from daily medications and ailments. Dr. Taylor Clements had found his passion.

Today, Drs. Brian and Taylor Clements work side by side treating patients in the same clinic, passing on the family tradition of healing.

To schedule an appointment with Drs. Brian or Taylor Clements, please call their office at 337.494.6800.

Imperial Health’s vital role in meeting the healthcare needs of the Southwest Louisiana community go back to 1957 when the doors of what was originally called Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic, or simply, “The Clinic,” first opened.

Fast forward 66 years, and we are now Imperial Health, a group of 75 experienced providers, backed by the resources of the region’s largest physician-owned, multispecialty medical practice in Southwest Louisiana. Imperial Health is unique in that it is a medical group created by independent physicians whose goal is to put patients first. Our providers share a unified commitment to work together, share resources, provide exceptional care and give choices back to our patients. Our experienced providers offer a wide range of primary and specialty care, with a support staff of over 400 employees. Imperial Health has multiple offices and ancillary services conveniently located across Southwest Louisiana, ensuring the care you need is available where you need it.

In a world where healthcare often feels impersonal, there exists a beacon of hope and healing in our community. For the past 25 years, FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers of Lake Charles, formerly Action Potential Physical Therapy, has been transforming lives with their unwavering commitment to compassionate care and restorative treatments. What sets this remarkable practice apart is not only their expertise in physical therapy but also the faith-filled story of the husband and wife team who founded it and who, alongside their incredible team, continue to keep it successful today.

Inception and Inspiration

The story of FYZICAL begins with Floyd and Sharon Saltzman, a Physical Therapist husband and wife duo driven by a shared passion for helping others regain their mobility and quality of life. In July of 1998, they started Action Potential Physical Therapy. “Through the years, we developed a great reputation with our patients and the medical community,” says Floyd. “We’ve always strived to be known for excellent, hands-on patient care in a friendly, family oriented environment”. In 2014, after realizing a need for balance and fall prevention in the area as the large “Baby Boomer” population were becoming of Medicare age, the Saltzmans found FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers, which had developed an amazing proprietary program and protocols for Balance Problems, Dizzy and Vestibular issues, as well as Fall Prevention. Over the next few years, Action Potential fully rebranded to FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers of Lake Charles.

Challenges and Triumphs

Like any business, the years have not been without their share of challenges. “There have been many changes over the years, especially when it comes to insurance reimbursements and documentation requirements,” says Floyd. “I’ve always said seeing and treating the patient is the fun, easy part.” The Saltzmans have relied heavily on their faith to keep their treatment steadfast. “God created man in His image and likeness. However, all the parts and intricacies of the human body, including the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, must all work together in harmony for optimal, pain-free function.” One milestone achieved earlier this year with being in business for so many years was the privilege of treating a third generation of family members. According to Floyd, “We rely mostly on physician referral and support from the medial community, but our business is also built on referrals of satisfied friends and family members throughout the years as well.”

Community Engagement and Outreach

Acting on those same principles of faith, the Saltzmans recognized the importance of giving back to the community that had supported them throughout their journey. “As a man of faith, I know that God comes first, followed by family, and then our fellow man,” he says. “Our FYZICAL family is constantly seeking ways to give back — sponsoring and participating in community events, religious and scouting organizations, as well as school and local sporting teams.” As a business in the community, FYZICAL prioritizes supporting the people and other businesses and organizations whenever they can in an attempt to repay the loyalty that’s often been shown to them. “I feel I could never give back as much as the Lake Area has given me over the last 25 years,” says Floyd.

Growth and Expansion

Over the recent years, FYZICAL experienced tremendous growth and recognized need, necessitating the opening of additional locations throughout the region. In June of 2019, the Saltzmans acquired the Oak Park clinic, and in November of 2019 opened up the Moss Bluff location. However, the practice never lost sight of its core values. Each new clinic retained the same personal touch and commitment to individualized care that has made FYZICAL a trusted name. With advances in technology, FYZICAL has added other services and products that to their outstanding conventional therapy programs. They now offer computerized forceplate custom orthotics with the sophisticated FootMaxx System. FYZICAL also utilizes the BodiTrak, a computerized pressure mapping system for assessment and treatment of balance and vestibular issues, in addition to the Safety Overhead Support (S. O. S.) Rail System they have used for years for the safety of their balance patients.

Looking Ahead

As FYZICAL celebrates its 25th anniversary, the future shines bright with promise. Floyd and Sharon Saltzman remain at the helm, leading a team of compassionate, skilled therapists, as well as a friendly, caring support staff. “Every day, we pour our heart and soul into each patient that comes through our door, doing what we do best” says Floyd. Embracing technological advancements and innovative treatments, they remain steadfast in their commitment to providing the highest level of physical therapy care to their community. With the same passion that ignited their journey, FYZICAL looks forward to the next chapter, dedicated to empowering individuals to overcome physical challenges and embrace a life of vitality and wellness. After all, FYZICAL’s motto is ‘Love Your Life’. “Twenty-five years of doing anything is a long time, but 25 years of doing what I love and what I feel is utilizing gifts and talents given to me from above is a true blessing,” Floyd says.

The Keys You Need for OVER 30 Years

From first homes to new homes and the thrill of new businesses opening, CENTURY 21 Bessette Realty is excited to be a key part of the growth and recovery taking place across Southwest Louisiana.

Founded in 1990 by Harvey and Moria Bessette, we are proud to still be family-owned and operated by the next generation of CENTURY 21 Bessette owner/brokers, Tobie Bessette Hodgkins and Tara Bessette Demarie.

Your trust and confidence are what motivate our 32 agents every day. As we look to the future, we renew our commitment to service and sales excellence, and welcome the opportunity to be your Realtor® for life.

Building a L egacy of Exce llence

Founded in 1986, Alfred Palma LLC is one of Southwest Louisiana’s most respected full-service commercial and industrial general contractors. Our founder Alfred Palma Jr. and his son James Palma offer our clients nearly 100 years of combined experience in the construction industry. Under their leadership, our family-owned and operated firm has established a reputation for exceptional quality, innovation, and safety across the industry throughout the Gulf Coast.

Every project we handle receives quality workmanship and personal attention.

As a general contracting firm, Alfred Palma LLC has handled almost every type of project across the SWLA region, including churches, schools, hotels, manufacturing facilities, port projects, public buildings, casinos, airports and sports facilities.

Commercial • Industrial • gaming

BUSINESS INCUBATOR IS LOOKING FOR NEW TALENT

The Southwest Louisiana Entrepreneurial and Economic Development (SEED) Center Business Incubator is a support process that accelerates the successful development of start-up and fledgling companies by providing an array of targeted resources and services. Business incubators are proven to reduce the risk of small business failures. Historically, NBIA member incubators have reported that 87 percent of all firms that have graduated from their incubators are still in business. Being selected into the program will lead to benefits and a better chance of business success. It’s important to understand that the Alliance/Chamber SWLA Business Incubator is regarded as a startup incubator. According to hubspot.com, “startup incubators are unique organizations that function as a springboard for early-state businesses and startups with the goal of providing specialized tools needed for startups to grow and innovate. The resources and services they offer can vary, but often include access to office space, mentorship opportunities, business education classes, and community networking events.”

THE BUSINESS INCUBATOR IS LOOKING FOR:

· People interested in starting a business, or in the early phases of their venture.

· People who are committed to their dream.

· People who have a business concept and are willing to create and refer to a business plan.

· People who are coachable.

· People who will attend information sharing events.

· People who will be hungry to grow their network.

· People who will dive into learning management, human resources, business law, marketing/public relations, and finance concepts.

· People who are comfortable, being uncomfortable!

So, how do you start the process of applying for the Alliance/Chamber SWLA – Business Incubator program? First things first, call the SEED Center, and ask for an appointment to tour the Business Incubator. Next, you can visit www.seedcenterswla.com and click the “Apply” prompt, which will take you to a page to download the application. After providing that application to the Business Incubator staff, you may get selected for an assessment based on the information provided in your application.

As needed, applicants are introduced to the Small Business Development Center at McNeese State University for preliminary business assistance. If an application is chosen to move to the selection process, there will be a group interview with business leaders who will provide recommendations. Lastly, a final decision will be made on admittance to

the program. Applicants who are chosen will be evaluated for either an on-site office or offsite assistance based on their needs.

If you want to enter the world of business ownership and innovation, now is the time to take the plunge and apply to be accepted into the Alliance/Chamber SWLA Business Incubator program and be the area’s next business success story!

For more information, contact Eric Cormier, Senior Vice President of Entrepreneurship and Strategic Initiatives at the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance/Chamber SWLA – Business Incubator. He can be contacted at 337-433-3632 or ecormier@allianceswla.org.

RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO BUSINESS INCUBATOR PROGRAM MEMBERS INCLUDE:

· Internet Utilities

· Telephone equipment

· Building security

Private parking

· Guest parking

· Copier/Printer

Office furniture

· Start-up office space (depending on program participation)

Conference room access

Professional address

SERVICES PROVIDED IN THE PROGRAM

INCLUDE:

Mentoring/coaching

· Small Business Development Center at McNeese State

SCORE

· Chamber SWLA membership (networking)

· Louisiana Economic Development programs

· Access to academic professionals at McNeese State

SWLA Injury Attorneys was established with a commitment to prioritize the needs and interests of clients throughout the entire legal process. And while the firm itself is new, the three founding attorneys represent more than 40 years of combined legal experience, bringing with them a history of successful settlements and positive outcomes in a diverse range of personal injury cases.

“From hurricane claims to car accidents to workplace injuries, the cases that our clients bring to us have had a serious impact on their lives,”

says Trial Lawyer Mike Williamson.

“Our job is first and foremost to seek justice on behalf of these clients, but they also deserve to feel heard and to be kept apprised of the status of their cases along the way. By listening to our clients, we are also better able to advocate for them in court or during negotiations.”

With experienced attorneys and a dedicated support staff, SWLA Injury Attorneys is well-equipped to tackle intricate legal challenges and achieve favorable outcomes for the firm's clients.

Healthy Living is the Point of Imperial Pointe

The 75-acre campus of Imperial Pointe, located at the corner of Nelson Road and Imperial Pointe Blvd. in Lake Charles, is designed to be a healthy living community that merges a variety of residential options with health and wellness facilities, dining, retail and more.

“Our mission is not just to provide facilities for treating illness, but to create easily accessible services and resources to keep people–and our community–healthy,” says Dr. John Noble, Jr., local orthopaedic surgeon, and Imperial Pointe project leader.

The first 20 acres of Imperial Pointe have been developed and include these businesses:

l Center for Orthopaedics

l FNB (First National Bank)

l The Eye Clinic

l Rehab One

l Imperial Calcasieu Surgical Center

l The Imaging Center

l Medicis Pharmacy

l Hope Therapy Center

l CHRISTUS Ochsner Wound Center

l Endocrinology Center of SWLA

l CHRISTUS St. Patrick Podiatric Medicine & Surgical Residency

l The Villages of Imperial Pointe

l Joint Replacement Center of Louisiana

.

Earlier this year, The Joint Replacement Center of Louisiana and The Villages of Imperial Pointe opened.

The Villages is a 4-story, resort-style, independent living community for adults over age 55.

The Joint Replacement Center is an outpatient surgical center owned in partnership with several local orthopaedic surgeons, offering the latest advances in outpatient joint replacement and other orthopaedic procedures.

Dr. Noble says there are multiple other projects in the late stages of development, including an assisted living/memory care facility, a multifamily residential complex, a gated subdivision, a medically integrated wellness facility with multiple healthcare tenants, restaurants, office buildings, and more.

He anticipates breaking ground on several new projects at the Imperial Pointe campus in the coming months.

Expert Musculoskeletal Care is A Group Effort at Center for Orthopaedics

Expertise, ethics, innovation, teamwork and patient-focused care provide the foundation for the tremendous growth CFO continues to experience. Initially founded in Lake Charles in 1994, the group’s move in 2009 to their a new main office on Imperial Blvd. in Lake Charles marked a new beginning. This new office opened with just four doctors, but the group rapidly increased in number and services.

Today, CFO is the region’s largest musculoskeletal group, serving all of Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas. The group has expanded to include a second location in Moss Bluff and an imaging center adjacent to their Lake Charles office. The medical staff is now made up of 18 doctors in in various specialties, along with three podiatric surgery residents and a large support staff of clinicians and office personnel.

An essential factor in CFO’s growth is the doctors’ strong connection to this community. Most of the doctors are from this region, and those who are not have practiced here for nearly the entirety of their careers. As a group, they are committed not just to CFO, but also to Southwest Louisiana.

Part of this commitment means bringing the latest advances in care to patients, from surgical technology like the MAKO roboticassisted system for more precise hip and knee replacement procedures, new innovations to manage pain without narcotics, and advanced wound healing technology.

The Better Day Health electronic health record technology at CFO adds an enhanced level of connectivity and efficiency to the patient experience, from scheduling, check-in to check-out and through follow-up, that cannot be found anywhere else in the region.

The CFO doctors work with and supervise a team of experienced athletic trainers who provide sports medicine coverage for 22 regional high schools to prevent and treat injuries in young athletes.

When you need to see a specialist quickly for an injury, CFO’s OrthoExpress ensures an appointment within 24 hours.

The wide range of specialists at CFO allows patients to receive collaborative care when needed, all within one group. This is not only more convenient for patients, but also optimizes the level of care they receive.

ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEONS

John Noble Jr., MD

Steven Hale, MD

George “J.” Trappey IV, MD

Jonathan Foret, MD

Michael “Mickey” Garitty, MD

David Drez Jr., MD, Senior Advisor

NEUROSURGEON

Brian Kelley, DO

FOOT & ANKLE SURGEONS

Tyson Green, DPM

J. Kalieb Pourciau, DPM

Brad Jimerson, DPM

HAND & WRIST SURGEON

Andrew Foret, MD

PHYSICAL MEDICINE & REHABILITATION SPECIALISTS

Craig Morton, MD.

William Lowry Jr., MD

Sarah Clevenger, MD

INTERVENTIONAL PAIN

MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST & ANESTHESIOLOGIST

Joseph Crookshank III, MD

PRIMARY CARE SPORTS

MEDICINE SPECIALIST

Alex Anderson, MD

RHEUMATOLOGIST

Enrique Mendez, MD

RADIOLOGIST

David Wallace Jr., MD

Johnson Funeral Homes— Celebrating Life

in Southwest Louisiana

Family-owned and operated for over 45 years

Johnson Funeral Home first opened its doors to serve Southwest Louisiana families in 1976, with Zeb Johnson as the owner and sole Funeral Director. As more families chose Johnson for their funeral needs, staff, locations and services were added.

Today, Johnson is the largest, locally-owned funeral home, proudly operated by three generations of the Johnson family and offering the region’s most comprehensive, personalized bereavement and funeral services:

• FULL RANGE OF FUNERAL SERVICE OPTIONS

• PERSONALIZED CREMATION SERVICES

• MILITARY SERVICES

• PRE-ARRANGEMENT COUNSELING

• PET ANGELS CREMATION PROGRAM

• SIX LOCATIONS

• DEDICATED STAFF OF 60 FUNERAL PROFESSIONALS

ZEB JOHNSON Owner and Funeral Director

LAKE CHARLES - Johnson Funeral Home

SULPHUR - Johnson & Robison Funeral Home

MOSS BLUFF - Johnson Funeral Home

JENNINGS - Miguez Funeral Home LAKE ARTHUR - Lake Arthur Chapel

LAKE CHARLES - Simple Traditions

After many years in the industry, Tracy Young knew all the pieces it took to equal success in the beauty industry. The challenges of the last few years shifted her perspective for the better, and an incredible business solution was born. The creation of Revive Salon Studios is one of those unique stories where the COVID pandemic inspired its inception. Being forced to operate in separate, confined spaces, Tracy realized several business opportunities. One was to create a more private, safer environment for all and move from an open-floor salon model to private suites. The other was to better support and lift other stylists and their businesses up after a few years of hardship.

Tracy’s years as a “booth renter” - the typical model of business for a stylist in a salon – and her time working in nearby Lafayette post-Hurricane Laura gave her an epiphany. A mother of three, she knew her time was very limited and valuable. She was ready for a change that

empowered the creation of her own destiny. As a leader, she could now inspire others in the industry to do the same. The innovative idea for Revive Salon Studios was founded on personal drive, the spirit of collaboration, and a post-pandemic, natural disaster economic need to revive the local economy in Lake Charles.

A first-of-its-kind beauty business incubator, Revive Salon Studios is a dedicated studio space where a professional can come in with a sense of ownership and the support to become an entrepreneur. It is a safe space to create, run, and manage their business in whatever way they see fit. Business owners can also learn from one another and collaborate on best practices by which to run their respective businesses. It truly is a space where you work for yourself, but not by yourself. Most importantly, they can take every dollar they make and call it their own.

The mission is a simple one - inspire style. The double entendre lends itself to not only inspiring style for customers, but also inspiring for the business model or style by which a professional in the local hair and beauty industry can grow and go. In fact, while Tracy would love to see the studio owners stay, she’s even more excited by the prospect of watching them succeed and eventually leaving the nest.

“Moving to a salon studio model was the best move I made for my career. I felt there was something more rewarding out there not just for me, but for all

of my clients,” says Cindi Richard, owner of Studio Luxe and a renter in Revive. “I love that the Revive studio space is mine. The aspect of personalization is liberating and empowering. The decor, the music, everything in my studio is a reflection of me and my business. I’m grateful to Tracy Young for this opportunity, and excited to help make her innovative vision for Revive come to life.”

Topping the salon and studio aspect of Revive, Tracy also wanted the atmosphere to be an experience for clients from the moment they walk in. Unlike other salons, there is no receptionist or sterile lobby environment in Revive. With help from local interior designer Destiny Gschwned of Grit and Pearl, clients immediately walk into beauty. That feeling is reflected through the vibrant color palette reverberating throughout Revive, from local art pieces displayed for purchase within and by Nicole Gainey’s unique hand drawn wall paintings. Clients truly walk into a place of creation and inspiration from start to finish.

The future looks bright for Revive and expansion is certainly one of Tracy’s long-term goals. Currently, Revive has six studios in addition to Tracy’s salon space that host local professionals experienced in styling, spray tanning, extension application, and make-up. However, there is a waiting list for when a coveted spot opens in this one-stop shop for beauty – a fact which confirms the Revive concept is proven and growth is certainly imminent.

To learn more about Revive Salon Studios, visit www.revivesalonstudioslc.com.

Richard Law Firm was founded by attorney Ron Richard with one goal – to be an aggressive advocate for victims. Over the past 25 years, his firm has done just that. He and his team of experienced and knowledgeable legal professionals maintain a dedication to quality, uncompromising representation that has resulted in not only a reputation for success, but justice and better lives for their clients.

The Richard Law Firm focuses on helping victims of:

Car accidents

Truck accidents

Workplace injuries

Sexual assault

One of the most important decisions you can make after an accident or injury is who to hire as your attorney. Choose a personal injury attorney with a proven record of success in getting results for their clients.

Short-Term Rehab | Memory Care | Long-Term Care

DEDICATED TO EXCELLENCE

We believe participating in daily activities is vital to the overall health of our residents, and we are careful to provide something for everyone. We take pride in providing our residents with exceptional care in a superb, home like setting.

ENTERTAINMENT & SOCIAL ACTIVITIES

• Spacious activity studio for arts and crafts, social gatherings, birthday and holiday parties and more

• Outings to restaurants, casinos and other local venues

• Special interest clubs such as Men ’s Club, Ladies’ Club and Resident Council

FREE CABLE, INTERNET AND WIFI

• Televisions in all resident rooms and common spaces

• 24 hour surveillance cameras

• Generator, with capacity to provide emergency power to the campus in the event of a power outage

RESTAURANT STYLE DINING

ENTIRE CAMPUS RENOVATION IN 2021

• Private accommodations available

• Secure Memory Care Community

• State of the art therapy gym, including NeuroCare and OmniCycle programs

• Spacious, multi purpose dining room

• Three nutritious, dietician approved and chef prepared meals per day

• All day dining menus, including on demand coffee and snack stations

Located adjacent to the main building, it is Lake Charles ’ most advanced rehab to home community. The Lodge boasts its own private Dining Room, as well as in room dining options.

With one client on the books and a healthy supply of motivation and commitment, Kristy Como Armand and Christine Fisher started Healthy Image Marketing Agency in 2002.

With a driving desire to succeed, the two slowly built a business on the foundation of hard work, attention to detail, creativity, and true dedication to their client’s goals. Both wore many hats in the early days: project managers, writers, strategic planners, delivery drivers, event planners and many others. Over time, their reputation and client list grew, but they never lost that initial drive to ensure the success of their clients.

In 2003, the Healthy Image owners launched another venture, Thrive magazine—a quarterly publication focused on topics for better living. Evolving over the past 20 years, Thrive has transformed into a monthly, vibrant publication that celebrates events, people and news across the region.

In 2007, Barbara VanGossen joined Armand and Fisher as a partner, bringing her graphic design expertise into the agency. The trio had collaborated on numerous successful projects for over a decade, including Thrive magazine.

21 Years of Creativity and Growth

The agency continued to grow, reaching a significant milestone in 2017 with the construction of a new office building in Lake Charles. The office serves as hub for the Healthy Image and Thrive teams, housing offices, a conference room, studio for photography and videography and a spacious kitchen/lounge area for brainstorming and occasional Friday afternoon game sessions. In 2020, Shonda Manuel, a long-term employee who had worked with the team for 10 years as a graphic designer and photographer, became a partner.

Later that same year, in the midst of the pandemic, Healthy Image encountered a unique opportunity—an invitation to take charge of editorial, advertising, and layout responsibilities for an international magazine. Without hesitation, they embraced the challenge, resulting in the birth of Fence News USA, a monthly magazine delivering industry news to those in the fence and related industries. Three years later, Fence News USA is thriving, boasting a growing subscriber base across the United States and Canada, a robust online presence, and a team well-versed in

fencing, gates, sports netting, decks, railings, pool fencing, ornamental fencing, and access control.

Currently, the Healthy Image team includes 12 talented professionals who offer a comprehensive range of marketing and public relations services to over 100 clients in a wide variety of business and organizational sectors. Their services include strategic planning, advertising, public relations, graphic design, corporate communication, video production, photography, social media management, website development, event planning, and much more—anything that falls under the umbrella of building a healthy business image.

Throughout their journey, Healthy Image has garnered recognition at local, regional, and national levels for their business growth and achievements. These accolades affirm their commitment to uphold their founding principles: achieving client goals and consistently surpassing expectations whenever possible.

To learn more about Healthy Image's exceptional services, visit eHealthyImage.com or call (337) 312-0972.

AWARDS AND HONORS: Small Business of the Year, LED (Louisiana Economic Development), 2012 Top 100 Small Businesses, US Chamber Blue Ribbon Award, 2013 Small Business of the Year, SWLA Economic Development Alliance, 2013 Small Business of the Week , US Congress, during National Women’s Small Business Month, 2016

“ Motivation is what gets you started. Commitment is what keeps you going.”

~Jim Rohn