Lafayette LA Community Guide 2018

C O M M U N I T Y

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G U I D E

Louisiana

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THE ART AND SCIENCE OF PURE FLOWER AND PLANT ESSENCES

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SIDING

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TA B L E O F

Contents

4 | LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA

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Copyright© 2017 Town Square Publications 155 E. Algonquin Rd., Arlington Heights, IL 60005 www.townsquarepublications.com Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication.

Reproduction in whole or in part without permission of Town Square is prohibited.

Chairman, CEO and Publisher | Douglas K. Ray President and Chief Operating Officer | Scott Stone Vice President / Director | Scott Ray Production Manager | Joseph Nugara Editor | Gail Gaboda Content Coordinator / Client Liaison | Stefanie Nugara Graphic Designer | Kirsten Riedl Ad Production Coordinators | Tiffany Salerno and Neila Frontier Directory Coordinator | Michael Sumrak Contributing Writer | Erin Z. Bass Photos | Travis Gauthier Acquisition & Sales Manager Steve Rogers (337) 781-1384 For advertising information in the next publication please email steverogers1@cox.net

6

MAYOR-PRESIDENT WELCOME

8

WELCOME TO LAFAYETTE

9

HISTORY

10

TRANSPORTATION

12

BUSINESS & INDUSTRY

18

NONPROFITS

19

REAL ESTATE & RESIDENTIAL LIVING

22

EDUCATION

25

HEALTH CARE

28

ARTS & ATTRACTIONS

31

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

34

SPORTS & RECREATION

36

SHOPPING

37

DINING

40

ACCOMMODATIONS

41

GOVERNMENT & IMPORTANT INFORMATION

42

OTHER INFORMATION

43

ADVERTISER INDEX

LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA | 5

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Mayor-President Welcome Bienvenue à Lafayette!

We are pleased to be a part of the Lafayette Parish guide for visitors, new and longtime residents and business people alike. One of the most important jobs of the MayorPresident is to sell Lafayette, which is easy to do because we are recognized for so many different accolades – a community that embraces technology, boasts a strong university, is known for its love of sports and celebrates the arts and culture.

As the center of Cajun and Creole heritage, you will find southern hospitality at its best.

In fact, we were recently recognized as the Happiest City in the U.S. One bite of our delicious local cuisine and you will understand why we are so happy! In the last few years, Southern Living and Rand McNally/USA Today have awarded us their “Best Food” titles.

Lafayette residents are also happy to have one of the top three fastest internet service

providers in the U.S., thanks to our locallyowned LUS Fiber Gig connection. Our Fiber has played a tremendous role in attracting and retaining businesses and workers, while also helping to diversify the local business climate.

Recently, Lafayette was named as one of the Top 10 Small North American Cities by Foreign Direct Investment Strategy. Beyond our awards and titles, Lafayette is most proud of its friendly people and joie de vivre.

We hope you take time to explore and experience the many amenities our community has to offer. If you are considering relocating, we have no doubt that you would love to call Lafayette Parish home.

Sincerely,

Joel Robideaux Mayor-President

Est. 1963

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Legacyof Lafayette Traditions Building a

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C

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orner ar 337.456.3063 • 337.451.4149 www. cornerbarla.com

Owner: Stanley Lerille 6 | LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA

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Technology matters

Words matter.

should be left to a professional.

E

2

Writing, editing, social media and publication management services

• Hardware, software & services support • IT recommendations, purchasing & budgeting • Office network & cloud services management

SMALL BUSINESS IT SUPPORT

DEVELOPMENT

Erin Z. Bass has more than 15 years of writing experience and is a native of Acadiana.

media

She specializes in business bios and profiles, social media marketing and copy editing.

• Websites, including e-commerce • Database-driven applications & workflows • Website hosting & management

TRAINING

• Wordpress, Shopify & other web technologies • Adobe Creative Cloud, Acrobat, Filemaker, Office 365

BASS CONSULTING IT SUPPORT * DEVELOPMENT * SOLUTIONS

Call 337-706-2323 or e-mail erinzbass@gmail.com to find out more.

Mike Bass (337) 205-2058

IT Consultant mikebass@me.com LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA | 7

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Welcome to Lafayette

Known as the “Happiest City in America,” Lafayette is located in the heart of Louisiana’s Cajun and Creole region called Acadiana. Home to more than 246,000 people, Lafayette Parish is filled with history, cuisine, live music and local culture. Lafayette’s “work hard, play hard” attitude makes it a fun place to live and also a thriving place to do business. The number of entrepreneurs rivals that of local musicians in Lafayette, which has diversified its roots from oil and gas to technology, health care, construction and manufacturing.

A strategic location at the crossroads of interstates 10 and 49, a world-class workforce and an unmatched quality of life are just some of the reasons to reside in Lafayette. Relocate America named Lafayette one of the Top 100 Places to Live for two years in a row, and Bloomberg Businessweek ranked Lafayette as the ninth most affordable parish to live in the country. The city boasts the largest free, outdoor Francophone event in the U.S. known as Festival International de Louisiane, along with tons of other free festivals and community events, mild temperatures

and some of the fastest internet in the world — giving it a metropolitan appeal.

Lafayette Regional Airport makes it convenient to travel both to and from Lafayette, while the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s Ragin’ Cajun spirit is recognized around the world.

Lafayette is also a regional health hub and home to several world-class hospitals and research and specialty treatment centers.

Louisiana is truly a “Sportsman’s Paradise,” and Lafayette, situated on the Vermilion River, has access to fishing, hunting, boating, golfing, kayaking, camping and more. The subtropical climate with 214 days of sunshine a year makes Lafayette an enjoyable place to live year-round. Affordable housing can be found in historic neighborhoods with sweeping oaks, planned neighborhood developments and more than 100 apartment complexes.

Residents can enjoy a consolidated government with more than 2,000 employees who work hard to make Lafayette the best community to live, work and play. n

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HISTORY The 22-parish area known as Acadiana was officially designated in 1971, but its history goes back much further. The first known inhabitants to populate the Lafayette area were the Attakapas Indians in the 1700s, but the migration of the Acadians from French Canada in the 18th century would have the greatest cultural impact on the city. Approximately 18,000 Frenchspeaking Catholic inhabitants settled Acadie (now Nova Scotia) in 1605 and lived there under French rule until 1713 when the region went into English hands.

Refusing to pledge allegiance to the British crown, the Acadians were expelled in 1755 in what is known as “Le Grand Derangement.” Families were separated, and more than half of the Acadians lost their lives during the journey.

In 1784, the King of Spain allowed the Acadians to settle in South Louisiana. They joined others who had arrived as early as

Geographically Speaking Acadiana is part of an eight-parish region, with Lafayette being one of the smallest parishes in the state. The parish has an area of 178,560 acres or 279 square miles. Lafayette Parish is bound on the north by St. Landry Parish, on the east by St. Martin and Iberia parishes, on the south by Vermilion Parish and on the west by Acadia Parish.

1765 from the Caribbean and the East Coast, settling along the bayous of south central and south western Louisiana where they could live according to their own beliefs and customs. Their first settlement was a small trading post on the banks of the Vermilion River that came to be known as “Pin Hook,” now a major road in Lafayette.

The years of 1765-1785 marked the immigration of great numbers of Acadians due to land grants given by the French and

Spanish governments. The Spanish took possession of the territory in 1766 and with the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, the area came to belong to the United States. In 1821, Acadian Jean Mouton donated land for the construction of a Catholic church.

A settlement grew around the church, now St. John the Evangelist, and in 1823, the Louisiana Legislature created Lafayette Parish. The town of Vermilionville became the new parish’s seat and was renamed Lafayette in 1884 in honor of the French Marquis de Lafayette. n

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‰BY WATER

Transportation Traveling to and from Lafayette Parish is easy due to the city’s strategic location at the intersection of interstates 10 and 49.

Currently under way, the I-49 Connector project will revitalize the city’s gateway and provide a critical transportation link. Lafayette can also be reached by three railways, Lafayette Regional Airport and the Intracoastal Waterway.

Cycle Lafayette

Six ports are located within 70 miles of the city, including West St. Mary, Vermilion, Iberia, Greater Baton Rouge Twin Parish and Port of Lake Charles. Fifty miles east of Lafayette, the Port of Greater Baton Rouge has the most channel depth at 45 feet and is located at the convergence of the Mississippi River and the Intracoastal Waterway. Located just 20 miles south, the Port of Iberia offers a channel depth of 13 feet and has expanded its waterfront property to offer 2,000 acres of strategically located industrial and manufacturing space.

‰BY ROAD A central location for major distribution centers, Lafayette has an abundant supply of carriers from FedEx to UPS and Roadway.

Within the city, the Lafayette Transit System operates day and night service from 5:45 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. All buses are ADA accessible, have audio stop announcements and security cameras.

‰BY AIR

Lafayette is quickly becoming a bike-friendly city thanks to organizations like Bike Lafayette. New bike lanes can be found throughout the city, along with increased awareness and safety measures for cyclists, who have the option to transport their bicycles aboard city buses for free.

Lafayette Regional Airport has three runways — the longest coming in at 8,001 feet — and is serviced by American Airlines, Delta and United, with 18 departures daily. The airport is undertaking a multi-year, $100 million project to build new terminal facilities and improve services to enhance the experience for the traveling public.

Bridging the Gap Between Full-Service Benefits and Self-Storage Prices • Climate Control - Non Climate - RV - Boat • Covered Loading & Unloading • 8 Foot Wide Hallways • 30 Day to 12 Month Leases • Recorded Surveillance Cameras

Acadiana Regional Airport is located 13 miles to the southeast in New Iberia. The airport, and its 125-acre Industrial Park, features true intermodal transportation opportunities, including an 8,000-foot lighted runway, 5,000-foot lighted seaway, an onsite Louisiana Delta rail spur and easy access to Highway 90. In 2017, this airport celebrated the opening of its first passenger terminal and has plans for future expansion.

‰BY RAIL Union Pacific, Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railways and Louisiana & Delta Railroad all service Lafayette, carrying freight to Houston, New Orleans and other surrounding areas. Amtrak offers passenger service from Lafayette to Los Angeles in the west and Orlando, Florida, in the east. n

Office and Access Hours: 8am - 6pm, 7 days a week 2510 Ambassador Caffery | 337-988-6206 2108 Verot School Road | 337-981-5500

Contact

Lafayette Transit System (337) 291-8570 | ridelts.com Amtrak (800) 872-7245 | www.amtrak.com Lafayette Regional Airport (337) 266-4400 | lftairport.com

10 | LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA

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Business & Industry

With a diversified business climate and high-tech infrastructure, Lafayette is THE place to do business. Over the years, the city has positioned itself as a medical, transportation, finance, technology, entertainment, education and retail hub. Lafayette is still the core of the oil and gas industry, with hundreds of related businesses located in the parish, and a highly skilled workforce makes the city attractive to companies across all industries.

A range of tax and business incentives are available to companies, along with financing assistance. The Quality Jobs Program provides a cash rebate for new direct jobs for up to 10 years, and the Enterprise Zone offers Louisiana income and franchise tax credits to a new or existing business creating new fulltime jobs. Work opportunity, entertainment and research and development tax credits make doing business in Lafayette even more exciting. fi

Top 5 Employers ‰ Lafayette Parish School System ‰ Lafayette General Health ‰ Wood Group Production Services ‰ Lafayette Consolidated Government ‰ University of Louisiana at Lafayette

12 | LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA

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LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA | 13

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Business & Industry MAJOR INDUSTRIES CONSTRUCTION

Fueled by new concepts in residential development, Lafayette’s construction sector has remained strong. Improvements made by local government, the university and private companies have also propelled the industry forward, with activity reaching more than $281 million in 2016.

RETAIL

Retail sales in Lafayette are one of the best economic indicators, remaining positive since 2006 and breaking records by reaching $6.4 billion in 2014. More than 20 percent of retail spending in the parish comes from shoppers outside the area, traveling to Acadiana for a fun retail experience.

TOURISM

Tourists flock to Lafayette to find out what makes it the “happiest city.” Lafayette’s culture, entertainment, recreational opportunities, dining scene and mix of businesses make it a popular destination for both national and international travelers. More than a million tourists are estimated to visit the area each year and have their pick of 91 hotels with more than 7,200 rooms.

Biz Stats ‰ Unemployment Rate: 5.5 percent ‰ Number of businesses in Lafayette Parish: 9,348

FINANCE

Banking institutions in the Lafayette market total 39, with an estimated $12,344,202,000 in deposits as of June 2016. Their services range from savings and checking accounts to commercial investments. Thirteen credit unions are also located in the parish, as well as several wealth management firms. fi 14 | LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA

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LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA | 15

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Business & Industry

Contact MANUFACTURING

Thriving manufacturing businesses can be found in all sectors of Lafayette, from jewelry to oil and gas and food production. Innovation drives this sector, as manufacturers transform their industries into high-tech environments with state of the art computers, robots and automation.

HEALTH CARE

Three major hospitals — Lafayette General, Our Lady of Lourdes and Women’s & Children’s — along with two surgical specialty hospitals, make up

Lafayette Economic Development Authority (337) 593-1400 | lafayette.org One Acadiana (337) 233-2705 | www.oneacadiana.org

Lafayette’s health care landscape. The Heart Hospital of Lafayette and several specialty treatment centers also add to the world-class services available in this health hub.

institutions and economic development incentives have also attracted business.

Within two years, four companies announced the creation of more than 1,100 technology jobs in Lafayette.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

LEGAL

In more recent years, Lafayette has positioned itself as a “wired” city open for technology business. A high-speed fiber optic network makes cutting edge communication and data transfer possible at low cost. Other technology infrastructure, skilled workers, research

Lafayette has a robust legal community of attorneys and legal professionals who practice all aspects of law. According to the Louisiana State Bar Association, there are currently more than 1,000 attorneys practicing in the area. Contact Lafayette Bar Association (337) 237-4700. n

16 | LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA

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Wright, Moore, DeHart, Dupuis & Hutchinson, LLC Certified Public Accountants

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WMDDH Your Partners In Business

“From humble agricultural roots to a booming energy hub, Lafayette is the center of a region that’s both multicultural and multiindustrial. Lafayette is known for its entrepreneurial spirit and wildcatter mentality — making the region a testbed for new business development and innovation.

Through innovative collaborations with business, government and education, Lafayette’s stakeholders strive to grow the community’s business base for future development and diversification.”

P.O. Box 80569 • 100 Petroleum Dr. • Lafayette, LA 70508 (337) 232-3637 • (337) 235-9455 • FAX (337) 235-8557 • www.wmddh.com

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PARK TOWER OFFICE BUILDING 400 East Kaliste Saloom Road Lafayette, Louisiana 70508 337.233.2393 Visit our website www.raultgroup.com or e-mail us at ParkTower@RaultResources.com LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA | 17

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NONPROFITS

L

afayette’s community spirit extends into the nonprofit realm, as so many organizations fulfill their mission to help others. United Way of Acadiana leads the way with a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a history of disaster relief and recovery. Lafayette also has active chapters of the Kiwanis and Rotary clubs, along with nonprofits in the areas of health care, education, arts, culture and general community services.

Goodwill Industries of Acadiana has been a part of the community for more than 25 years and operates seven donation centers and 12 retail stores across the parish. While Goodwill’s work begins with donations, purchases of those donations go toward service programs like adult education, which helps people get their diploma, or

employment programs that provide work readiness and job placement services.

The community’s nonprofit organizations also contribute to the social landscape with annual galas and events to raise funds and rally volunteers for their respective causes.

Each year in June, United Way of Acadiana gathers hundreds of people for a Day of Action. The Outreach Center for Women and Children has held a winter Palates and Pate gala for more than 10 years to benefit homeless women and children. The Family Tree introduced a March Madness Get Fit program in 2017, and Kiwanis Club of Acadiana’s Zydeco Pancake Breakfast in October benefits the club’s community programs by serving up pancakes set to live Zydeco music. n

“As nonprofits, we are able to work together to provide resources and services to the community through a variety of programs and community events, so that we can reach our goals of strengthening individuals and families. Stronger and healthier families leads to a stronger and healthier community.”

— Marie Collins, executive director of The Family Tree

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Living Stats

‰ Cost of living: 2.1 percent below national average ‰ Number of households: 98,297 ‰ Median household income: $55,416

Home Prices

‰ Median home price: $221,000 ‰ Price per square foot: $114 ‰ Median rent price: $1,250

Real Estate &

RESIDENTIAL LIVING

H

istoric homes, traditional neighborhood developments, compact patio homes, rural properties and even tiny homes — real estate in Lafayette comprises something for everyone.

The city’s geographic areas range from historic Downtown to suburban neighborhoods and what was once considered the outskirts of town.

Developments can be found along the Vermilion River, in growing Upper Lafayette and Southside areas of Broussard and Youngsville.

community built around one of the top five courses in Louisiana.

residential and bounded by several neighborhoods.

For historic charm, established neighborhoods like the Saints Streets, Bendel Gardens, Freetown and the bordering cities of Carencro and Scott have affordable real estate along with centuries-old oaks. With space to spread out but still retain easy access to amenities, areas like the Northside — home to Acadiana Nature Station — and the southwest corner of the parish, which is still heavily agricultural, are becoming more desirable.

Walkability is becoming more important to the homebuying process, and TNDs like River Ranch, along with Downtown, can offer sidewalks, bikeable streets and access to city landmarks.

Downtown features public parks, museums, Acadiana Center for the Arts and the main branch of Lafayette Public Library.

Planned communities like River Ranch and Couret Farms represent the “smart growth” idea with built-in restaurants, shops, spas and entertainment areas.

Le Triomphe Golf & Country Club was founded in 1986 as a master-planned

Lafayette’s “Restaurant Row” is located on Ambassador Caffery Parkway, where you’ll find the hustle and bustle of the city. Kaliste Saloom Road is another area experiencing much commercial development but also heavily

Options for townhouse and apartment living are also plentiful in Lafayette.

There are approximately 124 apartment complexes in the parish made up of one- to four-bedroom units in all price ranges. For those looking to downsize even more, Tee Tiny Houses is Louisiana’s first tiny house business and has five models under development. fi

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LAFAYETTE NEIGHBORHOODS UPPER LAFAYETTE

Experiencing a rebirth, this section of the city contains older homes in rural areas, as well as new neighborhoods. Parks and playgrounds, the Acadiana Park Nature Station, Couret Farms development, two public libraries and two golf courses combine with rolling hills and new commercial development to make this area a desirable and affordable place to live.

CENTRAL/DOWNTOWN

Representing the original section of Lafayette, then known as Vermilionville, Downtown features many historic buildings and subdivisions with homes on the historic register, along with museums, art galleries and the main branch of the public library. Surrounding areas include landmarks such as the Cajundome, University Medical Center and University Research Park, as well as sprawling neighborhoods along Johnston Street in a variety of price ranges.

OIL CENTER

The largest area of neighborhoods surrounding the Vermilion River, this area is also home to retail and commercial hub known as the Oil Center. Residents have easy access to Lafayette General Medical Center, two boat launches, Girard Park, Heymann Center for the Performing Arts and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

Traditional Neighborhood Developments

Quality building materials with expert advice and friendly service to contractors, builders and homeowners.

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Communities that celebrate a certain lifestyle, traditional neighborhood developments, or TNDs, incorporate mixed-use elements such as parks, broad sidewalks, retail, dining and professional services, along with a range of architectural styles. Residents have the option of walking, biking or driving within their neighborhood, and neighbors can connect at the nearest park, corner restaurant or boutique.

Lafayette TNDs: — River Ranch — Sugar Mill Pond

— Olde Towne at Millcreek — Couret Farms

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KALISTE SALOOM/AMBASSADOR CAFFERY

Heavily residential and also featuring much commercial growth, Kaliste Saloom Road and Ambassador Caffery Parkway — known as Restaurant Row — are two major thoroughfares that run through this area. Both old and new neighborhoods, including River Ranch and The Settlement, have access to The Heart Hospital, Women’s & Children’s Hospital, The Mall of Acadiana and several parks and health clubs.

YOUNGSVILLE/BROUSSARD

The fastest-growing section of the parish, the communities of Broussard and Youngsville retain a small-town feel with big real estate options. The traditional neighborhood development of Sugar Mill Pond is located in Youngsville, while Broussard offers historic homes. Public libraries, the Zoo of Acadiana, Lafayette Regional Airport and plenty of shopping and restaurants add to the amenities.

SURROUNDING AREAS Bordering Lafayette are the smaller cities of Carencro, Scott and Duson. Located just minutes from the city, these areas have quaint main streets, historic homes, agricultural terrain and increased commercial growth. n

Contact

The Realtor Association of Acadiana, founded in 1947, includes more than 1,000 local Realtors and can be reached at (337) 233-0086 or realtoracadiana.com.

LET’S MOVE YOUR BUSINESS IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION Coldwell Banker #1 Commercial Louisiana Realtor- 2016

FLO MEADOWS CPA, CCIM

Licensed in Louisiana

337-258-2301

806 East Saint Mary Boulevard Lafayette, LA 70503 fmeadows@pelicanrealestate.com

COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL 337-233-9540 LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA | 21

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EDUCATION Lafayette’s variety of public and private schools give parents a range of choices when considering what’s best for their child’s education. High-dollar improvements to facilities represent a continued commitment to excellence in Acadiana, as schools implement hightech ideas, expand enrollment and meet demand in growing areas.

The Lafayette Parish School System (LPSS) has 42 schools under its umbrella — six high schools, 12 middle schools and 22 elementary. The opening of Southside High in Youngsville for the fall 2017 school year represents the first new high school in more than 50 years for the school system.

LPSS has a Gifted & Talented Program for academically advanced students. Schools of Choice and High School Academies

offer specialized programs ranging from arts and technology to world languages for students in Kindergarten through 12th grade. A partnership between LPSS and South Louisiana Community College provides for the Early College Academy, which gives graduating students an associate degree in General Studies.

Private and parochial schools offer an alternative to public school, many of them run by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Lafayette. Thirteen Catholic schools are located from one end of the parish to the other. Two episcopal schools, a Christian academy and private girls and boys academies also add to the parish’s offerings.

South Louisiana Community College (SLCC) is one of the state’s largest, most

comprehensive community colleges, offering technical diplomas, workforce training, high school dual enrollment and two-year degree programs that transfer to four-year universities. Serving more than 60,000 students, SLCC strives to increase the opportunities for Louisiana’s workforce and recently began offering courses in oil and gas production technology.

SCHOOL OFFERINGS PUBLIC

Lafayette Parish School System operates 42 schools, from elementary to high school, one early childhood education center, five schools of choice, six high school academies and the W.D. & Mary Baker Smith Career Center, along with Gifted & Talented programs. fi

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The University of Louisiana at Lafayette was founded in 1900 as Southwest Louisiana Industrial Institute. As the second-largest, four-year public university in the state, this institution celebrates diversity, along with all things Cajun.

More than 19,000 students are earning

bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees.

UL Lafayette leads the way in areas such as computer science, environmental biology and nursing. And as the only university in the world with sports teams known as the Ragin’ Cajuns, student athletes compete at the highest level of NCAA competition.

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PRIVATE

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Lafayette has 13 Catholic schools, ranging from elementary to high school. Other private options include Episcopal School of Acadiana, Ascension Episcopal School, Westminster Christian Academy and Schools of the Sacred Heart.

HIGHER EDUCATION University of Louisiana at Lafayette is a four-year, public institution. South Louisiana Community College has eight campuses and offers more than 30 majors ranging from nursing to welding and information technology.

OTHER

Girls, PreK3 - 12

Boys, PreK3 - 12

Contact

More than an education E x p e r ie n c e S aCred h eart

For those in search of a nontraditional education, the parish has resources like Acadiana School of Cosmetology, Blue Cliff School of Massage, Burk Baker School of Real Estate, Louisiana Technical College, Southwest Paralegal College and more. n

Lafayette Parish School System (337) 236-6800 | www.lpssonline.com Diocese of Lafayette (337) 261-5500 | www.diolaf.org University of Louisiana at Lafayette (337) 482-1000 | louisiana.edu South Louisiana Community College (337) 521-9000 | solacc.edu

the first step leap toward a life of significance

C atholiC • i ndependent C ollege p reparatory S ingle -g ender e duCation

337.662.5275 www.sshcoteau.org SSH accepts qualified students of all races, religions, national and ethnic origins.

www.wcala.org

westminster christian academy a superior K3-12 education with a Biblical Foundation

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L

afayette’s medical industry has positioned the city as a regional health center. The industry employs 14.1 percent of the city’s workforce, with area hospitals representing major employers.

Three major hospitals — with more than 1,000 beds — cover much of the parish and offer everything from cancer services to neuroscience, pediatrics and emergency medicine.

Numerous surgery centers, rehabilitation hospitals, specialty hospitals, chemical dependence facilities and support groups contribute to the medical landscape in Acadiana. Lafayette also has robust dental, opthalmology, dermatology and plastic surgery communities. The parish has a 911 emergency response system and serves as

headquarters for Acadian Ambulance, the country’s largest rural ambulance company with a fleet of 500 ambulances offering both ground and air service.

For senior citizens, a variety of nursing home options, along with all-inclusive assisted living and memory care facilities, are available. Excellent medical care, coupled with a low crime rate, affordable housing and moderate climate, make Lafayette a great place to retire.

By the numbers ‰ 3 hospitals ‰ 25 nursing homes ‰ More than 160 dentists ‰ More than 500 physicians ‰ 1,069 hospital beds

HOSPITALS HEART HOSPITAL OF LAFAYETTE

Focused entirely on heart disease care and prevention with a Heart Emergency Center open 24/7, this specialty hospital is owned

by Our Lady of Lourdes in partnership with a group of investors, including physicians.

LAFAYETTE GENERAL HEALTH

Made up of Lafayette General Medical Center, Lafayette General Southwest, Lafayette General Surgical Hospital, University Hospital & Clinics, St. Martin fi LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA | 25

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Hospital, Acadia General Hospital and Abrom Kaplan Memorial Hospital, LGH is Acadiana’s largest nonprofit, community-owned regional health system.

LAFAYETTE PHYSICAL REHABILITATION HOSPITAL

This state of the art, 32-bed specialty hospital offers a unique blend of acute care and rehabilitation services with programs ranging from stroke and brain injury to rehabilitation nursing.

OUR LADY OF LOURDES REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

Newly constructed with the patient in mind, Lourdes is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System. Made up of more than 400 physicians, this hospital offers a world-class medical experience with all the comforts of home.

VERMILION BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SYSTEMS

Lafayette’s leading addiction and mental health treatment center and hospital, Vermilion treats adolescents and adults with a wide range of conditions and disorders.

WOMEN’S & CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

Since its humble beginnings as a birthing hospital, Women’s & Children’s has been providing specialized health care services for women and children for more than 30 years. Services range from women and infant care to pediatric, emergency and cancer care. n

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Contact

Lafayette General (337) 289-7991 | www.lafayettegeneral.com Our Lady of Lourdes (337) 470-2000 | lourdesrmc.com Women’s & Children’s (337) 521-9100 | womens-childrens.com

ACI HEARING & BALANCE CENTER, INC. An Audio-Vestibular Laboratory

• Infant & Adult Hearing Exams • Auditory Brainstem Response Testing • Otoacoustic Emissions Testing • Swim Molds/Musician’s Molds • VNG (Balance Testing) Kimberly “Peezie” L. Allred Au. D., CCC-A, FAAA • Cochlear Implant Mapping Doctor of Audiology • Custom Hearing Protection 103 St. Thomas St. Lafayette, LA 70506 • Hearing Aids: Daily Wear and Extended Wear Phone: (337) 235-6601 DOCTORS OF AUDIOLOGY Fax: (337) 232-0772 Kimberly “Peezie” Allred, Au.D. Kristin Schoenfeld, Au.D.

www.acihearing.com www.lyrichearing.com

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Arts

& ATTRACTIONS

Cajun A Louisianian descended from Frenchspeaking immigrants from Acadia. Traits include a love of food, music, dancing and a work hard, play hard attitude.

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L

afayette’s thriving arts scene encompasses visual art, theater, live music, film and more. The city is filled with art galleries, cultural centers, museums and performance spaces, with events happening every day of the week.

Acadiana’s distinct mix of Cajun, Creole and Zydeco also plays a part by infusing performances and events with local culture and local talent. Cajun jam sessions, Zydeco dance lessons and bilingual shows spoken in French and English are just some of what you’ll find.

Art isn’t just for adults either. Children are welcome at all of the city’s museums, some like Lafayette Science Museum and Children’s Museum of Acadiana catering just to them.

Acadiana Center for the Arts also has youth programs and camps throughout the year, while Cite Des Arts offers popular Theatre Acadie! classes for children ages 3 to 6.

A second Saturday ArtWalk held Downtown is a great way to experience Lafayette’s arts and cultural offerings all in one spot, as galleries open their doors, new exhibits are on display and impromptu performances pop up in the streets.

EXPERIENCE THE ARTS

from Acadiana Symphony Orchestra, along with world-renowned artists and entertainers, Broadway hits and dozens of other community functions throughout the year.

LAFAYETTE ART ASSOCIATION

A nonprofit established by artists, this member-driven organization operates a public gallery and Green Apple boutique.

HILLIARD UNIVERSITY ART MUSEUM

A place of learning and a destination for families, this museum serves students, faculty and staff of the university, as well as the public.

The museum holds a permanent collection, along with 11,000 square feet of rotating gallery space.

SEE THE STAGE ACTING UP (IN ACADIANA)

Founded in 2003 by Amy Waguespack, Acting Up is the resident theatre company at the Acadiana Center for the Arts. Ensemble-driven work is performed in many “non-theatre” spaces.

THE TEA SIPPERS

A group of performance artists who produce, direct, write, design and perform theatrical productions, The Tea Sippers are known for their improv. fi

ACADIANA CENTER FOR THE ARTS

A true community arts organization, this stateof the-art Downtown facility serves the entire region through arts education, outreach and more than 40 annual exhibits and 150 annual events featuring every genre of the performing arts.

CITÉ DES ARTS

Cultures connect at this multi-use center Downtown, which includes a 100-seat theater, several gallery spaces, classes and an arts cafe and bar.

HEYMANN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Located adjacent to the Oil Center, this 2,200seat auditorium holds bimonthly performances LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA | 29

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UL LAFAYETTE PERFORMING ARTS DEPARTMENT

CHORALE ACADIENNE

This university department presents two main stage performances each semester, one in dance and one in theater. Events are held at Burke Theatre in Burke-Hawthorne Hall on campus.

This organization’s mission is to present the great masterpieces of choral literature to the people of Acadiana by performing four concerts a year, including Christmas by Candlelight at St. John Cathedral.

VISIT A MUSEUM ALEXANDRE MOUTON HOUSE/LAFAYETTE MUSEUM

Named for the first Democratic governor of Louisiana and once home to Vermilionville founder Jean Mouton, this house museum is run by a group of 24 civic-minded ladies who offer guided tours Tuesday through Saturday.

LAFAYETTE CONCERT BAND

A part of the Lafayette musical community since 1982, the LCB is comprised of 80 woodwind, brass and percussion instrumentalists who perform throughout Acadiana.

VIEW THE SCREEN

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF ACADIANA

CANE FIRE FILM SERIES

A hands-on participatory museum serving children and their families, schools and community organizations, exhibits include a full-sized Acadian Ambulance, Cafe des Enfants, a mini grocery store, TV station and more.

This independent film series is held the second Monday of each month at Acadiana Center for the Arts.

LAFAYETTE SCIENCE MUSEUM

With more than 10,000 square feet of exhibition space, this Downtown museum also houses a planetarium and virtual aquarium, along with workshops, films and other programs for children.

HEAR THE MUSIC ACADIANA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

One of only two symphonies in the United States associated with a Conservatory of Music, ASO strives to make orchestral music available to as many people as possible through annual concert seasons and community events.

MOVIES IN THE PARC

Downtown’s Movies in the Parc, presented by LUS Fiber, offers family-friendly movie events featuring crowd favorites under the stars in spring and fall.

SOUTHERN SCREEN FILM FESTIVAL

Held each November, this festival presents four days of film screenings, live music, screenwriting, live podcast, workshops, parties and more.

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN CULTURE ACADIAN VILLAGE

This attraction preserves a piece of early American heritage by recreating a typical 1800s Cajun village with authentic homes, a chapel and event pavilion.

JEAN LAFITTE ACADIAN CULTURAL CENTER

One of six cultural sites, the Acadian Cultural Center showcases the history of the Acadian people who settled southeast Louisiana through ranger talks, films, exhibits and other programs.

VERMILIONVILLE

Everybody Loves Kart Ranch the place for FUN!

Lafayette’s living history and folklife park promotes the cultural resources of the Acadian, Native American and Creole people from a 23-acre site on the banks of Bayou Vermilion. The park includes 19 attractions, ranging from restored original homes to local artisans demonstrating essential crafts. n

Contact www.kartranch.com

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Go Karts • Kiddie Karts • Bumper Boats • Water Wars Castle Clash • Mini-Golf • Batting Cages Indoor Soft Play Area • Huge Game Room • Rock Wall Kiddie Train • Battle Botz • Lazer Frenzy • Concessions

Lafayette Convention & Visitors Commission (337) 232-3737 lafayettetravel.com Downtown Lafayette (337) 291-5566 www.downtownlafayette.org

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Festivals & Events The popular saying laissez les bon temps rouler means let the good times roll, and that’s just what locals in Lafayette do almost every weekend. No matter what time of year, there’s a festival or event happening, complete with food, music and good times. In the spring and fall when temperatures cool off, Lafayette’s events really heat up. Several free concert series make Lafayette the self-proclaimed “Free Music Capital of the World,” and even some of the best festivals are free.

While Cajun and Zydeco music are most plentiful, the area’s musicians are talented enough to add country, swamp pop, blues, pop and gospel into the mix. And the same goes for food. Sure, you can find all the Cajun delicacies at most any festival, but you’ll also notice French, Spanish and Hispanic influences, especially at the city’s inaugural Taco Festival in the fall.

Seasonal and holiday celebrations are plentiful as well, and almost all events are family-friendly.

MAJOR FESTIVALS FESTIVAL INTERNATIONAL DE LOUISIANE

The largest international music festival in the country takes place right in Downtown Lafayette. Each April, more than 300,000 festival goers gather over a span of five days for musical performances by artists from more than 20 French-speaking countries, along with workshops, exhibits, visual art, theater and more.

FESTIVALS ACADIENS ET CRÉOLES

One of the largest Cajun and Creole celebrations in the country, Festivals Acadiens takes place the second full weekend in October at Girard Park each year. The five-day, family-friendly event includes local music, food and cooking demonstrations, the Louisiana Craft Fair, a children’s area, symposium and other cultural events. fi

Contact

Lafayette Convention & Visitors Commission (337) 232-3737 | lafayettetravel.com Downtown Lafayette (337) 291-5566 | www.downtownlafayette.org

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FOOD FESTIVALS ACADIANA PO-BOY FESTIVAL

Celebrate the legacy of the humble poboy sandwich during this April festival with more than 20 vendors selling poboys, along with arts and crafts, kids activities and live music.

BOUDIN COOK-OFF

Sample boudin from across the state at this October event held in Parc Sans Souci.

A boudin eating contest, live music and children’s activities are also included.

TACO FESTIVAL

Started in September of 2017, this “tacotopia” includes about 15 restaurants dishing out $2 tacos, paired with margaritas, at Moncus Park.

FARMERS MARKETS THE MARKET AT MONCUS PARK

Find seasonal, farm-based products and artisanal creations from local producers, along with a Cajun jam session, every Saturday at the Horse Farm off Johnston Street.

OIL CENTER HUB CITY FARMER’S MARKET

Held every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon, rain or shine, in the Grant Mollet parking area across the street from Champagne’s Market, vendors sell everything from produce to artisan foods and arts and crafts.

SEASONAL EVENTS FESTIVAL OF LIGHT

Lafayette’s Oil Center comes alive at the beginning of December with this evening event that includes musical stages, a living nativity, trolley rides, photos with Santa, shopping, carnival games and more.

MARDI GRAS

Carnival season in Lafayette features both city and country versions of Mardi Gras, with krewes holding balls, parades rolling down the street and masked riders chasing chickens in the countryside. Events culminate on Fat Tuesday with a festival at Cajun Field, several parades and a Mardi Gras Indian competition.

SAFARI OF LIGHTS

For the holiday season, the Zoo of Acadiana lights up with dozens of animal displays, an Elves’ Eatery and pictures with Santa.

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LOUISIANA CROSSROADS

An intimate concert series hosted by Acadiana Center for the Arts, Louisiana Crossroads pairs local and national musicians for live music and conversation.

RHYTHMS ON THE RIVER

MUSIC SERIES BACH LUNCH

Presented by the Lafayette Science Museum, this concert series is offered during spring and fall and pairs boxed lunches for purchase with free, local live music at Parc Sans Souci.

Offered once a month during summer.

Held at Abilene Park in Couret Farms in Upper Lafayette.

Offered in the fall and spring, this sixweek, free concert series is held on Thursday evenings in River Ranch Town Square and presents local bands, along with food and beverages for sale.

DOWNTOWNALIVE!

SUGAR JAM

Also seasonal, this Downtown concert series happens on Friday evenings and presents some of the best regional bands on stage for free.

Offered once a month March-November.

Held at Sugar Mill Pond Town Center in Youngsville. n

CONCERTS AT COURET

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SPORTS & RECREATION

Lafayette Consolidated Government’s Parks & Recreation Department exists to promote entertainment, pleasure, relaxation and physical development in the city’s green spaces. With 36 parks, 10 recreation centers, four swimming pools, three golf courses, three senior centers, two tennis centers and numerous athletic fields, Lafayette has recreational opportunities for all ages.

Lafayette’s largest park — spanning 222 acres — is J. Otto Broussard Memorial Park, or Southside Regional Park, home to the Fabacher Field Baseball Complex and Les Vieux Chenes 18-hole golf course. This park joins the new Youngsville Sports Complex — with seven batting cages, six soccer fields, five baseball fields and four softball fields — in bringing more recreational amenities to the Southside of town. On the Northside, 117-acre Acadiana Park is popular for its campground, disc golf course, hiking, jogging and biking trails and Nature Station.

Located in the Oil Center, Girard Park has a 1.25-mile walking and jogging trail, tennis courts, covered picnic area, pond and children’s playground. Downtown’s

network of parks are more urban and host live music on public stages, along with other community events.

A favorite of children and families is the Zoo of Acadiana, an accredited zoological park filled with more than 750 exotic animals. Located on 45 acres off of Highway 90, the zoo, which calls its experience “Zoosiana,” has a Safari Train Ride, live animal show, petting zoo, Giraffe Feeding Station and more.

Lafayette also has plenty of indoor recreational opportunities, from skating rinks to bowling, rock climbing, paintball and a trampoline park. n

Contact

Parks & Recreation Department (337) 291-8361 lafayettela.gov/ParksAndRecreation

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M A S T E R

P L A N

MONCUS PARK MASTER PLAN

Market Pavilion and Mini-Golf

An independent, nonprofit venture, Moncus Park, located on the 100-acre UL Lafayette Horse Farm property, hosts a farmers and artisans market on Saturdays and is open to the public from sunrise to sunset seven days a week. A longterm community vision for the park includes two ponds, a great lawn, woodland trails, sculpture walk, carousel, treehouse play area and dog park.

Arboretum Pond Amphitheater

Dog Park

Picnic Beach

Forest Trails

Treehouses & Adventure Play

Toddler & Water Play

Parking

Botanical Gardens

Great Lawn Prospect Garden

Ravine Garden

Prairie Pond & Pavilion

Sculpture Garden & Prairie Plantings

1-mile Loop

Landscape Buffer

2.5k Loop

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Ring it Up ‰ Louisiana state sales tax: 5 percent ‰ Lafayette sales tax: 2 percent ‰ Retail sales in 2016: $5.8 billion

Shopping People from all over Acadiana head to Lafayette Parish to shop. More than 600,000 shoppers a year frequent the area’s boutiques, big box stores, retail centers and antiques shops and flea markets. Retail sales in Lafayette remain strong from year to year, often breaking records, and are fueled by new developments like Ambassador Town Center, anchored by Costco on the Southside of town, and Stirling Lafayette on the Northside, featuring Target and JCPenney. A longtime shopping destination, The Mall of Acadiana offers more than 100 specialty retailers and welcomes more than 15 million shoppers each year. n

Via Villani’s

Ambassador Town Center consists of more than 430,000 square feet of retail space near Lafayette’s “Restaurant Row.” A premier regional shopping destination, this 58-acre property contains a Costco Wholesale, Field & Stream, Nordstrom Rack, Half Shell Oyster House, Home Goods, Orangetheory Fitness, Panera Bread, Red Robin and lots more.

Hair Salon

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Dining

Iconic Lafayette Foods Boudin A sausage casing stuffed with meat and rice, this breakfast delicacy can be found at boudin shops and gas stations all over Acadiana.

Poboys French bread gets layered with meats, cheeses, lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise for the ultimate sandwich.

Gumbo A sort of Cajun stew that starts with the holy trinity and ends with sausage, chicken, seafood or okra, the key to gumbo is making a roux.

Etouffée Crawfish or shrimp get smothered in a roux-based sauce and served over rice topped with green onions.

Snowballs A summertime treat, shaved ice is covered with sweet syrup in a variety of flavors.

One of the things that makes Lafayette the “Happiest City” is the cuisine. People in Acadiana live to eat — and talk about their next meal. So many international cultures, from Cajun to Creole, French and Spanish, have had an influence on local food, and chefs and cooks continue to evolve the area’s most popular dishes. Sure, you can find great gumbo, etouffée, poboys and even snowballs in Lafayette, but you’ll also see fresh-caught local seafood, sushi, tapas, tacos, gyros, samosas and pad thai on area menus.

The city has restaurants overlooking the Vermilion River, family-friendly buffets, plate lunch dives, poboy shops, pizza joints, drive-thru daiquiris, fine dining and everything in between. The EatLafayette promotion that runs from June through September is a great time to try more than 100 participating local restaurants. fi LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA | 37

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CAFÉ VERMILIONVILLE

DON’S SEAFOOD

Located on the site of Lafayette’s first inn, this local institution features historic architecture, elegant cuisine and an outdoor courtyard. Keep an eye out for resident ghosts while sampling some crawfish beignets, turtle soup or Steak Louis XIII.

One of Lafayette’s oldest establishments, Don’s Seafood & Steakhouse Downtown is known for its hush puppies, gumbos, bisques, seafood platter and seafood dinners.

CEDAR DELI

Lafayette has no shortage of Greek and Lebanese influence, and one of the best places to experience it is by having lunch at this deli and grocery. Muffalettas, falafel, gyros, kibbi, grape leaves and more traditional dishes make up the menu.

CREOLE LUNCH HOUSE

Known for its stuffed bread and homestyle plate lunches, this off the radar spot has been serving local favorites like chicken fricassee, red beans and sausage and catfish coubillion for close to 30 years.

10 DON’T-MISS RESTAURANTS BLUE DOG CAFÉ

For a side of local art by the late George Rodrigue with your Cajun cuisine, look no further than this Pinhook spot. Menu favorites include seafood wontons, crawfish bisque, crabmeat tortilla salad, crawfish enchiladas and honey-glazed duck. A Sunday brunch buffet is also served with live music and free mimosas.

DARK ROUX

Drawing inspiration from Southern culture and Louisiana’s bounty, this inventive fine dining restaurant serves brunch and dinner. The menu changes monthly but usually features Gulf seafood, a charcuterie plate and beignets for breakfast.

4650 Johnston Street Lafayette, LA 70503 ***Next to Rite Aid***

(337) 534-0878

phone:

(337) 989-4121 In a laid back and comfortable atmosphere, La Pizzeria offers a variety of delicious dishes including specialty pizzas, calzones, pastas, salads, sandwishes an more. They also boast an impressive selection for the health conscious including gluten-free and low carb options like their specialty Kibbi Crust pizzas. All items are made to order with fresh, local ingredients.

Our Hours

Monday - Thursday 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Friday - Saturday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM Sunday 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Cater your next event

Authentic Thai Cuisine Lafayette’s original Thai restaurant!

We can take care of any of your catering needs with our fresh sandwich platters, one of a kind boxed lunches, large pasta platters and much more. We can deliver & set up everything for your event.

Visit us: 3809 Ambassador Caffery Pkwy #110 Lafayette, LA 70503

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What’s the difference between

Cajun and Creole?

LA PIZZERIA

RUFFINO’S

Authentic Italian cuisine can be found at this Ambassador Caffery spot, with specialty pizzas, calzones, pastas, salads and sandwiches on the menu. Glutenfree and low-carb options are available as well.

Overlooking the Vermilion River, Ruffino’s has a passion for local and seasonal ingredients. With Italian specialties like Veal Parmesan to wood-fired pizza, Cedar Plank Redfish and an excellent wine list, Ruffino’s represents Lafayette’s only Italian-Creole fusion restaurant.

OLDE TYME GROCERY

The place for poboys and snowballs in Lafayette, this grocery dates to 1982.

Weekly specials include $6 whole poboys starting at 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and Murph’s Olde Tyme Snowball Stand is open from April through September right behind the grocery.

TSUNAMI SUSHI

Lafayette’s original place for sushi, Tsunami is known for its cocktails and variety of rolls, featuring crawfish, softshell crab and fried shrimp. For the non-sushi eaters, grilled fish and steaks round out the menu. n

The easy answer is that Creole food has tomatoes and Cajun doesn’t, but of course it’s a bit more complicated than that. Many ingredients in the two cuisines are similar, so the difference is really in the style. Cajun food — descended from the Acadians — is famous for having lots of flavor, sometimes spicy, and seasoning comes from cayenne pepper along with the “holy trinity,” a mixture of onion, bell pepper and celery. Creole cuisine includes New Orleans culture, as well as Italian and African, and its dishes feature creamy soups and sauces.

There are versions of both Cajun and Creole gumbo and jambalaya, so look for the presence of tomato to tell the difference.

5755 Johnston St Lafayette, La 70503.

Phone: (337) 534-0712

Corey Bodoin

www.cheddars.com

General Manager LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA | 39

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ACCOMMODATIONS

Whether it’s a bed and breakfast, boutique hotel, hostel or budget accommodations they’re in need of, visitors to Lafayette have a range of options. According to Lafayette Convention & Visitors Commission, guests can “stay in luxury, stay in history or stay in budget.”

Chain hotels offer plenty of traditional choices, but Lafayette also has historic bed and breakfasts, country cottages and charming inns, along with boutique hotels and extended-stay suites. For more adventurous guests, campgrounds and even houseboats come with a view.

If you want to live like a local, Lafayette’s Airbnb properties range from farmhouses to Downtown lofts, an artist’s studio and cozy private rooms.

Find a complete list of lodging at www.lafayettetravel.com/hotels. n

By the numbers ‰ 7,200 rooms ‰ 91 hotels ‰ 18 bed and breakfasts ‰ 8 campgrounds

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City Departments

Government & Important Information Lafayette Consolidated Government was established by a home rule charter in 1992 and officially went into effect in 1996. The government is run by an elected city-parish president and nine council members. The departments of the government, ranging from police and fire to public works and community development, are run by directors.

Five smaller parish municipalities, including Broussard, Carencro, Duson, Scott and Youngsville, are not governed by Lafayette Consolidated Government but by their own elected mayors.

Louisiana state sales tax is 5 percent. The cities of Lafayette, Carencro and Scott have a local sales tax rate of 2 percent, while Broussard has a rate of 2.5 percent and Youngsville 3.5 percent. There is no state property tax in Louisiana, and the state has a homestead exemption of parish taxes, which means homeowners do not pay property taxes on the first $75,000 of their property’s fair market value.

The property tax rate is not stated as a percentage, but rather as a millage. The city of Lafayette property tax millage is 101.93 mills, and millage for property outside of the city is 86.55. n

Police — (337) 291-8600 Fire — (337) 291-8701 Community Development — (337) 291-8402 Lafayette Utilities System — (337) 291-5858 Planning, Zoning & Development — (337) 291-8013 Public Works — (337) 291-8502 Transit — (337) 291-8570 Lafayette International Center — (337) 291-5474 Parks & Recreation — (337) 291-8361

Meet the Officials

Lafayette Mayor — President Joel Robideaux Lafayette City-Parish Council: Kevin Naquin — District 1 (337) 291-8801 Jay Castille — District 2 (337) 291-8802 Patrick Lewis — District 3 (337) 291-8803 Kenneth P. Boudreaux — District 4 (337) 291-8804 Jared Bellard — District 5 (337) 291-8805 Bruce M. Conque — District 6 (337) 291-8806 Nanette Cook — District 7 (337) 291-8807 Liz W. Hebert — District 8 (337) 291-8808 William G. Theriot — District 9 (337) 291-8809

Contact

Mayor’s Office (337) 291-8300 | lafayettela.gov

The assessor's primary responsibility is to find the fair market value of your property. Assessors are mandated by state law to reassess property at least every four years. The next mandatory reassessment will be in 2020.

Conrad T. Comeaux Lafayette Parish Assessor

Louisiana’s laws allow the application of several exemptions or abatements of property taxes.

• Homestead Exemption - Residential properties often qualify for homestead exemption of up to $7500 of the assessed valuation.

• Special Assessment Level Abatement - Senior citizens, certain disabled individuals and widows of certain veterans can apply for this abatement to "freeze" the assessed value of their homes.

• Restoration Tax Abatement - This abatement is available to business owners and homeowners who expand, restore, improve or develop an existing structure in a downtown development district, economic development district or historic district.

• Industrial Tax Exemption - The industrial tax exemption is available only to manufacturers new to the state as well as new investments and miscellaneous capital additions to existing facilities in Louisiana.

See our web site at www.lafayetteassessor.com for: • Information on property valuations, tax calculations, available property tax exemptions and various other topics about property assessment and tax.

• Downloadable forms • Database searches by either street address or assessment numbers; viewing a map of the property.

• Use of the tax estimator to get an unofficial estimate of taxes.

1010 Lafayette Street • Suite 402 • Lafayette, LA 70501 337.291.7080 • 337.291.7086 fax www.lafayetteassessor.com LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA | 41

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Other Information The Lafayette Office of Motor Vehicles is located at 3241 N.W. Evangeline Thruway, Ste. A, and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

An out-of-state driver’s license is valid for 30 days after establishing residency

in Louisiana. To obtain a license, you must provide proof of your identity through an out of state license, birth certificate, passport and/or Social Security card. Call (337) 896- 8121 for more information. n

Geaux Vote

To register to vote in Louisiana, you must be: • A U.S. citizen • 17 years old • Not be under an order of imprisonment for conviction of a felony • Not be under a judgment of full interdiction for mental incompetence or partial interdiction with suspension of voting rights • Reside in the state and parish in which you seek to register • Registered at least 20 days prior to an election if registering through the GeauxVote Online Registration System or 30 days prior to an election if registering in person or by mail Register to vote online at www.sos.la.gov or apply in person at the Registrar of Voters office at 1010 Lafayette St., Ste. 313.

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Advertiser Index Academy of the Sacred Heart ................................ 24

La Pizzeria .............................................................. 38

ACI Hearing & Balance Center, Inc. ....................... 27

Lafayette Parish Assessor ....................................... 41

Ascension Episcopal School ................................... 23

Lofton Staffing Services .......................................... 13

Bass Consulting ........................................................ 7

Neel-Schaffer .......................................................... 15

Berchmans Academy of the Sacred Heart .............. 24

Network USA .......................................................... 17

Bridge Storage ....................................................... 10

Paragon Casino Resort ........................................... 35

Cheddar’s ............................................................... 39

Pimon Thai Restaurant............................................ 38

Coldwell Banker Commercial — Flo Meadows, CPA, CCIM ...................................... 21

Rault Resources Group ........................................... 17

Red’s ......................................................................... 6 Cox Business .......................................................... 15 Ruffino’s on the River .............................................. 37 Deep South Media ................................................... 7 Spa Mizan ................................................................. 2 Don’s Seafood Hut ................................................. 39 Teche Drugs Pharmacy ........................................... 26 Doug Ashy Building Materials ................................ 20 Van Eaton & Romero .............................................. 21 Dr. Curtis H. Roy & Associates ................................ 44 Vermilionville .......................................................... 33 Home Bank ............................................................. 13 Via Villani’s Hair Salon............................................. 36 Jim Olivier’s Home Improvement Company of Acadiana .............................................. 3

Jim Olivier’s Roofing Louisiana ................................. 3

Westminster Christian Academy............................. 24

Wright, Moore, DeHart, Dupuis & Hutchinson, LLC...................................... 17

Kart Ranch .............................................................. 30 Zoom Photo Studio .................................................. 7

LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA | 43

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GENERAL DENTISTRY

Dr. Curtis H. Roy & Associates Curtis H. Roy, D.D.S. David B. Chambers, D.D.S. Luan A. Nguyen, D.D.S. Established 1970

Complete Dentistry For Individuals Families & Businesses! www.drcurtisroyandassociates.com

337-981-9811 • 800-433-5138 3703 Johnston St. • Lafayette

Our Office

Find Us On

• Has 4 Full-Time Dental Hygienists • Offers A Dental Credit Card • Electronically Files For You • Accepts Workman’s Comp Insurance • Sees Emergency Patients The Same Day They Call • Speaks English, Spanish & Vietnamese • Makes Our Own Crowns, Bridges & Dentures • Offers Implants

EVANGELINE VILLE PLATTE OPELOUSAS 49

EUNICE

ST. LANDRY

ACADIA BREAUX BRIDGE

10

CROWLEY LAFAYETTE

LAFAYETTE

ST. MARTIN ST. MARTINVILLE

90

NEW IBERIA ABBEVILLE

VERMILION

IBERIA FRANKLIN

MORGAN CITY

ST. MARY

7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday - Friday • Saturday Appointments Available

Dr. Curtis H. Roy & Associates offers a 12-Month-Interest-Free DENTAL CREDIT CARD Apply online! Call 337.981.9811 for details!

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