BIZ. July 2013

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Bossier Chamber of Commerce Newsletter Inside this Edition

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JuLY 2013

Fit for Business Going from Workplace to Workout

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Tools

you can use today

APP of the

MONTH

DELIVERED TO BUSINESS LEADERS THROUGHOUT SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER

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Biz. Magazine • July 2013

The First Word

Telling Good News

Y

What if Jesus Christ worked in the Marketing Department? ou have seen them all over the place, especially at events where Christians abound.

They adorn the shirts of the "believers." And quite frankly, they look stupid to the rest of the world. "Them" are those knock-offs of name brands with Christian logos and scriptures — from the John 3:16 made to look like the John Deere logo, to the words "Jesus Christ" written in the Coca-Cola font. Yes, we know He is the "Real Thing."

Don't get me wrong, I am a fan of cleverness. I am even a fan of parody. However, I am also a realist when it comes to marketing, and these things only appeal to "members of the club" for the most part. I brought this up in our Life Group recently. I learned that many in our group agreed with me. One 20-something even said, "it looks cheesy to others."

While sharing the Gospel is not necessarily a "marketing" function, there is marketing involved.

When Christians put forth products in the name of Christ, we are essentially marketing on His behalf. When we create knock-offs in His name, don't we cheapen His message?

The point was driven home to me while watching television. A Morningstar meatless patties commercial came on. The announcer kept going on and on about how it looks and tastes like a grilled hamburger.

The scene showed these patties on the grill, in a bun with lettuce and tomato, and being enjoyed by "happy" vegetarians. My first reaction was "if being a vegetarian is so good, then why do they have to try to make it look like meat?"

If being a Christian is so great (and it is, trust me) then why do we feel the need to look like something else? Shouldn't we be happy with our own identity?

Parody may get someone's attention for a moment, but it is just that. How many Weird Al Yankovic albums do you own?

If you own one of these shirts, etc., you don't have to throw it away. Just realize that it is what it is. Be original. Be authentic. People can see through all that other stuff.

David Specht Jr. President of Specht Newspapers, Inc. Read his blog about leadership at www.DavidASpecht.com He may be reached via email at dspecht@bossierpress.com.

July 2013 • Biz. Magazine

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Contents 20

Get your “Kix” on July 4th

Kix Brooks, fireworks and more at Fourth of July celebration

On the Cover

16

HIgher Weight = Lower Pay?

Weight-based discrimination consistently affects every aspect of employment from hiring to firing, promotions, pay allocation, career counseling and discipline.

23-26

Bossier Chamber Newsletter

We are pleased to present the Bossier Chamber of Commerce Member Newsletter in this month’s edition.

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BIZ. News Online

The BIZ. website at www.nwlabusiness.com is Shreveport-Bossier’s

for business news, updated as it happens. In addition, users can / 8"

# 6 4 * / & 4 4 home sign up for a free BIZ. Daily Report to keep up with BIZ. news from the .0 / 5 ) :

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Want to advertise? http://nwlabusiness.com/2013-advertising-kit/ Volume 4, Number 4 | ©Copyright 2013 by Specht Newspapers, Inc. All rights reserved. BIZ. is published each month by Specht Newspapers, Inc. at 4250 Viking Drive, Bossier City, LA 71111. Telephone (318) 747-7900. Information in this publication is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed.

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Biz. Magazine • July 2013

Physical fitness, and its impact on the workplace is gaining momentum locally. Read how one local business is incorpating fitness into its culture.

See Page 14

Regulars 3

Telling Good News

5

The Power of TEAM

6

It’s Time for a Review

11

Trying to Stick to a Fitness Plan?

13

What if Jesus Christ was working in the Marketing Department?

Accomplish more than you could alone

Taking a look back at lessons of the past

Social media can make fitness a little easier for professionals and patrons

Dancing with the Date that Brought You What you don’t know about customer loyalty can hurt you

31

Let Me See that Sushi Roll Explore Korean food at Kabuki Sushi

Tools You Can Use When it comes to winning in Business, it helps to have the right “tools” for the job.

Win-Win Powertools

The Power of ‘TEAM’ I

Accomplish more together than you could alone was auditioning for the role of Sales Manager with a company that didn’t have sales managers. They expected the general manager to carry that load. I was facing the owner of the company as my GM was trying to sell him on the value of having a person whose sole responsibility was focused on sales. The owner wasn’t buying it; he just wanted me to be a salesperson. The owner turned to me and essentially asked me to show him the money.

Jerry Frentress Speaker & Coach, Win-Win Power(ful) Tools for Sales, Service and Employee Interviewing. Website: www.WinWinPowerTools.com.

Business Facebook: www.Facebook.com/WinWinPowerTools . 453-6080 / Bossier City

“I can sell more (and make you more money) through my efforts of training and coaching with my sales team than I will ever accomplish by myself.” I guess I was showing my courage….or was it my naiveté? The owner just stared at me and turned the conversation to another topic. I made the sale and became this company’s first ever Sales Manager.

My first step was to throw out the traditional “sales staff” and “sales manager” titles. The com-

pany’s new “Sales Team Leader” went to work building a SALES TEAM. What’s the difference? What is a team? The answers are found in what the team members think and believe. The more we talked about becoming a team, the more it mattered. The answer was coming from within each member. A team became a driving force.

About every six months our sales meeting would be on the subject of TEAM. Here’s some of what they told me their team meant: We all pull in the same direction We’re all for one and one for all (The Three Musketeers) We listen to each other We care for each other and our clients We are focused “I’ve got your back!”

We support each other

I can sell more (and make you more money) through my efforts of training and coaching with my sales team than I will ever accomplish by myself

We’re happy to help We revel in each other’s successes “I’m here for you” “Rely on me” “We’ll win together” There’s more power when it is “us” than when it is “me” Ah-ha, I see the agenda for your next sales or staff meeting.

July 2013 • Biz. Magazine

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Marketing B-S (Bossier-Shreveport)

O

It’s Time for a Review

Randy Brown

Advertising/Marketing Guru He is the Advertising Director for Bossier Newspaper Publishing Company, Inc., publishers of the Bossier Press-Tribune and BIZ. Magazine Randy may be reached at rbrown@bossierpress.com

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Biz. Magazine • July 2013

ver the past few editions, we have discussed the Top Five reasons for sales representative failure. Our discussion has centered around the central idea of helping sales managers in building their sales team(s). As sales managers, we often find ourselves repeatedly asking the question: why do sales representatives fail? This column will be a culmination of our discussion on this topic. The reasons for sales representative failure can be many..some predictable...some not. In no particular order, the Top Five reasons for sales representative failure that we have discussed are: 1.)Inadequate Training, 2.)Pursuing Unqualified Prospects, 3.)Pursuing Only “The Big Elephant” accounts, 4.)Lack of Time Management and 5.)Poor Attitude.

First of all, lets begin with a brief review and summary. Inadequate Training: as author Tom Hopkins says, “you are your greatest asset. Put your time, effort and money into training your greatest asset.” We should all strive for excellence. If we all want to be the very best that we can be, then there is absolutely no excuse for not

training enough and not being properly prepared.

Next, Pursuing Unqualified Prospects. Don’t waste your precious and most valuable time pursuing unqualified prospects. By spending the time and effort necessary to properly qualify your customers, you will quickly see which customers to keep on your call list(s) and which prospects to drop. Channel the time that you will save by thoroughly “vetting” your prospective customers. This can be a key step toward insuring your long term success as a sales representative.

Pursuing The Big Elephant: As a sales representative, if you are not consistently pursuing accounts of all types (big and small, new leads and new opportunities), as opposed to just concentrating solely upon the “Big Elephants,” then you’re are not going to meet your sales objectives in the long run.

These “Big Elephants” cannot be your total focus or else. Don’t let this happen to you.

Manage Your Time Wisely: Time management is a balancing act; a real skill upon which we all must constantly focus. Time management skills can have a direct impact upon the quality of our work, our efficiency and our stress levels. In today’s economy, time management skills and specific sales strategies related to how we use our time become even more important. Make a pledge to work on your time management skills no matter how good you already think you are.

Poor Attitude: In short, your attitude matters.

Some would say that out of all of the things that we could possibly mention, your attitude matters most. Count me in that group. Without a great attitude and outlook, you are not going to accomplish much. We must all have a great attitude, believe in what we are doing and let others see that our attitude is a part of us both inside and out.

This has been a meaningful and fun discussion. I certainly got alot out of it and I hope that you did too.

It’s like receiving a business book each month.

Don’t Miss a Single Issue!

July 2013 • Biz. Magazine

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Biz Tools

Do Something The speed of business is ever increasing. The successful business leader stays on top of the tools and information to help his company grow.

Books

What are we reading?

Long known as a “must read” in business circles, Good to Great by Jim Collins has stood the test of time. Collins uses real-world case studies to illustrate why some companies make the jump to greatness, while others just remain “good.” Readers will learn how companies like Walgreens continue to thrive, and how principles such as the “Hedgehog Concept” can be implemented in any size organization.

Good to Great will quickly become a staple on your bookshelf and you might even buy copies for friends and colleagues, both inside your organization and outside it.

Order the book here.

For those looking for a practical guide to take their organization to a higher lever, then Good to Great is truly a “must read.”

What are they reading?

Inferno, Dan Brown David “Rocky” Rockett

Crush It, Gary Vaynerchuk Butch Bellah

The Catalyst Leader, Brad Lomenick

Getting Things Done, David Allen

David Specht Jr.

Randy Brown

App of the Month In keeping with this month’s fitness theme, we present MyFitnessPal. Losing weight isn't easy - we know. But with a membership to MyFitnessPal.com, you'll get the tools you need to successfully take weight off - and keep it off. And best of all, everything on the site is 100% FREE. Study after study has confirmed the benefits of keeping track of the food you eat and the activity you do. It's simple - the more consistently you track your food intake, the more likely you are to lose weight. That's why every successful weight management program suggests that you keep a food diary and/or an activity log. MyFitnessPal helps by having a diary and database of foods at your fingertips, wherever you are.

MyFitnessPal is available online at www.myfitnesspal.com along with an app for iPhone and Android.

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Biz. Magazine • July 2013

More Tools Listen Up Podcast of the Month EntreLeadership By Dave Ramsey

Lessons from Dave Ramsey on business, team building and leadership. Hosted by Chris Hogan. Each episode features teaching from Dave along with guest interviews with some of today’s top leaders, such as Tony Hsieh, Simon Sinek and Dan Cathy.

Worth Following Blog of the Month Intentional Leadership with Michael Hyatt michaelhyatt.com Michael Hyatt is the author of Platform: Get Noticed in a Noisy World (Thomas Nelson). It is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestseller. Recently, Forbes magazine named me one of the Top 50 Social Media Influencers of 2013.

His personal blog is focused on “intentional leadership.” His mission is to help you live with more passion, work with greater focus, and lead with extraordinary influence.

Michael writes on personal development, leadership, productivity, platform, and publishing. On occasion, he writes about stuff that doesn’t fit neatly into one of these categories.

Michael’s goal is to create insightful, relevant content that you can put to work in your personal and professional life. If you are in a position of leadership—or aspire to be—then this blog is for you.

Michael typically posts three to four times a week. To make sure you don’t miss his newest posts, you can subscribe via RSS or e-mail.

SOURCE: MICHAELHYATT.COM

July 2013 • Biz. Magazine

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DEVELOPMENT & CONTINUING CONTINUING EDUCATION EDUCATION WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT 6220 EAST

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10 Biz. Magazine • July 2013

Uncommon Sense Marketing

Trying to Stick to a Fitness Plan?

W

Let Your Friends and Followers Help Social media can make fitness a little easier for professionals and patrons

hether you’re a fitness professional looking to expand your business or just want to eat better or find the right exercises, social media is your new best friend. Gone are the days of popping in a Jane Fonda VCR tape; move over paper workout journals, take a look at some new ways to get the job done.

Gone are the days of popping in a Jane Fonda VCR tape; move over paper workout journals.

Let’s look at this from the fitness or nutrition professional side: Create a series of videos demonstrating proper form and post them to YouTube and Facebook. You could charge a monthly fee for your expertise. The same thing applies to videos on cooking or nutrition.

Create a private Facebook group for your clients. Use it for inspiration and education, as well as building your brand.

Amy Kinnaird

Social Media Evangelist She trains business owners and entrepreneurs how to use the latest marketing tools and techniques to attract and keep clients.

Fitblok.com – this is a cool new way to have your exercise classes delivered. Join as a trainer, stream live classes for a nominal fee.

You’ll get folks from all over the country taking your classes.

How about starting a podcast? This is very popular right now. Share your advice on your topic, whether it’s a 2 minute or a 20 minute spot.

On the flip side, as a user, here are some things you can use to propel your fitness journey.

YouTube – you can find a video on anything from making green smoothies to triceps exercises you can do in a hotel.

Fitblok.com – for a dollar or two you can take a wide variety of fitness classes from the convenience of your own iPad. Water your body app – tracks your water consumption during the day. (There are lots of water apps besides this one.)

There are apps for every health and fitness related thing you can think of. Check into MapMyRun or Pocket Yoga. Another site to check is MyFitnessPal.com or download their calorie tracker app.

Podcasts – there are an endless variety of podcasts on all things fitness and nutrition. Just Google and look for one!

Of course, let us not forget that you can leave technology behind and take a walk, venture out on your bike, or just enjoy the bounty at the Farmer’s Markets in the area. Unplugging is healthy, too!

Start your blog. Write about everything in the health, nutrition and fitness world. Develop raving fans.

View Amy’s website at www.uncommonsensemarketing.com.

July 2013 • Biz. Magazine

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12 Biz. Magazine • July 2013

Sales Power Tips

Dancing with the date that brought you

M

What you don’t know about customer loyalty can hurt you any business owners today spend an inordinate amount of time trying to lure new customers to their business, when the heart and soul of their business is already there—right under their nose. According to Forrester Research, it costs five times more to acquire new customers than it does to keep existing ones. FIVE times as much! I’d propose that instead of vying for new customers; focus your marketing efforts on satisfying the customers you already have. When you do so, you’ll reduce churn—and studies have shown that reducing churn by just 5% can increase profits by 25% and more.

Those are staggering numbers. And the great part is that these customers are already coming into your shop or business every day—they’re the people you already know.

Did you know that 80% of future revenue will come from 20% of existing customers and the probability of selling to an existing customer is more than 50% higher than the probability of selling to a new prospect? In this case a bird in the hand is worth 5 or 6 in the bush!

Butch Bellah Butch Bellah is a Sales, Business and Personal Development Coach and Speaker working to help businesses not only survive, but THRIVE in today’s economy. He has been named one of the Top 100 Sales Experts to follow on Twitter where you can follow him on at http://www.twitter.com/salespowertips or on his website at www.butchbellah.com. Reach him at 337-384-9204 or by email at butchbellah@gmail.com.

Perhaps the most powerful argument for knowing, rewarding and marketing to your most loyal customers is they tend to be the most social and can become “ambassadors” for you when treated like they deserve. A social customer will tell an average of 42 people about a good customer experience—on the other hand, they will tell an average of 53 people about a bad customer experience.

Do you have a loyalty program? Do you know who these customers are and how to reward them? You need to learn.

The future of your business depends on it.

July 2013 • Biz. Magazine

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Cover Story STORY BY Sean Green

Fit for

T

Going from Work

Businesses can benefit from emphasizing fitness

ime is essential in the workplace. But when combined with a normal 9-to-5 work schedule, or even later, and all the pressures that accumulate day in and day out, it can be a hindrance on personal time.

Usually, one of the first things to go is gym time. Finding a gig that won’t submarine your exercise routine can be all but impossible.

Except it’s not.

What if you could work for a company that values fitness just as much as the bottom line? There are employers who value health and fitness in their employees, offering access to athletic facilities, rewards for being in shape, cafeterias stocked with healthy snacks, and preventive medical care so you can monitor your cholesterol and blood-pressure levels along with other hidden health hazards.

“Fitness and exercise in the workplace is of super importance. At Holiday Lanes, we hope that providing the resources to get fit, our crew will be happier and healthier. We are aiming to get better at what we do,” said Robin Williams, marketing director and health leader for Bossier City’s bowling center.

There are other businesses that know personal fitness isn’t just good for an individual’s well-being but also for the bottom line. Study after study shows workplace fitness helps decrease absenteeism, increases productivity, reduces turnover, and ultimately produces a healthier workforce that requires significantly lower medical costs.

14 Biz. Magazine • July 2013

An Epidemic Americans spend an average of 47 hours per week at work. That is 164 hours more per year than a generation ago.

The number of sedentary jobs among Americans has risen 83 percent since 1950.

“We believe we will do better as a business and they do better as crew members and also in their own personal lives,” said Williams.

The bowling center was recently added to the list of Shreveport-Bossier businesses that is a a certified American Heart Association FitFriendly Workplace.

Other businesses include the Caddo Parish School Board, Willis Knighton Health System, CHRISTUS Health Shreveport-Bossier, First Baptist Church School, LifeShare Blood Centers, and Chesapeake Energy.

The program is part of the AHA’s effort to reduce obesity, cardiovascular disease, and strokes in America. It offers access to program resources, including walking programs, materials promoting company wellness to employees, consultation on CPR/AED programs, and more.

Holiday Lanes met the Gold Level requirements by fulfilling criteria such as offering employees physical activity support, increasing healthy eating options at work and pro-

Cover Story PHOTOS BY Amanda Crane

r Business

to Working Out moting a wellness culture. For a company that promotes bowling as a fitness activity, it was a no-brainer.

“As a facility that encourages the community to bowl for fun and fitness, we feel that it’s important to model healthy behaviors. By becoming a certified fit workplace, it shows our commitment to healthy lifestyles and provides support to our employees who may wish to improve their health,” said Williams.

Holiday Lanes specifically encourages employees to take stretch breaks or participate in other physical activities during the day and will install a walking path. They also provide full time employees with a free gym membership and offers discounts that encourage the purchase of healthy food and/or beverages.

“If we can have an impact encouraging less or no smoking or to encourage healthy food choices and normal body weights, everyone wins,” said Williams.

She notes that business owners who take an interest in improving their employees’ health may also find that employees are likely to show more interest in their jobs and take more leadership in their duties.

“When an employee feels a genuine concern for their well-being, it pays off in many ways — higher self-esteem, improved energy and less stress are just a few of the ways that crew members benefit,” said Williams.

To become a certified Fit Workplace, start with filling out an application at www.ffc.heart.org.

Business Benefits of a Healthy Lifestyle Think you’re too busy to care about your personal fitness? Let me hit you with some knowledge* to get you to hit the weights (or treadmill).

Fit employees are less likely to get sick — Reduced absenteeism and reduced health care expenditures are the result of a fit employee base.

Fit employees have more energy — This energy allows the employee to stay focused on the task at hand, bringing the best of themselves to each task.

Fit employees have more self-confidence — This self-confidence empowers the employee to challenge themselves, and strive for higher levels of achievement in the workplace.

Fit employees set and achieve goals — A healthy lifestyle often demands that an individual set and reach goals related to their fitness, developing a habit of staying true to goals and seeing them through to completion.

Fit employees tend to take on more leadership roles — The increased self-confidence and knowledge of ability to see out goals means they are more willing to lead others.

Fit employees tend to have better attitudes — This means a more positive attitude in the workplace.

Fit employees are less stressed — Regular exercise releases physical and emotional tensions. *PROVIDED BY SELFGROWTH.COM

July 2013 • Biz. Magazine

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Fitness Matters

Higher Weight = Lower Pay?

W

eight-based discrimination consistently affects every aspect of employment from hiring to firing, promotions, pay allocation, career counseling and discipline.

Brianna Larson

Personal Trainer/Instructor

She graduated from Centenary College of Louisiana in 2007 with a B.S. in Health and Exercise Science. She is recognized by the American College of Sports Medicine as a Certified Health and Fitness Specialist.

As a Personal Trainer, she has worked with a wide variety of clientele. Look for additional health information and tips at her Facebook Page and YouTube Channel

16 Biz. Magazine • July 2013

Currently, 1 in 3 adults in America is classified as obese. For adults, overweight and obesity ranges are determined by using weight and height to calculate a number called the "body mass index" (BMI). It is important to remember that although BMI correlates with the amount of body fat, BMI does not directly measure body fat.

Obesity is defined as a BMI of 30 or greater.

According to the Journal Health Economics, being obese could lower a woman's annual earnings by as much as 6.2% and a man's by as much as 2.3%. A 2004 study by Cornell University found that

when the average (158-163) white woman puts on an additional 64 pounds, her wages dropped by 9%.

In 2005, the United States spent an estimated $190 billion on obesity-related health care expenses. Direct costs of obesity are related to higher demands for surgery, drug intervention, and physician visits. Being obese can indirectly influence the economy. Insurance premiums are higher for obese employees and days missed from work are detrimental to employers and result in lost wages for the employee.

Better health is a worthwhile investment, with a great return. A well-implemented collective workplace health promotion program can produce sizable changes in health risks and productivity.

July 2013 • Biz. Magazine

17

Briefly Citizens National Bank Makes News, Adds People Citizens National Bank was chosen again as one of the Top 200 Community Banks in the United States by U.S. Banker in their annual rankings. U.S. Banker is a national banking publication that ranks the Country’s over 7,000 community banks nationally on a threeyear average of ROE (return on equity). Citizens National Bank was listed in the TOP 200 healthiest community banks in the nation coming in 69th in the

Citizens National Bank, N.A. Bossier City has an-

nation. This was the sixth consecutive year that Citi-

nounced several promotions. Cindy Aubrey has been

zens was ranked among the top banks in the United

named the Marketing/PR Officer and will be respon-

States as we continue our role among the banking

sible for marketing and advertising along with Bank

leaders in Louisiana and the nation.

Expansion and Bank Branding. Cindy is a graduate of University of Louisiana Monroe with a B.S. degree and

Citizens National Bank continues to stand strong and

joined Citizens in May of 2011. She and her husband

secure providing confidence for banking and mort-

Emlyn reside in Bossier City.

gage customers. Bank President Woody Schick said,

18 Biz. Magazine • July 2013

“Citizens National Bank was very pleased by the re-

Theresa Stevenson has been promoted to Adminis-

port from U.S. Banker. This is a positive statement for

tration Support Manager. She manages the Account

our employees and our customers. We will continue

Administration that supports the Business Banking

to offer an impressive range of innovative products

Unit of Citizens. Theresa has been with the bank for

for consumers and businesses and continue to pro-

11 years and formerly served as Loan Administration

vide financial resources our communities have come

Supervisor for Commercial Loans and System Admin-

to depend on. Our footprint now includes 15

istrator for Commercial Loans and System Adminis-

branches in 5 Northwest Louisiana Parishes, a testa-

trator for Decision Pro. Theresa has a degree in

ment of our strength, growth and commitment to the

Education from Louisiana Tech University and she

communities we serve.”

and her husband Mike live in Bossier City.

Cindy Aubrey, Theresa Stevenson and Jane Leone

Jane Leone has been named the banks Community Development Officer. Jane has previously served the

Briefly Jeansonne has over 30 years of professional experience in banking primarily in Credit. Prior to joining Citizens National Bank he served as the Senior Credit Officer with Hibernia and later Capital One Bank. Lyle has a Bachelor of Science – Finance degree from the University of New Orleans and an M.B.A. degree also from University of New Orleans. He is Credit Risk Certified by the Risk Management Association.

Lyle and his wife Cindy are Shreveport residents and bank as Vice President, Branch Executive of the Des-

are the parents of five children that range in age

oto Parish Branch. In this role Jane will be responsi-

from 25 years to 14 years. Cindy is the Assistant Prin-

ble for the banks effort to improve Community

cipal of Shreve Island Elementary School and is long

Development working mainly in the area of Financial

time educator and full time Mom. Both Lyle and

Literacy and making sure CNB, N.A. is successful in

Cindy are very active in the community and their

serving the 5 parishes where the bank has locations.

churches. Lyle currently serves as Treasurer of the

Jane and husband Joe are longtime residents of

Alliance for Education.

Mansfield, LA. “We are pleased to have Lyle join our team. His broad “Each of these ladies are valuable assets to Citizens

experience in banking, including his credit expertise,

National Bank and are vital in the continued growth

will be an exceptional asset for the bank and its’ cus-

of the bank in the communities we serve. I am satis-

tomers,” said Schick.

fied that these promotions will benefit our customers and be strong assets for the bank now and in

Citizens National Bank, N.A. serves five Parishes in

the future, “ said Woody Schick, President and CEO of

Northwest, Louisiana through which it offers a variety

Citizens National Bank, N.A.

of services to individuals and businesses. Citizen’s currently operates 15 branches in Bossier City,

Lyle Jeansonne

Shreveport, Mansfield, Minden, Haughton, Homer,

Woody Schick, President and CEO of Citizens National

Haynesville and Springhill.

Bank has announced that Lyle H. Jeansonne has joined Citizens National Bank, N.A. as Executive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer.

July 2013 • Biz. Magazine

19

NWLA Tourism

Get your ‘Kix’ on the 4th of July

F

Kix Brooks, fireworks and more at Fourth of July celebration

ireworks, food and fun are always a winning combination for any Fourth of July celebration. And if you live in ShreveportBossier, the options are plentiful with the many events happening in the area, including the 5th Annual KTBS/KPXJ CW 21 Independence Day Festival at Riverview Park in Shreveport.

Donecia Pea Media Relations, Shreveport Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau.

She is a monthly contributor to Biz. Magazine.

She may be reached via email at dpea@sbctb.org.

20 Biz. Magazine • July 2013

This year’s star-studded lineup is sure to draw a crowd with award-winning country music legend and Shreveport native Kix Brooks, as well as area favorites including the Brady Blade Band and Windstorm. The free event will kick off with the Farmer’s Market, 7 a.m. to noon at Festival Plaza in downtown Shreveport, where you can browse and shop from area vendors providing food and other goods; and conclude with a stunning fireworks show you won’t find anywhere else.

The event will also include a kiddie section, a Red River Flotilla, 2 to 5 p.m., and other family fun activities, all on Shreveport’s downtown riverfront.

The excitement reaches across the river in Bossier City, where, newly renamed, The Outlets at Louisiana Boardwalk will host July 4th Family Fun

at the Boardwalk, featuring a day full of roving clowns, face painters, sand art and more for the kids. Meanwhile, parents can also enjoy shopping all day long with Sidewalk Sales. Plus, store hours will be extended an extra hour to 10 p.m.

For those who can’t make it out to the riverfront, KTBS 3 will broadcast the Independence Day Festival live on KTBS 3, KPXJ CW 21 and KTBS Digital 3.3 channels. Visit their website at www.ktbs.com to see the complete itinerary, including lists of prohibited items and water safety tips.

Visit The Outlets at Louisiana Boardwalk website at www.louisiana boardwalk.com for a complete list of outlet stores and other general information.

Discover more area Fourth of July events and other happenings at www.ShreveportBossierFunGuide.com. Subscribe to the Getaways e-newsletter at www.shreveport-bossier.org to receive monthly updates on area attractions and events.

Check out the 2013 Visitors Guide online at visitors-guide.shreveport-bossier.org to learn more about area attractions.

Kix Brooks will be headlining the 5th Annual KTBS/KPXJ CW 21 Independence Day Festival at Riverview Park in Shreveport.

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22 Biz. Magazine • July 2013

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July 2013 â&#x20AC;˘ Biz. Magazine

23

Special Section - Produced in Partnership with the Bossier Chamber of Commerce

.GIKUNCVKXG 5GUUKQP 4GECR As a business owner, manager, employee, or community member, your time is valuable and it becomes necessary to connect with people who can listen to your concerns, understand how they affect your company and have a sincere interest in the growth of your business. That is why the Bossier Chamber makes it our priority to stay on the front lines of the political and legislative process at the federal, state, and local levels, we want to ensure that public policy decisions adequately WDNH LQWR DFFRXQW WKH QHHGV RI RXU EXVLQHVV PHPEHUÂśV FRQFHUQV 7KLV \HDU WKURXJK SDUWQHUVKLSV DQG EXVLQHVV DGYRFDF\ WKH Bossier Chamber has worked to develop a skilled and competitive workforce to meet the needs of the 21 st century.

The demand for skilled workers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) in our regional economy continues to grow. The Chamber has recognized this need and believes BPCC could help in providing resources to meet those educational needs.

A top priority of the chamber and our leadership is excellence in education from pre-k through higher education; a determined focus that consistently strives for quality workforce; the HQULFKPHQW RI HDFK SHUVRQœV TXDOLW\ RI OLIH DQG WKH SURJUHVVLRQ of economic development. In order to keep our community competitive, we must invest in education²the key to future growth in our economy.

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New Teacher Luncheon This July, on the 31st, Bossier Chamber and our title sponsor Barksdale Federal Credit Union, will host a luncheon at Bella Amore Ballroom for the incoming educators in the Bossier parish school system to show them our support as they enter into a new school year. The event serves as an honorary luncheon, thanking each teacher for their hard work, patience and persistence in providing a quality education to our children. Nearly 200 people attend this event including new teachers, school ERDUG PHPEHUV GLJQLWDULHV DQG VSRQVRUV :H KRSH WKDW \RXÂśOO MRLQ XV LQ VSRQVRULQJ DQG DWWHQGLQJ WKLV \HDUÂśV HYHQW 3OHDVH contact Jana Morgan at the Bossier Chamber for more information (318-746-0252).

24 Biz. Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ July 2013

In In April April the the U.S. U.S. Chamber Chamber of of Commerce Commerce joined joined forces forces with with local local chambers chambers to to put put on on a big big initiative initiative called called Hiring Hiring Our Heroes.

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Special Section - Produced in Partnership with the Bossier Chamber of Commerce

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26 Biz. Magazine • July 2013

July 2013 â&#x20AC;˘ Biz. Magazine

27

On the Economic Development Front

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Economic Gardening NLEP program geared to help entrepreneurs turn their ideas into viable ventures

ouisiana is one of the most entrepreneurial states in nation. The Kauffman index, a leading indicator of new business creation, shows Louisiana has 400 entrepreneurs for every 100,000 people - higher than the national average. According to CNN Money which ranked the most entrepreneurial states in America, Louisiana ranks ninth in the nation.

Scott Martinez President, NLEP He is a certified economic developer and President of the North Louisiana Economic Partnership, a nonprofit regional economic development organization. Send comments to feedback@nlep.org.

Our state and our region recognize the importance of nurturing our home grown businesses with high growth potential. Research shows that high growth companies create most of the new jobs. North Louisiana has a rich history of fostering successful, start-up companies, including Oscar-winning Moonbot Studios based in Shreveport, La. The region’s pro-business environment, low cost of doing business,

and great resources and programs that support small businesses encourage entrepreneurism.

One of the many small business programs available is Louisiana Economic Development’s (LED) Economic Gardening Initiative. North Louisiana Economic Partnership (NLEP), a regional economic development marketing organization, partners with LED to identify companies for the program. It provides Louisianabased, small businesses with the information they need to grow and succeed.

Through accelerated technical assistance and research, an experienced economic gardening team will provide customized services, tailored to your business needs.

Those services include reviewing core strategies and niche markets; identifying

new business development opportunities; improving internet presence; and determining how to best use technology to connect with customers.

Due to the success of the program, the state has expanded the Economic Gardening Initiative this year, doubling the number of slots for eligible companies. The following North Louisiana companies participated in the program last year: Maxim Evaporators, LLC; American Screening Corp.; Homeland Safety Systems- all from Shreveport; Acacia Industries in Keithville; American Rubber Products in Benton; Smiths South-Central Sales Company in Springhill; AOSS Medical Supply, Inc. in Monroe; Jireh Plastics in Bastrop; and D&H Wholesale Medical in Ruston.

To see if your small business qualifies for the Economic Gardening Initiative, please contact NLEP’s Vice President of Business Development, Liz Pierre, at (318)6772549 or email Lpierre@nlep.org . The program has received very positive feedback. Companies interviewed in exit surveys felt they had greatly benefited from the Economic Gardening Initiative, and this program can help your business as well.

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28 Biz. Magazine • July 2013

From the Bossier Chamber

You Are Too Busy Not to Exercise

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Ways a work environment can encourage physical fitness

t is hard in a busy work environment to find the time to stay active and healthy.

Therefore an effort has to be made to combine our work and health together. By following some of these simple steps, you can prevent the onset of many health conditions, which will help to maintain both a professional and balanced, healthy lifestyle.

Take A Walk

Walking is one of the simplest ways to stay fit and healthy.

Walking can be as simple as taking the stairs instead of the elevator during the day, or taking a ten minute walk to get your lunch. This form of exercise is also great way to clear the mind, which will help you feel restored and reenergized.

Team Work Outs

Exercising is much more enjoyable and motivating when you have a team with you. Lunchtime workouts are a fun and engaging way to connect with your employees outside of the office.

Make a day each week to exercise with your team members – it will boost team morale and reduce the likelihood of you pulling out.

Focus On Your Posture & Core

Neck and shoulder strain generated from long hours at the computer is very common and can lead to postural issues. Focus on your posture and core when you are sitting at your desk. Having a good posture is a vital health component and will prevent many injuries in the future.

Switch your usual seating arrangement to a Physio ball; this demands continuous change in your posture which is a great way to increase your core strength.

Stress Less

Work can be very stressful on the brain and the body, and exercise is a great way to relieve stress on both of these parts. A good way to feel more relaxed at work is to exercise before you start your working day. Yoga classes are a great way to relax, or even taking five minutes to close your eyes and focus on your breathing can help decrease stress levels.

Find a health coach, trainer or dietitian

Cliff Broussard Willis Knighton Bossier Cliff is a member of the Board of Directors of the Bossier Chamber of Commerce.

Having a specialist on your health journey is just as essential to having an accountant on your financial planning journey. They don’t do it for you, but they coach, advise and problem solve with an expertise that you don’t have.

Additional information on this topic can be obtained through Willis-Knighton Wellness Solutions by contacting Julie Hartley, RD, LDN, CHHC, Program Coordinator at jhartley@wkhs.com or (318) 230-2627.

July 2013 • Biz. Magazine

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30 Biz. Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ July 2013

Lunch Break

Let Me See That Sushi Roll Bibmbap.

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Explore Korean Food at Kabuki Sushi ibimbap, a traditional Korean dish with a name that is as fun to say aloud as the dish itself is to eat, is just one of a dozen or so Korean options on the menu at Kabuki Sushi and Roll, located just north of Shed Road on Airline Drive in Bossier

City.

Chris Jay Public Relations and Social Media Manager, Shreveport Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau. He is a monthly contributor to Biz. Magazine.

He may be reached via email at cjay@sbctb.org.

While sushi composes the majority of the menu, a couple of pages in the back are dedicated to Korean dishes that include the fantastic dolsot bibimbap ($13.99-$15.99), a steaming-hot stone bowl packed with rice, kimchi vegetables, bulgogi-style beef, shrimp, seaweed salad, peppers, onions, spices and even a fried egg. One of the delightful things about this dish is that ingredients on the bottom of the incredibly hot bowl are continuing to cook as you eat. By the time you reach the bottom, these ingredients have caramelized into a delicious reward for finishing the meal.

Other Korean menu items, many of which are new to the Shreveport-Bossier food scene, include japchae ($15.99), bulgogi ($14.99), a braised monkfish entree for two called agujjim ($33.99 for two), yukgaejang ($16.99) and a South Korean buckwheat noodle dish I’m dying to try called nang momil ($14.99).

While an endless variety of Americanized, deepfried sushi rolls with clever names and decadent sauces may be tempting, I’d encourage diners to approach the Kabuki menu as if reading a Japanese Manga-style comic book: start with the last two pages and read from right to left.

Kabuki Sushi and Roll is open, Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. The restaurant is closed on Sunday.

Chris Jay reviews local food every Tuesday at www.20x49.com.

July 2013 • Biz. Magazine

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32 Biz. Magazine • July 2013