Upper Lafayette on the Move www.upperlafayette.com November 2016 Volume 95
UPPER LAFAYETTE NOVEMBER MEETING RECAP
Quest for Your Best! The Art of Negotiation Carencro Veterans Day Celebration Groundbreaking at The Reserve at Couret Farms
Spotlight on New Member, Hilton’s Restaurant Supply
and more.....
Printed by Lafayette Economic Development Authority
Published by Upper Lafayette Economic Development Foundation
Printed by Lafayette Economic Development Authority
Board of Directors Monty Warren, President Cherie Hebert, Vice President Todd Citron, Secretary/Treasurer David Welch, Past President Zachary Barker Adrian Baudoin Kevin Blanchard Chad Cole Brenda Foulcard Donna Landry Pastor Ken Lazard Kirk LaCour Herb Schilling Bryan Tabor Jerry Vascocu
Honorary Advisory Board Don Dupuis Dwight “Bo” Ramsay
Staff Jan Swift, Executive Director Emily Carline, Graphic Designer
Mailing Address
Upper Lafayette Economic Development Foundation is an association of proactive individuals and business leaders joined together to be a catalyst for change. The Foundation’s mission is to enhance and direct the positive, planned growth of Upper Lafayette, focusing on quality of life, while participating in the overall development of the Greater Lafayette Metropolitan Area.
P.O. Box 53107 Lafayette, LA 70505
On the Web www.upperlafayette.com
On the cover: Senator Fred Mills speaks about negotiation at the Upper Lafayette meeting on November 17, 2016. Photo by Greta Gerstner
For membership information or sponsorship opportunities, contact Jan Swift at jan@upperlafayette.com.
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Volume 95 • November 2016 • www.upperlafayette.com
A Letter from the Executive Director November is a wonderful month as it is the time to celebrate all that we have to be thankful for. As I write this, I am still smiling at the presentation just made at our luncheon today at Oakbourne by Senator Fred Mills at our eighth annual Quest for Your Best event, where we focused on the “Art of Negotiation.” Sen. Mills has got to be one of the kindest and funniest people I have ever met, and I can attest how grateful I am to have him as a beloved friend and colleague. More information about the presentation and photos from our event can be found on pages 4, 5 and 6 herein. Our organization is also grateful for our loyal members and sponsors. To celebrate these cherished relationships, we will be hosting our annual Member Holiday Social on Thursday, December 8, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Couret Farms on Pont Des Mouton Road. Information on this social will be forwarded to our members. The talented Sean Trcalek will be providing the musical entertainment. We hope to see you there! May you enjoy this time with your family and friends, and savor this beginning of a beautiful holiday season. Happy Thanksgiving to all. Thank you for the good work that you do, and your support of Upper Lafayette Economic Development Foundation!
Save the Date
Members Holiday Social on December 8 Each year, it is our pleasure to thank our loyal members and sponsors with a complimentary Holiday Social, and this year’s event will once again be a wonderful occasion to relax and get to know one another better in an unhurried setting. Scheduled for December 8th, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Couret Farms, this is an occasion you will not want to miss. We will enjoy the musical talent of Sean Trcalek, who will perform his usual blend of classical hits and crowd favorites. Invitations will go out soon. We look forward to seeing you there! Please email Jan Swift at jan@upperlafayette.com if you have any questions.
www.upperlafayette.com • November 2016
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Upper Lafayette November Meeting
Quest for Your Best! The Art of Negotiation
An overflowing crowd enjoyed Upper Lafayette’s annual Quest for Your Best symposium on November 17th, with a focus on “The Art of Negotiation— How to Get What You Want While Helping Others Get What They Want.” Oakbourne Country Club provided a beautiful setting for the event and we always enjoy showcasing the natural rolling hills and lush scenery afforded by this historic country club. Our first speaker, Phyllis Arceneaux of Excelerant, provided direction on designing a conversation when you have an important request to make. One of the most important things to remember is that people “buy you first” before they ever think of buying your service or product. Consider the experience you would like to produce and reflect that in your clothing, mood, eye contact, and greeting. Other important traits for good negotiators are listening to understand, not to respond. Listening to actually hear the message is the greatest gift you can offer another. And of course, practice, practice, practice! Enlist others you trust to give you honest feedback.
Phyllis Arceneaux, Senator Fred Mills and Jan Swift. Photography by Greta Gerstner
Senator Fred Mills was, as always, entertaining and informative. He shared humorous anecdotes and jokes that had the crowd roaring with laughter. Yet, you could have heard a pin drop as he recounted how the medical marijuana bill he sponsored was finally passed after four years of heartfelt effort when a child attending the Senate debate experienced a seizure in the legislative chamber. Legalizing medical marijuana was an issue that he felt was right and just, as it helps people who suffer from nausea induced from chemotherapy treatments, nerve pain, seizures and other disorders, but it still took a great deal of time to successfully negotiate passage. Even meritorious issues must be skillfully negotiated to have success. Sen. Mills recounted how President Ronald Reagan always started cabinet meetings with fifteen minutes of jokes, and how this relaxing and fun interlude led to incredibly productive meetings. Perhaps we could all lighten up a bit as we address our serious business concerns? Mirroring the tips that Ms. Arceneaux shared, Sen. Mills stressed the importance of preparing and practicing your delivery before you ask for anything important. Our meeting was filmed by Delta Media and will be uploaded to www.upperlafayette.com for anyone interested in hearing the message.
Cindy Cole of Home Bank leads the room in prayer
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Special thanks to our generous sponsors, who made this meeting possible: AT&T, Lafayette Surgical Specialty Hospital, SMILE Community Action Agency, and Van Eaton & Romero.
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The Reserve at Couret Farms Groundbreaking Southern Lifestyle Development (“SLD”) celebrated the groundbreaking of The Reserve at Couret Farms on November 15, 2016. Robert Daigle of SLD, and original partner in the Development at River Ranch, welcomed the crowd, which included elected officials, residents of Couret Farms, and the architect of the apartment complex, Kirby Pecot. Daigle explained that the project would be of the same high quality as the apartments in River Ranch and Sugar Mill Pond, and would cost approximately $21 million to construct. SLD’s other developments have become home to multi-generations of families living close to one another within a complex, and Daigle stated he hoped this would also be true for The Reserve. Mayor Joel Robideaux spoke of the beauty of Upper Lafayette Parish and the many opportunities available to residents and businesses alike. Located near the intersection of I -49 & I -10 on the 500 block of Pont des Mouton, this new offering of apartments will provide an easy commute for the lucky residents traveling anywhere throughout Lafayette and Acadiana. Once complete, Couret Farms will be home to over 500 single family homes and over 100,000 square feet of commercial/retail/office space. Amenities include a walking trail, pier, lake with fish, swimming pool, restored historic home, Anytime Fitness, Romacelli Italian Restaurant, bank, Renaissance Charter School, children's playground and green fields, and Concerts at Couret Farms which feature live music. SLD was formed by Robert Daigle, Rodney Savoy, and Robert Gagnard, the original developers of The Village of River Ranch. Currently, SLD has thirty communities under various stages of development throughout the State of Louisiana. For more information, please visit www.couretfarms.com.
Celebrating groundbreaking at The Reserve at Couret Farms!
Kevin Blanchard, COO of Southern Lifestyle Living, and Mayor Joel Robideaux
Karen Daigle welcomes the crowd to Couret Farms
www.upperlafayette.com • November 2016
Councilman Pat Lewis, Jan Swift, and Bobby Hines of Anytime Fitness
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Spotlight on New Member, Hilton’s Restaurant Supply
Hilton's Restaurant Supply is one of the most respected and longest-standing kitchen supply companies in Louisiana. Founded in 1939, Hilton’s has earned a reputation for reliability, personalized service, and providing an extensive inventory of commercial kitchen equipment. Hilton’s was purchased by Casey and Valerie Rawlings in March 2012.
“We are proud to serve a wide range of customers throughout the region, including restaurants, bars, hospitals, hotels, nursing homes, schools, caterers, cafeterias— virtually any type of commercial kitchen,” says Valerie Rawlings, owner of Hilton’s Restaurant Supply. Over the years, the company has evolved to meet the changing needs of restaurants and commercial kitchens throughout Louisiana and committed to helping customers in any way possible— going above and beyond to ensure satisfaction. “Hilton's Restaurant Supply has been locally owned and operated for more than seven decades, making us a trusted resource for commercial kitchens throughout the region,” said Rawlings. “You can rest assured that we will be here for many years to come— providing friendly service and all the equipment and supplies needed to keep businesses running at peak performance. Hilton’s Restaurant Supply Aims to Please!
“Many of our employees have previous experience working in kitchens, so you know that our personnel have the hands-on expertise needed to help with specific needs. More than just salespeople, our employees serve as consultants who work with businesses personally and guide them toward the specific equipment and supplies best suited for their business.” When asked why Casey and Valerie joined Upper Lafayette, Casey stated, “We wanted to get more involved in our business community. When we found out that Hilton’s was in Upper Lafayette, we were excited about the opportunity to partner in improving the business climate. We wanted to be a part of the group that address the challenges and opportunities in our region, the northern portion of Lafayette Parish. Upper Lafayette actually knows how to bring about change.” Upper Lafayette is so proud to welcome Hilton’s Restaurant Supply as our newest member! For more information, please visit www.hiltonsrestaurantsupply.com or visit their store at 1820 Cameron Street in Lafayette.
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Hilton’s Restaurant Supply Team
Casey and Valerie Rawlings
www.upperlafayette.com • November 2016
Carencro Mural Depicts Downtown from Early 1900’s A mural commissioned by physician, Richard Feucht, M.D., and painted by Robert Dafford Murals was unveiled Sunday morning, November 6, 2016, in downtown Carencro at 204 East. St. Peter Street. Immediately following the 10 a.m. Mass, Father Mark Ledoux of St. Peter Roman Catholic Church offered the blessing of the mural, with a large crowd of admirers joining in on this special occasion. Dr. Feucht commissioned the mural, measuring 20 feet high and 50 feet wide, for the newly constructed building housing the Therapy Center of Carencro. The mural is based on an old photograph of Carencro in 1900, with a view of citizens arriving for mass at St. Peter Roman Catholic Church. Dafford designed the mural using the photo as a main reference, with other historic photos providing additional details of the time period. Bradley Jack Phillips, a Carencro native, painted the mural, along with Dafford. Assisting were Chris Pavlik and Lisa Choate. The project involved a month of preparatory work and six weeks of painting.
Dafford Murals artist fine-tuning his work
St. Peter Catholic Church priests and altar boys join the Robert Dafford Murals team and Mayor Glenn Brasseaux
Procession from St. Peter’s Church to the mural
Robert Dafford Murals
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Acadian Companies’ Kirk LaCour Graduates from Law School! Upper Lafayette is so proud to congratulate Kirk LaCour for graduating on May 7, 2016 from Southern University Law Center. Having passed the Bar Exam, Kirk was licensed to practice law in Louisiana as of October 20, 2016. He was admitted to the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals and the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Louisiana in November 8, 2016. Quite a list of accomplishments, yet for anyone who knows Kirk, this is only the latest achievement among many in his career. At Acadian Companies, Kirk continues to serve as Director of the National EMS Academy (the Training Division of Acadian Ambulance Service, Inc.) He also serves as Associate Counsel for Acadian Ambulance Service, Inc., working with Acadian’s in-house legal department focusing on HIPAA, Worker’s Compensation, Healthcare Leases, and Clinical Affiliation Agreements. Kirk has associate degrees in Emergency Medical Services and Biology from Our Lady of the Lake College in Baton Rouge; bachelor’s degrees in Human Medicine and Health Sciences from Our Lady of the Lake College; and an MBA from LSU in 2011. Mr. LaCour has worked in all facets of public service, from a police officer, firefighter, paramedic, corrections officer, and most recently as a deputy coroner. Mr. LaCour was active in the Boy Scouts of America, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout in 1993. He is a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Business Honor Society, and the Beta Gamma Sigma International Honor Society for Collegiate Schools of Business. Mr. LaCour has also completed the FEMA Professional Development Series of Emergency Management, and has worked as a training specialist for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Disaster Management System, and the interim director of West Feliciana Parish Ambulance Service. Kirk has served as an invaluable member of Upper Lafayette’s Board of Directors for the past few years, and we are grateful for his support of our efforts to promote our region as the best place in which to live, work and invest. Congratulations, Kirk, on your many accomplishments! We are proud to have you on our team.
Interested in advertising in our 2017 newsletters? Please contact Jan Swift for more details and to discuss opportunities. jan@upperlafayette.com | (337) 769-7649
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www.upperlafayette.com • November 2016
FedEx Facility Slated to Be Completed by June 2017 Carencro will soon be home to a new FedEx distribution facility situated on a portion of the former Evangeline Downs Racetrack. The 230,000 square foot site will house both a distribution facility and a security building. The project represents the largest FedEx Ground distribution facility along Interstate 10 between Houston, Texas and Jacksonville, Florida. The projected date for completion of the facility is June 2017. Along with the grand opening will be opportunities for both salaried jobs and contract labor, as well as vendor procurement opportunities. New hires will be made in April and May in anticipation of the June opening.
Employment Opportunities with FedEx Ground: Delivery Drivers (Contractors) These individuals are hired by individual franchise/territory owners. Most do their own recruitment, however the FedEx Ground office keeps a master list of candidates interested in being a driver. Interested individuals should call Angie at 337-521-6750 to request that their information be added to the list.
Warehouse Employees These workers are employees of FedEx Ground. Applications must be completed online at groundwarehousejobs.fedex.com. Warehouse positions at the new facility will not be online until April or May 2017. Individual may also search for openings at the Scott, LA facility, and a current check online showed an opening for a Package Handler.
Procurement
FedEx plans to use the majority of their current vendors for services at the new facility. For more information about possible procurement opportunities, contact Matt or Angie at 337-521-6750.
Example of a Fed Ex site built by SAAD, the contractor for the local facility being built in Carencro
www.upperlafayette.com • November 2016
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Carencro Celebrates Veterans Day More than 200 people gathered on Veterans Day at the Carencro Veterans Memorial to pay tribute to the local patriots who fought to preserve our freedoms that we enjoy. The award-winning Memorial was designed by architect Lynn Guidry and was generously financed with the support of local patrons. Very few veterans from WWII are left, yet Wilton Prejean, 96, proudly attended along with his family. We hope you enjoy this tribute by Lee Verret who spoke at the event. A video tribute to veterans and local heroes may be enjoyed at http://carencro.org/videos/CAR_vetsmemorial2016.mp4.
Veterans Day 2016 Tribute to World War II Veterans By Lee Verret
As the third decade of the 20th century closed and the fourth decade opened, violent and oppressive forces spread across the earth. The United As the third decade of the 20th century closed and the 4th decade opened, violent and oppressive forces States lay largely protected by two vast oceans until December 7, 1941. On that infamous day, the security of our homeland was shattered and we, too, were across plungedthe intoearth. the abysmal conflagration soon be knownbyastwo World Waroceans II. spread The United Statesthat laywould largely protected vast until December 7, 1941. On
that infamous thepeople security of ourwould homeland was shattered and we, too, were plunged into the abysmal Before it was over, 72 day, million worldwide be dead. conflagration that would soon be known as World War II.
Hundreds of thousands of Americans rushed to defend their homes, families and their ways of life. Nearly 16 million Americans would eventually serve in the conflict.
Before it was over, 72 million people worldwide would be dead.
As we pause to honor those patriots, our minds conjure a vision of young men roughly between the ages of 17 and and someof even younger than 17, who misrepresented their ages in order Hundreds of30, thousands Americans rushed to defend their homes, families and their ways of life. Nearly 16 to join the struggle.
million Americans would eventually serve in the conflict.
The youngest U.S. serviceman was 12-year-old Calvin Graham, USN. He earned a bronze star and a Purple and was then given a Dishonorable Discharge for lying about his of age. (Fortunately, As Heart we pause to honor those patriots, our minds conjure a vision young men roughly between the ages of 17 and his benefits were later restored by act of Congress).
30, and some even younger than 17, who misrepresented their ages in order to join the struggle.
Our stereotype often overlooks the large number of young women who also left the safety of their The homes to protect their beloved country. the 16 million Americans whoUSN. served, youngest U.S. serviceman was Of 12-year-old Calvin Graham, He350,000 earned a bronze star and a Purple Heart were women.
and was then given a Dishonorable Discharge for lying about his age. (Fortunately, his benefits were later restored
Local women like Mrs. Anaise Marmatoin Guilbeau (recently deceased) and Retired U.S. Navy by act of Congress). Commander Aline Arceneaux who was born, raised and still lives in the North Lafayette Parish area.
Lee Verret, State Farm Insurance
stereotype often overlooks the large number women who also leftthe thetime safety ofhad their homes tomy protect Gen. Our Dwight Eisenhower, Supreme Allied Commander, said of of theyoung Womens Army Corps, “During I have WACs under command, they have met every test and task assigned to them... their contributions in efficiency, skill, spirit, and determination are immeasurable.” their beloved country. Of the 16 million Americans who served, 350,000 were women. Whether male or female, this generation of heroes fought— and won— an epic battle for freedom and liberty.
Local women like Mrs. Anaise Marmatoin Guilbeau (recently deceased) and Retired U.S. Navy Commander Aline Arceneaux who was born, raised and still lives in the North Lafayette Parish area.
It was, indeed, an epic battle.
World War II was the most destructive conflict in history. It cost more money, damaged more property, killed more people, and caused more far-reaching changesEisenhower, than any otherSupreme war in history. Gen. Dwight Allied Commander, said of the Womens Army Corps, “During the time I have had During Worldunder War II,my 61 nations werethey involved the conflict, together over 72to million deaths—contributions approximately 3inpercent of the world’s WACs command, havein met every test and suffering task assigned them...their efficiency, population in 1940.
skill, spirit, and determination are immeasurable.”
413,000 of those lost were Americans and another 670,000 Americans were wounded.
Whether male or female, this generation of heroes fought – and won – an epic battle for freedom and liberty. 12 www.upperlafayette.com • November 2016
In the modern world of cell phones, FaceTime, Skype, Facebook and Twitter, it is easy for us to forget how isolated and lonely these young people must have felt— many of them leaving home for the first time to face a frightening and uncertain future. A friend of mine who served in World War II once told me, in a very emotional voice, the story of how he left his family farm in central Louisiana for the first time at age 17 to enlist in the U.S. Army. His unit was badly needed in the war effort and, consequently, was not given the traditional leave following basic training. They were loaded onto a transport ship headed to an undisclosed destination within days of graduation. During that journey, he became friendly with a member of the ship’s crew who admired a medallion my friend wore on a chain around his neck. The crew member offered to buy the medallion. My friend offered to give him the medal and asked only that the crew member call his family the next time the ship returned to an American port to let them know he was safe and did not know where he was headed or when he might be home again. Journalist Tom Brokow christened these heroes, “The Greatest Generation” and said of them, “At a time in their lives when their days and nights should have been filled with innocent adventure, love, and the lessons of the workaday world, they were fighting in the most primitive conditions possible across the bloodied landscape of France, Belgium, Italy, Austria, and the coral islands of the Pacific. They answered the call to save the world from the two most powerful and ruthless military machines ever assembled; instruments of conquest in the hands of fascist maniacs. They faced great odds and a late start, but they did not protest. They succeeded on every front. They won the war; they saved the world.” Upon returning to their homes, they continued to serve their country and their communities. Here in Carencro, members of that greatest generation formed the Carencro War Veterans. Once again, they chose to serve, not themselves, but their community. Through the years they sponsored the annual Carencro Christmas Parade, collecting and providing Christmas toys for needy children. They sponsored frequent fundraisers for schools and the public library and were always available to support community activities. And finally, these heroes have served as role models for subsequent generations of Americans inspiring us to serve and defend what we all hold dear. My friends and my fellow Americans, today as we leave this hallowed place, this place dedicated to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of liberty, and we return to the security of our homes and families, let us always remember and never forget that “Freedom is not free— a veteran paid the price.”
Carencro Veterans Memorial
Marine Veteran speaks at Memorial Service
WWII survivor
Soldiers paying tribute to veterans
www.upperlafayette.com • November 2016
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Don's Specialty Meats to Rebuild After October Fire Copy written by Stacy Judice at Community Chronicles for DevelopingLafayette.com
There is life for Don’s in Carencro after a fire took all. Looking at the outside of Don’s Specialty Meats you may not see what’s left of the tragedy that took place. But if you walk around the building you will see nothing but ashes left from a fire that destroyed the store on Sunday, October 2 at 9 a.m. While the employees were preparing for an early morning lunch crowd, manager Ashley Landry discovered the barbecue pit had caught on fire. Owner Mark “Aubrey” Cole is thankful that everyone was able to get out safely. Although the building is a total loss, Cole said he is ready to take the next step and get customers back in as soon as possible. “I started in 1993, been here for 23 years,” said Cole, “I plan on staying in Carencro here, also, and serving the people in this area, and ready for customers to come back— hopefully within the next year.” Don’s Specialty Meats in Carencro has acquired 2 ½ acres of land exactly ¼ of a mile away from its previous location. The new address will be 4120 NE Evangeline Thruway, directly off of I-49 in the Carencro city limits. Owner Mark “Aubrey” Cole has already met with architects who are designing a 10,000 square foot building that will offer all of Don’s customers their favorites and so much more.
L to R: Roy Guidry, Manager; Mark “Aubrey” Cole, Owner; Ashley Landry, Manager; and Jimmy Guidry, Operations Manager.
Some of the extras to the new location are 70 plus parking spaces, a drive-thru for boudin, cracklins, and plate lunches, a full deli, indoor and outdoor seating, and shipping will also be available to share your favorites with others who live away from Acadiana. Cole said, “The new building is being designed specifically for the feel and profile of Carencro. I know that everyone will approve and like the new and improved look.” The completion date is set for October 2017, however, if weather permits, Cole and his staff would love to move in before that date. Note that Don’s large facility in Scott is still open and as busy as ever. Upper Lafayette wishes Don’s Specialty Meats, Aubrey Cole, and staff the best of success in rebuilding!
Don’s Specialty Meats in Scott still open for business
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Don’s featured on Delicious Destinations, a Travel Channel cooking show
www.upperlafayette.com • November 2016
Northside High Recipient of $500,000 Grant By Amanda McElfresh, The Daily Advertiser
Northside High School will receive $500,000 to help its teachers and students. The money will be used over the next three to five years, Principal Julia Williams said. The funds are from a School Improvement Grant awarded from the state. Williams said some of the money will allow Northside to more closely partner with Solution Tree, an international company that provides professional development for educators. “It’s their model, and we will contract with them for three years to support faculty in professional learning communities,” Williams said. “This allows them to collaborate, look at student data to drive instruction, tailor their instruction and target it to student needs so they can become successful.” Williams said Northside already uses a PLC model based on its previous work with Solution Tree.
Julia Williams, Principal of Northside High. Photo by The Advocate
“I feel strongly about what it has done for us so far,” she said. “I think having the opportunity to bring the company to us will help strengthen us as a faculty and as a team. Anytime you have professionals working together, it allows everybody to grow and learn.” Williams said Northside leaders are still deciding how to use the remaining funds, although they are leaning strongly toward hiring a family/community liaison. This person would visit with the families of Northside students and work to create stronger relationships between parents and the school. “We really want to bridge that gap and show parents that we are here for them,” she said. Another option is an extended day program that may include components such as more after-school tutoring or weekend classes. Williams said the grant is “huge” for Northside’s growth. “Getting the opportunity for a stronger partnership with Solution Tree is something I’m really excited about,” she said. “I’ve brought teachers to their conferences, and they’ve implemented what they’ve learned immediately and it’s been great. And also the chance to possibly build stronger relationships with the community is something that could be really great for us.”
www.upperlafayette.com • November 2016
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"Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision, the ability to direct individual accomplishments toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results.” -- Andrew Carnegie
Success Summit You’re invited! e Invited! December 1 at 2 p.m. st
TEAM Link, an Upper Lafayette initiative, seeks to provide a healthy forum for business owners to interact, learn, and advance together to enhance economic growth. In order to achieve this vision, we propose monthly success summits in which distinguished professionals will share: • Innovative practices. • Vital knowledge and wisdom. • Crucial business and communication skills. • Applicable personal experiences. In addition to the monthly success summits, we envision hosting at least one social and one philanthropic project each year. As our community continues to flourish, TEAM Link aims to join forces with Upper Lafayette Economic Development Foundation and local business owners while providing opportunities to develop meaningful relationships with like-minded professionals. TEAM Link aims to attract professionals of integrity who are willing to work toward the common goal of facilitating and promoting the success of all members. Our success summits will preliminarily be held the third Thursday of every month at 2 p.m., the first of which will be on December 1st. At this initial summit, we plan to host an interest meeting with key stakeholders, interested business professionals, and their guests wherein we will overview the structure, proposed format and value of membership. Also, a market survey will be disseminated to better determine the needs and desires of our business community.
at the Hub City Ford Conference Room.
2909 NE Evangeline Throughway, Lafayette, LA
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2 – 4 p.m.
www.upperlafayette.com • November 2016
(337) 377-0711
Upper Lafayette Partners with UL School of Business Moody Hall’s auditorium on UL’s campus was filled to capacity on November 10, 2016, when Upper Lafayette partnered with the B. I. Moody College of Business Administration to present a two-hour seminar on the Art of Negotiation. Led by Phyllis Arceneaux of Excelerant, the students also heard from Chase Edwards, Assistant Professor at the college, Deidre Toups, President of Stabil Drill, Kim Billeaudeau, Director of Career Services at UL, and Jan Swift, Executive Director of Upper Lafayette. Business School Dean Gwen Fontenot welcomed the crowd. Ms. Arceneaux led the discussion by giving tips on “designing the conversation” and asking the four pertinent questions we should all ask ourselves before we attempt negotiations with employers, family and friends: Why is the conversation needed? (What need do you have that you want filled?); Who is the person with whom you will be in conversation— what do they care about? (Who has the authority to say “yes?”); What do you want them to know, do and feel? (i.e., what can you contribute?); and how would you like to show up in this conversation? (What is the proper “presence” need to show up successfully? Think about your clothing, your personal hygiene, confident demeanor, etc.) Phyllis joking told the crowd about the popular radio station, “WIFM,” which stands for “What’s in It for Me?” It’s important to be tuned in to the mood of the other person and the culture in which they operate. Just as important is to realize that communication is only 7 percent verbal and 93 percent non-verbal. The non-verbal component is made up of body language (55 percent) and tone of voice (38 percent). It became clear that we could all use more awareness as to how we “show up” and how critical it is to be prepared for an effective session of negotiation! For more information on how to receive personal or business coaching from Phyllis Arceneaux at Excelerant, please visit www.exexp.com or phone (337) 344-4573.
From left to right: Chase Edwards, Deidre Toups, Phyllis Arceneaux, Dean Gwen Fontenot, Jan Swift, and Marisa Collins
www.upperlafayette.com • November 2016
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7 Quick Tips to Improve Your Leadership Skills By Tyler Winner, President of The Dale Carnegie Team of Middle Louisiana/East Texas 10988 N. Harrell's Ferry Rd, Suite 3 , Baton Rouge, LA 70816. Toll Free: (800) 256-9222 When a crisis hits, an executive’s instinct might be to focus on greater efficiency and productivity by tightening control. But this is not always the best solution-giving up authority and granting employees independence can actually help improve innovation and success, even when the road gets rough. Without the proper leadership skills, you will find it hard to inspire your staff. Below you will find 7 tips on how to brush up on your leadership skills.
7 Tips to Improve Your Leadership Skills: Tip #1. Show Respect: If you want to be in a leadership position, start building relationships with people by respecting what they do. Practically nothing is more important. Additionally, it is important that a great leader never misses an opportunity to learn more about the people behind them. Great leaders never skip an employee’s birthday gathering or a holiday party because they are too busy-they know that work will always be there. Tip #2. Build on Relationships: As a leader, know who people are, what is important to them, and what motivates them. This will help you understand everyone’s goals and how you can support your staff. When you help people, they will care about you and your goals in return. Tip #3. Have a Good Attitude: Positive attitudes can be infectious. As a leader, you need to find ways to stay upbeat and find the best ways to improve. Do not expect too much from your staff-no one is perfect; while you do need to address poor performance, it is extremely important to acknowledge a job well done, which will build a positive work environment where people feel appreciated. Tip #4. Work on Your Strengths: Figure out what your strengths and weaknesses are. While it is important to address your weaknesses, you might find it better to first start by focusing on your strengths. This will allow you to rise to the expert level sooner than you would be by working on your weaknesses. Bottom line: Know what you are good at and keep at it. Tip #5. Find People Who Complement You: Again, we all have strengths and weaknesses. Great leaders are aware of their weaknesses and find people who support their shortcomings. This is not because they are weak and need to cover themselves, but because they know the benefit of having a strong team-and when the team wins, everyone wins. Tip #6. Develop A Mentoring Program: Mentoring someone will not only help develop that person’s career, but will also help leaders refine their skills. It is a great way to help improve your staff members’ skills while also improving on relationships. Tip #7. Maintain Balance In Your Life: A big key to success is learning to balance work and family. Life is too short for you to live at your job. Great leaders set career boundaries and know when to spend more time with family and friends. Doing this will make you a stronger leader. Executive Summary: While some people are just great leaders, others have to work a bit harder to achieve the necessary skills. Take the time to consider your strengths and weaknesses and get to know your staff; surround yourself with the best possible people to become an excellent leader. For more information on Dale Carnegie, contact Tyler Winner at (800) 256-9222 or tyler_winner@dalecarnegie.com
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www.upperlafayette.com • November 2016
Thank you for your generosity.. Platinum Members Acadian Companies Acadiana Computer Systems, Inc. ASH/Badger Oil Company Couret Farms Cox Communications Delta Media Home Furniture Hub City Ford IBERIABANK Lafayette General Medical Center McDonald’s of Acadiana MidSouth Bank Our Lady of Lourdes Republic National Distributing Company Schilling Distributing Company Stone Energy Whitney National Bank
Gold Members Acadiana Rubber & Gasket Aries Marine Corporation Atmos Energy Beau Box Commercial Real Estate Dupré Logistics, LLC Farm D’Allie Gibson Energy Services Gulf Coast Bank Home Bank Van Eaton & Romero
Silver Members Ace Plumbing, Inc. BBR Creative Coburn’s Supply Company Edward Jones/Bob Crist Hilton’s Restaurant Supply Master Builders & Specialists, Inc.
Silver Members Oakbourne Country Club Prejean Creative Rader Solutions Refinery Downtown Arla Slaughter, Van Eaton & Romero SLEMCO SMILE Therapy Center of Carencro Universal Sign & Manufacturing Company Walters Funeral Home
Bronze Members Acadiana C.A.R.E.S. Advancial Federal Credit Union Anytime Fitness Upper Lafayette Jean C. Breaux, Jr. & Associates Crawdaddy’s On-Site Catering Lynn Guidry, Architect Jay Castille Construction John Paul The Great Academy Lafayette Animal Aid Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commission Lafayette Youth Soccer Association Lee Verret/State Farm Insurance Agency Lowry’s Printing and Copying Mailing Systems Inc. Melancon I-49 Storage Center Phyllis Coleman Mouton One Acadiana Petroleum Club Proree, LLC Ron J. Gaubert Realtors Schools of the Sacred Heart Summit Physical Therapy John Swift Teche Electric Supply, LLC
Sponsors PLATINUM IBERIABANK Lafayette Airport Commission LEDA GOLD AT&T Beau Box Commercial Real Estate Billeaud Companies Broussard & David Dwight Andrus Insurance Honda of Lafayette Island Operating Company Jones Walker Lafayette Surgical Specialty Hospital NeunerPate Rader Solutions SMILE Community Action Agency Van Eaton & Romero
SILVER Acadian Companies Advancial Federal Credit Union Schilling Distributing Company
City of Carencro City of Scott Mele Printing
BRONZE
A special thanks to the Lafayette Economic Development Authority (LEDA) for being our Program of Work partner for 2016.
www.upperlafayette.com • November 2016
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