Upper Lafayette September 2016 Newsletter by Upper Lafayette

Upper Lafayette On The Move www.upperlafayette.com September 2016 Volume 93

Louisiana Supreme Court Justice Candidates Forum Flood Recovery Information Spotlight on Cox Communications and Summit Therapy Welcoming new members, Mailing Systems, inc. and Melissa Robichaux

and more..... Volume • September 2016 • www.upperlafayette.com Printed by93 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: In this August 15, 2016 photo, provided by the U. S. Army National Guard, Seargant Chad McCann of Deville, Louisiana carries a young child to safety

For membership information or sponsorship opportunities, contact Jan Swift at jan@upperlafayette.com.

Volume 93 • September 2016 • www.upperlafayette.com

A Letter from the Executive Director Three weeks ago, no one would have anticipated that an unprecedented level of flooding would hit South Louisiana with the destructive force that occurred. My heart goes out to all who have been affected by this tragedy; as information on the actual losses mount, it is difficult to imagine how some of those impacted, having lost their vehicles, homes, and precious family possessions, will ever get back on their feet. Yet, the one thing I do know is that we are a resilient group of people. Moreover, the people here in Acadiana are generous and loving. These characteristics define our region, and we are blessed to live among so many Good Samaritans who would give you the shirt off their back if you needed it. This edition is dedicated to the flood victims as well as those who are volunteering to help their neighbors in need. To the many public sector officials who are working to distribute benefits and meet the many cries for help, we also thank you for your service. Times like this remind you that we really do need government, and we need it to work efficiently. I hope you will read the article herein on Heidi Melancon, Director of the Small Business Development Center, about the low interest loans available to homeowners and renters alike. Heidi is a wonderful example of a true public servant.

The photo at the left depicts a young couple in Carencro taken during the height of the waters. They exemplify the true grit and spirit of our community. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hope that they and the many others affected may soon put this tragedy behind them.

People ride an ATV through a flooded neighborhood in Carencro on Aug 13, 2016 (Scott Clause of The Advertiser via AP)

Register Now for Our September 21 Meeting Please join us on Wednesday, September 21, 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at the LITE Center, where we will welcome Judge Jimmy Genovese and Judge Marilyn Castle, the two candidates for the Louisiana Supreme Court seat to be filled in the November 8 election. This election is very important to our state, and the forum is an incredible opportunity to meet both candidates, and to hear their thoughts on important issues. Tickets are $25 each in auditorium seating at the LITE Center. Lunch will be provided, and the general public is welcome to register. Email jan@upperlafayette.com with any questions, or call (337) 769-7649 for more details. Special thanks to our law firm sponsors whose generosity is making this event possible: Broussard & David, Jones Walker, and NeunerPate.

Louisiana Supreme Court Justice Candidates Judge Jimmy Genovese and Judge Marilyn Castle

www.upperlafayette.com â&#x20AC;˘ September 2016

Supreme Court Justice Candidates Both Bring Impressive Credentials to the Race We are excited to host a Supreme Court Justice candidate forum on September 21 to allow our members and guests to get to know Judges Marilyn Castle and Jimmy Genovese before the election on November 8, to replace retiring Justice Jeannette Knoll. The district covers eight parishes in the southwest portion of the state from Calcasieu to Avoyelles. The experience and background of each candidate are set forth below. Marilyn C. Castle currently serves as Chief Judge of the 15th Judicial District Court. She was first elected as judge on November 3, 1998 and was re-elected in 2014 for a term beginning on January 1, 2015, and expiring on December 31, 2020.

Judge Marilyn Castle with her family

Castle received her J.D. from Louisiana State University Law Center in 1976. She began her career in 1976 as an assistant district attorney and then worked as a private practice lawyer, focusing on business and commercial litigation, from 1979 until her election to the district court in 1998. Judge Castle has served as president of the Lafayette Parish Bar Association, on the Board of Governors and House of Delegates of the Louisiana State Bar Association, and as a member of the steering committee of the Citizen’s Summit on Justice Reform. She is a Fellow of the Louisiana State Bar Foundation and a Founding Master of the John M. Duhe Chapter of the American Inns of Court. She currently serves as President of the Louisiana District Judges Association. James (“Jimmy”) Genovese currently sits on the Third Circuit Court of Appeal, having been elected to the seat in 2004. Previously, Genovese served as a judge for the 27th Judicial District Court from 1995 – 2004. Genovese received his J. D. from Loyola University New Orleans College of Law in 1974. He began his career as a trial attorney in South Louisiana, and served as an Ad Hoc Judge in Opelousas City Court from 1975 to 1989. Judge Genovese has served as Vice President and Secretary/ Treasurer of the St. Landry Parish Bar Association. He serves on the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeal committees on Information Technology, Costs, Security, Building, and Continuity of Operations and Emergency Preparedness. He also serves on the LA Supreme Court’s Trial Court Committee to Review the need for Judgeships and Chair of its Long Term Subcommittee, and on the LA Law Institute’s Summary Judgment Subcommittee. Judge Jimmy Genovese with family on his birthday

www.upperlafayette.com • September 2016

Upper Lafayette Welcomes New Member Mailing Systems Inc., located at 2301 Moss Street in Lafayette, is a full service mailing machine provider for companies throughout Lafayette. With quality repair, maintenance and installation services, mailing solutions are made easy. The company sells, installs, and maintains Neopost USA products, the best machines in the industry. In addition to mailing machines, Mailing Systems Inc. provides mailing systems for alternative mailing solutions and supplies. From folder inserts and letters openers to mail room furniture and supplies, you’ll find your mailing needs all in one place with Mailing Systems Inc.

Hasler postage machine

Their mailing machines are top quality brands and effective for all of your needs. Mailing Systems Inc.’s software solutions allow you to provide customers with e-certified receipts and other essentials to running a successful business. Mailing Systems Inc.’s services and products make mailing systems simple with: Mailing machine maintenance, repair and installation; fold inserters; letter openers; mailing solutions; software solutions; mailroom furniture and supplies, and more! Irving Matthieu started the company in 1978, first as a service company, and he eventually purchased the Neopost/Hasler franchise. Today the company is run by Irving’s daughter, Melissa Robichaux, who proudly carries on the family business with a focus on customer service and quality products. Mailing Systems is open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call Melissa Robichaux at 337-234-8292 or visit www.mailingsystemsinc.com. Upper Lafayette is proud to welcome Melissa Robichaux and Mailing Systems, Inc., as our newest member! Melissa Robichaux

UPPER LAFAYETTE SUPPORTS THE

Upper Lafayette is a proud supporter of completing the 5.5 mile portion of I-49 South known as "the Lafayette Connector." The Lafayette Connector presents the opportunity to revitalize and beautify Lafayette’s gateway, strengthen infrastructure and improve safety and multi-modal transportation, all while preserving the community’s cherished, historic and business districts. It truly represents Acadiana’s path forward. This path will provide crucial improvements to our hurricane evacuation route, get traffic moving, complete a major energy and trade corridor serving our oil and gas sector, and greatly improve the commute for travelers going to New Orleans who want an alternative route in lieu of traveling through Baton Rouge. The opportunity to obtain federal dollars that can revitalize the Evangeline Thruway corridor is also of utmost importance for a long neglected area of our community. If you are interested in obtaining a sign which we will provide at no charge, email jan@upperlafayette.com or call (337)769-7649.

www.upperlafayette.com • September 2016

Knowledge is Power! SMILE BRINGS DISASTER RELIEF CONTACT INFO TO NEIGHBORHOODS The Derby Heights Subdivision, located in North Lafayette off of Carmel Drive, was hit heavy by the August flood, and the waters just began to recede in late August after more than two weeks underwater. Some residents have been trapped in islands surrounding their homes, and have only been able to leave with great difficulty. Many couldn't even return home until recently. A video of the devastation may be viewed here. In order to spread accurate information on the best resources for help, including FEMA and disaster recovery loans, representatives from SMILE Community Action Agency walked door to door handing out paper fliers to make sure everyone would be reached. According to SMILE Interim CEO Brenda Foulcard, the goal, in collaboration with the Greater Southwest Louisiana Black Chamber of Commerce, was to provide residents with contact information on the various governmental agencies and groups providing assistance to flood victims.

What is SMILE?

SMILE Lafayette staff headed out to Derby Heights neighborhood off the old Breaux Bridge Hwy. to bring disaster relief contact information to residents.

Many people don’t realize that the word “SMILE” stands for the three parishes— St. Martin, Iberia and Lafayette— that the Community Action Agency serves in south central Louisiana. The “E” is added to make the acronym that has served as a symbol of hope to those in need.

SMILE is part of a legacy that dates back to the 1960s. SMILE serves as the primary provider of social services in a tri-parish region. Chartered as a 501 (c)(3), tax-exempt corporation in 1968, the Agency is headquartered in Lafayette. This year, the Agency celebrates its 48th anniversary. The Agency’s community action motto, “People Helping People,” rings across the land, just like it does here in the heart of a region known internationally for its rich culture and traditions. While its spicy cuisine and zydeco music are popular ingredients that draw in tourists, the tri-parish region has had its woes of economic hardships and socioeconomic ills. And yet, SMILE remains the tri-parish’s leading anti-poverty agency— dedicated to making a difference— dedicated to making people “smile” in St. Martin, Iberia and Lafayette Parishes. For more information on SMILE, visit www.smilecaa.org. We congratulate SMILE on a job well done, and also thank Brenda Foulcard, CEO, for her service on Upper Lafayette’s board of directors! Photo to left: SMILE employees passing out information.

www.upperlafayette.com • September 2016

Is Physical Therapy for Me? By James Sellers, Summit Physical Therapy This is a common question that people may ask themselves when it comes to pain, injury, or injury prevention. Physical therapy is believed to date as far back as 460 B.C. where historic physicians such as Hippocrates and Galenus carried out some of the James Sellers first treatments such as massage, water therapy, and manual techniques. Later, in the eighteenth century came the development of orthopedics and treatments such as joint exercise to treat many different conditions. So, the practice of physical therapy has been around for a very long time. Physical therapy helps people of all ages who have medical conditions, pain, weakness, or injuries that limit their regular ability to move and function. It is also being used extensively for injury prevention and to possibly avoid surgery by improving motion, strength, and function. The primary aim of physical therapy is to restore a person back to his/her normal self, free from pain and suffering, so that he/she can lead a normal life with minimal or no difficulty. Physical therapy can be summarized in 3 words: Mobility, Stability, and Function. 1. Mobility is movement. Most repetitive injuries begin with a loss of either joint mobility or muscle flexibility. Physical therapists are trained professionals that use manual techniques to improve mobility and flexibility to restore pain free function. If joints remain stiff and muscles tight, then the next progression of injury is weakness. Tight muscles become weak muscles which leads us to our next word to summarize physical therapy… stability. 2. Stability is strength. If muscles become weak, they will not support the joints in the spine or extremities. This will lead to pain, especially with activity. A physical therapist is an expert in determining exercises to strengthen specific muscles involved with specific problems. Your therapist will develop a program that will involve the appropriate exercises with the correct progression of exercise to restore painfree function. Not only will your therapist determine the appropriate exercises, but will also progress the exercise as needed and make sure they are done correctly. This is an important point— many good exercises if done incorrectly can cause muscle irritation. That is why it is so important to have a knowledgeable therapist monitoring the treatment and progressing the exercises to restore pain-free function. This leads us to our final word to summarize physical therapy… function.

From left, Stefan Morris, Anne Marie Morella, Lori Kay Page and James Sellers of Summit Therapy.

3. Function is restoring a person’s life. This is the ultimate goal for both the patient and the physical therapist. By restoring a person’s movement and strength, full function is restored and he/she can return to previous level of activity without pain or problems. Whether it is working in the garden, cleaning around the house, or participating in sports, physical therapy can help restore you to full health in these areas.

So is Physical Therapy for you? Call Summit Physical Therapy in Carencro at 565-4355 for a free evaluation to help you answer this question. For more information, visit www.summitptcarencro.com. We’re proud to have Summit Physical Therapy as a member of Upper Lafayette!

www.upperlafayette.com • September 2016

Spotlight on Cox Communications A Valued Member of Upper Lafayette

We are all familiar with Cox Communications as a local and national conglomerate delivering television, internet, and telephone services to its business and residential customers. But many are unfamiliar with the story of family-owned Cox, its founder, James Cox, and the people behind this industry giant. Cox Enterprise was founded in Dayton, Ohio, in 1898 by former schoolteacher and news reporter James M. Cox, whose ambition was to own a newspaper. At the age of 28, he borrowed $26,000 from friends and family and purchased the Dayton Evening News. James Cox's success with the newspaper led him into public service. He became Ohio's first three-term governor and the 1920 Democratic nominee for president of the United States (with Franklin D. Roosevelt as his running mate). After losing the election to Warren Harding, Gov. Cox focused his attention on growing his media business. In 1935, Gov. Cox started Dayton's first radio station, WHIO, just as radio was gaining widespread popularity. In 1939, Cox acquired The Atlanta Journal newspaper and WSB, the South's oldest and most powerful radio station. Cox's innovation continued in 1948 when WSBTV in Atlanta became the South's first television station; WHIO-TV in Dayton began broadcasting later that year. Following Gov. Cox's death in 1957, his son, James Cox, Jr., assumed leadership of the company and continued its expansion until his death in 1974. During his tenure, Cox Enterprises became one of the first major players in the cable television industry. Cox Communications began with the acquisition of three small cable systems in rural Pennsylvania in 1962. Today, Cox Communications is among the largest broadband communications companies in the country. In 1969, Cox acquired Manheim Auto Auction in Manheim, Pennsylvania, which has grown to be the world's leading provider of used-vehicle and remarketing services, and a marketplace for almost seven million used vehicles that change hands every year. Cox's next auto-related innovation was launched in 1998. Autotrader is the most visited third-party James M. Cox and his running mate, Franklin Roosevelt, during the 1920 presidential campaign car shopping site, with the most engaged audience of in-market shoppers. Cox brought together more than 20 automotive brands, including Autotrader, Kelley Blue Book and Manheim, to create Cox Automotive in 2014. The company partners with more than 40,000 dealers and major automobile manufacturers. Meanwhile, Cox's traditional media operations— television, newspapers and radio— continue to be major players in their industries. Cox Media Group consists of six daily newspapers; 60 radio stations; and 14 broadcast television stations and one local cable channel, as well as Cox Reps, a major advertising sales rep firm. The subsidiary's operations also include savings.com and Valpak. Today, Cox Enterprises employs approximately 55,000 employees in 300 separate businesses. Its employees are active in every community where the company operates. Here in Acadiana, Julie Simon-Dronet serves as Market Vice-President for Cox. Patricia Parks Thompson serves as Public Relations and Media Manager. Both women are valued members of Upper Lafayette, and one of the many reasons they are so valued is their focus on improving educational outcomes in our community. By investing more than a quarter of a million dollars, Cox has helped bridge the digital divide in Lafayette Parish by bringing technology into the homes of students who would not otherwise be able to access the internet. Students in need were identified and Cox provided 250 free Netbooks, free in-home internet installations, and free internet service for the first year. By teaming up with our school system’s GEAR Up (see page 8 for more info), Cox partners with GEAR Up students to assist with Cox’s Inspirational Heroes event, assist with school supply drives and much more. We congratulate Cox for its outstanding success and commitment to provide its resources to our students and teachers. Thank you Cox also for your commitment to Upper Lafayette! For more information, visit www.coxcommunications.com

www.upperlafayette.com • September 2016

GEAR UP Celebrates Start of School Year with Motivational Forum As a kick off to the start of the 2016 – 2017 school year, on August 5, 2016, Lafayette Parish School System’s GEAR UP (federal Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) led by Traci Aucoin, hosted a professional development forum at UL’s Student Union with the goal of providing inspiration to teachers and community partners engaged with the program. The day included presentations by Will Bowen, author of Complaint Free World, and National Council for Community and Education Partnerships President, Ranjit Sudhu, who both spoke about the importance of each individual student: how many students fall through the cracks each year and will never reach the potential that they are capable of with proper guidance and support? Julie Simon-Dronet, Market Vice President for Acadiana Operations for Cox Louisiana, skillfully led a discussion of community partners attending the luncheon, and the crowd had an opportunity to learn of the many ways in which local businesses can make a huge difference in affecting the lives of students. GEAR UP’s focus is on getting lower income students to excel academically, to move successfully from middle school to high school, and then to pursue postsecondary education. Federally funded, Lafayette’s GEAR UP grant of $13.2 million covers a seven-year span, allowing the program to track students and continue to provide services through the students’ first year of college. The grant targets about 2,200 students at Acadian, Paul Breaux, Carencro, Judice, Lafayette and Scott middle schools, and the current cycle began with the 2015 school year. The program is supported by many local community partners such as Cox, South Louisiana Community College, CGI, UL Lafayette, and many more. Partners work to provide students with activities that will challenge them academically and make for more meaningful learning experiences to motivate them to stay in school and plan for a rewarding future. For more background on GEAR UP, visit www.upperlafayette.com/?q=video where Jan Swift interviews Traci Aucoin on Upper Lafayette On the Move! Upper Lafayette wishes all students and teachers a successful year, and is an active supporter of GEAR UP and our Upper Lafayette Parish schools and administrators.

www.upperlafayette.com • September 2016

Dr. Yvonne Adler

Appointed Head at the Schools of the Sacred Heart On July 1 2016, Dr. Yvonne S. Adler took the reins as Head of the Schools of the Sacred Heart in Grand Coteau. Previously, she served as the Upper School Division Head at the Academy of the Sacred Heart, The Rosary, in New Orleans, Louisiana. She also worked for 34 years as a teacher and administrator in St. Charles Parish Public Schools. Her educational background includes receipt of a B.S. in Speech and Hearing Therapy, a Masters Degree and Masters + 30 in Education, and a Ph.D. in Special Education. Dr. Adler was privileged to be a former Chair of the Board of Trustees at The Rosary where she was a trustee for eight years. She also served for six years on the Sacred Heart Commission on Goals while representing the Trustee constituency group. Dr. Adler served on the Network Program Committee for two years. She and her husband are the parents of three Rosary alumnae, Emily, Class of 2001, Margaret, Class of 2003, and Elizabeth, Class of 2005. A native of Opelousas, Dr. Adler is the daughter of Jane Simmons Sandoz, who graduated from college at the Academy of the Sacred Heart in Grand Coteau in 1949.

Dr. Yvonne Adler

Dr. Adler notes that the best gift that she and her husband gave their three daughters was a Sacred Heart education. She feels that the Goals and Criteria of Sacred Heart have had a very positive impact on her personal and professional life. Upper Lafayette is proud to welcome Dr. Yvonne Adler as new Head of the Schools of the Sacred Heart and to our foundation!

Photo to left: Dr. Yvonne Adler and family

www.upperlafayette.com â&#x20AC;˘ September 2016

On the Move Welcomes Heidi Melancon, Director of Small Business Development at UL Lafayette Heidi Melancon serves as Director of the Louisiana Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at University of Louisiana at Lafayette. She began working for the network in 2005 and worked as a Senior Business Consultant until she took over as director in 2014. Melancon is responsible for the management and operation of the work conducted in the eight parishes of the Acadiana Region including Acadia, Evangeline, Iberia, Lafayette, Saint Landry, Saint Martin, Saint Mary, and Vermilion. In furthering the mission of the SBDC, the organization helps start-up and existing entrepreneurs. She consults with clients in the areas of strategic planning, business development, financial evaluation, and marketing, at no charge. In addition to her primary duties, she is the Acadiana area coordinator and consultant for Louisiana Economic Development’s Small & Emerging Business Development Program. Heidi earned her MBA degree in 2000 from the B.I. Moody III College of Business at University of Louisiana at Lafayette. The most important part of the interview was the discussion about flood disaster relief that is available. Low interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are now available to Louisiana businesses and residents affected by the flooding that began August 11, 2016.

Heidi Melancon and Jan Swift

Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. EIDL assistance of up to $2 million is available to businesses regardless of any property damage. Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including vehicles. For more detailed information about disaster loan options, visit the SBA’s website here. The SBDC is located in the LITE Center at 537 Cajundome Blvd. Suite 236, Lafayette, LA 70506. The department may be reached by phone at (337) 482-6312 or email lsbdc.ull@lsbdc.org. The video of the interview with Heidi Melancon may be viewed here.

www.upperlafayette.com • September 2016

The Family Church Says Thank You to Law Enforcement By Stacey Judice, Community Chronicles With the 15th anniversary of September 11 approaching, Americans are paying tribute to the first responders that were lost on that tragic day in our country. However, many local churches, organizations, and restaurants decided to honor our country’s heroes early this year due to the unrest that has been occurring. The Family Church, located at 223 Stone Avenue in Lafayette, blessed the law enforcement agencies throughout Lafayette Parish in August. A lunch made up of pork roast, rice dressing, green beans, and bread pudding was provided for all in attendance. Special gifts were given to area chiefs, Lafayette Sheriff, Marshall, and Troop Commander. Every officer in attendance received a door prize and other larger prizes were given away. When asked why this was done for officers, Pastor Jay Miller commented, “Let’s face it, when we are in need, a police officer comes running in when we are running out of an emergency situation. Dallas, Baton Rouge, and other tragedies facing our officers are fresh in our minds. We wanted to show them that we love them, are praying for them, and are thankful for them. This meal is our way of saying thank you to all Lafayette Parish law enforcement agencies.”

Local law officers enjoy a meal at the Family Church.

The fellowship between the officers and the pastors, staff, and members of The Family Church was one that will not soon be forgotten by those in attendance. Carencro Police Chief, David Anderson, stated, “The amount of positive support over the last few months is really keeping a positive moral flowing through our department. Our department and others are humbled and appreciative of the support from our Acadiana community and of course, to the Family Church for providing this meal for all of area law enforcement agencies.” As time goes on, let’s not forget to thank our emergency personnel that serve our communities. They are the ones that will come to your rescue without giving a second thought for their lives or the family waiting at home for them when 911 is called.

www.upperlafayette.com • September 2016

STAY AWARE of Potential Scams FEMA officials are warning residents to look out for a potential scam. Officials say there have been individuals canvassing neighborhoods selling “Mold Free Certificates of Occupancy” and telling residents that they will not be able to reoccupy their home without paying $1000 to receive one. Officials would like for the public to help spread the word about this scam. If you or anyone you know comes in contact with one of these individuals, call your local law enforcement. There are reports of people posing as Entergy employees to check equipment then rob customers. Always ask for official ID. If unsure, call 1-800-ENTERGY or your local authorities. Many are worried about Zika Virus during this flooding time. If you are outside, or exposed to mosquitos in your temporary housing/shelter, please use bug repellent. The CDC offers suggestions on how to avoid getting mosquito bites here. Price Gouging Complaints: 1.800.488.2770 or 1.800.351.4889 The Louisiana State Police have a warning for everyone affected by the flood and that will be working with FEMA officials in the upcoming days. “FEMA representatives NEVER ask for money from those affected by the flood. Don’t be a victim twice.” If anyone tells you that they are working for FEMA, but need money from you, do not give it to them and contact police immediately. Always ask for official identification and never give personal information to anyone not with an official agency.

Louisiana Survivors Can Get FEMA Rebuilding Advice at Area Home Improvement Stores As Louisianans repair or rebuild their homes damaged by August floods, FEMA and local hardware and home improvement stores have teamed up to provide free information, tips and literature on making homes stronger and safer. FEMA mitigation specialists will be on hand to provide information at area Home Depots through September 10. They will be available to answer questions and offer home improvement tips and proven methods to prevent and lessen damage from future disasters. Most of the information is geared for do-it-yourself work and general contractors. FEMA advisors will be on hand at information centers in these stores 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

THE HOME DEPOT Lafayette Parish 1700 NE Evangeline Thruway Lafayette, LA 70501

East Baton Rouge Parish 8181 Airline Hwy. Baton Rouge, LA 70815

St. Tammany Parish 40 Park Place Dr. Covington, La. 70433

www.upperlafayette.com • September 2016

Tax Attorney Encourages Flood Victims to File Amended Returns for 2015 as Soon as Possible By Stephanie Riegel, Business Report. Published August 30, 2016. Amidst all the headaches associated with the recent flood, there is a bit of potentially good news for flood victims: The Internal Revenue Service will allow you to amend your 2015 tax return to deduct any personal and business losses incurred in the flood, and refunds could be forthcoming as soon as October, according to a tax accountant. Scott Lemoine, an accountant with Lemoine, Triche & Associates, says with all the other announcements related to disaster assistance floating around, he’s concerned flood victims may not be aware of the IRS regulations and may not be poised to take advantage of them. “We’re just trying to get the word out there because people have to get the ball rolling now,” Lemoine says. “Once the trash companies come and pick up everything it will be that much harder to remember everything that was lost.” It’s important for people to try to tabulate the exact value of lost contents while some of those contents are still on the curb, he says. Under the IRS rules related to federal disaster areas: • The amount of the loss that can be deducted is limited to the decrease in value of your property, structure and contents, as a result of the flood. The IRS will consider the cost of repairs for the calculation of the loss. • The casualty loss deductions can be taken for both personal and business property. • The personal casualty loss deductions should consist of the taxpayer’s residence and all contents lost or damaged from the flood. • The business casualty loss consists of damage to real estate, equipment and fixtures. • The losses can be reported on amended 2015 returns. Taxpayers should put the disaster designation “Louisiana, Severe Storms and Flooding” at the top of the form so the IRS can expedite the processing of the refund. “If someone has all that information and files an amended return by next week, they could get a refund as soon as October,” Lemoine says. “That could really be a big help for a lot of people right now.”

www.upperlafayette.com • September 2016

Flood Recovery Information LEDA provided the bulk of this information to expedite your recovery so that your family may be assisted and your business able to return to normal operations as quickly as possible. We have also included a few private, voluntary resources by caring community partners.

Initial Steps to Obtain Recovery Services and Resources 1. Register with FEMA To be considered for all forms of disaster assistance (individual and business), victims must first call FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or access online at www.disasterassistance.gov. Businesses who sustained losses in the designated parishes can begin applying for assistance today. There is also an app available for mobile reporting. 2. Review SBA Programs Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets. You can apply for loan assistance at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/. Additional information is available by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955. A video explaining the low interest loans available to renters and homeowners may be watched at https://www.sba.gov/videos/sba-low-interest-disaster-loans. 3. Register with LABEOC Louisiana Business Emergency Operations Center is activated and assisting businesses across the state with response and recovery. LABEOC connects those who need resources with Louisiana resource providers during response and recovery from an emergency or disaster event. All Louisiana businesses are encouraged to register. Benefits of registering: • Information alerts of public announcements from government agencies. • Status Report of your operations to inform emergency responders of any issues hindering the recovery of your business. • Emergency Products and Services alerts of emergency products and services will be sent to registered companies as they are made available. • Donations and Volunteer support for the emergency response. Contact: (337) 482-0627 or info@labeoc.org.

www.upperlafayette.com • September 2016

Business Recovery Center The U.S. Small Business Administration, Louisiana Economic Development and Louisiana Small Business Development Centers are partnering to provide a wide range of services to businesses impacted by the severe storms and flooding that began on August 12. SBA representatives will provide information on disaster loans to help finance recovery and explain the application process. LSBDC consultants at the center will provide program information, answer questions and help businesses apply for this much needed financial help. No appointment is necessary. All services are provided free of charge. Louisiana Immersive Technologies Enterprise (LITE) 537 Cajundome Blvd., Executive Conference Room Mondays through Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. Louisiana Economic Development Flood Recovery Assistance Information One Acadiana Flood Recovery Information Louisiana’s Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters LAVOAD enhances the effectiveness of service providers and stakeholders who help communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters, with the overall purpose of lessening the impact of disasters on Louisianans. Louisiana Department of Revenue State tax extensions are available to Louisiana taxpayers whose homes, principal places of business and critical tax records are located in areas of the state declared federal disaster areas following recent storms and flooding. At this time, there are 20 parishes designated as federal disaster areas, which includes Lafayette Parish. The full list of affected parishes and extended deadlines is here.

Office and Work Space Business Recovery Center at LITE Temporary office space will be set up at the LITE Center, located at 537 Cajundome Blvd., Lafayette, LA. This support will come with a shared office space with workspace and internet connectivity available for businesses. The University will also make available Abdalla Hall and the Picard Center, located in the University Research Park, if needed. Businesses needing assistance are encouraged to contact Heidi Melancon, director of the Louisiana Small Business Development Center at (337) 482-6312 or hmelancon@lsbdc.org for further information. Lafayette Public Library All library locations have free WiFi, public computers and public printers. Some locations also have fax machines and copy machines.

Donations and Volunteering United Way of Acadiana— Donate or Volunteer UWA is accepting donated goods at its warehouse at 215 E. Pinhook Rd. from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, until further notice. This location is the staging point for all donated supplies, which will be dispersed to shelters and other places where needed. Community Foundation of Acadiana— Donate American Red Cross— Donate

www.upperlafayette.com • September 2016

Other sites Set Up by Community Members Helping each other: Acadiana Flooding Message Board— Facebook site for those needing help/guidance or who want to help. Asbury United Methodist Church— Offering assistance and corralling volunteers. Crossroads Church— Site for local Good Samaritan’s Purse International Relief. Contact (337) 234-4308. One Love Center— 413 Coolidge St. Lafayette, LA Accepting food & supply donations and delivering to those who need support. Food, cleaning supplies, diapers, personal hygiene, baby formula, baby food etc. (regretfully no clothes please). Please call ahead. Contact Katy Richard (337)349-9084 or Daniel Boone (303)931-8543 Lafayettelarecovers.org— Request help or sign up to donate and volunteer.

If You’re Still Having Trouble Replacing Lost or Damaged Documents in After the Flood.... 232-HELP / Louisiana 211

Other Contact Information For emergencies: 9-1-1 Louisiana State Police: 225-925-6325 or *LSP from any cell phone FEMA: 1-800-621-3362 or Disasterassistance.gov United Way of Acadiana: 337-233-8302; for immediate assistance, dial 2-1-1 American Red Cross: 1-866-GET- INFO (1-866-438-4636) Consumer Protection Hotline: 1-800-351-4889 Cleco Corporation: 1-800-622-6537 Entergy: 1-800-ENTERGY; Power Outages: 1-800-9OUTAGE Slemco: 1-888-2SLEMCO (1-888-275-3626) LUS: Power Outages: 337-291-9200

www.upperlafayette.com • September 2016

5 Tips to Enhance Your Staff's Problem Solving Skills By 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 Managers often find themselves solving their employees' problems as they feel it is a lot faster than having them do it on their own. However, high performing leaders know that solving an employee's problem actually robs them of developing their own conflict management skills. To help you develop your staff's problem solving skills, we have listed below a number of core tips for you to read.

5 Tips to Help Your Staff Become Better At Solving Problems: Tip #1: Make Expectations Clear On What Needs to Be Solved - It's common after an issue or problem arises that there is a misunderstanding between people, departments or divisions. Keep in mind that your employees are not mind readers, so tell them exactly what the issues are at hand and the affect these problems can and will have on the company's profitability. Otherwise, if a solution is less than desired, you will have nobody to blame but yourself. Tip #2: Know That Egos and Emotions Often Get In The Way - If emotions flare up during a meeting, it is your job to keep them in check; however, don't interfere with the resolution to the core problem, as your employees need space to work through all the details. If things do get heated up, it is best to change topics or reconvene at a different time. Tip #3: Facilitate The Process - As a leader, it is often better to be an unbiased observer, as it will allow you to act as a gobetween during a discussion. Remember, your employees are the primary players as they are the ones that need to solve a particular issue. Your role is to keep the discussion on course, find the core issues, and then help your team identify a solution. Tip #4: Give Your Staff Space to Improve - Most employees want and need the flexibility to solve a problem. Today's workers, especially Millennials, want training that will help them advance their career. This is where you come in, as it will behoove your company to develop a staff that's capable of resolving issues as well as refining the process. Tip #5: Know When and How To Intervene - Each circumstance requires a different response. For example, if an employee is struggling because of an issue outside of the workplace, try offering them some direction on outside resources to help them through it. However, if the matter comes down to a certain project, that might be a time to step back and encourage your staff to solve it on their own. Executive Summary: Problem solving is an extremely important workplace skill. In addition, having a staff of competent and confident problem solvers will reduce many headaches for you too. Also, don't forget to mentor the less seasoned staff's in this area. Given that problems always arise in the workplace, it will be rather reassuring for all managers to know that his or her staff will have the skills to resolve issues in a timely, and productive manner.

www.upperlafayette.com â&#x20AC;˘ September 2016

Thank you for your generosity.. Platinum Members ($2400)

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 ($1200)

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 ($600)

Ace Plumbing, Inc. BBR Creative Coburn’s Supply Company Edward Jones/Bob Crist Master Builders & Specialists, Inc.

Silver Members