L Magazine Fall Issue by Part of the USA TODAY NETWORK

MAGAZINE FALL 2013

L M A G A Z I N E

SEPTEMBER 2013

SEPTEMBER 2013 L M A G A Z I N E

CONTENTS FALL 2013

A SPECIAL THANKS

to this issue’s guest editor Tyla Hudspeth

SPECIAL FEATURES

9 20 23 34

LEISURE: Meet two guys who have a passion for hunting

TRAVEL: What to do in Oxford, Miss. besides the football game

WINE: Know the value of a good wine

FASHION: Raoul Blanco selects the bestdressed women in Louisiana

ALSO THIS MONTH 6

Meet our guest editor

PASTIMES: How do you spend your free time?

Ask Jan: Coping with a narcissist

CALENDAR: More to do as weather turns cooler

Splurge: How have you pampered yourself lately?

THE QUIZ: What kind of outdoor girl are you?

What’s in your bag?

SOCIETY SCENE/PARTY PIX With our own Patricia Gannon

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14 NEW THIS MONTH

Dr. Elizabeth McLain writes about healthrelated issues in the first of her series.

MAGAZINE

FALL 2013

GENERAL 1100 Bertrand Drive Lafayette LA 70506 (337) 289-6300 David Petty president and publisher Karen Lincoln Michel executive editor Kristin Askelson coordinating editor Sundra Hominik L Magazine editor Kris Wartelle writer, fashion coordinator Ginger Garrison designer OTHER CONTACTS LouAnn Citron advertising sales, 289-6385 lcitron@gannett.com Joshua Hundley advertising sales ljhundley@gannett.com Patricia Gannon society writer, 234-9897 Tim Alexander regional circulation director 289-6399

§§§§§ L Magazine is produced four times a year in Lafayette, La. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. We reserve the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publications standards. Although every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of published material, we cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by authors. In no event shall unsolicited material subject this publication to any claim for holding fees or other charges. Copyright 2013 SEPTEMBER 2013 L M A G A Z I N E

FROM THIS MONTH’S GUEST EDITOR

My 2 cents on change and how to embrace it I’m about the most consistently inconsistent person you will ever meet. My brain just works like that. Heck, my body even works like that. Just this past year, I’ve fluctuated roughly 30 pounds, run my seventh (this really is my last) marathon, competed in a body-building competition and let’s not even talk about my shoulder-length haircut. These are all just a few of the things I said I’d never do. But, hey, things changed. I think we’ve all been conditioned to think we must pick a certain lifestyle, career, goal or hobby and what we pick will define us for life. We carry around these titles like “runner,” “teacher” or “vegetarian” and then we feel pressure to uphold our label. I believe this pressure is why change has gotten a bad reputation. Have you ever thought about how versatile change is? I mean you can literally change your thought, your direction, your attitude or latitude, jobs, clothes, diapers; you TYLA HUDSPETH h GUEST EDITOR

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can see change, make change, change things, deny change. You can focus on it, reward it, measure it, go through it — well you get the point. It is limitless and is forever evolving. As they say, it’s the only thing that stays the same. Regardless of how you experience it, one thing is for sure, you’d better accept it. I like the positive spin Marilyn Monroe put on change when she said, “I believe that everything happens for a reason. People change so that you can learn to let go, things go wrong so that you appreciate them when they’re right, you believe lies so you eventually learn to trust no one but yourself, and sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.” I learned early on as a coach’s wife that I’d better be pretty adaptable. At a moment’s notice, pretty much everything in your life can change. In medieval times, a “moment” was a specific measure of time equal to 90 seconds. I’ll agree, that’s about how fast change can hap-

pen. It can be anything from a phone call to a game-winning field goal. Although it may have taken me some time, I’ve finally made peace with the concept that change always leads to good. Although it may have originated from a negative event, it will eventually lead to something good. It’s just a temporary springboard to take you to a better place, physically, emotionally or mentally. Change is always present around the holidays for my family. Each occasion is different and usually planned within a 48-hour window, depending upon and revolving around a game or practice. We sacrifice family tradition in order to build football tradition. I embrace the uncertainty because after all, predictability is boring, right? That is, unless you’ve got money on this Saturday’s game. Even the four seasons are different for us. We experience recruiting season, spring ball, the off-season (which is imaginary) and football season. There is a lot of change taking place around Lafayette right now. A heightened sense of excitement around our football program and the anticipation of a chill in the air let us know a change is brewing. A recent reveal of the university’s master plan is certain to let people know that we are ready for change. Although the world’s perspective of our home team and reputation might be changing, one thing that I’ve noticed that seems to be staying pretty consistent is the Ragin’ Cajuns’ winning record. And I wouldn’t change a thing.

PASTIMES

Rickey Domingues Owner of Eddie’s One Stop I recently read “Calico Joe” by John Grisham, which combined a fine storyline with information about the game of baseball, making me more aware of this all-American tradition.

Jess Russo Stay-athome mom and athlete

Have you gotten into reality TV, a new CD or a great beach book? Tell us about it.

I love the crazy reality show “Big Brother” during the summer! I also enjoyed “Project Runway “and “Suits” on Lifetime.

I really enjoy “Duck Dynasty.” It seems that everybody knows somebody like one of the characters in “Duck Dynasty.” They turn the simplest thing like forgetting to put in a boat plug into an adventure.

Elise Brunson Director of marketing for Boys and Girls Clubs of Acadiana

Michelle Crouch Founder of Jacob Crouch Foundation A friend gave me this book back in 2011, “one thousand gifts” by Ann Voskamp. I started reading it, but guess I wasn’t ready for it. I picked it up again, really reading the book, underlining and highlighting parts that truly spoke to me. Inside the jacket says: “A beautiful, practical guide to living a life of joy.” It “invites you to wake up to God’s everyday blessings.” A book that needs to be shared.

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L M A G A Z I N E

SEPTEMBER 2013

Master of the

Hunt

Richard Carlisle of Lafayette, shown in full hunting gear, hunts at private ranches and clubs from Louisiana to Africa. SUBMITTED

Only a man truly understands {Make that a man with deep pockets}

By Patricia Gannon

ometimes it’s just not enough. Sometimes you want more. It’s called a gentleman’s hunting trip, and for those who can afford it, it’s a passion. It’s a life where your wallet ensures that you will eat and drink plentifully, sleep well and spend time with people who think like you do. Most important, you get to hunt. Depending on the excursion, amenities can include a guide, valet services and even someone to carry your gun, give you a shell and point out the animals. You can spend as little as $1,000 a day or as much as $150,000 a weekend. It’s a very expensive passion. Richard Carlisle of Lafayette has hunted all his life at private ranches and clubs. He says high-end hunting can run anywhere from $5,000 to more than 20 times that. He compares it to golf. “You have your municipal courses such as (Les) Vieux Chene, your Squirrel Runs, the Le Triomphes and Oakbournes, all the way to St. Andrews, Augusta and beyond, where a quarter-mil a year gets you six guests and you never own a thing.” Called private hunting clubs, there is something to suit every taste, from public marshes to exclusive resorts. Louisiana has some. There’s The Lodge at Tee Mamou, 1,000 acres just south of Basile. Deridder and Baker have them with another near Vinton. At $300 a day, Gueydan Hunting Club has a waiting list of several years. If home-grown doesn’t suit, Texas-size hunting hospitality’s not far away. “Wilson Whitetail Ranch is a Le Triomphe,” said Carlisle. The Texas SEPTEMBER 2013 L M A G A Z I N E

ranch offers corporate packages beginning at $3,900 per person with upgrades in $1,000 increments, and wing shooting hunts starting at $850 per person. A whitetail deer can run you $4,000 to $6,000 in kill fees, while a trophy whitetail — in addition to three nights luxury lodging, six hunts, meals and guide — can take $7,500 to $16,500 out of a man’s wallet. The antelope’s going to run another $2,900 to $3,900 according to its size. To throw in a red stag or an elk, roughly, add another $5,000. The price on the scimitar-horned oryx is up for discussion. Depending on the level of the club, it can also include valet services and a personal guide to carry the gun and scout the animals. “There’s safety in this,” explained Carlisle, adding that many clients go to mix business with pleasure and it’s good to have some safeguards in place. Carlisle prefers free-

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Richard Carlisle and Sam Landers have hunted bear in Canada and they have the trophies to prove it. Landers says, “Men don’t go into (trophy rooms) to look at your guns.” SUBMITTED

range hunting in Canada, a level he equates to Oakbourne and Le Triomphe, where patrons ride a fourwheeler, get picked up at the end of the day and have no cell service. “You make the decisions. You sign a waiver saying if you kill yourself, they’re not

SEPTEMBER 2013

responsible and if you get lost, you’re willing to pay the $2,500 for the Mounties to come find you. No one helps you into the blind, and you learn quickly. In Alaska and Canada, you’re a hunter.” Carlisle once took a trip where he was dropped off by seaplane. He built his own fire and ate whatever he was able to shoot. “Canada’s more extreme. It gets 37-54 degrees below. You never know what God’s going to throw you. But that was hunting,” he said. Sam Landers, also of Lafayette, was in a good mood, having just received his Boone & Crockett Club certificate in the mail for the bear he took in Canada. He’ll be in the next record books due out in 2015. “I missed the world record by 2 inches,” he said. “It was once in a lifetime.” Landers has hunted with Carlisle for five years. He says his best trip was the Canadian bear hunt because he bagged the near-record

THREE DAYS IN THE LIFE OF A HUNTER A three-day, two-night exotic hunt at Wilson Whitetail Ranch in Texas breaks down something like this: Two nights’ luxury lodging, four meals, a guide, BYOB, minimum of two guns and nonhunters $195 per night. If an exotic animal is not taken, then a $300 per day lodge and guide fee will be assessed. Gentlemen may look forward to: Day 1 Afternoon arrival, registration, orientation, an afternoon hunt, appetizers, gourmet dining and retire to your double occupancy suite. Day 2 Continental breakfast, morning hunt, gourmet breakfast, afternoon hunt, appetizers, gourmet dining and retire to your double occupancy suite. Day 3 Continental breakfast, morning hunt, gourmet breakfast, departure. Check out is 11 a.m. and don’t forget to tip your guide.

bear. His next favorite was a South Africa jaunt, although he admits not caring for the 20-hour flight. “It’s a lot different than stateside,” Landers said. “The guides are different, there’s one per hunter, trackers, skinners and no meat through customs. It’s sold to locals, so it’s strictly for sport.” Trophies can take as long as 18 months to be container-shipped back to the U.S. He’s also enjoyed dove hunting in Argentina, but even so, Landers says it’s not a cheap flight to Argentina and then on to Cordoba. “You wouldn’t believe the doves,” he said. “If you had a shot, you had dove. A thousand rounds a day per person easy.” Nature’s bounty doesn’t come cheap. The lodge alone is $2,800 for four days. Landers says Canada is more relaxed. “I don’t have to get up at 5 in the morning, there’re no blinds all

Hunting in Africa, where Sam Landers poses with a kudu, presents certain challenges including a 20-hour flight and up to 18 months to have trophies shipped home. SUBMITTED

day and all night. It’s cool, comfortable, no bugs and starts at 10:30. That’s what I call relaxing.” Price tags for this upperend masculine pastime are substantial. With plane fare, shipping and fees to shoot, gentlemen hunting trips can reach six figures. There’s the taxidermist, processing, travel and the lodge. “If you buy every year, they waive the lodging fee and you only pay the kill fee. There’s also the tip, a minimum of 10 percent of the total trip, and that’s separate for the hunt guide, skinner, cook and maid

service,” Carlisle said. “Don’t ever (skimp on tipping) your guide or your cook — you won’t get the amenities you’ve been getting. “Oh, and in Texas, there’s poker every night. You tip the dealer 10 percent.” Carlisle advocates anyone desiring the exclusive hunt club experience to start slow and work your way up in price. “Gun fever and excitement can net trigger-happy guys $1,000 penalties,” he said. “If your finger pulls to the left just slightly and you kill the wrong deer, you

Go to theadvertiser.com to see a map and video about hunting.

have to pay before you leave. When you’re in Africa shooting zebra and your bullet accidentally goes through three instead of one, you’re buying all three. And the problem’s getting them home.” As a lifelong sportsman, Carlisle looks at the big picture. Fraternity hunt clubs aren’t for everyone. “You have to be born with a silver spoon in your mouth. I can do it now that my children are gone (from home),” he said with a laugh. But the trophy rooms are worth it. They’re the gifts that keep giving and in the end, it amortizes out. “Men don’t go into (trophy rooms) to look at your guns. It’s the excitement, the conditions, the weather, meeting the people and the conversation pieces. It goes on for years. And it’s all money.”

SEPTEMBER 2013 L M A G A Z I N E

Q DEAR JAN is not your typical advice column. Jan wants to know what happened next. Did you take the advice? How did that work out for you? Send your questions to jan@janrisher.com

ASK JAN

Dealing with a narcissist requires lowered expectations How to cope with a narcissist? Are narcissists born or made? If one is in your family, what is a good strategy for a relationship? At what point, if any, should one cut bait?

» DEAR READY, First, resolve right now to never let your self-worth to be tied up in the narcissist’s opinion or reaction to you. Secondly, think back to a story you may have heard long ago about a nice Southern lady who frequently smiles, nods her head and repeatedly says, “That’s nice.” Perhaps those words have an alternative meaning in some situations, but sadly, that approach represents the extent of what you can do if you want to remain on civil terms with a truly narcissistic person. When you’re around this person, try to listen more than usual. Basically, you have to lower your expectations for this relationship. Don’t expect warm fuzzies or praise. In the narcissist’s world, if you’re deserving of either, you would be stealing the spotlight. Right? It’s a vicious cycle that goes round and round, never leaving you in a good place. If the relationship is (or seems) unavoidable and you would like, on occasion, to have something go your way, get the narcissist’s buy in by framing your proposal to show how your desired outcome would put the narcissist in the absolute best light. To a co-worker, for example, instead of, “Could you work X assignment for me?” Say, “X really likes you, and I’ve noticed that the company gets the best results when you’re the one on the job. Did you see that we’ve got an assignment coming up next week with him?” Yes, it sounds manipulative and the narcissist may or may not take the bait, but that’s the best way to work with him or her. Good luck! » DEAR JAN, My friend who has a serious case of Parkinson’s disease is blessed to have a very attentive wife. However, at times, she expects

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— READY TO LET THIS ONE GO

too much of him. For example, in an effort to help him remember to take his medicine, she has bought him a series of the latest iPhones and other electronic gadgetry. She programs various alarms and reminders to take different meds at different times. The alarms serve more of a reminder of his confusion than anything else, leaving him frustrated. The bottom line is that she expects him to do much more electronically than he is capable of doing and when he fails, she loses patience with him. How can I approach her without offending? — FEELING FOR MY FRIEND » DEAR FFMF, You’re in a situation that offers no easy win for everyone involved. Though they are making some strides in research toward a cure or help for Parkinson’s, right now it’s just a waiting game. My brother was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at age 42, three years ago. Watching his progression and his realizations of limitations has been difficult for all of us who care about him. I share that to let you know that I understand a degree of the pain your friend and his family are experiencing. This is one of those situations when there’s not a clear, correct path. My take on this one may be the most difficult advice of all: Do nothing (except continuing to support your friend and his family). It sounds like his wife may be doing the best she can under difficult circumstances.

SEPTEMBER 2013 L M A G A Z I N E

Guests enjoy dining outdoors at Ruffino's on the River in Lafayette. With cooler weather coming, now is a perfect time for alfresco dining. LESLIE WESTBROOK, THE ADVERTISER

TIME TO DINE ...

outdoors

Ruffino’s and Romacelli maximize enjoyment of the alfresco dining experience Ruffino’s brand olive oil, displayed on patio tables, is available for purchase.

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By Kris Wartelle

hen cooler weather rolls around, there is nothing better than enjoying a great meal in an outdoor setting. Good food and a great setting can combine to make for a relaxing afternoon or evening. And if you’re lucky, you’ll also get a view of the river or enjoy the bustle of the River Ranch town square. Two restaurants with outdoor seating plan to make some changes that are meant to please diners as autumn gets underway in Acadiana.

Diners enjoy a casual lunch on the corner patio at Romacelli Bistro in River Ranch in Lafayette. PAUL KIEU, THE ADVERTISER

Romacelli Bistro in River Ranch

115 Stonemont Road (337) 988-9790

Fresh herbs, used in some of the dishes at Ruffino’s, frame a view of the Vermilion River. LESLIE WESTBROOK, THE ADVERTISER

Ruffino’s on the River

921 Camellia Blvd. (337) 706-7333 If it is on the river, that says it all. When you are looking for a great view in Lafayette, the Vermilion River is about the best place to find one. The Ruffino’s building originally housed Cochon’s and much of the expansive decking overlooking the river has remained unchanged since Ruffino’s took it over. The property includes a man-made pond, a fountain and a beautiful walkway for guests to take a casual stroll before settling in for lunch or dinner. The outside deck is set for formal dining, while the lower terrace offers a more casual setting, surrounded by Ruffino’s herb gardens. “There are always boats passing by, people skiing,” said Rene Schnell, Ruffino’s general manager. “We want to take advantage of the wonderful scenery.” To take advantage of the view, Schnell said, the restaurant plans to add about 10 more tables to the outside eating area this fall.

If you want a relaxed atmosphere, this casual Italian restaurant right near the River Ranch town square has it. The corner patio decorated with solid wooden tables and chairs is not far from River Ranch’s City Club. A lunch crowd often fills the outdoor area. “Its pretty laid-back out here,” said Garrett Beasley, general manager. “We have ceiling fans to keep you cool in hot weather and heaters for when it is cold.” Beasely said most diners come dressed casually. Some wear their workout attire stopping by on the way from the City Club. Others wear shorts and T-shirts. He said in anticipation of higher demand in the fall,the restaurant plans to renovate the outdoor area and refurbish some of the patio’s seating.

ALFRESCO DINING IN AMERICA » Dining in open air was in vogue in the late 18th century when patrons could enjoy pleasure gardens or tea gardens. » Louis Sherry claimed to have set up the first sidewalk café outside his Fifth Avenue restaurant in 1900. » Rooftop restaurants, usually atop hotels such as San Antonio’s St. Anthony hotel, often have offered upscale outdoor dining. Source: Jan Whitaker, Restaurant-ing through history

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OCT. 5

SEPT. 26

Tinsel & Treasures Junior League Fundraiser. Today through Saturday. Tickets are available from any Junior League of Lafayette member, at 504 Richland Ave., in River Ranch, and by calling (337) 988-2739. Second annual Stone Energy Gumbo Cook-off. 4:30 p.m. Benefits United Way of Acadiana. Cajun Field, 444 Cajundome Blvd., Lafayette. $5 all-you-can-eat gumbo. (337) 233-8302. AcA’s AllStars Season Gala: Clint Black -— 2013 Acoustic Tour. 7:30 p.m. Local country up-and-comer Jaryd Lane opens. Country/black tie attire is encouraged. Acadiana Center for the Arts, James D. Moncus Theater, 101 W. Vermilion St., Lafayette. (337) 233-7060. Rhythms On The River: Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. 5:30 p.m. River Ranch Town Square, 1100 Camellia Blvd., Lafayette. (337) 216-6566.

SEPT. 27

Downtown Alive! BandSwap: The Patti Fiasco & Feufollet. 5:30 p.m. Parc Sans Souci, 201 E. Vermilion St., Lafayette. (337) 291-5566.

SEPT. 28

Second annual Free To Breathe 5k Run/Walk. 6:30 a.m. Champion

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The Shadows-on-the-Teche Fall Arts and Crafts Fair. Shadows-OnThe-Teche, 317 E. Main St., New Iberia. $5 general admission; $3 for kids ages 6 to 11. (337) 369-6446. The Met in HD: “Eugene Onegin” Noon. Acadiana Center for the Arts, 101 W. Vermilion St., Lafayette. $18. (337) 233-7060.

OCT. 10

Rhythms on the River: Bag of Donuts. 5:30 p.m. River Ranch Town Square, 1100 Camellia Blvd., Lafayette. (337) 216-6566.

Volunteer Sarah Neeper pours beers for guests at Gulf Brew in Parc International at the event in 2012. PAUL KIEU the lung cancer cause by registering today for the second annual Free to Breathe Lafayette 5k Run/Walk and 1-Mile Walk. River Ranch Town Square, 1100 Camellia Blvd., Lafayette. (312) 558-1770.

OCT. 2

Anything is Pastable. 6 p.m. Funds raised will support 232-HELP/ Louisiana 211 in its ongoing effort to link people in need with resources in Acadiana. River Oaks Catering & Events Center, 520 E. Kaliste Saloom Road, Lafayette.

SEPTEMBER 2013

Tickets are $150 and available by calling (337) 205-6012.

OCT. 3

Rhythms on the River: Nik L Beer. 5:30 p.m. River Ranch Town Square, 1100 Camellia Blvd., Lafayette. (337) 216-6566.

OCT. 4

Downtown Alive! with Louisiana Red. 5:30 p.m. Parc Sans Souci, 201 E. Vermilion St., Lafayette. (337) 291-5566.

OCT. 13

PASA/AcA present Sweet Plantain. 7:30 p.m. Separately hailing from the Bronx, New Jersey and Venezuela, together these musicians give voice to a sound that is contemporary, multicultural and very New York. Heymann Performing Arts Center, 1373 S. College Road, Lafayette. (337) 237-2787.

OCT. 17

“James Brown: Get On The Good Foot, a Celebration in Dance.” 7 p.m. Heymann Performing Arts Center, 1373 S. College Road, Lafayette. (337) 255-5689. Rhythms on the River: GTO and “D” Street Brass. 5:30 p.m. River

Ranch Town Square, 1100 Camellia Blvd., Lafayette. (337) 216-6566.

OCT. 18

An Evening with Sonny Landreth. 7 p.m. Vermilionville, 300 Fisher Road, Lafayette. (337) 2334077. Downtown Alive! with The Rayo Brothers & La Recolte. 5:30 p.m. Parc Sans Souci, 201 E. Vermilion St., Lafayette. (337) 291-5566.

OCT. 19

Gulf Brew 2013 beer festival. 6 to 9 p.m. Lafayette’s original beer festival is back to support the arts. The Horse Farm, 2913 Johnston St., Lafayette. (337) 233-7060. “Fall into the Arts” Art Walk 4 p.m. NILA Gallery & the Henton House, 457 E. Main St., New Iberia. (337) 369-2330.

OCT. 23

An Evening with Darius Rucker. 6 p.m. All proceeds benefit MPCS and its mission to help local families fight, survive and live with cancer. Parc International, Garfield St., Lafayette. (337) 984-1920. Cinema Francais. 7 p.m. A free, monthly French movie night. NUNU Arts and Culture Collective, 1510 Courtableau Road. (La. 93), Arnaudville. (337) 453-3307.

OCT. 25

NOV. 9

Downtown Alive! Fall Music Extravaganza. 5:30 p.m. Parc Sans Souci, 201 E. Vermilion St., Lafayette. (337) 291-5566.

The Met in HD: “Tosca.” Noon. Acadiana Center for the Arts, 101 W. Vermilion St., Lafayette. (337) 233-7060.

OCT. 26

NOV. 15

The Met in HD: “The Nose.” Noon. Acadiana Center for the Arts, 101 W. Vermilion St., Lafayette. (337) 233-7060.

NOV. 1

Downtown Alive! 5th Avenue for the UL Homecoming Pep Rally. 5:30 p.m. Parc International, Garfield St., Lafayette. (337) 291-5566.

NOV. 7

Rhythms on the River: Wayne Toups & ZyDeCajun. 5:30 p.m. River Ranch Town Square, 1100 Camellia Blvd., Lafayette. (337) 216-6566.

NOV. 8

LA Vets Fest featuring Craig Morgan. 3 p.m. West Feliciana Parish Sports Park, 10226 W. Feliciana Parkway, St. Francisville. (985) 209-7572. Downtown Alive! with Nik-L Beer. 5:30 p.m. Parc International, Garfield St., Lafayette. (337) 2915566.

An Evening with Paul Thorn Band. 7 p.m. Vermilionville, 300 Fisher Road, Lafayette. (337) 2334077. Downtown Alive! with Travis Matte & The Kingpins. 5:30 p.m. Parc International, Garfield St., Lafayette. (337) 291-5566.

NOV. 22

Downtown Alive! with Carbon Poppies & Cardinal Sons. 5:30 p.m. Parc Sans Souci, 201 E. Vermilion St., Lafayette. (337) 291-5566.

NOV. 27

Downtown Alive! Holiday Celebration with Pine Leaf Boys. 5:30 p.m. Parc Sans Souci, 201 E. Vermilion St. Lafayette. (337) 291-5566.

DEC. 3

Wayne Toups and ZyDeCajun will perform Nov. 7 at Rhythms on the River, River Ranch Town Square. The concerts are every Thursday beginning Sept. 26 to Nov. 7.

DEC. 11

PASA/AcA present Danú. 7:30 p.m. This December, Danú will give Lafayette the spirit of an Irish Christmas. Heymann Performing Arts Center, 1373 S. College Road, Lafayette. (337) 889-5540.

Christmas with Aaron Neville 7:30 p.m. Acadiana Center for the Arts, James D. Moncus Theater, 101 W. Vermilion St., Lafayette. (337) 233-7060.

SEPTEMBER 2013 L M A G A Z I N E

ENTREPRENEUR

She’s got a lot of nerve Michelle Merrill says starting her fitness business was like ripping off a Band-Aid — you just do it By Patricia Gannon

Michelle Merrill definitely doesn’t lack for nerve. The homegrown beauty had never been in a pageant before she signed up for Miss New Orleans, Miss UL, Mrs. Lafayette and worked her way up the ladder to Mrs. Louisiana. However, starting her own business she found daunting. It was something she’d always wanted but denied. “I attended a Junior League meeting — I’d missed nearly all of them — and never listen,” she said with a laugh. “But something the speaker said stood out. ‘If there are things in your mind you want to do, do them.’ “One week later, I was leasing a spot. It was a sign.” After scouting different locations, she found one in the Winnwood Shopping Center. Since January, she has led group fitness classes at her company, The Fit Room. Even though a little room is all it is, her business offers PiYo, a hybrid of Pilates and yoga with other elements sans meditation, barre classes; Rip, a strength and endurance class; and Turbokick, a dance-kickboxing class. There are things new to the area but she also offers the familiar step class from the ’80s, a Mommy & Me for the after-school set, plus Zumba and Zumbatomic for kids. Merrill is the first person in Louisiana to be certified for Pound, a class where weighted drumsticks are used. Merrill calls it a grungy, hardcore rock session. 18 L M A G A Z I N E

SEPTEMBER 2013

Michelle Merrill leads a Pound workout class, which uses weighted drumsticks, at The Fitroom in Lafayette. LESLIE WESTBROOK, THE ADVERTISER

Go to theadvertiser.com to see a video of Michelle Merrill leading a Pound fitness class.

She had been researching new fitness crazes online, trying to find something to set herself apart. When she found Pound, she knew she had it. “I had to go to Dallas for certification,” she said. “Pound’s California founders were both area drummers in rock bands. It’s a workout.” Merrill financed her business with a bank loan, and the bank told her of Louisiana Small Business Development Center through UL. “It’s free and basically handed everything to me that I needed. I was conservative with what I’d asked for moneywise and left myself room to grow,” Merrill said. Her best entrepreneur’s advice? “Research as much as you can. It’s scary. Like taking off a Band-Aid, you just have to do it. You learn as you go. It’s not perfect in the beginning. Accept that, and you’ll be fine.

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SEPTEMBER 2013 L M A G A Z I N E

A visit to Oxford doesn’t have to be just about college football By Kristin Askelson

Faulkner, football and Southern hospitality 20

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Rowan Oak, author William Faulkner’s home on the outskirts of Oxford, Miss., is open to visitors. KRISTIN ASKELSON, THE ADVERTISTER

Heading to northern Mississippi in October to watch Louisiana State University take on the University of Mississippi? Give yourself a little extra time to soak in the Southern charm of Oxford, home to the Ole Miss Rebels, authors William Faulkner and John Grisham and a surprisingly vibrant literary and cultural scene. Oxford is a historic place, flanked by antebellum buildings and a Confederate cemetery on campus, and anchored by an oldfashioned town square, lined with quaint restaurants, shops, bars and scenery. One thing you have to know about Oxford is how central books and writers are to its social and intellectual fabric. The town is steeped in literary history. Oxford became William Faulkner’s adopted hometown after his family moved there when he was 3 years old. You can still visit his home, Rowan Oak, on the outskirts of town, where he lived most of his adult life and penned several of his masterpieces. You may also want to visit Faulkner’s grave in Oxford Memorial Cemetery, where aspiring writers are known to leave the occasional pint of whiskey. Faulkner once wrote about Oxford: “I discovered that my own little postage stamp of native soil was worth writing about, and that I would never live long enough to exhaust it.” The town and surrounding countryside figure prominently in his fiction; it was the basis for his imaginary Yoknapatawpha County.

A statue of William Faulkner sits along courthouse square in downtown Oxford, Miss. PHOTOGRAPHS BY KRISTIN ASKELSON

John Grisham, who graduated from the University of Mississippi School of Law and practiced law in Jackson, Miss., before becoming a full-time author of legal thrillers, has a home in Oxford, along with a host of contemporary authors. The town hosts two large literary festivals each year. If Oxford is the literary capital of the South, Square Books is its epicenter. As soon as you walk through the doors of this little independent bookstore, time seems to stop. Creaky wood floors, an old-style cafe, and lots of nooks and crannies help you forget the outside world. Along with the standard bookstore fare, there is a heavy focus on Southern writers, who frequently pass through for book readings and signings. Make sure to peruse the large selection of books signed by authors. Just a few doors down, you’ll find Off Square Books, featuring used and discounted books, and Square Books Jr., which focuses on children’s literature. The locally owned restaurants, bars and livemusic venues also sprinkled around the square make downtown Oxford an ideal place to spend an evening before the big game. If you’re planning to

Things to do and see

Square Books, on the square in downtown Oxford, Miss., is a well-known independent bookstore with a focus on Southern authors.

attend the LSU-Ole Miss game, scheduled for Oct. 19, there are a few things you should know about the game-day experience in Oxford. Like many towns across the South, football is a religion here. According to travel guides, the town’s population doubles on home-game weekends, and the annual meeting with rival LSU is a highlight of the season. The game is also a clash of cultures. The teams, which have been regular opponents since 1945, just don’t like each other, and watching fans interact is sure to be entertainment in itself. LSU is known for its fervent fan base, and Tigers’ tailgaters know how to let the good times roll. In fact, both schools often

rank at or near the top of “best tailgating” lists. But this is refined Southern tailgating. According to Southern Living magazine, which launched a Best Tailgate of the South competition in 2012, the Ole Miss game-day spreads set the bar high for upscale tailgating. This is not the land of beer guzzlers and chestpainters. Tailgating takes place in The Grove, a 10-acre lawn surrounded by mature oaks, elms and magnolias at the center of the Ole Miss campus. Vehicles are not allowed in The Grove. Instead, it turns into a sea of red and blue tents, where you’ll find fine linen, catering trucks, and even chandeliers and candelabras. Beer is not allowed, and liquor must be kept in a cup

» Rowan Oak, William Faulkner’s home Old Taylor Road just south of the downtown square » Oxford Memorial Cemetery, where Faulkner is buried At Jefferson Avenue and North 16th Street » Square Books, an independent bookstore 160 Courthouse Square

and out of plain view. The only thing that gets more dressed up than the tailgating tents is the fans. It’s khakis and buttondowns for the guys, and cocktail dresses and pearls for the girls. “You show up in a new dress for each weekend, and you wear your hair curly if it’s going to rain,” a fan was quoted in a 2006 New York Times story about Ole Miss tailgating traditions. Despite its partying prowess, Ole Miss is not the football powerhouse that LSU has become. But fans in Oxford really don’t seem to mind. A fan quoted in the same New York Times article summed it up nicely: “We may not win every game,” she said. “But we’ve never lost a party.”

SEPTEMBER 2013 L M A G A Z I N E

YOUR HEALTH

What’s really wrong with us? Dr. Elizabeth McLain has some answers

Dr. Elizabeth McLain

I love my work; I get to spend my days focused on how to keep people healthy. I always say MD really means medical detective. But at the end of the day, my question is always the same: Why? Why all this disease? Why all this “unhealth”? Why so many new cases of high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes? Why this seeming epidemic of thyroid disorders, brain tumors and multiple sclerosis? Why such unbelievable numbers of people who are morbidly obese? I’m sure the academics have come up with answers

L M A G A Z I N E

Your Health explores nontraditional health-related topics and issues

for all those questions, but I believe the questions keep getting answered the wrong way. There’s this search for “the cure” and a steady stream of new pharmaceuticals that keeps promising to deliver. How can we figure out a cure for anything when we’re not addressing the cause? Can a manufactured chemical really be the cure for anything? Yes, I know many cases of cancer have been cured by chemothera-

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py, if and only if, the chemo didn’t kill the patient first. But back to the question: Why all this disease? Here’s what I know: God created our bodies to heal themselves. He mastercrafted a phenomenal immune system that enables us to battle anything that comes our way, including cancer. So, what has happened to us? I believe the answer is multifactorial, and it has much to do with our diets and our lifestyles. This will be the first in a series of articles about health-related issues that won’t be the typical information you read everywhere. There are plenty of things written about disease and disorders but not enough written about health and how to prevent them. I will share my knowl-

edge of things that are true, important and interesting but not necessarily on the beaten path. After all, that’s what a good doctor does, right? Shares knowledge. The topic for next time: genetically modified food and its impact on your health. Stay tuned. Do you have a question about a nontraditional health-related topic? Please contact L Magazine’s Kristin Askelson at Kaskelson@gannett.com and we may tackle your question in this recurring column. Dr. Elizabeth McLain is board certified in Family Medicine and soon to be certified in Integrative and Holistic Medicine. She dedicates her practice to general internal medicine at Lafayette General Medical Center.

WINE

Investment wine: New spin the bottle By Patricia Gannon

For those who like a good gamble, there is investment wine. Bottles can and do appreciate, provided everything goes as planned, but don’t expect to be paid dividends in the process. Of course, if the market crashes, you can always drink it. Collector Peter John’s reason for purchasing wine is first to enjoy the wine itself and second, that it may also appreciate in value. “Always keep in mind how a wine will age and the amount of great wine in the marketplace,” John said. Of the thousands of wineries in the world, very few actually make the financial listings and a large portion come from the Bordeaux

region. Ports historically have also contributed much of the market but now the field’s more varied. Buyers should remember wines are constantly changing as they age, and the amount of great vintage years that come along — or not — will affect the value of the wine. Oh, and always buy from someone you trust. John says although he can’t predict the future, all of the following wines have been confirmed as rated a perfect 100 by American wine critic Robert M. Parker Jr. All are classic reds known to age well for 25 years and more if stored properly with careful attention to temperature, humidity, vibration and light. Cheers! (Twenty-five years from now.)

THE LIST Chateau Cos d'Estournel 2009 Saint-Estephe, Bordeaux, France Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou 2009 Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France Chateau Montrose 2009 Saint-Estephe, Bordeaux, France Chateau Pavie 2009 Saint-Emillion, Bordeaux, France

Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte 2009 Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France La Landonne 2009 E. Guigal, Cote-Rotie, France La Mouline, 2009 E. Guigal, Cote-Rotie, France La Turque, 2009 E.Guigal, Cote-Rotie, France Schrader Cellars 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, Calif. Quilceda Creek 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, Calif.

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SPLURGE

We all deserve a treat now and then. What have you splurged on recently?

RICKEY DOMINGUES Owner of Eddie’s One Stop My husband and I are treating ourselves to a European vacation. The highlight of the trip will be to visit our grandson in Ireland who is studying abroad for a semester.

MICHELLE CROUCH Founder of the Jacob Crouch Foundation I started getting Reiki treatments (a Japanese technique) for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is based on the idea that an unforeseen “life force energy” flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. I want my “energy” to be high so I am more capable of being happy and healthy.

JESS RUSSO Stay-at-home mom/athlete Seems like I'm always splurging! We recently went on a vacation and ate tons of chips and salsa and dessert.

BILLIE MICK Medical aesthetician My splurge? Let’s just say I was happy, happy, happy when I saw the bag of Hostess powdered sugar donuts and Ding Dongs back on the shelf recently. Sugar and chocolate overdose is an understatement. I am still detoxing from that little binge. Add a gallon of Borden Super Chox to the mix, and it is a full-on sugar coma!

ELISE BRUNSON Director of marketing for Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana I do like to take the occasional trip to the beach. I recently went catfishing in the Atchafalaya Basin. The fishing trip was incredibly fun, and I took a lot of pictures to back up my fish tales. 24

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{Quiz} the

b. Call your boss to let him or her know you’re running late. There’s no way you’ll be caught looking anything but your best. c. Hop in the shower and leave for work with towel-dried hair. You’ll be 15 minutes late, but at least you’ll smell fresh.

3. WHICH IDEA OF CAMPING SOUNDS MOST FUN TO YOU?

What’s the best way for you to spend time outdoors this fall? Find out what your outdoor style is with this fun quiz!

1. YOUR PERFECT SATURDAY INCLUDES:

a. Adventure: rock climbing, water-skiing, laser tag, theme parks — anything to break away from the weekday routine. b. Relaxation: long bubble baths, a glass of wine, dinner in, a romantic comedy — it’s the least you deserve with your hectic life. c. Socialization: hitting the latest bar or restaurant with your closest friends — what better way is there to escape from the daily drudge?

2. YOU WAKE UP WITH ONLY 15 MINUTES TO SPARE BEFORE YOU HAVE TO HEAD TO WORK. YOU: a. Take care of only the necessities (brushing your teeth and hair) before zipping out the door.

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a. Tent: What’s the point of camping if it isn’t rustic? b. Cabin: The wilderness is nice but so is running water and a bed. c. Luxury RV: After being outdoors, you need a clean, comfortable spot to relax.

4. HOW DID YOU OR HOW WILL YOU SPEND YOUR VACATION THIS YEAR? a. At the beach: Nothing is more relaxing than water, sand and sun. b. Exploring a new location: Making as many memories as possible. c. At home: There are plenty of fun things to do in town when there’s time to do them.

5. What is your favorite part of fall? a. Getting back into a schooltime routine. b. A break from the hot temperatures. c. The start of the holiday season.

GET YOUR RESULTS! vvvv

THE QUIZ If you scored 5-8 points:

Answer Key: 1) a. 3, b. 1, c. 2 2) a. 3, b. 2, c. 1 3) a. 3, b. 2, c. 1 4) a. 2, b. 3, c. 1 5) a. 1, b. 2, c. 3

Find beer, food or animals Hardcore camping and extreme sports may not be your thing, but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still plenty of fun to be had outdoors in the cooler weather. Plan an outdoor day of fun by hitting the zoo, visiting a Louisiana brewery or distillery and dining at a restaurant with outdoor seating. If you scored 9-11 points:

If you scored 12-15 points:

Find fun at a state park

Find an adventure

You love seeing something new during your free time, so pack a bag and head outdoors. Hit a state park to spend time in the wildlife and greenery. Head to the northern part of the state in November to explore changing leaf colors as the temperatures drop.

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to do something, you want to do it big. Try your hand at something new and adventurous like a zipline course in Denham Springs, a hot air balloon ride in Baton Rouge or a yellowfin tuna-fishing charter trip in Grand Isle. Megan Wyatt

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ANYTHING IS

PASTABLE A chance to nosh on pasta and bid on fun packages By Kris Wartelle

ot your tickets yet for the Anything is Pastable fundraiser? If not, you should hurry because last year’s event sold out. The annual event set this year for Oct. 2, at the River Oaks Event Center in Lafayette, features area chefs from some of Acadiana’s best restaurants, and it

benefits the agency 232HELP/LA211. The popular fundraiser was brought back last year for the first time in several years and received overwhelming response from the community. This year it will be held at a bigger venue to accommodate the crowd. “Last year, more than 400 people attended the event, and we were sold out a week in advance,” said Rae Logan, the group’s exec-

Bob Lowe and Dr. Paul Azar A spring fish fry or crawfish boil at Melange, Bob Lowe’s private camp. Enjoy fishing or just being in the country, with limo service to the camp provided. Other items up for bid include two gift certificates ($250 each) for designer sunglasses at Azar Eye Clinic, three days of fishing at a Grand Isle Camp, “No Problem,” a round of golf at Oakbourne Country Club with Lowe or golfing lessons with club professional included.

utive director. “Even after we sold out, we still had people calling for tickets. It was fabulous, and it was so popular, we had to move it (to River Oaks) just to hold all of the people who want to attend.” The agency was founded in 1965 by the late Jewell Lowe. It’s the only comprehensive information and referral service here. Anything is Pastable promises to be an entertaining evening, full of delicious

pasta dishes and unique chef’s creations, live entertainment, a silent auction and a live auction. Those lucky enough to have tickets to the gala will have a chance to bid on some fun, creative items featuring some of the favorite things of local community leaders. Here are some of the favorites that are up for bid in both the silent and live auctions chosen by this year’s community leaders.

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Jim and Ginger Roy Join the Roys for a gourmet dinner with a private chef and view the newly renovated Parkerson Home in downtown Lafayette. There are also two football tickets to the Florida vs. LSU game up for bid. The tickets are club seats on the 45-yard line with a parking pass included. You can also bid on a complete wall speaker package for a home theater system.

Dr. Joseph Savoie Pamplona is offering a dinner for eight with Dr. Joseph Savoie, president of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. You may also bid on a night at the Hilliard Museum to view the Dickie Landry exhibit in 2014 or a night of catering for a party of up to 20 guests by the Petroleum Club.

Joey Durel, Lafayette City-Parish President Join Joey and Lynne Durel on the Famous Cajun Food Tour, one of Lafayetteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hottest tourist attractions, according to Travel Adviser. There also will be a seven-night Alaskan cruise up for bid.

WANT TO GO? Anything is Pastable is Oct. 2 at 6 p.m., with silent and live auctions at 7 p.m. Tickets are $150 and available by calling (337) 205-6012

Mark Hudspeth, UL football coach, and Tyla Hudspeth

Pat Trahan and Nathan Norris Enjoy dinner atop the IberiaBank Building overlooking downtown Lafayette, catered by Jefferson Street Pub. You can also bid on VIP passes to Festival International 2014.

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Join Mark Hudspeth and his wife, Tyla, for a gourmet dinner at the Petroleum Club. Also up for bid are tickets to a Saints home game and a silkscreen of Drew Brees by George Rodrigue.

Dud Lastrapes Bid on two UL baseball season tickets or two UL women softball season tickets, a trip to a Yankees baseball game of choice or even a trip to the Masters golf tournament.

Bonnie Maillet

WHAT IS 232-HELP/LA211?

Among her favorite things up for bid are a dinner for 10 at the famous Chitimacha resort and a trip for two to Las Vegas with a stay at the Venetian Resort Hotel.

» Founded in 1965 by the late Jewell Lowe. » The only comprehensive information and referral service in Acadiana. » The agency offers information to individuals, families and government agencies on a broad range of services, including rental assistance, affordable housing, elderly care and job training programs. » The service maintains a 9,000-plus resource database for nearly every need.

Dr. Paul Azar, Dud Lastrapes and Mrs. Jerry Ramsay

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Best-Dressed Women of Louisiana

Story by Patricia Gannon Photos by Paul Kieu

For anyone toying with the idea that fashion doesn’t matter, think again. Vanity Fair publishes its annual international coterie of fashion’s fluttering elite. The pack is comprised of assorted best-dressed royalty, and landing on the list is huge, as it opens the door to society gatherings around the globe. Esquire also lists its Best Dressed Men and has in the past paired politicians with players — often one and the same — men who slam dunk it

with their cuff links, watches and power dressing. The definition of best-dressed varies. According to VF, it’s outspoken and risqué without looking tawdry, while Esquire likes them sober with lineage. The South is no exception, and its most fashionable can best be described as an amalgam of ladylike yet seductive and uptown refined. Although this year’s best-dressed women of Louisiana — Nadine Carter Russell, Mary Ann Mirian, Carolyn

French, Gayle Benson and Sue Turner — have been honored partly for their savvy good looks, fashion merely scratches the surface. Their sense of duty to the community and leadership add deeper dimension to the award. So, in the manner of magazines everywhere, we’re proud to introduce L Magazine’s Five Best-Dressed Women in Louisiana, as selected by international couturier Raoul Blanco. Lace up those corsets a little tighter, Miss Scarlet.

Gayle Benson

Nadine Carter Russell

Orleanian Gayle Benson talks as if she’s always known you. It’s innate to the Crescent City, just like their style. She is New Orleans inside and out, original with a sense of tradition. Benson never buys what’s trendy but customizes her Chanel to suit herself. She likes Chanel’s crisp, yet beautiful lines. “A lot of custom needs remaking,” she explains. “You can do that with Chanel, move things around.” Her fashion philosophy comes easily. “You should always figure out early on who you are and who you want to be. Then stick with it. It all depends on you. If you’re comfortable, you can carry it off.” Benson’s bespoke tailoring takes a backseat to the greater good, however, and she takes pride in helping as many as she can. Her latest project is the Notre Dame Seminary, a $25 million renovation for which she and husband Tom donated the startup. “It’s important to get others involved. There’s a need,” she says. How did she land among Louisiana’s Best-Dressed women? “People look at you differently than you see yourself,” she says with a laugh. “I’m very humbled.”

A youthful voice is her best accessory, and there’s no trace of the New York she grew up in or the Baton Rouge that she’s retired to now. Nadine Carter Russell spent a lifetime in art galleries and used her spare time as a volunteer for the arts, animals and hospitals. Her fashion philosophy is the same one shared with art collectors over the years. “If it says, ‘Take me home,’ buy it. That’s how I am with both furnishings and fashion.” For everyday, she likes Eileen Fisher, but custom couture is her preferred mode. “Chanel I love, even though I don’t always fit into it very well,” she quips. “And I love seersucker and Eskandar sweaters.” Her style mentors were her mother and aunts, and the fashion genetics were obviously passed down. “My mother had presence. When she walked into a room, people turned,

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Gayle Benson

Nadine Carter Russell

and my aunts were elegant also.” A traveler who has packing down to a science (“I don’t like to check luggage”), Russell is on her way to Europe with plans for Africa also. Not bad for turning 70. Why she was chosen? She thinks it’s her accessories and perhaps her vitality. “I’m older and not skinny,” she says. “Now I can’t go to the grocery store without dressing.”

Mary Ann Mirian

Lafeyette’s Mary Ann Mirian believes charity begins at home. A Realtor since 1994, she’s involved with work and family, a husband, and two daughters, the oldest of which is her business partner. Neither knows yet their mother’s one of Louisiana’s Five Best-Dressed Women. “I want to tell Watch a video of the them in person to see L Magazine Besttheir faces,” she says Dressed event at with a laugh. theadvertiser.com Mirian is dramatic and makes no apology. “I have one life to live,” she says. “If I get killed today, at least I’ll die looking the way I like.” She also buys what she likes, but what Mirian ends up liking are designers, especially Italian and Brazilian. As she talks, she’s scouting a pair of Brazilian shoes online to see if she can get a better price. She shops a diverse set of stores, and believes in expressing herself through clothes. She admits this may have been a factor in her selection. “My daughters laugh at me and tell me I stand out, even when I go to pick blueberries,” she says. We’ll bet they’re not laughing now.

Sue Turner Best-dressed grande dame Sue Turner is from Baton Rouge. Born and raised in Plaquemines, her small-town roots were very different than her life in the capital, where she describes herself as “involved in meetings and trying to help the institutions that enhance beauty and life.” Very much influenced by fashion magazines, she learned early what she liked. “Then when the opportunity came to acquire it, I felt like I knew who I was.” It’s only later in the conversation she lets it slip about the son who’s a former fashion editor at Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. “I’ve been pretty close to fashion,” she says. Her first trip to New York allowed her to read names on buildings she’d only seen in magazines, and Turner admits it takes courage to walk into a soigné establishment. Her closeness to the style icons hasn’t made her a slave to labels, however. “It doesn’t matter who designs,” she says. “The more good things you look at, the better your taste. Oscar de la Renta has worn well with me.” At 86, she says she doesn’t go out to shop much anymore but turns to her closet instead. “If you keep something

Sue Turner

long enough, it comes back,” she says. “Accessorizing makes the old look new again.” Turner found it a complete surprise to be selected. “Truthfully, I don’t know, perhaps because I’ve lasted so long? If you don’t dress like an old person, you don’t look like one.”

Carolyn French

Carolyn French Carolyn French is ready. Ferragamo shoes, a Chanel skirt topped by an Armani blouse and jacket and some Swarovksi pearls — and that’s for work. She looks every inch the financial adviser she is. Serving homemade limoncello, she jokingly refers to her style as “genial dowager,” when in reality she’s anything but. It’s more like understated elegance. French tries to shop locally. She loves this community, which has allowed her to have a leadership role in causes too numerous to name. “But some designs that fit me best are not available here,” she says. She believes in dressing well daily rather than waiting for celebratory moments. Many of her clothes harbor memories and are reminders of the past, like the silk blouse she bought on a shoestring college budget while working on dual degrees. Labels are not important to French, but she likes good quality fabrics. “I used to sew and I appreciate the workmanship,” she says. “Chanel linings are hemstitched, and I love Valentino’s precision.” French wears her fashion emotions on her sleeve, so to speak. “I’ve always wanted to show respect. That’s why we dress up,” she explains.

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Style inside, out

Character, not trends help make your best fashion statement

Best-dressed is not something you can buy, according to couturier Raoul Blanco. And he doesn’t mince words on the subject. “You can put silk on a monkey,” he says, employing the Puerto Rican version of Sarah Palin’s famous lipstick comment. Blanco firmly believes that while clothes are a personal expression, it’s what’s inside that counts, if not more. Blanco learned sewing from his grandmother, which he has since parlayed into ateliers in New York, San Francisco, Napa Valley, St. Charles Avenue in New Orleans and now Lafayette. He continues to serve clients worldwide.

The stylist and fashion designer has three main factors he considers when defining best-dressed, and none has anything to do with being a size 0 or in your twenties. Aside from the technical aspects of volume and balance there’s character, the unique quality money can’t buy. “Being a best-dressed is an attribute and you must be a natural,” he says. “As a consultant and designer, it is my duty to be honest and guide an individual properly throughout this process, and I do the same when choosing best-dressed.” Apart from the above, best-dressed of both genders possess personal style

Raoul Blanco

that trends don’t impact. “If you wear specific items or colors because someone says ‘that’s what is in’ then you’re not a best-dressed. You’re a follower, a copycat in my book.” “It’s important that you wear your ensemble and not the other way around.”

- Patricia Gannon

“Being a best-dressed is an attribute and you must be a natural. As a consultant and designer, it is my duty to be honest and guide an individual properly throughout this process, and I do the same when choosing best-dressed.” RAOUL BLANCO

WHAT’S IN YOUR BAG?

Got something in there you won’t leave home without? Tell us about it.

It would have to be my iPhone. When you work in marketing and public relations with many different people at many different locations, you have to have everything at your fingertips.

Jess Russo Stay-athome mom

I usually just try to have my driver’s license and at least one form of payment. Oh and my cellphone! I guess the best answer is my cellphone. 36

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Rickey Domingues Owner of Eddie’s One Stop

Elise Brunson Marketing director for the Girls & Boys Clubs of Acadiana

Billie Mick Medical aesthetician

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Ever heard of “Let's Make a Deal?” I am that girl you would want to sit next to. I am a lip gloss freak so I have about 20 tubes all shades, gum, always, sunscreen (a girl must protect her skin) perfume and nail polish. And let me not forget about the million Bed Bath & Beyond coupons I hoard just in case I decide to stop in and shop.

I always carry a purse within a purse to be prepared for whatever my day unveils. And I always carry my UL RCAF/UL alumni card to get local discounts.

Michelle Crouch Founder of the Jacob Crouch Foundation

Besides the necessary makeup essentials and credit cards, I have a mini medicine chest. A small bag with Band-Aids, Doan’s, Sinutab, Zantac, Pepto-Bismol, migraine medicine, aspirin, non-aspirin, Benadryl, lotion. I also have a small umbrella and of course, my rosary.

GROSSE SAVANNE WATERFOWL AND WILDLIFE LODGE

Gross Savanne boasts a luxurious yet rustic interior. PHOTOGRAPHS BY TERRI FENSEL

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Gross Savanne encompasses more than 50,000 acres of wetlands and prairies. It borders a saltwater fishing lake.

great

The

Outdoors

Nature, luxury less than two hours away at Gross Savanne MORE ABOUT GROSS SAVANNE Location: 1730 Big Pasture Road, Lake Charles Activities: Saltwater and freshwater fishing, waterfowl and alligator hunting, bird-watching. Amenities: Lodge, retreat, great room, fine cuisine.

For more information on Gross Savanne reservations and prices, visit grossesavanne.com. 38

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By Kris Wartelle

A quiet retreat

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hether you enjoy hunting, fishing or just communing with nature, fall is the perfect time to head outdoors in Louisiana. The annual ritual of getting outdoors for fall activities can mean a simple fishing trip on the bayou or a grand excursion that includes luxurious accommodations and gourmet meals. In southwestern Louisiana, you don’t have to travel very far to enjoy it all. One of the grandest outdoor sporting destinations, Grosse Savanne Waterfowl and Wildlife Lodge, just south of Lake Charles, is less than a two-hour drive away.

Grosse Savanne is owned by the Sweet Lake Land and Oil Company, the business owned and operated by one-time candidate for governor Buddy Leach and his wife, Laura. The lodge plays host to numerous Lafayette businesses and corporate and family groups who come for waterfowl hunting and freshwater and saltwater fishing. The stately nine-room lodge can accommodate up to 18 guests. Packages range from daylong fishing trips for $300, to full weeks of hunting for corporate groups at thousands of dollars more. “Most of our waterfowl hunting clientele comes from the east side of the state, primarily Lafayette, Baton Rouge and New Orleans,” said Karl Zimmermann, marketing manager for Grosse Savanne. “On the other hand, most of the fishing clientele comes from the Houston area.” Zimmermann said

Where there’s water, there are bound to be alligators.

along with first-class accommodations, the lodge offers guided saltand freshwater fishing trips on the public Calcasieu Lake and privately owned 15,000 acre saltand freshwater marsh. Waterfowl hunting trips are taken on 50,000 acres of privately owned wetlands and agricultural properties. There is even something for those who don’t wish to hunt or fish. If you simply want to

relax on the vast outdoor porches, taking in the scenery or watching the birds, you can do that. The lodge offers a bed and breakfast package as well as bird-watching and eco tours. “Bird-watching is the fastest growing outdoor activity in the country,” added Zimmermann. “So we figured we should tap into the market because we have the resources to offer.” What really sets this

place apart is the comfortable rooms and nicely appointed common areas. As you might expect, this is not your average hunting camp. The living areas are decorated with upscale furnishings, game tables, a self-serve bar and comfortable seating for gathering with friends. The dining room serves gourmet meals on china so guests will be far from “roughing it” at Grosse Savanne.

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See more photos from the fall fashion shoot at theadvertiser.com

Fashion

worth cheering about

Photos by TERRI FENSEL Coordinated by KRIS WARTELLE

Fall is coming. It may be slow getting here to the Deep South, but there is still the anticipation of cooler weather and football in the air. The season also brings a renewed interest in getting outside more often. So with a nod to all things outdoors and the UL football season, we turned to the universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cheerleaders to model some of this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite outdoor looks and to help get us into the spirit of autumn.

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Laynie LeBlanc of Lafayette is a sophomore cheerleader who enjoys singing. Laynie is dressed in fashions from Vanessa V. Blazer by Blaque Label, bright pink top by Final Touch, camouflage leggings by Cookie Johnson, boots by Report Signature.

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Micah Patout is a senior UL student and cheerleader majoring in environmental science. He enjoys art, playing guitar and being out in nature. He wears fashions from The Backpacker in Lafayette. Plaid flannel shirt by North Face, down jacket by Patagonia.

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Courtney Doyle is a UL junior from Arnaudville. She is a member of Raginâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Jazz and dances at all home football and basketball games. She enjoys writing and giving back to the community with her dance team. Courtney wears fashions from The Backpacker in Lafayette. Boucle sweater from ExOfficio, boots by Hunter, jacket by Patagonia, black leggings by Patagonia, black quilted skirt by North Face and white liner socks by Hunter.

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Kyle Rudolph is a senior cheerleader at UL from Milton. Kyle is also the captain of the UL cheerleading squad. He enjoys working out and playing sports. Kyle wears fashions from Brotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the Boulevard. Jeans by Lucky Brand, button-down shirt by Southern Marsh and shoes by Johnston & Murphy.

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Allison LeBeouf is an incoming freshman on the UL cheerleading squad. The Crowley native enjoys spending time with family and friends and working out. LeBeouf is wearing fashions from Brotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the Boulevard. Shirt by Free People, necklace by Lucky Brand, oiled jeans by Citizens of Humanity and boots by Coconuts.

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Madeline Langlinais (right) is a Lafayette native and sophomore at UL. This is her second year on the cheer squad. In her spare time, she enjoys competing in pageants. She wears fashions from Brotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the Boulevard. Black jeans by The Silt, shirt by Sanctuary Clothing and boots by Madeline.

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Kyle and Micah enjoy hunting in fashions from Brother’s on the Boulevard and The Backpacker. Kyle’s suede jacket by Cutter & Buck and Micah’s cord pants by Mountain Khakis provide the perfect cover for outdoor activities.

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ON SOCIETY BY PATRICIA GANNON

Oh baby, mind your manners The Duchess of Cambridge has recently provided the world with the opportunity to review society’s manners toward expectant mothers. This is rarely talked of, but thanks to Catherine Middleton, now even male journalists are gushing over postpartum stomachs and maternity dresses. Once standards disappear, they rarely return. And while no one begrudges society for being agog over a royal prince, when it comes to babies, there’s a big difference between agog and gauche. Facebook or not, there are

still some proprieties. Please remember: » There is no way for you to pat a pregnant woman’s stomach politely, no matter how benevolent you may be. The stomach is hers, not yours. In the event you must perform an emergency delivery, you will be excused. » You may smile and ask when she expects her bundle of joy to arrive. That’s it. You may not remark about her weight gain and ask is she due tomorrow because she certainly appears to be. She may also have already delivered without your knowledge, in which case you can and should be mor-

tified. In fact, quit trying to gauge whether a woman is pregnant at all — unless you’re the boyfriend. » Tempting as it is, you may not regale the lady-inwaiting with a blow-by-blow account of your three-day labor of torture that no woman has endured before or since. » Once the baby is born, you may not pick it up without permission. Female mammals are wired by eons of evolution to kill anything that approaches their offspring, and it’s a miracle you’ve escaped so far. And finally, repeat after me. The baby is hers, not yours.

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Local doctor to rule Krewe of Triton There was something in the air that night, the stars were bright, Fernando — Triton’s merry men have chosen Dr. Fernando Alemany to rule them during the upcoming Mardi Gras season. Announced during a cocktail soiree at the Cajundome Convention Center by ball captain William Ritchey, Alemany’s court includes pretty Queen Kyla Joy Lemaire plus dukes and maids Mike and Joyce Casey, Tim and Alison Arceneaux, Pat and Desireé Doucet, Edward Turner, Renee Murray, Blaine and Rita Goodrich, Blake Ritchey and Barbara Alleman.

1. Blake Ritchey and Lacey Toups 2. Fernando and Rocha Alemany 3. Richard and Dianne Carlisle, Steve and Sue Lyon

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Cocktails kick off Best Dressed of the Teche Best Dressed of the Teche kicked off with a cocktail meet-andgreet at the Steamboat House in New Iberia. Hostess Kim Crittenden welcomed VIPs to her home to plan the July 25 event at the Sugar Cane Festival Building.

Techeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Dressed show art of dressing Best Dressed of the Teche rocked the runway at the Sugar Cane Festival Building in New Iberia. The cabaret-style dinner was seamlessly managed by City Club of Lafayette as guest of honor Raoul Blanco discoursed on the art of dressing well. None too shabby themselves were event director Miriam Krepper, Iberia mayor Hilda Curry, Pres and Nancy Marshall, Monsignor Ronald Broussard, Sonny Walet, Cynthia DuBois, Katie Champagne, Victoria Morgan and Kristine Duhe. Proceeds benefited Partners of the Americas and their playground projects both here and abroad.

1.Kim Crittenden and Sonny Walet

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1. Melanie Robin, Beth Frederick, Monica Hebert, Kristine Duhe, Tiffany Girouard, Penny LaPorte 2.Alex DuBois, Katie Champagne, Cynthia DuBois, Jeff DuBois 3. Lawrence and Peggy Jeanbatiste, Monsignor Ronald Broussard, Louis and Carol Gaignard

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Krewe of Xanadu ladies select royalty

Xanadu packed Oakbourne Country Club for its formal announcement luncheon. Mimosas and more paved the way for court and queen of 2013, as tiaras were passed to Cyd Begnaud, Julie Broussard, Cindy Cobb, Lenora Krielow, Sandra LeBouef, Joan Moody, Barbara Richard, Lane Walker and Stephanie Weilbacher.

1. Susie Brunet, Barbara Richard, Sue Brooks and Sandy Huval 2. Tammy Simoneaux, Amanda Judice and Amy Hebert 3. Amanda Touchett, Jeanne Brannon, and Leslie Carbo 4. Sandy Huval, Amy Hanna and Andy Jensen

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The stars come out to dance

The Academy of the Sacred Heart honored its chosen with a Dancing with the Stars cocktail meet-and-greet at The Lounge downtown. 1. Carrie and Robert Foard, Michele Ezell 2. Katy Svendson, Joe and Catrice Godchaux 3. Michele Ezell, Lawrence and Kary Svendson

Sharon Moss celebrates birthday in style Who else but La Moss could score a couple of tables at Ruffinoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s? Turning one year older in style, dealership diva Sharon Moss gathered her ladies together for champagne and more at Lafayetteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s packed new restaurant. Attendees included Natalie LaBorde, Marilee Ashy, Virginia Forestier, Teal Fresh, Sheila Lopez, Cherry Fisher May, Larayne Guidroz and Dr. Jennifer Jackson. Moss had to negotiate parking for her Maserati outside, but there was no shortage of good wishes and great company inside.

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1. Judy Dunn, Jennifer Jackson 2. Sharon Moss and Mark and Tyla Hudspeth

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Posh treatment Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest got the posh treatment at the Settlement home of Parvathi Akkaraju. On hand to show them the ropes were President Teresa Meza and dame commander Lynn Crochet, who says her 125 ladies will move to the Cajundome Convention Center this coming season. While court and queen are still mum, Her Outgoing Highness Carolyn Guildbeaux said being queen was some of the most fun sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d ever had. Getting their Victorian together were Tara Olivier, mother-daughter duo Mary and Noelle Freeland, Melissa Nugier, Mitzi LeJeune, Mitzi Finley and membership chair Cindy Hebert.

1. Jamie Crain, Melissa Nugier, Mitzi LeJeune 2. Mitzi Finley, Cindy Hebert 3. Teresa Meza, Parvathi Akkaraju

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Raoul selects best-dressed 1. Karl Beverung, Nicole Eldarragi and Richard Young 2. Lynn Crochet, Jan and Charlie Wyatt 3. Melissa Recatto, Christine Lemoine, Colleen Dill, Caroline Elemore and Caroline Lemoine

American Cancer Society holds formal gala When it comes to fundraising for a cause, the ACS puts it in black and white. Richard Young & Co. gave the gala a big dose of New Orleans elegance at the Victorian and VIPs did the rest, including Andrew and Jane Bellard, Christine Lemoine, Colleen Dill, gala workhorses Laura Ketteringham, Nichole Forstall and Debi Nogle, Caroline Elmore, pretty Tabitha Droddy and our own Advertiser alum-turned-Tennessee publisher Mark Stevens. UL chancellor Dr. Joseph Savoie was noted tracking his wife’s auction number, either to boost her bidding or because he was worried — we’re not sure.

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Everyone struck a pose as Raoul Blanco’s Best-Dressed Women in Louisiana lunched at City Club prior to his style show. Gayle Benson arrived by private plane with entourage Melinda Loomis, Jennifer Lauscha and Lindsey Mitchell as Lafayette’s own Carolyn French and Mary Ann Mirian joined Baton Rouge’s Nadine Russell and Sue Turner for L Magazine’s debut event. Blanco’s new private collection was none too shabby either — among the elite enjoying a taste of Milan right here were Penny Edwards, Jennifer LeBlanc, Gail Savoie, Aaron Martin, Sully Urbino, Kevin Ste. Marie, New Iberians Miriam Krepper and Jean Nelson, D.C.’s Maria Wilson and jeweler Andy Truxillo & Co. (See page 34 for best-dressed story.) 1. Setareh Mirian-Delcambre, Mary Ann Mirian and Bahareh Mirian 2. Miriam Krepper, Jean Nelson

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