L Magazine Spring 2014 by Part of the USA TODAY NETWORK

MOTHERS HIT RIVER RANCH STREETS TO GET FIT 10 PAGES OF GREAT MARDI GRAS PICTURES

ON THE ROCKS Bourbon and scotch stars of tasting events

. t e . S y Read nture e v d a e h races t b m e d o ke-Wo h c s a P y or, Miss t c e r i d New

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CONTENTS SPRING 2014

A SPECIAL THANKS to this issue’s guest editor Jenny Cole

SPECIAL FEATURES

9 20 30 38

FOOD & DRINK: Pour another round: Is whiskey the new wine when it comes to tasting events?

ENTERTAINMENT: Festival International’s new director finds a place to call home as she starts another life adventure with her husband and daughter HEALTH: Acadiana moms get their exercise on at Baby Boot Camp in River Ranch and they bring their babies along for the ride

BUSINESS: Meet a young couple who’s looking for sweet success in the candy business

ALSO THIS MONTH 6

Meet our guest editor: Jenny Cole

Splurge: What have you treated yourself to lately?

Calendar: It’s spring. Get out and enjoy it!

Ask Jan: When it comes to love, a bird in the hand...

In Your Purse: We all have them: The things we don’t leave home without

Quiz: Ready to spruce up for spring? Take our quiz to see where to start

Vacation: Dreaming of a romatic, exotic or relaxing getaway

SOCIAL SCENE/PARTY PIX With our own Kris Wartelle

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Special Mardi Gras Party Pix pages

MAGAZINE SPRING 2014 1100 Bertrand Drive Lafayette LA 70506 (337) 289-6300 Judi Terzotis president and publisher Cindy McCurry-Ross executive editor Sundra Hominik L Magazine editor Kris Wartelle society reporter, 289-6368 Ginger Garrison designer OTHER CONTACTS Scott Carr advertising director, 289-6438 scarr@gannett.com Joshua Hundley advertising sales, 289-6462 lhundley@gannett.com

§§§§§ 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 publication’s 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 2014

MARCH 2014 L M A G A Z I N E

FROM THIS MONTH’S GUEST EDITOR

New life, beginnings Welcome to the spring edition of L Magazine. This issue’s theme is inspired by the season of new life and new beginnings. In this issue, you will meet people who have made significant changes to their lives. Some of the changes are very personal: The Delahoussayes have a new family member. Two women have made changes to their business lives: Sophia Bodin recently opened a new location of her family’s store, Lolli’s Chocolates, in the Oil Center, and Missy Pashke-Wood directs her first Festival International. Get inspired by their stories! As your guest editor, I, too, am acquainted with new beginnings. Last May, I completed a lifechanging degree at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. What began as just one class to brush up on my art history to help with my museum volunteer work evolved into a four-year degree in interior design. It’s given me a new career and direction for my volunteer work. As the folks in this issue and I have learned, any successful new beginning requires the courage to pursue a dream, an open mind, perseverance and support from others. Change takes courage. To walk into studio my first year with 150 other future interior designers, architects and industrial designers took all the courage I had. I would sit in class trying not to shake too visibly, praying that my professors would see something creative in the “gesture” (design idea) I’d created for the day’s assignment. Change requires keeping an open mind. For me, that meant stepping out of my design comfort zone. For four years, my favorite professor Andrew Sammataro, would admonish me, “Put that (old, tired idea) back in your bag, Jenny!” Apparently, design baggage is one of the hazards of going back to school as an adult, and I needed to explore new territory.

JENNY COLE

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Change requires perseverance. Going back class after class with a new idea to present took dedication and a will to succeed. Over four years, my little gestures grew into solutions to real design problems as I gained new skills. Finally, change takes a good support system. The guidance and support of my UL professors and my current mentor, the amazingly talented Pam Quantz at Prêt à Poser, Window Dressings and Interiors, have taught me how to create functional and meaningful interiors for my clients. My talented classmates, my dear, dedicated running group and last, but not least, my very patient family, also deserve many thanks. My new beginning has brought new challenges and responsibilities. It’s opened up a world of the arts in our community that needs support and vision. As a volunteer board member of the Hilliard University Art Museum, the Acadiana Center for the Arts and the Episcopal School of Acadiana, I try to help these worthy organizations in their mission to promote the creative and performing arts that make our community such a culturally rich and creative place. I hope you enjoy this issue and find personal meaning in the stories. Maybe you’ll be inspired to go out on a limb and find how you can pursue your passion in life, not only to benefit yourself, but your community as well.

SPLURGE

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

Brenda Dudley Social Security Administration, claims rep. I splurged on Mardi Gras gifts for Krewe of Xanadu friends and royalty. I am splurging now for a surprise for my mom’s upcoming big birthday!

Amelie Storment Rodan & Fields representative Curtains from Prêt à Poser.

Danielle Riemer Respiratory therapist

Linda Malin UBS financial planner

A VI chemical peel from LUX Spa followed by a limelight facial from Acadiana Aesthetic Surgeons.

Chanel’s Coco perfume, my favorite scent. I don’t feel dressed without it!

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“I love getting out and going to the places and events that make stories compelling. From judging gumbo cooking contests to speaking at fundraisers, I have done it all.”

Kris Wartelle, Society Reporter

See and Be Seen in Acadiana If you haven’t met Kris in person yet, maybe you soon will. For more than 23 years, Kris has covered the personal stories and meaningful events of Acadiana. A Louisiana girl to the core, she’s looking for more people to meet and stories to tell, sharing them with you exclusively inside The Daily Advertiser and at TheAdvertiser.com. FOLLOW KRIS: @KrisWartelleTDA KRIS EMAIL: kwartelle@theadvertiser.com PHONE: 337-289-6368

We are Acadiana. Since 1865.

Subscribers: theadvertiser.com/activate • Non-Subscribers: theadvertiser.com/subscribe 8

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Rare spirits bring new life to tasting events Sipping bourbon, enjoying special food pairings are a classic way to spend an evening

Glasses of bourbon are prepared to be served during the Small Batch Bourbon Dinner at Social Southern Table & Bar in Lafayette. The dinner combined a special menu with samples of several rare whiskeys. PAUL KIEU, THE ADVERTISER

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ine wines remain the main attraction at many local tasting events. However, these days some different but notso-new spirits are drawing attention at food and beverage pairing events in Acadiana. “In the United States there is a big return to classic cocktails and a big return to bourbon,” said Jody Ferguson, managing partner of Southern Social Table & Bar. “It’s not a fad. People are becoming a little bit more adventurous with their food and their drink.” With that bourbon trend in mind and to offer customers an opportunity to try dishes that aren’t normally on the menu, Southern Social hosted a small batch bourbon dinner in late winter. The four-course dinner, prepared by executive chef Marc Krampe and his staff over more than two days, featured four rare bourbons. “Most people in the world never get to try these bourbons. They are extremely, extremely rare,” Ferguson said. “We are extremely fortunate to have gotten our hands on them, and we just want to share the wealth.” Just as it is with wine and food pairings, there is an art to selecting which dish works best with which bourbon. It takes time, skill and a sophisticated culinary sense. Before Krampe even began preparing the first course of the dinner, he did some research. “I printed out the tasting notes of all of the different bourbons; the nose of the bourbons, the initial flavors and the finishing flavors. I took out those notes and created dishes around those notes,” Krampe said. Using that information as inspiration and drawing on his years of experience, Krampe created each finelycrafted course. You begin to understand the artistic process involved when the chef describes how he developed the first course, which was served with the George T. Stagg bourbon. “I wanted to start off with something light but that could stand up to such a high-proof bourbon that had notes of cherry and smoke,” Krampe said. “I took some dried cherries and soaked them in our house Sazerac for a couple of days and then I pureed those and made those into a sauce with the seared foie gras and I took some really great wild salmon roe and smoked that, as well. That was finished with the honey creme fraiche that brought everything together.” 10 L M A G A Z I N E

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FIRST COURSE

Seared fois gras with house smoked salmon roe, honey creme fraiche, bourbon infused cherries, frisee. Served with George T. Stagg bourbon.

TH ME

THIRD COURSE

Lamb neck bourginon with charred celery root puree, confit fingerling potatoes, mushroom oil, carrot foam. Served with Thomas H. Handy Sazerac.

WHAT DOES A $75 POUR

“The absolute pinnacle, the crème de la crème of bou it’s very warm, very smooth, lots of vanilla and caramel

— Jody Ferguson, Southern Soc

STORY BY SUNDRA HOMIN

MORE ONLINE SECOND COURSE

Brick-oven anago with spiced hazelnut dust, puffed sushi rice, kinome. Served with Black Maple Hill bourbon.

HE ENU

FOURTH COURSE

Creme Caramel with fig and baby walnut compote, amaretti cookie crisps. Served with Pappy Van Winkle, 23 year.

OF BOURBON TASTE LIKE?

urbon, is the Pappy Van Winkle, 23 year old. In tasting it, l and a little oak flavor and bouquet to it. It’s fantastic.”

cial Table & Bar, managing partner

NIK | PHOTOS BY PAUL KIEU

Hear chef Marc Krampe describe each of the courses that were served at the dinner at theadvertiser.com

Krampe said the most unusual course of the evening may have been the second course that was paired with Black Maple Hill bourbon. The main ingredient was anago, a salt water eel, which is different than the fresh water eel most people are familiar with from area sushi bars. “For the second course, I wanted to go a little Japanese style so I brought in some sea eel, which is a conger eel,” Krampe explained. “I poached that in a mixture of sake, soy sauce and ginger and then we finished those in our brick oven.” The anago was then served with spiced hazelnut dust and puffed sushi rice. Although each of the four courses that Krampe prepared were more than noteworthy, it’s difficult to believe that the food was not the main attraction. The $150 per person event that attracted about 50 people, mostly men, was really all about the bourbon. “I’m almost positive that they came for the bourbon, but they were all very happy and surprised with the food,” Krampe said. Throughout the evening, Ferguson, who has savored each of the four bourbons served, described the spirits, their history and how each bourbon was made. Guests were served a pour of each bourbon, which is about an ounce and a quarter. Mike Fussell, an attorney with Gordon, Arata, was one of the guests. His wife gave him the dinner as a birthday gift. He attended with a good friend. This was his first bourbon tasting event. “The experience was second to none,” he said in a telephone interview a few weeks after the event. Fussell, 37, said he enjoys a good glass of whiskey. He is a Jack Daniels fan, but he said his taste has become more refined as he’s gotten older. “I like the rootsy and rustic flavor of a good bourbon. The aromas, of course, are very nice,” he said. At the dinner, as guests sipped each bourbon, the food courses were served. Krampe described the food in each course and explained why it was being paired with the particular bourbon. MARCH 2014 L M A G A Z I N E

A batch of anago, a type of eel, is cooked in the brick oven for the Small Batch Bourbon Dinner. The dinner combined a special menu with samples of several rare bourbons. PHOTOS BY PAUL KIEU, THE ADVERTISER

“They did a good job of not overdoing it, but certainly giving you good background on the different bourbons and then on the dishes that they were pairing with the bourbons,” Fussell recalled. “You got some good information and good knowledge but they didn’t overdo it. They kind of stepped back and let you enjoy it and have some good conversation, as well.” “It’s educational for the guests and it gives us an opportunity to expose

our guests to something that they may not have had in the past,” Ferguson said. And what they were exposed to at this particular small batch bourbon dinner, was top of the line, according to Ferguson. The most rare bourbon served was a 23-year-old Pappy Van Winkle. “These are absolute best-in-class spirits,” Ferguson said. “It takes 23 years to age a barrel of that bourbon,

Restaurant partner Charlie Goodson addresses guests during the Small Batch Bourbon Dinner. 12 L M A G A Z I N E

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23 years, and when it’s ready, it’s sold, and there’s only so much of it.” Fussell said the Pappy Van Winkle “didn’t disappoint.” He described it as “being mellow enough but still having a bite.” Fussell said he would be more than willing to attend another small batch bourbon pairing if given the chance. But for now, he’s on the hunt for an extra special birthday gift for his wife. After all, he owes the evening to her.

Restaurant partner Jody Ferguson explains the various types of bourbon whiskeys at Social.

FEATURED BOURBONS GEORGE T. STAGG Lush toffee sweetness and dark chocolate with hints of vanilla, fudge, nougat and molasses. Underlying notes of dates, tobacco, dark berries, spearmint and a hint of coffee round out the palate.

BLACK MAPLE HILL Full-fledged bourbon bouquet thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ribboned with sweet corn, charred oak, grainy spice, and wood resin ... the mid palate is corny sweet, carmel-like and biscuity; the aftertaste is long, a bit citrusy tar, woody, and delightful; a luscious example of bourbonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drier, bittersweet side.

THOMAS HANDY SAZERAC Thick and rich, the front palate is loaded with sweetness reminiscent of bananas foster. Wonderful rye spice that is elevated on the midpalate to bring the taste into perfect balance.

PAPPY VAN WINKLE 23 YEAR

Bartender David Savoie pours bourbon for the dinner guests. Four types of bourbon were served during the Small Batch Bourbon Dinner. Pictured from left are three of them, Thomas Handy Sazerac, Black Maple Hill, and Pappy Van Winkle 23 Year. PHOTOS BY PAUL KIEU, THE ADVERTISER

Early aromas of caramel and cream with soft notes of oak, nuts and leather. Features a sweet taste composed of vanilla, maple and honey joined by complimentary flavors of citrus and spice. Has a long-lasting oaky finish, along with many of the early flavors. Source: Southern Social Table & Bar

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Paul Ayo leads a Scotch 101 class Feb. 5 at E's Kitchen in Lafayette. LESLIE WESTBROOK, THE ADVERTISER

Good scotch is like a fine wine ‘If it’s great to you, that’s what’s important.’ 14 L M A G A Z I N E

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By Sundra Hominik

n February, Paul Ayo, owner of E’s Kitchen, invited people to explore the “wonderful world of scotch.” About 20 people took him up on the invitation and attended the Scotch 101 class at the recently expanded kitchen store. “Scotch whiskey and whiskey, in general, are having an explosion right now of popularity and desirability,” Ayo said. “It’s really almost like a golden age coming up again, and new distilleries are opening up all the time. We just

wanted to bring a little bit of the experience to some people who may be interested, but were kind of hesitant to try.” A scotch expert was scheduled to come in to teach the class, but had to cancel due to an ice storm. So Ayo consulted with the expert and made the presentation himself. The class covered how scotch is made, how long it’s aged, which regions in Scotland make which whiskeys and other information. Class members got to taste six different scotches. The cost of the class was $50. “Several people commented to me how they were glad that they got to try some scotches they normally might not have tried. Some of them were surprised with which ones they did and did not like,” Ayo said. He said whiskey is just like wine: You should buy and drink what you like, not what someone tells you that

A sample is poured during a Scotch 101 class at E’s Kitchen in Lafayette.

THE SCOTCHES Class members taste Scotch samples during a Scotch 101 class in February at E’s Kitchen in Lafayette. PHOTOS BY LESLIE WESTBROOK, THE ADVERTISER

you should like. “Just because the industry said this is the best whiskey in the world doesn’t mean it is to you. It comes down to your palate, what you like and what you want to purchase,” Ayo explained. “If it’s great to

you, that’s what’s important.” As part of the class, Ayo and the in-house chef also prepared two dishes for munching and for cleansing the palate between each scotch tasting. They served a smoked

» » » » » »

Isle of Skye 8 year Glenmorangie Original Cardu 12 year Machir Bay Islay Scotch Arran Malt Port Cask Finish 100% Islay

salmon, similar to what they would serve in Scotland, and a sous dide pork loin. Ayo said, based on the response, he expects to offer similar classes again.

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Sunday, Mar. 30 Guitar AmorĂŠ. 3 p.m. Guitar virtuoso Marcin Dylla, hailed by The Washington Post, performs a solo guitar concert. Acadiana Center for the Arts, 101 W. Vermilion St., Lafayette. 337-233-7060.

Friday, Apr. 04 The Southern Garden Festival. The Southern Garden Festival features artists, live music, beautiful gardens, gardening information, food, bayou boat tours and more. Gardens of Sarah & Harold Schoeffler, 3502 E. Simcoe St., Lafayette. 337-233-3447.

Friday, Apr. 25 Festival International edition of Bach Lunch: Les Hay Babies. 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. Music provided by Les Hay Babies, of New Brunswick, Canada. Lunch available from Antoniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cafe, Chrisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; PoBoys, Hub City Diner, Joeyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Specialty Meats, Roly Poly and Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Charleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant. Parc Sans Souci, 201 E. Vermilion St., Lafayette. 337-233-0864.

Sarah Schoeffler removes weeds from her garden in preparation for the 2013 Southern Garden Festival at her home in Lafayette. Schoefflerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home will host the upcoming festival. PAUL KIEU, THE DAILY ADVERTISER

in the Lafayette area.

TO ADVERTISE (888) 261-2110 AcadianaJobs@gannett.com om

Hiring? 16 L M A G A Z I N E

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Friday, May. 02 Chorale Acadienne presents â&#x20AC;&#x153;A

Celebration of American Choral Music.” 7:30 to 9 p.m. St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 419 Doucet Rd., Lafayette. $25 adults, $20 seniors (65 & older), $10 Students with valid ID. 337-349-5342.

Chorale Acadienne will perform “Requiem” for its season finale.

Saturday, May 10

SUBMITTED

“The ShadowBoxMyth.” ShadowBoxMyth is a contemporary performance art installation set within the Side Gallery at the AcA. This original story uses anthropomorphic characters within a live shadowbox. Using traditional storytelling precepts and new media methods, the shadowbox is a metaphor for the collective narrative of objects and images. Acadiana Center for the Arts, 101 W. Vermilion St., Lafayette. 337-2337060.

Saturday, May 17 Closing with a Winner. 6 p.m. After presenting one of Beethoven’s most famous piano sonatas, awardwinning international pianist Jose’ Feghali will join the ASO Quartet in one of the most beloved chamber music masterpieces by Schubert, Trout Quintet. Acadiana Center for the Arts, 101 W. Vermilion St., Lafayette. 337-232-4277.

MARCH 2014 L M A G A Z I N E

ASK JAN

Reader torn between two potential long-distance suitors I am considering moving home. When I was there for the holidays, I met a guy I really like. We dated several times during the three weeks I was there. I was interested in continuing dating, but he had just gotten out of another long-distance relationship and didn’t want to jump back into another one. We’ve talked and texted occasionally since then. In the meantime, another friend back home has introduced me to another guy. Though we haven’t met yet, we talk and text often and have really gotten to know each other already. I like him a lot. He’s easy to talk to, funny, smart and also seems to like me! He’d like to come see me before I move home, but I am hesitant to extend the invitation because if he visits, I feel like all chances of a relationship with the other guy are off when I get back home. What do you recommend? — LONG DISTANCE LOVER WANNA BE

» DEAR WANNA BE, have you ever heard the saying, “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush?” If you like Guy No. 2 and are interested in getting to know him better, why would you not see him? There is no guarantee of a relationship with Guy No. 1. He is probably dating someone, too — hence his not wanting a long-distance relationship. Please invite the guy to see you. Today. You like him. He’s funny. He’s smart. HE LIKES YOU. To sum it up, you’re trying to keep your chances open with a guy who may not be interested in you, and you’re not considering extending the relationship with a guy who’s definitely interested in you. Think about that. Being in a relationship with someone who likes you and wants to visit you has its advantages! Go for it! — XOXO, JAN

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

» DEAR JAN, Every Christmas, I have a sister-in-law who gets her godchild, my daughter, a gift and delivers it to my office via courier. Yet, this sister-in-law lives minutes from my home and never stops over to visit. I am wondering what you recommend. I feel that the spirit of Christmas is missed by giving a gift and not giving of one’s time. My daughter does not understand as she does not get an opportunity to visit with her aunt. Every Christmas, I want to pick up the phone and call her and say, “Can’t you come over and visit? My daughter is tired of receiving gifts, and it would be better if you gave her nothing but spent some time with her.” Am I out of line? — 10 CHRISTMASES, 10 GIFTS, NO CALLS OR VISITS » DEAR 10 CHRISTMASES, There’s not an easy fix here, but I’d recommend extending an olive branch and invite her to go on at least three outings with your daughter between now and Christmas. In a perfect world, your sisterin-law would initiate and set these outings up, but we both know the world isn’t perfect. So, for the sake of your daughter, take the high road and try to lay the groundwork for the two of them to build their own relationship. — XOXO, JAN

GETTY IMAGES

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IN YOUR PURSE Danielle Riemer Respiratory therapist

What can’t you live without in your purse?

I cannot live without Cranberry Rasberry Mio in my purse! I am always drinking water, and I have to have it for my water.

Amelie Storment Rodan and Fields, representative My Rodan and Fields lip balm. I have them stashed everywhere!

Brenda Dudley Social Security Administration claims representative

Pam Quantz Prêt à Poser, owner My lipstick.

I cannot live without my red lipstick in my purse! Friends and family tell me they never see me without my red lipstick on — no matter what event or function I attend — even going to the grocery store or relaxing in my sweatpants!

MARCH 2014 L M A G A Z I N E

The new

adventures

Jeremiah, Missy, Penelope of

(and Hercules)

‘We love Louisiana and we’re never leaving’

By Sundra Hominik shominik@theadvertiser.com

ometimes you just know when it’s right. You know it when a job offer comes from a distant town and you say to to your spouse, “I think you’re going to really like it there.” You know it when your 2-year-old daughter dances easily to zydeco music as if she had been hearing it all of her short life. You know it when you find a house that’s been on the market for two days and you’re able to buy it and move in within a month. Jeremiah and Missy PaschkeWood along with their daughter, Penelope, knew Lafayette was right for them even though moving here meant starting over in at least a half dozen different ways. And their cat, Hercules? Well, he just came along for the ride. “We’ve always been kind of adventurous in terms of life decisions,” said Jeremiah PaschkeWood as we sat in the living room of the family’s new home in the saint streets area of Lafayette. The past nine months have been one fast-moving lesson after another in how to embrace new beginnings. The two have gone from newcomers to working at two of the area’s longstanding and most influential institutions. The family moved to Lafayette in July 2013 after Jeremiah was offered a position at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette as an 20

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assistant professor of library science. Missy was named the executive director of Festival International de Louisiane a few months later.

‘We like places that embrace their identities’ Jeremiah Paschke-Wood was raised near Truth or Consequences, N.M., where his mom has been a school librarian for years. He started his career as a journalist but decided to make a switch after about 10 years in the business. He attended graduate school at the University of Arizona in Prescott. When he started looking for a position in May 2013 that would allow him to use his new masters degree, he applied to a lot of universities. UL Lafayette was one of those schools even though neither he or Missy had ever lived here.

Missy Paschke-Wood, right, watches as her husband Jeremiah dances with their daughter Penelope, 2, Saturday, during the Mardi Gras festivities at the Horse Farm in Lafayette. LESLIE WESTBROOK, THE ADVERTISER

JEREMIAH PASCHKE-WOOD BIO

MISSY PASCHKE-WOOD BIO

Jeremiah Paschke-Wood is a native New Mexican who spent his early career in newspaper journalism and weekends playing and touring in rock bands. He met his future bride in Arizona and when newspapers ran into trouble he decided run away and live in China and get married. After returning to the U.S., he followed in his librarian mother’s footsteps and received his MA in Library Science from the University of Arizona. He enjoys reading, writing, playing music, hunting for vintage ties, and coloring with his 2 year old daughter, Penelope.

Missy Paschke-Wood was born in Garland, Texas. An extrovert by nature, she easily adapted to a nomadic lifestyle as a child by always being the friendly, gregarious person in the crowd. After attending an arts high school in Vancouver, Wash., she graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University with a bachelor of fine arts, which she then parlayed into nonprofit arts and animal welfare positions, as well as a one-year China detour as an English teacher. She might be new to Lafayette, but she won't be a stranger in a place where le bon temps rouler very long.

— Missy Paschke-Wood

— Jeremiah Paschke-Wood

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“Missy easily adapted … by always being the friendly, gr

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regarious person in the crowd.”

Festival International de Louisane Lineup Festival International de Louisiane 2014 is April 23 to April 27 in downtown Lafayette. Here are performers scheduled to appear. » The Funky Meters » Bombino » Dick Dale Salute to Congres Mondial Acadien » Zachary Richard with special guest Sonny Landreth » Radio Radio Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars » Baloji & L’orchestre De La Katuba » The Duhks La Santa Cecilia » Black Joe Lewis » Imam Baildi » Orkestar Zirkonium » Vagabond Swing Kobo Town » Keith Frank & the Soileau Zydeco Band » Hassan Hakmoun » BélO Dominique Dupuis » Les Hay Babies » Bernard Adamus » BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet Suroît » Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys » Rosco Bandana » Sweet Crude Geno Delafose and French Rockin Boogie » The Preservation » Ten Strings And A Goat Skin » Cedric Watson & Bijou Creole » Debauche Russian Mafia Band Chubby Carrier & the Bayou Swamp Band » Pine Leaf Boys » Carol Fran Tribute to Lerone Rubin with Destination Gospel Choir » Blayze and Saddles Hard Proof Afrobeat » Gina Chavez » Tuba Skinny » International Fiddle Summit Festival Acadiens et Créoles » Creole United » Johanna Divine » The Revelers Dragon Knight Aquarêve Stiltwalkers » TANDEM » Kevin Naquin & the Ossun Playboys Soul Express Brass Band » Sons of Voodoo » Soirée du Cinema » Théatre: Shel’s Shorts Julie Williams » Stop the Clock Cowboy Jazz Band » Rayo Brothers » French Mass Brass Mimosa » Cat Head Biscuit Boys » Drew Landry » Native Sons » Choupique High Rollers Sassafras Jubilee » Roaming Signals » Nichole Marceaux » Leblanc Family Band » LPSS Talented Music Revue LJ Alleman Guitar Ensemble » Cirque de la Rue Acadiana School for the Arts Dance Company Louisiana International Music Exchange (LIME) MARCH 2014 L M A G A Z I N E

“I came for the interview in June 2013. They flew me out here,” he said. “Missy had been to New Orleans (back in college.) Neither of us had been to Lafayette.” The fast-moving life train that eventually brought the family to the area was about to pull out of the station. It didn’t take them long to figure out they wanted to jump on board for the ride, for another new life adventure. Once they mentioned to friends and co-workers that Jeremiah was interviewing in Lafayette, they discovered that they had all kinds of connections to the region. A couple of their friends in Arizona were from Baton Rouge, and one of Missy’s coworkers was from Lafayette. “One of the vet techs (at the Humane Society) came over and said, ‘I was born in Lafayette,’” Missy said. “Everyone said we would love it here.” Less than a month after his interview at the university, the family and their mini caravan of a U-Haul with Jeremiah and his father and the family car with Missy, Penelope, her mother and Hercules were headed to Lafayette. Missy, born in Texas, still had never seen her soon-to-be new home. Jeremiah’s career switch and job here were the first of many new beginnings for the young family. The move to a different region was another fresh start for the couple who have been married for four years. The couple said they had a good feeling about Lafayette because it reminded them of the kind of places they had lived before and liked. “We like places that hang onto to their identities, that embrace their identities. There are lot of places that don’t embrace their history,” Missy said. “There are some places where everybody is from some place else,” Jeremiah added. “Lafayette and New Mexico — where I grew up — are similar in that families have lived here for generations.” The couple met in Tucson and have lived in Nanjing, China; Portland, Oregon; and Prescott, Arizona.

‘I adore Penelope’ The move to Lafayette turned the couple’s life upside down when it came to their easy-going, friendly toddler, Penelope. While in graduate school, Jeremiah had been Penelope’s primary caregiver while Missy worked in marketing 24

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at Yavapai Humane Society. After their move here, he was away at work while she cared for Penelope and looked for a job. That was the one of the first big adjustments Missy had to make. “The adjustment wasn’t the move. It was staying at home as a mother. It was a different lifestyle,” she said. “I adore our child. I adore Penelope, but it was very different not to be working.” It would be about three months before she landed the job as director of Festival International. She was encouraged to apply for the position by Jeremiah’s supervisor who spotted a story about the job in the newspaper. “So his boss clipped an article about the job from The Daily Advertiser and sent it home (with Jeremiah) with a suggestion that (I might want to apply),” Missy said. The couple said that newspaper clipping was just one example of how the university community looked out for them as newcomers and how they were made to feel welcome. Some faculty members helped them find a daycare for Penelope. Others sent emails offering help right after Jeremiah accepted the position. Then once Missy landed the job at Festival, many in that close knit but broad community reached out to help, as well. The couple said having two workplace communities has made adjusting to life here easy. “Our different (Festival) board members have opened their homes. I would have folks drop by all of the

time just to say, ‘How are you doing?’” Missy said. When they were about to start looking for their home here, one of her co-workers recommended a Realtor

‘We’re decisive’ When the Paschke-Wood family moved to town in July, they leased a condo near campus. After Missy landed her new job, they were ready for another milestone. They would become first-time homeowners in Lafayette. The family started looking for a home and spotted one that went on the market around Thanksgiving Day. They looked at the house in the saint streets area on the Saturday after the holiday and made an offer that Sunday. They closed on Dec. 27 and moved in by Jan. 1, 2014. “We do (move fast). We’re decisive,” Missy said as the couple laughed about doing something so quickly that takes some couples months to accomplish. They’re settling into the house that neighbors told them was once owned by a bookkeeper. A small house in the back was his office. The front porch of the main house was decorated with red Chinese lanterns in late February, keepsakes from their time in Nanjing. The couple said they’re still decorating. But it’s no surprise that a full bookcase sits right inside the front door. Hercules, the family’s cat, meanders into the front room and springs

Jeremiah Paschke-Wood plays with his daughter Penelope, 2, during the Mardi Gras festivities at the Horse Farm in Lafayette. This was the family’s first Mardi Gras. LESLIE

Craig Minnick, president of Festival International and director Missy Pasckle-Wood show off pancake art made at a Downtown Lafayette event.

WESTBROOK, THE

SUNDRA HOMINIK, THE

ADVERTISER

DAILY ADVERTISER

Missy Paschke-Wood talks with an attendee at a recent mixer held by the705. TERRI FENSEL

onto one of the living room chairs until he is gently escorted off to make room for company. Penelope toddles in, says ‘Hi’ then spots the reporter’s camera. She goes off in search of her own camera. Her parents sit on the sofa and chat about the changes so far. Missy is the more talkative of the two; however, Jeremiah chimes in often, adding details as they share what they’re discovering about life in Lafayette.

‘Dive right in, right away’ Now that they both have jobs and are in their new house, they said they are able to more fully immerse themselves into their adopted town. Not that they haven’t been busy getting to know their way around already. “We’re always exploring new places and it really is a good opportunity to travel, to meet people and check everything out,” Jeremiah said. They have discovered some favorite diners and other good places to eat. They like having breakfast out on the weekends. They have made day trips to Avery Island and frequent area farmers markets. Of course arts, music and other local cultural offerings play a big role in their down time. “The way we respond to new places is to dive right in, right away. Within the second week of moving here, we joined the Children’s Museum. We discovered toddler’s Tuesday at the (Paul and Lulu Hilliard University) art museum, and we’re going to festivals almost every week-

end,” Missy said. At those festivals, they’ve discovered Penelope’s love of the region’s music. “She loved it immediately when we would go to live music,” Missy said. “She feels zydeco deep in her soul.” Jeremiah added, “She would be on the dance floor event if we weren’t.” With Festival just weeks away, Missy said she’s busy. However, she added that because the board, staff and about 2,000 volunteers have been doing this for more than quarter of a century, it’s been a very organized kind of busy. Outside of the office, she said she’s impressed with how deep the passion for Festival is rooted in the community. Almost every day, she meets someone who has connections to Festival. “It’s really like no other organization that I’ve ever encountered,” she said. “(I think it’s because) people stay here. They plant their roots here.

So if my father volunteered... I grew up watching him volunteer so now I do it and I’m showing my kids how to do it.” By this time next month, Missy will be a veteran of her first Festival. Jeremiah will be winding up another semester at the university. Penelope will likely have danced to more bands than she can count on her tiny fingers. The family will be moving toward their first summer of south Louisiana weather. And Hercules? He’ll be doing whatever content cats do once their families have found a good place to call home. “We had known that we were preparing for our next step for a couple of years.” Missy said. “So when we made the leap for our next step, we just felt such a relief that this leap landed on soft ground. We love Louisiana and we’re never leaving.” MARCH 2014 L M A G A Z I N E

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{Quiz} The

3. YOUR FAVORITE COLOR PALETTE IS: a. Neutral and earthy b. Bright and bold c. Cool and calm

1. YOUR PERSONAL STYLE IS:

4. YOU’RE READY FOR A NIGHT OUT. YOUR MAKEUP IS:

a. Girly and glamorous b. Southern and outdoorsy c. Simple and comfortable

a. Show stopping — false eyelashes, airbrushed foundation, red lipstick b. Simple and sheer — a dab of lip gloss, a coat of mascara and some concealer c. Somewhere in between — shimmery eye shadow and eyeliner bring out the color of your eyes

2. AFTER A STRESSFUL DAY AT WORK, YOU ARE

MOST LIKELY: a. Rushing – to pull together a quick dinner, driving the kids to extracurricular events, helping with geometry homework — who has time to stress? b. Relaxing – spending an evening with wine and Netflix — it’s your go-to destress activity. c. Ranting – catching up with friends, your significant other or family over dinner and drinks — you need to vent with somebody who gets you.

Which room should you spruce up to bring new life to your home? Take the quiz to find out!

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5. WHAT DO YOU DO MOST WEEKENDS? a. Take adventures, whether that is a nearby town or a quick trip to another state. b. Relax at home, whether that means cooking and entertaining or cozying up with a book. c. Hit the town, whether that means shopping and lunch or dancing and drinks at a new bar.

THE QUIZ

ANSWER KEY 1. A, 1; B, 2; C, 3 2. A, 2; B, 3; C, 1 3. A, 2; B, 1; C, 3 4. A, 1; B, 3; C, 2 5. A, 3; B, 2; C, 1

» If you scored 5-8 points:

Bathroom You care about your appearance and love to pamper yourself. Make your bathroom an energizing space by pairing a bold pattern such as animal print with one bold accent color. Instead of just organizing jewelry and makeup, find a way to showcase it. Think fun.

» If you scored 9-11 points:

» If you scored 12-15 points:

Kitchen

Living room

You live a busy life, and you spend a lot of time cooking — even if that means just heating up a quick meal. Clear out the kitchen clutter and only keep items on your counter tops that you use daily. Create a fun atmosphere that encourages kids and others to connect with you in the kitchen with bold oranges, yellows and reds. Think family.

You like to have fun and take the occasional trip, but you love the comforts of home. Make your living room the perfect place to escape everyday life by creating a quaint window seat or a water element in the room. Add cool tones in blues and purples to existing furniture in the form of throw pillows and blankets. Think relaxation.

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When baby makes three, it’s

time for boot camp Local moms help others find time to exercise with kids in tow By Anastasia Semien

Mandi Hebert started her business about three years ago so she would be more active after giving birth. Hebert never expected the business to affect new mothers the way it has. She said she was just trying to lose some of the weight she gained after having her third child, Gabriella, and suffering from postpartum depression. Hebert said she had been a competitive gymnast most of her life but found it difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle. “After I had children, I was kind of trying to find myself,” she recalled. “I was struggling being at home. I had been an athlete all my life, and it was very hard not being in shape.” Hebert, 32, heard about the success of Baby Boot Camp in her hometown of Baton Rouge and decided to bring the program to Lafayette. 30

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Brittany Waters and her children TERRI FENSEL

Moms run in River Ranch as part of Baby Boot Camp. PHOTOS BY TERRI FENSEL

The stroller fitness program allows moms to exercise while spending time with their children. “It took awhile for people to understand what it was,” said Hebert, who went from having one mom in her program to having about two dozen. She said this is not just “a walking group” but a 60minute session that includes cardio to work every major muscle group in the body. “When they come, they’re surprised at how much exercise we do,” Hebert said. The class involves jumping, squatting and even singing. She also incorporates exercises that allow moms to interact with their children while they’re in their strollers. “One problem that new moms have is finding the time to exercise because they’re with their babies all day,” Hebert said. Brittany Waters was one of those moms. Waters was pregnant when she moved to Lafayette after working in New Orleans for renowned chef Emeril Lagasse for years. “I needed an outlet,” she recalled. “I was pregnant and eating (without exercising).” Waters, 28, and her husband moved to Lafayette to work at the now-closed Cochon Restaurant. Her husband is now the chef at Ruffino’s on the River and she works two days per week as a pastry chef at Social Southern Table & Bar. She said she is constantly tempted by good food. After joining Baby Boot Camp, she has lost more than 30 pounds, instructs a class in the program and is training for her first half-marathon. She enjoys being around a group of women in similar situations who are teaching their children to be healthy at a young age, Waters said. “I still love great food. It just takes balance,” she explained. Waters urged those struggling with weight loss to eat healthy on weekdays and enjoy some of the local delicacies, such as crawfish and king cake, on the weekends. “Find something that keeps you motivated,” Waters said. “It changed my life for the better.” Other moms have told Hebert the same thing. She said she’s happy to offer them a place where they can connect with other mothers and be free from judgment. “It kind of makes me emotional to talk about it,” she said. “That’s been an enormous blessing.”

WANT TO GO? Baby Boot Camp, between the Fresh Market and Paul Michael’s in River Ranch, Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:15 a.m. and Saturday at 9 a.m. Classes start at $50 per month Visit babybootcamp.com or call 337-453-4717 for more information

Mandi Hebert encourages one of her Baby Boot Camp mothers. MARCH 2014 L M A G A Z I N E

WINE

Mature or young? Just depends on your preference This winter, I had an opportunity to enjoy many fine French Bordeaux wines. More often than not, when gathering with friends to drink wine, the question of when a wine is ready to drink is often discussed and debated. The answer is: A good wine is ready to drink whether it is young or mature. It is simply a matter of personal preference. For example, a grape picked from the vine and eaten will taste quite different from a grape off of the same vine that is aged to a raisin. Five-year-old Bordeaux will taste different from 35year-old Bordeaux, but both can be appreciated and enjoyed. As wine ages, the flavors evolve. I find the aging Peter process usually subdues the tannins that can be quite obviJohn ous in a young wine. In my opinion, a mature wine has the advantage, but I can appreciate a young wine that may not have peaked. Wine will change when it ages, but a good wine — properly stored — will always be a good wine. If you have a good bottle of wine, the most important thing is to share it with friends.

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The List » Chateau Gruaud Larose 2005 » Chateau Palmer 2005 » Chateau La Conseillante, Pomerol 2010 » Chateau Leoville Poyferre, SaintJulien 2010 » Chateau Pontet Canet Pauillac 2006 » Grand Vin de Leoville St. Julien 1966 » Lafitte Moulin de Carruades Pauillac 1982 » Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou St. Julien 1990 » Chateau Figeac St. Emilion 1994 » Chateau Margaux 1998

YOUR HEALTH

What is integrative medicine? Over the past six months, I shared with my patients that I was studying for a board certification in integrative medicine. Many asked if I was going to continue here at Lafayette General, or if I would move somewhere else. It occurred to me that people really don’t know what integrative medicine means. So let me shine some light on integrative medicine. The American Board of Holistic Medicine was founded in 1996 and officially changed its name to the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine in 2008. From their website: Integrative Medicine ... is the practice of medicine that reaffirms the importance of the relationship between the practitioner and the patient, focuses on the whole person, is in-

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

formed by evidence, and makes use of all appropriate therapeutic approaches, healthcare professionals, and disciplines to achieve optimal health and healing. Holistic Medicine ... views mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of life as closely interconnected and equally important approaches to treatment. Integrative Holistic Medicine ... addresses care of the whole person: body, mind, and spirit.” The physicians certified in this specialty are M.D.s and D.O.s. They are cardiologists, gastroenterologists, gynecologists, psychia-

trists, pediatricians and internists, to name a few. The president of the ABIHM is an interventional cardiologist. The belief that all have in common is that there is more to the “art” of healing than writing a prescription for a condition. The integrative medicine approach to healing acknowledges we are products of our genetic programming, and environmental influences play a powerful role in the way these genetic predispositions are expressed. Consideration is given not only to physical environment, but to each person’s unique set of social, emotional and spiritual circumstances. Every element is equally important. Trying to heal one aspect without addressing the others isn’t possible, because all are intercon-

nected. The approach of integrative medicine asks a different set of questions, resulting in a different set of answers. That sets the stage for a different sort of treatment — one in which the patient has a vital, active role. There is no cookiecutter approach to disease in integrative medicine. Prescriptions are necessary for some things some of the time, but getting to the root of a problem makes so much more sense. The question then becomes “why do you have that?” If we can find and fix the ailing part of a system, we are on the way to real health and healing. Dr. Elizabeth McLain is board certified in family medicine and integrative and holistic medicine. She practices at Lafayette General Medical Center.

MARCH 2014 L M A G A Z I N E

Isabelle ushers in diff life for new parents By Kris Wartelle

kwartelle@theadvertiser.com

he new year started with a life-changing event for Lafayette couple Kristen and Dustin Delahoussaye. Their baby, Isabelle, was the area’s first baby born in 2014 at Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Lafayette. From the very beginning, they knew Isabelle was special. “All the nurses kept coming in and looking at the clock saying, ‘We’re going to win! We’re going to win! You’re going to have the New Year’s baby!’” Kristen recounted. “And now, all these people we haven’t talked to in years are congratulating us. It makes it feel even more special.” Most new parents can identify with the Delahoussayes. First, they were a couple free to go and do whatever, whenever they wanted. Then, they were three, and everything revolved around the new person in their life. “One thing you don’t realize is you can’t just get out to the store,” Kristen said. “You can’t do anything you used to do anymore. It’s all about her schedule and her time. “Being a parent doesn’t come with a handbook. So we have to learn what she wants through trial and error.” “It’s just such a joy. She has been great,” proud father Dustin said. “But we are dedicated. You have to be committed to it.”

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Dustin Delahoussaye and wife Kristen speak about their adjustment to life as new parents to their newborn daughter Isabelle. Isabelle was born at 1:15 a.m. on January 1, 2014, making her the first baby born in Lafayette in 2014. PHOTOS BY PAUL KIEU, THE ADVERTISER

Newborn infant Isabelle Delahoussaye lies in her crib at her family's home in Lafayette.

See a video about Delahoussayes online at theadvertiser.com

ferent First baby of 2014 is a life-changing event

Kristen and Dustin Delahoussaye spend time with their daughter, Isabelle, in her nursery. PHOTOS BY PAUL KIEU, THE ADVERTISER

The change is exciting and exhausting all at once. The couple said they tried for three years to have a baby and were able to conceive only with fertility treatments. “We got married and we started trying and after about a year-and-a-half, we figured that we should seek some help and that’s when we went to Dr. (John M.)

Storment,” Kristen related. “That’s when we were diagnosed with infertility. So we tried numerous fertility treatments. And then we got pregnant and had Isabelle with our third in-vitro cycle. So we were very excited. It definitely makes us appreciate it more.” Kristen quit her job as a French immersion teacher to devote her time to her

daughter. Dustin, who works for the LHC group, said he and Kristen work together as a team to take care of Isabelle. “We’re still a couple,” Dustin said, “but we’re more of a tag team now. It’s all about her.” Gone are the days of taking off for impromptu trips or LSU football games. The couple said the other changes they have experienced so far are: no sleep, no eating together and a whole new schedule, as well as a new roommate. They are also learning a whole bunch of new lessons. “We learned that’s its OK to ask for help,” Kristen added. “It’s OK to be frustrated. It’s OK to cry. (Because) it all works out, and it’s all worth it.”

MARCH 2014 L M A G A Z I N E

By Marisa Olson

aura Tisserand, principal dancer with Seattle’s Pacific Northwest Ballet (PNB), will perform the role of Princess Aurora in “The Sleeping Beauty” with the Lafayette Ballet Theatre March 29 at the Heymann Performing Arts Center. Tchaikovsky’s “The Sleeping Beauty” animates the tale first published in 1697 by Charles Perrault, a version based on a primitive European medieval folktale whose origins derive from the ancient Persephone and Demeter myth that heralds the advent of spring. This year’s performance therefore marks the perfect time to celebrate as Tisserand and the Lafayette Ballet Theatre imbue the traditional choreography with fresh and graceful elegance. Peter Boal, artistic director for PNB, describes Tisserand as a gifted young artist who “commands the stage” with “signature warmth and generosity.” He said she possesses “keen focus” and “pristine technique." Tisserand and the Lafayette Ballet dancers will be joined by other leading guest artists from PNB, Joshua Grant and William Yin-Lee. Tisserand describes principal dancer Joshua Grant as “easy to work with” and “a great partner.” This season’s performance of “The Sleeping Beauty” marks the sixth time that Lafayette Ballet, under the leadership of its artistic directors, Shannon and Mitzi Heath, has produced Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece. The ballet has been revered by audiences for the last 100 years as one of the composer’s most beautiful and beloved. Tisserand, a native of Hammond, has maintained strong emotional and professional ties with her home state, especially to Acadi36

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Princ Auro Lafayette Ballet Theatre to perform “The Sleeping Beauty”

cess ora

The Lafayette Ballet performs “The Sleeping Beauty” in 2009. SUBMITTED For more information on Lafayette Ballet Theatre, its schedule of performances, and outreach programs, go to lafayetteballettheatre.org. To purchase tickets for “The Sleeping Beauty,” call Lafayette Ballet Theatre at 337-262-0444, or the Heymann Center’s box office at 337-291-5555.

Laura Tisserand will dance in “The Sleeping Beauty.” PHOTOS BY ANGELA STERLING

ana. She has visited Lafayette Ballet as guest artist on two previous occasions: in 2009 as the Lilac Fairy, when “The Sleeping Beauty” was last performed, and in 2010 as the Dewdrop Fairy in “The Nutcracker.” Her upcoming performance at the Heymann is her first as Princess Aurora, which is among the most challenging female roles in classical ballet repertoire, and one for which she spent

more than six weeks preparing. Tisserand and Boal were approached last September by Shannon Heath, who said she was delighted to offer Tisserand the role of Aurora. “I was very grateful to Peter Boal when he released Tisserand to come and perform with us,” Heath said. “This is a very special performance for me,” Tis-

serand said. “I am just so excited to come home to Louisiana to perform with the Lafayette Ballet Theatre Company. Louisiana audiences are great, so welcoming. My whole family will also be there in the audience.” From age 8 to 16, she studied at Giacobbe Studio of Dance in Metairie under Joseph and Maria Giacobbe. When Tisserand reflects on the intense dedication of her instructors, she also understands and appreciates the sacrifices made by her mother. “When I took instruction with the Giacobbes for several years, my mother spent an hour driving me every day to my lessons. She knew how much I loved to dance, and never questioned my dream of becoming a ballerina,” Tisserand said. “She had also taken ballet instruction before raising her family, so understood the level and intensity of training required to build a proper foundation. My entire life I have loved dance, and can’t imagine my life without it. I doubt I would have achieved my success without her loving support.”

MARCH 2014 L M A G A Z I N E

Chocolatecovered strawberries and brownie bites are some of the treats at Lolli's Chocolates. LESLIE WESTBROOK, THE ADVERTISER

Sweet new beginnings for local sweet shop Online: See a video about the Bodins at theadvertiser.com

By Kris Wartelle kwartelle@theadvertiser.com

Talk about new beginnings. Imagine you just got married, just moved to a new town, just started a new business and now you are expecting a baby. That’s more change in months than most people see in a year. But that’s exactly what Sophia and Shane Bodin are going through now that their new chocolate shop, Lolli’s, is open for business. “It’s definitely been a change,” said Sophia. “But I just love Lafayette. It’s very family-oriented, and I feel like it’s going to be a great place to raise a baby. I’m very excited.” The couple met through Sophia’s sister when Shane was working in New Orleans. Sophia is from there and worked with her sisters in her mother’s chocolate business. Shane is from New Iberia, so he was hoping the couple could bring the business to Lafayette. “We commuted back and forth for about two years,” Shane said. “And then we found this spot, and it just seemed perfect for what we 38

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Shane and Sophia Bodin recently opened their sweet shop, Lolli's Chocolates, in the Oil Center. PAUL KIEU, THE ADVERTISER

do. They called us while we were on our honeymoon and told us we got it so I think we were open for business (even) before we lived here.” For years, city officials have been talking about an Oil Center Renaissance. Lolli’s is one of many new businesses that have opened and seem to be thriving in Lafayette’s Oil Center. Once the hub of the town’s oil business, the area has gone through many changes and

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is now home to local shops, restaurants and small, service-oriented businesses. “I love the Oil Center because all of our surrounding businesses are very supportive,” Sophia said. “They all check in on each other, send each other business. It’s very supportive.” “We knew this part of town was busy,” added Shane. “It’s the heart of Lafayette and you can get to it from anywhere in 10 minutes or less.”

Sophia said she has been helping her mother make gourmet chocolates since they started the business back in 2006. Lolli’s specialty is making hand-dipped items like Oreos, pretzels and strawberries covered in white, milk or dark chocolate. And so far, business is booming. It didn’t hurt that the Bodins opened their Lafayette store in October — just in time for the holidays spanning Halloween to Valentine’s Day. To top it off, the couple will welcome a baby girl in the next few months. Sophia said she started in the business by helping her mother make things for fundraisers and gifts. So she doesn’t mind the idea of her own daughter helping her in the kitchen one day. “It would be up to her if she wants to do it,” she added. “But that would be fun. It’s a family business. All my sisters are in it with my mother. We all worked together.”

VACATION

Where would you like to go for your spring vacation?

Linda Malin UBS Financial, planner To London with my husband

Pam Quantz Pret a Poser, owner

Amelie Storment Rodan and Fields,rep.

To the south of France with my daughter and granddaughter to visit my niece who lives there.

Playa del Carmen

MARCH 2014 L M A G A Z I N E

SOCIAL SCENE WITH KRIS WARTELLE

Spring into Spring with a purpose We are finally into spring. Have you already gotten bored with staying home? Are you already missing the thrill of Mardi Gras? Me neither. But in case you are looking for something fun, fashionable and meaningful to do, you are in luck. Spring is just the time to do it. Fundraisers for worthy causes abound. And there are a seemingly endless stream of festivals happening all across the state. Here are some of my favorite events that are not only fun to attend, they are also good places to spot new fashion trends and see how they look on local stylish ladies. March 27-30 The Chitimacha Louisiana Open. This golf tournament has turned into quite a social event for golfers and spectators alike. Even those who aren’t into golf, love to go out and watch some of the sport’s celebs play on the beautiful Le Triomphe course in a beautiful setting. This event has become Lafayette’s answer to the Newport polo matches with proceeds

benefitting Acadiana charities. April 1 Vignettes — The Art of the Tabletop at the Alexandre Mouton House. Setting a beautiful table is not a lost art. It is alive and well in many of Lafayette’s finest households. Take it up a notch with the ladies of Les Vingt Quatre, who have engaged more than 20 of the finest retail establishments, florists and antique dealers to participate and show off what they can do when setting a fine table. I can’t wait to see some new uses for our old china. April 16 Zydeco/Cajun Bash at Vermilionville to benefit the Shining Light Foundation. You can’t go wrong with an event that embodies both the spirit of Mardi Gras and the upcoming festivals all to help kindergarten through sixth-grade stu-

dents get more involved in school activities. May 28 Annual Village of Hope Gala. Acadiana native Father Glenn Meaux has partnered with Cross Catholic Outreach to support the Kobonal Haiti Mission housing project. The mission’s purpose is to provide suitable housing for impoverished families living in what Father Meaux called “the darkest corner of the Diocese of Hinche.” The gala will be held at the Hilton Lafayette and promises to be an inspirational and rewarding experience.

PARTY PIX

Queen’s Breakfast

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Queen Evangeline LXXV started Mardi Gras morning with a preparade breakfast. Elizabeth Koke, along with her King Gabriel LXXV, Richard Bougeois, reigned over the Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association’s parade despite freezing rain and sleet that day. Guests included the Queen’s grandparents, Annette and Bill Busch, her siblings David Koke III, Claire and Henry Koke, her aunt, Charlotte Cryer, Linda and Bernard Billeaud, as well as Toni Eddy, Judy Mahtook and Elizabeth Abdalla. 1. Caroline Schoeffler and Emily Castille 2. Robert Kallum, Elizabeth Koke and Charlotte Cryer 3. Elizabeth Laborde, Betsy Koke and Mary Laborde 4. David, Elizabeth and Betsy Koke 5. David Koke III, Elizabeth Koke and Bernard Billeaud

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Bonaparte rocks the Cajundome

The Krewe of Bonaparte owned Lundi Gras with one of the biggest parties to rock the Cajundome Convention Center this carnival season. Established in 1972, the Krewe has grown to include hundreds of members both young and old. The circus theme for the 2014 ball had the crowd dancing the entire night.

1. Renee Helmer, Andree Courville and Michelle Canti 2. Michelle Guidry and Cynthia Self 3. Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Imperatrice Josephine XXXVIII, Lee Audiffred and Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Empereur Napoleon XXXVIII, Martin Audiffred 4. Greg Moroux and John Bordelon 5. Milton Fuqua, Lisa Hanchey and Mark Stephan 6. Christopher Fuqua and Dawn Fuqua 7. Cliff Lane and Renee Reaux

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PARTY PIX 1. King Dom Pedro, Lawrence Sevndson and Claire, Courtney, Katie and Shea Svendson 2. Nandi Linscombe and Gil Zaunbrecher 3. Peggy and Jim Grace

Carnivale en Rio Ball The Carnival season kicked off with the wildly fun Krewe of Carnivale en Rio Ball held in the Cajundome Convention Center. King Dom Pedro IX, Lawrence Svendson, and Queen Isabel IX, Prissy Wilson, reigned over the festivities. It was hard to imagine anything more festive than the dancing Agents of Rio which included Maxwell Smart and 99 and the Pink Panther.

Attakapas ball held Feb. 8 The Krewe of Attakapas ball and presentation Feb. 8 adhered to the American Indian theme, complete with elaborate costumes, music and dancing. The krewe adopted its name from the Attakapas tribe whose members once occupied most of coastal Louisiana, from Acadia Parish to the Atchafalaya Basin. They were known to be a fierce tribe.

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1. Michael Doumit, Kyle Riemer and Jason Rhodes 2. Rae Gremillion and Nina Miller 3. Jay Smith and Bob Guidry 4. Allison Leblanc and Lori McCarthy 5. Kenny Crockett and David Jewell

PARTY PIX

Les Brigands de Lafitte The 60th Masque Les Brigands de Lafitte ball was held in the Heymann Performing Arts Center in Lafayette. As is tradition, the krewe members remained masked for the presentation. A highlight of this elegant event was the entrance of Jean Lafitte tossing long beads and beach balls to guests. Queen Ann-Riley Lane dazzled in white.

1. Denise Sadler and Jackie Lerille 2. Ann-Riley Lane and Leslie Sandlin 3. Kyle Martin, Steven Bartol and Jason Rhodes 4. Ann Marie Hightower and Ann Clark 5. Linda Alesi and Gail DeHart

Krewe of Triton’s Mardi Gras ball celebrates freedom

The theme for this year’s Krewe of Triton Ball was “Let Freedom Ring,” and they did so loud and proud. The highlight of this year’s pageant was an indoor parade complete with real Mardi Gras floats, riders and plenty of beads and baubles. King Triton XXXV, Luis Alemany, and Queen Triton XXXV, Kyla Lemaire, looked royally stunning in turquoise blue and diamonds.

2. 1. Royal attendants to the King and Queen: Camille and Olivia Swilley, Eva McDonald, Natalie Hughes, Ava Arceneaux and Charlotte Doucet 2. Rocha and Laura Alemany

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Krewe of Xanadu puts on a classy affair This year’s Krewe of Xanadu ball was colorful, classy and full of glamour and glitz. Honored guests and friends of Queen Lori Landry and King Daryl Myers filled the Cajundome Convention Center for one of the year’s most fabulous events. The krewe members claim their mission is making sure everyone is having a good time, and indeed they do. If you aren’t dancing at this party, it must be because you can’t hear the music. 1. Sandy Huval, Daryl Myers and Lori Landry 2. Whitney Walker and Jimmy Walker 3. Debbie and George deGravelle 4. Jeanne Lousao and Gina Franks

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PARTY PIX

Queen’s Luncheon

Queen Berengaria of Navarre, Francesca Piccione and Lady Edith Plantagenet, Rebecca Fontenot were honored at the Queen’s luncheon by the Order of the Troubadours Krewe. The luncheon was held at Oakbourne Country Club in Lafayette and tradition ruled the day.

1. Claudia Killeen, Mary Warren, Alyssa Craton, Francesca Piccione, Oakley Montgomery, Juliet Mills and Janine LeBlanc 2. Rebecca Fontenot and Margo Millet 3. Brenda Piccione and Janine Sibille 4. Natalie and Marie Piccione 5. Sarah Chance and Michelle Killeen

Order of Troubadours Ball The Order of the Troubadours Ball is one of the most elaborate with ornate costumes fit for any monarch. Both Queen Berengaria, Francesca Piccione and Lady Edith, Rebecca Fontentot come from a long line of Krewe royalty. This year’s theme, Song of the Troubadours, was both moving and lovely as the royal maids seemed to float on air during the presentation.

1. Darrellyn Burts, Mary Jeansonne and Bootsie Arceneaux 2. Charles and Maggie Justus 3. Sharon Bourgeois and Jeannette Alcon 4. John and Helen Hughes

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Lafayette Mardi Gras Festival Inc. Pageantry and elegance highlighted the 56th annual Lafayette Mardi Gras Festival Inc. pageant and ball. Tables were decorated with unique and elaborate centerpieces as President Albert Babineaux, members and guests gathered to welcome new royalty. A lively and colorful backdrop created a festive scene for the royal court and all their subjects.

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1. Albert and Tamika Babineneux 2. John and Kawonna Guidry 3. Jackie January and Traylon Valliere 4. Morris St. Julien III and Morris St. Julien Sr. 5. Rita Handy and Joe Eaglin 6. Dee Stanley and Sandra Moore

PARTY PIX

Party for a canine cause

It just might be true that all dogs go to heaven, and these dogs were certainly in Mardi Gras heaven at the annual Krewe Des Chiens ball. It is actually a people ball, but royalty is strictly for the dogs. King Gumbo XVI, Fredericko, and his Queen Filé XVI, Isabella, were adorable and made their proud owners smile from ear to ear when they reigned over the festivities at the City Club in River Ranch. The proceeds from the event also make homeless dogs happy by supporting adoption and rescue efforts. 1. Sally and Victor Picheloup and King Gumbo, Fred 2. Diane Sorola and Ginger Gibson 3. Tish Johnson, Gerald and Beth Guilbeau

Krewe of Xanadu

When it comes to parties, the ladies of the Krewe of Xanadu are hard to beat. By their own description, they are a fun bunch. There was no shortage of singing, dancing and celebrating at the Krewe’s Christmas party Dec.14. Barbara and Robert Richard opened their Maurice home for a roaring good time. The Richard home was beautifully decorated with an 11-foot Christmas tree that fell over at least once before the party, but was put back together in time for the festivities.

3. 1. Wade Brannon, Jeanne Brannon, Bill Moody 2. Lori Landry, Lena Myers (King’s wife) 3. Cyd Begnaud, Brenda Dudley MARCH 2014 L M A G A Z I N E

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Krewe of Victoria The Krewe of Victoria got a little down and dirty at the Feed and Seed for its annual Fais DO DO. The “camouflage” theme brought out the Duck Dynasty in everyone. Top that off with Cajun food and music and you’ve got a down-home party.

1. Margaret and Jay Ruffin 2. Babette Werner and Jeanie Rush 3. Jim and Linda Poche

Victoria pre-parade

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The Krewe of Victoria wasn’t afraid of a little cold weather as they headed out to ride in the Queen’s parade on Lundi Gras night. Krewe members were red hot and ready to party no matter what kind of temperatures they had to face. First though, they needed a little food and fun, which they enjoyed at the beautiful Greenbriar home of Ann Knight. 1. Sally Burdette, Joyce MacDonald, Diane Bossle; 2. Regan Sobiesk, Ann Knight, Kelley Sobiesk; 3. Sylvia Broussard, Tish Johnson; 4. Louis Cornay and Sue Munchrath

PARTY PIX

Man & Woman of the Year

1. 1. Edie Riedel, Alberta Stoker and Carolyn O’Donnell 2. Kevin Faulk and Jason Rhodes 3. Amy and Dayton Bouttee, Gretchen and Laura Lipari

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Man & Woman of the Year campaign kicked off at a party hosted by the candidates who will enter into a friendly competition to raise money to fight blood cancers. Dayton and Laura Lipari were then introduced as the Boy and Girl of the Year. Matt Roth, one of the candidates for Man of the Year, said he is in the race because his father also battled the disease.

Dressed in holiday style at LCHCC

The Silver Bell Soiree on Dec. 5 was an event not to be missed — and not many did. The Palmetto Club in the Oil Center was packed with friends, family and supporters of the Lafayette Health Care Clinic and honorees Jerry and Bo Ramsay. The couples received L’Abeille d’Or, or The Golden Bee award, the clinic’s highest honor. Doctors, spouses, LCHCC staff and volunteers were treated to fabulous food, wine and spirits along with holiday cheer in style. The LCHCC’s mission is to provide medical services to the uninsured and under-insured families of Acadiana.

1. Mary and Dave Ramagosa 2. Nick Gachassin, Jr,. Nick Gachassin, III, Jerry and Bo Ramsay 3. Sharon Moss and Todd Lambert 4. Tyson Cromwell and George Latiolais

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House Party The Alexandre Mouton House Christmas Party is always a classic that signals the start of the holiday season. This year’s event in the historic home of Louisiana’s former governor was no exception. Hundreds of guests were treated to the best party food around made by the members of Les Vingts Quatre. The only things sweeter than the homemade desserts were the Tea Girls serving them.

1. Kathy and Pete Piccione 2. Jenny and James Cole 3. Ann and Walter Dobie

La. Museum Foundation Some of Lafayette’s most philanthropic families gathered recently for a party to introduce the Louisiana Museum Foundation to residents of Acadiana. The event was held at the Greenbriar home of Laura and Daryl Byrd. It was hosted by the couple, along with Jenny and James Cole and Daynese and Randy Haynie. Mark Tullos, assistant secretary of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, spoke about preserving Louisiana’s unique cultural and artistic history while guests enjoyed champagne and cocktails and views of the home’s beautiful courtyard. 1. Jim and Penny McGehee 2. George Guidry and Chancellor Donald 3. Aleicia Donald and Jim Cole 4. Bill Miller and Linda Malin

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