Discover Lafayette

Today we shine a spotlight on Louisiana Grass Roots, a compelling new documentary produced by Dr. Phyllis Baudoin Griffard and directed by Jillian Godshall. This film captures the voices of everyday Louisianians working to preserve our state’s environmental and cultural heritage, highlighting powerful grassroots movements shaping our future. Jillian and Phyllis join us to share the inspiration behind the documentary, the stories that moved them most, and why community-driven action matters now more than ever. This episode is also special on a personal note—Jan Swift’s daughter, Kelly, who works in the film industry at the Manship Theater, made this introduction. Even though we all live and work in the same region, this documentary brought us together in a way that highlights what community truly means in South Louisiana. About the Filmmakers – In Their Own Words Director Jillian Godshall began by expressing gratitude for the local connection that made this collaboration possible. “I am a filmmaker. I’m also an educator. I’ve been doing both for over 15 years at this point. It’s taken me all over the world. I’m really glad to be here in Lafayette doing that work as well.” Her background is deeply rooted in documentary storytelling: “My background in filmmaking is mostly in documentary filmmaking. I’ve worked on big budget, large scale reality TV show stuff—don’t tell anyone—and all the way down to where I feel most comfortable now, which is working on smaller-scale independent projects, having more of the creative leadership role, directing and being super involved in every aspect of production.” Jillian also teaches video editing to incarcerated students through an organization called The Last Mile: “I currently teach video editing to incarcerated students… and work with Phyllis, hang out with Phyllis, plant plants with Phyllis.” Producer Dr. Phyllis Baudoin Griffard shared her deep Louisiana roots and her global experience in science education: “I’m from Lafayette originally, grew up all over the South… I got a degree from USL in zoology and then went off to graduate school in biochemistry. I came back to Louisiana and started teaching at Xavier University, and I knew then that’s what I wanted to do.” Phyllis’ work has always focused on connecting people to the land and ecology around them: “Even as a biologist and teaching university students, I always was looking for local examples and to reconnect students outside the textbook to the biology that’s in their own backyard.” She emphasized the importance of place in identity: “When I came home, I heard French, I heard the music—you can really connect to this place.” The Origin of Louisiana Grass Roots: A Story Rooted in Place, Memory, and Rediscovery Jillian and Phyllis did not come together through a traditional film industry channel; they were united through a local experience that awakened something deeper. Phyllis explains that after returning to Lafayette and connecting with the Acadiana Master Naturalist Program, she began to understand the importance of the Cajun Prairie through firsthand fieldwork. “One of the topics is about the Cajun prairie… I had learned about the prairie, and I knew about it more from when we lived in Texas, because the people in and around Houston just ooh and ah about the prairie scientists we have over here: Larry Allen, Charles Allen and Malcolm Vidrine, who discovered what they have since called the Cajun Prairie. 2.5 million acres. Most of Southwest Louisiana was part of this prairie, which only less than 1% exists today.” It was during a field trip with the Master Naturalists that she crossed paths with Jillian: “I led one of the field trips and found out that Jill was a filmmaker, and I happened to say, ‘Oh, I just finished doing a film, The Quiet Cajuns, with Conni Castille.’ And her ears perked up and she said, ‘Well, I think we should make a film about the prairie.’” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WA9xoYHoFKU Within two days, Jillian reached out to move the idea forward. It wasn’t a casual suggestion—it became a movement. Funding the Vision: Community as Catalyst Unlike many documentaries dependent on outside institutions, Louisiana Grassroots was made possible by local belief in the story. Jillian said: “We were filming this project for over two years and had such incredible support from people along the way to make it possible. It’s one of the better-funded small projects I’ve worked on, in large part because of the support of the community, because of Phyllis’ know-how and ability to communicate these ideas to the average person.” Phyllis detailed those early grant efforts: “The first grant we got was from the Acadiana Center for the Arts. We convinced them that we have this natural heritage around us that most of us, just because of modern life, are very disconnected from. We don’t really know what the land was like, what the people did there… and yet the reason our music and food are the way they are is because of the characteristics of the prairie and the bayous.” A still from Louisiana Grass Roots, shared by Director Jillian Godshall She emphasized the artistic power needed to reach people:“You need powerful art to communicate big ideas. The visual.” Additional support came from Atchafalaya National Heritage Area, Louisiana Native Plant Society, UL-Lafayette Foundation, and Cajun Prairie Habitat Preservation Society. “The Cajun Prairie Habitat Preservation Society got us to the finish line to finish production.” Revealing a Vanishing Landscape: The Cajun Prairie as Cultural Ancestry The film explores a truth many Louisianians are completely unaware of: our Cajun and Creole identity—our music, food, language, even the way our ancestors lived—is rooted in the prairie ecosystem that once covered southwest Louisiana. Phyllis explains: “We are so proud of the music and the food that really make us who we are here. And yet the reason that they’re the way they are is because of the characteristics of the prairie and the bayous, the history of the people is the way it is because of the way the land is.” Photo of a goldenrod in a still from Louisiana Grass Roots, courtesy of Director Jillian Godshall The prairie is largely invisible now; not because it disappeared naturally, but because it was converted to agriculture due to its incredibly fertile soil. “That’s why we’ve lost the prairies, because it was such good agricultural land.” Jillian reflected on the challenge of visually capturing something that is mostly gone: “In many ways it’s invisible to the eye… a lot of what makes the plants in the prairie so ecologically beneficial is also invisible because it’s happening under the soil.” Jillian spent extensive time in the field not just filming, but learning: “I spent a tremendous amount of time with a camera, but more as a way to research and understand what was happening.” Capturing What Was Lost – And What Can Be Reclaimed One of the greatest challenges in producing Louisiana Grassroots was visualizing something that no longer exists in its original form. The Cajun Prairie, once 2.5 million acres spanning southwest Louisiana, is now less than 1% intact. To bring this hidden world to life, the filmmakers employed creativity and collaboration. “We were able to use animation to depict some of those invisible scientific processes, and we used a lot of archival footage to paint a picture of what the land was like and what the culture was like.” They also incorporated footage from the 1990s documentary Wildflowers of the Cajun Prairie by filmmaker Pat Muir: “It features many of the scientists who now, 30 years later, are in our film. To be able to include his footage from the original film was really special.” Phyllis points to these scientists, such as Dr. Malcolm Vidrine and Dr. Charles Allen, as the original visionaries: “They were really the ones who were able to communicate why it’s important, why it’s a significant part of our local cultural heritage, and they’re still doing that to this day.” Hope Instead of Doom: Telling an Environmental Story Differently Rather than present an environmental crisis narrative rooted in despair, Louisiana Grass Roots uplifts viewers by highlighting those actively restoring the land. Phyllis said of Jillian: “When you see that something is disappearing, there’s that sense of doom, and Jill’s work is about environmental commitment and stewardship. How do you convey the seriousness and urgency without a sense of doom? She does that by saying, yes, these are important things, and look at the people who are doing something about it.” Jillian affirmed the intention behind this filmmaking approach: “Filmmaking is the pinnacle of art mediums because it’s so immersive… you’re seeing and hearing and feeling and going along on a journey. It can be used for both good and bad. It’s always been really important to me to use it as a tool for positive change.” Jillian emphasized her goal: “I don’t want to contribute to this feeling of doom and gloom… I would hope that all of us are able to appreciate the landscapes that surround us enough to want to be inspired to be involved in saving them and protecting them and celebrating them.” Film as Education, Film as Transformation The impact of Louisiana Grass Roots is not merely informational—it is transformational. Phyllis shared a definition that guided her vision: “The definition of learning is that the quality of your experience of the world changes. If the world doesn’t look different after you studied, then you probably haven’t really learned anything.” That transformation begins with awareness. “When you drive down the road, you see fields or pasture and almost no one calls that prairie. But that’s what it is. My goal was that when you drive down the road, your eyes now see prairie.” Jillian shared her personal transformation in making the film: “Making this film helped me feel really grounded here. I’ve installed a 20 by 20 little pocket prairie in my yard. My children help me take care of those plants. It’s become part of my life.” Phyllis took it even further, restoring 30 acres of family land: “Steve Nevitt said, ‘I can tell this wants to be prairie again.’ When you become an expert in something, your world looks different.” The Cajun Prairie is not only an ecological treasure; it shaped the culture, music, and identity of Acadiana. This documentary honors the people who carry those traditions forward. Jillian shared how meaningful it was to include musicians and culture bearers whose artistry springs from the land itself: “We filmed with Geno Delafose and that was really special. His family members have been cattle ranchers for generations, and he is the first in his family to have been able to buy the land that he’s working cattle on. His music is in large part shaped by the land that his family has been working for generations. The film also features Grammy-nominated musician Blake Miller of The Revelers: “He is the son of the prairie himself. It felt very special to be able to include him in the project, as well as Megan Constantin.” Phyllis reflected on the deep connection between land, heritage, and identity in South Louisiana: The prairie is also a story of many peoples, not just one label: “We’ve lumped everything together as Cajun, but we have Indigenous heritage, African American heritage, Creole heritage, Irish, Scottish, German — we’re a blend. Most of us are mutts. And the land shaped all of us.” Indigenous Knowledge & The Power of Fire One of the most powerful lessons from Louisiana Grass Roots comes from Indigenous stewardship practices, shared by Dr. Jeffrey Darensbourg: “The land, when it was being managed by Indigenous practices, was actively being managed. We think of wilderness, but they were very aware of how to manage the land in a way that was sustainable.” This includes fire — a natural and necessary part of prairie ecology.  One of the big drivers of prairie health and restoration were prescribed burns. When you burn, you bring up fresh growth which brings in more bison. We grew up with Smokey the Bear, but those burns have been critical.” The documentary reframes our understanding of “wild land,” showing that nature thrives when people work with it, not against it. Where the Prairie Lives Today Phyllis shares where remnants of the Cajun Prairie can still be found: “The biggest tracts are south of Lake Charles. Some are on railroad rights-of-way, because mowing and burning for maintenance accidentally mimicked natural prairie processes.” And on private family lands: “There are lots of families who have acreage. Maybe the land is no longer farmed, and they can get federal support to restore prairie ecosystems. It builds soil and has benefits for farmers.” How the Film Was Made Jillian described the painstaking work of capturing a lost landscape: “Lists and lists and sleepless nights… I like to have a good plan, but you need to be flexible because you’re documenting real life.” The film took more than two years, with over 30 hours of footage edited down to 28 minutes: “We worked with a wonderful local editor, R. J. Comeaux… he did an amazing job.” Louisina Grass Roots was filmed locally with an all local crew. Directed by Jillian Godshall Produced by Dr. Phyllis Baudoin Griffard Featuring Geno Delafose, Megan Constantin, Dr. Jeffery Darensbourg, Dr. Charles Allen, Dr. Malcolm Vidrine, Larry Allain, and Steve Nevitt. Director of Photography Rush Jagoe Additional Camera Drake LeBlanc and Jillian Godshall Drone André Daugereaux Sound Jillian Godshall and Rachel Nederveld Swing/G&E Drake LeBlanc Associate Producer Rachel Nederveld Production Assistant Maggie Russo Editor and Colorist RJ Comeaux Post Production Supervisor Allison Bohl Dehart Animation Camille Broussard Archival Footage Pat Mire Score Blake Miller Additional Music Geno Delafose Supported by Acadiana Center for the Arts, Cajun Prairie Habitat Preservation Society, Atchafalaya National Heritage Area, Louisiana Native Plant Society, University of Louisiana at Lafayette Foundation, Acadiana Native Plant Project Screenings & How to Watch The documentary has already been shown to enthusiastic audiences across Acadiana — from Vermilionville to Moncus Park — often alongside seed-collecting and restoration events: “By the end of the year, we will have screened the film 20 times.” Upcoming screenings include: NUNU Collective, Arnaudville — November 14 Southern Screen Film Festival — Mid-November Crowley Forum — The film is currently touring community screenings, with future plans to stream online and enter schools and libraries. There are also plans for curriculum pieces and educational video modules. . If you are interested in having the 30-min film screened in your area, please contact Dr. Griffard at ourlouisianabio@gmail.com. Follow the project for updates: 📷 Instagram & Facebook: Louisiana Grass Roots Final Reflections This documentary is not simply about plants — it is about place, identity, and stewardship. Phyllis said it beautifully: “The definition of learning is that the quality of your experience of the world changes.” Jillian added: “I hope all of us are able to appreciate the landscapes that surround us enough to be inspired to protect them and celebrate them.” Dr. Phyllis Baudoin Griffard and Jillian Godshall

Heidi McDonald and Jason Stoner, the passionate duo behind Foodies of Lafayette and the Lafayette Community Fridge Program, join Discover Lafayette. Their mission blends a love for local restaurants with compassion for those facing food insecurity — all while promoting dignity, kindness, and connection within the Lafayette community. The Origin of Foodies of Lafayette Heidi McDonald founded Foodies of Lafayette as a Facebook group to celebrate good restaurants and people in the region, with one caveat — no negativity allowed. “I basically have two careers at this point,” she shared. “I don’t think that I fully comprehended in the beginning what it could be, what that impact could be. Jason came on board early on and made me see some things that I didn’t — just how it could grow, the organicness of the friendships that were happening and the power behind that.” With over 112,000 followers at the time of recording this interview (and 113,700 a week later), Foodies of Lafayette has become a true culinary movement that uplifts both local restaurants and the people who enjoy them. The Birth of the Lafayette Community Fridge The Lafayette Community Fridge Program came under Foodies’ umbrella in late 2024. Jason explained, “The Lafayette Community Fridge was started in 2021 by another group of individuals. By the end of last year, only a couple of people were left, and Erinn Quinn, reached out to us and said, ‘Hey, would you like to take this over as a Foodies thing?’” Jason admitted he felt an instant calling: “I really wanted to take this on. Heidi let me have it. I said, ‘I’ll handle most of the work, but I really want this.’ So she allowed me to have this baby, and it’s dear to me.” Through Foodies’ reputation and community reach, people came forward to help. Jason said, “One of our first needs was to collect $30 a month for the electricity at McMillan’s Pub to run the utilities for the fridge. We don’t want Robin to come out of her pocket. We need to provide that. We had so many people donating that $30 and they’re like, how much do you need? Some would say, here’s six months. That paid us through 2026.“ How the Fridge Works The Lafayette Community Fridge has two locations — at McMillan’s Pub (2905 East Simcoe) in Lafayette and T-Boy’s in Abbeville. It is open 24/7 to anyone who needs food or wishes to contribute. And it is not just food that is needed; the sites also need power, regular maintenance, and clean outs. Jason described how restaurants donate fresh, ready-to-eat meals rather than just shelf-stable goods. “There’s so much waste,” he said. “Why can’t we just be a little more efficient with organizing where it goes instead of the trash can?” He praised Toby and Joey Lagneaux, owners of Lagneaux’s, for stepping up early: “We’ve got a lot of food coming off the buffet daily. Toby said, ‘Absolutely. We’ve been throwing it away. I would rather it go somewhere.’” To keep meals safe, Taylor’s International donated 6,000 three-compartment Styrofoam containers, and Seth Randall of Logic Refrigeration provided a double commercial fridge. “No one touches the food between Lagneaux’s and the fridge,” Jason emphasized. “It’s picked up and taken directly to the fridge.” Community Participation and Dignity For Heidi, the heart of the program is dignity. “It’s not less dignified to need something,” she said. “We just don’t know people’s stories. What if they’re getting it for their entire family? Or for a whole neighborhood because there’s only one vehicle? We all have the ability to give back. It’s not going to hurt us.” She continued, “Just because someone is coming and picking up a meal from the fridge doesn’t necessarily mean that they don’t have anything to offer, because we can all help each other. It’s been really beautiful watching people come to pick up dinner and then realizing, ‘Oh, I have an extra can of something at home that I haven’t been using. I can come and put that and help somebody else.’ There’s strength in that. That’s the resiliency of our people — our ability to come together and love each other.” Volunteer Infrastructure and Sustainability Running the program requires daily dedication. “Getting volunteers organized is the big uphill battle,” Heidi noted. “People want to help, but they get busy.” Jason keeps operations running smoothly with “Sign Me Up Genius,” an online volunteer scheduler. “We’ve got close to 40 people that have volunteered,” he said. “They volunteer their own vehicle, their gas… it takes 45 minutes, maybe an hour. The volunteers collectively drive about 650 miles a month, and are estimated to deliver approximately 9,000 meals in this first year. Impact Stories Community generosity comes in all forms. “One of the gentlemen I work with, Craig Stelly, when he’s got a couple of extra hours on the weekend, he’ll cook 20 or 30 plate lunches — a gumbo or lasagna — and just go drop it off,” Heidi said. “We’ve got grannies that make a couple extra batches of cookies. Everybody thinks to donate canned goods, but not very many people donate all the good stuff.” The Nonprofit and Its Board When Foodies took over the fridge, they also inherited its nonprofit status. “It was already a 501(c)(3), and Heidi and I moved the ownership over to our board,” Jason explained. “We do have a board for the community fridge. It’s a great board of people, and we thank them for sitting on it.” Community Potluck and Fundraising The group’s Foodies Potluck at Lagneaux’s is an upcoming fundraiser for the Lafayette Community Fridge being held on November 2, 2025. “We invite members to bring a dish, a way to serve that dish, and a nonperishable for the fridge,” Jason said. “There were about 150 attendees last year — that’s 150 dishes. This year, it booked 200 people in under two weeks.” Heidi added, “This is a fundraiser for the fridge now. There’ll be door prizes, an auction, and great items donated by local businesses. It’s truly a community effort.” Vision for the Future Heidi and Jason hope to continue expanding their reach, and when asked what a dream wish would be, Jason shared, “We would really love, love, love to bring Lafayette a food festival. With music, food, chefs — because in our area, food is equal to music in terms of importance.” They also are looking to expand their Culinary Excellence Awards beyond Lafayette Parish. “There are great restaurants outside Lafayette that deserve recognition too.” How to Get Involved While the original Lafayette Community Fridge Facebook page remains inactive due to lost credentials of its previous managers, most updates and volunteer opportunities are shared through the Foodies of Lafayette Facebook group. “The best way is still through Foodies of Lafayette,” Jason said. “You’ll see posts with a ‘Sign Me Up Genius’ link. It’s highlighted on the page and connects you to everything — volunteer, donate, or just get involved.” A Community of Giving “It’s nice to be able to use the Foodies of Lafayette voice for good,” Heidi said. “It’s nice to know that if I’m really in need and I throw out, ‘I need drivers now,’ people will step up and say, ‘We got you.’” Jason summed it up perfectly: “This is a community fridge. It’s your fridge. It’s all of our fridge — to put food in or take food out. It takes a village.”

Our guest, Dr. Caroline Jurisich, joins Discover Lafayette to discuss her inspiring work with The Quad, a Lafayette-based program helping adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities continue learning, building independence, and forming meaningful social connections after leaving school. A Lifelong Passion for Education and Inclusion Originally from North Louisiana, Caroline earned her bachelor’s degree in communications from LSU and initially worked in that field. But her career path changed after she began working with students who had emotional and behavioral challenges. She went on to earn her Master’s at UL Lafayette and taught in the Lafayette Parish School System before being recruited to help develop and teach in UL LIFE, an inclusive post-secondary education program for students with intellectual disabilities. “When I started with UL LIFE in 2014, there were about 200 programs like it in the country,” she recalled. “Now, there are 364.” The program, which began as a small pilot with local students, has since expanded to 35 students from across the U.S. who live on campus, participate in university classes, and are fully integrated into campus life. As the program grew, Caroline noticed a troubling pattern: “Once these students graduated, they secured employment, but there was still a gap in opportunities for continued learning and in maintaining the skills they’d developed.” That realization led her to found The Quad in 2023. Filling the Gap After Graduation Located in the Oil Center at 1021 E St Mary Blvd., Suite A, The Quad serves adults aged 18 to 62 who have completed high school or college-based programs and are seeking continued education, social engagement, and life skills training. “I’m a big believer in building a strong foundation before branching out,” Caroline said. “We’re focused on what we call learning sessions—structured, engaging opportunities to develop practical skills without feeling like school.” The Quad offers 26 sessions a week, each about real-world abilities: Money Smarts: budgeting, banking, and financial literacy. Vocational Training: preparing for, securing, and maintaining employment. Social and Relationship Skills: navigating family, friendship, and workplace dynamics. Independent Living Skills: cooking, meal planning, grocery budgeting, and household management in their full kitchen lab. Each session is small and tailored. “We want to make sure it’s meaningful for every individual,” she said. “Independence doesn’t necessarily mean doing it all by yourself—it means knowing when to ask for help, knowing your strengths, and building on both.” The Quad also emphasizes community engagement. Members participate in service projects such as filling the Lafayette Community Fridge, supporting Second Harvest, and organizing toy drives. “We remind our members that to be an active, engaged part of your community, you also have to give back,” Caroline said. Creating Belonging and Connection Social isolation after leaving school is a major challenge for adults with disabilities. Caroline has seen firsthand how The Quad helps bridge that gap. “There’s so much research on the impact of isolation—higher rates of depression and anxiety once individuals leave school,” she explained. “At The Quad, they have a space for connection, shared experiences, and casual practice of social skills.” Each Friday, The Quad hosts Happy Hour—a relaxed afternoon where members gather for games, conversation, and community. “Some play air hockey, some just hang out. For many, weekends can be isolating, so this helps fill that gap with friendship and laughter.” Members often form their own social groups. “We’ve had young men who didn’t know each other before The Quad but now meet regularly to play cards or go out to lunch together. That’s huge.” A Member-Focused Community Caroline insists on calling participants members, not clients. “They’re adults. This isn’t a sterile environment—it’s their space. Just like being a member of the Junior League or City Club, they belong here.” The Quad currently serves just over 30 members but has capacity for three times that number within its 3,600-square-foot facility. “We’ve been intentional about growth,” she said. “After two years, we know what works and what doesn’t. Now we’re looking to expand services like occupational therapy, counseling, and business partnerships for employment training.” Funding and the Fight for Modern Support The Quad is currently a private pay organization, but Caroline is working toward broader funding options. “We’d love to be a Medicaid provider. The process is complex, but we’re partnering with Louisiana Rehabilitation Services to support members focused on vocational skills.” She noted that current federal and state funding systems often don’t fit modern models like The Quad. “We’re not an adult daycare. We’re supplemental to a well-rounded life that includes work and community involvement. But because we don’t fit old categories, our members can’t use certain funding. That’s something we’re working hard to change.” The Meaning Behind the Name The name The Quad is both personal and symbolic. “I kept drawing four boxes—body, mind, heart, spirit—when I was brainstorming about what to name this endeavor. My mom saw it and said, ‘What about The Quad?’ It just clicked.” The name also nods to college life. “On every campus, the Quad is where people gather. I wanted our members to say, ‘I’m a member of The Quad,’ just like anyone else says they belong somewhere.” Looking Ahead Caroline envisions The Quad as a model for lifelong inclusion. “We want to grow thoughtfully—add more members, expand our services, and deepen our partnerships with local businesses,” she said. “It’s about helping people live their best, most connected, and independent lives.” When asked about what she’s learned most through this journey, she smiled: “Patience. And the importance of admitting when something doesn’t work. It’s not failure if you learn from it.” Outside of work, Caroline enjoys Lafayette’s festivals and community life with her two children. “Anything Lafayette offers—we’re there.” Learn More To learn more about The Quad, visit thequadusa.com, call 337-999-QUAD (7823), email thequadusa@outlook.com, or follow @thequadlouisiana on social media. Caroline also welcomes collaborations with local businesses, organizations, and individuals who share her mission: “Even if you don’t know exactly how we could work together—reach out. We’ll find a way.”

Fabian Patin, a Lafayette architect whose name has become synonymous with the preservation and beautification of Rotary Point, a peaceful sanctuary on the Bayou Vermilion, joins Discover Lafayette to discuss his decades-long dedication to Lafayette’s waterways and the enduring spirit of civic service that drives the Rotary Club of Lafayette. He has been a loyal member of the club for decades. Origins of Rotary Point and the Bayou Vermilion Revival Rotary Point came to life in the 1980s through a partnership among the Rotary Clubs of Lafayette, the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, and the creation of Bayou Vermilion District. At the time, Lafayette was in the throes of the oil bust, and the once-vibrant bayou had fallen into neglect and pollution. Patin recalled how his colleague, attorney, Bob Cole, then Lafayette Chamber president, looked beyond the downturn: “Rather than worrying about it, Bob said, let’s do some things to improve it. We’ve got a bayou; it’s not the best one now, but it can be.” Cole’s optimism led to the creation of a master plan for the Vermilion River. Half the funding came from private citizens and companies, the other half from the City of Lafayette. That plan inspired state legislation to create the Bayou Vermilion District, a nine-member commission—of which Fabian was an original commissioner—charged with implementing restoration and access projects. To secure federal funding under the Dingell-Johnson Act, Lafayette needed a 20 percent local match. Fabian and local leaders convinced the Parish Council to contribute the unused 400-foot right-of-way from West Bayou Parkway to the Vermilion as the local match. The federal funds, championed by then U.S. Senator John Breaux, completed the financing. Fabian recalled, “If you give us the right to use that land for our 20 percent match, that can be our 20 percent—and it worked.” How Rotary Point Got Its Name Initially conceived as a simple boat launch, the site evolved when Fabian—active in both the Bayou Vermilion District and Rotary—saw an opportunity: “If I can go to our Rotary Clubs and say, look, if we call it Rotary Point, I think I can get our clubs to pay for the overlook.” That promise birthed Rotary Point, with local Rotary Clubs funding the overlook while the Bayou Vermilion District handled access improvements. It became one of the first public boat launches on the Vermilion and a shared symbol of civic collaboration. Stewardship and Beautification Through the years, the Bayou Vermilion District has continued major maintenance—most notably replacing the aging wooden bulkhead with steel reinforcements—while the Rotary Club of Lafayette maintains and beautifies the grounds. Fabian, now 81 years of age, can still be found there almost every day: mowing, planting, spreading mulch, or supervising upgrades. The site now features benches, picnic tables, irrigation, flowering azaleas, and majestic live oaks—many planted to honor international Rotary presidents. Fabian explained how community partnerships brought the space to life: Azalea Trail volunteers donated 35 azaleas. Trees Acadiana, led by Sarah Schoeffler, provided and planted dozens of plants and live oaks. Compost from Lafayette Parish enriched the soil, coordinated by Rotarian Stan Messenger, who negotiated increased deliveries of mulch and soil for the park. Dr. Jim Rees established a Peace Pole inscribed in eight languages reading “May peace prevail on Earth.” Centennial Monument and the Sugar Mill Gears In 2020, to commemorate the Rotary Club of Lafayette’s 100th anniversary, Fabian spearheaded the construction of a striking centennial monument. The centerpiece: enormous gears salvaged from historic sugar mills, a visual echo of Rotary’s gear-wheel emblem. “We poured concrete on site. Rotarians learned how to pour concrete.” Despite an initial $100,000 goal reduced by COVID-era constraints to $18,000, local Rotarians secured, transported, and refurbished the multi-ton gears, some weighing up to 12,000 pounds. The result is one of Lafayette’s most unique landmarks. And it was definitely a hands-on project, as Fabian explained: “One of the smallest gears, and that is seven foot four, was around 12,000 pounds. And Stan Messenger had to go pick it up in his truck and man, it was dragging. The mud flaps were flopping on the concrete.” Technology Meets Tradition Recent additions at Rotary Point include Wi-Fi-enabled irrigation and lighting systems, allowing Fabian and contractors to control water and lighting remotely from their phones. Rotary Point even provides free Wi-Fi to visitors—a small example of how the park bridges heritage and modern convenience. Rotary’s Global Mission of Peace and Health Fabian reflected proudly on Rotary International’s broader legacy in eradicating polio worldwide. He explained how Rotary’s global network—trusted across political and cultural lines—enabled vaccination programs even where governments could not reach, aided by Bill Gates’ two-for-one matching grants. Rotary worldwide has contributed more than $2.6 billion to fight polio, including matching funds from the Gates Foundation, and countless volunteer hours since launching its polio eradication program, PolioPlus, in 1985. In 1988, Rotary joined in partnership with the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to form the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. The Gates Foundation and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance later joined. When the initiative launched, there were 350,000 cases of polio every year. Today the incidence of polio has plummeted by more than 99.9 percent. World Polio Day is on October 24, 2025. The Peace Pole, installed in 2023 and dedicated to Fabian, reinforces Rotary’s worldwide pursuit of peace. “Jim Rees (a fellow Rotarian) has believed in the peace pole, which actually was created in the 50s in Japan because of the problems they had in World War II. The concept was to have peace throughout the world. This is Jim’s fourth Peace Pole. It’s a four inch by four inch by various heights. Ours is tall enough to have in eight languages. Basically it says, “May peace prevail on Earth.” A Life in Architecture and Service Beyond Rotary, Fabian built a respected career in architecture. His firm handled diverse work—residential, public, and forensic. After the 1980s oil and gas business downturn, he specialized in forensic architecture, analyzing structural failures and materials, and taught at both UL Lafayette and the University of Illinois. He even chaired the committee that developed North America’s architectural licensing exam. Still keeping current his architect license current, about “99.9% of my work is forensic. Older buildings that are failing or have problems—I like solving them. I’d do it for entertainment.” Looking Ahead: A Foundation for the Future Now 81, Fabian’s focus is ensuring Rotary Point’s long-term survival. “My dream right now is to create a foundation for its long-term survival. That’s my current problem-solving.” He hopes to establish a structure that sustains maintenance and beautification without burdening taxpayers—a “win-win for everyone.” A Passion for Nature and Sailing A master gardener and lifelong sailor who enjoys competitive sailing, Fabian’s hobbies intertwine with his stewardship of Rotary Point. From a family of master gardeners, Fabian figured, “If I’m going to really do some stuff at Rotary Point, I better start learning.” His love of native plants—like the red buckeye, donated by Al Rees—reflects the same thoughtful, hands-on care that defines his civic legacy. Visiting Rotary Point Rotary Point is located at 245 West Bayou Parkway, near South College Road. The park offers boat access, walking trails, and tranquil views of Bayou Vermilion. More information is available through the Bayou Vermilion District and Rotary Club of Lafayette websites. Fabian Patin’s decades of devotion remind us that community improvement begins with stewardship—one tree, one bench, and one problem solved at a time. Rotary Point stands as both a local treasure and a living testament to what vision and persistence can build. We can all live better lives if we ask ourselves the same four questions all Rotarians follow:

Amanda (“Mandy”) Osgood and Tracy Lindberg of Graze Acadiana join Discover Lafayette to discuss their love of creating beautiful food presentations and what it is like to open your own small business. A mother–daughter team who have brought the art of grazing to Lafayette since 2019, this episode is presented in partnership with Lafayette Travel and Eat Lafayette as we spotlight locally owned restaurants and eateries. Located at 113 Arnould Boulevard in Lafayette, Graze Acadiana was built upon the Australian concept of gather and graze, which connects people with beautiful, high-quality food and creating shared experiences around the table. Building a Business Together Mandy reflected on what it means to run a business with her mom: “We spend every single day together and call each other a million times. Building this business together brought us closer. And we just have a really close friendship. So it’s been great. And being business partners, I know a lot of people can’t manage that with family, but it’s been really good for us.” The two are originally from the Mississippi Gulf Coast. “We’re both actually from the Gulf Coast in Mississippi, the Biloxi/Ocean Springs area. And we moved here… Mom moved here about 15 years ago, and I moved here about 13 years ago,” Mandy explained. “I had my first child and she needed to be closer to her grandson. So here we are.” Mandy Osgood and Tracy Lindberg, owners of Graze Acadiana They quickly felt at home. “We fell in love with Lafayette. It’s just so family oriented. Family friendly. Of course, the food’s wonderful and the people are wonderful. And so it was really a place that I wanted to raise my family and wanted to be closer to.” Mandy describes herself as “the creative one” while Tracy brings her restaurant management background and entrepreneurial mindset. “We both love entertaining. We love gathering people together and just making beauty out of simple things,” Mandy added. The Early Days of Grazing Before “charcuterie” was a household word, Tracy and Mandy were already creating lavish spreads. “Back in the day, friends and family would have us do weddings and birthdays and stuff like that. We used to make these massive grazing spreads. We didn’t even know they were called that at the time. We put gorgeous food on the table.” In 2018, they saw the grazing trend explode in Australia. “There were about five places in the entire United States that were doing the grazing thing at that time. Like big cities—Austin, New York. My mom was like, let’s do it.” From the start, they chose to run things professionally. “So from day one, we started in a commercial kitchen. We didn’t do it out of our house,” Mandy explained. But that came with hurdles. Tracy recalled: “What really surprised me… was when we went down to the health department and found out that we had to have the commercial kitchen, and then we had to have a grease trap. Normally people make things at home, but incorporating this in the way we wanted to do it—right or not do it at all—cost tens of thousands of dollars.” Mandy added: “I don’t think any of us knew that we were going to know this much about a grease trap at this point in our lives. My mom scoured plumbing department rules and laws… because grazing was such a new concept. There were no set standards for that. We had to figure all that out.” Surviving COVID By 2019, Graze Acadiana had opened its first storefront off Kaliste Saloom Road. “Things were booming and going and we were growing… educating people what the charcuterie world was about because it just wasn’t that popular here,” Amanda recalled. Then the pandemic hit. Their tagline had been “Gathering Grapes.” Amanda laughed: “And Covid said, no, you don’t. So we had to start changing our concept and work with that.” They shifted from large spreads to individual options. “We started doing petite boxes, little individual charcuterie portions and jars,” Mandy said. With only a handful of staff, it was mainly mother and daughter running things. “In those first two years, I think we had two employees, maybe three… but it was pretty much me and Mom,” Mandy explained. They also leaned on curbside pickup: “No one could really have a lot of people in the shop. So we would run out and do curbside delivery with charcuterie.” Expanding to Arnould Boulevard in Lafayette LA By 2021, the demand outgrew their small kitchen. “In January 2021, we actually signed a lease for the building that we’re in now, on Arnold Boulevard, in the Jason’s Deli parking lot off of Johnson Street. And we love that location. Our kitchen quadrupled in size, which made us so happy,” Mandy said. The central location made a difference. “When you’re working the kind of work that we do, you’re spending so much time in the kitchen. So it made a huge difference for us,” she added. What Goes on a Board? Graze Acadiana has built a reputation for abundant, well-paired boards. Mandy explained: “Our boards have at least five cheeses, two different charcuterie meats, fresh fruits, dried fruits, nuts, cornichons, olives, jams, and pickles. We say there’s a little bit of something for everyone on those boards.” She added a key philosophy: “Cheese needs a friend. If you went and bought a block of goat cheese at the store and shoved that in your mouth, that’s not going to be that great. But when it’s paired with those other items that complement it well, it is enjoyable.” Popular meats include salami, chorizo, and prosciutto, paired with cheeses like Brie, aged cheddar, cranberry Wensleydale, and blue cheese. The duo takes pride in sourcing locally. “From day one we’ve always used Noni’s Kitchen jams and pepper jellies… and we’ll visit the farmers market every few months and see if there’s any new people we can have in our shop,” Mandy said. Tracy noted how supportive Lafayette’s food community is: “It doesn’t matter if you’re an attorney or a doctor or what. Everybody’s just so friendly, and they all just want to help each other. It’s not really a competition either. It’s everyone supporting each other.” Who They Serve Their boards serve every occasion—from weddings and showers to everyday lunches. “Every moment is worth celebrating,” Mandy emphasized. “We make pre-made options every single day, you can just walk in… everything from a little $8 box to an $89 box.” Clients range from pharmaceutical reps ordering for doctors to schools rewarding staff, to families grabbing platters for weekend parties. “I’ve had people pick up one for their doctor after going through a medical journey,” Mandy said. Even kids love it. “Adults sometimes see that beautiful thing and no one wants to touch it yet because it’s too pretty to eat. And the kids, they just dig in,” Mandy shared. Beyond Charcuterie: Olive Oil & Vinegar Bar Graze Acadiana also offers an olive oil tasting bar with more than 60 premium oils and vinegars. “They are super healthy, super high in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties,” Mandy explained. Nutritionists and doctors send clients who are making lifestyle changes. Some even use vinegars as wine substitutes. “You can actually put balsamic vinegar in sparkling water and you have like a little tasty refresher. A mocktail,” Mandy shared. Community Events Graze Acadiana hosts monthly and seasonal gatherings: Build-a-Board Nights (teaching guests how to assemble charcuterie boards) Sip and Sample Nights featuring oils and vinegars in food and drinks Evoo & You Recipe Club every last Thursday of the month (“It’s like an elevated potluck… I have been blown away. There are amazing cooks in Lafayette.”) Mandy described Evoo & You as “such a comfortable, fun night… more so a learning experience, a community, just get people together, spend time together, and enjoy some good food.” Looking Ahead While Tracy and Mandy don’t plan to expand beyond their current location, they’re always adding products and new ideas. “We’re content where we are, but we’re always changing things,” Mandy said. “Right now, especially since we have a great team at Graze, we’re able to try new things and add new products. Of course, with the olive oil, we have shipping kicking off really well.” Tracyy summed it up: “I would love the public to know you can come in any day that we’re open. At our olive oil tasting bar, we have fresh bread, you can taste everything, you can try everything. The health benefits are phenomenal… It really changed my life in the kitchen.” Visit Graze Acadiana Graze Acadiana is open Tuesday–Friday 9:30 AM–5:00 PM, and Saturday 9:30 AM–3:00 PM at 113 Arnould Boulevard in Lafayette. Sign up for their newsletter and find out more at grazeacadiana.com to be the first to hear about ticketed events. What a wonderful affirmation of the creative spirits in Acadiana! Thanks to Mandy, Tracy, and our sponsors for making this interview possible!

We welcome Broussard Mayor Ray Bourque, a lifelong resident of Broussard who has dedicated his career to public service and business. Before being elected mayor in 2018, he served eight years as a city councilman for District 3 and has co-owned Touche Printing and Signs for more than three decades. He also served as board president of the Broussard Chamber of Commerce. Most importantly, he has supported community projects that enhance quality of life for his city’s residents, such as expanded recreational facilities and infrastructure improvements that keep up with Broussard’s rapid growth. A Growing City with Deep Roots Mayor Bourque highlighted Broussard’s rapid growth: “Our recent census estimate from LSU in the state puts Broussard at 17,300 people, roughly. And back in the 2020 census, we were 13,400 people. So we are growing rapidly, exponentially.” Despite the growth, the mayor emphasizes community values: “I always say to people in Broussard that we’re all neighbors. I’ve grown up there. I have so many lifelong friends that knew me since I was a child that are in Broussard. But we also have so many new residents because we’re a growing community.” The Three Pillars of Leadership When making decisions for the city, Mayor Bourque and the City Council focus on “Public safety, quality of life and economic development. When we’re making decisions on a project or an initiative, we try to make sure it checks at least two of those boxes. “Those three things are very relatable, that one cannot wholly exist without the other. If you’re doing a quality of life initiative, it is generally good for economic development and vice versa. And public safety is just an umbrella that captures it all. If we don’t have a safe community, then all the other things are held back. We can’t invite people to move, or to spend time, or to come spend money in our community without providing a safe community. But it starts with a culture of our employees in Broussard, really focusing on hospitality. If you call city government, do you feel like that person is trying to help you on the other end of the phone? Or if you have a question or a problem and we come out and meet with you, sometimes the answer is no, but you can say no in a professional way. The goal is to try to help people, because everyone deserves to be valued, especially by their city government, because we’re really serving those people. We have to do intentional work, and that intentional work is to grow our community, to invest in our own economy, to control that economy if we can, because it’s the driver to help us fund police departments and fire departments and all the initiatives that we want to do in Broussard. So getting new customers in our city for our businesses to be able to work with is important.” Business-Friendly Policies Broussard has long attracted businesses by not levying a city property tax or inventory tax: “It’s worked for us. Sales tax is our driver, which means we have to have people working in our city. We have to have commerce in our city. That’s how we drive our tax revenues and can fund police, fire, etc.” He sees the city’s role as being a partner to business owners: “Our job is to cultivate an environment where people can be successful and businesses can be successful. Ultimately we win or lose together.” Infrastructure and Economic Development Preparedness is key: “If a business wants to place a facility in your city…and I have to say no, but in two years I can be ready, they’re going somewhere else. We’re not waiting on that. We’re building it now.” Broussard has master plan underway for water, drainage, and downtown redevelopment. The city recently secured a $3,710,000 grant from  the State of Louisiana, Office of Community Development – Water Sector Commission for water system improvements. The Water Sector Program – Phase 2 grant award will be  used to help fund the city’s water system improvement master plan. The $10 million, five-part water system master plan was developed in July 2024 and is a  blueprint to expand and enhance the city’s water supply system by upgrading storage,  capacity, water system modeling, system rehabilitation, and interconnectivity.   To keep up with its growth, a master plan called Envision Broussard has been in the works to refresh and revitalize Broussard’s Main Street and its historic downtown. The plan includes new additions designed to make the city more walkable and bikeable. The oaks along Main Street have been trimmed. “You couldn’t buy a 300 year old oak tree to put on Main Street and put a light on it. When we were doing all this planning, we saw these oak trees overgrown, full of poison ivy.. And we said, why aren’t we doing something this with? We probably have 15 or 20 of them on that drive into Main Street. Let’s light them up at night. Let’s clean them up. Let’s make it look better. And the result was phenomenal.” Collaboration Across the Parish “We have some very strong mayors in our parish right now, some of which I’ve worked for with for a long time. There is an attitude of cooperation. You go through a couple of hard times like hurricanes, floods, or Covid, and you see relationships where you can lean on each other. The people that jump up and help each other are the other cities. That is good for the people of this parish. We need to spend our time raising the bar on what’s possible in our area, not worrying about local politics. The level of Broussard’s success is raised higher by the success of the other communities around us. When they’re doing well, we can do better, and that’s an important thing to focus on.” Quality of Life Initiatives Broussard continues to be recognized statewide: Second Cleanest City in Louisiana (Louisiana Garden Club) Ranked among the Best Suburbs to Live in Louisiana One of the Top Ten Safest Cities in Louisiana The city hosts family-friendly events such as the upcoming inaugural Monsters on Main family event coming up on October 10, 2025. “You can be a walking group, a bicycle group, or a golf cart group, going down Main Street. We’re going to give out some trophies for Spookiness and so on.” Mayor Bourque also praised the Broussard Sports Complex at St. Julien Park: “When we first built that park, we wanted it to be as clean as Disney World. And that park stays clean. The staff took that very seriously, and they have a lot of pride in their work.” “Our city council recently funded a $9 million expansion of St. Julien Park, so we’re adding pickleball courts, 16 of which will be under a giant pavilion. We’re adding an observation deck and a pro shop. It’s an expansion of the tennis facility into pickleball. New parking lot and a Veterans Memorial. That is something we’ve been working on for a while. And the council supported it heavily and we just funded it. Phase one is out for bid right now. For more info on St. Julien Park, visit https://www.broussardsportscomplex.com/ “Zoosiana (which is privately owned) is within the city limits of Broussard. What an asset they are. I mean, how many cities can say they have a zoo in their city?” Looking Ahead Mayor Bourque hopes his legacy is simple: “I’d like people to think that I cared about it genuinely, and I did a good job, and I was doing the right things for the community… I would like to leave it better than I found it.” On advice for future leaders thinking of seeking an elected office: “If you want to help people, it’s a good place to be. But there’s a lot to learn. So listen more than you talk. Respect the ones that are there before you and try to learn something before you get in there. And then go in there and lead with love.” “I love talking about Broussard. Our city is evolving. People evolve as the years go by. Cities are the same way. They have personalities like people, and it’s the same as our families. What are we? What are we spending time on? What are we investing in? You know, intentional work, right. Those things are very important. So I’m blessed to be here. I’m happy to be here. I’m going do the best I can for as long as I can.”

Our guest today is Chad Sonnier, Director of the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (OHSEP) for Lafayette Parish. With over four decades of service in fire protection and emergency response, Chad Sonnier brings unmatched experience to the role of coordinating disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts across federal, state, and local agencies, nonprofits, and the private sector. “I was 18 years old, hired to be in the fire service and helping people in their time of need. It is something I’ve really become accustomed to, and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. I mean, people call 911 at their worst time of day or worst time in their life, and, we’re there to help them, that’s what we’re there for.” Chad served as City of Scott’s Fire Chief before being named to his current post. He had served with the Lafayette Fire Department for years before his appointment with the City of Scott. Over the course of his career, Chad has worked as a hazmat technician, fire engineer, fire coordinator, and hazmat chief. In 2020, he was inducted into the Louisiana Fire Chiefs Hall of Fame—a testament to his lifelong passion for public safety. “Helping people is my passion. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else,” Chad Sonnier shares. A Newly Formed Office The department was officially created in 2024 by Lafayette Mayor-President Monique Boulet, who recognized the growing federal and state mandates in emergency management and the need to keep her community safe. It now operates independently of 911 services, with a broader scope that includes emergency responses to events such as hurricanes, mass gatherings like Mardi Gras, hazardous material accidents, and unexpected “no-notice” events such as train derailments. This year in 2025, for the first time, Lafayette’s Emergency Operations Center partially activated its services during Mardi Gras. Agencies including fire, police, Acadian Ambulance, local hospitals, and even federal partners like the FBI and ATF, worked side by side to ensure public safety. “When you’re face to face in the same room, communications are so much better,” Chad explains. Beyond Hurricanes: Preparedness in Action While hurricanes are top of mind for many residents, Chad addressed the wide range of emergencies his office addresses to help those most in need: Warming and cooling centers – Established for residents without reliable heating or air conditioning, with help from partners such as Catholic Charities, Red Cross, and even private companies like Stines, which donated large cooling fans. Volunteer organizations – Hundreds of volunteers with local nonprofits and faith-based groups (VOADs) play an essential role in long-term recovery. These groups often provide building supplies, roof repairs, and mold remediation for families still suffering from past storms. College partnerships – Student-athletes contribute required service hours by assisting disaster victims, creating meaningful community connections. Chad reflects, “I was taken aback by how many people are willing to help, especially in Lafayette Parish. If it wasn’t for these nonprofits, I don’t know where a lot of people would be today.” Planning Ahead and Responding Fast Chad contrasts his years as a firefighter—where speed and immediate action are critical—with the long-term strategic planning required in his current role. Chad Sonnier served as Fire Chief of the City of Scott for 23 years His office scripts hurricane responses a week in advance of landfall, but also prepares in advance for sudden emergencies that occur without warning. “No-notice events” like hazardous material spills require rapid mobilization of shelters, water, food, and safe housing, often within an hour to ninety minutes. Recreation centers, the Cajundome, and other facilities are pre-designated as shelters or reunification centers, ensuring displaced residents can quickly reconnect with loved ones. A new IT-driven reunification system allows families to upload identifying details and photos of missing loved ones, giving hospitals and responders immediate access to information during a disaster. “Pictures make all the difference,” Chad emphasizes, noting lessons learned from past Louisiana crises. Before Mayor-President Monique Boulet’s administration, LCG did not have designated reunification centers. In the event of a large-scale or no-notice disasters, such as major flooding, families had no single point of contact to locate or receive information about loved ones. Today, through the leadership of OHSEP, and Mayor-President Boulet, reunification plans are in place. Multiple recreational centers throughout the parish have been pre-identified to serve as reunification centers. Within 30 minutes of an event, a site can be activated and ready to receive families. The reunification process is supported by a new IT platform developed by Lafayette Parish. Family members can enter identifying information about missing loved ones, including distinguishing features such as tattoos. Area hospitals are connected to the system, allowing staff to search for patients using those details. This coordinated effort makes it possible to quickly identify and reunite families, with responders able to say, “Your loved one is at this location,” and ensure a safe handoff. Tools, Technology, and Preparedness Tips OHSEP has adopted cutting-edge technology such as geofencing, which enables targeted emergency alerts to people in specific areas. Chad encourages all residents to plan ahead for unexpected events by doing the following: Sign up for “Lafayette Now” alerts to receive real-time emergency notifications. Visit https://www.lafayettela.gov/communications-media/lafayette-now to sign up. Maintain a 3- to 4-day “go bag” with essentials such as food, water, medications, cash, charged power banks, pet supplies, and important documents (protected in waterproof storage). Remember critical medical needs like insulin storage and access to dialysis centers, which are prioritized in disaster planning. Chad also underscored the importance of taking care of pets in family safety plans: “We’ve learned that pets are just as important as children or spouses. Our shelters provide space, food, and water for pets so families can stay together.” Shelters are equipped with spaces for your beloved pets and food to sustain them (Look up quote from download) Volunteers and Community Resilience Lafayette Parish’s ability to recover depends on volunteers, but Chad points out that many leave with their families during evacuations, cutting the available workforce in half. He encourages listeners to get involved through Acadiana VOAD, choosing from opportunities to assist with sheltering, food distribution, or recovery efforts. A Personal Note Outside of emergency management, Chad and his wife enjoy traveling in their motorhome in their free time. He recalled the rare peace of being disconnected during a cruise they took, joking that his phone “sounded like a slot machine” once it reconnected to a signal as they approached land. He jumped back in to the fray, happy to help those who reached out. Listening to this podcast, you will understand the commitment that Chad Sonnier has to public safety and his job. Final Thoughts Chad Sonnier’s commitment to public safety is unwavering. From planning large-scale emergency responses to ensuring Lafayette’s most vulnerable residents have access to shelter and support, his leadership ensures that the parish is prepared for both the expected and the unexpected. For more information, visit https://www.lafayettela.gov/ohsep/home

Warren Abadie, the Director of Traffic, Roads and Bridges for Lafayette Consolidated Government, brings over two decades of experience in traffic management. He discusses the challenges of overseeing 190 traffic signals and the complexities of urban traffic flow. Warren shares insights into using technology for better traffic signal synchronization and addresses community concerns about road repairs. He also highlights the importance of developing bike infrastructure for safety and accessibility, emphasizing collaborative efforts in civic engineering.

Russ Hosmer, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and national-champion bodybuilder, shares his inspiring journey and mission as the founder of Constant Progression. He discusses the significance of disciplined routines and the transformative power of mindset. Russ delves into self-care techniques for mental well-being, highlighting the impact of nutrition and personal hobbies. He also addresses the challenges of PTSD, offering practical strategies for resilience and the importance of emotional intelligence in personal growth.

Today we welcome Tim Metcalf, a Lafayette entrepreneur whose name is tied to some of Acadiana’s most beloved establishments. Owner of Deano’s Pizza, Prejean’s Restaurant, and Marcello Wine Market, along with ventures in real estate, storage, and assisted living, Tim has built his life around preserving local traditions while bringing fresh ideas to our community. A Family Legacy in Restaurants Tim’s entrepreneurial roots trace back to his father, who left behind a thriving restaurant career in California where his pizzeria drew in celebrities and locals alike. Fess Parker and Steve McQueen were regulars as they could hang out in the days before paparazzi. “He left very successful restaurants in California just because he didn’t like the political, sociological climate. He was a country boy, an Idaho potato farmer, and the fast lifestyle of California didn’t sit well with him.” A Korean War veteran, his father moved the family to Lafayette in 1970, opening Deano’s in 1971. “Lafayette was booming. Oilfield, oil and gas. You know, he just didn’t come to Lafayette on a whim. He read entrepreneurial magazines saying how it was one of the fastest growing cities in the country at the time,” says Tim Metcalf. The original Deano’s on Bertrand Drive was a simple pizzeria: counter service only, draft beer, pizza, a little green salad, and fountain drinks. “You wouldn’t recognize it at all today… when Dad first started, there was no waitress. It was counter service. That didn’t work in Lafayette. He soon changed it.” Deano’s menu from the 1970s. Posted by Mona Bernhard on Lafayette Memories’s Facebook Page. Tim, then ten years old, adapted quickly to Louisiana life after growing up in Santa Barbara. “They said, well, you can trade your surfboard for maybe a horse or a mini bike. I’m like, I’m okay. That sounds good to me.” He helped his dad around their rural property on Ridge Road and learned the value of hard work. ““We had pigs, sheep, rabbits, chickens… and a pretty big garden. Dad had a rototiller — an old Sears knuckle buster — and it was a lot of work, and it all fell on me.” As the youngest of four, Tim shouldered much of the responsibility for cutting grass, working the compost pit, and tending to the garden. “The older ones were in high school and had jobs. So from cutting the grass to road tilling, to manure, to compost, it all fell on me.” Looking back, he credits that hard work with shaping his character. “It taught me some really solid work ethic. I was never afraid of work, and still I’m not.” By the 1980s, Tim had taken over the reins of Deano’s. Recognizing the need to adapt, Tim expanded both the hours and the menu. “When I got aboard, we started lunches and then we started other food and expanding the menu. 1983–84 — we had to do something else.” His biggest shift was weaving Acadiana’s food culture into the pizza kitchen. “That was an awakening — to start taking the Cajun food, the great food that we have in this area, and incorporating it into our pizzas and our menu. Sausages, boudin, shrimp.” Photo by Paul Kieu for the Advertiser Expansion and Adaptation Tim later partnered with his son to open a South Lafayette Deano’s, which quickly became a success. “My son and I have this great working relationship.” When COVID hit, they pivoted to selling pizzas and ranch dressing in grocery stores, personally delivering orders across Acadiana. “We kept our whole staff busy. We didn’t have to lay anybody off.” That resilience fueled further growth. When the Guilbeau family approached him about Prejean’s, Tim stepped in. “I wanted to keep it as pure and original as possible… I wanted to make it the spot in Carencro for the locals to hang out.” Prejean’s: Preserving a Cajun Landmark The opportunity to purchase Prejean’s came unexpectedly. “I had a good customer that goes, hey, you know Bob Guilbeau? He wants to talk to you about Prejean’s. Next thing I know, I talk myself into a deal.” The iconic restaurant located at 3480 NE Evangeline Thruway, in Lafayette, long associated with Cajun culture and music, was sold by the Guilbeau family. “I wanted to keep it as pure and original as possible. I see a picture of his grandfather in the lobby — he’s the original Bob Guilbeau. I wanted Prejean’s to stay a deep place in Carencro for the locals. Cajuns open our doors and let you in, and I wanted Prejean’s to continue that.” He also redesigned the space to make it a welcoming community hub. “A really cool lounge area, not heavy on the music — three days a week if you want it, but also a place where you can have a conversation, network, and meet your neighbors.” Even as Prejean’s was finding new life, Tim was eyeing another opportunity. He purchased the former Trapp’s Restaurant building at 209 S. Morgan Street in Broussard, along with Greg Metcalf and business partner Ken Boudreaux, in September of 2022 “It couldn’t be a Deano’s because pizza kitchens are very different. This one was set up for seafood, so we made it work. And it’s been good — we started doing really well.” He saw Broussard’s growth as key: “A lot of people in Broussard are working on Highway 90, so they’re there for lunch. That’s the big difference — businesses create lunches; rooftops create dinners. Youngsville is more of a bedroom community, but Broussard has both.” Tim’s path to owning Marcello’s Wine Market at 2800 Johnston Street in Lafayette started with a casual visit. “I went into the store and Gene Todaro was there looking tired. He says, hey, you should buy this from me. I’m like, oh, Gene, I’m a restaurant guy. He goes, but this has real estate. I like real estate.” The location on Johnston Street included a large piece of property, making it a natural fit for Tim’s broader business interests. He partnered with Kyle Kellner and UFC fighter Dustin Poirier to acquire the store. While Tim jokes he isn’t a wine expert, he’s far from intimidated. “I took Dick Dowty’s wine course at UL. We’ve been in Napa a few times. I know what I like. I can read a wine list, and I’m never intimidated by it.”Tim also purchased Marcello’s Wine Market with partners Kyle Kellner and UFC fighter Dustin Poirier, adding wine and real estate to his portfolio. Beyond restaurants, Tim has developed storage facilities, assisted living, and commercial strip centers. Building “Rock Stars” in Business Tim is clear about what makes his businesses thrive: culture and people. “Rock stars like to work with rock stars. If you get a rock star and every time you get a rock star to develop, when they leave, it’s on you. You have to develop other rock stars and be that place that rock stars want to work.” He places a high value on attitude over experience: “Hostesses — I don’t care how many places you’ve hosted before. If you can’t smile, I probably don’t want you on my property. Your first and last impression matters.” Staff loyalty runs deep, with employees returning to Deano’s with their children, creating a multi-generational family culture. At Jazz Fest, his team sees the payoff. “To be involved in Jazz Fest, you’ve got to be a rock star. Even if you did last year, you have to apply every year… and people fight over it. They love it.” A Life Beyond the Restaurants Tim also finds renewal in adventure bow hunting, which has taken him from Africa to the Arctic. “It resets my batteries, and it gives me confidence coming back home. If you can sleep with wolves and grizzly bears in freezing temperatures, you can handle anything here.” With four generations now working in his restaurants, Tim is thinking about the future. “I think I have one Deano’s left in me — for my son and for my grandson.”