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Discover Lafayette

Discover Lafayette

著者: Jan Swift
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The Gateway to South LouisianaDiscover Lafayette© 旅行記・解説 社会科学
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  • The Late Robert Daigle – A Look Back at Why He Invested in Upper Lafayette
    2025/05/23
    Robert Daigle on Why He Invested in Upper LafayetteOriginally recorded in October 2013 /Aired on Upper Lafayette On the Move This episode of Discover Lafayette takes us back to an insightful conversation with the late Robert Daigle, the visionary managing partner of River Ranch Development Company and the developer of the Village of River Ranch, a 320-acre traditional neighborhood development that reshaped residential life in Lafayette. In October 2013, Robert addressed an Upper Lafayette Economic Development Foundation meeting to share why he and his team chose to invest in the northern part of Lafayette Parish—an area traditionally overlooked but ripe with potential. His message, filled with clarity and foresight, remains strikingly relevant today as growth continues to expand beyond I-10. David Welch, Robert Daigle, Jan Swift, and Lewis Stirling at an Upper Lafayette Economic Development Foundation meeting in 2013. Robert’s personal connection to Upper Lafayette, having grown up on Louisiana Avenue across from the municipal golf course, sparked his early interest. But sentiment alone didn’t drive his decision. He outlined six strategic reasons that led to the launch of Couret Farms, a smart growth community designed to meet the needs of a modern workforce and lifestyle needs in the northern part of Lafayette Parish: Job Growth – Post-hurricane recovery and shifting insurance priorities led to a surge in businesses relocating north of I-10. Proximity to job centers, including major employers like Halliburton, made Upper Lafayette a natural location for residential development. Real Estate Value – With South Lafayette experiencing saturation and skyrocketing prices, the undeveloped, high, and beautiful land in Upper Lafayette offered both affordability and opportunity. Lack of Competition – As with River Ranch, Daigle sought to create a unique offering. At the time, Upper Lafayette had no smart growth communities, positioning Couret Farms as the only game in town. Community Support – Daigle emphasized the importance of being "wanted." In Carencro, support from Mayor Glenn Brasseaux and a cooperative endeavor to extend utilities exemplified the kind of local partnership he considered essential to success. Access to Retail and Services – Developments flourish when services and shopping are nearby. Daigle cited the Target center and Super 1 Foods as game-changing additions that signaled a tipping point for further investment. Public Education – The long-standing challenge of underperforming schools in Upper Lafayette had been a deterrent. But the winds of change were blowing. Daigle’s commitment to establishing a charter school within Couret Farms showed his belief that quality education is not just a necessity—but a catalyst for community transformation. Robert Daigle breaking ground at Couret Farms, along with Kevin Hawkins and Bobby Hines. Robert closed his talk by urging the community to prioritize education reform, emphasizing that the future of Upper Lafayette hinged on the success of its schools. His legacy continues to inspire development rooted in thoughtful planning, civic cooperation, and long-term community investment. This timeless interview reminds us that true visionaries see not just what is, but what could be—and are willing to take the arrows that come with being pioneers.
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    1分未満
  • Artmosphere Opens Up Under New Leadership – Meet Justin Bennett and his Booking Agent and Sound Engineer, Moose Harris
    2025/05/17
    Discover Lafayette welcomes Justin Bennett, the new owner of Artmosphere, and Anthony Daniels—known to many as Moose Harris—who serves as booking agent and sound engineer for the venue. Moose Harris, Justin Bennett, and Jan Swift at recording Discover Lafayette at RADER. Located at 902 Johnston Street in downtown Lafayette, Artmosphere has long been known as a cultural hub where music, art, and community converge. Now, with Justin at the helm and Moose helping steer the ship, this iconic space is entering a bold new chapter. Justin, originally from Brooklyn by way of Seattle, and his wife Marcela, a talented chef, made their way to Lafayette after the early waves of the pandemic. A former journalist and public information officer for New York City Emergency Management, Justin brings a rare blend of communication savvy and passion for grassroots music culture. His wife, Marcela, runs Lana’s Empanadas food truck—named after their dog!—and previously helped launch the kitchen at Mercy Kitchen. Together, they’ve embraced Lafayette as home and are now pouring their heart and soul into revitalizing Artmosphere. Moose Harris, born and raised in New Iberia and a seasoned music producer, performer, and radio personality, has deep roots in the Louisiana music scene. From his classical and jazz studies under legends like Ellis Marsalis to his frontman days in the Reggae Ska Conspiracy, Moose brings both creative insight and a wealth of experience to the table. Having worked with Artmosphere under its previous ownership, he already knew the venue inside and out—literally holding the keys before Justin ever stepped through the door. What they’re creating together is something special. Gone are the days of Artmosphere being an undefined multipurpose space. "As Justin clearly puts it, this is first and foremost a music venue." A place for curated, intentional nights of music that make sense together—no more scattershot open mic lineups. Under their guidance, Artmosphere is becoming a home for touring artists and a launching pad for local talent. And while the name is slated to change soon, the vision is clear: create a sustainable, artist-respecting space with good music, good food, and good drinks. And about that food—Justin’s East Coast roots are making their mark. From his Italian grandmother’s Sunday sauce to a hearty Irish shepherd’s pie and the promise of Lafayette’s best-poured Guinness, the kitchen is set to impress. Marcela is helping build out the kitchen and train staff, sourcing from local farms to ensure seasonal, delicious offerings. It’s all about quality—from the music to the meatballs. During Festival International, the team soft-launched Artmosphere with eight wildly different events in five days, showcasing everything from hip hop and zydeco to burlesque and R&B. Every act was carefully chosen, every night was intentional. And it’s just the beginning. Moose is already booking shows into the fall, and together they’re building a community around the venue, one great night of music at a time. Soon, a new name will be unveiled along with a new website, including a music blog produced in collaboration with UL Lafayette journalism students. It’s all part of a bigger mission: to make Lafayette a must-stop destination for national touring acts and to elevate the local scene with the respect and support it deserves. We’re grateful for what Justin and Moose are doing—for their commitment to musicians, to our cultural economy, and to downtown Lafayette. It’s time for this. And we’re lucky to have them here. For more, visit Artmosphere’s Facebook page or email benett.management@yahoo.com if you’re interested in performing or getting involved. Stay tuned for the name reveal—we’ll be the first to share it!
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    54 分
  • Celebrating 25 Years of Miles Perret Cancer Services
    2025/05/09
    In this episode of Discover Lafayette, we honor the 25th anniversary of Miles Perret Cancer Services, a nonprofit that has supported more than 27,000 families in Acadiana over the years facing the challenges of a cancer diagnosis. Joining us are Executive Director, Tim Rinaldi and Community Liaison, Sherry Hernandez, two passionate leaders dedicated to advancing the mission and heart of this vital organization. The organization was founded in honor of Miles Perret who tragically died at the age of eight years of age in 2001 from glioblastoma. From this experience, his parents, Hank and Debbie Verret, had the vision to help others in Acadiana fight, survive and live with cancer with dignity and to have access to the services they may need. Miles's legacy lives on through a mission of compassion. The organization provides 100% free support services—from wigs and nutritional supplements to transportation assistance and wellness programs—without income restrictions. Tim Rinaldi shares his deeply personal journey to leading Miles Perret—rooted in his family’s long-standing ties to oncology care—and how faith, entrepreneurship, and a calling to serve intersected to bring him home to Acadiana. He offers insight into the organization’s commitment to both strategic impact and compassionate care, and how building a sustainable, team-driven culture remains central to his vision. Sherry Hernandez, who has served with the organization for eight years, reflects on the full-circle moment that led her from for-profit public relations to her role at Miles Perret. Her lifelong passion for community engagement and her personal experiences with cancer have fueled her dedication to connecting families with resources—at no cost and with no income verification required. Listeners will learn about the many services offered by Miles Perret, including nutritional supplements, wigs, medical supplies, transportation assistance, and a growing wellness program that includes yoga, Pilates, circuit training, and soon, a teaching kitchen. All services are 100% free to cancer patients and their families. We also explore the Games of Acadiana, the nonprofit’s largest and most iconic fundraiser, now celebrating its 25th year. What began as a friendly competition among the Perret brothers as they looked at how to honor Miles' legacy, has evolved into a beloved tradition, including a Birthday Bash Kickoff on Saturday, May 31, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., behind the Bayou Church, followed by a two-week virtual scavenger hunt through the GooseChase app. Participants can complete missions for a chance to win prizes, including a $10,000 grand prize, all while raising awareness and support for the organization. The green space along Settler’s Trace Boulevard (behind the Bayou Church) will be transformed into a hub of excitement with fun games, engaging activities, and interactive attractions including an obstacle course, inflatable mini golf, and a monster fun jump. Cancer survivors will be honored with an inspiring Survivor Walk and the crowd will celebrate together with a delicious birthday cupcake. Other key topics include: The founding story of Miles Perret, named after Hank and Debbies's son whose legacy lives on in every service offered The organization's decision to forgo government funding to remain nimble and community-focused The importance of monthly recurring donations and employer-based giving programs Plans for a new facility and expanded wellness services, including a chapel and increased access to nutritional support Whether you’ve participated in the Games of Acadiana, supported the Camellia Crossing Glow Run, or are learning about Miles Perret for the first time, this episode highlights how deeply rooted the organization is in the fabric of Acadiana—and how each of us can play a role in their mission of neighbors helping neighbors. To get involved, donate, volunteer,
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    44 分

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