Thursday, October 23, 2014

MMcAdams Set As Keynote Speaker At Inaugural NRVIA Awards Banquet

For Immediate Release
 
Media contact:
Julie Calzone
(337) 235-2924 ext. 18
 
AmeriGO RV Club’s McAdams Set As Keynote Speaker At Inaugural NRVIA Awards Banquet
 
(Heber Springs, Ark.) – Joe McAdams, Chairman of AmeriGO RV Club, will be the keynote speaker at the First Annual NRVIA Conference in Heber Springs, Arkansas on October 25th and 26th, 2014 immediately following the Workamper News Rendezvous event.
 
“Our management team has decades of experience in the RV industry and has already built an amazing set of offerings with our allied partners,” said Joe McAdams, chairman of AmeriGO RV Club. “We are building a trusted resource for products, services and information that adds value and security for the RV enthusiast by providing access to and savings at our premier network of RV vendors, dealers, and campgrounds. Our goals are in line with NRVIA, which is to help the RVer enjoy all aspects of the wonderful RV lifestyle.”
 

Joe McAdams, Chairman of AmeriGO RV Club
 
McAdams has held a number of senior management and CEO roles in the RV and media industries prior to developing the AmeriGO RV Club.  Among other positions, he was president of Equity Lifestyle Properties (ELS), Thousand Trails and related entities including Privileged Access and Affinity Group, Inc. (AGI), now Good Sam Enterprises.  He also served as a Board member in those entities and several other companies, including Liberty Publishing Company and Vestcom.
 
This year the NRVIA is focusing on celebrating its successful launch, and sharing some history of where the RV industry has come from and how its members should take hold and become a vital part to the continued success of the RV industry.
 
The NRVIA annual meeting will provide continuing education, announce updates and provide additional training to ensure Certified RV Inspectors are up to date in their skills. The NRVIA is encouraging potential members to attend to learn more about NRVIA and how RVers can become certified inspectors as either a new avocation for themselves or simply to help them understand their RVs better.
Founded in 2014, the National Recreational Vehicle Inspectors Association (NRVIA) is a membership organization providing certification and credentials for professional recreational vehicle inspectors across North America.  NRVIA’s mission is to provide credibility through the testing and awarding of credentials to qualified inspectors. NRVIA Certified Inspectors are required to follow specific Standards of Practice and a Code of Ethics that will ensure the consumer receives an un-biased, high quality inspection.

“Our members will walk away from this weekend’s event with the knowledge and motivation they need to take their RV Inspection business to the next level. Joe’s expertise and rich history with the RV lifestyle is a resource that we are honored to have at our inaugural conference,” said Terry Cooper, president of NRVIA.
 
About AmeriGO RV
AmeriGO RV Club is a brand new RV owners’ organization, designed by long time RV Club, campground and industry veterans who see the need to provide the most passionate RV owners with independent information and money saving opportunities to further enhance their RV adventures. As AmeriGO grows and evolves, it will be the premier RV owners’ organization in North America, operating independently with members’ satisfaction and delight as the premium focus of the services it offers.
Members share stories and experiences with fellow members. They gain knowledge from RV technical and lifestyle experts – people who are living the RV life. They can join virtual lifestyle chapters, where they’ll meet fellow RVers who share their special interests. Members enjoy exclusive savings from RV dealers, campgrounds, suppliers and outfitters as part of the AmeriGO savings network.
For additional information or to become a member, visit AmeriGOrv.com.
 
About NRVIA
The NRVIA was established to provide increased awareness of the importance of quality RV inspections and to enhance the professionalism of RV inspectors.
Their mission is to set and promote standards for recreational vehicle inspections and to provide the educational programs needed to achieve excellence in the profession and to meet the needs of our members.
 
Their goal is to develop a nationwide network of certified professional RV inspectors across North America that have undergone a strict, standardized testing and certification process to ensure that the end consumer is getting a quality inspection by a true professional.
For additional information, visit NRVIA.org.
 
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Wednesday, July 2, 2014

First Ever EatLafayette™ Food, Wine, Beer & Spirits Experience August 4-9, 2014

EatLafayette™ in conjunction with its wine, beer, spirits and soft drink sponsors is hosting in-restaurant events to keep the excitement going through August. This first ever event is a prelude to what will become a much larger promotion as the event matures over time.

We are making it really EASY for you. It is FREE. We just need your restaurant’s “promotion.”

ONLY EatLafayette participating restaurants are eligible. It is not mandatory, but the more the better.

What do you need to do? (DON’T OVERTHINK IT! JUST HAVE FUN!_

All you need to do is to “invent” a wine pairing, beer tasting, spirits dinner, happy hour, wine dinner or anything else you can think of and get the details to us.

Restaurant name:

EatLafayette Food Wine Spirits Promotion (include pricing, if possible):





Dates available (can be one or all):

August 4
August 5
August 6
August 7
August 8
August 9

What brands do you use?

Schilling Distributing

Kody Thompson
Marketing Manager
Schilling Distributing Company
O: 337.233.2337 x 122
C: 337.247.3826
kthompson@schillingdistributing.com

Dane Melancon
Craft and Import Manager
dmelancon@schillingdistributing.com
C-337.591.2810
O-337.233.2337 Ext. 151

Schilling Distributing Co.
2901 Moss St.
Lafayette, LA 70501

Coca Cola Lafayette

Troy Meaux
(337) -257-5465

Rank Wildcat Spirits Sweet Crude Rum

David C. Meaux
Co-Founder and Distiller
(337) 257-3385
davidcmeaux@rankwildcat.com

Constellation Brands from Republic Distributors

Scott Holmes
Cypress Division Manager
Republic National Distributing Co.
210 Distribution Drive
Lafayette, LA   70507
337-593-7886

COMPLETE AND FAX THIS FORM TO: (337) 237-0556 OR SCAN IT AND EMAIL IT TO: help@eatlafayette.com.

DEADLINE TO SUBMIT: JULY 4.



Independence Energy Announces Name Change, FDA Clearance And U.S. Launch Of Non-Contact Thermometer


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                         JULY 2, 2014

Media Contact:
Julie Calzone
(337) 235-2924

Company Contact:
Howard Taylor
(562) 799-5588


Seal Beach, California (OTC BB: IDNG) – Independence Energy Corp. (“Independence”) announced today that its Thermofinder FS-700 Pro and FS-700 (retail version) non-contact infrared thermometer has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) clearance and is launching immediately its distribution in the United States. The FS-700 is currently being sold in Asian and European markets for both professional and retail markets. Independence has the exclusive distribution rights in North, Central and South America.

“We believe the FS-700 is superior to similar devices currently available in the market,” said Howard Taylor, Independence Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “The Thermofinder’s exceptional accuracy coupled with consistent reliability and intelligent design, make it easy to use and understand. We believe these attributes will translate into mass market appeal,” continued Taylor. Benefits of the FS-700 also include no cross contamination, ergonomic (one handed) operation, left or right hand use, attractive pricing, easier to use than oral or ear thermometers, built in memory and operates silently. The FS-700 is the first of several medical devices Independence expects to launch.

The Company is currently in production and awaiting delivery of units following the successful fulfillment and deployment of the sales team and has already begun the placement of additional units to satisfy follow-up orders.

The Company’s manufacturing partners produce a broad range of high quality medical device products for use in the professional and home environment. The thermometry products as well the other products are FDA cleared and carry the CE certification with many other worldwide licenses.

The sales team is a proven group of medical device and supply professionals; with specific successful history in the professional and retail sales of next generation thermometry products.

To reflect the major progress achieved and as a next step in the continuance of the business plan of Independence, the Company also announces that it intends to change its name to Independence Health Corp., with the change taking effect as soon as all the filings necessary are approved.

# # #

Independence was incorporated in the State of Nevada. At its inception, Independence was an exploration stage company engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of natural resource properties. Independence has initiated a program to divest its investments in oil and gas properties and direct its business efforts into the medical market. On March 31, 2014, Independence entered into an agreement to acquire the exclusive all of the assets of American Medical Distributors, LLC. Pursuant to the agreement, Independence has been granted the exclusive right to distribute in the Americas certain professional and consumer grade non-contact infrared thermometers known as the Thermofinder-700 Pro and FS-700 (retail version), including any and all future versions.

 

This release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements contained in this release that are not historical facts may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain. Actual performance and results may differ materially from that projected or suggested herein due to certain risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, ability to obtain financing and regulatory and shareholder approvals for anticipated actions.



Monday, June 16, 2014

10th Anniversary Kicks Off Today! It's Time to EatLafayette!

It’s time to EatLafayette™!
 
The 10th anniversary EatLafayette campaign starts today!
 
EatLafayette is about eating at locally owned restaurants as well as celebrating the food and culture that is Lafayette. Many of the participating restaurants are offering amazing specials during the campaign that lasts from June 16 – September 1. All of the restaurants are offering fabulous cuisine and many have daily in-house specials. 
 
Be sure to start eating now, so you can taste them all! EatLafayette has several promotions that go along with the campaign. Our media partners and our sponsors are hosting lots of fun giveways every week. Tune in regularly to find out what is happening.
 
The popular Follow the Bottle campaign has been expanded to host the inflatable Original Louisiana Hot Sauce and Coca-Cola bottles. The restaurants hosting the bottle will offer an amazing special while they have the bottle.
 
EatLafayette is giving away another trip this year thanks to Travel Machine and The Fly Lafayette Club. The registration forms are at all participating EatLafayette restaurants, so head over to an EatLafayette restaurant today to sign up! Ask your server where you can sign up or look for the coupons and entry box at the front of each restaurant.
 
 
Tell your friends and family to sign up for our eNewsletter to stay tuned to the latest events and promotions for EatLafayette.
 

EatLafayette is excited for our 10th year to begin and we can’t wait to celebrate with you. So come join the feasting fun, it’s time to EatLafayette!s 

Friday, May 30, 2014

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

EatLafayette Celebrates 10th Year with Record Number of Participating Restaurants

MEDIA ADVISORY

LafayetteTravel Contact:            Public Relations Contact:

Kelly Strenge                             Julie Calzone

(337) 232-3737                           (337) 235-2924 ext. 18

kstrenge@lafayettetravel.com     jcalzone@calzone.com





EatLafayette™ Celebrates 10th Year with Record Number 
of Participating Restaurants
LafayetteTravel Presents New Creative for EatLafayette’s 10th Anniversary

WHAT:    Press Conference announcing 2014 EatLafayette™ restaurants and 10th anniversary logo

WHERE: Greater Lafayette Chamber of Commerce Boardroom, 804 E. St. Mary Blvd., Lafayette

WHEN:    Thursday, May 29, 2 p.m.

WHY: In honor of the 10th Anniversary EatLafayette™ by LafayetteTravel campaign, LafayetteTravel is hosting a press conference to focus on the campaign’s 10-year impact on Lafayette tourism and the necessity of promoting locally-owned establishments.

WHO:

Ben Berthelot, President & CEO of Lafayette Convention & Visitors Commission (LafayetteTravel)
Gregory Roberts, Lafayette Regional Airport (Fly Lafayette Club™)
Lafayette Parish Restaurants
EatLafayette Sponsors
Greater Lafayette Chamber of Commerce
Lafayette Economic Development Authority

INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES:

Ben Berthelot, LafayetteTravel
Charlie Goodson, Founder of EatLafayette and restaurant owner
Greg Roberts, Fly Lafayette Club™
EatLafayette™ Advisory Committee representatives (the advisory committee is comprised of restaurant owners)

About EatLafayette

What started as a conversation between two local businessmen in Lafayette has evolved into a successful promotions campaign that provides a unique opportunity for people to experience local cuisine in Lafayette. Charlie Goodson, owned of Charley G’s Seafood Grill, and Gerald Breaux, former executive director of the Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commission, got together in early 2005 to discuss how locally-owned restaurants could gain visibility in a market flooded with big-dollar franchise restaurant advertising. The result of those conversations was a summer EatLafayette campaign that is now in its tenth year. EatLafayette is a two-and-a-half-month celebration showcasing the restaurants that make Acadiana culture so appetizing. www.EatLafayette.com

About LafayetteTravel

LafayetteTravel is the marketing identity for the Lafayette Convention & Visitors Commission (LCVC). LCVC is a marketing organization created in 1974 to promote Lafayette Parish as a destination for visitors, meetings, conventions, tours and sporting events. LCVC is funded primarily by a four percent occupancy tax paid by visitors to Lafayette Parish. In 2008, LCVC was the first tourist commission in Louisiana to be awarded accreditation from the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program. www.Lafayette.travel

About Fly Lafayette Club

The Fly Lafayette Club™ is the Lafayette Regional Airport’s way of thanking you for flying Lafayette. Members have the opportunity to win rewards from their sponsors including free meals, services, Fly Lafayette Club™ merchandise, gift certificates from local merchants and more. http://flc.lftairport.com/FLCWeb/

# # #

Refreshments by Coca Cola and Sophi P. Cakes - A Sophisticated-to-Punk Cakery

Tuesday, May 6, 2014

New Calzone Clients

This past month, Calzone signed two new clients, CMIT Solutions of Acadiana and Top Brass Dressage in Florida!

Servicing the Lafayette, Youngsville, Broussard and New Iberia areas, CMIT Solutions of Acadiana is in the business of IT support. They provide cost-effective computer support to businesses that want to improve efficiency and increase their bottom line. CMIT offers a comprehensive approach to network services and all things IT.

They specialize in Proactive IT Services, Remote Back-up and Disaster Recovery, Cloud Computing, Anti-Spam Solutions, Hardware Purchasing, Help Desk Software and Outsourced IT Support. To request more information on how CMIT Solutions of Acadiana can help your business, click HERE!  



Top Brass Dressage is a horse farm in Williston, Florida which features top rider and trainer, Anna Marek. Anna is a champion of many national competitions and a frequent competitor - a force to be reckoned with in the Equestrian world!

We are excited to be designing the logo and website that will represent Anna and her horses!

Anna Marek and Nico, her horse.





Katie Simon Joins the Calzone Team

We would like to wish a warm welcome to Katie Simon for joining our team at Calzone as an Administrative Assistant! Katie will be graduating from University of Louisiana at Lafayette this month with a degree in Psychology. After graduation, she plans to attend Graduate School in the fall.

This multitasking queen comes equipped with excellent communication and organizational skills. She is the perfect fit for our administrative needs.

Katie’s goals are to become a marriage and family counselor and to develop a special assistance program to end starvation in Acadiana.  

When Katie isn't studying, working, or spending time with her 3 year old son, Eli, she enjoys volunteering in the community. She is a frequent volunteer at St. Joseph Hospice in Lafayette where she assists at events and travels to nursing homes to visit with the residents.

Katie is a member of Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, Psi Chi Honor Society of Psychology and the UL Lafayette Psychology Colloquium.

Welcome aboard Katie, we are happy to have you!






FACET is Making Headlines

It is always refreshing when we see our clients making headlines. This month, Carolyn Greco President and CEO of FACET, a national career management and consulting firm, had an article featured in The Advertiser!

In her article, Carolyn claimed that the happiness factor is linked to having a sense of community and working in a strong thriving industry.

Carolyn’s article was discussing job search and happiness in America. She said, “The portrait of a happy worker is complete by having a job in a strong industry."

She explained that South Louisiana is one of the top cities for job happiness.“If happiness to you is about big opportunities in a smaller population center in the South, Lafayette could be the perfect place for you. With an entrepreneurial, independent culture alive with French Acadian/Creole ‘joie de vivre,’ you could land in its solid professional culture of oil and gas, technology, medicine, education and law. If a ‘small town vibe’ with Houston and New Orleans via I-10 close by makes you happy, Lafayette has your name on it.”

Other cities that made her list were: Houston, TX; San Jose, CA; and Seattle, WA. 

Carolyn also was featured on KPEL Radio where she discussed her article on Nathan and Bernie in the Morning. Her segment can be listened to HERETo read Carolyn's article in The Advertiser, click HERE!



Friday, May 2, 2014

Clients at Festival

Our client Poor Boy’s Riverside Inn was out and about in the community for Festival International de Louisiane. They were stationed near the Scene Stabil Drill stage and served up come delicious food! 

On the menu were Sweet Potato Beignets, Gator Balls, Grilled Gator Bites, and Mini Crab Cakes. Just about everyone who tried their food raved at how excellent it was.

Poor Boy’s Riverside Inn was founded in 1932 and started off as a snowball stand in Lafayette. In 1939, the restaurant moved to its present location overlooking the Vermillion Bayou at Pinhook Bridge. It was the first completely air-conditioned restaurant in Lafayette!

Today, the restaurant is still owned and operated by the original family. Poor Boy’s Riverside Inn specializes in Cajun & Creole cuisine – which made it a perfect fit for the festival. If you would like more information about Poor Boy's Riverside Inn, visit their Facebook page.


Keep up the good work, Riverside!

Sweet Potato Beignets at Festival!
   

Gearing Up for the 10th Anniversary EatLafayette Campaign

Preparations for the 10th Anniversary EatLafayette by Lafayette Travel campaign are in full swing. With the campaign a little over a month away, we have been busy with art production, restaurant registration, Kick-Off event preparation – the works!

This year we have over 70 participating restaurants. It’s great to have so many familiar restaurants sign up and exciting to see many new restaurants signing up also!

We know you've been squirming in your seat wondering how you can get a ticket to this year’s kick-off event. Well, the only way you can get is ticket is to win one! Just listen to the Townsquare Media radio stations for instructions on how you can win a ticket. Trust us, you don’t want to miss out this year!

The beauty of EatLafayette is that it's not just about the Kick-Off event. EatLafayette is about promoting locally owned restaurants throughout our city during the summer campaign period and through the rest of the year.

We have so much in store and can’t wait to reveal everything we've been planning. Make sure you keep visiting the EatLafayette website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to keep in the know of everything we have in store.

Get ready to EatLafayette

Boulet Physical Therapy and Wellness Institute

Our client, Patricia Boulet of Boulet Physical Therapy and Wellness Institute, is becoming certified in Dry Needling! 

Once certified, Patricia will be able to offer relief to patients suffering from pain caused by Headaches, Neck/Back pain, Tendinitis, Muscle Spasms, Hip/Knee pain, Muscle strains, Fibromyalgia, Golfer’s Elbow, and other injuries.

Dry Needling is a technique unequaled in finding and eliminating neuromuscular dysfunction. It involves a series of needle advances to the different trigger points in the muscles.

Most patients who receive Dry Needling do not report having pain. Sometimes, patients will feel a muscle “twitch” similar to a tingling sensation. This “twitch” is a sign that the needle is releasing the trigger point.

Many people compare Dry Needling to Acupuncture when in fact, the two techniques are much different. Dry Needling is based on western neuroanatomy and modern scientific studies. Acupuncture is based on theories of ancient Chinese medicine. The two techniques do, however, use the same tool; a solid needle filament.

To learn more about Boulet Physical Therapy and Wellness Institute, visit their Facebook page. 


Keep up the good work Patricia!

Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Louisiana Bred Colt and Female Jockey Aim For the History Books In Kentucky Derby on Saturday

For Immediate Release
 
LTBA Contact:
Roger Heitzmann
(800) 772-1195
 
Media Contact:
Julie Calzone
(337) 235-2924 ext. 18
 
Louisiana Bred Colt and Female Jockey Aim For the History Books In Saturday’s Kentucky Derby
 
(New Orleans, La.) – Louisiana bred three year old Vicar’s In Trouble is headed for the starting gate at this Saturday’s 140th running of the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, Kentucky. Louisiana horsemen are hoping that the colt makes history by being the first Louisiana bred to win the Derby.
 
Vicar's in Trouble is the first Louisiana-bred to run in the Derby since Zarb's Magic competed in 1996 and just the third in the almost 50 years since states where the horses were bred were included in past performance charts.
 
 
“Having a horse like Vicar’s In Trouble as a Derby contender gives our breeding program a real boost,” said Jake Delhomme, president of the Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association. “It would validate our incentive program and ensure that it continues into the future. The program was created for just this reason – to produce top contenders at the best races in the world. It also increases the value of our horses and that makes the horse breeding business more viable.”
 
Vicar In Trouble’s jockey, Rosie Napravnik, would make history of her own in becoming the first female jockey to win the Kentucky Derby. She is the regular rider of Vicar’s in Trouble, a front-runner who was never threatened in taking the $1 million Louisiana Derby.
 
Bred by Spendthrift Farm LLC, trained by Mike Maker and owned by Eclipse Award winners Ken and Sarah Ramsey, Vicar’s in Trouble sold for $8,000 at Equine Sales Company’s inaugural yearling auction and since then has banked $788,900 in just five starts. In addition to winning the prestigious Louisiana Derby, the colt also won the $200,000 Lecomte Stakes by nearly seven lengths and finished third in the $400,000 Risen Star Stakes. Assuming Vicar’s in Trouble starts in the Kentucky Derby, he will become just the third Louisiana-bred to ever make the race.
 
Vicar’s in Trouble was consigned as a yearling by Mark Toothaker, agent, and purchased by Clyde Taylor. The colt by Into Mischief sold again for $80,000 as a 2-year-old.
 
Vicar’s In Trouble is by the same sire as Goldencents and Vyjack, who both made plenty of noise on the 2013 to the Kentucky Derby.
 
All three are sons of the up-and-coming young sire Into Mischief, a noted juvenile of 2007 who scored his signature win in the CashCall Futurity. During a three-year-old campaign limited by injury, he raced only at seven furlongs, winning a minor stakes at Santa Anita and placing in both the San Vicente and Malibu.
 
Vicar's in Trouble is out of Vibrant, a five-time winner at sprint distances. She has produced two minor winners prior to Vicar's in Trouble. Vibrant is by Vicar, who turned the Fountain of Youth/Florida Derby double in 1999. After winding up near the rear in both the Kentucky Derby and Preakness, he eventually reverted to one-turn events. Vibrant is a half-sister to Grade 3-winning sprinter True Direction, hero of the 2002 Fall Highweight Handicap.
 
Trainer Mike Maker, the son of a trainer, grew up in the suburbs of Detroit attending races at Hazel Park and Detroit Race Course. At the young age of 13, Maker was already involved in the Thoroughbred industry as a horse owner. He was an assistant for Hall of Fame trainer D Wayne Lukas and worked with Kentucky Derby winner Charismatic. Maker opened his own stable in 2003 and has trained top horses including: Eclipse Award winner, Hansen, Derby Kitten and Stately Victor.
 
Ken and Sarah Ramsey are natives of Artemus, Kentucky and are longtime horse lovers. Ken’s first glimpse of the Twin Spires came at age 5 when his family took a trip to Louisville and since that day he has always wanted to win the Kentucky Derby. The Ramsey’s have won numerous owners titles at racetracks across the country and have owned such stakes winners as Kitten’s Joy, Roses in May, Precious Kitten, and Pleasant Prince.
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Thursday, April 3, 2014

Client Spotlight: FACET

We love seeing our clients making a difference in their field. We are particularly proud of FACET, one of our new clients.  President and CEO, Carolyn Greco, was selected to be a speaker at the semi-annual Global Outplacement Alliance (GOA) conference in Tucson, Arizona. Carolyn's human resource expertise is highly valued throughout the industry.

Carolyn's role in the conference was to conduct a creative session. She challenged the room with fun, thought provoking mental and physical activities to get the participant's creativity flowing for the conference. As an entrepreneur, Carolyn understands that creativity generates innovation that gives a business its competitive edge.

FACET is a proud Founding Partner of GOA. With over 200 service offices worldwide, GOA is a network of national and international career service providers offering seamless, best in industry, career management, outplacement and talent management services. Members of GOA proactively participate in industry trend updates, monthly GOA meetings, discussions, programs and activities.

We look forward to seeing what the future holds for this great company! To learn more about FACET, visit their website and Facebook.


SALON TODAY Honors Spa Mizan for Best Business Practices

Ginger Louviere, Spa Mizan Owner

Spa Mizan has been named among the winners of Salon Today 200, a national industry competition that honors growth and best business practices for spas and salons across North America. Spa Mizan, owned by Ginger Louviere and located in Lafayette, was cited for their excellence in the categories of Growth, Technology, and Customer Service.

The competition is sponsored by Salon Today, the spa and salon industry's leading publication for owners and managers.

Winners in the Growth category were recognized for identifying and nurturing contributions to their business' growth\ and for maintaining growth during a tough economy.

Honorees in the Customer Service category were awarded for strong customer-service initiatives and for their ability to measure return on investment through those initiatives.

Winners in the Technology category were recognized for creative efforts in using technology to streamline business operations, motivate employees, and communicate with clients.

Published by Modern Salon Media, Salon Today is designed to support, educate, and inspire salon and spa owners. The 2014 competition marked the 17th year of the Salon Today 200 contest.

Spa Mizan has been consistently ranked among Lafayette's best area salons since its founding in 1998. Owner Ginger Louviere has been an expert in the beauty business since 1989.

Monday, March 31, 2014

Calzone and Boulet Volunteer and Sponsor Hydration Station for First Annual Zydeco Marathon

The teams from Calzone and Boulet Physical Therapy and Wellness Institute had a great time on Sunday volunteering for the first annual Zydeco Marathon!

The Zydeco Marathon volunteers were so helpful, providing everything we needed to run a successful Hydration Station.
Check out all the water for the runners!



Dunn's Furniture and Interiors happily provided a tent for us to use at our station to provide a place of shade for the volunteers!


We were up so early to prepare for the runners - it was still dark outside while we were setting up!




Despite the very early start, everyone was thrilled to work together and volunteer. Refreshments provided by Coca-Cola helped!



Happy team photos!



Calzone and Boulet were so thankful for the experience to volunteer for such a wonderful and fun event. Sponsoring the Zydeco Marathon was something we will never forget!









Calzone Springtime Renovations



Cosmetic renovations galore are underway at Calzone. This includes freshly trimmed hedges, pruned trees, weeded beds and a recent fence-lift. Our fabulous fencing will be completed in time to welcome the Spring Equinox. With a new season springing forward, we are bidding farewell to the old and celebrating the new!



We encourage everyone to step outside and enjoy the outdoors while improving your fung shui. Fung shui is a powerful and ancient way to make positive changes in your home or work life. 

By altering how energy flows around and through your surroundings, you can promote happiness, prosperity and good health, and feel energized, positive, and passionate about life. The easiest way to begin is by transforming your home or workplace. Good luck!



Our dedicated carpenters!

Friday, February 28, 2014

Client Spotlight: Calzone Chats with Gregory Doucet, Executive Chef at Jolie's Louisiana Bistro, about his Culinary Inspirations


Jolie's Louisiana Bistro Executive Chef, Gregory Doucet
It's always a pleasure sitting down with our clients and having a heart-to-heart. Recently, we chatted with Gregory Doucet, Executive Chef at Jolie’s Louisiana Bistro, about what inspires his culinary creations.

Gregory told us that his passion and talent for cooking has a lot to do with being raised in Lafayette.

“Cooking is a big deal in Lafayette. Everybody cooks and everyone has their own specialty dish. People are proud of cooking here and I definitely have that same pride. There’s a certain work ethic and culture you get from being raised in the South that you just can’t get anywhere else,” said Gregory.

Gregory shared that food is more than what comes on the plate, “It’s the conversations you get from food that brings people together and that’s what it’s all about here.”

Channeling his life experiences and love for food, travel and adventure into all of his dishes is how Gregory keeps the creativity flowing in the kitchen. Jolie’s fresh, local and seasonal concepts are another source of inspiration for him. Not only do customers have the opportunity to enjoy an authentic taste of Acadiana, but they also get to support the local economy.

Gregory had his sights set on a career in the culinary profession from a young age. After graduating from Comeaux High School in Lafayette, he moved to Thibodaux, La. to study Culinary Arts at the John Folse Culinary Institute at Nicholls State University, receiving his B.S. in 2012. He went on to complete his culinary externship at Orienta Beach Club in Manaroneck, N.Y.

We look forward to chatting again soon! To read more about Jolie’s Louisiana Bistro, visit jolieslouisianabistro.com.

Ten Years in the Making: EatLafayette by LafayetteTravel 2014

EatLafayette by LafayetteTravel is in its TENTH year! We are beyond thrilled to be working with LafayetteTravel again on the EatLafayette campaign.

We have some big plans to make this campaign the best yet - we can't give you the secret ingredients to our recipe for a great campaign just yet, though!

Here's what we can tell you:
  • Last year, we had over 70 restaurants participate - that's over 70 locally-owned restaurants who employ hundreds of Acadiana residents and are part of thousands of locals' lives every single day.
  • EatLafayette isn't just a great opportunity for registered restaurants - it's a great opportunity for sponsors, too! Many of our sponsors take their EatLafayette sponsorship to a whole new level with sponsored promotions throughout the campaign in addition to partnerships with our restaurants throughout the year.
  • We're cooking up some really fantastic events and the best way to stay up-to-date is to subscribe to our newsletter! Click here to sign up!
  • Another way to stay connected to all things EatLafayette is to chat with us on social media. We love hearing from you and sharing deliciousness with the community.
  • If you're interested in EatLafayette, as a restaurant, sponsor, or general idea-giver, we want to hear from you! Email us at help@eatlafayette.com with your questions and ideas!
Stay tuned for food, fun, and festivities!

Calzone & Boulet are 2014 Hydration Station Sponsors for Zydeco Marathon

This month, Calzone will be partnering with Boulet Physical Therapy and Wellness Institute to sponsor a hydration station for the Zydeco Marathon on March 30th.

Not only is our office conveniently located on the race route, but our friends at Boulet Physical Therapy and Wellness Institute has been hosting free runners clinics to prepare racers for race day! These things make the perfect combination to give back to our community.

 Zydeco Marathon was founded as a destination event that is expected to draw more than 1,000 participants from outside of Lafayette. The Zydeco Marathon race team expects the economic impact to be more than $3.25 million benefiting local businesses.

All business are encouraged to participate on race day by placing tents and tables along the street to cheer the runners – making the race a community oriented event allowing everyone to participate.

The running course will highlight some of the main attractions Lafayette has to offer and is coordinated by the Zydeco Marathon race team, city officials and police force to ensure a safe and fun event for everyone.

All Zydeco Marathon proceeds will be donated to the Children’s Shelter and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Acadiana, two local charities. For more information about the Zydeco Marathon, visit zydecomarathon.com.


We hope to see you there! 

Gulf Coast Equestrian Training Academy

Calzone is proud to be working with Gulf Coast Equestrian Training Academy (GCE), the only selective riding academy in the Gulf Coast region. Stationed in Youngsville, GCE will be revolutionizing the way young equestrians are trained.

GCE boarders grazing in the fields
The program will recruit, challenge and encourage talented young riders and their horses to reach their maximum riding potential to achieve their goals and excel in the sport. It is always rewarding to work with companies like GCE that are dedicated to making a difference and helping others.


By enrolling in the GCE program, riders can expect to receive the detailed individual attention and guidance they need from highly qualified and talented trainers to place in competitions and become respected and dignified equestrians. With 145 acres of beautiful property, 14 horse stalls and a covered arena, riders are able to train with all the luxuries and features this state-of-the-art facility has to offer.

GCE Trainer, Lauren Schweppe at H.I.T.S. in Ocala, Fl. 
Scott Butaud, GCE owner and longtime advocate of the sport, developed the mission of GCE as a place where riders can achieve their highest level of individual success and championship while fostering a healthy and competitive spirit. This would not be possible without help from top hunter and jumper trainer Lauren Schweppe from Meadowood Farm, LLC. Schweppe has agreed to travel from Ocala, Fl. on a regular basis to train GCE riders and their horses.

At Calzone, we are inspired by entrepreneurs such as Butaud that are dedicated to making dreams a reality. Working with Scott has been a gratifying experience and we look forward to continuing to help advance the mission of GCE.  


For more information on GCE, visit gulfcoastequestrian.com

Community Spotlight: Dunn's Furniture & Interiors Sponsored the Lafayette Go Red for Women Luncheon by the American Heart Association

At Calzone, we love seeing businesses out-and-about in the community and giving back. Dunn’s Furniture and Interiors, one of Lafayette’s leading furniture and interior stores, has been doing just this lately!

Dunn’s was again a sponsor for the Lafayette Go Red for Women Luncheon by the American Heart Association (AHA) on February 20th at the Lafayette Hilton. Dunn’s is an example to others on what a tremendous difference small businesses can make in their local community.

This year, the luncheon hosted Katherine Switzer, the first women to run the Boston Marathon, as the keynote speaker. There was an educational breakout session along with a Purse-onality Auction to benefit the AHA.

AHA’s Go Red for Women Luncheon works to spread education and awareness that heart disease is one of the leading causes of death for women. The movement also encourages women in their communities to make their heart health a top priority so they can live long and healthy lives.

Judy Dunn, owner of Dunn’s Furniture and Interiors, is no stranger to community philanthropy. She gives back to the community in any way she can and understands the importance of helping charitable organizations raise awareness. She is an inspiration to all of us here at Calzone.

To learn more about Dunn's visit dunnsfurnitureandinteriors.com.




Tuesday, February 25, 2014

Calzone Celebrates the New Year with a Twelfth Night Party

We here at Calzone are never ones to pass up a good party. In fact, we got pretty burned out on holiday parties at the end of the year! Granted, they were all fabulous, but how were we supposed to throw our own among all the imbibing?

That's when it hit us - Let's make bringing in the start of Carnival with a Twelfth Night party our tradition.




To ring in 2014, we joined Sophi P. Cupcakes to celebrate their new space and had a great time bringing in the new year after all the holiday hubbub.

But celebrating the start of the 2014 Carnival here in South Louisiana is a whole different ball game. It's a New Year party on steroids!




We set up shop down the street at Carpe Diem! Gelato & Espresso and worked with them to choose two delectable gelatos for the party - local satsuma and Sophi P.'s Red Velvet. Of course we had Sophi P cupcakes again - red velvet, and all manner of king cake cupcakes. Get the raspberry-filled ones, trust us!



We had non-alcoholic drinks for DDs and the kiddos, and Prosecco and Hot Buttered Rum made with locally-made Rank Wildcat Spirits' Sweet Crude Rum for the imbibers.

 




A good time was had by all! So many of our friends, clients, and business partners joined us to celebrate the new year and the start of an amazing Carnival season on a very cold night.