On the first day of the MBA program, Joey Coco's class defined "an entrepreneur" as someone who brings disparate resources together to create value. That's what he says he was trying to do when he co-founded Engensus, an engineering firm, in 2006. Last year, Coco says he saw an opportunity to create value through a merger with Forte and Tablada, and decided to pitch the idea to the larger company. Forte and Tablada is a multidisciplinary firm but lacked in-house expertise in structural and bridge engineering, Coco says; Engensus had been working with the larger company to provide those capabilities. Also, Engensus had started a new business—Engensus Measurements—to do laser scanning work, which complemented Forte and Tablada's land surveying component. Coco says the relative youth of the people of Engensus is valuable to the older company's long-term future. Read the rest of the Entrepreneur feature on Coco, from the latest issue of Business Report,
Nick Pentas has been promoted to general manager of Mercedes-Benz of Baton Rouge. He joined the company in 2000 while attending LSU. He rose through the ranks at the dealership, working as roadside technician, cashier, service adviser, service manager, pre-owned vehicle manager, and general sales manager.
Selling your business can be exciting and daunting at the same time, says Linda Perez Clark, a co-owner of Bin 77 and a partner in Kean Miller’s Baton Rouge office, which recently hosted a briefing on the topic.
Family members and friends of Gerald “Gerry” Lane are mourning the passing of the businessman and philanthropist. Lane died May 3 after a long battle with cancer, his family says. He was 82. An Oklahoma native, Lane built a thriving auto sales franchise in Baton Rouge that today includes seven dealerships. Over the course of 46 years, gross sales at Lane’s dealerships topped $10 billion. His son, Eric Lane, vice president of Gerry Lane Enterprises, says the dealerships will continue to be run with the same principles that his father instilled in them. “Customer service, innovation and being deeply involved in the community—this is Dad’s legacy, and we are going to keep running the dealerships just the way we have been doing, like he taught us to do,” says Eric Lane, one of three surviving children. Lane’s life story is recounted in a biography published late last year, Gerry Lane—An American Success Story, written by Leo...
Have you ever heard of NRG Energy? Or its fully-owned subsidiary, Louisiana Generating? Maybe not. But Jennifer Vosburg says most people catch on when they hear "Big Cajun I and Big Cajun II," which Fortune 300 energy company NRG owns. Since leaving the Long Law Firm in 2007, Vosburg has moved up the ladder at NRG, which sells energy primarily to large companies such as Demco. She started as director of regulations and next took over responsibility for transmissions assets. In January 2011 she became a vice president and was promoted to head Louisiana Generating that summer. Click here to read the full Q&A with Vosburg in the new issue of Business Report. The following is a sample of what you'll find: If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be?
I love to be challenged. The electric industry is both static and dynamic. While the foundation of the electric industry is currently status quo, there is a growing wave of change to how power is generated, delivered and used as part of our lives. In Louisiana, our industry is entering a new market that will fundamentally change our business. That type of challenge, combined with a great company, great employees and great customers, keeps me motivated.
In 1999, John Georges went into the tugboat business. It was unchartered territory for him. Though he had a successful wholesale distribution company and a thriving video poker business, offshore maritime was a totally new ballgame.
Ryan Simpson moved to Baton Rouge five months ago from Kalamazoo, Mich. The BRAC policy and research project manager didn't know what to expect when he relocated, and was a bit nervous about the culture shock. On Saturday morning, Simpson was one of many new Baton Rouge residents taking part in a half-day event called Conquer the Learning Curve. It was a part of BRAC's Capital Region 101 series of events that welcomes new residents to the Baton Rouge area with a meet-and-greet breakfast, presentations, and a trivia trolley ride before ending at the Red Stick Farmers Market. While Simpson attended as part of BRAC's talent program, he also wanted to take advantage of the event for personal reasons. The dual purpose of Capital Region 101 is to bring newcomers together to form new social circles and to get them acclimated to the region, says Julie Laperouse, Director of Talent Development for BRAC. Read the full story from 225 on the Capital Region 101 event
As a student, Matthew Valiollahi noticed the many styles and varieties of T-shirts his peers were wearing. Inspired by those designs—and also by Garden and Gun magazine, which celebrates Southern culture—he decided to create a brand of high-quality T-shirts and casual wear with a distinctly Southern style and flair. While still in his senior year at LSU, he approached friend Stephen Smith to design the Southern Marsh brand, with its trademark mallard logo. At first, the pair simply sold their designs. As they began to investigate the quality of fabrics, they came up with a better idea: "That's when we decided to build the T-shirt from the yarn stage and create quality garments from the ground up," Valiollahi says. When the idea first struck, the pair went to adjunct professor Walter Morales, who helped them refine their business plan. "We talked to everyone we could find," Valiollahi says of the early days in 2007. "We couldn't find any capital or backers. I put...
Mark Martin is prepping for a full schedule of projects on the horizon—from securing a designation of Route 90 from DeRidder to Bogalusa as a US Bicycle Route, preparing for workshops later this month with several Baton Rouge organizations to brainstorm how to use federal funding to improve bike and pedestrian infrastructure, and consulting with the city on a new Dalrymple Drive bike path.
Family members and friends of Gerald "Gerry" Lane are mourning the passing of the businessman and philanthropist today. Lane died early this morning after a long battle with cancer, his family says. He was 82. An Oklahoma native, Lane built a thriving auto sales franchise in Baton Rouge that today includes seven dealerships. Over the course of 46 years, gross sales at Lane's dealerships topped $10 billion. His son, Eric Lane, vice president of Gerry Lane Enterprises, says the dealerships will continue to be run with the same principles that his father instilled in them. "Customer service, innovation and being deeply involved in the community—this is Dad's legacy, and we are going to keep running the dealerships just the way we have been doing, like he taught us to do," says Eric Lane, one of three surviving children. Lane's life story is recounted in a biography published late last year, Gerry Lane—An American Success Story, written by Leo Honeycutt. Along with his...
Baton Rouge native and former NFL player Anthony Kimble, now a business consultant, has acquired the building at 4242 Government St., along with former LSU athlete Tyrus Thomas, and plans to turn the property into shared space for artists, architects and other creative professionals. "This has been a dream of mine since moving back to Baton Rouge last year," says Kimble, who went to high school at LSU Lab. "We want to really focus on developing shared creative space for artists in the community, and this is the perfect neighborhood for the type of tenant we want to attract." Joining Kimble and Thomas—who is currently with the NBA's Charlotte Bobcats—in the venture is Glen "Big Baby" Davis, also a former LSU basketball star, now with the Orlando Magic. Though Davis will not have an ownership stake in the building, he will be involved in its redevelopment with his two high-school buddies. Already, the three have several shared business and charitable ventures together. The...
Take advantage of great early summer weather this month as a volunteer with GaitWay Therapeutic Horsemanship or Girls on the Run. And show your support for local young entrepreneurs throughout the state participating in Louisiana's Lemonade Day.
Like a lot of young girls, Lindsey Weinstein became enamored with horses while still a toddler. She celebrated her second and third birthdays with pony parties at Kleinpeter Farms, and by the time she could read she had her sights set on a pony of her own.
I have reached the summit. Let me bask in the glow. For I know that this day is fleeting, my time on the top is short. I shall raise my arms and swirl in circles, Julie Andrews-style, while singing on the mountaintop: I have hit the Golden Years.
Louisiana folks are a proud people who are deeply rooted in family, tradition and geography. I am one of those born and raised here, and I have enjoyed our state for more than five decades. In fact, we have the highest percentage of native population in the country, with about 80% of our residents born in Louisiana. That produces strong traditions and a culture passed down generation after generation.
Before taking over as president and CEO of the Alliance Safety Council, Kathy Trahan had previously worked at PPG as an operator and instrument manager, in addition to having taught at McNeese State. She was petrochemical training director at Baton Rouge Community College when she realized her ambition to head up the safety council. Since landing the job, Trahan says she has aimed to make ASC more decentralized by getting closer to the members through the Internet, as well as opening satellite offices in Gonzales and Addis. Last year, more than 120,000 people received training from the council, and Trahan's staff has grown from about 15 people to more than 68. You can find the full Q&A with Trahan from the new issue of Business Reporthere. The following is a sample of what you'll find: What is your favorite weekend activity?
Before coming on board at the Alliance Safety Council, Kathy Trahan had worked at PPG as an operator and instrument manager and later taught at McNeese State. She was the petrochemical training director at Baton Rouge Community College when she revealed her grown-up ambition was to head up the safety council. Since landing the CEO position there, Trahan says, she has aimed to make ASC more decentralized by getting closer to the members through the Internet and opening satellite offices in Gonzales and Addis. Last year, more than 120,000 people received training from the council, and Trahan’s staff has grown from about 15 people to more than 68.
In response to a lawsuit filed last week against Turner Industries Group by a former employee who says racial discrimination against black workers has been ignored by the firm, BRAC has issued a statement praising Turner for its "strong community commitment … for over fifty years." While BRAC refers to the statement as "comments on allegations" against Turner, it never directly addresses the discrimination charges. Instead, it lists various service organizations Turner has supported in the Capital Region through the years. One organization BRAC doesn't list in the statement is its own, despite the fact that Turner is an "executive council" investor, giving $50,000 annually to the economic development organization. "Turner Industries is the largest private employer in the Baton Rouge area," BRAC says in its statement. "Overall, the company has proved itself to be committed and focused on improving the region, creating opportunities for all, and setting an example for corporate...
In honor of Mother's Day on May 12, 225 spoke to five dynamic working moms in Baton Rouge to hear their challenges, their motherly advice, and their tips for connecting with their children and holding it all together.
It was a packed house on March 9 and Twitter was buzzing (#TEDxLSU) as hundreds packed LSU's Reilly and Shaver theaters to hear about ideas worth sharing.
Who knew? Who knew that on any given Saturday morning, a building in Baton Rouge with five basketball courts would be chock-a-block with children running from goal to goal, balls bouncing, parents coaching, whistles blowing, the snack bar churning out a variety of offerings—and everyone having a blast?
Jordana Pomeroy moved to Baton Rouge from Washington, D.C., in June 2012 to take the job of LSU Museum of Art executive director. Drawn to the job by the passion, exuberance and dynamism of the local art scene, Pomeroy has spent time here studying how the museum has evolved and how it can be better utilized. "I have focused on thinking about ways the museum can better serve LSU and the city," Pomeroy says. "This involves changes in our curatorial and educational programming, in fundraising, and updating crucial assumptions and decisions about how we are perceived." Check out Pomeroy's complete Q&A from the current issue of 225here.
Craig Gehring never went to college, but he has helped many others achieve their higher ed dreams since 2003, his junior year in high school, when he received perfect scores on the ACT and the SAT. "When I made my scores, parents called Baton Rouge High and said, 'Let me talk to Craig and have him tutor my kids,' " Gehring says. Ten years later, Gehring has written the book, literally, on mastering the ACT and leads an effort to improve preparation for standardized tests. In addition to his early start tutoring fellow students and finishing his guidebook, published by Ring Publications in 2012, Gehring has worked with five others as part of ACT Prep Inc. The group members brainstormed and decided to start a camp to prepare future test-takers. He recalls, "One of the guys who eventually became a board member said, 'Why don't you put together a program based on your book?" The camp currently prepares students in Baton Rouge—Gehring trains the teachers—and plans to expand...
Journalist and author Rod Dreher left Baton Rouge more than two decades ago after graduating from LSU and subsequently reporting for The Advocate. As Dreher explains in the new Business Report cover story, he had become disillusioned with Louisiana politics and didn't feel he had much of a future here at home. "I quit my job at The Advocate, loaded up a U-Haul Gentle-Ride van, and lit out for the East Coast, never to return," Dreher recalls. "Or so I thought. A year and a half ago, I moved with my wife and children from Philadelphia back to St. Francisville, where I was born and raised." Dreher's firsthand story details his journey away from and back to St. Francisville, and how south Louisiana's "particular traditions" and "distinct culture" played a key role in his decision. "It's not that Louisiana has changed, or changed all that much. It hasn't," he writes. "Louisiana may not have changed, but I have." Read the full story
Shortly before a scheduled trial, U.S. District Judge James Brady denied a request from LSU attorneys to throw out several exhibits Ivor van Heerden planned to present in court to support his three-year-old case. Three days later, the judge signed a dismissal order after the Louisiana Office of Risk Management agreed to a $435,000 settlement. Here are excerpts from some of those documents:
Craig Gehring never went to college, but he has helped many others achieve their higher ed dreams since 2003, his junior year in high school, when he received perfect scores on the ACT and the SAT.
Brian and Julie Swindell, both 37, met at LSU and married in 2000, the year they finished college. Both Brian’s job as a manufacturing engineer and Julie’s career in the hospitality industry—which she set aside after their first child was born in 2005—have taken them around the country. They’ve moved eight times in 13 years, including to the Utah mountains and the Florida beaches, and have enjoyed the adventure.
In the late 1990s, Phil LaRose picked up stakes with his wife, Jeanne Anne, and their school-age kids and left a job he really liked at his hometown newspaper for the promise of a bigger paycheck. At the time, LaRose was the news system manager, or tech guru, at The Advocate. He resigned to take a comparable position at the St. Paul Pioneer Press. It was basically the same tech job; it just paid a whole lot more.
In the autumn of 1987, I sat at my computer terminal in The Daily Reveille office in the basement of Hodges Hall on the LSU campus and punched out a bitter op-ed commentary about Louisiana state politics. I can't be sure, but I think it had to do with then-Gov. Edwin Edwards' campaign statement that if Louisiana's best and brightest wanted to leave the state, well, good riddance.
When tax lawyer and Hammond native Cassie Felder and her husband, Matt Beeson, moved to Baton Rouge from New Orleans in 2002, they felt like they had landed in a ghost town.
Peggy Scott continues to live a life of firsts. The Baton Rouge native, who graduated from LSU in 1973, has been recognized throughout her career—at Deloitte, General Health System, Novant Health in North Carolina, Pan-American Life and now at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana—as a trailblazer. Scott—who serves as executive vice president, chief operating officer, chief financial offer and treasurer for Blue Cross—says she is now facing another first: a massive upheaval in health care as the result of the Affordable Care Act. Her role as COO and CFO is to lead Blue Cross as the new regulations from ACA are implemented in stages. Click here to read the complete Q&A with Scott from the new issue of Business Report. Here's a sample of what you'll find: If you could have any job other than your own, what would it be?
Peggy Scott continues to live a life of firsts. Scott, who graduated from LSU in 1973, has been recognized throughout her career—at Deloitte, General Health System, Novant Health in North Carolina, Pan-American Life and now at Blue Cross—as a trailblazer. Today, she says she faces another first: a massive upheaval in health care as the result of the Affordable Care Act. Her role as COO and CFO is to lead Blue Cross as the implementation of the regulations from ACA come out in stages.
Louisiana movie theater mogul Theodore "Teddy" George Solomon Sr., who brought megaplex stadium theaters to south Louisiana, died Sunday. He was 93. Solomon started a seven-decade career in the theater business as a child working in a silent-movie house built by his father and uncle. He would grow the family's single film venue into more than 600 theaters and drive-ins in eight states, according to a statement from a family spokesman issued today. After graduating from LSU and serving in World War II, Solomon returned to the South and formed Gulf States Theatres, through which he went on to build and operate more than 300 drive-in movie theaters. He sold the business in 1972 but later bought half of it back with his six children, transitioning the business from drive-ins to indoor screens. He again sold the business in 1986. By the mid-90s, Solomon opened a 20-screen stadium theater in New Orleans, which became wildly popular and would precede four more such theaters in the New...
Baton Rouge's own Henry Gray is a living legend in every sense of the phrase. Over the course seven decades behind the piano, Gray has performed with some of the greatest blues players ever to walk the face of the planet, guys like Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Bo Diddley, Sonny Boy Williamson II and Little Walter to name just a few.
GMFS announced Bob Lank has joined the bank as a senior mortgage banker. Lank is the former owner/president of Executive Mortgage and, most recently, was employed with Standard Mortgage. The lifelong Baton Rouge resident and LSU alumnus has 41 years’ experience in the real estate industry.
Mark Northcutt has traveled the world throughout his career with ExxonMobil, and the West Texas native says he looks forward to his second stop in Baton Rouge. He returns to the United States after serving as a refinery manager for five years in Thailand, where he was the only expat at the plant. Northcutt, who located to Baton Rouge in February to take over as plant manager, says his family will join him at the end of the school year. He particularly seeks a smooth transition for his three sons, noting that returning to the U.S. can sometimes involve a larger adjustment than going overseas. Northcutt first worked in Baton Rouge from 2000 to 2004. You can check out his complete Q&A from the new issue of Business Reporthere. The following is a sample: What was your first job?
Mark Northcutt has traveled the world in his career with ExxonMobil, and the West Texas native says he looks forward to his second stop in Baton Rouge. He returns to the United States after serving as a refinery manager for five years in Thailand; he was the only expat in that plant. Northcutt, who located to Baton Rouge in February, says his family will join him at the end of the school year. He particularly seeks a smooth transition for his three sons, noting that returning to the States can sometimes involve a larger adjustment than going overseas. Northcutt first worked in Baton Rouge from 2000 to 2004.
Daily uniform If I answered this question truthfully, I would probably be on the worst dressed list. Won't leave the house without Almonds or a protein bar My best secret Fat and cellulite look better when tanned.
Spring food festivals are as common as mosquitoes in Louisiana. Not a Saturday goes by when you can't locate a gathering where throngs of happy people are celebrating some aspect of the state's sprawling culinary roster. Gulf seafood, crawfish, suckling pig and more play starring roles at these community events, where thousands gather. Ascension Parish's annual Jambalaya Festival in May is one of the oldest festivals in the state, and it stands out for its staying power, cheery vibe and intractable enthusiasm for a simple, but tricky, dish.
Fashion inspiration My stepson, Alex, who is a junior at Parsons School of Design in New York Daily uniform A tennis outfit Weekend ensemble Shorts, a cute top and sandals; or anything that works for a baseball game.
Wouldn't be caught dead in A T-shirt Best fashion advice I've received Never go to New Orleans without a sport coat If no one were looking, I'd wear A Speedo
My best secret Pairing a trendy, less expensive piece with an amazing designer piece I can't get enough of Bright neon colors and maxi dresses Last thing I purchased Pieces from the Prabal Gurung for Target collection
Most splurge-worthy item Custom-designed cuff links Favorite tie Where do I begin: I have hundreds. I'm more about the knot-full Windsor. I steer clear of 100% silk ties. Worst fashion memory On my wedding day, I grabbed an old tuxedo that was way too big, rather than the one I had rented for the occasion. The pants were super baggy—think MC Hammer.
My style in five words or less Dress to respect the occasion Go-to pair of denim Depends on which pair of Western boots I'll be wearing that day. Favorite designers St. John and Lilly Pulitzer
What I wear to a dinner party Cocktail dress and sky-high heels My best secret I can sew. Best fashion advice I've received Don't dress older than you are; in 20 years you'll look back in regret.
Fashion inspiration Hip hop artist Common: He's hip-hop, but with class. What I'm looking for now A sleeveless orange puffer jacket Prized possession My music collection. I own everything from Frank Sinatra to Lil Wayne.
Fashion inspiration Victoria Beckham Weekend ensemble I'm a tennis shoes or heels kind of girl—nothing in between. I can't get enough of Everything stingray
It's good to be a cow—especially if your caretakers are the folks at Kleinpeter Farms Dairy. Just like members of the family, each animal in the herd at the company's 1,500-acre farm in Montpelier is known by a personal name, not just a number on an ear tag.
Jonathan James is determined to make his life count. He is one of the rare survivors of hemophilia over the age of 30 who did not contract HIV or a form of hepatitis due to unfiltered blood transfusions during childhood.
CONSIDERING, he launched St. Elizabeth Foundation 25 years ago with a desire to give young, pregnant women without resources more options for adoption in Baton Rouge. The foundation has placed more than 450 babies in loving homes while assisting young women in crisis. Its ?25 Years of Silver Linings Gala will be held April 27 at the Cook Hotel and Conference Center.
Put a joyful spring in your step by helping others in our community cultivate a healthy lifestyle. When you get involved with any of these events and organizations, you'll make a valued difference in someone's life.
• Donate to coastal restoration, McIlhenny's biggest passion other than spice. Baton Rouge-based Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana is a good place to start. crcl.org
We moved to Baton Rouge a year after Katrina and built our dream home. We hired an incredible architect friend from Denver and asked that he design the home with lots of large windows so that we could feel like we were living outside.
A year ago this month, 225 published a cover story about bullying in Baton Rouge. Now, local middle-school children are learning about the motives, effects and consequences of bullying thanks to a new anti-bullying campaign called To Be Honest. Five LSU seniors launched the campaign earlier this year.
His love for the sport and lack of passion working for an accountant inspired Stewart: In 1999 he returned to Lake Charles, coached, and sold soccer-specific merchandise from his home.
Devin Lemoine has been with Success Labs for almost 18 years, but she preaches the days of cradle-to-grave employment have been long gone. Through her uncle's connection, she met Bill Phillips, the founder of the company. Success Labs, formerly called Career Assessment Services, had plenty of work on its hands with outplacement services. All of the big companies in the South contracted out their big layoffs. Yet as the business climate changed, Success Labs changed with the times. In the meantime, Lemoine, who has raised triplets, became president of the company about five years ago.
Expressway Park sits in the shadow of the I-10/I-110 split, with the rumble of traffic echoing off the huge concrete pilings that separate the busy interstate above from the inner-city green space below. The South Baton Rouge Jaguars youth football team often practices on a field here, between the overpass bridges. At night, the interstate lighting high above isn't enough to illuminate the practice field, so parents of the young players use the headlights of their vehicles to keep evening practices going.
In his opening remarks at TEDxLSU on Saturday, Joey Watson predicted the first-of-its kind event would serve as "the secret sauce" in the Capital Region's continued evolution. "This will change us in the months to come," says Watson, an LSU instructor, curator of the event and one of 225's People to Watch in 2013. Hundreds gathered at the Reilly Theatre on the LSU campus to hear 25 guest speakers who were given 18 minutes to give the "talk of their life" focused on the power of ideas. Among the speakers were cycling enthusiast and LSU photo-archivist Mark Martin, filmmaker Zack Godshall, arts advocate/attorney Jacques Rodrigue, and many others. They touched on a wide range of topics, from community activism and what architecture says about our area to vulnerability in filmmaking and interactivity in music.
Locally owned small businesses have created nearly all of the new net jobs over the past two decades in the eight-state region served by the Delta Regional Authority, which includes East Baton Rouge Parish and most of Louisiana. That's according to a new study from the economic development group representing 252 counties and parishes in Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri and Tennessee. DRA says the study's findings underscore the importance of supporting entrepreneurship and small business development in the region. Specifically, the study found that approximately 91% of the new net jobs in the region over the past 20 years have been created by local businesses with nine or fewer employees. The other roughly 9% of net job gains came from companies with 10 to 99 employees, the study says. "Larger establishments with 100 or more employees eliminated over 216,000 jobs since 1992," in the region, it says. In response to the findings, the DRA says it...
So much is going on this week that I could easily devote several blog posts to, but I thought I'd try to keep it simple. Here's what you should know about that's happening in our smART city right now:
With a "low cost of living, median home price $168,000, good state tax climate, nearby college amenities and good Milken Institute aging factors," Forbes magazine says Baton Rouge is among America's "25 Best Places to Retire in 2013." In compiling the list, the magazine says, "we crunched data on more than 400 cities from every state, looking at factors ranging from living costs and taxes to crime to the availability of doctors and the opportunity to stay active with outdoor exercise and volunteer work." Mayor Kip Holden issued a statement on Baton Rouge's inclusion on the list, saying he isn't surprised. "When we host major events like the U.S. Bowling Championships, I frequently hear from visitors that they would enjoy moving to Baton Rouge," he says. "They fall in love with the people and the community and begin to picture themselves living here." Holden notes the Milken Institute's latest ranking of "Best Cities for Successful Aging" also ranked Baton Rouge at No. 14 in...
Catherine and Christina Mahtook know a lot about the power of positive choices. With ready smiles—two completely identical, radiant smiles, since they are twins—they overflow with practical ideas and tips for living a joyful, balanced, healthy life.
Shelly Ripple Johnston has been making waves most of her life. After swimming for Parkview Baptist in high school, she went on to college stardom at Stanford University, where she was a seven-time NCAA champion and 24-time All-American. The 32-year-old mother of four currently ranks on Stanford's All-Time Top 10 list in five different swimming events and has earned gold medals for her country on an international level, among other achievements. After several years in Boston, since 2011 she's been back home in Baton Rouge, where she serves as CEO of Crawfish Aquatics and Exerfit Family Fitness Center. She's also helped her husband, Dr. Barrett Johnston, launch both the Interventional Pain Institute and the medical spa Rejuve—and she still manages to work out every day.
Erryca Robicheaux is a 28-year-old Lafayette native who's made her home in Baton Rouge for more than a decade. She is co-owner of the newest Snap Fitness in Baton Rouge, located at 9828 Bluebonnet Blvd. She loves a good hamburger almost as much as she loves a good costume.
Linda Gibson has been named a partner at TWRU CPAs & Financial Advisors. Gibson has been with the firm since 1997. She practices primarily in the firm's audit service area, but she also provides tax and general business consulting to both individuals and businesses.
FedEx franchisee Jeff Trim spends plenty of time giving back to the community on youth football fields as the CEO of the Baton Rouge Raptors. In 2001, fellow coach Clint Turner reached out to Trim with an offer to help Turner finish a route for FedEx.
Darren Duffy sees good times ahead for Baton Rouge and for his company, National Foundation Repair. His outfit is based here, with a single office location, but its territory spans from Jeanerette to New Orleans. Duffy says the gross profit for his company shop, which has 18 employees, was $1.3 million in 2012. The company repairs not only slab foundations but also raised-pier and beam homes, as well as offering "mudjacking" services. With 23 years of experience, Duffy prides himself on his work history, including years in Houston, and on putting his stamp on the business he purchased in 2005. Read the full Q&A with Duffy from the new issue of Business Reporthere. The following is a sample: What is the best advice you've ever received?
Darren Duffy sees good times ahead for Baton Rouge and for his company, National Foundation Repair. His outfit is based here, with a single office location, but its territory spans from Jeanerette to New Orleans. Duffy says the gross profit for his company shop, which has 18 employees, was $1.3 million in 2012. The company repairs not only slab foundations but also raised-pier and beam homes, as well as offering "mudjacking" services. With 23 years of experience, Duffy prides himself on his work history, including years in Houston, and on putting his stamp on the business he purchased in 2005.
Entrepreneur: Joey Coco
On the first day of the MBA program, Joey Coco's class defined "an entrepreneur" as someone who brings disparate resources together to create value. That's what he says he was trying to do when he co-founded Engensus, an engineering firm, in 2006. Last year, Coco says he saw an opportunity to create value through a merger with Forte and Tablada, and decided to pitch the idea to the larger company. Forte and Tablada is a multidisciplinary firm but lacked in-house expertise in structural and bridge engineering, Coco says; Engensus had been working with the larger company to provide those capabilities. Also, Engensus had started a new business—Engensus Measurements—to do laser scanning work, which complemented Forte and Tablada's land surveying component. Coco says the relative youth of the people of Engensus is valuable to the older company's long-term future. Read the rest of the Entrepreneur feature on Coco, from the latest issue of Business Report,
Moving Up
Nick Pentas has been promoted to general manager of Mercedes-Benz of Baton Rouge. He joined the company in 2000 while attending LSU. He rose through the ranks at the dealership, working as roadside technician, cashier, service adviser, service manager, pre-owned vehicle manager, and general sales manager.
Planning an exit
Selling your business can be exciting and daunting at the same time, says Linda Perez Clark, a co-owner of Bin 77 and a partner in Kean Miller’s Baton Rouge office, which recently hosted a briefing on the topic.
Lane remembered
Family members and friends of Gerald “Gerry” Lane are mourning the passing of the businessman and philanthropist. Lane died May 3 after a long battle with cancer, his family says. He was 82. An Oklahoma native, Lane built a thriving auto sales franchise in Baton Rouge that today includes seven dealerships. Over the course of 46 years, gross sales at Lane’s dealerships topped $10 billion. His son, Eric Lane, vice president of Gerry Lane Enterprises, says the dealerships will continue to be run with the same principles that his father instilled in them. “Customer service, innovation and being deeply involved in the community—this is Dad’s legacy, and we are going to keep running the dealerships just the way we have been doing, like he taught us to do,” says Eric Lane, one of three surviving children. Lane’s life story is recounted in a biography published late last year, Gerry Lane—An American Success Story, written by Leo...
Joey Coco
On the first day of the MBA program, Joey Coco's class defined “an entrepreneur” as someone who brings disparate resources together to create value.
Executive Spotlight: Jennifer Vosburg
Have you ever heard of NRG Energy? Or its fully-owned subsidiary, Louisiana Generating? Maybe not. But Jennifer Vosburg says most people catch on when they hear "Big Cajun I and Big Cajun II," which Fortune 300 energy company NRG owns. Since leaving the Long Law Firm in 2007, Vosburg has moved up the ladder at NRG, which sells energy primarily to large companies such as Demco. She started as director of regulations and next took over responsibility for transmissions assets. In January 2011 she became a vice president and was promoted to head Louisiana Generating that summer. Click here to read the full Q&A with Vosburg in the new issue of Business Report. The following is a sample of what you'll find:
If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be?
Jennifer Vosburg
I love to be challenged. The electric industry is both static and dynamic. While the foundation of the electric industry is currently status quo, there is a growing wave of change to how power is generated, delivered and used as part of our lives. In Louisiana, our industry is entering a new market that will fundamentally change our business. That type of challenge, combined with a great company, great employees and great customers, keeps me motivated.
Baton Rouge's new power broker: John Georges
In 1999, John Georges went into the tugboat business. It was unchartered territory for him. Though he had a successful wholesale distribution company and a thriving video poker business, offshore maritime was a totally new ballgame.
Capital Region 101 welcomes new residents
Ryan Simpson moved to Baton Rouge five months ago from Kalamazoo, Mich. The BRAC policy and research project manager didn't know what to expect when he relocated, and was a bit nervous about the culture shock. On Saturday morning, Simpson was one of many new Baton Rouge residents taking part in a half-day event called Conquer the Learning Curve. It was a part of BRAC's Capital Region 101 series of events that welcomes new residents to the Baton Rouge area with a meet-and-greet breakfast, presentations, and a trivia trolley ride before ending at the Red Stick Farmers Market. While Simpson attended as part of BRAC's talent program, he also wanted to take advantage of the event for personal reasons. The dual purpose of Capital Region 101 is to bring newcomers together to form new social circles and to get them acclimated to the region, says Julie Laperouse, Director of Talent Development for BRAC. Read the full story from 225 on the Capital Region 101 event
Entrepreneur: Stephen Smith and Matthew Valiollahi
As a student, Matthew Valiollahi noticed the many styles and varieties of T-shirts his peers were wearing. Inspired by those designs—and also by Garden and Gun magazine, which celebrates Southern culture—he decided to create a brand of high-quality T-shirts and casual wear with a distinctly Southern style and flair. While still in his senior year at LSU, he approached friend Stephen Smith to design the Southern Marsh brand, with its trademark mallard logo. At first, the pair simply sold their designs. As they began to investigate the quality of fabrics, they came up with a better idea: "That's when we decided to build the T-shirt from the yarn stage and create quality garments from the ground up," Valiollahi says. When the idea first struck, the pair went to adjunct professor Walter Morales, who helped them refine their business plan. "We talked to everyone we could find," Valiollahi says of the early days in 2007. "We couldn't find any capital or backers. I put...
Changing gears
Mark Martin is prepping for a full schedule of projects on the horizon—from securing a designation of Route 90 from DeRidder to Bogalusa as a US Bicycle Route, preparing for workshops later this month with several Baton Rouge organizations to brainstorm how to use federal funding to improve bike and pedestrian infrastructure, and consulting with the city on a new Dalrymple Drive bike path.
Gerry Lane dies at age 82
Family members and friends of Gerald "Gerry" Lane are mourning the passing of the businessman and philanthropist today. Lane died early this morning after a long battle with cancer, his family says. He was 82. An Oklahoma native, Lane built a thriving auto sales franchise in Baton Rouge that today includes seven dealerships. Over the course of 46 years, gross sales at Lane's dealerships topped $10 billion. His son, Eric Lane, vice president of Gerry Lane Enterprises, says the dealerships will continue to be run with the same principles that his father instilled in them. "Customer service, innovation and being deeply involved in the community—this is Dad's legacy, and we are going to keep running the dealerships just the way we have been doing, like he taught us to do," says Eric Lane, one of three surviving children. Lane's life story is recounted in a biography published late last year, Gerry Lane—An American Success Story, written by Leo Honeycutt. Along with his...
Professional athletes team up to buy Mid City building
Baton Rouge native and former NFL player Anthony Kimble, now a business consultant, has acquired the building at 4242 Government St., along with former LSU athlete Tyrus Thomas, and plans to turn the property into shared space for artists, architects and other creative professionals. "This has been a dream of mine since moving back to Baton Rouge last year," says Kimble, who went to high school at LSU Lab. "We want to really focus on developing shared creative space for artists in the community, and this is the perfect neighborhood for the type of tenant we want to attract." Joining Kimble and Thomas—who is currently with the NBA's Charlotte Bobcats—in the venture is Glen "Big Baby" Davis, also a former LSU basketball star, now with the Orlando Magic. Though Davis will not have an ownership stake in the building, he will be involved in its redevelopment with his two high-school buddies. Already, the three have several shared business and charitable ventures together. The...
Outdoor opportunities
Take advantage of great early summer weather this month as a volunteer with GaitWay Therapeutic Horsemanship or Girls on the Run. And show your support for local young entrepreneurs throughout the state participating in Louisiana's Lemonade Day.
Green acres
When Amanda Purdin Standish began riding horses as an 8-year-old, her parents, Suzanne Turner and Scott Purdin, tried to talk her out of it.
Horse power
Like a lot of young girls, Lindsey Weinstein became enamored with horses while still a toddler. She celebrated her second and third birthdays with pony parties at Kleinpeter Farms, and by the time she could read she had her sights set on a pony of her own.
The Golden Years
I have reached the summit. Let me bask in the glow. For I know that this day is fleeting, my time on the top is short. I shall raise my arms and swirl in circles, Julie Andrews-style, while singing on the mountaintop: I have hit the Golden Years.
Sorry, no chicken for the pot
Louisiana folks are a proud people who are deeply rooted in family, tradition and geography. I am one of those born and raised here, and I have enjoyed our state for more than five decades. In fact, we have the highest percentage of native population in the country, with about 80% of our residents born in Louisiana. That produces strong traditions and a culture passed down generation after generation.
Stephen Smith and Matthew Valiollahi
As a student, Matthew Valiollahi noticed the many styles and varieties of T-shirts his peers were wearing.
Executive Spotlight: Kathy Trahan
Before taking over as president and CEO of the Alliance Safety Council, Kathy Trahan had previously worked at PPG as an operator and instrument manager, in addition to having taught at McNeese State. She was petrochemical training director at Baton Rouge Community College when she realized her ambition to head up the safety council. Since landing the job, Trahan says she has aimed to make ASC more decentralized by getting closer to the members through the Internet, as well as opening satellite offices in Gonzales and Addis. Last year, more than 120,000 people received training from the council, and Trahan's staff has grown from about 15 people to more than 68. You can find the full Q&A with Trahan from the new issue of Business Report here. The following is a sample of what you'll find:
What is your favorite weekend activity?
Kathy Trahan
Before coming on board at the Alliance Safety Council, Kathy Trahan had worked at PPG as an operator and instrument manager and later taught at McNeese State. She was the petrochemical training director at Baton Rouge Community College when she revealed her grown-up ambition was to head up the safety council. Since landing the CEO position there, Trahan says, she has aimed to make ASC more decentralized by getting closer to the members through the Internet and opening satellite offices in Gonzales and Addis. Last year, more than 120,000 people received training from the council, and Trahan’s staff has grown from about 15 people to more than 68.
BRAC praises Turner in wake of racism lawsuit
In response to a lawsuit filed last week against Turner Industries Group by a former employee who says racial discrimination against black workers has been ignored by the firm, BRAC has issued a statement praising Turner for its "strong community commitment … for over fifty years." While BRAC refers to the statement as "comments on allegations" against Turner, it never directly addresses the discrimination charges. Instead, it lists various service organizations Turner has supported in the Capital Region through the years. One organization BRAC doesn't list in the statement is its own, despite the fact that Turner is an "executive council" investor, giving $50,000 annually to the economic development organization. "Turner Industries is the largest private employer in the Baton Rouge area," BRAC says in its statement. "Overall, the company has proved itself to be committed and focused on improving the region, creating opportunities for all, and setting an example for corporate...
Ana Maria Andricain
This is the first gift my husband ever gave me, and I knew he was the guy for me.
Stand and deliver
Troy Archer and Walker Higgins want Baton Rougeans to step out of their comfort zones, step up their workouts and step into the great outdoors.
William Cary Koch
To have power, you have to have balance.
Working Moms
In honor of Mother's Day on May 12, 225 spoke to five dynamic working moms in Baton Rouge to hear their challenges, their motherly advice, and their tips for connecting with their children and holding it all together.
Hearing voices
It was a packed house on March 9 and Twitter was buzzing (#TEDxLSU) as hundreds packed LSU's Reilly and Shaver theaters to hear about ideas worth sharing.
More than a Memorial Day
From behind a tree, our drill sergeant came charging down from the ridge, yelling at the trainees who were frozen there out in the open.
Through the hoop
Who knew? Who knew that on any given Saturday morning, a building in Baton Rouge with five basketball courts would be chock-a-block with children running from goal to goal, balls bouncing, parents coaching, whistles blowing, the snack bar churning out a variety of offerings—and everyone having a blast?
Pretty in pink
There is no textbook on how to paint a swimsuit. If there ever is, its author just might be 22-year-old Baton Rouge native Adrienne Connelly.
'225': First Impressions with Jordana Pomeroy
Jordana Pomeroy moved to Baton Rouge from Washington, D.C., in June 2012 to take the job of LSU Museum of Art executive director. Drawn to the job by the passion, exuberance and dynamism of the local art scene, Pomeroy has spent time here studying how the museum has evolved and how it can be better utilized. "I have focused on thinking about ways the museum can better serve LSU and the city," Pomeroy says. "This involves changes in our curatorial and educational programming, in fundraising, and updating crucial assumptions and decisions about how we are perceived." Check out Pomeroy's complete Q&A from the current issue of 225 here.
Entrepreneur: Craig Gehring
Craig Gehring never went to college, but he has helped many others achieve their higher ed dreams since 2003, his junior year in high school, when he received perfect scores on the ACT and the SAT. "When I made my scores, parents called Baton Rouge High and said, 'Let me talk to Craig and have him tutor my kids,' " Gehring says. Ten years later, Gehring has written the book, literally, on mastering the ACT and leads an effort to improve preparation for standardized tests. In addition to his early start tutoring fellow students and finishing his guidebook, published by Ring Publications in 2012, Gehring has worked with five others as part of ACT Prep Inc. The group members brainstormed and decided to start a camp to prepare future test-takers. He recalls, "One of the guys who eventually became a board member said, 'Why don't you put together a program based on your book?" The camp currently prepares students in Baton Rouge—Gehring trains the teachers—and plans to expand...
'Business Report': How culture lured one south La. native back home
Journalist and author Rod Dreher left Baton Rouge more than two decades ago after graduating from LSU and subsequently reporting for The Advocate. As Dreher explains in the new Business Report cover story, he had become disillusioned with Louisiana politics and didn't feel he had much of a future here at home. "I quit my job at The Advocate, loaded up a U-Haul Gentle-Ride van, and lit out for the East Coast, never to return," Dreher recalls. "Or so I thought. A year and a half ago, I moved with my wife and children from Philadelphia back to St. Francisville, where I was born and raised." Dreher's firsthand story details his journey away from and back to St. Francisville, and how south Louisiana's "particular traditions" and "distinct culture" played a key role in his decision. "It's not that Louisiana has changed, or changed all that much. It hasn't," he writes. "Louisiana may not have changed, but I have." Read the full story
The trouble with Ivor
Shortly before a scheduled trial, U.S. District Judge James Brady denied a request from LSU attorneys to throw out several exhibits Ivor van Heerden planned to present in court to support his three-year-old case. Three days later, the judge signed a dismissal order after the Louisiana Office of Risk Management agreed to a $435,000 settlement. Here are excerpts from some of those documents:
Just do it
In your field of work, you know what it takes to move up the ladder and to the top. But do you know what success looks like in other industries?
Moving on
Speaking out carried a high price for Ivor van Heerden. And, as it turns out, fighting him unsuccessfully carried a high price for LSU.
Craig Gehring
Craig Gehring never went to college, but he has helped many others achieve their higher ed dreams since 2003, his junior year in high school, when he received perfect scores on the ACT and the SAT.
Returning home
Brian and Julie Swindell, both 37, met at LSU and married in 2000, the year they finished college. Both Brian’s job as a manufacturing engineer and Julie’s career in the hospitality industry—which she set aside after their first child was born in 2005—have taken them around the country. They’ve moved eight times in 13 years, including to the Utah mountains and the Florida beaches, and have enjoyed the adventure.
Promoting home
Baton Rouge couldn't hold Andre Champagne, who graduated from LSU in 2002 and set off for Los Angeles and a career in the movie business.
Missing home
In the late 1990s, Phil LaRose picked up stakes with his wife, Jeanne Anne, and their school-age kids and left a job he really liked at his hometown newspaper for the promise of a bigger paycheck. At the time, LaRose was the news system manager, or tech guru, at The Advocate. He resigned to take a comparable position at the St. Paul Pioneer Press. It was basically the same tech job; it just paid a whole lot more.
The case for coming home
In the autumn of 1987, I sat at my computer terminal in The Daily Reveille office in the basement of Hodges Hall on the LSU campus and punched out a bitter op-ed commentary about Louisiana state politics. I can't be sure, but I think it had to do with then-Gov. Edwin Edwards' campaign statement that if Louisiana's best and brightest wanted to leave the state, well, good riddance.
Back home
When tax lawyer and Hammond native Cassie Felder and her husband, Matt Beeson, moved to Baton Rouge from New Orleans in 2002, they felt like they had landed in a ghost town.
Executive Spotlight: Peggy Scott
Peggy Scott continues to live a life of firsts. The Baton Rouge native, who graduated from LSU in 1973, has been recognized throughout her career—at Deloitte, General Health System, Novant Health in North Carolina, Pan-American Life and now at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana—as a trailblazer. Scott—who serves as executive vice president, chief operating officer, chief financial offer and treasurer for Blue Cross—says she is now facing another first: a massive upheaval in health care as the result of the Affordable Care Act. Her role as COO and CFO is to lead Blue Cross as the new regulations from ACA are implemented in stages. Click here to read the complete Q&A with Scott from the new issue of Business Report. Here's a sample of what you'll find:
If you could have any job other than your own, what would it be?
Peggy Scott
Peggy Scott continues to live a life of firsts. Scott, who graduated from LSU in 1973, has been recognized throughout her career—at Deloitte, General Health System, Novant Health in North Carolina, Pan-American Life and now at Blue Cross—as a trailblazer. Today, she says she faces another first: a massive upheaval in health care as the result of the Affordable Care Act. Her role as COO and CFO is to lead Blue Cross as the implementation of the regulations from ACA come out in stages.
Movie theatre mogul 'Teddy' Solomon dies at 93
Louisiana movie theater mogul Theodore "Teddy" George Solomon Sr., who brought megaplex stadium theaters to south Louisiana, died Sunday. He was 93. Solomon started a seven-decade career in the theater business as a child working in a silent-movie house built by his father and uncle. He would grow the family's single film venue into more than 600 theaters and drive-ins in eight states, according to a statement from a family spokesman issued today. After graduating from LSU and serving in World War II, Solomon returned to the South and formed Gulf States Theatres, through which he went on to build and operate more than 300 drive-in movie theaters. He sold the business in 1972 but later bought half of it back with his six children, transitioning the business from drive-ins to indoor screens. He again sold the business in 1986. By the mid-90s, Solomon opened a 20-screen stadium theater in New Orleans, which became wildly popular and would precede four more such theaters in the New...
Henry Gray Residency
Baton Rouge's own Henry Gray is a living legend in every sense of the phrase. Over the course seven decades behind the piano, Gray has performed with some of the greatest blues players ever to walk the face of the planet, guys like Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Bo Diddley, Sonny Boy Williamson II and Little Walter to name just a few.
Moving Up
GMFS announced Bob Lank has joined the bank as a senior mortgage banker. Lank is the former owner/president of Executive Mortgage and, most recently, was employed with Standard Mortgage. The lifelong Baton Rouge resident and LSU alumnus has 41 years’ experience in the real estate industry.
Andrew McCandless
Many smart businesspeople foresaw the growth of wireless ahead of the curve.
Executive Spotlight: Mark Northcutt
Mark Northcutt has traveled the world throughout his career with ExxonMobil, and the West Texas native says he looks forward to his second stop in Baton Rouge. He returns to the United States after serving as a refinery manager for five years in Thailand, where he was the only expat at the plant. Northcutt, who located to Baton Rouge in February to take over as plant manager, says his family will join him at the end of the school year. He particularly seeks a smooth transition for his three sons, noting that returning to the U.S. can sometimes involve a larger adjustment than going overseas. Northcutt first worked in Baton Rouge from 2000 to 2004. You can check out his complete Q&A from the new issue of Business Report here. The following is a sample:
What was your first job?
Mark Northcutt
Mark Northcutt has traveled the world in his career with ExxonMobil, and the West Texas native says he looks forward to his second stop in Baton Rouge. He returns to the United States after serving as a refinery manager for five years in Thailand; he was the only expat in that plant. Northcutt, who located to Baton Rouge in February, says his family will join him at the end of the school year. He particularly seeks a smooth transition for his three sons, noting that returning to the States can sometimes involve a larger adjustment than going overseas. Northcutt first worked in Baton Rouge from 2000 to 2004.
Khanh Ho
My style in five words or less
An edgy Audrey Hepburn
Worst fashion memory
Lamé
If no one were looking, I'd wear
Wigs and hats
Amy David
Daily uniform
If I answered this question truthfully, I would probably be on the worst dressed list.
Won't leave the house without
Almonds or a protein bar
My best secret
Fat and cellulite look better when tanned.
Gonzales preps for 45th annual Jambalaya Festival
Spring food festivals are as common as mosquitoes in Louisiana. Not a Saturday goes by when you can't locate a gathering where throngs of happy people are celebrating some aspect of the state's sprawling culinary roster. Gulf seafood, crawfish, suckling pig and more play starring roles at these community events, where thousands gather. Ascension Parish's annual Jambalaya Festival in May is one of the oldest festivals in the state, and it stands out for its staying power, cheery vibe and intractable enthusiasm for a simple, but tricky, dish.
Marsha Baker
Fashion inspiration
My stepson, Alex, who is a junior at Parsons School of Design in New York
Daily uniform
A tennis outfit
Weekend ensemble
Shorts, a cute top and sandals; or anything that works for a baseball game.
Lew Parks
My style in five words or less
Ralph Lauren ate Jimmy Buffett.
What I'm looking for now
Black ostrich boots
Prized possession
My yellow Labrador
Jack Harris
Prized possessions
Alligator boots and belt
Most splurge-worthy item
Watches
Wouldn't be caught dead in
Designer jeans
Daryl Ellis
My fashion motto
Make a statement without being loud.
My best secret
A close shave and polished shoes
Go-to pair of denim
AG
Ann Zedlitz
Fashion inspiration
Grace Kelly
Last thing I purchased
Blue-stitched Old Gringo cowboy boots
Favorite designer
Elie Tahari
Henry Watson Jr.
Favorite footwear
Louis Vuitton driving shoes
What I'm looking for now
Linen clothing for spring
Last thing I purchased
A custom suit
Nikki Caldwell
My fashion motto
Overdress.
Fashion inspirations
Michelle Obama and Kerry Washington
What I'm looking for now
A black-and-white pinstripe blazer
Jack Hunt
Wouldn't be caught dead in
A T-shirt
Best fashion advice I've received
Never go to New Orleans without a sport coat
If no one were looking, I'd wear
A Speedo
Elizabeth McCollister
My best secret
Pairing a trendy, less expensive piece with an amazing designer piece
I can't get enough of
Bright neon colors and maxi dresses
Last thing I purchased
Pieces from the Prabal Gurung for Target collection
Patrick Campbell III
Most splurge-worthy item
Custom-designed cuff links
Favorite tie
Where do I begin: I have hundreds. I'm more about the knot-full Windsor. I steer clear of 100% silk ties.
Worst fashion memory
On my wedding day, I grabbed an old tuxedo that was way too big, rather than the one I had rented for the occasion. The pants were super baggy—think MC Hammer.
Kitty Calabrese
My style in five words or less
Dress to respect the occasion
Go-to pair of denim
Depends on which pair of Western boots I'll be wearing that day.
Favorite designers
St. John and Lilly Pulitzer
Casey Gautreau
Best fashion advice I've received
Splurge on timeless pieces.
What I'm looking for now
The perfect gold cuff
Daily uniform
Scrubs and no makeup
Roy Davis
Favorite designer
Burberry
My fashion motto
Neat, neat, neat
Best fashion advice I've received
Never needed it
Justin McDonald
My style in five words or less
I dress for comfort.
Favorite designer
Tom Ford
Weekend ensemble
Shorts and a golf shirt
Susan Love
What I wear to a dinner party
Cocktail dress and sky-high heels
My best secret
I can sew.
Best fashion advice I've received
Don't dress older than you are; in 20 years you'll look back in regret.
Rani Whitfield
Fashion inspiration
Hip hop artist Common: He's hip-hop, but with class.
What I'm looking for now
A sleeveless orange puffer jacket
Prized possession
My music collection. I own everything from Frank Sinatra to Lil Wayne.
Lauren Hill
Fashion inspiration
Victoria Beckham
Weekend ensemble
I'm a tennis shoes or heels kind of girl—nothing in between.
I can't get enough of
Everything stingray
The cream rises
It's good to be a cow—especially if your caretakers are the folks at Kleinpeter Farms Dairy. Just like members of the family, each animal in the herd at the company's 1,500-acre farm in Montpelier is known by a personal name, not just a number on an ear tag.
Hope for Hemophilia
Jonathan James is determined to make his life count. He is one of the rare survivors of hemophilia over the age of 30 who did not contract HIV or a form of hepatitis due to unfiltered blood transfusions during childhood.
Hays Town Jr.
CONSIDERING, he launched St. Elizabeth Foundation 25 years ago with a desire to give young, pregnant women without resources more options for adoption in Baton Rouge. The foundation has placed more than 450 babies in loving homes while assisting young women in crisis. Its ?25 Years of Silver Linings Gala will be held April 27 at the Cook Hotel and Conference Center.
The power of many
Put a joyful spring in your step by helping others in our community cultivate a healthy lifestyle. When you get involved with any of these events and organizations, you'll make a valued difference in someone's life.
A working mother
I never intended to be a working mother—at least not one who had to change out of my pajamas every day.
That's hot
• Donate to coastal restoration, McIlhenny's biggest passion other than spice. Baton Rouge-based Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana is a good place to start. crcl.org
William Greiner
These are always close by because making photographs is an obsession. Some of my lenses are 30 or 40 years old, but I love them.
Becky Gottsegen's University Acres living room
We moved to Baton Rouge a year after Katrina and built our dream home. We hired an incredible architect friend from Denver and asked that he design the home with lots of large windows so that we could feel like we were living outside.
Come for dinner, stay for drama
Editor's note: McNeil serves as the special events coordinator for 225 and inRegister.
Jordana Pomeroy
Age: 50
Occupation: Executive Director, LSU Museum of Art
Previous residence: Washington, D.C.
Moved here: June 2012
The best policy
A year ago this month, 225 published a cover story about bullying in Baton Rouge. Now, local middle-school children are learning about the motives, effects and consequences of bullying thanks to a new anti-bullying campaign called To Be Honest. Five LSU seniors launched the campaign earlier this year.
Christopher Sean Polk
Chris Polk pauses before a barn door that looks as if it could have been put together when Pennsylvania Dutch turned over our city's wet river silt.
Chris Stewart
His love for the sport and lack of passion working for an accountant inspired Stewart: In 1999 he returned to Lake Charles, coached, and sold soccer-specific merchandise from his home.
Devin Lemoine
Devin Lemoine has been with Success Labs for almost 18 years, but she preaches the days of cradle-to-grave employment have been long gone. Through her uncle's connection, she met Bill Phillips, the founder of the company. Success Labs, formerly called Career Assessment Services, had plenty of work on its hands with outplacement services. All of the big companies in the South contracted out their big layoffs. Yet as the business climate changed, Success Labs changed with the times. In the meantime, Lemoine, who has raised triplets, became president of the company about five years ago.
Can the Greenway improve struggling neighborhoods?
Expressway Park sits in the shadow of the I-10/I-110 split, with the rumble of traffic echoing off the huge concrete pilings that separate the busy interstate above from the inner-city green space below. The South Baton Rouge Jaguars youth football team often practices on a field here, between the overpass bridges. At night, the interstate lighting high above isn't enough to illuminate the practice field, so parents of the young players use the headlights of their vehicles to keep evening practices going.
TEDxLSU showcases new ideas for Baton Rouge
In his opening remarks at TEDxLSU on Saturday, Joey Watson predicted the first-of-its kind event would serve as "the secret sauce" in the Capital Region's continued evolution. "This will change us in the months to come," says Watson, an LSU instructor, curator of the event and one of 225's People to Watch in 2013. Hundreds gathered at the Reilly Theatre on the LSU campus to hear 25 guest speakers who were given 18 minutes to give the "talk of their life" focused on the power of ideas. Among the speakers were cycling enthusiast and LSU photo-archivist Mark Martin, filmmaker Zack Godshall, arts advocate/attorney Jacques Rodrigue, and many others. They touched on a wide range of topics, from community activism and what architecture says about our area to vulnerability in filmmaking and interactivity in music.
Study: Small businesses created 91% of net new jobs over past 20 years
Locally owned small businesses have created nearly all of the new net jobs over the past two decades in the eight-state region served by the Delta Regional Authority, which includes East Baton Rouge Parish and most of Louisiana. That's according to a new study from the economic development group representing 252 counties and parishes in Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri and Tennessee. DRA says the study's findings underscore the importance of supporting entrepreneurship and small business development in the region. Specifically, the study found that approximately 91% of the new net jobs in the region over the past 20 years have been created by local businesses with nine or fewer employees. The other roughly 9% of net job gains came from companies with 10 to 99 employees, the study says. "Larger establishments with 100 or more employees eliminated over 216,000 jobs since 1992," in the region, it says. In response to the findings, the DRA says it...
Art and smart growth roundup
So much is going on this week that I could easily devote several blog posts to, but I thought I'd try to keep it simple. Here's what you should know about that's happening in our smART city right now:
'Forbes' calls B.R. one of 25 best places to retire
With a "low cost of living, median home price $168,000, good state tax climate, nearby college amenities and good Milken Institute aging factors," Forbes magazine says Baton Rouge is among America's "25 Best Places to Retire in 2013." In compiling the list, the magazine says, "we crunched data on more than 400 cities from every state, looking at factors ranging from living costs and taxes to crime to the availability of doctors and the opportunity to stay active with outdoor exercise and volunteer work." Mayor Kip Holden issued a statement on Baton Rouge's inclusion on the list, saying he isn't surprised. "When we host major events like the U.S. Bowling Championships, I frequently hear from visitors that they would enjoy moving to Baton Rouge," he says. "They fall in love with the people and the community and begin to picture themselves living here." Holden notes the Milken Institute's latest ranking of "Best Cities for Successful Aging" also ranked Baton Rouge at No. 14 in...
Twinspiring
Catherine and Christina Mahtook know a lot about the power of positive choices. With ready smiles—two completely identical, radiant smiles, since they are twins—they overflow with practical ideas and tips for living a joyful, balanced, healthy life.
My Fitness Style: Shelly Ripple Johnston
Shelly Ripple Johnston has been making waves most of her life. After swimming for Parkview Baptist in high school, she went on to college stardom at Stanford University, where she was a seven-time NCAA champion and 24-time All-American. The 32-year-old mother of four currently ranks on Stanford's All-Time Top 10 list in five different swimming events and has earned gold medals for her country on an international level, among other achievements. After several years in Boston, since 2011 she's been back home in Baton Rouge, where she serves as CEO of Crawfish Aquatics and Exerfit Family Fitness Center. She's also helped her husband, Dr. Barrett Johnston, launch both the Interventional Pain Institute and the medical spa Rejuve—and she still manages to work out every day.
My Fitness Style: Erryca Robicheaux
Erryca Robicheaux is a 28-year-old Lafayette native who's made her home in Baton Rouge for more than a decade. She is co-owner of the newest Snap Fitness in Baton Rouge, located at 9828 Bluebonnet Blvd. She loves a good hamburger almost as much as she loves a good costume.
Moving Up
Linda Gibson has been named a partner at TWRU CPAs & Financial Advisors. Gibson has been with the firm since 1997. She practices primarily in the firm's audit service area, but she also provides tax and general business consulting to both individuals and businesses.
Jeff Trim
FedEx franchisee Jeff Trim spends plenty of time giving back to the community on youth football fields as the CEO of the Baton Rouge Raptors. In 2001, fellow coach Clint Turner reached out to Trim with an offer to help Turner finish a route for FedEx.
Outside Shot
Jack Warner & Brandon Landry
2013 Business Awards & Hall of Fame
Success in business is worthy of recognition, and local companies make a major contribution to the quality of life in our community.
The path forward
Teri Fontenot
Looking ahead
James M. "Jim" Bernhard Jr.
Executive Spotlight: Darren Duffy
Darren Duffy sees good times ahead for Baton Rouge and for his company, National Foundation Repair. His outfit is based here, with a single office location, but its territory spans from Jeanerette to New Orleans. Duffy says the gross profit for his company shop, which has 18 employees, was $1.3 million in 2012. The company repairs not only slab foundations but also raised-pier and beam homes, as well as offering "mudjacking" services. With 23 years of experience, Duffy prides himself on his work history, including years in Houston, and on putting his stamp on the business he purchased in 2005. Read the full Q&A with Duffy from the new issue of Business Report here. The following is a sample:
What is the best advice you've ever received?
Darren Duffy
Darren Duffy sees good times ahead for Baton Rouge and for his company, National Foundation Repair. His outfit is based here, with a single office location, but its territory spans from Jeanerette to New Orleans. Duffy says the gross profit for his company shop, which has 18 employees, was $1.3 million in 2012. The company repairs not only slab foundations but also raised-pier and beam homes, as well as offering "mudjacking" services. With 23 years of experience, Duffy prides himself on his work history, including years in Houston, and on putting his stamp on the business he purchased in 2005.