Chamber Voice

Yo u r s o u r c e f o r c h a m b e r n e w s Vol. 6 Issue 8 • www.thechambervoice.com

Will You Remember Me? By Kirk P. Landry

Will you remember me, Will you remember me, now I know you must go and be what you have to be But this question pounds inside my heart and just won’t set me free Will you remember me If some unsuspecting day we’re ever on the street and if by fortune through a chance if ever we should meet would you turn your head and walk away oh so gracefully or will you remember me

In Memoriam

Kirk P. Landry Rest in Peace

www.thechambervoice.com

If you see a fine guitar or a silver turquoise ring And if you’re riding in your car and you hear Bob Dylan sing And if you see a snow white cat that reminds you of the “B” Will you remember me. Will you remember me, Will you remember me, now I know you must go and be what you have to be But this question pounds inside my heart and just won’t set me free Will you remember, Will you remember, will you remember me August 2009

Chamber Voice

Page 1

A publication of the Donaldsonville Area Chamber of Commerce

Table of Contents Do You See What I See------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Financial Focus------------------------------------------------------------------------ 6 A View from the Press Box--------------------------------------------------------- 7

In Memoriam of Kirk P. Landry. ---------------------------------------------8-9 One Plus One All Over Again-----------------------------------------------------11 Chamber Luncheon-----------------------------------------------------------------13 Chamber Membership Listing----------------------------------------------- 14-15

June 2009 Volume 6, Issue 8 Board of Directors Ben Glueck - President Vera Sanchez - Vice-President 2009 Directors Melissa Daigle - Caldwell Banker Mackey Kenny Frederic - D’ville Glass and Body Shop Pamela Gregoire Karen Hartman - Plantation Antiques and Fancy Goods Chuck LeBlanc - Bourg Insurance Dr. Devjani Lahiri - Southern Eye Center Larry Mann - CF Industries John Marchand - Ascension Heritage Association Dana Mitchell - Whitney National Bank Barbara Ourso - Ourso Funeral Home Cheryl Sutton - TenM Corporation Chamber Staff Pamela Gregoire - Executive Assistant [email protected] Editor in Chief Becky Katz [email protected]

The mission of the Donaldsonville Area Chamber of Commerce is to provide leadership for growth and support of commerce, trade, and community good will in Ascension Parish and its surrounding areas. The Chamber works toward this goal by creating an active forum for communication between the interests of business, industry, local and parish government, civic and religious leaders, and concerned members of the community. The Donaldsonville Area Chamber of Commerce presents many opportunities for members to network. One of the main objectives of the Chamber is to help its members form a referral system. The Chamber sponsors events such as breakfasts, business after-hours, business card exchanges, banquets, festivals and monthly meetings. The Chamber continually works on new and innovative ideas for marketing and advertising. We offer several programs such as our USDA low interest loan program, gift certificate program, and member discount program. The Donaldsonville Chamber of Commerce is always looking for good business partners to help us promote the City of Donaldsonville and our members. Please call the Chamber office at 225-473-4814 for more information.

Print and Web Production dezinsINTERACTIVE www.dezinsINTERACTIVE.com Distribution Julie Guillot Inez Landry Printer POSTSOUTH News If you want to reach us (and we want you to), e-mail is FASTEST and BEST: [email protected] www.thechambervoice.com Phone (225) 473-4226 • Fax (225) 473-8916

For more information or to become a member of the Donaldsonville Area Chamber of Commerce, please contact the Chamber Office at: The Donaldsonville Area Chamber of Commerce 714 Railroad Avenue Phone: 225-473-4814 Fax: 225-473-4817 Email: [email protected] Web: www.donaldsonvillecoc.org

About the cover In Memoriam of our dear fr iend and Chamber Director Kirk P. Landry. Rest in Peace

Office Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday This publication is focused on the activities and members of our Chamber of Commerce. Reproduction in whole or part of this publication without expressed written consent of the Chamber Director is prohibited. All claims, materials and photos furnished or used are, to the Chamber’s knowledge, true and correct, hence liability cannot be assumed by the Chamber for errors or omissions. Advertisements and editorial information published in this publication are subject to the unrestricted right to edit of, and by, our editor/publisher. This magazine is made possible through the advertisers. Please patronize their business first and tell them you saw them in Chamber Voice. Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in editorials/contributing writers are the views of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions, policies and/or procedures of The Donaldsonville Chamber of Commerce, its directors, and its members.

www.thechambervoice.com

August 2009

Chamber Voice

Page 2

Do you see what I see

Fame, fortune and freebies are not in marriage vows. It happened to Nick and Jessica, Hulk Hogan and Linda, Danny Bonaduce, and Bobby Brown and Whitney. This season’s theme is “Jon and Kate can Date.”

Debbie Peltier [email protected]

T

he show began in an innocent way by highlighting the hardships of parenting challenges involved with multiple births. Jon and Kate Plus Eight gave us a glimpse of their lives full of diaper changes, baby bottles, and a lot of little fingerprints. They began as a regular family trying to get by in everyday life. As the series continued we watched the children grow and establish their own identities and personalities. We watched as Kate ran the household with organization and voice commands. We watched as Kate lost her respect for Jon as head of the household and yelled at him like he was her oldest child, not her husband. They have moved into their third home. This one is a million dollar home with plenty of room for the children, pets, camera crew, paparazzi, and Kate’s good looking body guard. There is also room for the nannies, babysitters, and housekeepers that are kept behind the scenes. This hired crew makes it possible for Kate to bake cupcakes, homemade cookies and bread for the film crew. When was the last time you saw her washing clothes or changing sheets?

Attending the fall LACCE conference in Jennings, La. Are: Tammi Fabre of the West Baton Rouge Chamber of Commerce, Hank Grace of the Iberville Chamber of Commerce, Becky Katz of the Donaldsonville Area Chamber of Commerce and Sherri Despino of the Ascension Chamber of Commerce.

Turning her children into a commodity allowed Kate to become a “Diva.” She even has her own signature hair cut. She can find time in the day to tan and retreat to day spas. How can a mother of eight run errands in heels? Both Jon and Kate have completely sold out their lives and the lives of their children. Everything they wear, travel to, play with or eat ends up being an endorsement. They receive large payments from the show along with personal appearances, books, free trips, free products, and free services. The children are put on display in order to gain the “blessings” they now have. Kate’s free tummy tuck turned into Jon in Saint Tropez, France with the plastic surgeon’s twenty-two year old daughter. Exactly when did the marriage go south? Was it really a happy marriage or was it acting? Jon seems to have adjusted to single life. He is discussing a possible children’s clothing line using the kids as models. The car he drives only has room for one passenger. He is appearing as today’s hip and trendy single dad. We have all witnessed what happens to child stars. They have to grow up with the camera on, not knowing how to distinguish real life from the reality of real life. The world just buried Michael Jackson. What will the future hold for these eight children? What childhood memories will they have without a camera crew? www.thechambervoice.com

Daily Lunch Specials Meeting Room Available For Reservations

(225) 473-0010 206 Railroad Ave. • Donaldsonville Monday - Tuesday 11:00 am - 2:00 pm;Wednesday - Saturday 11:00 am - 2:00 pm 5:00 pm - till; Closed on Sunday

August 2009

Chamber Voice

Page 3

New merchandise just arrived!!! It's not just an antique shop -- it's so much more!

Come see us!

Mark your calendar

Children's books, and all the "hot" cookbooks Anything and everything fleur de lis!! Handbags, totes and sunglasses Decorative, and accent lamps, vintage antique furniture, and collectibles

Fashion & vintage jewelry Scented Candles Lady Primrose -- Luxurious body products New Baby Clothes New aroma decor fragrance diffuser 602 Railroad Ave. Donaldsonville 225.474.5050 www.cabahanosse.com

Wed - Sat • 10am-6pm Sun. • 10am-5pm

the second week-end in October Annual Sunshine Festival Antiques & Gifts Bed & Breakfast

Supplying ESSENTIAL

(225) 473-8274

INGREDIENTS

for AGRICULTURE and INDUSTRY

39041 Hwy. 18 West P.O. Box 310 Donaldsonville, La. 70346 Phone: (225) 473-9231 • Fax: 474-6400

www.terraindustries.com

• Rene’s Trucking, Inc. • S.M.E. Contracting, LLC • South Louisiana Fill Materials, LLC

6970 Hwy 70 N Paincourtville, LA 70391 Rene Esneault President

Office: 225-474-3500 Fax: 225-473-6116 Email: [email protected] Dirt Hauling, Sand, Limestone, Gravel, Site Prep, Tractor and Dozer Work

www.renestrucking.com

www.thechambervoice.com

August 2009

Chamber Voice

Page 4

21st Century Grant Huge Success Campsters Reach for the Stars We apologize for omitting Ms. Janice’s name in last issue‘s picture

Southern Eye Centers FULL SERVICE OPTICAL • Contacts • Glasses • Lasik Surgery • Glaucoma • Cataracts • Eye Exams Devjani Lahiri-Munir Ph. D., O.D

Ms. Janice Linton enjoying the art of the young campers.

309 Iberville Street Donaldsonville (225) 473-3124

trust.

921 South Range Ave. Denham Springs (225) 665-2020

P.O. Box 509 Donaldsonville, LA 70346 Marine Cargos: Phone (225) 473-1700 Consulting Surveying, Supervision Fax&(225) 473-8020

Approved U.S. Customs Now Curves Works with Certified Public Gaugers Dugas LeBlanc & Associates , LLC SilverSneakers. Marine Cargos: w Curves Works with If your Medicare health plan offers the SilverSneakers Fitness Program, you could be working out at Curves for FREE. Call or stop by with your health plan member ID to see if you’re eligible. erSneakers. dicare health plan offers the SilverSneakers Fitness Now Curves Works with you could be working out at Curves for FREE. Call or th your health plan member ID to see if you’re WORK eligible. OUT FOR FREE* SilverSneakers. Attorneys at Law

P.O. Box 509

Donaldsonville, LA

Phone (225) 473-1700

Surveying, Supervision & Consulting

406 Houmas Street Donaldsonville • 225-473-3109

70346

473-8020 Fax (225) ®

U.S. Customs Approved Certified Public Gaugers

®

If your Medicare health plan offers the SilverSneakers® Fitness or stop by with your health plan member ID to see if you’re eligible.

*At no cost beyond your health plan premium. You must be a Medicare-eligible member of a participating health plan. ® is a registered markcould of Healthways, ©2009 Curvesout International, Inc. SilverSneakers Program, you beInc. working at Curves for FREE. Call

RK OUT FOR FREE*

Visit www.silversneakers.com for more information.

your health plan premium. You must be a Medicare-eligible member of a participating health plan. a registered mark of Healthways, Inc. ©2009 Curves International, Inc.

WORK OUT FOR FREE*

versneakers.com for more information.

*At no cost beyond your health plan premium. You must be a Medicare-eligible member of a participating health plan. SilverSneakers® is a registered mark of Healthways, Inc. ©2009 Curves International, Inc.

[

OVER 10,000 LOCATIONS WORLDWIDE.

]

000-000-0000 000-000-0000 000-000-0000 000-000-0000 000-000-0000 225-473-3500 Visit www.silversneakers.com for more information. 3447 La. Hwy 1 South Local AddressLocal Address Local Address Local AddressLocal Address Donaldsonville, LA 70346 Local AddressLocal Address Local Address Local AddressLocal Address

000 000-000-0000 000-000-0000 000-000-0000 000-000-0000 225-473-3500 3447 La. Hwy 1 South ressLocal Address Local Address Local AddressLocal Address Donaldsonville, LA 70346 ressLocal Address Local Address Local AddressLocal Address www.thechambervoice.com

August 2009

Chamber Voice

000-000-0000 000-000-0000 000-000-0000 000-000-0000 000-000-0000 225-473-3500

Page 5

Financial Focus Submitted by: Donna Schexnayder Edward Jones Investments

IF YOU’RE NOT AT YOUR LAST JOB,

YOUR 401(k)

Review Financial Strategies after Life Events

SHOULDN’T BE EITHER.

f nothing ever changed in your life, you could probably chart your financial and investment strategies and then forget about them. But your life is full of changes - and many of them will require you to take a new look at how you save, invest and protect your family.

Leaving a 401(k) with a previous employer could mean leaving

I

Let’s run through some of the most common milestones in life and see what sort of moves you might make in response:

it alone with no one to watch over it.

• Marriage - It sounds obvious, but once you’re married, you have to stop thinking in terms of “one” and start thinking of “two” in most aspects of your life - including your finances. For example, if you are an aggressive investor but your spouse is more conservative, you both may need to compromise and choose an investment strategy that’s “down the middle.” At the same time, you’ll want to set some common goals, such as saving enough for a down payment on a home.

At Edward Jones, we can explain options for your 401(k) and help

• Children - When you have children, you have to protect them today — and invest for their future. Your first step, then, might be to purchase life insurance. You can typically buy a term life policy at very reasonable rates. The exact amount of coverage you need depends on your individual situation, but you’ll probably want at least enough to pay off your mortgage and send your children to college should anything happen to you. And to protect your income, you might want to consider disability insurance. Finally, it’s never too soon to start saving for college. You might want to consider opening a tax-advantaged account, such as a Section 529 college savings plan. • Job changes - When you leave a job, you may well have an important decision to make about your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan. If you don’t need the money right away, you might want to avoid cashing out your plan, because you’ll likely face an immediate tax bill — and you’ll have fewer resources for retirement. Consequently, you may want to roll your 401(k) to an IRA or your new employer’s plan, if it allows such transfers. Before taking action, consult with your tax advisor. • Remarriage - If you ever remarry, you may need to change the beneficiary designations on your 401(k), IRA and other investment accounts. You also may need to work with your attorney to revise your will, living trust and other documents related to your estate plans. • Retirement - For many decades, you saved and invested for your retirement. Once you retire, however, you should move away somewhat from the “accumulation” phase and start thinking instead of how best to manage the money you have accumulated. That means you’ll need to decide when to start taking Social Security and how much to withdraw each year from your various retirement accounts, such as your 401(k) and IRA. A professional financial advisor can help you develop a withdrawal rate that’s suitable for your individual situation. You’ll encounter many important events on the road of life. By making the right financial moves along the way, you can help make the journey more pleasant. www.thechambervoice.com

you select the one that’s best for you. If you’d like to roll it over into an Edward Jones IRA, we can help you do it without paying taxes or penalties. So you can feel confident someone is looking out for you and your 401(k). Donna Schexnayder Financial Advisor Vicky Landry Senior Branch Office Administrator

Ben P. Glueck Financial Advisor

Call today for details.

508 Railroad Avenue, Suite A Donaldsonville, LA 70346 (225) 473-4480 www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

Making Sense Of Investing August 2009

Chamber Voice

Page 6

A View From The Press Box Troy S. LeBoeuf Contributing Sports Authority

T

he leaves are not falling and it is certainly not cool, but football season is here. I guess you have to start somewhere, which means grueling 2 a day practices (for some) and lots of powerade consumed. I am so excited that I can finally talk about some football and the expectations are very high for the LSU Tigers and the Southern Jaguars. LSU returns some valuable personnel in Coach Les Miles’ 5th year at the helm. On the offensive side, you have to start with running back Charles Scott who is poised to rush for another 1000 yds and double digit touchdowns. WR Brandon Lafell turned down guaranteed NFL money to return and lead the receiving corp. On the offensive line, you don’t have to look hard to find Senior Ciron Black. The mammoth tackle was also a first round selection waiting to happen, but he turned down the money as well. Can you see the theme here, these 3 guys all returned with one thing in mind (well 2 if you count the $ they will make next year) a 3rd national championship in the BCS era. The QB will be soph Jordan Jefferson who showed flashes of star status in the Tigers rout of Georgia Tech in the bowl season. Jefferson has the arm and legs to run Coach Gary Crowton’s offense and he should be an improvement from Jarrett Lee last season. I will say that before the season ends, Lee may have to play a significant role in this season. On defense, opposing offenses should be on the look out for a revamped led by new defensive coordinator John Chavis. Chavis comes over from the University of Tennessee after 20 plus years. The defense will be led up front by tackles Al Woods and Drake Nevis. Rahim Alem returns on the edge after registering 8.5 sacks as a part time starter. The LB crew starts with middle linebacker Jacob Cutrera and Harry Coleman will move from his safety position to outside linebacker. Chad Jones, fresh off of a national championship in baseball, will lead the secondary along with Patrick Peterson and Chris Hawkins. Newcomers that I expect to contribute are athlete Russell Shepard and wr Rueben Randle. Newcomers on defense that will play include safety Craig Loston and defensive end Sam Montgomery. If I were picking the Tigers record with no objectivity at all, 120! Well I can’t do that, but I do believe that 9-10 wins are possible. Factors include the offensive line play, the QB and an improved attacking defense. The schedule is not easy by any stretch with visits to top ten programs like Bama and Ole Miss. The #1 Florida Gators come to town in October and don’t forget a trip to #15 Georgia. Those are the swing games that will determine how the Tigers finish, stay tune. The Jags are led by QB Bryant Lee and they should put up some big offensive numbers. Coach Pete Richardson will have his team ready to play and 8-9 wins are very possible. The Saints are the most confusing franchise that I have ever followed. They come within one game of the Superbowl 2 years and follow that up with sub par 8-8 seasons. The offensive talent is there with QB Drew Brees, running

www.thechambervoice.com

back Reggie Bush and Wide Receiver Marques Colston. The improvement has to come on the defensive side, does that sound familiar? Middle backer Jonathan Vilma is a stud but there are still many question marks around him. The defensive line will suffer from 4 game suspensions by ends Charles Grant and Will Smith (drug violations) and the secondary will have to get better. Without pressure on the QB from the Saints D, the secondary will suffer. Some people are picking the Saints to be the Arizona Cardinals of 2009, but if the defense doesn’t crack the top 15 in overall defense, then 8-8 will be the case again. High School Football is a passion of mine as most of you know. I have the privilege of coverings ACHS and DHS on KKAY 1590 AM and www. kkay1590.com. The Ascension Catholic Bulldogs are under the direction of 3rd year head coach Rick Bolotte. The Dogs will be lead on offense by QB Charles Cabellero, fullback James LeBoeuf and running back Myron Dominique. Caballero will work behind a veteran offensive line led by 4 year starters Frankie Sotile and Ben Schexnayder. Add in 3 year starter Nate Allen, Logan Luquette, Greg Carter, Myles Haydel, Connor Sullivan, Blane Falsetta and this is certainly the strength the team. Kolby Martinez returns for at tight end with capable hands and blocking as well. Taylor Marcello, Jessie Pizzalato and Hunter Lemoine will split time at one receiver. The other target for Caballero will be a big one in 6’7 Matthew Pearce, who will be a huge part of the offense. Dominique has the speed along with the power running of LeBoeuf to make this Bulldog offense very capable of scoring points. On defense, the Dogs will be anchored by Sotile, Carter, Haydel and Martinez up front. Sullivan, LeBoeuf and Josh Longnecker will be the linebackers. The secondary will include Marcello, Lemoine, Pizzalato and Dominique. Sotile will handle the kicking chores and Marcello is an all district punter that returns. The Dogs play a tough non district schedule with games against Donaldsonville, Episcopal, Brusly and CCMC. The District includes Class A state runnerup Christian Life, West St. John, ST John of Plaquemine, White Castle and East Iberville. ACHS has an opportunity to have a winning record if they stay healthy and play solid defense. The offense should be fine as well as the kicking game. The Donaldsonville Tigers are under the direction of 1st year head coach Terence Williams. Coach Williams comes to Donaldsonville from Leesville High, where he was a consistent playoff contender. The Tigers will be led on offense by 1000 yd rusher Bryant Dunn and QB Devin Breaux. Dunn is a powerful runner with speed and will fit nicely in the one back spread set that the Tigers will employ. The line will be led by Denzel Butler and Dwight Wright. On defense, the Tigers will be anchored by a 4 year starter at linebacker in Aikee Turner. Turner has the ability to take over a game with his ball hawking skills and will be a double digit tackler. Tre Sullivan will be a force on defense as a linebacker or defensive back. Breaux will handle the punting and kicking duties. I believe the Tigers have a chance to win district if the players buy into the new system early. The Tigers compete in the toughest district in Class 2A which includes Episcopal, Dunham, Pointe Coupee Central, University High, Capitol and Clinton. This Tiger team has over 20 seniors and they have improved 2-3 games over the last 3 years, they will be fun to watch. WOW, finally I get to the end of this football preview article. The Dog Days of Summer are behind us and football is in full swing. Take an opportunity to check out our local teams on KKAY 1590 AM and www.kkay1590.com Questions and comments can be sent to [email protected] August 2009

Chamber Voice

Page 7

Kirk P. Landry A Fireman’s Pledge I promise concern for others. A willingness to help all those in need. I promise courage courage to face and conquer my fears. Courage to share and endure the ordeal of those who need me. I promise strength strength of heart to bear whatever burdens might be placed upon me. Strength of body to deliver to safety all those placed within my care. I promise the wisdom to lead, the compassion to comfort, and the love to serve unselfishly whenever I am called.

A Fireman’s Creed A Fireman is dedicated to the protection of life and property from fire. To Succeed He maintains a high morality standing. He has a high sense of civic spirit and duty. He ever strives to increase his knowledge by studying new methods and quipment designed to save lives and property. He is ever vigilant, alert and watchful in all cases of emergency. www.thechambervoice.com

August 2009

Chamber Voice

Page 8

SERVICE IN THE BONES, MUSIC IN THE SOUL By Lester Kenyon Published in The Donaldsonville Chief PROFILE 2000

M

ost people go through life with the satisfaction of being good at something that is usually tied to their career. But for Donaldsonville Fire Chief Kirk Landry, the success he has experienced while serving as a firefighter has been balanced with his talent as a songwriter and performer.

“When I first started here, I had no intentions of staying,” Landry said. “But I then became assistant fire chief in 1982 and I felt I had an opportunity to make a difference within the department and the community. I was also given the opportunity to teach in the fire services so cold do both here.” The music bug continued to bite Landry, prompting him to join local outfit The Nite Flyers with Floyd Ourso, Bill Ourso and Ray Capone. While the Nite Flyers played local nightclubs, Landry’s songwriting ability caught the ears of Miller Productions out of Crowley. He signed a seven-year songwriting contract and had his songs recorded by regional favorites Bas Clas and Dash Rip Rock.

Landry fronted the regionally-known band The Dick Nixons during the 1980s and early 1990s before it disbanded in 1993, all the while remaining as a member of the Donaldsonville Fire Department.

The Nite Flyers disbanded leading Landry to his next musical quest.

The Dick Nixons recorded among others, “Paint the White House Black,: an album with themes about former President Richard Nixon written with Landry’s touch of humor and sarcastic twist. The album’s title track video was played on the USA network.

“The Dick Nixons was to music what professional wrestling is to sports.” Landry said.

Landry’s love for writing and performing music can be traced back to his days as a student in Ms. Dottie Davis’ eighth grade class at Ascension Catholic. “It really depends on what your definition of what a musician is,”Landry said with a smile. Landry and fellow classmate Anthony Marcello caught the writing and performing bug and made use of whatever was available to entertain the other students. “We called ourselves The 80’s and used to sit out of Ms. Davis’ room and beat on the desks and make up songs about her and a classmate John Oschwald,” Landry recalled. When we got to high school, the nuns really liked it and encouraged us to go to each classroom and perform. When we had a new song, we’d just pull out the desks and beat.” Word quickly spread about The 80’s and an outdoor concert in front of the student body was scheduled. “The year the high school auditorium burned down, we played a concert on top of two tables. It became an annual event after 1972, my freshman year,” he said. The 80’s continued to perform and during their junior year included classmate and former parish councilman Jeff Poche on guitar, “because he really could play guitar.” “Jeff said, ‘Kirk and Anthony, I’ll teach you how to play guitar if you teach me how to be stupid.’” Landry and Marcello did gradually learn the guitar and Landry’s passion for songwriting grew also. Modest about his ability to play, Landry just wanted some accompaniment to his songs, a song list that has grown to over 200 songs. Landry continued to write music during the late 1970s while pursuing a physical education degree that would lead to teaching. It was then that Landry joined up with the Donaldsonville Fire Department. www.thechambervoice.com

He formed the Dick Nixons around 1984.

Describing their music as sounding like “a bunch of coins going through a meat grinder,” the Dick Nixons soon became a statewide hit with college audiences. Landry was joined by firefighter Chuck Montero (now assistant fire chief) on bass and Johnny Cavalier on sax and percussion. The band went through five drummers that included Cliff Weber, Bill Ourso, Joe Daigle, Ray Capone and Skip Doran. One of the band’s trademarks was the “trash kit,” which was used as the band’s drum set. It consisted of a metal trashcan with a cymbal attached to it on a pole. “This way all our drummer had to do was play on the down beat,” Landry said. The word soon spread of the unique brand of rock and roll played by the Dick Nixons. National television exposure and touring that included a stint in France opened avenues for the band. In 1992, Landry met Sun records founder Sam Phillips, the man known for recording the early Elvis recordings. Landry and crew were invited back to Memphis and recorded their album, “Paint the White House Black.” It was produced by industry heavyweight Jim Dickinson, who had just produced an album for Bob Dylan. While holding down their jobs at the fire department, Landry and Montero continued to perform until the band disbanded, or took a long hiatus (depending on how you look at it, Landry said) around 1993. Also, the fact that Landry became fire chief in 1992 made an impact on how many live dates could be played. Landry continued to write music on his Fender Telecaster and Yamaha acoustic and rekindled his love of performing last year by joining fellow bandmates Anthony Marcello, Chuck Montero, Ray Capone and Floyd Ourso. Their band, Run Tell Otis, entertained listeners at the 1999 Sunshine Festival. And as they continue to write original music, Landry and the band plan to enter the studio this year. August 2009

Chamber Voice

Page 9

Starting a Business? Expanding a Business? Have Business Questions? We’re Coming to Donaldsonville to Help You!

YOU CAN SIGN UP FOR ONE DAY OR BOTH DAYS…OR YOU CAN CHOOSE ANY SEMINARS YOU WOULD LIKE TO

First-class business trainers and consultants will be available to help you make your business more successful with FREE, intensive, business education seminars. Pre–registration is required for sessions, due to limited seating.



When: Tues., Sept. 29 – Wed., Sept. 30 Where: Graugnard Warehouse Showroom,



3035 Hwy 1 South Donaldsonville, LA 70346 To register contact: Pam Gregoire Phone: 225-473-4814, Fax: 225-473-4817 or E-Mail: [email protected] For more information go to www.lbtc.lsu.edu and click on the Mobile Classroom link. This project is a partnership of Secretary of State, US Dept. of Agriculture Rural Development, Louisiana Economic Development, Louisiana Public Facilities Authority, Louisiana Municipal Association, Capital One, Louisiana Secretary of State, Louisiana Business & Technology Center, LSU Ag Center, and LSBDC Network. We are an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC) network operates in partnership with the U. S. Small Business Administration under Cooperative Agreement 9-603001-Z0019-5 and the Louisiana Department of Economic Development. SBA’s funding is not an endorsement of any products, opinions, or services. All SBA funded programs are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. www.thechambervoice.com

August 2009

Chamber Voice

Page 10

dezinTALK

Orhan Mc Millan, Creative Director Elizabeth Foos, Head Writer dezinsINTERACTIVE - Identity • Internet • Exposure

Bernardo’s Catering Palazzo Bernardo

2244 Hwy 3120, Donaldsonville (225) 473-2100

Chef’s Fried Chicken Ten M Vending

Email Marketing: One Plus One All Over Again It helps the world is round when coming full circle as— after centuries of market expansion by land, by sea, by satellite— business now finds itself personal again thanks to the world wide web. In today’s vast market network of individuals, smart companies know that to keep customers and grow, they must cultivate interactive relationships based on individual customer needs. Email marketing produces custom-tailored communications directly delivered to highly receptive audiences in precision-targeted markets at far less cost than traditional old century advertising.

105 W. 10th Street, Donaldsonville Phone: (225) 473-8716 Fax: (225) 473-8740

Building your company identity and data resource library while building personal relationships with customers conveniently, email marketing gives your business tools to quickly recognize and respond to customer needs, market trends and company particulars. Your marketing agency or web designer can easily add email marketing to your online presence, creating a custom database for company use and simple methods of contacting customers. Begin by adding simple features to your website such as an online mailing list or comment card to collect in your database the contact information of interested customers. Your database should be easy to use for both you and your administrators as well as employees, and should allow you to sort, track and contact individuals and groups. You and your marketing agent will create an email format following the design and tone of your business, as well as a series of standard emails to be sent automatically from your business welcoming new customers and responding to customer activity. Regular company newsletters or special offers and announcements using the same email format are great for further developing customer relationships. Including a single, well worded request for response in each communication can provide new helpful information on your company and customers. Start with basics like contact preferences (preferred form of personal address, desired frequency of contact, HTML or plain text). Stored in your database, you can now contact these highly interested people personally in ways convenient to them. Once your business has acquired basic information on a person, you can begin to gather more specific data useful in tailoring service to the individual, monitoring customer service and identifying future trends. Decide what would be useful to know from customers, then work with your marketing agent to develop easy, engaging questions that generate the most response. Take further advantage of email’s personal format by letting customers get to know you. Offer simple interesting or helpful information about your company within communications and a direct link your site, as well as an unsubscribe option. This respects the mutual interest element of the relationship, and keeps your mailing list full of people happy to hear from you. Dedicate staff to maintaining your database so data stays current. Always offer customers the option of contacting you directly with each email communication, and collect all customer responses in a single email inbox. Monitor this inbox regularly and respond to each customer email directly, in a timely manner. This type of personal service is easy for businesses to provide and creates genuine company loyalty among customers. A bonus feature of email marketing is the big picture it helps a business develop. Using analytics software with your database, you can identify high-value markets, customers and advertising campaigns. Customized reports, charts and graphs generated by your analytics software clearly present data on your customer demographics, business performance and status compared to competition, allowing you to adapt quickly for increasing success. Inexpensive, easy to create and use, email marketing makes the world small again, so your business talks with a customer directly, informed of his or her specific interests and preferences. The one-on-one personal nature of email coupled with the customer control inherent in email marketing campaigns combine to cultivate the interactive relationships central to market success today.

IDENTITY • INTERNET • EXPOSURE

Go build your database—start sending invitations. Interesting, interested people will come, and you will come to know each other. Word will get around— so it helps the world stays round. To read other informative articles like this, get interactive. We’ll tweet you in Twitter! Become a fan of our Facebook group! Join our mailing list! Visit www.dezinsINTERACTIVE.com to get activated.

www.thechambervoice.com

www.dezinsINTERACTIVE.com 225.615.8358 August 2009

Chamber Voice

Page 11

Now 2 Locations To Serve You

Waguespack & LeBlanc CPAs

ANTIQUES & FANCY GOODS

Income Tax Return Preparation • Bookkeeping • Payroll Services • Business & Personal Financial • Management & Planning

PLANTATION 225-474-5050

Located Inside Cabahanosse Antiques 602 Railroad Avenue, Donaldsonville, La

CHIC ANTIQUES

5047 Hwy. 1 • Napoleonville, Louisiana 985-369-6003 • 800-451-4885 • www.wagleb.com

Located in Pelican Point Inside of The Point Spa Salon & Boutique 6473 Hwy. 44 Suite 111 Gonzales, La. 70737

225-473-8370 • French and Victorian Antique Furnishings • Reproduction Antique Furniture • Home Accessories, Estate Items and Lots More!

Call Me About Custom Hand Sewn Lamp Shades

I Can Re-cover Your Old Lamp shades In Any Fabric You Choose

Karen Hartman 225-235-1381

Reliability As Clear As 309 Mississippi Street Donaldsonville • 225-473-7603

220 Railroad Ave. • Donaldsonville, La.

225.473.2022

Caffe De’Ville Happy Hour Drink Specials Live Entertainment

www.thechambervoice.com

311 Marchand Dr. • Donaldsonville • LA Peggy Bahry Guillot - Broker Shane M. Guillot - Associate Broker Don P. Guillot - Sales Associate Toni Kocke Chachati - Sales Associate

225-473-7952 www.guillotrealty.com

Guillot Mini-Storage 311 Marchand Drive Donaldsonville • 70346

August 2009

Chamber Voice

Page 12

Chamber Luncheon

Rotary Program Chairman Robyn Penn Delaney, Guest speaker Dr. Esrom Pitre and Rotary President Chuck Long, Dr. Pitre is the new principal of Donaldsonville High School. Dr. Pitre spoke of his goals and measures that will move the school in the right directon.

Ascension & Donaldsonville semiannual luncheon. President Sherri Despino, Donaldsonville Chamber President Ben Glueck, Executive Director, Becky Katz.

Allison Hudson, Editor of The D o n a l d s o nv i l l e C h i e f, J o h n Marchand, Chamber Director.

Chamber Luncheon; Par ish P r e s i d e n t To m m y M a r t i n e z , P r e s i d e n t o f D o n a l d s o nv i l l e Chamber, Ben Glueck, Westside Co-ordinator, George Rodeillat.

City Councilman Raymond Aucoin welcoming State Treasurer John Kennedy.

Mr & Mrs Ken Fermin with Acadian Waste Disposal, Debbie Peltier with D’ville Title Services, Raymond Aucoin with American Bank & Mark Bergeron, Chamber member enjoying the Chamber Luncheon. www.thechambervoice.com

August 2009

Chamber Voice

Page 13

Chamber Membership Listing CORNERSTONE FOR SUCCESS CHAMBER CORNERSTONE CF Industries

CHAMBER CHAMPIONS Capitol One

BUSINESS ADVOCATES Richard Oil & Fuel

CHAMBER PARTNERS

Edward Jones 225-473-4480 H&R Block 225-473-4802 Postlethwaite & Netterville, CPA 224-473-4179 Waguespack & Gallagher, CPA 985-369-2515 Waguespack & LeBlanc, CPA 985-369-6003 Agricultural, Chemical, & Industrial Air Farm 225-473-7489 B&W Farms 225-473-6292

Sunshine Equipment 225-473-9861

B&B Mobile Home Park 225-473-4744

Ashley Furniture Home Store 225-647-6260

Best Western Plantation Inn 225-746-9050

Plantation Antiques & Fancy Goods 225-473-3001

Terra Nitrogen LLC 225-474-4611 T B Chevron 225-473-8735 ART GALLERIES & STUDIOS Tborn Originals/ The Art Bank 225-257-4065 ATTORNEYS Dugas, LeBlanc & Associates LLC 225-473-3109

Fresh Catch Seafood 225-474-5873

Boudreaux’s Electrical Service, Inc. 985-369-2228

Grapevine Café and Gallery 225-473-8463

High Standards Electric LLC 225-473-1999

Hambonz 225-746-9100

Kocke Service 225-473-8274

Jeff’s Bar & Lounge 225-473-4001

On-Grade Construction LLC 225-473-7414

J’s Liquor Inc. 225-473-4409

PMR Construction 225-473-9087

Lafitte’s Landing at Bittersweet 225-473-1232

Walker Heating & Air 225-545-3703

LeBlanc’s Pay-Less Food Stores 225-473-4884 Sonic Drive-In 225-474-0231

Gifts & Flowers Cabahanosse, LLC 225-474-5050 CoCo’s Treasure Chest 225-746-1444

Belle Sod Company LLC 7244 Highway 308 Donaldsonville, La 70346 225-473-7251

Auto Parts, Services, Rental

Ten-M Corporation 225-473-8716

Castagnos Auto Service 225-473-6697

Wendy’s International 225-473-2868

CF Industries, Inc. 225-473-8291

D&E Pit Stop, Inc. 225-746-9320

Financial

Lemann’s 225-473-7927

D’Ville Glass & Body Shop 225-473-6495

Capital One 225-473-3181

Marcello Dist./Thibaut Oil 225-473-1300

Falcon’s Body Shop 225-473-1105

Community Acceptance Corp. 225-473-8668

Bourg Insurance Agency 225-473-8282

Marine Technical Surveyors, Inc. 225-473-1700

BARS, RESTAURANTS, & CATERING

First American Bank & Trust 225-473-6165

Dubisson & Associates 225-673-3800

Palo Alto Farms 225-473-4341

Caffe Deville 225-473-2022

Foti Finance 225-473-7652

D’Ville Insurance Agency, Inc. 225-473-4226

Richard Oil & Fuel 225-473-8389

Cafe Lafourche 225-473-7451

Whitney National Bank 225-474-2940

St. James Contractors/St. James Marine 225-473-0033 www.thechambervoice.com

Cajun Daiquiris 225-474-0770

Funeral Services Brazier & Watson 225-473-4252

Lowery Carnival Co. 985-594-6530

Aimee Walker Interiors 225-751-8720

Construction South Louisiana Fill Materials, LLC 225-474-3500

Troy LeBoeuf 225-715-7389

Lodging

Graugnard’s 225-473-8532

Cypress Café 225-473-0010

Security Plan Life Ins., Co. 225-473-8654

Furniture & Home Furnishings

Big Ben Rent to Own, Inc. 225-474-5500

Beck Companies Dugas LeBlanc & Associates, LLC Edward Jones First American Bank & Trust Graugnard Furniture & Applicance, Inc. Postlewaite & Netterville Bourg Insurance Agency Whitney Accounting, CPAs, Investments

Ourso Funeral Home 225-473-8122

Frivolite’ 225-474-5050 Ourso Flower Shop 225-473-9260 Insurance Assurance Ltd. 225-473-2116

Bittersweet Plantation 225-473-1232 Cabahanosse, LLC 225-474-5050

Anthony Marcello, Musician 225-473-6321 Karen Mire 225-473-9985 Bob Prejean 225-473-3024 MUSEUMS ASHA 225-473-8285

D’Ville House 225-473-8614 Magnolia Motel 225-4733146 The Victorian on the Avenue 225-473-1876

River Road African American Museum 225-474-5553 Non-Profit, Service Organizations, & Government

Media Chief Publishing 225-473-3101 KKAY 1590 AM 225-473-6397 Medical Ascension Physical Therapy 225-473-4719 Acadian Ambulance 225-761-3330 Leroy Boudreaux, DDS 225-473-9808 John Harbour, DDS 225-473-6434 Glen Padgett, DDS 225-473-8456 Dr. Charles Savoia 225-473-1082 Prevost Memorial Hospital 225-473-7931 St. Elizabeth Physicians 225-647-8511 225-473-8151 Southern Eye Clinic 225-473-3124 Miscellaneous Bob Prejean 225-264-0485

Ascension Economic Development Corp. 225-675-1750 Ascension Heritage Association 225-473-8285 Ascension Parish Assessor’s Office 225-473-9239 Ascension Parish Clerk of Court 225-473-9866 Ascension Parish School Board 225-473-7981 Audubon Council-GSA 225-927-8946 City of Donaldsonville 225-473-4247 Dream Center 225-474-6688 D’Ville Fire Department 225-473-0664 Parish of Ascension Government 225-473-1231 Port of Greater Baton Rouge 225-342-1660 River Parishes Community College 225-675-5541

Jeffery Bean 225-474-3692

Louis “Boo” LeBlanc CLU 225-473-3544

Mark Bergeron 225 473-4668

Ourso State Farm 225-473-9887

Kirk Landry 225-474-0074 August 2009

Sheriff Jeff Wiley 225-621-8326 Volunteer Ascension/ Mentoring Ascension 225-644-7655

Chamber Voice

Page 14

Chamber Membership Listing, cont. Personal Services Curves 225-473-3500

Real Estate & Property Management

Jami’s Salon & Boutique 225-473-1211

Coldwell Banker Mackey Co. 225-474-6612

Marion’s Beauty Salon 225-473-8719

Guillot Realty, Inc. 225-473-7952

Nail’s & More Inc. 225-474-6500

Mid Gulf Management & Investors 985-209-1618

PLACES OF WORSHIP

Rivella Developers 225-473-4341

Shekinah Glory Full Baptist Church 225-473-1042 Word of Valor Church 228-374-1456 Professional Services D’Ville Motors Title Services, Inc. 225-473-4226 Beck Companies 225-746-0600 Glenn Shaheen & Assoc. 225-644-5523 Gold Eagle Security 225-647-7820 Lofton Staffing Services/ Lofton Security 225-644-0200 Louisiana Film Resources 225-413-2405

Retailers Ace Hardwware 225-473-3797 Legends Sport Shop 225-473-6097 Midway Awards Plus 225-746-0024 Popingo’s 225-473-7383 Wal-Mart 225-473-6687 Technology & Computer Alaric Corporation 225-647-4911

dezinsINTERACTIVE 225-615-8358 General Computer Service 225-473-3286 Site-Creations 225-474-3632

3427 Hwy. 1 South Donaldsonville, La

Utilities & Waste Management

(225) 473-4802

Acadian Waste Disposal Service 225-744-6400

YOUR TAXES YOUR WAY

Allied Waste 800-222-3903 Bell South 985-446-6868

Glen S. Padgett D.D.S. General Dentistry

Cox Communication 225-930-2250 Entergy 225-647-7040

Cosmetic • Restorative • Preventive

201 Lessard St. Donaldsonville, La. 70346 M-Th 8:00 • 4:00 Fri. 8:00 • 2:00

225.473.8456 Medicaid Accepted Credit Cards Accepted

Pelican Pages 225-292-2001 Peoples Water Service Co. 225-473-7603 SWDI, LLC 985-851-0278 Veterinarians Ark-Veterinary Clinic 225-473-6029

Chauvin Business Systems 225-473-2637 Computer Consultants & Vinyl Graphics 225-473-7497

ADD YOUR NAME...

JOIN! www.thechambervoice.com

FINANCIAL PLANNING • INVESTMENTS •TAXES • MORTGAGES •

Helping to Feed A Hungry World CF Industries, North America’s leading manufacturer and distributor of agricultural fertilizer products, is proud to be a member of the Donaldsonville community. For over forty years now, Cf Industries has been warmly welcomed by its neighbors in Ascension Parish. That closeness is deeply appreciated, and is one of the factors that makes conducting business here a pleasure. The company is committed to honoring the friendships and partnerships that have formed these years by developing the natural resources found here (water and natural gas) in a responsible manner. Equally important, the company values the “people resources” of the area. The strong work ethic of CF employees at Donaldsonville is an invaluable trait, and without it the company could not have experienced the success it enjoys today.

~Producing vital plant food materials- anhydrous ammonia, granular urea and UAN solutions - for the North American farmer

August 2009

Chamber Voice

Page 15

Presorted Standard U.S. Postage

PAID

Donaldsonville, LA Permit #58

ABC MOTOR VEHICLE REGISTRATION OFFICES, INC. Two locations to serve you… why wait for a license plate?

•

PET OF THE MONTH

Complete title transactions •

103 W. Jeansonne, Suite D Gonzales, Louisiana 70737

408 Marchand Drive Donaldsonville, Louisiana 70346

225 348-0125 ext. 4501

225 473-4226

Debra L. Peltier Notary Public

Over 20 years experience • Duplicate titles • License plate renewals Auto insurance for less available thru ABC INSURANCE AGENCIES; give us a call today for a free insurance quote

Serving This Area Since 1890

This is Polo, he made a year old on July 7th, 2009. His favorite pass time is being nosey and exploring everything he comes in contact with. He loves riding around Donaldsonville and checking out the scenery in his car seat. His favorite toy is a dental chew from Dr.Goss’s office. Polo’s owner is Donna Veron.

WWW.GRAUGNARD.COM The story of Graugnard Furniture and Appliance is as

FURNITURE & APPLIANCE STORES INTEREST FREE FINANCING AVAILABLE

MAIN STORE

622 Railroad Avenue • Donaldsonville (225) 473-8532

WAREHOUSE SHOWROOM 3035 Hwy 1 South • Donaldsonville (225) 473-7717 www.thechambervoice.com

historic and unique as the family who opened and expanded it into a shining example of what one’s dreams can accomplish and the hundreds of lives that can be effected for the better by staying true to yourself and your beliefs.

Graugnard Furniture and Appliance, Inc. roots date back to 1890. The family business started as a general merchandise store serving the small community of St. James with everything from hardware to groceries. It was then part of a sugarcane plantation operation. In 1968, Marcel Graugnard Sr. purchased the business from his three brothers and formed Graugnard, Inc. As the home furnishings division of the business grew, Marcel, Sr. purchased Wright’s Furniture store in Donaldsonville in 1972 and put Sonny, his oldest son in charge. At the age of 22, Sonny took over the retail operation after the untimely death of his father, Marcel, Sr. The Donaldsonville store continued to grow in sales because of the hard work of Sonny and the communities’ support and continues today as a cornerstone business in this historic community. August 2009

Chamber Voice

Page 16