l magazine fall issue

FALL

2013

M A G A Z I N E

2 L M A G A Z I N E SEPTEMBER 2013

SEPTEMBER 2013 L M A G A Z I N E 3

9 LEISURE:Meet two guys who have apassion for hunting

20 TRAVEL:What to do in Oxford,Miss. besides the football game

23 WINE: Know the value of a good wine

34 FASHION: Raoul Blanco selects the best-dressed women in Louisiana

A SPECIAL THANKSto this issue’s guest editor Tyla Hudspeth

SPECIAL FEATURES

40 37

31

14

NEW THISMONTH

Dr. Elizabeth McLainwrites about health-related issues in thefirst of her series.


CONTENTSFALL 2013

6 Meet our guest editor

7 PASTIMES: How do you spend your free time?

12 Ask Jan: Coping with a narcissist

16 CALENDAR:More to do as weather turns cooler

24 Splurge: How have you pampered yourself lately?

26 THE QUIZ:What kind of outdoor girl are you?

48 What’s in your bag?

49 SOCIETY SCENE/PARTY PIXWith our own Patricia Gannon

ALSO THIS MONTH


GENERAL1100 Bertrand DriveLafayette LA 70506

(337) 289-6300

David Pettypresident and publisher

Karen Lincoln Michelexecutive editor

Kristin Askelsoncoordinating editor

Sundra HominikL Magazine editor

Kris Wartellewriter, fashion coordinator

Ginger Garrisondesigner

OTHER CONTACTSLouAnn Citron

advertising sales, [email protected]

Joshua Hundleyadvertising sales

[email protected]

Patricia Gannonsociety writer, 234-9897

Tim Alexanderregional circulation director

289-6399

§§§§§L Magazine is produced four times ayear in Lafayette, La. Distribution of thismagazine does not constitute anendorsement of information, productsor services. We reserve the right to rejectany advertisement or listing that is not inkeeping with the publications standards.

Although every precaution has beentaken to ensure accuracy of publishedmaterial, we cannot be held responsiblefor opinions expressed or facts suppliedby authors. In no event shall unsolicitedmaterial subject this publication to anyclaim for holding fees or other charges.

Copyright 2013

M A G A Z I N EFALL 2013

I’m about the most consistentlyinconsistent person you will evermeet.

My brain just works like that.Heck, my body even works like that.

Just this past year, I’ve fluctuatedroughly 30 pounds, run my seventh(this really is my last) marathon, com-peted in a body-building competitionand let’s not even talk about myshoulder-length haircut. Theseare all just a few of the things Isaid I’d never do.

But, hey, things changed.I think we’ve all been

conditioned to think wemust pick a certain life-style, career, goal or hobbyand what we pick will defineus for life. We carry aroundthese titles like “runner,”“teacher” or “vegetarian”and then we feel pres-sure to uphold ourlabel. I believe thispressure is whychange has gotten abad reputation.

Have you everthought about howversatile changeis? I mean you canliterally changeyour thought, yourdirection, your atti-tude or latitude, jobs,clothes, diapers; you

can see change, make change, changethings, deny change. You can focus onit, reward it, measure it, go through it— well you get the point. It is limitlessand is forever evolving. As they say,it’s the only thing that stays the same.

Regardless of how you experienceit, one thing is for sure, you’d betteraccept it. I like the positive spin Mari-

lyn Monroe put on change when shesaid, “I believe that everything

happens for a reason. Peoplechange so that you canlearn to let go, things gowrong so that you appreci-ate themwhen they’reright, you believe lies soyou eventually learn totrust no one but yourself,and sometimes good thingsfall apart so better things

can fall together.”I learned early

on as a coach’swife that I’d bet-ter be prettyadaptable. At amoment’s no-tice, prettymuch every-thing in yourlife can change.

In medievaltimes, a “mo-ment” was aspecific mea-sure of timeequal to 90 sec-onds. I’ll agree,that’s about how

fast change can hap-

pen. It can be anything from a phonecall to a game-winning field goal.

Although it may have taken mesome time, I’ve finally made peacewith the concept that change alwaysleads to good. Although it may haveoriginated from a negative event, itwill eventually lead to somethinggood. It’s just a temporary spring-board to take you to a better place,physically, emotionally or mentally.

Change is always present aroundthe holidays for my family. Each occa-sion is different and usually plannedwithin a 48-hour window, dependingupon and revolving around a game orpractice. We sacrifice family traditionin order to build football tradition. Iembrace the uncertainty becauseafter all, predictability is boring,right? That is, unless you’ve got mon-ey on this Saturday’s game. Even thefour seasons are different for us. Weexperience recruiting season, springball, the off-season (which is imagi-nary) and football season.

There is a lot of change takingplace around Lafayette right now. Aheightened sense of excitementaround our football program and theanticipation of a chill in the air let usknow a change is brewing. A recentreveal of the university’s master planis certain to let people know that weare ready for change. Although theworld’s perspective of our home teamand reputation might be changing, onething that I’ve noticed that seems to bestaying pretty consistent is the Ragin’Cajuns’ winning record.

And I wouldn’t change a thing.

FROM THIS MONTH’S GUEST EDITOR

My 2 cents on change and howto embrace it

TYLA HUDSPETHh

GUEST EDITOR


Have you gotteninto reality TV, anew CD or a greatbeach book? Tell us

about it.

I recently read “CalicoJoe” by John Gris-ham, which com-bined a fine storylinewith informationabout the game ofbaseball, making memore aware of thisall-American tradi-tion.

Rickey DominguesOwner of Eddie’sOne Stop

I love the crazy reality show “BigBrother” during the summer! I alsoenjoyed “Project Runway “and“Suits” on Lifetime.

I really enjoy“Duck Dynas-ty.” It seemsthat everybodyknows some-body like oneof the charac-ters in “DuckDynasty.” Theyturn the sim-plest thing likeforgetting toput in a boatplug into anadventure.

A friend gave me thisbook back in 2011,“one thousand gifts”by Ann Voskamp. Istarted reading it, butguess I wasn’t readyfor it. I picked it upagain, really readingthe book, underliningand highlightingparts that truly spoketo me. Inside thejacket says: “A beau-tiful, practical guideto living a life of joy.”It “invites you towake up to God’severyday blessings.”A book that needs tobe shared.

Elise BrunsonDirector of marketingfor Boys and GirlsClubs of Acadiana

Michelle CrouchFounder of JacobCrouch Foundation

PASTIMES

Jess RussoStay-at-home momand athlete


Sometimes it’s just not enough.Sometimes you want more.

It’s called a gentleman’shunting trip, and for those

who can afford it, it’s a passion. It’s alife where your wallet ensures thatyou will eat and drink plentifully,sleep well and spend time with peo-ple who think like you do. Most im-portant, you get to hunt.

Depending on the excursion,amenities can include a guide, valetservices and even someone to carryyour gun, give you a shell and pointout the animals. You can spend aslittle as $1,000 a day or as much as$150,000 a weekend. It’s a very ex-pensive passion.

Richard Carlisle of Lafayette hashunted all his life at private ranchesand clubs.

He says high-end hunting can runanywhere from $5,000 to more than20 times that. He compares it togolf.

“You have your municipalcourses such as (Les) Vieux Chene,your Squirrel Runs, the LeTriomphes and Oakbournes, all theway to St. Andrews, Augusta andbeyond, where a quarter-mil a yeargets you six guests and you neverown a thing.”

Called private hunting clubs,there is something to suit everytaste, from public marshes to exclu-sive resorts.

Louisiana has some. There’s TheLodge at TeeMamou, 1,000 acresjust south of Basile. Deridder andBaker have themwith another nearVinton. At $300 a day, GueydanHunting Club has a waiting list ofseveral years.

If home-grown doesn’t suit, Tex-as-size hunting hospitality’s not faraway.

“Wilson Whitetail Ranch is a LeTriomphe,” said Carlisle. The Texas

Master

Richard Carlisle of Lafayette, shown in full hunting gear, hunts at privateranches and clubs from Louisiana to Africa. SUBMITTED

Only a man trulyunderstands{Make that a manwith deep pockets}Huntof the

By Patricia Gannon



ranch offers corporatepackages beginning at$3,900 per person with up-grades in $1,000 increments,and wing shooting huntsstarting at $850 per person.

A whitetail deer can runyou $4,000 to $6,000 in killfees, while a trophy white-tail — in addition to threenights luxury lodging, sixhunts, meals and guide —can take $7,500 to $16,500out of a man’s wallet.

The antelope’s going torun another $2,900 to $3,900according to its size. Tothrow in a red stag or anelk, roughly, add another$5,000. The price on thescimitar-horned oryx is upfor discussion.

Depending on the levelof the club, it can also in-clude valet services and apersonal guide to carry thegun and scout the animals.

“There’s safety in this,”explained Carlisle, addingthat many clients go to mixbusiness with pleasure andit’s good to have some safe-guards in place.

Carlisle prefers free-

range hunting in Canada, alevel he equates to Oak-bourne and Le Triomphe,where patrons ride a four-wheeler, get picked up atthe end of the day and haveno cell service.

“You make the decisions.You sign a waiver saying ifyou kill yourself, they’re not

responsible and if you getlost, you’re willing to paythe $2,500 for the Mountiesto come find you. No onehelps you into the blind, andyou learn quickly. In Alaskaand Canada, you’re a hunt-er.”

Carlisle once took a tripwhere he was dropped offby seaplane. He built hisown fire and ate whateverhe was able to shoot.

“Canada’s more extreme.It gets 37-54 degrees below.You never know what God’sgoing to throw you. But thatwas hunting,” he said.

Sam Landers, also ofLafayette, was in a goodmood, having just receivedhis Boone & Crockett Clubcertificate in the mail forthe bear he took in Canada.He’ll be in the next recordbooks due out in 2015.

“I missed the world rec-ord by 2 inches,” he said. “Itwas once in a lifetime.”

Landers has hunted withCarlisle for five years. Hesays his best trip was theCanadian bear hunt becausehe bagged the near-record

Richard Carlisle and SamLanders have hunted bear inCanada and they have thetrophies to prove it. Landerssays, “Men don’t go into(trophy rooms) to look at yourguns.” SUBMITTED

THREE DAYS IN THELIFE OF A HUNTERA three-day, two-night exotichunt at Wilson WhitetailRanch in Texas breaks downsomething like this:Two nights’ luxury lodging,four meals, a guide, BYOB,minimum of two guns andnonhunters $195 per night. Ifan exotic animal is not taken,then a $300 per day lodge andguide fee will be assessed.Gentlemen may look forwardto:Day 1Afternoon arrival, registra-tion, orientation, an after-noon hunt, appetizers, gour-met dining and retire to yourdouble occupancy suite.Day 2Continental breakfast, morn-ing hunt, gourmet breakfast,afternoon hunt, appetizers,gourmet dining and retire toyour double occupancy suite.Day 3Continental breakfast, morn-ing hunt, gourmet breakfast,departure.Check out is 11 a.m. and don’tforget to tip your guide.


bear.His next favorite was a

South Africa jaunt, althoughhe admits not caring for the20-hour flight.

“It’s a lot different thanstateside,” Landers said.“The guides are different,there’s one per hunter,trackers, skinners and nomeat through customs. It’ssold to locals, so it’s strictlyfor sport.”

Trophies can take as longas 18 months to be contain-er-shipped back to the U.S.

He’s also enjoyed dovehunting in Argentina, buteven so, Landers says it’snot a cheap flight to Argen-tina and then on to Cordoba.

“You wouldn’t believe thedoves,” he said. “If you hada shot, you had dove. Athousand rounds a day perperson easy.”

Nature’s bounty doesn’tcome cheap. The lodgealone is $2,800 for fourdays.

Landers says Canada ismore relaxed. “I don’t haveto get up at 5 in the morn-ing, there’re no blinds all

day and all night. It’s cool,comfortable, no bugs andstarts at 10:30. That’s what Icall relaxing.”

Price tags for this upper-end masculine pastime aresubstantial. With plane fare,shipping and fees to shoot,gentlemen hunting trips canreach six figures. There’sthe taxidermist, processing,travel and the lodge.

“If you buy every year,they waive the lodging feeand you only pay the killfee. There’s also the tip, aminimum of 10 percent ofthe total trip, and that’sseparate for the hunt guide,skinner, cook and maid

service,” Carlisle said.“Don’t ever (skimp on tip-ping) your guide or yourcook— you won’t get theamenities you’ve been get-ting.

“Oh, and in Texas, there’spoker every night. You tipthe dealer 10 percent.”

Carlisle advocates any-one desiring the exclusivehunt club experience tostart slow and work yourway up in price.

“Gun fever and excite-ment can net trigger-happyguys $1,000 penalties,” hesaid. “If your finger pulls tothe left just slightly and youkill the wrong deer, you

have to pay before youleave. When you’re in Afri-ca shooting zebra and yourbullet accidentally goesthrough three instead ofone, you’re buying all three.And the problem’s gettingthem home.”

As a lifelong sportsman,Carlisle looks at the bigpicture. Fraternity huntclubs aren’t for everyone.

“You have to be bornwith a silver spoon in yourmouth. I can do it now thatmy children are gone (fromhome),” he said with alaugh.

But the trophy rooms areworth it. They’re the giftsthat keep giving and in theend, it amortizes out.

“Men don’t go into (tro-phy rooms) to look at yourguns. It’s the excitement,the conditions, the weather,meeting the people and theconversation pieces. It goeson for years.

And it’s all money.”

Hunting inAfrica, whereSam Landersposes with akudu, presentscertainchallengesincluding a20-hour flightand up to 18months to havetrophies shippedhome. SUBMITTED

Go to theadvertiser.com to seea map and video about hunting.

» DEAR READY, First, resolve right nowto never let your self-worth to be tied up inthe narcissist’s opinion or reaction to you.Secondly, think back to a story you may haveheard long ago about a nice Southern ladywho frequently smiles, nods her head andrepeatedly says, “That’s nice.” Perhapsthose words have an alternative meaning insome situations, but sadly, that approachrepresents the extent of what you can do ifyou want to remain on civil terms with atruly narcissistic person.

When you’re around this person, try tolisten more than usual. Basically, you haveto lower your expectations for this relation-ship. Don’t expect warm fuzzies or praise. Inthe narcissist’s world, if you’re deserving ofeither, you would be stealing the spotlight.Right? It’s a vicious cycle that goes roundand round, never leaving you in a goodplace.

If the relationship is (or seems) unavoid-able and you would like, on occasion, to havesomething go your way, get the narcissist’sbuy in by framing your proposal to showhow your desired outcome would put thenarcissist in the absolute best light. To aco-worker, for example, instead of, “Couldyou work X assignment for me?” Say, “Xreally likes you, and I’ve noticed that thecompany gets the best results whenyou’re the one on the job. Did you seethat we’ve got an assignment com-ing up next week with him?” Yes,it sounds manipulative and thenarcissist may or may not takethe bait, but that’s the bestway to work with him or her.Good luck!

» DEAR JAN,Myfriend who has a seri-ous case of Parkin-son’s disease isblessed to have a veryattentive wife. Howev-er, at times, she expects

too much of him. For example, in an effort tohelp him remember to take his medicine,she has bought him a series of the latestiPhones and other electronic gadgetry. Sheprograms various alarms and reminders totake different meds at different times. Thealarms serve more of a reminder of his con-fusion than anything else, leaving him frus-trated. The bottom line is that she expectshim to do much more electronically than heis capable of doing and when he fails, sheloses patience with him. How can I approachher without offending?

— FEELING FOR MY FRIEND

» DEAR FFMF, You’re in a situation thatoffers no easy win for everyone involved.Though they are making some strides inresearch toward a cure or help for Parkin-son’s, right now it’s just a waiting game. Mybrother was diagnosed with Parkinson’s atage 42, three years ago. Watching his pro-gression and his realizations of limitations

has been difficult for all of uswho care about him. I share

that to let you know that Iunderstand a degree

of the pain yourfriend and his

family areexperi-encing.This is oneof those

situationswhen there’s

not a clear, cor-rect path. My take

on this one may bethe most difficult ad-

vice of all: Do nothing(except continuing to

support your friend and hisfamily). It sounds like his

wife may be doing the best shecan under difficult circum-

stances.

ASK JAN

Q How to cope with a narcissist? Are narcissists born or made? If one

is in your family, what is a good strategy for a relationship? At what

point, if any, should one cut bait?— READY TO LET THIS ONE GO

Dealing with a narcissistrequires lowered expectations

DEAR JAN is not yourtypical advice column.Jan wants to know whathappened next. Did youtake the advice? How didthat work out for you?Send your questions [email protected]


outdoors

When cooler weather rolls around,there is nothing better than enjoy-ing a great meal in an outdoor set-ting.

Good food and a great setting can combineto make for a relaxing afternoon or evening.And if you’re lucky, you’ll also get a view of theriver or enjoy the bustle of the River Ranchtown square.

Two restaurants with outdoor seating plan tomake some changes that are meant to pleasediners as autumn gets underway in Acadiana.

Guests enjoy dining outdoors atRuffino's on the River in Lafayette.With cooler weather coming, now isa perfect time for alfresco dining.LESLIE WESTBROOK, THE ADVERTISER

Ruffino’s brandolive oil,displayed onpatio tables, isavailable forpurchase.

TIME TO DINE ...

Ruffino’s and Romacelli maximizeenjoyment of the alfresco dining experience

By Kris Wartelle


Romacelli Bistro in River Ranch115 Stonemont Road (337) 988-9790

If you want a relaxed atmosphere, thiscasual Italian restaurant right near theRiver Ranch town square has it.

The corner patio decorated with solidwooden tables and chairs is not far fromRiver Ranch’s City Club. A lunch crowdoften fills the outdoor area.

“Its pretty laid-back out here,” saidGarrett Beasley, general manager. “Wehave ceiling fans to keep you cool in hotweather and heaters for when it is cold.”

Beasely said most diners comedressed casually. Some wear their work-out attire stopping by on the way fromthe City Club. Others wear shorts andT-shirts.

He said in anticipation of higher de-mand in the fall,the restaurant plans torenovate the outdoor area and refurbishsome of the patio’s seating.

Fresh herbs, used in some of the dishes at Ruffino’s, frame aview of the Vermilion River. LESLIE WESTBROOK, THE ADVERTISER

Ruffino’s on the River921Camellia Blvd. (337) 706-7333

If it is on the river, that says it all. When you arelooking for a great view in Lafayette, the VermilionRiver is about the best place to find one.

The Ruffino’s building originally housed Cochon’sand much of the expansive decking overlooking theriver has remained unchanged since Ruffino’s took itover.

The property includes a man-made pond, a fountainand a beautiful walkway for guests to take a casualstroll before settling in for lunch or dinner.

The outside deck is set for formal dining, while thelower terrace offers a more casual setting, surround-ed by Ruffino’s herb gardens.

“There are always boats passing by, people skiing,”said Rene Schnell, Ruffino’s general manager. “Wewant to take advantage of the wonderful scenery.”

To take advantage of the view, Schnell said, therestaurant plans to add about 10 more tables to theoutside eating area this fall.

Diners enjoy a casual lunch on the corner patio atRomacelli Bistro in River Ranch in Lafayette. PAUL KIEU, THEADVERTISER

ALFRESCO DINING IN AMERICA» Dining in open air was in vogue in the late 18th

century when patrons could enjoy pleasure gardensor tea gardens.

» Louis Sherry claimed to have set up the firstsidewalk café outside his Fifth Avenue restaurant in1900.

» Rooftop restaurants, usually atop hotels such asSan Antonio’s St. Anthony hotel, often have offeredupscale outdoor dining.

Source: Jan Whitaker, Restaurant-ing through history



SEPT. 26Tinsel & Treasures Junior LeagueFundraiser. Today through Sat-urday. Tickets are available fromany Junior League of Lafayettemember, at 504 Richland Ave., inRiver Ranch, and by calling (337)988-2739.Second annual Stone EnergyGumbo Cook-off. 4:30 p.m. Bene-fits United Way of Acadiana. CajunField, 444 Cajundome Blvd., La-fayette. $5 all-you-can-eat gumbo.(337) 233-8302.AcA’s AllStars Season Gala: ClintBlack -— 2013 Acoustic Tour. 7:30p.m. Local country up-and-comerJaryd Lane opens. Country/black tieattire is encouraged. AcadianaCenter for the Arts, James D. Mon-cus Theater, 101W. Vermilion St.,Lafayette. (337) 233-7060.Rhythms On The River: Rockin’Dopsie Jr. 5:30 p.m. River RanchTown Square, 1100 Camellia Blvd.,Lafayette. (337) 216-6566.

SEPT. 27Downtown Alive! BandSwap:The Patti Fiasco & Feufollet. 5:30p.m. Parc Sans Souci, 201 E. Vermil-ion St., Lafayette. (337) 291-5566.

SEPT. 28Second annual Free To Breathe5k Run/Walk. 6:30 a.m. Champion

the lung cancer cause by registeringtoday for the second annual Free toBreathe Lafayette 5k Run/Walk and1-Mile Walk. River Ranch TownSquare, 1100 Camellia Blvd., La-fayette. (312) 558-1770.

OCT. 2Anything is Pastable. 6 p.m.Funds raised will support 232-HELP/Louisiana 211 in its ongoing effortto link people in need with re-sources in Acadiana. River OaksCatering & Events Center, 520 E.Kaliste Saloom Road, Lafayette.

Tickets are $150 and available bycalling (337) 205-6012.

OCT. 3Rhythms on the River: Nik LBeer. 5:30 p.m. River Ranch TownSquare, 1100 Camellia Blvd., La-fayette. (337) 216-6566.

OCT. 4Downtown Alive! with Louisi-ana Red. 5:30 p.m. Parc Sans Souci,201 E. Vermilion St., Lafayette. (337)291-5566.

OCT. 5The Shadows-on-the-Teche FallArts and Crafts Fair. Shadows-On-The-Teche, 317 E. Main St., NewIberia. $5 general admission; $3 forkids ages 6 to 11. (337) 369-6446.TheMet in HD: “Eugene Onegin”Noon. Acadiana Center for the Arts,101W. Vermilion St., Lafayette. $18.(337) 233-7060.

OCT. 10Rhythms on the River: Bag ofDonuts. 5:30 p.m. River RanchTown Square, 1100 Camellia Blvd.,Lafayette. (337) 216-6566.

OCT. 13PASA/AcA present Sweet Plan-tain. 7:30 p.m. Separately hailingfrom the Bronx, New Jersey andVenezuela, together these mu-sicians give voice to a sound that iscontemporary, multicultural andvery New York. Heymann Perform-ing Arts Center, 1373 S. CollegeRoad, Lafayette. (337) 237-2787.

OCT. 17“James Brown: Get On The GoodFoot, a Celebration in Dance.” 7p.m. Heymann Performing ArtsCenter, 1373 S. College Road, La-fayette. (337) 255-5689.Rhythms on the River: GTO and“D” Street Brass. 5:30 p.m. River

Volunteer Sarah Neeper pours beers for guests at Gulf Brew inParc International at the event in 2012. PAUL KIEU


Ranch Town Square, 1100 CamelliaBlvd., Lafayette. (337) 216-6566.

OCT. 18An Eveningwith Sonny Lan-dreth. 7 p.m. Vermilionville, 300Fisher Road, Lafayette. (337) 233-4077.Downtown Alive! with The RayoBrothers & La Recolte. 5:30 p.m.Parc Sans Souci, 201 E. Vermilion St.,Lafayette. (337) 291-5566.

OCT. 19Gulf Brew 2013 beer festival. 6 to9 p.m. Lafayette’s original beerfestival is back to support the arts.The Horse Farm, 2913 Johnston St.,Lafayette. (337) 233-7060.“Fall into the Arts” Art Walk 4p.m. NILA Gallery & the HentonHouse, 457 E. Main St., New Iberia.(337) 369-2330.

OCT. 23An Eveningwith Darius Rucker.6 p.m. All proceeds benefit MPCSand its mission to help local familiesfight, survive and live with cancer.Parc International, Garfield St.,Lafayette. (337) 984-1920.Cinema Francais. 7 p.m. A free,monthly French movie night. NUNUArts and Culture Collective, 1510Courtableau Road. (La. 93), Arnaud-ville. (337) 453-3307.

OCT. 25Downtown Alive! Fall MusicExtravaganza. 5:30 p.m. Parc SansSouci, 201 E. Vermilion St., La-fayette. (337) 291-5566.

OCT. 26TheMet in HD: “The Nose.”Noon. Acadiana Center for the Arts,101W. Vermilion St., Lafayette.(337) 233-7060.

NOV. 1Downtown Alive! 5th Avenue forthe UL Homecoming Pep Rally.5:30 p.m. Parc International, Gar-field St., Lafayette. (337) 291-5566.

NOV. 7Rhythms on the River: WayneToups & ZyDeCajun. 5:30 p.m.River Ranch Town Square, 1100Camellia Blvd., Lafayette. (337)216-6566.

NOV. 8LA Vets Fest featuring CraigMorgan. 3 p.m. West FelicianaParish Sports Park, 10226 W. Fel-iciana Parkway, St. Francisville. (985)209-7572.Downtown Alive! with Nik-LBeer. 5:30 p.m. Parc International,Garfield St., Lafayette. (337) 291-5566.

NOV. 9TheMet in HD: “Tosca.” Noon.Acadiana Center for the Arts, 101W.Vermilion St., Lafayette. (337)233-7060.

NOV. 15An Eveningwith Paul ThornBand. 7 p.m. Vermilionville, 300Fisher Road, Lafayette. (337) 233-4077.Downtown Alive! with TravisMatte & The Kingpins. 5:30 p.m.Parc International, Garfield St.,Lafayette. (337) 291-5566.

NOV. 22Downtown Alive! with CarbonPoppies & Cardinal Sons. 5:30p.m. Parc Sans Souci, 201 E. Vermil-ion St., Lafayette. (337) 291-5566.

NOV. 27Downtown Alive! Holiday Cele-bration with Pine Leaf Boys. 5:30p.m. Parc Sans Souci, 201 E. Vermil-ion St. Lafayette. (337) 291-5566.

DEC. 3PASA/AcA present Danú. 7:30p.m. This December, Danú will giveLafayette the spirit of an IrishChristmas. Heymann PerformingArts Center, 1373 S. College Road,Lafayette. (337) 889-5540.

DEC. 11Christmas with Aaron Neville7:30 p.m. Acadiana Center for theArts, James D. Moncus Theater, 101W. Vermilion St., Lafayette. (337)233-7060.

Wayne Toups and ZyDeCajunwill perform Nov. 7 atRhythms on the River, RiverRanch Town Square. Theconcerts are every Thursdaybeginning Sept. 26 to Nov. 7.


Michelle Merrill defi-nitely doesn’t lack fornerve.

The homegrown beautyhad never been in a pageantbefore she signed up forMiss New Orleans, Miss UL,Mrs. Lafayette and workedher way up the ladder toMrs. Louisiana.

However, starting herown business she founddaunting. It was somethingshe’d always wanted butdenied.

“I attended a JuniorLeague meeting — I’dmissed nearly all of them—and never listen,” she saidwith a laugh. “But some-thing the speaker said stoodout. ‘If there are things inyour mind you want to do,do them.’

“One week later, I wasleasing a spot. It was asign.”

After scouting differentlocations, she found one inthe Winnwood ShoppingCenter. Since January, shehas led group fitness class-es at her company, The FitRoom.

Even though a little roomis all it is, her business of-fers PiYo, a hybrid of Pi-lates and yoga with otherelements sans meditation,barre classes; Rip, astrength and enduranceclass; and Turbokick, adance-kickboxing class.

There are things new tothe area but she also offersthe familiar step class fromthe ’80s, a Mommy &Me forthe after-school set, plusZumba and Zumbatomic forkids.

Merrill is the first personin Louisiana to be certifiedfor Pound, a class whereweighted drumsticks areused.

Merrill calls it a grungy,hardcore rock session.

She had been research-ing new fitness crazes on-line, trying to find some-thing to set herself apart.

When she found Pound,she knew she had it.

“I had to go to Dallas forcertification,” she said.“Pound’s California foun-ders were both area drum-mers in rock bands. It’s aworkout.”

Merrill financed herbusiness with a bank loan,and the bank told her ofLouisiana Small BusinessDevelopment Centerthrough UL.

“It’s free and basicallyhanded everything to methat I needed. I was conser-vative with what I’d askedfor moneywise and leftmyself room to grow,” Mer-rill said.

Her best entrepreneur’sadvice? “Research as muchas you can. It’s scary. Liketaking off a Band-Aid, youjust have to do it. You learnas you go. It’s not perfect inthe beginning. Accept that,and you’ll be fine.

She’s got a lot of nerveMichelle Merrill says starting her fitness businesswas like ripping off a Band-Aid — you just do it

By Patricia Gannon

Michelle Merrill leads a Poundworkout class, which usesweighted drumsticks, at TheFitroom in Lafayette. LESLIEWESTBROOK, THE ADVERTISER

Go to theadvertiser.com to seea video of Michelle Merrill lead-ing a Pound fitness class.

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Heading to northernMississippi in October towatch Louisiana State Uni-versity take on the Univer-sity of Mississippi?

Give yourself a littleextra time to soak in theSouthern charm of Oxford,home to the Ole Miss Re-bels, authors William Faulk-ner and John Grisham and asurprisingly vibrant litera-ry and cultural scene.

Oxford is a historicplace, flanked by antebel-lum buildings and a Confed-erate cemetery on campus,and anchored by an old-fashioned town square,lined with quaint restau-rants, shops, bars and scen-ery.

One thing you have toknow about Oxford is howcentral books and writersare to its social and intellec-tual fabric. The town issteeped in literary history.

Oxford becameWilliamFaulkner’s adopted home-town after his family movedthere when he was 3 yearsold. You can still visit hishome, Rowan Oak, on theoutskirts of town, where helived most of his adult lifeand penned several of hismasterpieces. You may alsowant to visit Faulkner’sgrave in OxfordMemorialCemetery, where aspiringwriters are known to leavethe occasional pint of whis-key.

Faulkner once wroteabout Oxford: “I discoveredthat my own little postagestamp of native soil wasworth writing about, andthat I would never live longenough to exhaust it.” Thetown and surrounding coun-tryside figure prominentlyin his fiction; it was thebasis for his imaginaryYoknapatawpha County.

Faulkner,football andSouthernhospitality

Rowan Oak,author WilliamFaulkner’s homeon the outskirtsof Oxford, Miss.,is open to visitors.KRISTIN ASKELSON, THE

ADVERTISTER

A visit toOxford doesn’thave to be justabout collegefootball

By Kristin Askelson


John Grisham, who grad-uated from the Universityof Mississippi School ofLaw and practiced law inJackson, Miss., before be-coming a full-time author oflegal thrillers, has a home inOxford, along with a host ofcontemporary authors. Thetown hosts two large litera-ry festivals each year.

If Oxford is the literarycapital of the South, SquareBooks is its epicenter. Assoon as you walk throughthe doors of this little in-dependent bookstore, timeseems to stop. Creaky woodfloors, an old-style cafe, andlots of nooks and crannieshelp you forget the outsideworld. Along with the stan-dard bookstore fare, thereis a heavy focus on South-ern writers, who frequentlypass through for book read-ings and signings. Makesure to peruse the largeselection of books signed byauthors.

Just a few doors down,you’ll find Off SquareBooks, featuring used anddiscounted books, andSquare Books Jr., whichfocuses on children’s litera-ture.

The locally owned res-taurants, bars and live-music venues also sprinkledaround the square makedowntown Oxford an idealplace to spend an eveningbefore the big game.

If you’re planning to

attend the LSU-Ole Missgame, scheduled for Oct. 19,there are a few things youshould know about thegame-day experience inOxford. Like many townsacross the South, football isa religion here. Accordingto travel guides, the town’spopulation doubles onhome-game weekends, andthe annual meeting withrival LSU is a highlight ofthe season.

The game is also a clashof cultures. The teams,which have been regularopponents since 1945, justdon’t like each other, andwatching fans interact issure to be entertainment initself.

LSU is known for itsfervent fan base, and Ti-gers’ tailgaters know how tolet the good times roll. Infact, both schools often

rank at or near the top of“best tailgating” lists.

But this is refined South-ern tailgating. According toSouthern Living magazine,which launched a Best Tail-gate of the South competi-tion in 2012, the Ole Missgame-day spreads set thebar high for upscale tailgat-ing. This is not the land ofbeer guzzlers and chest-painters.

Tailgating takes place inThe Grove, a 10-acre lawnsurrounded by mature oaks,elms and magnolias at thecenter of the Ole Miss cam-pus. Vehicles are not al-lowed in The Grove. In-stead, it turns into a sea ofred and blue tents, whereyou’ll find fine linen, cater-ing trucks, and even chan-deliers and candelabras.Beer is not allowed, andliquor must be kept in a cup

and out of plain view.The only thing that gets

more dressed up than thetailgating tents is the fans.It’s khakis and button-downs for the guys, andcocktail dresses and pearlsfor the girls. “You show upin a new dress for eachweekend, and you wearyour hair curly if it’s goingto rain,” a fan was quoted ina 2006 New York Timesstory about Ole Miss tailgat-ing traditions.

Despite its partyingprowess, Ole Miss is not thefootball powerhouse thatLSU has become. But fansin Oxford really don’t seemto mind.

A fan quoted in the sameNew York Times articlesummed it up nicely: “Wemay not win every game,”she said. “But we’ve neverlost a party.”

A statue of William Faulkner sits along courthouse square in downtown Oxford, Miss. PHOTOGRAPHS BY KRISTIN ASKELSON

Square Books, on the square in downtown Oxford, Miss., is awell-known independent bookstore with a focus on Southernauthors.

Things to do and see

» Rowan Oak, WilliamFaulkner’s homeOld Taylor Road just south of thedowntown square

» Oxford Memorial Ceme-tery, where Faulkner is bur-iedAt Jefferson Avenue and North16th Street

» Square Books, an in-dependent bookstore160 Courthouse Square


I love my work; I get tospend my days focused onhow to keep people healthy.I always sayMD reallymeans medical detective.

But at the end of the day,my question is always thesame: Why?Why all thisdisease? Why all this “un-health”? Why so many newcases of high blood pres-sure and Type 2 diabetes?Why this seeming epidemicof thyroid disorders, braintumors and multiple sclero-sis? Why such unbelievablenumbers of people who aremorbidly obese?

I’m sure the academicshave come up with answers

for all those questions, but Ibelieve the questions keepgetting answered the wrongway. There’s this search for“the cure” and a steadystream of new pharmaceu-ticals that keeps promisingto deliver.

How can we figure out acure for anything whenwe’re not addressing thecause? Can a manufacturedchemical really be the curefor anything? Yes, I knowmany cases of cancer havebeen cured by chemothera-

py, if and only if, the chemodidn’t kill the patient first.But back to the question:Why all this disease?

Here’s what I know: Godcreated our bodies to healthemselves. He master-crafted a phenomenal im-mune system that enablesus to battle anything thatcomes our way, includingcancer. So, what has hap-pened to us? I believe theanswer is multifactorial,and it has much to do withour diets and our lifestyles.

This will be the first in aseries of articles abouthealth-related issues thatwon’t be the typical infor-mation you read every-where. There are plenty ofthings written about diseaseand disorders but notenough written about healthand how to prevent them.

I will share my knowl-

edge of things that are true,important and interestingbut not necessarily on thebeaten path. After all, that’swhat a good doctor does,right? Shares knowledge.

The topic for next time:genetically modified foodand its impact on yourhealth. Stay tuned.

Do you have a questionabout a nontraditionalhealth-related topic? Pleasecontact L Magazine’s Kris-tin Askelson [email protected] wemay tackle yourquestion in this recurringcolumn.

Dr. Elizabeth McLain is boardcertified in Family Medicine andsoon to be certified in Integrative

and Holistic Medicine. Shededicates her practice to general

internal medicine at LafayetteGeneral Medical Center.

YOUR HEALTH

What’s really wrong with us?Dr. ElizabethMcLain hassome answers

Dr. Elizabeth McLain

Your Health explores nontraditionalhealth-related topics and issues

For those who like a goodgamble, there is investmentwine.

Bottles can and do appre-ciate, provided everythinggoes as planned, but don’texpect to be paid dividendsin the process.

Of course, if the marketcrashes, you can alwaysdrink it.

Collector Peter John’sreason for purchasing wineis first to enjoy the wineitself and second, that itmay also appreciate in val-ue.

“Always keep in mindhow a wine will age and theamount of great wine in themarketplace,” John said.

Of the thousands of win-eries in the world, very fewactually make the financiallistings and a large portioncome from the Bordeaux

region. Ports historicallyhave also contributed muchof the market but now thefield’s more varied.

Buyers should remem-ber wines are constantlychanging as they age, andthe amount of great vintageyears that come along— ornot —will affect the valueof the wine.

Oh, and always buy fromsomeone you trust.

John says although hecan’t predict the future, allof the following wines havebeen confirmed as rated aperfect 100 by Americanwine critic Robert M. Park-er Jr.

All are classic redsknown to age well for 25years and more if storedproperly with careful atten-tion to temperature, humid-ity, vibration and light.

Cheers! (Twenty-fiveyears from now.)

WINE

Investment wine: New spin the bottleBy Patricia Gannon

THE LISTChateau Cos d'Estournel2009Saint-Estephe, Bordeaux,FranceChateau Ducru-Beaucail-lou 2009Saint-Julien, Bordeaux,FranceChateauMontrose 2009Saint-Estephe, Bordeaux,FranceChateau Pavie 2009Saint-Emillion, Bordeaux,France

Chateau Smith HautLafitte 2009Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux,FranceLa Landonne 2009E. Guigal, Cote-Rotie, FranceLa Mouline, 2009E. Guigal, Cote-Rotie, FranceLa Turque, 2009E.Guigal, Cote-Rotie, FranceSchrader Cellars 2007Cabernet Sauvignon, NapaValley, Calif.Quilceda Creek 2007Cabernet Sauvignon, NapaValley, Calif.



RICKEY DOMINGUESOwner of Eddie’s One StopMy husband and I are treatingourselves to a European vacation.The highlight of the trip will be tovisit our grandson in Ireland whois studying abroad for a semester.

MICHELLE CROUCHFounder of the Jacob Crouch FoundationI started getting Reiki treatments (a Japanesetechnique) for stress reduction and relaxationthat also promotes healing. It is based on theidea that an unforeseen “life force energy”flows through us and is what causes us to bealive. I want my “energy” to be high so I ammore capable of being happy and healthy.

BILLIE MICKMedical aestheticianMy splurge? Let’s just say I was happy, happy,happy when I saw the bag of Hostess powderedsugar donuts and Ding Dongs back on the shelfrecently. Sugar and chocolate overdose is anunderstatement. I am still detoxing from thatlittle binge. Add a gallon of Borden Super Chox tothe mix, and it is a full-on sugar coma!

ELISE BRUNSONDirector of marketing for Boys & GirlsClubs of AcadianaI do like to take the occasional trip tothe beach. I recently went catfishing inthe Atchafalaya Basin. The fishing tripwas incredibly fun, and I took a lot ofpictures to back up my fish tales.

JESS RUSSOStay-at-home mom/athleteSeems like I'm always splurging! We recentlywent on a vacation and ate tons of chips andsalsa and dessert.

SPLURGE

We all deservea treat now andthen. What haveyou splurged on

recently?

{ }Quiz1. YOUR PERFECT SATURDAY INCLUDES:a. Adventure: rock climbing, water-skiing, laser tag, theme parks —anything to break away from the weekday routine.b. Relaxation: long bubble baths, a glass of wine, dinner in, a romanticcomedy — it’s the least you deserve with your hectic life.c. Socialization: hitting the latest bar or restaurant with your closestfriends — what better way is there to escape from the daily drudge?

2. YOUWAKE UPWITH ONLY15MINUTES TO SPARE BE-FORE YOU HAVE TO HEAD TOWORK. YOU:a. Take care of only the necessities (brushing your teeth and hair) beforezipping out the door.

b. Call your boss to let him or her know you’re running late. There’s noway you’ll be caught looking anything but your best.c. Hop in the shower and leave for work with towel-dried hair. You’ll be15 minutes late, but at least you’ll smell fresh.

3. WHICH IDEA OF CAMPING SOUNDSMOST FUN TOYOU?a. Tent: What’s the point of camping if it isn’t rustic?b. Cabin: The wilderness is nice but so is running water and a bed.c. Luxury RV: After being outdoors, you need a clean, comfortable spotto relax.

4. HOWDID YOU OR HOWWILL YOU SPEND YOUR VACA-TION THIS YEAR?a. At the beach: Nothing is more relaxing than water, sand and sun.b. Exploring a new location: Making as many memories as possible.c. At home: There are plenty of fun things to do in town when there’stime to do them.

5. What is your favorite part of fall?a. Getting back into a schooltime routine.b. A break from the hot temperatures.c. The start of the holiday season.

the

What’s the best way for you to spend time outdoors this fall?Find out what your outdoor style is with this fun quiz!

GET YOUR RESULTS!vvvv



THE QUIZ

If you scored 5-8 points:

Find beer, food or animalsHardcore camping and extreme sports may not be yourthing, but there’s still plenty of fun to be had outdoors in thecooler weather. Plan an outdoor day of fun by hitting thezoo, visiting a Louisiana brewery or distillery and dining at arestaurant with outdoor seating.

If you scored9-11 points:

Find fun ata state parkYou love seeing somethingnew during your free time,so pack a bag and headoutdoors. Hit a state parkto spend time in the wildlifeand greenery. Head to thenorthern part of the statein November to explorechanging leaf colors as thetemperatures drop.

If you scored12-15 points:

Find anadventureIf you’re going to do some-thing, you want to do it big.Try your hand at somethingnew and adventurous like azipline course in DenhamSprings, a hot air balloonride in Baton Rouge or ayellowfin tuna-fishing char-ter trip in Grand Isle.

Megan Wyatt

Answer Key:1) a. 3, b. 1, c. 22) a. 3, b. 2, c. 13) a. 3, b. 2, c. 14) a. 2, b. 3, c. 15) a. 1, b. 2, c. 3

28 L M A G A Z I N E SEPTEMBER 2013 SEPTEMBER 2013 L M A G A Z I N E 29

Got your tickets yetfor the Anything isPastable fundrais-er?

If not, you should hurrybecause last year’s eventsold out.

The annual event set thisyear for Oct. 2, at the RiverOaks Event Center in La-fayette, features area chefsfrom some of Acadiana’sbest restaurants, and it

benefits the agency 232-HELP/LA211.

The popular fundraiserwas brought back last yearfor the first time in severalyears and received over-whelming response fromthe community. This year itwill be held at a bigger ven-ue to accommodate thecrowd.

“Last year, more than 400people attended the event,and we were sold out aweek in advance,” said RaeLogan, the group’s exec-

utive director. “Even afterwe sold out, we still hadpeople calling for tickets. Itwas fabulous, and it was sopopular, we had to move it(to River Oaks) just to holdall of the people who wantto attend.”

The agency was foundedin 1965 by the late JewellLowe. It’s the only compre-hensive information andreferral service here.

Anything is Pastablepromises to be an entertain-ing evening, full of delicious

pasta dishes and uniquechef’s creations, live enter-tainment, a silent auctionand a live auction.

Those lucky enough tohave tickets to the gala willhave a chance to bid onsome fun, creative itemsfeaturing some of the favor-ite things of local communi-ty leaders.

Here are some of thefavorites that are up for bidin both the silent and liveauctions chosen by thisyear’s community leaders.

ANYTHING ISPASTABLEA chance to nosh on pastaand bid on fun packages

By Kris Wartelle

Bob Lowe and Dr. Paul Azar

A spring fish fry or crawfish boilat Melange, Bob Lowe’s privatecamp. Enjoy fishing or just being inthe country, with limo service to thecamp provided. Other items up forbid include two gift certificates($250 each) for designer sunglassesat Azar Eye Clinic, three days offishing at a Grand Isle Camp, “NoProblem,” a round of golf at Oak-bourne Country Club with Lowe orgolfing lessons with club profes-sional included.



Dr. JosephSavoie

Pamplona isoffering a din-ner for eightwith Dr. JosephSavoie, presi-dent of the Uni-versity of Loui-siana at La-fayette. Youmay also bid ona night at theHilliard Mu-seum to viewthe Dickie Lan-dry exhibit in2014 or a nightof catering for aparty of up to 20guests by thePetroleum Club.

Jim andGingerRoy

Join theRoys for agourmetdinner with aprivate chefand view thenewly reno-vated Par-kerson Homein downtownLafayette.There arealso twofootballtickets to theFlorida vs.LSU game upfor bid. Thetickets areclub seats onthe 45-yardline with aparking passincluded.You can alsobid on a com-plete wallspeakerpackage fora home thea-ter system.

MarkHudspeth,UL footballcoach, andTylaHudspeth

Join MarkHudspethand his wife,Tyla, for agourmetdinner at thePetroleumClub. Also upfor bid aretickets to aSaints homegame and asilkscreen ofDrew Breesby GeorgeRodrigue.

Pat Trahan and Nathan Norris

Enjoy dinner atop the IberiaBank Buildingoverlooking downtown Lafayette, catered byJefferson Street Pub. You can also bid on VIPpasses to Festival International 2014.

Joey Durel, LafayetteCity-Parish President

Join Joey and Lynne Durel on theFamous Cajun Food Tour, one ofLafayette’s hottest tourist attrac-tions, according to Travel Adviser.There also will be a seven-nightAlaskan cruise up for bid.

WANT TO GO?Anything is Pastable is Oct. 2 at 6 p.m.,with silent and live auctions at 7 p.m.Tickets are $150 and available by calling(337) 205-6012

BonnieMaillet

Among herfavoritethings up forbid are adinner for 10at the famousChitimacharesort and atrip for two toLas Vegaswith a stay atthe VenetianResort Hotel.

Dud Lastrapes

Bid on two UL baseballseason tickets or two ULwomen softball seasontickets, a trip to a Yankeesbaseball game of choice oreven a trip to the Mastersgolf tournament.

Dr. Paul Azar, Dud Lastrapes and Mrs. Jerry Ramsay


WHAT IS 232-HELP/LA211?» Founded in 1965 by the late Jewell

Lowe.» The only comprehensive informa-

tion and referral service in Acadiana.» The agency offers information to

individuals, families and governmentagencies on a broad range of services,including rental assistance, affordablehousing, elderly care and job trainingprograms.

» The service maintains a 9,000-plusresource database for nearly everyneed.

Gayle Benson

Orleanian Gayle Benson talks asif she’s always known you. It’s in-nate to the Crescent City, just liketheir style.

She is New Orleans inside andout, original with a sense of tradi-tion. Benson never buys what’strendy but customizes her Cha-nel to suit herself. She likesChanel’s crisp, yet beautifullines.

“A lot of custom needs re-making,” she explains. “Youcan do that with Chanel, movethings around.”

Her fashion philosophycomes easily. “You shouldalways figure out early on whoyou are and who you want tobe. Then stick with it. It alldepends on you. If you’re com-fortable, you can carry it off.”

Benson’s bespoke tailoringtakes a backseat to the greatergood, however, and she takespride in helping as many as shecan. Her latest project is the NotreDame Seminary, a $25 million reno-vation for which she and husband Tomdonated the startup.

“It’s important to get others in-volved. There’s a need,” she says.

How did she land among Louisi-ana’s Best-Dressed women?

“People look at you differentlythan you see yourself,” she says witha laugh. “I’m very humbled.”

Nadine Carter Russell

A youthful voice is herbest accessory, and there’sno trace of the New Yorkshe grew up in or the Ba-ton Rouge that she’s re-tired to now.

Nadine Carter Russellspent a lifetime in art gal-leries and used her sparetime as a volunteer for thearts, animals and hospitals.

Her fashion philosophyis the same one sharedwith art collectors over theyears.

“If it says, ‘Take mehome,’ buy it. That’s how Iamwith both furnishingsand fashion.”

For everyday, she likesEileen Fisher, but customcouture is her preferredmode.

“Chanel I love, eventhough I don’t always fitinto it very well,” shequips. “And I love seer-sucker and Eskandarsweaters.”

Her style mentors wereher mother and aunts, andthe fashion genetics wereobviously passed down.

“Mymother had pres-ence. When she walkedinto a room, people turned,

and my aunts were elegantalso.”

A traveler who haspacking down to a science(“I don’t like to check lug-gage”), Russell is on herway to Europe with plansfor Africa also. Not bad forturning 70.

Why she was chosen?She thinks it’s her accesso-ries and perhaps her vital-ity.

“I’m older and not skin-ny,” she says. “Now I can’tgo to the grocery storewithout dressing.”

5Best-DressedWomen of Louisiana

Story by Patricia GannonPhotos by Paul Kieu

For anyone toying with the ideathat fashion doesn’t matter, thinkagain.

Vanity Fair publishes its annualinternational coterie of fashion’s flut-tering elite. The pack is comprised ofassorted best-dressed royalty, andlanding on the list is huge, as it opensthe door to society gatherings aroundthe globe.

Esquire also lists its Best DressedMen and has in the past paired poli-ticians with players — often one andthe same—men who slam dunk it

with their cuff links, watches andpower dressing.

The definition of best-dressed va-ries. According to VF, it’s outspokenand risqué without looking tawdry,while Esquire likes them sober withlineage.

The South is no exception, and itsmost fashionable can best be de-scribed as an amalgam of ladylike yetseductive and uptown refined.

Although this year’s best-dressedwomen of Louisiana —Nadine CarterRussell, Mary AnnMirian, Carolyn

French, Gayle Benson and Sue Turner— have been honored partly for theirsavvy good looks, fashion merelyscratches the surface.

Their sense of duty to the commu-nity and leadership add deeper dimen-sion to the award.

So, in the manner of magazineseverywhere, we’re proud to introduceLMagazine’s Five Best-DressedWom-en in Louisiana, as selected by interna-tional couturier Raoul Blanco.

Lace up those corsets a little tight-er, Miss Scarlet.

Nadine Carter Russell

GayleBenson


Sue Turner

Best-dressed grande dame Sue Turneris from Baton Rouge.

Born and raised in Plaquemines, hersmall-town roots were very differentthan her life in the capital, where shedescribes herself as “involved in meet-ings and trying to help the institutionsthat enhance beauty and life.”

Very much influenced by fashionmagazines, she learned early what sheliked. “Then when the opportunity cameto acquire it, I felt like I knew who Iwas.”

It’s only later in the conversation shelets it slip about the son who’s a formerfashion editor at Vogue andHarper’sBazaar. “I’ve been pretty close to fash-ion,” she says.

Her first trip to New York allowed herto read names on buildings she’d onlyseen in magazines, and Turner admits ittakes courage to walk into a soigné estab-lishment.

Her closeness to the style icons hasn’tmade her a slave to labels, however.

“It doesn’t matter who designs,” shesays. “The more good things you look at,the better your taste. Oscar de la Rentahas worn well with me.”

At 86, she says she doesn’t go out toshop much anymore but turns to hercloset instead. “If you keep something

long enough, it comes back,” she says.“Accessorizing makes the old look newagain.”

Turner found it a complete surprise tobe selected.

“Truthfully, I don’t know, perhapsbecause I’ve lasted so long? If you don’tdress like an old person, you don’t looklike one.”

Carolyn French

Carolyn French isready. Ferragamo shoes, aChanel skirt topped by anArmani blouse and jacketand some Swarovksipearls — and that’s forwork. She looks every inchthe financial adviser sheis. Serving homemadelimoncello, she jokinglyrefers to her style as “ge-nial dowager,” when inreality she’s anything but.It’s more like understatedelegance.

French tries to shoplocally. She loves this com-munity, which has allowedher to have a leadershiprole in causes too numer-ous to name. “But somedesigns that fit me bestare not available here,”she says.

She believes in dressingwell daily rather thanwaiting for celebratorymoments. Many of herclothes harbor memoriesand are reminders of thepast, like the silk blouseshe bought on a shoestringcollege budget while work-ing on dual degrees.

Labels are not impor-tant to French, but shelikes good quality fabrics.“I used to sew and I appre-ciate the workmanship,”she says. “Chanel liningsare hemstitched, and Ilove Valentino’s preci-sion.”

French wears her fash-ion emotions on her sleeve,so to speak. “I’ve alwayswanted to show respect.That’s why we dress up,”she explains.

MaryAnnMirian

Sue Turner

Carolyn French

Mary AnnMirian

Lafeyette’s Mary AnnMirian believes char-ity begins at home. A Realtor since 1994, she’sinvolved with work and family, a husband, andtwo daughters, the oldest of which is her busi-ness partner.

Neither knows yet their mother’s one of Loui-siana’s Five Best-DressedWomen. “I want to tellthem in person to seetheir faces,” she sayswith a laugh.

Mirian is dramatic andmakes no apology. “I haveone life to live,” she says. “If I get killed today,at least I’ll die looking the way I like.”

She also buys what she likes, but what Mirianends up liking are designers, especially Italianand Brazilian.

As she talks, she’s scouting a pair of Brazil-ian shoes online to see if she can get a betterprice. She shops a diverse set of stores, andbelieves in expressing herself through clothes.She admits this may have been a factor in herselection.

“My daughters laugh at me and tell me Istand out, even when I go to pick blueberries,”she says.

We’ll bet they’re not laughing now.

Watch a video of theL Magazine Best-Dressed event attheadvertiser.com



Ever heard of “Let's Makea Deal?” I am that girlyou would want to sitnext to. I am a lip glossfreak so I have about 20tubes all shades, gum,always, sunscreen (a girlmust protect her skin)perfume and nail polish.And let me not forgetabout the million BedBath & Beyond coupons Ihoard just in case I decideto stop in and shop.

I usually just try to have mydriver’s license and at least oneform of payment. Oh and mycellphone! I guess the bestanswer is my cellphone.

Elise BrunsonMarketingdirector for theGirls & BoysClubs ofAcadiana

Besides the necessarymakeup essentialsand credit cards, Ihave a mini medicinechest. A small bagwith Band-Aids,Doan’s, Sinutab,Zantac, Pepto-Bismol,migraine medicine,aspirin, non-aspirin,Benadryl, lotion. Ialso have a smallumbrella and ofcourse, my rosary.

Billie MickMedicalaesthetician

Michelle CrouchFounder of theJacob CrouchFoundation

RickeyDominguesOwner ofEddie’s OneStop

Got something inthere you won’tleave home

without? Tell usabout it.

WHAT’S IN YOUR BAG?

JessRussoStay-at-homemom

It would have to be my iPhone. When you workin marketing and public relations with manydifferent people at many different locations, youhave to have everything at your fingertips.

I always carry a purse within a purse to beprepared for whatever my day unveils.And I always carry my UL RCAF/UL alumnicard to get local discounts.

Best-dressed is not some-thing you can buy, accord-ing to couturier Raoul Blan-co. And he doesn’t mincewords on the subject.

“You can put silk on amonkey,” he says, employ-ing the Puerto Rican ver-sion of Sarah Palin’s famouslipstick comment. Blancofirmly believes that whileclothes are a personal ex-pression, it’s what’s insidethat counts, if not more.

Blanco learned sewingfrom his grandmother,which he has since parlayedinto ateliers in New York,San Francisco, Napa Valley,St. Charles Avenue in NewOrleans and now Lafayette.He continues to serve cli-ents worldwide.

The stylist and fashiondesigner has three mainfactors he considers whendefining best-dressed, andnone has anything to dowith being a size 0 or inyour twenties. Aside fromthe technical aspects ofvolume and balance there’scharacter, the unique qual-ity money can’t buy.

“Being a best-dressed isan attribute and you mustbe a natural,” he says. “As aconsultant and designer, itis my duty to be honest andguide an individual proper-ly throughout this process,and I do the same whenchoosing best-dressed.”

Apart from the above,best-dressed of both gen-ders possess personal style

that trends don’t impact. “Ifyou wear specific items orcolors because someonesays ‘that’s what is in’ thenyou’re not a best-dressed.You’re a follower, a copycatin my book.”

“It’s important that youwear your ensemble and notthe other way around.”

- Patricia Gannon

Style inside, out

Raoul Blanco

“Being abest-dressed isan attributeand you mustbe a natural.As aconsultant anddesigner, it ismy duty to behonest andguide anindividualproperlythroughoutthis process,and I do thesame whenchoosingbest-dressed.”RAOUL BLANCO

Character, not trends help makeyour best fashion statement

Gross Savanne boasts a luxurious yet rusticinterior. PHOTOGRAPHS BY TERRI FENSEL

GROSSE SAVANNEWATERFOWL ANDWILDLIFE LODGE


38 L M A G A Z I N E SEPTEMBER 2013 SEPTEMBER 2013 L M A G A Z I N E 39

Whether you enjoy hunt-ing, fishing or justcommuning with na-ture, fall is the perfect

time to head outdoors in Louisiana.The annual ritual of getting

outdoors for fall activities canmean a simple fishing trip on thebayou or a grand excursion thatincludes luxurious accommoda-tions and gourmet meals.

In southwestern Louisiana, youdon’t have to travel very far toenjoy it all. One of the grandestoutdoor sporting destinations,Grosse SavanneWaterfowl andWildlife Lodge, just south of LakeCharles, is less than a two-hourdrive away.

Gross Savanne encompasses more than 50,000 acres ofwetlands and prairies. It borders a saltwater fishing lake.

Grosse Savanne isowned by the Sweet LakeLand and Oil Company,the business owned andoperated by one-timecandidate for governorBuddy Leach and hiswife, Laura.

The lodge plays host tonumerous Lafayette busi-nesses and corporate andfamily groups who comefor waterfowl huntingand freshwater and salt-water fishing. The statelynine-room lodge can ac-commodate up to 18guests. Packages rangefrom daylong fishingtrips for $300, to fullweeks of hunting forcorporate groups at thou-sands of dollars more.

“Most of our water-fowl hunting clientelecomes from the east sideof the state, primarilyLafayette, Baton Rougeand New Orleans,” saidKarl Zimmermann, mar-keting manager forGrosse Savanne. “On theother hand, most of thefishing clientele comesfrom the Houston area.”

Zimmermann said

along with first-classaccommodations, thelodge offers guided salt-and freshwater fishingtrips on the public Calca-sieu Lake and privatelyowned 15,000 acre salt-and freshwater marsh.Waterfowl hunting tripsare taken on 50,000 acresof privately owned wet-lands and agriculturalproperties.

There is even some-thing for those who don’twish to hunt or fish.

If you simply want to

relax on the vast outdoorporches, taking in thescenery or watching thebirds, you can do that.The lodge offers a bedand breakfast package aswell as bird-watching andeco tours.

“Bird-watching is thefastest growing outdooractivity in the country,”added Zimmermann. “Sowe figured we should tapinto the market becausewe have the resources tooffer.”

What really sets this

place apart is the com-fortable rooms and nicelyappointed common areas.As you might expect, thisis not your average hunt-ing camp.

The living areas aredecorated with upscalefurnishings, game tables,a self-serve bar and com-fortable seating for gath-ering with friends.

The dining roomserves gourmet meals onchina so guests will befar from “roughing it” atGrosse Savanne.

OutdoorsgreatThe

A quiet retreat

For more informa-tion on Gross Sa-vanne reservationsand prices, visitgrossesavanne.com.

Where there’s water, thereare bound to be alligators.

MORE ABOUTGROSS SAVANNELocation: 1730 BigPasture Road, LakeCharlesActivities: Salt-water and fresh-water fishing, water-fowl and alligatorhunting, bird-watch-ing.Amenities: Lodge,retreat, great room,fine cuisine.

Nature, luxury less than two hours away at Gross Savanne

By Kris Wartelle

Fashionworth cheering

about

Fall is coming. It may be slow getting here to the Deep South, butthere is still the anticipation of cooler weather and football in the air.The season also brings a renewed interest in getting outside moreoften. So with a nod to all things outdoors and the UL football season,we turned to the university’s cheerleaders to model some of this year’sfavorite outdoor looks and to help get us into the spirit of autumn.

Photos by TERRI FENSELCoordinated by KRIS WARTELLE

See more photos fromthe fall fashion shoot attheadvertiser.com



Laynie LeBlanc of Lafayette is asophomore cheerleader who enjoyssinging. Laynie is dressed in fashionsfrom Vanessa V. Blazer by Blaque Label,bright pink top by Final Touch,camouflage leggings by CookieJohnson, boots by Report Signature.


Micah Patout is a senior ULstudent and cheerleadermajoring in environmentalscience. He enjoys art, playingguitar and being out in nature.He wears fashions from TheBackpacker in Lafayette. Plaidflannel shirt by North Face, downjacket by Patagonia.


Courtney Doyle is a UL junior fromArnaudville. She is a member ofRagin’ Jazz and dances at all homefootball and basketball games. Sheenjoys writing and giving back tothe community with her danceteam. Courtney wears fashions fromThe Backpacker in Lafayette. Bouclesweater from ExOfficio, boots byHunter, jacket by Patagonia, blackleggings by Patagonia, black quiltedskirt by North Face and white linersocks by Hunter.


Kyle Rudolph is a seniorcheerleader at UL fromMilton.Kyle is also the captain of the ULcheerleading squad. He enjoysworking out and playing sports.Kyle wears fashions fromBrother’s on the Boulevard. Jeansby Lucky Brand, button-downshirt by Southern Marsh andshoes by Johnston & Murphy.


Allison LeBeouf is anincoming freshmanon the ULcheerleading squad.The Crowley nativeenjoys spendingtime with family andfriends and workingout. LeBeouf iswearing fashionsfrom Brother’s on theBoulevard. Shirt byFree People, necklaceby Lucky Brand, oiledjeans by Citizens ofHumanity and bootsby Coconuts.


Madeline Langlinais (right) is a Lafayettenative and sophomore at UL. This is hersecond year on the cheer squad. In herspare time, she enjoys competing inpageants. She wears fashions fromBrother’s on the Boulevard. Black jeans byThe Silt, shirt by Sanctuary Clothing andboots by Madeline.


Kyle and Micah enjoy hunting infashions from Brother’s on theBoulevard and The Backpacker.Kyle’s suede jacket by Cutter &Buck and Micah’s cord pants byMountain Khakis provide theperfect cover for outdoor activities.

K1 SEPTEMBER 2013 L M A G A Z I N E 49

still some proprieties.Please remember:» There is no way for

you to pat a pregnant wom-an’s stomach politely, nomatter how benevolent youmay be. The stomach ishers, not yours. In the eventyou must perform an emer-gency delivery, you will beexcused.

» Youmay smile and askwhen she expects her bun-dle of joy to arrive. That’s it.You may not remark abouther weight gain and ask isshe due tomorrow becauseshe certainly appears to be.She may also have alreadydelivered without yourknowledge, in which caseyou can and should be mor-

tified. In fact, quit trying togauge whether a woman ispregnant at all — unlessyou’re the boyfriend.

» Tempting as it is, youmay not regale the lady-in-waiting with a blow-by-blowaccount of your three-daylabor of torture that nowoman has endured beforeor since.

» Once the baby is born,you may not pick it up with-out permission. Femalemammals are wired by eonsof evolution to kill anythingthat approaches their off-spring, and it’s a miracleyou’ve escaped so far.

And finally, repeat afterme. The baby is hers, notyours.

ON SOCIETY BY PATRICIA GANNON

Oh baby, mind your mannersThe Duchess of Cam-

bridge has recently provid-ed the world with the oppor-tunity to review society’smanners toward expec-tant mothers.

This is rarely talkedof, but thanks to Cath-erine Middleton, noweven male journalistsare gushing over post-partum stomachs andmaternity dresses.Once standards dis-

appear, they rarely re-turn. And while no one

begrudges society for beingagog over a royal prince,when it comes to babies,there’s a big differencebetween agog and gauche.Facebook or not, there are

There was something in the air that night, the stars were bright, Fernando— Tri-ton’s merry men have chosen Dr. Fernando Alemany to rule them during the up-comingMardi Gras season. Announced during a cocktail soiree at the CajundomeConvention Center by ball captain William Ritchey, Alemany’s court includes pret-ty Queen Kyla Joy Lemaire plus dukes and maids Mike and Joyce Casey, Tim andAlison Arceneaux, Pat and Desireé Doucet, Edward Turner, Renee Murray, Blaineand Rita Goodrich, Blake Ritchey and Barbara Alleman.

1.

3.

Local doctor to rule Krewe of Triton

1. Blake Ritcheyand Lacey Toups2. Fernando andRocha Alemany3. Richard andDianne Carlisle,Steve and SueLyon

2.

Party Pix brought to you by


50 L M A G A Z I N E SEPTEMBER 2013 K1

Best Dressed of theTeche kicked off witha cocktail meet-and-greet at the Steam-boat House in NewIberia. Hostess KimCrittenden welcomedVIPs to her home toplan the July 25 eventat the Sugar CaneFestival Building.

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Cocktails kick offBest Dressed of

the Teche

1.Kim Crittenden andSonny Walet

Best Dressed of the Teche rocked the runway at the SugarCane Festival Building in New Iberia. The cabaret-styledinner was seamlessly managed by City Club of Lafayette asguest of honor Raoul Blanco discoursed on the art of dress-ing well. None too shabby themselves were event directorMiriam Krepper, Iberia mayor Hilda Curry, Pres and NancyMarshall, Monsignor Ronald Broussard, SonnyWalet, Cyn-thia DuBois, Katie Champagne, Victoria Morgan and Kris-tine Duhe. Proceeds benefited Partners of the Americas andtheir playground projects both here and abroad.

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3.

1. MelanieRobin, BethFrederick,MonicaHebert,KristineDuhe,TiffanyGirouard,PennyLaPorte2.AlexDuBois,KatieCham-pagne,CynthiaDuBois,Jeff DuBois3. Law-rence andPeggyJeanba-tiste, Mon-signorRonaldBroussard,Louis andCarolGaignard

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Teche’s Best Dressedshow art of dressing



Xanadu packed OakbourneCountry Club for its formalannouncement luncheon. Mimo-sas and more paved the way forcourt and queen of 2013, astiaras were passed to Cyd Beg-naud, Julie Broussard, CindyCobb, Lenora Krielow, SandraLeBouef, JoanMoody, BarbaraRichard, LaneWalker and Ste-phanie Weilbacher.

4.

Krewe of Xanaduladies select royalty

1. Susie Brunet, BarbaraRichard, Sue Brooksand Sandy Huval2. Tammy Simoneaux,Amanda Judice andAmy Hebert3. Amanda Touchett,Jeanne Brannon, andLeslie Carbo4. Sandy Huval, AmyHanna and Andy Jen-sen

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1. 2.



The Academy of the Sacred Heart honoredits chosen with a Dancing with the Starscocktail meet-and-greet at The Lounge down-town.

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The stars come out to dance

1. Carrie and Robert Foard, Michele Ezell2. Katy Svendson, Joe and Catrice Godchaux3. Michele Ezell, Lawrence and Kary Svendson

3.

Who else but LaMoss could score a couple of tables at Ruffino’s?Turning one year older in style, dealership diva SharonMoss gath-ered her ladies together for champagne and more at Lafayette’spacked new restaurant. Attendees included Natalie LaBorde, Mari-lee Ashy, Virginia Forestier, Teal Fresh, Sheila Lopez, Cherry FisherMay, Larayne Guidroz and Dr. Jennifer Jackson. Moss had to nego-tiate parking for her Maserati outside, but there was no shortage ofgood wishes and great company inside.

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Sharon Moss celebrates birthday in style

1. JudyDunn,JenniferJackson2. SharonMoss andMark andTyla Hud-speth


Victoria’s newest got theposh treatment at the Set-tlement home of ParvathiAkkaraju. On hand to showthem the ropes were Presi-dent Teresa Meza and damecommander Lynn Crochet,who says her 125 ladies willmove to the CajundomeConvention Center thiscoming season. While courtand queen are still mum,Her Outgoing HighnessCarolyn Guildbeaux saidbeing queen was some ofthe most fun she’d everhad. Getting their Victoriantogether were Tara Olivier,mother-daughter duoMaryand Noelle Freeland, Melis-sa Nugier, Mitzi LeJeune,Mitzi Finley and member-ship chair Cindy Hebert.

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2. Posh treatment

1. Jamie Crain, Melissa Nugier, Mitzi LeJeune2. Mitzi Finley, Cindy Hebert3. Teresa Meza, Parvathi Akkaraju

3.




When it comes to fundraising for a cause, the ACS puts it in black andwhite. Richard Young & Co. gave the gala a big dose of New Orleanselegance at the Victorian and VIPs did the rest, including Andrew andJane Bellard, Christine Lemoine, Colleen Dill, gala workhorses LauraKetteringham, Nichole Forstall and Debi Nogle, Caroline Elmore,pretty Tabitha Droddy and our own Advertiser alum-turned-Tennes-see publisher Mark Stevens. UL chancellor Dr. Joseph Savoie wasnoted tracking his wife’s auction number, either to boost her biddingor because he was worried —we’re not sure.

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American Cancer Society holds formal gala

1. Karl Beverung,Nicole Eldarragiand Richard Young2. Lynn Crochet,Jan and CharlieWyatt3. Melissa Recatto,Christine Lemoine,Colleen Dill, Caro-line Elemore andCaroline Lemoine

3.

Everyone struck a pose as Raoul Blanco’sBest-DressedWomen in Louisiana lunchedat City Club prior to his style show. GayleBenson arrived by private plane with entou-rage Melinda Loomis, Jennifer Lauscha andLindseyMitchell as Lafayette’s own CarolynFrench andMary AnnMirian joined BatonRouge’s Nadine Russell and Sue Turner for LMagazine’s debut event. Blanco’s new pri-vate collection was none too shabby either —among the elite enjoying a taste of Milanright here were Penny Edwards, JenniferLeBlanc, Gail Savoie, AaronMartin, SullyUrbino, Kevin Ste. Marie, New IberiansMiriam Krepper and Jean Nelson, D.C.’sMaria Wilson and jeweler Andy Truxillo &Co. (See page 34 for best-dressed story.)

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Raoul selects best-dressed

1. Setareh Mirian-Delcambre, Mary Ann Mirian andBahareh Mirian2. Miriam Krepper, Jean Nelson

l magazine fall issue

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