APPLAUSE

In October, FlyGuys, a reality data-capturing technology company based in Louisiana, announced the triumphant closing of its Series A funding round, securing a remarkable investment of $10 million. This substantial financial boost is poised to catalyze relentless innovation, create a scalable software solutions platform and strengthen the company’s nationwide influence. The round was led by prominent investors who have recognized FlyGuys’ commitment to using software as a service to connect data-seekers with data providers. The funds raised in this Series A round will be utilized to further FlyGuys’ strategic initiatives to drive reach, reliability, and capacity nationwide.

Downtown Lafayette Unlimited announced the official groundbreaking of the Playground at Parc Sans Souci. On Nov. 2, supporters of the playground gathered in celebration. This project, located in Downtown Lafayette, is a 6,000-square-foot inclusive accessible playground and includes equipment from Berliner Seilfabrik – a leading manufacturer for playgrounds across the world. Design and equipment selection were led by Duplantis Design Group (DDG) and Innovative Recreation, LLC. The project will be constructed by Triad Construction Services. Upon project completion, Lafayette Consolidated Government will own and maintain the playground.

In November, South Louisiana Community College (SLCC) short-term programs were granted approval for veterans’ education benefits. This distinction positions SLCC as one of only two community colleges in Louisiana to offer veterans education benefits for short-term programs. With this approval, veterans can access a wide range of short-term programs, providing them with valuable skills and opportunities for career advancement. These programs include Basic Plumbing, Certified Nurse Aide, Heavy Equipment Operator, Welding, Commercial Truck Driving and many more. The approved programs offer a pathway for veterans to receive quality education and training in various fields, enhancing their employability and career prospects. The funding can drastically reduce the cost of these programs, making them even more accessible to veterans.

Acadian Ambulance’s Paramedic and EMT of the Year – Cierra Nixon and Logan Butts – were selected as two of American Ambulance Association’s Stars of Life for 2023. A celebration, held in Washington D.C. in early November, honored 127 medics from across the United States. Through the Stars of Life, AAA honors the contributions of ambulance professionals who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in service to their communities or the EMS profession. During the celebration’s events, the Stars of Life were presented with medals and plaques by American Ambulance Association President Randy Strozyk.

JUST IN

In October, the Acadiana Center for the Arts announced its 2024 Performing Arts series lineup. The AllStars Series brings well-known artists, rising-stars and newcomers to the area in a multitude of genres, from rock, indie, alt and folk to R&B, blues and soul—from bluegrass and country to world, African, Caribbean and jazz. The Louisiana Crossroads Series brings special one-night-only concerts in the James Devin Moncus Theater featuring two or more artists with a musical connection that ties back to Louisiana. AcA also announced its lineup for the Spotlight Theater & Dance Series, NXT Series, AcA & Lafayette Comedy’s Comedy Club Series and AcA & ASO’s Listening Room Chamber Music Series. For the full lineup, visit AcadianaCenterfortheArts.org.

In October, the Greater Iberia Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for DSF Tag Agency, at 222 E. Main Street in New Iberia. DSF is a DMV Tag Agency that handles license plates, titles, notary and registrations. For details, call them at 337-210-4181.

In November, Hub City Cycles celebrated their 10th anniversary. This friendly neighborhood bike shop offers affordable to high-end bikes, parts and accessories. Hub City Cycles has played a large role in promoting Downtown Lafayette’s vibrancy as a bike-friendly and walkable city center. Congratulations on celebrating 10 years in business.

In November, Downtown Lafayette Unlimited and ACSW Architects celebrated with a ribbon cutting and grand opening of their new second floor office expansion, which includes a balcony and courtyard area. This project is a catalyst for commercial construction expansion in Downtown Lafayette and demonstrates the developmental impact of diverse and collaborative work spaces in our district.

Businessman and developer Rodney Savoy was named as the 91st Civic Cup recipient during a ceremony at City Club at River Ranch in November. Savoy helped with the creation of Moncus Park, works with the Love Our Schools Foundation, donates to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s academic and athletic programs and has been involved with several other nonprofit organizations in Acadiana.

On Dec. 12, the Greater Iberia Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for The Groom Room Pet Spa & Resort, at 523 N. Lewis Street in New Iberia.

The GrowthX Workshop hosted by Brand State U will be held in Downtown Lafayette from Jan. 4 -5. This two-day workshop, led by local industry leaders, has been meticulously curated, promising a dynamic blend of engaging panels and thought-provoking discussions—all designed to empower small businesses to adopt a big brand attitude. Become immersed in the GrowthX Workshop, your premier source for skill enhancement, expert knowledge, and support services to expand your business. Explore proven techniques for building (and expanding) a thriving brand, including marketing strategies, product development, and crafting narratives that resonate with your target audience. For event and registration details, visit BrandStateU.com/GrowthX.

MOVERS & SHAKERS

In October, Community Foundation of Acadiana (CFA) announced the selection of Ekstrom Alley Clontz & Associates as the consulting firm leading CFA’s next five-year strategic planning process. Since 1997, Ekstrom Alley Clontz & Associates has worked with more than 150 community foundations and philanthropic service organizations of all sizes across the U.S. and globally. The planning process began in October and is expected to run through August 2024. During that time, a multiphase process will run concurrently to execute an internal review, external interviews and listening sessions, board visioning, and planning/implementation. At the conclusion of the engagement, CFA will have an updated roadmap that will guide the organization’s work for the next 5 years.

Longtime Arc of Acadiana CEO Kenny Patton retired in October, and former COO Cindy Leleux took the reins as Chief Executive Officer on Nov. 1. Leleux has been with Arc of Acadiana for 28 years, serving the last 15 as Chief Operations Officer. She plans to carry on Patton’s legacy of improving the lives of people with disabilities by taking a hands-on leadership approach. Leleux earned a Master’s Degree in Gerontology from the University of Louisiana at Monroe, as well as a BS degree from the University of Alabama. The entire team at Arc of Acadiana expresses their heartfelt thanks to Kenny Patton for his many years of selfless service and hard work and wishes him well.

In November, the Acadiana Center for the Arts announced the hiring of Fawn Hernandez as its first Deputy Director. Hernandez joins the professional staff of the AcA, led by Executive Director Samuel Oliver, who recently celebrated 5 years in his role. AcA introduced Let Culture Lead in September as a $18 Million initiative to expand the role of artists, musicians and cultural organizations in advancing education, economic development and placemaking across Acadiana. A native of Lafayette, Hernandez received her MBA from Louisiana State University after obtaining her undergraduate degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.