Ribbon Cuttings

Bossier Chamber Ribbon Cuttings

Fred’s Brings Year End Growth

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Fred's Super Dollar Ribbon Cutting2011 is near the end, but that doesn’t stop Bossier Parish from growing. Fred’s Super Dollar Store will help Bossier Parish see a year end growth in new business. Fred’s opened a new location in Haughton and celebrated with a community and Bossier Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting on December 30th. The fan fare was spectacular. I’d guess there were at least 100 people in attendance for the event. Supporters of the new business included everyone from local citizens, the Police Chief, Fire Department, Mayor and Representative Henry Burns. Haughton High School band and cheerleaders provided a pep-rally spirit. Fred's Super DollarFred’s expresses an interest to serve in both local and national organizations. Fred’s Super Dollar showed their interest in the Haughton community by presenting Haughton School’s with two checks for $1000 each.

According to their website: Fred’s Super Dollar traces its history back to an original store in Coldwater, Mississippi opened in 1947, today Fred’s is headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee and operates almost 700 discount general merchandise stores, including 24 franchised Fred’s stores, mainly across the southeastern states. With a unique store format and strategy that combines the best elements of a discount dollar store, drug store and mass merchant, Fred’s stores stock more than 12,000 frequently purchased items that address the everyday needs of its customers. This merchandise includes nationally recognized brand name products, proprietary Fred’s label products, and lower-priced, and off-brand products.

Fred's Super Dollar Store

Jeff Berg (Marshall, TX), Marlin McDonald (Jonesboro, LA) and Butch Willis (Haughton, LA)

The vision of Fred’s is to see a smile on every customer’s face. With stocked shelves and several really good sales, there was no shortage of smiles on the faces this morning. Fred’s encourages their team members to provide help in succeeding throughout their organization. It was evident of the support as managers from other stores around the area were in attendance to cheer on Butch Willis, General Manager of the store.

Fred's Super DollarThe Haughton store is currently a retail facility. There are plans and hopes for a pharmacy in the future. The staff is very friendly and helpful. What a great way to end the year. Bossier Parish on the grow! I encourage you to stop by, buy a few things, say hi to Butch and make sure you tell them you read my blog. Fred’s Super Dollar is located at 200 N. Elm, Haughton, LA 71037.

Fred's Super Dollar

Robin Williams and Lisa Johnson

On a side note, I just want to tell you that I have enjoyed my first year as a Bossier Chamber of Commerce Diplomat. The connections that I’ve made in the community are invaluable. If you haven’t joined the Chamber of Commerce, I say “Join Now!”. But let me go further, don’t just “join”, get active. You won’t regret it.

See ya around Bossier,

Robin Williams,
Bossier Chamber of Commerce Diplomat & Marketing Maven at Holiday Lanes

New Orleans Flavor

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Copeland’s of New Orleans unveiled the new prototype restaurant in Shreveport for restaurants in six states, which include Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, Georgia, Maryland and Florida. The Shreveport renovation includes over $1 million and revamps the restaurant both inside and out. Mr. Al Copeland, Jr., Chairman of the Board for Al Copeland Investments, was in attendance and told us that the renovation is designed to bring the New Orleans flavor to Shreveport. The atmosphere will now have a more Southern Plantation feel and will blend well with the flavors of the signature foods served within the restaurant. A new bakery display case greets you as you enter the restaurant. The bar has been renovated with a sophisticated look. The addition of a private dining room with seating for 65 makes for a great location for business meetings and parties. Mr. Copeland said “This is an exciting time for the Copeland Family of Restaurants and Copeland’s of New Orleans in Shreveport as we launch our new prototype.”

One of the perks of being involved in the community is getting invitations to these awesome events, especially events that include food. So, let’s speak of the food . . . on display was a scrumptious smorgasbord of culinary treasures. There was Buffalo Spring Rolls, Crawfish Bow-tie Pasta, Shrimp Pasta, Stuffed Mushrooms, Biscuits from scratch, Red Beans with Rice, Steamed Vegetables, and among other dishes, Bayou Broccoli, which by the way is fried broccoli – yum! I’m not usually a salad girl, but my favorite item on the table was the Apple Almond Blue Salad (Fresh apple, toasted almonds, crumbled Bleu cheese, sun dried tomato, red onion, mixed greens, Honey Balsamic vinaigrette.) OH MY – this was fabulous! Of course a visit to Copeland’s would be incomplete without dessert. I had the Bananas Foster, but was checking out the white chocolate bread pudding. Oh so many choices, and just not enough time or tummy space. Several of the secrets behind the great flavors at Copeland’s is that they prepare from scratch with fresh ingredients, sauces are stock-based, homemade from natural drippings and fresh vegetables. The chefs at Copeland’s use only fresh, never frozen vegetables, steak, fish and chicken. “We take pride in our fresh-from-scratch New Orleans flavors and we are committed to serving our guests” said Mr. Copeland.

Copeland’s of New Orleans is located at 1665 E. Bert Kouns Industrial Loop in Shreveport, LA. (near Youree Drive) The restaurant is managed by Steven Thrash and is open Monday through Thursday, 11 am to 10 pm, Friday and Saturday 11 am to 11 pm, and on Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm. This location will feature a Sunday Jazz Brunch from 10 am to 3 pm. Stop by to taste some of the New Orleans flavor and make sure you tell them you read my blog.

See ya around Bossier,

Robin Williams,
Bossier Chamber of Commerce Diplomat & Marketing Maven at Holiday Lanes

Oh Taste and See

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Oh Taste and SeeThe Bossier Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting on Wednesday, November 30 to celebrate the opening of the stage production “Oh Taste and See” at the Bossier Arts Council. The gospel play is presented by Lisa Blakely Productions and will run December 1, 2 & 3 at 7:00 pm nightly at the East Bank Theatre. Lisa Blakely is an inspiring woman, who is both the writer and producer of this play. Lisa expressed that it is her dream to follow in the footsteps of Tyler Perry. (One of my favorite people!) This isn’t the first play for Ms. Blakely. She has previously written and directed the gospel stage play, “Get Thee Behind Me”. The cast was in attendance for guests to meet and her pastor blessed the production.

Oh Taste and SeeThe following is the play description as found on the Oh Taste & See website:

As a widowed mother, love is the last thing on Marilyn’s mind. Her busy life revolves around working at the Post Office, catering part-time and keeping her teenage daughter in control, which becomes especially challenging when her daughter begins to show signs of needing a father in her life. Just as things start to go haywire in the household, in walks Henry Billingsly, her new boss. The attraction between the two is undeniable, but forbidden. She has also been keeping a big family secret that threatens to hold her back and break her family apart. A hot, steamy fling may begin to satisfy her appetite, but family secrets are a recipe for disaster. Will she taste and see?

Oh Taste and SeeBossier Parish is fortunate to have the Bossier Arts Council. I have attended several stage plays and art exhibits at the center. In addition to providing a cultural experience for the community, the Bossier Arts Council encourages the growth of artists in our area. One of my favorite things that the Council offers is acting camps and art programs for youth. My daughter has attended both and had an absolutely wonderful time.

East Bank TheaterThe production of “Oh Taste and See” will be held at the East Bank Theatre, 630 Barksdale Blvd, Bossier City, LA 71111, Phone: 318.741.8310. Tickets can be purchased online by going to www.otas.eventbrite.com/

Support your local art community and be sure to tell Lisa you read my blog.

See ya around Bossier,

Robin Williams,
Bossier Chamber of Commerce Diplomat & Marketing Maven at Holiday Lanes

Maurices is a must!

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MauricesMaurices, a new fashion store, has arrived in Bossier City. Store manager, Candace Slack was on-hand to share the story of Maurices at a Bossier Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting on Thursday, October 20. Maurices has 744 stores in 44 states and is committed to high standards for fashion, value and great customer service. Candace made it clear that Maurices is community oriented and strives to make a difference in the local area.

Maurices My favorite thing about Maurices is the selection of sizes. They have sizes 0-24. How many of you bigger girls get frustrated when all of the bigger sizes look like maw-maw clothes? I know I sure do. But not at Maurices. The styles are oh so cute. The photo at right is one of the plus size fashions. Didn’t I tell you? C-U-T-E! Maurices states on their website that their styles are inspired by the girl in everyone, in every size.

MauricesOne thing that I found interesting after talking to the Assistant Manager was that while you are shopping in the store, the clothes are always grouped in what’s called 4-ways. (see photo at left) The idea is that when you stand in the middle of four 4-ways, you can pull from any one of the four racks and they will coordinate with each other. This is helpful for anyone who is fashion challenged. (like me!) Although the clothing is targeted for the twenty-something crowd, I promise – most women will be able to find something that they like. Along with clothing, you will find jewelry, shoes and accessories. For the grand opening, Maurices is having a buy one item, get the second item at 50% off. What a great deal!

MauricesMauricesMauricesMaurices is located at 2765 Beene Blvd in the Stirling Shopping Center in Bossier City. Three doors down from Target. They are opened Monday – Saturday 10 am – 9 pm and Sunday 12 pm – 6 pm. Stop by and tell them you read my blog.

See ya around Bossier,

Robin Williams,
Bossier Chamber of Commerce Diplomat & Marketing Maven at Holiday Lanes

Workforce Solutions

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Kelly ServicesThe Shreveport branch of Kelly Services celebrated with a Bossier Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting on Thursday, September 22, 2011. The company has been around since 1946 and I would bet that you’ve heard of them at some point in your life. William Russell Kelly, the founder of the company, has been attributed as a pioneer in the temporary employment services field. What started as an agency that provided clerical positions primarily to women, has grown to a global corporation committed to providing specialized workforce solutions. Ashley Summers introduced those in attendance to the revitalization of their services in the Shreveport-Bossier area. Kelly provides professional temporary and direct hire employment placement in the workforce.

Kelly ServicesIn our current economy, the job market is tough for both the job seeker and employers. Kelly Services can be the link to creating positive employment solutions. Kelly assigns professional and technical employees in the fields of finance and accounting, education, engineering, information technology, law, science, and healthcare. Linda Baker, the branch manager, makes it a priority to recruit qualified candidates for area employers. Employers find services such as recruitment, human resource management, vendor management, and outplacement services. For anyone looking for flexible career opportunities, Kelly just makes sense. Kelly Services is a trusted company that has proven themselves as industry leaders. In addition to many awards and recognitions, they work with 90 percent of the Fortune 500® and Fortune 100™ companies, which shows their expertise and commitment to quality.

Kelly ServicesKelly Services is located at 425 Ashley Ridge Boulevard, Suite A136, Shreveport, LA 71106, Give Linda a call at (318) 869-0835 and make sure you tell her that you read my blog.

See ya around Bossier,

Robin Williams,
Bossier Chamber of Commerce Diplomat & Marketing Maven at Holiday Lanes

A Sportsman’s Dream

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Los Paloma Ribbon CuttngLos Paloma Sporting Range and Event Center celebrated their grand-opening with a Bossier Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting on Tuesday, September 20, 2011. The facility is a new concept for the area and brings a distinctive sport to Bossier Parish. A twenty station sporting clay course, with a 9,000 square foot event center that is described in their brochure as “Rustic elegance meets the Hill Country of Northwest Louisiana.” Two outdoor pavilions and a five acre pond make this a new and unique event venue for the area.

Los PalomaRoss Adams, VP and Director of Operations provided a tour and information about the facility owned by Max Sharp. I don’t know a whole lot about sporting clay, but Ross was more than happy to share some insights with me. From what I understand, there are twenty stations with machine traps that throw clay disks into the air, meant to replicate a variety of bird patterns. Shooters stand in an arc on the opposite field and aim for the targets. They then rotate around the arc to take shots at each station and throughout the entire course. Each station presents a different challenge. After doing a small amount of research, I found that some call this sport “Golf with a Shotgun”. This sporting course is designed by Promatic and the skeet field is per U.S. Olympic standards. Los PalomaIf you prefer Bow Hunting, they also have a Bow Tower with shooting stations at 15 and 25 feet. This is a great place for the Louisiana sportsman (or woman) to enjoy some time away from the hustle and bustle of every day life.

Los PalomaThe event center is fashioned similarly to a barn with modern decorating and conveniences. The entire facility has a seating capacity for 350 people. As I was walking around the facility, I could envision the endless possibilities. Weddings, receptions, graduation and corporate parties. As you enter the building into the banquet room, the space has a grand, but comfortable feel to it. The floors are shiny, stained concrete and the brick, wood and tin touches create a rustic and elegant atmosphere. There is a lounge area with a wet bar, indoor kitchen with two refrigerator/freezers and a commercial ice maker. Los PalomaThe outdoor kitchen is complete with frying stations, outdoor stove and industrial sized bar-b-q pit. It’s the perfect place to hold a large group gathering such as fish fry or crawfish boil. There is an elevated stage with lighting and PA, great for those events with live bands. Above the banquet seating area is a 160″ rear projection screen. This makes for the ideal sports watching parties.

Los PalomaLos Paloma Sporting Range and Event Center is located at 900 Seven Pines Road in Benton, LA. It’s quite a drive, but so well worth it. I recommend that you give Ross a call at (318) 465-7507 and set up your next sporting or social event. You won’t be disappointed. Make sure you tell them that you read my blog.

See ya around Bossier,

Robin Williams,
Bossier Chamber of Commerce Diplomat & Marketing Maven at Holiday Lanes

Bossier City Alternative Fuel Station

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Bossier City Alternative Fuel Station #2Bossier City celebrated the dedication and ribbon cutting of a second Alternative Fuel Station on Tuesday. The event drew a great crowd of city and state officials, along with citizens interested in flex fuel options. The Bossier City Alternative Fuel Station #2 building was designed by architect Mike McSwain. According to Mr. McSwain’s website, the design pays homage to the pop architecture typical of the of the golden era of automotive travel while also looking forward towards more progressive ideas of sustainability and environmental responsibility associated with using Ethanol and Natural Gas as automotive fuels.

Scott AngelleCompressed Natural Gas (CNG) and E-85 Ethanol Flex Fuel provides an answer to the need for an abundant, clean and affordable fuel alternative to reduce our current dependence on foreign oil. Because of the Haynesville shale, natural gas production in our area provides some of the most productive. It makes sense that we start exploring ways to tap into the most readily available resources. Louisiana Department of Natural Resources Secretary, Scott Angelle spoke to the crowd and explained that city officials applied for a grant and were ahead of the curve in taking advantage of the benefits of CNG. The commitment ensured that they received the grant. Mr. Angelle also said that he is “hoping, urging and working in Washington for people to embrace natural gas as a better alternative to provide fuel for American families”. Bossier City has a fleet of vehicles that are already being operated with the flex fuels. The two stations will provide a fueling place for these vehicles, as well as for the general public.

Bossier City Alternative Fuel Station #2The cost to convert a vehicle varies according to vehicle. Some websites show an approximate cost of $7000. State and Federal agencies have implemented tax credits for certain qualified vehicle conversions. The prices displayed at the Bossier City station today were $1.75 for CNG and $2.78 for E-85 Ethanol. When compared to the gasoline and diesel market, it proves to be beneficial. CNG costs approximately 50% less and emits up to 90% less emissions; and over time the costs for CNG have remained stable. According to cngnow.com: although compressed natural gas is flammable, it has a narrow flammability range, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, making it an inherently safe fuel.

CNG is delivered to your vehicle in a very similar fashion as pumping gasoline, in approximately the same amount of time. The delivery method will require one to review filling procedures, but once you’ve filled up once or twice, you are on your way in an environmentally friendly fuel vehicle.

Bossier City Alternative Fuel Station #2The Bossier City Alternative Fuel Station #2 is located at 4250 Barksdale Boulevard. This station is in addition to the 2580East Texas location that opened in October as part of an initiative on the part of bossier City to provide a “go green” option. Stop by soon and tell them that you read my blog.

See ya around Bossier,

Robin Williams,
Bossier Chamber of Commerce Diplomat & Marketing Maven at Holiday Lanes

Let there be Light!

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Lee's Lighting & SupplyLee Lighting & Supply celebrated their grand opening with a Bossier Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting on August 8th. Lee Lighting has a beautiful selection of light fixtures, ceiling fans, cabinet knobs, and door knobs. Speaking with one of the owners Shane, he stated that builders and individual homeowners are welcome to shop for the latest in lighting supplies. Shane shared that James Lee brings many years of electrical experience to the business. Whether you are building a new home, or just want to update your existing home lighting, they can serve your needs.

Lee's LightingThe ribbon cutting was the place to be. As I walked through the parking lot, the smell of barbecue filled the air. Walking in the door, a band was playing and the door prize drawing was calling out to me. A pair of LSU home game tickets were up for grabs. I checked their Facebook page today, and no, I didn’t win! But congrats to Linda S. During the ribbon cutting, the Lee family presented the Grace Home with a check for $2500 in honor of the care that was provided to Mr. James B. Lee, Jr. This tells me that they are committed to serving the community.

Under the same roof, you will find Smart Phone Specialists, specializing in SmartPhone screen replacement and SmartPhone accessories. I was super excited about the selection of iPhone 4 cases. I found a GREEN case!! Do you know how hard it is to find a green case? Let’s just say, I was thrilled. They also carry a great selection of Otterbox cases in a variety of colors. The prices are sure to please! Smart Phone Specialist have the ability to repair iPads and from what I understand, can save you quite a bit of money in the process.

Lee Lighting and Supply is located at 1900 Rossie Lee Drive Suite 1111, Bossier City, LA 71112, 318-200-0201. Stop by soon and tell them that you read my blog.

See ya around Bossier,

Robin Williams,
Bossier Chamber of Commerce Diplomat & Marketing Maven at Holiday Lanes

Not all Subways are the Same

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SubwayThere’s a new Subway in Bossier City. Not the transportation kind, but the sandwich kind. The staff at the Benton Road location celebrated with a Bossier Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting on July 22. Subway is an independently, locally owned and operated restaurant. This location is not affiliated with nearby Subways. The first thing that I noticed when I walked in the door was how clean it was. I assumed that they cleaned up for the ribbon cutting, but Mr. Larry Ludwig (the owner) mentioned that this is how they keep the store everyday.

Subway

The mayor gives this Subway a "thumbs up"

They pride themselves in providing a clean restaurant and great service. Along with the typical sandwich menu, this location has an extensive catering menu. Mr. Larry introduced Melissa Martinez, catering specialist for this location. He said that she has gone beyond being a catering specialist. She is the heart and soul of the store. She recently attended Subway catering training and impressed everyone she met. Melissa can create special platters for any business meeting or party. SubwayWe were all treated to brownies and blueberry scones. The scones are just one example of how she uses her creativity to make each event special. I think I saw the mayor take two, but don’t tell him I said so.

I enjoy promoting local businesses in town. I typically don’t say one business is better than the rest, but what I will say is that this Subway has it’s priorities in order. They offer a clean, well stocked restaurant, good food and friendly employees.

SubwaySubway is located at 1911 Benton Rd, Ste A in the California Plaza Shopping Center, 318 742 4140. Stop by today and tell them you read my blog.

See ya around Bossier,

Robin Williams,
Bossier Chamber of Commerce Diplomat & Marketing Maven at Holiday Lanes

50 Years of Travel Promotion

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LTPA Ribbon CuttingThe Louisiana Travel Promotion Association (LTPA) celebrated their 50 year anniversary with a ribbon cutting at the Bossier Chamber of Commerce office on July 14. The LTPA is a private, non-profit, membership trade association that leads the private sector growth of the Louisiana Tourism Economy. LTPA provides marketing and educational opportunities, and serves as the advocate, resource and voice for the tourism industry. Member Service Representative, Tracy Young was on hand to explain the many benefits that the LTPA can provide for local attractions and restaurants.

Did you know that Bossier City has one of the top tourist sites in our state? That’s right, the Louisiana Boardwalk ranks right up there! LTPA is instrumental in helping to promote not only the Bossier area, but all regions within the state of Louisiana.

LTPA publicationsAs the Marketing Maven for Holiday Lanes, I am always on the look out for ways to increase traffic to our center. In fact, I’m currently in the process of brainstorming ways to create a Louisiana Bowling Trail through the Geaux Beauxling Louisiana campaign. Tracy knew exactly who I should speak to and I’m looking forward to picking their brain for some great ideas.

The Louisiana Travel Promotion Association creates several publications throughout the year. My favorite pamphlet is the “27 Tastes of Louisiana”. It’s full of authentic Louisiana recipes and information about the regions of the state. As a member of LTPA, businesses are entitled to a free listing in the state’s official tour guide. If you haven’t seen this guide, take a look online now. Also be sure to check out the “7 delicious road trips designed to make you drool”. LTPAThe LTPA also attends several major travel trade shows throughout the year to promote tourism in our state.

There is so much more to the LTPA and I encourage you to visit their website: http://www.ltpa.org. If your business is interested in becoming a member of LTPA, contact Tracy Young and tell her you read my blog.

See ya around Bossier,

Robin Williams,
Bossier Chamber of Commerce Diplomat & Marketing Maven at Holiday Lanes