Ted Beaullieu, Sugar Mill Pond Development; Jerry Vascocu, IberiaBank; and Robert Daigle, River Ranch Development Corporation

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Sponsors join forces to honor the architects and designers of our present and future

Citing diverse projects from Lafayette’s gleaming new Acadiana Center for the Arts to a historic renovation in Eunice, Independent Weekly Co-Publisher Cherry Fisher May says the local design community produced more entries and winners for INDesign Awards in 2011 than ever before. “We look forward to celebrating their work in this, our seventh luncheon, honoring excellence in architecture, interior and landscape design,” she says of the upcoming event, slated for Thursday, May 19.

As with previous luncheons, this year’s keynote speaker was chosen to address the importance of good growth management practices with the goal of developing Lafayette as a vibrant, livable city and parish, reflective of community values and vision. With local government finally embarking on its first-ever foray into true comprehensive planning, May says this year’s message is distinctively different. “Past speakers have helped make the case for how critical it is for a community to have a thoughtful, comprehensive growth management plan,” she says. “This year government leaders have taken the first real step toward embracing that message by actually funding a plan.”

After a process recognized for its transparency and inclusiveness, the respected national firm Wallace, Roberts and Todd was selected to develop the local plan, and the contract is now being finalized. Senior associate Silvia Vargas will serve as this year’s speaker to explain all phases of the process, from community input through implementation. Local partner Sides and Associates will play a key role in the early stages.

Silvia Vargas of Wallace, Roberts & Todd

This luncheon is part of an annual series presented by IberiaBank, whose Lafayette president, Jerry Vascocu, applauds the move. “The bank’s growing footprint across the Southeast allows us to operate in many wonderful cities, and we recognize the great qualities that are unique to Lafayette,” he says. “It’s important for us to manage these assets properly so that our parish can realize its greatest potential. We’re excited that community leaders have stepped forward in this bold, new initiative.”

Respected local developer Robert Daigle has also been a longtime supporting sponsor of this event. “Through the years we’ve been able to bring some of the top visionaries from across the country to Lafayette for this luncheon,” he says, “and now our community has secured one of the best firms to help us build for the future. It’s an exciting time for us and all of Acadiana.”

The luncheon is Thursday, May 19, at the City Club in River Ranch at 11:45 a.m. Tickets are $40 and seating is limited. For information, contact Robin Hebert via email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by phone: 337.769.8603.