Shop Local Acadiana is now accepting new members, and we'd love to have you!  Just take a few minutes to complete the online request form or us call at (337) 371-9758, so we can get your business included.

Just take a look at everything's that's planned for our new members:

• Listing/Web Page on www.shoplocalacadiana.com
• Online Coupon Feature on www.shoplocalacadiana.com
• iPhone App Listing & Mapping
• Mobile Coupon Feature on iPhone App
• Certified Locally Owned Member Yard Sign
• Certified Locally Owned Window Cling
• “Shop Local” Campaign Kit
• Inclusion in Member Tutorials, Gatherings or Press Opportunities
• Facebook & Twitter Mentions, Reposts & Retweets
• The Official Shop Local Guidebook (coupon or standard ad)
• Participation in the SLA gift card program
• Featured logo in the Shop Local Acadiana Digital Billboard Campaign
• Additional benefits from our extensive cause and brand marketing efforts which include an assortment of print, radio, television, billboard, special events and more

When you are out and about, look for the Certified Locally Owned seal and rest assured that these businesses are committed to keeping our community moving. In fact, 3X more of your money stays right here in Acadiana when you shop, dine and support these local independent establishments.

For the fourth year in a row, a national survey of independent businesses has found that those in communities with an active "buy local" campaign have experienced markedly stronger revenue growth compared to those located in areas without such a campaign.

Read more about it at www.newrules.org/retail/news/survey-finds-buy-local-message-benefitting-independent-businesses.

Download the full report at www.newrules.org/sites/newrules.org/files/2011-ind-business-survey.pdf.

Want to support your favorite locally owned business?  Tell them what you think by writing a review.  Find your favorite business in our directory, scroll down to the Review section, and give your feedback.

Are you ready to support the cause?  To show your support for Acadiana and the other independent local businesses in our community? To get your business listed on this site, on our iPhone app, billboards, print materials and more? To be promoted as a Certified Locally Owned Business?

Shop Local Acadiana encourages like-minded business owners to work together for the greater good of our local economy and our towns. We are currently accepting members for our next campaign until August 15th.

In addition to special discounts at Shop Local Acadiana’s member businesses, local business owners will be out bright and early Friday morning serving free coffee and lemonade to the public at Johnston Street Java, next to The Grand movie theatre.

Shop Local Acadiana will also be on hand giving away free “geaux local” tote bags full of goodies and discounts from their members.

The organization’s “Free Coffee Friday!” event will take place from 7am to 9am this Friday, July 22nd. Everyone is encouraged to come out and support their local business owners while enjoying complimentary coffee and lemonade.

By Nichole Barras, Coccolare

Stress can be easy to come by in this day and age. It’s important to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. These are just some techniques that have been proven to reduce stress.

Your shoulders are tense, your back hurts, you feel grouchy and know it's due to stress. What can you do? RELAX YOUR BODY.

The next time you feel the effects of too much stress, try some of these ways to help relax:

1. Deep Breathing. While sitting, lying down, or standing, close your eyes and breathe in slowly. Let the breath out for a count for 5-10 seconds. Take ten of these super-relaxers any time you feel tense.
2. Stretching. Practice simple stretches such as the "neck stretch." Stretch your neck by gently rolling your head in a half circle, starting at one side, then dropping your chin to your chest, then to the other side.
3. Exercise. All kinds of physical activity is great for stress. It releases endorphins (the feel good hormone).
4. Take a relaxing bath. Ask household members to allow at least 30 minutes of quiet time.
5. Get a Massage. A massage is a wonderful way to get rid of physical tension.
6. Eat Well. Reduce caffeine (in coffee, black tea, and chocolate) and alcohol intake. Find out if your diet is well balanced, and take steps to eat healthy.