The past few years the local economy has been rather tough for local businesses, but surprisingly the Acadiana economy had a record breaking year. Linus Wilson, professor of finance at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, helps conduct a survey of thirteen local Chief Financial Officers, asking them their opinions of the local economy and how their businesses are doing. The survey index reached a record high of 59, beating previous averages of numbers in the 40s. Tim Metcalf, owner and operator of Deano’s Pizza, gives insight of the daily challenges that face local business owners. Wilson and Metcalf both give insight of what may be holding back local businesses. Report by Thomas Babin.