Living Here

2021 Edition

January 2021

2 LIVING HERE 2021

At the Wellness Center, we’re improving the health of the region one person at a time And this means...

More game time

More first times

Isn’t it time to start living your best life?

Change Starts Here.

More crunch time

Prevention | Education | Fitness | Rehabilitation Sports Medicine | Physician Specialists | Wellness Services

For more information, call: 985.493.4400.

More party time thibodaux.com

LIVING HERE 2021 3

YOUR GUIDE TO LIFE IN TERREBONNE AND LAFOURCHE

Welcome to Living Here Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes are unique and fascinating places to live, whether you’ve grown up here or just moved to the area.

Travel the country and the world over, and you’ll never find anywhere quite like this piece of south Louisiana.

Welcome to the 2021 edition of Living Here, The Courier and Daily Comet’s guide to local recreation, entertainment, government, schools, industry, culture and food.

Are you an outdoors type keen to experience Louisiana’s Sportsman’s Paradise? You’ll find handy guides on where to launch your boat, how to enter one of the area’s numerous fishing rodeos or where to find some of the best roadside fishing spots.

Looking for something fun for the kids? You’ll find it here.

Helpful public services? We’ve got you covered. Local theater, music and museums? Check. Phone numbers of local government officials? Got those too.

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has changed a lot about Living Here. So while this guide includes many of the festivals, gatherings and events that make the area unique, some of their schedules may be affected by state restrictions aimed at curbing the virus’s spread.

Keep this guide handy and use it as a resource. You can also find the information online at houmatoday.com and dailycomet.com.

We hope you’ll find Living Here useful as you explore the piece of paradise we call home.

— Executive Editor Keith Magill

A shrimp boat is silhouetted by a setting sun along Bayou Grand Caillou in Dulac. Scenes like this make Living Here special. [THE COURIER AND DAILY COMET/FILE]

What’s Inside 5............. Where to find Cajun music.

6............. How life on the bayou all got started.

7............. Mardi Gras history and king cake recommendations.

8............. Top festivals.

10........... Kids have plenty of choices when it comes to recreation.

11........... Fun places to take the kids.

12........... 6 things bayou residents can treasure.

19........... Higher education.

20........... 7 places to savor a real Cajun meal.

21........... How to contact public officials.

21........... Who we are, by the numbers.

22........... Connect with helpful public services and schools.

23……… Network with business people.

24........... Where to launch your boat.

26........... Charter a great fishing trip.

27........... Test your skills at a fishing rodeo.

30........... Drop a line at one of our handpicked roadside fishing spots.

Living Here Staff Editor: Keith Magill.

Cover design: Shaun Hebert.

Reporters and correspondents: Dan Copp, Kezia Setyawan, Bill Ellzey, Kelly McElroy, Chris Singleton, Scott Yoshonis.

Want extra copies? Extra copies of Living Here are available by emailing news@houmatoday.com.

To request updates of listings in Living Here, email news@houmatoday.com.

Still have questions? Call 857-2200.

4 LIVING HERE 2021

CAJUN MUSIC

Live music provides the soundtrack to the bayou Members of Cajun Music Preservation Society and friends play regularly at the Jean Lafitte Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center in Thibodaux, as well as other venues around the area. [FILE PHOTO]

Scott Yoshonis News Editor There are plenty of places to cut a rug to Cajun music in Houma and Thibodaux. Several restaurants transform into dance halls at night and provide residents with some old-fashioned fun.

Call ahead to find out about cover charges and which band will play.

Several area bars and clubs feature live music several nights a week;

including indie rock at The Boxer and the Barrel, 7817 W. Main St., Houma, 262-0583; alternative and punk rock at the Intracoastal Club, 8448 Main St., Houma; rhythm and blues at Big Mike‘s BBQ Smokehouse, 120 Laura Drive, Thibodaux; rock, blues and swamp pop at the 4 Aces Lounge, 1400 Tunnel Blvd., Houma; or country and swamp pop at the Music Cove, 227 Howard St., Houma.

If you’re in the mood for more local music, there are several venues that

host Cajun music and dancing regularly. The Cajun Music Preservation Society hosts frequent jam sessions, and encourages anyone with an instrument and the desire to play to join in on the fun.

For weeks, the coronavirus pandemic has forced the closing of live music venues. Call ahead for availability if you’re reading this after those restrictions have been lifted.

JOLLY INN CAJUN DANCE HALL ADDRESS: 1507 BARROW ST., HOUMA. INFORMATION: 872-6114.

A-BEAR‘S CAFE ADDRESS: 809 BAYOU BLACK DRIVE, HOUMA. INFORMATION: 872-6306.

BAYOU DELIGHT RESTAURANT ADDRESS: 4038 BAYOU BLACK DRIVE, BAYOU BLACK. INFORMATION: 876-4879.

BAYOU TERREBONNE WATERLIFE MUSEUM ADDRESS: 7910 W. PARK AVE., HOUMA. INFORMATION: 580-7200.

TERREBONNE FOLKLIFE CULTURE CENTER ADDRESS: 317 GOODE ST., HOUMA. INFORMATION: 876-6545.

JEAN LAFITTE WETLANDS ACADIAN CULTURE CENTER ADDRESS: 314 ST. MARY ST., THIBODAUX. INFORMATION: 448-1375.

GINA‘S AT THE LEGION ADDRESS: 114 ST. MARY ST., THIBODAUX. INFORMATION: 492-2505.

Here are some of the area’s Cajun music venues:

Your Bank.

Our Community.

Stronger Together.

Synergy Bank’s professional team of bankers has set extraordinary standards in the industry with unparalleled customer service coupled with comprehensive banking technology and products. For more than 20 years, we have been here to help you with all your financial needs.

www. banksynergy.com 985.851.2217

LIVING HERE 2021 5

YOUR SPINE & PAIN RELIEF SPECIALISTS GRAY • NEW IBERIA 985.580.1200

HX-00081738

theheadacheandpaincenter.com

Adolfo J. Cuadra, MD

Jimmy N. Ponder, Jr., MD

Mimi Wilson OT, PA-C

6 LIVING HERE 2021

FROM THE BEGINNING

In Houma-Thibodaux, we’re all about the bayous

By Bill Ellzey Correspondent The Mississippi River’s earliest explorers knew it branched off at present-day Donaldsonville. They called the smaller outlet La Fourche de los Chetimaches, or the fork of the Chitimacha Indians.

The natives, early settlers and generations that followed used Bayou Lafourche to access the rich lands along its banks and establish communities and plantations. Road access was virtually impossible except on dirt tracks along the bayou banks or on ridges. The rest of the area was impassably swampy or marshy.

Canoes, dugouts, skiffs and flatboats brought in goods and passengers, either from the Mississippi River to the north or from bayous connected with the Gulf of Mexico.

Eventually, steamboats made scheduled runs between Thibodaux and New Orleans, but after railroads penetrated the low-lying interior about 1855, Bayou Lafourche was dammed off at Donaldsonville to end the threat of annual flooding.

Bayou Terrebonne similarly forked off Bayou Lafourche at Thibodaux, but its connection was allowed to close off naturally because of the expense of keeping it clear of silt and open to navigation.

Terrebonne is “good earth” in English, but the bayou was first named “Darbonne,” after an early settler. It was renamed “Terrebonne” by Henry Schuyler Thibodaux when the present parish of the same name was being carved out of the larger Lafourche territory.

For generations, Bayou Lafourche and the highways that parallel it on either side have served as a long “main street,” stretching from one end of the parish to the other, with population, business and industry clustered close by. This land-use pattern is essential for the region, built from millennia of flood-borne silt. The highest land is nearest the bayous, which delivered the annual layers of earth.

Highways and communities seeming to have no central bayou are deceptive. Most are on ridges

along the Chacahoula ridge, remain important highway routes. The Bourg-Larose Highway follows ancient ridges to connect Terrebonne with Lafourche.

In “good earth” Terrebonne, where elevations are rarely more than 6 feet above sea level, a ridge may be evidenced more by its sturdy sandy soil than by discernible elevation. In the 1920s, the annual delivery of silty floodwater was cut off. The Mississippi’s repeated destructive flooding of settlements and agricultural lands spurred the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to complete the levee systems that still protect south Louisiana from annual overflows.

Terrebonne and Lafourche’s bayous remain water routes to the Gulf of Mexico, with roads and and settlements as far down as the elevation permits.

But these bayous, their ridges and the human development they support are threatened by coastal erosion, the result of natural forces on wetlands which have not been nourished by natural Mississippi A shrimp boat plies the waters of southern Terrebonne Parish. [THE COURIER AND flooding for three-quarters of a DAILY COMET/FILE] century. And the vast freshwater marshes have been further debiwhose bayous gradually filled in Bayou Black, were once distributa- litated by the entry of salt water and disappeared naturally or, later, ries of the silty Mississippi, when through canals cut for oilfield through agricultural practices. it was still permitted to overflow access.

Terrebonne had several bayous, naturally every spring.

Newcomers alike would do well smaller than Bayou Lafourche, Like neighboring Lafourche, all of to arm themselves with local or radiating from a slightly elevated Terrebonne was built, literally, by cellphone maps and take leisurecentral area on which early settlers ages of those soupy annual Missis- ly exploratory drives into remote built the town of Houma. Five main sippi overflows, spilling through and threatened sections of the bayous extend from Houma toward Bayou Lafourche into Bayou Terregion. That includes places like the Gulf, like fingers from a palm. rebonne and farther into smaller Donner or Bowie, where cypress Indian natives and the earliest sett- bayous, sometimes covering much sawmills once roared; Chauvin, lers used these sluggish streams for of the parish with several feet of where “down the bayou” isolation transportation. muddy water. kept Cajun French alive as a spoken Today, modern highways folWhen the waters receded, silt language long after French spealow the same ancient routes; most was left behind, and the elevation kers were assimilated elsewhere; construction, residential and busi- of the land beside the bayou was and Isle de Jean Charles and Dulac, ness, is along bayou corridors. higher, by fractions of an inch. The where remnants of coastal Indian Bayous give their names to comlargest particles settled nearest the populations have survived for gemunities clinging to their banks. streams, over time building sandy nerations. And there are also CocoSomeone whose mail is delivered ridges that remain the best founda- drie, Leeville and Fourchon, where through the Theriot post office is tions for roads and other construc- the highways give way to docks and likely to say he lives in Dularge, tion. boat launches that connect fisherone of Houma’s five bayous. The Older inland ridges, like Cotemen, commercial and sport, to the others, Terrebonne, Little Caillou, au and Chacahoula, have survived tremendous seafood resources the Grand Caillou, Pointe-aux-Chenes, long after the bayous that built area enjoys. Even locals can learn and others not usually considered them largely disappeared naturally. something by exploring the place among the five, like Bayou Blue and Coteau Road and Bull Run Road, we call home.

LIVING HERE 2021 7

CARVNIVAL TIME

MARDI GRAS: The area’s biggest celebration

Crowds vie for beads and other trinkets as the Hercules parade rolls through Houma on Feb. 14, 2020. [THE COURIER AND DAILY COMET/FILE]

King cakes are one Carnival treat the COVID-19 pandemic has not vanquished this season. [LOUISIANA OFFICE OF TOURISM]

By Keith Magill and Bill Ellzey The Courier and Daily Comet

newspapers before the 1920s. In 1946, a group of Houma men planned the first parade of the Krewe of Houmas, which rolled on Fat Tuesday 1947. In the years since, a succession of krewes joined the celebration.

That 1947 parade featured a convertible bearing farmer Filhuacon “Tecon” Duplantis, whose irregular homemade parades, beginning in the 1920s, were credited with keeping the tradition alive. Tecon’s unofficial assemblies of decorated sugar-cane wagons and farm animals are not well documented, but they reportedly grew from a few people on foot to some 200 floats drawn by oxen and horses.

In 1955, the Krewe of Chronos of Thibodaux launched its first modern parade with a nod to the very first Thibodaux parade, reportedly in

1914, though that date has not been firmly established.

One local Mardi Gras tradition is edible. The king cake, a ring of yeasty cinnamon bread iced in purple, gold and green Carnival colors, is available at bakeries and groceries.

Some ship the desert, complete with a plastic baby. Traditionally, the baby was hidden inside the cake, and whoever got that slice bought the next king cake.

Carnival season always begins Jan. 6, known as King’s Day, Twelfth Night or the Epiphany, the day the Bible says the three kings arrived to see the newborn Jesus. Local bakeries usually start selling king cakes just after Christmas and continue through Mardi Gras. This year, especially, it’s one way to enjoy Carnival without the parades.

ning, deep-fried cake -- like a giant glazed donut -- is covered in the restaurant’s unique, homemade glaze. Price: small $11, large $17.50. Facebook page -- Bertinot’s Best Bakery, 996 W. Tunnel Blvd., Houma, 8726208. Call ahead for the Carnival Chaos king cake, a Bavarian-cream-filled cake with cranberries topped with white chocolate.

Price: $25.74. bestbakerykingcakes.com

-- Chez Cake Bakery, 1297 St. Charles St., Houma, 262-4246.

Ask for the Rex, a traditional king cake with a house-made cream cheese and raspberry filling, topped with fresh fruit. Price: $35. chezcakebakery.com -- Rouses Markets, various locations. New this year is a savory, Crawfish and Boudin king cake. Price: small $8.99, medium $14.99, large $20.99. rouses.com.

Terrebonne and Lafourche are usually gearing up for Mardi Gras parades this time of year, but state restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19 have changed that.

Parades in Lafourche have been canceled this year, while Terrebonne officials and krewe leaders plan to meet in mid-March to determine whether parades can roll at a later date, tentatively in April.

It’s one of the biggest impacts the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the Houma-Thibodaux area’s cultural scene.

Sometimes called the “the greatest free show on Earth,” the two parishes combined boast the biggest

Carnival celebration outside Greater New Orleans. An estimated 40,00050,000 people will line the streets for Houma’s biggest parades, clamoring for beads and other trinkets tossed by float riders.

Some 30 local parades usually roll starting two weekends before Mardi Gras and leading to Fat Tuesday, which this year falls on Feb. 16.

The annual celebration originated in the calendar of the predominate Catholic Church. It was the last opportunity among the faithful to dance, party, feast and drink before the restrictions of the 40-day Lenten season that starts Ash Wednesday and ends with Easter.

The local Carnival tradition has roots well into the 1800s, when masked balls were common. Parades are mentioned in Houma and Thibodaux

6 SUGGESTIONS FOR TASTY LOCAL KING CAKES

Here are a few suggestions for king cakes made locally. While some stores keep a few on hand, it‘s usually best to call ahead to order or check availability. Most offer other varieties and flavors or are willing to custom-make one to order.

-- Cannata’s Markets, 6289 W. Park Ave. and 1977 Prospect Blvd., both in Houma. 873-9174 Its Gooey Butter Snickerdood-

le king cake won the People‘s Choice award at the 2019 King Cake Festival in New Orleans.

Price: $17.99. cannatas.com -- Cajun Pecan House, 14808 W. Main St, Cut Off, 632-2337. Try its Strawberry and Cream Cheese king cake. Price: small $19, medium $26, large $36. cajunpecanhouse.com -- Mr. Ronnie’s Famous Hot Donuts, 1171 West Tunnel Blvd., Houma, 868-9065. The award-win-

8 LIVING HERE 2021

FESTIVALS

Annual festivals keep the fun going all year long

By Scott Yoshonis News Editor Folks in Terrebonne and Lafourche love to celebrate, and any excuse to throw a party will do.

During just about every weekend in the spring and fall you can find a festival of some sort, most of which feature an abundance of local food, friends and fun.

Some festivals are larger than others, but all of them aim to make sure those in attendance come away smiling.

Here are a few of them which have scheduled dates in 2021. Due to the ongoing pandemic, they are subject to postponement or cancellation, so be sure to check their websites for the latest information.

Southdown Marketplace: Southdown Plantation, 1208 Museum Drive, Houma. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 27. More than 300 vendors sell local, handmade arts and crafts at one of the area’s biggest fairs, in the shadow of the historic Southdown Plantation house.

Admission: $5 per person. Kids 12 and under free.

Info: 851-0154.

Thibodaux Firemen’s Fair: Thibodaux Fairgrounds, 1101 Tiger Drive, Thibodaux. 5-11 p.m. May 3-4, 11 a.m.-midnight May 5, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

May 6. One of the area’s biggest festivals includes carnival rides, live entertainment, a parade and auctions that benefits the city’s volunteer fire department. The main attraction may be the abundant offerings of food, including an impressive selection of traditional Cajun cuisine.

Admission: Free, with food and ride tickets available for purchase.

Info: firemensfair.com.

TFAE Run for Excellence and Cajun Food Festival: Downtown Houma, in and around the Courthouse Square.

May 8, 2021. One of the area’s biggest festivals, this one benefits the Terrebonne Foundation for Academic Excellence, a nonprofit that has awarded more than $1 million in competitive grants to parish public school teachers. The festival includes the area’s biggest 5K race, live music and, most of all, food. Every variety of local cuisine imaginable is available to sample with one price for all you can eat and drink.

Admission: $25 for adults 21 and over, $15 for ages 5-20, Kida 4 and under free.

Info: runforexcellence.com.

Jacob Morrison of Thibodaux stirs a hot pot of crawfish at the Thibodaux Mudbug Boil-Off. [FILE]

Mud Bug Boil-Off: Downtown Thibodaux. Noon to 11 p.m. May 8, 2021.

Teams compete for the best crawfish and visitors get to eat it. Proceeds benefit the Thibodaux Police Department Fraternal Order of Police, Lafourche Parish Children‘s Advocacy Center and Thibodaux Main Street. A kids’ zone includes magic, face painting, bounce houses and snowballs. Burgers and drinks are also available and sweets will be sold.

Admission: $15 per person. Kids 10 and under are free.

Info: downtownthibodaux.org or 3873000.

La Fete des Vieux Temps: Lafourche

Central Market, 4484 La. 1, Raceland. 5 p.m.- 1 a.m. Oct. 1, 8 a.m.-1 a.m. Oct. 2, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 3, 2021. Translated as the “Festival of Old Times,” this annual event features a celebration of music, dancing and Cajun food, with cook-offs, displays of local culture and demonstrations of south Louisiana culture. Food offerings include a White Beans and Catfish Plate, Shrimp and Catfish Poboys, Grillades, Alligator Sauce Piquante, Chicken-Sausage Gumbo and Jambalaya.

Locals look forward to the Bayou Water, a delicious but potent rum drink that has become a staple of the festival.

Admission: Free, with food and ride

tickets available for purchase.

Info: lafetedesvieuxtemps.com.

Big Boy’s Main Street Cookoff: Downtown Thibodaux. Gates open at 3 p.m. and cook-off participants will begin serving at 6 p.m. Nov. 12. Culinary showcase of Cajun cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients found along the bayou, with over 30 teams cooking up dishes like shrimp and grits, jambalaya boulettes and charbroiled oysters. Big Boy’s takes place each year as the kick-off event of the Thibodeauxville Fall Festival weekend.

Admission: $10, which includes samples from cook-off participants.

Info: 413-9886.

LIVING HERE 2021 9

HX-00081958

10 LIVING HERE 2021

RECREATION

Recreation programs help keep area youths active

By Kezia Setyawan Staff Writer Houma-Thibodaux has plenty of recreation options for young athletes looking to score a touchdown, shoot a basketball, deliver a cheer or become active in other sports.

Here’s how to connect with programs throughout Terrebonne and Lafourche: • Terrebonne Recreation, 1192 Barrow St. in Houma, offers football, cheerleading, volleyball, basketball, baseball and softball. 873-6584.

• Houma’s Bayouland YMCA, 103 Valhi Blvd., offers soccer, flag football, cheerleading, swimming and basketball for children. 873-9622.

• The Houma-Terrebonne Soccer Association has leagues for ages 7-16. Call 868-3897 or visit houmasoccer.com.

• James Academy, 308 Venture Blvd., Houma, offers gymnastics for ages 3-18 and cheerleading for ages 5-18. Visit jamesacademy.com.

• Jennings Gymnastics, 114 Robin Lane in Schriever, offers gymnastics and cheerleading for ages 2-18. 446-0435.

• The Bayou Black Rec Center holds registration for swimming lessons starting in April and other activities for all

A local Bayou Bandits volleyball team celebrates a tourney title win. [BAYOU BANDITS]

ages throughout the year. Information: 876-4270.

• The Bayou Athletic Youth Association offers softball and baseball leagues during the summer and fall for ages 6-18.

Call 209-0733.

• The Bayou Bandits Volleyball Club enrolls girls ages 8-18 in Terrebonne and Lafourche. Visit https://bayoubanditsvolleyball.weebly.com.

• The Louisiana Baseball Academy, 3007 W. Park Ave. in Gray, offers private instruction in hitting, pitching, arm care and other skills. The academy has travel

baseball teams for ages 9-and-under to 14-and-under. Call 876-4494 or visit lbabaseball.com.

• The Louisiana Sports Gym, 544 S. Hollywood Road in Houma, offers cheerleading classes. Call 580-9746 or visit lasportsgym.com.

• The Extreme MMA & Fitness Gym of Houma, 1226 Lafayette St., offers martial arts and boxing classes for kids and adults. 873-5722.

• The Terrebonne Parish Tennis Complex on Southdown West Boulevard in Houma is open seven days a week with two courts available. Free. Online: tprec. org/facilities.

LAFOURCHE • Lafourche Recreation, 1612 La. 182, Raceland, offers softball, baseball, football and basketball. 537-7603.

• Lafourche Soccer, 4049 La. 1, Raceland, offers leagues for ages 7-16. Call 537-8909 or email lafourchesoccer@ hotmail.com.

• Thibodaux Recreation, 151 Peltier Park Drive, offers baseball, basketball, bowling, football, golf, pool, soccer and volleyball. 446-7235.

• The Central Lafourche Baseball Association is looking for boys and girls ages 3-15. Email centrallafourchebase-

ball@gmail.com • The Cut Off Youth Center, 205 W. 79th St. in Cut Off, offers basketball, swimming and other activities. Call 6327616 or visit cutoffyouthcenter.org.

• Nicholls State University’s Continuing Education Department offers summer camps, including baseball, basketball, cheerleading, fitness, karate, soccer, tennis, volleyball and more. 4484444.

• Bayou Flag Football enrolls boys and girls ages 5-14. Games are usually held during the fall, starting in September.

Call 696-4889 or visit bayouflagfootball.com.

• The Bayou Titans Youth Organization offers football and boys and girls basketball. Call 226-0047 or 688-4701.

• The Babe Ruth and Cal Ripken Baseball Leagues in Thibodaux are open to players 4-5 (tee-ball), 5-6 (coach pitch), 7-8 (coach pitch), 9-10 (kids pitch), 11-12 (real baseball) and 13-15 (real baseball).

The league plays games in Peltier Park in Thibodaux and may play in other areas depending on the number of kids who sign up. Practices start in March and leagues will run through sometime in June. Message group President Kyle Maggio on Facebook or visit lababeruth. com.

5 places your kids will love

By Dan Copp Staff Writer There are plenty of fun-filled things to do in Terrebonne and Lafourche if you’re a kid. Make giant bubbles at the Bayou Country Children’s Museum or spend an afternoon fishing in one of the area’s many waterways. Here are five places kids of all ages will enjoy. Hours are subject to change because of the pandemic.

1. The Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium’s marine research center in Cocodrie offers a variety of programs that teach children about the area’s rich marshlands and swamps and the unique wildlife that inhabits them.

They include field trips, boat rides and a summer camp. Visit LUMCON at 8124 La. 56, call 851-2800 or check its website at cwc.lumcon.edu.

2. The Bayou Country Children’s Museum in Thibodaux offers camps, events and other activities guaranteed to delight. Children can learn as they play on a full-size sugar-cane harvester, spot waterfowl from a duck blind, toss Mardi Gras beads, experience a severe weather or fire simulation or climb aboard a shrimp boat or oil derrick. Admission is $8 per person. The museum, 211 Rue Betancourt, hosts special events throughout the year and it’s a great place to have your child’s birthday party.

Information: call 446-2200 or visit bayoucountrychildrensmuseum.org.

3. Check out the beaches at Grand Isle, the summer spot for families near and far. Many own or rent camps along the beach, but you don’t need to do that to have fun on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. Grand Isle State Park has beach tent campsites available starting at

information, call 1-888-787-2559 or visit the “parks” section of the state’s tourism website at crt.state.la.us.

4. Local libraries not only house some great works of literature, but they also offer family-friendly events like story times, arts and crafts, computer lessons, trivia contests and book festivals. The Courier and Daily Comet publish regular columns and calendars that highlight coming library events.

Visit the library systems’ websites at mytpl.org or lafourche.org for info.

5. Go fish. With water all around us, Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes offer plenty of fishing spots. Kids younger A child plays with building blocks at the Bayou Country Children‘s Museum in 2018. than 16 don’t need a license, though the adult accompanying them does, and there are plenty of places to cast your $18 a night. The park has a 2- to 5-mile line even if you don’t have a boat. You’ll nature trail, and it’s a great place to fish, find a list of great fishing spots in this swim or just relax upon the beach. For edition of Living Here.

LIVING HERE 2021 11

EXPLORE

Here’s where you can enjoy Louisiana’s outdoors

By Scott Yoshonis News Editor If you’re looking to get out and stretch your legs, just catch some rays, or even get some more vigorous exercise, the area offers numerous outdoor spots for residents to use.

From nature trails to birding destinations, Terrebonne and Lafourche have their share of outdoor activities for residents. Here are 10 places to go to enjoy the great outdoors close to home: 1. Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge Nature Trail Most of this 4,400-acres of marsh and swamp is accessible only by boat.

But the nature trail, about a 45-minute walk, gives visitors a chance to glimpse an alligator, blue heron or any number of bird species. From October through May, might spot an American bald eagle. Address: 3599 Bayou Black Drive.

Phone: 860-6681. Online: fws.gov/ mandalay.

2. Grand Isle Birding Trail See more than 100 species of migratory birds stopping off as they fly north for the summer or south for the winter.

Operated by the Nature Conservancy, the trail includes forests of moss-draped oak and hackberry trees. To get started, pick up a map at the Grand Isle Port Commission visitors center, 2757 La. 1.

Information: (985) 787-2229.

3. LUMCON boardwalk The 175-yard boardwalk at the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium’s research center sends you straight into the marshes of Cocodrie. It runs over ponds that attract nutria, crabs, pelicans, blue herons and roseate spoonbills.

It’s a great place to watch the sun set on the horizon. Address: 8124 La. 56, Cocodrie. Phone: 851-2800.

4. Marguerite Moffett Audubon Sanctuary This boardwalk and observation deck run about 700 feet over marsh and open water that spans 108 acres. The site offers sanctuary to many species of birds, including marsh wren and Seaside sparrows. Much of the swamp and marsh that used to be here have eroded because of saltwater intrusion. It’s a good place to see the area’s coastal erosion problems up close. Address: 7032 La. 56, Chauvin.

5. Lockport trail The 440-foot-long trail winds

St. in Houma, which features high-end Italian cuisine in a spacious, beautiful patio setting. Reservations recommended at 223-1130.

9. Wildlife Gardens Walk through a live cypress swamp, with an alligator farm with small to large alligators and a 110-pound loggerhead turtle and nature trails. Bed and breakfast cabins are available in the swamp.

Gardens are open Tues-Sat. from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. More information is available online at wildlifegardens.com. Address: 5306 N. Bayou Black Drive, Gibson.

10. Lafourche Live Oak Tour This self-guided driving tour provides a look at some of Louisiana’s oldest living thing and the history behind them.

The Lockport Trail guides walkers through large trees in the cypress swamp from 7 a.m. You can begin the tour from anywhere to 7 p.m., seven days a week. [BAYOU LAFOURCHE AREA CONVENTION AND VISITORS along the bayou in Lafourche Parish.

BUREAU] Just pick up a map online at liveoaktour. com/tour-map to find each tree’s name through a cypress swamp, and at the end 8. Cristiano Ristorante and address. As you follow the oaks’ loof the walk, visitors can stop to rest unNot all outdoor activity needs to cations, you’ll discover facts and places der a gazebo. It’s open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., that make Lafourche Parish distinct and involve “roughing it.” Several local seven days a week. You’ll find it just eateries offer outdoor dining, with a interesting. You’ll also gain a clearer idea north of the Lafourche Career Magnet variety of dining experiences. One of the of what makes this area a special place to Center, 6419 La. 308 in Lockport. best is Cristiano Ristorante, at 724 High visit and to live. Info: liveoaktour.com.

6. Houma Geocaching Tour Originally set up by the Houma Area Convention and Visitors Bureau to attract tourists, the technological scavenger hunt known as geocaching has proven popular among locals as well.

Cachers, as those who engage in the activity are called, download an app on their smartphones that gives them details and coordinates for caches, which the cacher then tries to find. The app will also give hints if a cacher is stumped or provide sort of a digital, “you’re getting warmer.” Locate all 21 caches on the tour, and you will receive a signature Houma Travel geocoin. Info online at GeoHouma.com.

7. Bayou Teche National Wildlife Refuge A 9,028-acre refuge situated along and on either side of Bayou Teche, an ancient channel of the Mississippi River.

The refuge consists of 6 non-contiguous management units, ranging in size from 81 acres to 3,619 acres. The refuge is located at the south edge of Franklin, adjacent to U.S. 90. The Garden City Call Us Today!

Interpretive Boardwalk Trail is a good Financing Available place to start, consisting of a trail that Thibodaux - 985.446.6256 leads to an overlook in a cypress-tupelo bottomland hardwood forest. Address: Houma - 985.868.4421 1725 Willow St., Franklin.

Service Available 24/7 HX-00081565

12 LIVING HERE 2021

LIVING HERE: 6 things bayou residents can treasure 1.

2.

[HOUMA AREA CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU]

4.

[THE COURIER AND DAILY COMET]

5.

[THE COURIER AND DAILY COMET]

[THE COURIER AND DAILY COMET]

3.

[THE COURIER AND DAILY COMET]

6.

[PIXABAY]

Keith Magill Executive Editor The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has made some of us, me included, take a step back and consider what Living Here really means. Restrictions on crowds aimed at limiting the deadly virus’s spread have canceled many of festivals, crawfish boils and big family gatherings that help define the place we call home.

Let’s take stock of some of the things that make our place in the world special. This is not an exhaustive list, nor is it a ranking. These are simply a few random things I hope will resonate with you. Here’s to Living Here.

1. EACH OTHER I didn’t know a single person when I arrived in Houma fresh out college more than three decades ago, but within a few weeks, someone invited me to a family boucherie in Montegut. I remember how carefree I felt as we danced to Cajun music on their carport, the sun setting in orange, pink and purple over the marsh. This family I hardly knew made me feel at home, which is what I call this place now. You hear it from tourists who come from all over for a taste of the joie de vivre they have only heard about. This way of life — a combination of hard work, strong ties to family and place, and joy despite life’s inevitable ups and downs — is so ubiquitous that it sometimes takes an outsider’s perspective to help us understand how lucky we are. The pandemic has limited our ability to gather together for a festival, a family reunion or a fais-do-so, and that is one of the reasons I treasure such celebrations even more and look forward to their return.

2. THE FOOD The earliest settlers made the best of what they could

gather from the land and water around them, and the flavorful cuisine that resulted is now considered some of the tastiest in the world. As children, we learn how to peel shrimp, crabs and crawfish; we know what makes a well-dressed po-boy; and the man of the house is often as good a cook as the woman. We also know that authentic Cajun cooking is less about hot and spicy than it is about the holy trinity — onions, bell pepper and celery.

3. THE FLORA Bald cypress and live oaks draped in Spanish moss.

Bayous lined with lavender irises, white lilies or purple hyacinths. Fan-shaped palmetto waving in the swamps.

And those stunning, multicolored sunrises and sunsets over the marsh, a lake or the Gulf of Mexico.

Anyone can savor the beauty of the bayou free of charge. Just stop and look around.

4. THE FAUNA The variety of wildlife that surrounds us is breathtaking, and you don’t have to take a boat trip to enjoy it. I’ve seen bald eagles soar over the Gulf Intracoastal

Waterway near my house in Houma and roseate spoonbills (pictured) lounge along the roadside in Cocodrie.

While driving, I’ve spotted turtles sunning themselves in Bayou Lafourche, great blue heron flying overhead and those opportunistic egrets walking in procession behind grass-cutters to snatch bugs in the tractors’ wakes. I’ve fed bread to an orange-toothed nutria that emerged from a canal in a friend’s backyard, water-skied among the alligators and waded past snakes and eels covering hurricanes that swamped the community. I don’t recommend that last one, but you get the picture.

5. THE BAYOU Just look at this picture. Or go outside and gaze at the real thing. This is our part of the world. This is the bayou.

6. OUR LIVES Many of us have lost loved ones to COVID-19. Others have suffered severe illness themselves or know others who have. The pandemic has shown residents here and around the world how fragile life is and how it should never be taken for granted.

LIVING HERE 2021 13

14 LIVING HERE 2021

THINGS TO DO

There are always things to see or do

By Scott Yoshonis News Editor Like wildlife? We’ve got it. History?

Got that, too. Fun times with friends?

We’ve got you covered.

Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes have a variety of attractions, so there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re a newcomer or have lived here all your life, you’ll find a place that suits you.

Note: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some venues may be closed or have reduced capacities. Be sure to call ahead for more information.

GET OUT IN NATURE • Hammonds Cajun Air Tours, 194 Aviation Road, Houma: 876-0584.

• Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium, 8124 La. 56, Chauvin: 851-2800.

• Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge, 3599 Bayou Black Drive: 8606681.

• PAC Kayak Rentals, 179 Paw Paw Court, Montegut: 225-244-1547

Billy Gaston showing moss flowers to tour boat attendees of Zam’s Swamp Tours in Thibodaux. Left to right Ann Deroche, Waylon Moore, Billy Gaston, Sheri Rogers, Forrest Rogers, Obi Peralta, Marisol Sosa, and Gibran Gama.

or 225-573-4085.

• Pointe-aux-Chenes Wildlife Management Area, 2951 La. 665:337373-0032.

• Wildlife Gardens, 5306 N. Bayou Black Drive, Gibson: 575-3676.

GO HORSEBACK RIDING • Circle P Horse Ranch, 188 Waterplant Road, Schriever: 8042967.

JOURNEY INTO THE SWAMP • A Cajun Man’s Swamp Tours, 251 Marina Drive, Gibson: 868-4625.

• Annie Miller’s Son’s Swamp and Marsh Tours, pickup at 4038 Bayou Black Drive: 868-4758.

• Atchafalaya Basin Backwater Tours, 240 Fandal St., Gibson: 8044543.

• Bayou Black Airboat Swamp Tours, 251 Marina Drive, Gibson: 6658571.

• Bayou Woman Adventures, pickup at 1868 Dr. Beatrous Road, Theriot: 851-7578.

• Greenwood Gator Farm and Tours, 125 Gator Court, Gibson: 8040744.

• Zam’s Swamp Tours, 141 Kraemer Bayou Road: 633-7881.

RELIVE A PIECE OF HISTORY • Ardoyne Plantation, 2678 La. 311, Schriever: 804-2271.

• E.D. White Historic Site, 2295 St. Mary St., Thibodaux: 447-0915.

• Laurel Valley Plantation, 595 La. 308, Thibodaux: 446-7456.

• Southdown Plantation, 1208 Museum Drive, Houma: 851-0154.

SHOP FARMERS’ MARKETS • St. Francis Vegetable Garden Market, 26 Rienzi Dr., Thibodaux: Open 3:30-6 p.m. Mondays year-round.

• Lafourche Central Market, 4484 La. 1, Raceland: 805-0400. Open 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays year-round.

• Rienzi Market, Thibodaux Regional Wellness Center,726 N. Acadia Rd., Thibodaux: 512-924-0800. Open 3 p.m. to dark Thursdays year-round.

• South Louisiana Seed Market, 7591 W. Main St., Houma: 872-5916.

Open 3-5 p.m. Tuesdays year-round.

• Thibodaux Main Street Farmers’ Market, 310 W. Second St., Thibodaux: 413-2936. Open 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays year-round.

TRY SOMETHING DIFFERENT • Breakin’ the Code escape room, 279 Enterprise Drive, Suite 102, Houma: 303-0172.

• Da Swamp trampoline park, 2764 Coteau Road, Houma: 333-3013.

The play’s the thing in local community theater

By Scott Yoshonis News Editor Got a flair for the dramatic? There are plenty of opportunities for residents to catch the acting bug.

Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes each have community theater groups that are open to everyone and offer parts to fit nearly every age. Help is often needed backstage, as well as with lighting, props and costumes.

Here‘s a look at each group and how you can get involved: LE PETIT THEATRE DE TERREBONNE Founded in 1938, the theater puts on four plays and one musical each season at its venue in downtown Houma, 7829 Main St. The season begins in the summer and ends in the spring. The theater is currently awaiting interior renovation, so

productions may be canceled or relocated.

Le Petit offers season tickets for $55 each. Individual play tickets cost $16. Call the box office at 8764278 in advance, as shows often sell out.

To get involved, attend auditions, which are announced on the group‘s Facebook page: facebook.

Cast members of the Thibodaux Playhoucom/HoumaLittleTheatre. se perform the musical, “You’re a Good Information: houmalittletheatre. Man, Charlie Brown.” [FILE PHOTO] com.

Ticket prices are $23-$30, and BAYOU PLAYHOUSE season memberships range from The Bayou Playhouse opened in $89-$352. To buy tickets in advan2008. Since then, members have ce, call 888-99-BAYOU. performed well-known plays such The theater also plans to host as a “Confederacy of Dunces,” the La. 1 Film Festival, for Loui“Steel Magnolias” and “A Streetsiana-based filmmakers. Call the car Named Desire” at the Lockport playhouse for information on how venue, 101 Main St. to submit a film for consideration.

Many productions center on LouTo get involved, stop by for audiisiana culture, and its players are tions, which are announced on the mainly locals or Louisiana natives. group‘s Facebook page: Facebook.

com/BayouPlayhouse or email volunteer@bayou-playhouse.com.

Information: bayouplayhouse. com.

THIBODAUX PLAYHOUSE Formed in 1960, the Thibodaux Playhouse offers four plays each season and a children‘s production each summer at its venue, the Jean Lafitte Wetlands Acadian Culture Center, 314 St. Mary St. Season tickets range from $60 to $116 and individual tickets are $20 for adults in advance, $25 at the door and $18 in advance, $20 at the door for students. To purchase tickets, call 446-1896.

To get involved on stage, stop by one of the playhouse‘s auditions at 902 Jackson St. in Thibodaux. Auditions are announced at facebook. com/ThibodauxPlayhouse.

Information: thibodauxplayhouse.com

LIVING HERE 2021 15

What’s your favorite Rouses King Cake Flavor?

Choose your favorite flavor and be entered to WIN A KING CAKE FROM ROUSES! One of six King Cakes will be given our every week during Mardi Gras.

houmatoday.com/contests

16 LIVING HERE 2021

133 YEARS 1882 to 2021

LANDRY'S FUNERAL 139 YEARSAcadia Music Fest

TERREBONNE GENERAL

PIGGLY WIGGLY

49 YEARS

45 YEARS

TERMINIX

RIDGEFIELD ANIMAL HOSPITAL

36 YEARS

32 YEARS

HERITAGE MANOR

OLD ESTATE ART GALLERY

5 YEARS

5 YEARS

BAYOU DRUG STORE

ACADIA MUSIC FEST

Established in 2016

74 YEARS 511 WEST 7TH ST. THIBODAUX, LA 70301

985-447-3791 NICK'S REFRIGERATION “QUALITY MATERIAL SINCE 1882” 130 YEARS

116 YEARS

53 YEARS

W. Main St., Thibodaux A &543 G REFRIGERATION 985.447.7128

142 Laura Dr., Ste. C Thibodaux, LA 70301 (985) 447-9039

56 YEARS

53 YEARS

42 YEARS

1882 to 2021

111 YEARS

49 YEARS

Acadia Music Fest Established in 2016

EWATER RUBBER & GASKET Thibodaux 36 YEARS

23 YEARS

Residential Heating & Cooling Commercial Services Indoor Air Quality 1309 St. Patrick Street, Thibodaux • www.agrefrigeration.net

CALL US TODAY! 446-6256 or 868-4421

32 YEARS

31 YEARS

Old Estate

“TV - Stereo & Appliance Specialists”

ART GALLERY, INC.

MEYER FINANCIAL

Brand Rooms 1701 New Polk St,Facility-All Houma, LA •Private (985) 851-2307 1701 Polk St, Houma, LA • (985) 851-2307 852 Centurion Ln. Houma, La. 70360

202 E 7th St Thibodaux, LA | 985.447.5413 Hours 9:00AM - 5:00PM

5805 WEST MAIN ST., HOUMA, LA • 868-2765 www.billystvandstereo.com

FIRST AMERICAN BANK

NICK'S REFRIGERATION

Acadia Music Fest

56 YEARSEstablished 53 in YEARS 2016

JOHN DEERE THIBODAUX

A & G REFRIGERATION

 44 YEARS

42 YEARS

LIVING HERE 2021 17

36 YEARS 1882 to 2021

HERITAGE MANOR 133 YEARSAcadia Music Fest Established in 2016

5 YEARS

CHABERT INSURANCE

BLUEWATER RUBBER & GASKET

31 YEARS

23 YEARS

BILLY'S BEST BRANDS

MEYER FINANCIAL

74 YEARS

821 Canal Blvd Thibodaux, LA 985.447.9041 Email: office@landrysfuneralhome.com www.landrysfuneralhome.com

BAYOU DRUG STORE

67 YEARS

61 YEARS

t’s

Clemen SERVING ALL YOUR AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING NEEDS NEW CONSTRUCTION 24 HOUR SERVICE RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL LICENSED We Service All Makes INSURED

, La

Chauvin

308 Hickory St, Thibodaux, LA • (985) 447-2647

red from left to from right left Dr. Sarah Dr. Lane Breaux, Dr. Dawn Natali Robichaux.

Pictured to rightPitre, Dr. Sarah Pitre, Dr. Lane Breaux,Koetting, Dr. DawnDr.Koetting, Dr. Natali Robichaux.

Not pictured,NotDr.pictured, Kathryn Dr. Elliott and Dr. Christopher Stevens. Stevens.

Kathryn Elliott and Dr. Christopher

45 YEARS

Cats, Dogs,Cats, Horses, Birds & Exotics Dogs, Horses, Birds & Exotics Always Available for Exams for Exams Always Available On-Call 24-Hr. Emergencies On-Call 24-Hr. Emergencies Complete In-House Complete In-House DiagnosticsDiagnostics & Imaging & Imaging Medicine, Surgery, Exams Medicine, Surgery, Exams PreventativePreventative Care & Vaccinations Care & Vaccinations

w.ridgefieldanimalhospital.com www.ridgefieldanimalhospital.com

85.446.8824 985.446.8824

919 Percy 919Brown PercyRoad Brown Road Thibodaux, Louisiana Thibodaux, Louisiana

23 YEARS

Meyer Financial Group A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.

Ameriprise Financial

®

132 Rue Colette, Ste. A • Thibodaux, LA 70301 985.446.1159 • meyer-financialgroup.com

44 YEARS

“The Original American Supermarket” 5308 Hwy 56 594-3076

42 YEARS

360 HWY 3161 Cut Off, LA 70345 985.325.3188

HOUMA BATON ROUGE HOUSTON GALLIANO NEW ORLEANS

Personal & Commercial 201 Canal Blvd Ste B Thibodaux, LA 70301 985.448.0431 www.chabertinsurance.com 5 YEARS

1131 BARROW ST, HOUMA, LA • (985) 851-2400 5 YEARS

18 LIVING HERE 2021

GET READY! GET SET!

GO VOTE!

Barker Honda

ATHLETES OF THE WEEK

VISIT WWW.BAYOUPREPS.COM

AND VOTE FOR MALE & FEMALE ATHLETES OF THE WEEK! Presented by:

Co-Sponsored by:

LIVING HERE 2021 19

HIGHER EDUCATION

Nicholls State is the region’s university

By Kezia Setyawan Staff Writer Under President Jay Clune, Nicholls State University in Thibodaux has several master plans underway to guide the future of the “college closest to the coast.”

Task forces among faculty and administrators continue to work on an academic master plan. And the university released drafts of its first diversity and inclusion master plan as well as a 25-year campus master plan in 2019.

Fall enrollment of 6,780 was up by 235 students from the last count as the university aims to boost its retention rate. Nicholls saw that fall figure grow for the fifth straight year.

Nicholls was named last year as the top public regional university in Louisiana by U.S.News & World Report. It was dubbed a Hidden Gem of the Southeast by College Raptor, an online service that helps prospective

Nicholls State University graduates enter the John L. Guidry stadium for the morning of fall commencement in 2020. [BRAD WEIMER/CORRESPONDENT]

students choose a university.

Despite a sharp decrease in state funding over the past decade, Nicholls has rebuilt its budget around

keeping its students and engaging with donors.

Nicholls is one of nine schools that make up the University of Louisiana system. It offers bachelor’s degrees

in nursing, criminal justice, education, business administration and several other fields. The university also offers the only four-year culinary arts bachelor’s program in the state.

For graduate students, Nicholls offers studies in education, biology, business and nursing.

Non-degree programs are available, but former two-year programs the university once offered have either been canceled or transferred to L.E. Fletcher Technical Community College in Schriever.

Nicholls was started in 1948 as the Francis T. Nicholls Junior College of LSU. In 1956, the state Legislature separated Nicholls from LSU, and May 1958 saw the institution grant its first degree.

Full-time students from Louisiana can expect to pay about $3,949 per semester in tuition and fees for 12 credit hours. Out-of-state students pay about $4,500.

For information, visit nicholls.edu or 1-877-NICHOLLS.

Fletcher college blends academics with job training

By Kezia Setyawan Staff Writer L.E. Fletcher Technical Community College offers local students traditional university classes as well as several job-training options.

Two years ago, the state school, along La. 311 near U.S. 90 in Schriever, unveiled a new program to prepare students for jobs in coastal restoration. And its 19-week program that trains electric line workers has led to jobs for every graduate who wanted one.

The Institute of Coastal Studies offers new options for associate’s degrees, including geology, environmental science and drafting and design. The college offers a drone pilot certification program in the form of a multi-day workshop as more businesses start using the technology for data collection.

Kristine Strickland, a former

Fletcher students pause from their work on Queen Bess Island in 2020. They are (from left) Pearl Sanchez, Hannah Lapeyrouse, Ignacia Brown, Jaqueline Richard, John Meyers, Keymiya Williams and Alexis Pradat. [FLETCHER TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE]

executive dean at Delgado Community College’s West Bank Campus in New Orleans, is entering her sixth year as Fletcher’s chancellor.

The school also partnered with a local food bank to add one on campus to assist students who may be struggling with money for meals.

Fletcher was founded in 1951 and is part of the Louisiana Community and Technical College System. The two-year college reported spring 2019-2020 enrollment at 2,200.

Students at Fletcher can study oilfield technology, marine operations, medical programs, office systems and electrical and industrial technologies. All of the students in the school’s electrical-line worker training program have had jobs waiting for them after successfully completing the classes.

Fletcher also offers dual enrollment for high school students looking to earn college credits. A 12to 15-hour course load for in-state students costs $2,089 per semester in tuition and fees. Out-of state students pay $3,767 for 12 credit hours. There is an additional $40 fee for students enrolling in online classes. For Information, visit fletcher.edu or call 448-7900.

20 LIVING HERE 2021

FOOD

8 places to eat some great Cajun food

Fried shrimp with hush puppies and french fries at Cher-Amie’s in Cut Off. [FILE]

By Scott Yoshonis News Editor

in high-end places. Open for lunch only.

Shrimp boulettes with white beans and potato salad at Big Al’s in Houma. [FILE]

4. Boudreau & Thibodeau’s Cajun Cooking, 5602 W. Main, 2. Spahr’s Seafood, three Houma.

Tourists and locals agree, there Don’t let the kitchy decor and is nothing like the cuisine of south locations, 3682 U.S. 90 in Des Allemands, 601 W. 4th St. in corny jokes aimed at tourists fool Louisiana.

Thibodaux and 16816 La. 3235 you; this place features one of Not only does this area enjoy a the best selections of Cajun food variety of distinctive dishes but an in Galliano.

Billing itself as “Where Catfish anywhere. In addition to the usual abundance of places to find them. is King,” Spahr‘s serves up Catfried seafood and boiled crawfish, From jambalaya to red and white beans to gumbo to catfish and fish Chips and a blackened catfish Boudreau & Thibodeau’s goes deep into the swamp for such dishes as shrimp and crawfish, it’s hard to filets covered in crawfish cream get a bad meal in Cajun country. sauce, as well as “World Famous” redfish courtbouillon and alligator Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Bloody Marys, Seafood Gumbo and sauce piquante that are anything some restaurants may be closed or more. A Lafourche Parish institu- but gimmicks. have reduced capacities. Be sure to tion since 1968 when it opened on 5. The Shack, 1226 Grand call ahead for more information. the banks of Bayou Des Allemands, Caillou Road, Houma.

Here are eight local establishSpahr’s serves up incredible fried This east-side eatery does a ments -- in no particular order -- seafood in an unpretentious atmobrisk business both in its dining that serve quality, authentic Cajun sphere. room and its often-busy drifood: 3. Big Al’s Seafood, 1377 W. ve-through window, with regular 1. A-Bear’s Cafe, 809 Bayou Tunnel Blvd., Houma. specials on raw and chargrilled Black Drive, Houma.

A popular spot for both lunch oysters in addition to outstanding Nestled into a cozy corner near and dinner, Big Al’s serves up huge takes on the usual Cajun favorites Barrow Street and La. 311, A-Beportions of just about every fried like Seafood Gumbo and Crawfish ar’s is where the locals go when seafood this area can produce.

Etouffee. they want the real stuff. Their It’s also one of the most popular spots for boiled mudbugs when in gumbo is consistently rated the 6. Cher-Amie’s, 15628 W. season -- roughly mid-January best in the area, and dishes like Main St., Cut Off. through late June -- and regularly It doesn’t get much more Catheir Catfish A-Bear show that wins local crawfish boil-offs. truly great food is not only found jun in either menu or location

than this down-the-bayou gem.

Its soft-shell crab with crawfish etouffee stands up to any restaurant dish of any kind, anywhere.

In the best Cajun tradition, CherAmie’s takes local ingredients and prepares them simply into something spectacular.

7. C. Moran’s, 27900 La. 1, Golden Meadow.

You can’t get much closer to the Gulf of Mexico than this place, and it shows on the menu. Also a marina, seafood comes fresh off the boat at this spot, serving fried seafood dishes, poboys and homemade favorites. And if you happen to take one of the abundant fishing charters, C. Moran’s will cook your catch for you.

8. Cajun Critters, 6240 W. Main St, Houma.

This west-side eatery does a brisk business serving down-home seafood, with regular specials on boiled shrimp and crawfish in addition to outstanding takes on the usual Cajun favorites like Seafood Gumbo and Crawfish Etouffee.

LIVING HERE 2021 21

How to contact your elected officials

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

By Kezia Setyawan Staff Writer

dbabin2010@gmail.com.

• Dirk Guidry, District 8: 873-6415, djguidry@tpcg.org.

• Steve Trosclair, District 9: 8736424, strosclair@tpcg.org

• Armand Autin, District 7: 805-0201, hardt@townoflockport.com. councildist7@lafourchegov.org.

Town Council: • D‘Lynn Boudreaux, District 8: 446• Gary Acosta, Division A: 532-3117.

Here‘s how you can contact officials 8427, councildist8@ lafourchegov.org.

• Ernest Boudreaux Sr., Division B: with Terrebonne and Lafourche parish • Daniel Lorraine, District 9: 438532-3117. government, the city of Thibodaux 4122, councildist9@ lafourchegov.org.

• Bobbie M. Galjour, Division C: LAFOURCHE PARISH and the towns of Lockport and Golden bmgaljour@townoflockport.com.

Galliano Government Complex: Meadow.

THIBODAUX • Rodney Hartman, Division D: 16241 E. Main St., Suite B, 632-4666.

City Hall: 310 W. Second St., 446rhartman@townoflockport.com.

Mathews Government Complex: 4876 7200.

TERREBONNE PARISH • Tyler Detiller., Division E: 532-3117.

La. 1, 537-7603. Thibodaux GovernGovernment Tower: 8026 Main St., Mayor: Tommy Eschete: 446-7218, teschete@ci.thibodaux.la.us.

Houma, 868-5050. ment Complex: 402 Green St., 446City Council: Parish President: Gordon Dove: 873- 8427.

GOLDEN MEADOW 6401, gdove@tpcg.org.

Parish President: Archie Chaisson • Eric Tabor, District A: 227-8878, Town Hall: 107 Jervis Drive, 475Parish Council: III: 446-8427. councilman@ericjtabor.com.

7942.

• John Navy, District 1: 873-6427, Parish Council: • Eugene Richard, District B: 446Mayor: Joey Bouziga: 475-5163, jnavy@tpcg.org.

• Jerry Jones, District 1: 387-2312, 1831, ejrich001@msn.com. joey@townofgoldenmeadow-la.gov • Carl Harding, District 2: 873-6433, councildist1@lafourchegov.org.

• Constance Johnson, District C: Town Council: charding@tpcg.org.

637-3434, madison1724@charter.net.

• Ashton Cheramie, sanitation: 258• William Adams, District 2: 446• Gerald Michel, District 3: 873-6419, 8427, councildist2@ lafourchegov.org.

• Mike Naquin, at large: 637-7190, 0415, ashtonuc@gmail.com. gmichel@tpcg.org.

• Jody Cheramie, sewerage: 475• Michael Gros, District 3: 805-0196, mpnaquin@charter.net • John Amedee, District 4: 873-6425, councildist3@ lafourchegov.org.

4529, jodycheramie@gmail.com.

• Chad Mire, at-large: 446-7200, jamedee@tpcg.org.

• Laci Latiolais, parks: 637-2407, • Aaron „Bo“ Melvin, District 4: 805- councilmane@hotmail.com • Jessica Domangue, District 5: 873- 0024, councildist4@ lafourchegov.org. laci.latiolais@gmail.com 6426, jdomangue@tpcg.org.

• Lindberg Lorraine, drainage: 278• James Wendell, District 5: 446• Darrin Guidry, District 6: 873-6412, 8427, councildist5@lafourchegov.org.

8005, lorrainebap@gmail.com.

LOCKPORT dwguidry@tpcg.org.

• Willis Toups, streets: 475-5253, Town Hall: 710 Church St., 532-3117.

• Corey Perrillioux, District 6: 805• Danny Babin, District 7: 873-6422, 0391, councildist6@ lafourchegov.org.

Mayor: Ed Reinhardt: mayoredrein- wtoups@viscom.net.

HX-00081567

22 LIVING HERE 2021

HELPFUL TIPS

How to connect with public services

By Scott Yoshonis News Editor

Drive, 851-2372.

-- Gray Post Office, 4442 W. Main St., 876-7424.

-- Raceland Post Office, 109 Raceland POLICE St., 537-8957.

Terrebonne: Terrebonne Sheriff’s -- Terrebonne Clerk of Court’s Office, Office, Courthouse Annex, 7856 Main 7856 Main St., Houma, 868-5660.

St., Suite 121, Houma, 876-2500.

MARRIAGE LICENSES -- Lafourche Clerk of Court’s Office, Houma Police, 500 Honduras St., Licenses can be obtained from the clerk Houma, 873-6371. of court’s office in your respective parish. 303 W. Third St., Thibodaux, 447-4841.

-- Galliano Post Office, 17599 La. 3235, State Police Troop C, 4047 W. Park Offices are open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 325-2652.

Ave., Gray, 857-3680. p.m. weekdays.

Terrebonne jail, 3123 Grand Caillou DRIVER’S LICENSES Terrebonne: The office is in the Houma POWER OUT? Road, Houma, 857-0361.

New state residents should obtain a Courthouse, 7856 Main St. Call 868If your power goes out, contact your Lafourche: Lafourche Sheriff’s Office, Louisiana driver’s license within 30 days 5660, ext. 56. A marriage license costs utility company: Entergy, 800-368200 Canal Blvd. Thibodaux, 532-2808. of establishing residency. Two forms of $40 in Terrebonne.

3749; SLECA 800-256-8836 or 876South Lafourche substation, 102 W. ID, such as a birth certificate or a Social Lafourche: The office is in the court91st St., Galliano, 632-5843.

Security card, are required. house annex, 309 W. Third St., in Thibo- 6880; and Terrebonne Parish utilities, which serves the city of Houma, 873Lafourche jail, 952 La. 3185, Thibodaux, To renew a license online, visit exdaux. Phone: 447-4841. Cost: $35.

6465.

449-4458. press-lane.org.

Thibodaux Police, 1309 Canal Blvd., PASSPORTS Terrebonne: New licenses and permits STREET LIGHTS OUT? 446-5021.

There are a number of places in both are issued at the Office of Motor Vehicles, To report a broken street light in TerNicholls State University Police, 906 parishes where you can apply for a 108 Capitol Blvd., in Houma. Call 877E. First St., Thibodaux, 448-4746. passport. You can also apply online 368-5463. The office is open 8 a.m. to rebonne, fill out the form at tpcg.org and Golden Meadow Police, 313 N. Bayou at usps.com/passport. You’ll need to 4:30 p.m. weekdays. search “street light” in the search bar in Drive, 475-5213.

Lafourche: Offices are in Golden Mea- bring identification that proves you are the upper right corner. In Lafourche, call Lockport Police, 710 Church St., 532a U.S. citizen and verifies your identity, dow, 500 N. Alex Plaisance Blvd., 877parish government at 446-8427.

9799.

368-5463, and in Thibodaux, 1424 Tiger like a driver’s license or Social Security Drive, 447-0911. Both are open 8 a.m. to card. You’ll also have to provide two WATER PROBLEMS? ANIMAL CONTROL 2-inch-by-2-inch photos depicting your 4:30 p.m. weekdays.

If you need to have your water service Terrebonne: If you find a stray dog current appearance. If you’re 16 or older, turned on, contact Terrebonne Wateror cat, contact the Terrebonne Animal passport fees are usually $155. If you’re PUBLIC TRANSIT works Shelter at 873-6709. Stray or unwanyounger than 16, passport fees are usually Good Earth Transit offers bus rides District No. 1, 8814 Main St., open 8 $115. If you want to renew your passport, a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, 879-2495; or ted pets can be taken to the shelter, 100 for $1 a person. A day pass costs $2.50. it will cost $110.

Government St. in Gray, at no cost. Learn Children under 4 ride free. The system’s Lafourche Water District No. 1, 800Here are a few places where you can more about the shelter, and view photos routes cut across Houma and make 344-1580. To report an emergency, such apply for a passport: of adopted pets, by visiting its Facebook multiple trips into Thibodaux daily. The as a waterline break, call 879-2497 in page. buses start running at 6 a.m. on week-- Bourg Post Office, 3806 Country Terrebonne or 446-5541 in Lafourche.

Lafourche: Lafourche’s animal shelter houses dogs and cats. The shelter, 934 La. 3185, is next to the Lafourche jail, 952 La. 3185, Thibodaux. Call 446-3532.

Stray dogs and cats are handled by the Lafourche Sheriff’s Office, 449-2255. In Thibodaux, Golden Meadow and Lockport, call the local police department.

The numbers are 446-5021, 475-5213 and 532-9799.

days and stop by 7 p.m. The service is operated by Terrebonne Parish government. For detailed routes, visit tpcg.org, click on “visitors” at the top of the page, then select “public transportation.”

Terrebonne and Lafourche public schools SCHOOLS

By Kezia Setyawan Staff Writer Terrebonne and Lafourche each operate about 30 public schools, enrolling more than 32,000 students combined. In addition, the Catholic Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux enrolls about 5,500 students at 12 schools, and several other private schools serve local students.

Here’s a look at the two parishes’ public school systems, based on data from local school boards and the state Education Department.

TERREBONNE PARISH Enrollment: 17,226.

2020-21 revenue: $191.8 million.

Sources: $66.9 million local, $98.8 million state, $26.1 million federal.

Per-pupil spending: $10,904.

School Board members: District 1: Michael Lagarde, 381-4777.

District 2: Gregory Harding, 876-0393.

District 3: Matthew J. Ford, 665-3288.

District 4: Debi Benoit, 493-2563.

District 5: Stacy Verhagen Solet, 3814592.

District 6: Clyde F. Hamner, 855-6919.

District 7: Roger Dale DeHart, 8791329.

District 8: MayBelle N. Trahan, 3814533.

District 9: Dane Voisin, 232-4644.

Superintendent: Philip Martin, 876-

7400.

School Board Office: 201 Stadium Drive, Houma, 876-7400.

LAFOURCHE PARISH Enrollment: 14,106.

2020-21 revenue: $172.2 million.

Sources: $73.1 million local, $76.4 million state, $22.7 million federal.

Per-pupil spending: $12,226.

School Board members: District 1: Tina Naquin Babin, 6658557.

District 2: Brooke Huddleston, 2270075.

District 3: Cheryl Thomas, 446-1365.

District 4: Marian Fertitta, 447-6691.

District 5: Mary Breaud, 447-1534.

District 6: Dennis Guillot, 414-0764.

District 7: Valerie Bourgeois, 5373609.

District 8: Tyler Dufrene, 991-5898.

District 9: Randy Schouest, 855-2035.

District 10: Barry Plaisance, 805-1969.

District 11: Tim Long, tlong@mylpsd. com.

District 12: Henry Lafont Jr., hlafont@ mylpsd.com.

District 13: Al Archer, 632-3094.

District 14: Ray Bernard, 632-2312.

District 15: Christy Chabert, cchabert@ mylpsd.com.

Superintendent: Jarod Martin, 4465631.

School Board Office: 805 E. Seventh St., Thibodaux, 446-5631.

LIVING HERE 2021 23

BUSINESS

Here are some local networking opportunities

By Dan Copp Staff Writer

Terrebonne, Lafourche and St. Mary parishes.

Professional networking and governIt’s been a challenging year for busment lobbying on local issues regarding inesses, but there are plenty of networ- health, infrastructure and the environking opportunities in Terrebonne and ment are the group’s key focus areas.

Lafourche to help you get through the Small and large businesses have three tough times. chambers of commerce in Terrebonne The Bayou Industrial Group advocates and Lafourche parishes providing them for improving local roads and bridges, with professional networking, training, coastal restoration, education, ecoand lobbying opportunities. The chamnomic development and public health bers are also involved with community initiatives. The organization‘s members development initiatives. include businesses, nonprofits and public officials from Terrebonne, LafourBayou Industrial Group che, Assumption and St. Mary parishes.

Address: 602 Clayton Ave., Houma.

The South Central Industrial AssoPhone: 580-3901. Website: bayouinciation’s membership includes mostly dustrialgroup.com. Members: About oil and gas companies, the industry that 200. President: Lori LeBlanc, LMOGA. supplies an estimated 40% of local jobs. Executive vice president: Henri Boulet, It also includes public officials from LA 1 Coalition. Membership: $275 to

BY THE NUMBERS

By Keith Magill Executive Editor

$440 based on number of employees.

Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce Address: 6133 La. 311, Houma. Phone: 876-5600. Website: houmachamber. com. Members: 638. Chairman: Chad Hebert. Dues: $200 for nonprofits, $250 or more for businesses based on number of employees.

Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce Address: 318 E. Bayou Road, Thibodaux. Phone: 446-1187. Website: thibodauxchamber.com. Members: 535. Chairman: Napoleon Ortiz. Dues: $165 to $795 depending on number of employees.

Lafourche Chamber of Commerce Address: 107 W. 26th St., Larose.

Phone: 693-6700. Website: lafourchechamber.com. Members: about 400.

Chairman: Chandler LeBoeuf. Dues: $185 to $1200 depending on number of employees.

South Central Industrial Association Address: 1300 W. Tunnel Blvd., Suite 500B, Houma. Phone: 851-2201.

Website: sciaonline.net. Members: 250.

President: Stuart Faucheux. Executive vice president: Mitch Marmande. Dues: $375 to $199 depending on the month joined.

-- Staff Writer Dan Copp can be reached at 448-7639 or at dan.copp@ houmatoday.com. Follow him on Twitter @DanVCopp.

Who we are American Indian: 6% Hispanic: 5% Asian: 1% Two or more races: 3% Lafourche White: 81% Black: 14% American Indian: 3% Hispanic: 4% Asian: 1% Two or more races: 2%

Terrebonne had a population of 110,461 as of July 1, 2019, according to the latest U.S. Census data. That’s down by 560 people, from the year before.

The parish lost 1% of its population from 2010 to 2109.

Lafourche has 97,614 residents, down 501 from the year before. The parish has also lost 1% of its population since the GENDER last full census in 2010.

Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes’ Here is a breakdown of some of the populations are almost equally divided parishes’ key demographics. Percenbetween male and female. tages may not add up to 100 because of rounding.

OUR HOMES Terrebonne OUR AGE Households: 39,972 Terrebonne Average persons per household: 2.77 65 and older: 15% 18-64: 60% Median home value: $152,000 Under 18: 25% Median monthly rent: $853 Lafourche Percent of homes with a computer: 87 65 and older: 16% Percent of homes with broadband 18-64: 61% internet: 76 Under 18: 23% Lafourche Households: 36,895 OUR RACE Average persons per household: 2.6 Terrebonne Median home value: $158,000 White: 71% Median monthly rent: $793 Black: 19 percent

WHAT WE EARN Terrebonne Median household income: $48,747 Per-capita income: $25,924 Percent of population in poverty: 19 Lafourche Median household income: $55,506 Per-capita income: $28,683 Percent of population in poverty: 18 EDUCATION Terrebonne Percent of residents 25 and older with a high school diploma: 79 Percent of residents 25 and older with a bachelor‘s degree or greater: 16 Lafourche

Percent of residents 25 and older with a high school diploma: 78 Percent of residents 25 and older with a bachelor‘s degree or greater: 17 HEALTH Terrebonne Percent of residents under 65 with a disability: 12.5 Percent of residents under 65 who lack health insurance: 12 Lafourche Percent of residents under 65 with a disability: 13 Percent of residents under 65 who lack health insurance: 10

Wait TEAL you see our colour of the year

2021

Color of the Year

Aegean Teal 2136-40

A & H PAINT, INC.

Flooring • Blinds • Shutters 751 West Bayou Road, Thibodaux, LA 70301 985-448-1148

24 LIVING HERE 2021

HELPFUL TIPS

Area full of places to drop your boat in the water

By Chris Singleton Staff Writer

• Boudreaux’s Marina, at the end of Four Point Road off La. 3011 • Boudreaux’s Landing in Dulac If you love the water, there are many • Bob’s Bayou Black Marina, four places to launch your boats in the area. miles off La. 182 in Gibson Here is a list of area marinas and boat • Canal St. Jean Charles Boat Launch launches in Assumption, Terrebonne • Chauvin recreation area, near library and Lafourche parishes and in Grand and central fire station Isle.

• CoCo Marina, near the end of La. 56 Launching fees may apply and availain Cocodrie bility is subject to change.

• Cocodrie Clubhouse Boat Launch, The Leeville Boat Launch and Fishing Pier, ASSUMPTION PARISH at the site of the old Leeville Bridge along six miles south of Robinson Canal • Alligator Bayou Boat Launch, La. • Defelice Marina and Seafood Co., La. 1, allows anglers to access popular saltwater fishing spots in southern La398 163 Old Bridge Road in Dulac. fourche Parish. [THE COURIER AND DAILY • Attakapas Landing, end of La. 401 • Dularge Sporting Goods, La. 315 in COMET/FILE] • Bayou Lafourche Boat Launch, La. Bayou Dularge Road 398 • Falgout Canal Landing 1868 Dr. • Belle River Boat Launch, La. 1016-2 Delta Farms La. 657 in Larose Beatrous Road in Theriot • Himalaya Canal Boat Launch, La. • Irwin P. Melancon Recreational Boat • Falgout Canal Road in Dulac 1012 Launch in Port Fourchon • Forrest Cannon Memorial Boat • Lake Verret Boat Launch, La. 1016-1 • Josh’s Boat Launch, La. 3235 in Gol- Launch near Waterproof Bridge off • Little Grand Bayou Boat Launch, end den Meadow Southdown Mandalay Road in Bayou of La. 402 • Lafourche Beach Launch in Port Black LAFOURCHE PARISH Fourchon • Grand Bayou Unit Public Launch in • Amerada Launch to Bayou Lafour• Larousse Boat Launch in Kraemer Pointe-Aux-Chenes che in Raceland • Leeville Boat Launch and Fishing • Half-mile east of the U.S. 90 Cha• Bason’s Marina, La. 3235 in Cut Off Pier, under the Gateway to the Gulf cahoula-Thibodaux exit about four ½ • Bayou Lafourche Launch at BayouExpressway miles west of La. 20 and La. 311 intersecside Park, La. 1 in Thibodaux • Oakridge Community Boat Launch, tions • Bayou Lafourche Launch in Golden La. 3235 in Golden Meadow • Harbor Light Marina, near the end of Meadow • Percle’s Camp Launch to Grand La. 56 in Cocodrie • Bayou Lafourche Launch in RaceBayou • Houma Canal Boat Launch, La. 315 land • Port Fourchon Boat Launch, La. • Houma Navigation Canal, La. 3011 • Belle Pass Marina, La. 1 in Golden 3090 • Isle de Charles Road Boat Launch Meadow • Port Fourchon Marina in Leeville • Isle de Jean Charles Marina • Big Bayou Blue Marina, La. 24 in • Roadside Launch on La. 1 east of Port •Kozy Kampers in Cocodrie Larose Fourchon • Jammie’s Boat Landing in Dularge • Bill Taylor Boat Launch, La. 611 in • Roadside Launch on La. 1 in Leesville • La. 20 one mile west of U.S. 90 ChaChackbay • Somme’s Marina at Somme’s Lucky cahoula-Thibodaux exit, four miles west • Boudreaux’s Waterfront Motel in 7 Truck Plaza, U.S. 90 in Des Allemands of La. 20 and La. 311 intersection Leeville • Terry’s Live Bait, 24202 La. 1 in • La. 315, south of Houma to just north • Breton Canal Launch. East 73rd St. Golden Meadow of Falgout Canal Road, turn west and • Texas Gulf Boat Launch, La. 24 Galliano cross Bayou Dularge Bayou Blue • Butch Hill Ramp Boat Launch, Bayou • Lapeyrouse Seafood, Robinson Ca• Theriot Canal Boat Launch, La. 308 Cut Off, La. 652 Raceland nal and La. 56 in Chauvin in Raceland • Choctaw Road Boat Launch to • Launch across from Little Caillou • TYDs Marina, La. 1 between Golden Fire Station on La. 56 Chauvin Grand Bayou • Chris Moran’s Marina in Port Four- Meadow and Leeville • Launch at 1017 La. 55 in Montegut TERREBONNE PARISH chon • Launch at end of La. 3197 behind • Cloverlly Farms Boat Launch into • Bayou Petite Caillou Boat Launch, Bayou Black Fire Station Scully Canal, La. 308 in Cut Off two miles north of Cocodrie off La. 56 • Launch behind Ashland Landfill, off • Company Canal Boat Launch, Bay• Bayou Petite Caillou Boat Launch, La. 57 in Houma ouside Park, Lockport eight miles north of Cocodrie off La. 56 • Launch across from Little Caillou • Company Canal Boat Launch, La. • Bayou Terrebonne Boat Launch, La. Fire Station on La. 56 Chauvin 654 near Gheens • Lizzie’s Landing at Boudreaux Canal 55 in Montegut • Ed’s Boat Launch and Trailer Park in and Bayou Petit Caillou • Bayou Bait and Tackle in Chauvin Leeville • Madison Canal Boat Launch, La. 55 • Boat Launch north of Cocodrie • Intracoastal Waterway Launch, • Marina under Twin Spans in downClubhouse on Redfish Street across from VFW Hall in Larose town Houma off La. 20 • Boudreaux Canal Boat Launch in • Intracoastal Waterway Launch, via • Marmande Canal in Theriot La. 315 Chauvin

• Montegut Marina in Montegut • Old Spanish Trail off La. 182 in Gibson • Pat’s Bayouside Marina, 251 Marina Road in Montegut • Pointe-aux-Chenes Marina, 1650 La. 665 • Pointe-aux-Chenes Wildlife Management Area on Isle de Jean Charles Road Montegut • Point Barre Road Boat Launch near Pointe-aux-Chenes • Pointe Barre Ramp in Montegut • Pointe Cocodrie Inn, guests only • Pump station off La. 20, 11 ½ miles west of La. 20 and La. 311 intersection or 3 ½ miles east of U.S. 90 and Chacahoula-Thibodaux exit.

• Sandpiper Inn Bait Shop, 7312 Shoreline Drive in Cocodrie • Sea Breeze Marina in Montegut • Sharkey’s Boat Landing in Chauvin • Sportsman’s Paradise, 6830 La. 56 in Chauvin • Sunshine Acres Marina in Dulac • Sunshine Marina off Four Point Road • Sunshine Trading Post, 113 Sunshine West Street in Dulac • T-Irv’s Marina in Dulac • Texas Gulf Road Boat Launch off La. 55 in Bourg on Company Canal • TradeWinds Marina, 7681 La. 56 in Chauvin • Wine Island Pass Marina in Cocodrie GRAND ISLE • Bridge Side Marina, foot of the Grand Isle Bridge, beach side • Camardelle’s Seafood, ½ mile before Grand Isle bridge on LA. 1, bay side • Cheramie’s Landing • Coastal Bait, along La. 1 • Cypress Cove Marina • Gulf Stream Marina, ½ mile from Grand Isle Bridge on La. 1.

• Hurricane Hole, La. 1 between Carmen Lane and Tahiti Lane.

• Sand Dollar Marina, end of La. 1 • Pirate’s Cove Marina, 122 Smith Lane • Ricky’s Fishing Tackle, along La. 1 • Santiny’s Bait, along La. 1 • Wake Side Marina, 1615 La. 1 -- Notice anything missing? To have a local boat launch or marina added to the list email or if you have noticed anything that has changed send a message to sports writer Chris Singleton at chris. singleton@houmatoday.com or call him at 985-857-2213.

LIVING HERE 2021 25

26 LIVING HERE 2021

FISHING CHARTERS

Let the local pros take you fishing

By Kelly McElroy Correspondent Louisiana has some of the best recreational fishing in the world. But for those without a boat, getting to those spots could pose a problem.

Luckily, there are some people who are available to take you right into the heart of it. If you are just visiting or are new to the area, one of the easiest ways to enjoy the great fishing in Lafourche and Terrebonne parishes and the Grand Isle area is to book a charter trip.

A number of charter fishermen will take you into the area’s bayous, canals and lakes, where your catch might include speckled trout, redfish, bass and sac-a-lait.

For those looking for some bigger catches, there are several deep-sea fishing charters that will take you into the Gulf of Mexico. Those fishermen are typically looking for red snapper (when in season), cobia, yellowfin tuna, marlin and the “silver king” tarpon.

Here is a list of area fishing charters: LAFOURCHE PARISH • Aaron Pierce Charters, (985) 6379720 • Arthur Matherne Charter Fishing, (985) 758-5531 • Bay Coast Charters, (985) 787-2067 or (985) 475-6598 • Between the Banks, (504) 458-9451 • Big Dog Bowfishing, (985) 637-6074 • Bobby‘s Charters, (985) 396-2678 • Bobby Lynn’s Marina, (225) 6734210 • Boneyard Bow Fishing, (985) 6374471 • Cajun Made Charters, (985) 3962728 • Capt. T-Man‘s Charters, (985) 6936828 • Cast and Catch Charters, (985) 6375760 • Charlie Hardison and Sons, (888) 463-4747 • Don Dee‘s Bayou Coastal Guide Service, (985) 632-3336 • Fishtales Guide Service, (985) 6961801 • Hawk Eye Fishing Charters, (985) 632-6988 • Marsh Masters Bow Fishing, (985) 285-7332 • Marsh Masters Guide Service, (985)

Local charter fishing captain Bill Lake shows off a redfish catch. [SUBMITTED]

637-6076 • Marsh Rat Fishing Guide, (985) 6375058 • Marshland Guide Service, (985) 4756397 • Moran’s Marina, (985) 369-2728 • Night Time Fishing, (225) 673-4210 • Plaisance Tidewater Charters, (985) 475-7471 • Reelin Good Charters, (985) 8588167 • Rippin Lip Guide Service, (985) 6325846 • Saltwater Guide Service, (985) 6964621 • Southern Moon Charters, (985) 870-3315 • Speck-Tackler Charters, (985) 4755871 • Spots & Specks Charters, (985) 6373177 • Steve Tomeny Charters, (985) 3962613 • Top Water Marina, (985) 396-4620 • Tuna Time Charters, (985) 6653769 • Zutie‘s Baycoast Charters, (985) 637-3692 TERREBONNE PARISH • Absolute Fishing Charters, (985) 856-4477 • Airboat Charters, (985) 872-0989 • Avid Angler Fishing Charters, (985) 855-5909 • Bayou Black Marina, (985) 575-2315 • Beachcomber Guide Service, (985) 855-6150 • Bill Lake Bayou Guide Service and

Charters, (985) 851-6015 or (985) 6373712 • Boudreaux’s Marina, (985) 594-4568 • C&B Charter Fishing, (985) 5942414 • Cajun Fishing and Hunting Charters, (985) 857-8552 • Captain André Boudreaux, (985) 594-4568 • Captain Cody Esponge, (985) 8041518 • Captain Gene Foret, (888) 648-2626 • Coco Marina, (888) 648-2626 • Captain Joe Schouest Charters, (985) 876-4317 • Captain Lance “Lil Coon” Schouest Jr., (985) 856-7063 • Captain Lee Schouest, (985) 5946626 • Captain Mike Ledet’s Charters, (985) 594-6773 • Captain Ryan Folse, (888) 648-2626 • Captain Tanna Persac, (225) 6107336 • Coastal Charter Service, (985) 8566494 • Cocodrie Anglers, (985) 856-0700 • Cocodrie Charters, (985) 594-6200 • Cocodrie Inside Charters, (800) 906-5484 • Cododrie Fishing Charters, LLC, (985) 991-3152 • Coon Pop, Inc., (985) 688-7633 • Crawdaddy, (985) 209-4386 • Custom Charters, (985) 851-3304 • Double Down Charters, (985) 8569008 • Downtown Marina, (985) 873-6428 • Dulac Charters, (985) 563-2843 • Falgout Canal Landing, (985) 8721636 • Fightin Minnow Fishing Charters, (985) 790-0771 • Four Point Landing, (985) 563-2878 • Harbor Light Marina, (985) 5947208 • Haydel’s Charter Inc., (985) 2260113 • Impulse Fishing Charters, (225) 7769820 • Inshore Addiction Guide Service, (225) 278-4189 • Jug’s Seafood, (985) 876-1413 • Laid Back Charter, (225) 202-2584 or (225) 756-2342 • Lil’ Ross Charters, (985) 293-7933 • Lite’m Up Bowfishing Charters (985) 991-5483 • Louisiana Livin Adventures, Capt.

Tim Ortego • Marsh Madness, (985) 688-4495 • Millertime Fishing Charters, (985) 981-6434 • Pac Kayak Rentals, (225) 573-4085 • Pointe-aux-Chenes Marina, (985) 594-4654 • Reelin Good Charters LLC, (985) 856-8167 • Salt Charters, (985) 648-2626 • Sea Creatures Fishing Charters, (985) 563-2531 • Seeber Charter Service, (985) 8047637 • Shoreline Charter, (985) 688-2772 • Silver Fox Charters, (985) 665-2657 • Southern Nights Bowfishing Charters, (985) 688-3486 • Sportsman’s Paradise, (985) 5942414 • T-Irv’s Marina, (985) 563-4295 • Top Waters Charter, (985) 5949074 • Tradewinds Marina, (985) 466-3838 GRAND ISLE • A Day in Paradise, (504) 382-0174 • Bent Rod Offshore, (985) 817-0017 • Bon Chance Fishing, (985) 637-3979 • Bridge Side Marina, (985) 787-2419 • Brooks-Hooks Fishing Charters, (225) 485-7931 • Calmwater Charters and Tours, (225) 921-8459 • Cast and Catch, (985) 665-0745 • Capt. John’s Fin-tastic Charters, (985) 665-4586 • Dream Catcher Guide Service, (225) 572-8927 • Fish-N-Tell, (225) 938-2419 • Epic Fishing Charters, (225) 7336080 • Fish Commander Guide Service, (225) 445-1005 • Fish on Charters, (318) 623-6500 • Flaming Hooks, (318) 623-2759 • Follow Me Charters, (504) 610-9639 • H&M Fishing Charters, (985) 2583632 • Hard Times Fishing Charters (985) 787-3529 • Pair-of-dice Charters of Grand Isle, (985) 860-7855 Notice something missing or something that needs updating? Email keith. magill@houmatoday.com with the information.

LIVING HERE 2021 27

FISHING RODEO

Area filled with numerous fishing rodeos throughout year

By Kelly McElroy Correspondent Ronnie Buquet and his son, Noah, hold up their flounder on the final day of last year‘s annual Terrebonne Sportsman‘s League fishing rodeo held at East Park Recreation Center in Houma. [THE COURIER AND DAILY COMET/ FILE]

(normally held in May) • Creole Classic Fishing Tournament Bridge Side Marina in Grand Isle. (normally held in June) • International Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo July 22-24 at Tarpon Rodeo Pavilion in Grand Isle.

• “Ride the Bull” Extreme kayak Fishing Tournament Bridge Side Marina in Grand Isle. (normally held in late August) • Grand Isle Original Redfish Rodeo Bridge Side Marina in Grand Isle. (normally held in early September) • Grand Isle Ladies Rodeo (normally held in October) STATEWIDE • Coastal Conservation Association’s Statewide Tournament and Angler’s Rodeo (STAR) tournament, May 29-Sept. 6, various locations throughout the state.

We Know Insurance is Based on Relationships and Trust

Coverage You Need.

• AUTO • MOTORCYCLE • WATERCRAFT • COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

• COMMERCIAL • MARINE • HOME • CAMPER • ATV

• GENERAL LIABILITY • BOAT • COMMERCIAL AUTO

• FLOOD • WORKMANS COMP

Discounts You Want.

-- Notice something missing? If your favorite park is not on this list email sports writer Chris Singleton at chris.singleton@houmatoday.com to add it.

• Multi-Policy • Homeowner • Early Shopper • Good Student

THIBODAUX:

HX-00081562

Anglers have plenty of opportunities through the course of the year to see how their skills stack up against others in the area at fishing rodeos.

There are numerous fishing contests in Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes and in Grand Isle.

Here are a few major fishing events to choose from but because of the COVID-19 pandemic, most of the dates for 2021 have not yet been set.

TERREBONNE • Houma Oilman’s Fishing Invitational at Harbor Light Marina in Cocodrie. (normally last weekend in May) • Terrebonne Sportsman League‘s Annual Fishing Rodeo at East Park Recreation Center in Houma. (normally first weekend in August) • Krewe of Hercules Festival on the Bayou Annual Redfish Rodeo at Agricultural Building on the Houma Air Base. (normally second weekend in August, following weekend of Sportsman’s League Rodeo) • Diva Fishing Rodeo at TradeWinds in Cocodrie. (normally in October, held in December in 2020) • Bubba Dove Memorial Fishing Rodeo at Falgout Canal Marina in Theriot (held in June in 2020) LAFOURCHE • Golden Meadow-Fourchon International Tarpon Rodeo at Moran’s Marina in Fourchon. (normally held in July) • Fourchon Oilman’s Association Fishing Rodeo tentatively set for July 8-10 at Moran’s Marina in Fourchon.

GRAND ISLE • Stan Brock’s Black and Gold Classic, Bast and Cast Saints Rodeo at Bridge Side Marina in Grand Isle. (normally held in May) • Grand Isle Speckled Trout Rodeo Bridge Side Marina in Grand Isle.

201 Canal Blvd. Ste B 985.448.0431

CUT OFF:

360 HWY 3161 985.325.3188

WWW.CHABERTINSURANCE.COM

28 LIVING HERE 2021

PARKS

Looking for some fresh air? Visit one of many local parks

By Kelly McElroy Correspondent

• Dularge Gym, 1330 Dr. Beatrous Road, Theriot: gym, swimming pool.

• Dumas Park, 301 Tunnel Blvd., Outdoor activities are a major part of Houma: basketball courts, playground life in south Louisiana. equipment If you’re looking for any variety of • Friends of Fireman’s Park – Skate outdoor or indoor activities, the area and Bike Park, 161 Library Drive: quarter offers numerous parks and gyms for pipe, rails. residents to use.

• Gibson Gym, 5575 Bayou Black From splash parks to dog parks to bike Drive. trails to old-fashioned swing sets, Ter• Grand Bois Park, 470 Bourg-Larose rebonne and Lafourche have their share Highway: RV hook-ups, bathrooms, of outdoor activities for residents. picnic tables.

Here is a look at area parks and re• Grand Caillou Gym, 106 Badou creation centers that area residents can Drive. enjoy: • Gray Park, 3289 W. Park Ave in TERREBONNE PARISH Gray: playground equipment, baseball/ • Authement Street Park, 311 Authesoftball fields. ment St.: walking track, gazebo, picnic • Jim Bowie Park, 940 Bayou Black tables, softball field.

Drive: gazebo, picnic tables.

• Andrew Price Gym, 1829 La. 24 • Lee Avenue Park, 1226 Lee Ave.: Gray. walking track, gazebo, picnic tables, • Bourg Gym, 4411 Eldred Street, basketball court.

Bourg: gym, tennis courts, softball • Lisa Park Gym, 6669 Lisa Park Avefields. nue in Houma.

• Barrios Park, Willard Avenue Hou• Little Caillou Gym, 215 Angel St., ma: playground equipment Chauvin.

• Bayou Black Gym, 3888, Southdown • Mahler Park, 419 Mahler St.: benMandalay Road: gym, basketball courts, ches, tables. playground equipment, football, base• Maple Avenue Park, 404 Maple ball, softball and soccer fields, walking Ave.: walking track, tables, benches, track, splash park in summer, gazebo, swing set, walking track. picnic tables.

• Mechanicville Gym, 2814 Senator • Bayou Country Sports Park, betCircle. ween La. 311 and Valhi Blvd. Ext., • Montegut Gym, 107 Recreation Houma (partially complete): softball, Drive: gym, baseball field. baseball, soccer fields, tennis courts, • Mulberry Park, 203 Winnfield Blvd.: dog park, walking and bike trail and playground equipment, swings, two community lawn. softball fields, workout equipment, walking track.

• City Park, 201 Moffet Road: gym, • Oakshire Gym, 5457 Vicari Drive: walking track, playground equipment, gym, baseball field. gazebo, picnic tables, softball field, • Presque Isle Park in Presque Isle baseball field. subdivision: swings, picnic tables.

• Coteau Park, 2321 Coteau Road: • Rio Vista Park, 704 Rio Vista Ave.: bathrooms, swings, softball field.

• Da Swamp Trampoline Park, 2764 walking track, playground equipment, Coteau Road: Open daily for play and swings. working out, prices vary.

• Rozands Memorial Park, 514 Levron • Darcey Street Park, 8379 Tupelo St.: St.: walking track, playground equipwalking track, playground equipment, ment, swings. swings, softball fields.

• Shady Oak Park, 877 High St.: • Donner Gym, 381 Azalea Drive: gym, playground equipment, gazebo, picnic golf course. tables, swings.

• Downtown marina under the twin • Southdown Bike Trail, Valhi Boulespans has picnic tables, a walking trail vard: five-and-a-half mile Southdown and a playground for the kids. It‘s on On-Road Loop, two-mile Blackwater Main Street near Terrebonne General Outer Loop and one-mile Leland RoMedical Center, where Bayou Terrebon- bichaux Inner Loop. The trail starts on ne meets the Gulf Intracoastal WaterValhi Boulevard between the Summerway. field and Mandalay Wood subdivisions.

It serves as the entrance point for the three trails and includes a parking lot, bike racks and concrete pads for picnic tables.

• Southdown West Park in Southdown West subdivision: playground equipment, tennis courts.

• Summerfield Park, 713 San Antonio Blvd.: playground equipment, gazebo, picnic tables.

• Twin Span Park, located beneath Houma Twins Spans: walking track, playground equipment.

• West Houma Gym and Parks, 900 Williams Ave: gym, football fields, tennis courts, baseball fields.

• Glenn F. Polk Memorial Park Walking Track at Williams Ave (near St. Gregory Church at 1009 Williams Ave in Houma) • Smithridge Gym, 4924 Bayouside Drive, Chauvin.

LAFOURCHE PARISH • Bayou Blue Gym Recreation District 11, 200 Mazerac St. Houma: gym, walking track, splash park.

• Chackbay, Choctaw, Kramer and Bayou Boeuf, Recreation District No. 5, 2345 La. 307 in Thibodaux.

• Choctaw Walking track: Choctaw Road: baseball fields, walking track.

• Cut Off Youth Center, 205 West 79th St.: swimming pool, walking track, basketball court.

• Larose Regional Park and Civic Center, 307 E. Fifth St. walking track, baseball fields, football field, basketball courts, tennis courts, swimming pool, walking track, picnic tables, gazebo, playground equipment.

• Gheens Recreation District No. 8, 2121 La. 645 in Gheens: rec center, park.

• Lockport Bayouside Park, Canal Street, Lockport: walking track.

• Lockport Recreation District 1, Lockport, baseball fields, playground equipment, swimming pool.

• Oakridge Park, Oakridge Drive in Golden Meadow: tennis courts, swimming pool, basketball court, baseball fields, playground equipment, picnic tables.

• Golden Meadow Recreation District No. 3, rec center, park.

• Raceland Community Center, 206 Senior Citizen Drive: Community, recreation and emergency center, walking track, soccer fields, football fields.

• Raceland Recreation Center, District No. 2, 241 Recreation Drive, Raceland:

Rec Center, baseball, softball and soccer fields.

• Schneider Park, Schneider Lane, Chackbay: football field, baseball field, playground equipment, walking trail.

• Lafourche Parish Tourist Commission, 4484 La. 1 Raceland: Walking Track, football/soccer field.

• Vacherie-Gheens Community Center, 1783 La. 654, Gheens: walking track, community center.

THIBODAUX • Adley Landry Water Reservoir, 310 N. Canal Blvd. walking path, park benches, picnic tables, covered pavilions, life trail, restroom. No pets, skateboards or skates are allowed at the water reservoir.

• Andolsek Park, 1200 N. Canal Blvd.: soccer fields.

• Thibodaux Civic Center, 310 North Canal Blvd.: baseball fields, softball fields, basketball courts, picnic area, playground equipment, pavilion, tennis court, walking track.

• Captain Wayne Daigle Memorial Park, 310 N. Canal Blvd.: covered pavilion, playground equipment, tennis courts, basketball court, softball fields, restroom area.

• Eagle Drive Park: basketball court, walking track.

• Edwin H. Chiasson Sr. Memorial Park, 1000 Jackson St.: playground equipment, walking track.

• Hero’s Park, Veterans Boulevard: baseball/softball fields.

• Martin Luther King Jr. Park, 1445 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.: baseball field, softball field, basketball court, multipurpose fields, playground equipment, pavilion, soccer field, walking track.

• Midland Park, Midland Drive: playground equipment, walking track.

• Peltier Park, 151 Peltier Park Drive: baseball fields, softball fields, basketball court, workout equipment, playground equipment, picnic area, pavilion, tennis courts, walking track.

• Thibodaux Municipal Pool, 700 Goode St. • Norman Swanner Dog Park, adjacent to Thibodaux Civic Center: fencing, water and waste stations for dogs, park benches and a concrete sidewalk -- Notice something missing? If your favorite park is not on this list email sports writer Chris Singleton at chris. singleton@houmatoday.com to add it.

LIVING HERE 2021 29

At the Wellness Center, we’re improving the health of the region one person at a time And this means...

More game time

More first times

Isn’t it time to start living your best life?

Change Starts Here.

More crunch time

Prevention | Education | Fitness | Rehabilitation Sports Medicine | Physician Specialists | Wellness Services

For more information, call: 985.493.4400.

More party time thibodaux.com

30 LIVING HERE 2021

ROADSIDE FISHING

By Kelly McElroy Correspondent

No boat? No problem

Who says you need a boat to catch fish in Terrebonne and Lafourche? From canals along area highways to surf fishing at the beach, area fishermen have many fishing opportunities where a boat is not even needed.

So if you don’t have a boat or want to leave it at home, there are no worries because the area is filled with many saltwater and fishing spots that local fishermen can walk to. And with cooler weather, fish begin stacking up closer to area shores.

Here are some of the area‘s top shoreline fishing spots.

hing spots for anglers, but rubber boots may be needed to reach some of the marshy areas.

CHAUVIN-COCODRIE Without a doubt, the most popular shoreline locations in this region are Boudreaux and Robinson canals. Both are along La. 56 and can get crowded in the winter months. Lake Boudreaux is a hot spot for speckled trout in the winter, and Boudreaux Canal provides a migration route for the fish to and from the lake. Finding areas of moving water in these regions can prove fruitful.

THIBODAUX Freshwater fishing is popular in Bayou Lafourche near Nicholls State University and the Jean Lafitte Historical Park and Preserve Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center in Thibodaux. The Adley Landry Water Reservoir is also a popular spot for bass fishing.

LEEVILLE Deep water near the site of the old Leeville lift bridge off La. 1 provides warmth for redfish, sheepshead and black drum during winter. There are many shell parking spots along the highway for people to access these popular fishing spots.

POINTE-AUX-CHENES-ISLE DE The Leeville Boat Launch and Fishing JEAN CHARLES Pier, under the Gateway to the Gulf ExCatch fish and crabs along Island Road pressway along La. 1, opened in 2017. It TERREBONNE PARISH in southeastern Terrebonne Parish.

DULARGE includes a handicap-accessible aluminum fishing pier and a pavilion Fishing Bayou Dularge Road no farther Roadside anglers have long frequented the spot, but new public piers and and has lights for nighttime fishing. south than Falgout Canal can produce an upgraded boat launch completed in some nice catches, and Falgout Canal late 2020 have made it safer and easier.

PORT FOURCHON Road between Dularge is also a good Louisiana coastal officials completed During the summer, nice catches of spot for redfish. the five fishing piers, boat launch and speckled trout can be found in the surf of With a pirogue, fishing weirs and parking lots using $3 million from the area beaches. dams can also be productive. The pontoon bridge over the Houma Navigation state’s settlement with BP over the 2010 Canal is also a popular spot for redfish oil spill Gulf of Mexico oil spill.

GOLDEN MEADOW and other species of fish. La. 57 between Oakridge Park’s levee canal is a prime Cocodrie and Dulac also has many fisLAFOURCHE PARISH spot for some freshwater fishing in

south Lafourche. Sac-a-lait and other perch are traditionally the top catches.

SOUTH LAFOURCHE Roadside fishing along La. 1 is popular among saltwater anglers, as Bayou Lafourche can provide an abundance of speckled trout and redfish, especially in winter and fall. Fishing in Bayou Lafourche provides good catches from Larose to Leeville.

LOCKPORT Bayou Side Park is a popular fishing spot for many central Lafourche residents, as people can reel in freshwater catches in Bayou Lafourche and Old Company Canal.

JEFFERSON PARISH GRAND ISLE Anglers are often found fishing off the pier near the Grand Isle Bridge and in other spots off La. 1, especially in the winter when the fish are stacked up in area canals and marshes. It also includes lights for nighttime fishing.

For those looking to be a bit more adventurous, surf fishing is popular along the Grand Isle beaches. The most popular catches are traditionally speckled trout, redfish, white trout and flounder.

9 local museums that are worth the visit

By Dan Copp Staff Writer

membership.

2. Terrebonne Folklife Culture Center, 317 Goode St., Houma, 873- 6406. AcMuseums allow us to learn from the tivities, classes, workshops and exhibits past to better understand our present. about local life, art and culture, past and They provide visitors a place to expepresent. rience Terrebonne and Lafourche’s rich 3. Southdown Plantation House and history and culture under one roof. Here Terrebonne Museum,1208 Museum Driare nine local museums that are worth ve, Houma, near La. 311 and St. Charles the visit. Because of the coronavirus Street, 851-0154 or southdownmuseum. pandemic, visitors should call museums org. Daily tours, exhibits on Terrebonne ahead of time to check hours of operaParish history and former plantation tion. owners’ lives.

1. Finding Our Roots museum, at 918 4. Edward Douglas White Historic Roussell St. in Houma, showcases variSite, 2295 La. 1, Thibodaux, 447-0915. ous periods of black history in Terrebon- Exhibits on Gov. E.D. White and U.S. ne, Lafourche and other area parishes Chief Justice E.D. White II are inside the including slavery, the Civil Rights Move- antebellum Creole cottage. ment, Reconstruction and contemporary 5. Bayou Lafourche Folklife and Hertimes. The museum is open from 10 a.m. itage Museum, 110 Main St., Lockport, to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 532-5909. Housed in National Register Admission is $7 or via a $40 museum of Historic Places building. The museum

features artifacts of early life along Bayou Lafourche and other rotating exhibits.

6. Laurel Valley Plantation, 595 La. 308, Thibodaux, 446-7456. The oldest standing sugar plantation in the country has a farm with various animals and an old store with various historical artifacts.

7. Center for Traditional Louisiana Boat Building, 202 Main St., Lockport, displays and works to preserve some of the boats that are intrinsic to our way of life in the swamps, marshes and bayous of Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes.

It’s open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Call 532-5106 or visit the center’s Facebook page.

8. Bayou Terrebonne Waterlife Museum offers displays and interactive panels to introduce visitors to the industries, traditions and personal stories that collectively comprise the area’s unique culture. The museum, 7910 West

Park Ave. in downtown Houma, is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays.

Admission is $3 for adults, $1 for kids ages 2-12 and $2.50 for seniors. Group rates are available. Call 580-7200 or visit the museum’s Facebook page.

9. The Regional Military Museum at 1154 Barrow St. in Houma takes visitors back through time to see real artifacts from World War II and other military campaigns that shaped history. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for veterans and seniors, $2 for students and free for active members of the military. Call 8738200 or email rmmuseum@gmail.com for more information.

--Staff Writer Dan Copp can be reached at 448-7639 or at dan.copp@ houmatoday.com. Follow him on Twitter @DanVCopp.

LIVING HERE 2021 31

32 LIVING HERE 2021

In The Enduring Spirit of Ti-Can, Every Pecan In Our TI-CAN PECAN King Cake Is Born Here On The Bayou, Aged In A BTD Charred Oak Bourbon Barrel, And Responsibly Roasted To Optimize Its Natural Sweetness.

• HANDCRAF TED - SMALL BATCH •

BARREL AGED- BOURBON GLAZED

Introducing the...

#1 PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNER GOOEY BUTTER SNICKERDOODLE CAKE

King Cake antis Filhucan T i -Ca n Dul Papralde 1914 ra Fa t h e r o f B a y a u gu -

o u M a rd i G r a s , I n

A Bayou Bourbon King Cake Glazed with Good Earth Bourbon, loaded with whiskey barrel aged pecans and our award winning Gooey Butter Snickerdoodle filling. A tasty tribute to the visionary Father of Mardi Gras here on the Bayou, Filhucan ‘Ti-Can’ Duplantis.

ORDER YOURS TODAY! FEDEX A KING CAKE NATIONWIDE!

www.cannataskingcakes.com 985-873-9118