Gumbo May 2016

MAY 2016 • ISSUE 5

CONTENT

08

14 ARTS

MUSIC

08 10

LOCAL FLAVOR Bang Bang

12

TAKE 5 Louisiana Soul Survivors

DISCOVERING THE SOUTH Bayou Cajun Fest Boasts Classic Family Fun

PUBLISHER

Brian Rushing

14

THICKER THAN WATER The Dixie Swim Club Puts Friendship at the Forefront

Melissa Duet EDITOR Mary Downer Ditch MANAGING EDITOR

14 16

SUMMER SHOW PREVIEW Theatre listings

Mariella Brochard CREATIVE DIRECTOR Rachel Lambert GRAPHIC DESIGNER

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THE MAN BEHIND THE BLUE MEN Terry Tungjunyatham

28

FAMILY

LISTINGS

EDITORIAL

CREATIVE

PHOTOGRAPHY Karl Gommel, Misty McElroy, Erica Seely, Talisha

STAFF WRITERS Casey Gisclair

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Keisa Arceneaux, Brittney Courteaux, Jonah Giroir

ADVERTISING

Deanne Ratliff SALES MANAGER Harold Cancienne, Linda Dupre, Jamie Mazerac, Martha Naquin, Linda Pontiff, Elizabeth Porche, Rusty Talbot

OFFICE MANAGER

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6 May 2016

ON THE HUNT Phase II of Houma’s Geotour

22

SPLISH, SPLASH! Bayou Black Community Center Spray Park

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AT THE LIBRARY Library listings

28 30 32 35

FESTIVAL GUIDE 2016 Where to be in May MUSIC Concert listings LAGNIAPPE Event listings WHAT’S STIRRIN’ #geauxgumbo

CIRCULATION MANAGER Michelle Ortego

CUSTOMER SERVICE Brandy O’Banion, Michelle Ortego

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE Jessica Gifford

CONTACT Publisher: publisher@rushing-media.com Editorial: melissa@rushing-media.com Creative: mariella@rushing-media.com Sales: deanne@rushing-media.com Circulation: michelle@rushing-media.com

6160 W. Park Ave., Houma, LA 70364 985.868.7515 • Fax 985.873.9009 GUMBOGUIDE.COM

BOOK REVIEW ‘Rules for Breaking’ GAME REVIEW Trackmania Turbo Offers Family Fun THE DISH 3 Hot Spots for a Hot Breakfast

Ashley Thibodeaux

Cover Photo by Misty McElroy

The Gumbo Entertainment Guide is a free publication. The entire content of this publication is copyrighted by Rushing Media, with all rights reserved. Reproduction or use, without written permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. The Gumbo Entertainment Guide is published monthly by Rushing Media.

Rushing Media

MUSIC

LOCAL FLAVOR: BANG BANG

by Mary Downer Ditch

In

the crystal clear evening air, passionate lyrics float up to please the ear and the soul. The powerful yet soft voice, as sweet and strong as the smell of jasmine in the air belongs to Gina Domangue of Bang Bang.

Gina and her boyfriend Seth Stonger began singing together 4 years ago as a duet.

“I had a friend that told me, ‘You need to get out there and sing,’” Gina recalls.

“I started out singing with my brother’s band when I was around 21, but that was short lived.”

When Gina met Seth, the perfect harmony was formed. Seth plays guitar and shares vocals with Gina. As they began performing around town, the rest of the band, Seth Welker on keyboard and vocals and Rick Voisin on drums, more or less fell into place. On some nights, they are also joined by Mark Kryvanick on bass.

“I would say more than anything we are soulful,” Gina explains of the group’s sound. “We play the classics, a lot of Motown. Not what you would usually expect.”

Her favorite songs to play include anything by Sam Cooke, including “A Change is Gonna Come” or Ray Charles’ “Night Time is the Right Time.”

Part of having a band is having an interesting name, and Bang Bang is no exception. While there is no magic equation for knowing what will work, Gina thought up quite a winner.

“The band name just came to me, from a crazy place in my head and we went with it,” she laughs.

Because Bang Bang’s sound is both intriguing and intimate, the group understandably loves local, homey spots to play. It’s in that pocket, Gina says, the band thrives.

8 May 2016

Catch Bang Bang

when they visit Beck’s in Raceland on May 7 and Which Craft? in Houma on May 20.

“We love playing locally,” she shares, listing places like downtown’s The Boxer & the Barrel as ideal atmospheres with great patrons. “Private parties are always fun. The people are there to celebrate and have fun. La Carreta is also one of our favorites because we play outside in the courtyard.”

All in all, it’s all about supporting and being part of a rich local music scene.

However, Gina says, support from the community is necessary to give bands the platforms they need to continue honing their craft.

And with each gig performed, support for Bang Bang grows. The band hopes to get into the studio soon, in fact, to give a little back to those that give so much to them.

“We hope to start recording soon,” Gina says. “We want to lay down a few tracks and write some lyrics. We are really laid back in our approach but are looking forward to it…The band is like my family. We love getting together and just playing music. It comes naturally from the heart.”

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Discovering the south

PA I D A D V E R T I S E M E N T

BAYOU CAJUN FEST BOASTS CLASSIC FAMILY FUN B

ayou Cajun Fest may only be in its second year but the festival already feels like a established community tradition.

That’s due in large part to the experienced staff and volunteers who help make the festival, set for May 6-8, a reality.

When the civic center’s operating organization, Bayou Civic Club, retired its Family Fun Festival at its 50 year anniversary, the group decided it was time to bring something fresh for residents of lower Lafourche Parish to enjoy.

Thus, Bayou Cajun Fest, a free, fullfledged family affair that allows more vendors to be part, was born.

“We just took a different turn on it,” Civic Center Executive Director Jasmine Ayo says. “When we do our French Food Festival in October, the Civic Center and its volunteers do all the food and vending so we opened up Bayou Cajun Fest as a way for outside vendors to come in, either from within the community or out of the area to bring in some new dishes, to take it a

10 May 2016

little easier on our volunteers and to offer the community some new things to eat and sample.”

And this year’s menu does not disappoint. Hungry crowds may enjoy everything from shrimp, crab and crawfish prepared a myriad ways to festival staples like cotton candy and candied apples.

But food is just the beginning of the weekend’s offerings. Live music that will appeal to anyone’s preference take the stage under the 25,000 sq. ft. covered pavilion. Things kick off with acoustic duo Brennon and Sam at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, followed by a jam-packed schedule featuring everything from cover bands playing party favorites to Cajun hitmakers Waylon Thibodeaux and Chubby Carrier & The Bayou Swamp Band, both taking the stage Saturday.

For those looking to get in on the action, kids and kids at heart can climb aboard one of the dozens of classic carnival rides on the 46-acre grassy park area. On Saturday evening, racers can done fluorescent clothing, body

Photo by Talisha

paint and light-up gear and dash to the finish line of the Glow Run 5K, starting at the Larose Library at 8 p.m. On Sunday at 2 p.m., families are invited to gather at the civic center swimming pool for the Cardboard Boat Regatta, a friendly competition to see which group can create and race the most durable watercraft.

Culture and tradition will also be at the forefront of the weekend’s festivities. Les Artistes Du Bayou Art Guild will be on-hand to show off their artwork, while members of the Cajun Heritage Festival will demonstrate the art of wooden decoy carving.

On Sunday, the focus turns to moms as the festival celebrates Mother’s Day

with two special events. At 1:30 p.m., mothers and daughters team up for a look-alike contest and before that, A Mother’s Day Brunch is served up at 10:30 a.m. by renowned local chef Bob Faulk during the reservation-only meal for the whole family. For $25 a ticket, which may be purchased by calling the civic center, guests enjoy Mt. Zion Church’s gumbo, a mix of seafood, chicken, sausage and special ingredients, as well as baked chicken, rice dressing, smothered green beans, desserts and mimosas for mom.

Having Bob as part of the festival is an honor, Jasmine says, as the long-time volunteer and past Bayou Civic Club chairman has become an integral part

of civic center activities.

“He’s one of the men who inspired younger people of my generation to start cooking in the community,” she explains. “When we do our Wild Game Supper and French Food Festival, you’re going to see a whole group of men in their 20s and 30s that are cooking in big, black pots. All of those guys, if you ask them, will say, ‘I learned how to cook from watching Mr. Bob’ or ‘I saw Mr. Bob cooking and it inspired me.’ He’s completely self-taught, he’s a local businessman and he just loves to cook in huge quantities.”

The most important aspect, however, is the emphasis on Cajun heritage and family, Jasmine says. Whether guests

want to kick back and relax or participate in the lineup of exciting activities, the festival offers something for everyone and at an affordable price.

“We invite people to come spend the weekend. It actually doesn’t cost you any money to get in and hear the bands…I know sometimes in the economic crunch that everybody’s in, they worry about spending money. This can be an inexpensive alternative that’s local to still help you support the parks and give your kids a good time.”

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MUSIC

TAKE 5: LOUISIANA SOUL SURVIVORS If

you hear a funky dance beat and your toes start a-tappin, you might be in the presence of Louisiana Soul Survivors. The band is comprised of members Lonnie Lapeyrouse, vocals and guitar; Teddy Baudoin, keyboard and vocals; Tommy Baudoin, bass; Troy Percle, drums and vocals; Pershing Wells, lead guitar and vocals; Charles “Chucky See” Elam, saxophone, flute, harmonica, vocals and Jerome Stafford, trumpet, flugal, vocals, and the most importantly, the cowbell!

Original members Jerome and Teddy formed the band around 20 years ago.

Another group was disbanding that included a full horn section that was looking for a new home. The guys all knew one another from their college days and wanted to start playing the club scene. The Soul Survivors now find themselves mostly playing private shows. We recently paused to Take 5 with Teddy.

soulful sound. We play a lot of hits from the ‘70s and ‘80s. It’s a natural, soulful vibe that makes you get up and dance.

G: WHAT ARE SOME OF THE NEWER REQUESTS THE YOUNG’NS ARE MAKING? T: We do play a few newer songs like

“Shut Up and Dance” and “Can’t Feel My Face.” Lonnie’s voice is very versatile and he sounds great singing anything from classic rock to today’s Top 40 hits. Most of the requests are actually usually older songs; even the 20-somethings know the older hits. Just like history repeats itself, so does the music.

G: WHAT IS THE COOLEST PLACE SOUL SURVIVORS HAS PLAYED? T: We played a private event in Las

Vegas at Harrah’s Casino. The way the stage was, the people on The Strip could hear us too. We also played a wedding in Disney World. That was a great experience.

12 May 2016

G: FUN FACTS? T: We don’t practice a lot! It’s hard for

G: DESCRIBE THE LOUISIANA SOUL SURVIVORS SOUND. T: With the live horns, we have a very

Ride the Funky train

with Louisiana Soul Survivors when they visit Morgan City May 13 for Rhythms on the River. The free concert runs from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Front Street.

a group of seven guys to get together and practice. But we are all trained musicians. We all studied music at least at the college level and some of us have careers in music. We have always gotten along, which can be odd for a group of musicians that have played together as long as we have. We are mostly in our 50s now and we just enjoy what we do.

We dedicate our shows to the memory of former member Jerome Theriot because we know his spirit is with us at every performance. We appreciate what every past member has contributed to the group’s existence and longevity.

G: BONUS ROUND: AS A CLASSICALLY TRAINED PIANIST, WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PIECE? T: “Rhapsody in Blue” by George

Gershwin

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View other theater listings for the surrounding area at GUMBOGUIDE.COM.

ARTS

THICKER THAN WATER THE DIXIE SWIM CLUB PUTS FRIENDSHIP AT THE FOREFRONT

SUMMER SHOW PREVIEW

by Brittney Courteaux

W K

ids, husbands, jobs….somewhere in the midst of it all, the ladies of The Dixie Swim Club try to keep it all together. One weekend a year, the ladies, who formed a friendship after meeting on their college swim team, reunite for a much-needed getaway to recharge and catch up. What transpires is a hilarious, unforgettable story of five very different personalities sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences.

The show has been part of production lineups by various local theatre groups, becoming a fast favorite in the community. This most recent production, set to take the stage at the Courtyard by Marriot in Houma this month, is actually the second go-round for the all-female cast. The show sold out during its first run, so bringing it back for another month was a no-brainer, according to cast member Lorna Gianelloni.

The play, directed by Reggie Pontiff, centers around five Southern belles all battling life in their own way. There’s Sheree (Toni Hicks), the team captain and group leader desperately trying to uphold her “perfect life” persona; Dinah (Lisa Picone Love), who’s success in the courtroom is a stark contrast from her personal life; Lexie (Lorna Gi-

14 May 2016

ith school out, your family is looking for something to do. Why not get the whole crew out of the house and head to the local theatre for a few laughs, some great music and some impressive local talent. Mark your calendars now for these productions set to hit the stage in the next few months.

The Dixie Swim Club kicks off its second run at Courtyard by Marriot, 142 Library Drive, Houma, May 14 with dinner served at 7 p.m. and the show beginning at 8 p.m. There is also a Sunday matinee on May 15 with lunch served at 1 p.m. and the show beginning at 2 p.m. Tickets are $65 and may be purchased by calling 985.868.1298.

anelloni), the outspoken, youthful diva who’s made more than her fair share of trips down the aisle; Vernadette (Sue Peace), who uses her sarcastic personality to embrace all that life throws at her; and Jeri Neal (Lydia Courtney-Voigt), the sweet, hospitable one who has been graced by motherhood later than expected.

Audiences see these five Southern belles reunite over 33 years, helping each other work through personal struggles such as men, sex, marriage, parenting, divorce and aging. During the play’s second act, the women face one particular curveball, a challenge that reveals the underlying theme of strength and love, especially during hard times.

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ST. MARY’S GOT TALENT

ALADDIN JR.

They can dance, they can sing and perhaps, they might even surprise you with a magic trick. St. Mary Parish community members take the stage for this talent competition modeled off of the hit TV show.

Soar with Aladdin and Jasmine through this tale of romance and adventure. This pint-sized production of the animated film features all the familiar songs, magic and mayhem audiences know and love.

AUDITIONS: MAY 8, 5 P.M.; MAY 9 & 16, 6 P.M.

SHOWTIME: JUNE 21-26

SHOWTIME: MAY 27

WHERE: THIBODAUX PLAYHOUSE, THIBODAUX

WHERE: TECHE THEATRE FOR THE PERFORMING

CONTACT: THIBODAUXPLAYHOUSE.COM

ARTS, FRANKLIN CONTACT: 337.366.1845

THE JUNGLE BOOK ONCE ON THIS ISLAND JR. One girl finds love in a world of prejudice in this children’s adaptation of the Hans Christian Anderson fairy tale. Calypso song and dance keep audiences intrigued as Ti Moune rescues and ultimately falls for Daniel, a boy from a world much different than her own.

BayouKidz! presents this children’s production of the famed story of a boy and his adventures through the jungle. A host of colorful characters and jazzy tunes are the backdrop for this take of what it means to be human.

SHOWTIME: JULY 7-17

SHOWTIME: TBA

WHERE: BAYOU PLAYHOUSE, LOCKPORT

WHERE: SOLA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, HOUMA

CONTACT: BAYOUPLAYHOUSE.COM

CONTACT: 985.876.2222

SHREK THE MUSICAL SOME ENCHANTED EVENING The songs of Rodgers & Hammerstein are at the forefront of this homage to the hitmakers.

Included in the evening’s song list are “If I Loved You,” “Shall We Dance?,” “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” and many more.

The beloved ogre and all of his friends take an epic and hilarious journey in this stage adaptation of the feature film.

SHOWTIME: JULY 30-AUG. 5 ADMISSION: $20/ADULTS, $15/SENIORS AND THOSE UNDER 12

SHOWTIME: JUNE 10-19

WHERE: TECHE THEATRE FOR THE PERFORMING

ADMISSION: $15

ARTS, FRANKLIN

WHERE: LE PETIT THEATRE DE TERREBONNE, HOUMA

CONTACT: 337.366.1845

CONTACT: HOUMALITTLETHEATRE.COM

•

HEY BARTENDER

Blueberry Basil Margarita • 2 shots of tequila • 1 shot of Triple sec • 1 packet of sugar • Sour mix

presented by

CASSIE COX

Mix all ingredients together.

Shake. Pour. Enjoy!

KNOW YOUR BARTENDER!

Cassie has been tending bar for three years and slinging margaritas for two. When she’s not bartending, she is taking care of her three wonderful fur-babies at home. Cassie has a passion for making people smile!

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ARTS

by Melissa Duet

W

THE MAN BEHIND THE BLUE MEN

hen you take a seat in the audience of a Blue Man Group performance, you know you’re in for what can only be described as sensory overload. Explosions of neon paint on drums, flashing strobe lights and three now-iconic blue-hued men take patrons on a rip-roaring journey that’s equal parts dance party and mind-bending entertainment.

But if you listen closely, you’re sure to hear the depth of the show’s music, provided by a loft of musicians backing up the performer’s every move with rich harmonies, making the show, now in its 25th year, one downright exhilarating experience.

That’s where you’ll find Terry Tungjunyatham, strings player for the U.S. tour, which makes a stop in New Orleans May 13-15. The musician joined the permanent show in Boston in 2007 after moving to the city for college.

Through guitar lessons, an instrument he’s been playing since the age of 12, he met the then-full-time stick player for the show there, which led to an audition as unorthodox as the show.

“It is a unique audition process I feel like because a lot of times in different

16 May 2016

shows, they will put music in front of you and you basically play the music to show them that you can read music,” he explains. “In Boston, I auditioned for the position of the Chapman Stick.

Basically, it’s a 10-string instrument that’s essentially the bass instrument of the show. Basically, what they did was they brought me in the loft, showed me what the stick looks like, had me put it on and told me to play certain things…

There’s no music written down for the show and in order to learn, it’s basically being passed on from the older musicians.”

Since joining the group, Terry now traveled aboard Norwegian Cruise Lines, bringing the show to the Caribbean and Europe, before scoring one of the two strings positions within the North American tour in 2013. He takes up the Chapman Stick and the Zither, a two-sectioned string instrument played like a lap steel guitar that allows musicians to play the melody and chords simultaneously, providing what he describes as a tribal, percussive sound.

To be selected as part of the tour, Terry says show recruiters seek out individuals that are not only talented

Blue Man Group

stops in the Big Easy for five shows May 13-15 at the Saenger Theatre.

Tickets are $25-$80 and may be purchased at ticketmaster.com

but embody the energetic, upbeat spirit of Blue Man Group. Whether preparing for the night’s show or hanging out backstage afterward, it’s sure to be a good time.

“When we get ready, the dressing room is very lighthearted,” he laughs.

“All the Blue Men are very funny. A lot of times it’s very lighthearted, we listen to a lot of music, sometimes we have Nerf Gun fights. It’s definitely a lot of fun.”

That energy translates into one wild ride, a show that is both awe-inspiring and appropriate for all ages. It’s a journey Terry is proud to be a part of and one he says the crew can’t wait to bring to the Big Easy.

“A lot of people take different things from the show but there is a very common thing that I’ve found in talking to people after the show. That’s that they will always leave with a smile on their face,” he says. “They will always have fun. For people that are seeing it for the first time, expect to have fun and go along with the ride. You’re taken into this journey and hopefully they will leave with a smile on their face.”

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FAMILY

On the Hunt

by Melissa Duet

18 May 2016

50 feet, 30 feet, 10 feet...

the GPS tracker on our iPhone’s geocaching app counted down as we moved closer and closer to the secret hiding spot. As we approached a line of bushes tucked behind a recycling bin at the Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center, the tiny hunter green dot on the app’s map blinked, indicating it was time to start digging.

Within 30 seconds, we spotted a miltary-style plastic box with a flip top tucked inside a hollowed space at the base of the bush. Inside was a treasure trove of tiny souvenirs including a baby block, a pastel-hued toy pony, business cards and an extra special treat, a dogtag with a trackable code on it that we scooped up in anticipation of

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FAMILY

Ready for an adventure?

Visit geohouma.com to learn more about the Houma Geotour.

moving it to its next home.

The art of geocaching might be just over a year old in the Houma area but for many around the globe, it’s a full-blown addiction. One search of the Terrebonne Parish area in the geocaching app and hundreds upon hundreds of green dots, indications of a collection of items, known as a cache, hidden in a hard-to-find spot, come up. 55 of those belong to Houma Travel, which recently expanded its geocache tour on April 30 to include a host of new items waiting to be found.

The idea for a local geotour began when the center’s executive director visited a booth on the activity at a trade show. The idea was tossed around by Houma Travel staff as a way to market the area in a fun, exciting way and before long, Sondra Corbitt, the convention and visitors bureau’s accounting manager, was elected to spearhead the project. Over the next several months, Sondra created each cache and gained permission from property owners to hide her treasures at each site.

In January 2015, Sondra launched the first leg of the tour, one of only 50 globally and the only one in Louisiana, by hiding a variety of micro and box containers throughout the parish at destinations like the Bayou Terrebonne Waterlife Museum and Southdown Museum and Plantation. Those wishing to get in on the action must download and register on the free geocaching app then set out with their gameboard, found on the Houma Travel website, in search of the cache locations listed on the sheet.

Once at the site, participants locate geocaches by clicking on the appropriate dot, pressing start and following the compass-like directions and clues on the screen.

Once the geocache is located, two rules must be followed: sign the log book and leave something if you take something. Take a sticker from the cache and document the cache number on your sheet. Mid and large-sized geocaches are loaded with trinkets from previous cachers and promotional items from the visitors bureau that are free for participants to take as long as something else is put in the box in return.

Since the local tour’s inception, Sondra says the feedback has been over-

20 May 2016

whelming. Visitors from places as far away as Switzerland and Germany have showed up at the visitor’s center to take part and one family even drove in from Florida for launch day to be the first one to take a crack at the tour.

“I was like, ‘Who is going to go and find a Tupperware container?’,” she remembers of the planning process.

“But once you get out and you find [a geocache,] it’s not just about finding that cache. It’s about the adventure of it.”

Because interest has continued to grow over the last year, Houma Travel recently launched its first expansion of the geotour featuring 30 gadget caches, birdhouses fashioned with locks and other puzzle-type pieces that participants much figure out how to unlock to get to the hidden treasure. These will be a bit more challenging with geocachers having to track down historical tidbits at some locations to break the cache open.

“It’ll be like you have to count so many things or figure out what’s the physical address to it to unlock the box,” Sondra explains. “We will have some traditional ones too where I can’t put a birdhouse.”

The prize for all your hard work?

Impressive souvenir coins awarded to those who find a pre-determined amount of the total caches in each phase. There is a coin for each phase with the newest addition having two, one to keep and one that is trackable that can be traded with other geocachers or added to a hidden box.

The most special aspect of it all, however, is the opportunity geocaching allows for families, friends or groups of co-workers to bond while out and about. Once you find one, Sondra says, it’s nearly impossible to stop and the adventure of going somewhere you’ve never been before just might be the best treasure you’ll find all day.

“I geocache with my daughter and we love it,” she says. “We have the best time…It gets you out from being in the house, it gets you out from in front of the TV. You’re still holding that handheld thing but it’s an adventure and you can do it with your family and make it a special bonding time. It takes you to places you never thought you would have gone.”

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presented by

National Hamburger Day T

here’s just something wonderful about biting into that all-beef patty, fresh off the pit, while enjoying the first days of summer vacation. Join us in celebrating #nationalhamburgerday.

May 28

6 Fun Facts about Hamburgers 1.

The term Hamburger was derived from Hamburg steaks introduced in the U.S.

by German immigrants.

2.

In 2014, Americans consumed 50 billion burgers.

3.

There is an actual Hamburger Hall of Fame located in Seymour, Wisconsin.

4.

Beef is the most common meat used in burgers worldwide. Hamburgers account for 71% of beef served in American restaurants.

5. One

of the most expensive and elaborate burgers sold is the Glamburger from Honky Tonk in London. It costs $1,768 and features a Kobe and Wagyu patty garnished in gold leaf, with lobster, caviar, venison, a duck egg and black truffle.

6.

There are many claims as to who is the inventor of the hamburger in America and history has not determined one true winner!

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FAMILY

A

by Jonah Giroir Photo by Karl Gommel

22 May 2016

fter much buzz surrounding the construction and anticipation, little ones now have a spot to beat the heat.

The Bayou Black Community Center unveiled its 3,200 square foot spray park on Saturday, April 16 at a grand opening ceremony. The park, located at 3688 Southdown Mandalay Road in Houma, features many different water activities for children including geysers, mushrooms, buckets, rings, and a flagpole.

These features help the spray park to provide a water experience for children that want to enjoy water, but are not yet ready for the deep swimming pools or bigger attractions.

Construction of the spray park cost a little over $220,000 to build and required a fair amount of research and presentations to get the plans in action. After the Bayou Black Community Center’s summer camp took a field trip to the spray park at the Bayou Vista Community Center in St. Mary Parish, the area’s closest spray park, one of the counselors mentioned the idea to Bayou Black Community Center’s Facility Director, John Haston.

“I said no. That’s crazy,” he remembers.

But, they continued their research, found some prices and before long, the counselors were able to convince the board that it would be a great addition to the community.

“It wasn’t hard to convince the board,” he says. “They like doing new things for the kids here.”

The idea behind the newly opened

spray park was to provide families in the area with a new and unique entertainment experience in Terrebonne Parish. The idea is one of the projects put in place as part of a quality of life initiative by the parish to give residents more things to do in the area. Having to travel to Bayou Vista for a spray park could be considered too far of a trip for some, so the Bayou Black Community Center wanted to bring one to the area instead.

WANNA GO?

The spray park is currently open on weekends from 2-8 p.m. and admission is $5. The park will remain a weekend-only operation from April 16-May 31 and Aug. 8-Oct. 1. From May 31-Aug. 8, the park will be open from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 3:30-8 p.m. with an admission price of $3.

Seasonal memberships are available for $75 and private parties may be hosted from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays for $300.

“It offers a place for the kids to come and do a different activity. It’s a place of enjoyment, not only for them, but also for the whole family. We encourage parents to come and be a part of that experience. It beautifies the area as well by upgrading Terrebonne Parish and providing something the parish has never had before,” John says.

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A complete listing of library events in Lafourche and Terrebonne parishes may be viewed at GUMBOGUIDE.COM.

FAMILY

AT THE LIBRARY

JAPANESE EXTRAVAGANZA Draw anime, eat candy sushi and sing karaoke during this teen/tween activity.

MAY 10, 4 P.M., LOCKPORT BRANCH

MINI GOLF IN THE STACKS

LAFOURCHE PARISH LAPTIME STORYTIME Infants and toddlers enjoy this interactive storytime featuring the tale, “I Love My Mom.”

LETTER TO AN OFFICER Library visitors may write letters to give to Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies as a token of appreciation during National Police Week.

NASA astronauts read children’s books in space in this special broadcast in honor of National Space Day.

NATIONAL POLICE WEEK ACTIVITY

MAY 21, LOCKPORT BRANCH

Children receive a craft and color sheet to take home in addition to a card they may sign and hand to a police officer to say thank you.

TEEN MEDIA

MAY 16-21, GHEENS BRANCH

Teens learn to work with digital devices and programs while gaining coding skills. Participants also make creative content.

POLICEMAN VISIT

MAY 26, 5 P.M., LOCKPORT BRANCH

Children may enjoy this reading of “Coming Up Cajun” with local author Carrie Delatte.

Children visit with the Golden Meadow Chief of Police, Reggie Pitre, take photos and ask questions as part of a special activity for National Police Week.

MAY 11, 10:30 A.M., THIBODAUX BRANCH

MAY 17, 5 P.M., GOLDEN MEADOW BRANCH

STORYTIME

MENTAL HEALTH FAIR

MAY 10, 11 A.M.-7 P.M., CHOCTAW BRANCH

MAY 5, 4 P.M., CHOCTAW BRANCH MAY 6, 9 A.M.-5 P.M., THIBODAUX BRANCH

MAY 18, LOCKPORT BRANCH

Stop by the library and pick up free information about mental wellness during this health fair in recognition of Mental Health Month.

MAY 5, 10:30 A.M., THIBODAUX BRANCH

NATIONAL SPACE DAY

Hit a hole in one during this mini-golf constructed with book stacks.

MENTAL HEALTH SEMINAR Jaret Hubbell leads this seminar on mental wellness. After the seminar, he will be available to answer audience questions.

MAY 18, 4:30 P.M., THIBODAUX BRANCH

CINCO DE MAYO COOKIES

MOBILE CRAFT INTIATIVE

Children can create sombrero-shaped sugar cookies in honor of Cinco de Mayo. Sign up at the library.

Stop in and enjoy themed crafts for all ages throughout the day. Crafts last 10-30 minutes.

MAY 2 & MAY 16, LOCKPORT BRANCH

Rae Bangs leads this workshop in creating unique watercolor and stamp greeting cards.

Sign up at the library.

HUNGRY, HUNGRY HIPPOS LIVE

MAY 4, 1:30 P.M., BAYOU BLUE BRANCH

Children will love this live-action version of the classic game brought to life.

MOTHER’S DAY CARD GIVEAWAY

MAY 5, 3:30 P.M., BAYOU BLUE BRANCH

ZEN COLORING Kick back and relax as you doodle away during this activity intended to reduce stress.

MIXED MEDIA GREETING CARD WORKSHOP

MAY 24, 5 P.M., LOCKPORT BRANCH

MAY 24, 3 P.M., BAYOU BLUE BRANCH

MOTHER’S DAY TEA PARTY

Mothers who visit the library during the week of May 2 will receive a Mother’s Day Card in honor of the holiday.

Children and their mothers, grandmothers and any other special women in their lives are invited to a celebratory tea. Enjoy cake, pastries and more during this special time.

MAY 2-6, GHEENS BRANCH

Enjoy chips, salsa and camaraderie at this children’s celebration of Mexican Independence Day. MAY 5, 4:30 P.M., CHOCTAW BRANCH

MAY 3, 5:30-6:30 P.M., SOUTH LAFOURCHE BRANCH

MAY 17, 3 P.M., SOUTH LAFOURCHE BRANCH

CINCO DE MAYO FIESTA

24 May 2016

LA TABLE FRANÇAISE Converse with others in Cajun French.

TERREBONNE PARISH ADULT COLORING PROGRAM Adults can kick back and relax as they doodle during this stress-relieving activity.

MISS CHERIE’S MEMORIAL TOUCH-A-TRUCK Children get a first-hand look at the vehicles that service the community during this special activity.

MAY 14, 10 A.M.-12 P.M., MAIN LIBRARY

MAY 2, 5:30-7 P.M., EAST HOUMA BRANCH, MEETING ROOM MAY 9, 5:30-7 P.M., EAST HOUMA BRANCH, MEETING ROOM MAY 15, 3-4 P.M., NORTH LIBRARY, CRAFT ROOM MAY 16, 5:30-7 P.M., EAST HOUMA BRANCH, MEETING ROOM MAY 23, 5:30-7 P.M., EAST HOUMA BRANCH, MEETING ROOM

FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS TRAINING Catholic Housing Service hosts this information session on purchasing your first home. For more information, call 985.876.0490.

MAY 2, 5:45-7:30 P.M., MAIN LIBRARY, LARGE MEETING ROOM MAY 16, 5:45-7:30 P.M., MAIN LIBRARY, LARGE MEETING ROOM MAY 23, 5:30-7:30 P.M., MAIN LIBRARY, LARGE MEETING ROOM

TEEN CRAFTAGANZA Teens enjoy challenging crafting during this hour-long activity. Registration is required. This class is for those in 4th-6th grades.

MAY 19, 4-5 P.M., MAIN LIBRARY, CRAFT ROOM

SUMMER READING KICKOFF LOCK-IN DIABETES PREVENTION AND DETECTION CLASS

Teens ages 13-19 enjoy life-sized gaming during this after-hours kick-off event. Registration and permission slips are required. See library staff for more information.

Staff from Chabert Medical Center lead this information session on preventing and detecting diabetes.

MAY 27, 6-10 P.M., NORTH LIBRARY

SUPER SCIENCE SATURDAY

MAY 9, 6:30-7:30 P.M., MAIN LIBRARY, MULTIMEDIA ROOM

Cubelets, magnetic, robotic building cubes are introduced during this science-centric event.

THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT!

MAY 28, 10-11 A.M., EAST HOUMA LIBRARY, MEETING

Learn about a host of apps available to help you become more productive and organized.

Classes are the second and fourth Fridays of each month.

ROOM

SUMMER READING KICK OFF PARTY

MAY 27, 10-11 A.M., EAST HOUMA LIBRARY, MEETING

Run through the obstacle course, craft your own trophy and more at this kick-off to the summer reading program. Don’t forget to register for the program while you’re there.

ROOM

MAY 31, 1-3 P.M., MAIN LIBRARY, CRAFT ROOM

MAY 13, 10-11 A.M., EAST HOUMA LIBRARY, MEETING ROOM

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25

FAMILY

‘RULES FOR BREAKING’ TRACKMANIA TURBO WRITTEN BY ASHLEY ELSTON

OFFERS FAMILY FUN

by Keisa Arceneaux, Terrebonne Parish Library

by Casey Gisclair

A

V

shley Elston, a Louisiana native, delivers again in her newest book “Rules for Breaking.” It is the follow up novel to her debut “Rules for Disappearing.”

“Rules for Breaking” picks up just a few weeks after the events of “Rules for Disappearing.” Anna Boyd’s family has decided to remain in Natchitoches. This allows Anna to remain close to her friends and her boyfriend, Ethan. Her family is beginning to adjust to a life outside of witness protection, they have assumed their real identities, her dad has a new job, her sister is becoming more social and her mom is in rehab getting the help she needs. For those who are close to Anna, everything appears fine and they believe the danger is gone. However, Anna is hiding a secret; she knows Thomas, the assassin hired to kill her, is still out there watching her.

It is not long before the FBI discovers Anna’s secret and they are back in her family’s lives. Before the threat can be eliminated, Thomas kidnaps Anna, her sister Teeny, and Ethan

26 May 2016

and brings them to New Orleans.

While trapped at the Ursuline Convent, they realize the only chance they have of surviving is by being cautious and relying on one another.

While in New Orleans, she meets up with a couple of individuals she never thought she would see again.

This sparks the realization that those she believed she could trust are the very individuals that have betrayed her and her family, leaving her to wonder who she can really trust and with the knowledge that even after they escape, they cannot run forever.

She knows that in order to protect those she loves she will have to take a chance by risking a deal with the very person hired to kill her.

Though the idea of three teenagers outwitting a professional assassin without much adult assistance may be farfetched, Elston manages to create a successful story. This fast-paced story filled with suspense, attention to detail and local history and relatable characters will appeal to young adult readers.

•

ideo games and racing just have unmistakable chemistry.

They seem to fit one another in a way that usually leads to hours of fun. It’s like peanut butter and jelly or baseball and sunflower seeds. It can’t be explained, but it just works in a way that’s just magic.

So knowing all that to be true, I made a few emails and requested a test-copy of Trackmania Turbo – a new, interesting racing title that was released on March 24 for Playstation 4 and Xbox One. The kind folks at Ubisoft accepted my request and gave me a free download.

With it, I was able to give this hot new title a test-drive (pun intended) during one of my rare blocks of spare time.

My initial impressions are this: This game is really, really fun, and it’s a true arcade-style title that everyone in the family can enjoy.

Family was the word that kept coming to mind as I played Trackmania, because of the game’s ease and simple gameplay.

You don’t need to be a rocket scientist, nor a NASCAR driver to navigate the

computer-crafted vehicles through the tricky course. All ‘ya need is a little craftiness and some hand-eye coordination.

I played the game with my 10-year-old nephew. He did better than I did in a lot of the stages. If his 4-year-old brother would have been with us, he probably could have done a lap or two, as well.

Perhaps the best part of the game is its depth and attention to detail – especially in its courses. The game features a ridiculous 200 courses – each featuring countless twists and turns that will make the game impossible to bore of.

The graphics are legit, too. Something about driving a virtual race car just makes it all feel so real.

I’m a conservative driver. I’ve never pushed my sloppy ol’ Ford Focus past 70 mph. But in this game, I’m full-throttle and pedal to the metal – non-stop without regard for what’s next.

Ah, video games and racing.

Surely a sweet bond you share.

Trackmania Turbo is worth the hype, folks. If given the opportunity, give it a spin.

•

THE DISH

3 HOT SPOTS FOR A HOT BREAKFAST 2D Day Mother’s Day Celebration May 10th & 13th Cash & Prizes

4 DAY MEMORIAL CELEBRATION

Cajun Meat Market

Pit Stop 2

If you haven’t tried their homemade breakfast eggroll, you are seriously missing out on one of life’s finer flavors!

Well known for their specialty cuts of meats, Cajun Meat Market doesn’t disappoint when serving up the most important meal of the day. Their morning menu includes biscuits and breakfast sandwiches including egg, cheese and sausage, kolaches, burritos, and cinnamon rolls baked fresh to order. Try the Boudreaux biscuit, a jalapeño cheddar biscuit filled with shredded roast beef and gravy.

Open 24 hours, the Pit Stop 2 is a haven for not only the early morning crowd but the very early (think late night) crowd. Known for their fresh pots of coffee and beignets, this is a great spot to stop no matter the hour or the craving.

216 MYSTIC BLVD. SUITE D 985.851.1727

May 27th, 28th, 29th, 30th

6613 WEST PARK AVE., HOUMA 985.879.1591

Spahr’s Downtown

601 WEST 4TH STREET, THIBODAUX 985.447.0487

World Famous Bloody Marys count as a breakfast food, right?

But seriously, breakfast is served daily at Spahr’s Thibodaux location starting as early as 5 a.m. on weekdays. Their menu includes stand out features with Cajun flair such as shrimp and grits, crawfish omelets and pain perdu.

•

We Salute You Free Play w/ Military ID

Kick Off Summer Every Weekend Giant Jackpots, Cash, BBQ Pits & More

Why Go Anywhere Else GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL TOLL FREE 1.877.770.7867 gumboguide.com

27

Want to see a full schedule of festivals for May? Visit GUMBOGUIDE.COM for more.

LISTINGS

FESTIVAL GUIDE 2016 in the neighborhood

STOMP’N ON THE BAYOU

FREEDOM FEST

MAY 6-8, LAROSE CIVIC CENTER AND PAVILION, LAROSE

This third annual music festival offers community members a chance to pass a good time and support a good cause. The two-day inside event features a host of Louisiana musicians including Tet Dur, Bayou Blue Brothers, Aaron Foret and Pepper Jelly, as well as lots of food and drinks, kid’s games and more. Proceeds benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Louisiana and various community projects of Evergreen Associates, Evergreen Lions & Southeast Louisiana Bayou Mustang Club.

HOURS: FRI.: 5 P.M.-12 A.M..; SAT.: 11 A.M.-12 A.M.; SUN.:

MAY 13-15, EVERGREEN CAJUN CENTER, HOUMA

Friends, family and neighbors gather for this second annual event to commemorate Memorial Day. The Mayor of Morgan City, Frank P. Grizzaffi, III, welcomes crowds to Lake Palourde, opening up the weekend’s jam-packed lineup of events.

Highlights include live music from fan favorites like Blue Eyed Soul Revue and Natural Satisfaction, as well as the inaugural chicken wing cookoff. On Sunday, motorcyclists gather at Morgan City Auditorium for the annual Freedom Ride in which wreathes are laid at various Blue Star Memorial sites through St. Mary Parish.

10:30 A.M.-6 P.M.

HOURS: FRI.: 5:30-11:30 P.M.; SAT.: 12 A.M.-11 P.M.; SUN.:

MAY 28-29, LAKE PALOURDE, MORGAN CITY

ADMISSION: FREE

11 A.M.-7:30 P.M.

HOURS: SAT.: 11 A.M.-8:30 P.M.; SUN.: 8 A.M.-7:30 P.M.

ADMISSION: FREE

ADMISSION: $5/PER DAY PER VEHICLE

BAYOU CAJUN FEST This second annual festival returns to Larose for a weekend of family fun. Live music entertains crowds throughout the three-day event and authentic Cajun cuisine abounds. A glow run is hosted on Saturday evening and festivities wrap up Sunday with a by-reservation-only Mother’s Day Brunch prepared by a local celebrity chef.

•

WORTH THE DRIVE A few more state festivals worth checking out this month BREAUX BRIDGE CRAWFISH FESTIVAL Started as a spin-off to the city’s Centennial Celebration of 1960, this festival has since grown so big, it earned Breaux Bridge the title of Crawfish Capital of the World. In addition to cuisine featuring the weekend’s main attraction, there’s also crawfish races, a parade and dance contests.

Don’t forget to check out the music lineup as the event has become a hub for some of the best Cajun musicians to gather.

RAYNE FROG FESTIVAL Hop on over to this town just a little outside of New Orleans to check out this truly one-of-akind event. Rayne became Frog Capital of the World thanks to one local chef who began selling the animals to be served up at New Orleans restaurants. Soon he garnered attention from buyers all over the country and so began the festival, which now boasts frog racing and jumping contests, a grand parade, dance contests and more. Jockeys compete in a best dressed frog competition on Saturday and live music from the likes of The Chee Weez, Ryan Foret and Foret Tradition and Wayne Toups and Zydecajun keep crowds grooving all weekend.

MAY 11-14, RAYNE FROG FESTIVAL FAIRGROUNDS, RAYNE

Racers of this traditional Chinese watercraft converge on the north shore for this action packed one-day event. Mixed, Women’s and Open competitions happen throughout the day while spectators can enjoy live entertainment, a beer garden, wellness village and food.

MAY 14, 403 SAINT FRANCIS STREET, MADISONVILLE ADMISSION: FREE WORTH THE DRIVE: APPROX. 1 HR., 40 MINS.

MID-CITY BAYOU BOOGALOO

Pig is on the menu at this fest celebrating of the French roasting technique. While the food may be the star, this festival’s contests are just as enjoyable, however. Among the mix? A crackin cook-off, hog calling contests, boudin eating contests and beer drinking contests.

For those in search of a Jazz Fest-esque experience with a few thousand less folks, this community festival is it. The Wailers, Irma Thomas and Lowrider Band headline with appearances from Lost Bayou Ramblers, Motel Radio, George Porter Jr. and more scheduled throughout the weekend. Because the festival prides itself on being child and pet friendly, there’s also tons of space to hang with your furry friend and plenty of activities for the little ones. There’s also tons of food, paddle battle boat races and a bicycle pub crawl.

MAY 12-15, DOWNTOWN MANSURA

MAY 20-22, BAYOU ST. JOHN, NEW ORLEANS

ADMISSION: FREE

ADMISSION: FREE

WORTH THE DRIVE: APPROX. 3 HRS.

WORTH THE DRIVE: APPROX. 1 HR, 15 MINS.

ADMISSION: THURS.: FREE; FRI. & SAT.: $5/PERSON;

MAY 6-8, PARC HARDY, BREAUX BRIDGE

CHILDREN 12 AND UNDER ARE FREE

ADMISSION: FRI. 7 SUN.: $5, SAT.: $10, 3-DAY PASS: $15

WORTH THE DRIVE: APPROX. 2 HRS.

WORTH THE DRIVE: APPROX. 2 HRS.

COCHON DE LAIT FESTIVAL

28 May 2016

GREATER NEW ORLEANS DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL

LITTLE WALTER MUSIC FESTIVAL This one’s for blues enthusiasts in search of great live music that pays homage to the classic genre.

A native of nearby Marksville, the famed musician and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee revolutionized the sound of blues harmonica through amplification. To celebrate his legacy, this festival, formed in 2013, brings a host of blues-influenced musicians together to perform over two days. A harmonica workshop and Color Vibe 5K are also hosted.

MAY 27-28, ALEXANDRIA AMPHITHEATER, ALEXANDRIA ADMISSION: FREE WORTH THE DRIVE: APPROX. 3 HRS., 20 MINS.

NEW ORLEANS GREEK FESTIVAL Bayou St. John transforms for this annual cultural celebration. Go hungry as this festival serves up just about anything Greek you can think of including gyros, feta fries, spring lamb, souvlaki, goat burgers and over twenty traditional homemade pastries. Let the little ones make their way through the Athenian Playground, enjoy cooking demonstrations and dancing and don’t forget to don your toga for Toga Sunday.

MAY 27-29, 1200 ROBERT E. LEE BLVD., NEW ORLEANS ADMISSION: $7, CHILDREN 12 AND UNDER ARE FREE WORTH THE DRIVE: APPROX. 1 HR., 15 MINS.

•

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Want your venue’s bands listed?

Email MELISSA@RUSHING-MEDIA.COM.

LISTINGS

MUSIC

STEVE JUNOT

DEJA VU

AARON FORET

Every Wednesday, 9 p.m.-12 a.m.

May 27, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

May 14, 8-11 p.m.

FRANK BALL & JON SMITH

Every Thursday, 5 p.m.-till TODD ADAMS

Every Friday & Saturday, 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

Beck’s 4293 LA HIGHWAY 1, RACELAND BEN LABAT

May 6 BANG BANG

May 13 MULE KICK

May 20 BURNING CANE

May 27

Cypress Bayou Casino 832 MARTIN LUTHER KING ROAD, CHARENTON

Bayou Cajun Fest 307 E. 5TH ST., LAROSE

2639 HIGHWAY 182, RACELAND

La Carreta 1327 ST. CHARLES ST., HOUMA

May 6, 5:30 p.m.

LA RHYTHM

May 1 FULL MOONS

May 8

DJ BOBBY NOVOSAD (ROX)

May 21, 9 p.m.

DARYLE SINGELTARY (ROX)

May 13 SOUTH PAW

Every Tuesday, 5 p.m.-till

30 May 2016

Saenger Theatre 1111 CANAL ST., NEW ORLEANS CELTIC WOMAN

May 7, 7:30 p.m.

K. MICHELLE

May 8, 8 p.m.

DOWNTOWN HOUMA COURTHOUSE SQUARE

May 19

BLACK GUIDRY

TJ & SID

May 14, 11:30-1 p.m.

May 20 BACK ROOTS

May 21

FRONT STREET B/W EVERETT AND FRERET

“PLAY AROUND TUESDAY” W/ DARREN KRAEMER

May 8, 3:30 p.m.

KERRY THIBODAUX

May 5, 5-9 p.m.

656 CORPORATE DRIVE, HOUMA

RUFF N READY

Taste of Terrebonne

REUBEN RIVERA (LOCO)

Vino! Piano Bar

May 8, 12 p.m.

May 14

Rhythms on the River

May 21, 8 p.m.-1 a.m.

WILL COOPER AND SOUTHERN GRACE

BLUE EYED SOUL REVUE

REUBEN RIVERA (BOCAT’S)

2 IN THE CHAMBER (BOCAT’S)

May 7, 9:30 p.m.

May 6

May 13, 14, 27 & 28, 6-11 p.m.

May 14, 8 p.m.-1 a.m.

SPECIAL MUSICAL ACT

LIP SYNC BATTLE

BRENNON AND SAM

CORY LANDRY TRIO (BOCAT’S)

May 7, 6 p.m.

May 5

STEVE SMITH (MR. LESTER’S STEAKHOUSE)

May 20, 7 p.m.-12 a.m.

CHUBBY CARRIER & THE BAYOU SWAMP BAND

RICK PRICE

May 12

KING OF CLUBS (BOCAT’S)

May 7, 2:30 p.m.

May 29

May 6, 7, 10 & 11, 6-11 p.m.

May 13, 7 p.m.-12 a.m.

WAYLON THIBODEAUX

ROYAL FLUSH

STEVE JUNOT

LOUD AND CLEAR PRODUCTIONS

May 7, 11 a.m.

May 22

JAMES DERING (MR. LESTER’S STEAKHOUSE)

THREE37 (BOCAT’S)

May 6, 8:30 p.m.

May 5

TET DUR

May 7

May 6, 27, 7 p.m.-12 a.m.

May 7, 8 p.m.-1 a.m.

CLUSTAFUNK

BOTTOMS UP

May 15

May 28, 10 p.m.

BRENNON AND SAM

BABY BEE & WILD BILL

HWY. 315

541 CORPORATE DRIVE, HOUMA

May 14, 10 p.m.

May 15, 4:30-7:30 p.m.

May 12, 8-11 p.m.

DYLAN SCOTT (ROX) TODD O’NEILL BAND (ROX)

PEPPER JELLY

Cajun Country Event Center

Piazza Bar (Houma)

May 7, 10 p.m.

5375 LA 308, MATHEWS

May 15, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

SEABROOK BAND

May 29, 8 p.m.

CHARLIE DANIELS BAND (THE PAVILION)

Jester’s Walk Casino

TET DUR

THE VIBE

May 14, 2:30 p.m.-till

Stomp’n on the Bayou 4694 W. MAIN ST., HOUMA

Bold Sphere Music at Champions Square LASALLE STREET, NEW ORLEANS THE 1975 W/ THE JAPANESE HOUSE

May 8, 7:30 p.m.

CHRIS STAPLETON

May 12, 7:30 p.m.

JOE WALSH & BAD COMPANY

May 26, 6 p.m.

TET DUR

STREETS, MORGAN CITY

May 13, 5:30-8 p.m.

KROSSFYRE

JUNIOR LACROSS

Smoothie King Center

May 6, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

May 13, 8:30-1:30 p.m.

1501 DAVE DIXON DRIVE, NEW ORLEANS

LOUISIANA SOUL SURVIVORS

TET DUR

May 13, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

May 14, 12 a.m.-3 p.m.

RIHANNA W/ TRAVIS SCOTT

NICK L BEER

BAYOU BLUE BROTHERS

May 20, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

May 14, 4:30-7:30 p.m.

May 17, 7:30 p.m.

•

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LISTINGS

LAGNIAPPE HOUMA NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER GATHERING The National Day of Prayer is an annual observance held the first Thursday of May inviting all people to pray for our nation. Join fellow citizens and city leaders to seek the Lord in prayer.

6:30-9:30 P.M., DOWNTOWN COURTHOUSE SQUARE, HOUMA

SUNDAY, MAY 1

TUESDAY, MAY 3

ST. FRANCIS DE SALES PICNIC

CRAFT NIGHT

Parishioners and supporters of the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales are invited to this afternoon of socializing and fun at this Spring picnic. Mass is held at 11 a.m. under the pavilion, followed by food, games and various activities throughout day.

Join the staff of Chick-fil-A for a night of dining and crafting. Supplies for the night’s craft are provided and meals are buy one, get one kids meal free during event hours.

5-7 P.M., CHICK-FIL-A, HOUMA

11 A.M., SOUTHDOWN PLANTATION & MUSEUM, HOUMA

MONDAY, MAY 2 SUMMER LAP SWIMMING REGISTRATION Registration is open for summer lap swimming hosted by Thibodaux Recreation Department.

Classes are June 6-July 29 at 6:30 a.m. Cost is $50 and classes are at Thibodaux Municipal Pool.

THROUGH JUNE 3, THIBODAUX RECREATION OFFICE OR CI.THIBODAUX.LA.US

SUMMER WATER AEROBICS REGISTRATION Registration is open for summer water aerobics hosted by Thibodaux Recreation Department.

Classes are June 6-July 29 at 6:30 a.m. Cost is $50 and classes are hosted at Thibodaux Municipal Pool.

THURSDAY, MAY 5 MAKING MEMORIES SHOPPING EVENT

THROUGH JUNE 3, THIBODAUX RECREATION OFFICE OR

Enjoy perusing the selection of gifts, apparel and more available from small businesses in Franklin during this shopping event. Merchants offer specials and light refreshments.

CI.THIBODAUX.LA.US

9 A.M.-6 P.M., DOWNTOWN FRANKLIN

Tour du Rouge Paints Morgan City Red

FRIDAY, MAY 6

On May 4, a sea of red will flood the town of Morgan City on a mission.

Hundred of bikers clad in red and other American Red Cross gear will barrel through the area en route to the Big Easy, all in the name of raising money for the organization that has helped so many.

Tour du Rouge, established in 2008 but pushed to May 2009 when Hurricane Ike hit the southern region, brings together experienced cyclists from across the country to ride through communities while raising awareness and funds for the organization. Cyclists began their trek in Houston on April 30 and over the next five days will arrive in Beaumont, Texas, Sulphur, Lafayette, Morgan City, Gonzales and New Orleans. In total, that’s 537 miles, averaging 90 miles daily.

As part of the commitment to this journey, participants are required to raise a minimum of $2,500 for the American Red Cross, funds that are used throughout the year to provide disaster relief, support military families, offer health services and blood donations as well as provide humanitarian efforts overseas.

So keep an eye out May 4. You just might catch a glimpse of the cyclists as they pedal with a purpose through St. Mary Parish.

The elementary school hosts a yard sale featuring designer brands, estate pieces, furniture, home decor and more. Purchase a $10 armband to shop the early bird sale on Friday from 6-8 p.m.

ST. MATTHEW’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL YARD SALE

FRI.: 6-8 P.M.; SAT.: 7 A.M.-3 P.M., ST. MATTHEW’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL, HOUMA

Photo by Erica Seely

SATURDAY, MAY 7 A MOTHER’S DAY TO REMEMBER This special evening allows moms to celebrate Mother’s Day with their daughters and sons.

The evening includes tea party foods, visits with princesses, a photo booth, cupcake decorating, music, dancing and more. Royal attire is encouraged. Tickets are $40 and includes one adult and one child. Additional guests are $15 each.

Limited seating is available and proceeds benefit Stella Learning Center.

5-7 P.M., BAYOU BLUE RECREATION CENTER, HOUMA 985.868.2671

32 May 2016

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LISTINGS

LAGNIAPPE SATURDAY, MAY 7

SATURDAY, MAY 14

COMMUNITY DANCE

HERM’S SOUTHDOWN CASA OF TERREBONNE CRAWFISH BOIL-OFF & 5K

Dance the night away at this community day hosted by American Legion Post 31 and Houma Lions Club. Dances are the first Saturday of every month and entry is $10 per person or $15 per couple. Food and non-alcoholic beverages are sold or B.Y.O.B. This month’s live entertainment is Busted Muffler.

5-9 P.M., AMERICAN LEGION POST 31, HOUMA

TGMC COMMUNITY SPORTS INSTITUTE TFAE RACE FOR EXCELLENCE Run in support of Terrebonne Parish teachers and youth literacy at this 16th annual fundraiser.

Following the race, enjoy food from more than 40 vendors, live music from Bag of Donuts and kid’s activities. Registration is $20 for students and $30 for adults through May 5; on-site registration increases $5.

FUN RUN: 5:30 P.M. & 5K: 6 P.M., DOWNTOWN COURTHOUSE SQUARE, HOUMA TFAE.ORG

ROUGAROU BALL Catch your first glimpse of the 2016 Rougarou Queen, an ambassador of the annual Rougarou Fest, set for October. Proceeds benefit the South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center, set to break ground on phase one of its facility just four days before the festival. Attire is Swamp-Chic.

Tickets are $75.

7:30-11:30 P.M., HOUMA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM, HOUMA SLWDC.ORG, 985.580.7289

FRIDAY, MAY 13 STAN BROCK’S BLACK & GOLD CLASSIC Founded in 2006 by six former New Orleans Saints teammates and benefiting the Navy SEAL Foundation and Green Beret Foundation, the fishing and shooting tournament allows the public to mingle with and compete against former NFL standouts and other celebrities. Friday’s events include a corporate team shoot, private concert, dinner and auction; Saturday’s events include a fishing rodeo, clay target shoot, music and NFL player and military honoree meet and greet. Cost ranges from $25-$3,000.

The brainchild of a few men at Southdown Bar, this growing crawfish boil-off invites everyone to show off their best crawfish recipe. Teams must prepare at least one sack of crawfish and samples will be sold on-site at market price. A 5K is hosted prior to the boil-off and activities like live music and an inflatable rock wall are available to keep crowds entertained throughout the day. Cost is $75 per team for the boil-off. All proceeds benefit CASA of Terrebonne.

5K: 9 A.M.; CRAWFISH: 11 A.M., HOUMA-TERREBONNE CIVIC CENTER, HOUMA BOILOFF5K.COM

OZ CON SOUTH Terrebonne Parish’s Main Library is your stop for all things Oz. The International Wizard of Oz Club hosts this meeting of enthusiasts for the first time since 1974 complete with presentations, music, games and exhibits. Admission is free and open to the public.

10 A.M.-4 P.M., TERREBONNE MAIN LIBRARY, HOUMA OZCLUB.ORG

AMERICAN CRAFT BEER CELEBRATION Kick back, relax and enjoy a cold one at this afternoon celebrating American-made craft beer. Tastings of seasonal, local, national and barrel-aged beers are served, a pub menu is available to satisfy cravings and there is also a raffle for rare beers and other drink-related items. Live music is provided on the patio by Sam LeCompte, Steve Junot, Zac Cheramie and Corey Duplechin. Proceeds benefit Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at Terrebonne General Medical Center.

3-7 P.M., LA CASA DEL SOL RESTAURANT, THIBODAUX 985.446.2576

CRAWDADDY’S CRAWFISH BOIL OFF FOR CHARITY

THROUGH MAY 14, BRIDGE SIDE MARINA, GRAND ISLE

Crawdaddy’s Seafood hosts this cook-off sponsored by Farm Bureau Insurance of Lafourche to support ALS Association, CASA of Lafourche and Crossroads Pregnancy Resource Center.

The public is invited to sample crawfish and enjoy live music from Casey & Johnny and The Groove. Admission is $15.

BLACKANDGOLDCLASSIC.COM

4-11 P.M., DOWNTOWN THIBODAUX

34 May 2016

A Taste of Terrebonne

by Brittney Courteaux

Looking for one spot to enjoy delicious Cajun dishes, showcase your culinary skills, participate in a 5K and hang out with the family? Kiwanis of Houma’s inaugural Taste of Terrebonne, set for May 14, has it all.

The day begins with a run/walk at 8 a.m., followed by a host of delicious eats created by teams who will go head to head for prizes. Teams may enter in either gumbo, jambalaya or savory Cajun dish categories and winners will take home an engraved wood paddle. The public is then treated to helpings of each dish as well as hamburgers and drinks.

This event serves as a fundraiser for the local club, part of a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time, event organizer Sandy Dupre says. Throughout the year, Kiwanis clubs throughout the globe participate in service projects that include everything from gathering and refurbishing instruments for students to partnering with UNICEF with the goal to eliminate maternal and neonatal tetanus. Locally, proceeds from Taste of Terrebonne will assist in the start up of Aktion Club and benefit a handful of other service projects.

“The Aktion Club focuses on teaching a sense of purpose to those adults with special needs in the area,” Sandy says. “It gives them a way to feel like they are giving back to the community.”

TASTE OF TERREBONNE IS HELD MAY 14 FROM 11 A.M.-6 P.M. IN DOWNTOWN HOUMA COURTHOUSE SQUARE. ADMISSION IS FREE.

THE CHITIMACHA RACE This 20-mile race for kayaks, canoes, pirogues and stand-up paddle boards, race 9 of the Tour du Teche series, takes participants from New Iberia to Charenton through the parishes of Iberia and St. Mary. The race begins in New Iberia City Park and ends on the Chitimacha Reservation. Registration is $30 and includes one coureur de bois per boat, a shirt for each paddler and meal vouchers.

8 A.M., NEW IBERIA CITY PARK BOAT LAUNCH, NEW IBERIA TOURDUTECHE.COM

SATURDAY, MAY 21 MULTIPLE FAMILY FLEA MARKET & CAR WASH The students of H.L. Bourgeois High School are hosting this flea market and car wash to give them and their parents an opportunity to raise money toward trips to Washington D.C. and New York City in Jan. 2017. Cost is $8 per vehicle.

7 A.M.-1 P.M., BAYOU BLUE RECREATION CENTER, HOUMA

SATURDAY, MAY 28 ONE SMALL STEP 5K This annual race aims to bring awareness to Prader-Willi Syndrome, a genetic disorder that occurs in one out of every 15,000 births, while sharing the story of local child, Cade, who was born with the syndrome. Registration is $25 for the 5K and free for the Fun Run, which is open to those ages 12 and under. Post-race activities include snowballs, jambalaya, live entertainment, kid’s activities and prizes.

FUN RUN: 8:30 A.M. AND 5K: 9 A.M.; MULBERRY PARK, HOUMA SPLITSECONDLLC.COM

FREEDOM FEST The American Legion Riders Post 96 hosts this weekend-long event to celebrate Memorial Day. Live music is provided throughout the event, as well as a bike show, guest speakers, children’s activities and a chicken wing cook-off. A Freedom Ride, a time for motorcyclists to lay wreaths at various Blue Star Memorial site through St. Mary Parish, is held Sunday at 9 a.m. beginning at the Morgan City Auditorium.

THROUGH MAY 29, LAKE PALOURDE, MORGAN CITY ALRFREEDOMFEST.COM

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Geaux Gumbo

WHAT’S STIRRIN’ E

ach month our staff will select the best #GeauxGumbo hashtags on Instagram or Facebook that showcase what’s happening in and around our communities. Are you out and about?

Are you cheering at the soccer fields with the kids or hanging at the festivals with your bestie? Tag us @GUMBOGUIDE or #GEAUXGUMBO for a chance to have your image featured in a future issue of Gumbo.

@babybeemusic Bout to roll @jazzfest

LOEWS NEW ORLEANS HOTEL

@nichollsstate

Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Nicholls, Adam Lefort and Mary Sauce CRAWFISH DAY – NICHOLLS STATE UNIVERSITY

@gypsylove000

@juliemsosa

HOUMA TERREBONNE CIVIC CENTER – RELAY FOR LIFE

RELAY FOR LIFE OF TERREBONNE PARISH

@phimuatnicholls

@upsidedownsla

#KEEPINGUPWITHTHEKAPPAETAS

UPSIDE DOWNS LAUNCH PARTY

Root beer floats at the MPH Inc booth (#300) CURE is the word #rflterrebonne2016

Some of our sisters representing Phi Mu at the crawfish boil for the Student Alumni Association yesterday! #PHIMUKAPPAETA

She got to ride a horse at Relay for Life. I’m pretty jealous. #rflterrebonne2016

Megan Legendre, Michelle Brooks, Stacy Lasseigne & Allyson Cutron support Upside Downs.

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gumboguide.com

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