Gumbo (July 2015)

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YEARS OF SUMMER FUN KIDS DAY CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH A BANG!

GOES OVER THE TOP AT THIBODAUX PLAYHOUSE GRAND ISLE’S COLORFUL 5K

2 July 2015

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Contents

JULY 2015

ON THE COVER

PUBLISHER

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Brian Rushing GENERAL MANAGER

Lacey LeBlanc EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Shell Armstrong

‘The Producers’ takes Thibodaux Playhouse season out with a bang

CONTRIBUTORS

Jean-Paul Arguello John DeSantis Melissa Duet Casey Gisclair Felicia LeDuff Harry CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Gavin Stevens GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Events

Music

Outdoors

6 10 12

18 19 20 22

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INDEPENDENCE DAY Celebrate the 4th with a Bang!

BBQ BASH Inaugural Event in Houma KIDS DAY Summer Fun for the Young Ones

BABY BEE Rockers Come in All Ages KID’S PAGE Fun Games for the Younger Set LA PAIR O DE Couple Gaining Attention HOT TIX & CONCERTS Local Performers Highlighted

Arts

24 26 28 14 16

THE PRODUCERS Thibodaux Takes on Mel Brooks

COLOR THE ISLAND Grand Isle Race is Colorful

Gumbo Guru

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SALES DIRECTOR

Deanne Ratliff SALES

Harold Cancienne Jamal Charles Elizabeth Porche

GOLDEN CORRAL Good food, good service, good value

Did you Know?

AT THE LIBRARY More Than Books at Local Libraries

6160 W. Park Ave., Houma, LA 70364 985.868.7515 • Fax 985.873.9009 WWW.HOUMATIMES.COM/GUMBO

Delish!

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CIRCULATION

Brooke Adams

THEATRE & DANCE LISTINGS Performances Around the Region

TRIATHLON Youngsters Get Active EVENT LISTINGS Check Out This Month’s Events

TARPON RODEO Event Continues to Grow

Mariella Brochard Danielle Evans

BOOK REVIEW Chef John Folse Looking for Veggies

Cucamelons grow on vines and look like grape-sized watermelons, but they taste like cucumbers with a hint of sourness.

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.

Events

CELEBRATE JULY 4TH WITH A BANG! ummer’s biggest bash, July Fourth, will be celebrated throughout Lafourche, Terrebonne and St. Mary parishes with start-spangled events ideal for hanging out with family and friends.

For those in the Houma area, the 7th Annual Houma Independence Celebration, sponsored by Terrebonne Patriots, Inc., provides an action-packed day focused on honoring those who have and continue to serve our country. The event kicks off at 11 a.m. with a Veterans Memorial at Veterans Park on La. Highway 311, which features a presentation of wreaths to fallen soldiers.

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Winners of the celebration’s essay contest will also be on-hand to read their writings.

At 1 p.m., a military-style parade will begin at the Terrebonne Parish School Board office on Stadium Drive and will run along Main Street, ending at Town Hall on Barrow Street. Some 300-400 people are expected to participate, Event Coordinator Danny Picou said– current military members–and veterans are also invited to join the fun by riding in one of the parade’s floats. Those interested in participating may sign up at the Regional Military Museum and will receive throws for the ride free of charge.

According to parade and silent auction chairwoman Denise Bourg, two vehicles from the museum, a horse group, the Selucrey Sophisticats, a patriotic ex-military “Deuce and a Half” cargo truck, an antique truck from Davidson Hardware, the Central Lafourche High School ROTC, the Cajun Roller Girls, the South Louisiana Jeep Owners

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Association and many more will roll through the town in honor of the big day.

World War II Veteran Lloyd Geist will serve as the grand marshal.

At 3 p.m., the Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center will open the grounds to celebration attendees, who will enjoy an afternoon of live music, delicious food and fun in the sun. Children’s activities, hosted by mobile children’s museum, K.I.M.’s Playhouse, will include a petting zoo from Abbott Farms, face painting and airbrushed tattoos

by Inky Do Tattoos, inflatables and water games by Bounce n’ Around Inflatables, crafts, a reverse dunk tank and more to keep the little ones entertained. Adults will enjoy live music from the Houma-Terrebonne Community Band, Southern Cross and the Marine Corps Band from New Orleans. T-shirts from the festival’s art contest will also be sold for a $10 donation.

A half-mile kid’s fun run and two mile dash will be held at 4 p.m. at the festival’s grounds and the night ends with an impressive fireworks display at 9 p.m. Entry to the celebration is free; food and children’s activities will be available for a cost.

“To come onto the grounds and listen to the music, it’s all free,” Picou, who also serves as Terrebonne Patriots Inc. President, said “It’s a very family-oriented day.”

The celebration serves at the primary fundraiser for Terrebonne Patriots Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to the support of the region’s veterans. The organization works throughout the year to provide various types of assistance to veterans, including supporting the Wounded Warrior Project.

In Lafourche Parish, the annual Let Freedom Ring Festival, sponsored by the Veterans of the Vietnam War, Inc., the Lorio Foundation and the City of Thibodaux, invites residents to Peltier Park for a day spent with family and friends.

The event begins at 8 a.m. with a breakfast for veterans, police, Acadian ambulance and emergency room personnel, followed by a day of relaxation under the shady trees of the park. Children will be treated to activities and gifts and attendees will be able to enjoy delicious food and

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drinks for a small fee. For those wishing to whip up their own fare, barbecue pits and ice chests will be allowed. An opening ceremony will be held at 5 p.m. to welcome guests and honor active military and veterans. Local cover band Soul Survivors will get crowds on their feet from 4 - 5 p.m. and again from 7 - 9 p.m.

The event’s annual auction will begin at 5:30 p.m. and a fireworks display will top things off at 9 p.m.

For those in St. Mary Parish, the festivities roll on into Sunday at the Rock the 5th Celebration in Morgan City’s Lawrence Park, the kick-off event of the city’s Jammin’ in July lineup.

Because of the affordability of fireworks the day after Independence Day, event organizers chose to hold the celebration on Sunday, giving residents an additional day to relax, kick back and enjoy what it means to be an American.

This festival is centered primarily on great music, beginning with local family variety band, Driftwood, kicking things off at 1 p.m. The Beau Young Band, a country/ rock group from Abbeville, takes over from 3-5 p.m. and Krossfyre, a Lafayette cover band playing everything from Motown to Today’s Top 40, plays from 5:30-8:30 p.m.

There will also be no shortage of delicious food to keep bellies full throughout the day. Don and Mata Tellman, founders of the city’s annual barbecue cook-off, will sell barbecue plate dinners, while Central Catholic High School will serve up hamburgers. Soft drinks and beer will also be sold. Pharr Chapel United Methodist Church will host a variety of children’s activities in the Kids’ Corner from 1-5 p.m.

A fireworks display will light up the night sky over the Atchafalaya River, closing out the celebration, at 9 p.m.

Other Jammin’ in July events scheduled are Comedy Night with John Morgan on July 11 at 6:30 p.m at the Morgan City Municipal Auditorium and Bayou BBQ Bash on July 24-25 under the bridge in Downtown Morgan City.

July 4th events in Lafourche, Terrebonne and St. Mary parishes are free and open to the public.

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Events

BBQ ON THE BAYOU COOK-OFF LOOKING FOR THE BEST

ou’ve manned the pit like a pro for years now. Neighbors and friends flock to your backyard at the first sign of smoke billowing from the charcoal and they linger long after the last bite. If you have what it takes to be a pitmaster, the inaugural BBQ on the Bayou CookOff, to be held July 10 -11 in downtown Houma, will be the spot to show off your skills.

Businesses, organizations, families and friends are invited to participate in this non-sanctioned event, created to provide a little light-hearted competition and a whole lot of delicious eats.

“There’s a group of us, four or five guys, that travel some together. One year we said, ‘You know, we need to do this in Houma,” Gary Ward, one of the event’s organizers said.

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Cooks will converge on a blocked off section of downtown at 7 p.m. Friday to go over rules for the cook-off and check in. Teams will then set up and begin preparations for their own versions of one-half chicken, baby back or spare ribs, pulled pork and beef brisket. Participants may enter any number of categories and those entering in all four will be eligible for the title of grand champion.

“Once we get set up, the judges will come by and do inspections on the meats that we are cooking,” Ward explained. “We’ll start cooking that night and we’ll cook all night and throughout the day Saturday.”

All entrees will be cooked over wood or charcoal and will not be marked with team names to make the competition fair. Each entry will be placed in a box and judges

will select first, second, third and grand champion winners based on specifics like flavor and cooking technique.

In addition to the barbecue, event attendees will also enjoy live music beginning at 1 p.m. Saturday, an awards ceremony for cook-off winners beginning at 2 p.m. and an auction at 5 p.m. featuring items donated by participating cooking teams.

Hamburgers, hot dogs, barbecue sandwiches and drinks will also be sold.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Voice of the Wetlands, a volunteer-based non-profit organization founded by musician Tab Benoit and aimed at raising awareness for wetlands loss in south Louisiana. It’s annual three-day free festival now in its 12th year, will relocate from Southdown Plantation to a grassy spot off Houma’s U.S. Highway 90 to accommodate crowds and Ward said he hopes the cook-off will get the word out about the move and the group’s efforts.

“I’ve been involved in Voice of the Wetlands for awhile,” Ward, an Alabama native who relocated to Houma eight years ago for work, said. “I’ve been with Voice about four years and I help them out with the festival. With the move, we thought it would be a good opportunity to help them out. With a little extra exposure, maybe we can educate the people at the barbecue on the changes that are being made.”

Whether checking out the event for the food or for a day outdoors with loved ones, the cook-off is sure to provide a host of entertainment and send attendees home with full bellies.

“The food and the fellowship – that’s what we’re about,” Ward explained. “You just come by, you’re welcome to taste from the different cooks, we should have pretty good items for auction. Hopefully there’s good sunshine and some good food.”

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Events

SUMMER FUN KIDS DAY DELIGHTS FOR 16TH YEAR Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center will be filled with costumed characters, live animals and children on July 18 for the 16th annual Summer Fun Kids Day indoor festival. Doors will open at 10 a.m. for the six-hour event, put on by the not-for-profit Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center Development Corporation.

It will be a fun-filled day, with a sampling of everything, said Scott Belanger, the sales and marketing manager of the civic center. Last year more than 4,000 people attended, and this year, he anticipates even more, all looking to enjoy the attractions and activities designed especially for children between the ages of 2 and 12.

“We try to make this event as big as possible so families will have something to do in a safe and friendly environment, in air conditioning where we don’t have to worry about the weather,” he said. “And it’s good for area businesses, because they get to let the public know what they have to offer.

It’s really a ‘win-win’ for the community.”

There will be more than 50 exhibits and attractions, Belanger said, so there will be a lot to do, even a scavenger hunt type activity for adults. “It’s very easy,” he said, “and the prize is an entry into a sweepstakes drawing for a $500 shopping spree to Southland Mall. The winner is always very happy.”

Many of the exhibitors will also offer

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giveaways and discounts, he said, as a reward for visitors to Kids Day. New attractions have been added, and most activities are free with the price of admission, which is $5 for those 13 and over and $3 for those between 1 and 12, a “great value,” according to Belanger.

One special character will be Penny the Pelican, the mascot of Synergy Bank, the event’s main sponsor. The bank is bringing a money machine where children will be able to grab “penny bucks” that they can spend at “the little Penny store,” for items like coloring books, beach balls or plush versions of Penny, according to Elmy Savoie, Synergy’s marketing administrator.

Last year, the money machine was very popular, and a learning experience. “It’s a way of teaching children about money, because they can only spend what they grab,” Belanger said. Penny will also be available for free pictures, which will be professionally processed and mailed out after the fun day.

Joining Penny will be another area pelican mascot, Pierre, of the New Orleans Pelicans; and Clifford the Big Red Dog, from the popular PBS show of the same name. Police officers and firefighters will conduct activities with attendees, all the while interactively teaching them safety.

Children will also learn how their families should prepare in case of a hurricane

and how to keep their teeth healthy. Live animals brought by members of the local 4-H will be part of a petting zoo and the Audubon Zoo will bring its Aqua Van. Belanger said he’s not sure what animals will come in the van, but last year the zoo presentation included a snake, an armadillo and an alligator. According to the website of the Audubon Nature Institute, Aqua Van “brings the aquarium experience featuring live aquatic or terrestrial animals and interactive hands-on displays.”

The civic center’s A and B halls will be divided into four main areas: Wellness Way, Discovery Den, Play Zone and Safety Square.

The Wellness Way area is new this year and is presented in conjunction with Terrebonne General Medical Center Healthy Lifestyles Center. Belanger said in Wellness Way, children will see displays and promotions about being healthy, including a booth showing them how to keep their teeth healthy with local orthodontist Dr. Nicole Thieler.

In the entertainment area, live performances of Beauty and the Beast Jr. and Shrek the Musical will be given by the South Terrebonne High School and the South Louisiana Center for the Arts, respectively. When there’s not a play on stage, there will be individual performances by costumed characters, like princesses,

as well as fitness and martial arts demonstrations.

In Discovery Den, co-sponsored by Rouse’s Markets, there will be the petting zoo, brought in by the Terrebonne Parish 4-H. This is where children can meet Clifford, big, red and ready to pose for pictures. Clifford is being brought by Louisiana Public Broadcasting, who will also have a booth. According to Margaret Schlaudecker of LPB, Clifford is bringing free stickers and coloring books. Here children will also find an exhibit from the Bayou Country Children’s Museum and face painting.

In the Play Zone, sponsored by Raising Cane’s, older children will be able to climb a giant inflatable wall, while toddlers can find fun and games in another inflatable, called Mickey Park Learning Club. Other bouncers, all provided by Bounce ‘N’ Slide Party Rentals, include a 3D Pirate Fortress and Sugar Shack.

The Safety Square will feature the Terrebonne Office of Emergency Preparedness, which will provide information on hurricane preparation for families. Local firefighters and police officers will demonstrate safety, with the fire fighters using an inflatable firehouse that youngsters can go into and see what to do in case of a house fire.

The marketplace area will include expositions from local businesses that offer products and services for families, such as educational services like Bricks 4 Kidz, an after school and camp program based on building things with Legos, Belanger said.

Also represented will be local party places and Pepper’s Pizzeria will host games.

The only outside activity, which will take place under a covered area, is a bicycle safety exhibit, being presented by the South Central Safe Community Partnership, which usually does its own Bike Rodeo, but this year is being included in the Summer Fun Day so it can reach more families. Children can bring their bicycles and helmets for a safety check, Belanger said.

Additionally, there will a video game theater, where teenagers will find age appropriate multi-player games.

“There’s only one thing we’re missing,” Belanger said, “volunteers.” For any community organization or individual looking for service projects, the event needs help with the inflatables and to help things move smoothly throughout the day. Interested parties should contact Belanger at the Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center.

Synergy Bank will also launch its “Pack the Bus” school supply drive at the Summer Fun Kids Day, which will culminate on Aug. 1.

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ONE-TANK GETAWAYS

BAYOU COUNTRY-STYLE FUN FOR KIDS ooking for a unique, fun learning experience for your younger set this summer? That’s what the Bayou Country Children’s Museum had in mind when it broke ground at 211 Rue Betancourt in Thibodaux.

In addition to its nine main signature exhibits with “Cajun flair” – from a sugar cane harvester climbing structure to a Mardi Gras float to Jean Lafitte’s Treasure Dig – monthly events keep families coming back for more.

July’s fun includes a safety camp July

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6-10 and an arts-and-crafts camp for the older set July 13-17. Louisiana Week is celebrated July 20-24, and “The Last Horrah” is set for July 27-31.

Toddlers are welcome for Toddler Time, which is held monthly.

Most programs are free with paid admission. Classes are kept to 15 children, so registration for programs is recommended.

Bayou Country Children’s Museum is open from 10 a.m. to 6 pm. Tuesday through Saturday, and from noon to 4 p.m.

Sunday. Admission is $7 per person.

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To learn more, call 985-446-2200 or visit WWW.BAYOUCOUNTRYCHILDRENSMUSEUM.ORG. houmatimes.com/gumbo

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Events

CHILDREN’S TRIATHLON SEEKS TO GET YOUTH FUN IN THE SUN TO REGISTER, VISIT WWW.MIGHTYKIDSTRIATHLON.ORG/REGISTER.HTM FOR PRICES. PROCEEDS FROM THE EVENT GO TO THE JUVENILE DIABETES RESEARCH FOUNDATION. ome people call today’s children the Nintendo Generation because of their affinity for video games and other sit-athome activities.

Doctors are more likely to call them the Diabetes Generation because that inactivity has caused an increase in obesity, which results in childhood diseases.

The Mighty Kids Triathlon tries its best each summer to curb that and get more than 100 children moving around in the name of fun and competition.

Going strong since 2011, this annual event will take place on July 12 at the Bayouland YMCA, located at 103 Valhi Blvd. in Houma.

Children ages 3-14 are eligible to compete across five age group categories. Like all triathlons, competitors will swim, bike and run with the distances for each varying by age.

“I thought that if children were introduced to this sport, they may love it,” said event organizer Natalie Lindsay when asked what led to the creation of the event. “From getting to love it, they’ll want to get better, which means they’ll practice and that will just encourage them to get outside and play.

They might go run or go ride their bikes.

Instead of playing their video games or watching TV, they might want to go for a swim – anything to stay active and healthy.”

At adult levels, a triathlon is a competitive event where participants race for the finish line to try and win a medal, a trophy or even a cash prize.

The Mighty Kids Triathlon will also provide trophies for those who finish at the top of their heats. But winning and being competitive isn’t what the event is about – it’s all about pride and being able to complete something difficult that you started.

Lindsay said every child who signs up and completes the course will be given a medal, and they’ll all be encouraged throughout

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the way with the hope that they learn to love competition and staying active as they compete.

“Every child should be able to experience how awesome it is to do something hard and finish,” Lindsay said. “And know you did your best and just finish, so you can be like ‘Oh my God, that was so hard, but I did it.’

Every child deserves to have that feeling of accomplishment.”

To complete the USA Triathlon-sanctioned course will be just what Lindsay said – an accomplishment.

Even the youngest children competing in the event will have a day of work in store, as they’ll be asked to swim 25 yards, bike 200 meters and run 100 meters to complete the event.

The oldest group has to complete a 200yard swim, a 4-mile bike ride and a 2-kilometer run.

“Every child will be allowed to work at his or her own pace,” Lindsay said. “We’re not interested in times or competition. We’re interested in every child getting the opportunity to finish what they started.”

Lindsay said throughout the event’s inception, 100-plus children have competed each year – a number that is likely to be exceeded in this go-round.

Lindsay said she encourages all parents to give the event a shot. She said every child deserves the chance to compete and push to the limit.

“For parents to be able to see that smile on their child’s face when this is all done, it’s just unbelievable,” Lindsay said. “My children did their first triathlon last year and they were so excited and proud of themselves. When I looked around, I could see the smiles everywhere. Every kid that had done it was just beaming. Every child deserves that feeling.”

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Events

Have an event scheduled for next month you’d like listed? Upcoming events in Lafourche, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes are printed FREE. Send your information – who, what, when, where, cost and a daytime phone number – to EDITOR@RUSHING-MEDIA.COM.

CHILDREN’S SUMMER ART CAMP

JULY 14-18

Downtown Art Gallery 630, Houma Children will learn the fundamental elements of creating art with a variety of mediums at these week-long art camps. Registration is $25 per week and classes are taught by TFAG members, focusing on watercolor, pottery and similar arts.

719 School St., Houma Rock out with Baby Bee members Joe and David Stark at this week-long camp designed for kids ages 5-15. Learn to play a musical instrument, sing and form a band. No experience or equipment necessary. Participants ages 5-6 will attend from 9-11 a.m., those 7-9 will attend from 1-3 p.m. and those 10-15 will attend from 3:30-5:30 p.m. Registration is $150 and camp will be held two hours per day for four days. A concert will be held on the final day of camp.

WHERE:

DETAILS:

CONTACT: 985-851-2198

COLOR THE ISLAND 5K SATURDAY, JULY 11, 6 P.M.

Bridgeside Marina, Grand Isle Take to the beach at this colorful 5K on Grand Isle Beach. The event, hosted by The Miss Grand Isle Pageant Committee, douses participants wearing white shirts with colored powder at strategic intervals as they make their way through the course. Proceeds will benefit Louisiana National Guard Operation Christmas Angels, designed to assist soldiers and airmen who are experiencing financial hardship during the Christmas season by providing gifts for their children. Registration is $40 for adults and $25 for those 12 and under.

WHERE:

DETAILS:

CONTACT: COLORTHEISLAND.COM

GOLDEN MEADOW/FOURCHON INTERNATIONAL TARPON RODEO

LET FREEDOM RING FESTIVAL

THURSDAY, JULY 2–SATURDAY, JULY 4

Peltier Park, Thibodaux DETAILS: Bring your picnic baskets, lawn chairs and barbecue pits to celebrate July 4th. The park opens at 8 a.m. Soul Survivors take the stage at 4 p.m., and opening ceremonies kick off at 5 p.m. An auction is set for 5:30-7 p.m., and then it’s more music. A fireworks display begins at 9 p.m.

WHERE: Moran’s Marina, 288 Flotation Canal Road, Fourchon DETAILS: The second oldest fishing rodeo in Louisiana welcomes contenders to the 3-day event. Proceeds benefit local scholarships and educational opportunities. The fun includes fishing, food booths, a “King of the Catch” cook-off, a live auction, music and more.

CONTACT: 985-396-2723 OR WWW.FOURCHONTARPONRODEO.COM

SATURDAY, JULY 4 WHERE:

CONTACT: 985-446-5237

JAMMIN’ IN JULY ROCK THE 5TH SUNDAY, JULY 5

INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION SATURDAY, JULY 4, 11 A.M.-10 P.M.

Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center, Houma DETAILS: Terrebonne Patriots Inc. sponsor this annual all-day event, which kicks off at 11 a.m. with a memorial at Veterans Park. At 1 p.m., a parade will begin at Stadium Drive and from 3-10 p.m., food, music, games and more will be available at the civic center. The Houma-Terrebonne Community Band, Southern Cross, the Marine Corps Band and others will entertain crowds throughout the event. The evening is capped off with a fireworks display at 9 p.m.

WHERE:

CONTACT: HOUMAINDEPENDENCECELEBRATION.COM, 985-637-0156

HOUMA INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION 2-MILE DASH & 1/2-MILE FUN RUN

SATURDAY, JULY 4, FUN RUN: 5:45 P.M., 2-MILE DASH: 6 P.M.

Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center DETAILS: Celebrate Independence Day with this race through the Houma Independence Day celebration. Race day registration will begin at 4:30 p.m. and entry is $20 for the 2-mile dash and $10 for the fun run.

WHERE:

CONTACT: HOUMAINDEPENDENCECELEBRATION.COM

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WHERE: Lawrence Park & the Riverfront, Downtown Morgan City DETAILS: Morgan City celebrates Independence Day with music, fun for the kids, food and fireworks. Driftwood, The Beau Young Band and Krossfyre are slated to perform. Pharr Chapel Methodist Church runs Kids’ Corner from 1-5 p.m. Tellman barbecue dinners, hamburgers, soft drinks, beer and wine will be sold.

CONTACT: 985-385-1770, EXTENSION 112

BBQ ON THE BAYOU JULY 10-11

Downtown Houma Amateur and experienced cooks will face off in this inaugural event to raise money for Voice of the Wetlands. Teams of four will begin cooking July 10 and the public is invited to sample the entries, enjoy live music and hang out with family and friends on July 11. Teams will compete in chicken, spare ribs, pulled pork and beef brisket. The event is free and open to the public.

WHERE:

DETAILS:

CONTACT: CALL 985-856-7122 OR 985-381-6952.

BABY BEE ROCK CAMP

JULY 6-10, 13-17, 10 A.M.-3:30 P.M.

COMEDY NIGHT WITH JOHN MORGAN, “THE RAGIN’ CAJUN” JULY 7, 6:30 P.M. WHERE: Municipal Auditorium, 182 U.S. Highway 90, Morgan City DETAILS: “The Ragin’ Cajun” funnyman John Morgan, who describes himself as “sweet as a honey-glazed ham and as hot as a Tabasco chili pepper,” entertains.

CONTACT: 985-380-4639

MIGHTY KIDS TRIATHLON SUNDAY, JULY 12, 7:30 A.M.

Bayouland YMCA, Houma Children ages 3-14 will participate in this USAT-sanctioned event featuring a swim, bike ride and run designed specifically for kids. Each contender will receive a participation medal and prizes will be handed out to top finishers. There is also a category for children who are physically challenged. Registration is $25 for individuals and $75 for relay teams. The swim portion of the event will take place in a pool and the bike and run courses will run along Valhi Boulevard.

Proceeds from this event benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

WHERE:

DETAILS:

CONTACT: MIGHTYKIDSTRATHLON.ORG, NATCHRIS@ATT. NET

SUMMER FUN KIDS DAY SATURDAY, JULY 18, 10 A.M.-4 P.M.

WHERE:

DETAILS:

CONTACT: KIDZROCKCAMP@YAHOO.COM

2015 BAYOU BBQ BASH JULY 24-25 WHERE: Under the U.S. Highway 90 Bridge, Morgan City DETAILS: Teams will serve up their best chicken, pork spare ribs or brisket for a chance to win it all at this 4th annual event. Teams may compete as a local St. Mary Parish Team, Corporate Team or Competitive Cooking Team. Participants must cook all three meats to be eligible for Grand Champion. A Kids Q will also be held, in which participants through age 17 will cook pork chops or chicken legs. The event will also feature a craft show and live music, which begins at 6 p.m.

Friday, 11 a.m. Saturday and 5 p.m. Sunday.

CONTACT: 985-384-3830

LADIES ‘COCO CLASSIC’ FRIDAY, JULY 24-25, 6 P.M., 6 A.M.

Coco Marina, 106 Pier 56, Chauvin Bait House Seafood and CoCo Marina host a shrimp boil and registation on Friday from 6-8 p.m. Fishing Tournament begins at 6 a.m.

Saturday. Lodging for the overnight event is available through CoCo Marina.

WHERE:

DETAILS:

CONTACT: FUNDRAISE.AUTISM.SPEAKS.COM

RUN FOR THE RIBS 5K SATURDAY, JULY 25, 8 A.M. WHERE: Corner

of 3rd and Greenwood Streets, Morgan City DETAILS: Race to the finish line at this event, which runs in conjunction with the 4th annual Bayou BBQ Bash. Gift certificates to area BBQ restaurants and Schlitterbahn Water Park will be given out to top finishers. Entry is $20 by July 24 and $25 after. Registration must be submitted

by July 17 to receive a race shirt. Those 70 and older may participate for $15.

WHERE:

CONTACT: 985-518-6941 OR RICHARD.LEJEUNE@YMAIL.

DETAILS:

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Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center, Houma Kids can explore, learn and play at the largest and longest running indoor children’s festival in the area. Children will be able to explore the Discovery Den, Marketplace, Safety Square and Wellness Way. Live entertainment will also be on hand throughout the day. Admission is $3 for those 1-12 and $5 for those 13 and older.

CONTACT: HOUMACIVICCENTER.COM/KIDSDAY, 985-8504657

DOWNTOWN LIVE AFTER 5 FRIDAY, JULY 31, 5:30 P.M.

Courthouse Square, Houma Dance the night away at this free, monthly event. Music will be provided by Soulful Sounds. The opening act begins at 5:30 p.m. and the main event begins at 7 p.m.

WHERE:

DETAILS:

CONTACT: 985-873-6408

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Music

LOCAL MUSICIANS TEACH KIDS TO ROCK CHILDREN “COME OUT OF THEIR SHELL” DURING WEEKLONG CAMP

Joseph said he and his brother will help write and record songs with the younger children. They teach the older kids how to play an existing song.

The campers will perform a concert for the children’s families at Pepper’s Pizzeria on the last day of the camp. It will be separated into three different age groups: 5- and 6-year olds; 7-, 8-, and 9 year olds; and 10to 15 year olds.

To learn more, email Joseph and David at kidzrockcamp@yahoo.com.

COURTESY Joseph Stark, vocalist and guitarist for Baby Bee, teaches children how to rock at their annual Baby Bee Kidz Rock Camp.

18 July 2015

hildren with dreams of being rock stars can learn from a couple of local rockers this summer during their weeklong summer camp designed to teach them to play a song.

Joseph and David Stark of Baby Bee will be holding their 4th Annual Baby Bee Kidz Rock Camp July 14-18 at their studio in Houma, where they will teach children ages 5 through 15 to play an instrument, sing and perform as a band.

The weeklong camp lasts for two hours a day and culminates with a live performance for parents on the last day.

“Most of the time, they sort of come in blind,” Joseph said. “They don’t have any knowledge or experience of an instrument.

We sort of teach them how to hold it, teach them how to sing.”

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There will also be a reprisal concert at the Voice of the Wetlands Festival, where albums made by the children will be sold.

Proceeds from the album will go to the Voice of the Wetlands Foundation.

The camp has a real positive impact on these young minds, Joseph said.

“You certainly see a little bit of the kids coming out of their shell. That’s the most fun. Somebody [may be] a little bit timid, then we get them all together and they actually become little rock n’ rollers.”

The Starks encourage parents to let their kids dress for the part, coming to camp looking like rock stars.

“They’ll start off one way and they’ll end up with bandanas and press on tattoos. It’s fun. We have a great time with it.”

But the camp may do more than just give kids a self-esteem boost, it could also

foster in them the desire to learn to play an instrument. According to the American Psychological Association, organized music lessons benefit children’s IQ and academic performance.

This year for the first time ever, the Starks will also be holding another camp the following week in Carrolton, Georgia. David’s in-laws live there and they’re going to teach children there how to be Bayou Rock Stars.

The Houma camp will be held at the Stark’s personal recording studio, which they call “The Tackle Box,” at 719 School St. from July 14-18. Registration is $150 per child and is still open.

The camp accepts 15 to 20 youngsters.

If more children sign up, Joseph said they would hire other musician friends of theirs to help out.

•

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19

Music

LA PAIR O DE’S MUSIC IS ALL ABOUT PARODY lot of the references are easily understood if you’re from Montegut, Houma or Kraemer.

And even if you’re not, the songs of a Houma couple making their mark through a local radio station, iTunes and other outlets are downright funny, and deal with topics folks from lots of places can identify with.

“La Pair O De” – the musical team of Korey and Amanda Songe – perform songs about boiling crawfish and crabs, hunting deer and other activities near to the heart of Bayou Country folks, to the tunes of well-known country and pop songs. So far the reception has been more than they ever expected.

The project is the second they have taken on together. The first was their family business, Songe Motors, a used-car dealership where Korey does the buying and selling, while Amanda handles the credit details for customers.

La Pair O De is a play on the word “parody.”

On the La Pair O De recordings, Korey does the writing and plays guitar; Amanda does the singing on their CDs and music downloads.

“It’s things people relate to because the songs he writes are based on our lives, things that have actually happened to us,” Amanda said. “People here identify with what our songs say, the places and people know. They’re funny and people get a good laugh out of it.”

“This Is How We Trawl” is sung to the tune of Florida Georgia Line’s bouncy “This is How We Roll;” “All Our Deer Have Big Horns” meshes perfectly with “Every Rose Has Its Thorns.” And the list goes on.

Those songs are on the duo’s premier album, “Decoys In The Bathtub.”

But the tracks are only a sampling of what Korey has written.

“I Hunt Deer In All Places,” echoing the Garth Brooks tune “Friends In Low Places,” is among the as-yet unreleased offerings. A new CD is expected soon.

For Korey, it all started with the comedy of the late TK Browning and Mike Vic, a duo with a cult following on YouTube.

“I come up with the idea we wanted to do our own,” Korey said. “Me and my dad would perform skits and record them.”

Thus the parodies began, including a

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20 July 2015

song called “Montegut By Morning” to the tune of “Amarillo By Morning.”

“I had started writing original songs and then I started writing parodies,” Korey said. “I was recording them on my cell phone and sending them to friends and family and someone said, ‘You ought to make a CD.’” Houma producer Pershing Wells’ Digital Sac-a-Lait studio was chosen.

Wells sent the CD to Gumbo 94.9 FM radio personality Bobby Richard, who played ‘This Is How We Trawl’ even though it didn’t fit the genre.

“That’s the one that took off,” Richard said. “I had them as my guests and now we get a tremendous amount of requests from listeners for it on the swamp pop show. It’s hot and they love it.”

The local culture novelty store La Cajun Stuff started carrying the CD and it sold quickly, requiring an almost immediate restock. The original printing of 1,000 CDs is just about done.

Nobody is getting rich from the effort, but both Korey and Amanda say that was never the point anyhow.

For Amanda, the signing was just a natural extension of self.

“Ever since I was a little girl I liked to sing,” she said. “When my friends and I would get together, I would sing karaoke.”

She was a regular karaoke performer at Bayou Delight, the Cajun restaurant on the Southdown-Mandalay Road.

“I was usually one of the first singing and one of the last to finish,” she said.

Performing together is one of the joint activities that have brought the couple closer.

“That’s one of the main reasons we enjoy doing it as much as we do,” Amanda said.

“It is something we get to do together and we have a lot of fun with it.”

The Songes have four children, Brody, 15; Kolby, 12; Keira, 10 and Kylie, who is 8.

The children generally approve of their parents’ new celebrity status, although Keira is not so happy with it all.

“Keira says I make all her favorite songs into parodies,” Korey said. “So she doesn’t tell me what her favorite songs are anymore.”

The children, Korey said, enjoy singing as well. Asked if there might be a Songe family sing-along he paused.

“Maybe on the next CD,” he said.

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houmatimes.com/gumbo

21

Music

Concert listings are provided FREE monthly to Lafourche, St. Mary and Terrebonne venues.

Send your monthly calendar – the band name and date they’re appearing – address and contact phone number to EDITOR@RUSHING-MEDIA.COM.

HOT TIX TICKETMASTER:

(868) 448-7849 or www.ticketmaster.com TICKETWEB:

(866) 468-7630 or www.ticketweb.com LIVE NATION:

(800) 745-3000 or www.livenation.com (Ticket prices include handling fees.)

ESSENCE PRESENTS KEVIN HART’S WHAT NOW? TOUR – July 2, Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans, 7 p.m., $73-$298

ESSENCE FESTIVAL – July 3-5, Superdome, New Orleans, 6:30 p.m., $50-$1,000

MISS USA PRELIMINARY COMPETITION – July 8, River Center Arena, Baton Rouge, 8 p.m., $50

RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY: BUILT TO AMAZE – July 9-12, Cajundome, Lafayette, various times, $15-$50

OUTCRY TOUR – July 29, Smoothie King Center, New Orleans, 7 p.m., $27.50-$47.50

IDINA MENZEL WORLD TOUR – July 30, Saenger Theatre, New Orleans, 8 p.m. $45-$125

CYPRESS BAYOU CASINO/MR. LESTER’S STEAKHOUSE Thursday Evenings Josh Malagarie (Thursdays); Jean Paul Daine (Fri., Sat.) 822 MARTIN LUTHER KING ROAD, CHARENTON;

BAYOU DELIGHT

CYPRESS BAYOU CASINO/LOCO Kip Sonnier (July 2, 16, 30); Reuben Rivera (July 9, 23)

5375 LA. HIGHWAY 308, MATHEWS; 985-532-5161

822 MARTIN LUTHER KING ROAD, CHARENTON;

JOLLY INN One man bands (Thursdays); Cajun bands (Fridays and Sundays)

Mr. Larry (July 3, 24); Mr. Hue (July 10, 24); Mr. Gene (July 17) 4038 BAYOU BLACK DRIVE, HOUMA; 985-876-4879

800-284-4386

1507 BARROW ST., HOUMA; 985-872-6114

BAYOU TERREBONNE WATERLIFE MUSEUM Cajun Music (Every Tuesday)

LA CARRETA

7910 PARK AVE., HOUMA; 985-876-4879

Jonny & Sid (July 2); Bayouside Swingers (July 9); Jonny & guest (July 16, 23, 30)

BOOMTOWN CASINO/BOOMERS

1327 ST. CHARLES ST., HOUMA; 985-876-0830

Ultimate House Band (July 1, 8, 15, 22); Karma (July 2); Top Cats (July 3); Jeff Cryer’s Tribute to Motown (July 4); Captain Charles (July 5); Junior & Sumtin Sneaky (July 10, 31); The Amteeks (July 11); Foret Tradition & Deuce of Hearts (July 12); Trigger Proof (July 16); Phunkey Monkeys (July 17); Aaron Foret (July 18); Captain Charles (July 19); Mojeaux (July 23); No Idea (July 24); Contra ow July 2 ietnamese oncert July 2 Clustafunk (July 30)

7934 W. MAIN ST., HOUMA; 985-879-2453

Arena, Baton Rouge, 7 p.m., $75-$250

SOUNDS OF NEW ORLEANS – July 18, Mahalia Jackson Theater, New Orleans, 7 p.m., $40

2015 LA OUTDOOR EXPO – July 24-26, Cajundome, Lafayette, 3 p.m. and 10 a.m., $8.50

22 July 2015

JESTER’S WALK Tricks Band (July 2); RJM & the Full Moon (July 9); Highway 315 (July 16); Pot-2-La (July 23); Southern Image (July 30)

LA CASA DEL SOL Steve Junot (Every Tues.); Steve Wells (July 10); Burning Kane (July 17); The Tune-ups (July 24); Less Deadly (July 31) 141 WESTOVER DRIVE, THIBODAUX; 985-446-2576

PIAZZA BAR/PEPPERS Rick Price (July 2, 30); Pootietang (July 3); DJ ‘E’ (July 4); Steve Junot (July 9, 23); Blue Eyed Soul (July 10); Southern Cross (July 11); Backroots (July 17); Bandit (July 18); Shot Time (July 24); Flesh Carnival – Third Annual Luau Party (July 25); Pulp Friction (July 31)

Mr. Louisiana (Nut) (July 10); Shattered Display; Yak; Fallen (July 11); Kilo CD release (July 17); Dormant No Longer (July 18); 90 to Nothing (July 25)

MISS USA PAGEANT – July 12, River Center

9730 E. MAIN ST., HOUMA; 985-872-5659

CONCERTS

BRICKHOUSE

Center, New Orleans, 7 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., $66.73

Gary T (July 1, 29); Revive (July 8); Highway 315 (July 15); The Boyz (July 25)

800-284-4386

4132 PETERS ROAD, HARVEY; 504-366-7711

GARTH BROOKS WORLD TOUR SPONSORED

BY GHOSTTUNES – July 10-12, Smoothie King

HIGH ROLLERS CASINO

CAJUN COUNTRY EVENT CENTER LA 56 (July 5); Bayou Classics (July 12); Sugar Cane Band (July 19); Terri & The Fellas (July 24); Rockin’ Oldies (July 26) 2639 LA. HIGHWAY 182, RACELAND; 985-537-2218

CYPRESS BAYOU CASINO/BOBCAT’S Sean Trcalek (July 1); Cory Landry (July 3); King of Clubs (July 8, 22); Cory Landry (July 15, 25, 29); Kip Sonnier (July 10, 11, 18); Reuben Rivera (July 4, 11, 18, 17, 24, 25, 31); 822 MARTIN LUTHER KING ROAD, CHARENTON; 800-284-4386

541 CORPORATE DRIVE, HOUMA; 985-872-0006

SILVERADO CLUB CYPRESS BAYOU CASINO/PAVILLION

Tet Dur (July 7, 18, 28); Pot-2-La (July 14, 11); Gary T (July 21); La Roadhouse Band (July 24)

Rodney Carrington (July 4)

847 BRULE GUILLIOT ROAD, THIBODAUX; 985-446-8289

822 MARTIN LUTHER KING ROAD, CHARENTON;

SOUTHDOWN BAR & GRILL

800-284-4386

CYPRESS BAYOU CASINO/ROX DJ Bobby Novosad & Club 9-4–5 (Saturdays); Dylan Scott (July 10); Keith Frank (July 11)

Back Roots (July 10); Old Moss Point (July 11); Pot-2-La (July 17); Steve Junot (July 24) 216 MYSTIC BLVD., HOUMA; 985-876-7126

VINO!

Ruff-N-Ready (July 31)

Steve Junot (July 1, 8, 15,22, 29); Absinthe Minded (July 3, 9, 23, 30); Todd Adams (July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31); Open jam (July 7, 14, 21, 28); Nashville South (July 11); Chee Weez (July 17); The Groove July elvet ky July 2

DOWNTOWN HOUMA COURTHOUSE

656 CORPORATE DRIVE, HOUMA; 985-856-6664

822 MARTIN LUTHER KING ROAD, CHARENTON; 800-284-4386

DOWNTOWN LIVE

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houmatimes.com/gumbo

23

Arts

’ s r e c u d o r P e h ‘T e s u o h y a l P x u a d takes Thibo g n a b a h t i w t u o season .

2 . g u A h g u o r h t 4 2 y l u J E N O T I ADM 24 July 2015

hibodaux Playhouse closes its 55th season in a big way this month with “The Producers – A Mel Brooks Musical.”

“We figured it is a big year and that we should give the city a play it is going to remember for a long time to come,” director Doug DeGirolamo said. “We wanted to go out with something big, something we had never done before.”

“The Producers” fit the bill.

The handiwork of Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan, “The Producers” centers on a down-on-his-luck Broadway producer and his mild-mannered accountant, who come up with a scheme to produce the most notorious flop in history, bilking their backers out of millions in the process. It’s a perfect plan until one thing goes awry: the show is a smash hit.

Producer Max Bailystock (played by Blake Petit) and numbers man Leo Bloom (Thibodaux native Greg Autin) zig and zag through the gloriously offensive “Springtime for Hitler,” hiring a director, raising

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money for the show and ultimately paying the price for their misdeeds.

DeGirolamo was a natural pick for director. He saw the Broadway production as a child. Brad Oscar and Brooks Foster played the leads.

The cast of 20 is a triple threat – they sing, dance and act. “We put out word that we were doing ‘The Producers’ and people wanted to be a part of the show,” the director said. “We didn’t have any trouble filling all of the roles.”

The brilliantly funny script was just an added plus.

A longtime Mel Brooks fan, Petit said playing Max is a dream role. Likewise, Autin was inspired by the 2005 film version of “The Producers.”

He said Leo Bloom is a guy who is close to his heart. “He’s scared of everything,” the Nicholls culinary student said. “I’m not that bad, but I tend to be pretty timid sometimes. I’ve had to step outside of my box for this show.”

“The Producers” offers unique challenges or opportunities, depending on the leads.

For Damon Stentz, who plays Franz Liebkind, the author of “Springtime for Hitler,” which is meant to be a tribute to his hero, it’s a chance to test the German he learned in college. Nicholls psychology major Renee Leblanc of Kraemer has the task of playing her best Swedish accent. And Ben Adams, as “Springtime” director Roger DeBris, has the challenge of finding high heels that fit right.

“We have a few numbers that we intentionally try to go over the top,” DeGirolamo said. “This is going to be a show people will long remember. We invite everyone to come out and have a great time.”

“The Producers” runs July 24 through Aug. 2. Performances are held at the Jean Lafitte National Park Service and Historical Preserve, 314 St. Mary St. in Thibodaux.

Tickets are $20, adults; $15, students, and are available at www.thibodauxplayhouse. com or by calling 985-446-1896.

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houmatimes.com/gumbo

25

Arts INCARNATE

ROMEO AND JULIET

isually stunning, moving and sensual ncarnate fuses Shakespeare’s words with live music, dance and visual art to tell a story of romance and devotion.

Humans yearn for love, but are passion and companionship worth the inevitable? After the success of last year’s sold out Luna Series, the New Orleans Shakespeare Festival will again partner with members of Compleat Stage to present this unique, multidisciplinary artistic experience.

The classic Shakespearean tale of two young star-crossed lovers whose deaths ultimately reconcile their feuding families.

JULY 15-22

MCWILLIAMS HALL, 104 DIXON HALL, NEW ORLEANS. TULANE.EDU/LIBERAL-ARTS/THEATRE-DANCE/ 504-865-5269. ($15-$25)

THEY’RE PLAYING OUR SONG JULY 16-26

A funny, romantic show about an established composer and his relationship with a zany aspiring young female lyricist, this musical is an oldie, but a goodie. At work and at play, this is a singing couple whose professional and personal successes and difficulties lead to one hilarious scene after another. A classic Carole Bayer Sager/Marvin Hamlish/Neil Simon marriage.

LE PETIT THEATRE DE TERREBONNE, 7829 W MAIN ST., HOUMA. HOUMALITTLETHEATRE.COM 985-876-4278. ($15)

JULY 21-26

REILLY THEATRE, LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY, WWW.SWINEPALACE.ORG 225-578-4174. ($10)

PTERODACTYLS JULY 23–AUG. 1

A bitter, black comedy about family, decay, denial, communication, disease and dinosaurs, “Pterodactyls” focuses on the doomed Duncan family including the lush matriarch, hypochondriac daughter and distant father all reacting to the return of their son. Partnering with Rockfire Theatre, Stephen Eckert will direct the piece with an emphasis on the humor of family dysfunction and denial.

OLD MARQUER THEATRE, 2400 ST. CLAUDE AVE., NEW ORLEANS. OLDMARQUER.COM. 504-298-8676.

PETER PAN JR. JULY 24-26

This classic Disney tale of the boy who wouldn’t grow up, as told by fellow children, will delight people of all ages.

JEFFERSON PERFORMING ARTS SOCIETY, 1118

PETER PAN JULY 16-26

The timeless Broadway musical performed by adults, for anyone who never grew up. This play will delight anyone who loves pirates, fairies, children and, most of all, musicals.

RIVERTOWN THEATERS, 325 MINOR ST., KENNER. RIVERTOWNTHEATERS.COM 504-461-9475. ($32-$37)

THEATER

9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL JULY 10-26

RIVERTOWN THEATERS FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS,

Set in the late 1970s, “9 to 5” follows the exploits of three female co-workers and their ultimate revenge in this sweet, thought provoking, and outrageous musical! After being pushed to the boiling point, the women concoct a plan to get even with the sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot they call their boss.

325 MINOR ST, KENNER. RIVERTOWNTHEATERS.COM/

PLAYMAKERS THEATRE, 19106 PLAYMAKERS RD.,

504-461-9475. ($28.50-$33.50)

COVINGTON. PLAYMAKERSINC.COM 985-892-9767. ($25)

PINOCCHIO JULY 6-12

The story of the wooden puppet who longs to become a “real boy,” this tale will be sure to make people smile.

ONCE UPON A MATTRESS JULY 9-12

“Once Upon a Mattress” is a musical comedy with music by Mary Rodgers, lyrics by Marshall Barer and book by Jay Thompson, Dean Fuller and Marshall Barer. It opened off-Broadway in May 1959, and then moved to Broadway. The play was written as an adaptation of the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale “The Princess and the Pea.” SUMMER LYRIC THEATRE, 104 DIXON HALL, TULANE UNIVERSITY, NEW ORLEANS. 504-865-5269. ($30-$40)

RIDING HALLEY’S COMET JULY 9-19

An original stage play by Ann McQueen that tells the story of life with a parent who suffers from mental illness. Based on true events, the show features an all-star cast.

MID CITY THEATRE, 3540 TOULOUSE ST., NEW ORLEANS. MIDCITYTHEATRE.WORDPRESS.COM 504-488-1460. ($25)

26 July 2015

ANNIE GET YOUR GUN JULY 17-19

LUPIN THEATRE AT TULANE, 104 DIXON HALL, NEW ORLEANS. TULANE.EDU/LIBERAL-ARTS/THEATRE-DANCE/ 504-865-5269. ($15-$25)

JULY 24-26 AND JULY 31-AUG. 2

A down-on-his-luck Broadway producer and his mild-mannered accountant come up with a scheme to produce the most notorious op in history, thereby, bilking their backers (all “little old ladies”) out of millions of dollars. Only one thing goes awry; the show is a smash hit!

ST. JOHN THEATRE, 115 WEST 4TH ST., RESERVE. ST-

ATRE-DANCE/ 504-865-5269.

JULY 21-26

“The Importance of Being Earnest” follows two bachelors leading double lives to court the attentions of the exquisitely desirable Gwendolyn Fairfax and Cecily Cardew. The gallants must grapple with the riotous consequences of their deceptions, and with the formidable Lady Bracknell.

THE PRODUCERS

THIBODAUX PLAYHOUSE, 1120 CAROLINE ST, THIBODAUX.

AS YOU LIKE IT

JULY 11-25

($10-$18)

Annie Oakley is the best shot around, and she manages to support her little brother and sisters by selling the game she hunts. When she’s discovered by Col. Buffalo Bill, he persuades this novel sharpshooter to join his Wild West Show.

It only takes one glance for her to fall head over heels for dashing shooting ace Frank Butler, who headlines the show. She soon eclipses Butler as the main attraction which, while good for business, is bad for romance. Butler hightails it off to join a rival show, his bruised male ego leading the way, but is ultimately pitted against Annie in a final shoot-out.

JOHNTHEATRE.ORG. 985-543-4371.

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

CLEARVIEW PKWY., METAIRIE. JPAS.ORG/. 504-885-2000.

A 90-minute adaption of Shakespeare’s most exuberant celebration of young love, whose course “never does run smooth.” Part fairy tale, part Woodstock, part World Wrestling Federation and all romance, “As You Like It” follows the amazing Rosalind as she is forced into the woods to find family, friendship and finally herself. True love with Orlando, another teenager from a fractured home, wins in the end but not before the hills are alive with music, laughter and the beautiful words of our greatest poet in one of his greatest comedies.

SWINE PALACE, LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY, WWW.SWINEPALACE.ORG, 225-578-4174. ($10)

THIBODAUXPLAYHOUSE.COM/. 985-446-1896. ($15, STUDENTS; $20, ADULTS)

HELLO, DOLLY! JULY 30–AUG. 2

“Hello, Dolly!” is a musical with lyrics and music

by Jerry Herman and a book by Michael Stewart, based on Thornton Wilder’s 1938 farce. “The Merchant of Yonkers,” which Wilder revised and retitled “The Matchmaker” in 1955.

SUMMER LYRIC THEATER AT TULANE. 104 DIXON HALL, NEW ORLEANS. TULANE.EDU/LIBERAL-ARTS/THE-

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST JR. JULY 31–AUG. 2

A tale as old as time, this Disney story about true beauty will delight people of all ages.

JEFFERSON PERFORMING ARTS SOCIETY, 1118 CLEAR-

•

VIEW PKWY., METAIRIE. JPAS.ORG/. 504-885-2000. ($10-$18)

HAVE AN ITEM FOR GUMBO’S AUGUST ISSUE? FORWARD THE DETAILS – who, what, when, where and cost, along with a daytime contact number – to: EDITOR@GUMBOGUIDE.COM.

houmatimes.com/gumbo

27

Arts

OUTDOOR TIKI TORCHES CRAFT

SUPER HERO EVENT

Adults use clear glass bottles, tiki torch wicks, tiki torch fuel, and other materials to make working tiki torches. Sign up at the library.

Adults can celebrate the end of the Summer Reading Program with the library’s closing event.

JULY 21

JULY 29

LAROSE BRANCH, 2 P.M.

GHEENS BRANCH, 3:30 P.M.

AT THE LIBRARY

SUMMER READING PROGRAM CLOSING EVENT JULY 28

Kids and teens can join the library to celebrate the end of summer and draw for Summer Reading Program prizes.

SOUTH LAFOURCHE BRANCH, 10:30 A.M.

PAPERBACK BOOK GRAB BAGS JULY 30

To celebrate Paperback Book Day, the library will be handing out Paperback Book Grab Bags, while supplies last. Grab bags will be labeled on the outside with the genre of the books contained in the bag. People can choose their favorite genre. Each bag contains two to three books in that genre.

DIY SUGAR SCRUB CRAFT

BAYOU BLUE BRANCH

Teens ages 13 and up can use baby oil, baby wash, and sugar to make a sugar scrub for their skin. Sign up at the library.

TERREBONNE PARISH

JULY 28

GHEENS BRANCH, 3:30 P.M.

STITCHES CRAFT GROUP

EVERY WEDNESDAY IN JULY

SUMMER READING CLOSING CEREMONY JULY 28

Teens and adults can celebrate the end of the Summer Reading Program with refreshments, prizes and awards.

GOLDEN MEADOW BRANCH, 2 P.M.

Adults in the Stitches Craft Group meet to do projects and share patterns. Participants are advised to bring something they’re working on.

CHAUVIN BRANCH, 1 P.M.

BOARD GAME DAY JULY 3

Kids can game on at the library. Kids can bring their own board games or play one already there. Although this activity is traditionally for kids, all ages are welcome.

MAIN BRANCH, 3 P.M.

PICK A CRAFT TIME

EVERY FRIDAY IN JULY

Tweens and teens can pick from several crafts, and board games are available. This activity is open to kids in 4th grade and up.

DULARGE BRANCH, 3 P.M.

LAFOURCHE PARISH FREE TAX PREP olunteer Tax preparers with the organization 4U are offering free basic tax preparation for residents making $58,000 or less through the R ’s olunteer ncome Tax Assistance program during tax season.

JULY 8

RELIEF PRINTING WORKSHOP FOR KIDS JULY 9

Kids ages 8 to 12 learn relief printing. Registration is required.

THIBODAUX BRANCH, 1 P.M.

PLAYAWAY BOOKPACK AND LAUNCHPAD DEBUT JULY 2

People enjoy demos of the newest devices for check out. Bookpacks are all-in-one audio books … no CDs, no downloading necessary. Launchpads are handheld game devices preloaded with 10 ad-free learning apps. Both are durable and portable for little learners on the go. You must be a library cardholder in good standing to check out these new devices.

1:30-4:30 P.M., LOCKPORT BRANCH; 9 A.M.-NOON, THIBODAUX BRANCH

28 July 2015

SUPER HERO EVENT JULY 29

CUTTIN’ UP SCRAPBOOKING

Kids can celebrate the end of the Summer Reading Program.

JULY 16

LAROSE BRANCH, 2 P.M.

Teens and adults can create a patriotic-themed layout for their scrapbooks. Sign up at the library.

SUMMER READING PROGRAM CLOSING EVENT

JULY 2

GHEENS BRANCH, 10:30 A.M.

Kids can come to the library for stories, crafts, games, and lots of fun. Great for kids in Pre-K through 3rd grade.

CHOCTAW BRANCH, 2 P.M.

BAYOU BLUE AND LAROSE BRANCHES.

Because of limited space, story-time will be held at the acherie-Gheens ommunity enter, La. 654.

EVERY MONDAY IN JULY

embers of the hoctaw olunteer ire Department will talk about fire and rescue e uipment, and will get hands-on with some of the equipment.

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY AT THE LOCKPORT, RACELAND,

STORYTIME: “ANIMAL HEROES”

EVERY HERO HAS A STORY SUMMER READING PROGRAM STORY TIME

VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT VISIT

LAROSE BRANCH, 1-6:45 P.M.

B.J. BOURG BOOK SIGNING JULY 18

Author and veteran law enforcement fficer B.J. Bourg signs copies of his book and hosts a meet-and-greet with library visitors.

SOUTH LAFOURCHE BRANCH, 9 A.M.

JULY 29

People can celebrate the end of summer. Prizes for the photography contest and Summer Reading Program will be awarded.

RACELAND BRANCH, 10:30 A.M.

TEEN SUMMER READING CLOSING PROGRAM JULY 29

CANDLESTICK/CUPCAKE HOLDERS

Kids can get a lollipop when they check out an item.

Teens aged 13 to 18 who have completed their reading goals are invited to attend the closing.

Refreshments will be served and prizes will be given.

Adults can create candlestick holders and cupcake holders using plastic bottles.

GOLDEN MEADOW BRANCH

CHOCTAW BRANCH, 5 P.M.

NATIONAL LOLLIPOP DAY JULY 20

JULY 6 AND 13

MONTEGUT BRANCH, 1:30 P.M.

GOOGLE APPS FOR EDUCATORS JULY 7

This workshop will focus on the ins and outs of specific Google Apps, including Gmail, Google Calendar, Sites, Docs/Drive, and Chrome. Matt Hise, a local teacher and reference staff member, will showcase how these apps can heighten the productivity and digital literacy of today’s learners. All are invited to attend and Continuing Education Credit will be given.

MAIN BRANCH, 6:30 P.M.

SUMMER READING PROGRAM YA CRAFT WORKSHOPS

GRAND CAILLOU VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT VISIT JULY 8

ids can tour a fire truck, meet firemen, and learn about fire safety.

DULAC BRANCH, 11:30 A.M.

TEEN WRITERS GROUP JULY 8 AND 22

Teens can attend a peer-led group where they can bring something they’ve written to share with the group, or just bring their best story ideas. Teens 13 and older only.

NORTH BRANCH, 4 P.M.

EVERY TUESDAY IN JULY

Teens and tweens can participate in crafting workshops.

Bourg Branch, 11 a.m.

RESUME HELP

EVERY TUESDAY IN JULY

Adults who need to revamp their resumes can bring a jump drive to the library to save their work, and get resume help from the library staff.

DULAC BRANCH, 11 A.M.

SCRABBLE TOURNAMENT JULY 8 AND 22

Adults can put their brains to the test and escape the ordinary while playing Scrabble with others.

GIBSON BRANCH, 12:30 P.M.

MUSICIAN DAVID TRAINER PERFORMANCE JULY 9

David Trainer performs for kids at the library.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Terrebonne Public Library, New Orleans Arts Council, and Louisiana Division of the Arts.

NORTH BRANCH, 2 P.M.

CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP FOR TEENS: FICTION JULY 9

Teens can learn alongside each other the art and technique of creative writing. This hour-long program emphasizes literary craft as well as the dedicated practice of peer review and revision.

MAIN BRANCH, 6:30 P.M.

ADULT BOOK DISCUSSION JULY 10

Adults discuss “The Gods of Gotham” by Lyndsay Faye.

EVERY TUESDAY IN JULY

Adults can learn oil painting with Gail Lecompte.

Registration is required, with a limited class of 20. Paintings take the full month.

DULARGE BRANCH, 10 A.M.

CONFETTI PAINTING ON MUGS

Teens and tweens can make a T-shirt pillow.

Bring an old T-shirt.

Adults can make confetti-inspired decorative painting on mugs.

DULAC BRANCH, 11:30 A.M.

BOURG BRANCH, 11 A.M.

AUDUBON ZOO’S AQUAVAN

UNMASK TEEN SUMMER READING PROGRAM CLOSING PARTY

JULY 14

JULY 16, 23, AND 29

JULY 24

SUMMER READING PROGRAM CRAFT

The Audubon Zoo’s Aquavan visits the library.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Terrebonne Public Library, New Orleans Arts Council, and Louisiana Division of the Arts.

JULY 10, 17, AND 24

2 P.M., CHAUVIN BRANCH; 3 P.M., DULARGE BRANCH;

Teens can attend this super hero summer reading program party celebrating the end of summer and the successful accomplishment of reading goals.

Teens make summer reading program crafts.

1 P.M., MONTEGUT BRANCH; 10 A.M., EAST HOUMA

GIBSON BRANCH, 2 P.M.

MONTEGUT BRANCH, 1 P.M.

BRANCH; 1 P.M., GIBSON BRANCH

PENCIL CASE CRAFT

ADULT COMPUTER CLASS

Teens make a Summer Reading Program craft.

Adults can learn about EBooks. They can bring their device and learn how to get free eBooks and audiobooks from the library. Call ahead to register.

EAST HOUMA BRANCH, 2 P.M.

OIL PAINTING WITH GAIL LECOMPTE

T-SHIRT PILLOWS

JULY 14

CHAUVIN BRANCH, 2 P.M.

JULY 21

JULY 29

TEEN SUMMER READING ENDING PARTY JULY 31

Teens can attend this summer reading ending party celebrating reading goal accomplishments.

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EAST HOUMA BRANCH, 3 P.M.

NORTH BRANCH, 10 A.M.

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Arts

FOR THE GAMERS ...

LET’S HEAR IT FOR VEGGIES!

WANT A PICK FOR THIS FALL? YOSHI’S WOOLLY WORLD WILL DO!

he kids are out for summer, so we wanted to review

Ta family-friendly title this month – something that

the heels of “Hooks, Lies & Alibis,” Chef John Folse is readying his next tome in his Cajun and Creole series of cookbooks. The new work – “Can You Dig It!” – is expected in bookstores in December, and is dedicated to the state’s love affair with gardening.

As with the last volume, Folse is inviting gardeners to submit recipes, but more importantly, he wants photos of vegetable gardens for possible inclusion in the book.

“I want recipes that I don’t have and I want unique photographs that I don’t have,” the chef said. “I want people pictures, photos of farmers, of kids in the melon patch, of vegetable-stand signs, and young entrepreneurs selling tomatoes on the roadside.”

While full garden shots are wonderful, the greater impact photos include the gardener with hoe in hand, kids helping in the garden, an up-close shot of a corn or okra stalk, antique farming tools and even John Deere tractors. In other words, Folse is seeking “the

dirt on Louisiana vegetables,” so dig deep. Treasured photos of gardens and gardeners past are especially welcome. Photos should be submitted to vegetables@ jfolse.com.

Cooks and readers can expect to find chapters on the swamp floor pantry, root vegetables, leafy greens, off the vine and exotics. Recipes focus on vegetables as the primary ingredient in appetizers, soups, sides, entrées, breads, desserts, breakfasts and even drinks.

“Louisiana is blessed with fabulous gardeners who also happen to be fabulous cooks,” Folse said.

“Gardens speak to our past: where we lived, what we ate, the professions we held. This vegetable cookbook will be an excellent venue to preserve heirloom family recipes and photographs.”

Folse proudly confesses that tomatoes will take center stage in the “Off the Vine” chapter. “I don’t care if everyone else in the world thinks tomatoes are fruit.

In Louisiana, a tomato is a vegetable, and we will give it due homage.”

Submit photos to vegetables@jfolse.com by Aug. 3. Clearly identify individual’s names as well as the city or town in which the photograph was taken. Folse’s vegetable cookbook will be the fourth in his “Big Book Series.”

Chef John Folse & Company Manufacturing, White Oak Plantation and Exceptional Endings Bakery Division. He is CEO/CFO of Home on the Range: A Restaurant Development company, parent corporation of Restaurant R’evolution, New Orleans, and Seafood R’evolution, Ridgeland, Ms. He is the author of numerous cookbooks and hosts a nationally-syndicated television cooking show, “A Taste of Louisiana.”

Additionally, the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute at Nicholls State University is named in his honor.

On

For more information, contact Michaela York (michaelay@jfolse.com) or Danling Gideon (danlingg@jfolse.com) at (225) 644-6000.

Chef John Folse is the owner and executive chef of his Louisiana-based corporations including

30 July 2015

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gamers of all ages could enjoy.

So we decided to get an advance copy of Yoshi’s Woolly World, which is currently making its rounds through Europe and will arrive in the states this fall.

OK, I should probably preface my comments about this one by saying that my video game wheelhouse is in sports and/or shooters. If it doesn’t involve a ball or me shooting a bad guy, we’re usually not interested.

So we approached this month’s review with a bit of a closed mind, fully expecting to be bored pretty quickly with what the Woolly World had to offer.

We were pretty pleasantly surprised.

Similar to the wildly popular ‘Little Big Planet’, the characters on Yoshi’s Woolly World are knitted dinosaurs who reside on an island that is also made of fabric – hence the title.

The game is in the Mario family, obviously, so it is adventure-based and centralized on navigating Yoshi and his friends through levels and challenges.

The controls are basic, and anyone of any age can play. The beginning stages are super-basic and very easy to push through. But as the game progresses, the difficulty elevates and gamers are left having to chase elusive collectibles and other treasures that keep you on your toes throughout the ascent from start to finish.

Look, it is what it is. It’s a good, clean family-oriented title that all children can enjoy. For adults, it’s not ideal, but after a few test drives, you find yourself glued to it, too.

It’ll be here just in time for Christmas, and would be a great stocking stuffer for any gamer – male or female – who wants some clean, wholesome fun.

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Outdoors

GOLDEN MEADOW-FOURCHON TARPON RODEO REBRANDS, RELOADS FOR 2015 1948, a couple of guys decided that they wanted to hold a tarpon fishing tournament in the Gulf of Mexico’s ripe waters. So they got together for an afternoon drink at Crip’s Bar in Golden Meadow, organized their efforts and the Golden Meadow-Fourchon Tarpon Rodeo was born.

Now 67 years later, the rodeo is still going strong – one of the most prestigious and anticipated annual rodeos in the area each summer.

This year’s event is set for July 2-4 at its usual spot at Moran’s Marina in Fourchon.

The 2015 rodeo figures to be bigger and better than ever, thanks to some recent rebranding and a first – an all-new air con-

In

32 July 2015

ditioned rodeo tent that will allow anglers and spectators the comforts of enjoying the event in 70-degree temperatures when away from the water.

Sure, the fishing may be the star of the show for the weekend. But it’s just one cog in a three-day span that is filled with food, prizes, live bands and family fun that can be enjoyed by men and women of all ages – even if one has no desire at all to drop a cork into the water.

“I encourage everyone to come out to the rodeo for the great music, food and drinks, all while enjoying our local sportsman’s paradise – all under the rodeo’s new air-conditioned tent,” 2015 Rodeo Admiral Eddie Callais said.

“We expect a great turnout,” added Brennan Matherne, the Golden-Meadow-Fourchon Tarpon Rodeo board secretary.

For the Golden Meadow-Fourchon Tarpon Rodeo, the 2015 event marks a significant period in its storied history.

It will be the first Golden Meadow -Fourchon Tarpon Rodeo run by the Lafourche Chamber Board, which took responsibility over the operation of the big event earlier this year.

With that transition has come immediate change and new flavor. The rodeo unveiled a sleek, more modernized new logo and website in April. At that same time, Callais was named Admiral for this year’s event.

Matherne said those involved in the rebranding were very careful to respect the foundation that has made the rodeo a great event for almost seven decades.

Through that “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it,” mentality, the rebranding has focused mostly on tweaks and other opportunities where organizers felt improvement could be made. So far, it’s all been met with positivity, according to Matherne, who added that he’s attended the event throughout his adult life.

“We had to challenge plenty of long-standing traditions and ideas, but I think everyone had an open mind and a positive outlook,” Matherne said. “We realized that change can be a good thing.

We have definitely seen a positive response from the public and on social media.”

Logo tweaks, website adjustments and the social media surge are all great and have been on full display in recent weeks.

But of course, the meat and potatoes of this rodeo are the fishing and the clean, family fun.

Fishing will begin at safelight on Thursday, July 2 – a day that will wrap up at 7 p.m. with the Admiral’s Welcome Party.

On Friday and Saturday, it’s an all-out sprint to the finish as champions will be crowned in more than a dozen categories, spanning big-game, shoreline and inside divisions. Children are allowed to fish and have their own competitions throughout the rodeo.

While the anglers battle the fish on the water, there will also be loads of fun and excitement under the air-conditioned tent.

The annual King of the Catch CookOff will begin at 11 a.m. on July 3, with a champion chef crowned later that day.

Every participating team will take home two aprons with the rodeo’s new logo. The prizes include trophies, a $500 gift certificate from Keif Hardware and, of course, bragging rights.

On Friday night, local band Clustafunk will perform, and Tarpon Rodeo poster artist Tracy Wisehart-Plaisance will be on hand to market personalized posters.

During the day on Saturday, the Cajun Music Preservation Society will perform from 3-6 p.m., leading up to the weigh-ins and awards to close out the event.

Callais said he encourages folks to go out to Moran’s and pass a good time with friends and family. He said whether you’re a veteran of the event or a first-timer, there’s fun to be had for all.

“I believe rodeo participants will see the benefits of this new partnership with the Lafourche Chamber Foundation) immediately at this year’s rodeo,” Callais said. “I am humbled and honored to serve as the 2015 Admiral. It’ll be a great weekend, and we’re looking forward to it.”

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FREE

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Outdoors

GRAND ISLE SET TO BE LOADED WITH COLOR DURING 5K RUN

ith crisp white sand, healthy vegetation and hundreds of animal species that call it home, there’s no questioning that Grand Isle is a pretty color-rich place.

But on July 11 at 6 p.m., things will get out of control – in a good way, of course.

That’s because the third-annual Color the Island 5K fun run will return to the beach behind Bridgeside Marina – an event that has quickly become a favorite among tourists and island natives each summer.

Last year, 480 runners from across the country competed in the run, which is put on by the Miss Grand Isle Pageant Committee and raises much-needed dollars to the committee’s annual charity of choice.

“I really need to stress that this is a FUN run. I want you to put the word fun in all caps so that people know what it is,” Color the Island 5K organizer Theresa Vegas said.

“Many people actually walk the course and just enjoy the sights and sounds of the

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34 July 2015

beach as they go.”

So what exactly makes the Color the Island 5K so colorful? Oh trust us, the event is titled as such for a worthwhile reason.

Vegas said at the beginning of the run, there is a huge blast of color that shoots through the air and pastes the clothing, shoes, hair, skin and everything else of the competitors – leaving them a perfectly rainbow-colored mess from the onset.

As the race progresses, there are eight color stations where participants will again be doused with the powdered color, which leads to quite a sight for folks to see by the time the event is done.

Vegas said a DJ is stationed at the starting point of the race, as well as at the midway point, keeps tunes flowing through the tropical air and sets the scene for the fun going on throughout.

After the race, Velvet Sky will perform under Bridgeside’s Pavilion.

“There will be water stations along the

route and a misting/cooling area, also,” Vegas said. “Prizes are awarded for the first female to finish, the first male to finish and also to the last person to cross the finish line. We want runners to dress patriotic, which is the theme of this year’s event, and a prize will be awarded for best-dressed, as well.”

All of that color in one place, and truly the brightest hue of the entire event is its cause – charity.

Vegas said the Color the Island 5K is a 50/50 split, meaning that the charity chosen by the pageant committee walks away with half of the proceeds – an amount that totaled more than $7,000 last year.

The way that the event does so well is through the blessings of many in the community, who sponsor a lot of the run’s expenses.

The 2015 charity that will benefit will be the Louisiana Army National Guard’s “Operation Christmas Angels” program,

which provides assistance to military families who may be struggling during the holidays.

“We have so much help,” Vegas said.

“We couldn’t host an event this size without the help of our sponsers, the Town of Grand Isle’s street crew, several dedicated volunteers and the Louisiana Army National Guard Child and Youth Program’s staff and volunteers, which is headed by Mikelle Ricou and Angela Ott. They all do a terrific job making this event happen.”

Cost to enter is $40 per pre-registered adult and $25 for pre-registered children under 12. Without pre-registration, race-day fees are $45 and $30. With registration, a participant will receive a t-shirt, water bottle, packet of color and a plate of pastalaya that’ll come in handy for the post-race celebration.

“We have fun with this, and we do it for a good cause,” Vegas said. “We’d love to do even better this year – that’s the goal.’

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Gumbo guru

GOLDEN CORRAL HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Wanna Go? GOLDEN CORRAL

1724 Martin Luther King Blvd., Houma 857-9500

his one wants breakfast, that one wants lunch.

One wants steak, the other wants pizza.

You just want everyone to have a nourishing meal. Home-cooked would be even better, but you’re not up to the fuss.

Houma’s Golden Corral is the perfect solution. Located at 1724 Martin Luther King Blvd., the chain offers a family-friendly, all-you-can-eat buffet featuring a variety of American fare plus fully stocked salad and dessert bars. There are enough choices to satisfy even the pickiest eater.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Golden Corral staffers are constantly

T

changing out food items. The dishes are familiar and freshly prepared, which is a major plus.

Upon entering, guests pass through the drink area and then into the restaurant.

Tables are situated in segmented dining areas, and ample space is available.

Every visit, our waitress is quick to greet us. They tend to our drink orders and collect plates throughout the meal. And seniors, youngsters and those with special needs are often offered an extra hand getting food items or whatever need arises.

Buffets can be impersonal places, given that you are doing most of the serving yourself. But our waitress was on the spot, cheerful with every stop.

Choices are virtually endless at Golden Corral. I find everything looks so tempting; it’s sometimes hard to decide.

There are more than a dozen protein choices alone – steak grilled to order, pork, pot roast, meatloaf, shrimp and crispy fried or baked chicken among them.

A chat with the chef revealed that Golden Corral serves USDA sirloin, aged and hand-cut daily by its own butchers. And

there are plenty of choices of veggies – raw and cooked.

The made-from-scratch mashed potatoes and the creamy mac and cheese are favorites.

Golden Corral recently upped the ante, offering breakfast items all day long. With that option, our lunchtime choice was a no-brainer.

The breakfast bar on this particular day was scaled down greatly. Guests had the option of pancakes, French toast, biscuits, sausage, bacon, eggs and sausage gravy.

Missing were the grits and hash browns.

But it was nice to have the added option.

A couple of Golden Corral’s famous yeast rolls, and lunch was good to go.

If you’ve any room left at all, pass by the bakery and dessert buffet. A combination of freshly baked cakes and pies, cookies, brownies, pastries and ice cream, offer a great ending to any meal.

In all, Golden Corral is a great deal for the money. The food is fresh, the service attentive and the setting casual. For breakfast, lunch or dinner – and that’s breakfast all day long – it’s a sure bet.

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