Point of Vue May 2023

THE FLY THAT FLEW OFF THE HANDLE

Not knowing which way to turn, the summer road trip came to a halt at the quadrivial intersection.

Competing for first place in the outdoor challenge, the first group to arrive at the quadrivial point will win.

povhouma.com

GRAB A PADDLE AT PAC

Eddie and Lisa Mullen bring adventure to Point-Aux-Chene.

Jonathan Foret and Alexis Braud share their new masterpiece.

Photo: Jason Cohen

[ kwo-driv-ee-uhl ] adjective having four ways or roads meeting in a point.

Camping

PUBLISHER

Brian Rushing

ASSOCIATE

PUBLISHER

Mary Downer Ditch

EDITORIAL

Bonnie Rushing Editorial Director

Isabelle Gareis

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Point of Vue magazine is published monthly. Subscriptions are available for $36 for 12 issues. For more information, email mail@rushing-media.com or visit rushing-media.com/subscriptions.

The Outer Banks in North Carolina! I was raised going there almost once a week every summer to see my grandparents.

CREATIVE

Any pool with a drink in my hand, hands

Lauren Hemstreet

PHOTOGRAPHY

Misty Leigh McElroy

Channing Candies

Jason Cohen

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

John Doucet

Jaime Dishman

Tara Morvant

CONTACT

Publisher: publisher@rushing-media.com

Editorial: mary@rushing-media.com

Creative: graphics@rushing-media.com

Sales: sales@rushing-media.com

Copyright ©2023 Rushing Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of editorial and/or graphic content is strictly prohibited.

BUSINESS ADDRESS: Rushing Media, P.O. Box 5013, Houma, LA 70361 • 985.868.7515

Point of Vue magazine cannot be responsible for the return of unsolicited material such as manuscripts or photographs, with or without the inclusion of a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Information in this publication is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed. The opinions expressed in Point of Vue magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Rushing Media, our employees or any of our advertisers. No employee or family member(s) of employees of Rushing Media are permitted to partake in any contests, giveaways or sweepstakes.

What's your favorite spot to spend summer vacation?

in the mountains! I love the cool mornings, smell of the great outdoors, and no service.

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Wellness & Osteoporosis Clinic

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Michael S. Haydel, MD, FIPP

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Donovan Matherne, FNP-C Brandi Degruise, FNP-C

ADVENTURES AWAIT!

I know I’ve shared my love for weekend adventures with you. It’s no real secret that I love packing up my truck with my family and heading out for a few days of sun and fun. I also keep a bag with extra clothes and towels, a fishing pole and chairs in the back of my truck just in case we decide to suddenly stop at a splash park or happen upon a nice fishing spot.

Last summer, our adventures took us tent camping at Lake End Park, kayaking in Manchac Swamp, firefly watching in Bogalusa, fishing at Bayou Country Sports Park, gator holding in Gibson, and sand castle building in Grand Isle. We enjoyed seeing all that the southern region of our state has to offer and creating core memories to last a lifetime.

Adventure takes on a slightly different meaning for everyone! The word is commonly defined as “a daring and exciting activity calling for enterprise and enthusiasm” or “an exciting or remarkable experience.” I think adventure comes in many different forms, as we think about our life and the different journeys it takes us on.

Our first story is a special one for me and our editor Bonnie Rushing. Fifteen years ago, we both embarked upon the

adventure of becoming a part of Junior Auxiliary of Houma. We were the class of 2013. This year marks the organization’s 50 year anniversary. The women who have been a part of this group’s history are an extremely talented and giving group, all serving with the purpose of the betterment

Kayak Rentals in Point-aux-Chene saw an opportunity to bring a new business to the southern part of our parish and set their minds to achieving that goal. Their kayak rental business has recently expanded and come back full force after Hurricane Ida, welcoming visitors from all over the globe to find their own adventure in our bountiful waters. Explore all they have to offer starting on page 22.

of the lives of women and children in the Houma area. Over the years, the projects have changed to continually meet the needs of the community. Learn more about what the organization is about starting on page 14.

For Eddie and Lisa Mullen, every day is a new adventure. The owners of PAC

Adventure isn’t a new idea to Jonathan Foret and Alexis Braud, but this journey was a unique collaboration for them both. Jonathan has published his first children’s book and Alexis has brought the story to life through her colorful illustrations. Enjoy hearing more about the original story and what it was like to create a book, starting on page 24. Most importantly, we cannot forget the adventures we can find in our own hometowns! Take a moment to enjoy PoV’s Summer Staycation special advertising section. In this section, local businesses in Terrebonne and Lafourche share a little more about what’s in store for you and your families this summer!

I hope you and your family enjoy the summer and all it has to offer you. Remember, adventure is out there! POV

What are you looking forward to this summer?

DAVID

I can't wait for sight fishing for Redfish in the Louisiana inland ponds to heat up, so my son Matthew and I can make some memories together!

JAMIE

I am looking forward to spending time with my son and husband, going to the zoo/aquarium/ insectarium reopening in NOLA and a girls trip to the beach!

ERIC

I’m looking forward to spending some weekends in Bay St. Louis with my family this summer.

I am looking forward to spending time with family on our summer road trip.

ELMY

This summer I’m most looking forward to celebrating my 50 years around the Sun surrounded by family on the beautiful island of my birth.

SUSAN

I’m looking forward to warmer weather, slowing down at work, and traveling.

ANNE

READY FOR SUMMER FUN!

BY MARY DITCH | PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY

Inside the impeccable home of Victoria Giglio is a wonderful oasis that beacons you to bask in the natural sunlight pouring in and relax in the cozy feels of this vacation paradise.

“I wanted my home to be light and airy,” shared Victoria. “I wanted to feel like I was on vacation everyday. I stayed in a beach house in Alys Beach and never wanted to leave. I knew I wanted my home to feel the same way.”

The three bedroom, two bath home was built by Travis Buquet Home

Builders, but the interior was designed and brought to life by Victoria, who owns Indigo Boutique and Interiors. She was able to put her own finishing touches on the home, including the custom shower in the master bath and all the lighting fixtures. She knew she also wanted the light floors and white kitchen but with a hint of black to match a china cabinet, and also to make all the gold features pop. Victoria’s favorite color is blue and it was included in the color scheme. She also loves oversized, abstract art,

which can be found hanging around the home.

The backyard is truly Victoria’s favorite place in the home. The courtyard-style oasis includes a custom pool and patio designed by VIctoria and brought to life by the Spa Center of New Orleans. It includes large tiles and artificial turf for easy maintenance. “I’m so excited about this space! I can’t wait for all the fun pool parties and summer festivities I plan to host in the backyard!” POV

BY STAFF | PHOTOS PROVIDED

Fifty years of commitment. Fifty years of making a difference. Fifty years of women united under the goal of providing charitable services to our community.

This year, the Junior Auxiliary of Houma celebrates its golden anniversary, paying homage to their membership and their mission. Founded in 1973 under the leadership of Glenny Buquet, JA of Houma is a service organization of women who desire to make a lasting difference by providing support for the underserved in our community with a particular emphasis on children. Our local chapter is one of nearly 100 Junior Auxiliaries that span across seven states.

JA of Houma members facilitate many service projects throughout the year to provide physical and emotional support to those in need throughout Terrebonne Parish. Over the last five decades, this has added up to approximately 530 local women volunteering tens of thousands of hours in 158 service projects.

One of the original members and third president, Lynn Cinnater, shared that she is in awe every day that the group has been in existence for more than fifty years. “I think it’s sort of unbelievable that it’s come this far,” Lynn said. “When it started, we were hoping it would be a lasting thing and that it would help the community.”

Lynn recalls dedicating time to the organization and having to remind her children that the time that she spent volunteering was to help others that

were in need. Currently, active members are required to complete 24 service hours a year; however, most members can tell you that they volunteer far beyond those hours because they enjoy making a difference in our community. While these ladies certainly deserve a crown for their dedication and impact, a crown has an entirely different meaning to its members. The Junior Auxiliary Crown has five points, each representing values of the organization: health, service, youth, leadership and charity.

JA members vote on service projects the chapter will orchestrate and execute during the year based on community needs. The chapter currently has eight projects, including a sensory-safe Mardi Gras event for children called Krewe of You, and providing mentorship to the teenagers of MacDonell Children’s

Home, and spending time with the residents of Terrebonne ARC residents. Santa’s Sneakers – a JA of Houma project for more than 30 years – provides brand new pairs of tennis shoes for hundreds of local children in need at Christmas. The event also includes a Christmas party that includes crafts, food, and a visit with Santa for families to enjoy together.

“Santa Sneakers has such an incredible impact for so many families over the last 30 years,” says current President Katie Portier. “I enjoy this project especially because I love to see the twinkle in the children’s eyes when they visit with Santa and experience a little bit of Christmas magic.”

Another popular current service project is Sweet Seniors, where members visit with residents of local nursing and

"We’re proud to continue the call to serve our community for generations to come.”

assisted living homes to spend time, make crafts, play games, and simply enjoy conversation.

“One of my favorite service projects is Sweet Seniors,” shared JA member Dawn Prosperie. “I don’t have any grandparents so it’s kind of like having a step-grandparent.”

Members agree that the opportunity to volunteer with other women who share a passion to serve is a gift.

“One of the most important lessons that JA has taught me is to not necessarily be afraid to try and do something different,” shared Felicia Zenthoefer, Vice President. “It can be scary to step outside your comfort zone from time to time, but the work we do is so rewarding.”

JA of Houma will be celebrating their 50th anniversary throughout the summer. They’ll spotlight members and milestones throughout the years on their website and social media. During mid-May through end of June, JA will host a temporary exhibit in the foyer of Terrebonne Main Library. The community is invited to a reception at the library on June 3rd at 1 p.m. The 50th year celebration will culminate at the chapter’s fundraising event Dancing With The Stars on August 19. This event features local celebrity dancer teams who compete for their very own mirror ball trophy, as well as silent auction, prize drawings, and more to fund the community outreach programs of JA. To learn more, visit www.jaofhouma.com

“The impact of Junior Auxiliary in Terrebonne Parish can be seen in education, community safety, child welfare, and beyond,” Katie said. “What an honor to carry on the legacy of our founding members and all those who have served. We’re proud to continue the call to serve our community for generations to come.” POV

Houma Family Dental

THE BAYOU COUNTRY CHILDREN’S MUSEUM LOCATED IN THIBODAUX HAS SOMETHING FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES!

Several toddler exhibits will keep your little one entertained for hours and our brand-new Challenge Course will keep your older children and their friends coming back for more! We also hold Summer Camps all summer long. Get your one-day pass or membership by visiting our website.

Bayou Country Children's Museum

211 Rue Betancourt, Thibodaux bccm.info

DA SWAMP IS HOUMA’S PREMIER ENTERTAINMENT AND PARTY CENTER, FEATURING 10,000 SQUARE FEET OF TRAMPOLINES. Stop by and let your kids burn off the calories today!

Da Swamp

2764 Coteau Rd, Houma 985-333-3013

DaSwamp.com

Summer is a great time to venture out with the family and try new things! With no school and often no schedule, it’s up to you to fill hours with entertainment. Check out this list of fun things to do in Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes. Plan your day and be sure to send us your pictures as you check activities off your list!

IT IS SUMMERTIME, Y’ALL!

Experience the thrill of holding a baby gator and seeing Tim “the Gator Man” feed a pen of 50 large hungry gators at Greenwood Gator Farm and Tours! Perfect for the entire family, explore the alligator farm that hatches up to 10,000 gators a year, and adventure through the winding bayous of the South on an airboat tour to witness gators in their natural habitat!

Greenwood Gator Farm & Tours

985-804-0744

For a full list of things to do in Terrebonne Parish, visit explorehouma.com!

YOU GOTTA TRY THIS!

Make the Cajun Bayou Food Trail part of your plans this Summer in Lafourche Parish. Download your passport and stop in at five Food Trail restaurants to earn a special prize. Learn more by visiting our website at lacajunbayou.com/foodtrail or stop in at our Visitor’s Center in Raceland!

Louisiana's Cajun Bayou Tourism

4484 LA-1, Raceland 985-537-5800

TERREBONNE FOUNDATION FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE IS HOSTING THE SUMMER'S NUMBER ONE FESTIVAL AND RUN! Join us on Saturday, May 13 in downtown Houma for our annual Food Festival and Run for Excellence to raise money to support teachers in the Terrebonne Parish School District. The festival features the Battle of the Bands high school competition, over 30 food booths, a 5K Run through historic downtown Houma and music from the Kings of Neon! Tickets are now available!

TFAE Run for Excellence and Food Festival

May 13, 2023

RunForExcellence.com

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED, SICILY’S PIZZA & MORE IS A FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT WHICH FEATURES A WIDE SELECTION OF ALL-YOUCAN-EAT PIZZAS AND MADE-FROM-SCRATCH CAJUN/CREOLE DISHES.

Sicily’s also offers seafood on Fridays and healthier options, including the biggest salad bar in Houma.

Sicily's Pizza and More

1539 MLK Blvd. Houma 985-262-0159

THE SUMMER READING PROGRAM AT TERREBONNE PARISH LIBRARY FEATURES FREE PERFORMERS, STORY TIMES, SNACKS, CRAFTS, AND PROGRAMS FOR ALL AGES. Sign up from May 30 - July 31 at mytpl.org/srp

Terrebonne Parish Library 151 Library Drive, Houma 985-876-5861

THE HOTTEST PLACE FOR THE COOLEST TOYS IS FOUND RIGHT HERE IN HOUMA.

Hi-5 Toys and Candy is a full-service, locally-owned toy and candy store located in Southland Mall. Filled to the brim with both trendy and nostalgic candies to satisfy any sweet tooth, Hi-5 also features freeze dried candies that are locally made.

On the toy side, there's nothing like stepping foot into the largest toy store around. With something for every age group, including those tricky teenagers, you are sure to find exactly what you are looking for.

Hi-5 Toys and Candy

Southland Mall, Houma 985-333-4185

MARKET AT THE MARINA IS AN OUTDOOR FARMERS MARKET CO-HOSTED BY TERREBONNE GENERAL HEALTH SYSTEM, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE HOUMA DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION THAT PROVIDES A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE FOR THE COMMUNITY TO EXPLORE LOCAL VENDORS WHO PRODUCE FRESH, HEALTHY FOOD AND NON-FOOD HEALTH ITEMS.

Located at the Marina, across from Terrebonne General Health System, the market offers stunning waterfront views and a perfect setting for a fun and interactive shopping experience. Visitors can expect to find an array of locally grown fresh produce, meats, and seafood. The Market is held on the first Saturday of each month.

Market at the Marina Downtown Houma Marina @MarketattheMarina

AT ZACK'S, WE'RE MORE THAN JUST A FROZEN YOGURT SHOP.

Established in 1983, we've spent the last few decades bringing people together in the bayou community through the highest-quality frozen yogurt, ice cream, gelato, speciality milkshakes and more. Located on St. Charles Street in Houma, we're on the move to make things bigger and better with a new location right next door to our current one!

Zack's 1297 St. Charles Street, Houma 985-746-5066

JOIN YOUR FRIENDS FOR THE BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY FISHING RODEO IN TERREBONNE PARISH!

The 15th Annual Bubba Dove Fishing Rodeo will be held June 8-11, hosted by the Gordon Dove, Jr. Foundation. The Foundation is a non-profit organization created in memory of Gordon "Bubba" Dove, Jr. by his friends and family. The Foundation sponsors this annual rodeo in hopes to preserve our fondest memories of Bubba, an avid fisherman, while working toward raising money to fund the foundation's charitable donations. Since our inception in 2009, the Foundation has been able to give more than $390,000 to local charities or to local students through scholarships to support such causes. Rodeo tickets are $30 per ticket.

$1,000 Prize for 1st Place Bull Red, $1,000 for the Biggest Fish Overall. Ticket includes: Rodeo entry fee & Rodeo t-shirt; Entry into door prize drawing (includes a $500 Cash Drawing winner must be present); Food and soft drinks at the rodeo during scale times; Shrimp boil on June 11.

15th Annual Bubba Dove Fishing Rodeo

Falgout Canal Marina

www.GordonDoveJr.Foundation

WITH TRUE TO THE BOOT LOUISIANA SPIRITS, BAYOU TERREBONNE DISTILLERY IS A PILLAR IN THE DOWNTOWN AREA, HOSTING EVENTS SUCH AS LIVE MUSIC ON THE WEEKENDS, COMEDY NIGHT, TRIVIA NIGHTS, SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS, WRESTLING, KARAOKE AND MORE. This summer, the Distillery will be the place to go for non-stop fun!

Bayou Terrebonne Distillers

8043 W Main St, Houma 985-790-7722

@bayouterrebonnedistillers

LUMINATE HOUMA IS A MAGICAL EXPERIENCE THAT ILLUMINATES THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN HOUMA, EVERY SECOND SATURDAY OF THE MONTH. As the sun sets over the bayou from 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM, families gather in the Memorial Park between Lumiere Blues & Jazz Bistro and Houma Massage Co. for an enchanting evening of candlelit music, art, and community. Children enjoy the hands-on arts & crafts provided by CASA of Terrebonne and Lumiere. At the same time, parents take in the vibrant creations of local artists from the Bayou Regional Arts Council. With the fantastic sounds of live music floating through the air and bayou, Luminate Houma offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a moment of peace and beauty to savor under the stars. This event wouldn’t be possible without the sponsorship of the Houma Downtown Development Corporation, Lumiere Blues & Jazz Bistro, and Jam Up Marketing.

Luminate Houma

Memorial Park, Houma @LuminateHouma

@luminatehouma

BY TARA MORVANT | PHOTOS BY JASON COHEN

As the weather warms and the daylight stretches longer into the evening, it’s the perfect time to experience the waterways of Louisiana’s Bayou Country from a different perspective. Grab your paddle and enjoy a nice and easy trek around the coastal marshes of PointAux-Chenes and focus on the ecology and southern scenery of our area with PAC Kayak Rentals.

Meet Eddie and Lisa Mullen, owners of PAC Kayak Rentals down in PointAux-Chenes, Louisiana. For years,

the Mullens made their living off the land as commercial crabbers, earning themselves a positive reputation amongst locals along the way. One day, as they were unloading from a day of crabbing, they noticed a kayaker fall and skin his elbow on the concrete as he attempted to launch his kayak down a slippery, slanted boat launch – at that moment, an idea crossed Eddie’s mind.

In January 2016, Eddie purchased supplies and built a custom, first-in-thestate floating kayak launch with two

bays that allowed kayakers to back their truck up directly to the launch to safely unload. By building the bays level with the dock and including an assistance bar, Eddie wanted to ensure no one else fell and hurt themselves at his launch. “God told me to build it,” Eddie said.

On April 1, 2016, PAC Kayak Rentals welcomed their first customer. Equipped with a bait shop, kayak rentals and a houseboat for rent, business quickly began to boom, ultimately resulting in the Mullens taking on a full-time

business and expanding to eight bays in 2019. The ingenuitive couple even developed their own line of mosquito and gnat spray, knowing all too well that they are unavoidable and relentless around water, along with other balms and sunscreens available for purchase in their bait shop.

While PAC Kayak Rentals is open yearround, the best time to paddle along the coast runs from October through May, when the water is shallow and clearer, and you have less chances of running into bad weather. Located in one of the top fishing destinations in the world, PAC Kayak Rentals brings in folks from all over the globe to paddle our distinctive waterways and to discover

swamp wildlife around every bend and curve of the marshes.

One visitor, a 14-year-old boy from Jerusalem, was granted the fortunate opportunity to visit anywhere in the world for his birthday. He packed his bags and traveled thousands of miles to Point-Aux-Chenes to fulfill his birthday wish to see the dolphins. “We were truly honored that he wanted to spend his birthday with us,” stated Lisa Mullen when reflecting on the memory. “We planned to bring him out by boat if he didn’t see them while kayaking, but sure enough, he saw the dolphins and his face lit up as he said it was his best birthday!” Others have traveled from France to see the wild horses roaming

the waters, some travel from Montana to see a beautiful and serene sunrise over the horizon of the Gulf of Mexico. “We see things every day that we don’t appreciate, and then people visit, and they remind me of how special it is here.”

Today, Eddie and Lisa enjoy sitting on the front porch of their bait shop, cooking up a jambalaya and visiting with their guests. They have two sons and 10 grandchildren who help out when needed and may one day take over the family business, but for now, Eddie and Lisa continue to make waves in the kayak community and look forward to offering the opportunity for others to explore Houma. POV

“We see things every day that we don’t appreciate, and then people visit, and they remind me of how special it is here.”

BY ISABELLE GAREIS PHOTOS PROVIDED

When you have a story to tell, you’re in the midst of a national pandemic, and you’re Jonathan Foret, you write a book. The original story is beautifully illustrated by Alexis Braud, a Cut Off-based professional artist, bringing Jonathan’s story to life in the pages of The Fly that Flew Off the Handle.

Jonathan, who is also the Executive Director of the South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center, is proud to present his newly published children’s book, The Fly that Flew Off the Handle. “The story is about a little fly named Lester who feels angry a lot, but doesn’t quite know why or what to do about it,” explained the author. After a long journey of trying and failing to feel better, Lester meets a little butterfly Seymour who helps him figure out what’s wrong by asking him two simple questions: “What makes you angry?” and “what makes you happy?” Maybe the little fly Lester was just landing on the wrong surfaces this whole time!

“The book was inspired by my time serving in the Peace Corps from 2004-2006. There were lots and lots of flies where I lived and

they made me very upset!” laughed Jonathan. “So the idea for the book was born. This has been in the works for years— I kept imagining an angry fly as a character who was trying to be happy.” Jonathan went on to discuss how his main character was inspired by the “journey of the hero” displayed in other famous works, such as Joseph Campbell’s work in comparative mythology and George Lucas’s “Star Wars” series. “If you read the book through that lens, you can see that this little fly in a children’s book is similar to a character like Luke Skywalker. He meets different characters, eventually finding one who helps him along his way. It’s a hero’s journey,” he said. “However, I want to mention that I couldn’t have brought this book to life without the beautiful illustrations of Alexis Braud.”

Alexis is a children’s book author, illustrator, and Nicholls

State University graduate with a BA in Art and a focus in painting and sculpting. Alexis finds inspiration for her work in the characters, critters, and inherent mysteries of the bayous, swamps, and marshes she calls home…her paintings capture the characters of her home state in their animal guises filled with all the mysterious energy,

"Any book is a collaborative product, and I could not be happier with what Jonathan and I have created.”

beauty, and curiosity of the wild. “The most wonderful part of working on this book was collaborating with an author who respected my work,” explained Alexis. “Jonathan gave me the time and space to not only illustrate his words, but contribute to the story. This book was a mid-COVID-19 and Hurricane Ida undertaking, so we both faced many challenges and trials through those years. Somehow, Jonathan kept us afloat and the bugs played on! Any book is a collaborative product, and I could not be happier with what Jonathan and I have created.”

The pair unveiled the first 100 printed copies of The Fly that Flew Off the Handle at the South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center’s Ladybug Ball on Saturday, April 22, 2023. The book will be available for purchase soon, so everyone can enjoy the little fly Lester’s inspiring journey and have a beautiful piece of southern Louisiana in their homes! POV

Whether recovering from a stroke, fall, or other medical condition, our customized rehab program helps you recover quickly so you can get back home. If you’re getting ready for long-term living, we make the transition from home to our community as rewarding as possible. A variety of spacious resident suites offer the ultimate in privacy and comfort.

THE OBSERVER | BY JAIME DISHMAN

BEAUTY IN THE BAYOUS

If you know me, you know where I most want to be.

The answer is Cocodrie.

The people who know me well roll their eyes when this subject comes into conversation. (I try to insert it as often as possible). The proof is in the sign two dear friends bought me: “Cocodrie is my Happy Place” the sign says. It’s entirely true. We are travelers by nature, and love going places – all over the world. Everywhere in the United States. But over the past few years, we can be at the most amazing places – awesome beaches, beautiful mountains, countries across the world. And ask me where I would probably rather be and the answer is always: Cocodrie.

It’s a little crazy. And honestly, I can’t even explain it.

I know it’s brown water. And there’s mosquitoes and gnats.

But it’s bayou. And I adore it.

It wasn’t always that way. Growing up “down the bayou” in Bourg, I wasn’t proud of it. Rolled my eyes about fishing, shrimping, crabbing. Slept through almost every fishing trip and refused to even put my pole in the water sometimes.

But then the shift came – maybe it’s a mid-life crisis. I don’t even know. I check fishing reports, weather reports, signed up for an online South Louisiana fishing university. I downloaded the boat trader app to check out boats. I talk to people who fish about the best spots, the best bait, the best way to do it. I’ll hop out of bed at 4:30 a.m. in hopes of a good fishing day. Or crabbing. Because I love that too.

We recently met some new friends who live in California, and I tried to explain to them why I love it so much. “So we have a little camp in Cocodrie,” I told them. “What’s a camp?” they asked. Honestly at this point in the conversation, I realized the hopelessness of trying to explain to them the gloriousness of a weekend at “the camp in Cocodrie.” “Ya’ll just come visit us,” I said. “Then you’ll see.”

It’s our bayous. And I’m just a little in love with them all. I love that we live at the bottom of the boot. I love that we can catch our food and cook it with friends and family and an average day becomes the best of days with the most memories. Fish stories are embellished, exaggerated and told for months.

My kids bought me an Academy gift card for Mother’s Day last year. They know I love spending hours on the bait aisle, dreaming of how all the cute,

sparkly bait will catch me redfish and trout. It’s a thing. Although if I’m honest, I’ve been made lots of fun of for calling baits cute. But they are – google a picture of Matrix Shrimp Creole shad – so cute! And it’s a proven winner in our boat. Win-win.

Ours is a true Sportsman’s Paradise and I don’t want to ever leave. Last year, we watched Fourth of July fireworks out of the end of Cocodrie where bayou meets gulf. It was red and orange skies and then fireworks. And family and friends. All my favorite things. It’s an appreciation for the things that have been here all along. There’s beauty in the same bayous that I found so boring all those years before.

When a storm comes and destroys what I love, my heart aches for the land and the people who love it and live on it. It’s a land unlike any other. The bayous have created a people unlike any other as well. When I’m acting a little independent and fierce, my family will say “the Bourg is coming out of me.” That’s true too. Don’t mess with bayou people or the people we love.

I want my children to know and love the land like we love it. Don’t miss the goodness of here because you’re trying to focus on over there. You don’t have to stay here forever, but this place should always hold a place in your heart. There’s bayou water running through all our veins. Don’t forget the beauty of this place we get to call home. POV

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KNOW THE FACTS ABOUT STROKE

May is National Stroke Awareness Month. It is important to know the facts about Stroke. While Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S., it is also the principal cause of disability in adults. The disability resulting from Stroke can be reduced by lowering response time, knowing warning signs and changing lifestyle.

Time is on your side.

With any type of stroke, immediate medical attention is critical to a good outcome. Stroke happens in the brain—not the heart—when the blood flow to the brain is interrupted.

A TIA (transient ischemic attack) results when blood flow to the brain is temporarily obstructed. It is often known as Mini Stroke, though this description can be misleading, and prevent patients from seeking care within the critical time window. Oftentimes, people don't realize that they've suffered a TIA and may ignore telltale signs, such as momentary weakness or numbness in the arm or leg, slurred speech or impaired vision.

Ischemic strokes, which account for about 87% of all strokes, happens when a clot interrupts blood flow to the brain. On most occasions, the clot does not spontaneously dissolve without such treatments as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) or a minimally invasive procedure to remove the clot.

Clot-busting drugs, such as tPA and TNK, can reverse, alleviate or eliminate symptoms if given within 4.5 hours of stroke symptom onset. Timely access to emergency care is paramount as patient outcomes for recovery are highest within the 60-minute, door-toneedle time—i.e., receiving tPA within 60 minutes of arriving at the hospital.

Second broad category of stroke, which can be quite serious and life-threatening, is hemorrhagic stroke, which results when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and spills blood into surrounding brain tissue. It often requires surgery to stop the bleeding and lower pressure surrounding the brain. Know the warning signs.

The American Stroke Association uses the acronym F.A.S.T. to help people recognize common warning signs of a stroke.

• F — Face drooping. Numbness or drooping on one side of the face droops or an uneven smile often indicates a stroke.

• A — Arm weakness. When one arm is weak or numb, try to raise both arms. If one drifts downward, you may be having a stroke.

• S — Speech difficulty. Slurred speech is often a first warning sign.

• T — Time to call 911. Don't wait for symptoms to go away.

Other signs such as sudden impaired vision and balance have led to altering the familiar acronym to BE FAST. Watch for:

• B — Balance. Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination can also cause for concern.

• E — Eyesight. Blurred eyesight or a vision blackout in one or both eyes, even if only temporary, indicates an emergency.

Decrease the risks of stroke.

As much as 80% of all strokes are preventable. While you have no control over

certain risk factors such as genetics, age or family history, you can lower the chances of suffering from a stroke with making changes to your lifestyle.

Recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) include the following:

• Healthy diet — Eat a diet high in fiber, fresh fruits and vegetables, and low in sodium, saturated and Trans fats.

• Healthy weight — Being overweight or obese increases the risk of stroke.

• Stay active — Physical activity helps balance your weight and lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Aim for at least 2.5 hours of moderate physical activity per week.

• Don't smoke — Cigarettes greatly increase the chance of having a stroke.

• Limit alcohol use — Excessive alcohol consumption can increase blood pressure. A general guide is no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink for women.

Stroke safety involves taking preventative measures to reduce risk of stroke, recognizing the warning signs of stroke and seeking immediate medical attention in the event of a stroke. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, managing medical conditions and staying informed about stroke prevention and treatment, you can improve your chances of avoiding the devastating effects of stroke.

For more information contact Thibodaux Regional Neurology Clinic, 985.493.3090.

MY FAVORITE JACQUES

I can remember all the months of May while growing up. May was the month when school was winding down, when summer vacation was in sight, and when new outdoor allergens emerged just enough to make you feel drowsy and feverish and kinda melancholy that all these changes were happening. But perhaps none were as memorable as the final May of college. After all, with moving away, grad school, and a career in the immediate plans, May marked the final threemonth summer vacation I would ever have.

So, I kinda wanted made sure I left college with a bang—by leaving my mark on some aspect of the college campus I was leaving behind. And I made that bang-mark by winning a naming contest with the name “Jacques.” Now, Jacques is an interesting name: It’s got origins in medieval France, and through history it was used both as a given name or a family name. I liked it mostly because it sounded powerful and startling, as in “ZHOCK”! Beyond how it sounded, however, there were a number of Jacques that likely influenced my prize-winning, bang-mark usage. First, there was Jacques Offenbach, nineteenth century French composer of operettas, whom I learned about as a young kid while listening to classical records with my dad. Offenbach’s most famous work is the operetta “Orpheus in the Underworld,” and that operetta was most famous for the dance scene called the “Can-Can.” You know the CanCan: It’s that famous fast dance where a line of colorfully-dressed chorus girls grab their skirts at the knees kick their legs up in unison, consequently showing their fluffy, all-white, thick-laced petticoats to the audience. For this reason, I spent all my childhood years thinking that the operetta was called “Orpheus in the Underwear”—a naughty saying from the secret world of adults. Once inside, it’s difficult to get such things out of your head when you’re young and impressionable. In later years, I remember watching special television broadcasts of “The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau.” This Jacques was a world-famous French ocean explorer and filmmaker. He invented several tiny submarines that allowed him to film and share deep sea discoveries and exotic sea creatures with his audiences. It was a special time for my family, as we all gathered around the television cabinet to watch. It was my favorite show until I realized that I preferred eating deep-fried sea creatures to watching deep sea ones on TV.

More recently, I’ve been watching French chef Jacques Pépin, who wows audiences with his personal history of cooking experiences and the dishes he serves up in syndication on PBS stations near you. Effortlessly making alluring French recipes for his television audience, he’s best known at my house for the quote, “When you have good bread and good butter, it’s hard to beat.” I whole-heartedly agree. As well as whole-stomachly agree.

But neither Offenbach nor Cousteau nor Pépin is my favorite Jacques. As a senior in college, the campus radio station ran a contest to name their new pet--a gangly, stuffed monkey with elastic insides such that when you pulled a leg it would recoil and fly across a room while screeching. Being such a clever primate myself,

UNDER THE SCOPE | BY JOHN DOUCET

3rd Annual May the 4th Celebration

May 4, 4 p.m.

Houma Downtown Courthouse Square

May the 4th comes to Downtown Houma for this 3rd Annual Celebration of all things Star Wars! This great family-friendly event will offer live music, delicious food, and fun for the whole family. Be sure to dress as your favorite Star Wars character for a chance to win the costume contest!

Viva La Trivia

May 5, 6 p.m.

St. Matthew’s Episcipal School

Saint Matthew’s Episcopl School Parent Association proudly hosts their 2nd Annual Spring Trivia Contest. This event is BYOB. Food will be available for purchase. The cost is $180 per team of six. Participants must be 18+. First place team will win $400 cash! To register a team, please email amymarie1213@gmail.com

Hope Community Mega Fundraiser

May 6, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Hope Extreme

Hope Extreme will host a garage sale, bake sale and car wash to raise funds for summer camp tuition. The organization plans to take over 50 students to summer camp this year and needs to raise $200 per student. Stop by the Mega Fundraiser and help send those kids to camp!

Market at the Marina

May 6, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Downtown Houma Marina

Terrebonne General Health System and Houma Downtown Development Company, present their monthly outdoor farmers market. This month’s event will feature local vendors selling local goods and produce, as well as meat and seafood, homemade body care products, and more! The market also features the Marina Sprouts Kid Club, St. Matthew’s STEM Lab, Little Arts Studio, and more!

Fletcher’s 3rd Annual Derby Party

May 6, 4 - 8 p.m.

Fletcher Technical Community College, Schriever

Enjoy a mint julep or your favorite beverage, and savor hors d’oeuvres, while participating in the silent and live auction, bourbon taksing, live music and more at the Annual Derby Party! Make sure to dress to impress with your best derby hat, for the hat contest!

Luminate Houma

May 13, 5:30 p.m.

Next to Lumiere Blues and Jazz Bistro

Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the essence of local musicians and artists showcasing their talents at the free, community outdoor concert!

TFAE Food Fest & 5K Run for Excellence

May 13, 4 p.m.

Downtown Houma

Battle of the High School Bands kicks off at 4 p.m., followed by the opening of the Food Fest and start of the race at 6 p.m. Those in attendance will dance the night away with Kings of Neon! Funds raised by this event support the efforts of the Terrebonne Foundation for Academic Excellence.

Louisiana Blackberry Festival

May 20, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Houma Heights Cultural District

Join the fun at the first Louisiana Blackberry Festival under the twin spans near the MacDonell Children’s Home! The free festival will offer blackberry themed food, drinks, products, and more, with the option to purchase activity tickets.

2nd Annual Freedom Fest

May 27 from 11 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Fletcher Technical Community College, Schriever

South Louisiana Veteran Outreach is teaming up with the Bayou Beer Society and merging Freedom Fest and Bayou Beer Fest to create one fantastic day of fun! Including both a Crawfish Boil Cookoff and Bayou Beer Fest, guests will enjoy delicious crawfish, craft beer, live music, kids activities and more. Proceeds to benefit the efforts of SLVO. POV

Enj this summer luncheon aimed at expanding melanoma awarene .

Guests will hear from Dr. Alexis Duke, local dermatologist and presenting sponsor of the luncheon, as well as a skin cancer survivor, learning about risk factors, signs and safety.

Enjoy drinks, lunch, bingo, fabulous swag and wear your biggest and best decorated hat to participate in our hat contest.

Special guest Miss Louisiana USA 2023 Sylvia Masters

Sunday, June 11th | 12 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. | Eendale Country Club

All proceeds from this event will stay here in the Bayou Region to fund cancer prevention and education efforts at Terrebonne General | Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center.

Tickets can be purchased online at bigbrims.givesmart.com