Point of Vue - February 2023

CHATEAU CHIC Mardi

ORCHID FRIENDS ARE FOREVER Terrebonne Orchid Society shares their love for the unique flower.

THE CAJUN MUSIC PRESERVATION SOCIETY IS ON A MISSION

Cajun music lives on through their endless work.

EXTRAS ON THE COVER WORD, YA HEARD

PUBLISHER’S

to fatigue; tire; wear out

After a long weekend of celebrating Mardi Gras, the krewe was trachled.

The dancers were trachled after dancing for miles in the Fat Tuesday parade.

WORD ON THE STREET

VISIT US ONLINE: povhouma.com

Gras Mambo!

Photo: Misty Leigh McElroy

[ trah-khuhl ] verb

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What's your favorite type of king cake?

PUBLISHER

Brian Rushing

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Mary Downer Ditch

EDITORIAL

Bonnie Rushing

Editorial Director

Isabelle Gareis

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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.

CREATIVE

Lauren Hemstreet

PHOTOGRAPHY

Misty Leigh McElroy

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

John Doucet

CONTACT

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Plain cinnamon!

Cream cheese!

OBVIOUSLY Cannatas Gooey Butter Snickerdoodle!

Pain Managed.

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

For the love of MARDI GRAS!

Full disclosure? We’re Mardi Gras people in my family.

Yes, I have major anxiety and I hate crowds, but I love going to the parades. Strange, I know. But it’s true. I like the music. I like the smell of food cooking. I like the themes of the floats in the parades. I appreciate the show our community puts on that is unique to our culture, that you can’t find anywhere else. I’m serious; it’s just not the same in New Orleans!

My son, who usually isn’t a fan of loud noises, likes the chaos and all the beads and toys being tossed to him. (He is especially fond of the snacks.) My husband loves hollering at the riders he knows on floats as they pass by.

Both my husband and I ride in Carnival clubs. I ride with the Krewe of Hyacinthians and he rides with the Krewe of Hercules. This year, John is a Duke and my son Jackson is a Page. It has been crazy leading up to the big show: Tableau. John is extremely excited about being able to wear the big feathers and represent his float and krewe as a Royal Centurion. Jackson isn’t too sure about the “wearing make-up, tights and ballet slippers” part, but can’t wait to walk around and wave at the guests from his spot behind the King. Be sure to wave to him on the King’s Float on ride day!

It’s an amazing experience, being this involved in Mardi Gras. I love the

tradition and pageantry of a tableau and parade. I appreciate the hard work that goes into the floats and the costumes, on down to sourcing the specialty throws for the krewes. You can’t imagine the

Point of Vue this month focuses on Spring and Love! Since we also celebrate Valentine’s Day, why not chat a bit about the things we love. Our stories this February share a love of flowers and a love of Cajun music.

For more than forty years, the Terrebonne Orchid Society has been cultivating a friendly, helpful, and open community around a shared passion for these beautiful flowers. The society is really a group of close friends who get together to talk about their experiences and share their love and passion for the beautiful plants. Learn more about the Terrebonne Orchid Society and their upcoming show starting on page 14.

months and months of hard work that the volunteers put in to host the greatest free party in the world. The next time you go to a parade, carefully look at how each float matches the theme, and the costumes match the float. Check out the trinkets you catch, and notice if they too match.

The Cajun Music Preservation Society is on a mission to bring life and awareness back to the art of traditional Cajun music in Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes. It’s their love of Cajun culture, particularly the music, that pushed them to start the organization and continue to move the needle forward to grow. Enjoy learning about the Cajun Music Preservation Society on page 26. There’s nothing I love more than living here in south Louisiana. Between the people and the culture, there’s just no place like home! POV

PHOTO BY LAURA GUISE

If you could travel to any year in a time machine, what year would you choose and why?

DANIELLE

1985. Saturday morning cartoons and a bowl of Count Chocula - life was awesome!

JUSTIN

I would travel back to 1990 so I could meet my parents when they were my age and see what they were like before I was born.

ANTHONY

I would choose to travel back to the 1960's so I could see some of my favorite bands perform. It would be amazing to listen to them live in concert and experience the songs as they were released!

ISABELLE

I would travel back to the 1880's so that I could meet my favorite artists like Monet and Van Gogh and watch them work. It would be amazing to see their paintings in progress and get to learn from them as they changed the world with their art.

KRISTEN

I would like to travel to the 60’s; for the clothes! Either that or back to when Jesus was walking around so I could meet Him.

MARDI GRAS MAMBO!

BY MARY DITCH | PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY

Laissez les Bon Temps Rouler!

As you step into the home of Tony and Dawn Romero, you are greeted by a beautiful entryway decorated with a stunning Carnival mask, welcoming you with energy and joy!

“I love decorating my home for Mardi Gras!” shared Dawn. “Once the Christmas decor has been taken down, everything looks plain. Then up goes the beautiful colors of Mardi Gras to spruce things up again!”

The couple moved into their home five years ago. The traditional home features a transitional interior style. “When we moved into this home, we knew lots of decorative work was needed,” said Dawn. “Shannon Knight with Knight n Day Designs has been a huge help in making this home refreshed and beautiful!”

During the summer, the homeowners’ favorite feature is the pool area. However, repairs from Ida are still

being done to the pool space, giving Dawn the opportunity to feature two new favorite spaces. “I love the entrance to my home. I like that I can easily change the look of my entrance with the seasons. The formal sitting room to the left of my entrance is also very versatile. This is my “quiet” space. Sitting by the fireplace, looking out the double doors, with no TV or kitchen noise is super relaxing!” POV

For more than forty years, the Houmabased Terrebonne Orchid Society has been cultivating a friendly, helpful, and open community around a shared passion for these beautiful flowers.

The Terrebonne Orchid Society was established in September of 1987 by the late Houma resident and horticulture enthusiast Mr. Ashley. The club was started based on a local love of orchids, and a desire to build a community in which orchid owners could ask friends for advice on their plants and display their prize blooms. The club currently has about thirty members, with two of the original founding members still active in the club.

Beverly Matherne, widow of the late Ashley Matherne, has been an active member of the Terrebonne Orchid Society for almost 30 years and recalls her late husband Ashley’s infectious love for the plants. “He had what I can only describe as a God-given talent,” said Beverly fondly. “He was a hybridizer, which means that most of what he did was focusing on breeding orchids to create new types. Through this process he was able to make some incredibly unique new types of orchids. It was through watching him work that I fell in love with orchids myself. His work was truly special.” Ashley was nationally recognized hybridist and received two First Class Flower (FCC) Awards by the American Orchid Society for his

species of orchids. This is the highest award presented by the American Orchid Society, as winning blooms must score a 90 or above on the 100-point scale. While people such as Ashley showed their orchids competitively, the Terrebonne Orchid Society is not solely focused on competitive work. “Our society is really a group of close friends who get together to talk about our experiences and share our passion for these beautiful plants,” said member Denise Mitchell. Denise has been a member of the Terrebonne Orchid Society for five years, but became invested in growing orchids years earlier

friends about your experiences.”

Whether participants are involved in the society in a leisurely or more serious way, The Terrebonne Orchid Society offers lots of opportunities to become involved in a larger community of orchidists. The Houma-based group is part of the American Orchid Society, and local members often have the opportunity to travel to different states across the country to attend and present in orchid shows. “We plan whole trips to go visit other orchid society shows,” said Denise. “They are a lot of fun for our members and we always look forward to them.” The local club is a host to these shows as well, and the society is looking forward to a big one– The Terrebonne Orchid Society Show and Sale that will take place on Friday, March 24th (11 a.m. - 8 p.m.), Saturday, March 25th (11 a.m. - 8 p.m), and Sunday, March 26th (12 p.m. - 6 p.m.) at the Southland Mall, 5953 W Park Avenue, “Members of our society and other orchid societies from Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Mississippi, Lafayette, Texas, and other places will all be attending the show,” said Denise. “We will have judges from the Houston Orchid Society coming as well to award

prizes. People in attendance can expect to see all kinds of rare, common, and absolutely beautiful orchids from all kinds of orchidists.” The Terrebonne Orchid Society Show and Sale is open to the public free of charge. If attendees are interested in purchasing an orchid at the show, there will be vendors with orchids for sale.

After a tour of Denise’s personal greenhouse and a look at the process of growing and cultivating different types of orchids, the two society members emphasized the importance of the club to them and their effort to expose their society to the community. “We are always looking for new members,” said Beverly. “Everyone has something different and unique to bring to the table. We always love when new people come to our meetings. Everyone is welcome, whether you want to ask advice, or to show an orchid, or just meet new people– if you want to join, just show up!”

The Terrebonne Parish Orchid Society meetings are held every second Tuesday of the month at the Terrebonne Parish Public Library Main Branch. Membership to the society is entirely free.

“This society is special to us,” said Denise as Beverly smiled and nodded. “After all–orchid friends are forever!”

For more information about the Terrebonne Orchid Society and upcoming show, reach out to Denise Mitchell at denise.mitchell123@gmail.com. POV

INFLUENCERS TAKE ON MANY MONIKERS, BUT IT’S HOW THEY SHAPE OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES THAT MATTERS MOST. FROM DELIVERING EXCEPTIONAL CARE TO PROVIDING UNFORGETTABLE CUSTOMER SERVICE, OUR INFLUENCERS LOOK FOR OPPORTUNITIES TO INTERACT WITH THEIR COMMUNITY. JOIN WITH US AS WE CELEBRATE OUR AREA’S TOP INFLUENCERS.

PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS/

2021 AWARDED HONORARY DOCTORATE OF COMMERCE FROM NICHOLLS STATE UNIVERSITY

2018 RECIPIENT, AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

GALA HONOREE

2017 RECIPIENT, BEST OF LAFOURCHE EXCELLENCE IN HEALTHCARE

2016 HARVEY PELTIER AWARD, NICHOLLS ALUMNI FEDERATION

2010 REGENT’S AWARD, AMERICAN COLLEGE OF HEALTHCARE EXECUTIVES

• 2009 THIBODAUX CHAMBER FRANK KENNEDY CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD

• 2006 CHAPTER HONOREE BETA GAMMA SIGMA, NICHOLLS STATE UNIVERSITY

• HONORARY MEMBER, BETA GAMMA SIGMA, NICHOLLS STATE UNIVERSITY CHAPTER

• EXECUTIVE PROFESSOR, A.B. FREEMAN SCHOOL OF BUSINESS, TULANE UNIVERSITY

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT:

• THE HAVEN

• THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER DAY SAINTS

• FOOD BANK

• CANCER-RELATED ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS

BUSINESS SUCCESSES/ ACHIEVEMENTS:

NATIONAL RECOGNITION

• NO. 1 HOSPITAL IN LOUISIANA FOR CARDIAC CARE BY CARE CHEX

• TOP 50 CARDIOVASCULAR HOSPITAL IN THE NATION

• “A” PATIENT SAFETY GRADE BY LEAPFROG

• HEALTHGRADES TOP 10% IN THE NATION FOR PATIENT SAFETY EXCELLENCE

• HEALTHGRADES TOP 10% IN THE NATION FOR PATIENT EXPERIENCE

GROWTH AND LEADERSHIP

• INNOVATIVE CANCER INSTITUTE

• STATE-OF-THE-ART WELLNESS CENTER AND SPORTS COMPLEX

• RECRUITED MORE THAN 40 PHYSICIAN SPECIALISTS IN THE PAST TWO YEARS

GREG STOCK

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER | THIBODAUX REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM

WHAT LED YOU TO THE ROLE YOU CURRENTLY HOLD IN YOUR COMPANY? DID YOU SEE YOURSELF IN THIS POSITION WHEN YOU STARTED OUT IN THE WORKFORCE? I originally intended to become a city manager but changed to healthcare administration. I became fascinated with the complexities of the job and the opportunity to make a difference in the quality of people’s lives.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU HAVE FACED OVER THE YEARS, AND HOW DID YOU MEET IT? Leading change – getting a sufficient number of people to embrace a vision and adopt new and improved ways of doing things; pursue excellence and not be satisfied with mediocrity; so that the hospital/health system actually realizes in large measure its reason for being. This includes overcoming critics and those with little vision, or no vision.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB, AND WHAT LESSON DID YOU LEARN FROM THIS JOB? Working with my dad, the rancher. I learned honesty, to work hard, bring energy and enthusiasm to your job, be an innovator, finish the work and strive for perfection.

WHAT’S THE ONE THING YOU CAN’T LEAVE YOUR HOUSE WITHOUT EACH MORNING? Prayer.

WHAT PIECE OF ADVICE DO YOU SHARE WITH YOUR TEAM REGULARLY?

To lead by example, walk the talk and live up to our purpose.

WHAT WAS YOUR MOST FULFILLING CAREER MOMENT? There are many of those moments to know you made a difference in the lives of the people you serve.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF WORKING HERE IN THE BAYOU REGION? I love the people. They are the best anywhere.

HOW ARE YOU GOING TO IMPACT THE BAYOU REGION IN 2023? Continue work to improve health, wellness and quality of life. POV

INFLUENCERS | SPONSORED CONTENT

PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS/AWARDS:

MEMBER OF THE COMMITTEE OF 100 FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN LOUISIANA

LEADERSHIP LOUISIANA GRADUATE

LEADERSHIP TERREBONNE GRADUATE

GOLDMAN SACHS 10000 SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

LOUISIANA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CEO ROUNDTABLES GRADUATE

TILMAN ESTEVE AWARD OUTSTANDING

MEMBER BY SOUTH CENTRAL INDUSTRIAL ASSOCIATION

CHAMBER STAR AWARD FROM HOUMA-TERREBONNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE INC MAGAZINE TOP 5000 FASTEST GROWING COMPANIES IN AMERICA

LLC,

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT:

• EVENT CHAIR FOR RELAY FOR LIFE TERREBONNE

• CREATOR OF THE LIP SYNC TERREBONNE FUNDRAISER FOR RELAY FOR LIFE

• TREASURER FOR THE HACHE GRANT ASSOCIATION

• MEMBER AND PAST PRESIDENT OF THE SUNRISE ROTARY CLUB OF HOUMA

• MEMBER AND PAST CHAIRPERSON OF THE HOUMATERREBONNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

• MEMBER OF THE SOUTH-CENTRAL INDUSTRIAL ASSOCIATION

• ESPORTS PROGRAM ADVISORY BOARD CHAIR AT NICHOLLS STATE UNIVERSITY

BUSINESS SUCCESSES/ACHIEVEMENTS:

• NAMED MENTOR FOR LOUISIANA BUSINESSES IN THE AMERICAN ACADEMY PROGRAM BY LOUISIANA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (LED)

LLC,

WHAT LED YOU TO THE ROLE YOU CURRENTLY HOLD IN YOUR COMPANY?

When I graduated high school in May of 1993, the yearbook asked us the question of “Where do you see yourself in 10 years?” My answer was, “I will own my own business in 10 years.” In February of 2003 (almost 10 years to the date), my first technology company was started. It is interesting when you ask the question of the role of my company because I am in the leadership role of 4 companies currently. I have become a serial entrepreneur. Having high expectations of myself combined with a hard-working, dedicated, and a “don’t take no for an answer” attitude, set me on a path to success.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU HAVE FACED OVER THE YEARS AND HOW DID YOU MEET IT?

It is hard to pick one, so I have to provide two. One of my challenges was trying to maintain a healthy work/life balance. It is easy to get caught up in my work. The other challenge was not having empathy for my employees when they did not perform to a level of expectation I set.

When it came to working all the time, I had to set boundaries like not staying at work past 6:00pm for non-emergencies. I learned that the work will always be there. I also always felt that if I worked all the time it was my way

of providing for my family when it was quite the opposite. When it came to empathy, it is very common for leaders who build a business from nothing to think that people are lazy when don’t hustle. I learned to evolve as a manager to help employees be successful but also be held accountable.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AND WHAT LESSON DID YOU LEARN FROM THIS JOB?

My first job was working at United Diesel in their warehouse. This job included tearing things down, putting things together, sweeping the floor, and managing inventory, shipping and receiving. I learned that you could earn money from hard work.

WHAT PIECE OF ADVICE DO YOU SHARE WITH YOUR TEAM REGULARLY?

There is a mantra I share with my team regularly. First is that communication is key. I am a firm believer in the power of the ask. You don’t know the answer to a question unless you ask. The worst thing someone can say to a question is no. It is your responsibility to provide information to people so they can make informed decisions. If the answer you get is a no, did you present enough information to get the yes? You can’t blame the answering being no on the person that gave you the no. It is your responsibility to get the yes. You must also realize that a no can mean not now.

WHO ARE YOUR GREATEST INFLUENCERS?

When it comes to being an overall great person, it is my grandpa. He was an Assembly of God pastor for over 60 years. When it comes to my work ethic, it is my dad. I have also had some great friends and mentors along the way. Besides my grandpa, dad, and my mentors, I have always been inspired by stories about people who started at the bottom and achieved success through hard work and dedication especially when they were the underdog.

HOW ARE YOU GOING TO IMPACT THE BAYOU REGION IN 2023?

I am going to continue to give back to my community. At this point in my life, I feel the best way to do this is to run for Parish President. It has been 100 years since the oil and gas boom started to build Terrebonne Parish into what it is today. The opportunities available with technology and a shift into the energy industry from primarily oil and gas coupled with the advances in the medical industry provide us with an opportunity to grow for the next 100 years. Everything from automation to autonomy and rethinking the way things are done with technology can propel our region into leading the charge for the next boom. POV

Jason W. Bergeron

CEO OF STRATIFY, LLC, MANAGING PARTNER OF STRATIFY DIGITAL,

CEO OF STRATIFY MSP,

& MANAGING PARTNER OF VITALLYNC, LLC

WHAT LED YOU TO THE ROLE YOU CURRENTLY HOLD ON THE BOARD?

I was nominated by the South Central Chapter of the Louisiana CPA Society and approved by the Terrebonne Parish Council in July 2013. I was elected as Board Chair in April of 2022.

DID YOU SEE YOURSELF IN THIS POSITION WHEN YOU STARTED OUT ON THE BOARD?

I have served as Chair of the Finance Committee and Board Vice Chair, so Board Chair was a natural progression.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU HAVE FACED OVER THE YEARS AND HOW DID YOU MEET IT?

The Board and Administration are very progressive and always striving and strategizing to improve the facilities and healthcare for our community, so there are a lot of moving parts to keep up with.

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP?

I had great role models with both of my parents, who worked hard and were professionals. My dad is an Architect, and my mom was a classroom teacher until she got her master ’s and then became a principal for over 20 years. So I guess I always knew I was pretty good at math, and accounting seemed

PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS/AWARDS:

CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT SINCE 1985

MEMBER OF AICPA

MEMBER OF LOUISIANA SOCIETY OF CPAS – SOUTH CENTRAL CHAPTER

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT:

DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX FINANCE COMMITTEE

VANDEBILT CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL ADVISORY BOARD

VANDEBILT CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI BOARD

MEMBER OF THE LADIES CARNIVAL CLUB (HYACINTHIANS)

CHARTER MEMBER OF LEGATUS – AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST IN THE MARKETPLACE

to be the profession for me.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB, AND WHAT LESSON DID YOU LEARN FROM THIS JOB?

When I graduated from Nicholls in 1983, I started working in the accounting department at the City of Houma–before it became Terrebonne Parish Consolidated Government. I had some great role models who taught me about governmental accounting and dealing with the public. After I passed the CPA exam in 1985, I left the City and went to work in public accounting at Stagni & Company, who needed someone with governmental experience–and that’s what I am still doing today!

WHAT'S THE ONE THING YOU CAN'T LEAVE YOUR HOUSE WITHOUT EACH MORNING?

My cell phone & iPad.

WHAT PIECE OF ADVICE DO YOU SHARE WITH YOUR TEAM REGULARLY?

Every experience is a learning experience – even if it is a bad experience – learn something from it!

WHAT WAS YOUR MOST FULFILLING CAREER MOMENT?

I feel like I was always blessed to work with great people, and thanks to the ever-evolving

technological advances, this career has been flexible for a woman raising a family that didn't want to miss a thing my kids did! I had the privilege to work around my social life.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF WORKING HERE IN THE BAYOU REGION?

The people, for sure! We are so warm and friendly, and supportive. That is how I feel about our current Terrebonne General Board – all of us are honored to support the Administration and do whatever we can for our Community.

WHO ARE YOUR GREATEST INFLUENCERS?

Besides my parents, my husband (Mike Barker) is one of my greatest influencers – he leads by example, cares about his employees and Community, and donates a lot of time to giving back. Of course, my three wonderful children and their families keep me striving always to be my best.

HOW ARE YOU GOING TO IMPACT THE BAYOU REGION IN 2023?

I hope to continue contributing and volunteering to make the Bayou Region thrive – my term on the Board will end in a couple of years, but I plan to stay involved in other projects and organizations to better the Region I love so much! POV

Angelique Barker

BOARD CHAIR | TERREBONNE GENERAL HEALTH SYSTEM

PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS/ AWARDS:

STATE REPRESENTATIVE (1976-2004), SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE (1988-1992), SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (1996-2000)

LOUISIANA POLITICAL HALL OF FAME

LOUISIANA JUSTICE HALL OF FAME CENTER FOR DIGITAL GOVERNMENT, GOVERNMENT TECHNOLOGY AWARD GOVERNING MAGAZINE PUBLIC OFFICIAL OF THE YEAR

LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY CADETS OF THE OLE WAR SKULE, HALL OF HONOR FOUNDATION FOR HISTORICAL LOUISIANA PRESERVATION AWARD

Hunt Downer

ATTORNEY | WAITZ AND DOWNER

WHAT LED YOU TO THE ROLE YOU CURRENTLY HOLD IN YOUR COMPANY?

While I was at Nicholls, I was a part-time sales person at Saadi’s Haberdashery in downtown Houma. Upon graduation from Nicholls, I did my active duty with the Army Reserve. When I returned, I went back to Saadi’s while trying to find a job in agriculture. While I was there, I met Mr. Joe Waitz Sr. and several other local attorneys who said I should try law school. After applying to law school, with the assistance of the late Senator Harvey Peltier and his father Mr. Harvey Peltier Sr., I was admitted to Loyola Law School in 1969. While in law school I would return to Houma on weekends and holidays and work at Saadi’s to pay for my clothing. In my senior year of law school, I was a law clerk for a law firm in New Orleans and for Mr. Waitz in Houma. Upon gradating from law school, I had an offer from both the New Orleans firm and Mr. Waitz. I wanted to return to Houma, so I accepted Mr. Waitz’s offer and started to work with him in 1972. Eventually, continuing to work with Mr. Waitz over the years, the firm ultimately became Waitz and Downer. Today, I continue to practice with Mr. Waitz’s children: Joe Waitz Jr., and Mary Waitz Riviere. The next generation includes Joe Jr.’s son, Joseph Waitz III. As the old saying goes, the rest is history. 2022 marked my 50th year as a practicing attorney.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU HAVE FACED OVER THE YEARS AND HOW DID YOU MEET IT?

My greatest challenge has been balancing all of my professional roles. Simultaneously

• LOUISIANA ARCHITECTURAL FOUNDATION, PATRON OF ARCHITECTURE AWARD

• OVER 35 FEDERAL AND STATE MILITARY AWARDS

• LOUISIANA SPIRIT OF MAIN STREET AWARD

• LOUISIANA’S FIRST SECRETARY OF THE LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

• STARTING AS A PRIVATE AND RETIRING AS A MAJOR GENERAL IN THE US ARMY

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT:

• BOARD MEMBER FOR NICHOLLS FOUNDATION

• ADVISOR TO THE REGIONAL MILITARY MUSEUM

• PAST BOARD MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL WWII MUSEUM IN NEW ORLEANS

• LSU CADETS OF THE OLE WAR SKULE

beginning the practice of law and continuing in the Army Reserve, I ultimately transferred to the Louisiana National Guard, retiring from that role as the Assistant Adjutant General and Joint Force Commander as a Major General in 2010. Also, simultaneously, with the practice of law and military service, I was elected in 1975 to the Louisiana House of Representatives from Terrebonne Parish and served in that capacity for 28 years, leaving the House in 2004. While in the legislature, I served as both Speaker Pro Tempore and Speaker of the House. Upon leaving the House, I simultaneously served as Louisiana’s first Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs and on-duty with the Louisiana National Guard overseeing training of our troops who were being deployed. I was then redirected to Hurricane Katrina duties, ultimately concluding that service with the main focus on overseeing the rebuilding of historic Jackson Barracks, the Headquarters of the Louisiana National Guard and its 100+ structures. Upon release from National Guard duty and retirement, I returned to full time practice with Waitz & Downer.

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP?

In college, I wanted to be an Air Force pilot but the Air Force said I had a depth perception issue and they wanted to make me a navigator. So I joined the Army.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AND WHAT LESSON DID YOU LEARN FROM THIS JOB?

My first jobs were cutting grass and selling Christmas cards. From cutting grass I learned hard

work and attention to detail. In selling Christmas cards, I learned how to treat and talk to people.

WHAT PIECE OF ADVICE DO YOU SHARE WITH YOUR TEAM REGULARLY?

There are two things I regularly share with my team. Do the right thing, even when no one is looking! Second, I stress verbal communication over electronics, such as an email. Meet and talk with the person, or pick up the phone and call them.

WHAT WAS YOUR MOST FULFILLING CAREER MOMENT?

My next one. I enjoy law because I get an opportunity to help people and I am thankful for my broad and vast experiences and exposures to a vast array of legal issues, people and places. All of which in one way or another add to my ability, and our firm’s ability to respond.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF WORKING HERE IN THE BAYOU REGION?

I am working with folks I grew up with whose parents, grandparents, I knew, worked with and maybe served with in the military or legislature or whom I represented over the years. I love the community and the culture.

WHO ARE YOUR GREATEST INFLUENCERS?

My family, especially my wife and children.

HOW ARE YOU GOING TO IMPACT THE BAYOU REGION IN 2023?

I throughly enjoy the practice of law because I enjoy helping people and serving. I plan to continue practicing law and to lead by example. POV

INFLUENCERS | SPONSORED CONTENT

PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS/

SUCCESSFUL CAREER AS AN ELECTRICAL ENGINEER CULMINATING AS THE DIVISION ENGINEER FOR EXXON PIPELINE- 1984 SUCCESSFUL CAREER CHANGE TO MEDICAL DOCTOR GRADUATING WITH HONORS IN ALPHA

OMEGA ALPHA MEDICAL HONOR SOCIETY- 1989 SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF A SURGICAL RESIDENCY AT ALTON OCHSNER GENERAL SURGERY TRAINING PROGRAM-1994

ATTENDING SURGEON AT LEONARD CHABERT MEDICAL CENTER WORKING FOR SOUTH LOUISIANA MEDICAL ASSOCIATES (SLMA)- 1994

APPOINTED HOSPITAL AND SLMA MEDICAL DIRECTOR- 2005

APPOINTED CEO OF SLMA- 2005 APPOINTED PRESIDENT AND CEO OF SLMA-2014

Dr. Michael Garcia

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT:

• PRESIDENT, TERREBONNE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION

• PAST CHAIRMAN, TERREBONNE PARISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

• BOARD MEMBER, SOUTH CENTRAL PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT LOAN BOARD

• RECENT BOARD MEMBER, START CORPORATION

BUSINESS SUCCESSES/ACHIEVEMENTS:

• LARGE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR, TERREBONNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE-2011

• 44 YEARS PROVIDING PATIENT CARE, RESIDENT/ MEDICAL STUDENT EDUCATION, LEONARD CHABERT MEDICAL CENTER

• SUCCESSFUL CREATION AND ACCREDITATION OF THE INTERNAL MEDICINE RESIDENCY PROGRAM ACHIEVING BOARD PASS RATES PLACING US IN THE TOP 3 PROGRAMS IN THE STATE.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER & PRESIDENT | SOUTH LOUISIANA MEDICAL ASSOCIATES

WHAT LED YOU TO THE ROLE YOU CURRENTLY HOLD IN YOUR COMPANY? DID YOU SEE YOURSELF IN THIS POSITION WHEN YOU STARTED OUT IN THE WORKFORCE?

No, I did not see myself in this position. When I started in medicine about 25 years ago, I was Attending Surgeon here at the hospital and involved in resident training. After about 10 years of that work, some of the leadership of the time had stepped out of this role, so I took it on, and I’ve been in this leadership position ever since. The majority of my job now is overseeing the running of the company.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU HAVE FACED OVER THE YEARS, AND HOW DID YOU MEET IT?

Definitely dealing with the diminishing reimbursements for physicians services. Every year we have struggled with this and the numbers have continued to drop every year, so maintaining salaries while navigating that part of the finances is truly difficult and requires a lot of strategic thinking.

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP?

I grew up wanting to be an electrical engineer, and I did go to college to do that work and held a position as an electrical engineer with Exxon for five years. I enjoyed it a great deal and still

to this day enjoy tinkering with everything electrical. I made a mid-life switch to go back to school to be a doctor.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB, AND WHAT LESSON DID YOU LEARN FROM THIS JOB?

My first job was working with Exxon as an electrical engineer. It was part way through this job as I moved up through management with Exxon that I realized I wanted to go back to school to be a doctor and began that transition.

WHAT PIECE OF ADVICE DO YOU SHARE WITH YOUR TEAM REGULARLY?

I tell people to always do the right thing. We emphasize it in many ways, but those are the words, and how it is implemented is personspecific. If you disagree with another physician, then talk it out, and figure out why you disagree. Just do the right thing and when you do that, you will have more good days than bad ones.

WHAT WAS YOUR MOST FULFILLING CAREER MOMENT?

I can think of two or three patient stories where I was intimately involved in patient care that led to very happy endings. That spans from a brand new baby that I got an airway on, to an elderly lady who couldn’t swallow due to cancer. The outcomes of those kinds of stories trumps everything else.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF WORKING HERE IN THE BAYOU REGION?

Moving to Houma from the West Bank of New Orleans, I find that there are a lot of similarities to what I grew up with. It has made it easier to transition from one location to the other for me.

WHO ARE YOUR GREATEST INFLUENCERS?

There are two people that provided the influence that led me down this path. My uncle, who owns a family practice in west Texas, is someone whose accomplishments I have always looked up to. Later in my career, Dr. Frank Riddick, who was Chief Executive Officer of Ochsner, was one of my closest friends and mentors until he passed away. His wisdom and his advice gave me great insight into what needed to be done.

HOW ARE YOU GOING TO IMPACT THE BAYOU REGION IN 2023?

Well, we are going to continue our work– we are a multi-speciality medical practice so we see lots of patients and deliver many needed services. From a personal standpoint, I will continue to serve as the President of the Terrebonne Economic Development Association (TEDA), and I am hoping to stay involved in the Association and the board as long as I can. I think that between our practice and TEDA, we have a lot of potential to help make Terrebonne Parish a better place. POV

WHAT LED YOU TO THE ROLE YOU CURRENTLY HOLD IN YOUR COMPANY? DID YOU SEE YOURSELF IN THIS POSITION WHEN YOU STARTED OUT IN THE WORKFORCE?

LaRussa Real Estate has been in business for over 50 years. I started working for LaRussa Real Estate as Realtor in 1991 and knew I would be eventually running our family-owned business. I was fortunate later on that my family gave me the opportunity to oversee the operations of our business and become President.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU HAVE FACED OVER THE YEARS AND HOW DID YOU MEET IT?

Affordable Property and Flood insurance has been our major challenge over the last 15 years since Hurricane Katrina. FEMA 2.0 along with Hurricane Ida has caused many potential buyers and sellers to forgo the American dream of home ownership. I have been very active in the Louisiana Realtor Association as State Legislative Director and with our local Bayou Board of Realtors in working with legislators to find solutions to our insurance issues. This is one of our biggest challenges and concerns in our lifetime.

PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS/ AWARDS:

2016 REALTOR OF THE YEAR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT AND COASTAL RESTORATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBER

BAYOU BOARD OF REALTORS BOARD MEMBER

BAYOU BOARD OF REALTORS PRESIDENT

TERREBONNE PARISH CONSOLIDATED GOVERNMENT TAX REFORM TASK FORCE MEMBER

TERREBONNE PARISH SCHOOL DISTRICT/ CHAMBER OF COMMERCE TASK FORCE FOR TEACHER RAISES

TERREBONNE PARISH SCHOOL DISTRICT TASK FORCE FOR SOUTHDOWN SCHOOL

TERREBONNE PARISH SCHOOL DISTRICT FACILITY STUDY TASK FORCE

• ST FRANCES DE SALES CONSULTATIVE SCHOOL BOARD PRESIDENT

• LOUISIANA REALTORS BOARD OF DIRECTOR AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER

• LOUISIANA REALTORS STATE LEGISLATIVE DIRECTOR

• LOUISIANA REALTORS REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT

• BOARD MEMBER/CAPTAIN TERREBONNE MENS CARNIVAL CLUB

• TERREBONNE MENS CARNIVAL CLUB/COUNCIL ON AGING THANKSGIVING AND CHRISTMAS DINNER FOR SENIORS CHAIRMAN

• SOUTH CENTRAL PLANNING BOARD MEMBER

• HTSA BOARD MEMBER

• CHAIRMAN OF TERREBONNE PARISH CONSOLIDATED GOVERNMENT RECREATION MODERNIZATION COMMITTEE

• CHIRO OPTIONS FOR INDEPENDENCE AFFORDABLE HOUSING BOARD MEMBER

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP?

Professional Basketball Player, however being a 5’11” point guard that couldn’t jump kinda ruined that dream!

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AND WHAT LESSON DID YOU LEARN FROM THIS JOB?

My first job was a janitor at a local establishment and a server at a local bingo hall. The main lessons I learned were responsibility and accountability in life.

WHAT’S THE ONE THING YOU CAN’T LEAVE YOUR HOUSE WITHOUT EACH MORNING?

Other than my children (bringing them to school each morning), the one thing is my cell phone. Prompt communication is a vital part of my daily business between realtors, clients and customers. Technology is moving at a fast pace and people are expecting faster results.

WHAT PIECE OF ADVICE DO YOU SHARE WITH YOUR TEAM REGULARLY? Teamwork, unity, ethics and prompt communication are critical in our industry. WHAT WAS YOUR MOST FULFILLING CAREER MOMENT? Being awarded Realtor of the Year and Distinguished Service Award by the membership of the Bayou Board of Realtors.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF WORKING HERE IN THE BAYOU REGION? The people! Having traveled across the country, the people of our area are the most welcoming, friendliest, and caring people I’ve ever met.

WHO ARE YOUR GREATEST INFLUENCERS?

God and my parents and my children!

HOW ARE YOU GOING TO IMPACT THE BAYOU REGION IN 2023? BIG ANNOUNCEMENT COMING SOON… Stay Tuned! POV

Michael Paul LaRussa

PRESIDENT | COLDWELL BANKER LARUSSA REAL ESTATE

RECENT SUCCESSES/ ACHIEVEMENTS:

Nick Acosta

DIRECTOR | ROUSES MARKETS

WHAT LED YOU TO THE ROLE YOU CURRENTLY HOLD IN YOUR COMPANY? DID YOU SEE YOURSELF IN THIS POSITION WHEN YOU STARTED OUT IN THE WORKFORCE?

I worked at Rouses throughout college, where I earned a degree in agriculture and a Master of Business Administration — both of which prepared me for long-term role, one with growth potential, in the company. I was an assistant store manager in college. I worked until midnight, closed the store, got up early, went to school. There were a lot of weekends where everybody else was off having fun and I was working — but looking back, it was all worth it.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU HAVE FACED OVER THE YEARS, AND HOW DID YOU MEET IT?

Adjusting to different changes in the business world. From Covid and supply chain challenges to inflation, it seems in business there will always be challenges. You need to be nimble, able to adjust quickly, and keep an open mind to face anything that happens. Don’t ever think you always know everything; keep learning. Always surround yourself with positive people working together in a team, and see any challenge through to its conclusion.

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP?

I always knew I wanted to do this. I grew up with hunting as one of my passions, and it helped me to learn how to process meat, which dovetailed well with the meat business. There was never

a moment when I wasn’t happy. I enjoy this business. It is the one area that I strongly gravitated towards, because it is challenging and exciting at the same time. If you desire to be successful, loving your career is at the top of the list of ingredients in a recipe for success.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB, AND WHAT LESSON DID YOU LEARN FROM THIS JOB?

I started working for Rouses Markets at 15 years of age, hustling buggies in the parking lot at store #16 in Thibodaux. It was an afterschool job that also kept me busy on weekends, and tided me over until I could get a job in the meat department, where I really wanted to work. I did everything in those early years, from stocking shelves to working registers to helping customers in the store. I learned how to work with people and understand the dynamics of relationships in business. These are critical towards any success.

WHAT’S THE ONE THING YOU CAN’T LEAVE YOUR HOUSE WITHOUT EACH MORNING?

A kiss from my wife, Allison, and hugs from my kids. They are my rock, and everything I do is meant to give them — my family — the best life they can have. At the end of the day, I look forward to seeing them and enjoying every minute we spend together.

WHAT PIECE OF ADVICE DO YOU SHARE WITH YOUR TEAM REGULARLY?

In my role, I use lessons taught by my

grandfather, Anthony J. Rouse Sr., the founder of the company: “You have to earn every customer who walks through the door. That means having fresh products and keeping a clean store, and having what customers want when they want it. In this business, nothing is guaranteed. You’ve got to earn it — you’ve got to keep doing what you know is right.”

WHAT WAS YOUR MOST FULFILLING CAREER MOMENT?

Being promoted to my current role as Meat Director for Rouses. It’s been a wonderful journey, and I have a great sense of accomplishment, being in this role and continuing to help grow the company even further in the meat area of the business. Also, I have worked closely with many team members, helping them prepare for promotions into new roles. There’s a great and satisfying sense of accomplishment in seeing your team get recognized and helping grow the company at the same time.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF WORKING HERE IN THE BAYOU REGION?

I love the area. My family loves the area. We grew up here. It’s home. The people are amazing, our culture is awesome, and the community is strong. I also really love hunting and fishing with my family, and that is quite easy and accessible in our area.

WHO ARE YOUR GREATEST INFLUENCERS? ...

It always comes back to family. I am a thirdgeneration member of the family business. My father, Tim, is the Director of Marketing and Advertising. My brother, Chris, is the Category Manager for Dairy and Frozen Food. My entire family has influenced, in some way, the man I am today.

HOW ARE YOU GOING TO IMPACT THE BAYOU REGION IN 2023?

We are going to keep delivering the best products at the best prices for our customers. Despite the current economic climate, with inflation in most aspects of our lives, we are going to keep bringing great deals to our customers day in and day out. POV

MEAT

JBS BEEF UNIVERSITY PROGRAM AT COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY

BY ISABELLE GAREIS | PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY

The Cajun Music Preservation Society of Thibodaux, Louisiana is on a mission to bring life and awareness back to the art of traditional Cajun music in Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes.

The Cajun Music Preservation Society was started in 2014 and is planning to celebrate their nine-year-anniversary

this coming April. The society first began very small, and was established by four founding members who are still active in the society today: Tysman Charpentier, Dr. Allyse Ferrara, Dr. Quenton Fontenot, and Misty Leigh McElroy. "We truly started out of a shared desire to preserve Cajun culture, particularly the music," said Misty. "We wanted to bring back

that traditional Cajun music to our home. We were partially inspired to create the society after we noticed a significant revival of Cajun music in the Lafayette area, and we were interested in starting that here," she shared.

The Cajun Music Preservation Society is working to revitalize this important

part of history in many ways, but the most effective is their role as a facilitator for locals looking to hire, participate in, or listen to Cajun bands or music. "If someone wants to hire a Cajun musician for a party, they come to us," said Misty. "We provide them with that contact that may be difficult to seek out otherwise." The Cajun Music Preservation Society also hosts the Thibodaux-based Swamp Stomp Concert Series as a way to facilitate the community’s exposure to Cajun music and give them an opportunity to come out and watch local musicians perform.

"The Swamp Stomp Series used to be a yearly event that was hosted by Nicholls State University, but they decided that they could no longer do it," Misty explained. "We decided to take it over so the community wouldn't lose that resource. Our society workshopped it a little bit, turning it from a yearly event to something that happens almost monthly so that more people have a chance to come out, listen, and enjoy the music." The first Swamp Stomp concert of 2023 was Saturday, January 28, at Gina’s at the Legion in Thibodaux. Four-time Grammynominated artist Cedric Watson et Bijou Creole delivered a stellar performance. The next concert in the Swamp Stomp Series will be on Saturday, March 11, at Bayou Terrebonne Distillers in Houma, featuring the band Daiquiri Queens from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Alongside the Swamp Stomp Concert Series, the Cajun Music Preservation Society is well known in Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes for hosting their bi-monthly Cajun Jams at Gina’s at the Legion in Thibodaux on every first and third Wednesday of the month. These events are open jam sessions for local musicians and community members to share in a love for traditional Cajun music, and serves as another great way to facilitate a connection between locals and historic instruments. "Our Cajun Jams are open to everyone, which is what makes them so special," said Misty. "You don't have to be a professional musician to come out and play, our jams are open to all ages and skill levels. We see a wide range of acoustic instruments, from

fiddles, to accordions, triangles, or even banjos. Participants are also welcome to attend and dance or just enjoy the music. They are completely free and truly a way to bring the community together and reconnect them with history." The Cajun Jams are not limited to just Thibodaux — Residents of Terrebonne Parish can now attend Cajun Jams every second Wednesday of the month at C'est Bon Cafe, sponsored by Explore Houma. "This type of growth is very exciting for our cause," said Misty. "We are reaching more and more people everyday."

The Cajun Music Preservation Society’s tireless efforts to return the Bayou Region to its Cajun roots has not gone unnoticed around the country, and has been nationally and regionally awarded. The local society was presented just one year after its inception with the EPA Gulf Guardian (Environmental Justice/Cultural Diversity) Award on July 30, 2015 by the U.S. Environmental protection Agency’s

Gulf of Mexico Program for their work in preserving this music amid fears that Cajun culture would be lost due to Louisiana’s disappearing coastline crisis. The Cajun Music Preservation Society was also awarded the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce C. Lindy Hoffman and Mary Ann Delaune Hoffman Music’s Unsung Hero Award just two short years later in 2017.

"It is really incredible how much we have been able to do to reconnect our community with its Cajun roots," said Misty. "Our goal as a society is to plant the seed and watch it grow. We hope in the future to see an increase of people who are hosting their own get-togethers or jam sessions to enjoy traditional Cajun music. We want to start the revival of this unique culture that connects us all." The Cajun Music Preservation Society’s hope for its future is to see this interest in Cajun music spread even further throughout southern Louisiana, eventually reaching

"We can see people from all walks of life beginning to embrace this music more and more," Misty said happily. "We play Cajun music at the Hyacinthians parade every Mardi Gras, and it is incredible to see how people come out in the streets and dance to it. Many people talk about how hearing the music brings them back to their childhood and it can even move some listeners to tears. This is the music our grandparents listened to, and reconnecting to that is extremely powerful."

The Cajun Music Preservation is a staple of the community that is truly fulfilling its mission: "To promote, preserve, and enhance the awareness and appreciation of traditional Cajun music within the southeast region of Louisiana." POV

the deep bayou at the bottom of Lafourche Parish.

From Ordinary Looks to Outstanding Living

Ready to elevate the way you experience your space? From into your living areas. Each product is elegantly styled and Coburn’s. Your Project Partner.

HOUMA — Houma, LA 70360

Monday – Friday 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM

(985) 873-7776

THIBODAUX Thibodaux, LA 70301

Monday – Friday 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM

(985) 446-0458

FOLLOW NEW GUIDELINES FOR STAYING HEART HEALTHY

February—the month for all things heart related— brings a new set of guidelines from the American Heart Association (AHA) to keep the body’s internal motor primed and pumping.

Life’s Essential 8™ offers a checklist for lifelong health that accounts for good nutrition and exercise, along with adding sleep as key to cardiovascular health and listing dangers of vaping.

Improving and maintaining cardiovascular health ranks among the top health concerns for Louisiana, which ties Arkansas and Oklahoma for the sixth lowest life expectancy in the country. While the average American expects to live 78.8 years, we drop to 75.7 years.

The AHA checklist breaks down three health behaviors and four health factors to monitor along with My Life Check, an online tool for scoring heart health and understanding risks.

For some, these guidelines require only minor lifestyle adjustments. It may be a complete overhaul for others. If it seems overwhelming, start slowly with small changes. Follow one guideline until it becomes habit, then add another.

Healthier behaviors can prevent natural ageassociated health factors such as increased blood pressure, glucose, weight and cholesterol. You may not be able to control aging, but you can control lifestyle habits. Let’s get started:

1. Eat better. Overall healthy eating that includes more fruits and vegetables, less meat and trans fats, whole grains and limited sugar, sodium and alcohol benefits overall health.

Read nutrition labels to check calories, carbohydrates and sodium. Cook at home regularly to control meals and portions. AHA offers hundreds of heart-healthy recipes.

2. Be more active. Adults need a weekly average

of 2.5 hours moderate—walking, water aerobics, biking, yoga, gardening—or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity—running, swimming, interval cardio training—or a combination of both. Add resistance, weight training or other musclestrengthening activities at least twice a week.

Kids and teenagers should get an average 60 minutes of exercise daily.

3. Quit tobacco. Nicotine products, whether cigarettes, e-cigarettes or vaping, are the leading cause of death in the US with about a third of those deaths resulting from heart disease. Within a year of quitting smoking or vaping, risks drop by 50%. Some people quit cold turkey, but most need a plan.

4. Get healthy sleep. Adults require 7-9 hours of sleep nightly for healing, improved brain function and reduced risks of chronic diseases. Kids require even more—10-16 hours for children 5 and under, 9-12 hours for ages 6-12 and 8-10 hours for teenagers.

Poor sleep can result from stress or lifestyle habits. Unplug from devices, TV included, 30 minutes to an hour before bedtime. Charge the phone as far from your bed as possible to resist the temptation to scroll. Dim screens or use red filter apps at night to prevent blue light from impacting your circadian rhythm and melatonin production. Set alarms for bedtime and awaking at the same times each day, weekends included.

5. Manage weight. Maintaining a healthy weight benefits the entire body. Losing weight requires burning more calories than you consume. Count calories, control portions, sit less and move. Know your body mass index (BMI), which measures weight in relation to height, to determine your healthy weight. The optimal BMI, which you can calculate online, for adults is 25.

6. Control cholesterol. Reducing levels of "bad"

or low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol can improve heart health. LDL sticks to artery walls and causes plaque buildup, increasing the chance of heart disease and stroke.

Cholesterol comes from animal-based foods and our own bodies. Following a mostly plant-based diet, moving more and not smoking helps control cholesterol.

7. Manage blood sugar. Most food turns into glucose, or blood sugar, when eaten and fuel the body with energy. However, high levels of blood sugar over time can lead to Type 2 diabetes. When this happens, glucose builds up in the blood rather than going to the cells, and the body doesn't make sufficient insulin. Insulin resistance increases the risk of damage to the heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves.

As with other health factors that impact the heart, healthy diets, physical activity, weight management and no smoking help control blood sugar levels.

8. Manage blood pressure. Managing your blood pressure to stay within acceptable ranges keeps the heart in better working order. Optimal levels are less than 120/80 mm HG. High blood pressure is defined as the systolic pressure (top number) being 130-139 or higher and the diastolic pressure (bottom number) being 80-89 or higher. Manage blood pressure by watching your diet, moving more, controlling stress and getting more sleep. Your doctor may also prescribe medication for consistently high blood pressure.

Along with advanced technology and expertise, Thibodaux Regional Heart & Vascular Center provides education, prevention and a rehabilitation program to help patients adjust their lifestyles and improve overall health and wellness.

For more information contact Thibodaux Regional Wellness Education Center, 985.493.4765.

UNDER THE SCOPE | BY JOHN DOUCET

THE MEANINGFUL POINTS OF FEBRUARY

I have spent many years and, in fact, multiple decades keeping quiet about one thing: My February birthday. I have never been big on birthdays: No cakes, no candles, no singing except for the occasional Beatles rendition of “Birthday” in my head. I figured that if no one noticed the anniversary of my birth then I simply would not seem to get older. Just stay the yearly course, keep quiet in February, and age will go by silently, I reasoned. Regrettably, that pretense doesn’t work any longer.

Of course, family members, especially those older than me, know the specific date of my birthday, as they were alive when the glorious event happened. But outside of that circle, the date is mum except for temporary notices by people in pharmacies, credit companies, the payroll office, and liquor shops, as well as certain traffic police.

This birthday blackout began in second grade. It was then when our homeroom teacher instructed us to cut stars from yellow construction paper using our little, rounded-edge scissors and then print our names on them. She collected our stars and then stapled them individually to a huge bulletin board calendar in the appropriate square that marked each student’s birthday. I had problems with this. First, I would not cut-out a five-pointed star like the other kids because I knew that in reality stars were balls of fusion and hot gases shaped spherically by their own central gravity. When I gave the teacher a yellow circle with my name on it, she sent me back to my desk to make a five-pointed star like everyone else. This happened at least ten times. I even tried blue and red construction paper to convince her otherwise because, as all enlightened second graders knew, stars came in different colors like red dwarves and blue giants. But, I was stuck in the pre-Copernican world of that elementary school classroom, and by the time the recess bell sounded I hoped that my teacher had forgotten all about my astronomy antagonism. No such luck. As I was weaving through the desks to leave the room, she stopped me and demanded a pointed star. However, I had developed a distraction protocol in advance in case this would happen. I had noticed that she had posted to the month of February stars with “George Washington” and “Abraham Lincoln” printed on them. These people were not in our homeroom, but they were nonetheless very famous. Enlightened kids knew that these were U.S. Presidents, and we knew that they were born in February because we had to use our crayons to color ditto reproductions of their faces in that month. And ditto papers smelled really good, so we remembered it well. As it turned out, pointed stars weren’t the only calendar problem.

“You forgot William Henry Harrison!” I told my teacher. Harrison was the President who served the fewest days in office, having died in 1841 only 31 days after inauguration. Though unfortunately overlooked for that reason, his birthday is also in February. I knew that starting a discussion on Harrison with my teacher like this would make me tardy for recess, which is the worst kind of tardiness

there was because I would not get a seat on the merry-go-round. However, it successfully diffused the issue of pointing out my birthday with a pointed star.

And all this was fine with me because I could not possibly compete for birthday attention with those iconic pillars of American history stapled to the month of my birthday. And so my monogrammed, astronomicallycorrect construction paper star never appeared on the bulletin board, and my birthday went unnoticed amongst my peers. But, I must have made an impression somewhere to someone because in the very next year Congress passed the Uniform Mondays Holiday Act, combining Washington’s and Lincoln’s birthdays into a single Presidents Day every third Monday in February in honor of all U.S. Presidents, including Harrison. Thus, in addition to winning the spelling bee that year, I effectively became a Congressional lobbyist.

Yes, this all began in second grade. Back then, there was a book I had bought with my saved candy machine money. I ordered it off of the Scholastic Book sales insert that accompanied the “Weekly Reader” magazine. The book was the now-famous novel by Madeleine L’Engle, titled “A Wrinkle in Time,” in which the characters travel through space and time to rescue good and fight evil. How prophetic that I remember it now in February when the price counter of life flips another digit, when the merry-go-round squeals with rustiness, and when wrinkles due to time and space are in every mirror. At least, I can console myself knowing that without all those ignited birthday cake candles over the years I have reduced my carbon footprint, which is good for the environment. I hope that gains me points on Valentine’s Day. POV

February Market at the Marina

February 4, from 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Downtown Houma Marina

Join the monthly outdoor farmers market, featuring local vendors selling goods such as fruits, vegetables, bread, jams and jellies, meat and seafood, homemade body care products, and more! Presented by Terrebonne General Health System and Houma Downtown Development Company, the market also features the Marina Sprouts Kid Club program sponsored by Terrebonne General Pediatric care, St. Matthew’s STEM Lab, Little Arts Studio, and more!

Bayou King Cake Festival

February 4, 2 p.m.

Downtown Thibodaux

Sample the taste of Mardi Gras and watch the Krewe of King Cake Children’s Parade at the Bayou King Cake Festival in Downtown Thibodaux! Following the parade, be entertained with music from Nonc Nu and the Wild Matous as you sample king cakes from some of your favorite bakeries and bakers alike, and vote for your favorite. All proceeds to benefit the Lafourche Education Foundation.

Acadian Elementary's 10th

Annual Mudbug 5K

February 4, 2 p.m.- 4:30 p.m.

Acadian Elementary School

The 5K Walk/Run to benefit Acadian Elementary School provides a fast, fun course that begins at the school and loops into the neighborhoods that the school services. Participants will receive a t-shirt, age group awards, and be eligible for door prizes.

Coco’s Sweetheart Party

February 14, from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Bayou Country Children’s Museum

The BCCM will host a Parents Night Out event for Valentine’s Day. Coco’s Sweetheart Party will offer the perfect opportunity for kids to have a night of fun, while parents enjoy a night out, or a night

in! The night will include crafts, games, free play in the museum, and pizza. The event is open to children ages 4 and up.

Y’Allstars International Roller Derby Tournament

February 24-26

Warren J. Harang Jr. Municipal Auditorium, in Thibodaux

The international flat-track roller derby tournament is the largest roller derby tournament to ever be held in Louisiana and first to feature both adult and youth roller derby teams. This action-packed, family-friendly three-day event will feature 15 competing teams across multiple divisions from over 25 U.S. states and three Canadian provinces. The event will also have an in-venue market with over a dozen vendors, concessions, and additional entertainment including performances, prizes, and a costume contest during the Mardi Brawl. POV

UPCOMING EVENTS

Roux for a Reason

March 11, starting at 12 p.m.

Southdown Plantation

Swamp Stomp Series

March 11, starting at 6 p.m.

Bayou Terrebonne Distillers

Terrebonne

Orchid Society Show and Sale

March 24- 26

Southland Mall

The Haven Gala

March 25, starting at 6:30 p.m. The Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center

Bayou Terrebonne Boucherie

March 25, starting at 10 a.m. Bayou Terrebonne Distillers