Point of Vue January 2024

FREE JANUARY 2024 | VOL. 18 • ISSUE 1 | POVHOUMA.COM

JANUARY 2024 | VOL. 18 • ISSUE 1 | POVHOUMA.COM

CONTENTS | JANUARY 2024 • VOLUME 18 • ISSUE 1

CHIC 10 CHATEAU Timeless Treasure

14

AGELESS ADVENTURE George Robichaux shows us age is just a number.

WE SERVE, 20 TOGETHER TOGETHER WE THRIVE! Exceptional women, creating change

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EMPOWERING LEADERS & BUILDING COMMUNITIES Leadership Lafourche and Leadership Terrebonne

EXTRAS

ON THE COVER

NOTE 06 PUBLISHER’S Finding Inspiration

WORD, YA HEARD COMMENCEMENT

08 INTERVUE Say What?

[ kuh-mens-muhnt ] noun

28 THE OBSERVER Embracing the Present

1. an act or instance of commencing; beginning: 2. the commencement of hostilities.

30 WE SUPPORT A

WORD ON THE STREET

HEALTHIER FUTURE

As the sun set on the bayou, the commencement of a new day painted the sky with beautiful hues of orange and pink.

Exercise Is Good for Everyone

32 UNDER THE SCOPE

The project's commencement kicked off a team effort, with everyone excited to pitch in their skills and expertise.

50 New Years Ago

34 RENDEZVOUS

Where You Need to Be Around Town

Photo: Channing Candies

VISIT US ONLINE: povhouma.com

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What is your go-to comfort meal during winter?

Chicken & Sausage Gumbo

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

PUBLISHER

CREATIVE

Brian Rushing

Lauren Hemstreet

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

PHOTOGRAPHY

Mary Downer Ditch EDITORIAL

Bonnie Rushing Editorial Director Isabelle Pinto

Channing Candies Misty Leigh McElroy DIGITAL

Madison Pontiff

Baked Potato Soup

Corn Soup

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Chili

Evan Cressoine John Doucet Jaime Dishman

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.

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE | MARY DOWNER DITCH • ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

FINDING INSPIRATION Throughout history, we find references to sources of inspiration for the great artists and philosophers, often referred to as muses. Muses, in Greek mythology, were the nine goddesses who presided over the arts and sciences, inspiring creativity and intellectual endeavors.

The Muses were considered the source of knowledge and artistic inspiration for poets, musicians, artists, and thinkers.

Each Muse was associated with a specific domain, and they were often invoked by individuals seeking inspiration for their creative endeavors. Over time, the concept of muses has transcended ancient mythology and become a more metaphorical and abstract idea.

In a broader sense, a muse is often seen as a source of inspiration or a guiding force that sparks creativity in individuals, regardless of the artistic or intellectual endeavor they pursue.

Writers, artists, musicians, and thinkers often speak of being inspired by a muse, whether it's a person, a place, an idea, or a particular emotion.

As a writer and a creative sort of person, I often try to find a muse to inspire my thoughts. Sometimes it is as simple as turning on a bit of music when I write. Sometimes, I need a change of scenery and haul my laptop to the BCSP beach. Waiting for inspiration to strike can be a long process – I prefer to seek it out.

As we make our way through life, inspiration can often emerge from the unlikeliest of sources. In this issue, we hope to inspire you with stories of people in our community who are accomplishing great things. Perhaps this is the nudge you have been waiting for to begin your own journey!

As we step into the new year, stories of

strength and community spirit take center stage, fueling our aspirations. Among these sources of inspiration are the remarkable journey of 66-year-old athlete George Robichaux, the dynamic impact of Leadership Lafourche and Leadership Terrebonne, and the empowering community ethos of the THRIVE group.

George Robichaux stands as a testament to the timeless adage that age is just a

about creating effective, positive change in their communities and have a laserfocus to get the job done. THRIVE is an acronym which stands for transform, heal, revitalize, innovate, volunteer, and empower. It encapsulates every aspect of the organization and the passion these women have for helping each other and others throughout the community. Share in their success starting on page 20.

In the mosaic of Louisiana's communities, Leadership Lafourche and Leadership Terrebonne play a pivotal role in shaping collective aspirations. From cultural preservation to environmental stewardship, these year-long classes are the architects of positive change.

Leadership Lafourche and Leadership Terrebonne have been growing our community leaders for the past 30 years. Their vision transcends individual interests, focusing instead on the well-being of the entire community. By participating in these Leadership initiatives, residents of these parishes can tap into a wellspring of inspiration, fostering a sense of purpose and unity, and developing one heck of a network as alumni. Learn more about these local groups beginning on page 24.

number. At 66, he defies conventional expectations, proving that the pursuit of passion knows no bounds. Whether he's traversing the United States by bicycle or breaking a sweat in a marathon, George exemplifies the vitality that comes with embracing a healthy and active lifestyle.

His story encourages us all to discard societal limitations and embark on our personal journeys with vigor. Read more, beginning on page 14.

Another beacon of inspiration in our community is THRIVE, a group of exceptional women who are passionate

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As we venture into the new year, let us draw inspiration from the remarkable stories of individuals like George Robichaux, from the collective vision of our Leadership groups, and from the strong community spirit of THRIVE. In the embrace of these inspirations, I hope you can find the motivation to pursue your passions, help to strengthen our communities, and make 2024 a year of flourishing growth and unwavering resolve. POV

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INTERVUE | SAY WHAT?

Where would you like to spend next year if you could travel anywhere?

MAX —

KAYCE —

LAUREN —

The one place I would like to travel to this year would have to be the state of Oregon.

Oregon is filled with several different species of wild life, has a beautiful coastline, and is home to the Hood National forests. I would spend my days hiking and camping throughout my journey.

If I could travel anywhere next year I would take my family and travel around Europe. We’d spend time in places like the coast of Spain, Northern France, Norway, Holland, Switzerland, Iceland, and Sweden. We’d stay in small towns, eat at little cafes, visit all the coffee shops and bakeries, and see the countryside

WENDY —

RACE —

KELI —

Grand Tetons, Yellowstone and Glacier National Park will be the first places I am wanting to explore next year. My dream is to be able to visit a national park area each year to see the beauty God created in our country.

If I had to choose a place to travel during this next year, I would travel to Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming.

I would spend days hiking, kayaking, and exploring the amazing views Yellowstone has to offer.

I would like to travel to the best beaches and be able to drink my weight in margaritas!

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Santorini, Greece. I’d enjoy the foodie scene, beaches, learning about their history and poolside people watching. It all looks like the perfect way to relax and vacation with or without the kids.

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HOME + LIVING | CHATEAU CHIC

TIMELESS TREASURE

BY MARY DOWNER DITCH | PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY

1 Nestled within the Highland Lakes subdivision in Thibodaux, the Schulte Family home is a stunning new construction by Paul Ledet of CLH Homes. The building process began in the summer of 2022 and was recently completed. The four bedroom, three and a half bathroom home is 4,333 living square feet, 6,262 total square footage.

The custom built, traditional style home is a mix of classic and modern elements of home design. The home is warm and inviting from exterior to interior, featuring a beautiful entrance, defined dining room, open kitchen and living space. Antique brick was used on the exterior and interior.

Lauren Sonier of LS Interiors worked closely with the homeowner from the very beginning to help create the home she wanted. “I love to keep things timeless in style for comfortable daily living,” shared Lauren. “LS Interiors and CLH Homes worked hand in hand to deliver a beautiful home.”

The homeowner’s favorite feature is her dining room with the original Blue Dog Art that hangs on the wall. The artwork in the home tells a story of travels near and far and has much meaning to her, reminding her of her parents.

Stunning original LeRoy Neiman artwork also adorns the walls of her staircase at her home’s entrance.

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“Every selection was carefully thought out to create this inviting space,” said Lauren.

“It’s a beautiful place to call home and live comfortably.” The home features all stone countertops throughout, along with custom cabinetry and custom showers, a mix of tile, wood & brick floors, custom drapery adorning the doors and windows and woven shades for privacy and texture.

The homeowner sends a special thank you to Paul Ledet of CLH Homes (@clh_ build) and Lauren Sonier of LS Interiors (@laurensonier). POV

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No. 1 Living Room No. 2 Staircase No. 3 Bathroom No. 4 Master Bedroom No. 5 Dining Room No. 6 Bar No. 7 Kitchen No. 8 Detail Enjoy more photos at houmatimes.com/ publications/point-of-vue.

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BY ISABELLE PINTO PHOTOS BY CHANNING CANDIES George Robichaux of Houma is proving that an active life is something you can accomplish at any age, one achievement at a time. The 66-year-old athlete recently gained the attention of thousands of readers when the news broke that in fall of 2023, he kicked off his recent retirement by biking 3,107 miles across the USA in just 58 days-but his love for all things active started long before then.

George was born and raised in Thibodaux as the fourth of nine children, and recalls always having an interest in sports and athletics-- despite all the challenges that came along with them. "I was very interested in sports, but not any good at them, to be quite honest with you," said George. "I was small and a bit of a late bloomer.

So while I was active as far as being involved, I was the kid on the sidelines, and I rarely had the chance to actually participate other than in practices."

After graduating from E.D. White Catholic High School in Thibodaux, George went to Louisiana State University and pursued a Bachelor's degree in Commercial Banking and a Master's degree in Finance, and recalls his love for sports turning into something more serious during this time. "When I got to LSU, I was able to participate in intramural sports which was a lot of fun and kept my interest alive," said George. "But during my graduate program, things began to change with just one P.E. running class, when I began to learn more about the benefits of running and aerobics for your heart. My grandfather died of a heart attack in his late fifties, which was something that inspired me to really commit to running and fitness." George continued his P.E. running class, and discovered his love for the sport.

Within just 18 months of running experience, George completed his first marathon in December of 1980. "Things were different back then-- we didn't have water stations, it was a warm day, and I dehydrated fast," said George.

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"Riding my bike across the country has been something I have always wanted to do...I was very excited to challenge myself."

"But I finished and I had a great time, and continued to run as much as I could." George ran his next two marathons in 1983 and 1984, before suffering a foot injury that forced him to stop running for a while. George recalls seeing his foot injury as potentially ending his interest in fitness, as he was sure that he would not be able to properly run again. Although he was eventually able to return to running, this injury sparked his interest in cycling and later, swimming.

"I got a flier in the mail about the MS 150 Charity Bike Ride, which was 75 miles from Hammond to McComb as a fundraiser for multiple sclerosis," said George. "I thought that would be interesting, signed up, and had a lot of fun completing it. A little while after that I was in New Orleans talking to someone about biking and running, and they suggested a triathlon-- but I couldn't swim. They said, 'how do you know you can't swim?' and I thought, okay, maybe I should give it a try." George went on to complete a master swim class at YMCA to improve his skills, and before long, had added swimming to his list of

athletic skills, and completed his first triathlon in 1987.

George took a break from vigorous exercise and competition during the 1990's and early 2000's after getting married in 1989 and having three young daughters. "I was still exercising a bit when my girls were young, but not like I had been before," said George. "I was trying to be reasonable about what I was doing and wanted to ensure they got all the attention they deserved. I was very happy with just a small bit of exercise, but in 2007, I slowly began to get back into competition."

George finished his 4th marathon in 2008, 24 years after this last one. Over a several year period, George completed seven marathons, his first Half Iron Man in 2010, a 100 mile bike ride, and countless other small races. George finished his first Iron Man in Cozumel, Mexico in 2014, finishing with a time of 13.5 hours (Iron Man races consist of a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile bike, and a marathon), and in January of 2022, George qualified for the Boston Marathon, and ran it in April of 2023.

With countless athletic accomplishments under his belt,

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George decided to take on his biggest challenge in September of 2023, 18 months after his retirement from South Louisiana Bank– a 58 day biking journey across the southern U.S. "Riding my bike across the country has been something I have always wanted to do,” said George. “Ever since junior high I had heard about people doing it and thought it would be really cool-- but I had to wait until retirement because you need to take ample time off. I was very excited to challenge myself.”

George’s journey began in San Diego, California on September 24, 2023, with 3,107 miles and 86,594 feet of biking ahead of him. His trip took him from California, to Arizona, New Mexico, January 2024 17 povhouma.com

"The main thing is getting yourself out the door, and getting rid of the excuses...

Find your people who will hold you accountable, and get to it!"

Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, before finally finishing in St. Augustine, Florida on Monday, November 20, 2023. “I think the biggest challenge of this ride was the heat in the desert and the uphill days,” said George. “One day we reached an 8,100 foot elevation which was really difficult. We also had several days where we climbed 4,000-6,000 feet– in total over the trip, we climbed 86,594. We were biking through rain, heat, cold, wind, and more– it was not easy, but so worth it.”

With a total of 14 marathons, 3 Iron Man Races, a 58-day bike trip, several cycling races, and countless small competitions, George has no plans to stop his activeness, and encourages others to do the same.

"To me, the biggest advice I can give people about starting to exercise is the commitment-- people think it has to hurt, but it doesn't have to hurt," said George. "You don't have to go at a pace or effort level that is going to hurt. You can get better with consistency, while trusting your body's ability to adapt and improve. The main thing is getting

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yourself out the door, and getting rid of the excuses. I find that even on days I don't want to exercise, if I still go out, within five minutes I am so glad I'm there. Find your people who will hold you accountable, and get to it!"

In the world of athletics, where determination meets dedication, George’s unwavering spirit and commitment shine as a testament to the triumph of hard work and perseverance-- and everyone in Houma can't wait to see what he will accomplish next! POV

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BY EVAN CRESSOINE | PHOTOS PROVIDED Living throughout Terrebonne, Lafourche, St. Mary and other surrounding parishes is a dedicated collective of women serving the community. By the name of THRIVE, these exceptional women are passionate about creating effective, positive change in their communities and have a laserfocus to get the job done.

Founded in 2018 by their president Tonya Harris, the nonprofit organization originally launched under the name Community Action Network. However, as they moved along in their efforts to transform and serve the community, a few of the members decided it was time to rebrand. After reconstructing their membership and hyperfocusing on the work that they saw needed to be done in the community, THRIVE was born.

When thinking about how she was able to put her vision into action, Tonya said, “It was networking. We networked.

A lot of us do community service in other organizations so we knew we had leverage in strength to get the job done,

and so we began to network and call upon want to make sure our communities each other. From that, we were able to are vital and that we are targeting build our membership.” those marginalized, disenfranchised communities. Along with innovate— “It’s service and it’s friendship as well. We if THRIVE is doing it, it’s going to be look for people we can build friendships innovative so we want to make sure we with. We have a laser-focus on ‘What are remain innovative and creative, and we the particular needs in our community?” volunteer services. This is outside of our Tonya said on behalf of THRIVE. regular lives and our families and jobs, THRIVE’s membership is on an invitation and empower—basically if we can do basis. According to member Quateka anything else, we want to make sure that Bolden, “We pay attention to ladies in we empower others to be at their very the community and we kind of look for best.” women that are making a big difference.

Along with this acronym, THRIVE It’s an honor to be in a group of influential is consistently working toward five women that are making a difference in particular areas through which they try the communities.” to best serve the public.

THRIVE is an acronym which stands The first outreach program includes for transform, heal, revitalize, innovate, general community needs. These efforts volunteer, and empower. It encapsulates correlate directly to what their local every aspect of the organization and the communities need including the ones passion these women have for helping that come up on an ongoing basis. Dr. each other and others throughout the Elena Mann, THRIVE’s vice president, community. explained, “There’s not a set of initiatives Tonya said, “We want to revitalize. We for that particular outreach, but we January 2024 20 povhouma.com

look to see what’s happening and try to coordinate our efforts in conjunction with things that are happening so we can be more impactful to things that are affecting our actual, local communities.”

Later on in the year, around September 2024, the organization will host their second annual Open Mic With Purpose.

Monique said, “We did that for the first time in September of 2022 and that’s a great evening of poetry, dance, and song.

They also look at building community We have vendors of all varieties, food, and and keeping community seniors involved. selling their various things.”

As Roxanne Reed, another vital member of THRIVE, explained, they hold a cyber A creative workshop is also on the horizon security workshop for senior citizens. for THRIVE where they will be partnering “We did Part A, we’re about to do Part with Lauren Rhodes to encourage a love B, to keep our seniors involved,” shared of writing and literature. Lauren works Roxanne. on her own nonprofit called Black Girls Read which encourages literacy and THRIVE also partnered with a church in creative writing within the community.

Thibodaux to feed a hundred and sixty plus seniors right before Thanksgiving. Their third outreach program involves The program has been going on for over 30 years, but THRIVE joined in and provided all the gift items for the seniors so that everybody left with a gift—some of significant value.

Their next focus is directed to embracing the arts. According to Dr. Elena, this means “focusing on making sure we bring awareness to various arts whether that’s visual arts or printed art or musicoriented art; making sure that we bring a highlight to the various artistic venues, to make sure we highlight artists and their accomplishments and to try to get the spotlight on some of our local artists.”

During Black History Month, THRIVE held what they refer to as “candid talks” where they interviewed leaders in the community across different areas and genres. Their interviewees included poet Altina Sims; Dr. Valerie Francis, the head of the music department at Nicholls State University; and the owners of Rhodes & Rhodes Production: Lauren Rhodes and her brother DJ.

health equity and promotion. Dr. Elena said this initiative is dedicated specifically to “ensuring equitable health needs of particularly our minority populations and ensuring that various health disparities—that the gaps in those THRIVE’s secretary Monique Clark are bridged—and making sure we bring shared, “We did that during Black History awareness to various health needs within Month to showcase the different talent our communities.” we have in the area as it related to the arts and those that were really impacting As of now, THRIVE is planning to partner with Thibodaux Regional to the arts in a positive way.” hold a Heartbeat Soiree to encourage In January of 2024, THRIVE will be the importance of heart health among showing their support for Rhodes & women as well as the African-American Rhodes Production by attending their community as a whole. play “Memphis” at Nicholls State Another area of focus for THRIVE is University.

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fostering the youth. Dr. Elena commented that sometimes their initiatives overlap, particularly between the youth and the arts. She said, “We pay particular attention to making sure our youth, from babies and toddlers up to elementary and middle school aged children to high schoolers, are reached in terms of our youth outreach.”

According to Tonya, “We’ve got some work to do along with fostering our youth. Roxanne is an excellent retired educator that still tutors our youth so she knows exactly where the needs are in our community whether it's giving out books, reading them to the kids, or pushing literacy.”

Roxanne enthused about the programs the group has in place to address the youth when it comes to reading and literacy. She said, “We were just a part of a national campaign. We focused on the value of family reading. If you go to our page, you’ll see some pictures from people within the community who participated there with their children and grandchildren. We are also collecting and purchasing books to give out to those kids in the Head Start programs throughout Terrebonne and Lafourche. Our focus here is community needs and we try to address all of those needs in that way.”

In terms of community, Roxanne also sees the need for more STEM programming for the youth to get them more involved, especially the girls. “Not too many girls go into STEM, they don't look at that as a possibility for them and we bring that program to them to make them aware,” she said.

Just as well, this past Christmas season, THRIVE was working on getting children’s books to local Head Starts as a donation to those organizations within the parishes they serve.

According to Monique, this Black History Month, THRIVE will be partnering with the Terrebonne Parish Consolidated Government and the Main Library to do a storywalk. “We select two children’s books that will be placed on storyboards

that will line walking areas at the downtown courtyard square and also at the Main Library community garden and this is to incorporate and encourage literacy as well as exercise because families can go out and read the stories and walk as they go through each board to complete the stories with their families.

Normally, we’ll select books by AfricanAmerican authors to support that being a Black History Month initiative,” Monique said.

Not only does THRIVE aim to foster the youth outside of their organization, but within it as well. With their Protege Program, young ladies have the opportunity to be guided and mentored through personal and professional development.

Brittany Brown, another dedicated member of THRIVE, said “Our Protege program is a new program that we’re instating in our group.

However, we are laserfocused on cultivating the next generation of Thrivers. It is important to us to basically mentor [...] and create a safe space to allow them to be themselves— uniquely themselves, but also just to show them the importance of servanthood.”

President Tonya said, “When you speak of giving back, we want to create those legacies and so within that we are currently in the process of grouping our young ladies so that they can model and even perfect and do better than us, the work that we’re currently doing.”

Just like THRIVE, this Protege Program is invitation only. There is an application process although sometimes they get recommendations of young ladies within the communities who are invited to apply.

Brittany said, “It’s our desire to show them how to program with purpose and to never forget where they came from and to be able to use their gifts and

talents to cultivate the next generation of that the school was closed. So that’s just servicehood.” an example of what we’ve done,” said Monique.

Lastly, THRIVE also has an initiative centered around global and foreign THRIVE has also been working toward outreach. This initiative involves anything bringing forth an understanding and an related to topics of an international nature appreciation for different cultures. At one or reaching out to communities of an of their self-proclaimed “sisterly bonding international nature. Monique said it is events”, the group focused their attention “to bring forth different aspects to the on various countries and the food from community that we may not know of those countries. They also brought in serving in the community.” individuals from other countries such as a business owner from Nigeria who Likewise, Dr. Elena added, “We do like to taught them about the importance of extend our outreach beyond just our local headwraps, how to make them and about area when and where we can. Just to make their relevance and meaning in the culture sure that we extend to state, national, and itself. even global initiatives as well.”

With so much going on inside and Another of THRIVE’s initiatives has been outside the world of THRIVE, one of the to work with the international students at key aspects to the organization is their Nicholls State University. Because many devotion to serving others. Tonya shared, “When we got this group together, I soon realized we had pooled together some of the busiest women in Terrebonne and Lafourche parish.

I was like ‘Oh my goodness, what did we get ourselves into?’

But I’ll tell you it has been sheer dedication that will pull you from your busy 40-45 hour job into a meeting room planning and committee meetings and so it’s embedded international students are also student within us. Servanthood is truly embedded athletes and do not have the opportunity within us, at least that’s my story, and I’m to travel back and forth to their home sure many could agree with me.” countries due to expense, they tend to stay at the university for an extended Dr. Elena, who spends most of her days period of time. In some cases, that means delivering babies, added, “I do think you years at a time. just have to make it a priority and there’s so many competing priorities in our lives “So one of the things we did was we whether that be through work or family provided meals for those students obligations, but we also have to try to make during the Thanksgiving holiday because time to give back to our communities and normally at Thanksgiving time, the to bond with each other and try to help cafeteria is closed and so they don’t support each other as much as we can. have access to food and because they’re I think this is something that has to be international students, they may not made a priority so we just take the time have their own transportation or ways to do it.” to get around the city of Thibodaux. We provided meals to them, and snacks and Not only do these women make serving beverages, to cover them during the time the community a priority in their lives, January 2024 22 povhouma.com

but they also take the time out to support one another through THRIVE. Quateka said, “We also focus on our sisterhood.

We have a luncheon coming up where we socialize and we also have a retreat that Iriel is planning. We focus on uplifting each other. We support each other and we focus on our sisterhood.”

As for the future of THRIVE, Iriel Nunnery—one of the younger members— hopes to leave the community in a better place than where they found it.

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“First and foremost, I’d like to just keep leaving our mark the way we have within the future of the community. One thing about us is we lead with purpose and we lead with passion, and everything we do, we keep those things in mind. So, just making sure that with everything we’re doing, we’re leaving our mark. We leave a positive influence on people,” Iriel shared.

Iriel sees the significance behind the organization and in the way they operate. “We’re not just doing it one time and ‘Okay, it’s going to be alright’, no, we want to make sure that we keep giving to our community and that we keep making sure that our community is okay. We are doing things that are very intentional, very purposeful, and very meaningful, so that moving forward our community is not the same as we see it right now.”

At the end of the day, THRIVE is an organization to look toward when thinking about the overall improvement of the bayou communities. With their passion for servanthood and creating a better world for everyone involved, the Terrebonne, Lafourche and surrounding areas have the chance to blossom into a better community for each and every one of its inhabitants.

As THRIVE president Tonya said, “There is a place of belonging. We want to make sure that if you’re a member of THRIVE that there is a place of belonging, that you always feel openness, and that we can be open with each other, as well as nurturing each other because we want to help each other grow as well.” POV

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BY ISABELLE PINTO | PHOTOS PROVIDED As southern Louisiana continues to rebuild and revitalize following the devastating effects of Hurricane Ida and the COVID-19 Pandemic, organizations such as Leadership Terrebonne and Leadership Lafourche are giving local leaders the tools they need to bring our hometowns back to life. Through a several-month program including outreach projects, lectures, and more, graduates of Leadership Terrebonne and Lafourche are well equipped to give back to the community in new and exciting ways.

Each leadership program consists of 20-30 students per year, comprised of 7-10 full-day sessions featuring presentations by local elected officials, school superintendents, sheriffs, hospital administrators, and business owners, covering a range of topics such as Business & Industry, Healthcare, Environment, Community Concerns,

Education, Economic Development, Law Enforcement, Tourism, Leadership. In 2023 both organizations celebrated 30 years since their inception.

"Leadership Lafourche is a leadership immersion program designed to train cross-sections of Lafourche residents and workers for productive roles focused on the future and well-being of our parish, institutions, and communities," reads the opening page on Leadership Lafourche's website.

"Leadership Lafourche will provide its participants with a better understanding of the makeup of Lafourche Parish, challenge them to make a difference and provide them with opportunities to meet with leaders and decision makers in Lafourche."

Leadership Terrebonne's mission reads very similarly, stating, "Today, as many as 30 community residents a year participate in the 10-month program designed to promote the development January 2024 24 povhouma.com

of community leaders by providing participants from diverse backgrounds with an understanding of the problems, opportunities, and issues facing the community."

Lin Kiger, Executive Director of Leadership Lafourche, recalls taking over leadership of the organization after the program was on a hiatus for several years.

"I became involved when the program was resurrected in 2007, so this is the 17th class that I have overseen," said Lin. "We believe that Leadership Lafourche can be a very eye opening experience for members of our parish, because it shows all the effort and little pieces it takes to make our community function the way it does. It can be easy to take these simple things for granted, so seeing the resources we have around us and how we can help is very inspiring for our students. We are always happy to see how much knowledge our students take out of the program that they

may not have known before."

Lin went on to say that despite being in the position of Executive Director for almost two decades, no two classes are ever the same in his eyes. "The most rewarding aspect of this job is that it is never like Groundhog's Day," chuckled Lin. "Each class is different and I love seeing the lightbulb light up whenever they get a new idea. We want to continue to make the program better, more challenging, and more enriching for all our students because they put so much work in as well."

Executive Director of Leadership Terrebonne Karen Schilling expressed similar feelings of gratitude and pride when talking about her program, and

her beginnings with the organization. "I actually graduated in the very first class from Leadership Terrebonne in 1993, and have been Executive Director for 18 years," said Karen. "Our program can be described as something that helps those from all walks of life-- whether you are in a formal leadership position within a company, or an emerging leader-- we want to educate them on what is going on within our community, and expose and uncover problems and ways we can make those problems better."

Leadership Terrebonne is not only uncovering issues in the community and brainstorming ways to solve them-- members of the 2023 class are taking definitive action. This past year, Leadership Terrebonne brought back January 2024 25 povhouma.com

group community projects following a several year break during Hurricane Ida and COVID-19. Four groups were set to the task of identifying an issue within the parish, and implementing a solution for it.

“Leadership Terrebonne has done some projects in the past, but overtime that went away–we wanted to reintroduce our projects again this year so that our groups could work to make a lasting impact on the community,” explained Karen. “We divided the class up into four groups, and each one picked something in the community they wished to do and created a project to help out.”

The first Leadership Terrebonne group devised a project called 'Rock Da Boot,' where members visited local elementary schools and educated the students on

coastal land loss, before the students were able to paint their own rock to be added to a nearby levee-- creating a colorful way to combat erosion. The second group decided to create the project 'Light Up Downtown Houma,' with the mission of flooding the heart of downtown with light to help make community members feel safer and encourage them to come out for events. The group placed several inflatable LED light towers downtown, which are 12 feet, 64 lbs, and output 74,400 lumens.

The third Leadership Terrebonne group returned Christmas cheer to downtown Houma, working actively with local small businesses to install Christmas decorations on Houma’s bridges, the new Rotary Centennial Plaza, the bandstand, the arch, and more during the month of December. The fourth and final group is

currently working to beautify Houma, with plans to install 20 self-watering, hanging planters on the light posts from the Courthouse Square to the Bayou Walk. The planters will add vibrant pops of color to the downtown area.

With a combined total of over 1,200 graduates from Leadership Terrebonne and Leadership Lafourche, both Lin and Karen are excited about the future for their programs, and the positive impacts it will bring to the community as a whole.

"I hear people tell me every year that they were born and raised in this area and they think they know what the parish is all about," said Karen. "And after they go through this program, they realize how much more there is to learn about their community. These programs are about getting to know parts of the community January 2024 26 povhouma.com

you may not find yourself in, meeting new people, and exploring new areas. It is such a rewarding experience."

Leadership Lafourche is currently operating on a September-May schedule, and Leadership Terrebonne is on a January-October schedule. Although both are currently running or planning to run filled classes in the next several months, it is never too early to start the application and envision the way a leadership program can impact all aspects of one's personal and professional life. Leadership Lafourche and Leadership Terrebonne are providing invaluable skills for local leaders, propelling community members to be catalysts for positive change within our community-- and ensuring that the impact of this experience echoes far beyond their time in the class. POV

January 2024 27 povhouma.com

THE OBSERVER | BY JAIME DISHMAN

EMBRACING THE

PRESENT With a new year, there’s always times of reflection and times of looking forward.

We stop to ponder the year that passed and ready our hearts for the upcoming year that we have yet to meet.

The problem with looking forward is that we can only look at what we think the year will look like. But when we look back, we see all the things we never knew were heading our way.

Peace of mind, knowing your loved one is home.

“This year has been such a year of loss” one friend recently said of 2023. That short sentence spoke more than many paragraphs. A year that feels like loss after loss, the piling on of things forever gone. Not all loss is bad, but loss always changes “the way things were.” And part of grieving loss is grieving the life we once lived.

Sometimes we didn’t notice all the good when we were living it, but when certain people and places are gone, we see the them for what they were - a gift to us while they were a part of our lives. Some losses are natural - children moving away, changing jobs and schools, seasons coming to an end. We knew the end would come, but weren’t quite ready to recognize what the end meant.

It’s a change of “the way things were.”

Barbra Streisand said it like this “memories light the corners of my mind. Misty watercolor memories of the way we were….. Can it be that it was all so simple then? Or has time re-written every line?”

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Funny how that feels. When we look back, it sometimes feels like a simpler, easier time. But if we are honest, it wasn’t simple when we were living it. We never go through a day and say “well, that was a beautiful, simple, easy day.” I’m more likely to talk about how busy my day was, how crowded our schedule feels or the overwhelming press of all the things.

But there’s a beauty and simplicity in the day-to-day if we stop to look. Today was one of those days. Church in the morning, a home-cooked lunch, all our family here, and a quiet afternoon leading into a night spent watching “The Sound of Music.” Mostly quiet, mostly good, and it took me sitting down to write this article to think about the simplicity of today.

It was beautiful and simple and if anything ever changed would be one of the “good old days.” Instead, I’m looking at it as “a good day today.”

It takes some effort to recognize the good and not focus on all the other things.

I’ve spoken of this before - seeing the good in every day. But it’s a message worth

January 2024 28 povhouma.com

HAPPY

repeating. Taking joy in each day.

It’s one of the ways we redeem the time and don’t waste each day. To be honest, it would be easier to talk about the eight loads of clothes we washed today or the back porch that still needs to be cleaned off or presents still left unwrapped (we are still waiting on Christmas while I’m writing this article). We had a visit from a friend this afternoon, and still managed to squeeze in an afternoon nap.

The Sunday afternoon chores simply meant we had a busy week and lots of people in and out of this house. So we washed clothes, straightened the house and caught up on just a little bit of much-needed rest. Nothing special, but so wonderful.

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When I look back at this time together, I want to remember the way today felt. A simple kind of beauty that felt warm with life.

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I’m looking into this new year, and I feel hopeful. That even if it would be a year of loss, even the loss means that we had something worth losing. To never experience loss would mean to never have anyone or anything worth losing.

I know what I think this year will bring, but I’m ready for whatever might come.

These are the good days and I want to recognize that I’m living in what I’ll one day look back and miss.

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So look forward and glance back, but take joy in each day. You’ll only live this day once. POV

January 2024 29 povhouma.com

WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE | BY THIBODAUX REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM

EXERCISE IS GOOD FOR EVERYONE Lose weight. Exercise more. Sound familiar? That's probably because those are the most popular New Year's resolutions.

Despite good intentions, the same two are also the most commonly broken.

Without increased physical activity the average person typically has difficulty losing weight. When you exercise, you burn calories. The more intense the activity, the more calories you burn.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), physical activity is one of the best things you can do to improve your health and live longer. Statistics show half of all American adults have one or more preventable chronic diseases. Yet, seven

Exercise also helps prevent or manage other health conditions. Being active boosts high-density lipoproteins—HDL, the good cholesterol—and decreases unhealthy triglycerides. This keeps blood flowing to lower cardiovascular disease risk.

• Less anxiety and stress • Management of arthritis • Reduced risk of falls • Improved cognitive function • Better mood • Boosts energy • Promotes better sleep • Increased socialization

Guidelines for all ages The US Department of Health and Human Services promotes regular physical activity for ages 3 and up. The department's guidelines provide specific recommendations for three primary age groups and classifies activities according to intensity levels, aerobic, bone strengthening, muscle strengthening and balance.

Research shows that health benefits start immediately after exercising, and even short periods of physical activity boost longevity. The CDC recommends 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, but any physical activity is better than nothing.

Other benefits of a regular exercise regimen include: • Lower risk of stroke, certain types of cancer, high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes

moving more and sitting less. Let's get moving!

Exercise, at all ages, is key to a healthier life. However, if you have concerns about your physical abilities or have not exercised in a long time, check with your doctor of the ten most common diseases tend to before starting any new program. improve with regular exercise.

Along with state-of-the-art fitness amenities Moving more and sitting less is key to at Thibodaux Regional Fitness Center, the healthier, longer lives for all ages, races Wellness Center offers WellFit customized and genders. plans to help improve overall health and This year, instead of making a personal wellness and to reduce medical risks. resolution to exercise more, make a choice Download a brochure from our website at for the entire family to get healthier by thibodaux.com or call 985-493-4765.

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“January” was named after “Janus,” the ancient Roman god of beginnings and transitions. Ancient statues show Janus with two faces on his head, representing the talent to see both backwards and forwards and thus know the past as well as the future. For centuries, the month of Janus marked the end of winter harvest, when, in the warmth of home and family, a farmer could also look back and forward--on profits, on debts, on accounts with neighbors, and on returning borrowed farming tools. He might also enjoy a little fermented beverage made from his own crops and vow for the future year to improve his lot in life. Centuries later, we still do the same sort of auld lang syne at the beginning of January. Like Janus, we’ll look back and also look forward, making resolutions to “return borrowed farm tools” and “improve our lot in life.” But in the new year of 2024, I challenge you to look farther back—like 50 years back. And, if you’ve not yet lived 50 years, then this will help you win trivia contests. So pay attention!

On New Year’s Day 1974, gas stations were closed—not for the holiday but rather because of fuel shortages. This was the middle of the OPEC Oil Embargo, which was in the middle of rising energy demand, increased dependency on imports, decline in domestic production, and, of course, skyrocketing gas prices—which after 50 years have never come back down. Production decline was also suffered locally, as small drilling companies, like the one my dad worked for, were continually sold and consolidated to improve profits, forcing many men and women who could be home in PoV Country after their hitches to work farther and farther away. As only Janus could see, the embargo ended three months later, but oil and gas would never be the same.

On the day after New Year’s, Richard Nixon signed a law establishing a national maximum speed limit of 55 mph. Some states converted to the metric system because 88.5 km/hr sounded much better to voters. This speed limit, as only Janus could foresee, lasted another 13 years. The law was really of little consequence where I was living at the time—in that infamous, radar-enforced town on LA 1 south of Galliano and north of Leeville that shall remain nameless to protect the innocent.

Having known 30 mph all my life, I didn’t even know cars could go 55.

In sports, Charlie McClendon’s 9-3 LSU Tigers lost to Penn State in the Orange Bowl on New Year’s Day 1974. To lessen our disappointment here in PoV Country, Janus saw to it that Alabama lost in the Sugar Bowl the night before. More relief would be realized, as 1973’s 2-9 Colonels and 5-9 Saints would see new coaches in 1974. The New Orleans Jazz debuted, having traded a future of draft picks to get Pete Maravich back to Louisiana. Only Janus could foresee the team leaving for Utah only a few years later. While I liked listening to modern jazz, the thought of “Utah jazz” made me to start listening to opera. Janus is god of transitions, after all.

Elsewhere in music and the New Year of 1974, Lynyrd Skynyrd would invade Stopher Gymnasium at Nicholls, providing in addition to “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Free Bird” extracurricular instruction to all English students on how to spell words using only the part-time vowel. Only Janus could see that just three years later, January 2024 32 povhouma.com

on a flight to Baton Rouge, the band would lose several members in a plane crash. And Nicholls in 1974, despite my sister’s petition to his manager and record company, would not see singer-songwriter Jim Croce and hear his “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown,” sung live, as he died in different plane crash just up the road in Natchitoches after playing at Northwestern on a tour of college towns in the south in late 1973.

In government, Edwin Edwards was in the second year of his first of four terms. The state was under a new constitution--the 11th constitution since 1812--which made PoV Country happy for two reasons. First, there was no mention of “French,” effectively revoking the previous constitution’s edict from the 1920s that schools should operate only in English and not people’s native language. Second, Article 1, Section 27, was titled “Freedom to Hunt, Trap, and Fish.”

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In business, Edison Chouest Rentals of Galliano became Edison Chouest Offshore en route to becoming one of the largest employers in PoV Country. In New Orleans, Jax Brewing Company was sold, much to the dismay of my grandpa as well as the character named Steve from Scene One of Tennessee William’s play A Streetcar Named Desire who asked for a Jax beer. And the New Orleans Superdome remained under construction and over budget.

In 1974, Janus would foresee the Nixon Resignation, the Vietnam War, Watergate. Skylab 4, the triplecrowned Secretariat, The Exorcist, and Billie Jean King defeating Bobby Riggs.

Despite interruption by Hurricane Carmen, Janus also foresaw my transition from elementary school to junior high school, having not yet enjoyed a little fermented beverage from my crops. POV

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January 2024 33 povhouma.com

RENDEZVOUS | WHERE YOU NEED TO BE AROUND TOWN

Van Geaux in the Park

January 6, 9 a.m.- 12 p.m.

Houma Courthouse Square Unleash your inner Van Gogh through a guided art experience. Immerse yourself in the color and emotion of his work surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Choose between the Starry Night or Sunflowers. Don’t miss this fun fusion of art and nature designed for everyone, whether new or experienced. The cost is $20 and includes all supplies, instruction and canvas.

Top Dawg Poboy Palooza

January 6, 5 - 8 p.m.

Downtown Houma The Vandebilt Terrier Club will host the Top Dawg Poboy Palooza. So grab your cooking buddies and enter your best poboy or just come to enjoy the food!

Award will be given in the following categories: Best Poboy, People’s Choice, and Best Decorated Area. General admission tickets are $25 and include all you can eat poboys, french fries, water and soft drinks. Tickets for kids 12 and under are $10.

2024 Let’s Dance More January 7, 4:30 - 7 p.m.

Studio 371 Join in for a great time of dancing, good music, food and fun! Entry is $10, cash or Venmo. Wear whatever makes you feel like dancing! Bring a dish if you wish!

BYOL, set-ups available. Everyone is welcome; no studio attendance needed.

For more info, call 985-226-2257 or email carrie@studio371.org.

Cajun Dance Lessons January 5, 12, 19, 6 - 8 p.m.

Terrebonne Folklife Culture Center The Terrebonne Folklife Culture Center is bringing back Cajun Dance Lessons with three more classes this January! Classes will be limited to 20 couples, so be sure to register ahead of time. Call 985-8736408 to register.

Weenie Spaghetti Festival and Cook Off January 13, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Houma Courthouse Square The inaugural festival will feature a Chili Cook Off, a Weenie Spaghetti Cook Off, and a Bloody Mary Contest! Attendees will enjoy live music from the Cajun Music Preservation Society and Nonc Nu & Da Wild Matous, and a kids crafting corner courtesy of the Bayou Regional Arts Foundation with noodle art and face painting. Entrance to the festival is $10.

Bayou King Cake Festival January 27, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Downtown Thibodaux Join the Lafourche Education Foundation for the 2nd Annual Bayou King Cake Festival! Taste king cakes, watch the children’s wagon parade, listen to music

by Souled Out and toast the start of Mardi Gras with Thibodaux Mardi Gras Krewe Royalty. The 2024 festival will feature many improvements including a bigger footprint, an improved ticketing and entry system and a children’s activity corner. The Bayou King Cake Festival’s proceeds will support Lafourche Parish Public Schools and Teachers. POV

January 2024 34 povhouma.com

LOOK TWICE

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You Deserve the Best in Health & Wellness Services, So We Built the Wellness Center

A $100M+ Investment in Your Well-Being Sports Complex – Built to NCAA standards; includes a multi-purpose field with 8-lane track, tennis courts, beach volleyball and outdoor basketball court.

Fitness Center – State-of-the-art facility equipped with the latest technology and programs, aquatics, gymnasium and more; Certified and a top-ranked facility in the nation by the Medical Fitness Association; More than 1M visits since opening.

Playground & Education Initiative – Addressing childhood obesity through nutrition education and new playground equipment for numerous area elementary schools.

Sports – Keeping athletes safe by providing athletic trainers in high schools as well as Nicholls State University; Helping athletes grow and excel in sports through formation of competitive youth volleyball and swim teams.

Wellness Education – Numerous and expanding programs for individuals and

families on subjects like nutrition, weight management, diabetes, CPR and more.

WellFit – Integrating wellness into clinical care to address specific health conditions like cancer, orthopaedic conditions, chronic pain and diabetes.

Leading the Way in Health & Wellness for Our Region

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