FREE MARCH 2021 | VOL. 15 • ISSUE 3 | POVHOUMA.COM
CONTENTS |
MARCH 2021 • VOLUME 15 • ISSUE 3
CONT HOME + LIVING
Page 12
12 CHATEAU CHIC A New Chapter
18 THE OBSERVER Pride and Cabbage
FOOD + FUN
Page 22
22 HOW SWEET IT IS
Monique and Karen Johnson bring new flair to Gertie Kay Sweets.
26 BON APPETIT
Shamrockin’ Meal Time
29 THE SOUTHERN HOME Special Advertising Section
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MIND + BODY
Page 40
40 REVIVAL ON THE BAYOU Another beautiful restoration by Rod Roddy and Lisa Cinnater.
44 WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE
Change Lifestyle Habits to Decrease Diabetes Risk
ENTS EXTRAS
ON THE COVER
WORD, YA HEARD
HARBINGER [ hahr-bin-jer ] noun anything that foreshadows a future event; omen; sign.
WORD ON THE STREET Endless hours spent on Pinterest is a harbinger that a decorating project is in your wife’s future. Pressure washing the front walk and sprucing up the flower beds is a harbinger of Spring.
06 EDITOR’S NOTE Starting Over
08 INTERVUE
Welcome to the Southern Home! Photo: Misty Leigh McElroy
Say What?
45 UNDER THE SCOPE
Remembering Yardi Gras 2021
48 RENDEZVOUS
Where you need to be around town
50 LOOK TWICE
Sponsored by Synergy Bank
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VISIT US ONLINE: povhouma.com
What color are you incorporating into your home this year?
CALL TODAY & SCHEDULE A TOUR! Offering 3 levels of home-based education for students in grades K-12, as well as on-campus learning
Golden yellow. I feel like I need sunshine colors after a dreary 2020.
PUBLISHER
Brian Rushing EDITORIAL
Mary Downer Ditch EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Drew Miller ASSOCIATE EDITOR ADVERTISING
Beth Tabor MARKETING CONSULTANT DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
Michelle Ortego SUBSCRIPTIONS
Point of Vue magazine is published monthly. Subscriptions are available for $36 for 12 issues. For more information, email mail@rushing-media.com or visit rushing-media.com/subscriptions.
LEVEL 1 Parent-directed homeschooling
Peacock blue! It’s gonna be my pop of color wall for my future office!
CREATIVE
Lauren Pontiff GRAPHIC DESIGNER PHOTOGRAPHY
Misty Leigh McElroy VIDEOGRAPHY
Keely Diebold CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
John Doucet Bonnie Rushing Jaime Dishman Keely Diebold
Chalky whites and creams. I love the way different textures of the same tones look layered together!
CONTACT
Publisher: publisher@rushing-media.com Editorial: mary@rushing-media.com Creative: graphics@rushing-media.com Sales: sales@rushing-media.com
LEVEL 2 Teacher-directed homeschooling with accreditation LEVEL 3H eLearning Academy: Home-Based with Teacher Instruction and Assistance
eLearning Academy is a nationally accredited, BESE approved, and NCAA approved private school.
Thibodaux: 985-447-5994 806 N. Acadia Rd. Houma: 985-223-9077 220 Civic Center Blvd. ntoups@elearningk12.com
Copyright ©2021 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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EDITOR’S NOTE |
MARY DOWNER DITCH • EDITORIAL DIRECTOR OF POV
STARTING OVER style. Step into this month’s Southern Home starting on page 12. You can find a room-by-room tour and full interview online at povhouma.com.
In a few weeks, it will have been one year since our world changed forever. On Friday, March 13, 2020, we received word from our son’s school that children would not be returning to the classroom. The following Monday, March 16, our office officially went remote and we haven’t looked back. It’s crazy to think that it’s already been one year. My, how things have changed. The days of early quarantine were filled with worry and concern. I was concerned for my husband, whose job has him in and out of grocery stores and convenience stores every day. I was concerned about my parents, who are in their 70s, and mother-in-law, who is in her 60s. I was worried about our son, who was in pre-k at the time, and how we would cope with being home. How was I going to both work and teach? I was worried about this magazine and how we would be able to continue to bring you enlightened stories of good things in our community. One of our most popular features is Chateau Chic - how were we going to capture images of homes when we weren’t allowed to leave our own? Perhaps it was fitting that the pandemic struck our state during the spring, in a time of rebirth and new growth. Just as the caterpillars in our yard transformed into beautiful butterflies, so did our lives transform into the new reality of today. In the last year, we have started over so many times. We lived our lives in two to three week increments, as our governor shifted our “phases” up and down, depending on our numbers. With each phase came new restrictions or welcome recalls of guidelines. Businesses began to again open their doors and welcome customers and guests back inside. Slowly, we all started over in this new world of precautions and hope. In this year’s Home and Garden Issue, we bring you three stories of rebirth and revival. Our first story is our monthly Chateau Chic feature, which is expanded to include more images and our very first video tour. We welcome you to join us in the home of Joshua Alford and Shaun Smith, two bright young men who recently renovated their home, bringing to it new life and new
Peace and solace can be found in many places. For one Thibodaux family, that feeling of comfort can be found in the kitchen. Monique Johnson and her mom Karen have always loved baking. Each time these ladies have felt the need to begin again, they turned to the family’s secret to success: baking for the masses. The duo has recently breathed new life into recipes of the family matriarch Miss Gertie to create a new company, Gertie Kay Sweets. Learn more about the new way the family is honoring Miss Gertie on page 22. Bringing history to life is no new feat for local couple Rod Roddy and Lisa Cinnater. We have featured this couple and their finished projects in Point of Vue several times over the years. Their unique talent for taking large-scale properties that have fallen into disrepair and restoring them to new grand splendor is a true joy, both for the couple and the community the property is in. Their newest project, a 1930s building on Bayou Lafourche, is no exception to their mission of preserving the past. Look inside their newest renovation with us, starting in print on page 40 and continuing online at povhouma.com. Inside this issue you will also find our 4th annual Southern Home special advertising section. We provide this section annually to showcase local vendors and businesses that can help make your house, a home. Please utilize this resource as you plan your new home or renovation. It’s been wonderful to see the projects in this issue come full circle. Some of the “before” images we were shown left our jaws on the floor as we stood in the same space, surrounded by new beginnings. To hear the pride in the voices of everyone we interviewed for this issue set our hearts and minds in the right place, allowing us to embrace the change in our own lives. As we start over this spring, the light of hope and inspiration has struck. POV
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INTERVUE |
SAY WHAT?
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AMY We just moved in our new home that we built a couple of months ago, and I have a few favorite spaces. If I had to choose one, then it would have to be my master bathroom. The colors are very soft and welcoming. Also, it’s nice to soak in a warm bath, while sipping on a glass of wine and watching a good movie after a stress-filled day. It’s like I have my own spa to relax in at home!
JENNIFER My kitchen is my favorite room in my house. Remodeling it three years ago gave me the opportunity to make it exactly like I wanted. It is the heart of our home and the gathering place of all things family.
KELLY My favorite space in our home would have to be our Informal dining area. Centrally located off of the kitchen, this is where we enjoy our everyday meals and catch up on daily happenings. It’s also the perfect space for board games.
LIZ I’ve always loved a good bathroom! Starting at a very young age, my brother would ask me on a scale of 1-10, what my rating was on a bathroom in a restaurant. At my own house, my bathroom is tucked away in the back of the house. I can sit there in my comfy chair and decompress from the day. Unless kids are home, then scratch that, and my favorite place is in the living room watching movies with them.
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TATUM My favorite space at my home is my front porch. I enjoy spending the evenings there with a glass of wine, watching the sun set in my rocking chair. It is very peaceful and a great way to unwind from my day.
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HOME + LIVING
CHATEAU CHIC | 12 A New Chapter
THE OBSERVER | 18 Pride and Cabbage
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HOME + LIVING |
CHATEAU CHIC
A NEW CHAPTER BY BONNIE RUSHING | PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY
1
While not in the market for a home, Joshua Alford and Shaun Smith were enjoying a drive in the Fall of 2019, when they were intrigued by the architecture of a classic, red brick, two story home. After touring the home and falling in love with the layout, they decided to embark on a new chapter. “The thing that spoke to me the most was the very traditional architecture of the home,” Shaun recalls. As a well known interior designer, he is recognized for curating a look that appears more collected than decorated. As a testament to his talent, their home incorporates the perfect balance of antiques, modern art, and contemporary lighting and furnishings. With appreciation, Shaun credits his mentor, Gerrie Bremermann, for helping him to hone in on his personal style.
While most of the changes to the home were cosmetic, it did provide a blank slate to write their story on the home. They lifted the interior openings, painted walls, cabinets, and trim, and extended the wood flooring, bleaching them to create a seamless transition from old to new. Filled with sentimental items and serving as the center of the home, the living room ranks first as their favorite space, while the kitchen and dining room rank as their second favorite space. Regarding the kitchen, Shaun remarks, “I’m proud that we worked with what was there. We opened the space by removing the uppers and painting the remaining cabinets black. Then we updated the hardware, countertops and appliances.” Regarding the dining room, Josh adds, “I love that we actually use our dining room. We enjoy hosting there quite often.”
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Designer Smiles
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No. 1 Formal Dining Room No. 2 Living Room No. 3 Fireplace No. 4 Bar No. 5 Media Room No. 6 Detail No.7 Master Bedroom No. 8 Kitchen No. 9 Informal Dining Area No. 10 Courtyard No. 11 Sitting Area See more photos and enjoy a room-byroom tour online at povhouma.com.
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Stunning wallpapers make a dramatic difference throughout several spaces such as the media room, bar and dish pantry, while the use of paint turns other spaces such as the master bath into a masterpiece. “I think there’s a point in every renovation that the budget goes to other places and you’ve got to work with what you’ve got,” shared Shaun. “That’s what we did in the master bath. Working with the green tile instead of against it, I painted the walls, ceiling and trim an elegant dark green as well.” Just as the home took on a new life with their combined styles, the newly engaged couple looks forward to their future in the home they built together. POV March 2021 17 povhouma.com
THE OBSERVER |
BY JAIME DISHMAN
PRIDE AND
CABBAGE First, I showed the picture to my husband. He didn’t say much. Simply looked at me like he knew this was about to be an ordeal. “Aren’t you impressed?” I asked.
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“Wow,” he said. One word. That’s all. He knew I wanted more. “No, seriously. It’s so amazing.” At this point, we were too far gone to try to resume normalcy. I needed him to acknowledge how amazing, wonderful and captivating the picture was that I was holding in front of him on my phone. Maybe my timing was wrong, I thought. I should have shown him first thing in the morning, not last thing at night. But no, he really wasn’t interested – even if I would have shown him at 5 a.m., when he usually wakes up. “But it’s the biggest cabbage I’ve ever grown,” I whined. (And whining is entirely accurate. I needed him to notice. I needed him to act like I was the world’s best gardener. and acknowledge my green thumb greatness. I got nothing but a tired wow.) It’s ok though. I resorted to what most people resort to in a moment of emotional crisis. I posted my picture on Facebook. Changed my profile picture from my husband and I to myself and my massive cabbage. He rolled his eyes, and I smiled. I couldn’t stop giggling about replacing him with the cabbage. One friend immediately texted: “You’re so proud of yourself, aren’t you?” Yes. Yes I am. Thanks for noticing. Another friend tried impressing me by holding a fake cabbage in Hobby Lobby as comparison. I didn’t even acknowledge it. Not even a tired wow. Please stop, I said. I group-text my mom and dad, wondering if they would feel some sort of familial pride in the cabbage grown by their daughter. I got back the response I wanted. “Amazing!” Why, thank you. Thank you very much. I’m not much of an attention seeker, but when I wander into my garden after a few weeks of inattention (because if I’m honest, I’m a terrible cold-weather gardener. The cold drives me inside). But apparently my
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cabbage didn’t need me to hover over it. It grew on its own – all by its big, beautiful self. I may or may not have shown a few random strangers the cabbage picture when talking about gardening recently. I’m pretty sure they were impressed. Or they just acted impressed to get away and get out of the conversation. Either way….. The cabbages, collards, cauliflower, broccoli and celery planted in my garden this winter are pretty much done with now, driven out by the approaching spring weather, as I prep for tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers and all the summer veggies I love. Gardening is a real thing. This time of year when March gives us all the spring feels, I want to be out there, turning over dirt, hovering over plants. Don’t tell anyone, but I’m pretty sure that giant cabbage grew so well because I wasn’t out there too much. It didn’t need me to grow. But I sure love acting like I helped it along.
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If I’m honest, the little area of garden is my little bit of safe space, where my soul resets and the world shrinks and massive cabbages become the priority. It’s solace in an uncertain world. It’s a bit of quiet, in a whole lot of loud. It’s simple when everything else feels confusing. Maybe that’s why my cabbage made me smile. Or maybe I’m just really proud. Either way, just act like you care if I offer to show you my picture. Because it’s the most beautiful cabbage I’ve ever grown. POV
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FOOD + FUN
HOW SWEET IT IS | 22
Monique and Karen Johnson bring new flair to Gertie Kay Sweets.
BON APPETIT | 26 Shamrockin’ Meal Time
THE SOUTHERN HOME | 29 Special Advertising Section
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HOW
IT IS
In the 1970s, west Thibodaux residents knew whose door to knock on for the best sweets in town - the one of Gertie Mae “Madea” Cooks-Adams. She and her sister, Evelyn, turned their modest St. Charles Street home into a makeshift neighborhood bakery to serve folks who stopped by for Gertie’s famous pies, pralines and fudge. With baked goods selling for 75 cents apiece, the business proved to be fruitful for Gertie, who gained patrons wherever she moved after leaving the St. Charles Street house. Yet, Gertie saw baking as mainly a side business or hobby as she maintained her job as a housekeeper over the years. Plus, for her, preparing sweets was always more than just about making money; rather, it was an opportunity to provide a service for her community: raising money for the local church or a place to keep neighborhood kids out of trouble.
BY DREW MILLER PHOTOS SUBMITTED
caring, healing, togetherness and love that her family follows to this day. On Saturdays, Gertie would be joined in the kitchen by her granddaughter. “I was the girl who did all the taste-testing. Of course, that meant free pies for me,” says Karen Johnson, with a smile as she fondly remembers times with her family’s matriarch. But Karen wasn’t just there to indulge in her grandmother’s renowned sweet potato pies and other treats; she contributed to the family business as well, selling goods and making deliveries. Also, it opened the door to mimicking the pastry chef’s recipes.
“I learned from my grandmother,” she shares. “I stayed in there, watching her, seeing exactly what they were doing because I thought it was something all of our family members should hold Little did she know she was creating an everlasting recipe. In on to and keep going.” addition to her acclaimed treats, she developed the recipe for March 2021 22 povhouma.com
As time went on and Gertie’s health began to deteriorate, baking responsibilities started shifting to the younger generations. “[Gertie] used her hands for everything; I mean, these hands were working,” Karen remembers. “It got to the point because of her arthritis and other conditions where she couldn’t do it anymore.” Karen’s daughter, Monique Johnson, didn’t come to know her greatgrandmother in the kitchen -- but instead through nursing home visits when Gertie was in her eighties. Gertie’s character, however, made a lasting impression on her.
“It was kind of a natural thing to bake once that happened in 2018,” Monique shares. “I felt like I had nothing left in me, so I just started baking since that brought comfort.” Later that year, an opportunity arose for Monique to achieve her dream of working in the New York fashion industry, but she needed to raise enough money to move. So, blessed with her great-grandmother’s sweet potato pie recipe and her mother’s help, she began selling the pies and acquired enough money to fund her relocation.
“Anytime I would go there, she would always crack jokes; she was very goofy,” Monique remembers. “But she was a very headstrong woman: she knew what she wanted.”
In 2020, Monique returned to Thibodaux for what was intended to be a temporary stay, but she fell seriously ill, causing her to go back and forth from the hospital throughout January. Doctors diagnosed her with several different conditions, Although she passed away in 2002, unable to find the true root of her sickness. Gertie’s spirit and traditions live on in Not until receiving an antibody test did the family, especially in the Johnson Monique later discover she had the novel household. coronavirus. Monique, just like her mother, appreciated baking at a young age, with early memories of using her Easy-Bake Oven to serve cakes to her Barbie dolls. And she acknowledges that, just like her mother, she too has a sweet tooth. But there’s more than what lies on the surface in preparing pastries for this family. For instance: baking acts as a catalyst for healing.
With restricted travel and closed businesses, the mother and daughter found themselves stressed during challenging times. While the pandemic didn’t seem it would be ending anytime soon, as many had hoped, the two decided it was time to earn some extra income while quarantining. And a business idea was then born out of a simple question Monique asked her mom: “You want to Diagnosed with lupus, Karen endured sell some pies?” multiple lengthy hospital visits. When she returned home after each stay, she baked. After an electrified “yes” from Karen, Monique built a website for Gertie Kay “I never understood why she did it, but it Sweets, named after Gertie and Karen -was very calming for her,” Monique recalls whose nickname is “Kay.” When the site from her childhood. “So, I would just help launched on the night of June 7, 2020, her bake pies because I loved hanging out orders came pouring in. with my mom.” “It was 11 at night; parents are knocked Baking is a form of therapy for the women out. My dad wakes up to the ‘cha-ching’ in her family, Monique says, and later in notifications on Shopify. And he was just life, she too would use it to heal. In 2014, like, ‘These people don’t even know y’all she survived a sexual assault; however, and they are buying these pies. How are she wouldn’t receive justice until 2018. y’all getting all these orders,” Monique That year, she used baking to cope with laughs. the trauma she endured from the assault and subsequent trial. Thanks to some help from Monique’s March 2021 23 povhouma.com
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friends in The Big Apple and promotion from a social media influencer, the business took off. Though, as with many new enterprises, Gertie Kay Sweets hit a snag. Due to the high volume of orders for the Thanksgiving holiday, the shipping company it used marked the account as fraud, which resulted in their baked goods being held at a warehouse until they could clear up the matter. Monique had to present documents at one of the company’s locations to prove the business is legit, which she did quickly. Still, after being held for two days following Monique’s visit, the products spoiled, causing Gertie Kay Sweets to lose over $8,000 in profit. The setback forced Monique to create a GoFundMe to save the young business, with insurance only covering a small portion of the losses. Fortunately, through Monique’s connections, the business’s story was picked up by the right influencers and business executives who banded together to bring the bakery back to life. Today, Gertie Kay Sweets thrives. Its website, gertiekaysweets.com, receives orders from all over the country, in addition to international requests. Monique, who now resides in Los Angeles, markets the business, handles shipments to areas in
the Western United States region, and bakes Gertie’s recipes that she tweaked to be vegan- and keto-friendly. Karen bakes from the Thibodaux home and handles orders from the Southeast, Southwest and Northeast regions. “My great-grandmother never thought that her pies would make it out of Thibodaux, and the fact that they made it out to the United States is insane,” says Monique, who also shares that the company brings the family closer as well. Karen says she’s proud of her daughter for all she’s done and continues to do for the business. “We have our normal runins,” she smiles. “But she’s great to work with, my baby girl.” The mother-daughter duo also still keeps Gertie’s legacy of helping others, donating funds to those in need, whether it’s to keep someone’s lights on or pay for a single mother’s daycare expenses. “On a grand-scale, we are getting people to understand that [Gertie] was really about the community,” Monique says. Folks can visit the website or Facebook page (facebook.com/gertiekays) to see what Gertie Kay Sweets has in store. “I love baking -- I really do,” Karen adds. “It’s rewarding in so many ways.” POV
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At Ochsner St. Anne, our providers are dedicated to providing quality care to meet your 0DITOFS )FBMUI $FOUFS o 3JWFS 1BSJTIFT 0DITOFS )FBMUI $FOUFS o %SJGUXPPE At Ochsner St. Anne, our physicians are dedicated to providing quality care to meet your personalized health needs, including annual check-ups, immunizations and care for acute and 502 Rue de Sante, Suite 308 2120 Driftwood Boulevard QFSTPOBMJ[FE IFBMUI OFFET JODMVEJOH BOOVBM DIFDL VQT JNNVOJ[BUJPOT BOE DBSF GPS BDVUF BOE chronic conditions. LaPlace, LA 70068 Kenner, LA 70065 DISPOJD DPOEJUJPOT 504.443.9500 985.652.3500 0VS UFBN JT HSPXJOH UP CFUUFS TFSWF ZPV 8F XPVME MJLF UP XFMDPNF %S 4BSBI Our team is growing to better serve you. We would like to 0DITOFS )FBMUI $FOUFS o -VMJOH 0DITOFS )FBMUI $FOUFS o -B1MBDF .FEJDBM ,OJHIU BOE %S .FHBO .BUIFSOF )BSUNBO welcome Michael Bacon, MD. 1057 Paul Maillard Road 735 W. 5th Street Luling, LA 70070 LaPlace, LA 70068 1EJUPGT (COKN[ &QEVQT %NKPKE s /CVJGYU| Ochsner Health Center – Lockport 985.785.3740 Ochsner Family Doctor Clinic – Mathews 985.652.9504 Ochsner Health Center – Lockport 111 AcadiaPark ParkDr.Dr. 111 Acadia Raceland, Raceland, LA LA 70394 70394 985.537.7575 985-537-7575
1EJUPGT )FBMUI $FOUFS s 3BDFMBOE Ochsner Health Center – Raceland 1 $ZQSFTT 4U 106 Cypress St. Raceland, LA Raceland, LA 70394 70394 985.537. 985-537-2273
1015 CrescentAve. Ave. 1015 Crescent Lockport, Lockport, LA LA 70374 70374 985.532.1620 985-532-1620
March 2021 25 povhouma.com
FOOD + FUN |
BON APPETIT
SHAMROCKIN’ MEAL TIME Breakfast at our house during the week usually consists of quick things like oatmeal, grits, canned biscuits or cereal. Only one out of three people in our household is a morning person, so planning and cooking breakfast is a lost art. We just scarf down something fast (and nutritious) and run out the door.
The weekends are when we slow down and enjoy breakfast as a family. Frittatas are an easy and inexpensive meal solution. They are kid-friendly and can be served for breakfast or dinner. When serving for breakfast, we add a side of fresh fruit. If serving for dinner, try adding a fresh arugula salad as a side.
BELL PEPPER CLOVER FRITTATA Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. 2. Crack the eggs and egg whites into a large bowl. Add salt and fresh cracked
pepper and beat until blended. 3. Heat a 10-inch nonstick oven safe skillet over medium heat. Add the oil and
shallots to the pan and cook until golden, 2 to 3 minutes. 4. Add the potatoes, season with salt, garlic powder, paprika and black pepper. Cover
and cook the potatoes over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until crisp and tender, about 12 to 15 minutes. 5. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet. Carefully arrange the bell peppers on top to
create a shamrock pattern if desired. Reduce the heat to low and cook until the edges are set, 6 to 8 minutes. 6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the frittata is completely set
and cooked through, 8 to 10 minutes. 7. Remove from the oven and transfer onto a large plate. Cut into wedges and serve.
March 2021 26 povhouma.com
• 4 thin slices green bell pepper, sliced into 1/4-inch thin slices crosswise • 4 large eggs • 4 large egg whites • kosher salt and pepper, to taste • 1 teaspoon olive oil • 1/4 cup minced shallots • 1 (7 oz) medium peeled Yukon Gold Potato, diced into 1/2-inch pieces • 1/4 tsp garlic powder • 1/4 tsp paprika
Celebrating
40
YEARS
Ingredients
of Community Banking
South Louisiana Bank is proud to celebrate FORTY YEARS of banking in our community.
IMPERIAL IRISH CAR BOMB • 1/2 oz. Five Farms Irish Liquor • 1/2 oz. West Cork Bourbon Cask Irish Whiskey • Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout
Though much in the world has changed since we began, our commitment to delivering personal, customer-focused service has never wavered. Stop in or call and one of our personal banking team members can match you with the perfect account or service to meet your needs.
- HOW TO MIX Add ½ oz of Five Farms & ½ oz of West Cork Bourbon Cask Irish Whiskey to a shot glass, layering the 5 farms Irish Liquor on the bottom. Pour ¾ Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout into a pint glass or beer mug and let settle. Drop the shot glass into the Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout and chug! POV
ayeee.com • 985-851-3434
March 2021 27 povhouma.com
Inspired by the glamorous 1920s Golden Era, DXV’s Belshire Collection delivers all the nostalgia and sparkle to make your bathroom shine. Bring the magic to life with elegantly crafted fixtures to soaking tubs and toilets that stand the test of time.
V I S I T C O B U R N ' S K I T C H E N & B AT H S H O W R O O M T O D AY ! HOUMA 5186 Hwy. 311 // Houma, LA 70360 Monday – Friday 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM (After-hours appointments are available) (985) 873-7776
THIBODAUX 1300 Ridgefield Rd. // Thibodaux, LA 70301 Monday – Friday 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM (After-hours appointments are available) (985) 446-0458
Give Your Bathroom the Golden Touch With the DXV Belshire Collection
CALL US AT 985. 873.89108 TO PLACE YOUR ORDER! March 2021 28 povhouma.com
March 2021 29 povhouma.com
THE SOUTHERN HOME |
SPONSORED
THE BRICK YARD Whether it’s building from scratch or remodeling, local residents need high-quality supplies and efficient service to turn their dream home into a reality. They should look no further than The Brick Yard. Although their business was founded in April of last year, the owners of The Brick Yard, Tim Stevens and Matt Chatagnier, have a combined 30-plus years of experience in the brick and roofing business. The locally-owned company has a wide range of specialties, including all types of masonry, roofing, outdoor kitchen equipment, fireplaces and accessories for customers’ new construction or remodeling needs. The Brick Yard offers Cherokee Brick, General Shale Brick, Meridian Brick, Pine Hall Brick, Atlas Roofing, IKO Roofing, Owens Corning Roofing, Certainteed Roofing, James Hardie Products, Nichiha, Blue Linx vinyl siding, Superior Fireplaces, IHP, Rasmussen, Fire Rock and Peacock pavers, among many other products.
3655 W Main St. • Gray, LA 985.746.5136
Not only does the company have an impressive array of products that can be picked up or delivered straight to its patrons, but it also provides speedy, peerless customer service. “We pride ourselves on service,” Tim says. “If you call for something, we try to get it out to you the same day, the next day, as soon as possible -- to keep the job from slowing down.” Tim and Matt are also proud to be a local business. “Matt and I live and work here,” Tim shares. “We want people to know we are local and know the money stays here in the community.”
March 2021 30 povhouma.com
THE SOUTHERN HOME |
SPONSORED
DISHMAN FLOORING & INTERIORS When you’ve been in business for 28 years, you learn to expect the unexpected. Hurricanes. The rare snow day. Unpredictable economy. But nothing has been as unpredictable as 2020. In January 2020, news stories of the “novel coronavirus” felt far away and something to keep an eye on, but nothing to be worried about. By March, it was here, and by mid-March, Dishman Flooring & Interiors briefly closed for a week, while figuring out how to handle what felt like the most unpredictable time in the history of its company. “We wanted to do what was best for our employees and our customers,” said owner, Billy Dishman. “Closing our doors felt like the hardest thing I have ever done.”
4633 W Main St. • Houma, LA 985.857.9347 dishmanflooring.com
Dishman Flooring & Interiors was back at it, a week later, with doors open, sanitizer out, face masks on. It became a year to remember. Full of unpredictability, but full of pleasant surprises as well. “We really want to thank our customers for supporting us so well in 2020,” Dishman said. “We saw people rally around our community and prioritize local businesses. We couldn’t have made it through without our community and our customers.” Dishman Flooring & Interiors started as a carpet cleaning business, and then began performing flooring installs, and now operates as an installer and provider of all types of flooring, as well as a Benjamin Moore paint showroom. Dishman originally started the company with his father, but now runs the company with his wife. The two are deeply embedded in the community and lead the company with a love for all things local. “This is our home. We love south Louisiana and we love its people. We are honored to serve them when they trust us with their home projects.” Today, Dishman Flooring & Interiors offers custom installation of hardwoods, vinyl, tile and custom showers. It has expanded through the years, but hasn’t left its roots and offers carpet and rug cleaning, as well as water restoration after homes flood with water. Dishman Flooring & Interiors offers a 5,000 square foot showroom where customers can choose paint colors, custom floors, rugs and interior decor.
March 2021 31 povhouma.com
THE SOUTHERN HOME |
SPONSORED
RICHARD’S KITCHEN STORE Backed by a 44-year tenure in Houma and a team of experts that possess decades of experience in the restaurant industry, Richard’s Kitchen Store knows firsthand the value of cooking with only the highest-quality equipment and is committed to putting affordable, professional-grade supplies into the homes of everyday chefs. “Cook Like a Pro” is the mission of the local kitchen retailer that re-imagined its store concept in 2016 to become the premier location in the Tri-Parish Area for finding equipment that suits the unique needs of each homeowner’s indoor or outdoor residential kitchen.
235 South Hollywood Road • Houma, LA 985.868.9240 • galley.com
Richard’s Kitchen Store is always open to the public. Customers are welcomed to enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience with Richard’s Kitchen Store, whether at its newly-renovated retail location on South Hollywood Road or through its online store at www.galley.com. The lineup of products combines quality with affordability to create a professional-grade cooking experience for everyone from the seasoned cook, to the cook who’s just starting out. “I feel like we’re helping people understand the possibilities in a home kitchen,” second-generation owner Ryan Richard says. “It makes me happier than anything to see our customers succeed and enjoy cooking.” Richard’s Kitchen Store is proud to be the exclusive provider in the Tri Parish area of well-known names like Viking kitchen appliances and Summit refrigeration. Homeowners can also find high-quality, budget-friendly brands like THOR Kitchen for their dream indoor kitchens and Blaze for warranty-backed outdoor equipment. Great products from Toadfish, Vinglace and Fire Disk can also be found in-store or online.
March 2021 32 povhouma.com
THE SOUTHERN HOME |
SPONSORED
FERNIS LEBLANC TILE, INC With over 60 years of experience, Fernis LeBlanc Tile strives to make clients’ tile dreams a reality through high-quality work and a hands-on creation process. The locally-owned, second generation business specializes in custom tile work on flooring, countertops, showers, patios, pool decks and more. The custom tile work industry has shifted from the kitchen to the bathroom in most renovations and even new construction. “Bathroom design is becoming more involved,” explained co-owner Mark LeBlanc. “We are doing as many full slabs in bathrooms as we are intricate tile work. Slabs are increasing in popularity and we are happy to be staying ahead of the curve when it comes to design.” Fernis LeBlanc Tile takes pride in being a family business passed down from its namesake to his sons, Mark and Derek LeBlanc. Part of what makes their company valuable is the promise you will see one of their faces on every job. The team at Fernis LeBlanc tile works closely together to offer customers the highest quality work possible. From start to finish, it is rewarding to see a project come together.
238 S. Hollywood Road • Houma, LA 985.851.6092
March 2021 33 povhouma.com
THE SOUTHERN HOME |
SPONSORED
COASTAL HOMEBUILDERS, LLC Led by the husband and wife team of Elton and Angia Lee Tootle, Coastal Homebuilders, LLC brings decades of experience in the construction industry to the Houma area. Originally founded as a cabinet company, Coastal Homebuilders later expanded its reach to cover every aspect of home construction and renovation. Specializing in custom cabinets and stone countertops, the company takes pride in treating every customer like a friend and ensuring that their expectations are exceeded for every project, big or small. “The most rewarding part of my job is hearing from our customers just how happy they are with the guys and girls that I have working on their project,” Elton says.
407 N Hollywood Rd • Houma, LA 985.872.4706 coastalgroupla.com
Coastal Stoneworks, LLC When it comes to custom countertops, no one does it better than stone fabrication and installation company Coastal Stoneworks, LLC. Equipped with an expert team that has all the qualifications to complete projects inhouse, Coastal Stoneworks makes it easy to get the countertop of your dreams in a variety of materials such as granite, marble, quartzite, quartz, limestone, and soap stone. Custom Cabinets For homeowners looking to update the cabinetry in their houses, Coastal Homebuilders promises only the highest-quality cabinets, customized in-house from start to finish. The team will bring customers’ visions for their homes to life by keeping them involved in the construction process throughout its duration. As a design and build shop, Coastal Homebuilders can have cabinets of any size custommade to suit any homeowner’s unique needs.
March 2021 34 povhouma.com
THE SOUTHERN HOME |
SPONSORED
DECORATIVE MAILBOXES Thibodaux’s Decorative Mailboxes offers authentic rust-free cast aluminum mailboxes. The company’s impressive catalog of collections includes the Imperial Series, Estate Series, Windsor Series, Century Series, Barcelona Series and Americana Series. All of Decorative Mailboxes’ products are available to order on its website or in-person at its Thibodaux location. The business offers a diverse set of price points, so customers can pick out the one that best suits their budget. The company’s stunning mailboxes come with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty, and its cast aluminum mailboxes are uniquely built to allow for replacements of specific individual parts if any components need servicing. The locally-owned business prides itself on selling high quality American made products that are built to last.
1444 Tiger Drive, Ste. A • Thibodaux, LA 985.387.1052 decomailbox.com
LANDMARK HOME FURNISHINGS Landmark Home Furnishings would like to thank our customers that have supported us by ‘shopping local’ during these unprecedented times. Our staff has worked hard to change and adapt to meet the needs of our community and overcome the difficulties our industry is experiencing with delays and shortages. Fast delivery combined with locally-warehoused inventory makes it easy for our customers to obtain furniture when they need it. Landmark Home Furnishings is continuously ‘overstocking’ a wide variety of furniture to prevent customers from waiting. With over 40 years of experience, our 45,000 sq. ft. of showroom offers a large selection of great quality products and a variety of price ranges. Our staff goes over and above to please our customers. Our approach to sales is to provide friendly, helpful service so families enjoy their shopping experience.
6667 West Park Ave. • Houma, LA 985.851.2443 landmarkhomeonline.com
March 2021 35 povhouma.com
THE SOUTHERN HOME |
SPONSORED
A&H PAINT, INC. When looking to enhance the aesthetics of your home, A&H Paint, Inc. can help you from top to bottom. Locally owned by Mark Bourgeios, who has been a part of the industry nearly 25 years, A&H Paint is so much more than just a paint store. A&H Paint’s showroom holds the answers to all your design desires. From flooring–including carpeting, wood and ceramic tiles–to window treatments–plantation shutters, wood blinds, woven shades– to custom tile showers, their team is ready to help customize your home. A&H Paint also carries Benjamin Moore paints. In-house designer Gretchen Talbot, with over 10 years of experience, provides customers with an extra edge when it comes to knowing where to start or making tough decisions on their many design options. “We can help you with any project you dream up, from start to finish,” shared Mark. “Our experienced staff and in-house designer help you every step of the way.”
751 W. Bayou Road • Thibodaux, LA 985.448.1148 anhpaint.com
ALVIN BALLARD ROOFING Founded in 1977 in Baton Rouge by its namesake, Alvin Ballard Roofing has dedicated itself to providing homeowners in South Louisiana with customer-friendly service and an easy understanding of roofing processes since its conception. Rod Roddy has remained the sole owner since its purchase in 2010. It was started in the Baton Rouge area but in 2012, Rod started doing business in Houma, Thibodaux and the bayou region. As business continues to grow, AB Roofing works in conjunction with its sister company DeJa Vu Properties to specialize in residential re-roofing, home improvement projects, repairs, renovations and more. Alvin Ballard Roofing prides itself on being transparent with its customers, taking a little more time with homeowners to insure they know exactly what they are getting. Rod explains every step of the project to their clients to offer a better understanding of what is taking place and what to expect.
2002 St Mary St. • Thibodaux, LA 866.766.3130 alvinballardroofing.com
DeJa Vu Properties is the passion side of business for Rod and fiancé Lisa Cinnater. Together they have completed over 17 renovation projects and specialize in saving older homes. The couple enjoys working on these gems and keeping them from destruction. Recently, they renovated the old 1928 OJ Mire General Store located in Thibodaux, turning it into their home. The General Store renovation has been featured in three national magazines as well as our own Point of Vue Magazine. Rod really loves the history of our area and Lisa has a unique way of transforming these pieces of history into a place anyone would love to call home! March 2021 36 povhouma.com
205 Venture Boulevard Houma, LA 70360 Tel: 985-868-0430 Mon-Fri 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM www.fleetsupplywhse.com
LOCALLY OWNED SINCE 1974
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985.580.1200
March 2021 37 povhouma.com
Adolfo J. Cuadra, MD
MIND + BODY
REVIVAL ON THE BAYOU | 40
Another beautiful restoration by Rod Roddy and Lisa Cinnater.
WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE | 44 Change Lifestyle Habits to Decrease Diabetes Risk
March 2021 38 povhouma.com
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REAL TIME STATS
BY KEELY DIEBOLD PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY For Rod Roddy and Lisa Cinnater, bringing new life to old walking proximity to the restaurants and bars of Downtown spaces has become second nature. Thibodaux, a gorgeous view of the bayou and even a basement with a somewhat-secret entrance. From renovating a 1950s camper, to converting the remnants of the 20th-century OJ Mire General Store on Highway Rod says he and Lisa would pass by the building frequently 1 in Thibodaux into a stunning home, the duo has turned after moving to Thibodaux from Houma a few years ago. The what some may consider a hobby into something much only thing occupying it at the time, he says, was pigeons. deeper: a mission centered on preserving old buildings in the community they love so dearly instead of allowing them He always loved the potential the building possessed and to be torn down. began attempting to contact its owner. A year later, in June of 2020, Rod and Lisa purchased the property and began “It’s all about saving history and keeping a part of the what would prove to be an extensive renovation project. town like it used to be,” Lisa says from the living room of the couple’s newest renovation project: a once-decrepit “[The building] was horrible…Where the upstairs apartment apartment building transformed into a gorgeous property is, there was a hole in the roof for years, so all the woodwork with a jaw-dropping view. and everything coming down that way was all rotted out,” Rod says. “When we got it, we didn’t know that the back Situated between Bayou Road and Bayou Lafourche in had a deck because it was all over grown. You couldn’t see Thibodaux, the duo’s latest project has it all: history, anything.” March 2021 40 povhouma.com
Houma’s Premier Assisted Living Facility
The building, Rod says, was built sometime in the 1930s, supposedly as a haberdashery. It was subsequently turned into a motorcycle shop and a music store before becoming an apartment complex.
Providing quality care to the elderly population of our community Since 2004
Its 90-year existence has left the property packed with history. Rod says that riverboats carrying doctors and dentists used to pass up and down the bayou and dock near the building, allowing residents of the town to get the healthcare they needed. Additionally, the building features a rarity for any property in Louisiana: a basement, whose entrance is tucked away in the corner of the living room. “Back in the day, there was a door going out the basement, and…they would get supplies and stuff and put it down there, and then they’d bring it in…It’s just history,” Rod says. The couple’s vision for the building involved a dual purpose: the upstairs area would become a rental apartment, while the downstairs area would be used by Rod and Lisa as a safe, “fun place” for enjoying local events like parades and festivals. When the couple is not using it, they plan to rent it out as an Airbnb. March 2021 41 povhouma.com
CALL FOR A TOUR TODAY! 985.223.4663 1132 Cottage Dr. Houma, LA
One of the first major steps in the renovation project was to gut the building entirely, as it featured numerous small rooms that weren’t ideal for carrying out the duo’s vision. After that, Rod, who owns a roofing company, worked to fix the hole in the roof. “We did that. The pigeons agreed. They like it. They still come back. They pay no rent,” Rod jokes. The couple focused on completing the upstairs first, ultimately turning it into
a three-bedroom, two-bathroom rental apartment. Their vision proved to be a success, as both Lisa and Rod agree that the living room is The duo’s main goal for the downstairs their favorite part of the property. area was to take advantage of the building’s back view of both Downtown “That’s our main goal in everything we Thibodaux and Bayou Lafourche. do is find the best view and add the big Ultimately, they decided to close off the windows,” Lisa says. front entrance due to its close proximity to the highway and utilize the space for As for the “secret” basement, Rod says closets, turning their attention toward they have several ideas in mind, including making the back of the property its focal a tornado shelter or a wine cellar. point. March 2021 42 povhouma.com
Over years of renovations and remodeling efforts, the duo has picked up signature touches that appear in many of their finished projects. One has become the use of wood countertops, often made from repurposed wood. The other involves taking materials like wallpaper from old houses and turning them into decorations as a way of preserving a property’s history.
YOUR NEWS.
“On one of the houses we redid, there was kind of a cool-looking wallpaper, but it wasn’t cool enough to keep it, so we did something decorative with it and framed it and gave it to the homebuyer, so we kind of try to, if there’s something interesting in that house, maybe take a piece of that… and use it in another house,” Lisa says. In their latest project, that touch can be found in the vent above their stove, which features a repurposed piece of wood from the OJ Mire Store. To Rod and Lisa, the opportunity to preserve old buildings in a town so close to their hearts means the world. Watching the progress of their latest renovation has been a joy to them and has also resonated with the community around them.
YOUR WAY.
“It went from being an ugly duckling to a swan. It’s a focal point now. People love it…It’s just nice to see a town that cares about the way it looks, and we like to be a part of that,” Rod says. The duo doesn’t plan on stopping their preservation efforts any time soon, as Rod always has his eyes set on a new building to save - and he’ll do whatever it takes to make his vision a reality.
GET ONLINE.
“He writes letters, he knocks on doors, he calls people. He loves it,” Lisa says. “I’m nice about it. I don’t rag anybody,” Rod laughs. “It’s not to buy it because you want it over anybody else. It’s just to save it.” POV
HOUMATIMES.COM
Enjoy a guided tour with Rod and Lisa at povhouma.com. March 2021 43 povhouma.com
WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE |
BY THIBODAUX REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM
CHANGE LIFESTYLE HABITS TO DECREASE DIABETES RISK An estimated one-in-three Americans are at risk for type 2 diabetes. More alarmingly, nearly 25 percent of people with the disease don’t realize they have it. Age, family history and lifestyle increase the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. Being overweight and physically inactive, along with high blood pressure and high cholesterol, are major risk factors. While we cannot slow aging or alter family genetics, we can change lifestyle habits. Research also shows the severity of COVID-19 triples in patients with diabetes. For many people, the pandemic has resulted in weight gain from stress eating, being more sedentary and getting less sleep. Diabetes Self-Management Services at Thibodaux Regional provides comprehensive diabetes services including WellFit Diabetes Care, which integrates medical care with wellness practices to help you manage diabetes and lower risks. Ask your physician about WellFit or visit the website, www.thibodaux.com. If you’re concerned about your wellbeing, start by changing everyday habits. Eat a healthful diet. The Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—2021 recommends a Mediterranean-style diet low in carbohydrates and high in plant-based foods.
Steer clear of highly processed foods that can increase the risk for diabetes and other diseases. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) website features a variety of flavorful recipes for healthy meal planning.
A half-hour of regular, moderate-intensity aerobic exercise such as brisk walking, cycling or swimming can help maintain weight and lower insulin resistance. Research from Mayo Clinic also shows that adding strength training with weights or resistance bands can also reduce As your mother has told you, breakfast is risks. Check with your healthcare provider important. Skipping it can cause you to overeat before starting a new exercise program. the rest of the day. There’s no eggs-only breakfast rule, so add choices such avocado Increase the wind down. on whole-wheat toast, breakfast tacos or highprotein smoothies. Some studies indicate that The sleepless nights that many have experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, increase the risk coffee can help lower diabetes risks. for diabetes. Chronic sleep deprivation may Snack smarter and often. cause the body to release more stress hormones such as cortisol, which increase blood sugar. A Snacking throughout the day can be beneficial lack of sleep also increases the appetite and for managing weight and reducing diabetes risk. cravings for carbs and sugar. Naturally, snack in moderation to balance your appetite and prevent blood sugar lows. Resist a Try adding mindful meditation and a regular craving for ice cream and opt for smart snacks yoga practice to your routine for a better night’s such as fresh fruit, hummus with veggies, cheese sleep. crisps or kale chips. A healthy alternative for a sweet tooth might be ricotta cheese sprinkled Smoking—just don’t do it. with dark chocolate chips. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the risk of developing Get up and move. diabetes is 30 to 40 percent higher for smokers. Studies show that regular exercise is key to Add to that higher risks for cancer, heart and reducing diabetes risk. The past year’s work- pulmonary diseases. If you want to kick the from-home environment has led to many people habit, talk with your doctor about Thibodaux becoming more sedentary. ADA recommends Regional’s “Quit Smoking for Life” smoking not sitting for longer than 30 minutes. cessation program.
For more information call Thibodaux Regional Diabetes Management Program at (985) 493-4765.
When It Comes to Matters of the Heart, Only an Expert Will Do. In the event you need heart care, your heart is in the right place at Thibodaux Regional. Combining expertise and the latest technology, our team of surgeons, cardiologists, nurses and technicians have performed thousands of life-saving procedures • Specialized cardiac and peripheral vascular procedures – heart cath, angiograms, angioplasty and open-heart surgery • Cardiac rehabilitation program – physical, educational and emotional support for the best comeback after a heart incident • Heart education and prevention services – knowledge and resources to prevent health issues • WellFit cardiac care – customized nutrition and exercise plan
thibodaux.com
For more information, call 985.493.4733.
If you think you or someone you know is having a heart attack, never delay getting medical help, call 9-1-1. March 2021 44 povhouma.com
FUN FACTS
282 Corporate Drive Houma, LA 70360
Adding some live greenery to any space, your home or office, can be the perfect decor solution. But do you know the history behind houseplants or some of their natural benefits?
Auto•Home•Life Real Service. Real People.
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Ancient Chinese, Indian and Egyptian cultures started indoor gardening in the ancient times.
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ALL THE NEWS ALL Having indoor plants has been said to improve mental wellbeing as well as reducing stress.
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HOUMATIMES.COM March 2021 45 povhouma.com
UNDER THE SCOPE |
BY JOHN DOUCET
REMEMBERING YARDI GRAS 2021 Like many PoV readers, I spent my early years along the latitude of Golden Meadow and Houma (29° 23'-35' North), and I thought then that Mardi Gras was invented there. After all, the term “mardi gras” was French, and that’s what people all around me spoke. Parades would roll there between two points within the small limits of a town. And my parents could recognize and name all the float riders, even when masked. I remember being shaken to see New Orleans parades broadcast on television. “Copy-cats!” I would exclaim with all childhood disdain. And like many PoV readers, I have come to understand that WE are actually the copy-cats. Through some form of intercultural transmission across US Highway 90 West, the 29° North tradition came from New Orleans, whose enormous celebration is famously and infamously known worldwide. Even our floats are sometimes built, borrowed, or bought from New Orleans carnival artists, and convoys of those slowly truck-drawn decorations have often held-up traffic atop the four-lane highway across the Barataria swampland en route to the bayous.
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But even city folks were copy-catting when they first celebrated in 1837, as similar carnivals occurred in medieval France and ancient Rome. Nonetheless, it’s artists and artistry from New Orleans that deepened the tradition in the New World, inventing street parades and floats and beads and other more notorious customs. Leave it to that innovative spirit to enable celebration of Mardi Gras during a pandemic without floats and parades (and bars). I imagine how I might have had to tell my grandpa, who’d rope-off his bayou front property along the highway for visiting family parking, something like “No, Papère. This year the floats don’t move. We do.” And, thus, we celebrated Yardi Gras in 2021. To discover if intercultural transmission from New Orleans occurred with this innovation, I conducted a survey of decorated “house-floats” along one bayou—not by foot of course, as temperatures on that celebratory Tuesday were in the teens and my age and temperature tolerance were not. Rather, it was a drive-by survey, along a highway where the speed limit was so low that revealing it would incriminate the innocent. Driving from the south, the first house-float I noted was an elevated cottage. Trawl boards were nailed up as window shutters and trawl nets were draped from the posts of the front porch. Mounds of oyster shells decorated the front yard, and some of them became the driveway to the house. There was a man sitting a rocking chair on the porch, rubbing tools against a whetstone. “I see you decorated your house like your fishing camp!” I called out. “I don’t got no camp,” he replied. Then he raised a blade that was no blunt oyster knife. So I drove on.
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An early 60s house on a slab with yellow-tan bricks and a shallow-pitch roof was dressed with symbols of the drilling industry. In the front yard, the fence posts were made from drill pipe and topped with drill bits. The A-frame for the swing set, clothesline posts, and barbecue pit were all made from welded iron and drill pipe and all covered in a heavy slick paint. Another house was decorated as a gas station: concretewalls with a high flat roof, a front lateral driveway beneath a large awning with slab-anchored posts, and two large frontfacing garage doors. As I drove away, I recognized that these houses have been decorated this way for decades. I rolled down my window to greet a woman hanging an American Flag from her house’s awning. Given our recent Presidential election, I thought nothing unusual of it. But the red, white and blue ribbons on the porch columns, together with pumpkins and cornucopia along the sidewalk, apparent nests of eggs on the lawn next to a scarecrow and black cat, and a snowy sleigh with wind-jingled bells all conspired to throw me for a loop. “You’re in the wrong season,” I joked. She smiled and threw some beads and doubloons to me. Maybe at me. When I noticed her windows boarded up with plywood, I know she was truly a woman for all seasons—all at once. My house-float survey proved that we are no copy-cats: We’ve been decorating our houses and yards and making the yardi gras for a long time now. Take that, New Orleans! Nonetheless, Mardi Gras 2021 will be remembered for other novelties. Waste beads and parade litter didn’t get swept and washed into the environment. Icy temps prevented large gatherings and supported public health during the pandemic. Bourbon Street was empty for the first time since the Battle of New Orleans. Chris Owens danced in sweatpants and a sweatshirt—with sequins, of course. Floats will inevitably roll again, but in the meantime we got tradition covered. POV
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March 2021 47 povhouma.com
RENDEZVOUS |
THE LARGEST
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WHERE YOU NEED TO BE AROUND TOWN
The Gala Goes to You
Play It Forward
March 10, 7 p.m. Virtual Event
March 26, 6-10 p.m. Bayou Country Children’s Museum, Thibodaux
In 2021, The Gala Goes to You in support of Mary Bird Perkins TGMC Cancer Center! Due to the continued uncertainty surrounding the safety of large scale events as a result of COVID-19, The Gala has been completely reimagined. This year the signature event is taking on an exciting new concept as a hybrid event. The Gala Goes to You, presented by Louis Mohana Furniture, brings a unique experience unlike anything done before. A captivating stage program will take place inside the Houma Terrebonne Civic Center, and will be broadcast from the stage to intimate watch parties planned throughout the region. Not only can supporters view from an official watch party, but anyone with a smart device will be able to stream the event from anywhere! Official Watch Parties are open to the public at the following locations: Bayou Terrebonne Distillers, Ellendale Country Club, La Carreta, Texas Roadhouse, and Walk-On’s. Visit mbptgmc.org/gala for more information.
5K Race for Their Future March 13, 7 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Virtual Event
The Virtual Race Fest Event includes a 5K Race and Silent Auction. Participants may sign-up for a 5K and complete it virtually the day of the event. The Silent Auction will also be held online this year for safety reasons.
Scan QR Code to Learn More or Join Today!
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Semi-Annual Chamber Cornhole Challenge & Pop-Up March 16, 3 p.m. Southdown Plantation, Houma
The Chamber Cornhole Challenge is excited to partner once again with Southdown Plantation and Bayou Cornhole for another great tournament! Two-player teams are invited to register for a double-elimination tournament. Each team must include a Chamber member. The registration form is available at houmachamber.com. This year’s event includes a pop-up shopping event! The Chamber is encouraging our small business members to come out to participate in a popup to promote shopping local. Booths are free for members to participate. General admission ages 18 and over is $5 and this includes all food and drinks. Team members and sponsors get admission bracelets. You do not need admission bracelets to shop at the pop-up. Although this is an outdoor event, please wear a mask upon entry.
Join the fun at Play It Forward presented by Acadia Plantation, a special evening benefiting the Bayou Country Children’s Museum. This event features a one of a kind cocktail trail, local food, gaming tables, silent auction, exciting live auction and great live, outdoor entertainment from John Daigle.
Southdown Marketplace March 27, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Southdown Plantation, Houma
Southdown Marketplace is a one-day arts & crafts festival that features approximately 300 booths from local and national vendors with unique hand-made products including jewelry, clothing, wood crafts, original art, garden items, seasonal products and more. Admission is $5; children 12 and under are free.
46th Over and Under Tunnel Run March 27, 2-7 p.m. Houma Municipal Auditorium
The 46th Annual Over and Under Tunnel Run 5k benefits The Foundation for TGMC. This one of a kind event takes participants over the Houma Twin Spans and under the Intracoastal through the Houma Tunnel. Registration begins at 2 p.m. Race begins at 3:30 p.m.
Home Is Where the Heart Is Telethon March 27, 6-9 p.m. HTV Live Stream Event
Every day of the year at least one woman from Terrebonne and Lafourche parish reaches out to The Haven for critical lifesaving services that they provide. By supporting The Haven’s telethon this year, you ensure that The Haven can continue to provide shelter, advocacy, counseling, and resources for families plagued by domestic, dating, and sexual violence. Individuals and businesses can support the telethon by purchasing a sponsorship package, donating, or watching the televised event live. The exciting, reimagined event will broadcast live on HTV-10 and stream live on HTV-10 Facebook page allowing you to enjoy from the comfort and safety of your home.
March 2021 48 povhouma.com
FUN FACTS Interesting facts about homes in the United States by the numbers:
Average number of years people stay in their homes - 6
Number of Americans that have “assigned” seating in their homes43%
Average number of items in a home300,000
Number of homes occupied by homeowners in the US - 72 million
Average number of households in the US that own cats or dogs - 65%
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*According to https:// didyouknowhomes.com
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March 2021 49 povhouma.com
LOOK TWICE |
WIN A $50
COURTESY OF SYNERGY BANK
GIFT CARD
Find the six differences in this photo from our feature on page 14. Email your answers to us at looktwice@povhouma.com or drop it in the mail: Rushing Media, P.O. Box 5013, Houma, LA, 70361. A winner will be picked by random drawing March 20. The winner will receive a $50 Visa® gift card courtesy of Synergy Bank. Participants must be 18 years or older.
Congratulations to Dana Moore for winning last month’s contest.
March 2021 50 povhouma.com
ANSWERS TO LAST MONTH’S CONTEST 1 Removed remote 2 Removed number 4 on yellow 3 Changed color of number 7 in frame 4 Added dog on chair 5 Replaced television with painting 6 Added horse on table
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6161 WEST PARK AVE., HOUMA, LA | 876-1817
www.southlanddodgechryslerjeep.com March 2021 51 povhouma.com