Honoring Our Heroes - July 2023

DRIVEN BY VALOR

HONORING OUR HEROES

Local memorial parks, museums and more

EXTRAS ON THE COVER WORD, YA HEARD

IMMENSURABLE

[ ih-men-ser-uh-buhl ] adjective

incapable of being measured; limitless.

WORD ON THE STREET

The bravery and sacrifice of our soldiers in defending our nation's freedom is immensurable

The space felt immensurable even though they were only a few feet apart.

VISIT US ONLINE: povhouma.com

The Regional Military Museum showcases their newest memorial.

Photo: Lauren Hemstreet

Sparklers

21

PUBLISHER

Brian Rushing

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Mary Downer Ditch

EDITORIAL

Bonnie Rushing Editorial Director

The shimmery gold ones that cascade down

Isabelle Gareis

CREATIVE

Lauren Hemstreet

PHOTOGRAPHY

Misty Leigh McElroy

Lauren Hemstreet

Madison Pontiff

DIGITAL

Madison Pontiff

Maddy Robichaux

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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

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.

Gun Salute

HOMETOWN HEROES

In every community, there are extraordinary individuals who embody the true spirit of heroism and selflessness. They are the backbone of our society, ensuring our safety, security, and wellbeing. This July, as we celebrate our nation's independence, let us take a moment to honor our hometown heroes—the dedicated men and women serving in the military, police force, fire department, and as first responders. Their unwavering courage, sacrifice, and commitment deserve our utmost respect and gratitude.

It's sometimes odd to me to see how far away the concept of veterans is to my son. I was raised in a household where both of my grandparents were World War II veterans. I grew up surrounded by the greatest generation. My dad was in the Louisiana Army National Guard, and is a veteran of Desert Storm/Desert Shield. By the time my son was born, however, my dad had retired from the military and both of my grandfathers had passed away. No one in his immediate family is in any branch of service. As he learns the history of our country and what our holidays and days of remembrance mean, it always strikes me how it's just that for him… History. It reminds me of how important it is to make sure he understands how many people died for the freedoms he experiences every day.

In our Honoring Our Heroes issue, we take a moment to reflect on generations of service and the legacies they are creating.

Our first story is one that spans the generations. Four generations of the same family have volunteered their service with the Thibodaux Volunteer Fire Department. Brothers Josh and Ron R. Bourgeois make up the third generation, with their sons becoming the fourth. Learn more about this family dedicated to service on page 16.

Military Museum now proudly displays this impressive tribute to veterans from all over the country—even deciding to continue the previous owner's work by adding new names of Terrebonne Parish veterans to the car to honor these local heroes for their service. See the vehicle and learn more start on page 20.

Finally, we share a few of the treasures we have here in Terrebonne and Lafourche Parish. Our parishes are home to multiple parks, museums and monuments dedicated to our hometown heroes. From military veterans to police, firefighters and even war dogs and K9 handlers, you will find a quiet spot to reflect on those who have served our area and our country with pride. Check out the locations that honor our heroes starting on page 24.

As we celebrate July and reflect upon the meaning of independence, let us remember and honor our hometown heroes—the military personnel, police officers, firefighters, and first responders who protect and serve us every day.

Next, we take a moment to take in the newest addition to the Region Military Museum in Houma. The local museum recently received a donated Chevy Camaro, on which the previous owner had printed names of hundreds of veterans who had served in the military from World War I all the way up to modern day. The Regional

Take a moment this month to express your appreciation, whether through a simple thank you, a kind gesture, or by supporting organizations that assist these brave individuals. Together, let's recognize and celebrate the true heroes in our hometowns. POV

What's your favorite way to celebrate the 4th of July?

NICOLE

My favorite way to celebrate is at our family's camp in Grand Isle. We usually get together with my husband's parents, his siblings and their children, and we spend time hanging out on the beach and relaxing on the porch at the camp. We have a barbecue and watch the fireworks from all the surrounding camps. It's a yearly tradition that we've had since our kids were little, and we love it!

HAYES

When I hear July 4th, first I think of family. I think about my little man and the fireworks he'll want. Next I think of BBQ and boats! My perfect July 4th weekend would be BBQing at the camp, and friends taking a boat ride to visit. We'd enjoy watching the kids burn all the gas riding up and down the canal fishing, and take a boat ride to Gros Marina and the Spunky Monkey.

DEANNA

My favorite way to spend the 4th of July is on the Grand Isle beach. This year we will be home swimming, barbecuing and hanging out with our family.

JOSEPH

My favorite way to celebrate July 4th is hanging out with my family, whether it's at the house, the camp, or riding in the boat with the red, white, and blue flag blowing in the wind!

MOLLY

Spending time with family near sun and sand with a little bit of shade, and always my mom's Jello-cake for my brother's July 5th birthday!

DESIGNING A BLANK SLATE

BY MARY DITCH | PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY

To an interior designer, nothing is more tempting than a home with clean lines and a blank slate. This was the dream come true for homeowners Rene and Nicole Himel. As an interior designer, Nicole was thrilled to purchase the patio-style home which appealed to her love of clean lines, simplicity, and contemporary design.

“The majority of the homes I decorate in the area are of a traditional or transitional style,” shared Nicole. “So, when designing my own space, I took

full advantage of letting myself make bolder and edgy style decisions.”

The home was built by Terre South of Houma in 2014. It features three bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The home is just under 2,000 square feet.

“As our youngest daughter was starting college, we knew we didn't need a lot of space, but we were looking for something large enough to entertain our family with little to no upkeep,” explained Nicole. “As a family we have

celebrated many milestones on the screened-in patio which we added after purchasing the home. It has become our gathering place for birthdays, weddings, graduations, and family crawfish boils.”

The spacious kitchen and dining area serves as the perfect space to host holiday dinners, which the family does every year. The patio area is just off the dining area, allowing guests to gather outside as well, enjoying ample seating and a fire pit. POV

BY ISABELLE GAREIS | PHOTOS BY LAUREN HEMSTREET

"Family Legacy" takes on a whole new meaning for Josh and Ron R. Bourgeois, two brothers who are serving as part of the third generation of volunteer firefighters with the Thibodaux Fire Company No. 1. Members of the Bourgeois brother's extended family, from uncles, to nephews, to grandfathers, and even their own fathers and sons, have given their time and energy to the Thibodaux Volunteer Fire Department to help keep the community safe.

The history of Thibodaux Fire Company No. 1 is a long and rich one— in 1858, the Thibodaux Fire Company No. 1 was born, and has since then been active except for a few years during the American Civil War. The fire company was officially incorporated in 1872, and is considered to be one of, if not the, oldest volunteer fire department in the state of Louisiana. Shortly after, in the early 20th century, Ron and Josh Bourgeois' great uncle Anthony Oncale was born— and would soon go to begin this family's legacy with the Thibodaux Fire Company No. 1.

"Our grand-uncle Anthony joined first, and then our grandfather Oscar Oncale and the rest of his brothers followed. I joined this fire company on February 1st, 1985," began Josh. "Becoming a volunteer firefighter is a tradition in our family. It wasn't 'if' you became a firefighter in our family, it was 'when." Josh's younger brother, Ron, joined the fire company just a few short years later in 1988. "I was extremely proud when I joined," said Ron. "It was such a great feeling to follow in the example our grandfather and father set."

Both Ron and Josh explained that the tradition of joining the Thibodaux Volunteer Fire Department was not

limited to just one descending line in his family. "At one point, my grandfather, every one of his brothers, brotherin-laws, and more were a member of this fire company," said Ron. "We even claim extended third and fourth cousins who serve as part of our family line! Right now, we currently have four generations of extended family members volunteering. Growing up, seeing all our uncles and our grandfather serve as firefighters— it made us want to continue the tradition too." The brothers' grandfather Oscar even signed both Josh and Ron's

companies run smoothly." The brothers explained that part of their work includes organizing beloved events such as the Thibodaux Fireman's Fair, which serves as the primary ways the volunteer department raises funds.

Josh and Ron went on to discuss the important ways that the Thibodaux Volunteer Department are working to help improve the Thibodaux community and continue the legacy of the Thibodaux Fire Company No.1, particularly by reaching out to the younger generation. "We have something called a Probationary Program, which began at E.D. White High School," said Ron. "This allows students to begin training as volunteer firefighters at just 16-years-old. They go through the same training a professional firefighter would, use the same equipment— this means that at age

applications to become members of the volunteer fire department.

Both Josh and Ron followed a similar path through their time with the Thibodaux Fire Company No. 1, advancing through the ranks of Second Lieutenant, First Lieutenant, Captain, and finally were voted as members of the Thibodaux Fire Board, where the two brothers now act in an advisory capacity with the Thibodaux Volunteer Fire Department— particularly overseeing the best ways to raise, spend, and allocate funds. "We are essentially now a part of the governing body of the Fire Department," said Josh. "We help oversee the business end of things, to make sure all the volunteer fire

"GROWING UP, SEEING ALL OUR UNCLES AND OUR GRANDFATHER SERVE AS FIREFIGHTERS—IT MADE US WANT TO CONTINUE THE TRADITION TOO."

training efforts to include young community members in the volunteer fire company, has helped keep membership with Thibodaux Fire Company No. 1 constantly growing. "We have members who range from 18 to 90 years-old— some with over 60 years of service," said Josh. "We always say that all firefighters are firemen, but not all firemen are firefighters. For example, if you are younger and still in training, you may not have not been into a hot zone to fight a fire yet. We also have older members who have never been into a fire in their life, or may not be able to anymore. However, all these members still have such an important role in keeping this department alive. We welcome everyone in, find them a role, and are so appreciative of everything all our members do to help out." This attitude of inclusion and acceptance within the Thibodaux Volunteer Fire Department has helped members of all ages find a place within the company, and the proof is evident—Thibodaux Fire Company No. 1 has grown to include more than 100 members, with more than 500 in the Thibodaux Volunteer Fire Department as a whole.

While Josh and Ron have used their almost 40 years of service to help all community members through the Thibodaux Volunteer Fire Department, the most rewarding aspect of this volunteerism for them is continuing to watch their family legacy flourish. Both Ron's son, Andre J. Bourgeois, and Josh's two sons, Race E. and Max R. Bourgeois, are currently active members of Thibodaux Fire Company No. 1. These three sons are following the examples of three generations of volunteer firefighters who came before them in their family, including their fathers, numerous uncles, and great-grandfather. "I am so proud to see them following in our footsteps," said Josh. "Back when I joined in 1985, the fire truck we had was dedicated to my uncle, Anthony "Papa Joe" Oncale. I thought it was so cool he had a truck named after him. In 1987, that truck was replaced with a new one, dedicated to two of our other uncles. Little did we know that 33 years later, we would have a truck dedicated to us," said Josh, as Ron nodded in agreement. "It is so great that other members have recognized our commitment, and now we have our sons to follow behind us,"

said Ron.

Both Bourgeois brothers are looking forward to watching how their sons will continue the family legacy of volunteerism, commitment, and involvement. "We always tell our younger members that family comes first," said Ron. "Never put your family aside for this fire company. But together, you can balance your time and make everything work. That mindset has kept our legacy growing here for four generations— if you put aside your son, your daughter, your grandchildren, they won't be interested in finding their place here one day too. You need to be there for them." Josh and Ron explained that even with their deep commitment to volunteerism, they still took the time to ensure they were active members in their sons' lives. "The most gratifying thing about being a member of Thibodaux Fire Company No. 1 is seeing how it continues to grow," said Ron. "We don't consider ourselves heroes here. We do this and we love it, and it truly fills our hearts to see our sons find their passion here too— and hopefully many generations to follow." POV

"WE DO THIS AND WE LOVE IT, AND IT TRULY FILLS OUR HEARTS TO SEE OUR SONS FIND THEIR PASSION HERE TOO — AND HOPEFULLY MANY GENERATIONS TO FOLLOW."

RON BOURGEOIS (RIGHT) AND SON ANDRE BOURGEOIS (LEFT)

JOSH BOURGEOIS (CENTER) AND SONS MAX (LEFT) AND RACE (RIGHT) BOURGEOIS

BY ISABELLE GAREIS | PHOTOS BY MADISON PONTIFF

The Regional Military Museum in Houma is taking new steps to honor local and visiting veterans in a very special way. The local museum recently received a donated Chevy Camaro, on which the previous owner had printed names of hundreds of veterans who had served in the military from World War I all the way up to modern day. The local Regional Military Museum now proudly displays this impressive tribute to veterans from all over the country—even deciding to continue the previous owner's work by adding new names of Terrebonne Parish veterans to the car to honor these local heroes for their service.

The impressive "Tribute Camaro," as it is affectionately called, was originally owned and operated by the late Morris Arcement. Morris served in the United States Marine Corps for 12 years during the Vietnam Era, before purchasing what would later become the Tribute Camero to honor veterans far and wide in 2015. Soon after purchasing the Camaro, Morris began the long process of meticulously printing the names of past veterans and fallen heroes across all corners of his car— eventually the doors, the bumper, the hood, and even the roof of the vehicle were covered with the names of veterans he knew and many he served alongside. He did not just stop with the names of his friends, but also included the name of every single United States President who served in the military from World War I on, and multiple veteran celebrities including Elvis Presley, Glenn Miller, Douglas Fairbanks, and more. "Arcement honored veterans from World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan," said Will Theriot, President of the Board of Directors at the Regional Military Museum. "If you served in the military and are a veteran, Morris put your name on this car."

Morris passed away in November of 2021 at the age of 65, which left his family with the question of what to do with this remarkable tribute to past and current veterans. "A young lady called the museum one day, who turned out to be Amberlyn Arcement, Morris's youngest and only daughter," said Will. "She explained that her father had purchased a car in 2015 to honor all of his friends who were in the military by printing their names around the vehicle. Amberlyn told us that since he had passed away, she and her family did not want the car to be sold and put out on the street with these names on it. She asked if we would accept it at the museum," continued Will. "And of course, we were happy to."

While having the Tribute Camaro as it was would have made an incredible addition to the Regional Military Museum, the local museum has always prided itself on offering a uniquely personal experience to its visitors. The Regional Military Museum encourages visitors to learn about the actual men and women who fought in these wars, rather than just the war itself, taking particular pride in the role that the southern Louisiana region played in many of the nation's large-scale conflicts. This mindset inspired those who volunteer at the museum to continue Morris' legacy and vision for the Tribute Camaro, by continuing to print names of every veteran from or visiting Terrebonne Parish who came to visit the Regional

Military Museum. "The Camaro had 800 names already printed when we received it," said Will. "So we asked Amberlyn if it would be possible for us to add even more. She said yes, and we were so excited to not only put the Tribute Camaro on permanent display, but continue her father's project."

The Tribute Camaro now proudly holds more than 2,000 names of veterans who have served in the United States Military, with every branch of service represented. "We have a lot of local people from Houma and Terrebonne Parish recognized on the car, but we actually have names from all over the United States," said Will. "We have names of veterans from Ohio, Illinois, Kentucky, and more. When visitors come through the museum, if they are veterans and want their name printed on the car, we do it." Will explained that the project is a bittersweet one— as of our press date in June, the Tribute Camaro had room for about 20 more veteran's names before it was completely out of space.

Will explained that having the Tribute Camaro at the Regional Military Museum has been a wonderful addition to their exhibits and what they can offer to the community. "The Tribute Camaro has become quite an attraction," he said. "People love coming to see it and are always in awe looking at all the names, especially seeing how local veterans are honored. Our visitors have not seen

anything like this before. There are a lot of people who come to look for the names of their family members who are recognized on the vehicle, which is really special to see." The Tribute Camaro is just one of the many ways that the Regional Military Museum is working to honor local veterans with their exhibitions. "May was Veterans Month, and we had a whole Veterans Appreciation Day here at the museum," said Will. "We had over 300 veterans who came, got to see the car, and had their names added. It helps everyone to feel honored and seen for their service." The Regional Military Museum hosts their annual Vietnam Appreciation Day every March, as well as several open houses, events, and more throughout the year to help recognize veterans.

"We are adding onto our museum and finding new ways to honor our veterans constantly," said Will. "Donations and projects like the Camaro help to make our museum even better for those who come to visit and learn about these wars and the lives of the heroes who served in them." Visitors can go see the Tribute Camaro on display now at the Regional Military Museum during their operating hours, pay tribute to those who served, and maybe even see the name of someone loved and familiar honored on this special display. POV

"Donations and projects like the Camaro help to make our museum even better for those who come to visit and learn about these wars and the lives of the heroes who served in them."

Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes are home to multiple parks, museums and monuments dedicated to our hometown heroes. From military veterans to police, firefighters and even war dogs and K9 handlers, you will find a quiet spot to reflect on those who have served our area and our country with pride.

The museum honors and brings life to the memories and artifacts of the brave military men and women who valiantly served our Country. Offering a living history of battles fought all over the world, the museum features extensive collections of vehicles, weapons, uniforms, and artifacts including an authentic Bell UH-1 Iroquois "Huey" helicopter, an F-4 Phantom, a full scale model of a TBM Avenger, and one of President Eisenhower's Air Force One Aero Commanders. Veteran volunteers offer first-hand accounts of their experiences and invite the community to tour the museum and learn more about our nation's military history. POV

We’re here. We’re ready.

When a disaster strikes, we will be there. Backed by one of the industry’s largest catastrophe response teams, we’ll be ready to help when you need us.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

Mark Andrepont, Agent 5947 W Main Street Houma, LA 70360 Bus: 985-876-5815 markandrepont.com

Darryl M Brue, Agent 1950 Prospect Blvd Houma, LA 70363 Bus: 985-851-2584 darrylbrue.com

Rene Carreker Ins Agcy Inc Rene Carreker, Agent 1221 Museum Drive Houma, LA 70360 renecarreker.com

State Farm Bloomington, IL 2001966

In honor of our country's veterans and heroes, the bayouside memorial park includes the Wall of Gratitude; Isles of Honor; Vietnam War, WWI, WWII, and Korean War Memorials; Purple Heart Bridge and Armed Services Memorial,

as well as memorials for police, firefighters, war dogs and mothers of veterans. The park was renamed in honor of Houma native Roger D. Songe in 2019. Songe left behind a legacy of lending a helping hand to Bayou

Region veterans. He also secured funding to help maintain the park so it can serve an area of remembrance and tribute to those who have served our country. POV

Honoring the veterans from the South Lafourche Community, the memorial is one of the largest memorials in the United States. The South Lafourche Veterans Memorial features a 122-foot granite wall monument engraved with the names of more than 3,000 names, and dating back to the Revolutionary War. In addition to the Memorial Wall, the memorial includes a water fountain honoring the Navy, a Field of Tears, a gated area dedicated to soldiers killed in action, and a Purple Heart Monument. Situated on a beautifully landscaped lawn, the memorial offers a covered gazebo and a Reflection Pool to sit and pay respect to those who put their country above themselves. POV

This memorial was dedicated in memory of Raceland native Freddie J. Falgout, Seaman First Class U.S. Navy. He was born August 21, 1916 and was killed in the line of duty by gunfire on the USS Augusta in Shanghai, China on August 20, 1937. The sailor was the first American to die in World War II. An American flag stands at the center of the memorial, while two benches offer a place to sit honoring his sacrifice. POV

Rau Plastic Surgery

offers the Vectra XT 3D Imaging solution. This technology gives patients the ability to clearly see how they will look after a cosmetic procedure, including a breast augmentation.

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION AND DISCOVER THE NEW YOU.

THE OBSERVER | BY JAIME DISHMAN

THE BEST THING I'VE EVER REMEMBERED

If I don't write it down, I won't remember.

As I heard myself saying those words to someone the other day, the words rang truer than I would have liked. When I said them, I was referring to a small matter, something I quickly typed onto my ever-changing to-do list on the “notes” section of my phone.

Honestly, I can't even remember what it was I was writing down to remember. The hastily typed note has long since been erased, and my memory fails in my effort to recall what I was trying to remember.

It's not the only thing I can't remember. Entire days of my life are gone. My mind has no recollection of them other than one big blur of time. That may sound dramatic, as though I'm exaggerating my memory. I wish it was an exaggeration.

Lately, I've been doing memory exercises. The brain is a complex organ and can be retrained, reshaped and molded.

So I'm hoping these mental exercises will increase my ever-failing memory. But most of the time, I forget to do my self-made brain workout. So there goes that.

It's funny, sometimes. And not funny, all at the same time.

My teens use it to their advantage; “borrowing” money and saying they'll pay me back and hoping I'll forget. My husband has suffered repeatedly due to my memory lapses, with the most recent escapade being me going to the grocery store and forgetting the one item he wanted me to purchase. (I wish I could say that it's the first time it happened, but it's not.)

As much as I try to fight it, time is somehow getting the best of my memory. Every day brings on piles of new information, and the old information fades away from my memory without me ever knowing it left. I'm constantly making vows to take more pictures, capture more moments on video, and write in the journal that is still mostly blank.

Because I really do want to remember things. I want to remember the good moments of laughter, the little moments that are adding up to be called “the life I've lived.”

I understand the importance of storytelling. It's almost a lost art amongst today's tech-savvy world of digital memories and electronic files. I've tried to tell more stories to my kids. They ask details about their early years, and I tell them story after story of the way they used to crawl, how much they cried, or their younger nuances of speech.

CARING FOR OUR SKIN IS A LIFETIME RITUAL

Skin is the body's largest organ. It protects our bodies from germs and regulates body temperature. Protecting our skin requires a lifelong ritual of daily selfcare.

Recognizing July as UV Month reminds us to shield the skin from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., with nearly 100,000 Americans diagnosed with melanoma each year. Despite warnings to avoid damaging sun exposure, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) reports that only a third of Americans are concerned about skin cancer, despite nearly 70% having at least one risk factor.

Risk Factors

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the most common risk factors for skin cancer include:

• Lighter natural skin color

• Skin that burns, freckles, reddens easily or becomes painful in the sun

• Blue or green eyes

• Blonde or red hair

• More than 50 moles

• Family or personal history of skin cancer

Skin Care and Cancer Prevention Tips

To effectively care for our skin, pay attention to any changes, wear sunscreen and treat it gently throughout all life stages. Here are other tips to limit skin cancer risks and slow effects of aging:

• Apply sunscreen daily. Choose broadspectrum sunscreens with SPF of 30 or higher to protect from UVA and UVB rays.

• Wear hats, sun protective clothing and UVblocking sunglasses.

• Heed grandmother's advice—don ' t tan indoors or outdoors. When outdoors, avoid peak sun hours, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

• Medications for high blood pressure and certain other conditions can affect skin sensitivity especially when exposed to the sun.

• Manage stress, which can worsen skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Chronic stress also ages the skin.

• Don't smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and electronic cigarettes age skin faster and pose cancer risks.

• Wash the face in the morning and at night with gentle cleansers.

• Apply moisturizing lotions after showering or bathing to prevent dry skin.

• Perform regular skin and mole checks for changes that may signal skin cancer.

Warning Signs of Melanoma

While there are several types of skin cancers, melanoma is the one that tends to cause the most concern. If detected early, it can be highly curable. There are certain warning signs to watch for with melanoma:

• Asymmetrical or rough-looking moles not defined by a border.

• Moles that are darker, look different or recently changed in size or shape.

• Melanoma most commonly appears on women's arms and legs, and on men's head, neck, back and trunk.

• Melanoma can appear on body areas not frequently exposed to the sun—palms of the hand, soles of the feet, eyes, mouth, scalp and under the nail bed.

• Different hues—most cancerous moles are dark brown, but skin cancers can also have blue, red or pink tints; some lose pigmentation and may leave a white halo around a darker spot.

• Spots that bleed, itch or become painful; or sores that won't heal.

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), melanoma is more than 20 times more common in white people than people of color. However, it is often diagnosed at a later, more dangerous stage in Blacks, Hispanics and Asians.

Self-Check Skin Exams

As new spots on the skin can grow and spread quickly, the ACS recommends monthly selfcheck exams. Detailed instructions on its website include:

• Stand in front of a full-length mirror in a welllit room; use a hand-held mirror for areas that are difficult to see.

• Perform exams after a bath or shower, and check from head to toes.

• Ask a spouse, partner, family member or close friend to help with the exams.

• Be familiar with the patterns of moles, blemishes, freckles and birthmarks.

• Check the face, ears, neck, chest and belly; women should lift their breasts to check the skin underneath.

• Examine both sides of arms, underarms, tops and palms of hands, fingernails and between the fingers.

• Examine thighs, shins, calves, feet, between the toes and underneath toenails.

• Use hand-held mirror to check buttocks, genital area, lower and upper back, and back of neck and ears.

• Part the hair to check the scalp.

A skin cancer image gallery on the ACS website can help identify skin spots and marks that indicate cancer. If anything appears suddenly, changes in shape or causes any concern, schedule an appointment with a primary care physician or dermatologist.

Contact Thibodaux Regional Cancer Institute at 985.493.4008 for more information.

WHEN ANGELS LOSE WINGS

There's a saying out there in the sayings universe for just about any situation in life. There's one particular saying that's especially applicable this time of year. It's a saying that accompanies loss of something important or the occurrence of some sorrowful event. People say that “Every time [that event] happens, an angel loses its wings.” For example, take this Louisiana version of the saying: “Every time the Saints lose a game to the Falcons, an angel loses its wings.”

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

•KITCHEN

•LIVE

•IN-HOUSE

•NOVEL

Wing loss is itself a sorrowful thing in the angel universe because such loss prevents angels from performing their heavenly duties, which involve wings. And because such wings are white-pure and feathery and tend to appear in paintings and sculptures in churches, they are an appropriate and relatable symbol of loss and the sorrowful. But angels are not the only creatures that lose their wings. Consider the masses of chickens and all the fast-food joints that serve their appendages. And, apparently, wild buffalo suffer wing loss at such joints as well.

Over the course of the past several weeks, there must have been some significant loss and sorrow here in PoV country. One morning last month, I found thousands of fallen wings on the roof of my house and the hoods of my cars. They littered outdoor surfaces like snowfall and were tossed around like snowflakes by the morning breeze. And these wings were tiny, as if a calamity of tiny angels visited my house during the night. For that reason, I called a priest to inquire about such a Biblical event. In turn, the priest told me to call an exterminator. “You mean like Joshua at Jericho or Saul against the Amalekites?” I asked. “No, dude,” he replied, “I mean the bug man.” And, suddenly, I experienced a set of epiphanies that would have overwhelmed even the Magi in Bethlehem: (1) That priests made business referrals, (2) that priests say “dude,” and (3) that there's a chance that these things weren't tiny angels after all.

So, I dusted off my microscope equipment and examined one of these suspected heavenly creatures close-up. This particular specimen had made its way inside the house one night and had proceeded to inspect my unheavenly mess of a desk. Before I plated the tiny being on the microscope stage, others of its kind began gathering around the desk lamp as if a sermon had been announced. This, of course, supported the angel hypothesis because the great masters always painted multiple, winged heads of little angels on the canvases of their religious masterworks, as if those winged messengers had been attracted to a sermon. As I drew the being into focus, it became clear that the undulating creature under the microscope was no angel. The undulating performer Shakira may sing that “hips don't lie,” but this was clearly a case of “equips don't lie.” Under microscope equipment, this greasy, little, pale-looking, large-headed thing that dropped its wings on my desk top was not a tiny angel at all. Instead, it proved to be a full-sized adult termite, and there was nothing angelic about that.

As the priest-recommended bug man told me, “Termite swarming season in southeast Louisiana is April to July, with a peak beginning in early May.” Still in disbelief,

Market at the Marina

July 1, 8 a.m. - noon

Downtown Houma Marina

Kick off your weekend-long freedom celebration with Market at the Marina on Saturday, July 1. Lots of local produce, food and health vendors will be there with a variety of amazing items. Be sure to wear your red, white and blue!

Good Earth 4th of July

Festival

July 4, 5-10 p.m.

Bayou Country Sports Park, Houma

Celebrate our freedom, our good Earth, and fun times with live music, local food, fun and games! Join the all-new Independence Day tradition culminating with a fireworks show at 9 p.m.

Let Freedom Ring Festival

July 4, 3-10 p.m.

Peltier Park, Thibodaux

Celebrate Independence Day with a fun-filled afternoon including food, shopping, live music, a cake walk, a cornhole tournament, an auction, and a bike parade and contest! Be sure to stay for the fireworks display at 9 p.m.

Thibodaux's Exotic Pet Expo

July 8-9

Warren J. Harang Municipal Auditorium

This unique, indoor event offers a chance to explore a range of exotic birds, reptiles, and mammals in one place. The expo will also feature a variety of pet supplies and pet food.

Island Strong Music Fest

July 13-15

Tarpon Rodeo Pavilion

The three-day festival will feature live music, food, craft booths and various other vendors that will support Grand Isle's recovery from Hurricane Ida. All proceeds go to rebuilding Grand Isle's recreational facilities and other projects vital to the town's recovery.

Parrot Head Party

July 14, 4.- 7 p.m.

The corner of West Main and Grinage Street, Houma

Join the Parrot Head Party in support

of Le Petit Theatre de Terrebonne 's upcoming production, Escape to Margaritaville! The fun filled night will include music, food, and refreshments. All proceeds go towards Le Petit Theatre de Terrebonne.

Escape to Margaritaville

July 14-30

Le Petit Theatre de Terrebonne

Kick off your flip flops and set your clock to island time in a tropical paradise where love and laughter are the keys to growing older but not up. The local cast will sing and dance their way into your heart on a perfect summer night!

Summer Jazz-Blues, PopRock Concert

July 16, 3 p.m.

Regional Military Museum, Houma

The South Louisiana Community Orchestra invites you to their summer concert featuring conductor Dr. Ben Robichaux. The music repertoire will include Basin Street Blues, St. Louis Blues, The War of 1812, a few Pop-Rock pieces from The Doors, and several movie themes including A James Bond Medley, My Fair Lady, Jesus Christ Superstar and others.

Shrek the Musical

July 21 - July 30

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

The Thibodaux Playhouse presents a musical featuring an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Featuring over 50 local cast members, this is a show you don't want to miss!

Heroes 5K

July 29, 8 a.m.

Harold J. Callais Student Recreation Center, Nicholls State University

Presented by the Nicholls State Veterans Organization, the Heroes 5K honors local heroes by supporting their families. This 5K will be in honor of Detective Sgt. Nicholas Pepper, with proceeds going to his family. POV