LAHAYE ORTHODONTICS
In the heart of Thibodaux, a tradition of creating beautiful smiles has been upheld for decades at LaHaye Orthodontics. Stepping into the field was a natural progression for Dr. Mark B. LaHaye, whose father, Dr. Philip W. LaHaye, was an esteemed orthodontist. Witnessing his father's artistry in crafting captivating smiles ignited a passion within him, and today, he carries forward this legacy. Established in 1973, this year LaHaye Orthodontics celebrates 50 years of serving Thibodaux, Houma, and the surrounding areas.
After joining his father's practice in 2004, Dr. LaHaye assumed ownership in 2007, vowing to uphold the tradition of exceptional customer service and creating stunning smiles. Specializing in braces and clear aligners, LaHaye Orthodontics caters to adolescents, teens, and adults, providing the gift of aligned teeth and a
comfortable, correct bite.
The heart of LaHaye Orthodontics is its commitment to individualized care. Dr. LaHaye and his dedicated team meticulously craft unique treatment plans for each patient, ensuring that the journey to a dazzling smile is as comfortable and tailored as possible.
marking a legacy that proudly states, "Braces by LaHaye."
Behind the scenes, an exceptional team forms the backbone of LaHaye Orthodontics. Three team members started with Dr. Philip W. LaHaye: Lindy Naquin, Treatment Coordinator, who has been with the practice for 46 years; and Linda Tabor and Debbie Battaglia, who both retired after over 46 years each in the practice.
Reyne, Rhonda, Aryn, Bayli, Hannah, Alexa, and Magen round out the dedicated team extending the tradition of personalized and compassionate care.
Serving families and friends for half a century, treatment at LaHaye Orthodontics is a tradition that spans generations. Dr. LaHaye revealed that he treats third-generation patients,
After 50 years, LaHaye Orthodontics remains committed to the art of orthodontics. From crafting stunning smiles to building relationships that span generations, the practice takes pride in ensuring that each patient's journey is marked by excellence, compassion, and transformative results.
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SEECA celebrates 25 years of business this month but it wasn't always peachy. You never realize how awesome things are until everything goes sideways. After working about 15 years in ophthalmology, I took up bicycle racing to provide some balance to my life and to do something physical. I was training for the State Championship bicycle race, which I was favored to win, when I had a horrific bicycle accident. The front wheel of my bicycle came off unexpectedly, and I crashed hard. I broke my neck severely (three vertebrae), fractured my skull, had a stroke, lost multiple cranial nerves and bled to unconsciousness.
I barely survived, was paralyzed and confined to lying flat. The picture above shows me at Ochsner, a few weeks after the accident, wearing a halo to stabilize my broken neck. I couldn't speak or eat (I was given nutrition, directly into my stomach, through a tube surgically inserted through my abdomen). I couldn't drink or walk. I was on a ventilator for months and required a catheter because I couldn't use the bathroom. Very humbling. It was scary because some thought I might die (including me), and almost everyone was certain I would NEVER come back to SEECA. I was transferred to hospital after hospital because I kept getting worse. I truly thought my story was over.
But God had different plans. Through the power of His intervention and about 2.5 years of intense physical therapy, I regained my function. I learned, after I returned to Houma, that my patients were praying hard for me, which was so kind and I will always be thankful
for their support. Coming back was 100 times harder than Harvard, but it was so worth the effort.
During my long absence, Dr. Mark
hospital. My staff did everything they could to keep my practice going while I was away in recovery. And the patients were awesome because they supported my practice and the visiting doctors in a way that was truly selfless.
How do you thank people for being that generous? I haven't figured that out yet, but I know that my support team saved my company, so really, this 25-year milestone belongs to THEM!
Meadows and Dr. Gerard Guidry saw my patients and kept my practice from going under. My current administrator, Jessica Leonard, slept at my home, with my children, every night for months so that my awesome wife, Melissa, could be with me in the
Recovering from the accident gave me a deep realization. Cherish today, because there are no guarantees about tomorrow. With that new wisdom, I have increased the size of SEECA and its ability to help the good people of our area. We hired another provider named Kim Broussard, who is loved by our patients for her amazing bedside manner and intelligence. Whip smart! We are currently doubling the size of SEECA at 249 Corporate Drive. Additionally, we recently opened a new location called EYE LA, which focuses on glasses and contact lenses. We also opened St. Luke's Surgery Center, on Hollywood, which allows us to provide the best cataract surgery in the world. And we have plans to expand into the surrounding regions, because these folks need great eye care too.
SEECA is on the move and it's remarkable when you think of the odds that we faced after the accident. But that's what God does for us. He makes life just a little (or in my case a lot) challenging so you will appreciate the good times. And do I appreciate the good times? MORE THAN EVER BEFORE!
BY EVAN CRESSOINE PHOTOS BY CHANNING CANDIES
Some businesses start with a great idea, others with a great team. For A & H Ammunition however, these were two automatic components that launched them into a successful start in their business. Adam Olivier and Harrison Reeves have been friends since they could remember. Starting a business together felt like it was simply in the cards for them.
“We've known each other since we were in diapers, before I even had a conscience honestly. I've known him for as long as I can remember. Our parents were friends and that's how we were first introduced as babies and we've been best friends ever since really,” said Adam.
Harrison added, “This has been a long time coming.”
Adam and Harrison started working together nearly two years ago in fire safety on marine vessels. After deciding to go into business with each other, they started to brainstorm ideas about what they could possibly do. Harrison came up with the idea of ammunition and Adam already had a background in manufacturing due to working at his grandfather 's machine shop for about 6 years.
“I was just doing manufacturing processes: sand blasting, pipe cutting, and a little machine work and some quality control work. That's where I gained skills in supply chain management and sales,” said Adam.
Once Adam was able to conduct some market research and figure out it was something they really could pursue, they went for it. Adam explained, “We both love to hunt and fish. Growing up down here, it's kind of what we've done and we always do. It kind of fell hand in hand with our backgrounds.”
From going shooting and hunting with their fathers as boys to manufacturing their own ammunition as adults, Adam and Harrison aim to prioritize quality over quantity and hope to meet the needs of each of their customers, present and future. However, beginning a business from scratch does not come so easily.
According to Adam, the biggest challenge with getting started was making contacts and not having known anyone in the industry beforehand. He preferred the typical steps such as procuring the correct licensing, but as for building and establishing themselves as a viable business, he found that was less “cut and dry”.
Harrison similarly said, “Our biggest challenge so far is having people trust our brand. It's a word of mouth thing. It's hard to get the recognition. Basically every person and any store we've sold to has had nothing but good comments and praises over it, but to get to that point, to take the jump of faith with us, is the challenge.”
For a fairly new ammunition company –beginning just their fourth month of manufacturing– A & H has had their share of success thus far. Because it is just the beginning, they are hoping to grow and to continue producing quality ammunition for their fellow Louisianians.
In Adam's words, “Me and Harrison got into this business in order to
provide reliable and safe ammunition to everyone who shoots our product and we thank everyone for their business.”
As of now, A & H produces small arms ammunition, their current capabilities being 9mm and 40 caliber. They are planning to add plenty of variety to their product line, introducing different sizes and calibers as soon as possible.
Harrison shared, “We are releasing 147 grain subsonic rounds and 124 grain defense hollow point rounds. We just launched 115 grain target rounds for target shooting reloads.”
The first product they released was 124 full metal gadget match grade ammunition.
All in all, the founders of A & H are optimistically looking toward the future of their manufacturing. “I think we're doing pretty good. It's a great start for us and we're making good sales. It's just a climb, especially with the market that we're in at the moment where everyone, especially in our area, has had a rough couple of years. So far,
we're doing well in the situation we find ourselves in,” said Harrison.
Although times are proving to be tough for the average person, especially when it comes to finance, A & H are dedicating themselves to producing reliable products.
Speaking to the economic turmoil, Adam said, “With everybody not having the extra change in their pocket, it kind of hurts. Of course, everybody likes to shoot but also save money and getting a product that's cheap enough to be competitive with and that's very reliable is probably the biggest challenge with the economic crisis. To get your price to a certain point where it makes sense for everybody.”
Adam and Harrison realize that in the ammunition industry, quality can easily be overlooked in search of quantity, but that is not what they claim. Harrison said, “We take time to consider the details where big box stores don't. At the moment, I think we're doing a good job at providing that service whereas the bigger box stores
may have more faulty equipment or products than we will because they're just mass producing. We're also buying higher quality materials for products to push through our shop. We're trying to get our cost as low as we can, but at the same time, quality is our first priority.”
The manufacturing process for just one product at A & H is a detailed and rigorous ritual. First and foremost, Adam takes on the responsibility of domestically sourcing the material needed for each round. A round consists of four components: primer, powder, casings, and projectile. Once those components have been shipped in, they receive an inspection on the material and then proceed to fill their machine with the components. They then take to tuning the machine to ensure that all is running smoothly and adjust the main component that must be adjusted in order to make sure all of their ammunition is within the specifications. A & H follows Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers' Institute (SAAMI) specifications to make sure their bullets are safe to
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shoot. Finally, once the product is made, they send it off to get tested at a thirdparty lab to ensure their inspection results are accurate and good.
As for A & H's mission, Harrison said, “I guess you could say, if I had to pick one, it's to make quality, affordable products built here in Louisiana.”
Adam also shared that their goal is to provide all local law enforcement with their training rounds. “That's really our goal. We'd like to sell to anybody, everyday shooters too. We'd just like to eventually, down the road, have a product line that can suit everybody's needs.”
Interested buyers can find A & H ammunition in local stores such as Brute Force Firearms, Songy's Sporting Goods, and Desselle's Firearms. Adam and Harrison also make an appearance at almost every local gun show and are open to customers directly contacting them for help. As of August 2023, their website, www.ahammunition.com, is currently under construction as it is being redesigned as a full commerce site where customers will be able to buy their products directly online and get them shipped to their house.
A & H hopes to grow with the community and provide any type of ammunition whether it's a pistol, rifle, shotgun, or anything that anybody needs. “We are gearing up to tailor to what specific people need, not just mass marketing one specific item or what's most popular. We're trying to fit everyone's needs,” said Harrison. “Thank you for the support of our community and we hope to keep providing y'all with quality made products right here from Houma, Louisiana.” POV
September 2023 19 povhouma.com ASK ABOUT OUR 0% FINANCING • RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL • AC & HEATING SERVICE AND INSTALLATION • FACTORY TRAINED TECHS Keeping Famili Cool Since 1968 1309 st. patrick st. 446-6256 • Thibodaux 868-4421 • Houma
BY ISABELLE GAREIS | PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY
Life's uncertainty is something that can cause setbacks in everyone's lives, but for local chef and restaurant owner Dennis Ferreira, it was what lit the fire under his lifelong passion for cooking. After a series of personal tragedies, the former tugboat captain of 20 years decided to leave his original line of work and pursue his culinary interests, opening Charley's Kitchen in the Spring of 2023 in the memory of his late mother.
Dennis is a south Louisiana native who worked the past two decades in the maritime industry, while also serving as a devoted husband of 11 years to his wife Renee, and a loving father to his two young children, Olivia and Eli. It wasn't until 2022 that Dennis's life, and his family's, were turned upside down.
"I lost both my parents within three months of each other," explained Dennis. "My mother, Charlene, passed away in March of 2022, and my father Danny passed away suddenly on Fathers Day in 2022. It was two devastating losses for me and my family." Dennis resumed his work as a tugboat captain following the loss of his parents, until the next tragedy arrived in September of 2022. "My mother-in-law had a bad stroke," continued Dennis. "I decided to get off the boat for about three weeks to help the family. Then in October, right when I was about to go back to work, I began having serious chest pains that felt like a heart attack. I went to the hospital for all kinds of tests, thinking it was a heart issue, before finding out that I had a cancerous tumor on my left kidney. After that, I never went back on the boat."
Following his cancer diagnosis, Dennis continued to go through months of emotionally turbulent health struggles personally and within his family. "For three months I remained out of work and endured many, many doctor visits and tests," Dennis explained. "In December, my- mother-in law was
kidney and the entire tumor removed from my body." Thankfully, Dennis is now cancer-free and on the mend.
While recovering for six long weeks from his surgery, Dennis decided he could not just sit around and do nothing-- on a whim, he started to cook for fun, something he always loved to do. "My mother-in-law had always told me that I should cook and sell my food," chuckled Dennis. "Cooking is something I am very passionate about, and I wanted to figure out a way to stay off the tugboats and spend time with my family. I spent so much time at sea, missing important time with my parents, and I didn't want that to happen with my two children. I wanted to be here with them." With that decision, Dennis began cooking and plating lunches for friends, family members, and neighbors to make a little extra money, and before long, word of his delicious food had caught the attention of the Houma community.
hospitalized and in turn continued to decline into the beginning of this year. While she endured a lengthy ICU hospital stay at one hospital, I had half of my
"A company I used to work for, Lowland Construction, had put a post on Facebook that they were looking for someplace new to eat," said Dennis. "That's when I had the idea--on a whim, I messaged them and said that I could cook a crawfish stew and deliver it if they bought ten lunches or more, and they said yes. I wound up cooking more than 60 lunches that Friday, just off of a connection on Facebook. So I thought, "Let's do this again next week!" Dennis began cooking and plating lunches three days a week out of his house, slowly growing from 15-30 to 40-90 lunches a day, which he and his wife were delivering all across Houma and Thibodaux. "I realized we needed to expand, because this was turning out to be an actual thing," said Dennis.
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Dennis and his wife Renee began looking for locations where he could cook and sell these popular plate lunches, and ended up coming across a perfect little place at 1025 Talbot Avenue in Thibodaux. "We were very excited to find a place to operate out of," said Dennis. "So Charley's Kitchen was officially born. We decided on the name because my mother's name was Charlene, but everyone called her Charley. She loved to cook too, and taught me everything I know. As a deckhand starting out on boats, it was my responsibility to cook for the crew and that's just what I did, but not until I called my mom asking a million questions. No one will ever come close to her cooking, but I know there's not one meal I prepare without thinking of my mom."
Despite just opening just this past spring, Charley's Kitchen has quickly earned the reputation of selling loaded down, highly affordable, delicious lunch platters for everyone to enjoy.
The local restaurant offers a wide variety of food, with each menu being announced via Facebook weekly-serving classic Cajun cuisine and original favorites like chicken, red beans and rice, home fries, bread rolls, corn, peas, burgers, crawfish stew, salad, mac and cheese, smoked sausage, fried shrimp, crab, and so much more. Charley's Kitchen is open from Monday-Friday, 11:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Dennis explained that despite the technical challenges of owning and operating a restaurant, the most rewarding part of his work was the flexibility, excitement, and the newfound time with his family. "Cooking and plating these lunches never feels like work," said Dennis. "I've met so many people through this business and I have never felt this much love from people in the community. We have customers who come every day, asking about our family, and genuinely caring about the food we serve them.
Everyday I get to talk about my mom, and everything is just so much better working here."
Despite the tremendous personal tragedies suffered by Dennis and his family, his resilience, strength, and refusal to give up makes him a true embodiment of the Cajun spirit. As his family heals and moves forward from a series of difficult months, Dennis is sharing his passion with the community through his delicious, family-inspired lunch plates. "The best part about Charley's Kitchen is that I'm now home everyday and night with my family," said Dennis. "Losing my parents, watching my mother-in-law go through her medical crisis, and getting my cancer diagnosis was enough to make me reevaluate my career choice to begin with. Living my life 21 days a month on a boat just wasn't cutting it anymore, and I hope that with your support of our small family business we can continue this journey." POV
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"I've met so many people through this business and I have never felt this much love from people in the community."
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Paige Pipsair MSN, FNP-C
HOUMA HERO FEST
SEPT 22-24
BARRY P. BONVILLAIN CIVIC CENTER
The concept of Hero Fest is to create a large-scale, single event fundraiser for the benefit of area first responders. This includes law enforcement, fire fighters, EMS, and many other emergency workers dedicated to our safety and community. Additionally, this event will provide for other non-profit organizations to raise money for their purposes. The causes they work for benefit those in need, making them heroes as well. There will be live music, fair rides, food vendors, crafts, a 5k run, live auctions, and much more. The music line-up includes The Poboys; The Canebreakers; Louisiana's Leroux; Ruff n Ready; and Kings of Neon. Hero Fest is managed by First Responders of Terrebonne, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. The funds raised from Hero Fest will be used to fund scholarships for children of first responders, support for families of first responders in need, and more.
COYC HURRICANE FESTIVAL
SEPT 22-24
CUT OFF YOUTH CENTER
The community of Cut Off gathers annually to pass a good time and celebrate at the Cut Off Youth Center Hurricane Festival. The annual event features all the makings of a classic bayou festival, complete with live music, arts and crafts booths, a cornhole tournament, carnival rides and of course, the delicious Cajun food. The money raised from this festival goes right back to the place that hosts it all, the Cut Off Youth Center, which serves as the major meeting place for many community activities. This year 's
music line-up features Jr. LaCrosse; PBR Band; Orange; Meg Rousseau; Ruff N Ready; Gordon Bradberry; Waylon Thibodaux; and Benjamin Bruce.
LA FÊTE DES VIEUX TEMPS
OCT 6-8
Meaning "The Festival of Old Times” the long standing event spans three days and will showcase authentic Cajun culture, including live demonstrations. This year, the music line-up includes Craig Babin & the Band File; Shorts in December; Tet Dur; D JR & Shine Soul Band; Snapper & the Fishsticks; Double Play; and Ryan Foret & the Foret Tradition. The festival includes amazing Cajun food, and an arts and crafts show. The 2023 royalty includes: Baby Miss Ryleigh, daughter of Tyler and Lindsey; Toddler Miss Navey, daughter of Deon and Kayla; Tiny Miss Landry, daughter of Andre and Skyla; Mini Miss Parker, daughter of Patrick and Robey; Petite Miss Oakley, daughter of Zack and Racquel; Little Miss Adeline, daughter of Kipp and Hollie; Deb Miss Ella Kate, daughter of Steve and Heather; Junior Miss Ava, daughter of Jarod and Denise; Teen Miss Braelyn Duplantis, daughter of Brett and Erica Duplantis; Ms. Bree Barousse, wife of Jared Barousse; Miss Kamryn Daw, daughter of Dominic and Jessica Strada.
BAYOU DULARGE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS CAJUN FAIR
OCT 6-8
KC HALL, THERIOT
The best Cajun Fair in Louisiana is back!
The Bayou Dularge Knights of Columbus Cajun Fair features music, rides, games
and food including po'boys, jambalaya, gumbo and more, on the Knights of Columbus grounds. The 2023 music line-up includes DJ Rhett; The Chase Tyler Band; Blake Dehart; Reauxshambo; Junior LaCrosse; Hwy 315; and Rougarou Too!
3RD ANNUAL MAWMAW WALKER
OCT 7
HOUMA COURTHOUSE SQUARE
Hosted by the Hache Grant Association in the name of downtown revitalization, the Maw Maw Walker encourages participants to wear their favorite mumu for an afternoon of fun! The event begins with a Best Dressed Maw Maw and Paw Paw contest at noon. Contestants must register to enter for a $10 registration fee. Those who register for the Best Dressed Maw Maw and Paw Paw contest also get entered into a raffle for a prize and have the chance to vote for the best stop on the Maw Maw Walker route! The traditional
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MAW MAW WALKER
5k pub crawl style begins around 1pm. The walk itself is free for participants. The walk will visit every pub and restaurant in downtown helping to increase pedestrian commerce for the area.
Once the Maw Maws and Paw Paws finish the 2.5 mile route, the party returns to the Courthouse Square for a free concert on the bandstand including No Posers and the Dream Junkies.
LOUISIANA GUMBO FESTIVAL
OCT 13-15
CHACKBAY FAIRGROUNDS
The 55th annual Louisiana Gumbo Festival will take place at the Chackbay Fairgrounds. Founded as a fundraiser for the Chackbay Volunteer Fire Department, the festival attracts over 15,000 visitors each year. Volunteers cook an estimated 500 gallons of gumbo to serve to festivalgoers. Festival admission is free and the grounds are fenced in to add to the safety of its patrons. This year 's festival includes musical acts such as Snapper and the Fishsticks; Ryan Foret and the Foret Tradition' Good Feelin'; Kings of Neon; Straight Hag; Canebreakers; and JP Bourgeois. The festival parade will be held on Sunday, starting at 10:30 a.m.
ROUGAROU FEST
OCT 20-22
SOUTH LOUISIANA WETLANDS
DISCOVERY CENTER AND BARRY P.
BONVILLAIN CIVIC CENTER GROUNDS
The Rougarou welcomes all to attend this popular, family-friendly festival to celebrate our culture and heritage at this three-day event. The Rougarou Fest is a free festival with a spooky flair that celebrates the rich folklore that exists along the bayous of Southeast Louisiana. It showcases live music, cultural activities, children's activities, Cajun food, the Krewe Ga Rou parade, and so much more. All proceeds go to the South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center, a nonprofit organization that is revolutionizing how we think, teach and learn about Louisiana's disappearing coast. The Rougarou Queen will reign over the parade at 7 p.m. on Saturday. The Rougarou Fest was ranked as one of
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the Top 10 Costume Parties in the United States by USA Today in 2014, one of the Top 20 Events out of 11 states in the month of October by the Southeast Tourism Society in 2015 and 2019, Best New Event in the state of Louisiana by the Louisiana Association of Fairs and Festivals in 2015, and Festival of the Year by the Louisiana Travel Association in 2020 and 2023.
FRENCH FOOD FESTIVAL
OCT 25-27
LAROSE CIVIC CENTER
In addition to delicious Cajun food, and music, The French Food Festival offers a carnival, auction, art show, Cajun market, a petting zoo, and a variety of contests including a a cornhole tournament, Cajun burger eating contest, dance contest, and a costume contest, there is something for everyone! Plan to come hungry with over 40 booths of food, and bring your dancing shoes to dance the night away with live music by Gary T.; Ruff N Ready; Dream Junkies; Ryan Foret; Chubby Carrier; Shorts in December; Contraflow; Waylon Thibodeaux; and Benjamin Bruce & the Acadians. There is free parking and admission.
ACADIA MUSIC FEST
OCT 28
THIBODAUX
Acadia Music Fest is Thibodaux's largest outdoor music festival that features local musicians, artists, and the best southern food. The festival also features a Kid Korner that includes face painting,
family-friendly activities and games. This year 's music lineup includes Marcus King; Better Than Ezra; Niko Moon; Tony Hall with Mahogany Blue; George Birge; Little John & the Dirty Clarks; Icarus Jones; The Runtz; and MJ Dardar Band. Tickets are $50.
The fest was started by The Ben Myer Foundation which was founded in 2016 to honor the memory of Ben by giving back to charities in the community.
BAYOU ARTS FEST FEATURING VOICE OF THE WETLANDS
OCT 28
DOWNTOWN HOUMA
Explore Houma has officially merged the White Boot Stroll with the Bayou Arts Fest and Voice of the Wetlands to bring you one jammin' festival surrounding our Cajun culture and heritage! Immerse yourself in the legendary Voice of the Wetlands Stage, showcasing an outstanding lineup of local musical talent, including Josh Garrett, Billy Stark, Tyron Benoit, Bang Bang, Randy Jackson from Zebra, Grammy Award Winners Chubby Carrier, and the iconic Tab Benoit!
Discover the newly constructed Bandstand at the Courthouse, featuring performances by Cedrick Watson, The Babineaux Sisters, Nonc Nu and the Wild Matous, along with captivating singer/ songwriter showcases and storytelling sessions by local legends.
The fest will also feature a kid's zone, complete with bounce houses, a reptile petting zoo, refreshing treats, and engaging art activities to keep them entertained all day! Culinary demonstrations by the Benoit Brothers and a cook-off with DJ Rhett and the Cajun Ninja will also add flavor to the event.
Experience the beauty of art at its finest with craft vendors and the Terrebonne Fine Arts Guild hosting Art After Dark, showcasing the incredible talents of our local artists.
Don't miss out on a day filled with music, art, food, and fun as we celebrate all our area has to offer!
SOUTHDOWN MARKETPLACE
NOV 4
SOUTHDOWN PLANTATION
With more than 300 local and national vendors, the Artisan Craft Show has something for everyone. The show will feature unique and hand-made items including, jewelry, clothing, wood crafts, original art, garden items, seasonal items, and more. In addition, delicious foods and beverages will be available for purchase. Admission is $5 per person, with proceeds benefiting the non-profit Terrebonne Historical & Cultural Society and Southdown Plantation & Museum.
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BIG BOY’S MAIN STREET COOK-OFF
COYC HURRICANE FESTIVAL
BBQ, BOURBON AND BLUES FESTIVAL
NOV 4
WARREN J HARANG AUDITORIUM
Lafourche Arc is proud to present their newest event celebrating 60 years in service of the community: the BBQ, Bourbon, and Blues Festival! The smell of smokey barbeque, soulful sounds of blues bands and smooth tasty bourbon will appeal to all the senses. The BBQ, Bourbon, and Blues Festival will feature live music by Little Freddie King, the Josh Garrett Band, Julian Primeaux, and Geminii Dragon. There will also be local mom-and-pop and large-chain vendors grilling delicious BBQ during the festival, as well as a BBQ cook-off competition. The festival will also include the Juke Joint Tent, where participants 21 and over may purchase a ticket to taste 30 different kinds of bourbon. General Admission tickets are $10; tickets to the Bourbon Juke Joint are $100.
BIG BOY’S MAIN STREET
COOK-OFF
NOV 10
DOWNTOWN THIBODAUX
Experience a culinary showcase of Cajun cuisine at Big Boy's Main Street CookOff! Sample Louisiana-inspired dishes from over 30 teams while enjoying live music. In addition, Goose burgers, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages will be sold by area bars and restaurants. Admission is $10 per person (cash only – children 10 and under are free), with all proceeds benefiting Thibodaux Main Street.
THIBODEAUXVILLE
NOV 11
DOWNTOWN THIBODAUX
Explore beautiful, historic, downtown Thibodaux at Thibodeauxville! The award winning festival will feature three stages of live music, arts and crafts booths, a Cajun food court, a car show, and the infamous rubber duck race in Bayou Lafourche. Admission to the festival is free. POV
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Houma Family
Dental
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.
AMENITIES INCLUDE:
•MUSIC & MEMORY THERAPY
•KITCHEN THERAPY
•LIVE & LOCAL CONCERTS
•IN-HOUSE THERAPY DOG
•NOVEL EXCURSIONS
•GAMES & CRAFTS
DISCOVER THE SECRET TO HEALTHY AGING
No matter what age, it's never too early to adopt positive lifestyle habits that help you age gracefully and healthier. For that reason, September is celebrated nationwide as Healthy Aging Month to encourage people—particularly those 45 and older—to follow healthy food, exercise, weight management and sleep habits.
Watch what you eat.
Nutritional needs change, particularly around middle age. Healthy eating habits help control blood pressure and cholesterol, decrease heart disease and stroke risks, and contribute to the prevention of cancer and diabetes. Nutritionists prefer Mediterranean-style diets that trend more plant than animal-based and are low in sugar, salt and saturated fats. Several "superfoods" also add extra nutritional boosts, particularly for anyone over 50.
• Berries—berries are high in fiber, vitamin C, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
• Dark, leafy-green vegetables—foods such as kale, broccoli, arugula and spinach boost calcium needed as you age and bones become softer
• Fish and seafood—salmon, cod, tuna, trout and other fish or seafood provide protein to maintain or regain muscle mass
• Nuts and seeds—full of protein and fiber, a handful of omega-3 rich nuts and seeds staves off hunger and helps protect your brain
• Cottage cheese—high in calcium and vitamin D, cottage cheese helps stimulate muscle protein to protect against bone density loss
• Beans and legumes—cholesterol-lowering foods loaded with fiber and protein, low in calories, and rich in iron, potassium and magnesium
• Water—technically not a "food" but water keeps the body functioning; optimum daily water intakes depend on many factors, just remember
the 8x8 goal—eight 8-ounce glasses a day. Manage your weight.
Probably the most difficult part of your health to maintain throughout your life is weight. Mindful eating—thinking about and planning how you eat— can help. Here are some tips:
• Focus on and savor food, pausing between bites
• Turn off electronic devices while eating; sit down to dine
• Don't keep junk food in the house
• When dining out, check menus online and decide on your order in advance
• Reduce your sugar intake and read all labels for added sugars
• Replace late night cravings for food or alcohol with decaf teas or sparkling water
Extra weight increases risks for high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Research shows that one-fourth of US adults with diabetes have yet to be diagnosed. Schedule routine wellness checks to monitor pre-diabetes warning signs.
Get up and move.
Exercise contributes to stronger bodies, better balance, weight management, improved moods, more energy, better sleep and healthier brains. No matter what type of activity you prefer, the key is to keep moving. Mindful walking, Cajun two-stepping, practicing yoga or gardening can be as beneficial as running, biking or swimming as long as you follow a regular routine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week plus 2 days of muscle-strengthening activities. Select an activity that you enjoy and get started:
• Pace yourself by starting with 5 or 10 minutes
of activity and add to it next week
• Instead of a close parking spot, park and walk; take the stairs instead of elevators; avoid drivethrough lines and walk inside
• Ask a friend to become your workout buddy and hold each other accountable
• Walk the dog more and longer; he won't mind
• Vary your routines and routes to prevent boredom
• Schedule one-on-one walking meetings instead of sitting down at a desk
• Practice mindful walking or walking meditations; studies show that tuning into your senses while walking helps you relax
Sleep more, stress less.
As you age, it often becomes more difficult to get the recommended 7 to 9 hours of recommended nightly sleep. Research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) also indicates that people in their 50s and 60s who get six hours or less of sleep a night have a higher risk of developing dementia later in life.
A good night's sleep can lower rates of insulin resistance, heart disease and obesity, as well as improve creativity and decision-making skills. When well rested, it's easier to manage your mental health and avoid becoming depressed, anxious and stressed.
See your doctor regularly.
For healthy aging, schedule routine screenings and annual wellness visits with your primary care physician or other provider. If you need help finding a doctor, visit our website at https://www. thibodaux.com/find-a-doctor.
For more information contact Thibodaux Regional Wellness Education Center, 985.493.4765.
September 2023 30 povhouma.com
& WELLNESS
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SPORTS
September 2023 31 povhouma.com MARKETING When a customer searches for you, what will they find? Is your information correct? Is your website professional? Will they choose you over your competitor? LETUS OPTIMIZEYOUR ONLINEIMAGE 985-868-7515 reimaginemarketing.com
REPORTING FROM VANCOUVER
When people think of Vancouver, they may think of a variety of things. Because Vancouver overlooks the Pacific, for instance, they may think of seashells and the great opera house in the harbor made of large white clam shells standing upright. But those people would be mistaken. That particular opera house is in Sydney, Australia.
When people think of Vancouver, they may think of its nickname, “City of Glass.” Vancouver buildings have lots of glass and aluminum exteriors, and they're all are cubical with flat roofs. Some describe this style as “modern box,” as if Vancouver architects rebelled against traditional styles of architecture, becoming “boxers” and inciting a “boxer” rebellion. But nothing could be farther from the truth. The Boxer Rebellion occurred in China at the turn of the 20th century and had nothing to do with architecture.
When people think of Vancouver, they may think of a great biopharmaceutical company, like the one that developed the namesake, modern antibiotic Vancomycin. “Vanco” is a great medicine because it's effective against methicillin-resistant staph infections. But those people would be thinking wrong. Vancomycin was named after its ability to “vanquish” staph, and it was discovered at Eli Lilly Labs in Indianapolis.
Truth is, people don't really think about Vancouver much. I mean, it ain't DC or NYC, or San Fran or Amsterdam, or the Windy City or the Sinny City. It's just Vancouver. But not thinking of it is a shame because in some aspects it reminds me of home here in PoV Country. For instance, being coastal, Vancouver often has high humidity. If that won't make you homesick, then consider the summer rains that give the city another nickname—Raincouver. And if that's not enough, then look to the coast where, just like on our coast, there are lots of squawking seagulls, broadcasting their complaints and criticisms—just like our Twitter feeds. And, in Vancouver you can smell the sea, just like in Grand Isle without the dead fish smell. And, speaking of smelling, one thing you can't help noticing in Vancouver is that smoking weed is legal to do in public. As you're Uber-driven through the roads and highways, you'll frequently notice cannabis shops—like Cheeky's, just off of 4th Street. And speaking of cheeky, some of the nearby clear-water beaches are clothing-optional. And speaking of cheeky even more, the broiled halibut cheeks at Joe Fortes' Seafood and Chop House on Thurlow Street are the absolute best cheeks on the Pacific.
And, speaking of streets, if you like Tesla autos, you can find lots of them in Vancouver. Vancouver 's climate is just temperate enough to avoid freezing temperatures in winter, which would otherwise destroy Tesla batteries. The cars are also stylish and are more frequently booked as Uber carriers than Honda Civics.
September 2023 32 povhouma.com
UNDER THE SCOPE | BY JOHN DOUCET
Schedule a tour of our community to help your loved ones discover their new home with our expert care. 220 Valhi Blvd. in Houma (985) 868-8400 www.SugarMillPoint.net LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED
Teslas also have automatic braking systems, which, when combined with the flashing green traffic lights at street crossings, makes it impossible for U.S. riders to predict when the brakes will be slammed on. That's almost as exciting as walking the suspension bridge across the Capilano River, 230 feet in the air among the forest tree tips.
Despite the modern feel of Teslas, as well as aluminum and glass buildings, there's something a bit rustic and nostalgic about Vancouver suburbs. The eat places are often privatelyowned and not part of corporate fast food. And eating utensils are wooden and not plastic. Speaking of no plastic, even spring water comes in cans. Recycling bins are everywhere in Vancouver. Circle K and IGA stores are common, like the few we still have here. And, in a big throw-back to the 1960s and early 1970s, “Esso” (not Exxon) is a common brand of gasoline.
These days, Vancouver is the largest city in the province of British Columbia. My ancestors, like many of those of PoV readers, are from “French Columbia” on the other side of the country. You might think there would some deep-seated animosity given how our Acadian ancestors suffered land theft and exile at the hands of the British. But, just like my ancestors did 300 years ago, I remained largely neutral about that. I only felt anger when I was spending money and forced to calculate exchange rates in my head.
If indeed people think of Vancouver, they must think of it as a good place for a good conference. That's where I found myself earlier this summer, at the large, magnificent University of British Columbia. As the seagulls would concur, there's good sushi to be found around campus--all cheekiness aside. POV
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®
September 2023 33 povhouma.com
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.
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TAWASI Antiques & Art Show
September 8-10
Warren J. Harang, Jr. Auditorium, Thibodaux
The 45th Annual TAWASI Antiques & Art Show will offer something for everyone. Antique lovers can come shop hundreds of carefully-curated goods from quality vendors across the country, including antique furniture, jewelry, books, glassware, art, silver, tools and more. Tickers are $10 per person and can be purchased at the door.
Le Petit Theatre:
The Red Velvet Cake War
September 15-24
Le Petit Theatre, Houma
The hilarious play by Jones Hope Wooten tells the story of three cousins who try to organize a family reunion. Amidst a whirlwind of laughter, chaos ensues as a neighbor 's ravenous pet indulges in an edible frenzy, an eccentric one-eyed suitor arrives with a declaration of love, and an astonishing high-stakes bet is placed on the ultimate showdown of red velvet cake baking prowess. Visit Le Petit Theatre online for ticket information.
South Louisiana Community Orchestra’s 2023 Fall-Patriotic Concert
September 10, 3 p.m.
The Regional Military Museum
The community is invited to attend the South Louisiana Community Orchestra's 2023 Fall-Patriotic Concert. This concert will honor the lives lost at the 9/11 tragedy, as well as for all of the brave military personnel who are both active and retired, those who gave their lives, and finally First-Responders, who protect the freedoms that we enjoy today. Admission is $10 for Adults and $5 for children 12 years old and younger. Admission is free for any military personnel and veterans, and first-responders dressed in uniform.
Thibodaux Main Street
Community Cleanup
September 16, 8-10 a.m.
Downtown Thibodaux
The newly-accredited main street will host a Community Cleanup to beautify the downtown area. Participants will gather downtown to touch base and go over some minor rules, and then go about helping to clean up. During the Community Cleanup there will be a free shredding center where the community can shred sensitive documents instead of throwing them away.
Terrebonne Parish President Forum
September 19, 6 p.m.
Terrebonne Parish Main Library
The forum will feature candidates for Terrebonne Parish President. This event is open to the public.
St. Matthew’s Fishing Rodeo
September 29 - 30
St. Matthew’s Episcopal School
The 9th Annual SMES Fishing Rodeo brings the community together for a fun, familyfriendly event. Adult and youth anglers can compete in many categories. The weigh-in and after party will take place on campus. This year, the rodeo also features a jambalaya cook-off! Tickets are $30 for adults, $15 for children and include fishing and entrance to the after-party!
Rock Another Day: Suits & Sequins
September 30, 7-11 p.m.
Dominique’s Bistro
The Bryant O'Neil Foundation fundraiser will provide a night of amazing food and drinks, live music provided by local band Le Bon Temps, and a fantastic silent and live auction. Participants are invited to come dance the night away in their best sequined attire! Tickets are $125 each and can be purchased online. The Bryant O'Neil Foundation is a non-profit organization taking action to promote Suicide Prevention Awareness and dedicated to breaking the stigmas associated with suicide. POV
September 2023 34 povhouma.com RENDEZVOUS | WHERE YOU NEED TO BE AROUND TOWN
The results of our People's Choice contest, which drew in thousands of passionate participants, will be shared in our October issue. Stay tuned for the next issue of the magazine, where we will unveil the much-awaited results that reflect the voice of our community. Our hope is that you will share in the joy and spread the love at all the small businesses that were nominated.
September 2023 35 povhouma.com
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