Welcome to the Women's Issue of Point of Vue Magazine! This edition is dedicated to honoring the strength, resilience, and achievements of women who shape our communities and inspire future generations.
As a woman leading this publication, I take immense pride in sharing the stories of trailblazing women who are redefining success in their fields. Each woman featured in this issue exemplifies passion, perseverance, and purpose.
The conversation around women's empowerment is ever-evolving, and it is more important than ever to amplify the voices of those breaking barriers and challenging norms. As a wife and mother, I am continually inspired by the countless women who balance the demands of family and career with unwavering dedication and grace. I feel it is important to have a female role model in your life, someone you can learn from and turn to when the road becomes difficult.
In our first story this month, we introduce you to Houmanatives Pam Rivet and Mandi St. Germaine, the co-founders of MBS Fit Co. MBS Fit Co. is a true embodiment of the resilient spirits of these two women, with the mission to create beautiful, luxurious athleisure which encourages women to be their strongest and most confident selves. The company also features "Beyond the Cape" Icons. These women are the embodiment of a sisterhood centered on personal growth, self-care, and empowerment. Four local women have been named as Icons: Brandy Verdin, Jenna Guerrero, Katey Scott, and Gabrielle Barba.
These four women embody the spirit of MBS Fit Co.'s representative verse, Proverbs 31:16-17: “She wraps herself in strength, carries herself with confidence, and works hard, strengthening her arms for the task at hand.” Learn more about this amazing group of women, starting on page 14.
Louisiana boasts a rich tapestry of women-owned small businesses, each contributing to the vibrancy of our local economy. Did you know that there are over 160,000 womenowned businesses in Louisiana alone? These enterprises not only drive economic growth but also embody the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience of women in our community. Here in the bayou region, there is no shortage of Women Who Mean Business! In this issue, we feature 9 women who strive each day to make a difference, in their chosen fields, each in their own amazing way! Our Women Who Mean Business special section begins on page 19.
In this fast-changing world, let us commit to uplifting one another, celebrating each triumph, and offering support in moments of struggle. Together, we can build a future where every woman has the opportunity to thrive, where obstacles are dismantled, and where equality is not just an aspiration but a lived reality.
May the stories in these pages ignite your passions, expand your perspectives, and reinforce your belief in the boundless potential of women everywhere. POV
What is the best piece of advice another woman has ever given you, and how has it shaped your journey?
KAYLI
GABRIELLE
Set clear boundaries to protect your time and energy, and don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Celebrate your achievements, both big and small, and remember that it's okay to stumble along the way. Each challenge is an opportunity for growth.
A woman I admire once told me to never leave my ideas unspoken, my creativity untapped, or my potential unrealized. That advice has shaped my journey by pushing me to create boldly, share generously, and pursue work that truly matters.
GLENDA
“The Man in the Arena” speech was written by Teddy Roosevelt, but I heard it brilliantly delivered from Brene Brown, and it's transformed how I receive and process feedback.
JANABETH “JB”
The best piece of advice another woman gave me was in a question. How would you live your life if there was no fear of failure? This question has completely changed the way I look at life. I often think about how often I've let self doubt and fear of failing hold me back from pursuing what truly makes me happy. Since then I've leaned into opportunities with more courage than I thought I ever had— whether it's expanding my salon company, traveling the world or mentoring others. “What would I do if I weren't afraid” mindset has not only changed my life, it has changed the lives of others around me. For this I'm truly grateful.
SPRING STYLE SHOWCASE
BY BONNIE RUSHING | HOMES DECORATED BY SHANNON BELLA
Spring is in the air, and these four homes showcase the season in beautifully unique ways. Decorator Shannon Bella transformed each space to reflect the homeowner 's style, using florals, color, and texture to create fresh, inviting looks. From soft pastels to bold contrasts, get inspired by these stunning spring makeovers. POV
CLASSIC & CHEERFUL ELEGANCE
Step into a whimsical spring dream filled with live florals, glowing candles, charming bunnies, and delicate bows. This home radiates warmth with a soft yet lively palette of blues, yellows, and greens, bringing the freshness of the season indoors. Traditional Easter charm meets sophisticated touches, creating a space that feels both festive and timeless. Whether it's an adorned mantle or a dining room softly lit by candlelight, this home captures the essence of springtime joy.
BOLD & LUXE SOPHISTICATION
For those who love modern elegance, this home is a stunning showcase of contrasts and metallic accents. A mix of live greenery, gold, black, and rich metal elements creates a chic and dramatic ambiance. Lush florals pair with sleek, contemporary décor, offering a bold twist on spring style. The result is a space that feels both opulent and fresh, proving that spring doesn't have to be all pastels—it can shine in gold and black too.
Follow Shannon Bella on Instagram at KnightNDayDesigns for more inspiration.
PLAYFUL & WHIMSICAL CHARM
This home bursts with vibrant hues of pink, green, and cream, evoking a storybook spring garden. Featuring lush florals, oversized eggs, and delicate cabbage leaf accents, the design embraces whimsy and elegance in perfect harmony. Thoughtful layering of color and texture creates a playful yet refined aesthetic, making this space a true celebration of spring's renewal. Every detail, from the floral arrangements to the carefully curated décor, invites delight and wonder.
ORGANIC & SERENE SIMPLICITY
Soft and sophisticated, this home exudes natural elegance with a palette of creams, golds, muted florals, and just a touch of pink. Woven textures and organic elements create a calming retreat that feels effortlessly chic. The use of subtle tones and natural materials allows the beauty of spring to unfold in a timeless and understated way. This space proves that sometimes, less is more, and a carefully curated mix of textures and hues can make the season's beauty shine in the most serene way.
MBS Fit Co., also known as "My Best Self," is a Houma-based, faith-centered athleisure company dedicated to helping women feel strong, confident, and ready to conquer the world with unwavering strength.
MBS Fit Co. was co-founded by Houmanatives Pam Rivet and Mandi St. Germaine, two local women who were brought together by a mutual calling to find their own empowerment. "In 2015 I had just given birth to my third child, and I was in a difficult place physically, emotionally, and mentally. I reached out to Mandi on Facebook because she was doing some
personal coaching and I was interested in her program– we had known each other in high school but never really connected before that," explained Pam. "What we didn't know at the time is that we were both on the cusp of transformation in our lives. We had both struggled and were working hard to find ourselves."
Both women spent several years on personal paths to self improvement, but it wasn't until August of 2023 that Pam felt a calling to pursue something greater. "I had just recently undergone these years of transformation, but I still felt like
something was missing. It was tugging at me, so I prayed on it and asked God to show me my path," said Pam. "One afternoon soon after, I had a total out-ofbody experience where for a minute, I saw with total clarity what I needed to do and where I was going— one of my friends told me to go home and write it all down, and I did." After several weeks of thinking, praying, and researching, MBS Fit Co. was born.
After a booming start to MBS Fit Co., Pam brought Mandi into the business in January of 2024. "When I saw the vision of
BY ISABELLE PINTO | PHOTOS BY MISTY BENOIT PHOTOGRAPHY
what MBS Fit Co. was going to be, I knew Mandi needed to be a part of the business as well," explained Pam. "But I was nervous to ask Mandi to be my business partner. She had been watching MBS Fit Co. grow on social media, but we hadn't spoken in years at that point. We had coffee together later in the year and I laid it all out for her, and it just all made sense. We had such similar journeys and goals, and a few days later, Mandi called to tell me she was all in."
MBS Fit Co. became a true embodiment of the resilient spirits of the two women, with
For more information about MBS Fit Co., please visit their website at www.mbsfit.co.
the mission to create beautiful, luxurious athleisure which encourages women to be their strongest and most confident selves. "We wanted to create clothes that fit every aspect of your life," explained Mandi. "We wanted everyone to be comfortable in our clothing, whether you're dropping your kids off at school, or working, or going to the gym, or whatever your day has in store. We want the pieces to move with you." Each article of clothing has inspiring affirmations stitched into the inside, such as "I Am Faithful," "I Am Loved," "I Am Anointed," or "I Am Worthy," as a special reminder to the wearer as they get dressed
"These affirmations reflect the strength and grace that come from embracing s purpose and strength in our lives," continued Pam. "And this is inspired by our Beyond the Cape Icons."
MBS Fit Co.'s "Beyond the Cape" Icons are the embodiment of a sisterhood centered on personal growth, self-care, and empowerment– these four local women were hand-selected by Pam and Mandi to showcase the four special athleisure collections offered by the company. "These four ladies are truly Superwomen. They showcase strength, inspiration, resilience, and so much more," explained Mandi. "They exemplify the grace and courage that come from deep faith and trust in God's
Each Beyond the Cape Icon is able to name and model their own collection, as well as choosing the specific affirmations meaningful to them and their journey that go inside each piece of their clothing. The four Beyond the Cape Icons are currently Brandy Verdin with the "I Am Empowered" Collection, Jenna Guerrero with the "I Am Unstoppable" Collection, Katey Scott with the "I Am Inspiring" Collection, and Gabrielle Barba with the "I Am Fearless" Collection. These four women represent the spirit of MBS Fit Co.'s representative verse, Proverbs 31:16-17:
“She wraps herself in strength, carries herself with confidence, and works hard, strengthening her arms for the task at hand.”
"I believe God put me here for a reason, and He sent me down this road for a purpose," said Icon Katey Scott in a statement for MBS Fit Co. "Every day, I strive to be a reflection of that purpose in the lives of everyone around me. I want the women who wear this collection to know that no matter what she has been through she is an inspiration to those around her."
"My mantra is, "God is within her, she will not fail." I know that true failure is never trying at all. Through my journey, I'm not just building a legacy—I'm inspiring others to rise, believe, and achieve," said Icon Jenna Guerrero in her statement. "This collection is so special to me because it represents more than just athleisure—it's a mindset I live by every day. I wanted to name the collection something that reminds every woman that she's strong, capable, and built for more. When you put on anything from this collection, I want you to feel what I feel: that unstoppable force inside that pushes you to show up and chase every dream. Because that's who we are as women—truly unstoppable!"
As MBS Fit Co. continues to break down barriers and uplift women near and far, Pam and Mandi have no plans to slow down. "Our business stands for "My Best Self, and that goes way beyond workouts— it is all things mind, body, and soul, and when all three pieces of the puzzle are present, that's when things start to come together," said Pam. "Going into the future, that's what we want MBS Fit Co. to be. We are hoping to create affirmation cards, journals, maybe some hormone-balancing protein powders, and an at-home fitness storage cabinet, to name a few– and of course, our ultimate goal is to host a women's retreat one day."
MBS Fit Co. is not just a business, but a movement driven by faith and a deep commitment to helping women live their best lives. “When women try on our pieces and say they've never felt so good, or so confident in their life, that is what makes everything worth it,” said Pam. “That is what MBS is for, and we can't wait to see what the future holds.” POV
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Rene Carreker, Agent 1221 Museum Drive Houma, LA 70360 Bus: 985-851-2554
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In every industry, women are making their mark—leading with strength, resilience, and fearless ambition. Here in the Houma-Thibodaux region, these women are not just breaking barriers; they are building businesses, creating opportunities, and shaping the future. From storefronts to boardrooms, their dedication and vision drive innovation and inspire the next generation of leaders. This section celebrates the local women who have turned passion into success, proving that when women mean business, they mean progress, empowerment, and lasting impact.
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BRENDA, REBECCA AND SHAUN FELGER
FELGER’S FOOTWEAR
A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE
For decades, Felger 's Footwear has been a staple in our area for high-quality comfort shoes. Whether you're looking for stylish sandals, athletic shoes, or school shoes for the kids, Felger 's has built a reputation for providing the best customer service to find your Perfect Fit.
Felger 's Footwear was founded in 1991 by Mark and Brenda Felger, a husband-and-wife duo with a passion for providing the best customer service in an old fashioned sit and fit shoe store.
Brenda grew up in Metairie, LA and met her husband while attending the University of New Orleans. After marrying, the Felger 's moved to Houma in 1984 where Brenda continued her career working for the federal government but saw an opportunity to grow her new family business. Changing career paths afforded Brenda the opportunity to find a more fulfilling career helping the community with their footwear needs while also allowing her to spend more time with her growing daughters.
Brenda is on the board of directors for the National Shoe Retailers Association, which helps other independent shoe retailers thrive.
The store is currently managed by youngest daughter, Rebecca Felger Romano, who is a Certified Fitter of Therapeutic Shoes. She works with several doctors in the tri-parish area and beyond to help their patients find the proper footwear and/or orthotics to fit their needs. Rebecca is always on the floor helping the staff to fill the needs of the customers. Under Brenda and Rebecca's leadership, the store has grown from a 1000 sq. ft. children's shoe store to the present 4700 sq. ft. family store offering selections for men, women and children.
13 years teaching. Shaun is eager to return to Felger 's in all aspects and to help further grow the business. It's important to note that both daughters started learning the business from an early age and becoming more active and influencing styles selected during their teen years!
The oldest granddaughter, Allie Felger, also works in the store; in fact, she sold her first shoe to a sweet customer when she was only 6 years old! Allie is in charge of Felger's social media accounts. She will be graduating high school in May and will be attending Nicholls in the fall.
As a woman-led company, Felger 's Footwear continues to inspire the next generation of females. Former employees of Felger 's Footwear have become teachers, principals of schools, entrepreneurs, and directors of social media, all starting with skills they acquired while working under the leadership of Brenda and Rebecca.
Felger 's has consistently received industry recognition by winning the Footwear Insight Gold Medal Service Award for excellent customer service. They have also received the POV People's Choice Award for best Shoe Store and the Bayou's Best Community Choice Awards for Best Shoe Store.
As Felger 's Footwear continues to expand, the company remains focused on innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. Felger 's has recently launched an online shopping website (www.felgersfootwear. com) to make their products more accessible to customers. Whether you're a long-time customer or discovering Felger 's for the first time, one thing is certain: when it comes to stylish and comfortable footwear, Felger 's Footwear delivers.
ALLISON CAZENAVE
REGISTERED DIETITIAN
RDN, CSO, LDN, ONC, IFNCP, CLT, CNGS, GGS-1
For Allison Flynn Cazenave, nutrition isn't just a s a passion that drives her to make a meaningful impact in people's lives. A Houma native, Allison is a Registered Dietitian with an impressive list of specializations, including Oncology Nutrition, Functional Nutrition, Nutritional Genomics, and s Health Coaching. She has dedicated her career to helping individuals improve their health through personalized, science-backed nutrition strategies.
As a Board-Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition at Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, Allison has revolutionized patient care by developing and implementing a comprehensive nutrition program. Before her efforts, oncology patients had limited access to a dietitian—but today, every patient undergoing treatment can receive expert nutritional guidance, helping them tolerate therapies better and enhance their overall quality of life.
Her dedication hasn't gone unnoticed. Allison was named Morrison Healthcare's 2022 Clinician of the Year and Point of Vue's 2024 Favorite Dietitian— honors that highlight her relentless commitment to her field. She also launched her own private practice, Allison Cazenave Nutrition, broadening her impact by working with individuals beyond oncology, focusing on personalized, precision nutritional guidance supporting overall wellness.
Balancing a thriving career with family life, Allison credits her husband, Christopher, for keeping her grounded amid her driven nature. Together with their two children, Cooper and Catherine, they enjoy outdoor adventures, zoo visits, and time with their beloved pets.
Her advice to aspiring professionals? "Follow your dreams—even if they change. Be creative, stay true to yourself, and never give up."
APRIL M. BLANTON
FINANCIAL ADVISOR WITH GUARDIAN WEALTH ADVISORS
A PRIVATE WEALTH ADVISORY PRACTICE OF AMERIPRISE FINANCIAL SERVICES, LLC
April Blanton, a proud Houma, Louisiana native, finds deep fulfillment in her hometown. As a Financial Advisor for Guardian Wealth Advisors with Ameriprise Financial, she has dedicated 17 years to investment and financial planning. In 2022, she took a major career step, purchasing her practice with three partners. With offices in Houma and Metairie, she is committed to guiding clients toward financial success.
Balancing career and personal life is a priority. Married to Jonathan (Jon) Blanton for nearly 15 years, they share their home with their goldendoodle, Nash. “Deadlines and prioritization help me enjoy personal time,” she says. She values self-care, an active lifestyle, traveling, and time with loved ones. s passion for business led her to financial advising. After earning a Business Administration degree from Nicholls State University, she seized an opportunity in 2007 that shaped her career. “You have to take advantage of opportunities—you never know where they can take you.” With strong support from her parents, mentors, family,
and friends, she continues to make an impact in her field and community.
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April Blanton, APMATM, is a Financial Advisor with Guardian Wealth Advisors, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC in Houma, LA. She specializes in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 17 years. To contact her, ameripriseadvisors.com/ april.m.blanton, 985.853.0066 or April.m.blanton@ampf. com.
Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value.
Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser.
Securities offered by Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC.
For Nikki Ingram, coffee is more than just a morning ritual—it's a way to build community. Originally from Wetumpka, Alabama, Nikki and her family relocated four years ago when her husband, Storm, was stationed in the area with the Coast Guard. Not knowing what to expect, they quickly fell in love with the hospitality and strong sense of community. Now, Nikki calls this place home, and through her thriving coffee businesses, she has created a space for others to feel at home, too.
An entrepreneur at heart, Nikki started her business journey with an online boutique before transitioning into the coffee industry. Today, she owns and operates a mobile coffee truck, a drive-thru coffee shop, and a full café—all under the brand Runneth Over Cafe. “The best part? Hands down, the people,” Nikki shares. “The connections and friendships I've made through coffee have been incredible.” However, entrepreneurship comes with its challenges. “The least favorite part? Definitely the bills—no one warns you about those when you start a business! But the toughest part for me personally is knowing that, as a military family, relocation is always a possibility.”
Despite the challenges, Nikki has found inspiration in the number of women thriving in the coffee industry. “Of course, there are men in the field, too, but I love seeing so many women—especially young girls—taking up space in this industry and thriving.” Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs? “Just go for it! Don't wait for the perfect moment or let anyone make you second-guess yourself. If you have a dream, start now.”
Her hard work has not gone unnoticed. Last year, Runneth Over Cafe was named POV People's Choice 2024: First Place Food Truck, First Place Coffeehouse, and Bayou's Best 2024: Best Coffee Shop—a significant achievement, especially since it came just after their first anniversary. But for Nikki, the true reward is the community she has built. “Seeing our regulars every day and knowing we've created a space they love—that's the real accomplishment.”
Looking ahead, Runneth Over Cafe is expanding! With her husband recently receiving orders to a new duty station in Mississippi, Nikki is preparing to bring her coffee to a new community. “I'm excited for this next chapter, and who knows—maybe one day we'll even open a location back in my hometown.”
Balancing business and family life is no small feat for Nikki. With three kids—Collyns, Stetson, and Colson—who are all involved in sports, life is a constant juggling act. “This is probably the hardest part of running multiple businesses that operate daily,” she admits. But with the support of her husband and a strong staff, she ensures that both her business and family get the attention they deserve. s not always easy, but we make it work.”
As Nikki prepares for the next phase of her journey, one thing is clear: whether through coffee or community, she is leaving an impact wherever she goes.
THE BUTTERY CRUMB
FOUNDER
After opening her doors just seven short months ago, Erica Duthu is taking Houma by storm with her delicious, inventive breakfast joint, "The Buttery
Born and raised in Houma, Erica was a passionate home chef working in the insurance industry before taking the leap to open her first restaurant. “I've been a self-taught home cook for some time now, but it was always my dream to get out into our community and show people my skills,” said Erica. “I've always had friends who encouraged me to sell my baked goods, and after two years, it finally happened—my heart is in the kitchen."
Erica officially welcomed customers to The Buttery Crumb in October of 2024 in the heart of downtown Houma, offering a wide range of buttery biscuits, baked goods, awesome coffee options, the flash-fried biscuit donuts known as "bonuts", and their signature dish, a Zydeco biscuit with a seared boudin patty, pepper jack cheese, egg and aioli.
"Houma has such an amazing support system of women-owned businesses who have really encouraged me along this path," explained Erica. "I love being able to cook for the people who support me. The best part of the job is not just cooking the food, but getting to bring it out to people and see how much they enjoy it. It's a really great way to engage with my community and those in my hometown."
For Erica, uplifting other women as a local business owner is second nature. "I have an entirely female staff, which is the epitome of girl power," chuckled Erica. "I want to tell women looking to start their own business not to be afraid to take that leap—because you never know where you'll land if you don't try. What comes from it is so rewarding."
Despite the joy Erica finds in running The Buttery Crumb, balancing the demands of the restaurant with her family obligations is no small feat. "We have all had to work to find the balance with our busy schedules," said Erica."It's something that we are learning, but I am so grateful for the support of my husband and two kids as we look towards the future."
ERICA DUTHU KASSIE FALGOUST BARRANCOTTO
SYNERGY BANK • NMLS#1066161
VICE PRESIDENT, LENDER, AND BRANCH MANAGER
For Kassie Falgoust Barrancotto, banking is more than just numbers—it's about people, relationships, and helping others realize their dreams. As Vice President, Lender, and Branch Manager at Synergy Bank's South Acadia Office, Kassie takes pride in guiding individuals and businesses toward financial success. Whether it's securing a first home, growing a business, or managing finances, she finds joy in being a trusted resource for her community.
A proud native of Back Vacherie, Kassie's deep roots in South Louisiana fuel her commitment to giving back. She loves that Thibodaux offers the best of both worlds—a thriving economic landscape with the warmth of a close-knit community where everyone still knows “your mom and dem.”
Kassie has witnessed significant strides for women in banking throughout her two-decade career.
She credits the trailblazing women before her for paving the way, and today, she pays it forward by mentoring and uplifting others. “I learned early on to surround myself with strong, smart women,” she says. “Now, I vow to do the same for others.”
Her passion for service extends beyond her career. Kassie is deeply involved in community organizations, having served as President of the Thibodaux Chamber during the challenging COVID year, as well as holding leadership roles with the Kiwanis Club, Thibodaux Amigas Club, and Bayou Country Children's Museum.
At home, Kassie and her husband, Demian, balance careers and raising their two teenagers—one a multi-sport athlete, the other a barrel racer. They share a love for food, travel, and supporting their children's passions.
Kassie never planned on a career in finance, but it turned out to be the perfect fit. With hard work, integrity, and a commitment to both family and community, she continues to build a legacy of leadership and service.
PHYLLIS PEOPLES
TERREBONNE GENERAL HEALTH SYSTEM
PRESIDENT AND CEO
For over two decades, Phyllis Peoples has been at the helm of Terrebonne General Health System, leading with unwavering dedication to her hometown of Houma. As the President and CEO for the past 23 years, Phyllis has not only shaped the future of healthcare in the region but has also inspired countless women to pursue leadership roles in the field.
Her journey began in Houma, where she was born and raised. After college and starting a family out of state, she felt the undeniable pull of home, wanting her children to grow up surrounded by their grandparents. Returning to Houma not only brought her closer to family but also reignited her passion for serving the very community that shaped her.
With 39 years in healthcare, beginning as a Registered Nurse, Phyllis transitioned into leadership s longest-serving CEO. “The average tenure for CEOs in large businesses such as healthcare is about 5-7 years,” she explains. “Having served in this role for 23 years is something I take great pride in.” Her nursing background, combined with her business acumen, ensures that patient care and quality remain the core
While the constantly evolving landscape of healthcare presents challenges such as rising costs and regulatory changes, Phyllis finds joy in bringing the latest advancements to her community. She leads a team of nearly 2,000 employees, ranging from newcomers to seasoned professionals, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
Beyond her executive role, Phyllis is deeply committed to mentorship and leadership development. “Building future leaders and pioneers in healthcare is something that I make a priority every day,” she shares. Through mentorship programs, community partnerships, and recruitment efforts, she ensures that young women and aspiring professionals have the
Her leadership has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Women in Business Mentor Award, the Athena Award, the Women of the Year Award by the Young Leadership Council, and the Rick Henault Mentor & Spirit of Servitude Award from the American College of Healthcare Executives. However, one of her most defining moments came in the wake of Hurricane Ida, when she led her team in rebuilding Terrebonne General's main campus—restoring all services in under 30 days despite extensive damage and
Looking ahead, Phyllis is focused on finalizing repairs to the hospital's patient towers and preparing to break ground on a state-of-the-art Healthy Lifestyles Center, a facility she describes as “the future of health and wellness” for the community.
Outside of work, Phyllis balances her career with a strong family life. Married with two successful sons in the medical field, she recently embraced the new title of grandmother—a role she cherishes. “My job is 24/7 and requires me to pivot at a moment's notice,” she says. “Prioritization and surrounding myself with a dedicated team allow me to succeed both professionally and personally.”
Her passion for healthcare stems from a family legacy—her father and grandfather were pharmacists, her grandmother a nurse, and her mother a fearless businesswoman in real estate. Their influence, paired with her love for people, led her to a career where she now inspires the next generation of women in leadership.
As Phyllis continues to shape the future of healthcare in Terrebonne Parish, she remains a testament to strength, dedication, and the power
povhouma.com
KATIE RICHARD,
PUT YOUR FEET UP AND SHOW THEM SOME TLC
One of the hardest working parts of your body is also one of the least appreciated. According to the Mayo Clinic, the average American takes 4,000 to 5,000 steps per day. That's a lot of wear and tear on the feet. Adding foot care to your health regimen can keep them tuned up and ready to move. Here are recommendations for maintaining good foot and ankle health:
Supportive
footwear
• Choose shoes with proper arch support, cushioning and a wide toe box. As you age, arches begin to fall and your foot widens. You're likely to wear a larger shoe in your 60s than you did in your 30s. Getting fit for your proper size is also important.
• Avoid high heels and overly tight shoes that can cause foot deformities, skin irritation and rubbing.
• Replace worn-out shoes to maintain proper support. This is especially true with athletic shoes, which should be replaced about every six months.
• Spend the time and extra money to be properly measured for walking or running shoes.
Good hygiene
• Wash and thoroughly dry your feet daily, especially between the toes.
• Trim toenails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails.
• Moisturize to prevent dry, cracked skin; avoid applying lotion between the toes to reduce skin wetness/ breakdown.
• Watch for bruises or other skin abnormalities on the toes and nails.
A malignant melanoma under his toenail ultimately led to musician Bob Marley's death.
Regular exercise and stretching
• Stretch the calves, Achilles tendon and toes to maintain flexibility.
• Perform foot strengthening exercises like toe curls and heel raises; try picking up marbles or wrinkling a towel with your toes.
• Engage in low-impact activities like swimming or cycling to reduce foot strain.
Healthy weight
• A balanced diet and regular exercise help reduce stress on feet and ankles. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-to-brisk walking per week for adults.
Medical attention for foot pain
• Don't ignore persistent pain, swelling or changes in foot structure.
• See a podiatrist or other medical provider for issues such as bunions, heel pain or suspected fractures.
• If you have diabetes, schedule regular foot check-ups to prevent complications.
Physician Specialists at Thibodaux Regional Foot & Ankle Center treat such conditions as Achille's tendon disorders, bunions, cartilage injury, arthritis, plantar fasciitis and diabetic foot care. No referral is necessary to schedule an appointment at locations in Thibodaux, Houma and Raceland.
• Excess weight increases pressure on the feet, leading to pain and conditions such as plantar fasciitis— inflammation of tissue connecting the heel to the toes.
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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. UNDER
SCARY RABBIT MOVIES
Humans like scary movies. That's likely because they live a decidedly un-scary life free from the threat of forest predators—like themselves. However, it seems that rabbits have become their favorite villains in such movies. I find this quite ironic because we rabbits are generally considered cute and cuddly and furry and warm, and, outside of the occasional raid on a vegetable garden, we tend to mind our own business. Instead, movie rabbits are often given overtly human behaviors--walking on two legs, carrying a gun, robbing a bank, drawing blood, speaking--all evil things that cause turmoil. It's as if humans use the pleasant fictions of movies to displace their worst characteristics onto an innocent and truly un-evil species. Namely mine.
Yet here I am, in another Spring, suffering again the indignity of humans and their mass consumption of my chocolate effigies as well as those of unhatched rabbit eggs. Unfortunately for me and my kind, the unprecedented snows earlier this year have left our foraging lands (namely, your gardens) devoid of nutritive vegetable eats, and now I must work for food. For this reason, I have become a for-pay movie critic, currently reviewing for your entertainment what is apparently your favorite human-invented film genre: scary rabbit movies.
Night of the Lepus (1972). Producer A.C. Lyles spent his career making Western films. This was his first venture into sci-fi. Fortunately, thought human audiences, it was his last. The plot involves giant, carnivorous rabbits that eat their way through small towns and townspeople somewhere in the Southwest. “Lepus” stars Janet Leigh (leading actress in Hitchcock's “Psycho” and also mother of Jamie Lee Curtis), Deforest Kelley (Bones in the original “Star Trek” series), and lots of ketchup smeared across the cheeks and whiskers of rabbits as well as across the mutilated bodies of formerly defiant townspeople strewn across fields and roadsides. Rabbits think filming their actor brethren next to tiny human dolls, not to mention dressing human stunt actors in rabbit costumes for attack scenes, is poor cinematography. But “Lepus” is a great revenge movie like all the Rockys between II and V. For this alone, I forgive all the campiness and poor production: Any film of rabbits exacting revenge over oppressive, rifle-toting, stew-cooking killer humans gets the top rating of five-stars in my book.
• MUSIC & MEMORY THERAPY
• KITCHEN THERAPY
• LIVE & LOCAL CONCERTS
• IN-HOUSE THERAPY DOG
• NOVEL EXCURSIONS
• GAMES & CRAFTS
Harvey (1950). Generally considered a comedy, any movie putting Oscar-winner Jimmy Stewart together with a 6-foot tall invisible rabbit (named Harvey) as a drinking partner (or I should say bar-“hopping” partner) is truly a scary one. A series of schemes and misdiagnoses sees characters in and out of a sanitorium and nearly getting cured of Harvey visions by injection of a mysterious tranquilizer called Formula 977. The movie stereotypes Harvey as a good-luck charm, but fortunately luck is provided by the whole imaginary rabbit body and not morbidly by a rabbit's foot alone. The movie symbolically illustrates the point that rabbits prefer staying invisible due to their status in the food chain. The story tickled my whiskers a few times.
Fatal Attraction (1987). Two Oscar winners, Glen Close and Michael Douglas, star in this revenge-ridden psycho-drama about the aftermath of an abruptly ended sexual affair. But in the mess of human infidelity, why must an innocent rabbit get killed? Maybe instead one or both of the human infidels should be bubbling in that boiling pot of chicken stock. Top-grossing human film of its year, mature and powerful plot, but demerited four stars for cruelty to my species.
Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975). “Holy Grail” is hardly a rabbit move. (And hardly scary.) However, the Killer Rabbit of Caerbannog from Scene 31, with its “nasty,
big, pointy teeth” and “a viscous streak a mile wide” is clearly the movie's scary star as it attacks Arthur ' s knights in another series of ketchup-laden special effects. Ah, the good-ole Middle Ages, when club-waving, sword-wielding, arrowbowing rabbits threw the gauntlet down on lesser beings, like humans--at least in the margins of Medieval manuscripts. I laughed aloud.
Donnie Darko (2001). Like Jimmy Stewart ' s “Harvey,” Jake Gylenhaal ' s “Frank” is a large rabbit that only his character can see. Unlike Harvey, who is really an imaginary rabbit, Frank is an imaginary man dressed in a rabbit suit, and his is the voice convincing Gylenhaal's Donnie to commit crimes. Richard Kelly's directorial debut is intelligent. Gylenhaal's troubled teenager is daring. Docked two stars for imposing human criminality upon a rabbit.
Watership Down (1978). An awardwinning animated film based on a wonderfully inventive novel by Richard Adams and brilliant descriptions of wild rabbit behavior by British naturalist Ronald Lockley. Complete with rabbit poetry, mythology, societal politics, and language. Regrettably, a total of 63 rabbits die in this film, some violently and involving animated ketchup. Like some humans, I don't let my kits watch this one. Should be called “Watership Downer” for its dismal depiction of rabbit life. I live it, and I don't need a cartoon to tell me about it.
Rabbit à la Berlin (2009). An incredible Oscar-nominated documentary called “the true story of the Berlin Wall through the eyes of rabbits.” My East German brethren were filmed in the wild as they watched through barbed-wire spirals and cracks between bricks the oppression and torture of humans trying to cross the Wall with futility. Now that the Wall has been torn down, rabbits “are still learning how to live in the free world, same as [the humans] of Eastern Europe.” A poignant reminder of the conflicted times humans face today. Brilliant film.
Incidentally, after weaning on your garden corn for years, I have become fond of movie popcorn. POV
Houma Family Dental
RENDEZVOUS
Big Brims & Healthy Skin
April 4, 6-10 p.m.
Ellendale Country Club
In its 4th year, Big Brims & Healthy Skin will host a nighttime event filled with fun-filled games, envy-worthy prizes and an engaging and interactive skin health presentation led by dermatologist, Dr. Alexis Duke, with Duke Neal Medical. Enjoy drinks, glow putting, game night, and music by Ben Bourgeois. All proceeds from this event will fund cancer prevention, screenings, and education here in the Bayou Region. For sponsorship or general event information, visit bit.ly/BigBrims.
Relay For Life of Terrebonne Parish
April 5, 3-10 p.m.
Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center
Relay For Life is the signature fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. Join us for our 2025 Relay For Life of Terrebonne Parish presented by Stratify Group! There will be lots of food, children's activities, a Relay For Life Team Cook-off, live auction, live entertainment throughout the event by Kings of Neon sponsored by Trapp Cadillac Chevrolet and much more! For more info on how to join and to donate, visit RelayForLife.org/TerrebonneLA.
Southdown Marketplace
April 12, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Southdown Plantation
Celebrate 40 years of Southdown Marketplace by buying handmade local artwork and treasures, eating Cajun food, learning about our rich bayou culture, petting fuzzy friends at the petting zoo, competing in a corn hole tournament, and touring our beautiful Southdown Plantation and Museum.
Ron and Jackie Bartels’ Kids
Conservation Fest
April 12, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Bayou Country Children’s Museum
Join the 9th annual festival and enjoy lots of outdoor and conservation games, activities, fun and access to the museum!
TOWN
10th Annual Easter Eggstravaganza
April 12, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Houma Courthouse Square
Get ready for an egg-citing day of fun! Join the Krewe of Aquarius for their 10th Annual Easter Eggstravaganza! Your family can meet the Easter Bunny, play outdoor games, participate in an Easter egg hunt, plus enter for a chance to win a free bicycle!
50th annual Tunnel Run
April 12, 2-7 p.m.
Houma Municipal Auditorium
Houma's annual Over and Under Tunnel Run turns 50 this year and plans to celebrate their golden anniversary in style! This race day will feature the Kid's Fun Run beforehand with a special guest appearance from the Easter Bunny. An Easter Egg Hunt will also precede the Tunnel Run which begins at 4:30 p.m. The Canebreakers will also be performing at this milestone community event!
Untapped at Live Oak
April 24, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
The Settlement at Live Oak
Join us in the Settlement at Live Oak Town Square for the annual beer-tasting event! Attendees will get to enjoy sampling a variety of specially curated beers and delicious bites from multiple vendors. Enjoy local pop-up shops plus live music!
Pirate & Boots Festival
April 26, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Houma Downtown Marina
Set your course for a day filled with excitement, fun, and community spirit! The festival will offer vendor booths, music, activities for kids, and food, while celebrating our bayou heritage and raising money to further the mission of Keep Terrebonne Beautiful.
La Fete Du Monde
April 25-27
Lafourche Pavilion, Raceland
This three day festival is known as the swamp pop extravaganza of Louisiana's Cajun Bayou. Located at the Lafourche Pavilion and green space behind Louisiana's Cajun Bayou Visitor Center in Raceland, it features live music, dancing, delicious Cajun food, games and carnival rides for all ages! POV
Locals know locals best. We are the ones who live here and shop at the businesses, utilize local services, and attend local events. We want to know what the People’s Choice is for your favorite local businesses, local hot spots, local restaurants and so much more!
The Point of Vue People’s Choice 2025 places the voice of the people first! In over 90 categories, we ask you to share your favorites in Terrebonne and Lafourche.
No more cookie cutter contests run by national companies.
Let the locals take care of business!
→ NOMINATIONS ←
Nominations begin April 1st and will last till April 30th.
→ VOTING ←
Voting will begin May 19th and will last till May 31st
→ WIN! ←
All winners will be announced in the August 2025 issue of Point of Vue!
