Point of Vue - March 2025 by Rushing Media

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HOUMA OFFICE 1022 Belanger St. Houma, LA 70360

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March 2025 2 povhouma.com

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Daniel R. Clayton, PA-C

Michael S. Haydel, MD, FIPP, ABIPP

CHATEAU CHIC A Timeless Retreat

FLIGHT OF FLAVORS

Spoonbill Coffee Roasters

GOING FOR GOLD

Five decades for the Tunnel Run 5K

CAST IRON COOK-OFF A community tradition growing strong

BAYOU TERREBONNE BOUCHERIE

Celebrating five years of boucherie fun!

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Food and Fun

INTERVUE

Say What?

WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE

Colorectal Cancer Increasing in Younger Patients

UNDER THE SCOPE

Things You Can(not) Live Without RENDEZVOUS

PUBLISHER

Brian Rushing

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Mary Downer Ditch

EDITORIAL

Bonnie Rushing Editorial Director Isabelle Pinto

Meat and cheese

Popcorn with habanero seasoning Whatever my coworkers put in jars on their desks

Currently king cake (but only during Carnival season!) MARCH 2025 • VOLUME 19 • ISSUE 3

Where You Need to Be Around Town

LOOK TWICE

Find the 9 Differences

CREATIVE

Ashley Bourgeois

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Evan Cressoine

John Doucet

PHOTOGRAPHY

Misty Leigh McElroy

CONTACT

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Jalapeño chips

FOOD AND FUN

If there’s one thing we know for sure, it’s that here in South Louisiana, food and fun are inseparable. Whether it’s a festival or just a casual gathering, you can always count on great flavors and even better company. This month, we’re celebrating that unbeatable combination, spotlighting the people and events that bring both to life in Houma and Thibodaux.

There’s something special about the way we celebrate here—our traditions are built around shared meals, passeddown recipes, and a deep appreciation for good times spent with family and friends. A simple gathering can turn into a feast, and a community event isn’t complete without the comforting aroma of something delicious cooking nearby. Food isn’t just an addition to our fun, it’s at the very heart of it.

It’s not uncommon around the United States to see fairs or festivals that revolve around food, whether it ’ s a certain crop or a particular dish, people love to celebrate their favorite foods. We just do it a little better and a bit bigger here in South Louisiana. As I write this column in mid-February, we are looking forward to the Louisiana King Cake Festival in Thibodaux. A few weekends ago, we attended the Weenie Spaghetti Festival in Houma. Our communities thrive on cook-offs and the revenue they generate for amazing local causes. And I am here for the uniqueness of it all!

a standout in Thibodaux’s food scene, proving that even something as simple as a cup of coffee can bring people together. Learn more about Elizabeth’s process and all the business supports on page 14.

Next, we celebrate the Houma Tunnel Run, which marks its 50th year as a cherished local tradition. For five decades, runners have laced up their shoes and taken on the unique course through the tunnel, and now over the bridges, but one thing has remained constant—Dr. Dicky Haydel. His dedication to the event and the community makes this milestone even more special. It’s more than just a run; it’s a tradition that brings friends and families together year after year for an amazing cause. Get golden with us, staring on page 18.

We kick off this issue with an energetic start! Spoonbill Coffee Roasters in Thibodaux is a small-batch coffee roastery that is putting fresh, locally roasted coffee on the map. Created by Elizabeth Cotter, Spoonbill Coffee Roasters is a passion project built on craftsmanship, sourcing high-quality beans and roasting them to perfection right here at home. Their commitment to quality and community makes them

And of course, no discussion of food and fun would be complete without highlighting two of our favorite March festivals: the Cast Iron Cookoff and the Bayou Terrebonne Boucherie starting on page 22. These events showcase the heart of our region, where cooking is more than just nourishment—it’s an art form and a social experience. From sizzling skillets to whole-hog butchery, these festivals honor our culinary traditions while bringing people together in the best way possible: over a plate of incredible food.

No matter where you turn in Houma and Thibodaux, good food and good times are never far apart. Whether it’s the rich aroma of freshly roasted coffee, the thrill of crossing the finish line after a beloved local race, or the delicious smell of food cooking at a festival, these moments define our community. They remind us that the best memories are made when we come together, share a meal, and celebrate the traditions that make our region so special. So grab a plate, pour a cup, and savor every bite, every laugh, and every moment of what makes our area home. POV

What homemade meal holds a special place in your heart and why?

STEPHANIE

HEATHER

It’s not so much a meal, but a homemade Italian cookie called a Pinnulati! Since I was born, my Italian grandmother would have family and friends together to make batches and batches of Pinnualities for the St. Joseph Altar. We never missed a year! Since she is gone, we still have kept the tradition alive. Every time I make a batch, roll it out, fry it, sugar it, and enjoy it, I think of her!

I would have to say my grandmother’s homemade noodles. Every year for the holidays, she would make her own noodles smothered in gravy and served over mashed potatoes. Since she has passed, we definitely try to keep up with the tradition to make her proud. Every year this tradition brings back so many wonderful memories because all of us grandkids would be there assisting her cook making those famous homemade noodles that everyone in our family looks forward to every year.

JORDAN

JERAD

Oddly enough, it was always breakfast for dinner, typically grits, fried eggs and bacon! No matter what kind of day you had, that always made it better.

Gumbo! There are so many variations of my favorite food, specific to a person who has made it or a memory it belongs to. Nothing is better than your mom’s gumbo on that first cold front. That’s a recipe that I cherish and now my little loves cherish from me.

TOMMY

SARA

My favorite homemade food is my dad’s deer spaghetti! It’s my favorite because my dad taught me how to make it and it reminds me of so many great memories with my family!

Gumbo is my favorite home cooked meal! Think about it, when the weather gets cold, the deer start moving and the fish are moving inshore, something about that roux makes a man turn into a 9 year old again.

A TIMELESS RETREAT

BY MARY DOWNER DITCH | PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY

Nestled in the serene Highland Lakes community of Thibodaux, the Robichaux family’s newly built home is a stunning blend of classic charm and modern functionality. Completed in November 2024, this meticulously designed residence reflects a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with thoughtful details throughout.

Designed by Lauren Sonier of LS Interiors, the home was brought to life with a vision of timeless tradition. The exterior boasts a classic all-painted brick façade, complemented by louvered shutters in a harmonious tone-on-tone palette. Inside, wood floors extend throughout the home, adding warmth and character to every space. The kitchen and baths are adorned with a sophisticated mix of quartz and

quartzite, keeping the palette neutral while introducing a touch of depth and movement in the butler’s pantry.

Adding to the home’s cozy ambiance, two electric linear fireplaces are strategically placed—one in the main living area and another in the sunroom—providing a gentle glow on cooler days. Beyond aesthetics, the home was constructed with durability in mind, featuring completely solid sheeted walls for added strength and insulation.

The three-bedroom, two-and-a-halfbathroom home was designed with both beauty and functionality at the forefront. One of its standout features is the kitchen with double islands—a unique and practical design element. The first island serves as a working space with a prep sink, positioned conveniently parallel to the

range for seamless meal preparation. The second island provides an inviting space for guests and family to gather, ensuring that the kitchen remains the heart of the home.

Adding to the ease of daily life, a butler’s pantry and food pantry sit directly behind the kitchen, offering dual access points for effortless flow and organization. The open floor plan allows the kitchen, dining, and living areas to blend seamlessly, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for entertaining and family life.

With its traditional style, elegant finishes, and well-planned design, the Robichaux family’s home is a perfect reflection of comfort and sophistication–a timeless retreat that will be cherished for years to come. POV

BY ISABELLE PINTO

MISTY LEIGH MCELROY

Spoonbill Coffee Roasters, a brand-new business in the heart of Lafourche Parish, is helping to support the local community and unique ecosystem of the bayou—one cup of coffee at a time.

Spoonbill Coffee Roasters, located in Thibodaux, was created by resident Elizabeth Cotter mere months ago in December of 2024. "I'm originally from Fairbanks, Alaska, but my husband [Michael Williams] works for Nicholls State University and we moved to Louisiana in s just felt like home ever since," explained Elizabeth. "We currently split our time between Alaska and Louisiana, and I wanted to figure out what could be next for my career when I first had the idea for Spoonbill Coffee.”

Elizabeth ran a small, subscription-based "micro" bakery called 12th Street Bakery in Thibodaux for over 10 years, focusing on fresh-baked goods with high quality ingredients, before deciding to transition in 2024 coffee roasting. "I had built up a great client base through my work with the bakery as well as some wholesale accounts, but after 18 years of baking, I was ready for a change," continued Elizabeth. "I knew a lot of businesses were going to Lafayette or New Orleans to get their artisan coffee, and I realized there was an opportunity to fill that need in our community. My husband roasted coffee in his 20s, so with that breadth of experience, Spoonbill Coffee Roasters was born."

Spoonbill Coffee Roasters currently offers three different options for coffee beans, all roasted right in Thibodaux. The Brazilian Roast is dark, rich, and toasty with a smooth finish; the Guatemalan Roast is medium-dark with chocolate, red fruit, and a sweet finish; and the most unique is the Restoration Roast, dark with chocolate and red fruit—and also gives back to the bayou in a unique way.

A portion of all profits from the Restoration Roast go to support the Nicholls State University Biology Coastal

PHOTOS BY

Plants Program, a planting program which focuses on restoration projects in the marshes of coastal Louisiana. Nicholls Biology students and professors grow the plants utilized in these projects, placing an emphasis on locally-adapted native varieties, and then plant them to help protect our barrier coasts. With help from volunteers, these projects also remove debris from beaches and bayous and provide students with hands-on field experience.

"I've lived in a lot of places around the country, but other than Alaska, Louisiana is the first place I've felt at home. The saltwater marshes of the bayou are so special," said Elizabeth. "My husband and I spend a lot of time on the water, boating and fishing, and from what I've seen in my 10 years here is that it is changing so quickly and disappearing so fast. I loved what I was doing with the 12th Street Bakery, but in my heart I knew it wasn't enough. I created the Restoration Roast as a small step towards helping that problem and protecting our amazing ecosystem."

Not only is Spoonbill Coffee Roasters dedicated to helping protect the local environment, but Elizabeth is also working to uplift community businesses and keep Lafourche Parish thriving. "We currently do not have a brick-and-mortar storefront, which helps us work more collaboratively and flexibly with businesses here," explained Elizabeth. Through wholesale partnerships, Spoonbill Coffee Roasters is able to provide local businesses with the opportunity to serve or sell their coffee—supporting fellow restaurants, cafés, boutiques, and more in the bayou area. Currently, Spoonbill Coffee ’ s bagged artisan roasts are available for purchase at Gumbo Weather and Cinclare in Thibodaux. Cinclare also serves the Guatemalan Roast brewed for those dining in the restaurant. Those who are not local can also order the roasts directly from their website, spoonbillcoffeeroasters.com.

For Elizabeth, starting Spoonbill Coffee Roasters has been a rewarding and exciting experience. "It’s been really exciting to do something new. I ran the bakery for over 10 years, which was fun, but I wasn't introducing new items and challenging myself. Coffee has been a whole new

FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 2025

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM COTILLION BALLROOM

COCKTAIL ATTIRE

WWW.NICHOLLS.EDU/NICHOLLSGALA

Enjoy a night out at the 4th annual event!

Friday, April 4 6 P.M.

Ellendale Country Club

Guests will take part in an interactive presentation from our presenting sponsor, Dr. Alexis Duke, M.D., F.A.A.D, with

All proceeds from this event will fund cancer prevention, screenings, and education here in the Bayou Region.

Tickets available at bit.ly/BigBrims

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world for me to explore," said Elizabeth. "Learning how to roast coffee has been totally out of my wheelhouse, and it’s been a real challenge—but I've been completely immersed in the experience. I've been roasting, cupping, tasting, and sampling a lot, and it’s just been a lot of great new experiences. And from what I've seen so far, people have been really excited about what we're offering, which has been wonderful."

As for the future of Spoonbill Coffee Roasters, Elizabeth is moving with full steam ahead, planning to expand their presence both online and in person. "My short term goals are to increase the number of wholesale accounts, both with bagged and brewed coffees," said Elizabeth. "The focus of Spoonbill is to support other local businesses, and we're hoping to continue to do just that. For all the coffee lovers out there who make it at home, we're also looking at expanding our online presence and creating a coffee subscription, which will most likely launch sometime this fall. We are really excited to see where Spoonbill Coffee takes us in the future."

As Spoonbill Coffee Roasters continues to grow, Elizabeth’s passion for her community and the environment shines through in every delicious cup. With plans for expansion and a deep commitment to the bayou region, Spoonbill Coffee Roasters is on track to become a lasting part of life in Lafourche Parish. Whether you're enjoying it with a delicious meal or from the comfort of your own home, Spoonbill Coffee Roasters is a true testament to the power of passion, purpose, and heart—and of course, a great cup of coffee! POV

BY EVAN CRESSOINE | PHOTOS PROVIDED

Houma’s annual Over and Under Tunnel Run turns 50 this year and plans to celebrate in style! Taking place on Saturday, April 12 at the Houma Municipal Auditorium, 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.

Dreamed up in 1974 by Dr. Richard "Dicky" Haydel, proceeds from the Tunnel Run fundraiser originally went to the American Heart Association in Houma. According to Dr. Dicky, a friend of his asked for fundraising ideas and they held the tunnel run and a tennis tournament. Because they raised more funds from just the first 18 runners than from three weekends of tennis, they decided to really focus on the annual tunnel run, and 50 years later, it’s still paying off!

Since the 5k predates the twin span bridges, the original route was not the unique over and under adventure it is today. The original route from 1974 to 1995 began with the participants meeting at Vandebilt Catholic High School and being bused to a fast food place called Burger Chef on the east side of town. The run would start there and end back at Vandebilt for the after-run celebration. The

run also used to take place earlier in the day and so breakfast would be served, and entertainment was provided by the Houma Community Band for a long time before the committee switched to using DJ’s for the event. However, this year to celebrate the 50th, they are bringing back the live music with The Canebreakers band.

“I remember when the twin span was first built, my nephew came to me and said ‘Look man, you have the tunnel run but now they have the twin span, if you don’t jump on that run and make it an over and under run, someone else is gonna do it,” Dr. Dicky shared.

Dr. Dicky did not exactly expect for the run to become the community tradition it is today. “It’s kind of funny. It just kept going on year after year, and it got better and better, and bigger and bigger, and I was kind of excited! Everyone had fun putting it on and the people in the community are all participating, and I think it’s the oldest run now in Louisiana,” Dr. Dicky said.

After the American Heart Association closed their Houma offices, the Tunnel Run wanted to keep supporting local programs. In the waiting period, they continued to hold the race and supported various charities, but since 2019, the race proceeds

have been supporting the Foundation for Terrebonne General Health System. The funds raised from the run ultimately go to the programs of the greatest needs in the community. Some of these programs include free health screenings, health education, and baseline concussion testing.

The president and CEO of Terrebonne General Health System, Phyills Peoples said, “Dr. Dicky’s dedication to healthcare within our community exemplifies the core values of family medicine. Through his unwavering commitment, he has made a profound impact, caring for multiple generations of families and significantly improving their overall health through philanthropy. We are deeply appreciative of his extraordinary contributions throughout his distinguished Over and Under Tunnel Run. His legacy of compassion and service will undoubtedly continue to inspire and benefit our community for years to come.”

Dr. Dicky sees the run as a fun way to encourage exercise and health within the community, but he also sees it as a good family affair. A truly unique aspect of the Tunnel Run is that it is the only race to go over and under the same body of water, and that makes it extra special to the Houma community.

But that’s not the only thing that makes this run special to Dr. Dicky especially. His son, Chad Haydel, essentially acts as co-chair of the event and the rest of his committee he considers to be so good at what they do, that he feels no need to worry about anything anymore. One person who Dr. Dicky believes the race could not go on without is Catherine (Catty) Straatmann Robichaux.

“She was with the American Heart Association when we were doing the run for them, and then when they closed down, she moved over to Terrebonne General and we kind of went along with her with that particular recommendation. But she’s a big wheel in this thing and without her, it wouldn’t be much, I can tell you,” Dr. Dicky said.

Catty currently spends her days working from home as a stay-at-home mom, engaging in what she loves to do most: philanthropy. She does a lot of nonprofit work within the community and therefore, has supported the Tunnel Run for years upon years. Catty stresses and understands the importance of allocating the funds raised from the race to local programs because people like to see where their money is going and what is benefitting from their donations.

Working as the race director, Catty’s job, along with the committee, is to organize security, obtain permits, and work hand in hand with the Foundation for Terrebonne General and the hospital staff to help facilitate it. The current foundation director is Elmy Savoie.

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The number of participants in the Tunnel Run has certainly grown from the 18 runners they started with and now ranges around 1500 people. Of course, about 200 or 300 people are actually running whereas the other 200 or 300 people are there to support the runners, support the bands, the community, and even Dr. Dicky himself.

“A lot of people are coming out specifically just to support Dr. Dicky, who obviously created this race 50 years ago. He’s a pillar in our community and people come out just to support him and what he’s supporting,” Catty said.

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The race itself is also sponsored by staple businesses in the community such as Haydel Family Practice, Trapp Cadillac Chevrolet, Haydel Memorial Hospice, and Terrebonne General Health System. Catty said one of her favorite aspects of the event is how the whole community is able to come together and keep up a tradition like this for so long. She sees it as a true testament to what Dr. Dicky means to the

AN EVENT FOR AUTHORS, WRITERS, & READERS

AN EVENT FOR AUTHORS, WRITERS, & READERS LUNCH & LISTEN

AN EVENT FOR AUTHORS, WRITERS, & READERS

LUNCH & LISTEN

The Jamabalaya Writers’ Conference is excited to announce a new addition to our program. Regional poets David Middleton, Ed Hammerl, Farren Clark, and Ariel Francisco Henriquez will be reading

The Jamabalaya Writers’ Conference is excited to announce a new addition to our program. Regional poets David Middleton, Ed Hammerl, Farren Clark, and Ariel Francisco Henriquez will be reading and discussing poems from their collections. Please join us and share how grief, love, and home can all be one feeling. Lunches of jambalaya, white beans, bread, and dessert are available for pre-purchase for $15. Tea, lemonade, and water will be available. Reserve your ticket today.*

Reserve your ticket today.*

PIAZZA

TOM PIAZZA

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

DOORS OPEN 9 AM

New Orleanian Tom Piazza is celebrated both as a novelist and as a writer on American music. His twelve books include the novels The Auburn Conference and City of Refuge, the short-story collection Blues and Trouble, the post-Katrina manifesto Why New Orleans Matters, and the essay collection Devil Sent The Rain. He was a principal writer for the innovative New Orleans-based HBO drama series TREME, and the winner of a Grammy Award for his album notes to Martin Scorsese Presents The Blues: A Musical Journey.

His twelve books include the novels The Auburn Conference and City of Refuge, the short-story collection Blues and Trouble, the post-Katrina manifesto Why New Orleans Matters, and the essay collection Devil Sent The Rain. He was a principal writer for the innovative New Orleans-based HBO drama series TREME, and the winner of a Grammy Award for his album notes to Martin Scorsese Presents The Blues: A Musical Journey.

*Funding for this project has been provided by the State of Louisiana and administered by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities (LEH). The views, ﬁndings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in (publication, program, exhibition, website) do not necessarily represent those of either the Louisiana vEndowment for the Humanities or the State of Louisiana.t

*Funding for this project has been provided by the State of Louisiana and administered by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities (LEH). The views, ﬁndings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this (publication, program, exhibition, website) do not necessarily represent those of either the Louisiana vEndowment for the Humanities or the State of Louisiana.t

DOORS OPEN 9 AM

SCHEDULE REGISTRATION FORM

Registration for the conference is FREE, however we will have a limited supply of lunches of chicken and sausage jambalaya, white beans, bread, and dessert available for pre-purchase for $15. Tea, lemonade, and water will be avaialable. Reserve your ticket today!

Registration for the conference is FREE however we will have a limited supply of lunches of chicken and sausage jambalaya, white beans, bread, and dessert available for pre-purchase for $15. Tea, lemonade, and water will be avaialable. Reserve your ticket today!

SCHEDULE REGISTRATION FORM

Although this year’s Tunnel Run involves all sorts of Easter madness, the event is different every year. In the past, they have had some fun with petting zoos, guests from the Saints experience, and appearances from mascots like the Chick-Fil-A cow. According to Catty, they try to incorporate as many people in the community as they can.

This Tunnel Run will begin on the backside of Division St. and take about five right

Main, Grand Caillou Rd. and through the tunnel, back to Division St. POV

•

Diagnostic Services

March in Houma is a time for food lovers to come together and celebrate the region’s rich culinary traditions. Two standout events, the Cast Iron Cook-Off and the Bayou Terrebonne Boucherie, offer unique experiences that showcase the creativity and skill of local chefs. Whether it’s the sizzling cast iron creations or the age-old tradition of a boucherie, these festivals bring the community together through food, music, and culture.

BY MARY DOWNER DITCH | PHOTOS PROVIDED

Every great event has a story, and the Cast Iron Cook-Off in Houma is no exception. What began as a unique fundraising idea has grown into an annual community celebration that brings people together over a shared love for food and service.

The idea for the Cast Iron Cook-Off was born from a long-standing tradition in the Rotary Club of Houma, where newer members collaborate on a fundraising project for the year. When former Rotarian Angie Walsh shared her vision of a cook-off centered around cast iron cookware, it was an idea too good to pass up. The versatility of cast iron allowed teams to prepare an incredible variety of dishes, making it a perfect fit for the event. Since its inception in 2019, the cook-off has continued to evolve and flourish, skipping only one year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now in its sixth year, the event has become a staple in the community, drawing an ever-growing crowd eager to taste the creativity on display.

Each year, the event attracts more than 2,000 attendees, with participation and excitement continuing to rise. Last year saw an unexpected but welcome surge of 1,000 additional guests compared to the previous year, demonstrating the festival’s increasing popularity. With 35-40 teams competing in multiple categories—Meat/Game, Seafood, Dessert, and Lagniappe (everything else)—there’s no shortage of culinary delights for attendees to enjoy.

South Louisiana is known for its adventurous and flavorful cuisine, and the Cast Iron Cook-Off is a testament to that reputation. Some of the most unique dishes prepared in past years include turtle sauce piquante, duck à l’orange, ragu patat, pork route,

crawfish cornbread pancakes, and boudin dip. The creativity of the teams keeps the festival fresh and exciting, ensuring that every year brings new surprises to the table.

Beyond the food and festivities, the heart of the event lies in its mission to give back to the community. Proceeds are divided between the Rotary Club of Houma’s service projects and a selected local nonprofit organization. In 2023, funds were used to provide carbon monoxide monitors to all 13 fire districts in Terrebonne Parish, helping keep first responders safe. Last year, the event supported the Start Corporation’s Veteran Program by stocking a food pantry for local veterans year-round. This year, proceeds will benefit the Bayou Equity Youth Foundation’s Mom Pantry program, which supplies food and hygiene products to over 2,000 local students in need.

The Cast Iron Cook-Off is more than just a food festival—it’s an experience. Nowhere else will you find an array of dishes like pork belly sliders, corn maque choux, poodoo wonton tacos, and ribeye rangoons, all in one place for an affordable admission price. The event is also family-friendly, offering a welcoming atmosphere for attendees of all ages.

The 2025 Cast Iron Cook-Off will take place on Saturday, March 15, from 11 AM to 3 PM in Downtown Houma. This year’s entertainment will be provided by Beep Beep and the Jeeps, ensuring great music to accompany the delicious food. Admission is just $10, with discounts available for children.

Whether you’re a longtime attendee or a first-time visitor, the Cast Iron Cook-Off promises an unforgettable day of food, fun, and community spirit. POV

BY ISABELLE PINTO | PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY

While Louisiana has no shortage of fun parties to attend, our local festivals are truly able to capture the heart and soul of what makes the bayou area so special—and the Hache Grant Association’s annual Bayou Terrebonne Boucherie is one of those events.

bands, special cooking demonstrations, and a Kid’s Corner. One of the most memorable parts of the day is the beloved Cajun Cup, an Olympic-style competition full of fun, Louisiana-themed events.

Making it’s return on March 22 from 10 AM to 10 PM in downtown Houma, the Boucherie has been a staple of Terrebonne Parish ’ s festival lineup for five years and counting. "The Boucherie started in 2021 as an event to honor our Cajun culture and bring people in our community back together after COVID-19," said Hache Grant Association President Manny Merlos. "South Louisiana is all about family, food, and fun, so we wanted to create something that embodied that bayou spirit."

The first Boucherie was spearheaded by founding Hache Grant Association member and inaugural President Noah Lirette, and quickly snowballed into the multi-faceted festival that it is today—drawing thousands of patrons to Houma’s historic downtown.

The Bayou Terrebonne Boucherie ’ s slogan is "food, fun, and fais do-do," and the festival certainly lives up to those words, featuring over 5,000 lbs. of pork and 200 years of combined cooking experience from local chefs to create an unforgettable experience. There is also all-day live music from a variety of local

"We were thinking about something fun we could add to the festival that people might enjoy participating in and watching, and we came up with the Cajun Cup," said Manny. "It’s a really unique thing—we don't have anything else like this around the area."

The Cajun Cup events include a pirogue race in Bayou Terrebonne, a duck call competition, a penny nail drive, a chicken chase, and a barrel toss where local community members come together to show off their strength, Cajun style. Combined with the delicious food and swinging music, the Boucherie is the place to be this spring.

However, the Bayou Terrebonne Boucherie is not only about fun and good food—the festival also focuses on a long-term commitment to bettering our community. Proceeds from the festival go towards the Hache Grant Association’s revitalization projects in downtown Houma, including Hurricane Ida clean up efforts, the now-completed Houma Bandstand, and their current project, the Bayou Terrebonne Paddle Trail. All three of these projects aim to promote pride and spirit within the Houma community.

"It ’ s been so rewarding to see the Boucherie grow. Knowing the community is coming together to preserve our Cajun culture is amazing," said Manny. "Seeing families come out and enjoy the food, enjoy the music, and just have a great time brings something really special back into Houma." POV

WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE |

BY KATIE RICHARD, MA, BSN, RN, DIRECTOR OF

COLORECTAL CANCER INCREASING IN YOUNGER PATIENTS

Once considered a disease mostly affecting older individuals, colorectal cancer is now a leading cause of cancer deaths in people under 50. Alarmingly, Louisiana has among the country’s highest incidence rates of colorectal cancer.

However, the disease is highly treatable when detected early. Knowing warning signs and risks can help patients discuss concerns and screening options with their doctors.

March is National Colorectal Awareness Month and a good time for anyone 45 and older to schedule a screening. Call Thibodaux Regional Cancer Institute at (985) 493-4008 to find out more.

Here are other key points to keep in mind.

Rising Rates in Young Adults

Over the past decade, cancer rates overall continue to rise in people under 50, with colorectal cancer being a primary driver. Many cases are diagnosed at later stages because younger individuals nor their doctors may not suspect it, particularly if there’s no family history of colorectal cancer.

Risk Factors

• Family history and genetics—Family history of colon cancer or genetic conditions such as Lynch syndrome

increase risk. However, since underlying genetic risks have not increased significantly over the past few decades, environmental and lifestyle factors are likely culprits behind the rise of earlyonset cancers.

• Diet and lifestyle—High consumption of ultra-processed foods and red meats, low fiber intake, obesity, lack of exercise and heavy alcohol or tobacco use raise risk.

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)— Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis also increase the likelihood of developing colon cancer.

• Gut inflammation—Research shows chronic inflammation as a cause behind most chronic illnesses including cancer, heart disease, diabetes and arthritis.

Symptoms to Monitor

No matter your age, watch for symptoms such as:

• Change in bowel habits such as persistent diarrhea or constipation;

• Blood in stool or rectal bleeding;

• Unexplained weight loss;

• Abdominal pain or cramping;

• Fatigue or weakness;

• Feeling that bowel does not completely empty.

Early Detection

Colorectal cancer often doesn't cause

symptoms in the early stages. That’s why it’s important to remain vigilant about your body.

• Know your family history—If colon cancer runs in your family, you may need screening before age 45, the recommended age for average-risk adults.

• Colonoscopy—If you have symptoms or risk factors or have reached 45, talk to your doctor about a screening.

• At-home tests—Stool tests administered at home check for genetic changes in stool cells that could indicate colorectal cancer.

Prevention Steps

Eat more fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

• Limit processed foods and red meats.

• Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight.

• Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.

• Listen to your body, and don’t dismiss unusual digestive issues. Early detection saves lives, and awareness is key. Stay up to date on screenings to lower your colorectal cancer risk. Start by calling Thibodaux Regional Cancer Institute at 985.493.4008. POV

UNDER THE SCOPE |

BY JOHN DOUCET

THINGS YOU CAN(NOT) LIVE WITHOUT

I heard an interesting news story recently. I’d like to say that the story was so interesting it made my ears perk up, but that would be missing the whole point of it. The story was about ear muscles and the idea that humans haven’t used theirs in 25 million years.

Now, humans haven’t been around for 25 million years. What that misleading newsbite really meant is that modern humans have ear muscles like dogs and cats and other mammals that can voluntarily move their ears, but our ear muscles are not fully developed. With keen vision and a great brain to locate things, our prehistoric ancestors didn’t need to move their ears so much. The DNA controlling ear muscle development accumulated mistakes over many millennia, and, because those mistakes caused no harm to individuals, strong ear muscles were not transmitted from parent to offspring over millions of generations. That’s why we’re left today with only a vestige of once useful ear muscles. Wow. You know what? The newsbite sounds better.

To make controlled observations about ear muscles in nature, I engaged a laboratory assistant—my very domesticated cat. I made a hissing sound aloud, expecting to illicit a response. To my surprise, she sat motionless in the distance to the right, and only for a moment her left ear turned slightly in my direction before returning forward. Experiment successful, despite her cool, calm, and collected disregard (until feeding time) for the human with immobile ears.

Ear muscles are one of many body structures in humans that come from our distant ancestry on Earth but that are no longer necessary for modern wellbeing. Sorta like 8-track tapes and cassettes but made of flesh and not plastic. While those tapes became obsolete over a matter of decades, ear muscles and other fleshy structures took much, much longer. We spend much of our lives accumulating stuff like 8-tracks and then try to get rid of it by selling it on eBay and Amazon Marketplace. But biology is slow and has no resale mechanism; instead, its most effective way of getting rid of useless things is to just let them degenerate and fade away across generations. Like ear muscles, we call these apparently useless structures “vestigial.”

The most infamous vestigial structure in humans is the appendix—that little squiggly extension of the lower right turn of the intestines. Sometimes it’s called the “vermiform” appendix because its shaped like a vermin—in this case a worm. Other mammals have appendixes, and that may be associated with their plant-rich diets. In humans, however, an appendix can be surgically removed without affecting life much. So, does the appendix have any benefit in the human world? Most say no, but I disagree: In the course of the six weeks after mine ruptured at age 13, it surely benefitted the finances of my local hospital. So, yes it does have benefit.

Wisdom teeth--that third set of molars in the back of your jaws—are also considered vestigial in modern humans. Like appendixes, wisdom teeth can be surgically removed without affecting life much. They, too, may be a vestige of a plant-rich diet before our ancestors learned to soften veggies over fire or to eat soft dinosaur meat. And they clearly have an economic benefit in the human world—in this case to oral surgeons. In these respects, wisdom teeth and appendixes are quite similar, though, being from opposite ends of the digestive tract, not in an appealing way.

Though my cat did not show a startle response at my hissing, less cool cats would react with their fur raised. This happens when the startled nervous system contracts tiny

“arrector pili” muscles across the skin that make hairs stand upright in their follicles. As part of the startle response, it’s believed that such a reaction increases the apparent size of the animal in hopes that its foe will back down from a fight. Compared to furry animals, there’s not much hair on human skin, but if something made “the hair back of your neck stand up” that’s the same sort of startle reaction. Without hair, however, those tiny muscle contractions simply cause “goosebumps.” So, do goosebumps have any benefit in the human world? Most say no, but I disagree: Goosebumps on a selected human are an important nonverbal cue of your impact. Like when you’re dating. Clearly, that’s a useful function in a relatively hairless species.

Speaking of dating, mammals who live in the wild and depend on pheromones to find mates have a concentrated cluster of sensory cells in their nasal passages called the “vomeronasal organ,” which is specialized for ultrasensitive scent detection. Such animals may also have a third eyelid called a “nictitating membrane,” which helps protect and moisten the eye. (“Nictitating” is another word for “winking.”) In humans, with keen vision and a great brain, both the vomeronasal organ and the nictitating membrane are reduced, and most say vestigial. But I disagree: It’s clear that the vomeronasal, the nictitating, and the pili structures work in concert during those precious moments in life when you’re simply looking for that special sign.

Flexing ear muscles are not typically that kind of sign. But there may be other uses. Consider that great Merrie Melodies cartoon called “Malibu Beach Party” with clever caricatures of famous Hollywood stars from the 1940s, like Betty Davis, Bob Hope, and Cary Grant. While all the cartooned stars are relaxing on the beach in Malibu, Clark Gable is out in the gentle surf swimming by backstroke, propelled not by his arms but rather by his true-tolife oversized ears.

But if you’re one of the 90% of humans living today who cannot voluntarily move their ears, don’t despair: There’s probably a lot of other muscles you haven’t used in a very long time. POV

She was honored with the Community Living Award at the Louisiana ARC State Conference—one of just 32 statewide awards given.

Even more remarkable, she was the only recipient on the autism spectrum.

Houma Rotary Cast Iron Cook-Off

March 15, 11 a.m.

Downtown Houma

The Houma Rotary Cast Iron Cookoff features 35+ cooking teams serving their best dishes cooked in cast iron cookware. For a $10 admission fee, you can taste everything, vote for your favorite, and support a great cause! In addition to delicious food, the Cast Iron Cookoff will have live local music, local artists displaying their work, and kid activities.

St. Patrick’s Day on the Bayou

March 15, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Downtown Thibodaux

Join Friends of Bayou Lafourche and the Bayou Lafourche Freshwater District as they turn Downtown Thibodaux green for a fun-filled celebration of St. Patrick’s Day on the Bayou! Enjoy live music, delicious food and drinks, and the famous Cardboard Boat Race that brings out the creativity and competitive spirit in everyone.

Lip Sync Terrebonne

March 15

Cypress Columns, Gray

In an effort to raise funds for the American Cancer Society and Relay for Life, along with bringing a new fun event to the area, Lip Sync Battle was formed. We are excited to announce Season 4! We expect the new performers to just start where the previous season left off, bringing their own spin to this fun and interactive event.

5th Annual Bayou Terrebonne Boucherie

March 22, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Bayou Terrebonne Distillers, Houma Brought to you by the Hache Grant Association, the boucherie is right around the corner, and it’s going to be bigger than ever! More pork, more music, more cajun shenanigans. Visit hachegrant.com more information.

Home Is Where the Heart Is: The

Haven Spring Gala

March 22, 6-9 p.m.

Barry P. Bonvillain Civic Center

Presented by Thibodaux Regional Health System, this special event that helps to raise awareness and funds in support of victims of

domestic violence and sexual assault. Guests can enjoy cuisine from local restaurants and chefs, participate in the silent and live auctions featuring hundreds of items, including the infamous “Gourmet-to-Go” which offers delicious homemade delicacies, take part in raffles, and much more!

Best Dressed Sneaker Soiree Cook-Off

March 29, 6-10 p.m.

Rendezvous, Thibodaux

Lace up your best sneakers and join us for the Girls on the Run Bayou Region Council Best Dressed Sneaker Soiree! After the fashion show, guests will enjoy sips and shops at pop ups from local boutiques, and dance the night away with our Bayou Region supermodels.

Super Cooper 5K & Fun Run

March 29, 8-11 a.m.

117 Prevost Drive, Houma

Join the fun at the 19th annual Super Cooper 5K! All proceeds benefit local families whose newborn infants are admitted to our local Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Online registration begins at 7 a.m., with the 1 mile fun run beginning at 8 a.m., followed by the 5K. Participants will enjoy music, food, refreshments and fun following the races.

Twin Fest Louisiana

March 29, 9 a.m.

Downtown Houma

Get ready for double the fun and endless excitement at the 2nd Annual Twin Fest Louisiana! A celebration of twins, multiples, and everyone who loves them, this festival is for all! Join in for a 5K run, delicious bites from food vendors, unique finds at craft booths, a kid’s zone for the little ones, and live entertainment that’ll have you dancing in no time.

Irish Italian Parade

March 30, 1 p.m.

Houma

The parade will feature finely decorated floats with participants tossing carrots, potatoes, cabbage, pickles, bell peppers, and more–everything needed for a classic Irish stew! The parade will start on Westside Boulevard between Cannata’s and Walmart. From there, the parade will follow the same route as Mardi Gras. POV

Find the 9 differences in this photo from our story on page 1o!

ANSWERS TO LAST MONTH:

Added petal to flower 6. Changed "woman" to "women"

7. Added flower

8. Added necklace 9. Removed star

1. Changed color of star

2. Removed bead hooks

3. Removed flower

4. Changed color of nose