Our mission is to reduce pain, increase function and quality of life, and to minimize the need for treatment with opioids and/or surgery, through various interventional techniques.
WE CREATE CUSTOMIZED CARE PLANS FOCUSED ON DIAGNOSING AND TREATING THE SOURCE OF CHRONIC PAIN.
PROCEDURES
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MAIN PHONE: (985) 223-3132
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We look forward to seeing you at one of our convenient locations.
HOUMA OFFICE 1022 Belanger St. Houma, LA 70360
THIBODAUX OFFICE 2100 Audubon Avenue Thibodaux, LA 70301
MORGAN CITY OFFICE 1124 Eighth Street Morgan City, LA 70380
LAFAYETTE OFFICE 1101 S. College Road Suite 202 Lafayette, LA 70503 337-233-2504
January 2025 2 povhouma.com
Keith P. Duplantis, MD Andrew E. Barker, MD Daniel R. Clayton, PA-C Donovan J. Matherne, FNP-C
Michael S. Haydel, MD, FIPP, ABIPP
Chip Autin shares his journey of running LA1 in six
Inspiration is a funny thing. Sometimes it arrives in life’s grand, sweeping moments—a finish line crossed, a book published, a day shelter built. But often, it’s nestled in the small, quiet places we might overlook: a deep breath after a hard day, a kind word from a stranger, or a moment of reflection. Inspiration can emerge when we least expect it, and it often reminds us that the strength to move forward can come from within.
January’s issue always reflects on inspiration. This theme came to us after one too many “new year, new you” types of messages were placed in front of us. Sure, it’s easy to use the new year to make a new start…but how do you find the inspiration to actually take the first step towards your goal? What inspires you to even set that goal?
In a bit of a joke, I asked my friend ChatGPT to “find my inspiration.” Chat responded, “Finding inspiration often starts with reconnecting to what you love or value.” Ok, Chat, ok! Pretty deep for artificial intelligence, right? But the AI was right. When I look for inspiration to write an article, or to just get through a day, I always turn to my family. They are truly what I love and value. My husband John and my son Jackson never fail to make me smile, and in turn inspire me in ways they might never realize. John’s steadfast personality, reassuring words, and ability to remain calm. Jackson’s constant quest for knowledge and endless imagination. They are my inspiration for every breath, for every heartbeat; my inspiration to rise up and continue pressing on.
Louisiana’s iconic Highway 1 in just six days—the fastest known time for this route. His journey is about more than physical endurance; it’s a story of perseverance, self-discovery, and the power of reclaiming one’s life, step by step. Follow his journey starting on page 14.
This month’s issue celebrates the many ways we find inspiration and the incredible individuals in our community who embody that theme. We proudly introduce you to Chip Autin. A recovering addict, Chip recently accomplished a remarkable feat, running the length of
We also introduce you to Heather Benoit, a teacher turned author, whose children’s book, The Gratitude Crayon, illustrates the profound impact of love and gratitude. Heather’s journey from the classroom to the page is a testament to the idea that inspiration often grows from our everyday experiences. Her message is clear: love costs nothing, but its value is immeasurable. Share in her experience starting on page 18.
The Firm Foundation in Houma is proving that inspiration can also be found in the compassion we extend to others. Operating as a day shelter for the homeless, this organization offers more than meals and a safe place to rest— it provides hope, dignity, and a reminder that everyone deserves a firm foundation to rebuild their lives. Their work shows us that sometimes, the greatest inspiration comes from lifting others up. Learn more starting on page 22.
As we move through our days, it’s easy to get caught up in the noise of the world, to overlook the sparks of inspiration that surround us. This issue invites you to pause, to reflect, and to recognize that inspiration can be found in the simplest of places: in the kindness of others, in the resilience of the human spirit, and even deep within ourselves.
May these stories inspire you as they have inspired us. Together, let’s celebrate the power of finding inspiration and sharing it with the world in this new year. POV
Share one lesson from last year that you are bringing into 2025.
ZOE
One lesson from last year that I am bringing into 2025 is to stop pouring into cups that don’t pour into mine. Being true to my needs and having a deeper sense of well-being will help me authentically show up for others in my life.
MADISON
Something I’ve experienced that I’ll keep with me in the new year is to constantly look for the joy in all things. Everyone has something hard going on or walking through tough things in their lives that we don’t know about. Instead of sinking into ourselves, I choose to carry joy and hope for the good things to come.
GANNON
I think one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned throughout this year is to focus on the bigger picture. All of the small things that aren’t as important does not need to constantly be a concern in my everyday life. This mainly is important for the things that I cannot change. It was hard for me at first to admit it because I am the type of person who always tries to fix everything. By focusing on what really matters and not the small trivial things, I improved my overall outlook on life as a whole.
JENNA
One lesson I learned in 2024 that I am taking with me into 2025 is that I do not have to do things alone. Creating a safe space for women has made me realize that no matter how successful we look on the outside, we still have daily struggles and challenges we face. By creating this community of women (EmpowerHER Life Houma), I have realized we are stronger together! The new friends and connections this group has given me is priceless. Being surrounded by the right people is what helps you succeed in life.
KALISHA
The lesson of 2024 that I will bring to 2025 is "Delayed is not denied!" 2024 has blown my mind with a deferred dream that manifested after 15 years of dreaming. Living my dream today has incentivized me to keep the faith no matter how long it takes! In 2025, I will not be discouraged if things don't happen when I "want" them to. For I have learned, things will happen when they are supposed to. And, when they do, God’s timing will be perfect!
MODERN INNOVATION
BY MARY DOWNER DITCH | PHOTOS BY ADRIENNE TREGRE
In April, Gros Flores Positerry (GFP) Architecture & Interior Design unveiled their new headquarters in Acadia Plantation, located in Thibodaux. The innovative space, designed with a modern aesthetic, extensive use of natural light, and gulf coast style, is a reflection of the Firm’s commitment to progressive architecture and sustainability. The building’s silhouette against the clear sky symbolizes the vision to blend the Firm’s creativity with the region’s unique beauty.
The property also features a stunning 30foot Medjool palm, known for its robust size and lush foliage, was carefully selected to symbolize the growth and resilience of GFP Architecture & Interior Design. This
planting marks not only a new phase in the company’s expansion, but also reinforces its commitment to integrating natural elements into its designs. This landmark addition was made possible through the collaboration with the Foret Group (Landscaping Contractor) and JHA Landscape Architects (Jenny Aucoin).
GFP is a highly experienced regional firm with a wealth of expertise in the governmental, healthcare, and educational sectors.The firm has been in operation since 1949 and is currently under its third generation of leadership, with a reputation for delivering quality architectural services to clients within the Bayou region. GFP also recently announced that they have entered
the Top 15 of the LSU100 Fastest Growing Tiger-Owned, Tiger-Led Businesses in Louisiana, climbing over 50 spots from last year to secure the #14 position.
GFP maintains a diverse portfolio of projects and has embraced the unique challenges and opportunities presented by our clients and the region we serve. The team is highly versatile and able to effectively contribute to any type of project. GFP has been successful in creating beautiful interior and exterior spaces that offer a pleasing integration of architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical system elements. POV
EXTERIOR IMAGE BY MIKE PALUMBO
BY ISABELLE PINTO
CHANNING CANDIES
Houma-native Chip Autin is bringing new meaning to the very ideas of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. On December 4, 2024, the local athlete completed a shocking 6-day, 432 mile run across the state of Louisiana—all while raising awareness for drug addiction and celebrating his own 10 year anniversary of sobriety.
Born and raised in Houma, Chip found a passion for running at an early age, despite an initial dislike of the sport. "I played soccer in high school but I didn't have much stamina—I had to ask the coach to take me out for breaks throughout the games," said Chip. "So my dad signed me up for cross country without telling me my junior year, and even though I was mad at first, after a season I fell in love with it."
In the years to come, Chip experienced a markedly difficult time in his life— suffering a multi-year drug addiction while his father battled cancer. "My dad was in and out of hospitals for most of his life, and wasn't the healthiest person. He ended up passing away from brain cancer," explained Chip. "It hit me one day that I didn't want to live my life in hospitals, and I decided to take active action to get healthy again."
Chip became successfully sober in 2014, and, inspired by his father, picked up running again in May of 2015. Chip’s passion for running stretched further than the average athlete, however, as he became involved in extremely long distance running—often referred to as "ultra running" or "ultra marathons." This interest in pushing his physical endurance led to the inspiration for his recent 432 mile run.
"I was gearing up to run my second hundred-mile race, and normally when an event is getting close to happening, I start setting goals for what I'd like to do after it’s done," explained Chip. "I knew I wanted to do something special to mark my 10 year anniversary of sobriety, and it had always been an idea in the back of my mind to run LA 1. I knew that would be an amazing way
PHOTOS BY
to mark this accomplishment, all while raising awareness about drug addiction."
Louisiana Highway 1 is the longest highway in the state, beginning on the northwest state border with Texas and winding diagonally through Shreveport, Alexandria, Baton Rouge, and Thibodaux, before finally ending in Grand Isle.
Chip quickly started preparing for this feat in October of 2023, roughly a year before the run would take place. "We knew this would be a huge undertaking, and I couldn't do it without support," said Chip. "I contacted my friends and support team—Wally and Nikki Naquin, Stephanie Fulton, and Lance Wesley— and told them about the idea, and they said, 'When do we start?'" In January of 2024, physical training for this run officially began.
Although Chip had run hundreds of miles before, preparation for his 432 mile run across the state of Louisiana pushed him to limits he never expected. "I felt very confident in my training, and I never had any doubts—I knew I was physically and mentally prepared to handle it," said Chip. "However, in the months and weeks leading up to the run, there were so many difficulties I never expected."
Chip experienced a slew of obstacles during the training process, including hurricane scares, stress, and difficulty fitting his daily training around an already demanding work schedule. "There were days I would wake up at 1:00 in the morning to get my run in, because I had to travel several hours for work that day," said Chip. "I was exhausted."
Scheduling challenges were only part of the stress Chip and his team faced, as several physical ailments threatened to derail the training process over the course of 2024. From minor injuries to serious health concerns, Chip worked with physical therapists to promote active recovery while still training, and pushed through the pain to remain on schedule.
Finally, on November 27, 2024, Chip began his 432 mile run on LA 1 in northwest Louisiana—and touched the highway’s dead end in Grand Isle at 2:30 AM on December 4, 2024. Chip’s impressive time of 6 days and 22 hours far exceeded his projected completion time of 7-10 days. During this incredible 6-day journey, Chip continued to post on his social media to update followers on his progress, raise awareness about drug addiction and recovery, answer questions, and mark his own 10 year anniversary of sobriety.
"I struggled with the idea of ever being worth anything to the world after quitting drugs. I felt like I would always be judged by my past and seen as a former junkie who would never amount to anything," said Chip. "God laid out a path for me even though I have battled my faith and questioned Him for many years. He never gave up on me, though, and He continued to guide me to the place where He needed me."
For Chip, the most rewarding part of the 432 mile run was the last day, and seeing
what an impact his run had on those in the community. "I almost didn't share that I was going to complete this run, because I honestly didn't think anyone would care about the run or the message," chuckled Chip. "So even when I first announced it and it caught a lot of attention, I was still in denial that people cared. But once I got to Thibodaux, so many people started coming out to cheer me on for the final stretch of the run, with posters, words of support, car honks and more—It was incredible to see how the message had inspired so many people."
As Chip begins an extensive few months of recovery following this incredible run, he continues to look forward to what he might do next. "I have a few things in mind—I would love to run the longest highways in every state as a part of raising drug addiction awareness," said Chip. "To anyone out there struggling
in active addiction, or in recovery but insecure in your future, know that you have a purpose. You don’t have to run 432 miles to be extraordinary, you already are extraordinary. Stop being afraid of what the world thinks of you—become the ripple in others lives so that they may be the ripple to others!"
Chip continues to be a testament to the power of resilience, purpose, and community: spreading the lesson that recovery is possible, and every step forward is a victory. As he continues his journey—both as an athlete and an advocate—Chip hopes his example will inspire others to find their own path to strength, healing, and the belief that they too can accomplish the unimaginable. POV
Heather Benoit is a teacher–turned–author with a heartwarming message to spread. Born and raised in Thibodaux, La., Heather taught in the Thibodaux public school system for years, having most recently taught at Thibodaux Elementary.
Throughout her life here, Heather has always been involved in community service. Philanthropy, as she puts it, was always something big on her heart. Writing was also a great passion for her from a young age, and because of that, she believes where she is was just where God wanted her to be.
“I actually had a poem published in ‘Chicken Soup for the Soul’ when I was about twelve. It was the first time I went out and submitted some of my poetry.
Growing up, I kept a binder of short stories and poems. I knew I always enjoyed writing, and working with kids. I think where I am today is not surprising because I’ve always had a heart for serving others,” Heather shared.
Now, Heather runs a non-profit called Beyond the Bell, at which she recently made ten years. This program’s mission focuses on enhancing the lives of at-risk youth. Their goal is to provide wholesome experiences, new opportunities, and unconditional love to children from broken homes or with a traumatic past.
“Our center serves as a happy, safe, positive space where they can be themselves and get that love and guidance they need to be a well-rounded citizen. Our ultimate goal is
January 2025 18 povhouma.com
to get them to be citizens in a community, to be able to give back, to be able to work and make it a better place,” Heather said.
The community initiative is in a very poverty-stricken area with high crime.
As Heather describes it, the job was a real “here’s a blank canvas, paint your picture” opportunity. As a former teacher, she began this mission with an education component: after school programs where kids got help with their homework and could openly talk about what was coming up for school and get help with things like band fees.
“When I first started, it was a lot of just building those relationships and earning that trust. Just trying to break the cycles in that community so there wouldn't be
BY EVAN CRESSOINE | PHOTOS BY CHANNING CANDIES
so much drug usage, shootings, and high crime. As the years went on, I saw the need for financial help,” Heather said.
It was around that time, Heather shared, that the non-profit really took off in doing partnerships, fundraising, and getting grants for those kids who wanted to be in band or sports but could not afford it. Just recently, Heather discovered that one kid in her program made the first chair for an honor band playing the tuba. As of now, the program has a 100% success rate and works everyday to make a real difference in these kids’ lives.
During her time teaching and her present life working in the non-profit, Heather does not hesitate to admit that her favorite part of both have been the children. She’s been told by friends that kids just seem to gravitate toward her and she wants to believe it is due to her kind nature, her high energy, and non-judgmental spirit.
“A lot of times it’s so hard for kids to find that trust. Especially like me, I’m a white lady coming into this predominantly black community, so it took a while to build that trust. But, once they saw how much I love those kids and how much I do for them, that’s when that trust built,” Heather said.
She also greatly appreciates having a creative outlet through her work both in the classroom and in the non-profit. Her life is fulfilled by spending time with kids and making a difference in their lives.
Her new book, The Gratitude Crayon, was inspired by a moment during her last year of teaching when a child gifted her a simple purple crayon because he knew it was her favorite color. It made such a significant impact on Heather because, as she said, this specific student was such a memorable light in her class.
“I think the reason I shared this story is just the importance of gratitude it teaches. He, in that moment when we had our Christmas party, saw multiple classmates coming up to me to give me a gift. He didn’t have anything in his school bag that anybody bought to give me. But, he took it upon himself to grab the resources he had of a box, Christmas paper, and a purple crayon, and wrapped it up and gave it to me. To know that he took that time to come up with this plan to still be able
to give me something, meant the world to me,” Heather shared.
She instantly saw the importance in that small moment and how it meant that you didn’t need money to show someone you appreciate them or to make them feel seen. Her students always knew purple was her favorite color by her purple markers and tennis shoes, but this student took the time to recognize that and gift her his own purple crayon. She still keeps it in its box to this day on her desk. If she’s having a rough day, she opens it up to remind herself to be grateful and that love does not cost anything.
Heather decided to share this story first as a Facebook post around two years ago. She took notice of an influx of negativity on social media so she decided to share a picture of the crayon and the story of the boy who gave it to her. The post soon went viral and Heather found herself on ABC news. Knowing she always wanted to be an author, she decided to turn this story that seemed to resonate with many into her first children’s book.
In the book, she writes about the Christmas party they had in class that fateful day and the process the student went through to give her this special gift. And though the story was clear, the process of creating the book had its setbacks.
Heather ultimately decided to self-publish after looking into traditional publishing and finding it a bit too pricey. She wanted to know the ins and outs so she took it upon herself. After writing the book early in 2024, the biggest personal challenge she faced was getting the format of the book just right. She spent a lot of time watching YouTube videos and researching on what to do and how to do, and clearly, it all paid off.
As for the illustrations, Heather went back and forth on what she would do with them. In the end, she was able to turn her book into a family project by getting her son and husband to draw the illustrations, making it all the more personal. She has also had the opportunity to read the books to classrooms of students, spreading this
message of gratitude to schools around the community.
Heather definitely plans to write more children’s books in the future. She realized this story was one children and adults needed to hear when a boy in her non-profit program walked into her office and asked her what was in the white box on her desk. She showed him the purple crayon and told the story. After this book, Heather said the kids in her program gave her the idea that her next story should be about how the program was started, and each kid could draw a page in it.
She’s excited to show how much of a family the kids in her program are to her. While there are so many more notable moments from her days in the classroom that she’d love to revisit and write about, Heather really wants to create more stories about the program she’s working in now to further the message of helping others.
The Gratitude Crayon is available for purchase on Amazon, ready to inspire the spirit of giving in everyone who reads it. POV
BY ISABELLE PINTO
BY CHANNING CANDIES
The Firm Foundation of Houma, a local organization dedicated to assisting individuals experiencing homelessness in Terrebonne Parish, is making a profound impact on the local community.
Started in the fall of 2023 by Heidi and Gary Williams, the Firm Foundation began with the mission to help those in need in Terrebonne Parish. "My husband Gary works at the District Attorney’s office, so from the judicial side, he saw first hand the dramatic increase in homelessness in Terrebonne Parish," explained Heidi. "I work as a Physician’s Assistant, so from a medical point of view, I also noticed the increased need across Houma– especially after Hurricane Ida and the recent inflation. People were struggling and needed help.”
After praying on the subject, both Heidi and Gary-- who work full time and are parents to two young children-- knew that they had to do something to help out the community. "We began thinking of ways we could be part of the solution," said Heidi. "We both knew something had to happen in our area, and so the Firm Foundation was born."
Using the model of the Harry Thompson Center in New Orleans, Heidi and Gary created the Firm Foundation with the mission of providing a safe, calm, and caring refuge for those experiencing homelessness, and with the guiding idea that everyone deserves to have their basic needs met. Those in need can come to the Firm Foundation ’ s Homeless Day
PHOTOS
Center, located at 440 Magnolia Street in Houma, to enjoy a fresh-cooked meal, a shower, laundry services, bathrooms, electricity, phone access, case management assistance, and more.
"We wanted to create a place for people to come where they didn't feel unwelcome," continued Heidi. "There is no place for them to be downtown, and within our few months of being in operation we have seen how deeply this service was needed."
Since opening their doors in April of 2024, Firm Foundation’s Day Center has had roughly 1,800 people check in to use their services. Of that total number, around 500 guests have used shower services, and another 500 have used laundry services.
"We have everyone check-in, although there is no background check process-the information is purely for our own statistics," explained Heidi. "We wanted access to our services to have minimal barriers so no one is excluded. Seeing these numbers shows us how desperately these basic services were needed."
As Firm Foundation approaches the oneyear anniversary of their Day Center opening, Heidi and Gary are looking back on the most rewarding moments of undertaking this much-needed mission.
"It has been so incredibly rewarding to see how well the community has received this project and supported us," said Heidi. "It was scary for us to get started, but we are so glad we did. While we never push religion in our shelter or use religious beliefs as a barrier, for us personally, this project was fueled by our obedience to God and His grace."
As Firm Foundation celebrates these significant milestones, Heidi and Gary Williams continue to be inspired by the resilience of those they serve and the outpouring of support from the community. With unwavering dedication and a deep sense of purpose, Firm Foundation remains a beacon of hope for individuals in Terrebonne Parish experiencing homelessness, ensuring that everyone in need has access to the resources and compassion they deserve. POV
- ISAIAH 33:6
WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE |
BY KATIE RICHARD, MA, BSN, RN, DIRECTOR OF
A NEW YEAR, A NEW YOU
Ready or not, a new year is here! It’s time to sweep out the old ways and aspire to becoming a new you in the new year.
Transforming habits that negatively impact your wellbeing into a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle helps you look and feel better. Remember to set attainable goals and pace yourself.
Keep moving.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), physical activity is one of the best things you can do to improve your health and live longer. CDC guidelines recommend 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly for adults.
Movement might be five days of 30-minute workouts like brisk walking, dancing or cycling. Also include at least two strength training sessions per week. Mayo Clinic studies indicate that 7,000 daily steps may be enough to increase life spans.
If you cannot commit to 30 minutes a day, try other beneficial activities including:
Gardening
Parking farther away
Opting for stairs instead of elevators
Playing with the kids
30 seconds of squats and 30 seconds of push-ups daily
Practicing yoga or tai chi for balance, flexibility and mindfulness
Eat your vegetables.
Vegetables help keep you healthy, as do fruits, whole grains, fish, nuts, legumes and lean proteins. Following heart-healthy food plans such as the Mediterranean diet provides your body with a balance of nutrients.
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers an easy-to-use My Plate nutrition plan with daily portions of basic food groups. It recommends a variety of colorful produce—red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple—at mealtime.
Most adults get the nutrients they need from balanced diets. However, as you age, your body tends to produce less calcium, vitamin D and vitamin B12. Talk with your doctor about any concerns over deficiencies.
Here are other helpful eating tips:
• Time meals throughout the day, eating every 3–4 hours; avoid bingeing at night
• Don't snack out of the bag; plate everything
• Sit down to eat
• Eat mindfully, not mindlessly while scrolling, watching TV or staring into the fridge
Go to bed.
Set a bedtime routine. Late nights tempt
noshing, and lack of sleep can lead to eating more the next day.
To get the recommended 7 to 8 hours of nightly sleep, try:
• Investing in a new mattress, pillows and comfy bedding
• Lowering the thermostat
• Reading a book, not a tablet
• Turning off all screens at least an hour before bedtime
Remember other healthy habits.
• Brush your teeth three times daily and floss nightly
• Wash your face twice daily and use moisturizers (men too)
• Wear sunscreen every day, year-round
• Hydrate—eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily
• Limit alcohol to one glass of wine per day for women and two glasses for men
• Quit smoking
Before making major changes to health and wellness routines, consult with your healthcare provider. For more information on health and wellness services, contact Thibodaux Regional Wellness Education Center, 985.493.4765. POV
UNDER THE SCOPE | BY
JOHN DOUCET
MONKEY BUSINESS
On November 6, 2024, 43 rhesus macaque monkeys escaped from a primate research facility southwest of Charleston, South Carolina. Thirty-nine animals have since returned, but four remained at large through December. One has been found in the forested area along the BourgLarose Highway between Lafourche and Terrebonne Parishes. It has agreed to this interview.
Reporter: Happy New Year! You’ve been missing for two months now. Did you know that it’s January?
Macaque: I’ve been away from the office calendar. However, I did notice long lines of customers at return counters in big box stores. So at least I knew that Christmas was over.
Reporter: All of the world wants to know where you’ve been and what you’ve been up to.
Macaque: Holiday vacation!
Reporter: Here?
Macaque: I follow warm weather. The Carolinas were getting pretty cold.
Reporter: And it took two months to get here?
Macaque: Opposable thumbs are not as effective at hitch-hiking as you might think.
Reporter: How do you find the bayou area? Do you like it here?
Macaque: It’s considerably warmer than the east coast, which is what I sought in a vacation destination. And the trees are not too tall to climb. The mangrove swamps remind me of the native lands described by my ancestors. But I know that I must be cautious: I understand there are recipes for everything here.
Reporter: Do you consider yourself wild game?
Macaque: Not at all! But when police try to bait us into cages with a few nuts and berries? And telling the public to lock their doors and windows and to call 911 if we get close? We’re certainly treated like wild game! Of course, some of us danced and performed acrobatics for the thermal imaging cameras to amuse the search party. I suppose humans could call that wild.
Reporter: French speakers down here would call that “making the macaquerie.”
Macaque: I don’t understand what that means.
Reporter: Never mind. It should please you to know, however, that 39 of your group are safe and sound and in good health back at your facility.
Macaque: They needed to return. They didn’t have the accrued holiday leave that I do.
Reporter: Do you know where the others are?
Macaque: If I do, I’ll never tell.
Reporter: What happens in Las Vegas stays in Las Vegas, right?
Macaque: I don’t understand what that means.
Reporter: Never mind. That’s just a human cliché. Are you hungry? I brought some bananas.
Macaque: I’m not a chimp. And that’s another human cliché.
Reporter: Then let’s talk about the escape. They say that you learned to unlock your cage door.
Macaque: It was easy for me. Our keepers cut cable and internet services in November to stay within the annual budget. Without HBO and Netflix, I studied the cage door to stay amused.
Reporter: How does it make you feel to know that you’re being bred for medical testing?
Macaque: It’s quite calming and affirming to know one’s true purpose in life.
Reporter: But medical testing?
Macaque: Okay. Two purposes in life.
Reporter: Speaking of testing, your relatives helped find vaccines for rabies, smallpox, polio, and HIV.
Macaque: Heroes, all of them. Luckily, we don’t suffer much from human diseases. Just a little malaise. Apparently, we have a talent for making antibodies.
Reporter: And don’t forget discovery of the Rh factor, which was named for your species.
Macaque: I never forget our glorious history.
Reporter: Which tests have you been part of?
Macaque: None. We escapees are not of the testing stock. We are of that other purpose.
Reporter: Speaking of purpose, I’ve read about Albert II, the first primate in space. He was your relative, correct?
Macaque: Yes. That was 1949. When scientists came looking for volunteers, he leapt to the cage door and bared a wide, toothy smile. NASA knows courage when they see it. He was selected for the mission. Great Uncle Albert is a legend: so brave, so singular of purpose.
Reporter: That’s inspiring to hear. For humans, some of us spend entire lives seeking purpose.
Macaque: Hang-in there, brother. Tails aren’t the only prehensile feature of us primates.
Reporter: Any advice for tailless primates who are still seeking?
Macaque: Each day is a cage. Study the lock on that cage door closely, and on one great day you will figure out how to open the door. Then you, too, can dance before the thermal cameras.
Reporter: I never thought of it that way.
Macaque: Humans don’t need to think. They have smart phones.
Reporter: Your plans for the future?
Macaque: Heading out today. I need to return soon to avoid getting charged unpaid leave. I’m going to leap away now and then screech and dance a bit to alert the other escapees. We’ll return to the facility as a group. In a few days, depending on our success at hitch-hiking, you’ll be able to report that we’ve voluntarily returned. With that, we said our good-byes. It outstretched its hand to take mine, making certain to fold its opposable thumb across my own. It leapt away and made the macaquerie. It was soon joined in the trees by three others. POV
Houma Family Dental
RENDEZVOUS | WHERE YOU NEED TO BE AROUND TOWN
Market at the Marina
January 4, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Downtown Houma Marina
The market features many local vendors selling lots of local goods such as fruits, vegetables, bread, jams and jellies, meat and seafood, homemade body care products, and so many other amazing items!
Cajun Dance Lessons
January 8 & 22, 6-7 p.m.
Terrebonne Parish Main Library
Get your dancing shoes ready and join us for an hour of fun-filled Cajun dance lessons! Whether you’re a beginner or just want to brush up on your moves, Carrie D will guide you through the steps. No partner needed and all ages welcome! This event is presented in partnership with the Friends of the Terrebonne Parish Public Library and funded by the Jazz and Heritage Foundation Community Partnership Grant as part of our mission to preserve Cajun culture. Let’s dance and celebrate tradition together!
Weenie Spaghetti Festival and Cook-Off
January 11, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Houma Courthouse Square
The 2nd annual Weenie Spaghetti Festival will feature the highly anticipated return of the Weenie Spaghetti Cook Off and the Bloody Mary Contest! New to the festival this year is the addition of craft vendors! Entrance to the festival is $10.
The Gala Goes Hollywood
January 17, 6:30-10 p.m.
Mardi Gras Hall, Houma
The Gala goes somewhere new every year, and in 2025, we’re rolling out the red carpet and going Hollywood! Join Terrebonne General | Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center for The Gala
Goes Hollywood, presented by Louis Mohana Furniture. See and be seen at the event of the year and enjoy delicious local fare, creative cocktails, swinging tunes, a fabulous silent auction, and so much more. The unforgettable evening features a star-studded cast of local honorees who are passionate about supporting cancer care in our community. This group of cancer survivors, donors, and community leaders will compete to raise the most money for the Cancer Center and help us further our mission to improve survivorship and lessen the burden of cancer.
SAVE THE DATE:
Inaugural Bourbon & Butts Cook-Off
February 8, 12 p.m.
Downtown Houma
Get Ready to Eat Your Butt Off! Join the Rotary Club of Downtown Houma for a sizzling day of family fun and mouthwatering barbecue at their Inaugural Pork Butt Cook-Off! Witness your friends and neighbors battle it out for the title of "Pork Butt Champion."Sample delectable dishes from cooking teams and indulge in sweet treats and refreshing beverages. Enjoy the kids' zone with bounce houses, face painting, and exciting games.Live music performances to keep you entertained. Mark your calendars and come and join in for a day of food, family, fun, and bourbon!
Louisiana King Cake Festival
February 15, 11 a.m.
Downtown Thibodaux
Join us in Thibodaux for the first Louisiana King Cake Festival (previously Bayou King Cake Festival). There will be live music, a children ’ s parade, children’s corner, Mardi Gras krewe second line and toast, food, fun and of course king cake! Proceeds benefit the Lafourche Education Foundation. POV
Find the 9 differences in this photo from our feature on page 14!
ANSWERS TO LAST MONTH:
HAPPY NEW YEAR
1. Added nutcracker
2. Added flame to candle
3. Changed color of ‘M’ ornament
Added garland
Removed ornament
Changed color of candle 7. Removed stripped ribbon
