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January 2016
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Contents
JANUARY 2016 • VOLUME 10 • ISSUE 1
Columns: 8 Editor’s Fresh Start
On the Cover: Note
30 Then & Now Downtown Houma 32 Look Twice Sponsored by Synergy Bank 34 Under the Scope Opening the Book of Cow 36 Rendezvous Where You Need to Be Around Town
10 PoV Picks Expert picks to enhance your life 12 DIY Homemade Flubber
38 Scene In Look at ol' so 'n' so!
14 Paws New pet for the New Year?
40 The Spoon Tale of 3 Spahr's
Visit us online: Facebook: /povmagazine
18 Timeout Color My World
Instagram: @povmag
20 Smarty Pants For when your thinking cap fails
24 The Observer Traveling Pain
Jose Delgado
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16 Interview Say What?
22 The Vuefinder You Think You Have Time
A camel named Humphrey navigates his way around Bryan Arceneaux's 900-acre property in Larose.
Twitter: 44 A Vue from the Vine Small on Price, Big on Flavor 45 Behind the Brew From Brewer to Drinker: The 3-Tier System
@povmag
Pinterest: /povmag
Issuu: /rushing-media
Check out our newsletter: Receive additional content and weekly events when you sign up. TINYURL.COM/POVNEWSLETTER 26 Volunteer Spotlight Toyanna Purvis 28 Oh Snap Here Comes the Sun ...
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Chic
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Contents
JANUARY 2016 • VOLUME 10 • ISSUE 1
Features:
FitLife: FitLife seeks to encourage, educate, and motivate readers to achieve their health and fitness goals
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Delta Queen
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An import from another era
We Support a Healthier Future Mental Health Resolutions
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A Dream and a Pinch of Magic
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FitMind
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Tips to Stay True
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Cool Down
Being Mindful in the New Year
Seeking the North Light Nordlicht's fascinating history
Bayou Safari 900 acres of wonderland
to New Year's Resolutions
Run, Rest, Recover
Dustin Gaspard lives his dream
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Editor’s Note
Publisher
Shell Armstrong
Brian Rushing publisher@rushing-media.com
Fresh Start
Editor-in-Chief Shell Armstrong editor@rushing-media.com
Creative Director Gavin Stevens gavin@rushing-media.com
Graphic Designers Mariella Brochard Todd Rowan
Sales Manager Deanne Ratliff deanne@rushing-media.com
Circulation Manager Michelle Ortego michelle@rushing-media.com
Subscriptions Point of Vue magazine is published monthly. Subscriptions are available for $36 for 12 issues. For more information, email mail@rushing-media.com
N2015 on the dateline of my checks, ever mind that I am still writing
a new year has arrived. January always marks the start for new beginnings. And unlike with those other resolutions, we’re off o a fresh start at Rushing Media. Our team spent the past few months reviewing Point of Vue, asking readers what they enjoy and what they might like to see more of. In response, we’ve tweaked our text to make the stories easier to read for our older readers, and we’ve added a few new pieces to entertain the younger set. And we’ve reorganized
the content, creating a smoother flow between our columnists, features and Fit Life. This will be an ongoing process, but we hope you like what you see. And we hope you will continue to drop us a line – snail mail or email – or call us with your ideas. Our PoV staff s always on the hunt for a good story. Here’s wishing you a healthy, prosperous 2016. POV
SHELL ARMSTRONG is the
editor of Point of Vue magazine.
Didn't think we'd leave you hanging, did you? As part of our fresh start, we've moved on to some cool new content, and away from others. That includes Who Am I? So that you're not left wondering the bayousides in agonzing curiosity, here's the answer to last month's mystery. 10
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HENRY PELTIER
Pediatrics, Thibodaux Regional Medical Center
This issue’s contributors Photography Channing Candies, Jose Delgado, Jacob Jennings, Pam Negrotto, Erica Seely
Writers Dwayne Andras, Shell Armstrong, Lane Bates, Priscilla Broussard, Jaime Dishman, John Doucet, Melissa Duet, Dr. J. Michael Flynn, Paul Geohegan, Casey Gisclair, Bonnie Rushing, Gavin Stevens
Copyright ©2015 Rushing Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of editorial and/or graphic content is strictly prohibited.
Business address: 6160 West Park Ave., Houma, LA 70364 985.868.7515 Point of Vue magazine cannot be responsible for the return of unsolicited material such as manuscripts or photographs, with or without the inclusion of a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Information in this publication is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed. The opinions expressed in Point of Vue magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Rushing Media, our employees or any of our advertisers. No employee or family member(s) of employees of Rushing Media are permitted to partake in any contests, giveaways or sweepstakes.
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PoV Picks
Duke Cannon Soaps dukecannon.com
Only the manliest among us are worthy of this hygiene product. No frills, no “chick-sized” bars far too delicate for hard-working men, this soap does exactly what it’s intended to without all the feminine touches. Whether your guy favors the green bar, boasting a clean scent with a hint of grass, or the menthol-tinged white bar sure to fuel his productivity, these bricks of soap mean business.
Beanboozled Jelly Beans Wal-Mart, Target, Walgreens
Sure, we love our friends and family, but it is fun to play a trick on them every now and then. This grab bag of flavors wi l keep everyone guessing as they timidly take a bite of what could be Chocolate Pudding or Canned Dog Food, Moldy Cheese or Carmel Corn. Each piece in the Beanboozled box has delicious, iconic Jelly Belly flavors as well as a not-so-yummy gag flavor to keep things interesting.
Tracey Moon Recyclables
facebook.com/TraceyMoonRecyclables
Nicholls grad Stuart Percle knows a thing or two about standing out. He’s known for his recycled thrift store style, an eclectic mix of oddball patterns and colors. A label emblazoned with the name Tracey Moon on one particular thrift shirt caught Percle’s eye, spurring a full-fledged appa el line made from recycled materials. The brand’s signature rocket ship, moon and astronaut man now appear on hats and shirts fit to give customers heir own style.
The ‘Lil Fairy Door
The Basketry, Luling, 985.785.8769
It might be 2016 but that doesn’t mean the magic of Christmas has to end. Stow away Elf on the Shelf and break out this equally magical, teeny-tiny door that easily affixes to any wa l. It comes complete with fairy dust and a note to all fairies inviting them into your home, opening a world of imagination for your little one. The toy also serves as a positive reinforcement tool, allowing the fairies to visit overnight anytime children conquer childhood milestones.
The Flour Garden Jewelry veganflou garden.com
Whether you’re into alternative healing methods or not, The Flour Garden’s jewelry is truly one-of-akind. Each piece is handmade in Thibodaux from beautiful gems and are purported to offer a lot more than just a fashionable addition to your outfit. Bracelets and necklaces are delicately crafted from wire, creating beautiful pieces that may help with anxiety, decision-making and a host of other issues that might be holding you back. POV
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DIY
Homemade Flubber Dinclude spending more quality id your New Year’s resolution
time with your young ones? If so, here’s a great idea to try before the kids head back to school. Be sure to check out more great ideas on PoV’s Pintrest page. And we welcome you to share a few of your favorite things while you are there. Until next month, here’s to the wonderful world of flubber …
What you need: • 3/4 cup cold water • 1 cup Elmer’s glue • liquid food coloring • 1/2 cup hot water • 1 t. borax (you can find this in a box in the laundry aisle)
Directions:
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In bowl 1 – mix together the cold water, glue, and food coloring. set aside.
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In bowl 2 – mix together the hot water and borax, until the borax is completely dissolved.
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Slowly add glue mixture to borax mixture. mix well. pour off xcess water. POV
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Paws
New pet for the New Year? Wa new puppy or kitten waiting hether your little ones found
for them on Christmas morning or you are planning to adopt as the new year begins, making the decision to get a pet can be a rewarding move. But giving your children a new furry friend doesn’t mean the rest takes care of itself. Pets require continuous care and it is essential to teach them how to properly handle their newest family member. HOPE for Animals President Kathy Labat says when picking a pet, start by looking at local shelters as these are the animals in most need of a forever home. Whether you find the perfect pet there or with a rescue organization, make sure everyone in the family understands that this is a long-term commitment and one that should be taken with the utmost responsibility. Children should also be taught how to pet and hold the animal gently, taking care of him or her with tender loving care. Once an animal is selected, spay or neuter it and establish a relationship with a vet you feel comfortable with. Pets require vaccinations yearly to make sure they live a healthy, happy life. POV
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goDog Dragon Plush Dogs just want to have fun, and they will with this awesome goDog Dragon Plush. Made with chew guard technology, this dragon is double-stitched to last longer than regular plush toys. And they squeak, so dogs love them.
Hard Core Fire Hose Ask a fi eman: fi e hoses are built to withstand extreme heat and high water pressure … and Fido. Your dog may wear out the ends, but he won’t destroy the Hard Core Fire Hose. It’s perfect for even the feistiest hound.
Catit Design Senses Play Circuit The Catit Design Senses Play Circuit is the latest play setup for cats. Your feline can hunt the ball within the track, following it the length of the tube. The easy-access openings add a new dimension to the hide-and-seek ball game. The Catit Senses 2.0 Circuit is also compatible with this version but gives your cat 24 inches of additional track. You’ll have as much fun as your pet when you reconfigu e the track.
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Intervue
Jennifer
Errol
Mary
Todd
Karl
Teacher/Saxophonist
Pharmacist
Interactive Media
Graphic Designer
Word Nerd
Ride a Mardi Gras floa
Inform my community of how the areas in their pharmacy benefits affect the unseen cost of healthcare
Count my blessings year-round
... oh yes ... I will
Get better at making gumbo
What food could you eat endlessly?
Chicken nuggets
Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows
Mac and cheese
All you can eat buffet ... wait ... that’s redundant
My mom’s rice
If you had to give away everything you owned except one thing, which thing would you keep?
My saxophone
Family
I only ever need my family
My garbage can because it’s got all my stuff in it
My phone
If you had all the money in the world, what would you do with it?
Open up a snowball stand and make a saxaphone CD
Give a big chunk of it away because it is worthless to have it all
Anonymously donate
Invest in a large [secure] ... wait ... nope, I’d spend it
Create market incentives for stuff like funny tweets and being super nice to people
Who would win a fight between Spiderman and Batman? Why?
Batman because bats eat spiders
Batman because I like his gadgets
Dunno, but I’d like to watch
Batman. Bug spray
Batman because he has more resources and time to prepare
You’re a new addition to the crayon box. What’s the name of your color?
Mocha Choca Brown
Light Cayenne Brown Sugar
Laughter
Toddler Vomit
Dirty Purple
What goes up but never goes down?
Age
Years
Age, ouch
Keith Richards
Both my and Kanye’s approval of Kanye
In 2016, I will ___________.
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Timeout Gavin Stevens
Color My World You dusted off hat old game of Trivial Pursuit you found in the back of the closet and decided to have some friends over for a friendly match of wits. As you ready yourself for victory, you’re asked “Mixing ________ colors together produces a neutral color.” You don’t know the answer and suffer a humiliating defeat. Don’t let it happen again. Here’s a handy guide to basic color theory that will put you back in the lead and ready to stomp your competition into oblivion the next time you get the itch to pursue trivia.
Cyan
Red
Black
White
Magenta
Yellow
Subtractive Color CMYK MODEL
Green
Blue
Additive Color RGB MODEL
Definitions: PRIMARY COLOR: Any of a group of colors from which all other colors can be obtained by mixing. SECONDARY COLOR: A color resulting from the mixing of two primary
colors.
TERTIARY COLOR: A color resulting from the equal mixture of a primary
color with either of the secondary colors adjacent to it on a color wheel.
COMPLEMENTARY COLOR: A color directly opposite another on a color
wheel (and the answer to the question that cost you everything).
ADDITIVE COLOR: Additive colors are the primary color elements that
make up white light. These colors are called additive because you must add the colors together to create white. The additive primary colors are red, green and blue (aka RGB). SUBTRACTIVE COLOR: The mixing of paints, dyes, inks and natural
colorants to create a full range of colors, each caused by subtracting (that is, absorbing) some wavelengths of light and reflecting the others. The primary ink colors used are cyan, magenta, yellow and black (aka CMYK). POV
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Smarty Pants No Googling!
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In the tradition of New Orleans Mardi Gras, which two Carnival clubs participate in the Meeting of the Courts on Mardi Gras Day?
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A Krewe of Muses and Krewe of Nyx B Krewe of Rex and Krewe of Comus C Krewe of Endymion and Krewe of Orpheus D Krewe of Bacchus and Krewe of Zeus
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Although Sesame Street’s Oscar the Grouch was originally orange, Jim Henson changed that in Season 2, telling audiences he went on vacation to Swamp Mushy Muddy and came back:
A Invigoration B Composure
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A Brown B Black C Green D Yellow
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“Saturday Night Live” recently celebrated 50 years on television. Who was the first female guest host?
Which country has not fought a war since 1815, making it the world’s oldest neutral country? A Israel B Switzerland C Russia D Finland
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C Confidenc D Relaxation
The annual Rose Parade, which rolls in Pasadena each New Year’s Day, features dozens of floats decked out in the parade’s namesake. How many roses does it take to cover 1-square-foot of a float? A 30 B 60 C 100 D 300
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A Candice Bergen B Betty White C Lily Tomlin D Madeline Kahn
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For the first time in history, color experts Pantone selected two hues as the 2016 Color of the Year – Rose Quartz and Serenity. According to the company, what is the meaning of Serenity, a baby blue color?
What were Bandit and Snowman transporting to the Republican National Convention in the 1980 flick “Smokey and the Bandit II”? A Elephant B An American fla C A police car D The candidates
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The sideways figure eight symbol commonly referred to as the infinity sign is properly known as: A Agraffe B Ferrule C Muntin D Lemniscate
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In 1939, “The Wizard of Oz” featured Jack Haley as the Tin Man. When the Tin Man tears up at the end, what product actually streams from his eyes?
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A Listerine B Dove C Crest Toothpaste D Maybelline Cosmetics
A Water B Motor Oil C Chocolate Syrup D Coca-Cola
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The shag is the official state dance of which U.S. state?
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A Louisiana B Florida C Virginia D South Carolina
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Which rock group refused to play the part of the vultures in “The Jungle Book”?
Janaury is National Blood Donor month. Scientists estimate an average adult human body has approximately how many gallons of blood? A4 B6 C1 D8
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A The Rolling Stones B The Beatles C Aerosmith D The Grateful Dead
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Which hygiene product popularized the slogan “Always a bridesmaid, never a bride”?
Although most cities delight crowds with an annual ball drop on New Year’s Eve, Mobile, Alabama, does things a little differently. It drops a ______ as a nod to Mardi Gras season: A Go Cup B Mardi Gras Bead C A Replica Float D Moon Pie
In which Heart song does Ann Wilson “hear the ticking of the clock”?
Well, how’d you do?
A Alone B These Dreams C Magic Man D What About Love
11-15
160 Pants on Fire
6-10
110 Smarty Pants
1-5
50 Pants on the Ground
0
3
# Correct IQ
Your Pantsyness:
Did You Forget Your Pants?
Answers
1) B 2) D 3) C 4) A 5) A 6) A 7) B 8) D 9) C 10) A 11) D 12) C 13) B 14) D 15) A
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The Vuefinder Melissa Duet
You Think You Have Time
Eof resolutions, thinking maybe this will be the ach year, we start over again, scribbling lists
year we stick to that workout plan or master Excel spreadsheets. Between crafting the perfect list, preparing to tackle said resolutions and stressing when we stumble the very first day of the year, we waste a whole lot of precious time. Time is quite possibly the biggest thing most of us take for granted. “There’s plenty of time.” “I’ll make time for that later.” “There’s just not enough time in the day.” Whether we feel like we’ve got too much of it or we’re scraping together as many precious minutes as we can get, we’re wasting a whole lot of it, worrying, wondering, questioning, stressing about absolutely anything and everything. Take it from someone who does every one of those things multiple times daily. But this past year, I watched as several friends and family members said goodbye to their loved ones, people they thought they had plenty of time with, and suddenly my time started to become real. All the mundane things, like driving home or washing dishes, became minutes of my life that I could
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almost hear tick, tick, ticking away. Time spent worrying over bills. Time spent being angry over an insult. Time spent stressing over trivial matters – the what if ’s, why-didn’t-we’s and we-should-have’s – that are nothing to people afflicted with the worst imaginable circumstances. These moments are blips on the radar in the grand scheme of things but blips that I can’t get back. This year, I’ve resolved to not make resolutions because that’s a whole lot of time that I could be spending figuring out what makes me the absolute happiest and best person that I can be. Frankly, I’m lucky to get the time to sit and write this and you’re lucky to have the time to read these words. It’s time too many people never get and time that shouldn’t be wasted over things that are ultimately out of our control. So this year, I’m making the decision to appreciate the time I have and make it worthwhile. I’ll spend time cooking with my husband, laughing with my family, appreciating all those mundane pieces and parts that make up another day I’m blessed to have. No, we don’t have time to do all the things we intended to after work or once the kids have grown. We don’t have time to waste or hold on to. We have moments and moments are gone before you know it. POV MELISSA DUET is a writer for Rushing Media. She spends time every day saying a silent “thank you” for more moments.
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CONTACT US FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS povhouma.com
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The Observer Jaime Dishman
Traveling Pain It’s in the car with all our kids. I
a special kind of torture to be
know that’s not a sentence that should ever be written. Or said. But now it’s out there. A 10-minute trip? No problem. We can sometimes even make a 30-minute trip without major complications. But an hour? Two hours? Three? Torture. I truly can’t think of another word. I wish this was an Internet article, and I could provide an audio file. But here are some quotes from our last experience on a two-hour car ride to Mandeville. Kid: “She keeps singing ‘Jingle Bells,’ and my head is about to explode.” Me: “It’s impossible for your head to explode from someone singing ‘Jingle Bells.’ Trust me.” Kid: “But really. It’s gonna explode and she won’t stop.” Kid turns to other kid and says: “Stop-op-op-op-op.” To really get the full image, just try drawing out stop into a 10-syllable word, with the ending being strung out like a boat with a bad motor. OK. One minute later. Different kid: “I wanna read a book.” Me: “You have 10 books back there. Pick one.” Kid’s response: “But I want the one she has. She told me I could read it, and now she’s reading it, so I can’t read it.” Me: “Can you wait until she’s done?” Kid: “No. I need it now. I have to read it now. No-o-o-o-ow.” (Again. Syllables strung out like a dying hyena. Full disclosure: I have no idea what a dying hyena sounds like but I think based off of that plea, I have a good idea.) 26
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I love road trips. Nothing makes me happier than hitting the road and getting out of town, even if only for a day. I don’t even mind long drives. Something about conquering miles of highway makes me incredibly happy and adds serenity to a chaotic life. But the serenity part has been missing lately on our road trips.
I thought when we were out of the diapers-bottles-and-baby-crying-in-thebackseat stage, we’d be ready to explore the world in our minivan. I didn’t factor in the whining-fighting-aggravating stage they all seem to be in for the past few years. Our favorite solution is the “stop talking” rule. It usually goes something like this: “Since you don’t know how to speak kindly, you’re no longer being given the privilege to talk. Because talking IS a privilege, and we just revoked it.” I don’t know if any of them understand what the words privilege or revoke even mean, but it’s the next sentence that usually helps them understand what we are talking about. “Stop talking. If you don’t stop, when we get to ______, you won’t be allowed to ______.” The blanks are filled in by
whatever road trip we happen to be taking. Example. If the road trip is to a campground. “Stop talking. If you don’t stop, when we get to the campground, you won’t be allowed to ride your bike.” You can judge if you’d like. Or think that maybe our “privilege” of having a parenting license should be “revoked.” Or you can come sit in a van for three hours with our five kids ages 5 - 10 on a road trip. And maybe you’d be doing a little fill in the blanks yourself. There are days when I think we’ve taught kindness, compassion and love to our children. Then we take a road trip, and I start to think that the only thing they know to do is whine over shared space. I like to think that somehow this will all pay off, nd somehow these road trips will turn into cherished family memories. But right now, I’m trying as hard as I can to erase some of these memories. Like the kid who decided it would be a good idea to sneak sunflower seeds into the back and spit the shells out all over, only to be discovered days later. No worries. He cleaned that up. And all sunfl wer seed privileges were revoked. We got this. POV JAIME DISHMAN is a mother of four and foster mother to one. She loves road trips and loves her kids. But sometimes the two combined cause a bit of chaos. Hopefully, she’s well on her way to the “road-trips-are-delightful-again” stage of life.
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Volunteer Spotlight
Nominate Someone! To submit someone who’s doing incredible things, email us at
Toyanna Purvis
EDITOR@RUSHING-MEDIA.COM
Messiah Montessori School Channing Candies
As no-brainer for Toyanna Purvis a stay-at-home mom, it was a
to get involved at the place her two children spend most of their days. After moving to Houma from Lafayette nearly three years ago, she enrolled Dakotah, 11, and Skylar, 3, at Messiah Montessori School. The school, which offers programs for children 18 months through eighth grade, has become a second home for the volunteer who dedicates nearly every day from morning to afternoon to helping things run smoothly. Toyanna is a go-to for everyone at Messiah Montessori, doing anything 28
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and everything from making copies or laminating to filling in as a substitute teacher when needed. She’s even lent her creative abilities to school projects, crafting props and costumes for plays and teaching the students the delicate art of crochet. She taught each student how to create a crocheted square, which she fashioned together into a blanket that was auctioned at the school’s most recent gala. “I like to be very involved in whatever my children are doing,” she explains. “Since I’m a stay-at-home mom, I am able to do that. I’m able to be here and
I enjoy it. I enjoy working with the kids and I enjoy working with the teachers.” And that delight is reciprocated in each smiling face that recognizes the volunteer whether at school or around town. “I’ll be at the store sometimes and they’ll come running, ‘Mrs. Toyanna!’” she says. “The kids are so happy, especially when they see their parents here. When they see one of their friend’s parents here, they’re so excited and happy, too. It just makes my heart feel good to know that I can bring joy to them and help them.” POV
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Oh Snap Here Comes the Sun ... What’s in a name that which we call a rose – sunflower – by any other name would smell as sweet? Pam Negrotto
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Looking for the “Now?”
Then & Now
Head over to POVHOUMA.COM for a more recent shot of Downtown.
Dthis 1936 photograph, which was owntown Houma is pictured in
taken on the roof of the old courthouse shortly before its destruction. (Longtime residents will remember the building’s four-face clock.) The jail was housed in a separate building to the left of the courthouse and Oak Tree Square is to
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the right. The triangle along Main Street, known as “Smoky Row,” stands out from the square. Just out of view, to the right, the paddlewheel steamboat N.H. Breaux is docked at the Daigle Barge Line wharf. Main Street was paved by 1936, but Park Avenue, located on the north side of the bayou, was not. The
photograph, provided by the Terrebonne Parish Consolidated Government, appears in “Images of America: Houma.” Published in 2004, the book’s authors were Thomas Blum Cobb and Mara Currie. POV
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Look Twice Win a $50
Gift Card
Find the six differences in this photo from the feature on page 56. Drop off your answers along with your name and daytime contact number at the PoV offices, 6160 . Park Ave., Houma. Stuck at the office? Fax it, 985.873.9009, or email it to us, editor@rushing-media.com. A winner will be picked by random drawing January 15. The winner will receive a $50 Visa® gift card courtesy of Synergy Bank.
Congratulations to Travis McCloud for winning last month’s contest.
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Courtesy of
Answers to last month’s contest 1 2 3 4 5 6
"900" now "909" Doorbell missing Red leaf missing Door handle longer Wooden slat missing on door That elf
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Under the Scope John Doucet
Opening the Book of Cow Da bit of travelling. Not the hectic, uring the holidays, I undertook
stand-in-line, empty-your-pockets, take-off- our-shoes-and-belt and sit-ina-sardine-can-with-wings type of travel, but rather the kind that’s taken more slowly and deliberately. I found myself driving – or sometimes being driven – across long ribbons of countryside that I’d never seen before. It was enlightening and refreshing. I saw old neighborhoods of similarlyshaped houses as if there were one builder in town with only one set of blueprints. I saw slender, cylindrical water towers with pointed caps that looked like moon rockets straight out of an illustrated Jules Verne novel. I saw many small, stand-alone stores and restaurants and businesses that still showed family names on old marquees. And I saw lots of cows. It was one particular cow experience that has led me to re-evaluate life. Or at least to make profound resolutions for the New Year. The experience was in Ohio, travelling to the Dayton airport to fly home to PoV-country after a conference at Miami University. “Miami of Ohio” is the prettiest university built in the middle of nowhere. It makes me wonder if the Beatles ever played a gig there before recording their “Let It Be” album because certainly a trip there could have inspired their hit song “The Long and Winding Road.” It also didn’t shrink my perception of the vastness of the inner U.S. when the airport-to-hotel van driver got us lost three days earlier, eventually driving someway up (or was it down?) a one-way road in the middle of the hilly woods to reach the hotel much
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later than expected. At least I got to see what shiny-eyed Ohioan deer do after sundown – they stand on roadsides and mock lost travelers. On the way home, however, there was a traffic signal, and the hotel-to-airport shuttle stopped for a red light – a twominute event that permitted one large, non-shiny, light-blue colored car of a make and model remanded only to history books to pass by. I had ample time to gaze into the distance. Despite being 1,000 miles from home, I thought then that I must be getting closer because there was a Wal-Mart in the distance. And it must be getting closer to the holidays because there were lots of cars and lots of people in the parking lot. After the light changed to green and we got closer, I could swear I saw shopping baskets crashing and elderly women fist-fighting and damaged boxes of widescreen TVs strewn across the vast field of concrete. “How did it come to this?” I spoke softly, reciting the words of King Theoden, who, after evacuating the people of Rohan to Helm’s Deep, still faced an insurmountable army of mutant Urak-Hais. I know that you know what I’m talking about because like 6 billion people have seen “Lord of the Rings” at cinemas and on DVD and Blu-ray and, statistically speaking, you’re one of them. Beyond that gray concrete field, however, there was a green field with cows, and the cows were not crashing and fighting and strewing. Instead, they were either resting on their bellies or standing with their heads humbly pointed downward. A few may have thrown a scornful gaze at the shopping mob across their
barbed-wire fence, as if auditioning for a Chick-fil-A commercial, but maybe that was just my imagination. So there I sat, trapped indoors with a van full of people who because of this conference were likely late on the shopping calendar and who had not yet thought about Black Friday, or Black-and-Blue Saturday or In-the-Red Sunday. From the front seat, strapped against my will like the runaway kid I wanted to be at that moment, I looked at the field of humans and then at the field of cows. I assessed humanity and then bovinity. And then, it hit me: I came to realize that cow life is the good life. So, there, in the middle of non-Cajun Ohio, I was green-lighted into a new life for the New Year. I will eat grassy things. I will make friends with egrets and let them ride on my back. I will let visiting children stroke the bridge of my nose. I will learn to twitch my ears to dissuade mosquitoes buzzing around my head. I will take my vaccines without complaint. I will clean my hooves before entering my house. I will convince people to “Eat Mor Chikin.” I will get down on all fours and rest under a tree in the midday sun – even on office days. And I will moo loudly into the sky at least once per day – just because I can. Take it from me: The road to Miami of Ohio is long, but life is not. Don’t wait for an out-of-town crossroads to motivate your life in 2016. Moo with me. POV
JOHN DOUCET is the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Nicholls State University.
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Rendezvous Want us to include your event in our calendar? Shoot an email to editor@rushing-media.com and we’ll help spread the word.
Sunday, Jan. 24
Krewe of Des Petite, 1 p.m. Golden Meadow Friday, Jan. 29
Krewe of Hercules, 6 p.m. Houma Westside
Friday, Feb. 5
Monday, Feb. 8
Houma Westside
Houma Westside
Krewe of Aphrodite, 6:30 p.m. Krewe of Athena, 7 p.m. Golden Meadow Saturday, Feb. 6
Saturday, Jan. 30
Krewe of Mardi Gras, 6:30 p.m.
Chauvin
Krewe of Apollo, noon
Houma Westside
Krewe of Dubon Temps, 6:30 p.m.
Krewe of Petit Caillou, noon
Houma Westside
Krewe of Aquarius, 6:30 p.m.
Lockport
Larose
Sunday, Feb. 7
Krewe of Hyacinthians, noon
Krewe of Montegut, 2 p.m.
Krewe of Bon Terre, 4 p.m.
Krewe of Titans, noon
Krewe of Atlantis, noon
Krewe of Gheens, 11 a.m.
Krewe of Versailles, noon
Krewe of Cleophas, 12:30 p.m.
Krewe of Neptune, noon
Krewe of Ambrosia, 2 p.m.
Krewe of Chronos, 1:30 p.m.
Krewe of Ghana, 1 p.m.
Krewe of Shaka, 12:30 p.m.
Krewe of Nereids, 6 p.m.
Krewe of Choupic, 1 p.m.
Houma Westside Larose
Thibodaux Thibodaux
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Krewe of Houmas, 11 a.m. Houma Westside
Houma Westside
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Tuesday, Feb. 9
Krewe of Terreanians, 12:30 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 31
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Krewe of Cleopatra, 6:30 p.m.
Houma Westside Montegut
Golden Meadow Thibodaux Thibodaux
Golden Meadow
Krewe of Kajuns, 11 a.m. Houma Westside Montegut Gheens
Golden Meadow Thibodaux Chackbay
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Scene In A The Thibodaux Service League hosted
its inaugural Reindeer Rowe holiday market on Dec. 5, bringing together local vendors to delight children and adults with shopping and activities.
B
Hundreds of local girls raced to the finish line Dec. 6 during the Girls on the Run of Bayou Region Council’s Reindeer Run, a celebratory 5K wrapping up a 10-week life skills and training program for third through eighth graders.
C Nicholls State University baseball
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players traveled to the Dominican Republic Dec. 11 to perform community service work and play two games against Dominican national teams. The trip included hosting a baseball clinic for more than 200 children.
D String Theory Jewelry designers
Amanda and Hillary Wells pose with musician Ryan Cabrera at the Celebrity Connected Gifting Suite Nov. 22 during festivities for the 43rd American Music Awards in Los Angeles.
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City of Thibodaux Municipal Government employees spent Dec. 3 decorating ornaments and the City Hall Christmas tree with the help of local students during the Trim a Tree event. POV
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The Spoon
Tale of 3 Spahr’s WThelma started Spahr’s Seafood
illiam “Bill” Spahr Jr. and his wife
Restaurant small. The first family eatery consisted of a small kitchen and lounge operated out of a service station in the fishing community of Des Allemands. Away from the family operation, Bill was a fisherman and hunting and fishing guide. Needless to say, fresh seafood was plentiful and business was good. Word of the small “Catfish Chips” available at Spahr’s quickly spread. Soon, the food business was in greater demand than the service station. More tables were added and, in time, Spahr’s Seafood Restaurant squeezed out the gas pumps completely. The Spahrs suffered a setback in 2002 when a kitchen fire destroyed the Des Allemands site. But they rebounded the following year, opening Spahr’s Downtown in Thibodaux. Spahr’s Seafood of Houma opened in 2004, operating a full-service restaurant and lounge in the Ramada Inn. And, in 2006, the flagship restaurant was reopened in Des Allemands. Bill and Thelma Spahr have long since turned over control of Spahr’s to family, but his proud tradition of offering some of the freshest local seafood and genuine, down-home southern hospitality continues. Fresh Cajun cuisine is what my party was craving when we sat down at the Houma Spahr’s for dinner. Located on the west corner of the Ramada Inn, the spacious restaurant is large enough to easily accommodate hotel guests and outside traffic. We kicked off he meal with an appetizer sampler, which included crawfish 42
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bread, mini-crab cakes, hush puppies and an ample serving of onion rings and fries. The entire platter was a hit. The crab cakes were perfectly fried; the sweet cornbread in the hush puppies packed just a touch of pepper; and the toasted crawfish and cheese bread had a flavorful kick. The platter is loaded with enough food to easily feed four people and still have leftovers. My guests enjoyed the original Fried Catfish Chips, a Seafood Salad and the Seafood Angel Pasta – dishes that put Spahr’s on the map. The catfish chips were fresh, crunchy and plentiful. It is understandable why the chips garnered Bill and Thelma so much attention in Spahr’s early days. The salad included shrimp, crab meat, crawfish and black olives … plenty of black olives, for some reason. Again, Spahr’s doesn’t skimp on serving size. A go-box was in order at the end of the meal. Meanwhile, the pasta dish was an intricate combination of flavors. The balance between well-seasoned crawfish and creamy sauce was delightful. It’s worth noting that Spahr’s fried dishes are prepared in the same oil as the seafood. That makes it a challenge if you have a yen for fried chicken ten-
ders or sweet potato fries. Those with allergies aren’t forgotten, however. The menu includes other choices, including Hamburger Steak, which I enjoyed. It consists of a large, somewhat-forgettable hamburger patty. The real star of the dish is the brown gravy and grilled onions covering the meat. A baked potato or creamed potatoes would have been a nice option, but on this night I settle for a sweet pickle potato salad. For dessert, we shared a serving of Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce and a Brownie a la Mode. Dense with raisins, the bread pudding was coated with a creamy, light rum sauce. The brownie was warm and covered with caramel and chocolate sauces and vanilla ice cream. “Very yummy stuff” was the quote of the evening. After the appetizers and entrees, ordering dessert proved too optimistic. More go-boxes were required. We’ve visited two of the three Spahr’s locations, and some menu differences are to be expected. What is consistent is the fresh Cajun cuisine and outstanding service. Spahr’s locations are ideal stops for friends and family to gather or business meals. If it’s fresh seafood you want, you’ll definitely leave satisfied. POV
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Jacob Jennings povhouma.com
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A Vue from the Vine Lane Bates
Small on Price, Big on Flavor Nto figure out where the money went, here are a few great ow that the holidays are behind us and we’re left trying
values to stretch your dollar …
Chateau St. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 $11.99 Wine Spectator Rating – 90
Perennial value-wine producer Chateau St. Michelle is at it again with this 2013 release. This wine is full-bodied and dense with complex flavors of cherry and cedar. The wine is smooth and generous and it sails on seamlessly to a subtle, oaky finish. A super value, this wine is a reminder that Washington consistently produces the best values around.
Columbia Crest Grand Estate Chardonnay 2012 $9.99 Wine Spectator Rating – 90
Columbia Crest produces many award-winning values, and the Estate Chardonnay is always among the best. This wine starts with generous flavors of apple, melon and pear. On the mid-palate, the wine is buttery, yet crisp and lively with great acidity and balance. It finishes dry and begs you to come back for another sip.
Mercer Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 $13.99 Wine Spectator Rating – 88
Mercer’s Washington winery provides this value-priced cabernet. Ripe and rich with blueberry, cassis and vanilla flavors, this wine is full-bodied and dense with ripe tannins. The combination makes this wine a big, bold mouth-feel. It is a super wine to drink now or let age for 4 to 6 years. POV
LANE BATES is the wine and spirits specialist
at Cannata’s. To find out mo e, feel free to visit him, call 985.209.9762 or email him at LANEBATES@CANNATAS.COM. 44
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Behind the Brew Dwayne Andras
From Brewer to Drinker: The 3-Tier System Eour local store or corner bar?
ver wondered how that small craft brewer’s beer gets to
The 3-tier alcohol distribution system is not just a method; it’s the law. Good or bad (depending on who you ask), the system dictates how beer reaches consumers. Individual states regulated the alcohol industry after Prohibition’s repeal in 1933. To this day, each state uses some version of the system. In Louisiana, producers comprise tier 1; wholesale distributors, tier 2; and retailers, tier 3. Producers sell to wholesale distributors, who in turn sell to retailers, who then sell to consumers. States designed the system to ensure taxes were collected on alcohol sales. Craft beer brewers face pros and cons to the system. Recent changes to Louisiana’s liquor laws give producers a bit more freedom to sell beer at brewery taprooms. Craft breweries are now able to reach a greater retail area without adding labor, warehouses, delivery trucks and sales personnel. Also, it keeps large brewers from “buying” the bar. Backroom deals – remodels in exchange for exclusive sales – would leave the control of beer sales to the “Big 3,” making it even more difficult for craft brewers to reach consumers. On the flip side, distributors focus on their major brands, leaving fewer resources for smaller craft brewers. With more than 4,500 breweries in the U.S., it may become more of an issue. Bottom line, multiple tiers increases price. After all, each tier is in business to make a profit. Craft brewers must sell cheap to distributors to remain competitive with major breweries. Love it or hate it, Louisiana’s 3-tier system is here to stay. It’s the law. Next time you’re sipping on your favorite brew, consider all the effort it takes to get that beer to your glass. One tier, two tier, three tier … beer! POV
Clinic
Personalized Obstetrical & Gynecological Care
Board Certified
James F. Donnell, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. Dr. Kristin Fortier, N.P.
Happy Holidays 985-876-1714
1007 Belanger St., Houma, LA 70360
DWAYNE ANDRAS is a home brewer and self-taught
beer expert in continuous search of the perfect pint. Chat with him about your favorite brew at DWAYNE.ANDRAS@GMAIL.COM.
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Chateau Chic Bonnie Rushing Erica Seely
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WLisa Cinnater, the couple synced their interests and
hen LeRoux keyboardist Rod Roddy met and fell for
created harmony in an old home. The two share an appreciation for older dwellings, art, decorating and even repurposing materials and furniture, which is evident in the 1930s home in downtown Houma they completely renovated. Still preserving the integrity of the home’s traditional style, the space was modernized, all while reincorporating materials such as the plaster walls and ceilings, original light fixtures and flooring. Lisa created a warm and inviting space by carefully mixing old and new components and dÊcor to achieve an eclectic, French country farmhouse feel. povhouma.com
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A full kitchen was installed with additional cabinetry, new appliances and countertops. Once it was decided that wood countertops would be the perfect touch in the kitchen, the couple got to work and made them out of 2-by-12 pine boards. Similarly, the dining room includes an inviting wooden table Rod and Lisa created using repurposed pallets. A master bath was built in the dead space between the original house and the new garage, which made the area more functional and added valuable square footage. The new space feels as original as the rest of the home thanks to the strategic use of materials. Outside, the new flagstone courtyard – complete with a fountain and landscaping – also feels as though it has been there for years. 48
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It took less than a year to complete the renovation project. In their spare time, the energetic couple also restored a vintage 1957 Yellowstone camper. POV A Living Room B Guest Bath C Dining Room D Master E Kitchen F Front Exterior View G Courtyard
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DELTA QUEEN
Paul Geohegan Jacob Jennings
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Ta storied existence. Since 1927, it
he riverboat Delta Queen has lived
has operated as an overnight cruise ship twice, a naval vessel and a dockside hotel before it was all but abandoned. The vessel has earned numerous distinctions, including recognition in the National Register of Historic Places in 1970, designation as a national landmark in 1989 and induction into the National Maritime Hall of Fame. Many celebrities have had their pictures taken on its Grand Staircase such as former President Jimmy Carter, Princess Margaret and the cast of “Gilligan’s Island.” Now it lies in Houma waiting for what Cornel Martin hopes will be its next chapter of service. “She’s the last of the authentic steamboats of the era,” says Cornel, who is owner, president and CEO of the Delta Queen Steamboat Company. “There are replicas out there of old riverboats, but she’s the only one still around and still capable of cruising again. It’s an important part of our history, our culture and our heritage. It’s a piece of our history that, if we let it go, will never be recovered.” The Delta Queen was towed to Houma in April 2015. It had most recently operated as a dockside hotel from 2006 to 2009. The riverboat had fallen out of use for more than a year before Martin and the other owners of the company purchased it. The new owners are investing an estimated $7 million on renovations and repairs. “Houma is currently her resting place,” Cornel says. “It’s the place where we’re keeping her safe and protected. So Houma will always have played an important role in the preservation of this vessel.”
Once the restoration is completed, the Delta Queen will move to its new homeport in Kimmswick, Missouri, a small town just south of St. Louis. Cincinnati and New Orleans were also in the running to become the ship’s new home. Cincinnati was the Delta Queen’s homeport for 40 years when Greenline Steamers of Cincinnati purchased it in 1945 as war surplus. Its headquarters later moved to New Orleans in the 1980s, and then to St. Louis in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. “There was a bit of a competition, but Kimmswick won out fair and square, so the plan is to move her to Kimmswick,” Cornel says. While the Delta Queen will not be headquartered in New Orleans or Cincinnati, it will still be frequenting those cities. Once completed, it will cruise through most of the cities in its origi-
nal routes, including the Houma and Morgan City area, Galveston and other Texas cities as well as up north to Pennsylvania and Minnesota. There are about 80 total port cities the Delta Queen will ferry to in America’s inland waters. “She can cover a lot of territory,” he says. The 88-room Delta Queen is considerably smaller than most steamboats, such as the American Queen. The size allows the Delta Queen to travel waterways that would normally be inaccessible to many other vessels. Most of the weathering work has been completed since the ship’s arrival in Houma. “There were a number of leaks in the sun deck roof and leaks in the outer decks causing rain damage in the cabins and public spaces,” Cornel says. “Most of that’s been addressed now.” The original cast iron deck drains had rusted. They have since been replaced povhouma.com
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by aluminum drains, which improve the drainage and should extend the ship’s lifespan significantly. The decades-old engines and boilers will be replaced with more efficient and ecofriendly diesel machines. Before the marine-side renovations can begin, the Delta Queen must first receive a Congressional exemption from the 1966 Safety at Sea Act, which requires operating vessels to be made of fire-retardant materials. The Delta Queen, a wooden vessel, had received the exemption nine times before it was denied in 2008. Until the exemption is granted, raising the estimated $4 million still needed to complete the restoration is on hold, according to Cornel. The greatest obstacle to getting the exemption, the owner says, is timing. “Congress is occupied by a number of significant issues right now,” He says. “The Delta Queen is just a blip on their radar screen, if that. So it’s really just a matter of trying to get attention.” Cornel believes the ship can be ready to cruise again within six to eight 54
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months once the exemption is obtained. After that has been secured, the renovations will continue on a dry dock, possibly elsewhere in Louisiana. Cornel says there are only a handful of dry docks capable of handling a vessel the size of the Delta Queen. The Delta Queen first entered service in 1927 under the ownership of the California Transportation Company. It was the sister boat to the Delta King, which is now permanently moored in Sacramento. In between its two stints as an overnight cruise ship, the Delta Queen was pressed into naval duty during World War II. It primarily helped transport wounded soldiers to hospitals, and it carved out a unique niche in both American and world history. “It’s said that she carried the first wounded troops from Pearl Harbor,” Cornel says. “When they arrived by ship to San Francisco Bay, she met the ships anchored in the bay and brought the wounded soldiers back to the docks and waiting ambulances.” The Delta Queen continued to play
a role even after the war’s conclusion. According to Cornel, the ship hosted a meeting of the founding conference of the United Nations. “I believe some 51 nations were represented in that conference, out of which came the United Nations,” he says. “(Those are) two of her most notable contributions to our history.” The ship’s lore even extends into the supernatural realm. “I’ve heard some elderly folks came here to die because it’s their calling,” reports Victor Mejia, who has worked as one of the boat’s security guards since it arrived in Terrebonne last spring. “I try to look for ghosts when I can. It hasn’t happened to me yet, but I’m still looking.” It is this type of history and legend that Cornel is trying to preserve and recreate. He plans to make cruising on the Delta Queen as authentic a 1920s experience as possible. This will include keeping the old telephonic equipment, though it would only be used for backup purposes, and removing two televisions from the bar room. “The whole idea of the vessel was to allow its passengers to experience what it was like to travel the waters at the turn of the (20th) century,” Cornel explains. “You can’t do that with TVs blasting. That’s not what this is about. It’s about stepping back in time. That’s the difference between traveling on the Delta Queen and one of the more modern replicas that you see operating on the river today. It’s the only way to experience that authenticity. She’s the only one like it.” Cornel was previously involved with the Delta Queen Steamboat Company from 1993 to 2004. He led the last successful effort to obtain an exemption for the ship in 1998. He rejoined the company in 2012 to assist in the restoration. “It means a lot to me in that it’s been a big part of my life dating back to 1993,” he says. “I’d love for my swan song to be getting her permission to cruise again and seeing her cruise again on America’s rivers.” POV
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Melissa Duet Disney Images
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Dream Magic A
PINCH OF
It’s in our grown-up lives – to
a wish we all make a least once
transport back in time to that carefree dreamland known as childhood. Lucky for Larose native Dustin Gaspard, he gets to do that exact thing every day as he dons one of his elaborately crafted costumes and belts out some of the most recognizable Disney songs in front of audiences across the country. From an early age, music was an integral part of Dustin’s life. He spent much of his formative years banging out the rhythm of marching band tunes as a percussionist at South Lafourche High School. As he grew older, his heart longed for the stage. Then, opportunity came knocking. A chance at earning a spot in a national production of “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” the story of a small-town girl who sets her sights on the Big Apple, a cutting-age tale set in a not-so-forward-thinking 1920s society. Unfortunately, Dustin wasn’t accepted to the tour but that “no” fueled his decision to leave the drumsticks behind in pursuit of musical theatre. “They told me no because I didn’t have enough dance experience,” he remembers. “They thought that if I had that experience that I would be able to make it.” So north Dustin went to Natchitoches where, in 2012, he earned a degree in musical theatre at Northwestern State University of Louisiana, an accomplishment that led him to sunny Florida to immerse himself in some of the most beloved full-scale productions around. Dustin earned parade roles
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at both Universal Studios Florida and Disney World, as well Universal’s monthlong holiday spectacle, “Grinchmas,” and Disney’s iconic “Festival of the Lion King” show. During his time in Florida, Dustin was offered a second chance of sorts at that national debut when Disney’s theatrical group division, an offshoot of the park entertainment that delivers live shows to audiences across the world, gave employees a chance to audition for its traveling productions. With a bit of luck and a lot of talent, Dustin landed the role of the boy who refuses to grow up, Peter Pan, in Disney Junior Live’s “Pirate and Princess Adventure.” The show, which toured for much of 2014, incorporated elements of three Disney Channel shows, “Doc McStuffins,” “Sofia the First” and “Jake and the Never Land Pirates,” in a story adventure that took audiences from repairing toys with the resident child doctor to finding a hidden treasure inside a mysterious volcano. Dustin made his grand entrance during Jake’s adventure, duking it out with arch nemesis Captain Hook and no-good sidekick Smee in some high-flying antics. The gig took Dustin to just about every major U.S. city, including stops in areas closer to home, a welcome treat for the bayou-born actor who spends much of the year away from his loved ones. “Being Peter Pan, I actually got to pass through Houma my first year touring. My family got to come. My great-grandmaws got to see me fly, which was something that I never thought I would ever get to do,” he says, chuckling. povhouma.com
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On the heels of Peter Pan’s last flight, Dustin landed yet another Disney role, this time in Disney Live’s current tour of “Three Classic Fairy Tales,” which visits around 60 U.S. cities plus a few international locations. The show stopped in Houma in mid-December and wraps up in February. The production tells the tales of three of its most beloved princesses, Snow White, Belle and Cinderella, with Dustin bringing to life the comedic candlestick Lumiere of “Beauty and the Beast” fame. “It’s been so much fun. Especially being from Larose and having that CajunFrench background, getting to play a completely French character is some58
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thing I thought would be so much fun,” he says of the part. “I have that background and that experience, so getting to portray especially this character [is so fun.] It was one of my first Disney movies. Getting to do those huge production numbers with all the gorgeous sets that we have and the beautiful costumes and all the special effects, that’s been one of the most amazing experiences.” Having the opportunity to see the behind-the-scenes work of the show has also fueled Dustin’s desire to dabble in costume design, a hobby he nurtures whether enjoying a break or on the road. Dustin totes around a sewing machine and mannequin on the tour bus, perfect-
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ing his stitching and needlework en route to the next day’s venue. He is also able to watch the masters of the industry at work, picking up skills on how to bring that signature Disney magic to life. “[The costumes] are so elaborate and detailed. Everything is in pieces. Anything you see is a shirt, a pair of pants, a tie, a jacket,” Dustin says of the costumes, including his own, which he touts is as close to the cartoon version as it gets. “It’s about five layers of clothing and that’s something that makes it really interesting when you have a quick change and you have to put on another five layers ... It’s very inspiring to have this experience and know how the cos-
tumes work and see what they did to make magic happen every day in the blink of an eye.” Although he is aware that one day his body will no longer allow him to glide effortlessly across the stage “belting his face off ” to “Be Our Guest” for the young and young at heart everywhere, Dustin has a plan B, one that could keep him around the theatre world for a long time. “At the end of the day, you might not be able to perform for the rest of your life, but if you know how to build a set and you know how to build costumes and you know how to do hair and makeup, those things will give you longevity in the career,” Dustin explains. “I’ll be able to stay around theatre and be able to do something that I’m passionate about, that I love, beyond when I can’t necessarily perform. It’s also really good for someone to be able to come up to you, as a performer, and if they need assistance, you’re able to do something other than stand on stage and be able to give a good performance. It’s so silly but we have this saying, ‘Teamwork makes the dream work.’ If you can stand back and help them paint a prop or help them put a set up or help them sew part of a costume, that’s something that makes you a more valuable performer and will give you something to do beyond when you can’t stand on stage and perform anymore.” Although its been three years since he first hit the road, Dustin admits its taken a bit of adjusting – figuring out how to stuff w rm and cold weather clothing in two 50-pound suitcases and longing for the freshly-caught seafood of Bayou Lafourche instead of food that pales in comparison to authentic Cajun cuisine among his biggest challenges – but the journey has been an exciting adventure and one he’s nowhere near ready to finish. It’s the thrill of standing beneath those bright lights and bringing to life some of the most beloved characters for a new generation that fills the performer’s heart with a type of joy only the stage can provide. “That’s one of the highlights of getting to do the job that we do. [In December,] we had local area schools from New Orleans at the UNO Lakefront Arena and that was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had,” he says. “We got to perform in front of 1,700 school kids. The interaction and response was unreal. When Goofy came out at the very beginning, I could not hear any of the music. All you could hear was 1,700 kids losing their minds. To see the lines and lines of school buses and know that they got to get out of school and come see a Disney show, something that a lot of them may not ever be able to see in Florida or California, is something that I’m so happy to be a part of.” POV povhouma.com
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Shell Armstrong Pam Negrotto
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Nordlicht was the highest indexed sire in France with two or more stakes winners in 1959 and second among English sires A prize-winning racehorse once rumored to have belonged to the leader of the Third Reich lays here. The horse in question, a thoroughbred named Nordlicht, died in 1968 at age 27. The stallion is believed to have belonged to Adolph Hitler, and was claimed by the U.S. Army as a spoil of war after the German leader’s death. Nordlicht – or north light in German – eventually found his way to south Louisiana. He lived his post-World War II days as La Branche Plantation’s top stud. But in his prime, Nordlicht was a horse to be reckoned with. The son of champion racehorse Oleander, Nordlicht was foaled in 1941. He was brother to Nuvolari, both born to unbeaten Nereide. Germany had high hopes for Nordlicht, and the chestnut speedster didn’t disappoint. He raced the Nazi circuit at the height of the war, and, in 1944, won Germany’s Deutsches Derby and the Austrian equivalent, the Oesterreiches Derby. He was also featured on a German stamp that year. It is said Nordlicht’s breeder, Gestut Erlenhof, attempted to hide Germany’s top horses as Allied troops approached. An account in Thoroughbred Heritage (tbheritage.com) reports that lesser animals were paraded as prize winners, while the real deals – horses including Nordlicht – were kept out of sight to
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keep opposing troops from claiming them. According to the website, Erlenhof kept the prize winners in “rickety outbuildings elsewhere on the farm property.” When an American soldier retrieved Nordlitcht from a shed, the head stud groomer reportedly said, “Well, you have the best now. That is Nordlicht, the finest horse in all Europe.” It’s a story Karen Lentini has heard before. La Branche Plantation is her home, and has been in the Lentini family since 1983, when her dad, former Kenner Police Chief Sal, purchased the 20-acre site from Dr. C. Walter Mattingly, a New Orleans surgeon. “We had no idea Nordicht was buried on the property or the horse’s connection to Hitler,” she says. “My dad bought the property with the goal of restoring the plantation. He combined something I loved and something he loved – horses and renovating the place.” Years later, Dr. Mattingly’s wife, also a physician, called Karen and informed her she had the bronze marker for Nordlicht’s grave. The ensuing conversation was a brief history lesson. “Dr. Dee [Mattingly] wasn’t really interested in horses,” Karen recalls. “The family basically used the breeding facility as a tax shelter. They didn’t have children, and they invested in the property.” The exact details get a bit fuzzy, in
large part because Mrs. Mattingly didn’t share her husband’s affinity for Nordlicht’s background. But Karen says friends connected to the old Jefferson Downs racetrack in Kenner and the Internet helped connect some of the dots. Erlenhof was left in Nazi Germany to protect Nordlicht after the animal’s then-owner, Baron Thyssen, fled to Switzerland. Thoroughbred Heritage reports Remount Service at Front Royal, Virginia, auctioned the horse for $20,300. The buyers – a syndicate of businessmen – purchased the animal. But Nordlicht’s performance was less than stellar. After only a few minor stake wins, he was sold to the Mattingly’s in 1948, relocated to La Branche and relegated to stud duties. “He was drawing top dollar,” Karen says of the $2,000 asking stud fee listed in an advertisement from the 1950s. “Nordlicht was the highest indexed sire in France with two or more stakes winners in 1959 and second among English sires,” the handbill reads. “Nordlicht’s winners average over seven wins each, a phenomenal record.” “That’s what I was told, too, at the racetrack,” Karen says, beaming. “Nordlicht’s offspring were always in the money. No one knew how much, but they knew that he produced winners. To this day, across south Louisiana, there are horses out there with Nordlicht’s bloodline.” Nordlicht and Niccolo D’Arezzo – the
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half-brother of Nearco, who is described by Thoroughbred Heritage as “one of the greatest racehorses of the 20th century – reportedly sired more than 405 winning offspring. Their offspring included Classics, a Derby and numerous stakes winners, track-record breakers and good handicap and allowance winners. By all indications, the standing sires were treated as royalty. Dr. Mattingly even purchased the marble bathtub owned by Zachary Taylor, the nation’s 12th president, which he intended to use as a water trough for the horses, Karen says. The tub is locked away in one of the many buildings on La Branche’s tour. Visitors to the River Road site in St. Charles Parish are also treated to a look at a remaining slave’s quarters, the state’s largest pecan tree and a garconniere (bachelor’s quarters) that is more than 200 years old. The plantation is listed on the National Register of Historic Places because of its Federal woodwork. “I don’t think people travel here today to see where Hitler’s horse was buried,” Karen admits. “They come to see the slave quarters, to experience the history, or to enjoy the plantation. But that Nordlicht once walked these grounds and sired bloodlines that are still alive and racing today is an interesting part of La Branche’s history. That connection to history leads through La Branche.” POV
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Bayou Safari 900 acres of wonderland in the plains of Larose Casey Gisclair Jose Delgado
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LAROSE BUSINESSMAN BRYAN ARCENEAUX
and his family love the outdoors. They also love Cajun culture and anything that protects the environment and fosters the growth of trees.
To has built a space that one
feed that passion, the family
might call a paradise for any nature lover – a quiet, scenic haven that is a true sight to see. And it’s all quietly tucked into the local plains of northern Larose – snuck into 900 acres, which sit idly off a. Highway 308, visible to passengers navigating the road. It’s called Arceneaux Whitetails, and it is the home to several species of deer and other exotic animals that
have been purchased from all over the world. The facility also features a tidy “hangout” cabin, several lazy rivers stocked with bass and a fully-equipped skeet shoot complex, which opens for public business this month – the future home of tournaments and other events Bryan hopes will raise money for schools and other community causes. In all, it’s a scenic beauty – the kind of place where one could lose hours povhouma.com
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in a span that feels like mere minutes. But for the Bryan and his family, it’s a byproduct of hard work and fate – a facility that has taken five diligent years to put together piece by piece – dating back to the family’s first land acquisition in 2010. “We’ve come an awfully long way,” says Bryan, who manages the massive familyoperated ranch. “It’s beautiful now, but it’s been a lot of work to get here. We’re proud of it and happy for how far it’s come. Sometimes we sit back and wonder how it all happened so fast, but it’s been a lot of time put in to get what people see today.”
Fate Leads to 900-Plus Acres of Beauty Somewhere around 2010 – Bryan can’t remember the exact month or date – the Arceneaux family was in need of land. Bryan’s son Colby had just gotten out of college and was looking to build a house. In the process of shopping for land, Bryan, his wife Sammy and the rest of the family came across a plot of grass in Larose north of the Intracoastal Waterway. Immediately, Bryan was in love. He had a vision for the green space, though he had no idea that it could ever be a reality. His vision wasn’t necessarily for his son to have a house on the property, but for he and the family to have an outdoor paradise on the fertile, tree-filled grounds. “We rode through and I loved all of the oak trees. I fell in love immediately,” Bryan explains. “Where I live, there aren’t any oak trees – just hackberry. I knew right away that I loved this place, because I just loved how quiet it was and how everything was laid out.” The family bought the land, then Bryan put his vision into motion. Plot-by-plot, the Arceneauxs acquired surrounding grasslands to have more space to work with. Throughout the past few years, the family has worked deals with 60 different landowners to create the 900-plus-acre paradise visitors see today. povhouma.com
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“We started buying pieces, then decided to put a fence up and start stocking it with whitetail deer,” Bryan says. “We figured we’d let them grow up and see what they could become. We got on the Internet and talked with a bunch of people about what we could possibly do, and we just got to work.” Bryan says a lot of the land acquired is old, treeless sugar cane fields. A nature lover to the core, Bryan wanted to bring what he calls “heritage” to the land. In five years, the family has planted more than 5,000 trees – something Bryan said is what’s closest to his heart. “That’s my passion – to bring back the native trees,” Bryan observes. “We’ve planted everything from cypress to magnolia to evergreens to oak to native palm trees. We’ve done it all, and we want to 70
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keep planting 250 or so trees a year. “I might not see it in my lifetime, because the trees are young. But in 30 years, this place will be like a park.”
Animals Galore With the word “whitetail” in the ranch’s title, it’s easy to assume that the land is stocked with deer. It is. They come in all shapes, sizes and species, and can be seen at all hours. During a two-hour tour of the facility, this traveling troop was able to spot at least two dozen bucks and does – some babies and others possessing monstrous 12-plus-point racks. Some are spooked by humans, but others aren’t. Some even walk closer and become curious at your presence. Most
stare at the traveling vehicle as it passes, but then continue to graze or go about their business. “Look at that big one,” Bryan says, pointing to a huge buck cutting through the road, not overly happy with the truck invading his land. “That’s a prize deer right there.” “See that? Those are babies,” he adds a few minutes later as three very small deer playfully hop across the road, not even aware that humans are present. The fawns are playing with one another and enjoying the day’s lovely weather without a care in the world. Bryan says he purchased the deer initially through multiple brokers who sell the animals full-time. But the facility also has breeding stations, which has the Arceneaux property fully stocked and ready for the future. “They’re all over,” Bryan says of the deer. “The most active times to see them are in the late afternoon.” Then there are exotic animals, too. In the past few years, the Arceneaux family has decided to get creative, purchasing a handful of zebras from Global Wildlife to introduce a little variety to the area. Perhaps the star of the show is an adult camel named Humphrey – a name given to him by Sammy. Humphrey is as playful as a child and has become an adopted member of the Arceneaux family. On this visit, the camel clumsily prances forward and then sticks his entire head into the truck to say hello to the visitors – even giving photographer Jose Delgado a nice, wet and unexpected lick on both the cheek and on his camera lens. At every sight of the automobile or of humans, Humphrey’s eyes light up – he loves being the center of attention. “He’s a character,” Bryan says of the creature. “No matter what, he finds a way to make you laugh. We spend a lot of time laughing with him. He’s a hoot. We love him to pieces.” When asked how many camels are on the land, Bryan explains that there is no female camel on the land to keep Humphrey company. “My wife says we need one,” Bryan says
Point of Vue Magazine
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Walters, Meyer, Trosclair & Associates Ameriprise Private Wealth Advisory Practice
Gregory A. Walters, CFP®, MBA, APMA®, Private Wealth Advisor | Thomas J. Meyer, CFP®, APMA®, Private Wealth Advisor Ray A. Trosclair, CFP®, APMA®, Private Wealth Advisor | Lloyd J. Kern, III, APMA®, CMFC®, Financial Advisor David M. Ponson, Financial Advisor | Andrew C. Walters, Financial Advisor | Denise A. Badgerow, Associate Financial Advisor John T. Meyer, Associate Financial Advisor | Christopher M. Callahan, Associate Financial Advisor Nathan C. Walters, Associate Financial Advisor
132 Rue Colette, Ste. A • Thibodaux, LA 70301 985.446.1968 • 985.446.1989 fax 37410 Ascension Parish Rd., Ste. A • Prairieville, LA 70769 225.744.4482 • 225.744.4480 fax www.wmta-getadvice.com Brokerage, investment and financial advisory services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. Some products and services may not be available in all jurisdictions or to all clients. The initial consultation provides an overview of financial planning concepts. You will not receive written analysis and/or recommendations. © 2014 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.
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Skeet Shoot to Give Back Pretty much everything at Arceneaux Whitetails isn’t commercialized – it’s mostly private land for family and friends to enjoy themselves and the outdoors. But this month, the public will have an opportunity to use and enjoy a phase of the facility. On the property is a full-fledged skeet shooting facility – a shooting area that can accomodate literally hundreds of marksmen at a time. This past year, Bryan opened his gates and allowed South Lafourche High School in for a fundraising tournament. Seeing how successful that event went, the family now plans to open beginning with the New Year – five days a week to allow marksmen to shoot. The skeet shooting area is smack-dab in the middle of the 900 acres, and while shooting, one can easily see a fallow or an antelope. Bryan says that adds to the environment.
For more information about the skeet shoot, those interested are asked to visit
with a laugh. “We’ll see.” After backing up his truck and driving away from the camel, the ranchman sighs, then gives the beloved camel some good news. “Man, I’ve got to get a female for him,” Bryan says with a smile, while driving off. The family land also now houses a llama, which a friend donated. As most llamas are, this one is ugly as can be. He was hanging out with Humphrey when the truck arrived, but was quickly abandoned by the attentionseeking camel, who opted out of playing in favor of being rubbed and loved by human company. “He’s hideous,” Bryan says of his llama. “Look at those bucked teeth.” All of the animals at Arceneaux Whitetails were purchases certified by both Louisiana Forestry Association and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries – a must for anyone wanting to own animals of this kind. They are all fed and maintained by the family with special feed. 72
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ARCENEAUXWHITETAIL.COM
“It’s so funny,” he adds. “The men are in here shooting skeet and behind them, a deer will cut across the road. It makes people laugh. It’s crazy to see.” Bryan says the decision to open publically was to both give hunters an outlet to stay sharp, but also to raise money to help locals. The South Lafourche event was a big success, and the family knows other events can pump thousands of dollars into local causes that need assistance. “It’s a great chance for us to allow people in here so that they can put on events designed to give back,” Bryan says. “And if we can do that, that would be excellent.” As for what’s to come, Bryan says that after five years of building and planting, he thinks the facility is pretty close to its completion. But like any dreamer would, he’s leaving all options open. “We’re about finished building … at least, I think so,” Bryan says with a laugh. “It’s mostly maintaining now. This is a special place. I come here after a long, hard day and just relax. It’s such a great place to be, and I spend as much time here as I possibly can.” POV
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We Support a Healthier Future Priscilla Broussard, LCSW, LAC; Behavioral Health Center of Thibodaux Regional
Mental Health Resolutions Mon making healthier physical and any New Year’s resolutions focus
financial choices. Here are some suggestions for New Year’s resolutions that might improve your mental health. I will treat myself with respect and speak kindly to myself and about myself. If something is so negative that you wouldn’t allow a person to say it to your child, why say it to yourself ? Why say it about yourself in front of others? Stop being mean to yourself. I will learn to relax. Many people, particularly those who work in human services, stay so busy that we forget how or when to take care of ourselves. Find a hobby that’s relaxing to you. Take a yoga class. Learn to meditate. Spend at least five minutes a
day taking care of yourself. Gradually work up to taking more time to relax each day.
trated or angry, pause. Take a breath. Smile. Wait a moment or two before responding.
I will be more mindful. Mindfulness is about bringing your attention to this moment. Th s moment. Right now. Not what happened yesterday, or what might happen tomorrow. We cannot change yesterday. We cannot control how tomorrow might unfold. We can choose to be present in this one precious moment before us right now. I will respond rather than react. Sometimes we feel like others are “pushing our buttons.” When this happens, we are probably having a knee-jerk reaction rather than giving a thoughtful response. It’s not that others are actually pushing our buttons; it’s that we have become over-sensitive. If you feel frus-
I will be patient with myself if I make resolutions and do not keep them. It takes time and effort to make changes in our lives. At any point in time, you can decide to start again to make choices that will improve your mental health. POV
Contact the Behavioral Health Center of Thibodaux Regional, 985.493.4437, for more information.
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FitMind Dr. J. Michael Flynn
Being Mindful in the New Year
A Year is to be more mindful. In my
mong my written goals for the New
prayers and among my most serious wishes for the New Year is that our society becomes more mindful. “Mindful” can be simply defi ed as paying attention to the present – to the “Here and Now” that Luther Vandross sang so beautifully about. In our society we face increasing challenges to our democracy when declining numbers of citizens do not take the time to vote. This is something we better get mindful about. Alice Morse Earle, in the 1902 book “Sun Dials and Roses,” wrote, “The clock is running. Make the most of today. Time waits for no man. Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That’s why it is called the present.” It is important to be mindful in our life. Mindful of what you are thinking about; what you are saying; what you are putting into your body and are expecting your body to use for energy and maintaining your health; mindful of the great need to hydrate with water and put your body in motion every 78
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day; mindful of our bodies’ aches and pains and what you are doing about them; mindful of how jealousy, selfishness and greed are among the plagues on mankind; mindful of what a positive difference a loving, optimistic attitude can have in your life. The list is endless of the many things we should be mindful of in times of so much distraction in the events of our daily lives. Becoming more mindful does take effort. It requires focus and a present time consciousness. There are also times when you want to relax your mind without resorting to alcohol and other destructive chemical compounds. I enjoy exercising, reading and watching a good movie. The new movie “Concussion” is going to get a lot of mindful attention. Based on a true story, the actor Will Smith plays Dr. Bennett Omalu, the forensic pathologist who first discovered the relationship between football and chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a degenerative brain disease caused by multiple hits to the head. Concussion awareness, with the
mindfulness of minimizing risk, is gaining momentum. My favorite part in the trailer and movie is when the doctor looks across the desk and says, “Tell the truth – tell the truth.” One of the “truths” told by the late Norman Cousins, who wrote the book “Anatomy of an Illness,” was that “the greatest tragedy in life is not death; but what dies inside us while we live.” We each have only so many minutes to live and the clock is always running. This is something to be mindful about. A recent report from Harvard Medical School discussed the significance of using mindfulness to effect positive emotions and the essential role this has with our health, happiness and longevity. Another New Year has begun. Many of us will make resolutions to do better, to be better. Few will live up to those promises to themselves. Maybe this year, by being more mindful, we will make the choices necessary to be healthier and meet and exceed our goals. Think of each day as a gift. POV DR. J. MICHAEL FLYNN
practices at the Flynn Clinic of Chiropractic in Houma. Call him at 985.855.4875 or visit DRMIKEFLYNN.COM.
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TIPS TO
STAY TRUE TO NEW YEAR’S
RESOLUTIONS Casey Gisclair
SAmericans make New Year’s resolu-
tudies show that more than a million
tions to get more fit and healthy each year, but only about 8-10 percent of those goals last past a couple weeks. Local fitness experts and exercise nuts say the key to being a survivor is simple – make smaller, more realistic goals and compete only with yourself and not with what others are doing. January is a huge month for fitness and exercise businesses – a time when people are most motivated to shed a couple of those unwanted pounds or that unhealthy diet. Success is possible, trainers agree, if one works hard to attain it, but it will only come with hard work and a clear 80
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understanding of how to make realistic, attainable goals. “Start small. Track your progress – even if you start with very little exercise,” says local trainer Zach Voss, who heads the Terrebonne General Medical Center Sports Training Center in Houma. “You will get knocked down, but get back on the saddle and keep going. Take the wins with the losses, because both are great for learning and growing in your journey.” The ability to accept small failures is something that most agree derails a lot of resolutions. Zach says with the way the human body works, it’s easy to lose pounds early in a diet, because a change in lifestyle
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DON’T DIET, CREATE A
LIFESTYLE
will quickly remove toxins from the body. By doing so, the number on the scale will usually decrease in the beginning, which sometimes creates an idea that the weeks and months ahead will be easy. Zach cautions dieters to not fall into that pitfall. His proposed idea for success is to use the SMART goals method, which stands for specific, measurable, attainable, relative and timely. “Goals are meant for you and only you,” Zach contends. “Make it something that can be measured and tracked over time, but be realistic about where you are and where you want to go, and create a realistic timeline that your goals can be reached – both long- and short-term goals.” Fellow local trainer Lori Bolden agrees.
She says folks making New Year’s resolutions are best served aiming for multiple small victories instead of becoming intimidated by one, giant win. Lori adds that the people who have the most success are those who acknowledge that failure is a possibility and state up-front that it won’t be an option. “Accept no quitting during the struggles to get where you want to go,” she suggests. “Make quitting non-negotiable and win it.” Lori says those who struggle are folks who aren’t patient in the process. “People get weary because they are looking for a quick-fix pill or something to make it easy,” she reasons. “It won’t be easy. Sit back and enjoy the journey.” Experts also tout that diet is a huge key,
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adding that all of the exercise in the world is for naught if a person doesn’t feed his or her body with the right nutrients to promote weight loss and muscle growth. Houma native Lindsey Trahan says she tried losing weight for a half-decade without success. She walked on the treadmill and did light work on her legs. “I never had any success,” she says. But in the past year, Lindsey revamped the way she eats, consuming more vegetables and eating more often, but in smaller portions. It made all the difference. Lindsey is down 29 pounds in the past eight months, and is just shy of her target weight of 145 pounds. “I ate the same amount, but just in smaller portions,” she explains. “I didn’t eat past about 8 p.m., and I completely cut out soft drinks. When I did that – especially with the soft drinks – was when I started to see my goals come to light.” Lori and Zach agree. They say the trick to dieting is to do it in a way that makes sense for you. And that includes cheating. Doing so gives both balance an incentive to keep going.
“Don’t diet, create a lifestyle,” Lori contends. “Do so without cutting out certain food groups. Allow yourself a favorite meal once a week with a friend or family member. Enjoy it without guilt or condemnation.” “I always tell people to focus on healthy things they like and enjoy them,” Zach notes. “It’s important to not create a negative relationship with food. Eliminate things you know to be unhealthy, understanding it will affect you positively down the road. There are actually plenty of great-tasting healthy food options, but you just have to take the time to explore, cook and experiment with them.” And if all else fails and making a resolution is too tough, just don’t make one at all. Lori says that sometimes the sheer pressure of having a resolution puts too much pressure on people, which often leads to failure. She says that not making a concrete, specific resolution per se, but just making a more generalized, broader commitment to oneself is often what works best in motivating people to continue on their goals. “Don’t make (a resolution) if it’s too much for you to live up to,” Lori says. “Instead, purpose to live a healthier lifestyle.” “If I can do it, I guarantee you that any human being in the world can do it,” Lindsey swears. “Don’t be that 90 percent who doesn’t make it. Shock yourself and be at the highest level.” POV 82
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Cool Down
Run, Rest, Recover
Werly, rest and recovery are just as
hen it comes to working out prop-
important as getting the most out of that sweat session. It’s how we rest and recover that matter most so that we can give our body a fighting chance at establishing and maintaining optimal health and wellness. Consistent, intense physical exercise – whether from lifting weights or logging dozens of miles around the neighborhood – puts a toll on the body, creating the dreaded soreness that can linger
for days. Ignoring that soreness and continuing to train intensely day after day can lead to a handful of additional nagging issues that put a damper on day-to-day living. According to the American Council on Exercise, overtraining can cause, among other things, coordination imbalance, headaches, gastrointestinal issues and disturbed sleep. It can also affect workout performance, leaving people feeling irritated over their progress and quality of work.
But how long is too long of a recovery time and what’s just right? There’s no magic formula when it comes to the proper amount of time off but the council does suggest evaluating your current workouts, your sleep and nutritional habits and what activities you do outside of working out to figure out how long to break. Also take into account the degree of the soreness you are experiencing and give your muscles time to rest. If a workout is properly designed for your physical abilities, recovery should be around one to two days, but could be longer if the soreness is a result of workouts that are too intense for your current abilities, according to the council. Taking time off doesn’t mean lounging around all day and completely forgoing physical activity, however. Low-impact workouts, like playing with the dog or heading to a yoga class, rejuvenate without putting too much pressure on muscles and light workouts can actually enhance circulation. Nutrition also plays a role in recovery as a healthy mix of carbohydrates and protein give muscles exactly what they need to continue supporting you. Carbs are a primary source of fuel while protein helps repair muscles. The council also recommends continuing to enjoy whatever healthy foods you typically eat while being observant of what your body needs. If it says stop, take a break. If it is craving a certain nutritious food, enjoy it. You are giving your body the tools necessary to rebuild and grow the proper way. POV povhouma.com
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