The Resolutions Issue

Page 1

FREE JANUARY 2018 | VOL. 12 • ISSUE 1 | POVHOUMA.COM

RESOLUTIONS New Year Year,, New


Your business is unique. SHOULDN’ T YOUR B R AN DIN G R EFLECT IT?

M A R K E T I N G IDENTITY » PRINT » WEB » MARKETING

REIMAGINE-MARKETING.COM

985 868 7871


“I’ve always wanted to find a way I could use my communication skills to help people. At Blue Cross, I get to do that. The things I write make healthcare seem less big and complex and scary.”

Kristen Sunde - Hammond Senior writer, dog walker Blue Cross Employee

Even in changing times, some things never change. Louisiana True since 1934.

01MK6713 11/17 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association and is incorporated as Louisiana Health Service & Indemnity Company.

stop lying to yourself! We Can Help LOSE 3-7 lbs per week on average with

Doctor Recommended • Easy 4-Phase Protocol • Cellulite Treatment Maintains Muscle Mass & Energy Levels while Burning Fat

CALL NOW FOR A FREE CONSULTATION! 2 Locations to Serve You Houma 430 Corporate Dr. • 873-8586 | Thibodaux 2000 Audubon Dr., Suite D. • 447-2225 wegotyaback.com

“WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK”

January 2018 3 povhouma.com


CONTENTS |

JANUARY 2018 • VOLUME 12 • ISSUE 1

CONT HOME + LIVING

Page 24

FOOD + FUN

Page 40

MIND + BODY

Page 54

14 POV PICK

30 POV PICK

48 POV PICK

16 CHATEAU CHIC

32 LIVING TINY IN THE SILVER FOX

50 HOME SWEET HOME

Louisiana-inspired Dinnerware

Simply Charming

22 THE OBSERVER Bless this Mess

24 KREATING INSPIRATION Sarah Hebert creates unique abstract paintings.

Deli Sandwiches

Tessa and Brandon Chauvin enjoy a minimalist life in their Airstream.

38 OH SNAP Sneaux Day

40 HAPPY AND HEALTHE

John and Claire Kopfler promote eating healthy.

44 BON APPETIT

Surprising health benefits of citrus

January 2018 4 povhouma.com

Swedish Massage

President Jay Clune returns home to Nicholls State University.

52 YOUR DAILY APPLE

Get to Know Stephanie Durocher, NP

54 LOSING TO GAIN

Jason Harper’s inspirational weightloss journey

58 WE SUPPORT A HEALTHY FUTURE

Don’t Just Make New Year’s Resolutions – Keep Them


ENTS EXTRAS

ON THE COVER

WORD, YA HEARD HARBINGER 1. one that initiates a major change 2. something that foreshadows a future event

WORD ON THE STREET “Josh LaJaunie serves as the harbinger for over 80 people’s weight loss journey.” “Superstition says the first person to enter your home in the New Year is a harbinger of the year to come.”

Page 32

08 EDITOR’S NOTE Be Inspired

10 INTERVUE Say What?

Page 32 Tessa and Brandon Chauvin welcome the New Year outside their tiny home, the Silver Fox. Read more on page 32.

VISIT US ONLINE: povhouma.com

Photo: Misty Leigh McElroy

CHECK OUT OUR NEWSLETTER:

60 UNDER THE SCOPE

Receive additional content and weekly events when you sign up.

Our Granite Universe

62 RENDEZVOUS

tinyurl.com/povnewsletter

Where you need to be around town

64 SCENE IN

Look at ol’ so ‘n’ so!

66 THE ART OF SMART

It’s not an article it’s a smarticle.

67 LOOK TWICE

Sponsored by Synergy Bank

January 2018 5 povhouma.com


EXPERT AGENT IN THE KNOW What does it mean to be IN good hands?SM It means that I know the risks in the area. I’ll use my local expertise to help you choose the right amount of protection. And I’ll be there to help you over the years. Call or stop in for a free, no-obligation Personalized Insurance Proposal today. One place to help with all your insurance needs.

How long do you actually keep your New Year’s resolution?

I don’t do New Year resolutions. If you decide to make a change, why wait until Jan. 1? PUBLISHER

Brian Rushing EDITORIAL

Bonnie Rushing EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Mary Downer Ditch MANAGING EDITOR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

I’d like to be generous and say a month, but it’s usually more like 2 weeks.

Keely Diebold Jaime Dishman John Doucet Darian Graivshark Drew Miller Bonnie Rushing

OFFICE/CIRCULATION MANAGER

Michelle Ortego SUBSCRIPTIONS Point of Vue magazine is published monthly. Subscriptions are available for $36 for 12 issues. For more information, email mail@rushing-media.com or visit rushing-media.com/subscriptions.

CREATIVE

Hailey Boudreaux CREATIVE DIRECTOR Paul Guidry GRAPHIC DESIGNER PHOTOGRAPHY

Less than a month.

Channing Candies Misty Leigh McElroy ADVERTISING

Deanne Ratliff SALES MANAGER Harold Cancienne Peggy Dominique I don’t make one! Jamie Mazerac Linda Pontiff ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE

Jessica Gifford CONTACT

Publisher: publisher@rushing-media.com Editorial: mary@rushing-media.com Creative: graphics@rushing-media.com Sales: sales@rushing-media.com

Copyright ©2017 Rushing Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of editorial and/or graphic content is strictly prohibited.

Business address:

Stephanie Hebert 985-868-1886

Subject to terms, conditions and availability. Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Co., Allstate Insurance Co., Allstate Vehicle and Property Insurance Co., Allstate Indemnity Co. © 2016 Allstate Insurance Co.

227972

854 Grand Caillou Road Houma shebert@allstate.com

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.

January 2018 6 povhouma.com


LOWEST PRICES ON ALL NEW AND USED VEHICLES

New Year 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LT

2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

New 2018 Chevrolet Equinox LS

200 South Hollywood Road • Houma, LA 70360

985-876-6570 WWW.TRAPPAUTO.COM Live Market prices based on dealer software program that regularly monitors internet market prices. Based on market conditions prices are then adjusted to a competitive low market price. See dealer for details. 17-056585


EDITOR’S NOTE |

MARY DOWNER DITCH • MANAGING EDITOR OF POV

BE INSPIRED

It seems the most common question this time of year is “What’s your New Year’s resolution?” I hate to burst your bubble, but I don’t recall ever making a resolution! Instead, I view each day as a chance to start fresh and make a change. I know the person I am, and strive to be the best me that I can be each day. It’s not possible without a little inspiration and motivation. I draw my inspiration from my family. As cliché as it sounds, they inspire me to keep going. My husband is kind and loving, showing endless affection towards our son and me. He inspires me to always be kind to others; you never know the struggles they might be facing. By offering a kind word or even just a smile, you can change the world around you. Our three-year-old is my motivation when the bigger picture sometimes gets in the way. Often I forget to slow down and focus on the here and now. A toddler has a way of making you drop everything to join him in playing with his trucks or taking a moment to read him his favorite book. He lives passionately from moment to moment and sometimes so should I. One look at that adorable, albeit usually messy, face and I am inspired to take on the world. This month, we are excited to share with you stories of inspiration and motivation. Whether it’s a journey of losing physical weight or losing material items, our stories will hopefully encourage you to reach for your goals, whatever they may be. Sarah Hebert wasn’t always on the road to being an

artist. Drawing her inspiration from her great-grandfather, she finally put brush to canvas to “kreate” stunning Louisiana abstracts that have found their way to homes across the country. Follow along her path on page 24. While I would be content cleaning out a closet or my pantry, Tessa and Brandon Chauvin have cleaned out their lives of unnecessary physical items and clutter, trading up for lasting memories and tiny living. They proudly welcome us into their Airstream and introduce us to their minimalist lifestyle on page 32. In an area that is known for it’s amazing, but not always healthy, food, John and Claire Kopfler are blazing a “HEALTHe” trail. With their delicious recipes, they are proudly inspiring a new generation to choose healthy foods. Learn more about their plans to bring healthy options to Thibodaux on page 40. As Dr. Jay Clune steps into the office of President at Nicholls State University, he is inspired and empowered by the students to help lead the university into the New Year. Join us as we welcome Dr. Clune home on page 50. One of the most common New Year’s resolutions is weight loss. As we learn from Jason Harper, there are many steps that go into making that decision and making it stick. Jason kindly shares what motivates him to continue on his weight loss journey on page 54. We hope our Resolutions Issue helps you find your inspiration and motivates you to move in the direction of your goals in the New Year.

January 2018 8 povhouma.com


FOR ALL TO HEAR

Y WA W E

AN

MBPTGMC.org

H ALT

O

E FH

At M a r y B Biird Per k ins TGMC C anc nce er Ce nt nte er, our ex p er ienc nce e d te tea am us es an ins pire d ap pro roa ac h t hat includes ever y as p ec t of c are f rom advanc nce ed treatment to nutrit itiion and supp ppo or t. We will empow owe e r yo u t hroughout your c anc nce er jour ney – helping get you to t he mome nt w h e n yo u r i n g t h e b e ll l ou oud d a n d c l e a r. January 2018 9 povhouma.com


INTERVUE |

SAY WHAT?

WHO OR WHAT INSPIRES YOU AND WHY?

MICHELLE | BUSINESS OWNER

“Inspiration is everywhere. Most of all, flowers inspire me, helping me to bring unique moments to life through floral arrangements. To me, making someone smile by sending an arrangement of flowers is the most rewarding feeling and I am grateful to find my inspiration there.”

DEAN | ENTREPRENEUR

“For me it is personal growth. A recent event has given me a changed perspective. All the disappointments, failures and tragedies in my life, although each has resulted in an emotional roller coaster, have now lead me to understand that there is a seed of personal growth and opportunity for me to help others. We all have a story. Mine is to help others find theirs and tell it. ”

MADDY | COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

“As a new mom this year, I have been looking to and inspired by the women in my life. From my own mother and grandmother and friends, to women I work closely with, all of them, whether they know it or not, have been guiding lights as I navigate this new role. I am incredibly grateful to live each day looking to women who are honest, genuine and selfless leaders in their family and the workplace.”

AMANDA | SOCIAL SERVICE ANALYST “The person who inspires me the most is my mother, Mary. She works hard, treats people well and always remains positive.”

KELSEY | IT SUPPORT REPRESENTATIVE “As I was growing up I have always seen my mom work so hard at everything she had done. Now as an adult I follow in my mom’s footsteps. She inspires me to work hard and love every moment of it. Between school, work and my hobbies I try my hardest even when I know I am only average. She helps me to see the light in every situation and make the most out of what I have.”

January 2018 10 povhouma.com


Welcoming Welcoming someone new someone new to the family? to the family?

Choose Ochsner St. Anne. Choose Ochsner St. Anne.

e in the hands

of one of the nation’s top-ranked health systems.

e in the hands

of one of the nation’s top-ranked health systems.

Baby-Friendly, which means we offer

an optimal level of care for mothers and their babies.

Baby-Friendly, which means we offer

an optimal level of care for mothers and their babies. • Spacious rooms – free tours available •• Spacious rooms – freebirthing tours available Free classes including & beyond, grandparenting, CPR & infant safety, breastfeeding and sibling • Free classes including birthing & beyond, grandparenting, CPR & infant safety, breastfeeding and sibling • Online appointment scheduling at ochsner.org •• Online appointment scheduling ochsner.org 24/7 doctor messaging through at MyOchsner • 24/7 doctor messaging through MyOchsner • Access to a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) •• Access to a Neonatal Intensivelactation Care Unit (NICU) Free inpatient and outpatient consults • Free inpatient and outpatient lactation consults

For more information or to schedule a tour, call 985.537.8291. For more information or to schedule a tour, call 985.537.8291. Ochsner Women’s Health Center – Raceland 104 Acadia Park Dr. | Raceland | 985.537.3211 Ochsner Women’s Health Center – Raceland 104 Acadia Dr.Hospital | Raceland | 985.537.3211 Ochsner St.Park Anne | 4608 Hwy. 1 | Raceland January 2018 11 povhouma.com Ochsner St. Anne Hospital | 4608 Hwy. 1 | Raceland


HOME + LIVING

POV PICK | 14

Louisiana-inspired Dinnerware

CHATEAU CHIC | 16 Simply Charming

THE OBSERVER | 22 Bless this Mess

KREATING INSPIRATION | 24

Sarah Hebert creates unique abstract paintings.

January 2018 12 povhouma.com


853-0900 • 249 January CORPORATE 2018 13 povhouma.com DR., HOUMA


HOME + LIVING |

POV PICK

LOUISIANA-INSPIRED DINNERWARE KiKi and Co.

Enjoy your favorite Cajun meals in these ceramic dishes made in Port Allen, Louisiana. With words like etouffĂŠe, jambalaya and swamp water featured on the dishes, this unique collection of dinnerware brings cultural charm to the table, no matter where you are!

January 2018 14 povhouma.com


EXPERIENCE THE LIFESTYLE

THIBODAUX’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE DEVELOPMENT

SettlementAtLiveOak.com - THIBODAUX ANN CALDARERA | STEFANY DEROCHE 985-446-6363

www.StMattsSchool.com

St. Matthew’s Episcopal School does not discriminate in regard to race, creed, color, sex or national origin.

St. Matthew’s Episcopal School does not discriminate in regard to race, creed, color, sex or national origin.

January 2018 15 povhouma.com


HOME + LIVING |

CHATEAU CHIC

SIMPLY CHARMING BY BONNIE RUSHING | PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY

1

After living a number of years in downtown Thibodaux, Kainen and Sarah LeBlanc stumbled across a lot in a quiet area of town and quickly made the decision to build a home to raise their family in the St. Charles Community where Sarah grew up.

The couple took their time gathering ideas and planning for their Acadian style home for almost three years before breaking ground. During the building phase, they enjoyed visiting local shops to purchase ďŹ xtures and details as well as visiting nearby

January 2018 16 povhouma.com


Weddings

& Receptions

Save YOUR date! HOUMACIVICCENTER.COM

985.850.4657 2

January 2018 17 povhouma.com


3

January 2018 18 povhouma.com


“Having left our first home, an old house, we wanted to incorporate old things and give our new home features with character.” January 2018 19 povhouma.com

- Sarah LeBlanc


4

6

5

towns to hunt for antiques, old doors and unique finds to customize their home. Outfitted with simple, farmhouse inspired decor that’s both casual and comfortable, the LeBlanc’s home has the perfect amount of charm. The timeless exterior is constructed of hardie board with a brick skirt made of St. Louis bricks and features a large front porch that is clad is wood tongue and groove boards. Rustic interior elements such as remilled antique heart pine flooring, brick flooring and arches add

warmth and character to the newly constructed home as does repurposed cypress doors and a fireplace mantle and mudroom bench crafted from cypress. In the kitchen, a hand crafted wood countertop on the island by Ray Bilello, Sarah’s dad, anchors the space. Enjoying afternoons watching their children Avery, Ladd and Kathryn play while swinging on the front porch swing, also made by Sarah’s father, the LeBlancs follow the family tradition of a peaceful life in the county. POV

January 2018 20 povhouma.com


Love

Story... a true

CAITLIN & JUSTIN KEY 10.14.17

No. 1 LeBlanc Family No. 2 Foyer No. 3 Kitchen No. 4 Master Bedroom No. 5 Master Bath No. 6 Living Room

FO R A L I MI T E D T I ME WEDDING C AT E R I N G PAC KAG E S

10% O FF

WWW.CYP R ESSCOLU MNS .COM


YOU G OT YO UR

?

THE OBSERVER |

BY JAIME DISHMAN

BLESS THIS MESS

P H A R M A C Y

S I M P L I F IED. Once-A-Month Free Delivery to the Southeast Customized to Your needs by initial Nurse visit Easy to Read and Open Great for Traveling Only Pay Co-Pay plus Over the Counter Expense if used

She walked through my empty house on a Thursday night. No one was home, and I asked her to pick up some items out of my laundry room and bring them to me on her way to help me at my store for an afterhours class we were hosting. I had forgotten several important items I needed, and since she lives just a few minutes away from my house, I knew she wouldn’t mind. I was right. She didn’t mind. No complaints. As we were prepping for the night’s events, she calmly stated how much she enjoyed going to my house by herself earlier that night. “I mean, when I walked through your house and saw the stuff scattered all over, man, it made me feel good,” she said. She said it all with a smile, as though her words were a true compliment. (And maybe those weren’t her exact words, but I promise it’s pretty close even though it’s been a few days since she said them.) I didn’t know whether to be flattered or furious. I opted for an eye roll. “Glad my mess made you feel good,” I said. She didn’t really choose to stop talking at that point. Just kept on keeping on. “I mean when I saw dishes in the sink, clothes on the floor, stuff all over, it made my day,” she continued. At this point, I’m ignoring her, but she doesn’t get the clue so she keeps talking. (I reminded myself that she was helping me out for the night, so I needed to be nice.) It reminded me of another day when a different friend hopped into my car and said how happy my messy vehicle made her feel. Glad that my mess makes you feel blessed, I retorted. (Not really, but I wish I would have said that because it rhymes.) If it’s my messy house and chaotic car that help my friends love me, then so be it. I’m sure there’s some friendship quote somewhere that says messy friends are the best friends. (So I actually just did a quick Pinterest search for messy friends and there aren’t any. It instead gave me a suggested pin on “how to organize my closets.” Insert another eye roll here.)

Home of the

5458 Highway 56, Chauvin, LA

985.594.5821

January 2018 22 povhouma.com


It is January. Depending on when you’re reading this, we are a few days or maybe a few weeks into 2018. Most of us have made some sort of New Year’s Resolution. If not a formal one, maybe an informal one, simply in our heads, saying we will eat better, exercise more, fuss less. (Notice that all resolutions involve “more” or “less.” You generally need to do more of something or less of something, and then you’ll get it exactly right.) But if you’ve already broken one, two or ten resolutions, maybe there’s still space for you on the New Year’s Resolution winners list. Maybe tell a friend or two or three that you tried to diet, but ate leftover New Year’s brownies on the second day. Or that you promised to spend more quality time outdoors with the kids, but wound up laying on the couch in exhaustion while they ran around the house playing Nerf games that you told them were only allowed outside. (Not that this would ever have happened at our house. Ever.)

Walk-ins W E LC O M E

Here’s Your New Year’s Resolution Solution! FOREVER WEIGHT LOSS

FAMILY HAIR SALON A NEW DIRECTION

EIGHT STYLISTS AVAILABLE

Donald P. Schwab, Jr., MD FACS Pam Breaux, RN, BSN

• Meal Replacement Weight Loss Program • Physician Supervised

Pinterest might not be full of messy friendship quotes, but those who walk through my messes and love me anyway are dear to my heart. Love me and learn to live in my mess. Maybe that’s what all friendships are about anyway. Perfect is overrated, new goals are sometimes never achieved, but with a few good people by our side, it all seems a little better at the end of the day. Not perfect, but better. A messy house with friends inside is my favorite place to be. POV

• Personalized Weekly Support Visits • No Shots • No Pills 5619 HWY 311 SUITE B, HOUMA 99 LOUIS DR. • HOUMA 985-991-4247 January 2018 23 povhouma.com

985-855-3790 WWW.FOREVERWEIGHTLOSSHOUMA.COM FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK!


January 2018 24 povhouma.com


FREE ESTIMATES

K R E AT I N G Inspiration

BY DARIAN GRAIVSHARK | PHOTOS BY CHANNING CANDIES

Creating pieces from people’s imaginations into a piece of art is something Sarah Hebert has taken a liking to. Sarah is a mother, a wife, and a self-taught artist. With her business called Sarah K Kreations, she is able to paint pieces that her purchasers proudly hang onto the walls of their homes and businesses. Art wasn’t something she guessed she would be doing as she was growing up, either. “I used to always doodle in class,” Sarah explained, “and people would tell me that I should become an artist. It wasn’t something I took too seriously, though.” She was pursuing a marketing degree at that time at Nicholls State University, which was something she knew she was already good at. Eventually, Sarah decided to explore her creativity and start her paintings. She uses it to share the beauty in things that people may not always notice, as well as a way to relieve some stress that comes along with life. It wasn’t until recently, around August of 2017, that she began to get really into her paintings and selling them, using neutral colors to fit in every home. The vast majority of her paintings are commissioned. For Sarah’s magnificent pieces, she likes everything to be unique, so each style of the painting comes from her head while she is bringing the buyers’ imaginations to life. Sarah notes, “There isn’t a particular style for all of my paintings, but I consider them to be abstract paintings that are very texturized. I love them to have texture!”

DON’T JUST REPLACE YOUR WINDOWS,

upgrade your home

Another aspect of her paintings that makes them amazing is the fact that she doesn’t stop a painting until she feels it is totally complete. “I’m a bit of a perfectionist and refuse to finish a painting until I am completely satisfied with it,” Sarah mentions. Most of her pieces lately have been Louisiana inspired, with incorporations of things like oysters, crabs, and pelicans. Sarah passionately

(985) 879-1597 www.morrisonterrebonne.com

605 Barataria Avenue Houma, LA 70360 January 2018 25 povhouma.com


I WANT TO BE ABLE TO

S HOW E V E RYON E

T H E B E AU T Y

of the little things

IN LOUISIANA. HALFTIME NEVER TASTED SO GOOD!

explains, “I want to be able to show everyone the beauty of the little things in Louisiana. I think it’s beautiful, and sometimes we don’t always realize that.” She also includes, “I love being able to give people a sense of home with these pieces, whether they are living in Louisiana now, or are moving away. Painting these pieces for them brings me joy in knowing they will have a piece of home with them wherever they may be.” Sarah finds the motivation to create such beautiful pieces from her great grandfather, John Arthur Hurley. Known as Pete, he was a mechanic who worked on the family farm. At the age of 38, he was diagnosed with polio, a virus that causes paralysis within the body. Pete was rendered a quadriplegic, unable to move his arms or legs.

1539 MLK Blvd., Houma, LA 985.851.3692 • Fax 985.851.3694 www.honeybakedonline.com for printable coupons!

“He experienced depression after being diagnosed with this, and being unable to fully function with his limbs,” Sarah explains. “However, my great grandma began doing number paintings as therapy of her own, and challenged Pete to try it out, too.” Pete never painted before in his life, but began the number paintings, too, as not only a hobby, but also a way to deal with his diagnosis. He would do these paintings by using his mouth. After a few years of using the number paintings, he eventually gravitated towards painting his own unique pieces, ideas for which came from his imagination instead of a numbers painting. Sarah has two of his paintings in her possession, and she looks towards them for not only inspiration, but for motivation as well. It is her hope that Pete’s story can inspire other individuals to go after a goal or dream they’ve always had in their mind. With the New Year, lets remember it’s never too late to try something new, learn something new, or create something new. Don’t be afraid to go after something, because you too may be able to create something beautiful. POV

January 2018 26 povhouma.com


HAVE A

SAFE & HAPPY

LET US KEEP YOU WARM THIS WINTER!

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU IN

2018

R E F R I G E R AT I O N 314 South Hollywood Rd. • Houma 985.868.8945 coolestcustomers.com January 2018 27 povhouma.com

throw me some good gifts mister

12337 HIGHWAY 90, LULING 985-785-8769 WWW.THEBASKETRY.COM


FOOD + FUN

POV PICK | 30 Deli Sandwiches

LIVING TINY IN THE SILVER FOX | 32 Tessa and Brandon Chauvin enjoy a minimalist life in their Airstream.

OH SNAP | 38 Sneaux Day

HAPPY AND HEALTHE | 40

John and Claire Kopfler promote eating healthy.

BON APPETIT | 44

Surprising health beneďŹ ts of citrus

January 2018 28 povhouma.com


THE LEADER IN FINE SCRATCH BAKED

King Cake

OVER 60 VARIETIES Shipped anywhere with daily Fed Ex shipping

&

Delivery available on local orders* *Minimum order required. 24 hour notice required. Mon - Fri, 9 - 11 am. Local deliveries only.

985.873.9119 WWW.CANNATASKINGCAKES.COM January 2018 29 povhouma.com


FOOD + FUN |

POV PICK

DELI SANDWICHES HoneyBaked Ham

Well-known for their fully cooked, ready to serve hams and turkeys, HoneyBaked Ham in Houma also has a cafĂŠ that serves delicious sandwiches! Featuring classics like ham, turkey and chicken salad, we recommend trying a specialty sandwich such as the Bella, a savory favorite.

January 2018 30 povhouma.com


LIFE RESTORED BARRY WILLIAMS BILATERAL TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENTS “I could not have been happier with the outcome. It’s wonderful! Having both of my knee replacements done at the same time has significantly improved my life. I keep asking myself why I didn’t have the surgery sooner! My recuperation has been nothing but positive and my recovery time has been tremendously quick.”

GEORGE RANDOLPH ANTERIOR HIP REPLACEMENT

“I would highly recommend Gulf Coast Orthopedics! They are exceptional and provided me with the best care possible when I had my total hip replacement. I am now able to play on the beach with my grandkids! My advice for anyone needing a joint surgery is not to wait! I waited too long to get it done, but I am so happy I had my hip replaced using the anterior approach!”

985-868-1540

gulfcoastorthopedics.com

NOW SERVING FIVE LOCATIONS: HOUMA, THIBODAUX, MORGAN CITY, GALLIANO & RACELAND

Fall in with new

NEW FLOORS

From stone walls, to custom showers, to warm woods, let your imagination run wild with style this year.

FREE ESTIMATES & 12 MONTHS INTEREST FREE FINANCING

985.857.9347 | 4633 W. Main St. • Houma www.dishmanflooring.com Showroom Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm January 2018 31 povhouma.com


Tiny Living in the

SILVER FOX BY MARY DOWNER DITCH | PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY

January 2018 32 povhouma.com


January 2018 33 povhouma.com


Two people, one dog, and just over 200 square feet of living space in an Airstream trailer named the Silver Fox. What to some may seem like the recipe for disaster is a dream come true for Tessa and Brandon Chauvin. From the Houma area and married in 2014, the couple has always been interested in the idea of minimalism and living tiny. Brandon even worked it into his proposal, asking Tessa if she would live in a tiny house with him. But things didn’t start off tiny. “We got wrapped up in the traditional steps you are kind of expected to take,” Tessa explains. “We got married. We bought a big house, because it was what you did. Then pretty quickly after that we realized the way we were living wasn’t meeting up with those priorities we had set for ourselves early on in our relationship. That’s where we came back around to the idea of going tiny.”

Their first home was 2,200 square feet. The couple took a step back and started looking at the actual square footage of the house they were truly using. They realized that the tiny home dream could still become their reality. They started doing a little research and contemplated building something on a trailer or buying a premade home off the Internet to place on the Northshore where they currently live. That’s when they stumbled upon the Airstream and things just clicked. Without any prior knowledge of remodeling or repairing, they bought the Airstream, affectionately called the Silver Fox after a story Tessa’s dad used to tell her. It was in disrepair and immediately in need of two tires before they could even tow it home from Mississippi. They joke that the work started on day one. Brandon and Tessa have been doing all the work on the Airstream themselves. They are steering away from the typical

January 2018 34 povhouma.com


R E F R I G E R AT I O N I N C .

Residential Heating & Cooling

0%

FINANCING

ON A/C UPGRADES

& ASK ABOUT

EARLY BIRD MAINTENANCE

SCHEDULING

308 Hickory St. Thibodaux January 2018 35 povhouma.com

985-447-2647


“For me it was ultimately freeing. You don’t feel locked into anything. Suddenly its up to you; You get to decide what to bring into your life and what’s important.”

BRANDON CHAUVIN

January 2018 36 povhouma.com


narrow center walkway found in the Airstreams and are instead using fewer built-ins and more unique furniture finds. Part of the fun has been trying to hunt down the perfect pieces to be able to drop a sink in for the kitchen cabinet or for the bathroom.

A Professional Medical Corporation

GOT PAIN?

“We are trying to do things that we can live with in our tiny home,” explains Tessa, “but so when we are done using it for that purpose, we want to be able to easily transition it into a mobile art gallery. We are trying to think two steps ahead, so that we don’t have to redo it again.”

WE CAN HELP!

INTERVENTIONAL PAIN MANAGEMENT NEUROLOGY OSTEOPOROSIS

Going tiny is so much more than just finding the perfect spot to live. Minimalism runs a little deeper, focusing on the idea that a person doesn’t need material possessions, including perhaps a large house and the mortgage that comes with it. It focuses on a simpler way of life, and finding happiness in it.

The Region’s 1st & Most Comprehensive Spine & Pain Center

Offering a full range of treatments for chronic pain management.

Michael S. Haydel, MD Michael P. Charlet, MD Daniel R. Clayton, PA-C Donovan J. Matherne, FNP-C Brandi B. Degruise, FNP-C

For Tessa, defining minimalism is easy. It’s taking a step back and evaluating what is important and what adds meaning to your life. “You have to do some self discovery with it. It’s more than I’m just going to de-clutter, it’s realizing what’s important to you. For us, I want us to live simply and more meaningful lives together.” “It was a leap of faith,” Brandon says. “For me it was ultimately freeing. You don’t feel locked into anything. Suddenly its up to you; You get to decide what to bring into your life and what’s important. You need a willingness to think outside the box and maybe go without some amenities you have in a normal lifestyle.” “I like the idea that you are surrounded by your favorites,” says Tessa. “If it’s what you decide to decorate your house with or what you wear, anything you use on a daily basis –you don’t have a lot of room, so what you have has to be something that you really enjoy. And who doesn’t want to be surrounded by all your favorite things!” POV

*NO REFERRAL NEEDED*

985-223-3132

1022 Belanger Street www.painspecialty.net January 2018 37 povhouma.com


OH SNAP |

PHOTO BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY • MISTYMACPHOTO.COM

January 2018 38 povhouma.com


SNEAUX DAY!

January 2018 39 povhouma.com

Sophie & Hayden David battle it out for a hot cocoa prize on the front lawn of Elkins Hall at Nicholls State University during a rare snow day, December 8, 2017.


BY KEELY DIEBOLD | PHOTOS BY CHANNING CANDIES

For a couple that is no stranger to the restaurant business, a chance to open a small café became an opportunity to inspire members of the Houma-Thibodaux community. Based next door to the eLearning Academy in Thibodaux, John and Claire Kopfler’s HEALTHe Café is making a positive impact on the community by exposing local people to healthy foods that may not necessarily be familiar to them. “People don’t know what quinoa is,” said John. “Half the people that come in here whenever we do have it are like, ‘What is this?’ [The café] exposes people to other foods that are good for you that still taste good. There’s not that cardboard-tasting stigma attached to healthy food.” HEALTHe Café opened in December of 2016 at the request of Claire’s mother, who owns the eLearning complex with Claire’s father. When the space where the café is now situated became available, her mother proposed the idea of opening a restaurant where eLearning students and staff could go for a healthy meal or snack. Claire and John, each possessing over 10 years of experience in the restaurant industry as a dietician and restaurant manager respectively, accepted the offer.

“It was [in] December of last year that we did like a prelaunch, and we were just open for eLearning,” said Claire. “They were honestly like our guinea pigs because we would have maybe one or two things on the menu every day, and we would see how they responded to it. From there, we built our regular, everyday menu.” The Kopflers’ inspiration to open the HEALTHe Café’s doors to the community came when relatives of eLearning students, doctors from nearby offices and people in the area began showing up at the restaurant after hearing about it. The café’s rotating menu features staple items like salads, wraps, and sandwiches along with specials that change every week. Many of its items come from homemade dishes. “I guess, me being a dietician, I’ve always been interested in making healthy food, and I grew up in a very health-conscious family, so a lot of the things that we do on the menu were just things that I would make at home for myself,” said Claire. HEALTHe Café has had a community-wide impact at a time where Claire believes Thibodaux is heading toward

January 2018 40 povhouma.com


ALL AROUND

CLEANING SERVICE CALL OR VISIT FOR YOUR FREE QUOTE TODAY! We can handle all your cleaning needs both inside and out. From one time cleanings to full time custodians

We provide service to Commercial, Industrial, Marine, and Residential customers in the Houma, Thibodaux and surrounding areas. WE SPECIALIZE IN:

Floor Waxing • Rental Properties Pressure Washing • Eviction Cleaning New Construction • Spring Cleaning Retail/Large Facilites Housekeeping • Parking Lots Real Estate Properties

Call our office today

985-360-3048 or visit our website

AllAroundCleaningService.net

January 2018 41 povhouma.com


NEED A MEETING PLACE FOR YOUR MARDI GRAS FUNCTION OR A ROOM TO SLEEP IN? a “healthy trend.” In testimonials given to the Kopflers, customers have cited weight loss and blood pressure improvements as outcomes of eating at the café. Parents of eLearning students have also praised the impact HEALTHe has had on their children’s eating habits. “We have parents tell us like ‘Oh, my child used to be so picky, and I’m so happy that they’re trying healthier things…” said Claire. “I think just kind of exposing the community to something different has been beneficial.” John and Claire hope that HEALTHe Café can become a part of dietary changes amidst the annual rise of healthy-eating resolutions for the new year. They assure that such lifestyle changes can come with happiness if people are willing to make gradual routine adjustments.

IS THE PLACE FOR YOUR KREWE! Call 985-223-8996 for More Information 142 Library Drive • Houma, LA

“If you make small changes, often times those trickle into bigger changes. For instance, if you come to HEALTHe Café for lunch and that’s like your healthy choice that you’re making for the day, you’re not going to wreck your good choices for the rest of the week,” said Claire. Looking to the future, the Kopflers have dreams of expanding their services to promote farm-to-table cooking. They hope to one day have access to a garden where they can grow vegetables themselves. The couple also wishes to begin nighttime cooking classes for local children where they can subsequently walk class participants through the farm-to-table process. “It would be great to show kids that [process] during the cooking class: to plant and January 2018 42 povhouma.com


upkeep the vegetables, picking the vegetables, cleaning them, and then cooking them,” said John. John and Claire describe themselves as a team, with Claire as the chef and John as the sous chef. It is because of their complementary abilities that they knew they could jump right into operating a restaurant. “Whatever task we have at hand, we just split it out” said John. “As far as the creative mind, she does all that and all of the recipes and I will deal with the business side of it.” Their advice for people who have dreams of their own is to do as they did and jump right in. “If you wait until you’re ready, you’re never going to do it,” said Claire. “If you have the drive, and you have the dream, and it’s there, jump in.” POV

Jacob Rhodes Agent, Agency Manager

Derek Charpentier LUTCF, Agent

Todd Hebert LUTCF, Agent

Gene Gueniot Jr. Agent

Brandon Allen Agent

Natalie Wallace Licensed CSR

Beth Marie Licensed CSR

Abby Theriot Licensed CSR

SMILE. Braces for children, teens, & adults Nicole Thieler, DDS, MSD

282 Corporate Drive Houma, LA 70360 985.876.2876 lafarmbureau.com

January 2018 43 povhouma.com

985.876.4484 206 Mystic Blvd. • Houma, LA 70360

www.thielerorthodontics.com


BON APPETIT |

BY MICHELLE BRICENO, REGISTERED DIETITIAN AT TGMC

SURPRISING HEALTH BENEFITS OF

CITRUS FRUIT Citrus fruits not only pack a refreshing taste but are also rich in nutrients. One medium orange provides 120% of the daily recommended value for Vitamin C. Here are five other great reasons to incorporate these delicious fruits into your diet. 1. Calm a Cold: Being packed full of Vitamin C, citrus helps boost your immune system and may decrease the length of cold symptoms by as much as one to one-and-a-half days for some people. 2. Skin Saver: The nutrients found in citrus fruits promote

wound healing and keep your skin, teeth, bones and cartilage healthy. 3. Boost Weight Loss: The fiber and water found in citrus helps keep you full all while being low in calories. 4. Cut Out the Salt: Citrus is a great way of flavoring foods in place of salt, which will help to lower your sodium intake. 5. Portable Snack: Because of their thick rinds, citrus fruits make for great portable snacks so simply throw it in your work or school bag for a quick and easy snack.

FLANK STEAK WITH CHIPOTLE-LIME SAUCE Ingredients • • • • • • • • •

6 tbsp olive oil, divided ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce 3 tbsp fresh lime juice, divided 1 ¼ lb flank steak 1 cup fresh parsley ¼ cup fresh cilantro 2 cloves garlic 1 chipotle chili pepper in adobo sauce from can 1 tsp lime zest

Directions SERVINGS: 5 - 4OZ PORTIONS

1. In a small dish, whisk together 3 tbsp olive oil, soy sauce, and

2 tbsp lime juice. Add steak, cover and refrigerate for 2 hours, flipping midway through. 2. For the sauce: In a food processor, combine parsley, cilantro, garlic, chipotle pepper, lime zest, 2 tbsp oil, and 1 tbsp lime juice. Process until well combined. 3. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook steak, turning once, until internal temperature reaches 145F (8-10 minutes for medium rare). 4. Let steak rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with sauce. January 2018 44 povhouma.com


FUN FACTS

TA K I N G

your business TO THE

next level Pop the cork and let’s ring in the New Year! How much do you really know about France’s famous sparkling wine?

• The sparkling wine is only called champagne if it is produced in the Champagne region in northeast France.

• Champagne is traditionally made from three grapes: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. STRATEGIC FINANCE

• There are approximately 49 million bubbles in a standard sized bottle of Champagne.

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATIONAL DESIGN OPERATION IMPROVEMENT TRAINING GROWTH STRATEGY

• The iron basket that keeps the cork in place is called the muselet. You have to turn the iron wire six times before you can open the muselet.

ISNET PEC PICS BUSINESS PLANNING SOFTWARE FOR DAY-TO-DAY OPERATION

• The longest recorded flight of a Champagne cork is over 177 feet.

• There are about 90 pounds per square inch of pressure in a bottle of Champagne.

985.714.1128 jhebert@jmhconsulting.info January 2018 45 povhouma.com


MIND + BODY

POV PICK | 48 Swedish Massage

HOME SWEET HOME | 50

President Jay Clune returns home to Nicholls State University.

YOUR DAILY APPLE | 52 Get to Know Stephanie Durocher, NP

LOSING TO GAIN | 54

Jason Harper’s inspirational weight-loss journey

WE SUPPORT A HEALTHY FUTURE | 58 Don’t Just Make New Year’s Resolutions – Keep Them

January 2018 46 povhouma.com


BELTS ARE OUR BUSINESS AUTO - FARM - LAWN - GARDEN – MARINE - SURFACE DRIVE - OILFIELD - INDUSTRIAL Fleet Supply Warehouse has the largest inventory of belts in the Tri-Parish area. We are the solution to all your belt requirements. In addition to our large inventory we offer experienced, friendly service to assist you in selecting the right belt to satisfy your needs. For automotive, lawn/garden, surface drive mud engines, industrial, marine, and hard to fit belt applications contact Fleet Supply Warehouse. 985-868-0430

|

205 VENTURE BLVD HOUMA, LA 70360

STORIES

|

WWW.FLEETSUPPLYWHSE.COM

$9.99 ��� ����

STRAIGHT from the

GATOR’S MOUTH

100% LOCAL NEWS

LOCALLY OWNED

NEWS SHOULD BE FREE

JUST PAY THE POSTAGE

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exerci tation ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis autem vel eum iriure dolor in hendrerit in vulputate velit esse molestie consequat, vel illum dolore eu

feugiat nulla facilisis at vero eros et accumsan et iusto odio dignissim qui blandit praesent luptatum zzril

delenit augue duis dolore te feugait nulla facilisi. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, cons ectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exerci tation ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod

tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exerci tation ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis autem vel eum iriure dolor in hendrerit in

vulputate velit esse molestie consequat, vel illum dolore eu feugiat nulla facilisis at vero eros et

accumsan et iusto odio dignissim qui blandit praesent luptatum zzril delenit augue duis dolore te feugait nulla facilisi. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, cons

ectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad

minim veniam, quis nostrud exerci tation ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo

consequat. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim

ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exerci tation ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis autem vel eum iriure dolor in hendrerit in vulputate velit esse molestie consequat, vel illum dolore eu feugiat nulla facilisis at vero eros et accumsan et iusto odio dignissim qui blandit praesent luptatum zzril delenit augue duis dolore te feugait nulla facilisi.

houmatimes.com/subscribe • 985.868.7515 January 2018 47 povhouma.com


MIND + BODY |

POV PICK

SWEDISH MASSAGE Allie’s Day Spa

Need a bit of “me time” to just relax? Treat yourself to a Swedish massage, which promotes full-body relaxation. This technique helps decrease body tension while increasing oxygen levels in the blood and improving circulation.

January 2018 48 povhouma.com


FUN FACTS January is National Hobby Month. A hobby can be making things, collecting items, or doing something. Looking to take up a new hobby in the new year? Might we suggest one of these more unusual ones:

Mooing There is a mooing competition each year in Wisconsin where participants must do their best impression of a cow.

Catfish Noodling Only legal in 15 states, noodling involves catching rather large fish with your bare hands. The noodler sticks their hand inside a catfish hole and waits for the fish to bite.

Quidditch A most common sport at Hogwarts, the muggles at Middlebury College, Vermont decided they wanted to give the wizarding sport a try. A cross between rugby, dodgeball and tag, athletes run around with broomsticks between their legs.

985.872.1431 1000 BARATARIA @ TUNNEL BLVD., HOUMA WWW.VALLEYSUPPLYCO.COM FACEBOOK.COM/PAGES/VALLEY-SUPPLY-CO January 2018 49 povhouma.com


BY MARY DOWNER DITCH | PHOTO BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY

January 2018 50 povhouma.com


There’s always something special about coming home. On January 1, 2018, Dr. Jay Clune will return home and accept his dream job, becoming the sixth President of Nicholls State University. “Coming home is special,” shares Dr. Clune. “You never think the timing is going to be right for a presidential opening and you’re going to be in the right place in your career to take advantage of that.” Dr. Jay Clune was born and raised in Houma, attending St. Bernadette Elementary School and Vandebilt Catholic High School, before earning his bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Nicholls State University in 1986. Dr. Clune finished his doctoral work at LSU but credits his time at Nicholls for giving him the skills to finish. “At our graduation, the keynote speaker said your Nicholls’ degree is as valuable as a Harvard degree,” recalls Dr. Clune. “I thought about it for a while and realized he was indeed telling the truth. I owe everything to Nicholls.” Having already met with staff and many student groups on campus, Dr. Clune has big plans in place for his new family at Nicholls. “What I’ve already observed is the faculty and students just want to be a part of it,” Dr. Clune shares. “They want me to be successful and I really can’t do it alone. Change doesn’t occur top down, it occurs bottom up.” Energized by the student body, Dr. Clune believes they have practical ideas that can be implemented right away. He recognizes that Nicholls has wonderful core education paths in place and hopes that Nicholls can be more innovative in what they offer to meet the needs of the industries in this region. Every great leader must draw inspiration from a strong source. Dr. Clune credits his wife Allison as his greatest inspiration, as well as his family, including his two daughters Gabrielle and Caroline, and his parents who still live in Houma. “No one is self made,” says Dr. Clune. “You start thinking of all the teachers throughout your life and you realize at every point of your life so many people touched you and made things possible and opened doors. And I feel like I want to make them proud. “I have a great role model, Dr. Galliano. He walked the campus and talked to students and shook their hands. I’m going to walk this campus. I want the students to know we are all in this together.” Dr. Clune’s goal is to not only encourage the students and get them to graduation day, but for them to stay in the Bayou Region. He wants them to get involved in the community and truly become the face of Nicholls. “The students are already inspired,” smiles Dr. Clune. “They don’t need Jay Clune to inspire them. I would like them to know I am standing side by side with them. They are the reason we are here.” POV

January 2018 51 povhouma.com


YOUR DAILY APPLE |

BY SOUTH LOUISIANA MEDICAL ASSOCIATES

GET TO KNOW

STEPHANIE DUROCHER, NP

Why did you choose to go into the Medical Field?

Who inspires you? My mother and grandmother both inspire me. They were both passionate, dedicated and hard-working nurses.

My mother, grandmother and great grandmother were all nurses. I’ve dreamed of being a provider since early childhood, and I’ve always had a passion for caring for the sick and a desire to heal.

What are you most passionate about professionally? What most excites you about your work and the contributions you make?

What is your favorite part of practicing medicine? I love my patients. I feel that it is privilege to walk with them through some of the most significant times of their lives.

What do your clients say about you? They say that I am compassionate, and they know how much I care.

What interests you most about working at the SLMA CHC? I am excited about the culture at SLMA. It’s obvious to me that this group is truly concerned with quality patient care. The staff members are passionate and eager to make a difference. It’s something I am excited to become part of.

In general, I love people! Specifically, I am most passionate about working with the geriatric population. I have always felt a burning desire to be in their space and contribute in some way. When I was a little girl, I used to visit the halls of the nursing home where my grandmother worked and visit with the different residents. I would talk to them for hours. I feel a deep connection with them and a compassion for them. They face many losses and are in a season of life of which we all will enter one day. I am excited to have the opportunity to make a difference in this population. It is wonderful to know that we are helping to improve the quality of life for all of our patients, old and young.

South Louisiana Medical Associates is pleased have dedicated medical personnel such as Stephanie Durocher on our team, and we look forward to serving you. Call 985-262-1639 to schedule an appointment with Stephanie or one of our other dedicated professionals.

LOOKING FOR A PRIMARY CARE DOCTOR WITH

SAME DAY AVAILABILITY? Because if you need to see a doctor, sometimes it can’t wait. Our clinic strives for same day availability, keeping you healthy on your schedule.

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! January 2018 52 povhouma.com

985-262-1639


FUN FACTS

We’ll get you started on your next

ADVENTURE

Robert Burns is credited with the adapted version of “Auld Lang Syne”, the Scottish folk song that we hear on New Year’s Eve. Roughly translated, it means “days gone by.”

We offer the lowest prices on weight-loss surgery at The use of a baby to symbolize the new year has been traced to ancient Greece, where an infant in a basket was paraded around to mark the rebirth of Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility. Often pictured with Father Time, Baby New Year has appeared in advertisements, cards and cartoons for several hundred years.

Physicians Medical Center, an accredited facility

PERSONAL LOANS FOR

RECREATIONAL VEHICLES APPLY ONLINE TODAY

The top three places to celebrate New Year’s Eve are Las Vegas, Disney World and New York City. Internationally, one of the biggest celebrations is in Sydney, Australia. More than 80,000 fireworks are set off from Sydney Harbour Bridge.

www.surgicalweightmanagementassociates.com

January 2018 53 povhouma.com

ayeee.com 985.851.3434


LOSING TO

GAIN BY DREW MILLER | PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY

January 2018 54 povhouma.com


Just after the 2018 New Year’s Day, gym traffic will surge with resolution hopefuls. For Schriever resident Jason Harper, exercising and dieting is not just for the month of January, but a continuous journey that leads to a healthier, longer, and happier life. He has four tips, gained from personal experiences, for anyone who wants to walk or maybe run down a similar path.

EDUCATION IS KEY “If you’re serious about changing your health in a sustainable way, you have to know why you are eating what you are eating,” Jason says, “Just blindly putting in food because the internet tells you it’s good may look tempting, but ask why is it working and what’s it going to do.” Previous to 2015, the year Jason started his now roughly 100-pound-weightloss journey, he struggled to find the right diet and would gain back any weight he lost. In June of that year, when a picture of him with his youngest son was taken, Jason finally saw himself as morbidly obese and knew he had to find a diet that would stick. He started off doing a low-carb diet and was losing weight, but had no energy to exercise. After seeing his good friend, Dan Cabirac, lose weight, Jason met him for lunch to pick his brain about his diet. Dan told Jason about his plant-based diet. Intrigued, Jason began researching vegan diets which he would begin himself a year later and continues to this day.

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH PEOPLE WHO SUPPORT YOUR GOALS. “Surrounding yourself with people who support you and not hinder you is super important,” says Jason, “If there was someone in my life who is constantly telling me I won’t make it or what I’m doing is not sustainable, I’ll probably work myself away from that person.” Dan introduced Jason to Josh LaJaunie, marathon runner and creator of the Missing Chins Run Club Facebook group. Jason joined the Missing Chins as he saw it was a safe place for guys who were obese that had aspirations to lose

January 2018 55 povhouma.com


The Best Choice

IN SHORT TERM

REHAB

Centered on getting your life back • Skilled Nursing • Therapy & Rehab

(Occupational, Speech, & Physical)

• Long-term Care • Hospice Care • Alzheimer’s Support & Resource Specialist It’s Never 2 Late Intuitive Computer System Stimulating & Fun Activities Field Trips Fresh & Local Meals

(985) 532-1011

weight and gain information without opening themselves up for ridicule. Although the group, which has lost a collective total of over 4,000 pounds, is composed of men trying different diets, they all share the common goals of trying to lose weight and running. Jason says he’s been very blessed to have a family that gives him endless support. His wife, Heather, has been with him every step of the way. She has embraced his lifestyle and is responsible for cooking his vegan meals. Jason’s work family at Chic-fil-A makes sure to include meal options for him at potluck dinners and not hassle him even though he eats the same exact salad everyday for lunch.

7534 Hwy. 1 Lockport, LA 70374 www.thebroadwayelderliving.org

January 2018 56 povhouma.com


FIND TOUGH GOALS. WHEN YOU OBTAIN THOSE GOALS, FIND NEW ONES. That lunch with Dan in 2015 not only got Jason to consider trying a plant-based diet, but also got him more focused on running. Dan challenged Jason to join him in the Jazz Half Marathon in New Orleans that October. “In about four months, I went from sitting on the couch to finishing a half marathon,” Jason says. “It took me forever to finish it, but I finished it. That was the beginning of my running journey.” Being close to 300 pounds when he ran that first half marathon, Jason fractured a bone in his left knee during the race. He ran with pain for months after that and still signed up for other races. After another half marathon, the doctor told him no more physical activity for at least a couple months. After the required rest, Jason continued. In March 2017, he finished his first full marathon. At that race, he signed up to do it again for 2018 and has another half marathon in June. He even ran in the 2017 Heavy Half Marathon in Leadville, Colorado, which he described as the hardest thing he has ever done in his life. The course is 7.5 miles uphill and 7.5 miles downhill. “That race I legitimately wanted to quit 5 or 6 times,” Jason says, “I had to talk to myself to keep going.”

HAVE A BIG ‘WHY’. “For me, it was my kids, the biggest Why I could possibly have,” Jason says, “I didn’t want my kids to be without a father. I lived my whole life wanting to be a dad and fatherhood didn’t come until later in life for me. I was 35 and 38 when my kids were born.” At his peak, around 360 pounds, it hit Jason that he needed to lose weight so he can experience moments with his kids such as graduating and getting married. As a kid in Pottstown, Pa., he saw being big as a positive from his father who was a very large man but was happy and beloved by the people around him. Unfortunately, it contributed to a lot of health problems for his dad, who passed away nine years ago. Experiencing first hand how the weight can affect a parent you love, Jason is changing to stick around and look after his kids, the big Why for him. POV

January 2018 57 povhouma.com

985-219-1111 www.gerilynnnissan.com


WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE |

BY THIBODAUX REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

DON’T JUST MAKE NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS

KEEP THEM

With a new year comes the inevitability of setting resolutions, and breaking them within a matter of days or weeks. Many look at the New Year as a blank page, a way to write a new, healthier story for themselves. Here are some tips that might help make those resolutions stick.

you just don’t feel like exercising, that friend could be the one to get you up and moving (and vice versa).

Celebrate Success If you’ve successfully gone two weeks without smoking or if you’ve lost those first five pounds, reward yourself in some small way. You’ll likely remain motivated to continue and eventually attain your bigger goal.

Be Realistic Be realistic about what you’d like to accomplish. Don’t try to quit smoking and lose weight and eat healthier and… Set smaller goals, and be specific. Instead of, “I want to lose weight,” try, “I want to lose 15 pounds by Memorial Day.”

Work on Whole Health January is the time for resolving to be healthier, and it’s the perfect time to schedule those annual physician visits. After all, you’re working to get healthier, inside, and out.

Have a Support System Ask for the support you need. Family and friends can help you stay motivated on those difficult days, and they can even join you in your pursuit of a better self. If you’ve resolved to work out more, have a friend sign up for some exercise classes with you. On the days

Challenge yourself in 2018! Ask for the help you need, celebrate your successes along the way, and if you do slip-up, realize you are human. Slip-ups are bound to happen, but don’t let them lead to abandoned commitments. Here’s to a happy, healthy new year!

For more information about services offered at Thibodaux Regional, call 985.493.4326.

THE REGION’S PREMIERE GYM…

FITNESS made just for you. With state-of-the-art equipment, indoor walking track, full-size basketball court and gym, group exercise classes including aquatics and spacious workout rooms. Membership available for individuals, couples and families.

AND A LOT MORE. 985-493-4950 | FitnessCenterOfThibodauxRegional.com January 2018 58 povhouma.com


FUN FACTS

Those beautiful explosions in the sky that marked the New Year have been around for thousands of years. Not always as high-tech as we see them today, fireworks originally contained only three ingredients: sulphur, saltpetre and charcoal. Learn a few more fun facts about the dazzling displays:

• China is the largest fireworks manufacturer in the world.

• The American Pyrotechnics Association reports consumers purchased 268.4 million pounds of fireworks in 2016.

have fun this MARDI GRAS

• Walt Disney World consumes the largest amount of fireworks per year in the U.S.

• According to the Guinness World Records, the largest firework display consisted of 810,904 fireworks and lasted for one hour, one minute and 32.35 seconds. The record was achieved by Iglesia Ni Cristo at the Countdown to 2016 New Year Celebrations in the Philippines.

• The shape a firework creates when it explodes in the sky is the result of the inner anatomy of the aerial shell.

let us do the driving.

felgersfootwear.net TEXT FELGERS TO 57711 FOR FUTURE SPECIALS! 985-446-5823 | thebusybee.info January 2018 59 povhouma.com

Mon - Fri 10-7 • Sat 10-5 1539 MLK Blvd • Houma 985.851.1559


15% OFF WITH AD

Get the from

UNDER THE SCOPE |

BY JOHN DOUCET

OUR GRANITE

UNIVERSE In the past seven weeks, we’ve survived the three major holidays of the year. I call them “the Big Three”: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. And on each of those days, we’ve probably all prepared large meat items in our kitchens—a turkey or a ham or a beef roast or something more exotic, the antlers of which are proudly displayed in some other room or “cave” of the house. Some, like me, prepared these masses of animal in our ovens in a covered steel pan enameled in a darkcolor and spotted randomly with small white dots. The dark-enameled, white-dotted pan and cover are better known as graniteware. Enameled cooking pans and pots like modern graniteware have been around for a long time, ever since the days when Ben Franklin ruffled feathers over trying to name the turkey the national bird of the United States. So, when we talk about “holiday traditions,” we’re actually talking about more than the recipes for side items we inherited from our grandmothers.

• FREE OF

STIMULANTS

• NON-GMO • KOSHER

When you’re preparing big meat for the Big Three, you gotta wake up early, of course, because those masses of muscle take hours to cook. Like many of you, I was up earlier than normal on Thanksgiving morning and suffered for a while groggy-eyed and caffeinated. There’s something about handling cold meat on a cold morning, however, that’ll make your hands rudely wake up your brain. As I began unwrapping that defrosted 24-pound gobbler to set it into the graniteware pan, my eyes came to focus and my brain came to make logical connections for the first time since setting the alarm on my phone the night before. It was then when I saw how the enameled pan, with its dark blue background and randomly placed white dots, resembled what I saw out the window just before I went to bed a few hours before.

CERTIFIED

On a clear night, our nighttime sky is a big graniteware pan. It shows us random bright dots amid a dark background. What we’re actually seeing are just a few of the brightest stars nearest Earth. What we don’t see is the incredible dusting of billions of faraway stars deep into the dark blue enamel that slowly spiral around the black hole that spins our own Milky Way galaxy. And beyond that, we don’t see the collections of billions of other milky ways and their constituent stars spread across what we know of the universe.

ALLERGENS

So, for the first time in decades of holiday cooking in the early-morning kitchens of all the generations of maternal figures in my life, I saw the

• VEGAN • FREE OF MOST (e.g., soy, gluten and milk)

985.868.2216 1437 St. Charles St., Ste. 109 Houma, LA 70360

January 2018 60 povhouma.com


Come Home To The Suites universe contained in the oval bottom of an enameled turkey-baking pan. I also saw the opportunity to share this remarkable epiphany with holiday guests who would arrive hours later. For what seemed like light years, I held the turkey over its waiting pan until I figured out how to do what I wanted to do. Fortunately, in the kitchen cupboard were food coloring and cake decorating supplies. I washed my hands. Using the yellow cake decorating tube, I soon started connecting the white dots on the turkey pan bottom into familiar constellations, like the Dippers and Sagittarius. Not decorative enough for this epiphany, I illustrated in a palette of colors giant ringed planets, solar systems, spiraled galaxies, a couple of exotic nebulae, and even a Jules Verneera spaceship. This would be the best turkey ever! Tradition is powerful—especially food tradition. It’s funny how a familiar food in an unfamiliar color is totally unappealing and thus inedible. It’s the very reason why someone invented browning sauce for microwaved or crock-potted slabs of meat. It’s the very reason why purple ketchup didn’t last for more than a year. And it’s the reason why we ended up having Popeye’s chicken for Thanksgiving. So, on this past New Year’s Day, I served ham—a spiral-cut one with a bone in the center instead of a black hole. On top, I placed pineapple slices around toothpicked cherries. It looked a bit like a bunch of Saturns, and that was enough for me. For the guests as well. POV

Homeowners Auto- Personal & Commercial Business/Commercial Flood Employee Benefits

Saving clients money since 1995!

PAUL CLEMENT

Owner, Broker, Agent Paulc@clementinsurance.com

BILLIE JEAN ANDERSON

Personal Lines Producer Billie@clementinsurance.com

DANAIE VERRETT

Commercial & Personal Lines Producer Danaie@clementinsurance.com

ANGIE WEBRE

Home is where the heart is, and we strive every day to create and nurture the warm, welcoming, joyful and unique environment that makes The Suites the difference between a place to live and a place you can call home. The holidays are special because they mean spending quality time with those who matter most to us. Sometimes, the holidays give us the opportunity to see that a loved one might be in need of the extra assistance senior living provides. If you’re wondering if home is no longer enough for you or your loved one, we are here to support you and answer any questions you may have!

Commercial Lines Producer Angie@clementinsurance.com

CLAUDIA ALDAMA

CSR Claudia@clementinsurance.com Specializing in Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care

1702 Saint Charles St 985-872-1391 Phone 504-910-9904 Fax www.clementinsurance.com January 2018 61 povhouma.com

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

220 Valhi Blvd. in Houma 985.868.8400 www.SugarMillPoint.net


JANUARY IS FOR

Toasting

RENDEZVOUS |

WHERE YOU NEED TO BE AROUND TOWN

Southern Louisiana Boat, Sport, and RV Show Jan. 5-7

Explore the region’s biggest boat and RV sales event during this 20th annual event. Throughout the weekend, check out row after row of the latest campers, jet skis, boats and more. On Friday, spend quality time with loved ones during Family Day. On this day, children ages 12 and younger may fish once at Fish-O-Rama Rainbow Trout Pond for free. Admission is $8 for adults and free for children 15 and younger with a paid adult. Where: Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center, Houma Contact:

southernlouisianaboatrvshow.com

Project Fit Boot Camp Jan. 8- Feb. 20

JA N UARY 5 Saddle Up For Western Spirits and California Wines A tasting of bourbons & whiskeys poured by Cullen Mcgouey of Western Spirits, plus a selection of California wines

JA N UA RY 1 2 Come Paso A Good Time with Paso Robles Wine A tasting of fine wines from Paso Robles

JANUARY 19 Championship Cocktails & Cabs A selection of specialty cocktails for the big game, plus cabernet from around the globe

JANUARY 26 From Sonoma To Houma A tasting of fine wines from Sonoma Dry Creek Valley Events from 6pm – 8pm at 6307 West Park Ave. • Houma RSVP + LEARN MORE O N O UR FACEBOOK PAG E JOIN OUR LIST Never miss an Event

W W W. C A N N A T A S . C O M

TGMC’s Sports Performance Training Center is offering a 6-week program designed to meet your fitness goals, whether you want to take your fitness to the next level or start a new healthy lifestyle. The boot camp includes three 45-minture workouts each week, personalized group training, nutritional support and more. Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot early! Where: TGMC Sports Performance Training Center, Houma Contact: 985.850.6206

Lead the Pack: A Relay for Academic Excellence Jan. 20

JC Advance Foundation’s Relay Race for Excellence will raise money for private schools in Thibodaux including St. Joseph, St. Genevieve, E.D. White and eLearning Academy. The Relay is open to everyone, not just runners. The hope is to have parents, grandparents, teachers, or students participating on 3-man teams together. Each person will complete a mile of the threemile race. Registration fee is $75 per team and the deadline to register is January 12. Where: E.D. White Catholic High School, Thibodaux Contact: Paula Rome, 985.688.4812

Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce 89th Annual Banquet Jan. 24, 6-9 p.m.

Join Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce for its annual celebratory banquet. Attendees enjoy a dinner, drinks and entertainment. The Chamber’s newly installed officers, outgoing officers and board members are recognized, along with a host of other awards. Keynote speaker is Phil Roop, international inspirational and motivational speaker. Tickets are available online and must be purchased in advance. Where: Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center, Houma Contact: houmachamber.com

Children’s Mini Parade Jan. 27, 11 a.m.

It’s Carnival time! The Krewe of Aphrodite and Cannata’s will host this annual Children’s Mini Parade. Children ages 12 and under are invited to decorate a mini float, and throw beads, candy and trinkets to parade-goers. No motorized floats, please. Prizes will be awarded for Best Individual Costume, Best Group Costume and Best Float. Registration begins at 10 a.m. Where: Cannata’s Family Market, Houma Contact: Kathy Doiron, doiron.kathy@yahoo.com

SOUPer Bowl for United Way Jan. 27, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m

Join United Way of South Louisiana at their annual cook-off competition between local vendors and companies, who craft their best gumbo, soup and chili dishes. Overall 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards will be given as well as crowd favorite. This year will also include the Manuel Merlos Philanthropic Award, in honor of Manuel who chaired the first three events. There will be entertainment and plenty to eat for a $5 entry fee. Where: Courtyard Marriott, Houma Contact:985.879.2461, amerlos@uwsla. com, achampagne@uwsla.com

January 2018 62 povhouma.com


Surrounding you with warmth & comfort all season!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Average savings of $526* is just one phone call away. Switch to State Farm Car Insurance. Give us a call to get a quote, and start saving today. Mike Bednarz, Agent 907 Jackson Street Thibodaux, LA 70301 Bus: 985-447-6221 mikebednarz.com Darryl Brue, Agent 1950 Prospect Blvd Houma, LA 70363 Bus: 985-851-2584 darrylbrue.com

WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT IN OUR CALENDAR? Shoot an email to mary@rushing-media.com and we’ll help spread the word.

1309 st. patrick st. 446-6256 • Thibodaux

Rene Carreker Ins Agcy Inc Rene Carreker, Agent 1221 Museum Drive Houma, LA 70360 renecarreker.com Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

868-4421 • Houma

statefarm.com®

©CARRIER CORPORATION 2011. A member of the United Technologies Corporation family. Stock symbol UTX.

January 2018 63 povhouma.com

*Annual average per household savings based on 2016 national survey of new policyholders who reported savings by switching to State Farm. 1005001.1

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company – Bloomington, IL


SCENE IN |

LOOK AT OL’ SO ‘N’ SO!

A VISIT TO SANTA’S LAND Leighton Lloyd and Rhett Rini enjoy the activities at A Visit to Santa’s Land.

WELCOMING 2018 MEDICARE PART RECIPIENTS Update your new insurance card information on your next visit.

SOUTHLAND DRUGS

1117 Audubon Ave. • Thibodaux • 985-447-5852

BEASLEY

PEST CONTROL

• Pest control • termite control • wood destroying insect reports

RESOLUTIONS? MAKE A HEALTHY

CHOICE FOR YOUR BEST FRIEND TOO!

Complete Pest Control Services Locally Owned & Operated Serving the Tri-parish & Surrounding Area Houma (985) 872-5019 • Thibodaux (985) 446-1811 January 2018 64 povhouma.com

6168 WEST PARK AVE., HOUMA

ACROSS FROM THE DODGE DEALERSHIP


DOWNTOWN HOUMA CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL Children of all ages enjoyed the festivities at the Christmas Festival and Parade.

SCHWAB The

Law Firm

Danna E. Schwab Patricia Reeves Floyd Camille Saltz Babin

www.theschwablawfirm.com 7847 W. MAIN ST. | HOUMA 985.868.1342

House of Flowers

“It’s Mardi Gras Time” Unique gifts for

every occasion

CALL OR ORDER ONLINE

876-2450

1419 Lafayette Street, Houma • www.houseo www.houseof f lowersla.com

January 2018 65 povhouma.com


THE ART OF SMART |

IT’S NOT AN ARTICLE, IT’S A SMARTICLE

1 What do Paul Revere, J. Edgar Hoover, Lorenzo de Medici, Betsy Ross and Pope Alexander VI have in common? Their mothers are all from Italy. A They moved to America in 1870. B

C They were all born on January 1. D They all had dogs named Spot.

2 January is named for Janus, who was the Roman god of what? Gateways A Wine B

C Birth D Cold weather

3 Which NFL quarterback has the most Super Bowl touchdowns? Emmitt Smith A Jerry Rice B

C John Elway D Roger Craig

4 The first Tournament of Roses parade took place on January 1 of what year? 1886 A 1887 B

C 1888 D 1889

5 On January 3, 1987, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted their first female artist. Who was the recipient of this honor? Stevie Nicks A Janis Joplin B

C Diana Ross D Aretha Franklin

6 In 1973, which NFL team completed the first undefeated season by winning Super Bowl VII? Miami Dolphins A New Orleans Saints B

C Dallas Cowboys D New England Patriots

7 On January 24, 1950, a microwave oven patent was issued to Percy Spencer under what title?

HOW DID YOU DO?

C Method of Treating Foodstuffs D Hot Food Box

1) C, 2) A, 3) B, 4) A, 5) D, 6) A, 7) C, 8) B

Food Heating Apparatus A Warm Food Maker B

8 Elvis Presley was born on January 8, 1935, in which rural city? Hattiesburg, Mississippi A Tupelo, Mississippi B

C Grace, Mississippi D Waynesboro, Mississippi January 2018 66 povhouma.com

# Correct 7-8 3-6 1-2 0

IQ 160 110 50 3

Your Score: Top of the Class You Get a Gold Star Did You Even Try? Oh Come On!


LOOK TWICE |

WIN A $50

COURTESY OF SYNERGY BANK

GIFT CARD

Find the six differences in this photo from our feature on page 40. Drop off your answers along with your name and daytime contact number at the PoV office, 6160 W. Park Ave., Houma. Stuck at the office? Fax it, 985.873.9009, or email it to us, looktwice@povhouma.com. A winner will be picked by random drawing January 17. The winner will receive a $50 Visa® gift card courtesy of Synergy Bank.

Congratulations to Cathy Yopp for winning last month’s contest.

January 2018 67 povhouma.com

ANSWER TO LAST MONTH’S CONTEST 1 The Photos were completely different


January 2018 68 povhouma.com


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.