FREE OCTOBER 2019 | VOL. 13 • ISSUE 10 | POVHOUMA.COM
twisted FALL FUN
HOUMA, LA • 985-219-1111 Geri Lynn Nissan is a J.D. Power 2019 Dealer of Excellence for the Customer Sales Experience J.D. Power 2019 Dealer Excellence Program recognition is based on achievement of high scores from automotive manufacturer customer research and completion of an in-dealership best practices verification visit. For more information, visit www.jdpower.com/DOE
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We are committed to great beginnings.
Gregory Morris, MD (OB/GYN)
Natasha Goss, MD (OB/GYN)
Kellin Reynolds, MD (OB/GYN)
Laura Shaver, CNM (Certified Nurse Midwife)
Ochsner St. Anne Hospital is a Baby-Friendly Z Morris, MD Elena Mann, MD Natasha Goss, Kellin Reynolds, MD designated birthing PSZ Morris, MD Elena Mann, MD Natasha Goss, MDfacility. Kellin Reynolds, MD GregPSZ Morris, MD Faucheux, MD Elena Mann, MDMD Natasha Goss, MD Kellin Reynolds, MD (OB/GYN) (OB/GYN) (OB/GYN)
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We are proud to invest in evidence-based programs that support infant bonding and safe feeding practices so mom and baby get the best, healthiest Locations: and happiest start possible. Locations: Locations: Our OB/GYNs are skilled in the latest medical approaches and are committed to providing OchsnerWomen’s Women’sHealth Health Women’s Health Ochsner you with expert and personalized care. Ochsner (OB/GYN)
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CONTENTS |
OCTOBER 2019 • VOLUME 13 • ISSUE 10
CONT HOME + LIVING
Page 18
FOOD + FUN
Page 42
MIND + BODY
Page 52
16 POV PICK
34 POV PICK
50 POV PICK
18 CHATEAU CHIC
36 A NEW COLONELS RETREAT
52 MAKING WAVES
Houma Swag
A Wealth of Style
24 DOWNTOWN IS WAITING FOR YOU Downtown Development Days allow the public to experience what the future holds.
28 THE OBSERVER
Master Shakes
Nicholls State University introduces their new beer.
42 TWISTED MINDZ AT WORK
Artist Gabriella Ruiz brings her Twisted creations to life.
A Letter to the Girl Who Didn’t Get Asked
30 OPEN FOR BUSINESS Rod’s Superstore AmeriStar Roofing
October 2019 6 povhouma.com
Geaux Pink challenge
Dustin and Austin Terry share their love of boat racing.
58 WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE Breast Cancer Awareness
59 FOR YOUR HEALTH Women’s Preventative Health
ENTS EXTRAS
ON THE COVER
WORD, YA HEARD FINAGLE 1. to obtain by indirect or involved means 2. to obtain by trickery
WORD ON THE STREET “Josh was able to finagle his way to two VIP tickets for next month’s festival. ” “During lunch period, Andy finagled an extra serving of the cafeteria’s famous spaghetti.”
Page 64
Page 42
10 EDITOR’S NOTE
Twisted Gabby showcases a few of her favorite pieces.
12 INTERVUE
Photo: Misty Leigh McElroy
Fallin’ for ya
Say What?
60 UNDER THE SCOPE Our Sexy Accent
62 RENDEZVOUS
Where you need to be around town
64 SCENE IN
Look at ol’ so ‘n’ so!
67 LOOK TWICE
Sponsored by Synergy Bank
October 2019 7 povhouma.com
VISIT US ONLINE: povhouma.com
What’s your favorite fall beer?
THE BROADWAY IS LOOKING TO RELIEVE THE BURDEN OF ALZHEIMER'S & HELP END THIS EPIDEMIC
Hopitoulas IPA from NOLA Brewing Co. PUBLISHER
Brian Rushing EDITORIAL
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For more info, call 504-613-6505 or go to alz.org/walk
Copyright ©2019 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
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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.
(985) 532-1011
7534 Hwy. 1 Lockport, LA 70374
www.thebroadwayelderliving.org
October 2019 8 povhouma.com
EDITOR’S NOTE |
MARY DOWNER DITCH • MANAGING EDITOR OF POV
FALLIN’ FOR YA Y’all. It’s hot outside. My desk calendar informs me that fall will officially arrive a week after I’m sitting to type this note. My thermometer in my car informs me that date is merely seasonal suggestion. While I wouldn’t trade living in south Louisiana for anything in the world, a few more weeks of cool weather in October would be my first request! Cool, crisp weather is necessary for bonfires and fall fun. We ask in this month’s Intervue question, “What says ‘fall has arrived’ to you and why?” The answers we received were most interesting and got me thinking about my answer. Despite the weather, I think the first little cool snap that makes everyone run for their gumbo pot is what marks the changing of the seasons for me. The full moon in October is also always particularly beautiful to me. It lasts all night long and into the sunrise of the day. Rising from the horizon, it’s one of the moons that appears to be huge from our vantage point. As temperatures cool down, we also begin to enjoy outdoor living a little more. In October, with slightly cooler temps and the days still being long, our patio becomes our living room. Our family enjoys dinner outside and a little extra playtime in the yard before night falls. Spending more time outside is one of the goals for the upcoming Downtown Demonstration Days. While we know Downtown Houma is an amazing place to visit, imagine if it was enhanced with public art installations, more outside seating areas, pop-up shops, pocket parks and of course, food trucks. That and more is coming to the downtown area this October. Although it will initially be temporary, the entities behind the change hope it will be what Downtown Houma will transform into in the notso-distant future. Learn more about the Demonstration beginning on page 24.
What would fall be without a little tailgating? Just in time for the first home game, Nicholls State University is proudly releasing their first branded beer. The Colonels Retreat Lager will be sold in the stadium at the first game on October 5. Read more about all the university has planned on page 36. We know how much you look forward to our Pop-Up Events! Join us at our next PoV Pop-Up: Thibodaux Tailgate, presented by the Settlement at Live Oak on October 18 from 6-9:30 p.m. Enjoy live music, lawn games, shopping, food and more. Our raffle benefits the Bayou Country Children’s Museum. Festivals are the other big events we look forward to in the fall! Twisted Gabby of Twisted Mindz Designs first showcased her art at the Rougarou Festival last year. Her unique creations might be a bit spooky, but her heart is made of gold. Learn how Gabby turns trash into treasure and dreams of a better future for her community starting on page 42. Coming off a hot racing season are father-son duo Dustin and Austin Terry. While competing in different styles and classes, they both race boats at incredible speeds! Through their wins, losses, crashes, injuries, special family bond and unwavering dedication to the sport, the talented duo give people in the Houma-Thibodaux area another sports family to root for. Read about what’s up next for the talented duo on page 50. Fall might not be everyone’s favorite season, but it’s mine by a long shot. I love going to the festivals and enjoying the showcases of talent this region has to offer. From music to food, to arts and crafts, we are a diverse community that has a little bit of something for everyone. Fall for all that fall has to offer. Get outside and enjoy! POV
October 2019 10 povhouma.com
Morgan Stanley Houma Area Financial Advisors
INTERVUE |
SAY WHAT?
COMPREHENSIVE WEALTH PLANNING STRATEGIES FOR YOUR LIFE AND LEGACY GOALS Tim Emerson CFA, CFP®, CIMA® Financial Advisor 1340 West Tunnel Blvd. Suite 405 • Houma, LA 70360 985-360-4049 timothy.a.emerson@ms.com NMLS #1255571
Marguerite Knight CFP® Financial Advisor 1340 West Tunnel Blvd. Suite 405 • Houma, LA 70360 985-360-4044 NMLS #1290713
We know it’s not the weather, so what says “fall has arrived” to you and why?
SAMANTHA | PERSONAL TRAINER
“Fall is when you’re walking in the grasses of a public place in Southeast Louisiana and you can smell the aromas of beignets or fried seafood or whatever else you crave because it’s festival season and you’re with hundreds of your Cajun friends.”
Angela Denham
Financial Advisor 400 Convention St. • Suite 400 Baton Rouge, LA 70802 225-237-3139 NMLS #1731299
Micah Lillich CFP® Financial Advisor 400 Convention St. • Suite 400 Baton Rouge, LA 70802 225-237-3143 NMLS #1785343
MONICA | HOUSEWIFE
“I believe autumn starts that first time you can open up your windows and that first time when you can have your entire family over to make a big pot of corn soup or a big gumbo. I think it may also be when the kids want to stay outside and play as opposed to begging to come in because they’re a sweaty mess.”
AMBER | OFFICE CLERK Sherri Roach CFP® Financial Advisor 1340 West Tunnel Blvd. Suite 405 • Houma, LA 70360 985-360-4048 NMLS #1364475
“To me, fall is when the days get shorter. You know when you’re driving home from work and the sun is setting a little bit, as opposed to it still being so high in the sky.”
Michele Dantin
Financial Advisor 1340 West Tunnel Blvd. Suite 405 • Houma, LA 70360 985-360-4047 NMLS #1294071
TAYLA | TEACHER
“Christmas decorations are out at Hobby Lobby and on sale because Hobby Lobby always stays one season ahead.”
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S.,which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements. CRC 2554967
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Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.
October 2019 12 povhouma.com
New Pain Treatment at Haydel Spine Pain & Wellness Center Haydel Spine Pain & Wellness Center is excited to offer a new state of the art minimally invasive treatment for lumbar stenosis. Dr. Michael S. Haydel specializes in minimally invasive spine procedures and is one of only five physicians in the entire state of Louisiana who is certified in this advanced procedure. Dr. Haydel is also certified by the American Board of Interventional Pain Physicians, Fellow of Interventional Pain Practice and American Board of Anesthesiology.
The procedure is Vertiflex, an indirect decompression system, FDA approved and covered by Medicare. It’s a new alternate treatment for lumbar stenosis, providing patients with a minimally invasive approach that puts your comfort and safety first, offering the only treatment on the continuum of care between conservative care and more invasive surgery. This treatment is especially helpful for older patients with significant limitation in walking distance due to pain, which is also relieved by sitting and resting. If you have leg/hip/glute/groin pain with standing or walking, which is relieved by bending forward at the waist and no more than two vertebral levels are involved, then you could be a candidate. This procedure requires only a 3⠄4-inch incision, takes about one half an hour to complete and is completed in an outpatient facility making it a favorable alternative in treatment. Clinical trials indicated 90% patient satisfaction through 60 months post procedure evaluation. They experienced 75% successful reduction in leg pain, which makes this procedure an excellent alternative to the more invasive options. This new therapy allows Haydel Spine Pain & Wellness Center to provide customized and optimal pain reduction or relief utilizing state of the art and groundbreaking minimally invasive healthcare, which can result in improved quality of life.
MICHAEL S. HAYDEL, MD, FIPP, ABIPP 1022 Belanger Street, Houma, LA 70360 985-223-3132 www.painspecialty.net
HOME + LIVING
POV PICK | 16 Houma Swag
CHATEAU CHIC | 18 A Wealth of Style
DOWNTOWN IS WAITING FOR YOU | 24 Downtown Development Days allow the public to experience what the future holds.
THE OBSERVER | 28
A Letter to the Girl Who Didn’t Get Asked
OPEN FOR BUSINESS | 30 Rod’s Superstore AmeriStar Roofing
October 2019 14 povhouma.com
Vandebilt Catholic
OPEN HOUSE
Tour our campus, meet current students and faculty, explore extracurricular activities and see firsthand why Vandebilt Catholic is the best choice for a holistic education rooted in religious values and committed to academic excellence.
Wednesday, November 6 Tours from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Campus tours will start every 10 minutes and last just under two hours.
www.vandebiltcatholic.org For more information, please contact Mrs. Kayla Vicknair at kvicknair@htdiocese.org. Vandebilt Catholic is open to all students and does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, or ethnicity. October 2019 15 povhouma.com
HOME + LIVING |
POV PICK
HOUMA SWAG
Houma Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Welcome to Louisiana’s Bayou Country! Whether you are new to the area or lived here all of your life, it’s fun to have some Houma swag to alert others to your favorite H-town. Think of the conversations you will start when wearing and using your new swag as you travel! From t-shirts and hats to mugs and water bottles, there’s a little lagniappe available for everyone!
October 2019 16 povhouma.com
We’re honored to be recognized as one of the 50 most community minded companies in the country by former President George H.W. Bush’s Points of Light organization. By volunteering in soup kitchens, building homes for the homeless, mentoring underprivileged kids and performing numerous other acts of service, our employees are sowing seeds of hope in communities throughout the state. P O I NT S O F L I G H T
POINTS OF LIGHT
Last year, our employees volunteered more than 24,000 hours and donated more than $500,000 to nonprofits.
01MK7087 07/1 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.
October 2019 17 povhouma.com
HOME + LIVING |
CHATEAU CHIC
A WEALTH OF STYLE BY BONNIE RUSHING | PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY
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Recently rebranding in March of this year, Parish Wealth Partners communicates a message of strength and transparency in the architecture and design of their office. Owner Toby Lafont wanted his office to reflect the relationship Parish Wealth Partners has with its stakeholders and clients as they collaborate and work together to reach goals.
Boudreaux and Amy Roth with Roth’s Interiors, Toby’s vision became a reality. Aiming to achieve a traditional and timeless exterior that conveys strength while transitioning into a modern interior with glass wall technology that communicates transparency, the team thoughtfully planned every detail for today as well as the future.
Joining forces with Trey Hebert, owner of Onshore Construction, architect Tommy
Utilizing touch screens to conduct fully interactive meetings with clients, technology
October 2019 18 povhouma.com
FROM BREAST RECONSTRUCTION
TO MOMMY MAKEOVERS, RAU PLASTIC SURGERY IS HERE FOR YOU
Jeffrey Rau, MD FACS Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Katelyn Rau, RN BSN Aesthetic Nurse
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5619 LA-311 Suite C Houma, LA 70360 Call 985-709-0467 to schedule an appointment today www.rauplastics.com
3
October 2019 20 povhouma.com
Alexis Duke MD, FAAD
Board certified medical dermatologists specializing in the treatment of skin cancer and diseases of the skin. P. Mark Neal MD, FAAD
12 Professional Drive, Houma, LA 70360 • 985.868.1810 WWW.DUKENEALDERMATOLOGY.COM
Give the Gift of Magic this Holiday Season!
Contact one of our agents today. 985.852.5282 www.teacuptravelco.com info@teacuptravelco.com October 2019 21 povhouma.com
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5 was an integral part of the infrastructure. Wired by Link Integration Group, the building was equipped for today with tomorrow’s technology in mind. Research-driven color selection specifically used in the financial planning industry to create the best client experience possible led to the ambience showcased inside. Clients’ comfort was also taken into consideration during the planning and selection process for furnishings. Incorporating glass wall technology by Dirtt wall systems and furniture for all work areas by AOS, each space seamlessly transitions into the next. One of a kind artwork by local artists provides the finishing touch. POV
October 2019 22 povhouma.com
Some things just work better together.
Like a hammer and nail, some things are just better when they work together.
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Introducing Skin Bar, an SLMA Medi-Spa - your ultimate beauty and wellness center. Call to make an appointment 985-219-SKIN or visit SLMASkinbar.com
Here at South Louisiana Bank, we take the time to understand unique circumstances.
your
Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or a longtime homeowner, we provide the unmatched service you need to choose a home mortgage plan that works for you.
No. 1 Entrance No. 2 Stairwell No. 3 War Room No. 4 Meeting Area No. 5 Exterior No. 6 Detail No. 7 Upstairs No. 8 Detail Additional photos can be viewed at povhouma.com.
Annette Dupont Mortgage Loan Originator NMLO #487985
DR. DANIELLE ANGERON, MD
Family Practice
Stop in or call our Mortgage Specialist, Annette Dupont. She will match you with the perfect loan to meet your needs.
MEGHAN MELLA
Aesthetician Better (Banking) Together ayeee.com • 985.851.3434 October 2019 23 povhouma.com
DOWNTOWN IS WAITING FOR YOU BY DREW MILLER
Historic Downtown Houma has long established itself as the one of the most beloved areas of the city. From exciting festivals to the reinvigorating night life, from celebrated restaurants to fashionable boutiques, the Main Street corridor is already the place to be. But imagine if it was enhanced with public art installations, more outside seating areas, pop-up shops, pocket parks and of course, food trucks. That and more is coming to the downtown area this October. Although it will initially be temporary, the entities behind the change hope it will be what Downtown Houma will transform into in the not-so-distant future. Over the summer, Terrebonne Parish Consolidated Government (TPCG) and the Houma Downtown Development Corporation (HDDC) announced Downtown Demonstration Days (Oct. 18-19) — a two-day demonstration to show the public their vision of what the downtown corridor could become.
“There are so many little strategies and types of improvements that can be made,” says Christopher Pulaski, director of Terrebonne Parish Planning and Zoning Department. “…How do you show people what you’re talking about? One of the most successful techniques to do it are these demonstration day projects.” Main Street will merge into one lane around the intersection of Lafayette Street and Main Street, which will end on the intersection of Roussell Street and Main Street. There will be greenpainted bike lanes along Main Street and courtesy bike boxes for bicycle turning, pedestrian right-of-way signage and bumpouts to decrease walking distances in the roadway. The pilot will also feature angle parking along two blocks and back-in angle parking for one block. The latter, Christopher explains, is safer than parallel and traditional angle parking because it positions occupants of the vehicle to go towards the sidewalk versus
October 2019 24 povhouma.com
oncoming traffic. “Imagine getting your children out of the car of a typical spot you pull into,” Christopher explains. “Your doors open and your child exits towards the rear of the car, facing traffic. With back-in angle parking, your door shields your child from running into the street. They exit to the rear of the car, onto the sidewalk. Also, the trunk or back hatch of your vehicle is facing the sidewalk to make it easy to load packages or unload strollers and such.” TPCG aims to provide safe access for pedestrians, bicyclists and automobiles. They also are looking to create more foot traffic in the downtown area by adding such attractions as a food truck court and pop-up shops. At press time, food vendors such as The Frying Station, Kenny’s Cajun Creole and Bee Cool Snowballs are scheduled to serve patrons at the demonstration. Calypso’s Bayou Paddleboarding Company, Outside and
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Get a discount up to 50%. In, Lil’ Sweet Pea’s Boutique, Kiki & Co., Cajun Sweets Bakery and other businesses will set up shops to sell merchandise. On top of those exciting additions, TPCG has partnered with the Bayou Regional Arts Council and local artists for the art installations, and the Saint Francis Vegetable Garden, LSU AgCenter and Louisiana Sea Grant to bring a farmer’s market to life — which will include fresh produce and seafood. They hope to create drop-offs for ridesharing services as well. TPCG is considering, if possible, lowering the speed limit for that stretch of Main Street, to make the pedestrian flow easier and safer. Main Street Manager Anne Picou hopes that through this event, they could also configure the necessary systems to put in place that cater to those of the special needs community.
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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
Rene Carreker Ins Agcy Inc Rene Carreker, Agent 1221 Museum Drive Houma, LA 70360 renecarreker.com
We’re Ready When You Are
HOUMA:
209 Bayou Gardens Blvd • Suite G1 985.655.2200
THIBODAUX:
107 Peltier Plaza • 985.492.1101
HAMMOND:
2200 W. Thomas St. • Suite B 985.956.7665
State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, Bloomington, IL 1301901
October 2019 25 povhouma.com
We Take Pride In Making Your Dreams Come True
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“Whether they’re visiting Houma, or they are actual residents of Houma, people like to gather amongst one another,” Anne says. “So, we’re trying to create that gathering essence for them.” It wouldn’t be a true test of Downtown functionality without a festival. What better way to demonstrate the richness of our community than to have a festival in the heart of downtown that benefits our community through the gift of volunteering and financial support. The Kiwanis Club of Houma will be hosting its first Howl-O-Ween Dog Parade and Festival at the courthouse square Friday, October 19 from 9 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The event kicks off with registration, then a short canine parade — after which awards for best dog costume, best owner/ pet look alike costume, obedience and
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other categories will be presented. There will also be a howling contest and the coronation of a king and queen based on essays submitted from the dog’s point of view. Various dog-related vendors will feature their goods and services. The event is a fundraiser for the Kiwanis; the club is accepting donations of any amount to register for the event and is also seeking sponsorships from local businesses. More details such as rules, parade route and sponsorship information can be found online at www.kiwanishouma.com. “We’re packing a lot of stuff into a threehour event,” Kiwanian Joe Kopfler says. “While we’re hoping to make some money for our club, our focus is more on making it fun for the participants. If everyone has a great time and we learn what works best, we’re hoping we can build on that toward
bigger and better in the future.” Although the changes during Demonstration Days will be temporary, TPCG hopes the feedback from the twoday experience will allow them to zero in on what will work in their masterplan to enhance Downtown Houma. “We’re doing this because we want people to give us their feedback,” Christopher says. “If you don’t come out and voice your opinion, we won’t know what you want,” Anne adds. Christopher acknowledges that this event wouldn’t be happening without the Gordon Dove Administration, his hardworking team, Anne, the HoumaTerrebonne Chamber of Commerce and all the other partners and sponsors of the demonstration. “We have been super busy and have had
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Anne Price, MD INTERNAL MEDICINE
Board certified internist focused on primary healthcare. 12 Professional Drive, Houma, LA 70360 • 985.868.1810 WWW.DUKENEALDERMATOLOGY.COM
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such a huge outpouring of support from the community on this project,” says Katie Tabor, planner with the Planning and Zoning Department. Volunteers are still needed to pull off the event. To sign up, visit the official website of Demonstration Days: http:// www.tpcg.org/downtown. The site plan and any announcements regarding the demonstration can be found on the website, too. An open survey will be available after the pilot as well. “People like Downtown; there’s no question about that,” Christopher says. “But we never want to stop improving, and we felt that we wanted to take a bigger leap than we’ve ever taken before.” POV
live life fully covered. 282 Corporate Drive • Houma, LA 70360 • 985.876.2876 • lafarmbureau.com October 2019 27 povhouma.com
THE OBSERVER |
BY JAIME DISHMAN
A LETTER TO THE GIRL WHO
DIDN’T GET ASKED I don’t know your name. You probably feel like no one knows your name. You probably feel unnoticed and uninvited.
FOR THE
HEAD
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I’ve seen the social media posts of boys asking girls to homecoming in insanely creative ways. Writing invites in their front yard, sending posters, showing up with balloons. And you, sweet one, didn’t get asked. No one showed up at your front door with a balloon bouquet and creative poster, telling you how much they desire to go to “HOCO” with you. No one plastered your car with sticky notes that read “Will you go to homecoming with me?” How I wish I knew your name. I would grasp your hands in mine and look into your young face and tell you I know what it feels like to not be asked – I was you. In the mix of a new high school, with over 1,000 students, no one asked me to freshman homecoming. Just weeks into the transition from middle school to high school, and no one invited me to the first big event at the new school. I waited and hoped, but no one did. Other girls had boyfriends, so they were automatically asked. Others held on to boyfriends they didn’t like so they wouldn’t risk not being asked. And others were asked by boys who looked at them and thought them worth asking. In a school as large as mine, no one asked me. I remember sitting at lunch, while other girls were asked, waiting to see if a boy would walk across the schoolyard and make his way to me. No one ever did. After the dance, people traded pictures. Do high schoolers still trade dance pictures? When you’re the one who didn’t get asked, you don’t have any pictures to trade. No one wants to give you a picture of theirs because you don’t have one to give in return. Can I stop with my story here and tell you this? Your worth isn’t determined by whether someone deems you worthy.Your value isn’t determined by one boy asking you one question. I know the need to belong runs deeper than any other feeling you may know. You might not get asked this time, and you might not get asked the next. Don’t spend the rest of your high school years or the rest of your life determining your worth by what “they” ask you to or what you don’t get asked to. I say those words as one who looked around during those first few weeks of my fragile high school years, and realized I was being left out of the whirling society spinning around me. I spent the next few years making
October 2019 28 povhouma.com
FALL HAS
ARRIVED! sure I climbed every social ladder, placed myself into a position of popularity, and never went “unasked” again.
Fall has
Arrived!
It didn’t feel the void. There’s a lie being whispered into your ear that if you’d only been asked, then you wouldn’t feel so alone. But sometimes, you can be asked to all the right places, with the right people, and still feel a loneliness through the deepest parts of your soul, that longs to be filled. If you could talk back to me through this letter, you’d probably tell me being left out hurts more than you thought possible. I know this. How I wish I could show up to your house on homecoming night when everyone else is at the dance, and tell you face to face that one lonely night will fade, but a lonely soul can last forever.
A 1539 MLK Blvd • Houma 985.851.1559 • Mon - Fri 10-7 • Sat 10-5
In her book “Uninvited,” author Lysa TerKeurst says it like this: “No person’s rejection can ever exempt me from God’s love for me. Period. No question mark. The most beautiful love story ever written is the one you were made to live with God.” It took me years to fully understand His love story over my life. It started mid-high school when I realized the emptiness of chasing acceptance and popularity. When I said yes to His love story, it made all the other stories fade. I’ve learned to listen to His invitation to the dance. Not being asked doesn’t mean you’re not loved. Not being chosen doesn’t mean you’re not worthy. Being left out doesn’t mean you’re alone. Dance with the One who never lets you go. POV
October 2019 29 povhouma.com
SPONSORED
ROD’S SUPERSTORE Owners: Mike and Wendy Rodrigue Specialty: Major Home Appliances Sales & Service Local Since: 1984 What's In Store: You will find BBQ grills, refrigerators, freezers, ranges, microwaves, dishwashers, washers, gas and electric dryers. We carry trustworthy brands such as Sub-Zero, Wolf, Frigidaire, Electrolux, Kitchenaid, Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, Danby, Blaze, Artesian and Danby. The Difference: Rod’s is the largest independent dealer in the Tri-parish area. Our very knowledgeable staff and factorytrained service technicians are for our customers only. There is no long wait for anything at Rod’s. In most cases, we also offer free local delivery, setup and haul away of old appliances. The Latest: Rod’s is now displaying Blaze, Artesian and Wolf BBQ grills and islands along with outdoor refrigeration. POV
October 2019 30 povhouma.com
SPONSORED
AMERISTAR ROOFING Owners: Allen Gautreaux and Dustin Terry Specialty: Roofing contractors Local Since: 2016 What's In Store: We specialize in all types of roofing. We carry all major shingle brands, including CertainTeed – manufactured right here in Louisiana.
restoring and growing with our community. We have certified installers and insurance claims specialists on staff to guarantee our homeowners get a roof they can trust and a contractor that will be here when times are tough. The Latest: We always offer a free inspection. During Hurricane Barry, Houma received the fastest winds in the state. We have been assisting homeowners with their claims to get them ready for the next storm. People have shared their concerns with large deductibles and we want every customer to know that we have several options to assist them. We will give you a free consultation to explore your options before you get started. POV
The Difference: We grew up in south Louisiana and we care2019 about31 povhouma.com October
FOOD + FUN
POV PICK | 34 Master Shakes
A NEW COLONELS RETREAT | 36
Nicholls State University introduces their new beer.
TWISTED MINDZ AT WORK | 42
Artist Gabriella Ruiz brings her Twisted creations to life.
October 2019 32 povhouma.com
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The brilliant minds behind Zack’s Frozen Yogurt have brought the milkshake game to a whole new level! The new, over-the-top milkshakes have names such as Better Brownie Batter, Give Me S’more, Magical Unicorn, and Cookies4Life. The 10 crazy concoctions feature premium Hershey’s ice cream, and are topped with whole cookies, brownies, strawberries or more, depending on the flavor you select. October 2019 34 povhouma.com
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A NEW COLONELS
It all started with an idea, as most great things do, many years ago in Colonel Country. What if Nicholls had its own beer? Something the University, its students, faculty, and fans could enjoy while also giving back to the school they all know & love... it’s brilliant! But where to start? The staff of the Nicholls Office of Marketing & Communications and Nicholls Alumni Affairs quickly got to work to find out.
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October 2019 36 povhouma.com
After many years of researching brewers and distributors, awaiting legislation
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hiccups, and getting key support on board, the current administration gave the Nicholls beer project its blessing; and staff members were ready to press forward. Thus, the Colonels Retreat beer was born. Director of Alumni Affairs, Katherine Mabile, spearheaded getting the project off the ground along with the Director of the Office of Marketing & Communications, Jerad David, who states, “Once we were approved, we decided on partnering with local leader in craft beer, Bayou Teche Brewing. They have been really great to work with.” Based in a small town north of I-10, family-owned Bayou Teche Brewing prides itself on producing beers that reflect our unique handcrafted Louisiana lifestyle, and the Colonels Retreat is no exception. Next, the team looked no further than their own backyard. “I’m really proud that we were able to utilize student talent,” Jerad shares. “The students in the
October 2019 37 povhouma.com
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Nicholls Marketing Department conducted a market research project to the compile data we needed. Then we brought it to the graphic design students in the Nicholls Art Department for a brand concept, including packaging. And boy, they delivered! They really did a stand-up job producing the look of the whole Colonels Retreat brand.”
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Jerad and Katherine were so impressed with the branding that it got their wheels turning. They are planning to develop some other Colonels Retreat merchandise, like hats and t-shirts, to compliment the beer. And being that every purchase of the brand directly benefits the University and its students, why not? Royalties from the sales will go straight to Nicholls scholarships, the Alumni Federation, and more. There is also talk of getting the Nicholls Farm involved in other products like wine and honey, once it’s fully renovated; and possibly utilizing the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute to develop a custom spice. “The sky’s the limit, this was just
the first step,” Jerad beams. Next, two tastings were held. One at the Office of Alumni Affairs, and one at the office of the Colonels Retreat distribution partner, Buquet Distributing, in Houma. “Bayou Teche Brewing offered us three options,” Jerad, states, “and all of them were awesome. But we finally narrowed it down to the lager. Who knows? We may be able to bring the other two to the market sometime in the future as well.” So, when do we get to taste it? The Colonels Retreat beer will be officially launched at the first Nicholls home football game of the season on October 5th at the Alumni Federation Tailgating area. Sodexho has also agreed to sell it at the stadium during games, and it will be available at Rouses Markets that week. “We are looking forward to the success [of this project],” Jared says. “We’re excited to see what the next step will be.” POV
October 2019 38 povhouma.com
October 2019 39 povhouma.com
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October 2019 42 povhouma.com
FALL INTO A FRESH
STORY BY MARY DITCH PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY
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Everyone has a favorite holiday, one that they connect with and go all out for. For one Montegut resident, that holiday is Halloween. Gabriella Ruiz, also known as Twisted Gabby, absolutely loves Halloween. The creative mind behind Twisted Mindz Designs, this raven-haired beauty is enchanted and mystified by all things ghoulish and haunted. As an artist, Twisted Gabby takes her love for the holiday one step further by making fun and sometimes spooky creations out of recyclables. Last year, she took a huge leap, and with the help of her fiancé Matt Pellegrin – affectionately known as MattGyver for his skill at also creating something from nothing – displayed her work at Houma’s Rougarou Festival. From shrunken heads to enchanted mirrors, from trick-or-treat buckets to scarecrows that frighten off more than the crows, Twisted Gabby shows that art has a place in every holiday.
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Her unique shrunken heads were the stars of the show at last year’s Rougarou and will be making a return this year. Twisted Gabby creates the labors of love by first using paper mâché around a ball form of paper. Once it dries, she drills a hole in the bottom and removes the paper form. To create a neck, she uses the top part of a water bottle. From there, her imagination takes over. “I'll look at the paper mâché, spin it around a bit, and I'm like, ‘Okay, that looks like an eye would go there’,” explains Twisted Gabby. “I kinda see a face before I even start sculpting the clay over it. They all have like their own little characteristics that the paper mâché creates, even over similar paper forms.” But how did this maven get her start and discover her love for recyclables?
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“I kinda see a face before I even start sculpting the clay over it. They all have like their own little characteristics that the paper mâché creates, even over similar paper forms.” - Gabriella Ruiz
Well, YouTube, of course! “I’ve always enjoyed making things and I’ve always been challenged with doing it on a low income budget,” Twisted Gabby shares. “I really wanted to do a haunted house one year, but I didn’t have the money to go out and buy all the things. So I started YouTubing how to make your own decorations and crafts for cheap and I found paper mâché. It was the most amazing thing that I had ever seen. I feel like I can make anything that I put my mind to now!” More than just being resourceful when it comes to one man’s trash becoming her own treasure, Twisted Gabby also makes her own modeling clay. Her secret recipe includes household items such as soap, toilet paper and water, blended with wood glue, sheet rock mud and some flour. “Recyclables or other people's trash are
my first go-to whenever I have a new project that I'm working on,” shares Twisted Gabby. “I'll see what I can use that is basically junk first. I try to spend very little money at the store.” Twisted Gabby also credits her fulltime day job at South Louisiana Seed in Houma for help with finding interesting and useful parts and pieces. The warehouse holds all kinds of treasures from the store’s past as a lawnmower repair shop. She also repurposes things that would ordinarily head for the garbage, such as cardboard boxes, old paper fliers, pallets and more. Friends and family also save things like plastic bottles and such for her, knowing that it will all go to good use. The local artisan has bigger plans in store for the future as well. The new owner of a studio in Chauvin (formerly Lagniappe Café), Twisted Gabby dreams of offering art classes to the youth of her community.
October 2019 44 povhouma.com
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“My big dream is opening up my studio,” smiles Twisted Gabby. “I want to be able to do classes for kids. I live in Montegut and the studio is in Chauvin – I really care about my community down here. I just want to try to make a difference; that is my ultimate goal. I really want to help these kids out by offering free art classes because I know that there's a lot of low income families down here and they can't get to Houma. They can't sign their kids up for extra classes.” It goes beyond just caring about the future of her community. A mother herself to three beautiful little girls, Karman, Arianna, and Brooklyn, Twisted Gabby knows personally of the hardships that arise when trying to go the extra mile for your children. “I've been that mother, you know?” she recalls. “I didn't want to bring my
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kids all the way to town or I couldn't – didn't have the gas, didn't have the time or whatever. I would eventually like to get like a little bus, you know, and maybe pick kids up to bring them to the studio. This would be years down the line. I have so many ideas. But hey, one step at a time!”
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Despite not having lessons herself or a formal artist’s education, Twisted Gabby acknowledges that her art is often far from perfect. But that’s just how it should be.
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“It really is so easy if you have an imagination and the willpower to do it,” she shares. “ I mean like it's just like Bob Ross says: nothing is a mistake. It's just happy little accidents, you know, and you can make it whatever. And even if it looks funny, oh well, accept that it's supposed to be there.”
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“That's why I like doing shrunken heads,” she says impishly, with a grin, “because you can't mess those up. They're all deformed anyways, you know?” POV
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MIND + BODY
POV PICK | 50 Geaux Pink challenge
MAKING WAVES | 52
Dustin and Austin Terry share their love of boat racing.
WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE | 58 Breast Health Awareness
FOR YOUR HEALTH | 59 Women’s Preventative Health
October 2019 48 povhouma.com
DREAMING OF HARDWOODS? We can help your dream come true....
Thursday, October 24th 6-8 PM
We Will be Kicking Off the Second Annual
Rougarou Witch Review!
Vote for your favorite witch and sample free specialty wine, cheese and other adult potions!
October 2019 49 povhouma.com
MIND + BODY |
POV PICK
GEAUX PINK CHALLENGE Southern Roots Blow Dry Bar, Houma
Each October, we recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month and work hard to raise money for worthy causes. This year, Southern Roots Blow Dry Bar has partnered with Geaux Pink and Mary Bird Perkins TGMC Cancer Center to host a Geaux Pink Challenge. Participants may come in for a blow out and choose to get sassy pink accent pieces in their hair. Whether from pink dye on your own hair or the clip-in version, take the challenge in dedication of someone you love that is fighting or has fought cancer. With your pink hair in place, simply challenge three friends to do the same and make a difference in the fight forward.
FUN FACTS
• O ctober is National Pizza Month.
• Pepperoni is the most popular pizza topping in the U.S., according to a businessinsider. com survey, with 36 percent of the vote. Sausage is second with 14 percent.
Dry Eye Disease and Blepharitis go hand-in-hand. Symptoms of blepharitis overlap the symptoms of dry eye disease and include burning, watering, itching, blurring of vision, scratchy sensation and even pain. Treating with just artificial tears may neglect the underlying problem. At Southern Eye Institute we have many different methods of testing for the underlying cause. In addition, we now have a very effective method of treating the blepharitis. Oftentimes, this treatment can result in a dramatic improvement of your symptoms. Call to day for a consultation to determine if BlephEx is the relief you have been waiting for. When you need the best eye care in the area, look to us. Your vision and the health of your eyes are our top priorities, and our state-of-the-art facilities offer the best technology available for all your eye care needs.
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October 2019 51 povhouma.com
making
WAVES
October 2019 52 povhouma.com
PHOTO BY DREW MILLER
STORY BY DREW MILLER | ACTION PHOTOS SUBMITTED
We celebrate the famous father-son athletes in America such as Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Jr., Dell and Steph Curry, Ken Griffey Sr. and Jr. and the Mannings. Not only does the talent they display attract us but also that special bond they have. Locally, the father-son team of Dustin and Austin Terry are making waves for themselves on the national level in the sport of powerboat racing. Through their wins, losses, crashes, injuries, special family bond and unwavering dedication to the sport, the talented duo give people in the Houma-Thibodaux area another sports family to root for. Fourteen years ago, at the age of 19, Dustin – like his son – followed in the footsteps of his father who also raced. Austin, however, started significantly younger than his father in the sport. Soon to turn 9 years old, he already has two seasons under his belt. The two compete in different fields, which both use unique types of boats. For Dustin, he races in a Formula One (F1) tunnel boat, similar to an F1 car. The outboard boat is made out of carbon fiber. Enclosed in a capsule, he steers the boat from inside the safety cell while being strapped into a six-point harness. The F1 tunnel boats go from 0-100 mph in approximately four seconds, with a top speed of just over 120 mph. “I think it's a pretty unique sport. I saw it at a young age and really loved it. It was more appealing to me than anything else I've ever seen,” Dustin remembers. “So, getting into it was a lifelong dream. I think what's cool about it is that it's on the water; it’s just kind of a different form of racing.” Austin steers his J-Hydro boat while kneeling and controls the throttle with his hands, which he laughs off as “pretty painful.” Not in a safety capsule, he uses the weight of his body to control the balance of his boat – which has a top speed of 45 mph. Austin says the competitiveness of the races and not having to deal with car traffic are
October 2019 53 povhouma.com
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“I think it's a pretty unique sport. I saw it at a young age and really loved it. It was more appealing to me than anything else I've ever seen. So, getting into it was a lifelong dream.” - Dustin Terry
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what he enjoys most about the sport. Although relatively small compared to major sport leagues, the NGK F1 Powerboat Championship league – which is televised on CBS Sports – that Dustin and Austin mainly race in is extremely competitive. For an NGK event, Dustin participates in a weekend full of qualifying races that lead up to a final race that has over 20 boats competing for the No.1 spot. Austin, being one of the youngest – if not the youngest – in his age group, competes against kids as old as 14. The McCollough Racing team members embrace those challenges, however, and acquired several successes in their career. Dustin has won NGK F1 races and smaller championships in different classes. Austin has won a qualifying race and has reached third-place podium finishes for two weekend events. Even though the sport comes with its many enjoyable moments, the family has had more than their fair share of scares during races. Dustin has crashed over 20 times, with his worst injuries coming from a crash last year during a race in Gulfport, Fla. While going approximately 100 mph, his boat jumped a wave and then plunged head first into the water. Upon impact, the canopy of his boat and the windshield of his helmet collapsed.
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“I just had a lot of bad bruising. I bruised my eyes; I bruised my esophagus. A lot of bruised bones, a broken foot,” he remembers. “Nothing major, but I’ve had a lot of bumps and bruises along the way.” Earlier this year, Austin’s throttle got stuck on a boat he was driving which caused him to jump the dock “like James Bond”, he describes. Fortunately, Austin, who races in a Kevlar suit, only had some minor damage to his leg. He says he wasn’t scared during the crash. “We were more scared as parents than he was,” Dustin shares.
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The boat and equipment used, Dustin explains, are designed to keep the driver safe. Safety is always the main priority for the family. October 2019 55 povhouma.com
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Embracing that the sport sometimes comes with scary moments, the two still aim to achieve their ultimate goals. Dustin strives to win an NGK overall championship series. Austin wants to be the best and eventually compete against his father.
of the slack here at the house, or she's got to get on the road with all three of our kids to bring them to a race. Whenever we're at a race, she's the one putting his [Austin’s] boat into the water because I'll be at my boat in the water at the same time.”
Not only does their dedication to the sport helps them to accomplish new feats in powerboat racing, but also their great support system – the Terry family.
Dustin’s oldest daughter, Adrienne, enjoys working on the boats’ motors, and he says he’s sure his youngest daughter, Annabelle, will get into it at some point. Dustin’s sister, Whittney Terry Fletcher, races as well.
“I've got a great wife [Katy] that allows us to do this type of stuff,” Dustin says. “That's a big challenge, too. She's got to pull some
The family tries to make a mini vacation
October 2019 56 povhouma.com
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out of all the places the races are held, which brings them to states across the county. Nevertheless, Dustin wishes to see an NGK F1 powerboat race be held in Louisiana again. “I would love to see Louisiana get involved in it again, and then I would like to see Louisiana companies get represented in the sport as well,” he says. “I really love having my son involved in it now because people from around this area are starting to hear about this sport, and interest is growing.” POV
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October 2019 57 povhouma.com
WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE |
BY THIBODAUX REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER
BREAST HEALTH AWARENESS Pink ribbons, t-shirts with catchy slogans and public service announcements are literally everywhere during the month of October. A globally concerted effort to reach millions of women encouraging them to “think pink” and “fight like a girl” is carefully orchestrated to promote early detection, screening and awareness of this terrible, but all too familiar disease, Breast Cancer. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women, except for skin cancers. About one in eight women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer in her lifetime. Studies show that people who maintain a healthy weight and remain physically active have a lower incidence of cancer in general and increased body weight and weight gain as an adult are linked to higher breast cancer rates after menopause. The benefit of having a healthy weight, living an active lifestyle and eating a nutrient rich diet go beyond cancer prevention. Diabetes, heart disease and other health conditions can be prevented or improved when these lifestyle practices are followed.
In life there is nothing as important as being your own advocate and when it comes to your health, you are an expert. Practicing self breast awareness and adhering to the screening recommendations is the easiest way for you to be in control. Most medical providers recommend that in their 20s women should learn the benefits of breast self-examination and in their 20s and 30s women should have a breast exam by a doctor every three years. At the age of 40 women should have an annual exam by her physician and they should talk about having a screening mammogram. Keep in mind that mammograms may be recommended earlier if there is a strong family history of breast cancer or other risk factors. So if you haven’t already done so this year, schedule time out for yourself this October. Knowing the facts and seeing your physician annually, scheduling a mammogram, squeezing in some exercise every day and doing your best to eat right and keep your weight in check are crucial keys to lowering your overall health risk.
For more information, contact the Thibodaux Regional Cancer Center at 985.493.4008.
October 2019 58 povhouma.com
FOR YOUR HEALTH |
BY MICHELLE LINDSEY, APRN-FNP
WOMEN’S PREVENTATIVE HEALTH Good health begins with preventive care. A cup of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Preventive care focuses on keeping undesirable disease away verses waiting until illness arises to act. Less than half of adults get regular check ups and preventive health screenings according to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. The Women’s Preventive Services Initiative recommends that women receive at least one preventive care visit per year beginning in adolescence and continuing across the lifespan. Lack of preventive screening results in delayed identification and treatment of conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and cancer. Women wait for many reasons, with common excuses including: lack of time, expensive co-pays, uncomfortable exams, feeling of good health, denial of a problem or fear of results. Ochsner has multiple locations making it easy and convenient to schedule regular screenings and checkups with a provider. Under the Affordable Care Act, insurance plans, as well as Medicaid and Medicare, are required to pay for a variety of services with no deductibles or copays. Thanks to advances in technology and techniques, most screenings are relatively pain free. Many conditions can develop and progress without any symptoms. For example, high blood pressure, breast cancer, and osteoporosis are often called “silent” conditions
Age 18 to 29: • Blood Pressure: Get screened at least every 2 years if you have normal blood pressure (below 130/85). • Cervical Cancer: Women should get a Pap test every 3 years beginning at age 21 until age 65. • Cholesterol: Get a baseline test in your 20s.
Age 30 to 39 - Everything above, plus: • HPV: Women should begin testing in conjunction with Pap test every 5 years until age 65. • Cholesterol: Periodic assessment of Cardiovascular Disease risk. Measure levels every 5 years.
Age 40 to 49 - Everything above, plus: because they don’t exhibit any signs until they have progressed, sometimes to untreatable stages. Working with a provider to establish a baseline of health will make it easier to notice even small changes later, allowing for the detection of disease before it become serious. An annual health checkup is far quicker than long-term treatment for a disease that could have been prevented. Here are the screenings recommended for women by the CDC, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and the American Cancer Society. Based on your personal risk factors, family health history, and current symptoms, your health care provider may recommend you have some screenings earlier, later, or more frequently.
• Blood Pressure: Start annual screenings at age 40. • Breast Cancer: Get a mammogram starting at age 40 every 1 to 2 years. • Diabetes: Women with no risk factors should be tested annually beginning at age 45.
Age 50 to 59 - Everything above, plus: • Coronary Calcium: Have a baseline scan at age 55. • Lung Cancer Screening: Screen adults aged 55-80 with smoking history. • Colorectal Cancer: Begin screenings, and depending on the type of test, stool DNA annually or direct visualization screened every 5 to 10 years.
Age 60+ - Everything above, plus: • Osteoporosis: Have a bone density or DEXA scan every 2 years starting at age 65.
Michelle Lindsey, APRN-FNP is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner at Ochsner St. Anne Hospital. Michelle holds a master’s degree from LSU Health Science Center in New Orleans. She has a special interest in preventative medicine, health promotion, pediatrics, and chronic illness. Michelle is available for appointments and is accepting new patients at the Ochsner Health Center – Raceland. To schedule an appointment, call 537-CARE.
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UNDER THE SCOPE |
BY JOHN DOUCET
OUR SEXY
Specializing in Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care
LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED
ACCENT Ça c’est correct! You heard dat right. “Cajun” has been named one of the sexiest accents in the United States. And in PoV country, many of us already know dat. ‘Cause we got one. According to survey results published this summer by Big 7 Media, an online travel information website, the way our native tongue and throat form words was ranked “15th sexiest accent” by the company’s 1.5 million international subscribers. In our dust are accents from places that sound like our seasonal football blacklist: Florida, Ohio, Atlanta, Alabama.
“I enjoy all the activities here at the Suites. We play Bingo, exercise, and have a variety of musical entertainment, but my favorite activity is painting. At 81 years old, I learned that I can paint and I love it!"
ADELE Pictured with her daughter Susie
220 Valhi Blvd. in Houma
What is it that makes the way we speak so sexy to those 1.5 million subscribers and, quite frankly, countless others? Is it the way we skip plurals, TH sounds, and the ending sounds of words? Is it the way we add convincing affirmation to our romantic lines, like “You pretty, yeah,” or the way we cut-to-the chase and skip unnecessary linking verbs, like “What you doing tonight?” Is it the way French words enter our English, making the word for love—amour—sound so pleadingly and desperately seductive, as it resembles mourant—the word for dying? Is it the way we more memorably emphasize the end-syllable of names, as when we sing Eric Clapton’s exorcizing love song, “Lay-LAH! I’m begging, bêbe, please!...” Is it the way we don’t pronounce the letter H on each word that begins with it and instead replace it with the heavy, breathy vowel sound that comes next? Is it the way we invent suggestive terms, like “Let’s go make the couche-couche,” and how these suggestive phrases are also food recipes (this one involving fried corn meal)? Or maybe it’s because we use more than the tongue and throat to speak. Cajuns are well-known for speaking with our hands. To extrapolate from the famous Pointer Sisters’ song, people “like a Cajun with the slow hands.” Our accent’s sexiness ranking is 15th out of 50 on Big 7, which is pretty competitive and impressive—but not so surprising to locals. Even so, consider that only last year a survey by the online site YouGov named “southern coastal accents” as most attractive in the U.S. Certainly Cajun is a contributor to the southern coastal amalgam of accents, and “attractive” is a broader criterion than “sexy.” So why do we rank only 15th? Something’s not right when Cajun is in a sexiness list behind “Mississippi” (6th) and Texan (1st). Texien? Really? Alos pas! The accuracy of this summer’s survey comes into question when you consider the content that surrounds the sexiness rankings at the Big 7 website. First, they describe Cajun as “New Orleans Cajun,” a gross geographical and cultural error stupide that was swiftly condemned by
985.868.8400 www.SugarMillPoint.net
October 2019 60 povhouma.com
the majority of readers leaving online comments on the rankings site. Second, in a list of most Instagrammable sites for tourists in Louisiana, none—not even a swamp or an alligator or a Cajun village—are located in Cajun Country. And, most deceptively, of the best Cajun restaurants in New Orleans, none of them have a Cajun name. So what’s authentic Cajun? Big 7 may not know. This peripheral content surrounding the sexiness ranking suggest that 15th is a deflated ranking that, as we all know in PoV country, should be higher. (Texien? Really?) Hollywood has a long history of trying to cash-in on the sexiness of the Cajun accent, but it’s a struggle for actors to simulate it. Yul Brynner attempted one 1960’s The Magnificent Seven, playing a Cajun oddly named Chris Adams. By all accounts, Brynner should stick to Egyptian. Adam Sandler attempted Cajun in 1998’s The Waterboy and went on to win the prestigious Stinkers Bad Movie Award for Most Annoying Fake Accent. Although most PoV readers likely don’t strictly speak Cajun or French these days, we were born and raised into it, and those early life exposures to the accent taught us by imitation how to form our words. Nowadays in the workforce, we sometimes force our accents to pronounce specific, technical words and use clean English for clear communication. When you need to on occasion say words like ataxiatelangiectasia and dimethylsulfoninoproprionate, you really need to pronounce all THs and word endings. Nonetheless, I hope it still gives people the frissons when I talk like that. POV
985.872.1431
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WINE & SPIRITS JOIN US FRIDAY NIGHTS IN OCTOBER FOR CANNATA’S
IN OUR WINE & SPIRITS DEPT.
6-8 PM
OCT 4 OCTOBERFEST AT CANNATA’S
SAMPLE A SELECTION OF FALL BEERS ALONG WITH SOME GREAT WINES FOR FALL
OCT 11 GO LOCAL A TASTING OF LOUISIANA ARTISANAL SPIRITS AS WELL AS A SELECTION OF GREAT CALIFORNIA WINES
OCT 18
TAKE THE 360 VODKA CHALLENGE SAMPLE A SELECTION OF AWARD WINNING 360 FLAVORED VODKAS AS WELL AS A SELECTION OF WINES FROM ARGENTINA
OCT 24
WINE WITH DA WITCHES (THURSDAY) 2019 ROUGAROU FESTIVAL KICKOFF
RSVP
TO EVENTS ON
RENDEZVOUS |
WHERE YOU NEED TO BE AROUND TOWN
Rooftop Roundup October 10, 5:30-8:30 p.m. TGMC parking garage, Houma
Break out your cowboy boots and enjoy the 8th annual Rooftop Roundup presented by Hancock Whitney. Complete with beautiful fall weather, great food from Big Mike’s BBQ, a beautiful view of the sunset from the rooftop of the parking garage and live entertainment from Billy Stark, the Roundup truly is always a rootin’ tootin’ good time. Tickets are $50 per person and proceeds benefit The Foundation for Terrebonne General Medical Center. Visit tgmc.com/events to purchase.
Chamber Cornhole Challenge October 15, 4-7 p.m. Buquet Pavilion, Houma
The Houma-Terrbonne Chamber will host their 2nd annual Cornhole Challenge Tournament in partnership with Southdown Plantation. Two-player teams will play at least three games and participants can enjoy food, beverages and music. Tournament is open to the public. Visit houmachamber.com for more information.
Night at the BOO-Seum October 25, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Firemen’s Fair Grounds, Thibodaux
Enjoy trick-or-treating, games, music, food and more at this annual children’s event sponsored by the Bayou Country Children’s Museum, in partnership with the Thibodaux Volunteer Fire Department. Cost is $8 per person in advance and $10 at the gate. Tickets can be purchased at the museum or online at bayoucountrychildrensmuseum.org.
Fall Festival Fun: La Fete des Vieux Temps Oct. 4-6, Raceland
Chauvin Fest Oct 5-6, Chauvin
Voice of the Wetlands Oct. 11-13, Houma/Gray
LA Gumbo Festival Oct. 11-13, Chackbay
Bayou Dularge Knights of Columbus Fair Oct. 18-20, Dularge
French Food Festival Oct. 25-27, Larose
Rougarou Festival Oct. 26-27, Houma
Acadia Music Festival Nov. 2, Thibodaux
Thibodeauxville Fall Festival Nov. 9, Thibodaux
Bayou Beer Festival Nov. 9, Houma
& FOLLOW US FOR MORE
DETAILS
6307 WEST PARK AVENUE HOUMA, LA 70364
October 2019 62 povhouma.com
READY FOR WINTER?
It’s Time to Winterize! Call us to evaluate your heating system. We service all manufacturers and models of:
Central A/C and heating systems • Commercial refrigeration systems
WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT IN OUR CALENDAR? Shoot an email to mary@rushing-media.com and we’ll help spread the word.
Thanks to all our cool customers! R E F R I G E R AT I O N 314 South Hollywood Rd., Houma • 985.868.8945 coolestcustomers.com October 2019 63 povhouma.com
SCENE IN |
LOOK AT OL’ SO ‘N’ SO!
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS As we welcome children back to school, we also say hello to fall athletics! We recognize the hard work and dedication of students and coaches that make the spirited games fun for the whole family.
SOUTHLAND DRUGS
1117 Audubon Ave. • Thibodaux • 985-447-5852
BEASLEY
CONVENIENTLY LOCATED NEXT TO THIBODAUX REGIONAL.
HOME TO YOUR GAME DAY “RED”Y
NICHOLLS GEAR & ACCESSORIES
PEST CONTROL
• Pest control • termite control • wood destroying insect reports
Complete Pest Control Services Locally Owned & Operated Serving the Tri-parish & Surrounding Area Houma (985) 872-5019 • Thibodaux (985) 446-1811
October 2019 64 povhouma.com
VISIT THE
OPEN
Tackle Pests this Fall! Call the Terminix Team for a Free Quote.
Monday through Friday 10AM to 4PM Saturday 10AM to 2PM 1154 Barrow St., Houma, LA (985) 873-8200 regionalmilitarymuseum.com
Dan Foster
OVER 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE New Location! 119 Rome Commercial Place Servicing all major brands of outboards. October 2019 65 povhouma.com
Coach Tim Rebowe
Billy Foster
FUN FACTS
CALL FOR A FLOOD QUOTE • O ctober is national Book Fair Month.
Homeowners Auto - Personal & Commercial Business/Commercial Flood Employee Benefits
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
• The best-selling book of all time (excluding religious works such as the Bible that are hard to track) is “Don Quixote”, with approximately 500 million copies sold.
• The largest library in the world is the Library of Congress in Washington D.C. It contains over 16 million books and more than 120 million other items and collections.
• T he longest novel ever published is “The Blah Story” by Nigel Tomm. It has 3,277,227 words, that make 7,312 pages.
• The Bible is the most translated book in the world; the complete Bible has been translated into 683 languages.
CLAUDIA ALDAMA
CSR Claudia@clementinsurance.com
KELLY LAFLEUR
CSR csr@clementinsurance.com 1702 Saint Charles St • Houma 985-872-1391 Phone 504-910-9904 Fax www.clementinsurance.com
October 2019 66 povhouma.com
• I f you’re talking to a mathematician, the shape of a football is best described as a “prolate spheroid.” But everyone will know what you’re talking about if you just say “football-shaped.”
LOOK TWICE |
WIN A $50
COURTESY OF SYNERGY BANK
GIFT CARD
Find the six differences in this photo from our feature on page 42. 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 October 14. The winner will receive a $50 Visa® gift card courtesy of Synergy Bank.
Congratulations to Ella Ledet for winning last month’s contest.
October 2019 67 povhouma.com
ANSWERS TO LAST MONTH’S CONTEST 1 Changed color of candle 2 Removed door knob 3 Removed diffuser 4 Changed frame color 5 Removed Chrystal from frame
October 2019 68 povhouma.com