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4 POINT OF VUE OUR VUE MAY 2015
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MAY 2015 VOLUME 9 ISSUE 5
TABLE OFCONTENTS
CHANNING CANDIES
LOCAL VUE
22 MAKING A SPLASH NeCole the mermaid swims ashore
30 CHATEAU CHIC Home tour
38 LEADING THE WAY Sport Shooter Stephen Louviere II
44 TIMEOUT Show Mama Some Love
48 UNDER THE SCOPE Driving by Old Buildings: Part 2
50 OH SNAP If Walls Could Talk
REINVENTING RETAIL
52 WHO AM I? Courtesy of Premier OB-GYN
53 FITLIFE
66 TELL ME WHY Answers to lifes most perplexing questions
68 SAVING LITTLE LIVES Little swimmers learn survival skills
74 REINVENTING RETAIL Kate Starks Material Girl Boutique Grows Up
ABOUT THE COVERBoutique owner Kate Stark prepares the newest concept of her ever-evolving shop.
74
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12 EDITORS NOTE Reflection
13 NUMEROLOGY Whats your number?
14 THATS WHAT HE SAID Dont Be an Idiot
POV PICKS28 Spiced Bayou Rum Cake36 Tyent Ionized Water Fixture, Controlled Access Box, The Tower Garden72 Loftin Ceramic Oysters
16 INTERVUE Say what?
18 THE OBSERVER The Rules of Motherhood
20 THE FOODIE CONNECTION A Resolution of Greatness
OUR VUE YOUR VUE
80 LIVING WELL Egg-ceptionally Nutritious
81 CHECK IT OUT The Fix-It Box
82 BEHIND THE BREW The State of Craft Beer
83 A VUE FROM THE VINE Old World, Superb Values
84 BON APPTIT Rosemary Skewered Shrimp
86 UNDERGROUND SOUND The Russell Welch Hot Quartet, Madisen Ward & the Mama Bear, Striking Matches
88 SMARTY PANTS For when your thinking cap fails
90 BON TOFFE Some Like it Hot
92 RENDEZVOUS Where you need to be around town
94 SCENE IN Look at ol so n so!
96 ADVERTISERS INDEX The who and the where
97 LOOK TWICE PUZZLE Sponsored by Synergy Bank
98 THE FINAL COUNTDOWN 7 Reasons Mint Juleps Defin theSouth
EXPERT VUE REAR VUE
36
86 98
MAY 2015 VOLUME 9 ISSUE 5
TABLE OFCONTENTS
POVHOUMA.COMView back issues, Web-only content and a full distribution list. SCAN HERE:
NEWSLETTERSReceive additional content and weekly events when you sign up. SCAN HERE:
16
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12 POINT OF VUE OUR VUE MAY 2015
On a recent Thursday evening, I sat in my parents living room discussing the latest news rapidly
making its way through the small Bayou
Lafourche town we call home. We began
discussing people that used to work
here or there, some places that probably
once thrived in the buildings referenced
in columnist John Doucets ongoing
discussion of repurposed bayou buildings
(the second part of which appears on
page 86 of this issue).
We know exactly where that old movie
theater/rental store is he references.
VHS copies of The Mighty Ducks and
Space Jam were passed along the desk
that lined the buildings front wall. We
know exactly where that local govern-
ment building is, too. That was our Wal-
Mart no frills, just stocked with all the
necessities.
Remember Howards?my mom
added, remembering my grandmothers
favorite Houma shopping spot and my
sister s infatuation with the red horse
out front.
Change is a good thing styles evolve and owners and operators
aim to offer patrons the latest and greatest products. Just like all
those old buildings, La. Highway 311s beloved boutique, Material
Girl, recently got a facelift, transforming it into a more grown-up,
sophisticated version simply named KATE. The stores new con-
cept, a reflection of owner and new mom Kate Stark, discussed on
page 74, retains its fun, fashion-forward nature, with the surprise
element of never knowing what will be on the racks next.
While the adults head for some retail therapy this month, the
littlest generation is anticipating the end of another school year and
two solid months of pooltime, playing with friends and dreaming
up all the crazy ideas only children can.
Between afternoon snacks and that arts-and-crafts project currently
taking shape on your dining room table, dont forget to inspire
your little ones, introducing them to all the wonderful qualities
electronics just cant provide. Finding that one activity that fuels
a wild passion in your child, a quality youth sport shooter Stephen
Louviere II possessed, could encourage them to do great things
down the road. Flip to page 38 to read Stephens story.Melissa Duet is the editor of Point of Vue magazine. Her 31 Pinterest boards inspire her wildest ideas. [email protected]
Maybe that untapped passion is gardening, a skill first
graders at Assumption Parishs Belle Rose Primary School
are learning, thanks to inspirational teacher Grace Savoie.
With the help of community organizations, the children
have cultivated a bountiful garden, as seen on page 58, that
has lasted six years and offers some of the freshest produce
that can only be found beneath nurtured soil.
Perhaps your childs biggest dream is to be a mermaid,
enjoying a life below water much like the one led by a very
famous Disney princess. Luckily, our area is home to a
finned female named NeCole, who could show your little
one a thing or two about what it takes to live an aquatic
lifestyle. Check out her tale of the tail on page 22.
This month, let inspiration lead you and your familys
next adventure. You never know where a fond memory
or crazy dream could take you. POV
MELISSA DUET
EDITORSNOTE
22
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2
Brian Rushing PUBLISHER
EDITORIALShell Armstrong EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Melissa Duet EDITOR
CREATIVEGavin Stevens CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Mariella Brochard GRAPHIC DESIGNERDanielle Evans GRAPHIC DESIGNER
PHOTOGRAPHYChanning Candies, Hanne Denys, Misty Leigh McElroy, Erica Seely
WRITERSDwayne Andras, Lane Bates, John Culhane, Jaime Dishman, John Doucet, Melissa Duet,
Dr. J. Michael Flynn, Sydney Landry, Lindsay R. Mason, Debbie Melvin, Sara Patrick,
Bonnie Rushing, Terry Trahan Jr., Becca Bourgeois Weingard
ADVERTISINGMarian Long SALES MANAGER
DeanneRatliffSALES MANAGERJamieMazerac,MarthaNaquin,LindaPontiff
GENERAL MANAGER Lacey LeBlanc
CUSTOMER SERVICE Brooke Adams, Brandy OBanion,
Ashley Thibodeaux
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE JessicaGifford
CONTACT [email protected]@rushing-media.com
SUBSCRIPTIONS Point of Vue magazine is published monthly.
Subscriptions are available for $36 for 12 issues. For more information, email
Copyright 2015 Rushing Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of editorial and/or graphic content is strictly prohibited.
BUSINESS ADDRESS: 6160 West Park Ave., Houma, LA 70364 985.868.7515
Point of Vue magazine cannot be responsible for the return of unsolicited material such as manuscripts or photographs, with or without the inclusion of a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Information in this publication is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed. The opinions expressed in Point of Vue magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Rushing Media, our employees or any of our advertisers. No employee or family member(s) of employees of Rushing Media are permitted to partake in any contests, giveaways or sweepstakes.
NUMEROLOGY
Masters wins held by the Augusta, Georgia-based tournaments youngest winner.
$1,000How much one limited edition Kentucky Derby mint julep cup will cost you.
Roughly the number of drops in a 2 ounce bottle of Tabasco Original Red Sauce.
The number of years Kate Stark has been providing the latest and greatest styles to fashionistas of Bayou Country.
13Terrebonne Parish public schools that benefi fromTFAEevents like the educational organizations 5K on May 9.
19
craft breweries now pour-ing glasses of homegrown sips across the country.
3,464
minutes per class it takes to teach the littlest swimmers life-saving skills. POV
10Southern states inspiring New Orleans transplant and guitarist, Russell Welch.
46
Mermaids, including locals Nicole Breaux and Shannon Eaton, that will take over UNO Aquatic Center onMay2forthefirs Mermaids of Louisiana public youth swim event.
720
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14 POINT OF VUE OUR VUE MAY 2015
When sitting down at the table to share a meal, my mother has two rules: put the phone and anything that begins with a lowercase i away ... and when asked a question (which will
happen repeatedly), give answers that have a subject, verb and
plenty of description in the form of adjectives, adverbs, preposi-
tions and subordinate clauses. No exceptions, except when added,
necessary description requires a consultation with Facebook or
Google.
For the generation growing up with curved TVs and high-
definition screens on their wrists, these rules are a modern form of
torture. The pain gets a reprieve, however, at most chain restau-
rants that feature screens in every corner and booth. Some eateries
are even putting technology on the table so the server never has
to touch the patrons plastic. Oh, and theres a bonus these same
machines are loaded with games so the battery can be saved on the
i thing and the child doesnt have to talk to the parent the entire
night. What is that about technology surpassing human interac-
tion? A generation of idiots, huh? Here is evidence in support of
Einsteins prediction.
All it took was a drive past some golden arches. I pulled up
behind two cars, one at the outdoor speaker and the other between
my car and the first car. Five minutes, literally, went by. No sign
of communication with a human. The car pulled to the first win-
dow anyway, then the middle car pulled up to the speaker. After
a minute of silence, I figured it out. Driver No. 2 had not. After
three more minutes of nothing, she pulled away, visibly frustrated.
She had not comprehended that the restaurant was open but the
speaker was broken. Surely the speaker cant be broken, she
must have thought. Technology cant break; after all, it is how
we communicate. I didnt even stop at the speaker, just pulled to
the first window and placed my order with the cashier who was
hoping this generation has indeed become a generation of idiots.
That is when the proof showed up.
With Einsteins quote in mind, realizing that most drivers
wouldnt figure out that they could still get their Big Breakfast
without talking to an outdoor machine, I suggested to the cashier
that her team place a sign at the speaker.
Terry Trahan Jr. is a freelance writer from Houma and the publications coordinator for Nicholls State University.
Aint my problem, she said.
Calling someone an idiot is a bit harsh. In fact, there is
no proof that Einstein ever uttered such a quote. But dont
feel like an idiot ... unless you were the cashier, who clearly
was an idiot attempting to be lazy by taking advantage of
an opportunity to expose idiots for what they really are
technology-dependent, neuron-deprived beings who have
forgotten they were created to be an intelligent species
with the special ability to communicate verbally with oth-
ers of their kind. I dont know if it was Moms first rule of
dining that got me a sausage biscuit with cheese that morn-
ing, but I am thankful she still hasnt given up on that rule.
I dont want to be an idiot. POV
I fear the day that technology will surpass our human interaction. The world will have a generation of idiots.ALBERT EINSTEIN
TERRY TRAHAN JR.
THATS WHATHE SAID
Dont Be an Idiot
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16 POINT OF VUE YOUR VUE MAY 2015
Everyone needs _________.
If you could live one day over, what
day would you pick?
Its festival season! Which one are you
heading to?
INTERVUE
LORIEStay-at-Home Mom
NICOLEAquatic Performer
DERRICKStudent Services
SARAHCampaign Associate
PHILLIPStudent
Go-to midnight
snack:
Cinco de Mayo beverage of choice:
Something you learned from your
favorite teacher:
If your TV got only one channel, what
would it be?
Milk and peanut butter
Nestle Drumstick Lil Drums
Beer and beef jerky
Oreos Cereal
CucumberMargarita
Top-shelf MargaritaFrozen Margarita
with no saltMargaritas Im 18, so Coke
Compassion To not give upThe most important quality of a leader
is trustMy design skills Biology
HGTVThe channel with all the old cartoons I grew up watching
Off ABC FamilyThe Outdoor
Channel
Strawberry FestivalNew Orleans French
Quarter FestivalAny and all in or around Lafayette
Thibodaux Firemans Fair
None, Im going fishin
My wedding dayThe day my son
was bornYesterday My wedding day
The day I shot a huge buck, but I
couldntfin it
Love and true friends
To be positive because life is
beautifulTo relax Confidenc Common sense
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18 POINT OF VUE YOUR VUE MAY 2015
Jaime Dishman parents daily. Even when shes on vacation. Because life doesnt give mothers off days. She blogs at: W W W.EIGHTEYESWATCHING.BLOGSPOT.COM.
I have a bunch of kids. Most people who read this monthly column realize that. Complete strangers are well aware of the herd of small people
living in my home.
If this is your first time reading, let me tell you a secret. My hus-
band and I have five children ages 10 and under. My kids ask if a
friend can ride with us, and my answer is often, How? We already
take up all the seats.
Sometimes, I try to write something that doesnt involve the five
kids or children at all. I usually type and erase, going with what I
know instead. I have a job, friends and a world outside of my
children. And I will write about all of that one day.
But this month, Im writing about being a mother.
We have house rules. Lots of them. But its the rules that no one
sets for motherhood that can leave my head spinning. What do I do
when ______? Just about anything can be in that blank. Nothing is
too ridiculous for the five of them to try.
I sometimes long for someone to give me rules of motherhood.
But there isnt a list because every family is different. So Ive
recently made my own. Ive written them and hung them by my
bathroom mirror to help me remember. (Because the unwritten rule
of motherhood is: You will forget everything that is not written
down!)
RULE #1
Say Yes. This rule reminds me that although saying no is easy and predict-
able, a yes is unforgettable. I cant say Yes to everything they ask,
but more often than not, my no is automatic, when a yes should be
in its place. Just the other day, my oldest kept asking for tacos for
supper. No, its Monday and were having leftovers. Tacos are on
Tuesday. Hence our tradition of Taco Tuesday. When he asked the
second time, I surprised him by simply saying, Yes. The yes
was worth it and not that hard.
The Rules of Motherhood
RULE #2
Notice the Details.I sign four agendas daily. I notice test folders and con-
duct grades. Those things must be noticed or notes come
home from school. Not that Ive ever received that letter.
Cough. Cough. But its the things no ones telling me to
check that should get most of my attention. The rowdy kid
with the soft heart who helped his sister after she fell on
her bike. When I told him thank you for caring, he looked
up as though wondering how Id even seen that since I
wasnt outside at the time. (Thank you, super big kitchen
window.) In a world of people crying out for attention, I
want my kids to know I notice and they dont have to look
anywhere else for extra attention.
RULE #3
Hear the Heart.Hearts do more than beat. They ache, get frustrated and
hurt. I dont want to go for days without hearing the hearts
of all five of them. Their hearts quietly feel things that they
never say aloud. It takes time to hear a heart. And while
time seems to fly by, I dont want to ever be so busy that I
miss hearing their hearts.
RULE #4
Give More Grace.There are moments when I think they are all the craziest
bunch of kids Ive ever met. Punishments are dealt out
quickly. But sometimes, I go back and give a little grace. To
the kid who should have missed soccer practice because he
didnt complete homework, the words Im going to give
a little grace and you can go this time went farther than
punishment ever would have. I still punish regularly but
the grace given enables them to give graciously to others.
Theyll never be able to give what they have not received. POV
JAIME DISHMAN
THEOBSERVER
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20 POINT OF VUE YOUR VUE MAY 2015
A woman walks into an elevator. Another woman inside the elevator notices her professional garb, accented by a striped scarf and asks,
Big Harry Potter fan?
The woman replies, Excuse me?
Your scarf. I just noticed that youre representing the House
of Gryffindor, right?
She looks down to examine her scarf, and lifts her head back
up, wearing a quizzical look, Yeah, um, Im not sure about any
of that um these are Virginia Tech colors.
Right! Yup looks cozy.
Blurg.
Sometimes life feels like a dead burrito filled with soggy
beans. While youre watching everyone else steer their yachts
full of money, youre doggy paddling behind, trying to catch
some Benjamins flyin off the sun deck.
But heres the great question: the last time you felt like old
fries, would you trade that time for anything?
I wouldnt. If all my dumpiest times were traded in, Id be
blissfully ignorant to the fact that I never should have gotten
my masters and should have gone to culinary school instead
wait sorry.
That sounded a bit like regret. Oh wait, it is regret.
But that masters gave me invaluable information and
changed me forever. I wouldnt be married to Matt had it not
been for that program and now, Im Becca version 4.0, as my
friends call me. Or the Matt-ified version of myself.
I also make me the best version of myself. A very specific
tool that helps me everyday is my New Years Resolution of
Greatness. Paramount to my success is what I think about my
greatness. Thats the secret to being very happy with who I am.
This message brought to you by healthy tacos my great thing
from the other day.
Matt is the inspiration of these tacos. Without him, I would
still be eating Popeyes and honeybuns washed back with Coke
for breakfast. Acatfis outofbayouwater,BeccaWeingardshares adventures and recipes from her Cajun/ Italian kitchen in Washington, D.C., on her blog: PLAYWITHYOURFOODIES.COM
A Resolution of Greatness
BECCA BOURGEOIS WEINGARD
THE FOODIECONNECTION
Fish Tacos with Black Bean and Mango Salsa
WHAT YOULL NEED
HOW TO MAKE IT
2 T. olive oil1 1/4 t. ancho chile powder1 t. chipotle chili powder1/2 t. dried oregano1/2 t. ground coriander1 clove minced garlic1 T. tomato paste1/4 cup orange juice3 T. lime juice1lb.fis1 15.5 oz. can black beans
1 mango, diced1 red pepper, diced1/4 cup red onion, diced1 jalapeo, seeded and diced1 T. cilantro, chopped1 t. dried oregano1 T. ginger, minced1 lime, juicedsalt & pepper8 corn tortillas
Preheat oven to 475 degrees. For the tacos, heat olive oil, chile
powder and chipotle powder in skillet over medium heat, stirring
constantly, 2-3 minutes. Add oregano, coriander, garlic and
salt, cooking about 30 seconds longer. Stir in tomato paste, add
orange juice and 2 T. lime juice. Slather marinade on fish, add
1 T. lime juice and sprinkle with cilantro, refrigerating for 30
minutes.
Meanwhile, make the salsa, mixing together black beans and
next nine ingredients! All nine, from black beans to salt and
pepper to taste.
Bake fish in rimmed baking sheet for 30 minutes or until fish
is opaque and flaky.
If youd like, mix together one part sour cream, two parts
cream cheese, some cilantro, some lime juice and a dash of salt,
spreading that on your tortilla before building le taco Id
highly recommend that. I also recommend adding on some
quick pickled cabbage ... but we may be getting ahead of our-
selves here. POV
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22 POINT OF VUE LOCAL VUE MAY 2015
HANNE DENYS
SARA PATRICK
A SPLASHMaking
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As the summer heat sends people running to the beach, Nicole Breaux, known as NeCole the Mermaid in
the aquatic world, is taking to the water at local events and childrens parties,
to bring to life a whimsical character most youngsters only ever hear about in
fairytales and movies.
Becoming NeColeNicole, a Lockport resident, dons an elaborate mermaid costume when
she transforms into her aquatic alter ego, having worked as an entertainer
within Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes for the past year. The task of
transforming into a believable mermaid, however, has been in the works for
years.
The first gig that I ever did was for a friend I was working with, and I
did a free event at the Chackbay Fair, Nicole remembers. I had invested
in a small pool that we set up, and everyone came to see the mermaid. My
assistant was there booking events.
These days, Nicole is primarily hired for birthday parties, festivals and
kids nights, like the one she appears at each Sunday at Lockports Crabby
Crab restaurant. Her busiest months are during the summer, primetime for
children who have put down the textbooks in favor of logging some quality
pool time.
NeCole the Mermaid swims ashore for Swim with Mermaids, to be held at the UNO Aquatic Center in New Orleans from 6 - 7 p.m. on May 2. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased at eventbrite.com. For more on the mermaid lifestyle, visit facebook.com/necolethemermaid.
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24 POINT OF VUE LOCAL VUE MAY 2015
Tales of the TailAfter she had worked for about a year as a mermaid, Nicole
commissioned the Mertailor Florida artist Eric Ducharme to
help raise the concept of NeCole the Mermaid up a notch. Eric,
inspired by his childhood brush with the legendary creatures,
has produced tails for everyone from Katy Perry to Lady Gaga.
Each tail is custom-made based on the clients measurements
and then painted with metallic and iridescent colors to create a
realistic look. Nicoles tail cost more than $1,000 and is LSU-
themed, featuring gold and purple tiger stripes. The incredibly
realistic piece is made partially from Dragon Skin high-perfor-
mance silicone, allowing her to change her look. The tail tips
the scale at about 40 pounds, but feels weightless in water.
Its a partial silicone tail where I can actually take the flipper
part off of the tail part, Nicole explains. If I wanted to swim
with just the monofin, Im capable of taking the tail apart and
just swimming with the flipper itself without the skin that goes
on the leg area.
Nicole also creates custom tops for her character, incorporat-
ing jewels, netting and seashells for a beach feel. The new mom
now enlists the help of friends to create her costumes and get
her ready to hit the water.
At events, Nicole sets up a booth where she plays games,
gives away prizes and signs autographs. She also collaborates
with parents, tweaking activities based on whether children
believe that she is real or simply a costumed performer.
Ill get [in costume] in front of the kids that know Im not
real, she says. Theyll ask me questions about the tail what
its made of, how do I swim in it, if its comfortable. But with
children who think Im real, I have to change somewhere else.
Then [the adults] distract the children so I can get into the pool,
and we have a little exit strategy.
In order for Nicole to leave parties, someone picks her up at
the end of each event, telling those in attendance that she must
get back to the ocean as mermaids cannot stay in pool water too
long. Since it is not possible to walk with the tail on, a distrac-
tion is made so that Nicole can change and disappear. Before
making her getaway, she presents the birthday boy or girl with
a present, a box of treasures from the mermaids special trinket
collection.
A Poolside PassionFor Nicole, being a mermaid is about much more than simply
earning money.
Over the last year, she became friends will fellow mermaid
and Terrebonne High School teacher Shannon Eaton, meeting
up periodically to discuss everything from business to tail care.
Shannon encouraged Nicole to join several other Louisiana
ladies who gather together as The Mermaids of Louisiana to
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26 POINT OF VUE LOCAL VUE MAY 2015
share their passion for life underwater.
On May 2, Nicole will join these finned
females for the first public Swim with
Mermaids event at the University of New
Orleans Aquatic Center. 50 lucky children
will have the opportunity to swim with the
mermaids and enjoy an afternoon surrounded
by the whimsical characters.
Besides swimming with children, Nicoles
unique job also allows her to inform children
of the importance of caring for the environ-
ment. Through her experiences of living in
the popular spring break hangout, Panama
City Beach, Florida, she was able to witness
how much trash was left over each year,
leading her to use her mermaid character as a
means of explaining to children their respon-
sibility in keeping beaches and oceans clean
so sea life can thrive.
None of the sea life can survive if were
throwing trash out there, Nicole explains.
[The Mermaids of Louisiana] want to make
sure we keep it all clean. The kids really
respond to it.
The profession, although unique, has
proved to be remarkably inspiring for Nicole.
The job is not one of simple novelty, but
instead one that can open the eyes of even the
littlest swimmers, fueling imagination and
creativity in the next generation.
I swam with an autistic child last
summer, and he made me look at things
totally different, she says. He said that
I was the greatest, funnest thing hed ever
seen, and he believed in me. That really
shows me that kids enjoy my presence. Its
magical. Its fun. POV
He believed in me ... That really shows me that kids enjoy my presence. Its magical. Its fun.
NICOLE BREAUX
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POV PICKS
Chef John Folses Spiced Bayou Rum Cake
Bayou Rum, distilled in Lacassine, has teamed up with legend-ary chef and familiar local culinary presence, Chef John Folse, to create one seriously delicious bite. The cakes are whipped up
at the culinary experts Gonzales facility much like your mamas
version, with an added touch of Spiced Bayou Rum for a little
something different. The rum is infused with a secret blend of
traditional spices, making the flavor undeniably Louisiana. POV
BAYOURUM.COM
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30 POINT OF VUE LOCAL VUE MAY 2015
ERICA SEELY
BONNIE RUSHING
CHATEAUCHIC
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Moving into their home just before Thanks-giving, the Boudreaux family had much to be thankful for. Working with Pelican Builders of
Thibodaux, the couple planned for nine months
and built for 10 months before their French Acadian
dream home was complete.
Working with Gretchen Talbot, the couple made
timeless decisions with materials and traditional
decor. The four bedroom, 3,300-square-foot house
has a neutral color palette bathed in natural light.
While new, the real pine wood floors and old St.
Louis brick floors throughout most of the house give
the space character. Quartzite counters in the kitchen
are bright and beautiful, while marble is used in the
master bath and granite is found in the other bath-
rooms and the laundry.
A B
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32 POINT OF VUE LOCAL VUE MAY 2015
C
D Suiting the Boudreauxs passion for cooking, the outdoor kitchen is as well-equipped as the indoor,
featuring Twin Eagle appliances including a 42-inch
built-in grill and hibachi double burner combo. The
outdoor kitchen is complete with a sinker cypress
wooden hood and cabinets and leathered granite
countertops, giving it a rustic feel.
Special thanks to:Pelican Builders of ThibodauxGretchen Talbot, decoratorRonald Melancon for home plans
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E
F A&R FlooringValley LightingSt. Charles LightingEmiles for appliancesCoburns PlumbingFrost LumberDarrin Bourgeois for custom cabinetry and woodworkOld Estate Art Gallery for home decorBudget Blinds for plantation shutters POV
A KitchenB Dining RoomC Master BedroomD Bar DetailE ExteriorF Foyer
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POV PICKS
Securing even the smallest of items has become incredibly critical and these controlled access boxes are just the thing to keep your most valued possessions, whether in
your vehicle or home, safe and sound. Crafted with sturdy
10-gauge steel thickness, these boxes come in a variety of
sizes perfect for stashing in closets or inside glove boxes
and consoles.
Summertime is ideal for harvesting delicious fruits and vegetables, but without proper space, creating a back-yard garden could be impossible. This vertical system fixes
that issue by eliminating the need for dirt and fitting into
space on apartment balconies and patios. The system func-
tions with a water tank in the base, which pumps special
nutrients up and evenly to plant roots, making the process
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Tyent Ionized Water Fixture
Feel more energized and improve your well-being with this revolutionary method of breaking down water molecules, thought to quench thirst and hydrate
the body more effectively than traditional filtrated
water. This faucet fixture, on display and sold at the
spa, ionizes water, leaves it negatively charged, ready
to neutralize positively charged free radicals, those
nasty atoms that contribute to aging and a variety of
diseases. Sipping water from this fixture more often
could mean healthier looking skin as well as improved
overall health.
SALINITY SALT THERAPY SPA, HOUMA, 985.850.9978
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SUBMITTED BY GWEN DUPLANTIS
JOHN CULHANE
That person is classified a leader, somebody the rest of the
team can look up to and learn from. For those involved with
the South Louisiana Youth Shooting Sports Foundation, that
leader was Dularge native Stephen Louviere II.
Although Stephens life was cut short at age 20 by a tragic
accident in 2013, his impact on youth sport shooting has
evolved into something larger than Stephen or his parents,
JoAnn and Stephen, could have ever imagined.
IN ANY ORGANIZATION, THERE IS ALWAYS ANINDIVIDUAL THAT STANDS OUT FROM THE CROWD.
LEADINGTHE WAY
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Growing up in the bayou community of Dularge, which he was so proud to call home, there was a lot of hunting and fishing to be done At a very young age, he learned to love and respect wildlife and the environment.
JOANN LOUVIERE
Growing up in Bayou CountryAs a young boy, Stephen was involved in many
sports. He enjoyed playing baseball, basketball,
football and he loved fishing and hunting with
his Dad, JoAnn remembers. Growing up in
the bayou community of Dularge, which he was
so proud to call home, there was a lot of hunt-
ing and fishing to be done. At a very young age,
he learned to love and respect wildlife and the
environment. He always seemed to be interested
in wildlife and was curious about their habits.
He was always full of questions.
In 2005, Stephen joined the Terrebonne
Parish Junior Deputy Youth Hunter Education
Challenge Shooting Team, following in the steps
of his friend, Ethan Whitfield, who had joined
the team the previous year. The challenge,
which stems from the National Rifle Association
as a means to promote youth hunting across the
globe, is recognized as the most comprehensive
youth hunting program in North America. With
such a passion for the outdoors, it was an obvi-
ous path for Stephen to venture down.
During that first year, the Dularge teen
attended the State Challenge with the team, a competition that includes four
shooting events and non-shooting events such as Wildlife Identification and
Orienteering. Not really knowing what to expect from his first competition,
Stephen tried not to get too worked up over performing well, instead going with
the flow as a rookie marksman.
[He] seemed to have a natural shooting ability, his mother says of that first
performance. In his first competition, he won first place in the .22 rifle event
shooting a 260 out of 300. After that first competition, it was practice, practice,
practice, study, study, study. The competitor side of him had surfaced. He had
won his first award and wanted more.
He also sought the advice of older team members and coaches, absorbing every
tip and trick they shared to become a better marksman.
The hard work and dedication paid off. By the following year, Stephen ranked
in the top 15 at that same competition, qualifying him for the International YHEC
Challenge. He walked away with a third-place shooting award, fueling a desire
that would qualify him for the international challenge six straight years.
We all got hooked on the YHEC very quickly, JoAnn says. It became a fam-
ily affair. His dad and I became coaches the second year and were still coaching
today. I have always said that I would be a YHEC mom forever.
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Success DefinedStephen aged out of YHEC in 2011 after seven years of compe-
tition, gathering three State High Overall Individual awards,
and a handful of state Top Team, Shotgun and other medals
and awards. His success, however, wasnt what defined him.
It was simply a bonus for his love of the outdoors.
Stephen was a very well-mannered, soft-hearted, com-
passionate young man who didnt boast about his accomplish-
ments. Some of his closest friends at school didnt even know
of his shooting success, his mother says. He truly loved
everything about shooting sports, enjoying shotgun and
archery the most. He really enjoyed the fellowship that the
sport provided, too.
Shooting for the KidsToday, Stephens memory lives on through the children who
also carry a love of the sport close to the heart. The South
Louisiana Youth Shooting Sports Foundation has named a
memorial fundraiser, Shoot 4 the Kids, in his honor and will
present the event, in its second year, on May 2.
My son, Ian, started eight years ago, Foundation President
Melvin Duplantis says. Stephen was older than Ian and he
was a very good competitor and a lot of the kids looked up to
him. Because of this, we decided to name the annual shoot in
Stephens name.
Since its inception, Melvin says the organization has grown
from 40 to 300 members involved in the Terrebonne Parish
Junior Deputy Program, Lafourche and Terrebonne Parish 4-H.
By raising money through fundraisers like Shoot 4 the Kids,
the foundation is able to send sport shooters to competitions
and give youth eager to get into the sport an avenue to do so.
Children can participate in the foundations events beginning
at age 10 through age 19.
Remembering StephenAlthough Stephen may be gone, that same leadership and
passion for the sport instilled in so many young sport shooters
will continue on, thanks to the foundations recognition an
honor Stephens parents are humbled by.
We are proud to be a part of the South Louisiana Youth
Shooting Sports Foundation created to help raise money for
shooting sports, JoAnn says. We are very touched that the
annual benefit clay shoot is held in memory of our son. It is
a day all of Stephens coaches, his old teammates, family and
friends can get together and reminisce. Its such a wonderful
way to honor him and his memory will live on. POV
The second annual Stephen Louviere II Memorial Shoot 4 the Kids competition will be held May 2 at Tri-Parish Sporting Clays in Houma. For more information on the competition and foundation, visit SHOOT4THEKIDS.COM.
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When her mother passed away in 1905, Anna Jarvis set out to dedicate a day in honor of the woman who cared for
the wounded on both sides of Civil War
battlefields and attempted to create peace
between Union and Confederate mothers.
Little did she know that her modest
celebration would explode into a
global holiday and commercial success.
How we celebrate those special ladies in
our lives in America, however, is quite understated compared
to other world regions. From lengthy trips to elaborate public
displays, its all done in the name of motherly love.
Mothers Day in ThailandOn this day, natives do celebrate a mother, just not the one
that gave them life. Thailands Queen, Her Majesty Sirikit, is
given a government-sanctioned birthday party complete with
elaborate candle displays and fireworks shows on Aug. 12 as a
way to show appreciation for her leadership.
Mother Pilgrimage Fortnight in NepalThose honoring mothers who have passed away make a
pilgrimage during this time to the Mata Tirtha Aunshi village
near Kathmandu where they seek out a holy water body to
worship. A large carnival is also held and children show their
moms appreciation with baked goods and gifts.
Mothers Day in IsraelHenrietta Szold never had children but played an active role
in the Youth Aliya organization, a group that helped protect
many Jewish children from the Holocaust. Many of these
children considered her a mother figure and in the 1950s, an
11-year-old girl named Nechama Biedermann wrote the publi-
cation suggesting they make the date of Szolds death Israels
national Mothers Day. The country obliged and the day has
now evolved into a day not only for mothers, but for spending
time with family. POV
Show Mama Some Love
TIMEOUT
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46 POINT OF VUE LOCAL VUE MAY 2015
and for about 54 million Americans, osteoporosis, a disease that weakens bones, is a silent reality. Breaking a bone could happen in an instant, and the repercussions could cause persistent pain and the possibility of losing ones independence, which could lead to functional problems, depression or other emotional and mental issues.
With the help of the staff t the Osteoporosis Clinic at Haydel Spine Pain & Wellness, your risk of facing this severe disease could dwindle signifi antly. Over the last 20 years, Dr. Michael Haydels work in treating spine-related pain led him to consider how his patients could prevent these issues from ever arising. The idea evolved into the only clinic in the tri-parish area and one of only a handful in Louisiana that is dedicated specifi ally to the treatment of osteoporosis.
After treating spine pain and other spine-related conditions, I saw a great need to provide a more preventative approach, and we thought this would be a great service to the community, Dr. Haydel explains. I realized this was an area that needed attention after having to treat many patients with a procedure called kyphoplasty. Kyphoplasty is a procedure that treats a compression fracture of the spine by injecting a cement-like material into the fractured area. The idea of the Osteoporosis Clinic is to try to slow the progression or prevent this from ever happening.
The new facility, conveniently located across the street from Haydel Spine Pain & Wellness, is committed to the monitoring and treatment of osteoporosis in order to provide all-inclusive care for optimal bone health. From comprehensive assessments to education practices, patients will be armed with all the tools necessary to prevent the disease or care for their fragile bone structure if osteoporosis is already present.
A D V E R T O R I A L
May is National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month
Th ough the use of a DEXA Scan, the clinic is able to measure bone density, helping to make recommendations and provide information on how best to protect a patients bones.
As a family nurse practitioner in the Osteoporosis Clinic, Brandi Degruise aims to provide comprehensive bone care to each and every patient.
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A D V E R T O R I A L
Basically, when the patient comes in, they get a full interview and exam. We then order any needed diagnostics, including laboratory testing and a bone density scan, Brandi explains. We thoroughly review all of the results with the patient and formulate a plan of care that suits each individuals lifestyle. The patient is given a folder, which includes all the testing results, enabling the information to be immediately accessible to their entire medical care team as the patient sees fit. Also included in the folder are bone healthy exercises, dietary information and educational material to allow the patient to further understand how to prevent future bone health issues. The reality is that most people have little knowledge regarding this disease, and therefore, arent receiving routine screening. The key to this disease is prevention, but we are able to treat when necessary.
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, one in every two women and one in every four men over the age of 50 are affected by osteoporosis. Additionally, many of the cases Brandi and the clinic staff ee are young, seemingly healthy patients.
Were seeing very, very few normal bone densities, Brandi says. Many people think of this as a disease of the elderly, but I have a great deal of runners who are referred to me after breaking an ankle during a routine morning run. These are otherwise young, healthy women who went through menopause naturally or had a hysterectomy, putting them at risk for osteoporosis.
As a certifi d fracture liaison, Brandi will be able to improve patient outcomes by helping to coordinate an interdisciplinary approach to post-fracture care management.
While the Osteoporosis Clinic at Haydel Spine Pain & Wellness is a medical offi , the entire staff orks hard to create a relaxed, welcoming, non-clinical environment.
We do a bone-healthy recipe of the month, we have supplements available and if patients have any questions, they can come in and ask. Its designed to be an interactive clinic. Patients come in all the time and say, I feel like this is my home, Brandi explains.
The Osteoporosis Clinic at Haydel Spine Pain & Wellness is located at 1017 Belanger Street in Houma. A referral is not necessary and all major insurances are accepted.
To schedule an appointment or learn more about the clinic, call 985-223-3132 x 446.
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48 POINT OF VUE LOCAL VUE MAY 2015
Driving down the road and seeing your hometowns build-ings after many years is like walking through a museum except that the museum is really big and outside. And
youre driving. And the museum exhibits have changed, except
in your memory. And except that the little old lady at the
turnstile asking for a ticket has been replaced by a policeman
writing a ticket. Thats a lot of exceptions. OK, so maybe driv-
ing down to your hometown is less like a museum and more
like the Twilight Zone. Whatever.
You can tell a whole bunch about how life and economics
have changed by remembering the old functions of buildings.
Take the offices of boat companies. Boat companies were big
but few and far between at the peak of drilling in the 1970s. In
recent years, however, it seems as though the offices are pop-
ping into just about any vacated building. You can see tugboats
moored on the bayou across the highway from a repurposed
bank building. You can see company trucks parked outside
what used to be a burger joint. Back in the 70s, trucks were
parked there because the drivers were munching on handmade
hamburgers and homemade fries. Cant get that too often
nowadays in the era of Bubba Burgers and Ore-Ida Tater-Tots.
If old buildings were food, then boat companies would be
salt and pepper because they pretty much go with anything.
Motels, mini-storage and meat markets, which are buildings
that dont go with anything else, would be cilantro.
Like boat companies, Chinese restaurants seem to fit into
many different types of vacated buildings. In terms of adapt-
ability, this kinda makes sense: If you can make 100 different
dishes out of chicken bites, then you can probably make a
restaurant out of 100 different types of buildings.
In addition to businesses that seem to fit into many types
of buildings, there are buildings that seem to fit anything.
Gas stations are the big winner. Theres the remains of an old
Sinclair gas station along the highway thats now a vegetable
stand. On the long road to my hometown, there are many
more repurposed gas stations used for selling seafood than
gas stations used for gas.
Driving By Old Buildings: Part 2
JOHN DOUCET
UNDERTHE SCOPE
John Doucet is the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Nicholls State University. Buy him a drink and hell tell you all he knows about those iconic buildings still sitting along the bayouside.
Those old, pre-supercenter Wal-Mart buildings are pretty
adaptable as well. With large roofs covering large open areas,
almost anything can be built inside. You may find car dealer-
ships, training centers, and, with a few new internal walls, new
local government offices. Imagine entering a repurposed Wal-
Mart to find Permits on aisle six where you once found candy
mints or Resolutions on aisle eight where you once found
rice solutions (like a Zatarains Dirty Rice Mix).
Libraries make good homes inside old Wal-Marts, too. On
shelves where once you could buy TV Guide, you can now
find hardbound collections of Radio Guide from the 1930s.
Where once you could find Americas bestselling books, you
can now find preserved the historically less-than-bestselling
The Old Sea and the Man by Hemingways younger brother,
Tommy or Price and Prejudice by Jane Austens less than
reputable step-cousin.
A library can adapt to Wal-Marts slogans and signage, too.
For instance, the slogan Always lowest prices. Always.
becomes Always lowest fines. Always. Changing only one or
two words in a Wal-Mart sign like this saves libraries money that
instead can be used on much more important things, like hard-
covering and preserving volumes of Point of Vue magazine.
Some building repurposings are really logical. Long before
mega-cinemas were conceived and built, there were privately-
owned, single-screen movie theaters up and down the bayou.
After its usefulness ran its course, one old movie theater had its
lobby converted into a video rental store for many years, main-
taining its long tradition of bringing Hollywood to bayou folks.
Now, of course, even video rental stores have been repurposed.
I dont know what business this building will next host, but, for
traditions sake, I hope theres a Redbox outside.
One final observation: Bars will be bars. Even a bar my
grandpa once spoke about is still standing, and its still a bar.
Like that guy who played Gilligan or that girl who played
Buffy, some things just dont work well as anything else. POV
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50 POINT OF VUE LOCAL VUE MAY 2015
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If Walls Could TalkA home along Schrievers La. Highway
24 quietly rests beneath the springtime
sun.
OH SNAP
MISTY LEIGH MCELROY
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52 POINT OF VUE LOCAL VUE MAY 2015
Courtesy ofWHO AM I?
You might think you know everyone in the area, but some of our hometown's most
upstanding citizens (those you would know) sure
have changed!
Who Am I? I won state first place ribbons in 4-H Crop Judging
in junior high school.
As a sophmore at South Lafourche High School in
1969, I played Mr. Velasco in Barefoot in the Park.
I owned and operated a family restaurant for many
years.
Check next months issueto learn my identity. Good luck!
Last months mystery youngn:
Mary Cosper LeBoeufTerrebonne Parish Library System
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fi life
56 WARM UP The Silent Disease
57 WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE Sponsored by Thibodaux Regional Medical Center
58 DEEP-ROOTED EDUCATION Belle Rose Primary School garden
62 WHATS SHAKIN How you can roday around your community
64 FITMIND Compensation in Life
65 COOL DOWN Here Comes the Sun
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fi life M AY 2 0 1554
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fi lifeP OV H O U M A .C O M 55
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fi life M AY 2 0 1556
The Silent Disease
WARMUp
H O W W E L L W E M O V E and interact
in our daily lives is largely due to
how healthy our bones are. Nearly 54
million Americans have osteoporosis,
or low bone mass. However, by imple-
menting a few easy diet and exercise
changes, life doesnt have
to be defined by this disease.
So what exactly is osteoporosis? The
disease affects the bones, causing
them to become weak and brittle. It
often progresses without any indica-
tion. The result can be slow-healing
fractures that cause chronic pain,
frailty, deformity or even death.
Although the majority of people
affected by osteoporosis are older, the
disease could affect anyone with low
bone density. Simply drinking milk
and exercising every now and then
will not prevent the disease from
occurring, either. The most at-risk are
those who are post-menopausal and
post-hysterectomy, men over 70 and
people with a history of compression
fractures, chronic steroid therapy,
tobacco use, vitamin D deficiency or
eating disorders and the like.
Physicians typically diagnose
osteoporosis through a DEXA, or
bone density, scan. This scan could
detect the first signs of osteoporosis,
allowing patients to take protective
steps.
Luckily, there are numerous ways you
can protect and improve the health of
your bones by making simple lifestyle
changes. According to the National
Osteoporosis Foundation, it is
essential to get enough calcium and
vitamin D, which is necessary for
calcium absorption, and eat a well-
balanced diet including fish, dairy
products, fruits, vegetables and forti-
fied foods, such as cereals and breads.
It is also important to engage in
weight-bearing exercise like dancing
and muscle-strengthening exercises
such as light weightlifting to main-
tain adequate bone density. The foun-
dation also recommends not smoking
and limiting alcohol to 2-3 drinks per
day. Alcohol can greatly affect bone
density and smoke produces free radi-
cals that can accelerate the presence
of osteoporosis.
Special thanks to Haydel Spine Pain & Wellness for providing this information.
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fi lifeP OV H O U M A .C O M 57
Know the Facts Reduce Your Risk
T H I B O D A U X R E G I O N A L M E D I C A L C E N T E RW E
S U P P OR T
a healthier
future
T H E C E N T E R S F O R D I S E A S E C O N T R O L
A N D P R E V E N T I O N report that stroke is
the leading cause of serious long-term
disability in the United States. Every
year, more than 795,000 people in the
country have a stroke.
A stroke is classified as a medical
emergency and prompt and early treat-
ment is crucial when it occurs to prevent
potential complications, brain damage
and even death.
A stroke is an accident to the brain that
occurs when blood flow to the brain
is cut off. When blood flow is absent,
brain tissue dies, resulting in a loss of
function.
J A N M . T O R R E S , P R O G R A M D I R E C T O R ,
T H E R E H A B I L I TAT I O N C E N T E R O F T H I B O D A U X R E G I O N A L
For more information regarding inpatient rehabilitation after a stroke, call the Rehabilitation Center
of Thibodaux Regional at (985) 493.4731. The Rehabilitation Center of Thibodaux Regional has a Stroke
Specialty Accreditation by The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.
There are two primary types of strokes:I S C H E M I C - happens when the blood supply to a part of the brain
is reduced and leads to a dysfunction in brain tissue
H E M O R R H A G I C - occurs when a blood vessel bursts or leaks
Its important to seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden
numbness of one side of the face, arm or leg, difficulty with coordination or
walking, dizziness, confusion, the onset of a severe headache with no known
cause, difficulty speaking or the sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes.
Managing the controllable risk factors, like weight management and alcohol
consumption, can help you to prevent a stroke.
Rehabilitation after a stroke is important to help regain lost function and
improve independence. Inpatient rehabilitation programs provide intensive
therapy as well as medical management involving a physician who special-
izes in physical medicine and rehabilitation.
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fi life M AY 2 0 1558
Education
A
S U B M I T T E D B Y
R O B I N L A N D R Y & G R A C E S AV O I E
M E L I S S A D U E T
Deep-Rooted
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fi lifeP OV H O U M A .C O M 59
F R E S H D I R T S P R I N K L E D I N S I D E A W O O D E N
B O X G A R D E N , the first sign of tiny sprouts
stretching up from beneath nurtured soil ... the
tender art of gardening has long been a part of
everyday life, at first out of necessity and today as
a nod and effort to get back to the way things used
to be done.
In an effort to renew a passion for gardening in
younger generations, LSU AgCenter Southwest
Region Coordinator and Area Nutrition Agent
Robin Landry has been collaborating with Belle
Rose Primary School first-grade teacher Grace
Savoie to cultivate a school garden that has
continued to blossom over the last six years.
One Sunday after mass, it was like an epiphany,
Robin remembers. I was starting this and Grace
came up and it was like we met up at the same
time.
We were just visiting and she said, You dont
know anyone that would want to do a garden?
Grace adds. And I went Yeah! We do! Thats how
it started.
By utilizing Robins connections within the
community, donations and volunteered time began
trickling in. Before long, dirt was delivered and
tested for acidity by the LSU AgCenters soiling
testing lab, wooden planks were used to form
boxed rows and seeds were sown. Soon after the
first plants began peeking out from the dirt, Robin
garnered work of the Assumption High School
Ag Power Mechanics Class to create a wooden
deck area under a giant oak tree near the garden,
perfect for allowing the children to study and so-
cialize during recess. A butterfly garden was also
created as a welcome pop of color and as a means
of pollinating nearby flowers.
Each school year, fall crops broccoli, cabbage
and spinach and spring crops, like carrots, are
planted. After they are ready for picking, Grace
takes the vegetables home, whipping up delicious
dishes for the class to enjoy.
I have a really good carrot cake recipe, the
teacher says. It is delicious and I always thought
that would be their favorite thing, but its not. Its
smothered cabbage. They come back for seconds,
thirds, fourths until its gone. I think so many
of them are brought up where, like so many kids
today, your meals are so rushed and a lot of it is
just what you can do the fastest, so they really
enjoy it.
This effort to expand pint-sized palates has also
allowed the students to associate where their food
originates and how it makes its way to dinner
tables and school cafeterias.
At first, wed ask a child, Where does the food
you eat come from? Theyd say, Wal-Mart, the
grocery store, Robin says. With this, they make
the relationship that it had to have come from
some other place before it got to the grocery store.
I think thats been a wonderful experience right
there because it shows them that there is life for
that food before it gets to the shelf. We want them
to realize where it comes from and that they can
do it at home, too.
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fi life M AY 2 0 1560
By growing a variety of foods
throughout the year and having the
opportunity to taste each item, the
students also learn how eating these
type of foods, instead of quick-cook-
ing foods found in boxes, contributes
to a healthier lifestyle.
For example, most of the time, they
think all peppers are hot, but then
they taste them and say, Oh my gosh,
this is really good!, Robin says.
Theyve gotten such an education in
healthy choices and the types of foods
they need to be healthy, as well as
citizenship, sharing and ownership.
Using the garden as an equalizer,
Grace works in time spent watering
and pulling weeds by using the project
as a reward for a job well done in
class. This method has proven beneficial
with those who may be struggling
academically or in discipline finding
success in the hands-on experience.
A lot of times the kids that love this
the most are the ones who I may have
to discipline more or those who are
lower academically, she explains.
They are successful [at gardening]
and they love it. Once they figure it
out, its so cute because they know
which thing is the plant and which
thing is the weed. If another kid
comes up that had not been taking
care of that plant, they tell them ...
I have a garden at home and the one
at school has always done better. I
think its because the kids take such
tender, loving care of it.
As the students begin taking final
exams in preparation for the end of
the school year, giant sunflower seeds
will be planted as a simple reminder,
as the children progress from first to
second grade, of all the garden stands
for. A source of nutritious sustenance
and an activity instilling the basics
of working with others, the garden
cultivates much more than just a way
to spend time outside the classroom.
Its heartwarming because Grace has
brought so much to those kids as far
as exposing them to different things,
Robin says. I think the garden has
made its little place in their hearts
and as the kids move on, theyll
always remember that because some-
body took the time to show them how
to do it and show them where food
comes from.
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Shakin'WHAT'S
W A N T U S T O I N C L U D E Y O U R E V E N T I N O U R C A L E N D A R ?
Shoot an email to [email protected] and well help spread the word.
THIBODAUX FIREMANS FAIR 5K
SATURDAY, MAY 2, FUN RUN: 7:30 A.M., 5K: 8 A.M.
Where: Firemens Fairgrounds, Thibodaux
Details: The route will take participants through the
streets of the city passing through Thibodauxs Historic
Downtown District before heading back to the fair-
grounds. Halfway through the race, participants will
reach a watering point located at the fire departments
oldest fire company, Thibodaux Fire Co. No. 1. Registra-
tion is $16 for the Fun Run and $26 for the 5K.
Contact: T H I B O D A U X F I R E D E P T. O R G
BIG EASY, BIG HEART 5K
SATURDAY, MAY 2, 8 A.M.
Where: Hard Rock Cafe, New Orleans
Details: Experience the French Quarter in a whole new
way at this event, which benefits the New Orleans Mission.
Awards are given to the top finishers and an after-party
is planned at the Hard Rock Cafe. Registration is $35.
Contact: B I G E A S Y B I G H E A R T. C O M
GO GLOW FOR JADYN 5K
SATURDAY, MAY 2, 6 P.M.
Where: Houma Christian School Gym, Houma
Details: A Mile in Their Shoes Inc. will sponsor this glow-
in-the-dark race in support of 7-year-old Jadyn Robicheaux,
who was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in
2014. Registration is $25 for the 1-mile walk/run and $35
for the 5K. Food and beverages will be served post-race.
Contact: S P L I T S E C O N D L L C . C O M , 9 8 5 . 6 8 8 . 7 1 2 8
Q50 CINCO DE MAYO
SUNDAY, MAY 3, 8:30 A.M.
Where: Audubon Park, New Orleans
Details: Celebrate the Mexican victory of the Battle of
Puebla at this festive 2- or 4-mile trail run. Participants
receive a T-shirt and medal. No dogs, pacers, strollers,
bicycles or earphones are allowed. The race is a bring
your own bottle event and water will be provided. Two-
mile registration is $25 and 4-mile registration is $35.
Contact: Q 5 0 . C O M / Q 5 0 - C I N C O - D E - M AY O - 2 0 1 5 /
TGMC COMMUNITY SPORTS INSTITUTES TFAE
RUN FOR EXCELLENCE
SATURDAY, MAY 9, FUN RUN: 5:30 P.M., 5K: 6 P.M.
Where: Downtown Houma
Details: Do your part to help this foundation improve
education in Terrebonne Parish at this race. Following
the run through downtown Houma, participants may
enjoy the sounds of the Bucktown All-Stars and sample
delicious food from some of the areas best chefs, res-
taurants and organizations from 6:30 - 10 p.m. A kids
corner is set for 6:30 - 9 p.m. Registration is $20 for
students 21 and under and $30 for adults.
Contact: T FA E . O R G
HAPPYS 5000
SATURDAY, MAY 9, 6 P.M.
Where: Downtown Baton Rouge
Details: An explosion of music, food, art and fitness takes
over the streets of downtown Baton Rouge for the sixth
year. A DJ kicks off the 5K race at 5:30 p.m. and a food
court awaits participants at the finish line. A Beer Mile
starts at 7:30 p.m. and live music will entertain crowds
throughout the day. Registration is $30.
Contact: E V E N T B R I T E . C O M
GREAT HUEY P. LONG BRIDGE RUN
SATURDAY, MAY 9, 8 A.M.
Where: Bridge City, New Orleans
Details: This third annual event celebrates the widening
project of the historic bridge. The first 1,500 finishers
receive a commemorative pint glass and all finishers get
a T-shirt and entrance to the post-race celebration. The
race begins in Bridge City on the Westbank. Shuttles are
available on the eastside. Registration is $30 through
May 2 and $35 after.
Contact: H U E Y P R U N . C O M
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TERREBONNE 4H CLOVER RUN 5K
SATURDAY, MAY 16, FUN RUN: 8 A.M., 5K: 8:30 A.M.
Where: Terrebonne Parish 4-H Office, Houma
Details: Support 4-Hs mission to provide educational
activities to help children become better leaders and
citizens at this race through downtown Houma. Awards
are given to top finishers and all proceeds will help
purchase supplies and awards for 4-H events and activities
throughout the year. Registration is $25. Terrebonne
Parish 4-H members may register for $10.
Contact: C R O G E R @ A G C E N T E R . L S U . E D U , 9 8 5 . 8 7 3 . 6 4 9 5
RELAY FOR LIFE OF ST. MARY PARISH
SATURDAY, MAY 16, 4 P.M.-12 A.M.
Where: Morgan City Auditorium, Morgan City
Details: Join one of the largest fundraising efforts to end
cancer. The opening ceremony brings participants together
for a high-energy kick-off. A Survivors Lap will honor those
who have beat cancer; a Caregivers Lap will honor those
who help loved ones battle the disease; and a Luminaria Cer-
emony will provide time to remember those lost to cancer.
Contact: R E L AY F O R L I F E . O R G / M O R G A N C I T Y L A ,
S A R A H . V I L L I E N @ C A N C E R . O R G
MID-CITY BAYOU BOOGALOO 5K & 1/2 MILE RUN/WALK
SATURDAY, MAY 16, 5K: 8:30 A.M., 1/2 MILE: 9:30 A.M.
Where: 1/2 Mile: 500 N. Jefferson Davis Parkway;
5K: Poydras St. at Broad St., New Orleans
Details: As part of the free festival, which celebrates all
things New Orleans, this 5K give participants the chance
to compete to ride in the 2016 Krewe of Zulu parade.
Adult registration is $20 through May 1, $25 through
May 11 and $30 on race day. Children 17 and under and
seniors 65 and older may register for $15 by May 11 and
$20 on race day.
Contact: N O L A R U N N I N G . C O M
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fiM I N D
M O S T P E O P L E M I G H T T H I N K the word compensation
is connected to a paycheck being compensated for your
work. But there are other ways to look at compensation.
How do we compensate for loss? How do we compensate
for change?
The level of compensation is most often linked to the
degree of performance, work, loss, injury, etc. Top athletes
get high levels of compensation, as do entertainers, inven-
tors, entrepreneurs, land and corporate owners people
who put countless hours of focused effort into perfecting
their work. Some are born with a silver spoon and others
with natural-born talent. When you think of compensa-
tion in terms of money, a quote from the legendary actor
Cary Grant is particularly interesting: Do your job and
demand your compensation but in that order.
Another way to look at compensation is how one of
Americas most influential philosophers, Ralph Waldo
Emerson, did. He wrote, It is one of the beautiful
compensations of this life that no man can sincerely try
to help another without helping himself. Those who try
are the people whose compensation affords them a joy
that is priceless. We must never lose that intent of helping
another in the pursuit of compensation.
Louis Buscaglia, Ph.D., who taught at the University of
Southern California before his passing, wrote several
books, his first of which is titled, LOVE. He writes in
one passage, Too often we underestimate the power of
touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest com-
pliment or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the
potential to turn a life around. Using the word love and
expressing love is a form of compensation for the hurt we
all experience in life.
The compensation that our bodies undergo, physically and
emotionally, also deserves mention. One definition of com-
pensation is the automatic movements made by the body
to maintain balance. How do we compensate for the loss
D R . J . M I C H A E L F LY N N practices at the
Flynn Clinic of Chiropractic in Houma.
He is available to talk health with your
organization or clubcall 985.855.4875
or visit www.drmikeflynn.com.
of a loved one, for any change, intentionally or uninten-
tionally, that brings us out of balance?
Whatever the reason for compensation, a priority is to
maintain balance in our lives. There is compensation
that involves negative behavior. Alcohol and other drug
addictions, gambling, compulsive shopping and dishonesty
often interfere and can have damaging consequences to
the balance of ordinary life responsibilities.
A balance of good nutrition in our diets (fruits/vegeta-
bles/grains instead of artificial additives and fast
food preservatives), water as our drink of choice (not
sugary drinks or caffeine), regular exercise in some fashion,
proper rest and relaxation, along with an optimistic
attitude are essential for healthy and successful living.
It has been said many times that we make a living by what
we get. But never forget that we make a life by what we
give for it is in giving that we truly receive just com-
pensation. The smallest act of caring can be as simple as
a smile. Remember the words of Mother Theresa, Every
time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to
that person, a beautiful thing. Keep smiling.
Compensation in Life
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Here Comes the Sun
A S T H E F I N A L bell rings on the last
day of the school year, most kids will
find themselves beneath the relent-
less rays of the summer sun. That
type of consistent exposure, however,
could be putting your little ones at
risk for an easily preventible disease
- skin cancer.
One in five Americans will be
diagnosed with skin cancer in their
lifetime and one person dies of the
deadliest skin cancer, melanoma,
every hour. Those statistics alone
could make anyone want to rush to
the store and buy every bottle of
sunscreen available.
But just because its on the shelf
doesnt mean it will work. The type
of sunscreens we use play a large
part in how protected our delicate
skin is.
Sun Protection Factors, or SPF, are
the measure of a products ability
to prevent UVB, the rays that often
damage the more superficial skin
layers, from penetrating the skin.
SPF 15 blocks about 93 percent of
incoming UVB, SPF 30 blocks out
97 percent and SPF 50 keeps out
98 percent. Although sunscreens of
this caliber do a great job of guard-
ing against UVB, according the Skin
Cancer Foundation, purchasing a
broad-spectrum product that blocks
UVA, the more prevalent but less
harsh rays, is ideal.
To ensure the entire family stays
safe this summer, apply one ounce
30 minutes before going outside and
reapply every two hours to keep the
product working effectively. For days
when extended sun exposure is not
expected, using a makeup or mois-
turizer with sunscreen is enough,
according to the Foundation. On
days by the pool, however, a water-
resistant product, often stickier than
traditional sunscreens for added
resistance, is the best bet.
coolD O W N
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MELISSA DUET
TELLME WHY
We start asking Why? at a very young age. And, frankly, we never seem to grow out of the habit. So ... in the spirit of being inquisitive, we decided to keep
on asking and searching for answers to some of lifes most
perplexing questions.
Why does greasy food seem to cure a hangover?It has long been the meal of choice for college students and the
like, but does a plate of greasy bacon and eggs really do any-
thing for a nagging headache? Cysteine, an amino acid found
in eggs, helps break down acetaldehyde, a compound created
when alcohol is broken down in the liver. If you cant hang
with greasy foods, cysteine is also present in oats and yogurt.
But if you want to get the most bang for your buck, scientists
believe downing that breakfast plate before drinking could
curb the rate at which alcohol is absorbed, thereby slowing
your intoxication rate.
Why does our skin wrinkle when we spend too much time in the water?Stayed in the pool or tub a bit too long? Youll likely come out
looking like a shriveled prune thanks to an unending inunda-
tion of water your body cant keep up with. Skin is covered in
oil called sebum, which moistens and protects it, making it a
bit waterproof. (This is why it is a cinch to wash your hands.)
Forcing your skin into water for too long, however, removes
the oil, resulting in waterlogged skin that cant seem to retain
its original, smooth appearance.
Why cant penguins fly?Penguins opt to swim everywhere they go simply because
their wings are too short and stubby to fly. Scientists believe
it is not possible to be both an excellent flier and swimmer
penguins have retained the latter skills. Because they forage
for food on ocean floors, swimming is the more adaptable
choice. In trying to understand this concept, scientists exam-
ined the habits of guillemots, birds very similar to penguins,
and discovered they use substantially less energy to swim than
to fly. POV
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saving
liveslittle
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With more educated youth armed with survival skills taught by schools like ENAI Swim diving
into pools this summer, that alarming statistic could drastically decrease.
ENAI owner Ana Karina Crdenas and instructor Wendy Harlan share their knowledge of
safe swimming with children as young as 6 months old, developing basic swim techniques and
crucial survival skills among the tiniest of swimmers.
Ten years ago, Ana saw a video of a toddler trained to save himself by floating on his back
after he fell in a pool. She set out to find an instructor in this type of swimming, eventually
seeking the necessary training when she recognized the lack of instruction in Mexico, where
she was living at the time.
Ana eventually made her way to Dallas
where she met Beverly Steinfink, a 30-year
survival swim instructor whom she trained
with for two months, logging approximately
220 hours of academic study in psychology,
anatomy and swim theory, as well as 135
hours of in-water training.
The school, its name a Spanish acronym for
Swimming and Self-Rescue School for Infants,
now offers classes in Thibodaux and Houma,
as well as in the Monterrey area of Nuevo
Leon, Mexico.
After operating the business alone for sev-
eral years, the demand for classes became too
much for one person and Ana began search-
ing for instructors with experience in water
safety practices.
I had 16-month-old twins [in 2009,] and
wanted them to learn survival swimming,
Wendy, a former competitive swimmer, says.
My kids did lessons with Ana for three
summers before she was like, Im looking for
help. I immediately wanted to help.
These days, Ana and Wendy, who joined
the business in 2013, instruct classes four
days a week, part of a 6-week program of 24
10-minute, one-on-one sessions. During the
classes, younger babies are taught how to
flip themselves over and float on their backs
while children that are able to walk learn a
swim-float-swim method, allowing them
to swim underwater until they run out of air,
then float on their backs before flipping back
over. This breath control is closely monitored
ERICA SEELY
SYDNEY LANDRY
Every year in the United States, roughly 4,000 children die from drowning, making it the leading cause of death for children age 5 and younger.
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by how a childs mouth and belly move and allows them to
gain confidence when submerged.
Although infants sometimes cry when starting out, by the
second week of classes Ana says fear typically subsides and
they become infatuated with the water.
By the third day, babies are already swimming underwater,
she explains. Sometimes it takes years for that with traditional
swimming lessons.
At the end of each program, children take what the instruc-
tors call the clothes test, in which the babies are put into the
water clothed in summer and winter outfits so they can realize
special swim diapers or modified swimsuits arent necessary
for swimming or to save themselves.
Ana said the training creates a solid foundation for these
little swimmers, increasing their confidence in a space that
could pose serious risks.
Safe-swimming practice doesnt end with the children. The
responsibility to create a safe space rests in the hands of the
adults supervising them.
According to the American Red Cross, 54 percent of Ameri-
cans do not know basic water-safety skills. A handful of local
recreation organizations, including ENAI, offer basic adult
swim classes to encourage more people who find themselves
poolside to have the skills necessary to intervene, if necessary.
Knowing CPR, a course also taught by ENAI instructors, is crit-
ical in emergency situations, too. Having what the Red Cross
calls a water-watcher to supervise, especially during busy
times like parties, ensures everyone is accounted for at all times.
Learn what it takes for your little one to be a safe swimmer at ENAISWIM.COM.
Ana and Wendy discourage the use of floaties as they give
the child and parent a false sense of security. It is also recom-
mended that toys are kept out of the pool since a child could
easily reach for something nearby and accidentally fall in.
A lot of people ignore the warning labels on pool toys that
say, This is not a life-saving device, Ana explains.
Installing a gate, opening away from the pool with a lock not
accessible to children, also creates the physical safety essential
to keeping children safe.
Many accidents occur because all the adults assume
someone else is watching, Ana says. No one should ever
swim alone, either. Drowning does not always look like
drowning and parents should monitor how long a child has
been underwater. POV
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POV PICKS
Loftin Ceramic Oysters
Cooking those salty delicacies just got a whole lot easier with these ceramic individual oyster shells from Destrehan busi-nessmen Kyle and Mike Loftin. What began in 2011 as a seemingly
arbitrary conversation between Kyle and his wife, Ali, has evolved
into a product that cuts cooking time for just about anything you
place in it. Thanks to a unique blend of clay designed specifically
to withstand high oven and direct-flame heat, these handy cook-
ing devices are certainly on our list of kitchen must-haves. POV
THE BASKETRY, LULING, 985.785.8769
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POVHOUMA.COM 75KCHANNING CANDIES
SARA PATRICK
F ashionistas can now experience a truly one-of-a-kind shopping adventure in bayou country with concept boutique, KATE. Formerly one of Houmas favorite shops, Material Girl Boutique, owner Kate
Stark unveiled a newly converted store more than
two months ago, with the idea of changing up
just about everything every eight weeks for an
always different, always exciting retail space.
REINVENTING RETAIL
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Material Girl was a phase in my life when I was in my 20s. That young, fun spirit transfers into KATE, but its got a little more sophistication to it.
KATE STARK
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Kate opened Material Girls doors
in Baton Rouge in 2002 after studying
fashion merchandising at Louisiana State
University. When she married one half
of music duo, Baby Bee, Joe, the couple
decided to relocate to be closer to family,
bringing Material Girl with them.
I have been Material Girl for 12 years,
so it was a big decision to spend 12 years
branding something and then walk away
from it, Kate says. But it was time [for
a change].
What was once the overtly girly shop
standing out amongst oil companies
and machine shops along Houmas La.
Highway 311 has been adapted to fit the owners
current chapter in life, changing with the fashion
trends and the growing number of clothing bou-
tiques in town.
I just felt it was time to reinvent retail a little bit,
she explains. I wanted to reinvent the store to where
I constantly change the merchandise to provide my
customers here in Houma with new things they
wont find on every street corner.
For this reason, Kate came up with the idea of a
concept bou
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