What Now Magazine

OCTOBER 2016

LOVE SYNDROME | PG 13 BEHIND THE SCENES WITH THE MAN WHO MADE THE CUT | PG 24

ACADIA MUSIC FEST | PG 8

Hiring Team Members with Disabilities is a Priority at Rouses.

We have more than 50 team members with disabilities, including team members who have been with our company for more than 30 years.

They’re as committed to working for us as we are to working with them.

Rouses Markets was recently honored as Employer of the Year by the Governor’s Office of Disability Affairs for actively recruiting, hiring and accommodating employees with disabilities.

We are proud to partner with Upside Downs and raise awareness for Down syndrome in the month of October.

Rouses Employees, Logan and Scott

Stay in Touch with RousesƫƫƫƫđƫƫƫĮ +1/!/ .'!0/ƫƫƫƫđƫƫƫ" ! ++'ċ +)ĥ.+1/!/) .'!0/ƫƫƫđƫƫƫņ.+1/!/

H.L. BOURGEOIS HS

ELLENDER MEMORIAL HS 9/2 9/9 9/16 9/23 9/30 10/7 10/14 10/21 10/28 11/3

Terrebonne * H.L. Bourgeois * Bonnabel Patterson St. Martinville * Assumption Morgan City South Lafourche * South Terrebonne * Vandebilt Catholic

9/2 9/9 9/16 9/23 9/30 10/7 10/14 10/21 10/2 11/4

South Terrebonne * Ellender South Plaquemines * East St. John * Central Lafourche Westgate Thibodaux * Destrehan * Hahnville Terrebonne

SOUTH TERREBONNE HS 9/2 9/9 9/16 9/23 9/30 10/7 10/14 10/21 10/28 11/4

TERREBONNE HS 9/2 9/9 9/16 9/23 9/30 10/7 10/14 10/21 10/28 11/4

9/2 9/9 9/16 9/23 9/30 10/7 10/14 10/22 10/28 11/4

9/2 9/9 9/16 9/23 9/30 10/7 10/14 10/21 10/28 11/4

SOUTH LAFOURCHE HS

Ellender South Terrebonne * Assumption * Thibodaux Destrehan * Hahnville * Lakeshore East St. John Central Lafourche H.L. Bourgeois *

THIBODAUX HS St. Charles Catholic * East Ascension South Lafourche Terrebonne * East St. John Central Lafourche * H.L. Bourgeois St. Augustine * Destrehan Hahnville *

H.L. Bourgeois Terrebonne Central Lafourche * Dutchtown * St. Amant Vandebilt Catholic * Assumption Morgan City * Ellender South Lafourche

9/2 9/9 9/16 9/23 9/30 10/7 10/14 10/21 10/28 11/4

CENTRAL LAFOURCHE HS 9/2 9/9 9/16 9/23 9/30 10/7 10/14 10/21 10/28 11/4

Patterson Vandebilt Catholic * South Terrebonne South Lafourche * H.L. Bourgeois * Thibodaux Destrehan Hahnville * Terrebonne * East St. John

HOUMA CHRISTIAN HS

COVENANT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Highland Baptist Christian False River Sacred Heart * Benjamin Franklin * Ascension Christian St. Martin’s Episcopal * Ridgewood Slaughter Community Charter Covenant Christian Academy Varnado *

9/2 9/9 9/16 9/23 9/30 10/7 10/14 10/21 10/28 11/4

Westminster Academy * Archbishop Hannan Gueydan Vandebilt Catholic Catholic of Pointe Coupee * Ridgewood Varnado St. Martin’s Episcopal Houma Christian * Grace King

Bonnabel Carver Collegiate Academy Thibodaux * Central Lafourche Plaquemine Morgan City * Vandebilt Catholic Ellender Assumption * South Terrebonne *

VANDEBILT CATHOLIC HS 9/2 9/9 9/16 9/23 9/30 10/7 10/14 10/21 10/28 11/3

E.D. White * Central Lafourche St. Charles Catholic Covenant Christian Academy * Newman South Terrebonne South Lafourche * Assumption * Morgan City Ellender *

EDW CATHOLIC HS 9/2 9/9 9/16 9/23 9/30 10/7 10/14 10/21 10/28 11/4

Vandebilt Catholic Lakeshore St. James Kaplan Franklin * Thomas Jefferson Patterson * North Vermilion * Berwick Erath

* Denotes away game WHA TNOW M A G.com

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EDITOR’S NOTE

T

his month is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month.

According to the National Down Syndrome Society, “October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, a chance to spread awareness. During the month of October, we celebrate people with Down syndrome and make people aware of our abilities and accomplishments. It’s not about celebrating disabilities, it’s about celebrating abilities.”

In honor of National Down Syndrome Awareness Month, we’ve dedicated a feature to Upside Downs, a unique organization in our local community that contributes to families new to Down syndrome in our area.

You should also be aware of the many advertisers this month who have Down syndrome models in support of Down Syndrome Awareness Month. A special thanks goes out to Beau Brooks for coordinating with our advertisers to support awareness.

We are also a sponsor for Acadia Music Fest’s inaugural event on October 15 from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

OCTOBER 2016 VOL 4 | ISSUE 10 Check out the music lineup in this issue and make sure you get your tickets today! Advanced tickets are $22.50 and $30.00 at the door. Come stop by and enjoy the show!

There are many events and interesting things happening in October and we’re glad to be able to bring them to you in this month’s issue of What Now Magazine. We know there’s more out there! If you know of a great place, person, or event that we can introduce to our loyal “What Nowers” email me at benj@fathomla.com. As always, enjoy this issue and happy reading!

Ben Jones Jr, Editor @sirbenjaminjr

PUBLISHED + EDITED BY | BEN JONES JR, CODY BLANCHARD EXECUTIVE DESIGNER | EMILY KNOBLOCH ACCOUNT MANAGER | KARA DOMINGUE PHOTOGRAPHY | JACOB JENNINGS COLUMNIST PHOTOGRAPHY | JULIANA PENNISON CONTRIBUTING WRITERS | CELESTE ROBERTS, TYLER MARTINEZ, SIERRA MULLINS, MONICA VIERA CONTRIBUTING COLUMNISTS | GINGER GAUBERT, NIKI LANDRY, JONI BASCLE, TODD KENNEDY

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PHOTOGRAPHY | JACOB JENNINGS

OCTOBER 2016

08 COVER STORY

COVER STORY|

pg 8 | ACADIA MUSIC FEST

DISCOVER| LAGNIAPPE

13 GROW

pg 7 | These Totally Exist

20 EXPERIENCE

GROW| HOME + GARDEN

pg 13 | LOVE SYNDROME pg 16 | House to Home

EXPERIENCE| CULTURE

25 THRIVE

pg 20 | BEHIND THE SCENES WITH THE MAN WHO MADE THE CUT pg 24 | Silver Screen

THRIVE| HEALTH + WELLNESS

QUEENY’S

pg 25 | SERVED AT THE SANDBOX pg 27 | What’s Cooking? pg 28 | Just For The Health Of It

INDULGE| DINING + NIGHTLIFE pg 29 | LIFE IS STILL GOOD pg 32 | A Little Taste

29 INDULGE Copyright © 2016 by Fathom Media, LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited.

BUSINESS ADDRESS Fathom Media, LLC P.O. Box 5702 | Thibodaux, LA 70302 | 985.441.7073 What Now 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 What Now Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Fathom Media, our employees or any of our advertisers.

WHA TNOW M A G.com

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LEADING YOU

TO THE CLOSING TABLE

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HOUMA 985.879.2393 268 CORPORATE DRIVE

THIBODAUX 985.446.0506 1101 AUDUBON AVENUE, SUITE N-5

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THESE TOTALLY EXIST 01 | BIOLUMINESCENT AQUARIUM

Bioluminescent plankton called dinoflaggelates illuminate this spherical environment when you gently swirl it. Indirect light during the day will give you a soft blue light show at night. Quiet, compact, and easy to care for, the glass sphere lets you hold one of nature’s most magical phenomena in the palm of your hand.

01

02 | YARD DICE

02

Whether you’re at a family picnic, over on the Grand Isle beach, or just in the mood for some larger than life competition, this jumbo set of dice is perfect for bringing your family or friends together. Each set comes in a rustic drawstring bag and includes the rules for four different dice games to get you started.

03 | BLOODY MARY DIAGRAM GLASSWARE

03

Keep the delightfully piquant brunch favorite Bloody Mary formula always at hand. This hand-drawn, graphic representation adorns the functional pint glasses with a playful rendering of the cocktail’s essential components: tomato juice, vodka, lemon, celery, and dashes (layers) of seasonings, all in relative proportions to mix a perfectly spicy, savory Bloody Mary.

Credits: uncommongoods.com

Open House for prospective students and their parents

Thursday, November 3, 2016 at 6:30 P.M. Where Tradition Embraces the Future 2017-2018 Application Packets will be distributed at Open House Call Alisha Bergeron at 985.446.8486 ext. 116 or email abergeron@htdiocese.org for more information

555 Cardinal Drive, Thibodaux, LA 70301 985.446.8486 www.edwhite.org E. D. White Catholic High School is open to all students and does not discriminate on the basis of race or national origin.

WHA TNOW M A G.com

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“

WE ACTUALLY HAVE BANDS FROM ALL OVER CONTACTING US TO BE IN THIS YEAR’S SHOW! IT HAS REALLY BEEN UNBELIEVABLE. —AMY HEBERT

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C O V E R S T O RY

ACADIA MUSIC FEST JAMMING WITH THE LOCALS OF THIBODAUX W R I T T E N B Y | S I E R R A MU L L I N S

T

here’s nothing more aggravating to a lover of music for musical potential to be at one’s fingertips, but lacking a way to be brought to life for the enjoyment of all. Such was the plight of Tommy Meyer, senior financial advisor at Walters, Meyer, Trosclair & Associates. Passionate about creating a platform for all of the musical talent surrounding him in Thibodaux, Tommy set into motion what was at the time only a fledgling vision of something akin to a “mini Jazz Fest” which has now turned into the upcoming October Acadia Music Festival.

The vision was an enthralling one, but there were the practical obstacles to conquer before the event could begin taking shape. One, location.

Tommy describes the godsend those involved in establishing a venue were: “Jaron Land Development was all about it! They immediately stepped up and helped plan the logistics. Without them, this project would’ve been done before we ever started.”

Tommy joined forces with Amy Hebert with whom he’d coordinated events for their company in the past as she got down to the task of booking bands and food vendors. A few of the restaurants represented will be Vinnies, Alumni Grill, Off The Hook, and many more. Amy’s goal was in complete sync with Tommy’s vision. “We were instantly on the same page to create an event centered around local musicians where people could come and enjoy a great day,” Tommy says.

As it turned out, Amy was not the only supporter of this budding vision.

The community was enthusiastic about the prospect of a chance to jam with the locals and Tommy therefore found it fitting to make this even more thoroughly a community event by supporting a local charity. Upside Downs was the organization selected to be the beneficiary and has set the stage for other such groups to be helped by this exciting event in coming years because this is only the beginning. Amy explains that interest in the event has been extraordinary, with many groups eager to participate. “We actually have bands from all over contacting us to be in this year’s show!”

Amy says. “It has really been unbelievable.”

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PHOT OGRA PH Y BY | JA COB JEN N I N G S

The entire creation of the festival has been a group effort with Tommy and Amy working together and the assistance of the rest of the community with businessmen offering their support and merchants doing the legwo rk of selling tickets and getting the word out. Sponsors like Synergy Bank, Ortho LA, Duplantis Design Group, Bayou Signs, and Acadia Plantation/Jaron Land Development have all dove in with fervent support for the event.

The helpers may be from Thibodaux, but one of the most sensational parts of it all is that those in areas like Lafayette, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans are also proving passionate about the event with many people from these cities planning to join the locals in attending the festivities. It’s only the first year and already interest in the event is widespread!

The event is scheduled to run from 10:00 AM to around 11:00 PM. And what kind of music can one expect to be showcased from the locals of Thibodaux? There will be a pop/alternative focus.

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Tommy and Amy were well aware of the talented musicians who perform covers and also have their own original work to bring to the table or, more specifically, the stage.

Mackenzie Bourg, Lafayette native, will take his place on the stage at 8:00 PM. Mackenzie placed fourth in the fifteenth and final season of American Idol. Meet and Greet tickets are currently on sale to meet Mackenzie and take a photo before his performance at Acadia Music Fest. Tommy sums up his vision for the Acadia Music Festival with these words: “We hope that people in the community enjoy the outdoor music event that is basically a one stage Jazz Fest!”

So, come and experience this amazing event that will commence on October 15. Visit acadiamusicfest.net for more information and purchase your tickets today! Tickets can also be purchased at Walters, Meyer, Trosclair & Associates, Mudbugs Brewery, Johnny’s Men’s Shop, Queeny’s Boutique, and Lynn’s Little Feet.

COVER STORY COVER STORY

As if the prospect of local talent isn’t exciting enough, here’s a sneak peek of who will be performing at the event, giving names and faces to what used to only be potential spots in a program:

10:00 BANGBANG 11:15 FORGETTING LAST FRIDAY 12:30 THE JACOB HEBERT PROJECT 1:30 SWAYZE SUNRISE 2:30 CARO & COMPANY 4:00 THE JORDAN ANDERSON BAND 5:00 JOHN DAIGLE 6:00 THE GROOVE 7:30 MEET AND GREET WITH MACKENZIE 8:00 MACKENZIE BOURG 9:00 FLOW TRIBE

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MEET AND GREET WITH MACKENZIE BOURG

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GGRROOWW | | HHOME OME ++ GARDE GARDENN

LOVE SYNDROME HOW TWO LOCAL FAMILIES ARE CHANGING HOW WE THINK ABOUT DOWN SYNDROME W R I T T E N B Y | T Y L E R MA R T I N E Z

I

n the United States, about six-thousand children are born every year with a genetic mutation which is commonly known as Down syndrome. About 400,000 Americans are living with the disorder, and groups like the National Down Syndrome Society and the National Down Syndrome Congress are working hard to raise awareness with the help of local affiliates. In Thibodaux, Beau and Michelle Brooks and their friends Shawn and Julie Harrison have started just such an organization. Their main goals are to raise awareness about Down syndrome, and to provide support to new parents of children born with Down syndrome. The story of how Upside Downs was founded, and the work that they do, has had, and will continue to have, a major impact on how the community views and approaches Down syndrome.

THE START Beau Brooks, a Thibodaux native, and his wife Michelle, of Lafayette, had no warning that their beautiful son Spencer would be born with Down syndrome. Beau recalls feeling a mix of emotions upon learning that the life that he had planned for his son would not be fulfilled as he expected. They felt guilty, angry, shocked, and fearful of the life that their son would have. Beau and Michelle had to travel to the Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Baton Rouge so that experts there could provide care for their new son. While in the NICU in Baton Rouge, they received a basket from Ella’s Endeavor, a Lafayette-based organization, welcoming them to the network of

parents living with children with Downs. The outflow of support helped to focus Beau and Michelle’s attention on viewing the upside to having a child with Downs.

Shawn and Julie Harrison were friends of the Brooks’ when Spencer was born. The Harrison’s have a son, Shawn Patrick, who was born with Downs, and Shawn knew what it felt like to be delivered that news. Having been through the intimidating first stages of raising a child with Downs, Shawn reached out to the Brooks’ to show them some support. He gave the Brooks’ some useful advice, which was passed to him when Shawn Patrick was born: “You have to mourn the loss of the child you thought you were going to have to truly appreciate the gift you have been given.”

The Brooks and Harrison families are two beautiful, exemplary families that call Thibodaux home. Their family dynamics are very similar, with two females and one male child. They are a benefit to the entire community; Spencer and Shawn Patrick are treated like celebrities everywhere they go. Being in the company of a child with Down syndrome helps people to be compassionate, to appreciate life, and to slow down a bit; both families admit that, “we’re on their time now,” and appreciate the perspective that Shawn Patrick and Spencer has given them. The support that Beau and Michelle received from the Harrison’s and the basket that they received from Ella’s Endeavor sparked an idea in Beau. He wanted to start a support group in Thibodaux to hand out baskets to parents of newborns with Downs, and to engender community involvement WHA TNOW M A G.com

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and awareness about Down syndrome so that everyone, not just parents, could appreciate the gift that Down syndrome is to society.

Beau maintains that the disorder should be called “Love syndrome,” rather than “Down syndrome,” because of the compassion that is developed in everyone who meets Spencer and Shawn Patrick. The Brooks’ and the Harrison’s developed Upside Downs in April of 2016, and have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support that our community has shown for their organization.

THE ORGANIZATION It is remarkable how the face of Downs has changed over just a few years, and what groups like Upside Downs can do for parents.

Shawn recalls that all of the fear and anxiety he felt when Shawn Patrick was born was assuaged only by a small packet he received in the mail weeks after his birth. He was left to research on the Internet, which will often only intensify negative emotions and fear.

Upside Downs was founded to let parents know that they do not have to face Downs alone. The organization has built a support group with the aim of easing the process of raising a child with Downs. The Brooks’ and the Harrison’s have some valuable advice for new parents: “Let your child define Down syndrome,” “Take it one day at a time, and enjoy the small moments,” “Treat Downs children like any other child,” and remember that “It only gets better.”

Since their start just a few months ago, Upside Downs has achieved amazing success in the community. They have delivered baskets to several sets of parents of newborns with Downs, and they understand how knowing that they are not alone in their fear and doubt helps new parents. The baskets come with a note assuring parents that, “He or she is still your baby and you will love them even more.” The few words have a great impact on parents who are struggling to reconcile themselves with their new child. The basket directs new parents to the Upside Downs website and welcomes them to the invaluable Downs support network that they have created, encouraging them to reach out for help and support.

Upside Downs also makes an effort to educate the community

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about Down syndrome. Thibodaux Regional Medical Center has been nothing but welcoming and supportive of Upside Downs’ efforts. They have allowed the organization to speak to a lot of their staff, including nurses, OBGYNs, and pediatricians in order to educate them about what it is like to be told that a newborn has Down syndrome. Upside Downs also speaks to classes at many local schools to expose children to Downs. Everywhere that Spencer and Shawn Patrick go, they are welcomed and adored. The local community has also showed support by offering to host fundraisers, such as events or change jars near cash registers. The organization has had to worry little about fundraising because the community has volunteered so much time and energy to the cause.

THE FUTURE OF UPSIDE DOWNS While Upside Downs has seen great success in their first months, the Brooks’ and Harrison’s have big plans for the future of the organization. Their most immediate goals are to continue developing awareness in the community and to organize an effort advocating for funds to be dedicated to Down syndrome at the state level. Currently, Down syndrome falls under the umbrella of disability funding, but it is often difficult to secure funding for specific projects without overwhelming public support. Upside Downs is looking to organize public support statewide for local groups similar to their organization, and advocate for Down syndrome in the upcoming sessions of Louisiana’s legislature.

Public Schools in Louisiana offer programs to special needs students, such as those with Down syndrome, but many local Catholic schools do not offer such programs. It is a difficult decision for parents to have to decide where to have their child educated when their families have attended Catholic schools. E.D. White Catholic High School recently started a program for Downs students, but the lower schools still do not offer programs. The Brooks’ and Harrison’s daughters are expecting their brothers to attend school with them; it is hard to explain to a child why their siblings can not attend the same schools. Upside Downs has a goal of getting local

G R O W | H OME + GARDE N

private schools to offer inclusive-classroom programs that students like Shawn Patrick and Spencer could benefit from. They know from experience that being exposed to Downs children in school helps to develop compassion and understanding in students, and believe that it would be beneficial to the community’s students.

A big issue for people with Down syndrome is how to fill their lives after they have completed grade school. Some universities, like Nicholls State, now offer programs for students with Downs, and some people with Downs hold jobs, but these options are not ideal for every person. Upside Downs has a goal of building a community center where people with Downs can go to learn and grow after their schooling is complete. It would also provide a space for children with Downs to gather, and for parents to participate in support groups. The organization recognizes that this is a big goal, and will take a lot of funding, but such a space would certainly benefit the entire community.

Upside Downs is doing incredible work raising awareness for Down syndrome, and providing a network of support for parents and people with Downs in the Houma-Thibodaux community.

They will continue to expand their efforts with the help of the overwhelming support that they have received from the community.

October is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and there are many events that Upside Downs is holding that the public can participate in. If you are interested in seeing a calendar of events or getting involved with Upside Downs, please visit upside-downs.org PHOT OGRA PH Y BY | JA COB JEN N I N G S for more information. WN

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WHA TNOW M A G.com

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HOUSE TO HOME

C O L U MN W R I T T E N B Y | N I K I

TRANSFORM YOUR BATHROOM WITH EASY STYLING TIPS s one of the more functional spaces in a home, bathrooms can sometimes feel cold and WRITTEN BY | NIKI LANDRY uninspired, especially, if you are stuck with builder’s grade furniture holds À[WXUHV DQG ÀQLVKHV ,I \RX DUH ORRNLQJ a similar appeal. Instead to make some budget friendly upgrades then of built-in storage, look for these tips will help you easily transform your furniture that can add something bathroom into a stylish space. My favorite that may be lacking in your space. upgrade to any bathroom is changing out the For instance an antique chest may EDVLF À[WXUHV WR VRPHWKLQJ PRUH GHFRUDWLYH bring age and character or a tufted Generic overhead and vanity lighting and slab bench can add softness. These little PLUURUV DUH WKH ÀUVW LWHPV WR JR 7KH\ DUH XVXDOO\ details can go a long way to making your easy to replace and require just a little electrical bathroom feel warm and inviting. Lastly, NQRZOHGJH /RRN WR DGG GLIIHUHQW ÀQLVKHV RU accessorize your space using your textures to the existing hard surfaces in your functional bath products. Instead URRP )RFXV RQ \RXU WLOH à RRULQJ DQG YDQLW\ WR of hiding lotions, soaps, and see what material will contrast or compliment cotton swabs under the sink reWKHVH PRUH SHUPDQHQW ÀQLVKHV /LJKWLQJ LV DOVR canister them in a decorative a fun way to add glamor or sparkle to a basic bottle or jar, and place bathroom. The products available in the bath on a shelf or countertop. department can be very limiting. Instead look Organize these functional in less conventional places for your bathroom products by combining them furnishings. For example a plastic liner can turn with an indoor plant, candle, or drapes or your favorite fabric into a shower GLIIXVHU RQ D VPDOO WUD\ 7KLV ÀQDO curtain. Also, don’t be limited to bath mats. I step is the key to making your space use indoor/outdoor and very traditional rugs in feel polished and pulled together. Even most bathroom projects. Any shelves, mirrors, if your bathroom isn’t exactly the spaor lighting will work as long as they don’t have like bath of your dreams, you can still put a to be rated for placement in a shower or wet little effort into making it a comfortable and area. Need a seat for a vanity area? Search for stylish space in it’s own right. Niki Landry is dining chairs, stools, benches or even ottomans. the owner of Niki Landry Art & Design Artwork plays another important part in making specializing in residential interiors. For your bathroom feel like an integral part of your more information please visit home. It can add color, movement, and interest www.nikilandry.com.WN to an otherwise formulaic space. Freestanding

A

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W H A T N O W | Oc t o b e r 2 0 1 6

01

02 01 | MARBLE-EDGED SHELF - $98 anthropologie.com 02| STRIPED BOXES - $19-$29 westelm.com

WHA TNOW M A G.com

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2016

OCTOBER 25 RISING WATER

SEPTEMBER 25-OCTOBER 18 BAYOU PLAYHOUSE

01 LOCKPORT’S 8TH ANNUAL

TOWN-WIDE GARAGE SALE SATURDAY - OCTOBER 1ST - 7AM LOCKPORT

SPAGHETTI COOK-OFF SATURDAY - OCTOBER 1ST, 11AM - 4PM DOWNTOWN HOUMA

BAYOU MUSIC FESTIVAL SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1ST OAKRIDGE PARK - HWY 3235, GOLDEN MEADOW

LEEVILLE FISHING RODEO SATURDAY & SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1-2 GRIFFIN’S MARINA - 24215 HWY 1, LEEVILLE

02 BAYOU VEG FEST SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2 - 12 PM-6 PM COURTYARD MARRIOT, HOUMA

07 VOICE OF THE

WETLANDS FESTIVAL FRIDAY-SUNDAY, OCTOBER 7-9 VOW GROUNDS- 5403 WEST PARK ST. HOUMA

LA FETE DES VIEUX TEMPS FRIDAY-SUNDAY, OCTOBER 7-9 LAFOURCHE CENTRAL MARKET - 4484 HWY 1, RACELAND

09 CAJUN-BAYOU LOUISIANA ART RECEPTION SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9 - 2PM-4PM SOUTHDOWN PLANTATION - 1208 MUSEUM DR. HOUMA, LA

SUPERHERO BIKE-A-THON SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9 - 1PM-4PM HOUMA-TERREBONNE CIVIC CENTER

CALENDAR BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

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14 LOUISIANA GUMBO FESTIVAL FRIDAY-SUNDAY, OCTOBER 14-16 CHACKBAY/CHOUPIC FAIR GROUNDS

15 JUST KIDS AT ART

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15 - 9 AM-4 PM ST MATTHEW’S SCHOOL, 243 BARROW ST, HOUMA

ACADIA MUSIC FEST SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15 ACADIA PLANTATION TOWN CENTER, THIBODAUX

CHAUVIN CULTURE AND HERITAGE FESTIVAL SATURDAY-SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15-16 - 10 AM-10 PM WARD 7 CITIZENS CLUB- 5006 HWY 56, CHAUVIN

16 LAURAL VALLEY FALL FESTIVAL SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16 LAUREL VALLEY PLANTATION

21 UNNECESSARY FARCE OCTOBER 21-30 THIBODAUX PLAYHOUSE

22 ROUGAROU FEST

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22-23 DOWNTOWN HOUMA COURTHOUSE SQUARE

28 FRENCH FOOD FESTIVAL

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, OCTOBER 28-30 LAROSE REGIONAL PARK & CIVIC CENTER

29 CALVARY FEST

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29 - 2 PM - 4 PM CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH, 1002 TALBOT AVENUE, THIBODAUX

HALLOWEEN COSTUME CONTEST SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29 - 1 PM THIBODAUX LIBRARY - 705 W. FIFTH STREET

09 HOPE FOR ANIMALS’ DOG DAY AFTERNOON FALL FLING

Come out and support the HOPE for Animals’ Dog Day Afternoon Fall Fling this month. The event will include a Blessing of Animals, 5K Run, Dog Walk, Hallowweenie Race (Dachshunds), Halloween Duo Costume Contest for Dog Walk participants, Cake Walk, Silent Auction, UDIĂ H GUDZLQJV IRRG DQG PHHW +23(¡V adoptable dogs. “This will be a fun Ă€OOHG GD\ ZKHUH IDPLO\ IULHQGV DQG SHWV can participate in and enjoy wholesome activities,â€? said Ruth Chiasson, a volunteer for HOPE for Animals. “It will be a good way for people to Run For A Cause and pet owners can enjoy an outing with their pets!â€? HOPE For Animals is a local rescue organization that rescues homeless, abused, and abandoned dogs and cats and provides medical and foster care for them until homes are found. The event will be held at 151 Peltier Park in Thibodaux on Sunday, October 9. Registration is from 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM for all events. Registration for the 5K Run is $20.00, the Dog Walk is $10.00, and the Hallowweenie Contest is $5.00. For more information please contact Ruth at 985-637-1375, Kathy at 985-8588586, or Mona at 985-446-3048, or www.hopeforanimals.com.

13 FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH PUMPKIN PATCH

The First United Methodist Church is once again preparing for their annual Pumpkin Patch opening on October 13 and open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the First United Methodist Church in Thibodaux. “The Pumpkin

Patch provides a safe, Christian environment for families to come and pick out pumpkins,â€? said Debbie Landry, a member of the church. “I’m looking forward to seeing the children’s excited faces when they see all of the pumpkins. It’s such a wonderful feeling each and every year.â€? The Church will also host its Playland on Saturday, October 15 as well as Saturday, October 22 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Games at Playland will cost 25-75 cents. The cost of the pumpkins depends on the size. For more information regarding the Pumpkin Patch or Playland you can call the First United Methodist Church 2IĂ€FH DW

14 THE EXONERATED

The Exonerated is a play about the true stories of six people who were convicted of Capital Crimes and spent years on death row before being exonerated of those crimes. “This unique event is edgier, adult-oriented theatre,� said Stephanie Kenney-Gomez, Director and Le Petit Theatre de Terrebonne Board Member. “There is no political agenda in the presentation on this play. It is a very powerful theatrical experience.� The production will take place on Friday, October 14 and Saturday, October 15 at 7:30 PM as well as on Sunday, October 16 at 2:00 PM. The event will be help upstairs at the HTV Studio. “This is a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people who were in the wrong place at the wrong time,� said Stephanie. “One of the characters says it best, ‘If it can happen to me, it can happen to anyone.’� The cost to attend this event is $20.00 per person and there is limited seating available.

Light refreshments will be served and wine will be for sale prior to the show.

This show is presented in 90 minutes without an intermission. Due to some adult language and content, no one under 18 years of age will be admitted.

For more information you can call the ER[ RIĂ€FH DW

26 03 PLAN AHEAD...

12TH ANNUAL CROSSROADS PREGNANCY RESOURCE CENTER FALL GALA

E. D. WHITE 2016 OPEN HOUSE

The Crossroads Pregnancy Resource Center invites the community to its 12th Annual Crossroads Pregnancy Resource Center Fall Gala. “All proceeds from this fundraising event ZLOO EHQHĂ€W RXU QRQ SURĂ€W OLIH DIĂ€UPLQJ ministry,â€? said Michele Beary, Executive Director of Crossroads Pregnancy Resource Center. “Crossroads is a Christian ministry that promotes the sanctity of life by providing caring services to pregnant women in crisis within our area. Our staff provides education, guidance, and spiritual support especially to those considering abortion or other alternatives in a spirit of compassion, love, and grace.â€?

The event will take place in the Nicholls State University Ballroom in Thibodaux on Wednesday, October 26 from 6:30 PM till 9:30 PM. Business/ Cocktail attire is required. There will also be a silent auction, drinks, and hors d’oeuvres. Music will be provided

by Mark Dufrene. “We are supported solely by private contributions from caring individuals like you, and this Gala is one of our largest fundraising events of the year,� said Michele. “Together, we’re changing and saving lives in the process.� The cost to attend the event is $50 a ticket. “We offer three ways that you can help us with this highly successful and well-attended fundraising event: join us as a Table Sponsor, donate an Auction Item, and/or attend the Gala and invite a friend,� said Michele. “Thank you for considering our invitation to support us with a gift of sponsorship or attendance at the Gala in October.� For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or to donate an auction item, email Michele Beary at Michele@crossroadsprc.org or call 985-446-5004. You can also visit crossroadsPRC.org for more information.

Edward Douglas White Catholic High School will be hosting its upcoming Open House on Thursday, November 3 from 6:30 PM until 8:00 PM. “Open House is for perspective students and their parents to tour the school,� said Alisha Bergeron. “School tours showcase the many academic, religious, and co-curricular programs offered at E. D. White.� There is no cost to attend the event. For more information you can contact Alisha Bergeron in Admissions at abergeron@htdiocese. org or 985-446-8486.

05

BCA’S 5TH ANNUAL 5K WALK/RUN AND KID’S FUN RUN

Bayou Community Academy will be hosting it’s 5th Annual 5K Walk/ Run and Kid’s Fun Run on Saturday, November 5 at Peltier Park Pavilion in Thibodaux. All proceeds from this event are committed to support the future school building program for BCA. This event not only allows participants to have a great time, but also enables them to support educational efforts in Lafourche Parish. Adult Registration is $25.00 (with T-shirt). Children (ages 4 to 17) is $15.00 (with T-shirt) and children (4 and under) have no fee (no T-shirt).

An extra $2.00 will be charged for 2XL and 3XL T-shirts. You can register for this event online at runsignup.com/ bcacharter5k. Pre-registration deadline is Thursday, October 20. For more information visit bcacharter.org.

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PHOT OGRA PH Y BY | JA COB JEN N I N G S

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W H A T N O W | Oc t o b e r 2 0 1 6

BEHIND THE SCENES WITH THE MAN WHO MADE THE CUT

E X P E R I E N C E | CULTURE

A.J. BILELLO PUTS DOWN THE SCISSORS AFTER 58 YEARS WRIT T EN BY | MONI CA VI ER A

A.J. Bilello of Thibodaux is ending a 58-year career as a barber. He has cut 3 generations of hair over his lifetime and is wellknown throughout the community. He and his coworker David are known for their quality work as well as their integrity and their good sense of humor.

MONICA: Before we get started with the questions about your barbershop, why don’t you tell me a little bit about yourself? Where were you born and raised?

AJ: I was born on July 29, 1938 to a full-blooded Italian family and grew up on Goode Street in Thibodaux, Louisiana. I attended Thibodaux College and then went on to major in accounting at Nicholls College. I soon knew it wasn’t for me, so I got out and signed up for barber school. I went to barber college for a year in New Orleans. In our last 6 months of school, I met my wife, Dot, who was attending beauty school at the same time in New Orleans. We married at St. Alphonses Church in New Orleans and both began working in New 2UOHDQV 6KH ZRUNHG XQWLO VKH ZDV H[SHFWLQJ RXU ÀUVW FKLOG DQG WKHQ ZH GHFLGHG WR PRYH EDFN WR 7KLERGDX[ $W WKH WLPH , ZDV DEOH WR ÀQLVK P\ DSSUHQWLFHVKLS LQ D EDUEHUVKRS LQ +RXPD MONICA: :KDW ZHUH \RXU ÀUVW IHZ \HDUV OLNH DV D EDUEHU" AJ: :HOO , ÀUVW ZRUNHG DW D VKRS QDPHG 2GGLH %DUEHUVKRS IRU PRQWKV 7KHQ WKHUH ZDV DQ RSHQLQJ LQ Thibodaux at Bilello’s Barbershop where my cousin, Mike Bilello, owned the shop and my cousin, Joe Bilello, who attended barber school with me, was working. You see, at that time, a barbershop could only have one barber in apprenticeship at a time. Later, my younger brother, Buddy, joined us and the four of us all worked at the same barbershop as Bilello’s Hairstylists. After 18 years, Mike retired and I decided to open up my own barbershop. The name of the shop was called AJ Bilello Cut and Style, and David Fournet, just out of barber school, joined me at that time. We’ve been working together for 38 years. It’s been a successful barbershop.

I’ve worked for a total of 58 years doing hair.

MONICA: That’s quite a long time! There were so many different styles you must have had to adapt to. How did you keep up with the hairstyle changes throughout the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, and today?

AJ: I continued my education to keep up with the trends and stay on top of my game. In 1968, advanced KDLUVW\OLQJ , EHJDQ WUDLQLQJ DV D 5RIà HU VW\OLVW +DLUVW\OHV ZHUH DOZD\V FKDQJLQJ VR , KDG WR FKDQJH WRR , HQGHG XS WDNLQJ DQ DFWLYH UROH LQ WKLV 5RIà HU $VVRFLDWLRQ EHLQJ DQ RIÀFHU IRU D \HDU MONICA: That’s great that you found a way to adapt. That’s probably why three generations of people trusted you to cut their hair. That being said, what was your favorite and least favorite hairstyle to do?

AJ: , ZRXOG VD\ , OLNHG DOPRVW DOO RI WKHP IURP FUHZ FXWV WR KDOI WRSV WR VSLNHV , GHÀQLWHO\ KDG D SDVVLRQ IRU DOO RI WKHP , UHPHPEHU ZKHQ D IHZ RI P\ JUDQGVRQV ZHUH \RXQJ WKH\ DVNHG IRU D à DW WRS KDLUFXW DQG WKHQ all their classmates did too. I would say my least favorite hairstyles to do were the weird design cuts over the last 5 or 6 years. The ones where one part of the head is shaved and the other side is long. Or spiked up or all different colors. I didn’t really do much of those.

MONICA: Can you tell me a bit more about your family? And did you ever cut your family’s hair?

AJ: <HV 0\ ZLIH ZDV ERUQ LQ :LQQĂ&#x20AC;HOG /RXLVLDQD DQG KHU QDPH ZDV 'RURWK\ ´'RWÂľ :HHPV 7RJHWKHU ZH had four children named Theresa, Melanie, Annette, and Timothy. Together, we raised them all through private Catholic education. We ended up having 10 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren, and all of which , JDYH WKHLU Ă&#x20AC;UVW KDLUFXW

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EX P ER I EN CE | CULTURE

MONICA: How have you given back to the community?

AJ: I prided myself in being able to give back and service different areas, such as where people had special needs. Because I had a brother, Leo Bilello, with Down syndrome, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d go back to different schools and homes to give haircuts to different homes with people with Down syndrome. If my clients were in a nursing home or hospital or deceased, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d go to them. I did this to give back to the community.

MONICA: Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wonderful. Thank you so much for your service. Can you tell me about an interesting experience with a customer that sticks out?

AJ: I had a stranger once that walked into my shop. I asked him how he wanted his haircut. He said in silence and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exactly what I JDYH :KHQ , ZDV Ă&#x20AC;QLVKHG , GLGQ¡W HYHQ VD\ WKDQN \RX RU FRPH DJDLQ He got what he asked for. This was so out of the norm of good conversations that happen in the barbershop, ultimately resulting in some pretty good friendships!

MONICA: Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s funny!

What will customers remember about your shop?

AJ: I worked closely with another barber in my shop, David. We have a unique relationship. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s actually been my partner for 38 years, just DV VRRQ DV KH Ă&#x20AC;QLVKHG EDUEHU VFKRRO 7KH FXVWRPHUV WKDW KDYH JRQH to my barbershop often laugh and say they wonder if they come to us for our hair or for the entertainment of our interactions. They say that combined, my personality and Davidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s combined are very different and unique. In fact, when they found out I was retiring, customers lamented and said theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d miss me and David picking at each other. I guess the customers really got a good kick out of it.

MONICA: What motivated you when you had hard days at work?

AJ: I had to keep going, knowing I had a family and mouths to feed. A self-employed man never gets sick. I always told myself to keep going.

My family was the most important thing to me.

MONICA: What advice would you give to people that want to become barbers?

AJ: ,I \RX¡UH JRLQJ IRU WKH PRQH\ Ă&#x20AC;QG DQRWKHU WUDGH (YHQ WKRXJK I was able to make a comfortable living and provide for all of my family, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not a career you can really get rich in. But if you want to have friends, go for it. Friends are better than money! I made lots of friendships, and that really took me further than the money did. In other words, I have always said, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve made more friends than money.

MONICA: What values of yours have given your shop the reputation it has today?

AJ: Honesty, integrity, and fairness. I am always sincere. To say that I have cut three generations of hair speaks volumes for the amount of WUXVW DQG FRQĂ&#x20AC;GHQFH WKH FRPPXQLW\ KDV SXW LQWR P\ KDQGV , ORRN forward to my retirement reception and want to say thank you to my community. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve appreciated all my years of service. WN

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W H A T N O W | Oc t o b e r 2 0 1 6

LEADING YOU

TO THE CLOSING TABLE

CASSIE RODRIGUE BRAUD , ESQ . AND WOODY FALGOUST , ESQ .

REAL ESTATE PERSONAL INJURY

• ESTATE PLANNING • SELECTIVE LITIGATION

OCTOBER

AT THE BAYOU COUNTRY CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Www.bccm.info

(985)446-2200

Bitty boo-seum Family-friendly Halloween spooktacular for toddlers at the BCCM.

October 25 10:30-2

211 Rue Betancourt

Night at the BOO-seum Activities, music, food, and more!

Pumpkin Decorating contest Visit www.bccm.info for rules and regulations.

October 1-29

Friday, October 21 5 to 9 PM

October 10 & 11 9-3:00 Visit www.bccm.info to register

Fall break camps

Firemen’s Fair Grounds Tiger Drive, Thibodaux

$8 ticket in advance $10 ticket at gate

Every Tuesday At 10:30 FREE with paid admission and FREE for members!

Tales for Tots WHA TNOW M A G.com

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EX PER I EN CE | CULTURE

SILVER SCREEN A REVIEW OF THE WITCH (2015)

T

he critical buzz about Robert Eggerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s The Witch (2015) couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have been more glowing.

Pretty WRITTEN BY | DR. TODD KENNEDY much every critic loved it. And it sounded like that made sense. A lowkey horror (or at least horror-esque) year-old daughter and primary protagonist). Ã&#x20AC;OP VHW LQ WK FHQWXU\ 1HZ (QJODQG &RRO The willingness to ask the spectator to accept cinematography, a realistic cinematic style, weird events is refreshing, and the fact that accusations of witchcraft, unanswered events things actually look, sound, feel, and practically in the forest. It sounded scrumptious. And it smell like rural life in the 17th century sets looked that way too; in spite of not being a a good mood. When the family, shunned huge horror fan, the trailers left me desperate from civilization, starts to feel under attack WR VHH WKH Ã&#x20AC;OP $QG WKHQ , VDZ LW ,W LVQ·W EDG by strange, unanswerable things from the per se. It was entertaining. It was original. It woods, I felt scared too. It all feels that real. was, at times, scary. It did most everything one %XW E\ WKH WLPH ZH Ã&#x20AC;QDOO\ IROORZ RXU QRZ could ask it to do. And yet it missed. Badly. It nude protagonist into the forest in search of seems so over obsessed with staying true to the witches, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been so enmeshed in reality written accounts and folklore about witches that anything supernatural seems cheesy, too WKDW LW WDNHV ZKDW FRXOG EH WKH Ã&#x20AC;OP·V VWUHQJWK easy, and too Hollywood. It makes it feel like (a sense of realism) and makes it a weakness.

WKH Ã&#x20AC;OP LV WU\LQJ WRR KDUG WR DQVZHU ´:KDW·V 2Q WKH VXUIDFH WKH Ã&#x20AC;OP·V VHQVH RI UHDOLVP LV RXW WKHUH"µ ZKHQ DOO RI WKH Ã&#x20AC;OP·V WHQVLRQ a strength, as is the choice to use non-actors has been based on the fact that the question $Q\D 7D\ORU -R\ LV VXEOLPH DV WKH Ã&#x20AC;IWHHQ

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appears to be left unanswered. In other words, a movie that seems super dedicated to the mantra that less is more, needs to learn its own lesson. In the end, it needs to give us a little less.

Leave us scared. Leave us in wonder. Leave us with the weird. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the magic of cinema. $QG PDNLQJ D UHDOLVWLF SHULRG KRUURU Ã&#x20AC;OP RQO\ makes that magic all the more essential. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t try to Hollywood it up at the end..Todd is an assistant professor in English at Nicholls State University. Contact him at todd. kennedy@nicholls.edu.WN

T H R I V E | H E ALTH + W E LLNE SS

SERVED AT THE SANDBOX COME PLAY AT THE SANDBOX IN HOUMA WRITTEN BY | CELESTE ROBERTS

S

ince early 1895, athletes have competed against one another in teams of six in volleyball, a sport enjoyed both indoors and outdoors. Communication is as integral to a team’s success as each player’s skill: teammates must think and act quickly to send the ball over the net without accidentally running into one another, so staking one’s claim on the ball prevents confusion and a missed chance to score. After high school, unless one is destined for Olympic greatness, few people continue to enjoy this popular gym class sport, especially since volleyball courts are not as prevalent as tennis and basketball courts. However, the tri-parish area now has a chance to experience beach volleyball in the heart of Houma.

NOTHING BUT NET In June 2016, Teri Liner and Dr. Matthew Beyer opened The Sandbox. Originally from Avondale, Teri is a lifelong volleyball player and enthusiast. “My passion has always been volleyball,” she says. “My life pretty much revolves around it. I grew up going to a volleyball court in my hometown, and when I moved to Houma, they did not have anything like it. So, I set out to get one opened.”

Matthew’s beach volleyball days in New Orleans inspired him to assist Teri. “I met Teri through local volleyball leagues that she organized and through her volleyball club, LA-6,” Matthew

explains. “Many in my family have played or play volleyball, and I love playing the game. Beach volleyball is one of the fastest growing sports in the country. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) made it an official sport as of 2016, and it has become a very popular sport at the Olympics. There were beach volleyball complexes in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Lafayette, so we felt it was time for Houma to have one. Teri had a similar vision, and we combined our complementary resources to found The Sandbox Volleyball Bar and Grill.”

Friendly competition is encouraged, but The Sandbox is a familyoriented business first; its goal is to provide entertainment and a fun, beach-like atmosphere. Leagues currently run on Tuesday and Friday nights, and tournaments are on the weekends. Hot Shots (quick, one-night tournaments where players are randomly assigned on a team or can enjoy free-play) happen on Wednesday nights. In addition to volleyball, a ping-pong table and dartboard are available, and some patrons play sand soccer. Live bands perform occasionally to add extra excitement to the games. Once the weather cools, dodge ball may be offered. The complex also has a bar and grill that serves hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza, chicken tenders, chicken sandwiches, mozzarella sticks, Italian ice, chips, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages for players and spectators to WHA TNOW M A G.com

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enjoy. Daily lunch specials will be offered in the fall.

Regular player Terrance Bonvillain has been going twice a week since The Sandbox opened its doors (or, rather, courts). “I work out across the street, so for months, I just watched and anticipated as it slowly came together,” he says. “It made playing there that much more fun.” The pace of the game is what makes volleyball so thrilling for Terrance. “It can be fast or slow and switch up in a heartbeat. My favorite event at The Sandbox would have to be Wednesday nights’ Hot Shot tournaments. You never know who’ll be there!” As someone who is always looking for new venues and activities, Terrance is grateful for Houma’s newest sports attraction.

“I like the atmosphere. Everybody’s having a good time, adults and kids. This is definitely an enhancement to the area!”

Angela Degruise is another local who is excited to have The Sandbox in Houma. “I’ve been playing there about two to three times since June,” she says. “I enjoy practicing, as well as playing in the leagues and tournaments. I like that I can bring my kids with me, too. One of my best memories was the grand opening: there was a tournament, several of my friends went to cheer me on, and there was a band with great music that night. Playing in the sand is excellent exercise; I’m pretty much an exercise freak! I’ve met many people from out of town at the Sandbox. It has become like my second home.”

The Sandbox provides a different environment in the area for locals who want to stay physically active and make new friends. “I love seeing people come in and just get in on a game with people they don’t know,” Teri says. “Everyone becomes friends at The

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Sandbox; no one’s left out because they didn’t come with a full team. I love seeing people active and just having a good time, and that’s what The Sandbox provides: a laid-back atmosphere.”

Matthew adds, “I remember one customer saying, ‘Once you step up here onto the deck, you forget that you’re in Houma and think you’re at the beach.’ There is something about the beach that just rejuvenates one’s spirit and brings out that playful kid in all of us. We have had an overwhelmingly enthusiastic response from everyone who stops by – from guys coming by after work to have a drink and relax to players complimenting the organization of the tournaments.”

WHAT NOW? Visit The Sandbox at 710 Corporate Drive in Houma from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM, Monday through Friday; 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Saturdays; and 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Sundays. If you have any questions, contact Teri Liner via e-mail (thesandboxvolleyball@ yahoo.com) or phone (504-255-4543). If you are interested in joining a league, you can sign up by completing the registration form, which is available online and at the physical location.

Team entry fees are for teams of 6, and the leagues last for eight weeks, once a week, from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Co-Rec 6 Man Tournaments are also scheduled regularly. The Sandbox is also available for private parties, functions, corporate picnics, teambuilding activities, and fundraisers. WN

T H R I V E | H E ALTH + W E LLNE SS

WHAT’S COOKING? | LITE DELICIOUS PORK AND WATERMELON 1 80Z PORK TENDERLOIN 1 CUP KOSHER SALT 2 TBL LIQUID SMOKE MIX 5LB BAG COLLARD GREENS 2LB THICK BACON 1ONION (MINCED) 1CP ABITA AMBER 1/2 CUP REDWINE VINEGAR .25 CUP HOTSAUCE SALT, PEPPER, SUGAR, TO TASTE

Take kosher salt, and 2 tbl liquid smoke and mix around and toast in pan until light brown.

Rub pork with salt and minced garlic and cook until desired temperature is reached.

Cut down, heat pot with 1/2 cup olive oil and add bacon, cook until juices release, then add onion and garlic. Cook medium heat, then add greens, allow them to cook down (normally takes 10 minutes) then add the Abita before covering the greens in water. Let the greens cook down in water, cover the pot, in about 15-20 minutes add vinegar and hot sauce, then season. Add more water if necessary and cover pot for another 15 minutes. Greens should now be soft with a good resistance still.WN

QUINNTON AUSTIN IS THE HEAD CHEF AT CINCLARE IN DOWNTOWN THIBODAUX. CHECK OUT HIS WEEKLY SPECIALS ON CINCLARE’S FACEBOOK PAGE.

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THRIVE | HEALTH + W ELLNESS

JUST FOR THE HEALTH OF IT GET CREATIVE AND ENJOY THE GAME!

T

he cool weather of Fall is approaching and with LW FRPHV ERQĂ&#x20AC;UHV JXPERV pumpkin spice everything, WRITTEN BY | JONI BASCLE Oktoberfest, skinny jeans, and baggy sweaters. You still want to Ă&#x20AC;W LQWR WKRVH VNLQQ\ MHDQV ULJKW" 2U any jeans for that matter! Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let Fall be the youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re continuing healthy habits or making a downfall of the summer body youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve worked IUHVK VWDUW WKHUH DUH GHĂ&#x20AC;QLWHO\ ZD\V WR HQMR\ so hard on! The cooler weather gives us the the big game and all of its festivities without perfect chance to take our run outdoors and EORZLQJ \RXU GLHW 7KH Ă&#x20AC;UVW WKLQJ WR UHPHPEHU participate in lots of fun runs in our area. The is that planning is always the most important weekend of October 8-9, there are 5k races in part. Are you planning to enjoy a few adult Houma and Thibodaux, and these are perfect beverages before or during the big game? for participants who are working on their No problem, but be smart about it! Start by running PR, and also for the beginners who choosing lower calorie options like low calorie want to walk or maybe do a little of both. Kids mixers with your favorite single shot of liquor. are welcome to participate as well, so make it Did you know that there is a zero calorie a family event! Whatever your speed, as long margarita mix? Actually there are several! That as you are moving forward, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re moving in means that one single-shot margarita would the right direction and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d love to see you out only run you about 70 calories! Garnish with there! Check out 5ks throughout the entire fresh fruit to give you something to nibble on month of October in our immediate area! while you sip and that drink will last a little Fall also brings football games and tailgating longer. If beer is more your style, there are with friends and family. Its all fun and games lower calorie options and some of them arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t XQWLO \RXU OXFN\ MHUVH\ QR ORQJHU Ă&#x20AC;WV VR GRQ¡W too bad. Steer clear of darker, heavier craft let your body or your team down. Whether

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W H A T N O W | Oc t o b e r 2 0 1 6

beers and set a limit for yourself ahead of time and be sure to stick to it! Have cups of water between each drink and say NO to soft drinks of all kinds! Now that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve covered the drink menu, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk food! If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re lighting up the grill while cheering on your team, avoid the typical burgers and hotdogs, and replace them with leaner meats. Avoid your typical barbeque sauces, as those are usually loaded with sugar.

Impress your friends and family by making your own delicious sauce with far less calories and unhealthy ingredients by following a homemade recipe found online.Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel as though you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t still enjoy the party if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re PDLQWDLQLQJ D KHDOWK\ DQG Ă&#x20AC;W OLIHVW\OH *HW creative and enjoy the game! Joni Bascle is the Manager of Koko FitClub of Thibodaux. WN

I N D U L G E | DINING + NIGHTLIFE

LIFE IS STILL GOOD THE FRENCH FOOD FESTIVAL: A COMMUNITY UNITED W R I T T E N B Y | T Y L E R MA R T I N E Z

Local festivals are a staple of our modern Cajun culture, and the French Food Festival, held annually at the Larose Regional Park and Civic Center, is an intersection of great food, a strong community, and the festival culture that we all enjoy.

HISTORY

“

TAKE A BREAK FROM THE HARD STUFF AND VISIT THE FRENCH FOOD FESTIVAL FOR A FEW DAYS.

The Larose Regional Park and Civic Center has a unique story that showcases the strength of will of the community that supports it. The Larose community did not have a public space for the community’s youth to gather until 1971, when the founding members of the Bayou Civic Club began to meet around a kitchen table. Their stated goal was to “encourage, promote, advance, and conduct pleasurable, recreational, and other non-profitable activities among the members of the corporation.” In 1973, the Bayou Civic Club had 253 members who all paid two dollar dues to help to fund their mission. In 1974, land for the park was donated to the club by Stan Perry, along with the Roland and Harold Callais families.

Equipment was borrowed from the National Guard to clear the land, and on Mother’s Day in 1974 members of the community gathered for their first barbecue in the park.

A banquet was held to fund their first festival on the grounds, then named the Bouillabaisse Festival. The festival was a huge success, and gained the recognition of then Governor Edwards, who named Larose the “Bouillabaisse Capitol of the World.” The next goal of the Bayou Civic Club was to secure land for sports fields, a scout shelter, and a civic center. Father Malachy McCool, an active member of the club, suggested that the club lease land near the church.

The club then turned their attention to funding

— JASMINE AYO

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PHOT OGR A PHY B Y | JA CO B JEN N I N G S

construction of baseball fields, tennis courts, a swimming pool, and the civic center. The group applied for and was granted funding in 1978 from a Coastal Energy Impact Grant to develop their civic center and sports fields. The civic center was erected in 1981. They have since developed twelve RV sites for visitors who wish to stay at the grounds for festivals. Additional funding was secured with support from the Larose community, and the Larose Regional Park and Civic Center was developed into the complex as it is today.

A COMMUNITY FESTIVAL The French Food Festival (FFF) has been running in its current capacity for forty-three years. It developed from just a few families cooking for the festival to a multitude of local families preparing year-round to provide visitors from around the world with a Cajun food experience. The community grows fresh fruits and vegetables, and catches fish, shrimp, and crawfish to cook for the festival. Each year, about 35,000 people visit FFF; the festival has had visitors from across the country, and some travel from Italy, France, and

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Mexico to experience famous Cajun food culture. Some of their featured offerings are: pork grillades, crawfish fettuccini, and tarte a la bouille. One such custard pie was auctioned off for $3500. The French Food Festival is a wonderful showcase of French and Cajun cuisine.

There are a number of other aspects of Cajun culture, which are showcased at FFF. In the civic center, Les Artists du Bayou, a group of artists from the local community, showcase their artwork and make pieces based on a theme for each festival. Many of these paintings feature landscapes and wildlife, which are unique to our area. They also stage folk life demonstrations, which teach people to do things like repair crawfish nets and build cisterns to collect rainwater.

The French Food Festival is unique in that it features all local vendors: everyone who cooks for FFF is part of the Larose community. Every volunteer who works at the festival is a volunteer for the Civic Center. One of their most dedicated volunteers is Julia Matherne, who still volunteers for the festival at ninety-two years

I N D U L G E | DINING + NIGHTLIFE

old. The Larose Recreational Park and Civic Center has only three full-time employees; all of the maintenance and upkeep of the park is completed by volunteers. All of the proceeds from the festival are filtered back into the community through activities at the park around the year. They host youth leagues for baseball and basketball, offer after-school care, summer camps, and multiple other events for members of the community. The community’s work, bringing a world-class festival to life every year, is a testament to the sense of community that is intrinsic to Cajun culture.

The French Food Festival will be held this year from October 20th to the 23rd. Their current campaign, the “Life is Still Good” campaign, is aimed towards assuring people that, even though the world may be in disarray, there is still time for community and good food. Jasmine Ayo, the executive director of the Larose Recreational Park and Civic Center, encourages locals to “take a break from the hard stuff” and visit the French Food Festival for a few days. The festival is certainly worth the trip to have an authentic Cajun food and culture experience. WN

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I NDULGE | DINING + NIGHTLIFE

A LITTLE TASTE VENETIAN FOOD AND SPIRITS

H

ello, What Now readers! The hubby and I try to do a â&#x20AC;&#x153;date nightâ&#x20AC;? every month, and it had been awhile since we WRITTEN BY | GINGER GAUBERT had had one. The hubby had received his â&#x20AC;&#x153;bigâ&#x20AC;? check for his service for jury duty and sent me a 5DFHODQG DQG SOD\HG VKXIĂ HERDUG 7KH text: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Date night? I got my jury duty Venetian serves breakfast (Saturday and check.â&#x20AC;? Sure, why not! That check would Sunday only), lunch (Monday through at least cover the cost of the cocktails. The Friday), and dinner (Monday, Wednesday hubby had never been to Venetian Food through Saturdayâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the restaurant is closed and Spirits since its rebirth, so we decided on Tuesday for dinner). Portions are â&#x20AC;&#x153;dinerto have dinner there. The Venetian and styleâ&#x20AC;?â&#x20AC;&#x201D;huge and homemade. The servers 'RQXW 6KRS ZKLFK Ă&#x20AC;UVW RSHQHG LWV GRRUV are extremely friendly and willingly suggest in 1938, was in its heyday an â&#x20AC;&#x153;old, iconic popular dishes and their favorites. Our cafe and bar,â&#x20AC;? where locals gathered with dinner began with drinks and appetizersâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; friends for coffee, breakfast, lunch, good Bloody Marys for the hubby and â&#x20AC;&#x153;$15 conversation, and a beer or cocktail or two. bottomless yes, bottomlessâ&#x20AC;? Pinot Grigio Well, maybe three or four! Today, Venetian for me.

For our appetizers, we had the duck Food and Spirits is family-owned and has strips with a ranch sriracha dipping sauceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; a down home atmosphereâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;nothing fancy insanely good, crispy, greaseless fried onion about the place, just a clean, hole-in-wall rings with a horseradish dipping sauceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; kind of restaurant, but in a good way. They might be the best I have ever had, and HYHQ KDYH D VKXIĂ HERDUG WDEOHÂłEULQJV PH crispy fried pork bellyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;need I say more?! back to my younger years when we hung The hubby ordered the â&#x20AC;&#x153;invent-aout at Tee Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, a local restaurant/bar in

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burgerâ&#x20AC;? with the usual toppings and added smoked gouda, caramelized onions, and pork bellyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;hands down, the best burger in Thibodaux, and I had the turkey loaf sandwich with bacon, mushrooms, lettuce, and tomatoâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;so tasty and delicious. Even though we were literally stuffed, I had to order the bread pudding to go. During the weekâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Monday through Thursday, you can have that dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plate lunch delivered to your home or business for $10, but you have to place your order by 10:30 AM. Now, that is what I call service! Every Wednesday night is steak night, too. So, if you are in Thibodaux and are looking for exceptional down home cooking, check out The Venetian. You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be disappointed! Bon AppĂŠtit! Ginger is a retired high school teacher and local food enthusiast. WN

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DISCO VER | LAGNIAPPE

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