Gumbo (April 2015)

Jubilee Offers a Novel Approach APRIL 2015

INAUGURAL RACE BRINGS INDYCAR TO SOUTH LOUISIANA www.facebook.com/ GumboEntertainmentGuide

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Editor’s Picks

GO! READY, SET,

Our take on area plays, exhibits, music, restaurants and other happenings.

MUSIC

PUBLISHER Brian Rushing GENERAL MANAGER Lacey LeBlanc EXECUTIVE EDITOR Shell Armstrong CONTRIBUTORS Jean-Paul Arguello John DeSantis Richard Fischer Casey Gisclair CREATIVE DIRECTOR Gavin Stevens GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mariella Brochard Danielle Evans CIRCULATION Brooke Adams

April 18 Ladybug Ball

•

April 24 – May 3 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

Drunk Punch Ponies take the bayou region by storm with its rockin’ country covers.

– Page 6

COURTESY

Expect a number of little bugs at the Ladybug Ball April 18. Among the day’s highlights is a costume contest. Later in the month, some of the globe’s hottest musical acts unite for the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Headliners this year include The Who, Elton John, Jimmy Buffet and Lady Gaga.

Ladybugs take flight More than 100,000 ladybugs – 100,001 to be exact – and 201 butterflies return to nature April 18 at Southdown Plantation.

The cause for the invasion? The 16th Annual Ladybug Ball.

“It’s a friendly way to teach (attendees) how to use insects rather than chemicals in their gardens,” said festival creator Linda Faulk, a real estate agent with RE/MAX Good Earth Realty. “Kids have kind of lost touch with (the environment) in a lot of ways. They might learn some of that in school, but they haven’t had a lot of hands-on (experience). ... I’m just trying to get them back to nature, having fun.”

Admission is free, but many activities require tickets. Offerings to children include face painting, picture taking, hula hooping, a fishing booth and various other games.

A mobile zoo, insectarium and wetlands express make the trek to Southdown Plantation, as does the Terrebonne Parish Library’s bookmobile, replete with a storytelling porch.

The La-Terre Master Gardeners Association operates a doodlebug

bin, where children dig in search of their own insects.

“It’s become one of the biggest festivals in the area for children,” Faulk said. “I used to be in education, so I wanted them to have a taste of art, music, dance, reading, math and science, so we have some of everything there.”

Ladybugs, procured from Oregon and donated by Ganier’s Southdown Gardens, are scheduled for release from 15 posts at noon. One hour later is the butterfly release, paid for

by Terminix. Children are allowed to bring their own bug cages, which are also sold at the event.

Talent Explosion at 2015 NO Jazz Fest Elton John, The Who, Jimmy Buffett, Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga – the 2015 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival has something for everyone.

Opening day, Friday, April 24, headliners include Keith Urban, Wilco, Jimmy Cliff, Snarky Puppy and Jimmie Vaughan & the Tilt-a-Whirl Band. The next day, The Who, Ryan Adams, John Legend, Kenny Garrett

and the Robert Cray Band are among the many festival performers. And the first weekend closes out Sunday with Jimmy Buffet and the Coral Reefer Band, Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga, Pitbull, Allen Toussaint and more.

Thursday, April 30, often hailed as local’s day, sees Widespread Panic, Allison Krauss & Union Station, Third World and The Iguanas performing.

The fun continues Friday, May 1, with performances by No Doubt, Chicago and Voice of the Wetlands All-Stars, featuring Houma’s own Tab Benoit.

Tab returns to the Blues stage closing day.

Saturday, Jerry Lee Lewis plays the Acura stage before Elton John. Ed Sheeran, T.I. and Aaron Neville are also slated to perform. And Sunday is a blend of New Orleans’ greats – Trombone Shorty, Dr. John and The Radiators – as well as Lenny Kravitz, Steve Winwood, the O’Jays, Buddy Guy and Kacey Musgraves. More than 10 musical stages, memorable food, Indian parades and crafts galore … this year’s Jazz Fest promises to go down in history.

Tickets are $58 in advance, $70 at the gate. Advance tickets are available through Ticketmaster.

ON STAGE

SALES Harold Cancienne Jeff Paisley Elizabeth Porche

“Dixie Swim Team” is Thibodaux Playhouse’s latest project.

– Page 12

GOINGS ON

Disney Junior Live! Princess and Pirates headed to Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center.

– Page 19

DINING

6160 W. Park Ave., Houma, LA 70364 (985) 868-7515 • Fax (985) 873-9009 www.houmatimes.com/gumbo The Gumbo Entertainment Guide is a free publication. The entire content of this publication is copyrighted by Rushing Media, with all rights reserved. Reproduction or use, without written permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. The Gumbo Entertainment Guide is published monthly by Rushing Media.

On the Cover: JOSE DELGADO | GUMBO

A driver readies for this month’s Indy Grand Prix of Louisiana, which arrives April 10 at Nola Motorsports Park in Avondale. Events are planned for the entire weekend. See page 20 to learn more about the race.

Houma’s Texas Roadhouse delivers crowd-pleassing fun, terrific food.

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SALES DIRECTORS Marian Long Deanne Ratliff

– Page 39

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Music Maker

Chackbay’s Drunk Punch Ponies put on country show with rocking set-list

By RICHARD FISCHER richard@rushing-media.com A rock show with a country set list.

That’s the way this high-energy band from Chackbay describes itself. And would you expect anything different from a group called the Drunk Punch Ponies?

The name, although fitting for the type of show the band puts on, doesn’t have quite the story behind it most would expect. But that doesn’t stop the quartet from living up to its moniker every time they take the stage.

“It comes from absolutely nothing. It means nothing. It stands for nothing,” drummer Cody Thibodaux explained.

“When we started, we were having trouble with a name. We couldn’t think of anything we all agreed on so we started asking friends, family, we started asking everybody we knew for input, and we ended up with a big list and started narrowing down.

“Believe it or not, that’s the only one we could all agree on. It sounds different; it sounds fun. People have trouble with it at first, but once you know it, it sticks,” he said.

Featuring country music covers from just about every era, DDP play classics ranging from Johnny Cash’s “Folsom Prison Blues” to hits by Eric Church and Jason Aldean, while hitting almost everything in between. “[Young crowd members] want to hear what’s on the radio today. The older people, they’re like, ‘What’s this?’

They don’t care for it,” Thibodaux said.

“We’ll play Florida Georgia Line. It’s rap music with a country sound, but when we play that stuff, we can see the older people like, ‘What is this crap?’

Then we’ll come back with Tim McGraw or George Strait or something like that, and [the older crowd mem-

all started really missing it. [Cody’s] baby was growing up, so he said, ‘We’re going to start it back.’”

As opposed to many bands who try to play as many shows as possible, The Drunk Punch Ponies usually only play a handful of shows per month as regulars at Thibodaux’s Olde Ice House, Houma’s Piazza Bar and L’Esprit Lounge in Larose.

“We don’t want to play every Friday and Saturday. We could if we wanted to. We try to keep it to one place every city,” Cody said. “Some bands, they’ll hit every little spot they can. When you do that, we find it wears it out. People won’t come as often. You can’t put 300 people in the bar every time you’re playing like that every weekend.”

COURTESY

Selfies, such as this one, are as much a part of the Drunk Punch Ponies’ show as the music. See the band in action at drunkpunchponies. com or on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat and YouTube. “We take like 50 selfies a show,” guitarist Kerry Thibodaux said.

Catch the Drunk Punch Ponies April 10

L’Espirit @ 10 p.m.

May 2

Thibodaux Fireman’s Fair, 7:30 p.m.

May 8

Bayou Cajun Festival, Larose, 8:30 p.m.

May 9

bers] will come back, so we try to play a little bit for everybody.

“You never know what the crowd is going to be like,” he added. “We do try to play to the crowd as much as we can.

We try to keep it a good mix every time we go somewhere.”

Notably a party band, DPP can cozily throttle down into a slow groove, too.

Joining Thibodaux in the group is his brother Kerry, who plays guitar and sings lead, bassist Trey Clement and lead guitarist Dylan Delatte.

The band got its start two and a half years ago. Clement and the Thibodaux boys relocated to clubs after honing their skills in Cody and Kerry’s home.

“Out of the blue one day, Cody said, ‘Let’s start a country band. Nobody’s doing that around here,’” Kerry said.

After performing as a three-man set for more than a year, Cody was set to become a father. Before the band took some time off so the new papa could tend to the duties of fatherhood in his son’s first days, Delatte – a former member of another local band, Vintage – played a couple shows with the Drunk Punch Ponies.

“Some of our last few shows we played, we let [Delatte] come play with us, just pretty much goofing off, I guess.

It sounded the best we ever sounded,” Kerry said. “So a few months later, we

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Olde Ice House, 10 p.m.

May 23

Club Oasis, Grand Isle, 10 p.m.

From the infamous stage selfies to the nod to yesteryear’s hits to the ripping covers of today’s top country tunes, Drunk Punch Ponies is creating a local name for itself in the entertainment industry.

“Expect nothing you would expect from a country band, I guess.” Delatte said when asked to describe a night with DPP. “It’s real high-energy with all your favorite country tunes. Bars tend to sell a lot of beer whenever we play.”

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Hot Tickets BETTY WRIGHT April 4, Baton Rouge River Center Theater, 7 p.m. $40.

BIBLE TOUR: Steven Curtis Chapman April 26, Baton Rouge River Center Arena, 7 p.m. $45-$145.

JONNY LANG April 9, House of Blues New Orleans, 7 p.m. $37.

JOAN ARMATRADING April 27, Civic Theatre, New Orleans, 9 p.m. $45-$70.

NICK OFFERMAN & MEGAN MULLALLY Summer of 69, No Apostrophe – April 19, Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts, New Orleans, 7 p.m. $39.50.

BOB DYLAN April 29, Saenger Theatre, New Orleans, 8 p.m. $59.50-$89.50.

DISNEY ON ICE FROZEN April 30, UNO Lakefront Arena, New Orleans, 7 p.m. $20-$85.

R. KELLY with Chrisette Michele April 19, Baton Rouge River Center Arena, 7:30 p.m. $45-$85.

SLIPKNOT: The Prepare for Hell Tour April 30, Bold Sphere Music at Champions Square, New Orleans, 8 p.m. $45.50.

BILL BURR: The Billy Bible Belt Tour April 23, Saenger Theater, New Orleans, 7 p.m. $45-$60.

GOV’T MULE April 24, Saenger Theater, New Orleans, 8:30 p.m. $38.50-$71.50.

FACEBOOK

Legendary folk singer/songwriter Bob Dylan appears April 29 at the Saenger Theatre in New Orleans.

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Concerts Bayou Delight Mr. Gene (Apr. 3, 24); Mr. Larry (Apr. 10); Mr. Hue, (April 17) 4038 Bayou Black Drive, Houma; 985-876-4879

Bayou Terrebonne Waterlife Museum – Cajun Music (Every Tuesday) 7910 Park Ave., Houma; 985-876-4879

Boomtown Casino/Boomers – The Tricks Band (April 3); Junior & Sumtin’ Sneaky (April 4); Aaron Foret (April 10); Chas Collins (April 11); Category 6 (April 17); Foret Tradition (April 18); 90 Degrees West (April 24); Joey Thomas Band (April 25) 4132 Peters Road, Harvey; 504-366-7711

Brickhouse – Good Friday Jam (April 3); SWR Southern Whiskey Rebellion , Cyanide Smile, Cain Resurrection (April 4); Madfro, Waste of Electricity (April 11); DJ Trashy CD Release Party (April 17); Hydrogen Child, Ben Labat (April 18); Saturate, Kellen Heller, Fallen (April 24); Cybin Project, Electric Age, Space Viking (April 25);

Couche Chouche plays at The Jolly Inn in Houma every Friday night.

Jester’s Walk Leon Barrilleaux (April 2); Gilligan and the Gang (April 9); Gary T (April 16); The Tricks Band (April 23); Seabrook (April 30) 5375 La. Highway 308, Mathews; 985-532-5161

The Jolly Inn – Couche Couche (Every Friday); Pete and Suzi (April 12); Couche Couche (April 19); The Playmates (April 28)

7934 W. Main St., Houma; 985-879-2453

1507 Barrow St., Houma; 985-872-6114

Cajun Country Event Center – Bayou Classics Band (April 5); LA 56 (April 12); Rockin’ Oldies (April 19); Treater (April 26)

La Casa del Sol – Steve Junot (Every Tuesday); Jam Night (April 7); Buddy Benoit (April 10); The Upstarts (April 17); Frank Ball (April 24)

2639 La. Highway 182, Raceland; 985-537-2218

Cypress Bayou Casino/Bobcat’s – Kip Sonnier (April 1, 22, 24, 29); Kings of Clubs (April 3, 4, 11, 18, 25); Reuben Rivera (April 4, 10, 11, 17 18); Sonny Kane (April 25) 822 Martin Luther King Road, Charenton; 800-284-4386

Cypress Bayou Casino/Mr. Lester’s Steakhouse – James Dering (April 3, 4); Josh Malagarie (April 10, 11); Steve Smith (April 17, 18); Jean Paul Daine (April 24, 25) 822 Martin Luther King Road, Charenton; 800-284-4386

Cypress Bayou Casino/Loco – Reuben Rivera (April 2, 16, 30); Kip Sonnier (April 9); King of Clubs (April 23) 822 Martin Luther King Road, Charenton; 800-284-4386

Cypress Bayou Casino/Pavillion – Johnny Gill (April 25) 822 Martin Luther King Road, Charenton; 800-284-4386

Cypress Bayou Casino/Rox – DJ Bobby Novosad (Every Saturday) Keith Frank (April 18); Lil Nate (April 25) 822 Martin Luther King Road, Charenton; 800-284-4386

Downtown Live – Voodoo Bayou (April 24) Downtown Houma Courthouse

High Rollers Casino – Revive, (April 1); The Boys (April 8); Gary T (April 15); Highway 315 (April 22) 9730 E. Main St., Houma; 985-872-5659 10 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | April 2015

FILE

141 Westover Drive, Thibodaux; 985-446-2576

Piazza Bar/Peppers – Steve Junot (April 2, 16, 30); Swing Arm (April 4); Kerry Thibodaux (April 9); Reaux Shambo (April 10); Back Roots (April 11) Me and the Fellas (April 17); Bandit (April 18); Rick Price (April 23); Sheaux Down (April 24); Flesh Carnival (April 25) 541 Corporate Drive, Houma; 985-872-0006

Silverado Club (Thibodaux) – La Roadhouse Band (April 4); Highway 315 (April 7); Tot 2 La (April 11); Tet Dur (April 14); Gary T (April 18); Tot 2 La (April 21); Tet Dur (April 25); Tet Dur (April 28) 847 Brule Guilliot Road, Thibodaux; 985-446-8289

Spahr’s Lounge/Ramada Inn – Tet Dur (April 1, 8, 15, 27) Southdown Bar & Grill (Houma) – Pot 2 La (April 10); Old Moss Point (April 17); Back Roots (April 24); Frank Ball (April 25) 216 Mystic Blvd., Houma; 985-876-7126

Vino!

Darren Kraemer (Tuesdays); Frank Ball & Jon Smith (Wednesdays); Absinthe Minded (Thursdays); Todd Adams (Fridays & Saturdays) 656 Corporate Drive, Houma; 985-856-6664 Not listed? Contact us at shell@rushing-media.com or call 985-868-7515.

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On Stage

Actor in wheelhouse as Pharaoh Rollicking ‘Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ hits Saenger

By SHELL ARMSTRONG shell@rushing-media.com Ryan Williams is a hunk of burning love in “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.”

Technically, he’s Pharaoh, but played in a nod to the rock king himself, Elvis Presley.

“My dad is a huge Elvis fan,” Williams said. “When I started learning to sing, he told me to listen to Elvis because he was the best.”

It was an easy fit. Williams’ gift is his “warbling vibrato.”

“I’ve done a lot of Elvis-type roles,” the 41-year-old said. As Conrad in “Bye Bye Birdie” and Danny in “Grease,” Presley’s machismo swagger came in handy. He’s even penned and starred PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL A. SWALEC

Ace Young as Joseph and Diana DeGarmo as Narrator in “Joseph & the Technicolor Dreamcoat.”

IF YOU GO ‘JOSEPH & THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT’ WHEN: April 14-19 WHERE: Saenger Theater, Canal Street, NOLA COST: $25-115 INFO: 504-525-1052 or saengernola.com

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in a one-man show, “My Father and Elvis.”

And as the Egyptian leader in “Joseph,” Williams returns to his wheelhouse.

The brainstorm of composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyricist Tim Rice, the pop/rock/country story focuses on the Old Testament story of Joseph – loved by his father, who adorns him with a coat of many colors; shunned by his jealous brothers; sold into slavery; and jailed, after refusing to bed Pharoah’s wife.

Joseph’s gift, however, is in his ability to interpret Pharaoh’s dreams. In return, the king elevates Joseph to his second in command.

An eclectic collection of musical styles, “Joseph” delivers hits, “Any Dream Will Do,” “Close Every Door,” “One More Angel in Heaven” and, Williams’ favorite, “Those Canaan Days.”

The show stars “American Idol” contestants Diana DeGarmo (as the narrator) and Ace Young (Joseph).

A military child, music was Williams’ connection with each move. “Mom

wanted to find nice things where I could blend in and meet people. That led to theater.”

The lure of returning to the role of Pharaoh, the actor said, was the opportunity to work with the show’s director/ choreographer Andy Blankenbuehler.

“It turned out to be one of the harder auditions I’ve ever had,” Williams said.

“Andy could see I’d played the role [of Pharaoh] before and demanded more … a new, fresh twist.”

And when he’s not in king mode, he plays Levi, one of Joseph’s 11 brothers.

“I’m on stage from the beginning to the end of the show,” Williams said. “I don’t get a break, but I love being one of the brothers most of all.”

Creative choreography, artful screen projections and updated music make for a fun-packed night, he said.

“If you’ve seen ‘Joseph’ before, it’s got new twists that make it very fun,” Williams said. “And if you’ve never seen it, I can’t think of a better show to start.

It’s a great musical the entire family will enjoy.”

Ryan Williams plays an Elvis Presley-like version of Pharoah.

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COURTESY

‘Dixie Swim Club’ delights in Thibodaux

By SHELL ARMSTRONG shell@rushing-media.com

Leslie Waalk is a swim team champ.

Literally.

The director of “Dixie Swim Team,” Thibodaux Playhouse’s latest offering, first envisioned herself in the cast of five before resolving to take the helm instead.

The play’s premise surrounds the characters’ deep connection. Friends since their college swim team days, the five Southern gals reunite and recharge for a weekend each August.

Glimpsing at four weekends over a 33year span, the story unites the team at a beach cottage on North Carolina’s Outer Banks. At first visit, the ladies are 30-something; by the play’s end, they’re in their 70s. And along the way, there is an abundance of determination, love and laughs.

The characters are Sheree (played

by Melanie Bird), the group leader and spunky team captain who tries hard to maintain her organized, perfect life;

Dinah (Georgia Konos Naquin), ‘THE DIXIE the wisecracking overachievSWIM CLUB’ er, whose courtroom WHEN: 7:30 p.m., April finesse masks 17-18, 24-25; and 2 p.m.

April 26 her frustrations with her WHERE: Jean Lafitte personal life; National Historic Park and Preserve Wetlands Acadian Lexie (newcomCulture Center Theatre, 314 er Tana Millet), the pampered, St. Mary St., Thibodaux outspoken COST: $15, adults; $10, member deterstudents mined to hang on to her looks, INFO: 985-446-1896 or youth and huswww.thibodauxplayhouse. com bands … many husbands; Vernadette (Leah Hood), the self-deprecating and acerbic glass-half-empty gal who embraces chaos; and eager-toplease sweetie Jeri Neal (Jessica Vicknair), whose late entry into motherhood has thrown the entire group for a loop.

Despite their peccadillos, the ladies

SHELL ARMSTRONG ] GUMBO

IF YOU GO

“Dixie Swim Club” team members share a laugh. The cast is, standing, from left, Georgia Konos Naquin, Melanie Bird and Messica Vicknair, (seated) Leah Hood and Tana Millet.

rally around their own when fate throws a wrench into her life.

“There’s such a connection, a chemistry between us,” Millet said. “Before this show, we didn’t really know each other.”

After hours of rehearsals, dinners and biscuit breaks, that’s changed.

“These ladies have facets of everyone

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you know, including us,” Millet said.

“The more I learn my lines, the more [Vernadette] starts coming out in real life,” Hood chimed.

“I’m just so totally jazzed and pleased with how this show is turning out,” Waalk said. “This play is going to speak to a lot of people.”

Secrets revealed in ‘Other Desert Cities’

By SHELL ARMSTRONG shell@rushing-media.com

Family dysfunction is at the heart of “Other Desert Cities,” LePetit Theatre de Terrebonne’s latest production.

A 2012 Pulitzer Prize finalist in drama, the John Robin Baitz play focuses on the Wyeth family.

After a six-year absence, novelist Brooke Wyeth (played by Meaghan Mella Acosta) returns home to Palm Springs to celebrate Christmas with her family. But when Brooke’s conservative parents Lyman and Polly (James Stewart and Danielle Marchive), former members of Ronald Reagan’s inner circle, learn her follow-up to her first, exquisitely written book is a memoir revisiting the family’s long-kept secret, turmoil ensues.

The Wyeths – Brooke, Lyman, Polly, brother Trip (Derrick Toups) and Aunt Silda (Edwina Yakupzak) – are united and torn apart as they struggle to come to terms with the past.

IF YOU GO ‘OTHER DESERT CITIES’ WHEN: April 24-30 and May 1-3, performances at 7:30 p.m., with 2 p.m. matinees April 26 and May 2 WHERE: LePetit Theatre de Terrebonne, 7829 Main St. Houma COST: $15 INFO: 985-876-4278 or www.houmalittletheatre. com

SHELL ARMSTRONG ] GUMBO

LePetit Theatre de Terrebonne in Houma tackles John Robin Baitz’s “Other Desert Cities” beginning April 24. Pictured rehearsing are, from left, Danielle Marchive, James Stewart and Edwina Yakupzak. Director Karen Schilling is seated in the background.

April 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 15

“It’s a very dysfunctional family system this group lives within,” director Karen Schilling said. “Decisions are made and Brooke ultimately pays the price.”

Schilling said she is drawn to plays that call for character depth. “Other Deserts Cities” fit the bill.

“It’s a very thought-provoking play,” she said. “It really delves into this family, who tries to show the world one side, while trying to stay together.”

Music & Dance

St. Petersburg L’Hermitage Russian Ballet presents the timeless “Swan Lake” April 23 at Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts.

THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO April 10-12 In Mozart’s star-crossed opera, the Count loves the Countess, but wants Susanna. She is planning to marry Figaro, but so is Marcellina. Bartolo wants to marry Marcellina, whom he is secretly in love with. For good measure, throw in a plot to catch a cheating husband, a scheme to make the Count jealous, and a wife’s plan to get revenge and you have the makings of the show that “launched the French Revolution.” @ Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts, New Orleans. $29-$201.

JOEY ARIAS April 17 In celebration of Billie Holiday’s 100th birthday, New York cabaret and drag icon Joey Arias channels the trailblazing vocalist and jazz legend in a spectacle of old-Hollywood Big Band glamour. @ Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St., New Orleans. cacno.org. 504-528-3800. $35.

PETER AND THE WOLF April 19 Prokofiev’s classical children’s musical of a boy versus wolf comes to life as the LPO portrays each character with different instruments – flutes flutter like a bird, clarinets stalk like a cat and horns glare like a wolf. @ Roussel Hall, 6363 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans. $10, adults; children 12 and under, free.

BEETHOVEN PIANO CONCERTO NO. 3 April 17 Internationally-acclaimed concert pianist Jon Kimura Parker joins the LPO. Afterward, the LPO and its maestro Carlos Miguel Prieto tackle Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 8 – the composer’s enigmatic postwar masterpiece. @ Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts, New Orleans. $23-$102.

SWAN LAKE April 23 The St. Petersburg Russian Ballet performs the Pyotr Illyich Tchaikovsky story of Odette, a princess turned into a swan by an evil sorcerer’s curse. @ Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts, New Orleans. $64-$134.

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FACEBOOK | MAHALIA JACKSON THEATER

LOYOLA BALLET SPRING PERFORMANCE April 24-25 Directed by Laura Zambrano, the ballet presents a full-length evening of classical, character and contemporary works. @ Loyola University’s Louis J. Roussel Performance Hall, New Orleans. $8-$12.

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Theatre ‘DINNER WITH FRIENDS’ Through April 4 Donald Marguilles’ Pulitzer Prize-winning plays tells the story of a couple nearing middle-age whose lives are turned upside down when they learn their best friends are divorcing. They learn the decisions they made when they were younger may not be as “life long” as they once thought. @ Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carre, 616 St. Peter St., New Orleans. 504-522-2081. lepetittheatre.com. $35-$50.

ALWAYS … PATSY CLINE Through April 5 The musical play, complete with down-home country humor, emotion and some audience participation, includes many of Cline’s unforgettable hits: “Crazy,” “I Fall to Pieces,” “Sweet Dreams” and “Walkin’ After Midnight.” @ 11:45 a.m. at the National World War II Museum Stage Door Canteen, 945 Magazine St. 504-5281944. Stagedoorcanteen.org. $30 (show only); $60 (brunch); and $65 (dinner and show) THE LADY WITH ALL THE ANSWERS April 3-19 On a late night in advice columnist Ann Landers’ Chicago apartment, an ironic twist of events confronts her with a looming deadline for a column dealing with a new kind of heartbreak: her own. As she shares her struggles to complete the column, we learn as much about ourselves as we do about the wise, funny, no-nonsense woman whose daily dialogue with America helped shape the social and sexual landscapes of the last half-century. @ Treato Wego! Theatre, 177 Sala Ave. Westwego.

504-885-2000. jpas.org. $30.

ON THE AIR: A Live Radio Broadcast Musical April 10 through May 31 Dorothy has joined the Wacs and gone off to serve her country; Buddy and Betty Lou got hitched. But Frank and Melba are back along with two new characters. The show features hits from the WWII era and comedy for the live studio audience. @ 11:45 a.m. at the National World War II Museum Stage Door Canteen, 945 Magazine St. 504-5281944. Stagedoorcanteen.org. $30 (show only); $60 (brunch); and $65 (dinner and show) JOSEPH & THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT April 14-19 Composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyricist Tim Rice teamed up, setting to music the retelling of the Biblical story of Joseph, his 11 brothers and the coat of many colors. The production includes “Those

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FACEBOOK

“Always…Patsy Cline,” starring Margaret Belton, is playing through April 5 at the National World War II Museum’s Stage Door Canteen in New Orleans.

Canaan Days,” “Any Dream Will Do” and “Close Every Door.” @ Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal Blvd., New Orleans.

504-525-1052. Saengernola.com. $25-$115.

THE DIXIE SWIM CLUB April 17-18 & 24-26 Five Southern women, whose friendship began years ago on their college swim team, set aside a weekend every August to recharge those relationships. Free from husbands, kids and jobs, they meet at the same beach cottage on North Carolina’s Outer Banks. The show focuses on four weekends over a 30-year span. @ Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center Theatre, 314 St. Mary St., Thibodaux. thibodauxplahouse.com. 985446-1896. $15.

OTHER DESERT CITIES April 24 through May 3 An aspiring writer returns home after six years and announces she’s about to publish a memoir dredging up a pivotal, tragic event in the family’s history – a wound they don’t want reopened. Only when their daughter refuses to budge do the parents reveal their deep pain and humiliation. @ LePetit Theatre de Terrebonne, 7829 Main St., Houma. 985-876-4278. www.houmalittletheatre.com. $15.

ALADDIN April 27 The Tri-City Youth Theater presents the Disney favorite about a street urchin vying for the love of a beautiful princess. With the help of a genie and his monkey companion, the couple’s eyes are opened to a whole new world.

6:30 p.m. @ Municipal Auditorium, Morgan City.

985-380-4639.

Family Fun Princesses, pirates and Doc McStuffins, oh my!

Disney Junior Live on Tour! visits Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center Aye maties, ready to join the battle against the dreaded Captain Hook?

Or maybe, young princesses, you’d prefer a royal celebration with a special appearance by Cinderella?

Youngsters can enjoy both worlds Saturday, April 4, at Disney Junior Live on Tour! Pirate & Princess Adventure, at the Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center. Shows run at 1 and 4 p.m.

Mickey and Minnie host this all-new live show, which features the lead characters from Disney Junior’s hit series, “Sofia the First” and “Jake and the Never Land Pirates.”

As a special bonus, 10 minutes before every show Doc McStuffins presents a pre-show free to all ticket holders. The 6-year-old stuffed animal physician will lead audi-

ences in the “I Feel Better” song.

From there, it’s off to Enchancia, where Sofia, her stepsiblings Amber and James and the kingdom are readying for the annual friendship festival. Sofia is tapped to deliver the perfect gift at the celebration. Cinderella lends a helping hand in finding the right item.

Then it’s off to Never Land where Jake, Izzy and Cubby battle Captain Hook in a race to find and unlock hidden treasures from within a hidden volcano. Watch for a bit of surprise help from Peter Pan and Tinker Bell.

Packed with music, effects and plenty of surprises, the adventure promises for the entire family.

Tickets are $18 to $70, and are available via Ticketmaster (800745-3000) or the Civic Center Box Office. All seating is reserved.

Goings On DISNEY JR. LIVE on TOUR! Pirate and Princess Adventure April 4 Mickey and Minnie host this all-new show featuring characters from Disney Junior’s hit series, “Sofia the First” and “Jake and the Never Land Pirates.” @ Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center, 346 Civic Center Blvd., Houma.

AGA MASTERS CROSS COUNTRY SCRAMBLE GOLF TOURNAMENT April 8 Shotgun start at 5 a.m. @ Atchafalaya Golf Course at Idlewild, Cotton Road, Patterson. 985-395-4653. Atchafalayagolf.com.

14th ANNUAL PADDLE BAYOU LAFOURCHE April 9-12 The 52-mile, four-day adventure – extending from

Donaldsonville to Raceland – travels through rural communities and several small cities. Paddlers enjoy the scenic view while paddling the historic Bayou Lafourche. www.btnep.org, 985-447-0868.

17th ANNUAL PRE-49 PARADE OF RODS April 10-12 Mardi Gras Street Rods is awarding a $500 grand prize to the sweetest ride. The event includes a silent auction, swap meet, antiques, rat rods and more. Entry to compete is $30. @ Ramada Inn, 1400 W. Tunnel Blvd., Houma. Jed Allemand, 985-532-2777 or Olive Rodrigue, 985537-7656.

25th ANNUAL CYPRESS SAWMILL FESTIVAL April 10-12 The three-day, family-oriented celebration includes rides and games; arts and crafts; car show; poker run; fun walk; gumbo cook-off; softball, fishing and golf tourneys; a lumberjack show and more. @ Kemper Williams Park, Patterson. 985-395-3930. cypresssawmill.com.

5th ANNUAL SPRING FEST CAR SHOW & BLOOD DRIVE April 11 “Mom to Mom” Ministry hosts the car show and blood drive.

2 p.m. @ The Crossing Place Fellowship, Northwest Boulevard, Franklin, 985-372-1033. www.tcpfellowship.com.

ANNUAL BOAT BLESSING April 12 Prizes are awarded to the best decorated commercial fishing vessels. @ St. Joseph Catholic Church in Chauvin.

2015 ANNUAL SISTERHOOD CELEBRATION April 16-19 The Red Hat Divas ‘N Bling unites for four days of fun in Houma.

Redhatsociety.com/events/speedway-sparkle.

GRAND ISLE MIGRATORY BIRD CELEBRATION April 17 Initiated in 1998, the event supports the purchase

April 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 19

and management of the Grand Isle Sanctuary to protect some of the last remaining undeveloped chenier habitats. @ Grand Isle, www.btnep.org, 985-447-0868.

12th ANNUAL BAYOU TECHE BLACK BEAR FESTIVAL April 17-19 Louisiana’s black bear gets its due at this annual affair. Along with the usual festival fare – music, food and fun – it includes field trips, educational exhibits and children’s activities relating to bears and other natural resources in south Louisiana. @ Downtown Franklin, www.bayoutechebearfest.org.

337-940-1156 or 318-614-6134.

6th ANNUAL BAYOU TECHE WOODEN BOAT SHOW April 17-19 Hand-crafted Cajun skiffs and bateaux of cypress, cypress pirogues and dugouts as well as a variety of boats from around the globe are on display. The GOINGS ON CONTINUED ON 22

INAUGURAL RACE BRINGS INDYCAR TO SOUTH LOUISIANA

By CASEY GISCLAIR casey@rushing-medic.com Do you have a serious need for speed?

Is the sport of racing engrained in your DNA? Do you have a desire to watch some of the best drivers in the world navigate hundreds of laps around a 2.67-mile track with 13 turns – all while going at absurd rates of speed?

Do you not like racing, but instead just want to relax and enjoy some fun outdoors in front of a large group of people? Do the sounds of car engines roaring make your blood bubble with

excitement?

If you answered yes to any of the above-stated questions, then April will be a great month for you.

That’s because the first Indy Grand Prix of Louisiana is coming to Cajun Country and will be held at the Nola Motorsports Park, located at 11075 Nicolle Blvd., in Avondale – just outside of New Orleans.

The event will be a three-day celebration of racing that will start on April 10 and climax on April 12 – the actual day the race takes place.

To have live IndyCar racing in 20 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | April 2015

Louisiana is a blessing – a long time in the making for the sport, which has steadily grown in popularity throughout recent years.

For famous IndyCar driver Charlie Kimball, it’s a great thing for the sport.

He said he can’t wait to come to the area and showcase his talents to a new audience of fans.

“I’m really looking forward to coming down to New Orleans to the Grand Prix of Louisiana at the Nola Motorsports track,” Kimball said. “We’ve gotten a chance to go drive out there a couple of days, and I can tell you it’s fast. (On

this track) you can really see what an IndyCar is capable of.”

Nola Motorsports Park broke ground in Dec. 2009 and was architected by esteemed track designer Alan Wilson.

The track’s lineage is rich in ties to the Houma-Thibodaux area, as it is owned

by South Lafourche businessman Laney Chouest.

The track cost upward of $60 million to construct, but events like this one will make the event pay for itself in no time, according to Chouest and several elected officials.

One of those in favor of the race was

Gov. Bobby Jindal, who committed a one-time payment of $4.5 million to the facility last May to help fund track improvements that were made in advance of the Indy Grand Prix of Louisiana.

The governor said during a check presentation that Louisiana is the winner of the upcoming weekend, touting that millions of dollars will be brought to the state during the race.

“This three-day event will allow us to show off the excitement of an IndyCar race right here in Louisiana, as well as our state’s culture, entertainment and food,” Jindal said.

“This event will be a great economic driver for our state and it will be a great weekend for the whole family.”

Fans will have three days to get in on the action during race weekend.

On Friday, the gates will open at 8 a.m. for a full day of test runs. All of the teams in attendance will be on the scene and in the garage throughout the morning and afternoon of that day, fine-tuning their cars and getting burn on the rookie track. Qualifying for Sunday afternoon’s Mazda MX-5 race will also take place on Friday afternoon from 3:30-4 p.m.

Friday will be the most laid back of the three-day weekend.

On Saturday, things begin to get serious.

On that day, several races are on the docket, including the Mazda MX-5 Race No. 1, the Prototype Lites Race No. 1, the Porsche GT3 Race No. 1, the USF2000 Race No. 1 and the Pro Mazda Race No. 1.

The smaller races will all serve as the undercard for Saturday’s big event, which is qualifying for the Grand Prix, which takes place from 4:15-5:30 p.m. In that qualifying period, drivers will compete for positioning in advance of Sunday’s race.

During the last day of the weekend, the bright lights will shine on the state of Louisiana, as the gates will again open at 8 a.m. for a full day of races on the track. It all climaxes at 2 p.m. when the Grand Prix of Louisiana begins.

The race will cover 75 laps around the track or 205.5 total miles. Virtually all of the best IndyCar drivers in the world have committed to the race, which will mark a dream come true to Chouest, who said he’s envisioned this day from the first day of the track.

“I’m so pleased to see IndyCar preparing to bring a race to NOLA,” Chouest said. “New Orleans is a great market to grow the sport, and … I’m excited that this race is becoming a reality. We are so happy to bring this to race fans all across Louisiana and the Southeast.”

Tickets for the race are still available in all seating sections of the track. Been to the track and are worried about where all of the people will fit? Plans are in place to bring in “tons” of temporary seating, which will greatly increase capacity in advance of the race.

To buy seats, spectators are asked to go online and visit www.gpofnola.com/ticket-pricing. General admission seating for any one day of the weekend begins at $15.

Three-day passes are also available.

Kimball said he’s excited and ready to run the first-ever race. Race fans around the state agree and tout that this event is a can’t-miss for sports fans in our state.

“I’ll be there,” Houma native and avid race fan Rick Williams said. “I wouldn’t miss it. I had tickets since the first day.”

That’s the attitude that has Kimball fired up to perform for a Louisiana audience for the first time.

“It’s going to be great,” he said. “We can’t wait. The track is awesome, and it’s going to be a very popular race.”

April 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 21

GOINGS ON CONTINUED FROM 19

are eligible in the competition. Place ribbons and cash awards are given. The opening reception and awards ceremony is set for 2 to 4 p.m., Sunday, April 19.

10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday thru Friday @ Downtown Art Gallery 630, 630 Belanger St., Houma.

annual event is held in conjunction with the Black Bear Festival. @ Bayou Teche on Parc sur la Teche, Franklin. techeboatshow.com.

16th ANNUAL LADYBUG BALL April 18 More than 100,000 ladybugs and 201 butterflies are released at this spring family affair. Includes plenty of children’s activities, storytelling, clowns and a ladybug dress-alike contest. Bug cages are welcomed and may be purchased on the grounds.

9 a.m. to 2 p.m. @Southdown Plantation, 1208 Museum Drive, Houma.

COASTAL CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION ANNUAL BANQUET April 23 CCA Louisiana is the largest marine resource conservation group of its kind in the state. @ Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center, 346 Civic Center Blvd., Houma.

DOWNTOWN LIVE AFTER 5 April 24 VooDoo Bayou entertains free at the Houma courthouse. Lawn chairs and blankets are allowed. Food and beverages sold.

5:30 p.m. @ Downtown Houma Courthouse Square.

985-873-6408.

ANNUAL SPRING CONCERT The Houma-Terrebonne Community Band plays a little ragtime, Santana and more at its spring concert. @ 6:30 p.m. at the J.C. Penny Court in Southland Mall.

COURTESY

BOILIN’ ON DA BAYOU April 18 For $15, enjoy all the crawfish you can eat, listen to live music and dance until you drop. @ Cut Off Youth Center, www.cutoffyouthcenter.org.

985-632-7616.

5th ANNUAL FAKIER OPEN April 20-25 The professional golf tourney with the Adams Pro Tour benefits the Mary Bird Perkins Center at

Visitors to Lumcon’s Open House conduct experiments with researchers. Lumcon celebrates the 30th anniversary of its R/V Pelican April 25.

TGMC. Also includes the Taste of the Tournament Par-Tee and Auction. @ Ellendale Country Club, Houma. 985-851-8661 or www.mbptgmc.org/fakier.

Enjoy critter encounters, airboat rides, lab activities, games and prizes, tours and lunch. @ Defelice Marine Center, 8125 La. Highway 56, Cocodrie. www.lumcon.edu.

LUMCON OPEN HOUSE April 25 Celebrate the 30th anniversary of the R/V Pelican.

SPRING ART SHOW April 20 thru May 6 Open to all local and regional artists, all mediums

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RELAY FOR LIFE of TERREBONNE PARISH April 25 The community celebrates those fighting cancer and honors those who have lost their fight to the disease.

The fundraiser includes live music, food, games and children’s activities. Admission is free. The American Cancer Society sponsors the event.

5 p.m. to 2 a.m., Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center, 346 Civic Center Blvd., Houma.

Sawmill fest more than rolling logs

By JOHN DeSANTIS john@rushing-media.com

An exotic petting zoo, logrolling competitions, a fireworks display and historical exhibit are among the attractions at this year’s Cypress Sawmill Festival in Patterson, scheduled for April 10-12.

The festival is held at Kemper Williams Park. Admission is $5 per car on Friday, April 10, and $10 per car on the Saturday and Sunday, with a full pass available for $20.

The Sawmill Fest is inspired by St. Mary Parish’s history as a logging center.

For Jean McCorkle of the Cajun Coast Visitors and Convention Bureau, one of the most entertaining events at the festival is the “Passe Partout” – which involves two-person log-sawing teams.

“This is what you would have seen when they were cutting lumber before chain saws, when they cut the pieces of wood,” McCorkle said.

The festival began as a way to raise money for a local museum. The site was built from scratch, including poles and transformers to supply electricity. This year’s event marks its 25th year.

In addition to the lumberjack shows, visitors will enjoy golf and softball tournaments, carnival rides and games, as well as plenty of food to choose from.

Live local talent will compete in a

Country Showdown contest from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, April 10.

According to documents and reports held by the Louisiana IF YOU GO Department of Culture, CYPRESS SAWRecreation MILL FESTIVAL and Tourism, WHEN: April 10, 11 and 12 a lumber boom from roughly WHERE: Kemper Williams 1880 to the midPark, Patterson 1920s resulted in fortunes being made, the growth of towns and parishes and – regrettably – deforestation of virgin timber.

Patterson and Franklin are among the St. Mary Parish towns whose fortunes were affected by lumber. In western Terrebonne Parish, Gibson, Chacahoula and Donner are among the communities with lumber roots.

The industrial impact for better and worse, historians agree, is an important aspect of Louisiana’s post-Reconstruction economy. Logging and related mills and camps continued well past the end of the boom, and the cypress festival, according to organizers, captures some of the flavor and preserves the culture of that unique period.

Among the items for sale at this year’s festival are cuzees made of wood, as well as T-shirts and various crafts.

April 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 23

Firemen’s Fair set to entertain, raise funds Country crooner Chris Cagle headlines Saturday’s festivities at Thibodaux event

By RICHARD FISHER richard@rushing-media.com For more than a century and a half, the Thibodaux Firemen’s Fair has raised money that goes directly to keeping the area safe in the event of a blaze, and the volunteer department hopes the 2015 fair is the biggest one yet.

Taking place April 30-May 3, the fair features four days worth of live music, carnival rides, family entertainment and food and drink.

Entrance to the fair grounds is free, but all proceeds from ride fairs, concessions, raffles, the auction and donations go toward the volunteer department.

Volunteer Fire Department Communications Assistant Director David LeBlanc said the event has raised more than $1 million in each of the last three years. The 2014 fest was the most profitable ever.

“It’s a good outing for the people of Thibodaux and the surrounding area because it’s a good place for local people to come, the camaraderie of the people that live in Thibodaux,” LeBlanc said.

DeRidder native Chris Cagle is the music headliner, taking the stage at 10 p.m. May 2.

“Our biggest attraction is going to be Chris Cagle. We always have a big name on Saturday night. That’s what we do,” LeBlanc said.

Other acts include Soulful Sounds and Clustafunk on April 30; Velvet Sky, Snapper & the Fishsticks and 90 Degrees West on May 1; Steve Junot, Soul

With its parade, rides, concessions and nonstop music, the Thibodaux Firemen’s Fair is a family friendly affair.

THIBODAUX FIREMEN’S FAIR WHEN: 5 to 11 p.m. April 30; 5 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. May 1; 11 to 12:30 a.m. May 2; and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. May 3.

WHERE: Thibodaux Firemen’s Fairgrounds, corner of Tiger Drive and Parish Road.

INFO: thibodauxfiredept.org Survivors, Good Feelings and Drunk Punch Ponies on May 2; and Tet Dur, Foret Tradition, Don Rich and Waylon Thibodaux on May 3.

Foods include the usual carnival fare, plus southwest eggrolls, gumbo, boudin links, shrimp dishes and crab cake on a bun. Daiquiris, beer – alcoholic and

24 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | April 2015

non- – and Firemen’s Punch, as well as sodas will be sold.

“We want people from all over the area to come by, because it’s an absolute terrific cause,” said Mike Naquin, who served as fire chief from 1997 to 2011. “The Thibodaux Firemen’s Fair has gotten to become one of the biggest events in the area.

“People for some reason, I guess being cooped up all winter and just looking for something to do. Hey, what better than where you’ve got free entertainment, good entertainment and we don’t charge to park? We’ve got good food, you always meet somebody you haven’t seen in a while, and it’s just a good, fun time.”

Additional activities on tap include a 5K Run and Walk May 2 at 7:30 a.m.

Visit thibodauxfiredept.org to sign up.

An auction will be held May 2 at 7 p.m., and a raffle is set for May 3. Items raffled include cash prizes from $200 to $10,000. Tickets are $1 each. The annual parade will begin May 3 at 11 a.m. Donny Rouse of Rouses Market has been named grand marshal.

“We bestow the grand marshal title on people that have been very civic-minded. How can you get more civic-minded than Rouses?,” Naquin said. “Rouses is always out in the community. They’re always doing good. You always see the Rouse name somewhere.”

Donny’s father, Don, served as grand marshal in 1986. The theme of the parade is “Super Heroes.”

Progress won’t slow Franklin’s Bear Fest ByJEAN-PAUL ARGUELLO jp@rushing-media.com For those looking “fur” a sure bet for family fun, the Bayou Teche Black Bear Festival is a “beary” good choice.

The 12th annual bear festival held in historic downtown Franklin, features live music, food, fireworks and free boat tours of the Bayou Tech National Wildlife Refuge, all with the aim of educating the public about the Louisiana black bear.

The event is open from 6 p.m. April 17 to 6 p.m. April 19.

Construction near the downtown courthouse, the staging grounds for the festival, translates into fewer attractions than normal, but the festival will still go on, said Catherine Siracusa, the Black Bear conflict manager for St. Mary Parish and festival organizer.

For example, the educational section, usually hosted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services – the cornerstone of

April 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 25

the festival in past years – will be absent because the parish-owned parking garage, which usually houses it, is currently being used by contractors for storage, Siracusa said.

The “Beary Patch,” an obstacle course for children that has been a major draw for years, is in disrepair and won’t be available this year, Siracusa said.

But there will still be plenty of fun, including free boat tours of the wildlife refuge. Siracusa said tours are offered every 90 minutes.

Also expect plenty of food vendors, live music and a fireworks show.

The Louisiana Black Bear was listed as federally threatened in 1992.

“Through management, research and education, the bear has reached the level that it is today, which is certainly way better than it’s been in the past,” said Maria Davidson, biologist for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. “The numbers are increasing and the population health looks good.”

IF YOU GO GRAND ISLE MIGRATORY BIRD FESTIVAL WHEN: April 17-19

Grand Isle weekend for the birds

WHERE: Most events begin at the Grand Isle Multiplex Center, others as announced.

INFO: grandisle.btnep.org

26 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | April 2015

By JOHN DeSANTIS john@rushing-media.com As temperatures rise and winter wanes, untold numbers of migratory birds head north from tropical climes to begin again the cycle of life in northern habitats.

And among the first pit stops many make after an exhausting traverse of the Gulf of Mexico are Louisiana’s barrier islands.

Appreciation of the arrival of feathered friends has turned the only human-inhabited Louisiana barrier island, Grand Isle, into a mecca for bird-watchers, and organizers say they look forward to a banner weekend April 17-19.

That’s when guided tours, receptions and other events are scheduled as part of the Grand Isle Migratory Bird Festival. Some of the events – especially those involving boats – have admission fees. But many others are free of charge.

On all three days, bird-banding may be observed at the Lafitte Woods

Preserve. Guided walking tours of bird trails and other locations generally cost $5.

According to naturalists and organizers, the migratory birds began showing up on schedule in March with more on the way, leaving no doubt that, barring unusual weather patterns, participants will get what they traveled to see.

“They’re starting to show up,” said Natalie Waters, bird conservation coordinator for the Barataria-Terrebonne Natural Estuary Program, which sponsors the event. “Although they don’t all stay here, they need that migratory habitat to get to where their breeding grounds are. They need food and energy to keep keeping on.”

“We are looking forward to a wonderful festival, expecting 250 to 300 people, and exhibitors from different agencies, carvers, jewelry makers and we will have food and lots of tours,” said Jean Landry, local program director for the Nature Conservancy. “I was in the woods the other day with a birder and we were seeing a black-and-white warbler and on the beach we were looking

at the sandpipers and gulls. The birds are coming in.”

While Grand Isle is known for its shore birds, including those living there year-round, many of the critters birders flock to see are songbirds, many with brilliant plumage and distinct calls. Hooded warblers, orchard orioles

April 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 27

COURTESY

Bird watchers and photogrphy enthusiasts take interest in a bird during the Grand Isle Migratory Bird Festival. The event is set for April 17-19, the prime time when migratory birds arrive in the area. and several species of hummingbirds are regular visitors.

Parade of Rods rolls through Houma IF YOU GO PARADE OF RODS WHEN: April 10, 11 and 12

COURTESY JEAN-PAUL ARGUELLO | GUMBO

Jim Kraus poses next to his 1938 Ford 5 Window Coupe. The classic has 15 body modifications and a small block Chevrolet V-8 engine. Kraus and his coupe will be at the 17th Annual Parade of Rods April 10-12 in Houma.

WHERE: Houma, LA

28 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | April 2015

By JEAN-PAUL ARGUELLO jp@rushing-media.com The smell of gasoline. The shine of chrome. The feel of leather. The roar of a small-block V8.

If you like these things, then you’ll love the Parade of Rods.

The 17th Annual Parade of Rods car

show – set for April 10-12 – will feature about 70 street rods from up to eight states competing in one of the Louisiana’s two street rod shows.

The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles defines a street rod as “a vehicle that was manufactured before 1949; or after 1948 to resemble a vehicle manufactured before 1949; and that has been altered from the manufacturer’s original design, or has a body constructed from materials not original to the vehicle.”

“It’s all cars from the ‘20s, ‘30s and ‘40s that have been modified in some sort of way, whether it is motors, or just suspension, and the different things that go into it,” said Jed Allemand, one of the founding members of Mardi Gras Street Rods, the club hosting the show.

The Ramada Inn parking lot – 1400 W. Tunnel Blvd. – is the site of this year’s event.

Street Rodders will compete in a number of categories such as Best Overall and Longest Distance Driven. The grand prize for Best Car Overall is $500.

The cars must be driven into Houma

to qualify to compete in the show.

The event is free to spectators, but street rod owners must pay $30 to compete. Proceeds from the event benefit the Houma Regional Military Museum.

Street rodding is an endangered hobby, Allemand said. Most participants are in their 50s to 70s. Because of the expense, few young people are attracted to the sport.

“At one time, 20 years ago, we were sort of an elite crowd,” said Jim Kraus, Mardi Gras Street Rods member and owner of Southland Steel and Supply.

“Not too many people had street rods.”

Mustang and Corvette clubs were common, but street rods weren’t as prevalent. Today, young adults are more interested in modifying import cars, Kraus said.

Think “The Fast and the Furious.”

Allemand said, in the future, the Parade of Rods may have to open the show to newer cars just to keep its membership up. “If the turnout is not any good this year, we are considering maybe opening up to pre-’73 to try to draw in more cars and keep it going.”

April 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 29

Terrebonne Relay for Life set for April 25 Local event biggest, most lucrative in state 3 years running

By RICHARD FISCHER Richard@rushing-media.com The Terrebonne Relay for Life event has been the largest and most lucrative in the state for three years running, and event organizers hope a fourth such recognition when the 2015 walk takes place.

It’s set for Saturday, April 25, at the Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center from 5 p.m. to midnight.

Last year, the event – and donations leading up to the event – raised $423,000.

With about $150,000 already in the bank five weeks prior to the event, organizers say they’re well on their way to topping that number.

And according to American Cancer Society Community Manager Becky Breaux, it’s because the community and businesses are dedicated to providing

funding for cancer research.

“I don’t know that there’s anybody in our community that doesn’t know someone, that doesn’t have a family member, a personal friend or they themselves have not been touched by cancer, and I just think that the passion and the drive is there,” she said.

Shamrock Energy Solutions is on board as the event’s first Presenting Level Sponsor, providing $20,000 for the event, and more than 80 teams and 1,100 participants had signed as of press time.

At the event, every team is encouraged to have at least one member walking the track throughout the event.

“The whole concept of that was that cancer never stops. You’re taking the same walk as a cancer patient from the time of diagnosis through treatment and then, hopefully, into remission,”

COURTESY | BECKY BREAUX

Cancer survivors participate in the 2014 Terrebonne Relay for Life event.

30 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | April 2015

Breaux said.

Teams have tents set up surrounding the track, where participants can purchase food and drinks, with proceeds going toward the cause. There will also be games, raffles, a live auction and activities such as a petting zoo, rock-climbing wall, bounce houses and mechanical bulls.

If it sounds more like a festival than a fundraiser, that’s because organizers said the event has taken on a festival feel. Local favorites Southern Cross, Yum Yum – an ensemble of Chabert physicians – and Day Like This – an alternative group – will take the stage.

“We’re in south Louisiana. We’re used to fairs and festivals, so we make it a lot of fun. It’s family oriented,” Terrebonne event leader M.J. Plaisance said.

“We have a lot of kids activities to try and keep people engaged, but we also connect them to the mission. We offer them a lot of information about lifestyle changes, early detection, prevention.”

Plaisance and his wife Dawn lost their son, Evan, to cancer 22 years ago. In addition to running the Terrebonne event, Plaisance serves as the leader of the Southeast Louisiana Territory of Relay for Life events. However, he said the one in Houma is the one he focuses the most energy toward.

“People really need to know that we do make a local impact,” Plaisance said. “The dollars raised help support things like the cancer research center at Chabert Medical Center, the Hope Lodge in New Orleans. Locally, we provide rides for cancer patients to their treatments. We just try to do a lot of these things that help incur the high dollar cost of going into treatment.

It’s an emotional thing in itself, but it can also be very expensive so a lot of these dollars come right back to the community.”

People can sign up for the event by logging onto http://main.acsevents.org/ site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLCY15MS?pg=entry&fr_id=64341 or simply showing up April 25. Participation is free, but donations are being accepted online and, of course, at the event.

Breaux said the event itself typically raises about $100,000, not including the pre-event donation.

“I would like to invite everybody to come out and join us and have a good time,” Breaux said. “It truly is a phenomenal event to experience but also a great way to spend a Saturday evening with your kids and your family all at the same time while you’re helping to find that cure for cancer.”

April 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 31

Boilin’ on Da Bayou crowns crawfish king

32 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | April 2015

By CASEY GISCLAIR casey@rushing-media.com Want to be a food critic?

Want to enjoy a day of sunshine (hopefully), music, family and friends?

Want to raise money for a worthwhile cause?

Or maybe you just want to eat your weight in crawfish.

Whatever your mission, all of the above can be done April 18 at Boilin’ on Da Bayou, which takes place at the Cut Off Youth Center, located at 205 W. 79th St., in the small Lafourche Parish town.

The event is in its fourth year. Since its inception, it has grown to become a must-attend for locals who enjoy mudbugs, live music and everything else that goes into a good, ol’ fashioned Louisiana party.

Proceeds benefit the COYC and go to boost the facility with its operational costs.

“It’s a great event,” said COYC Director D’Lynn Givens. “We didn’t think it’d ever be this successful, but it’s an event that people in our community look forward to annually and come out and support. We’re very proud of how far it has all come.”

The format of Boilin’ on Da Bayou is simple – it’s a cooking competition to crown the best local mudbug chef.

Cooking teams enter the competition and situate themselves around the COYC’s pavilion. While there, they boil until their hearts are content, using their own unique recipes to create crustacean deliciousness.

Once the chefs are done fiddling with their masterpieces, the eaters arrive and the real fun begins.

Eaters are encouraged to make their rounds throughout the day, trying a

few mudbugs from all of the different boiling stations.

Once done, taste bud democracy takes place, and the tasters vote on which boiling station boiled up the tastiest crawfish.

Of course, if you don’t want to play favorites and just want to show up and eat piles of crawdads, that’s OK, too.

Joe’s Septic, SBL Construction and the Lafourche Shrine Club are the three champions in the history of this event, which has grown massively since its inception, according to Givens, who said that more than 10,000 pounds of mudbugs are consumed annually on the day of the event.

That’s quite a contrast from the 6,000 pounds Givens purchased in the event’s inaugural year – an amount that people thought would be far too much.

“We were scared to order 6,000 pounds that first year,” she said with a laugh.

“We thought it’d be too much. If we had to, we’d sell them on the side of the road after we were done. That didn’t happen.

We ended up needing more. Every year, we’ve increased by a few thousand pounds. Last year, we started with 9,000 pounds and had to get 2,000 more. So this year, we’re starting with 11,000 pounds. We had 15 teams competing last year. We never imagined it would be as successful as it has been, and we’re hoping for the same this year.”

The cost to eat is $20 for adults and $10 for children 10 or younger. Drinks will be sold and a DJ will play music throughout the afternoon to help folks pass a good time.

But while the music is an added touch, it’s the crawfish that does most of the talking on this day. More than 10,000 pounds of them – cooked to perfection.

April 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 33

Jubilee Offers a Novel Approach

By SHELL ARMSTRONG shell@rushing-media.com Wally Lamb advises patience, discipline and compassion when crafting novels.

It’s a lesson the author of New York Times bestsellers “She’s Come Undone,” “The Hour I First Believed,” “I Know This Much is True” and “We are Water” learned firsthand.

“In my case, it’s a matter of peeling back the layers, sort of like an onion,” Lamb said. “I have to bring a lot of patience to the table.

34 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | April 2015

“I advise others to stay with it, whether the writing is going well or not,” he said.

It’s sound help; advice he intends to share as the keynote of the 2015 Jambalaya Writers’ Conference. The event returns to Terrebonne’s main branch library in Houma for the 12th year.

Designed for potential writers and book lovers, the conference and book fair features a number of regional and national authors.

Aside from the keynote luncheon, highlights of the day include fiction and poetry contests and the First Page American Idol showdown. The latter allows writers to hear critiques of the first page of their fiction to be critiqued by a panel of expert judges. Submissions are accepted free during registration.

“Nobody gets it perfect in their first draft,” Lamb said of the writing process. He suggests seeking other writers’ feedback.

In Lamb’s case, he works with two writer’s groups and regularly gets feedback in an unexpected place: the maximum-security York Correctional Institution, Connecticut’s only women’s prison.

“I promised to go one time and that was 15 years ago,” Lamb said of the prison teaching gig. “I critique their work regularly, so they enjoyed the opportunity to turn the table and critique mine.”

The connection proved immensely helpful with “I Know This Much is True.”

The story of twins – one paranoid schizophrenic, the other charged with being his brother’s keeper – Dominick and Thomas Birdsey’s world takes them deep into a troubled family lineage, psychiatric treatment and a Connecticut prison for the mentally ill.

Actor Mark Ruffalo is optioning the novel for a limited HBO series.

The Birdsey brothers, like Lamb’s many characters – Dolores Price in

“She’s Come Undone,” Caelum Quirk in “The Hour I First Believed” and Annie and Orion Oh in “We Are Water” – take years to uncover. Most of Lamb’s novels take four to five years to write.

“It is a slow process,” he said.

First, there’s learning all he can at the core. “My ignorance serves me well,” Lamb said, laughing. “I would never want to write something that is disingenuous about issues that have caused someone genuine pain.”

Then there’s the peeling process, uncovering the characters’ vulnerabilities and motives, which can even come as a surprise to the author.

“I don’t always approve of the actions of my characters,” he said. “I worry about them and I’m very frequently surprised by what happens.”

Like readers, Lamb can close his novel feeling relieved or sad.

Lamb fans will be excited to hear he is revisiting “Wishin’ and Hopin’” for MetaBook, a new ebook company.

A Christmas tale about 10-year-old Felix Funicello – direct descendants of the late Annette Funicello, of Mickey Mouse Club and the ‘60s beach flick craze – Lamb said Felix’s life is reflective of his own, unlike his more serious material.

The comedy was also made into a Lifetime movie last year.

Lamb expects the novella to be available next year. “I’m excited about revisiting the whole world.”

IF YOU GO JAMBALAYA WRITERS’ CONFERENCE AND BOOK FAIR WHEN: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 11 WHERE: Houma-Terrebonne Main Branch Library, 151 Library Drive, Houma COST: $40 INFO: mytpl.org or 985-876-5861

April 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 35

At the Library

Builder Badge. Stop by in April to build designs, receive a certificate of participation and have a photo of your creation displayed in the library. Get your badge punched each time you participate in Lego Club and receive a prize after the fifth time.

LAFOURCHE PARISH

FREE TAX PREP Volunteer tax preparers with the organization 4U are offering free basic tax preparation for residents making $58,000 or less through the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program during tax season.

Choctaw Branch, 6 p.m.

MAKE AND TEST LEONARDO DA VINCIINSPIRED MODELS Apr. 8 People ages 8 to 18 can make and test models inspired by Leonardo da Vinci at the library. This program is funded by a grant from the Association for Library Service to Children and the Dollar General Literacy Foundation.

By appointment only at the Lockport, Raceland, Bayou Blue and Larose branches.

SOUTH LAFOURCHE BRANCH LIBRARY SEEKING TEEN SUMMER INTERNS The South Lafourche Branch Library, 16241 E. Main Street, in Cut Off, is seeking two teen summer interns (ages 16 or 17) from the South Lafourche area for 50 hours of work during the 2015 Summer Reading Program. Teens will earn $10 per hour, for a total summer stipend of $500. Interested teens should pick up an application at the library or request one by emailing Katina Gaudet at kgaudet@lafourche.org. For more information, call the library at (985) 632-7140. The deadline to submit applications is April 30. This program is made possible by a grant from the Young Adult Library Services Association and Dollar General Literacy Foundation.

Lockport Branch, 5 p.m.

PAINT A CAFÉ DU MONDE SCENE Apr. 9 Adults can paint a Café du Monde scene on canvas.

All supplies provided. Registration required.

Bayou Blue Branch, 1:30 p.m.

COURTESY

There’s plenty of fun for people of all ages at the Terrebonne and Lafourche libraries. For a complete schedule of events, visit www.mytpl.org or www.lafourche.org.

AUTHOR TRISHA HUKINS VISIT Apr. 9 Trisha Hukins, the author of “The Grinding Season,” discusses her book at the library.

Winning bookmarks will be printed and distributed during the library’s Summer Reading Program.

ipant are allowed. Prizes will be awarded during an awards reception at 4 p.m. on April 15.

Thibodaux Branch, 5:30 p.m.

LAFOURCHE LIBRARY CELEBRATES NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK All branches of the Lafourche Parish Public Library will be observing National Library Week, April 12 – 18, to celebrate the contributions of libraries throughout the country. Stop by your local library branch for National Library Week programs, open house and more. Pick up your library branch’s calendar of monthly events or visit the library’s website at www. lafourche.org for more information.

Choctaw Branch

Lockport Branch

EASTER STORYTIME/EGG HUNT Apr. 1 Children can visit the library for story hour and then take part in an Easter egg hunt afterwards. Prizes will be awarded to children who find special eggs and to the child who finds the most eggs. Children also take photos with the Easter bunny.

EASTER EGG HUNT Apr. 2 Children and their families are invited to the Lockport Branch Library’s Easter egg hunt at the Town of Lockport’s Bayou Side Park, weather permitting.

Contests will be held for the most and least eggs found and for finding the Golden Egg. Each child will receive a prize. Bring your Easter baskets.

BUDGETING/DEBT CONSOLIDATION WORKSHOP Apr. 13 Certified Financial Planner John Sirois will discuss budgeting and debt consolidation at a free workshop.

SUMMER READING BOOKMARKS Apr. 1 – 30 Children in grades first through eighth can take the Choctaw Branch Library’s bookmark challenge in April and create a bookmark about reading or books.

AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST Apr. 1 – 10 Amateur photographers of any age can participate in the Lockport Branch Library’s fifth annual amateur photography contest. Two photo entries per partic-

Thibodaux Branch, 10:30 a.m.

Lockport Branch, 10:30 a.m.

ELEGO CLUB Apr. 6 & 21 Children ages 5 to 9 can join the Choctaw Branch Library’s new Lego Club and receive their official Lego

Thibodaux Branch, 5:30 p.m.

MUSICIAN BOBBY HORTON PERFORMS Apr. 14 Musician Bobby Horton explores stories from the North and South as he performs songs from the Civil War, placing them in historical context. This free performance is not just for Civil War or history buffs, but also for anyone who enjoys great music, inspiring stories and good entertainment. Refreshments will be served.

Thibodaux Branch, 5:30 p.m.

LAFOURCHE LIBRARIES • Bayou Blue Branch –

198 Mazerac St., Houma 985-580-0634

• Biblioteca Hispana –

• Lockport Branch –

• Chauvin Branch –

720 Crescent Ave., Lockport 985-532-3185

• Raceland Branch –

177 Recreation Drive, Raceland 985-537-6875

1403 N. Bayou Drive, Golden Meadow 985-475-5660

• South Lafourche Branch –

1887 Choctaw Road, Thibodaux 985-633-6453

• Thibodaux Branch –

• Choctaw Branch – • Gheens Branch –

153 N. Leon Drive, Gheens 985-532-2288

• Golden Meadow Branch –

1403 N. Bayou Drive, Golden Meadow 985-475-5660

• Larose Branch –

305 E. 5th St., Larose 985-693-3336

16241 E. Main St., Cut Off 985-632-7140 705 W. 5th St., Thibodaux 985-447-4119

TERREBONNE LIBRARIES

• Terrebonne Parish Main Library – 151 Library Drive, Houma 985-876-5861

• Bourg Branch –

4405 Andrew St., Bourg 985-594-4717

5500 La. Highway 56, Chauvin 985-594-9771

• Dularge Branch –

837 Bayou Dularge Road, Houma 985-851-1752

• East Houma Branch –

778 Grand Caillou Road, Houma 985-876-7072

• Gibson Branch –

MASTER GARDENER’S HERB DISCUSSION Apr. 16 Master Gardner Marcelle Bienvenu of the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute will present The Ungarnished Truth, a program about the medicinal and culinary aspects of herbs. Refreshments will be served.

Choctaw Branch, 1:30 p.m.

6363 S. Bayou Black Drive, Gibson 985-575-2639

• Grand Caillou Branch –

200 Badou Drive, Dulac 985-563-2014

• Montegut Branch –

1135 La. Highway 55, Montegut 985-594-4390

• North Branch –

4130 W. Park Ave., Gray 985-868-3050

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AUTHOR B. J. BOURG’S BOOK SIGNING Apr. 18 Author and veteran law enforcement officer B. J. Bourg will sign copies of his new book, “James 516”, at the library.

South Lafourche Library, 9 – 11 a.m.

MONEY SMART CHALLENGE Apr. 21 People of all ages can test their money smarts during Money Smart Week with games and challenges at the library.

Lockport Branch Library, 5 p.m.

EARTH DAY STORY HOUR AND CRAFT Apr. 21 Children at story hour will receive a native Louisiana tree sapling for planting, while supplies last, thanks to Golden Meadow Plant Materials Center.

South Lafourche Branch, 10:30 a.m.

TERREBONNE PARISH

Bourg Branch, 3:30 p.m.

STITCHES GROUP MEETING Every Thursday in April The Stitches group meets to work on craft projects.

Bring anything you’re working on and patterns to share.

FAVORITE TITLE/SERIES VOTE Apr. 13 The Library will be making a Big Book with titles, and see who has the most votes. This is part of National Library Week.

Chauvin Branch, 1 p.m.

Chauvin Branch, 10 a.m.

TEEN BOOK DISCUSSION Apr. 4 Teens can discuss “The Diary of Anne Frank” by Anne Frank.

NLW PHOTO CRAFT Apr. 13 Kids can participate in this photo craft, centered on why people love the library. Photos will be displayed throughout National Library Week.

East Houma Branch, 2 p.m.

SPRING MAKERFAIRE Apr. 22 Children and teens can visit different Makerfaire booths to explore circuit building, water resistance, hovercrafts, 3D drawing and more at the Lockport Branch Library’s Spring Makerfaire. This program is funded by a grant from the Association for Library Service to Children and the Dollar General Literacy Foundation.

Lockport Branch, 5 p.m.

CARRIE DELATTE VISIT Apr. 23 Carrie Delatte, author of Southern Hospitality, will discuss her book at the library.

Thibodaux Branch, 5:30 p.m.

PIGGY BANK DIY Apr. 23 Children ages 5 to 9 can learn the importance of saving during Money Smart Week while creating a personalized piggy bank.

Choctaw Branch, 4 – 6 p.m.

DRAW MANGA, MAKE CANDY SUSHI Apr. 29 Children and teens ages 10 to 17 can learn to draw in the manga style and make candy sushi at the library. Registration is required.

Bayou Blue Branch, 4:30 p.m.

Chauvin Branch, 10 a.m.

POM-POM TREE/SPRING TREE CRAFT Apr. 6 & 9 People of all ages can make a special spring craft.

Bourg Branch, 1 p.m.

ADULT BOOK DISCUSSION Apr. 6 Adults can discuss “The Bone Clocks” by David Mitchell. Upcoming dates and titles include May 4 “The Enchanted” by Rene Denfeld and June 1 “Gilead: A Novel” by Marilynne Robinson.

North Branch, 6 p.m.

SCRABBLE CLUB Apr. 7 Adults can show off their creative words and skills in the Scrabble Club.

LEGO CLUB Apr. 13 & 27 Kids PreK and up can join together in the library for free-form Lego building. All ages are welcome, and baby blocks will also be available. The library also accepts donations of unwanted Legos to add to their collection.

North Branch, 3 p.m.

BE-TWEEN THE LINES WRITING CLUB Apr. 15 All writers in 4th through 6th grades are invited to join this club, have fun and meet fellow writing fanatics. Each month, the club members compete in a new, fun writing challenge.

Main Branch, 4 p.m.

STORY TIME Apr. 17 Kindergarteners can attend a story time focusing on libraries in honor of National Library Week.

Gibson Branch, 10:15 a.m.

JEWELRY MAKING WORKSHOP Apr. 23 Teens can participate in this workshop to make their own jewelry.

Dulac Branch, 4 p.m.

THE YOUNG AT HEART GROUP Apr. 24 Adults can meet to celebrate spring and being young at heart with Spring Painting.

Bourg Branch, 11 a.m.

ADULT BOOK DISCUSSION Apr. 13 Adults can discuss “Killing Lincoln” by Bill O’reilly.

Upcoming dates and titles include: May 11 “The Fault in our Stars” by John Green, and June 8 “The Shop on Blossom Street” by Debbie McComber.

LEMONADE DAY STORYTIME Apr. 25 Families are invited to bring blankets or outdoor chairs for a special outdoor story time. Learn how to run a lemonade stand and learn about financing.

Dularge Branch, 1:30 a.m.

East Houma Branch, 11 a.m.

WATER BOTTLE BIRDHOUSE CRAFT Apr. 14 Adults can create a birdhouse with water bottles.

STORY/CRAFT TIME: APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS Apr. 27 Kids can join together for stories and to make paper flowers.

Gibson Branch, 12:30 p.m.

CREATIVE WORKSHOP FOR TEENS: FICTION Apr. 9 Teens can learn alongside each other the art and technique of creative writing. This hour-long program will emphasize literary craft as well as the dedicated practice of peer review and revision. Meet in the small conference room downstairs.

Main Branch, 6:30 p.m.

GREEN GUY PLASTIC BAG CADDY Apr. 13 Kids can make a plastic bag caddy out of milk jugs.

Montegut Branch, 1 p.m.

WII BOWLING Apr. 14 Test your motion skills at your library. Kids and teens finishing exams and PARCC testing will enjoy coming out to release their stress with a little Wii bowling.

Dularge Branch, 4:30 p.m.

Gibson Branch, 3 p.m.

Montegut Branch, 4 p.m.

April 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 37

RECYCLED BRACELET CRAFT Apr. 28 Young adults can make a recycled bracelet using plastic bags.

Reading?

WHAT ARE YOU

A WALK TO REMEMBER

THE GRAPES OF WRATH

By Nicholas Sparks

By John Steinbeck

THE FAULT IN OUR STARS

THE GREAT GATSBY

“It was a beautiful romantic novel about modern teenagers falling in love. The fact that they both had cancer just added to its beauty.”

– Stephanie Hebert, Franklin

“The Great Gatsby is my favorite book because I enjoy the style and energy of the Roaring ‘20s.

Fitzgerald captures the age really well.”

– Sarah LeBouef, Bourg

THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.

“I liked this book because it told a great story about true love and how even when someone is gone, they are still around and show their love.”

– Casey Stephens, Patterson

By John Green

By F. Scott Fitzgerald

38 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | April 2015

“This is my favorite book due to its devastatingly realistic (while also being poetic) portrayal of a family’s suffering.”

– Logan Dougherty, Ponchatoula

By Martin Luther King Jr.

“It inspires me to help others in any way that I can.”

– Gregory Greely, Bogalusa

Gumbo Guru

Texas Roadhouse crowd-pleasing food, fun

By GUMBO GURU Few restaurants have the ability to immediately make you feel at home … if you’re allowed to toss peanut shells on your dining room floor, that is.

Texas Roadhouse arrived earlier this year in Houma IF YOU GO to a hungry crowd and TEXAS hasn’t slowed ROADHOUSE since.

There’s a reaWHERE: 1642 Martin Luther son the parking King Blvd., Houma lot is packed: PHONE: 985-873-6035 the food, the HOURS: Monday through service and the Friday, 4-10 p.m.; Saturday atmosphere are and Sunday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. worth the wait.

WEB: texasroadhouse.com The flags flowing in the breeze forewarn guests of the décor. It’s very Texas, very country and very comfortable.

The lobby area looks directly on to the cooking area. On the other side of the glass partition, guests can watch the yeast rolls being prepped or pulled from the oven. And just behind that are the grills.

Benches line the lobby area and, in each corner, barrels of cooked peanuts beckon guests as they wait for a table to become available.

The wooden walls are accented with cartoon caricatures of country greats – Garth Brooks, Tim McGraw, Willie Nelson and the likes – the very folks who make up the play list on the old-fashioned jukebox that greets you at the door. Guests are invited to pick a tune while they wait, too, by the way.

Immediately upon being seated, two buckets – one peanut-filled, the other for the discarded shells – and a basket of hot, freshly-baked rolls arrive. Our waitress takes our drink orders and offers menu suggestions.

For an appetizer, we agree to try the Cactus Blossom ($4.99). Described as a “Texas-sized onion golden-fried and served with our Cajun Horseradish sauce,” the blossom was an immediate hit. There’s no false advertising going on here. The thing really is huge. It could have easily fed a

GUMBO GURU | GUMBO ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

Texas Roadhouse in Houma has been serving packed houses since opening earlier this year. The restaurant is located on Martin Luther King Boulevard.

April 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 39

group twice the size.

Blossoms are usually judged on flavor and oiliness. Texas Roadhouse has plenty of the first, none of the latter.

My guests enjoyed steak and shrimp combo ($16.99) with seasoned rice and corn and a chicken and ribs combo (16.79) with green beans and corn. I opted for my usual: the sirloin ($11.99) and a side of steamed broccoli.

The steak and shrimp was a winner.

The meat was perfectly cooked, and my guest continued to brag on the lemon and pepper-flavored butter sauce that coated the shrimp.

Likewise, the chicken was flavorful and juicy and the ribs worthy of the “award-winning, slow-cooked” title. Both were covered with exquisite seasonings and barbecue sauce. The ribs were falloff-the-bone tender, too.

Texas Roadhouse doesn’t skimp on its serving sizes, nor do they skip the detail in the sides. The green beans are smothered with bacon and sweet onions, making them a meal all alone. The seasoned rice was also perfectly seasoned and didn’t overwhelm the rest of the meal.

Dinner for us always includes a go-box and this night was no different. Besides, we had to leave room for dessert, which was a slice of Strawberry Cheesecake.

Light and creamy and coated with a strawberry glaze and fresh strawberries, dessert was worth the added calories.

I’d be remiss not to mention the fun to be had at Texas Roadhouse. The bar area and lobby are surrounded by flat screen TVs which are tuned into the big sports offering of the day. And country music sets the mood.

On occasion, the volume of the music kicks up, signaling to the staff to take to the aisles for a Texas Roadhouse hoedown.

As guests dine, the wait staff show off their dance moves in front of your table.

Birthdays include a call-out from the staff – “stop what you’re doing; finish what you’re chewing and give ‘em a Texas Roadhouse yee-haw!” – and a ride atop the house saddle.

Great food, great fun. I promise!