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OCTOBER 2025 | VOL. 19 • ISSUE 10 | POVHOUMA.COM
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CONTENTS | OCTOBER 2025 • VOLUME 19 • ISSUE 10
CHIC 10 CHATEAU Southern Charm Meets Family Style
RED AND ROSES 14 IN 2025 Rougarou Queen
DOWN MAIN 22 STRUTTING Maw Maw Walker
18 50 YEARS OF FEASTING:
SAVOR THE TRADITION, CELEBRATE THE LEGACY French Food Festival
EXTRAS
ON THE
COVER
WORD, YA
HEARD
NOTE 06 PUBLISHER’S Festival Season
JOVIAL
08 INTERVUE Say What?
[jo-ve-el]
WE SUPPORT A
(Adj.) Characterized by good-humored cheerfulness and conviviality
26 HEALTHIER FUTURE
Lifestyle Choices to Reduce Your Risk for Breast Cancer
THE SCOPE 28 UNDER Our Man in Asheville, NC
WORD ON THE STREET
30 RENDEZVOUS
The audience was in a jovial mood as the next band took the stage.
Where You Need to Be Around Town
Photo by Dristy Foret Photography
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What’s your favorite part of a fall festival?
PUBLISHER People-watching
Brian Rushing
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Mary Downer Ditch EDITORIAL
Food!!
Bonnie Rushing Editorial Director Isabelle Pinto
CREATIVE
Festive outfits (cozy sweaters and/or silly costumes!)
Ashley Bourgeois CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
John Doucet Shamarr Moses PHOTOGRAPHY
Dristy Foret Photography
All the handmade fall goodies from craft vendors!
CONTACT
Publisher: publisher@rushing-media.com Editorial: maryditch@rushing-media.com Creative: graphics@rushing-media.com Sales: sales@rushing-media.com
Copyright ©2025 Rushing Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of editorial and/or graphic content is strictly prohibited.
BUSINESS ADDRESS: Rushing Media, P.O. Box 5013, Houma, LA 70361 • 985.868.7515 Point of Vue magazine cannot be responsible for the return of unsolicited material such as manuscripts or photographs, with or without the inclusion of a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Information in this publication is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed. The opinions expressed in Point of Vue magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Rushing Media, our employees or any of our advertisers. No employee or family member(s) of employees of Rushing Media are permitted to partake in any contests, giveaways or sweepstakes.
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE | MARY DOWNER DITCH • ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
FESTIVAL SEASON When October rolls in, so does one of my favorite South Louisiana seasons—festival season! Every good Louisianian celebrates seasons other than the boring spring, summer, fall and winter. Festival season is the time of year when the first cool fronts tease us, the smell of gumbo drifts through the air, and neighbors from every bayou community gather to celebrate who we are. This issue is a love letter to those celebrations that have shaped our parishes for generations. I feel like everyone you meet has a festival story or a memory that directly relates to a certain fall festival. According to Explore Louisiana, throughout the year, music, food, history and holidays inspire more than 400 Louisiana festivals and events of all sizes occurring throughout the state. At a time when it feels like we are losing our sense of community and belonging, Louisiana’s festivals keep that spirit alive. These gatherings aren’t just something you show up for, they’re something you help make happen. Generations of families pitch in to cook and serve food or man the beer booth, or to lend a hand wherever it’s needed. Old friends bump into each other, catching up over steaming bowls of jambalaya or gumbo. Traditions are passed on, from the secret recipe to the reasons why we celebrate. It’s a lesson in life when you’re working next to the sweet church lady who knows a thing or two about peeling shrimp and dancing the two-step. She’ll “learn ya” right fast. Many of these festivals have been going on for decades, becoming yearly rituals that mark time and bring people together. They serve as unofficial homecomings, reunions, and reminders of where you come from. Even if you’ve moved away, you come back for the festival or the church fair. We hope to capture a little bit of the spice you encounter at a festival in this issue. We introduce you to Shannon Knight Bella, the Rougarou Queen, whose playful spirit captures everything we adore about this spooky, one-of-a-kind weekend. We travel to Larose, where the French Food Festival marks an incredible 50 years of feeding us all the flavors of our heritage. And we cheer on the Maw Maw Walker, a newer tradition that, in just five short years, has already earned its place on our fall calendar. Our annual tribute to the Rougarou Queen presents to you Shannon Knight Bella. For Shannon, this honor is a tribute to family, heritage, and the land that has shaped her life. The details of each Queen’s dress are, for us, always the highlight of the royal reign. Shannon’s costume carries a powerful message about the crisis of coastal land loss—a challenge she feels personally connected to. The black in her gown symbolizes
the state of Louisiana, while the red represents the waters that are steadily consuming its land. Shannon’s commitment to sustainability and creativity extends to her parade throws. She and her friends handmade oyster shell ornaments, each with a ribbon inscribed “Rougarou Queen 2025.” Learn more about the Rougarou Queen starting on page 14. In late October, the French Food Festival will celebrate its 50th anniversary at the Larose Regional Park and Civic Center, marking half a century of honoring Cajun culture, traditions, and unforgettable food. What began decades ago as a local gathering has blossomed into one of the bayou region’s most cherished events. This year’s milestone celebration features nine live bands, 23 food booths serving exclusively local cuisine, and a wide variety of cultural experiences, from an authentic Folk Exhibit to a Grand Marshal March. There is also an auction, a pageant, and countless opportunities to experience Cajun traditions up close. Explore the history of the festival beginning on page 18. Finally, we highlight the Maw Maw Walker in downtown Houma. In its fifth year, the Maw Maw Walker is growing bigger and better than ever with each year, with 2024 being its most successful event yet, reaching over 2,500 participants in 2024. This fun event is as crazy as it sounds, with thousands of participants taking to the streets of downtown Houma to participate in a bar crawl, all dressed in their best muu muus as maw maws and paw paws. The costumes are downright hysterical, often including walkers, support hosiery, wigs and curlers. The 2024 Maw Maw Walker was also named the Event of the Year Award at the recent Louey Awards. This is one of the highest statewide honors that a festival can achieve, with the award known for showcasing organizations who have made outstanding contributions to Louisiana's vibrant tourism industry. Gather your best granny-wear, and share in the fun, starting on page 22. Looking forward to another local festival? Check out our expanded Rendezvous for a list of fall fairs and festivals starting on page 30. Festivals like these are more than music and food (though we’ll never say no to a plate of white beans or a fair burger). They are the stories we tell, the friendships we keep, and the culture we pass down. They remind us that no matter how busy life gets, there’s always time to dance to a Cajun fiddle or share a meal with the people who make this place home. Here’s to another season of celebrating together. See you at the fairgrounds! POV
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INTERVUE | SAY WHAT?
What’s your most treasured festival memory from years past?
VERA My most treasured festival memory was going to the Grand Caillou Festival as a kid. My mom and dad worked in the hamburger stand and I helped. I was there literally the whole weekend. There were great rides, dancing, games and good food (In fact, I was one of the potato-peeling girls for the cooks). We stayed each night until everything was completely over. I can still remember the way the night air felt with the dew floating in the air as we left for home. BRITTANY My most treasured memory from past festivals would have to be the first festival I’ve ever attended- VooDoo Fest 2006. Together, with eight of my closest high school friends, we headed towards City Park in New Orleans. The music, culture, food, and atmosphere was unlike anything I’d ever experienced or expected! Immersed in the crowd, we sang- screaming at the top of our lungs to My Chemical Romance’s “Welcome to the Black Parade” and Red Hot Chili Peppers “Scar Tissue.” Being able to truly feel the music was indescribable! The VooDoo experience grew my love for concerts and live bands; as well as, my appreciation for the unique culture New Orleans has to offer. RITA My favorite festival memory is my first time attending Lagniappe on the Bayou. I loved how people from everywhere came together. It was fascinating to soak up the culture, eat the delicious food, and see the whole community working together to make it such a success. The Cajun music and dancing made the whole festival feel alive, and it left me with a lasting appreciation for the community spirit behind it all. NORBY My favorite festival memory is of the Lagniappe on the Bayou fair at the St. Joseph Church in Chauvin. There was nothing before or since that could compare to the anticipation I and my classmates felt sitting in class at Lacache Middle on the Friday afternoon of the fair. Nearly every single person at school had a family member who was doing something for the fair, and many had worked all year leading up to that weekend and the day had finally come. The school was so close to the church that kids were allowed to skip the bus ride home and walk straight to the fair. Lagniappe weekend never disappointed!
LINDA My most treasured festival memory is watching my children enjoying the rides and activities at the Freedom Festival. The fireworks show would light up the sky as well as their faces! They still enjoy attending this festival.
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HOME + LIVING | CHATEAU CHIC
SOUTHERN CHARM MEETS FAMILY STYLE BY BONNIE RUSHING | PHOTOS PROVIDED
1 For John and Rhandi Wise, building their dream home meant creating a space that could balance timeless design with the demands of a growing family. With the help of Rhandi’s mother, Kelly Austin, a seasoned interior designer with renowned builder Chris Ledet Homes, the result is equal parts elegance and practicality. From the beginning, they envisioned a New Orleans–inspired exterior that would stand out with classic Southern character. Inside, the design shifts to transitional style, blending clean lines with warm textures and thoughtful details. “John has always
loved the look of homes in New Orleans,” Kelly says of her son-in-law’s vision. “We wanted the outside to capture that charm while creating an interior that works for a busy family with four young daughters.” The open floor plan reflects that vision. A spacious main living area flows seamlessly into the kitchen, dining, and bar—perfect for entertaining and everyday life. A cozy office and library offer quiet retreat, while the upstairs loft—currently overflowing with toys—promises to evolve into a gathering place for movie nights, games, and lasting memories.
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Every corner of the home was designed with purpose. Antique doors and Egret wallpaper set the tone in the foyer, illuminated by a mercury globe chandelier. The kitchen features a stunning waterfall island and a large butler’s pantry, while the adjoining bar—complete with brick backsplash, leathered granite, and an LED sign reading “Chicky’s,” a nod to where John and Rhandi first met—brings personality and charm. Distinctive touches continue throughout: crocodile-textured wallpaper in the guest bath, paneled walls in the living room, and ceiling designs in both the master suite and gathering spaces. Upstairs, each
2 child’s bedroom has its own feature wall or wallpaper accent, tied together by the Jackand-Jill bath’s color palette. One loft closet is even affectionately dubbed “the prom dress closet,” awaiting future milestones. Functionality is as important as style. The master suite connects directly to the laundry room, while upstairs space is reserved for a future washer and dryer so the girls can eventually handle their own loads. Storage abounds, from mudroom lockers and attic stairs to toy drawers in the loft. The home features five bedrooms and six bathrooms, including an outdoor bath. Distressed white oak floors run throughout, softened by porcelain tile in baths and the porch. Quartzite in the kitchen and quartz in the baths and laundry add durability and elegance. Outdoors, a back patio with kitchen and storage is already prepared for a future pool, ensuring the space grows with the family’s needs. For the Wise family, every space carries meaning—whether it’s the quiet retreat of the library or the joyful energy of the loft. This home wasn’t built just for today; it was designed with the future in mind. It’s a place where their family can grow, gather, and create memories for years to come. POV
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No. 1 Exterior No. 2 Doorway No. 3 Bar No. 4 Living Room No. 5 Dining Table No. 6 Bathroom No. 7 Butler Pantry No. 8 Bedroom No. 9 Bathroom
Enjoy more photos on houmatimes.com/ publications/pointofvue.
802 HWY 182 Houma, LA 70364 (985) 851-1242 www.spehouma.com October 2025 13 povhouma.com
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BY BONNIE RUSHING | PHOTOS BY DRISTY FORET PHOTOGRAPHY
Steeped in Cajun heritage and fueled by a love of creativity, Shannon Knight Bella brings heart, history, and hometown pride to her reign as the 2025 Rougarou Queen. For Shannon, a Houma native with deep Cajun roots, the honor is not just a title—it is a tribute to family, heritage, and the land that has shaped her life. Born and raised in Houma and spending much of her childhood in Bayou Blue, Shannon comes from a family whose life was bound tightly to Louisiana’s wetlands. She recalls her grandparents speaking more Cajun French than English, her father hunting alligators and shucking oysters, and the familiar cadence of hunting, fishing, and trapping that marked the rhythm of life in her household. “We have always been so closely connected to this land,” she shared. “If you grew up here, you know it’s such a special place.” Shannon was also shaped by the creative women in her family. She remembers sitting alongside her grandmother and aunts as they quilted, a tradition that influenced her own passion for artistry. While she did not pick up quilting, she found her own path in decorating and floral design. That passion became a career she has nurtured for more than 20 years. “I discovered I had a natural talent for decorating and working with flowers,” she said. “That passion eventually grew into a career I’ve been blessed to pursue.” For Shannon, the Rougarou is more than a folkloric figure. It is a living reminder of the Cajun experience. Growing up, she remembers the warnings that many bayou children heard: if they didn’t behave, the Rougarou would come get them. The legend, she explained, ties generations together, connecting children to the stories their parents and grandparents once heard. Her involvement with the Rougarou Festival began when she dressed up as a zombie for the popular Zombie Run. Later, she volunteered in setting up festival areas and brainstorming ideas with Jonathan Foret. That effort led to her service on the board of the South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center, the nonprofit that organizes the event. Today, she continues to lend her creative hand by decorating the festival’s VIP area.
Among Shannon’s fondest memories are the times she spent at the festival with her father, Alton Knight Sr. Together, they created traditions that deepened her love for the event—from dancing side by side to sharing the joy of the parade. Even when her father’s health required a wheelchair, he never missed the chance to be part of the festivities. “I lost my dad in September 2024,” Shannon reflected. “Now, everything I do for this festival is a tribute to him.”
The Best Choice
IN SHORT TERM
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That sense of legacy made her crowning as Rougarou Queen an emotional moment. “The moment was bittersweet because I couldn’t call my dad to share the news, but I know just how happy and proud he would have been,” she said. “I can just imagine him now, walking around the festival with the biggest smile, telling everyone, ‘That’s my daughter.’” As Queen, Shannon’s costume carries a powerful message about the crisis of coastal land loss—a challenge she feels personally connected to. The black in her gown symbolizes the state of Louisiana, while the red represents the waters that are steadily consuming its land. Every element of her costume was carefully chosen to honor her heritage. Oysters, a staple of her childhood, play a prominent role. Red roses incorporated into her scepter were inspired by the ones her father grew with pride. At the top of the scepter is a handmade oyster shell featuring the state of Louisiana, surrounded by pearls representing timeless beauty and resilience. Her crown, too, features oyster shells and pearls, weaving together symbols of coastal life and culture. Shannon’s commitment to sustainability and creativity extends to her parade throws. She and her friends hand-made oyster shell ornaments, each with a ribbon inscribed “Rougarou Queen 2025.” These unique keepsakes, designed to be cherished long after the parade, reflect her love for both tradition and innovation. She expressed gratitude to the many people who helped bring her vision to life. From Michelle Folse and Courtney Bennett, who assisted with costume design, to Taylor
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Janis, who provided makeup, to Jackie Gonsoulin who helped to craft oyster shell throws, the effort was a true community project. She extended special thanks to her son, Robert Crochet Jr.; daughter-in-law, Hailli Crochet; and partner, James Karst, for their love and support throughout her journey.
crown, but the legacy of her family, the resilience of her community, and the hope of preserving a culture and a coastline for generations to come. Mark your calendars for October 17–19, 2025, when downtown Houma will once again come alive with the sights, sounds,
For Shannon, serving as Rougarou Queen is more than a ceremonial role. It is a platform to raise awareness about preserving Louisiana’s coast and protecting the culture that depends on it. “I hope that by becoming more aware of coastal land loss, the younger generation will take notice, get involved and join organizations in their communities that support coastal restoration,” she said. “To preserve our culture, we must first preserve our land.” As the festival approaches, Shannon is eager to embrace the opportunity to represent her community. She looks forward to meeting visitors, celebrating with families, and sharing the spirit of the bayou with all who attend. One of the highlights of the festival is the parade, where Shannon will ride with Halli and her good friend Michelle Folse, surrounded by friends and family walking beside the float to pass out custom oyster shells and candy to the crowd. “I hope to be a queen for all the people,” she said. “My greatest joy is seeing families and friends come together, sharing love and celebrating our community—a community that has endured so much and continues to stand strong.” With her deep Cajun roots, lifelong creative spirit, and heartfelt dedication to her community, Shannon embodies the very essence of what the Rougarou Festival represents. As she steps into her reign as the 2025 Rougarou Queen, she carries with her not just the honor of the
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and flavors of the Rougarou Fest. From lively music and local cuisine to familyfriendly activities and cultural traditions, the weekend offers something for everyone—all while supporting the South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center and its mission to preserve our coast and culture. POV
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BY SHAMARR MOSES | PHOTOS PROVIDED
This fall, the unmistakable smells of Cajun cooking, the sounds of live music, and the warmth of a close-knit community return to Larose, Louisiana. From October 24–26, the French Food Festival celebrates its 50th anniversary at the Larose Regional Park and Civic Center, marking half a century of honoring Cajun culture, traditions, and unforgettable food. Admission is free, making it a celebration open to everyone. What began decades ago as a local gathering has blossomed into one of the bayou region’s most cherished events. This year’s milestone celebration features nine live bands, 23 food booths serving exclusively local cuisine, and a wide variety of cultural experiences, from an authentic Folk Exhibit to a Grand Marshal March. There is also an auction, a pageant, and
countless opportunities to experience Cajun traditions up close. Every dollar raised from food and activities goes directly back into the Larose Civic Center, ensuring that the event continues to support the community that makes it possible. For Sarah Kelley, Executive Director of the Larose Regional Park and Civic Center and Director of the French Food Festival and Pageant, the event is more than just a job—it is a passion. “This is the best job I’ve ever had and the best food I’ve ever had,” Sarah says. “The volunteers make this thing possible.” The French Food Festival thrives because of the hundreds of volunteers who give their time and energy year after year. Sarah is quick to credit them for the event’s enduring success. October 2025 18 povhouma.com
“They cut up vegetables, they peel shrimp, they work all the booths, and they assist with anything else we need,” she explains. “This place is amazing, the people are amazing, the culture is amazing.” The volunteers’ dedication is deeply interwoven into the festival’s fabric. Families often run the same food booths for generations, passing them down like heirlooms. The seniors of the volunteer group play a particularly vital role, contributing homemade sweets and lending their decades of experience to make sure everything runs smoothly. “They contribute to almost everything,” Sarah says. “It’s such a huge thing, and we couldn’t do this without them.” Though rooted in Cajun tradition, the French Food Festival’s reach extends far
beyond Lafourche Parish. Visitors travel from across the country and even across the globe to experience it. “We have people from all across the world coming, from Germany, France, Australia—they all come to this festival,” Sarah shares. “I appreciate all walks of life being welcomed because it puts this festival on the map.” It is this sense of global connection that makes the French Food Festival both deeply local and universally appealing. Guests get a taste of authentic Cajun culture—literally and figuratively—through food, music, and fellowship, while locals take pride in showcasing the bayou region to the world. While the festival is best known for its food and entertainment, its additional events
showcase the richness of Cajun heritage. The Folk Exhibit highlights the traditions and artistry of the bayou, while the Grand Marshal March brings together community leaders in a celebratory procession. The pageant is another cherished tradition, offering young women the opportunity to represent their community on a larger stage. “The pageant winner gets to go to Washington, D.C., to the Mardi Gras Ball,” Sarah explains. “It really is a great opportunity for our girls. And again, it highlights this beautiful region. Going to Washington, D.C., is amazing.” Congratulations to this year’s royalty, Miss French Food Festival, Queen Aliza Callais and Teen Miss French Food Festival, Queen Mia Chaisson! October 2025 19 povhouma.com
Sarah may be new to the Larose Civic Center family—having joined less than a year ago—but she is no stranger to the pageant world. From competing herself to supporting her daughter through pageants across Louisiana, Sarah has long lived and breathed the sparkle of stage life. One of her favorite stops on that journey was always the French Food Festival, making it all the more special that she now gets to lead the festival and its pageant. Lovingly calling herself the “Royalty Wrangler,” Sarah finds joy in mentoring and celebrating the young women who compete. She has traveled across Louisiana for fairs and festivals, but this year carries unique significance: with the French Food Festival turning 50, the crown holds even greater weight.
“It’s such a special opportunity for the young women who compete,” Sarah says. “This year’s winner will forever be connected to this milestone celebration, and that makes it all the more meaningful.” There is a reason the French Food Festival has endured for 50 years. It is more than a celebration—it is a testament to the resilience, pride, and culture of the people of Lafourche Parish. It is about families passing down recipes and traditions. It is about seniors who still bake sweets year after year. It is about music that makes people dance and food that makes people feel at home. “Having a festival that really highlights the bayou region and the food and everything that comes with it is nothing short of amazing,” Sarah says. “There’s a reason we’re celebrating 50 years.” For Sarah, the French Food Festival is about more than entertainment or fundraising. It is about creating a space where people can connect with one another and with the culture of the bayou. “This festival is more than a festival,” she says. “It’s an opportunity for people to come, connect, enjoy themselves, and learn about the bayou culture.” After 50 years, the French Food Festival has become a symbol of community pride and cultural preservation. And if the passion of its volunteers and the enthusiasm of its visitors are any indication, the next 50 years will be just as vibrant. As the festival prepares to welcome many this October, one thing is clear: the French Food Festival isn’t just about the food. It is about the people who make it possible, the culture it celebrates, and the community it continues to unite. POV October 2025 20 povhouma.com
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BY ISABELLE PINTO | PHOTOS PROVIDED
Start dusting off those curlers and ironing your finest floral muu muu, because the award-winning Maw Maw Walker is struttin’ into downtown Houma for its 5th year this October. Hosted by the Hache Grant Association, the Maw Maw Walker is a yearly event where everyone is invited to come out dressed as their favorite “maw maw” or “paw
paw” for an incredible, all-day celebration in downtown Houma. Every October, thousands of people flood the local streets in a colorful crowd for this event, dressed head-to-toe in gray wigs, muu muus, night gowns, support stockings, glasses, makeup, fanny packs, and much more. It's clear from a first glance this isn't your average stroll– it's so much more. October 2025 22 povhouma.com
“A few years ago we decided we wanted to host something similar to the Red Dress Run in New Orleans, but instead of Red Dresses, we do muu muus,” chuckled Manny Merlos, Executive Director of the Hache Grant Association. “We told everyone to come out dressed as their favorite ol' maw maw or paw paw for the walk, and they did.”
The walk is not just a fun and silly way to spend a Saturday, but began five years ago with the intention of breathing life into the businesses in downtown Houma and flooding the streets with patrons for a day. The "walk" itself includes upwards of ten locally-owned stops for people to visit together– in similar form to a pub crawl– ranging from bars, to ice cream parlors, to stores, to restaurants. "The original goal of the Maw Maw Walker was just to promote downtown Houma businesses as much as possible during a difficult time," said Manny. "The whole purpose of this event is to highlight what we have to offer as a whole, because we have some great shops and local vendors in Houma that just don't get enough appreciation. Every store featured on the walk is locally-owned and operated, and we love shining a light on their hard work." The Maw Maw Walker is growing bigger and better than ever with each year, with 2024 being its most successful event yet. Beginning with 50 participants five years ago and reaching over 2,500 in 2024, the 2024 Walker was also named the Event of the Year Award at the recent Louey Awards. This is one of the highest statewide honors that a festival can achieve, with the award known for showcasing organizations who have made outstanding contributions to Louisiana's vibrant tourism industry. "It's a pretty amazing feeling to receive this award. We are super proud of all the work we have done with the community and couldn't have achieved this without everyone's support," said Manny. "It's a great feeling to compete against fantastic events across the state and bring a big award like this back to Houma."
For Manny, and everyone at the Hache Grant Association, seeing this exponential growth and the way the community has embraced this event supporting local businesses has been the highlight of the past five years. "Every year I make a point to walk in the front of the crowd and look behind me, and last year took my breath away. There were people sidewalk to sidewalk as far as I could see," said Manny. "It was spectacular to see everyone come out. I have been doing this since year one, and I love watching everyone having fun, dancing, and just enjoying local businesses. It's been such an honor to be a part of the group of people putting this event on for our community." The 5th annual Maw Maw Walker will take place Saturday, October 4, 2025 beginning at noon in downtown Houma. To register in advance for the costume contest, please visit the Hache Grant Association's official website. No registration is required to participate in the actual walk, so grab those walkers and get ready, sha! POV
After an incredibly successful 4th year, the Hache Grant is expecting bigger crowds and even more fun in 2025. For the first time ever, the entirety of Main Street in Houma will be closed for the walk, with a bandstand set up in the street with allday live music from Nonc Nu & Da Wild Matous and Dirty Water Blues. Houma Float Rentals has also built and donated a Maw Maw-themed float which will ride throughout the event, and walkers will get to enjoy 18 total stops through downtown Houma– the most the Maw Maw Walker has ever offered. October 2025 23 povhouma.com
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WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE | BY KATIE RICHARD, MA, BSN, RN, DIRECTOR OF SPORTS & WELLNESS
LIFESTYLE CHOICES TO REDUCE YOUR RISK FOR BREAST CANCER While certain breast cancer risk factors such as age, family history and inherited genetic mutations lie beyond a person's control, other lifestyle-induced risks can be altered to reduce the likelihood of developing the disease. According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 8 women are likely to have breast cancer in their lifetime. The median age at the time of diagnosis is 62. Also, 1% of all breast cancers in the US are found in men. To lower overall risk of breast cancer, stay aware and informed, eat a healthy diet, remain physically active and don't smoke. Here are some specific behaviors and choices to help reduce risk, not only for breast cancer, but other diseases as well. Get up and get moving. Evidence shows that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of breast cancer by as much as 10–20%. Physical activity— whether brisk walking, gardening, pickleball, yoga or other movement—helps with weight management by reducing body fat, inflammation and estrogen, all linked to breast cancer.
The American Cancer Society recommends 150 to 300 minutes of moderate physical activity or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous activity per week. Know your body and the symptoms. Be aware of how your breasts normally look and feel. While not all changes in the breast indicate cancer, possible symptoms include lumps, nipple changes or discharge, redness, swelling, skin dimpling or pain. Report any changes to your doctor, who may want to schedule an exam, mammogram, ultrasound or MRI. Screening guidelines for women at average risk for breast cancer include the option to start mammograms annually between 40 and 44. Annual exams should not be missed between ages 45 to 54. At 55 and older, women may choose to switch to having mammograms every other year. Balance your consumption.
diet
and
alcohol
Healthy food choices can reduce breast cancer risks. Vegetables, fruits, beans and whole grains should take up two-thirds of your plate at meals. The remaining third may be lean protein such as fish or poultry.
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Limit highly processed foods and added sugars. Women who have more than 2 or 3 servings daily of alcohol have a 20% higher risk of breast cancer than someone who doesn't drink. Limit yourself to one drink a day. Other ways to lower your risk. • Don't smoke. Tobacco use can increase breast cancer risk, especially in younger women who haven't gone through menopause. • Review birth control options. Hormonal forms of birth control, such as pills and some IUDs, are linked to slightly higher risks. Discuss risks and benefits with your gynecologist to make informed decisions. • Study HRT risks. Hormone therapy can also increase breast cancer risks. Again, talk with your doctor about options. • Breastfeed if possible. Breastfeeding has been shown to slightly lower risks. • Check toiletries. Chemicals with estrogenlike properties, such as cosmetics, lotions and hair products containing parabens, could affect risks.
Have questions about breast cancer? Contact the experts at Thibodaux Regional Cancer Institute at 985.493.4008.
Call us or visit our NEW website to make an appointment today:
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UNDER THE SCOPE | BY JOHN DOUCET
OUR MAN IN
ASHEVILLE, NC
Asheville is a good place for a roving reporter to rove for a few days. Tucked below the Blue Ridge Mountains in the western Carolinas, Asheville has a “colorful” history beyond just blue. Its historical claim to fame was its role as a health resort for the early 20th century’s rich and infirm--not necessarily one in the same but sometimes so. Mild temperatures and as much of the mysterious blue mountain haze as could be inhaled was the best hope for folks fighting respiratory illness in those days. Ironically, the city remains a vacation destination in the 21st century despite creepy tourist sites like historical homes and buildings where cracks and crevices in wooden walls and floors were once hiding places for tuberculosis and influenza germs. A rove around town reveals a whole book of Asheville’s backstories. Bouncing up and across rolling hills and intermittent valleys in a tour bus built before shock absorbers were invented, you’ll find along jungly roads and woodsy avenues such stories as the historical bungalow that has become the favorite vacation home of actress Sandra Bullock, the community theater where actor Charleton Heston earned his first paycheck, the old sanitorium where novelist and socialite Zelda Fitzgerald perished in a fire while trapped in Room 441, and the cemetery where “The Gift of the Magi” author O. Henry is buried together with a watch fob and a lock of hair. Along the way, you may encounter a young mountain bear searching for its mother on the bus route, at which moment you’ll learn even more about your tour bus--strong brakes and no safety belts. Upon recovery from the wildlife whiplash, you’ll find the vibrant Arts District, comprised of streets lined with repurposed historical store fronts now brightly painted with occasional paisleys, peace signs, and hippie-era murals. Down the street from the Va Va Voom Lingerie Shop and the apothecary carrying recently legalized pain and nausea extracts, you’ll find the “Moogseum,” which highlights achievements of American engineer Robert Moog and his companies who pioneered synthesizers and electronic music. You’ll find cooperative workspaces for rent called “Mojo Co-working,” named after the famous blues song “Got My Mojo Working” by Muddy Waters. Two streets down you’ll find a great bookstore called “Malaprops,” hilariously named after the habit of misusing words, as in Yogi Berra’s “It ain't the heat, it's the humility.” Down from Malaprops, you’ll find a gem store selling a 300 millionyear-old slab of slate with fossilized trilobites crawling across it on sale for just $13,000. But you’ll need to visit the trilobites and the other places before 6 pm. That’s when shops shut down and restaurant stoves fire up. The apothecary, not surprisingly, stays open very late.
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Beyond the hippie district, you’ll find an old, wooden home with a gabled roof and screen porch that looks like an historic Cajun cottage from the old neighborhoods of Houma and Thibodaux. But what you’ve actually found is the childhood home of great American novelist Thomas Wolfe, author of the acclaimed Look Homeward, Angel from 1929. In the autobiographical novel, the “angel” that Wolfe writes about is his childhood self, symbolized by the stone monument of a winged angel used by Wolfe’s father to advertise his masonry business. Angel’s notoriously enormous manuscript of over 1000 pages and 333,000 words even after infamous editing by Maxwell Perkins (also Hemingway’s and Scott Fitzgerald’s editor) retained 200 characters so closely based on townsfolk that Wolfe couldn’t return to the angered Asheville for nearly a decade. A man as large as his scripts, Wolfe’s hands were too large for typewriters, and so he wrote primarily by hand. He’s buried here, among tombs of now merciful people from the novel. Instead of flowers it’s tradition for visitors to leave pencils at the gravesite. Which I did. Wolfe’s childhood cottage home is not the only thing here that’ll remind you of PoV country. Asheville remains in recovery from September 2024’s Hurricane Helene. Only a remnant tropical system when it crossed the Carolinas, Helene was such a rainmaker that two major rivers, the French Broad and the Swannanoa, overflowed and flooded their valleys, causing landslides, downing bridges, and destroying thousands of homes and businesses. October 2025 28 povhouma.com
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Besides storm aftermath, other reminders of home include uptown’s Gourmet Chip Company with a “Cajun Flavor” bag featured prominently in the storefront window. Of course, this flavor is less onions, roux, and sausage and more the taste of the dried peppers Paul Prudhomme found leftover in his pantry one day in the 1970s. Perhaps the closest reminder of your PoV home is a New Orleans-style coffee shop serving beignets, which these Ashevillagers endearingly call “Cajun Doughnuts.” The shop is called “Bebettes,” after our French term of nearendearment, bébête. Edmund Grove lived here. He’s the inventor of “Groves Tasteless Chill Tonic,” a lemonflavored, anti-malarial tincture that at the turn of the 20th century outsold even CocaCola. Marketed as a cure-all for malnutrition, the product label depicted the head of a baby on the body of a pig with the slogan “Makes children and adults as fat as pigs.” Oh, how dietary marketing has changed over the century! I’m not certain that Grove’s will make you fat as a pig, but you know what might? Having the world’s best porkbelly ramen downtown at Itto Ramen and Japanese Tapas restaurant, followed by a chocolate syrup truffle espresso from the French Broad Chocolate Lounge on the next block. That espresso, Mr. Grove, is what I call “chill tonic.” And then, on the eastern horizon, are the iconic mountains. The Blue Ridge Mountains are not really blue but from a distance appear so. The Cherokee, who lived here for centuries, called the mountains "Shaconage," meaning "Land of the Blue Smoke.” One obvious explanation for this appearance is large clouds of second-hand smoke rising from the hippie district. However, what really causes the blanket of blue haze is release of isoprene and other volatile hydrocarbons from trees of the mountain forests. Isoprene interacts with the atmosphere, scattering blue light and thus appearing blue when viewed from a distance. For the oaks and poplars and spruces of the forests, releasing these hydrocarbons serves to protect their leaves from too much sun, especially on hot summer days--like those during my roves. Unfortunately, on hot summer days in Asheville, reporters also release volatile hydrocarbons, but not the kind that would cause one to appear blue. Maybe honte red, though. Sometimes, Yogi, it’s the heat as well as the humility. POV
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RENDEZVOUS | WHERE YOU NEED TO BE AROUND TOWN Arts Fest, a celebration that brings together artists, performers, and art lovers from all walks of life. This event is more than just a festival; it’s a testament to the creativity and cultures of our community. This year’s musical lineup for the event includes exciting musical favorites including Waylon Thibodeaux, the Canebreakers, Tyron Benoit, Cantina Flies, and Nonc Nu & da Wild Matous. LOUISIANA GUMBO FESTIVAL Oct. 10-12 | Chackbay Fairgrounds The 57th annual Louisiana Gumbo Festival will take place on October 11-12, 2025 at the Chackbay Fairgrounds. Founded as a fundraiser for the Chackbay Volunteer Fire Department, the festival attracts over 15,000 visitors each year. Volunteers cook an estimated 500 gallons of gumbo to serve to festivalgoers. Festival admission is free and the grounds are fenced in to add to the safety of its patrons. This year’s festival music line-up includes: Friday - Cliff Hillebran Band, PBR Plus, Category 6; Saturday - Freddie Rodrigue, Kerry Thibodaux Band, Todd O’Neil band, Good Feelin’, Chase Tyler, with special guest John Foster of American Idol; Sunday - Ryan Foret, Tet Dur, Ross Grisham. LA FÊTE DES VIEUX TEMPS Oct. 3-5 | Lafourche Pavillion, Raceland Called the "Festival of Old Times" this event features a celebration of music, dancing, Cajun food, and arts & crafts show. This long standing event is a local favorite and showcases the true authentic Cajun culture of Lafourche Parish. 5TH ANNUAL MAWMAW WALKER Oct. 4 | Downtown Courthouse Square, Houma Hosted by the Hache Grant Association in the name of downtown revitalization, the Maw Maw Walker encourages participants to wear their favorite mumu for an afternoon of fun! The event begins with Nonc Nu and da Wild Matous at 10 a.m. Judges will be perusing the crowd for a Best Dressed Maw Maw and Paw Paw. The traditional 5k pub crawl style event begins around noon. The walk itself is free for participants. The Walk will visit businesses, pubs and restaurants in downtown, helping to increase pedestrian commerce for the area. Once the Maw Maws and Paw Paws finish the route, the party returns to the Courthouse Square for a free concert on the bandstand with Dirty Water Blues. BAYOU ARTS FEST Oct. 11 | Downtown Houma Explore Houma and the Bayou Regional Arts Council are excited to present Bayou
BAYOU DULARGE CAJUN FAIR Oct. 10-12 | Knights of Columbus Home, Dularge The Bayou Dularge Knights of Columbus Cajun Fair will feature music, rides, games and food (po'boys, jambalaya, gumbo and more) on the Knights of Columbus grounds. Music line-up includes: Friday - Blake DeHart & Karoline Dehart; JP Bourgeois; Saturday - Pot 2 La, Caleb Lapeyrouse & the Drivers, Shorts in December; Sunday - Hwy. 315, Nonc Nu and Da Wild Matous. ROUGAROU FEST Oct. 17-19 | South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center and Barry P. Bonvillain Civic Center grounds The Rougarou welcomes all to attend this popular family-friendly festival to celebrate our culture and heritage at this three-day festival. The Rougarou Fest is a free festival with a spooky flair that celebrates the rich folklore that exists along the bayous of Southeast Louisiana. It showcases live music, cultural activities, children’s activities, Cajun food, the Krewe Ga Rou parade, and so much more. All proceeds go to the South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center, a nonprofit organization that is revolutionizing how we think, teach and learn about Louisiana’s disappearing coast. The Rougarou Queen will reign over the parade on Saturday.
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ACADIA MUSIC FEST Oct. 19 | Acadia Plantation, Thibodaux Acadia Music Fest is a one-day outdoor music festival taking place in Thibodaux! It is open for all ages with music throughout the day from local, national and international musicians. This year’s line-up includes T.I., John Morgan, the Allman Betts Band, Dumpstaphunk, DJ Spin, Snapper and the Fishsticks, Icarus Jones, Little John and the Dirty Clarks. The Fest will also feature local artists, delicious food, and a Kid’s Korner. FRENCH FOOD FESTIVAL Oct. 24-26 | Larose Civic Center Celebrating their 50th year, The French Food Festival offers delicious Cajun food and music, carnival, auction, art show, Cajun market, a petting zoo, and a variety of contests. Plan to come hungry with over 40 booths of food. Bring your dancing shoes to dance the night away with live music: Friday - Kerry Thibodaux Band, Snapper and the Fishsticks, Shorts in December; Saturday - Ryan Foret and the Foret Tradition, Junior Lacrosse, JP Bourgeois, Chase Tyler; Sunday - Waylon Thibodeaux, Benjamin Bruce & the Acadians. KREWE OF TERREANIANS FALL FESTIVAL Oct. 25 | Downtown Houma Join the Krewe of Terreanians and Blocktoberfest for their annual Downtown Houma Fall Festival. This event includes an arts & crafts show, cookoff, cruisin’ with classic cars display, and a $5,000 giveaway! Don’t forget to dress up in your best spooky costumes for trick or treating and a costume contest for kids. Live auction and music, great raffle prizes, and the best food and times to be had outside of Terreanians Sunday! Starting at noon, come enjoy the day with your favorite Mardi Gras krewe, eat all you can for only $10 a person, and help support local downtown businesses. BAYOU TERREBONNE COUNTRY FEST Oct. 25 | Bayou Terrebonne Distillery Get ready for a boot-stompin’, whiskey-sippin’, bull-ridin’ good time at our first ever Bayou Terrebonne Country Fest from 4-11 p.m. at the Distillery! The historic venue is being
transformed into a fullblown country celebration with live music all night on the outdoor deck, featuring: Caleb Lapeyrouse & The Drivers, Bending Willow Band, plus a special surprise country band you won’t want to miss! Enjoy BBQ on the Big Pit – smokin’ all afternoon with southern staples and distillery favorites and a full bar with handcrafted cocktails and local spirits. Take a spin on the mechanical bull inside the distillery – come see who can ride the longest. Get ready for country vibes, cold drinks, and good people – all right here on the bayou! SOUTHDOWN MARKETPLACE Nov. 1 | Southdown Plantation, Houma With more than 300 local and national vendors, the Artisan Craft Show has something for everyone. The show will feature unique and hand-made items including, jewelry, clothing, wood crafts, original art, garden items, seasonal items, and more. In addition, delicious foods and beverages will be available for purchase. Admission is $5 per person, with proceeds benefiting the non-profit Terrebonne Historical & Cultural Society and Southdown Plantation & Museum. BBQ AND BOURBON ON THE BAYOU FESTIVAL Nov. 1 | Warren J Harang Auditorium, Thibodaux Lafourche Arc is proud to present the 3rd Annual BBQ and Bourbon on the Bayou Festival! The smell of smokey barbeque and smooth tasty bourbon will appeal to all the senses. The BBQ, Bourbon, and Blues Festival will feature live music by Ryan Foret and the Foret Tradition, RKG, and Snapper and the Fishsticks. The festival will also include the Juke Joint Tent, where participants 21 and over may purchase a ticket to taste 30 different kinds of bourbon. General Admission tickets are $10; tickets to the Bourbon Juke Joint are $100. BIG BOY’S MAIN STREET COOK-OFF Nov. 7 | Downtown Thibodaux Experience a culinary showcase of Cajun cuisine at Big Boy's Main Street Cook-Off! Sample Louisiana-inspired dishes from over October 2025 31 povhouma.com
30 teams while enjoying live music. In addition, Goose burgers, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages will be sold by area bars and restaurants. Tickets will be sold online and a very limited amount of cash sale tickets will be available on event day at the entry gate. Tickets are $15 per person (kids 10 & under are free). All proceeds benefit Thibodaux Main Street. THIBODEAUXVILLE FALL FESTIVAL Nov. 8 | Downtown Thibodaux Explore beautiful, historic, downtown Thibodaux at Thibodeauxville! The award winning festival will feature three stages of live music, arts and crafts booths, a Cajun food court, a car show, and the infamous rubber duck race in Bayou Lafourche. Admission to the festival is free. MARKETPLACE ON THE RESERVATION Nov. 8 | H.L. Bourgeois High School The 7th Marketplace on the Reservation will be on Saturday, November 8th at the H. L. Bourgeois High School Reservation, starting at 9 a.m. The event features craft booths, a food/ drink court with various delicious foods and drinks, several HLB clubs and sports, public service organizations, live music, and live animals! Admission for event patrons is free! HOUMA MAC N’ CHEESE FESTIVAL Nov. 8 | Downtown Houma Excitement is in the air! Get ready to be part of something extraordinary at the first annual Houma Mac N’ Cheese Cook-Off & Festival benefiting Gulf Coast Social Services. It is going to be the cheesiest, most delicious day of the year! Enjoy $10 All-You-Can-Eat Mac & Cheese starting at 11 a.m., live music and arts & crafts. Every registration and ticket sale benefits Gulf Coast Social Services, helping empower people with mental, physical, and behavioral challenges to live independently and thrive in their communities.