february 22, 2018 volume 21, issue 1 · your brand and creating more visibility by attending our...

February 22, 2018 Volume 21, Issue 1

Thibodaux Chamber insighT/ Thursday, February 22, 2018 www.thibodauxchamber.com

Brooke's Sno World/B&Q Associates, LLCErrol Malborough424 St. Mary StreetThibodaux, Lousiana 70301(985) 665-6972Restaurants

A Pair of Ears TravelSunny Ockman313 College LaneThibodaux, Louisiana 70301(985) 859-8583Travel

South Coast Baby Co.Kelly Plair708 West 3rd StreetThibodaux, Louisiana 70301(601) 606-6513Retail

Five for the HomeLauren Sonier603 Jackson Street, Suite CThibodaux, Louisiana 70301(985) 665-1712Home Decor

Jimmy John's GourmetSandwichesNick Owens114-A Laura DriveThibodaux, Louisiana 70301(985) 492-9555Restaurants

The Learning BridgeCareer InstituteYoKesha Greene1340 West Tunnel BoulevardSuite 110Houma, Louisiana 70363(985) 262-4685Schools

Precision Appliances, LLCShannon Engelhart1444 Tiger Drive, Suite FThibodaux, Louisiana 70301(985) 278-6799Retail

DSLD HomesTanya Mooney1220 South Range AvenueDenham Springs, Louisiana 70726(844) 767-2713Construction

March 10MAX Charter School 10th

Annual Race for Their Future 5K Race Fest

Registration 8:00aPeltier Park, Thibodaux

March 107th Annual

Bayou Lafourche Cleanup 8:00a - 12:00p

(985) 447-0868

2 Thibodaux Chamber Insight | Thursday, February 22, 2018 | www.thibodauxchamber.com

JOINT CHAMBER LUNCHEON MARCH 27, 2018

FEATURING CONGRESSMAN GARRET GRAVES

Join us for an exciting luncheon, provided by the Houma-Terrebonne Chamber, Lafourche Chamber

and Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce.

Time:

11:30 am – 1:00 pm

____

Location: Cypress Columns in

Gray

____

Cost: $30.00 for members;

$40.00 for non-members

____

Reservations are required and due by March 22, 2018.

Contact your designated chamber for reservations.

____

Sponsors:

Post Surgical Rehab • Extremity Problems • Neck & Back PainTMJ & Headaches • Graston Technique • Dry Needling

Spinal Cord Injuries • Foot & Heel PainSports & Work Injuries • Automobile Injuries

Blake BarberaPT, DPT, CES

Chet SternfelsPT, DPT, OCS

Jason JonesPT, MS,

Dip. Osteopractic,Cert. SMT, Cert. DN

508 N. Acadia Thibodaux 448-5888Mon. 8-5, Tues. 6-6,Wed. 6-5 Thurs. 8-6, & Fri. 6-5

March 17BCA 6th Annual Building

Fundraiser Gala Warren J. Harang Jr. Auditorium

(985) 387-1101Silent Auction begins 6:00p

BOARD MEMBERS:Brandy Braud

Gaubert Oil Company

Crystal ChiassonFletcher Technical

Community College

Howell ChiassonCoastal Commerce Bank

Tommy EscheteCity of Thibodaux Mayor

Greg GaubertCarmel Inn & Suites

Donna GravoisJohn Deere Thibodaux, Inc.

Kayla HenningerAdvance Physical Therapy

& Rehabilitation, LLC

Sandy HollowayBESE Board and BCA

Lance LedetLancescaping, LLC

Terrolyn MitchellThe Cove at Legacy Point

Matt RoanNicholls State University

Danielle SteinThibodaux Main Street, Inc.

Rebecca ThibodauxSimply NonProfits

President and CEOTammy Ledet

[email protected]

Executive AssistantSarah Rodrigue

[email protected]

Membership AssistantRick Reso

[email protected]

Insight Managing EditorBen Jones Jr.

[email protected]

STAFF:

318 East Bayou RoadThibodaux, Louisiana 70302

(985) 446-1187Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm

If you are a member of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce and feel that you have a story or business-related story that would be of interest to our community, please let us know. If you are interested in becoming an advertiser in Chamber Insight, please contact Marian Long of the Daily Comet at (985) 857-2291. Anyone wishing to join the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce should call the Chamber of Commerce office for more information. Use Chamber Insight to promote your products and services. In addition to great advertising rates in Chamber Insight, members who wish to have their advertising flyers inserted into our mailing can continue to do so. Flyers are inserted into the Chamber Insight. A $100 fee assists in the mailing expenses. All flyers must be delivered to the Chamber of Commerce office by the second Monday of the month to be included in the next issue of Chamber Insight.

Contents 2 Welcome New Members

5 President's Perspective

6 City News

6 Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou

7 Thibodaux in Time

8 Nicholls News

11 Meet Member Ryan Perque

12 Cover Feature — Meet Your Chamber Board of Directors

14 Out and About with the Chamber

18 Member News

19 Management Matters

20 Health Affairs

22 Regional Focus

23 Election Forum

Insight is a publication of and produced by theDaily Comet for the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce.

LAYOUT AND DESIGN: Liz Arceneaux

The views and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the of-

ficial policies or positions of the Thibodaux Chamberof Commerce Board of Directors and Staff.

OFFICERS: Chairman of the Board Cody Blanchard White Car Marketing

Chair Elect Donald Barrilleaux First American Bank and Trust

Treasurer Napoleon Ortiz Thibodaux Regional Medical Center

Secretary Kassie Barrancotto Synergy Bank

Past Chair Marguerite Knight Morgan Stanley

On The Cover:The Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce 2018-2019 Board of Directors.

COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF JACOB JENNINGS

SPONSOR OF THE QUARTER:

www.thibodauxchamber.com | Thibodaux Chamber Insight | Thursday, February 22, 2018 3


A Very Special Thanks to all of our 2018 Banquet Sponsors

TAMMY LEDETChamber President/CEO

Joining the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce can certainly be an investment worth looking into, if you are not a member today. The benefits we have to offer will bring you opportunities to network with other local companies, while expanding your brand and creating more visibility by attending our quarterly breakfasts, luncheons, and business after hours. In addition, our lunch-n-learns bring to the table affordable expertise shared by other members on topics such as social media, business writing, accounting and more. This year we will be offering seven sessions, starting in March. Stay tuned for more details. Our Organizational Affairs and Governmental and Public Affairs committees are always looking for members to join and add their knowledge and talents to planning out events for the Chamber or advocating for our members on topics of interest to the community. Let us also not forget our Ambassadors! Do you know that a number of our board members today started as Ambassadors for the Chamber? Just to name a few, Donald Barrilleaux, Danielle Stein and Kassie Barrancotto are current board members that started as Ambassadors. In fact, Kassie oversees our Ambassador program today. Members that are looking to branch out and not sure how to do it, becoming an Ambassador can surely fill this gap for you. As leaders in the business community, Ambassadors find their volunteer experience rewarding by growing professionally and personally through relationship building within the community. They devote their time to help build member commitment and raise community awareness of the Chamber. They are truly the vital public relations arm of the Chamber. So if you are interested in becoming an Ambassador, please call the office today at 985-446-1187 to sign up. We would love to have you! We also have sponsorship opportunities available for our members to take advantage of. Let’s talk about our Quarterly Sponsorships. For $850 per quarter, members receive their name and logo as Sponsor of the Quarter on our website home page for the entire quarter, which includes a link to the Sponsor’s website. It is also announced throughout the quarter on the Chamber Gram email newsletter that is sent to over 625 members. Their name and logo as the Sponsor of the Quarter is also listed on the Contents page of the Chamber Insight for each month of the quarter. It also entitles our sponsor of the quarter to display their name and logo at the breakfast held during that time as well as the opportunity to present a short message about your business to the group. The benefits continue with the chance to also hand out materials at the quarterly luncheon and includes a page ad in Chamber Insight for each month of the quarter.

Other exciting sponsorships include Business after Hours and the best part about it, is that the Chamber staff handles most of the planning for you. For convenience, we select the venue and work with our local food service providers for you. The choices include a $1000 exclusive, or two shared at $500 each or a $500 and two $250 each or four at $250 each. So, if you are interested, please reach out to our office at 985-446-1187. In turn, you are able to provide your business promotional materials, and speak before the group in attendance, which is normally 50 – 75 people. Don’t wait as the calendar is filling up quite fast. Lastly, just wanted to also mention a special joint luncheon with Houma-Terrebonne and Lafourche Chamber to be held on Tuesday, March 27th at the Cypress Columns in Gray featuring Congressman Garret Graves. Please call the office or go online at www.thibodauxchamber.com to register. Tickets are $30 each. It is one you will not want to miss!

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TOMMY ESCHETECity of Thibodaux Mayor

As we drudge through the remainder of the Winter Season, at City Hall we are planning for another great summer of Recreational Programs. Whether it’s swimming, baseball, arts & crafts, or even our new Yoga program, Kevin Clement, and his crews are now preparing for a summer of fun and exciting programs for our youth and adults alike. I am always impressed with the energy and passion that our Parks and Recreations staff bring to our numerous summer programs. As you read this article, fields are being prepared and programs are being finalized. We also plan on taking applications for seasonal employment for recreation programs a little early this year, so visit the City’s website, www.ci.thibodaux.la.us, concerning news on this and other information concerning our summer programs. My Executive Assistant, Rhonda Dempster, has been intensely involved in the continued development of our Thibodaux Main Street Program. We will continue to support the efforts of this organization in its efforts to continue the revitalization of our precious historic resource; Downtown Thibodaux. The new Main Street Director, Danielle Stein is well on her way to finding her niche within the organization and infusing new ideas and energy into our community and the Bayou Region. It’s also great to see the completion of the renovations to East 7th Street. This will bring a close to the City’s 2017 Street Improvement Program. In 2018 we will see construction commence on the renovations to the Intersections of Canal Boulevard and East and West 7th Streets. In addition, after much discussion with LADOTD the State has placed the resurfacing of South Canal Boulevard on its bid list for June. It is our hope that this project will be completed prior to the end of 2018. Finally, as a result of our aggressive approach to capturing funds from the Houma-Thibodaux MPO, we have acquired funding for the resurfacing of Audubon Avenue in 2019 and will soon begin the process of applying for funding for the construction of a traffic circle at the intersections of North and South Acadia Roads and LA 648 (Percy Brown Road). In addition, we are continuing to plan for our future and how we can maintain and improve the community we all call home. With this in mind, we are actively investigating the development of planning strategies for two separate concepts. The first focuses on the re-development of the South Canal Boulevard Corridor. The planning will include a vision on how we should attract new commerce to this busy thoroughfare. Finally, in a cooperative effort with the Lorio Foundation we are exploring the possibility of creating a comprehensive beautification plan for our community. The vision will include concepts for the beautification of City streets and greenspaces including our numerous parks and of course the battures of Bayou Lafourche.Stay tuned for more news on how we keep Thibodaux the best kept secret in South Louisiana. The Ground Hog says we will have a late spring, let’s hope he’s mistaken!

Planning for OurFuture

TIMOTHY BUSHLouisiana’s Cajun Bayou, Lafourche Parish

In January, during the Louisiana Travel Association (LTA)—formerly the Louisiana Travel Promotion Association (LTPA)—annual meeting at the Doubletree by Hilton in Lafayette, Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou (LCB) was named CVB of the Year with a budget category of $500,000 to $999,000. “This is such an honor for our Board of Directors and our team,” said Timothy P. Bush, LCB President and CEO. “Last year was such a ground breaking year for our organization with the launch of the Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou brand, as well as commitment in sharing that brand story with visitors.” We are deeply humbled and honored to receive this award because it recognizes our community’s work in promoting tourism.” Along with the LCB rebranding, the organization worked in several different areas to improve the destination’s marketing efforts. LCB expanded its digital marketing presences, developed a new destination website, as well as implemented a public relations campaign to expose potential visitors to Lafourche Parish’s culture, food and outdoor experiences. LCB efforts resulted in a 260% increase in website traffic and a 160% increase in page views over the previous year. Visitors also showed a strong intent to visit by requesting or downloading over 1,500 visitor’s guides, a 146 % increase over 2016. The public relations campaign welcomed eight journalists to the area, who generated 23 regional and national stories on Lafourche Parish in media outlets such as USA Today, Travel Channel, Louisiana Road Trips and Southern Hospitality Magazine. This efforts resulted in $575,000 in earned media for Lafourche Parish. “We are very honored and appreciative that the Louisiana Travel Association chose Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou as CVB of the year for our budget category,” said CVB Board Chair Marguerite Knight Erwin. “This speaks to the wonderful work being done by Timothy and his team to continue building Lafourche Parish as a regional and national destination for visitors.” About Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou is the destination management organization dedicated to positioning Lafourche Parish as a regionally, nationally, and internationally recognized year-round tourist destination by developing quality marketing programs and events to attract visitors and stimulate economic development and growth. For more information visit our website at lacajunbayou.com.

Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Wins CVB of the Year Award


Billy W. Hillman Jr., MDGeneral Practice

426 HIGHWAY 308THIBODAUX, LA 70301PHONE: (985) 447-2628

HillmanfamilyC L I N I C

LafourcheMortgage& Loan inc.Clark J. Pellegrin

President

LOANS $300 and up

446-0427104 canaL BLvd.

PATTY WHITNEYBayou History Center, Inc. © 2018

I want to begin by thanking Ms. Nellie Labruza from Lockport, who cleared up a translation from my December article about Mr. Hobert Picou’s coffee stand which advertised that it served “… maïs tactic.” Ms. Labruza tells us that was popcorn! The mais was corn and though the ad used the term tactic, it should have been poc-toc, a common local Cajun French name for popcorn. Thanks to Ms. Labruza for her valuable help in this! Last month we shared Part 1 of a written Description and History of Thibodaux from the 1930s. This article will complete as Part 2 the history written as a project of the WPA at that time. Points of Interest. 1. THIBODAUX COURTHOUSE, Green St. fronting on Thibodaux Park, was built in1846, replacing the courthouse erected in 1820. Recently renovated, it is a large, two-story building of cream-white stucco, surrounded by a grass covered lawn. Projecting porticoes, on two sides, are supported by tall white fluted columns which rise from the ground to classic entablatures above. At the top of the building is a large central dome, supporting a flagpole, with smaller domes on each side. Doorways and windows of the building are large and nicely arched. 2. From the THIBODAUX POST OFFICE, a small brick building on Green Street, there was started as an experiment the first rural free delivery established by the United States government. Mail was delivered in the populous rural communities extending along the bayou, north to a point near Labadieville, and south as far as Lafourche Crossing. The first carrier on the route, E. E. Bouterie, served until two years ago, when he was retired on pension. 3. ST JOHN EPISCOPAL CHURCH, Jackson and Seventh Sts., was built in and has recently been renovated. Bishop Leonidas Polk, who lived two miles north of Thibodaux, often officiated here before the Civil War. Surrounded by a fine grove of old oaks, the building is notable for the extreme simplicity and dignity of its architecture. Behind the slightly pointed gable roof rises a graduated square tower, surmounted by a dome and a cross. The exterior of the church is of cream-colored brick, with contrasting white blinds and doors, the main entrance and flanking side windows being extremely tall and narrow. The most noteworthy feature on the old-fashioned interior is a beautiful blue glass memorial window above the altar. 4. ST JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, Canal Avenue and Eighth Sts., was erected in 1920 to replace the old St. Joseph Church which stood on the

outskirts of town. It is a large, impressive, red-brick building, its front sunken between square end towers. The three arched entrance doorways are separated by small columns, and there is a handsome rose window above. An extensive landscaped lawn surrounds the church. Two smaller church buildings, ST. JOSEPH HALL on the right and the PRESBYTERY on the left, which were erected at the same time and correspond in architecture, contribute greatly to the effectiveness of the whole. 5. THE PAVILION, glass enclosed, is built out over the bayou near the center of town, with the THIBODAUX PARK AND PLAYGROUND in front. Here on Sunday night are given community balls, reminiscent of the country Acadian neighborhood ball, though in this case a small admission fee is charged and bands from New Orleans and other cities play modern dance music. The whole family generally attends, with older people watching the dance from seats around the wall or sitting at ease in the park, where the cries of romping children mingle with the music of the band. 6. MT. CARMEL CONVENT, on the southern limits of town, was built in 1855. It is a large rambling wooden building, consisting of two stories and a raised brick basement. A portico juts out in front, supported by clusters of small white columns. Immediately above, the flat roof line is broken by a tiny, peaked gable, back of which rises a circular watch tower. 7. The site of the OLD ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH, which at the time of its erection in 1848 was reputed to be the finest in the State, is marked by the crumbling bell tower covered with Virginia creeper. Immediately in front, is the STATUE OF CHARLES M. MENARD, who served the parish for fifty-four years, and under whose supervision the church was built. One of the most beautiful features of the old church was the large oak grove in the back, with the trees forming long, natural aisles, where church processions were often held. Only a few of the old trees are left. At the extreme back of the grove is the SHRINE OF ST. ANNE. On top of a large green with graduated sides, there is a beautifully sculptured representation of Calvary, the figures in life size. Below is the shrine, where in a recessed niche is set a statue of St. Anne, with smaller statues on each side, and, facing them, stone benches for devotees. Annually, on the Feast of St. Anne, there is a procession to the shrine, each individual carrying a lighted candle, with devotional services conducted afterward by the priest. At the right of the grove, an iron gate leads into the CATHOLIC CEMETERY, a large, well-kept cemetery with wide, grassy aisles between the raised tombs. Many of the tombs bear dates very old an

names prominent in the life of the section. Here may be seen the graves of Edward Douglas White, father of Chief Justice White, his mother, and many other members of the White family; Dr. Pierre Rouanet; and Richard d’Alton Williams, the stone above Williams’ grave bearing an inscription to the effect that it was erected by men serving in Companies C and K, Eighth Regiment, of the New Hampshire Volunteers. In a mausoleum, surmounted by a small monument, are buried all of the Confederate soldiers killed in the Battle of Lafourche Crossing.”Cultural or Historical Calendar of Events • The Lafourche Heritage Society’s Genealogy Committee, headed by Ms. Mary Musso, meets in the upstairs Genealogy Room of the Thibodaux Library on the first Wednesday of each month from 9 a.m to noon to assist anyone with genealogy. All are welcome. • Thibodaux’s Table Francaise (Cercle Francophone) meets every Tuesday (except Mardi Gras and on federal holidays) at Jean Lafitte National Park, 314 St. Mary St., from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The group gathers to speak French and host activities. On Tuesday, February 20, 2018, there will be a presentation by Edgar Benoit regarding engineering projects significant to the lifestyle of Acadians, the expulsion and relocation to Louisiana. All are welcome. • On March 10, 2018 there will be a gathering of people interested in the history and genealogy of the Breaux, Hebert and Guidry families of this area at the Thibodaux Library. • Saturday March 10, 9 AM to Noon, at St. John’s Episcopal Church Parish Hall in Thibodaux, free Public Seminar on Live Oak Trees, sponsored by the LA Ag. Extension Service, with speaker Dave Leonard, arborist from Kentucky. If possible, please let St. John’s know – 985-447-2910, if you can attend. • On May 16-18, the Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation will have its annual meeting in Thibodaux. Info and sign up at www.lthp.org. • To celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the Thibodaux-Loudon Twinning Program, the members from Thibodaux will head to France to visit their friends in Loudon beginning April 5th. Congratulations to the association, the oldest continuously active twinning group in the state. • The Lafourche Heritage Society will hold

See HISTORY, page 18

Description and History of Thibodaux from the 1930s, Part 2


DR. JAY CLUNENicholls State University President

In my first semester as president of Nicholls State University, I’ve seen two Louisiana jazz legends and the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra perform on campus, cheered on the Nicholls men’s basketball team as they continue to have their most successful season in a decade and been floored by the impactful discussions happening on our campus during African-American History Month. Seeing our students and the Nicholls community so engaged is a validation that this is the best job in America. Speaking of our students... I’m proud to announce that our spring enrollment has grown for the third year in a row. Undergraduate enrollment is up by nearly 3.5 percent over the last two years, and our already popular nursing and business administration programs are growing each semester. You’ve all played a part in the positive enrollment trends taking place at Nicholls but I especially want to thank the folks in our Office of Academic Affairs and Office of Admissions. Even as our enrollment continues to improve, I think we can do more. I plan to work with our marketing team and recruiters to help us serve 10,000-12,000 students. One way that you can help us grow is through giving. This month we have two events where you can directly impact the lives of our students. The first is the Art Works Fundraiser at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 20 at Talbot Hall. This unique, on-campus event provides a first-hand look at the beautiful artwork created by our students. A $50 ticket allows you the opportunity to tour the art studios, use the pottery wheel, create a silk-screened print, learn about metal-pouring, blacksmithing and more. This program has awarded nearly $45,000 in scholarships over the past four years, funded more than 20 students exhibits and travel to workshops and helped pay for new studio equipment and technology. Another key aspect of this fundraiser is the silent auction, where you can bid on art created by our students and local artists. New this year is the ability to place a bid online. For tickets and more information, visit nicholls.edu/artworks. On March 27, we will host our first ever Give-N-Day. This day of giving will allow you to be able to donate directly to student organizations, academic departments and athletic teams. Allison and I are so excited about this event that we are one of the sponsors. We’re aiming to obtain more than 500 donations during the 24-hour event. That evening, when Nicholls baseball hosts Mississippi State, we will host a tailgate where Colonel supporters will be able to donate to their organization of choice. If you have ever held back on donating to this university because you weren’t sure of where your money was going to go, this is the event for you. The organizations will keep all of the money donated to them with the only stipulation that they spend the money on campus or student initiatives. For more information about what’s happening at Nicholls State University: Visit nicholls.edu as well as the Nicholls Facebook and Twitter pages.

From the Desk of the President

ews


Nicholls professor receives grant to study oil spill effects

A research team led by a Nicholls State University professor received more than $530,000 to study the lasting biological impacts of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The Gulf of Mexico Research Initiative distributed $50 million across 31 projects studying the effects of oil on the Gulf ’s ecosystem. Of the $50 million, $35 million was awarded to eight large research groups, while the remaining $15 million was given to 23 small team awards, including proposals from Brown University, Columbia University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Georgia Tech University. Dr. Sean Graham, assistant professor of biology, is the lead researcher of a team that received $533,491 in a small team award to study the long-term wetland impacts, recovery and resilience from

the largest oil spill in U.S. history. Dr. Graham will lead a team of researchers from institutions across the U.S., including Louisiana State University, the Virginia Institute of Marine Science, Atkins North America and Research Planning, Inc. “This research will synthesize data across multiple ecosystem components to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the factors that control the long-term sustainability of coastal wetlands impacted by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill,” Dr. Graham said. “Results from this research will inform current and future response, remediation and restoration decisions for oiled coastal wetlands by providing integrated information on the pace of oil-spill recovery. Nicholls remains a national leader in research that impacts the livelihoods of so many in the Bayou Region it serves.”

The Gulf of Mexico Research Initiative (GoMRI) is a 10-year independent research program established to study the effect, and the potential associated impact, of hydrocarbon releases on the environment and public health, as well as to develop improved spill mitigation, oil detection, characterization and remediation technologies.

Dr. Sean Graham

Nicholls Foundation, Culinary Institute partner to send supporters to France The Nicholls Foundation and the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute are hosting a trip to Europe to give Nicholls supports a first-hand look at one of the most unique culinary experiences across the globe. Visitors will travel to Paris, Normandy and Lyon with the Nicholls Foundation, following in the footsteps of top Nicholls culinary students who travel to Institute Paul Bocuse every summer to learn advanced culinary techniques. The Institut Paul Bocuse Worldwide

Alliance, founded by the celebrated French chef, unites 14 universities from across the world in the pursuit of top-notch culinary education. Nicholls’ Chef John Folse Culinary Institute is the only school in the United States involved in this partnership, and sends its top students to an intensive four-month training at the Institut Paul Bocuse in Ecully, France each year. Registration costs $3,890 and includes

See FRANCE, page 10


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six dinners, airfare, transfers, daily breakfast and more. Registrations are underway and final bookings for the trip will come at a later date. The group will leave the U.S. and head to France on April 18th and return on the 27th. While overseas, visitors will visit iconic locations such as Mont St. Michel, Chateau de Chenonceau, the beaches of Normandy and, of course, the Paul Bocuse Institute, while dining at world-renowned restaurants along the way. Chef John Kozar, the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute department head, will help guide the group on the tour. “In the time that I have worked with the Nicholls Foundation, I have had a number of people tell me how excited they are with the success of the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute and how

great it is that there is a partnership with the Paul Bocuse Institute,” said Jeremy Becker, director of the Nicholls Foundation. “This trip will serve as a way to build and strengthen relationships with our community and the Culinary Institute. We want the trip to also be gastronomical experience, and by having Chef Kozar join us, we plan to make that happen.” Registration costs $3,890 and includes six dinners, airfare, transfers, daily breakfast and more. Registrations are underway and final bookings for the trip will come at a later date.For more information and to register, visit Nicholls Foundation Trip to France Brochure or contact Jeremy Becker at 985-448-4406 or [email protected].

FRANCE | Con’t from Page 8Nicholls awards endowed professorships during University Convocation Nicholls State University awarded endowed professorships to five faculty members across various disciplines during spring University Convocation Friday, Jan. 19. Funded through generous private donations, professorships help Nicholls retain high-quality faculty by providing supplemental funds for teaching, research or other professional endeavors.This spring’s awards include: • The Mary M. Danos Endowed Professorship in Nursing: Dr. Travis “Pete” Lewis • The Candies 500 Endowed Professorship in Business: Dr. En Mao • The Harvey

Peltier, Sr. Endowed Professorship in Business Administration: Melanie Boudreaux • The John Brady, Jr. Endowed Professorship in Mass Communication:

Nicki Boudreaux • The Alfred N. Delahaye Endowed Professorship in Journalism: Dr. James Stewart

From left: Dr. Sue Westbrook, interim provost and vice president of academic affairs; Dr. En Mao, professor of com-puter information sciences; Melanie Boudreaux, instructor of management; Dr. Pete Lewis, professor of nursing; Dr. James Stewart, department head of mass communication; Nicki Boudreaux, instructor of mass communication; and Dr. Jay Clune, President of Nicholls State University.

Born on the Bayou: Meet Ryan Perque


BEN JONES, JR.Managing Editor

W Born and raised in Thibodaux, Ryan Perque has always loved the city on the bayou and all it has to offer. Ryan is a 2006 graduate of E. D. White Catholic High School as well as a 2010 graduate of Nicholls State University. “The sense of civic duty that so many residents of our community have is truly unique,” said Ryan. “I believe that the high quality of life in Thibodaux is directly attributed to community members willing to put in the necessary work in order to advance Thibodaux every day.” Ryan serves as the Executive Director of Friends of Bayou Lafourche, Inc. “Taking on this role with Friends of Bayou Lafourche was an easy decision. I am very grateful to have been afforded the chance to publicize and expand the opportunities of a natural resource that passes through three parishes over 106 miles. I see the bayou as a diamond in the rough that is often overlooked by tourists and even lifelong residents of the area. We have a real chance to develop the bayou into an economic, recreational, and scenic resource. Friends of Bayou Lafourche has a committed eight-person board of directors with diverse backgrounds and interests. They are a pleasure to work with and provide great support and guidance.” Every day is different as the Executive Director according to Ryan. “Each day brings on new challenges, which I really enjoy. My obligations range from doing outreach for the organization, project coordination, event planning, grant writing, and administrative duties.” As for projects and programs currently being worked on in the Thibodaux area, Friends of Bayou Lafourche is excited to have recently entered into an agreement with Nicholls State University in order to create a phased master plan design for the tract of land owned by the university along the bayou. Ryan is also working with Lafourche Parish Government on improvements to the Leighton Boat Launch. In addition to these projects, Ryan, and a group of dedicated volunteers, are hosting “St. Patrick’s Day on the Bayou”, an event that will consist of a series of 3 paddle races in Bayou Lafourche, food vendors, paddle related vendors, children’s activities vendors, and live music on Saturday, March 17th. Outside of work, Ryan spends most of his time fishing and boating with family and friends. His passion is being out on the water, which gives him the motivation to develop Bayou Lafourche as a recreational destination. When it comes to his membership in the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce, Ryan believes, “The resourcefulness of the staff and board is an immense help, especially for a relatively new organization such as Friends of Bayou Lafourche. Through previous employers, I have been involved with the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce for several years, and I believe that they play a pivotal role in uniting the businesses, government, and community leaders of Thibodaux.” As for three tips to be successful that Ryan would like to pass along to Chamber members, he stated, “Definitely get involved and take on a leadership role with as many organizations as you can responsibly commit yourself to. Also, follow and educate yourself on the happenings of local government. They have a significant impact on our daily lives so do not underestimate your voice. Finally, commit yourself to your career, but do not underestimate or take for granted the value of time with friends and family.”


Meet The 2018-2019 Thibodaux Chamber of CommerceBOARD OF DIRECTORS

Cody BlanchardCody Blanchard is the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce Chairman of the Board. He grew up in Pierre Part and has been a resident of Thibodaux since 2006. He graduated from Nicholls State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing with a Concentration in Professional Sales. He is also a graduate

of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program. Cody founded his company, White Car Marketing, in 2012. “Being a part of the Chamber of Commerce has allowed me to network with individuals who truly care about our community and are in the driving forces to ensuring our future growth. Aside from the volunteer rewards provided by the Chamber, the organization has also allowed me to grow professionally through the many experiences and connections I’ve been able to develop.”

Donald Barrilleaux, Jr.Donald is from Thibodaux and received a Bachelor’s Degree in General Studies from Nicholls State University. He is the Assistant Vice President of Lending at First American Bank & Trust and has been with the bank for the past 9 years. Donald serves as the Chair-Elect for the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce

Board of Directors. “Being on the Board is an honor that allows me to give back to the business community in which I serve.”

Napoleon ortizOriginally from New Orleans, Napoleon attended the University of New Orleans where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Management. He then went on to earn his Master of Business Administration in Health Care Management from the same university. He currently serves as the Director of

Facilities and Development for Thibodaux Regional Medical Center and has been with the company for the past 7 years. Napoleon serves as the Treasurer for the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. “I am honored to be a part of

an organization that can positively impact the community where I’m raising my family. I thoroughly enjoy seeing how committed businesses in the area are to be maintaining a high quality of life.”

Kassie BarrancottoKassie is a native of Vacherie and has earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing from Southeastern Louisiana University. Kassie is the Assistant Vice President of Synergy Bank and has been with the company for 5 years. She serves as the Secretary for the Thibodaux Chamber of

Commerce Board of Directors. “Being a Board Member allows me to have a network of business professionals and an outlet for community work.”

Marguerite Knight“The goal of any Chamber is to help further the interests of businesses in a local area. The activities that I enjoy the most with the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce are networking with other professionals, lobbing local, state, and national representatives on business issues, and charitable works for the

betterment of our community.”

Donna gravoisDonna was born and raised in Thibodaux. She is a Nicholls State University Alumni as well as an Ashford University Alumni. She is a Parts Business Manager with John Deere and has been with the company for 18 years. She serves on the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors as a

member as well as chairing the Organizational and Public Affairs Committee. “I enjoy being a member because every time we meet I see the passion everyone has to drive success for our local businesses. The networking opportunities are also abundant and loads of fun.”

Howell chiassonHowell is a lifelong resident of Thibodaux. He attended Thibodaux High School and then graduated from Nicholls State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance. He currently serves as the Vice President and Branch Manager of Coastal Commerce Bank. He has been with

the company for over 2 years. Howell is a Board Member for the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce and is this year’s Thibodeauxville Chairman. “Being able to represent the company I work for and all of the businesses in the local community is what being a Chamber Board Member is all about. It’s my way of giving back and servicing the business community. Being a voice for local businesses on issues that affect the local area such as regulations, taxes, coastal restoration, etc. are important to me.”

Mayor tommy escheteTommy was born and raised in Thibodaux and attended Edward Douglas White Catholic High School then moving on to Nicholls State University where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration in 1980. He is the Mayor of Thibodaux and has been

a part of the municipal government for 32 years, serving as a Council Administration for 25 years. He serves the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors as an Ex-Officio Board Member. “Being a part of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors gives me an opportunity to partner directly with the Chamber and the business members it serves.”

Matt roanMatt comes to Thibodaux by way of Dublin, Virginia. He received his Bachelor’s Degree from Southern Utah University and his Juris Doctor Degree from the University of Kentucky College of Law. Matt is the Director of Athletics at Nicholls State University and has been with the University for

the past 16 months. “As a relative newcomer to the community, The Chamber is a great way to network and learn about the thriving business community we maintain. As a representative of Nicholls State University, it’s a great way to further strengthen the synergy between campus and local commerce leaders. This is an ideal community filled with great people and it’s my pleasure to serve as a Board Member for the Chamber.”

Sandy hollowaySandy is from Thibodaux and holds a Master’s in Education +30. She is the Executive Director of the Bayou Community Academy Charter School and has been with the school for the past 8 years. She currently serves on the Government and Public Affairs Committee and on the Thibodaux

Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. “Being a part of the Board means serving above self in our community, making bold decisions for the betterment of our city and economic development, and building relationships with members for a brighter future for families.”

Lance ledetLance is a native of Thibodaux and graduated from Edward Douglas White Catholic High School in 2007. He then attended Nicholls State University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in 2011. He is the Owner of Lancescaping, LLC and has had his own company for the

past 7 years. Lance said that he enjoys developing business relationships throughout our community and getting to meet so many people who are just as determined to keep Thibodaux and our surrounding communities thriving as he is. “Being a member allows me to advertise my company through so many events that they hold throughout the year. Serving on the Chamber Board has taught me so much about the inner workings of our community and that we all strive for the best for our community.”

Greg louis gauBertGreg is from New Orleans and graduated from Brother Martin High School in 1982 then attending Louisiana State University where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business in 1985. Greg is a Managing

Partner with the Carmel Inn & Suites in Thibodaux since 2005 as well as a Real Estate Agent with Century 21 since 2017. Greg serves as a Board Member on the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors as well as being a member of the Thibodeauxville Committee. “The importance of keeping a solid business network and helping the community bring self-satisfaction means the most to me when being a part of the Chamber Board.”

Crystal d. chiassonCrystal hails from Napoleonville and has a Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies as well as a Minor Business Associate of Office Administration. She is a Certified Workforce Developer for the Workforce Solutions Division of Fletcher Technical Community College. She has been with the college for the

past 5 years. Crystal serves on the Governmental and Public Affairs Committee as well as a member of the board. “I serve to support the community and to support our small businesses. My dad had a small business and it’s important to have support from the chambers and the community. The small businesses are the backbone of our community and the people that we see at all of our events. I believe that the Chamber’s should work with both large and small business but we must focus on doing business locally and with our locally owned business and the people (our family and friends) that work so hard every day at those businesses to make ends meet and to make life better for our families and our community. When you stop doing business with the smaller companies, people lose jobs and businesses close one by one – we need our small businesses. We must never lose focus of our small businesses in Lafourche Parish and what they do for us!”

Kayla henningerKayla was born and raised in Thibodaux. She graduated from Thibodaux High School in 2005 and is the Office Manager for Advance Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, LLC. She has been with the company for 12 years. Kayla currently serves on the Thibodeauxville Committee

and the Organizational Affairs Committee with the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. “Being a Thibodaux Chamber Board Member has helped me build relationships with the business community as well as the community in general. Not only does being a Board Member help me advertise my workplace, but it has also allowed me to learn so much more about our community.”

Tammy Ledet, the President and CEO of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce, would like to thank each board member for their time, talent, dedication, and guidance in serving on the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.See BOARD, page 23

12 Thibodaux Chamber Insight | Thursday, February 22, 2018 | www.thibodauxchamber.com www.thibodauxchamber.com | Thibodaux Chamber Insight | Thursday, February 22, 2018 13

Pictured Is Greg Stock accepting the award for the 2017 Business of the Year, The Wellness Center of Thibodaux Regional. Greg is presented the award by Tammy Ledet, President of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce, and Cody Blanchard, Chair of the Board of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce.

Pictured is Neal Swanner accepting the 2017 Frank Kennedy Citizen of the Year award. Neal is presented the award by Tammy Ledet, President of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce, and Cody Blanchard, Chair of the Board of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce.

Pictured is Ellis Larose accepting his award as the 2017 C. Lindy Hoffman and Mary Ann Delaune Hoffman Music’s Unsung Hero. Ellis is presented the award by Tammy Ledet, President of the Thibodaux Chamber of Com-merce, and Cody Blanchard, Chair of the Board of the Thibodaux Cham-ber of Commerce.

Pictured is Donald Barrilleaux accepting the award for the 2017 Member of the Year, First American Bank and Trust. Donald is presented the award by Tammy Ledet, President of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce, and Cody Blanchard, Chair of the Board of the Thibodaux Chamber of Com-merce.


Pictured is Ethan Naquin, the recipient of the 2017 Teenager of the Year Award, with his family at the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet held in January 2018.

Pictured are Jerry and Susan Ledet (Left) with Kassie and Demian Barrancotto (Right), all representing Synergy Bank at the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet.

Pictured is Ethan Naquin accepting his award as the 2017 Teenager of the Year. Ethan is presented the award by Tammy Ledet, President of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce, and Cody Blanchard, Chair of the Board of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce.

Pictured is Donna Gravois accepting the 2017 Chairman’s Award. Donna is presented the award by Tammy Ledet, President of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce, and Cody Blanchard, Chair of the Board of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce.

Pictured is Danielle Stein accepting the 2017 Ambassador of the Year Award. Danielle is presented the award by Tammy Ledet, President of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce, and Cody Blanchard, Chair of the Board of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce.

Pictured is Lance Ledet accepting the 2017 Young Professional of the Year Award. Lance is presented the award by Tammy Ledet, President of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce, and Cody Blanchard, Chair of the Board of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce.


Royalty Aromas celebrated a ribbon cutting ceremony at their new location at 1602 Canal Boulevard in Thibodaux.

Pictured are Lee Cortez, OrthoLA; Andree Cortez, T. Baker Smith; Danny Cavell, Morvant & Cavell, and Belinda Cavell, E. D. White Catholic High School.

Pictured are members of Nicholls State University who joined the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Banquet held at the Warren J. Harang Municipal Auditorium in Janu-ary.

Pictured are Tammy Ledet, President of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce; along with Mayor Tommy Eschete and Sheri Eschete, Oschner Health System.

Pictured are members of the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce who attended the Annual Banquet held at the Warren J. Harang Municipal Auditorium in January.

Pictured are Ben Borne, Synergy Bank; Charlotte Smith, Edward Douglas White Catholic High School; Tim Robichaux, Edward Douglas White Catholic High School, and Belinda Cavell, Edward Douglas White Catholic High School.

Pictured are Ben Jones Jr, Jones Insurance Services and Fathom Media | What Now Maga-zine; Annette Fontana, Clerk of Court, and Angel Eschete, Jones Insurance Services.



Pictured from right: Neal Swanner, Bubba’s II PoBoys and the Norman Swanner Founda-tion; Linda Dufrene and friends.

Pictured are Doug and Nancy Toups, eLearning.

Pictured are Marguerite Knight, Morgan Stanley; Lance Ledet, Lancescaping, LLC, and Esmeralda Amos, Thibodaux Regional Medical Center.

Pictured are Jeff Lindley and Sara Lindley, Brush.

Pictured are Neal Swanner, Bubba’s II PoBoys and the Norman Swanner Foundation, and Douglass Swanner.

Attendees at the Chamber’s Annual Banquet gather with Jennifer Hale who was the Emcee for the evening.


Sixth Annual BCA BuildingFundraiser Gala Bayou Community Academy will host its sixth annual Building Fund Gala on Saturday, March 17th at the Warren J. Harang Jr. Municipal Auditorium. Tickets are available to purchase at BCA located at 800 East 7th Street in Thibodaux. The $25.00 ticket includes entry to the event, food tastings, beverages, and music entertainment. The night will also feature a silent auction. Auction bidding will begin at

6 p.m. and conclude at approximately 8:45 p.m. This event is open to the public. All guests must be 21 years or older to attend. For more information regarding the silent auction, please contact our Silent Auction Chairman, Ashley Barrios (985) 688-5094 For more information, please contact BCA Director, Sandy Holloway (985) 387-1101

10th Annual Race For Their Future 5K Race Fest MAX Charter School, committed to meeting the unique educational needs of children with dyslexia and other language-related differences throughout the Bayou Region, will hold its 10th Annual “Race for Their Future” 5K Race Fest on Saturday, March 10, 2018, at Peltier Park in Thibodaux. Race participants can register online at http://maxcharterschool5k.itsyourrace.com or call 985-227-9500 or email [email protected]. Race Day Registration begins at 8:00 A.M. The 1 Mile Fun Run begins at 8:30 A.M., and the 5K Run/Walk begins at

9:00 A.M. The cost is $25 if received by February 20 (T-shirt included), $30 between February 21 through Race Day (no T-shirt), and $10 by February 20 for a T-shirt only. The event includes food, drinks, games, bounce houses, live music, a silent auction, a Cajun Cook-Off and lots more. Raffle Tickets can be purchased for $5.00. The Grand Prize is a Family Disney Vacation valued at $5,000. 2nd Prize is a Carnival Cruise Vacation valued at $1,000. 3rd Prize is a Beau Rivage Getaway valued at $500. Winner need not be present to win. Sponsorships are available.

BTNEP Gearing Up for 2018 Bayou Lafourche Clean Up Event The Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program (BTNEP) is getting ready for its 7th Annual 2018 Bayou Lafourche Cleanup on March 10, 2018. The clean up event will be held from 8am-12pm and is projected to clean up 106 miles of the bayou from Donaldsonville to Leeville. The cleanup will be done mostly from boats, but volunteers will also be needed to clean in areas around bridges and along the bayou side. BTNEP is in need of volunteers to be part of the cleanup efforts, as well as, site captains to head areas along the bayou.

The purpose of the cleanup is to raise awareness about marine debris and clean the body of water that provides the drinking water for our area. Anyone wishing to sign up to volunteer for the March 10 event can register online at https://form.jotform.com/80085599208162 or contact Alma Robichaux at [email protected] or 985-447-0868. BTNEP is one of the 28 national estuary programs in the United States. Louisiana. For more information on BTNEP, visit our website page at www.btnep.org or like us on Facebook.

Registration Open for BTNEP's 17th Annual Paddle Bayou Lafourche Registration is now open for the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program (BTNEP) 2018 Paddle Bayou Lafourche event. BTNEP wants to invite residents and visitors from all over the country to travel down the waters of Bayou Lafourche and learn about the culture and heritage that goes along with it. The 52-mile, four-day paddling trip down the bayou begins Thursday, April 5, in Donaldsonville, and ends in Lockport on Sunday, April 8. Paddlers can participate from one day to all four days of the trip. They will be treated not only to scenic natural vistas, but also to a fascinating backyard view of the bayou from the water’s perspective while enjoying camaraderie, food, music, and fun. Paddlers will get a firsthand look at the restoration work being conducted along the bayou, along with a taste of local cuisine, and entertainment every night in a campsite setting. Participants will

also receive a souvenir t-shirt, water, and healthy snacks throughout the day. Canoe rentals are available in a limited supply. The trip cost is $50.00 per day, or $175.00 for all four days without a canoe rental. The cost for paddlers renting a canoe is $70.00 per day, or $250.00 for all four days. Preregistration is required. Local residents not wanting to paddle can also join in the experience by supporting the event from the banks of Bayou Lafourche. Locals are invited to decorate their bayou side and provide signs of encouragement and welcome to our bayou visitors. In the

past, visitors have been greeted with local music and cheers as the paddlers coasted down the bayou. BTNEP started Paddle Bayou Lafourche as an innovative approach to educate residents and visitors about the culture and ecology of Bayou Lafourche, as well as the coastal restoration needs of the area and potential solutions. Paddlers can register by completing the registration form at w w w . B T N E P . o r g , call 985-447-0868 or email Kristy Monier at [email protected] for registration instructions. Please visit the website for more information.

HISTORY | Con’t from page 7

its Annual Meeting at the end of April. Date to be announced. Membership Drive is currently underway. Their Annual Genealogy & History Seminar will be held in August with the date to be announced. • The Terrebonne Genealogical Society, which covers this area, meets on the last Saturday of each month except November and December, at 1 pm at the Main Branch Library in

Houma. All are welcome. • On Saturday October 20, St. John’s Episcopal Church in Thibodaux, with the Lafourche Heritage Society, is sponsoring a seminar on preserving historic cemeteries in rural and small town Louisiana. There will be a small charge, probably $10. There will be several speakers and a tour of the historic cemetery. Details later.


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JENNIFER LEDETLedet Management

Your “to do” list is likely as long as your arm. And the last thing you want or need is me giving you more stuff to add to your list. BUT, I also know that you are always looking for ways to be a more effective leader. Having learned lots of lessons the hard way, (meaning I have blown it numerous times), and having studied successful leaders for many years, I have come up with some simple steps that you can take to get you there one day at a time. Becoming an effective leader is a process that can be learned through disciplined actions. The old adage, while kind of gross, holds true: The best way to eat an elephant is one day at a time! You can become a more effective, respected, and successful leader by taking a few simple steps every day. The key, of course, is consistency. Here are my suggestions: 1. Read materials related to professional development, industry trends/issues, or other business-related topics. Consume this material from books, industry/trade journals, respected newsletters, magazines, podcasts, videos, etc. Become a lifelong learner. 2. Review goals for your department/division/organization, plan steps that will get you there, identify and make course corrections as necessary. Keep in mind the big picture – the vision – for your organization, and plan and share how you will achieve those goals. 3. Chat with each team member briefly about something unrelated to work.

Connecting with people about their families, hobbies, and/or interests creates an environment where they feel that you care about them, and is vital in developing employee engagement. The key here is to always be sincere and authentic. 4. Ask more. Talk less. Ask open-ended questions that cannot be answered with a one-or-two-word response, but require the person to provide more information. Of course, after asking a question, shut your trap and listen to the answer! (Yes, I’m talking to you.) 5. Touch base with team members on their progress. Show interest in their work, their projects, and development. Provide ongoing feedback so that when it’s performance appraisal time, there are no surprises. 6. Thank, acknowledge, and/or recognize at least three people for their contributions each day. It takes a nanosecond, but the effects of gratitude can have long-lasting impact. 7. Reflect at the end of each day, noting the things that you did well, what could have gone better, and lessons learned. Learn something every day or else you may find yourself repeating the same mistakes over and over again. There. That’s it. No complicated formulas, no intricate processes, no advanced degrees. Consistency and discipline are key. A few simple steps every day, and before you know it, you’ll have that elephant digested, er, I mean, you’ll be an effective, respected, and successful leader.

7 Steps To Be a More Effective Leader


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DR. KYLE COLEMANAcadia Dermatology

Moles are associated with melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Melanoma can also form in hidden places such as the eye, mouth or underneath a fingernail. Although the exact cause isn't clear, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or tanning beds increases your risk of developing melanoma. The risk of melanoma seems to be increasing in people under 40, especially women. Knowing what to look for can help ensure that cancerous changes are detected and treated before the cancer has spread. Melanoma can be treated successfully if it is detected early. When questioning the need to have a mole evaluated, keep this in mind. "Change" is the important word. Any change in size, shape, color, persistent itching, ulceration or bleeding constitutes a change. These changes or "warning signs" are commonly described as the ABCDE's: A-Asymmetry: if you cut the mole in half, the two sides of the mole do not match. B-Border: the border or edges of the mole are ragged, blurred or irregular. C-Color: the mole has a variety of shades and colors. D-Diameter: the diameter of the mole is larger than 1/4 inch, the size of a pencil eraser. E-Evolving: any change in size, shape, or color. As a melanoma develops, the asymmetry, irregularity, and other changes are

recognized more easily. Our goal is to find the melanoma in its early stage when it can be cured by a simple excision. Some individuals are at higher risk for developing melanoma, having one or more of the following risk factors: 1) A large number of moles: having more than 50 moles on your body increases your risk 2) Fair skin. Having less pigment in your skin means you have less protection from damaging UV radiation. If you have blond or red hair, light-colored eyes, and freckle or sunburn easily, you're more likely to develop melanoma than is someone with a darker complexion. But melanoma can develop in people with darker complexions, including Hispanics and blacks. 3) A history of sunburn. One or more severe, blistering sunburns can increase your risk of melanoma. 4) A family history of melanoma. If a close relative — such as a parent, child or sibling — has had melanoma, you have a greater chance of developing a melanoma, too. Your dermatologist can determine if a mole is dangerous. Removal of a mole is painless and simple. And most importantly, the early removal of a dangerous mole can save your life.

Should I have this mole checked?

SHAYNE HIGGINBOTHAM, PTADaigle, Himel, Daigle Phyical Therapy and Hand Center

Trigger points or muscle “knots” are sensitive spots in soft tissue, and too many of them in one area is termed “myofascial pain syndrome.” The term trigger point was coined in 1942 by Dr. Janet Travell to describe painful lumps or nodules felt within tight bands of muscle. Trigger points all seem to have the following characteristics: • Pain, often exquisite, is present at a discrete pain. • A nodule is embedded within a taut band in the muscle. • Pressure reproduces the pain symptoms with radiations in a specific and reproducible distribution. • Pain cannot be explained by findings from neurological examination. Trigger points may arise from many different reasons; some of the most common factors to be aware of are: • Head-forward posture • Round shoulders • Head to one side- telephone posture • Slouched standing • Slouched sitting • Crossed-legged sitting • Driving positions • Scoliosis • Lifting/carrying • TMJ syndrome • Whiplash • Repetitive activity or sport • Chronic vitamin and/or mineral deficiency • Iron deficiency and hypothyroidism • Medication induced One of the most important features of trigger points is that they may be embedded in the muscles remotely from where the pain is felt. A trigger point makes its host muscle shorter and fatter and reduces its efficiency: this can lead to pressure on nerves and blood vessels. Trigger point physical characteristic: • Small nodules the size of a pinhead • Pea-sized nodules • Large lumps • Several large lumps next to each other • Tender spots embedded in taut bands of semi-hard muscles that feels like a cord • Rope-like bands lying next to each other like partially cooked spaghetti • Skin over a trigger point slightly warmer than the surrounding skin What is trigger point therapy? Trigger point therapy covers a range of techniques aimed to deactivating these painful knots. Many approaches are practical and “hands-on”; they can be performed at home with a partner or on your own with trigger point “tools.” Combined with some simple lifestyle changes, trigger point therapy can yield dramatic, immediate, and sustainable results. The goals of therapy are simple: • To identify the correct trigger point(s) • To pinpoint how or why they manifested • To use appropriate techniques to deactivate the points(s) • To develop strategies to prevent them returning Daigle-Himel-Daigle Physical Therapy and Hand Center has multiple techniques to treat trigger points, such as Soft Tissue Mobilization, Myofascial Release, Strain Counterstrain, Graston, Cupping, and Functional Dry Needling

(FDN). These hands-On techniques are performed in the clinic daily with excellent outcomes with our patients. • Myofascial Release is a safe and very effective hands-on technique that involves applying gentle sustained pressure into the Myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion. • Soft tissue mobilization is the therapeutic manipulation of connective tissue, including muscle, fascia, tendons, and ligaments, for mechanical and physiological effects on blood flow, temperature, metabolism, and autonomic reflex activity. • Strain and Counterstrain is a manual therapy technique, meaning the clinician uses only their hands, to treat muscle and joint pain and dysfunction. It uses passive body positioning of spasmed muscles and dysfunctional joints toward positions of comfort or tissue ease that compress or shorten the offending structure. • The Graston Technique is a form of manual therapy known as soft-tissue instrument-assisted mobilization. It is one of a number of manual therapy approaches that uses instruments with a specialized form of massage/scraping the skin gently. • Cupping therapy is an ancient form of alternative medicine in which a therapist puts special cups on your skin for a few minutes to create suction. People get it for many purposes, including to help with pain, inflammation, blood flow, relaxation and well-being, and as a type of deep-tissue massage. • Dry needling is a skilled intervention that uses a thin filiform needle to penetrate the skin and stimulate underlying myofascial trigger points, muscular, and connective tissues for the management of neuromusculoskeletal pain and movement impairments. Dry needling (DN) is a technique used to treat dysfunctions in skeletal muscle, fascia, and connective tissue, and, diminish persistent peripheral nociceptive input, and reduce or restore impairments of body structure and function leading to improved activity and participation. Shayne Higginbotham, PTA is a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant at Daigle Himel Daigle Physical Therapy and Hand Center.


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WENDELL A. CUROLESouth Lafourche Levee District

In 2005 Louisiana experienced flooding of its southeast coast by Hurricane Katrina, and its southwest coast by Hurricane Rita. And of course we experienced the subsequent storms effects from Gustav, Ike, Isaac, and the others. This past season Harvey’s landfall flooding at Aransas Pass, Texas with its tremendous rains falling in southeastern Texas and parts of southwestern Louisiana reminds us of our vulnerabilities. Over a 12 foot surge near Aransas Pass, and over 50 inches of rain occurred in a three day period in areas in and around Houston. Some areas had 24 inches in the first 24 hours. Hurricane Harvey could have hit southeast Louisiana with similar effects. A similar surge in south Lafourche would have been a challenge only in the Larose area where the lowest part of the South Lafourche Levee system is 10.5 feet in some areas. The installation of Hesco baskets in that location would keep the surge out. Dealing with 50 inches of rainfall in three days would have flooded much of the interior of the flood protection system. The pump capacity for the protected area is five inches in 24 hours. After three days the pumps could have removed only 15 of the

50 inches of rain water, leaving 35 inches falling and remaining in the levee system for the third day. Water could cover 70% of the surface to approximately a +2 foot elevation. Possibly 10% to 20% of homes and businesses may have flooded. But keeping the 12.5 foot surge out would have kept 80% of the homes and businesses dry. Homes on ground levels at 10 feet or less, with no surge protection, would have a great possibility of flooding from the storm surge. Our entire region, including the New Orleans area, would also have struggled with the 50 inches of rain in three days. The post-Katrina flood protection system would have easily protected against the

12.5 foot storm surge limiting flooding to rainfall drainage areas. We live on a subsiding delta and have to deal with all the hazards from a hurricane. Those hazards are storm surge, rainfall, hurricane winds, and tornadoes spawned by hurricanes. In most cases it takes large scale projects to keep the Gulf of Mexico out of our homes. We need complimentary systems to deal with rainfall inside of our flood protection systems. But for communities in coastal parishes, storm surge will always be the greatest threat because we measure rainfall in inches and storm surge in feet. To continue to exist, communities in coastal parishes cannot be passive. We must continue, at all times, to focus on the flood threat. Failing to be proactive will leave more communities as defenseless as Leeville.


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Brandy BraudBrandy was born and raised in Thibodaux, graduating from Thibodaux High School in 2000 and receiving her Bachelor’s Degree in Management from Nicholls State University in 2003. She then moved on to earn her Master of Business Administration from the university in 2005. Brandy is the Human Resources Manager for Gaubert Oil Co. and has been with the company for the past 4 years. She serves as a Board

Member for the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. “Being a Board member gives me a great opportunity to represent the oil and gas industry in the community.”

Terrolyn MitchellTerrolyn is from Raceland and attended Central Lafourche High School. After graduation she attended Southern University and then Nicholls State University. She is also a 2017 Leadership Lafourche graduate. Terrolyn is the Owner/Event Architect of The Cove at Legacy Point Event Venue where she has been hard at work the past 5 months. She serves as a Board Member for the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce.

“Being new to the Thibodaux business community, being a member of the Board has given me a new tribe. We are a group moving in the same direction of success for our entire community. It opens my eyes and creates relationships that are proving to be dear to my heart. As a Board Member, I have the opportunity to be very involved in the community and learn more about businesses and how to best support them. I look forward to the rest of my term to serve and to be as influential as possible. One love, One community.”

Danielle SteinDanielle is from Baton Rouge where she graduated from Woodlawn High School in 1998. She moved to Thibodaux to attend Nicholls State University where she graduated in 2003 with a degree in Family and Consumer Sciences – Child, Family, Social Services. Danielle serves as the Executive Director for Thibodaux Main Street, Inc. and has been in the role for one month. She is currently serving as a member of the

Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. “Being a member of the Board allows me the opportunity to get involved with our local community and network with other professionals. These benefits are invaluable professionally as well as personally.”

ReBecca thiBodauxBorn and raised in Thibodaux, Rebecca attended Central Lafourche High School and then moved on to Nicholls State University to receive her Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication with a concentration in Public Relations. She also earned a Certificate in Non-Profit Management from Louisiana State University. Rebecca is the Owner of Simply Nonprofits and has been with the company for 4 years. She serves as a

Board Member for the Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. “Being a Chamber Board Member allows me the opportunity to give back to the business community, network with other small businesses, and learn more about business through various educational opportunities.”

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