CONTENTS P O R T S TA F F chief executive officer Paul Matthews chief operating officer Brian Cox chief commercial officer Julia Fisher chief project/planning officer
Dale Hymel, Jr.
chief government relations officer
Roy Quezaire
director of human resources
Tamara Kennedy
director of finance Grant Faucheux director of administration
Vickie Lewis-Clark
special projects officer Joel T. Chaisson
port of south louisiana P.O. Box AE Reserve, LA 70084 www.portsl.com Phone: (985) 652-9278 | Fax: (504) 568-6270 port of south louisiana executive regional airport Phone: (985) 652-9278 ext 8512 a s s o c i at e d t e r m i n a l s Phone: (985) 233-8545
G lobal pl ex's general carg o 's new Kon e cranes i n act i on .
The Port of South Louisiana is a member of the Ports Association of Louisiana. To become an associate member of PAL and to help further the maritime industry in Louisiana, please visit PAL’s website at www.portsoflouisiana.org or call the PAL office at (225) 334-9040.
PUBLISHED BY RENAISSANCE PUBLISHING LLC
4
director ’ s log
7
overview
8
editor
partner profile Marathon Petroleum's commitment to the community.
art director production manager production designer contributors
10
airport A new Master Plan lays out the growth of Executive Regional Airport.
13
what ' s new Introducing Paul Matthews, the Port's new CEO.
17
20
2
what ' s new Supporting infrastructural improvements in the Port's tri-parish district. around the port A look at Carnival traditions in the River Region.
24
port raits
28
port owned facilities
30
port map
32
final frame
SPRING 2022 | PORT OF SOUTH LOUISIANA
Topher Danial Ali Sullivan Rosa Balaguer Meghan Rooney William Kalec Misty Milioto
To advertise call Meghan Sumrall at (504) 830-7246 or email Meghan@myneworleans.com. 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Ste. 123, Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 828-1380 • www.myneworleans.com Copyright 2022 The Port Log, Port of South Louisiana, and Renaissance Publishing LLC. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Port of South Louisiana, Post Office Box 909, LaPlace, LA 700690909. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the owner or Publisher. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the magazine’s managers, owners or publisher. The Port Log is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and artwork even if accompanied by a self addressed stamped envelope.
DIRECTOR’S LOG
ryan burks
chair m an
stanley bazile
secretary
judy b. songy
v i c e c hai rwo m an
whitney hickerson
v i c e p res i d ent
robbie leblanc
t reas u rer
louis joseph
v i c e p res i d ent
paul matthews
ceo
katie klibert
vice pre s i d ent
Ports are simply defined as the connection between land and water transportation systems. Considering the goods we consume daily—the food we eat, the furniture we use, the shoes on our feet, the fuel in our cars—there’s no way around it; all comes through a port. Over 90% of cargo comes by water from abroad, so the port serves as the connector to and from distribution centers, moving that cargo via truck, rail, pipeline and air. It’s easy to see that multimodal connections pave the way for business growth and vitality. Accordingly, their application and fortification should result in increased efficiency, productivity and reliability of cargo transport in the River Region. It will not only reduce the carbon footprint of transportation systems, but eventually lead to more affordable goods for U.S. consumers. Currently, rail service is in high demand and the Port of South Louisiana is fortunate to have rail access on the east bank and the west bank of the Mississippi River via six Class-1 railroads. Investment in infrastructure is pivotal to growth. We see an opportunity of significant growth in bulk, and general cargo initiatives so we recently installed two high-capacity Konecranes harbor cranes at Globalplex Intermodal Terminal’s general cargo dock, a direct response to demand of increased throughput. To further expedite operations at the public facility, we are working to strengthen the dock and adding an additional access bridge to it that will allow for smooth ingress and egress. Our plan aims to bring the current infrastructure to 4
SPRING 2022 | PORT OF SOUTH LOUISIANA
p. joey murray, iii
v i c e p res i d ent
d. paul robichaux
v i c e p res i d en t
working standards and further increase warehousing options along with upgrades to the transportation network, increase capacity and address bottlenecks. Expansion of the Port’s Executive Airport is underway to speak to cargo needs in preparing for our continued multimodal capacity. There is always room for growth and innovation, no matter how established things are. The Port of South Louisiana has more available land, ripe for development, than anywhere in southeast Louisiana. We can accommodate any industry from grain elevators to alternative energy projects to warehouse and distribution centers; we have the spread and intermodal connections to fit the bill. In addition, we are poised to assist industrial partners in making attractive energy transitions, including the introduction of alternate fuel for modern vessels. We are also supporting the initiative of green ammonia/carbon capture. Wind and solar also play a part in making renewable energy successful for all. Our existing industry has already begun to try new ideas to speak to the green movement, and we are prepared to help in any way we can. I am excited to lead the Port of South Louisiana, and I look forward to meeting challenges and shaping the future of one of the largest ports in the Western Hemisphere. • Paul Matthews Chief Executive Officer
W W W. P O R T S L . C O M | S P R I N G 2 0 2 2
5
OVERVIEW
T R A N S P O R TAT I O N C E N T E R OF THE AMERICAS
TOTAL TONNAGE: 220,797,480
229.79
72.82
78.87 51.45
57.40
76.04
PORT OF SOUTH LOUISIANA 2021
65.96
CHEMICALS / FERTILIZERS 19.7 (9%)
61.64
73.97
73.84
MAIZE 52.18 (23%)
54.67
ORES / PHOSPHATE ROCK 13.7 (6%)
79.17
COAL / LIGNITE / COKE 9.3 (4%)
48.65
EDIBLE OILS / SUGAR / MOLASSES / OTHER 1.52 (<1%)
89.21
CONCRETE STONE 1.20 (<1%) STEEL PRODUCTS 4.6 (2%)
86.26
the St. Charles, St. John and St. James tri-parish regions.
250.45
258.66
the 54-mile stretch of the Mississippi River that runs through
42.39
1960 to promote commerce and industrial development along
303.10
307.86
The state legislature established the Port of South Louisiana in
(IN MILLION SHORT TONS)
65.93
65.46
2021
2020
60.44
2019
73.96
2018
SOYBEAN 37.19 (16%)
71.72
NUMBER OF BARGE MOVEMENTS: 55,284
2017
NUMBER OF VESSEL CALLS: 3,160 PETROCHEMICALS 36.2 (16%)
PORT OF SOUTH LOUISIANA TOTAL TONNAGE 2021 (IN MILLIONS OF SHORT TONS) ANIMAL FEED 6.7 (3%) WHEAT 2.8 (1%)
CRUDE OIL 43.6 (19%)
SORGHUM (MILO) + RICE 0.9 (<1%)
EXPORTS
DOMESTIC SHIPPED
IMPORTS
DOMESTIC RECEIVED
PHILOSOPHY
FACILITIES
MISSION
The Port’s philosophy of development is to entice companies to set up regional operations within its boundaries. The Port serves primarily as a “landlord” port to more than 30 grain, petroleum and chemical companies. The exception to this is the port-owned world-class intermodal Globalplex facility SoLaPort, and the St. James Westbank property.
Within the Port’s jurisdiction, there are seven grain elevators, multiple midstreaming operations, more than 40 liquid and dry-bulk terminals, the Globalplex Intermodal Terminal and the Port’s Executive Regional Airport.
The Port is charged with a mission to promote maritime commerce, trade and development, and to establish public and private partnerships for the creation of intermodal terminals and industrial facilities.
WORLD’S LARGEST PORT DISTRICT
The ports of South Louisiana, New Orleans, Baton Rouge, St. Bernard and Plaquemines make up the world’s largest continuous port district. They are responsible for moving one-fifth of all U.S. foreign waterborne commerce.
PORT AREA
The Port covers a 54-mile stretch of the lower Mississippi River between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. The Port begins at river mile 114.9AHP near the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport and winds through St. Charles, St. John the Baptist and St. James parishes. It continues north to river mile 168.5AHP just north of the Sunshine Bridge.
GOVERNANCE
The Port is under the jurisdiction of the state of Louisiana and authorized by the state constitution. A nine-member board of commissioners directs the Port; all of them are unsalaried. •
W W W. P O R T S L . C O M | S P R I N G 2 0 2 2
7
PA R T N E R P R O F I L E
MARATHON PETROLEUM BY MISTY MILIOTO
When it comes to supporting the local community, it’s not a sprint, but a Marathon
M
arathon Petroleum Corporation—the nation’s largest crude oil refining company—refines nearly 2.9 million barrels of crude oil per calendar day across its 13-refinery system. The Garyville Refinery is one of the largest in the United States, with a workforce of more than 900 employees. As such, it is a major contributor to the local and state economy via annual wages, local contracts, and taxes. “As an energy industry leader, our career opportunities fuel personal and professional growth,” says Iman Montgomery, Corporate
8
SPRING 2022 | PORT OF SOUTH LOUISIANA
Social Responsibility Representative for MPC. “This past January, the Garyville Refinery hired its latest operator class—25 new MPC employees, which includes residents of St. John the Baptist Parish.” MPC also has a comprehensive community investment program, centered on being a good neighbor. Last November, the company kicked off its Celebrating Resiliency & A Brighter Tomorrow community initiative. During the commencement event, MPC announced $1 million in Hurricane Ida disaster relief and almost $1 million in workforce development, sustainability and
thriving community grants that will come to fruition this year. Furthermore, MPC encourages employees to support local organizations and community efforts by matching their donations to eligible organizations at 100 percent and by funding volunteer incentive awards. Montgomery, a native and lifelong resident of St. John the Baptist Parish, says that MPC embraces a culture of diversity and inclusion, which allows a vast array of voices to be heard and experiences shared. “We welcome new ideas, invest in our people and work to foster a collaborative, inclusive team environment,” he says. “We’re also the first U.S. independent refiner to link executive and employee compensation to diversity, equity and inclusion metrics.” In addition to building an inclusive company culture, MPC prioritizes safety and
PA R T N E R P R O F I L E
protecting the environment for its employees and its neighbors. “We’re challenging ourselves to lead in sustainable energy,” Montgomery says. “This objective drives us to lower our carbon intensity and conserve natural resources across our operations. We embed sustainability in our decisionmaking, and in how we engage our people and our many stakeholders.” For example, MPC’s refineries have more Energy Star certifications (a program run by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy that promotes energy efficiency) than all other refineries in the nation combined. The Garyville Refinery has earned the Energy Star certification every year since it has been available to refiners. “We were the first independent refiner to issue a climate-
related perspectives report in line with recommendations from the international Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures,” Montgomery adds. “We’re also the first independent refiner to establish a greenhouse gas emissions intensity reduction goal and link it to executive and employee pay.” In addition to improving the energy efficiencies of its refineries, MPC also minimizes its environmental impact through advanced practices and investments to protect biodiversity and to reduce waste and freshwater withdrawal. On the charitable contributions side, the Garyville Refinery partnered with the Pontchartrain Conservancy last year to plant 500 trees in St. John the Baptist Parish. “Once planted, these trees will help restore the coastline along Lake Pontchartrain,” Montgomery says. “Also, as part of the grant,
the Pontchartrain Conservancy will engage a local school to help in STEM education about coastal restoration.” MPC also recently sponsored the Runway Wobble event at the Port of South Louisiana Executive Regional Airport. The event benefitted the nonprofit, Pilots for Patients, which provides free air transportation to patients needing diagnosis and treatments at medical facilities not available to them locally. “Garyville Refinery and the Port of South Louisiana have a symbiotic relationship,” says Michael Henschen, vice president of refining at MPC. “Our businesses mutually benefit and support one another. Marathon values the port as a key, local business partner—one that allows us to supply refined products, crucial to everyday life, to Louisiana and broader markets.”•
W W W. P O R T S L . C O M | S P R I N G 2 0 2 2
9
AIRPORT NEWS
WHEEL S UP BY MISTY MILIOTO
The Por t of South Louisiana Executive Regional Airpor t’s new master plan sets lofty goals for the next two decades.
S
erving Southeast Louisiana and the River Parishes business community, the Port of South Louisiana Executive Regional Airport (K APS) eliminates drive time to and from commercial airports in New Orleans and Baton Rouge. The airport welcomes small, medium, and large business aircraft operations, and it’s the only airport in the region that can take on future overf low from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). Now, a new Master Plan— the first since St. John the
10
SPRING 2022 | PORT OF SOUTH LOUISIANA
Baptist Parish transferred K APS to the Port in 2012—lays the groundwork for the airport’s growth and prosperity over the next 10 to 20 years. According to Port of South Louisiana CEO Paul Matthews, K APS is the only regional airport that is not landlocked, thereby allowing for significant growth. “We want to take the next step in becoming multimodal by bringing in cargo to the airport,” he says. “Any growth here grows the tax base. When we grow, the region grows.” The Port hired Kutchins
& Groh, a company that provides airport planning and management consultant services to airports, to ensure that the airport’s goals for a successful Master Plan are accomplished. “Good planning of an airport’s growth is the key to the success of any airport,” says Managing Principal, George Groh. “The FA A requires an Airport Master Plan—it is the path forward that guides the development of the airport. The Master Plan gives the FA A an understanding of how funding priorities will be needed and used in the future.”
AIRPORT NEWS
Port of South Louisiana broke ground on an airport expansion project.
For K APS, the Master Plan started with an inventory of the existing airport facilities and their condition. “A forecast is developed to look at the projected growth of the region as a whole and how the airport fits into that growth,” Groh says. “From the forecast, we can then look at what types of facilities will be needed going forward.” The Master Plan kicked off in October 2021 with the facility assessment and a couple of strategy sessions. The work is expected to be complete by the end of this year. Two groups will meet several times over the course of the project. The technical group is made up of pilots and the community group is made up of professionals in economic development, tourism,
education and other sectors. The Master Planning process allows the airport, the community, and travelers to participate in the growth of KAPS. “Airports not only serve the aviation community, but they also are a driver of business in the community,” Groh says. “A successful airport needs the support of the community, and the Master Planning process allows all entities to come together and participate in its planning for the future.” A current project at K APS is the development of 10 T-hangars of different sizes. Most will accommodate single-engine airplanes, but four larger units were added to attract housing of larger twin aircraft and others such as a TBM. In the past,
hangar rental was sacrificed to other airports due to insufficient space for larger aircraft. With a shortage of hangar space in the state and nationwide, pilots are on a waiting list at K APS to base their aircraft at the Port’s facilities. Future projects also include a 1,000-foot runway extension and a new terminal building. The growth of K APS also allows the Port to welcome new industrydriving tenants, such as the recent addition of Beacon Aviation, an FA A-certified Airframe and Powerplant maintenance shop. “This is another enhancement that will bring more traffic to the airport that would otherwise not have had an incentive to touch down here,” Matthews says. •
W W W. P O R T S L . C O M | S P R I N G 2 0 2 2
11
12
SPRING 2022 | PORT OF SOUTH LOUISIANA
W H AT ' S N E W
THE NE X T S TEP BY WILLIAM KALEC
Equipped with a decade of maritime commerce experience in leadership roles, new Port of South Louisiana CEO Paul Matthews looks to build on the Port’s tradition of excellence
S
ometimes, Paul Matthews explains, the same person can be in the same scenario at various points in life and view the situation completely differently. It’s simply a matter of perspective. For instance, the newly named Chief Executive Officer of the Port of South Louisiana says when he first started driving in uptown New Orleans as a student at Ben Franklin High School (and later as an undergrad at Tulane University), he absolutely could not stand getting caught at a train crossing. The waiting. The uncertainty of not knowing when it would end. The deep, frustrated exhales as train car after train car slowly crept past. Matthews says he couldn’t bear it, but something changed once he started working in maritime. “Back then, I thought, ‘Wow, this is the worst thing possible,’” Matthews recalls with a laugh. “Not only am I dealing with regular traffic but now I got this train holding me up, too? This is terrible. Well, fast forward to now, I haven’t had those thoughts in the 10 years I’ve been working
in the maritime business. I’ll gladly put the car in park and wait, because I know all the products I’m using on a daily basis are passing right in front of my eyes to their final destination. “You see things differently.” The same could be said of Matthews’ new role at the Port of South Louisiana. From an outside perspective, given the Port’s seemingly cemented status as one of the Largest Tonnage Ports in the Western Hemisphere and its proven ability to stand strong in the face of adversity such as natural disasters, global economic downturns and even a pandemic, it could be assumed that Matthews’ main task in replacing former Executive Director Paul
Aucoin is to simply maintain the status quo. But that’s not how Matthews sees things. As someone who has spent almost his entire professional career entrenched in the Gulf Coast maritime commerce scene, Matthews knows better than anyone that the ultimate goal for the Port of South Louisiana shouldn’t be to match the heights reached in the past but to exceed them. “You can take what’s been built, celebrate it, but not let what’s been done prevent you from maximizing growth and operating at optimal levels,” Matthews says. “You can’t rest on your laurels. You must always strive be better, in all things. Better in all aspects–from a regional level to a global level.
W W W. P O R T S L . C O M | S P R I N G 2 0 2 2
13
W H AT ' S N E W
“ You can’t rest on
your laurels. You must always strive to be better, in all things. Better in all aspects — from a regional level to a global level.
“And for that to happen, the culture you build and establish has to be able to nurture that growth and embrace concepts or ideals that outfit the Port to thrive in an evolving marketplace.” The seedlings of Matthews’ proactive approach to business sprouted in January 2012 – exactly 10 years before he
14
SPRING 2022 | PORT OF SOUTH LOUISIANA
landed the top job at the Port of South Louisiana – when he accepted a position as Community Affairs Manager at the Port of New Orleans. Under the expert guidance of then-Port of New Orleans CEO Gary Lagrange, Matthews cut his teeth in the world of maritime commerce and learned the ins and outs of the many
facets that go into operating an international port. From there, Matthews moved to the Port of Plaquemines to fill the Deputy Director role in 2017. When asked what aspects of port operations crossed the deputy director’s desk, Matthews laughs before admitting, “Virtually all of them.” Finance. Logistics. Marketing. Security. Accounting. Legal items. Recruiting prospective business tenants. Pretty much every single thing that goes into not only the port’s day-to-day minutia, but also its short- and long-term viability. Ref lecting on his four-plus year in this role, Matthews was quick to heap mounds of credit on Port of Plaquemines Executive Director Sandy Sanders for instilling the confidence and offering the support necessary to thrive in
W H AT ' S N E W
that deputy director positions. “During my time at Plaquemines with Sandy, he was in the military and served as a two-star general,” Matthews says. “And as much as one would think you’d learn toughness from a general, what I really took away from my time with Sandy were the leadership qualities of a two-star general. He empowered me to not only get things done, but to fulfill my potential in that role – that’s leadership. “I wouldn’t be prepared to be the CEO at the Port of South Louisiana – a true leadership position – if I didn’t have a chance to learn from great leaders.”
With Matthews now at the helm of the Port of South Louisiana, he says he hopes to strengthen the port’s long-standing connection to the River Parishes in ways that go beyond being one of the area’s largest employers. For instance, Matthews said the Port needs to make a greater effort in partnering with more local operators and developers within the River Region, along with standing side-by-side with their neighbors when it comes to securing funding for shovelready projects outside the Port District like improving the local infrastructure. Additionally, Matthews aims to find funding – be it government
grants or private investments – for the Port of South Louisiana to be a cutting-edge leader when it comes to the “Energy Transition Process” –establishing the framework so that companies within the Port District can reap the financial and environmental benefits of fuel sources like green ammonia, biodiesel, hydrogen, and methanol. “We have to be ahead of everything,” Matthews says. “We can’t just sit back and react, because by then it’s too late. It takes a proactive approach to understand market trends and how to best position the Port to meet those needs before they happen. “The Port has to ‘Be Ready’ so it never has to ‘Get Ready.’” •
W W W. P O R T S L . C O M | S P R I N G 2 0 2 2
15
W H AT ' S N E W
REINFORCING INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE RIVER REGION BY WILLIAM KALEC
Officials at the Port of South Louisiana have given their support for a trio of construction projects in each of the River Parishes
I
f the 54 winding miles of lower Mississippi River are the heartbeat of the Port of South Louisiana, then it could be argued the surrounding infrastructure – both near and far – represents the lifeblood of daily operations at one of the largest tonnage ports in the Western Hemisphere. Steadfast in staying several steps ahead of the needs of its
clientele and the rapid changes in the global marketplace, the Port of South Louisiana has reinforced its internal infrastructure through a variety of largescale construction projects. The six-track railyard at SoLaPort. The $19.5 million finger pier at Globalplex that allowed for simultaneous shipto-barge and truck-to-barge
operations. The lengthening of the runway at the Port of South Louisiana Executive Airport, along with renovations to the terminal and several hangars. The list goes on and on. But just a vital as modern infrastructure is within the footprint of the Port District, the various pathways that support the intermodal
W W W. P O R T S L . C O M | S P R I N G 2 0 2 2
17
W H AT ' S N E W
transportation of raw materials into the Port and refined/ finished exports out of the Port are equipped to handle the demands of companies and civilians, alike, are just as critical, if not more essential. Because of that, Port of South Louisiana officials have endorsed and continue to support a trio of infrastructure improvements within each of the three parishes that comprise the River Region. “When we look at projects that may not be within the fence lines of the Port Terminal, at the end of the day, truck movements, rail movements, what have you, are all connected to fulfilling our mission as a center for commerce,” Port of South Louisiana CEO
18
SPRING 2022 | PORT OF SOUTH LOUISIANA
Paul Matthews said. “The essence of a Port is moving things through the community. “Anything that improves efficiency of transit – be it moving products or assisting people in getting where they need to be safely and efficiently – is something that’s easy to stand behind from our perspective.” The first infrastructure project that the Port views as a regional asset is the expansion of La. Hwy 3127 in St. James Parish from a two-lane road to a four-lane road. The project was completed in 2021, and state and local officials attended a “virtual ribbon cutting” that punctuated the 2.5-mile long widening of LA 3127 near the future site of the Formosa
Plastics Group manufacturing plant in northwest St. James Parish. The project has already helped ease traffic congestion along that portion of the highway and serves as a blueprint as to what further construction could do for commerce in the region. In St. John The Baptist Parish, the Port has put its full backing behind the state funding a series of on-ramp/off-ramp exit improvements and additions along Interstate 10, specifically the construction of a new exit for a more direct connection to the Port of South Louisiana Executive Airport and the Port’s Globalplex Intermodal Terminal. Last summer, leadership in St. John Parish received authorization to commence
W H AT ' S N E W
the conceptual design portion of the project, clearly outlining how these proposed infrastructure improvements will benefit the natural environment and driver safety, all while attracting more visitors and new businesses to spark economic growth. “Building on research into best practices from other parishes and communities around the country, improvements to the I-10 gateway corridors can help capitalize on the Parish’s strategic location between New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Hammond,” St. John Parish President Jaclyn Hotard said. “With thousands of motorists passing through each day, the project aims to grow business and tax dollars into the community.”
The final of the three infrastructure projects –a proposed Interstate 310 f lyover ramp that would ease stress along U.S. Highway 90 in St. Charles Parish– has been discussed for three years shy of a decade but finally seems on the verge of coming to fruition, albeit in an amended fashion than original designs. Instead of a f lyover ramp, new plans call for additional lanes to the existing northbound 1-310 on-ramp while also adding a dual on-ramp from East Hwy 90, according to Samantha de Castro, the St. Charles Parish Director of Communications. “Currently, this intersection regularly sees congestion from the southbound off ramp all the way to
Hahnville High School,” de Castro wrote back to an email inquiry. “This is a major thoroughfare for our residents and commerce and will bring much relief to this area.” Parish officials expect the estimated $10 million project to go to bid later this spring with construction scheduled to begin in 2025. “There are ways for us (the Port and the surrounding communities) to work together,” Matthews said, “because the people who work in the Port District also live in the local River Region community. We should make sure that every aspect of the infrastructure that supports various forms of transportation gets our support and benefits from the inf luence that the Port carries.” •
W W W. P O R T S L . C O M | S P R I N G 2 0 2 2
19
C ARNIVAL ON THE RIVER BY MISTY MILIOTO
Mardi Gras celebrations extend beyond New Orleans thanks to local Krewes in the River Parishes.
W
hen you think of Mardi Gras, you might imagine the packed streets of the New Orleans French Quarter, but this pre-Lenten celebration has a rich history across South Louisiana, with varying traditions and cultures between parishes. In fact, the River Region has established its own set of unique Carnival customs and homegrown Krewes, each with its own history and local impact on the community. KREWE OF LUL Celebrating its 45th anniversary this year in St. Charles Parish, the Krewe of Lul first started parading through the streets of Luling in 1978 with a focus on family fun. “Whether watching along the route or riding on a f loat, it is a day of fun and merriment for families and friends to gather and spend time together cooking, eating, drinking and having a good time,” says Debbie Dufresne Vial, captain with the Krewe of Lul. As a much-anticipated event for the parish, the return of the parade this year represented a touch of normalcy after a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic. “It’s an event that everyone looks forward to annually,” Dufresne Vial says. “The Hahnville High School band, cheerleaders, dance team, and
20
SPRING 2022 | PORT OF SOUTH LOUISIANA
Krewe of Dagé
ROTC members participate, and their families cheer for them along the parade route. St. Charles Hospital does a peanut butter collection along the route, where locals can donate peanut butter, thereby providing a much-needed resource for the local food pantry at Social Concerns. Additionally, the ARC of St. Charles has the final truck in the parade lineup. Parade-goers can throw their beads back for the ARC to sort through and package for sale.” Historically, the Krewe of Lul has given back to the local St. Charles Parish community via donations to the Hahnville High School band. Last year, even when the parade was cancelled due to the pandemic, the Krewe still contributed to Social
Concerns so they could purchase peanut butter for the food bank. In addition to the Hahnville High School band, cheerleaders, dance team, and ROTC members, the 2022 Krewe of Lul parade featured 21 f loats; other dance teams; Luling, Killona and Paradis fire trucks; local festival queens; local officials (such as Sheriff Greg Champagne and Parish President Matt Jewell); and a horse-riding club for a total of 61 units. Traditionally, the royalty of the parade throw commemorative items and some of the f loats also dole out novelty items associated with their decorative theme. The 2022 parade King and Queen, Russell and Angell Diggs, threw magnets and second-line handkerchiefs.
Krewe of Lul
Krewe of Lul
Meanwhile, the Grand Marshal, Fay “Liza” Landry Caire, threw a commemorative scroll featuring drawings by local artist Peyton Dufrene depicting the original Landry Lumber Yard Building (a family business located along the route), the original Hahnville High School, and the First Union Presbyterian Church (of which Dufrene is a parishioner). The Parade Chaplain, Father Anthony Odiong of St. Anthony Catholic Church, passed out a commemorative bookmark depicting the Our Lady of Guadalupe Healing Chapel with a rosary and a rose in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Additionally, some f loats had commemorative cups with their f loat theme, “Hurricane Ida Survivor” keychains, “St. Charles Parish Strong” handkerchiefs and koozies. KREWE OF DAGÉ Founded in August 2018 by a group of ladies who felt they could enhance the Mardi Gras tradition in St. John the Baptist Parish, the Krewe of Dagé consists of only 13 members. However, while it may be small in numbers, the Krewe is big on improving education in the local community. “We have given scholarships and spoken to kids about the Mardi
Gras tradition, and we hope to become more embedded in the education of our children,” says Krewe Member, Jean Stewart. The all-women, AfricanAmerican group of members come from different ages and walks of life, and most have children and grandchildren who were raised in the River Parishes. “All members believe that ‘It takes a village’ for all children,” Stewart says. “The Krewe of Dagé represents hope and perseverance to the community. Not only have we come back from COVID, but our community was devastated by Hurricane Ida. St. John the Baptist Parish will be made whole again.” Rolling in the LaPlace parade, the Krewe of Dagé typically consists of about 39 f loats. However, this year, it had only 22 f loats. “It was significantly down this year because of Hurricane Ida,” Stewart says. “Many of our residents are still displaced because of the storm.” While the theme changes each year, the Krewe’s signature throw stays the same: a decorated apple to represent the Krewe’s focus on education. “Currently, besides the yearly scholarships, we are a community partner with the schools,” Stewart says. “We give
Krewe of Lul
recognition to individuals who work in the school system by naming a Grand Marshall each year. This year’s Grand Marshall is Tyra Duhe-Griffin, an educator at LaPlace Elementary School and a Councilwoman for District 4 in St. John the Baptist Parish.” The Krewe of Dagé did not host a ball this year due to Hurricane Ida, but one is planned for next year. “Dr. Brittani Breaux is our current queen until a new queen is crowned next year,” Stewart says. “We would like for anyone interested in participating in the
W W W. P O R T S L . C O M | S P R I N G 2 0 2 2
21
Krewe of Dagé
St. John Parish President Jaclyn Hotard and Krewe of Tohwahpahsah Miss Andouille Amber Theisges
2023 ball and parade to contact us on Facebook or by email at keweofdage@yahoo.com.” KREWE OF TOHWAHPAHSAH Another Krewe in St. John the Baptist Parish is the Krewe of Tohwahpahsah. Local bar owner Lawrence “Noonie” Triche founded the Krewe in 1984 so that parishioners in Reserve could enjoy Mardi Gras without having to travel to New Orleans. “With help from family and friends, Triche worked diligently to see the first Krewe of Tohwahpahsah parade roll through the streets of Reserve,” says Melanie Stein. “The parade was always so easy to be in that if you decided the morning of that you wanted to participate, you could show up in your pickup truck, four-wheeler, boat, car, horse or anything you could think of to ride in,” Stein adds. “Three years ago, we became a nonprofit organization in order to roll, which requires us to pay for insurance. We meet that requirement each year with the help of our sponsors and yearround fundraisers (including football pools, raff les for sacks of crawfish and much more).” Today, “Noonie’s” daughters,
22
SPRING 2022 | PORT OF SOUTH LOUISIANA
Krewe of MAC
Frances Triche Sullivan and Nikki Triche LeBoeuf, along with the help of family and friends, have taken the reigns to ensure the parade continues to roll. “We need the community’s help to participate in the parade so it can grow bigger and better each year,” Stein says. “We are asking you to register f loats, cars, trucks, antique cars, show vehicles, bands, marching groups, dance teams, school groups (drama clubs, cheerleaders, bands, dance teams, etc.) and pageant kings and queens four years of age and older. The entry fee is $25 for cars and $50 for f loats, trucks and trailers.” Typically, the Krewe of Tohwahpahsah consists of 10 f loats (and 30 units total, consisting of queens from local pageants, Parish officials and a couple of marching groups). Each f loat has its own theme and may have an item related to that theme as a signature throw. While there is no formal ball, the Krewe does choose a king and queen based
on participation in past years. The Krewe of Tohwahpahsah has become a Mardi Gras tradition for St. John the Baptist Parish, and especially for the town of Reserve. “Families gather along the route and have large parties, which results in a positive economic impact for the community,” Stein says. “We welcome everyone to come out and enjoy the parade. We are also always looking to expand our parade, and we invite anyone interested to contact us on our Facebook page or to email tohwahpahsah@yahoo.com.” KREWE OF MAC, ST. JAMES PARISH Founded in 2016 by a group of St. James Parish residents, the Krewe of MAC started off with 16 members who were all interested in promoting fellowship, contributing to the civic good, encouraging charity, and celebrating the spirit of Mardi Gras. Today, the parade
brings thousands of spectators to Lutcher and Gramercy. While the Krewe of MAC rolled as a solely car and truck parade this year, it typically also features at least eight f loats. The theme for this year’s parade was “Mardi Gras on the River,” due to the ball being held on the Louis Armstrong Riverboat in New Orleans. However, the Krewe of MAC did not have a court this year due to COVID. According to director Nykisha Franklin, the Krewe’s mission is to uplift the community— specifically making a difference in the lives of local youth— through various endeavors. For example, the Krewe of MAC awards $500 scholarships to four high school students annually. The Krewe also honors local Black historians in the community with a dedicated brunch. Other efforts include sponsoring giveaways for Easter and conducting an annual litter pickup throughout the community. •
W W W. P O R T S L . C O M | S P R I N G 2 0 2 2
23
P O R Tr a i t s
REDDI BREAKFAST, WASHINGTON DC
One-on-one meeting with Senator Bill Cassidy Pictured (L-R): Cassidy, Port of South Louisiana Chief Commercial Officer Julia Fisher, and Port of South Louisiana CEO Paul Matthews
Port of South Louisiana CEO Paul Matthews' (L) one-on-one meeting with Congressman Garret Graves (R)
Louisiana political and business leaders attended the 2022 RREDI Washington Mardi Gras Breakfast to hear from members of the state's congressional and other elected officials. Pictured (L-R): LA Rep. Gregory Miller, LA Senator Gary Smith, Port of South Louisiana Commission Chairman Paul Robichaux, Port of South Louisiana CEO Paul Matthews, and Port of South Louisiana Vice President Ryan Burks
Congratulations to Sean M. Duffy Sr. on being named the 2022 C. Alvin Bertel Award Recipient by the World Trade Center of New Orleans. Sean has been a long-time friend of the Port of South Louisiana and we look forward to continuing to work with him!
Pictured (L-R): Chief Project Officer Dale Hymel, Jr., Commissioner Katie Klibert, and Chief Government Relations Officer Roy Quezaire attended the Ports Association of Louisiana (PAL) conference, held in New Orleans and co-hosted by the Port of South Louisiana along with Plaquemines Port, Port of New Orleans, and St. Bernard Port, Harbor, and Terminal District.
24
SPRING 2022 | PORT OF SOUTH LOUISIANA
P O R Tr a i t s
WTCNO LOUISIANA GLOBAL GUMBO PODCAST Port of South Louisiana CEO Paul Matthews during the World Trade Center of New Orleans' (WTCNO) Louisiana Global Gumbo podcast, on what makes the Port of South Louisiana so successful, where it's headed in the future, and how he came to lead it.
World Trade Center of New Orleans (WTCNO) Louisiana Global Gumbo podcast L-R: WTCNO Chief Executive Officer Ed Webb, Port of South Louisiana CEO Paul Matthews, and French Strategic Partners' Jason French
Port of South Louisiana CEO Paul Matthews attends and presents at Greater New Orleans Executives Association Inc.'s (GNOEA) breakfast
W W W. P O R T S L . C O M | S P R I N G 2 0 2 2
25
P O R Tr a i t s
BAUMER FOODS, INC.
Baumer Foods, Inc. Renews Lease Agreement with the Port of South Louisiana Front Row: Port of South Louisiana CEO Paul Matthews (L) and Baumer Foods, Inc. President Pepper Baumer. Back row (L-R): St. John the Baptist Parish President Jaclyn Hotard, Port of South Louisiana Commission Chairman Paul Robichaux, Port of South Louisiana Vice Chairwoman Judy Songy, Alvin Baumer, Jr., and Port of South Louisiana Vice President Katie Klibert. Photo: Forest Photography, LLC
Baumer Foods, Inc. Renews Lease Agreement with the Port of South Louisiana. Photo: Forest Photography, LLC
Baumer Foods, Inc. Renews Lease Agreement with the Port of South Louisiana Port of South Louisiana CEO Paul Matthews (L) and Baumer Foods, Inc. President Pepper Baumer. Photo: Forest Photography, LLC
SOYBEAN TRANSPORTATION ASSOCIATION VISITS POSL
Port of South Louisiana CEO Paul Matthews presents to visiting members of the Soybean Transportation Association
26
SPRING 2022 | PORT OF SOUTH LOUISIANA
Members of the Soybean Transportation Association visit the Port of South Louisiana
P O R Tr a i t s
Port of South Louisiana CEO Paul Matthews presents at the American Council of Engineering Companies of Louisiana New Orleans luncheon
Port of South Louisiana CEO Paul Matthews (R) was recognized by Greater New Orleans, Inc. President Michael Hecht (L) for his service as immediate past chair of its NextGen Council during GNO, Inc.’s 2022 annual luncheon.
Port of South Louisiana CEO Paul Matthews presenting during Americas Competitiveness Exchange - ACE conference on how Louisiana ports help feed and fuel the world.
Lisa Braud, now-retired Airport Director and Foreign Trade Zone Manager. We bid her bonne chance in her future endeavors!
Members of Tangipahoa Parish Economic Development visit with Port staff.
W W W. P O R T S L . C O M | S P R I N G 2 0 2 2
27
P O R T O W N E D FA C I L I T I E S
GLO BALPLEX INT ERMO DAL T ERM INA L
address :
155 West 10th Street, Reserve, La. 70084 P.O. Box 909, LaPlace, La. 70069 phone : 985-652-9278 fax : 985-653-0798 e - mail : info@portsl.com web : www.portsl.com contact ( s ): Julia Fisher, Chief Commercial Officer location : River mile 138.5 equipment : Two Manitowoc 2250 rail-mounted gantry cranes; 100,000-pound capacity weighing scale for trucks; 100,000 square foot warehouse; 72,000-sq. foot, and 40,000-sq. foot transit shed; and a 177,000 sq. foot paved open storage pad dock : 204 ft. x 660 ft. with upstream and downstream mooring dolphins. allow for dockage of panamax size vessels; 700 ft x 65 ft finger pier general cargo operators associated terminals ph : 985-536-4520 mailing address :
GLO BALPLEX BULK DO C K
mailing address :
P.O. Box 909, LaPlace, La. 70069 985-652-9278 fax : 985-653-0798 e - mail : info@portsl.com web : www.portsl.com contact ( s ): Julia Fisher, Chief Commercial Officer location : River mile 138.5 function : Transfer and store bulk, primarily cement fluorspar limestone and wood chips equipment : An 800 tons-per-hour continuous Carlsen ship unloader, a 1,800 tons-per-hour ship-loading system, 100,000 tons of cement storage in two storage domes, 70,000 tons of storage for flourspar in an A-frame building and approximately nine acres of paved open storage for wood chips and other products. dock : 507’ x 44’ with upstream and downstream mooring buoys to allow for panamax-size vessels phone :
ADM RES ERVE
address :
2032 La. Highway 44, Reserve, La. 70084 985-536-1151 fax : 985-536-1152 web : ADMWorld.com contact ( s ): Mike Landry, generale manager of commercial operations location : River mile 139.2 function : Grain export elevator. other : Fully automated phone :
PO RT O F S O UT H LO UIS IANA EXECUT IVE REGIO NAL AIRPO RT
mailing address : physical phone :
P.O. Box 909, La Place, La. 70069-0909
A ddress : 355 Airport Road, Reserve, La. 70084
985-652-9278 portsl.com/airport-services email : psl-era@portsl.com contact : Brian Cox, Chief Operating Officer location : N30° 05.25’, W30°34.97 web :
28
SPRING 2022 | PORT OF SOUTH LOUISIANA
P O R T O W N E D FA C I L I T I E S
PLAINS MARKET ING L .P.
address :
6410 Plains Terminal Road, St. James, La. 70086 Craig Ellinwood phone : 225-265-2353 fax : 225-265-3171 web : PAALP.com location : Mile marker 158.6 function : Storage of petroleum products. terminal manager :
S O LAPO RT West Bank industrial site acquired for development into an industrial park located adjacent to Dow in St. Charles Parish.
MPLX L.P. (PIN O AK T ERMINAL S)
address :
4006 Highway 44, Mt. Airy, La. 70076 Gregg Qualls phone : 504-533-8783 web : PinOakTerminals.com location : Mile marker 144.1 function : Storage of petroleum products. contact :
PS L WES T BANK S T. J A M E S
contact :
Julia Fisher, Chief Commercial Officer
Property acquired for development.
W W W. P O R T S L . C O M | S P R I N G 2 0 2 2
29
INDUSTRY MAP
30
SPRING 2022 | PORT OF SOUTH LOUISIANA
W W W. P O R T S L . C O M | S P R I N G 2 0 2 2
31
FINAL FRAME
Planes at KAPS tie-down area.
32
SPRING 2022 | PORT OF SOUTH LOUISIANA
