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PORT FOURCHON BATTLES BACK POSTHURRICANES

SEVEN TIPS FOR SELLING YOUR HOME

DEC 2020

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DECEMBER 2020 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

PUBLISHER’S NOTE |

DECEMBER 2020 • VOLUME 3 • ISSUE 12

TABLE OF CONTENTS IN EVERY ISSUE:

SPOTLIGHT ON FINANCE: 10

WATCHING THE MARKET - COVID EDITION

14

FOURCHON REMAINS RESILIENT

By Joe Boudreaux - REALTOR

Port Fourchon feels heavy impact from 2020 hurricane season.

04

GOVERNMENT UPDATE

06

OIL AND GAS UPDATE

08 12 13 16 19

LABI Announces Honorees for 2020 Free Enterprise Awards Gulf Island to Expand Shipyard Workforce Near Houma

FROM THE TOP Jean Marmande

BUSINESS NEWS

Performance Foodservice Caro to expand facility in Lafourche, creating more local jobs

NICHOLLS STATE UNIVERSITY Leaders Eat Last

MOVERS & SHAKERS Headlines and accolades

ON THE AGENDA

Corporate calendar of events

PUBLISHER

Brian Rushing EDITORIAL Mary Ditch EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Drew Miller CONTRIBUTING WRITER

CREATIVE Amber Duplantis SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Lauren Pontiff GRAPHIC DESIGNER

ADVERTISING Deanne Ratliff DIRECTOR OF SALES Beth Tabor

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE Michelle Ortego

CONTACT Publisher: publisher@rushing-media.com Editorial: editor@bayoubusinessmonthly.com Sales: sales@rushing-media.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS Bayou Business Monthly is published monthly.

Subscriptions are available for $24 for 12 issues.

For more information, email mail@rushing-media.com or visit rushing-media.com/subscriptions.

THE FINANCE ISSUE RUSHING MEDIA

It’s been a rough year for all of us. Many businesses, both large and small, implemented pay cuts, layoffs and other measures this year in response to economic pressures the coronavirus pandemic created. While a few programs were put into action by different government agencies to help, the strain has been felt and will continue to cause lasting damages.

In our December issue, we place a focus on finance and the affects different events have had on our communities.

The real estate industry is one that has responded well during the downturn. Thanks to historically low interest rates, home sales are picking up. We visited with realtor Joe Boudreaux about the housing market in the Houma-Thibodaux area and how 2020 looks to fare in the history books.

Two local businesses have announced expansions coming in 2021. Gulf Island Fabrication will be expanding their Shipyard Division in Houma, creating 106 new jobs. LED estimates the project will add an additional 123 new indirect jobs as well.

Performance Foodservice-Caro in Lafourche has also announced a $25 million expansion that will add new jobs to the area.

Port Fourchon has felt more than its fair share of negative impacts from 2020. As of press time, the port had to shut down 12 times during this hurricane season. For each day the port is shut down, it is estimated to have a $46 million impact on the oil and gas industry and a $500 million impact on the national GDP. Despite the loss, Executive Director Chett Chaisson still manages to have a positive outlook when looking ahead to 2021.

Big changes are inevitable in 2021. I encourage you to find your silver lining and continue to push forward towards success.

•

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Reproduction or use, without written permission, of editorial or graphics content in any manner is prohibited.

Bayou Business Monthly is published monthly by Rushing Media.

DECEMBER 2020 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

GOVERNMENT UPDATE |

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A

STAFF REPORT

fter a statewide nomination and selection process, the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry (LABI) is pleased to recognize ten companies and individuals selected as the 2020 Free Enterprise Awards winners. Their unparalleled devotion to their employees, local communities and Louisiana’s future was formally recognized during the Free Enterprise Awards Reception, presented by ExxonMobil, in Baton Rouge on November 12, 2020.

“In a year that has brought so many unexpected challenges to Louisiana’s business community, LABI is honored to recognize this group of leaders who are truly impacting our state economy and helping open the doors of opportunity,” said LABI President and CEO Stephen Waguespack.

The 2020 LABI Free Enterprise Awards recipients are as follows: The Ed Steimel Achievement Award

honors long-standing membership and service to LABI and recognizes individuals who have committed extraordinary time and effort to improve the quality of life in Louisiana.

• Adrianne Baumgartner, Porteous, Hainkel & Johnson Free Enterprise Champions are individuals who demonstrate exemplary commitment and contributions to the state’s business climate and their local communities.

• 2020 Businessperson Honoree (posthumous): Governor Mike Foster • 2020 Young Businessperson Honoree: Nial Patel, Cornerstone Company of the Year Award recognizes outstanding achievement among Louisiana companies.

• 2020 Company of the Year < 100 Employees: Gray Insurance Company

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2020 Company of the Year > 100 Employees: Stine Lumber Company Manufacturer of the Year Award recognizes outstanding achievement among Louisiana manufacturers.

• 2020 Manufacturer of the Year < 100 Employees: Thomas Pump & Machinery • 2020 Manufacturer of the Year > 100 Employees: Shell Workforce Innovator of the Year Award honors individuals or organizations that have provided substantial innovations or contributions to workforce development in Louisiana. The award recognizes those who have excelled in creating, implementing, or supporting a high-caliber education or workforce development initiative aligned with closing the employment gap.

• 2020 Workforce Innovator of the Year: Danos

Economic Development Partner of the Year Award recognizes exceptional leadership by an economic development or business organization.

• 2020 Economic Development Partner of the Year: The Independent Insurance Agents of Louisiana In conjunction with the Free Enterprise Awards, LABI will also honor those legislators recognized in our annual scorecard as “Most Valuable Policymakers” (MVPs), All-Stars and Honorable Mentions for their support of pro-business legislation during the Legislature’s regular session and first special session of 2020.

“During these sessions, we saw a broad coalition of Republicans, Democrats, and Independents come together to support smart, pro-business measures,” Waguespack continued. “Their work will both help our economy begin to recover

Miguez (R-Erath), Rep. Buddy Mincey (R-Denham Springs), Rep. Richard Nelson (R-Mandeville), Rep. Bob Owen (R-Slidell), Rep. Chuck Owen (R-Rosepine), Rep. Thomas Pressly (R-Shreveport), Rep. Neil Riser (R-Columbia), Rep. Troy Romero (R-Jennings), Rep. Rodney Schamerhorn (R-Hornbeck), Rep. Alan Seabaugh (R-Shreveport), Rep. Vinney St. Blanc (R-Franklin), Rep. Phillip Tarver (R-Lake Charles), Rep. Polly Thomas (R-Metairie), Rep. Chris Turner (R-Ruston), Rep. Bill Wheat (R-Ponchatoula), Rep. Mark Wright (R-Covington) and Rep. Jerome Zeringue (R-Houma).

Overall, 20 legislators were named “All-Stars,” scoring 90 percent or higher on legislation important to LABI and the state’s employers during both sessions.

Those All-Stars are Sen. Franklin Foil (R-Baton Rouge), Sen. Eddie Lambert (R-Gonzales), Sen. Fred Mills (R-Parks), Sen. Beth Mizell (R-Franklinton), Sen. Jay Morris (R-West Monroe), Sen. Rick Ward (R-Port Allen), House Speaker Clay Schexnayder (R-Gonzales), Rep. Dewith Carrier (R-Oakdale), Rep. Jean-Paul Coussan (R-Lafayette), Rep. Stephen Dwight (R-Lake Charles), Rep. Charles Henry (R-Jefferson), Rep. Stephanie Hilferty (R-Metairie), Rep. John Illg (R-River Ridge), Rep. Barry Ivey (R-Baton Rouge), Rep. Tim Kerner (R-Lafitte), Rep. Greg Miller (R-Norco), Rep. Nicholas Muscarello (R-Hammond), Rep. John Stefanski (R-Crowley), Rep. Francis Thompson (D-Delhi) and Rep. Debbie Villio (R-Kenner).

Legislators named as “Honorable Mentions,” scoring 80 percent or higher on legislation important to LABI and its members during both sessions are Sen. Patrick Connick (R-Marrero), Sen. J. Rogers Pope (R-Denham Springs), Rep. Ken Brass (D-Vacherie), Rep. Chad Brown (D-Plaquemine), Rep. Jeremy LaCombe (D-Livonia), Rep. Joe Marino (I-Gretna), Rep. Joe Stagni (R-Kenner) and Rep. Malinda White (D-Bogalusa).

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from the devastation of the COVID-19 pandemic and multiple hurricanes, as well as start the process of breaking down the persistent barriers to business growth that have held Louisiana back for decades.”

A record 69 legislators (nearly 50 percent of the entire body) were named as “Most Valuable Policymakers” (MVPs), scoring a perfect 100 percent on bills important to LABI and the state’s business community during both sessions. Those members are Senate President Page Cortez (R-Lafayette), Sen. Mark Abraham (R-Lake Charles), Sen. Bret Allain (R-Franklin), Sen. Louie Bernard (R-Natchitoches), Sen. Stewart Cathey (R-Monroe), Sen. Heather Cloud (R-Turkey Creek), Sen. Mike Fesi (R-Houma), Sen. Cameron Henry (R-Metairie), Sen. Bob Hensgens (R-Abbeville), Sen. Sharon Hewitt (R-Slidell), Sen. Ronnie Johns (R-Lake Charles), Sen. Patrick McMath (R-Covington), Sen. Barry Milligan (R-Shreveport), Sen. Robert Mills (R-Minden), Sen. Barrow Peacock (R-Bossier City), Sen. Mike Reese (R-Leesville), Sen. Kirk Talbot (R-River Ridge), Sen. Bodi White (R-Central), Sen. Glen Womack (R-Harrisonburg), Rep. Beryl Amedee (R-Houma), Rep. Tony Bacala (R-Prairieville), Rep. Larry Bagley (R-Stonewall), Rep. Beau Beaullieu (R-New Iberia), Rep. Stuart Bishop (R-Lafayette), Rep. Ryan Bourriaque (R-Abbeville), Rep. Rhonda Butler (R-Ville Platte), Rep. Raymond Crews (R-Bossier City), Rep. Paula Davis (R-Baton Rouge), Rep. Daryl Deshotel (R-Marksville), Rep. Phillip DeVillier (R-Eunice), Rep. Mary DuBuisson (R-Slidell), Rep. Michael Echols (R-Monroe), Rep. Rick Edmonds (R-Baton Rouge), Rep. Kathy Edmonston (R-Gonzales), Rep. Julie Emerson (R-Carencro), Rep. Les Farnum (R-Sulphur), Rep. Gabe Firment (R-Pollock), Rep. Bryan Fontenot (R-Thibodaux), Rep. Barbara Freiberg (R-Baton Rouge), Rep. Larry Frieman (R-Abita Springs), Rep. Foy Gadberry (R-West Monroe), Rep. Ray Garofalo (R-Chalmette), Rep. Jonathan Goudeau (R-Lafayette), Rep. Lance Harris (R-Alexandria), Rep. Dodie Horton (R-Haughton), Rep. Mike Huval (R-Breaux Bridge), Rep. Mike Johnson (R-Pineville), Rep. Sherman Mack (R-Albany), Rep. Danny McCormick (R-Oil City), Rep. Jack McFarland (R-Jonesboro), Rep. Scott McKnight (R-Baton Rouge), Rep. Wayne McMahen (R-Minden), Rep. Blake

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DECEMBER 2020 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

OIL & GAS |

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G

STAFF REPORT

ov. John Bel Edwards and Gulf Island Fabrication Inc. President and CEO Richard W. Heo announced the company will expand its Shipyard Division workforce near Houma. The company will create 106 new direct jobs at an average annual salary of $48,000, plus benefits, to accommodate orders for marine vessel construction. Those orders include ferries, university research vessels funded by the National Science Foundation, and towing, salvage and rescue ships for the U.S. Navy.

Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will result in 123 new indirect jobs, for a total of 229 new jobs for Terrebonne Parish and the Bayou Region. Gulf Island also is retaining 308 existing jobs at its Shipyard Division facility along the Houma Navigation Canal.

“Gulf Island has long been recognized as a leader in the construction and repair of marine vessels,” Gov. Edwards said.

“Shipyards have been a pillar of our coastal economy for many years, and this employment expansion at the company’s shipyard facility near Houma is welcome news for Terrebonne Parish and the surrounding area. Gulf Island should find our skilled workforce in the Bayou Region ready and able to take on the shipyard’s increasing workload.”

“We are excited to partner with LED as we look to hire, develop and retain talent in our operations in Louisiana,” Heo said. “This partnership will help build jobs and drive economic investments in the community, especially during these challenging and uncertain times.

Due to our long duration contracts with the U.S. Navy and the National Science

Foundation, we have an active recruiting effort underway for both professional and skilled craft positions, with an immediate need to hire over 100 craft individuals into our Shipyard Division.”

LED began discussions with Gulf Island about a potential workforce expansion in June 2020. To secure the project, the State of Louisiana offered a competitive incentive package that includes the comprehensive solutions of LED FastStart – the nation’s No. 1 state workforce development program for the past 11 years. The company also is expected to utilize the state’s Quality Jobs Program.

“Gulf Island is a key player in an important industry for our area, so this expansion is welcome news,” Terrebonne Parish President Gordon E. Dove said.

“This project aligns with our commitment to attracting quality jobs for our skilled

workforce in Terrebonne Parish. We look forward to Gulf Island’s continued success here as our local economy moves in the right direction.”

“With Gulf Island’s storied history in Terrebonne Parish, we are thrilled the company is renewing its commitment to grow in Terrebonne Parish,” said CEO Matt Rookard of the Terrebonne Economic Development Authority.

“This announcement underscores the importance of working with our existing industry base to help them grow and add more good-paying, skilled jobs in our community. Gulf Island’s investment will have positive effects through the local economy.”

“Gulf Island’s workforce expansion to complete a backlog of ships during an oil and gas downturn indicates not only the quality of work the Bayou

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Region continues to produce relative to fabrication and manufacturing of vessels, but also the diversification we’re seeing from businesses who’ve traditionally worked in oil and gas,” said Vic Lafont, president and CEO of the South Louisiana Economic Council.

Gulf Island is a leading fabricator of complex steel structures, modules and marine vessels, and a provider of project management, hookup, commissioning, repair, maintenance and civil construction services. The company’s customers include U.S. and international energy producers; refining, petrochemical, LNG, industrial, power and marine operators; EPC companies; and agencies of the U.S. government.

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FROM THE TOP |

QUICK QUESTIONS FOR THE PEOPLE IN CHARGE

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR WORK: WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB? The most rewarding part of my job is gaining the trust of my clients.

WHAT IS THE HARDEST? Group health insurance is an ever-changing industry with a tremendous amount of political pressure. Interpreting these changes and communicating them to business owners can be challenging.

IS THERE ANYTHING NEW ON THE HORIZON? Health insurance is certain to change. constitutionality of the Affordable Care (ObamaCare) is currently being tried in Supreme Court, and our recent elections certain to spur changes as well.

The Act the are

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WHAT TIME TO DO YOU WAKE UP AND HOW DO YOU START YOUR DAY? 5:00 a.m. I normally head straight to the Keurig.

WHAT’S ONE THING YOU COULDN’T LIVE WITHOUT? My family.

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DECEMBER 2020 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

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BY JOE BOUDREAUX - REALTOR

M

arch 22, 2020 was the day that for many people in Louisiana, the world stopped.

Governor John Bel Edwards issued a Stay at Home Order on March 22, directing all Louisiana residents to shelter at home and limit movements outside of their homes beyond essential needs. For a while, at least, real estate activity was not deemed â&#x20AC;&#x153;essentialâ&#x20AC;?.

Some sellers were fearful of letting strangers into their homes and some

real estate agents were uncomfortable getting out and interacting with others.

It was a strange time indeed as a number of sales fell through due to job loss, furloughs, and uncertainty.

Thanks to historically low interest rates, the market has responded well and has helped move inventory that literally came to a grinding halt. Virtual tours and virtual open houses became the norm as well as client zoom meetings and more digital transaction platforms that limit the need

for close contact and paperwork.

LOOKING AT THE NUMBERS In the 2nd quarter of 2019, the Bayou Board of REALTORS reported that 552 residential properties were sold. In the 2nd quarter of 2020, that number was 497.

Taking a look at the 3rd quarter of 2019, there were 552 sold and in 2020 we closed on 594 properties.

(These numbers are residential single family homes primarily in Terrebonne,

Lafourche, St. Mary, and Assumption.)

As we look optimistically into 2021, our hope is that the interest rates remain low and that a proven COVID-19 vaccine will prevent us from having to go through something like this again. Of course only time will tell. In the meantime, our focus remains assisting our clients achieve their goals of buying, selling, or investing in the most proven investment in history... real estate.

Joe Boudreaux has been a licensed real estate agent since 2010. He was

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SEVEN TIPS FOR SELLING YOUR HOME IN 2021 1. Hire a professional with a proven track record of success. For Sale by Owners statistically net less for their home and experience longer days on market. Time lost = money lost.

3. Price your home competitively.

The market determines the value of a home based upon the principle of supply and demand. Have your agent run “comps” and set attainable goals as well as a realistic timeframe for days on market (DOM).

4.

First impressions are lasting impressions. Professional photography and videography is a must and your home should equally impress in person, so pressure washing, landscape, and fresh paint is a necessity. Remember, it takes money to make money!

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6. Pets need to go bye-bye for showings. While the fur baby is a member of your family, a barking dog or aggressive cat can make a buyer uncomfortable ESPECIALLY if they are allergic or sensitive to smells.

7. Leave all the lights on, bake some cookies, and make a welcome sign for the potential buyers. It’s a little uncomfortable walking into a strange home so anything you can do to reduce the fight or flight response, the better opportunity you have to sell it. Trust me!

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2. List your home in the spring.

The market starts to heat up in March/April as buyers and sellers start thinking about school changes.

5. De-personalize and reduce clutter! It’s ok to have a few family photos up, but remember, you want the new family to picture themselves as the new owners. Also, maximizing the space is vital! Remember, you are moving anyway so start getting rid of stuff.

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DECEMBER 2020 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

BUSINESS NEWS | BY DREW MILLER

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PERFORMANCE FOODSERVICE - CARO TO EXPAND FACILITY IN LAFOURCHE, CREATING MORE LOCAL JOBS O n Wednesday, Nov. 11, local officials and Performance Foodservice -Caro, which distributes food and foodrelated products to businesses across south Louisiana, held a press conference to announce the company’s expansion of its Bayou Blue facility, which will create 1520 additional full-time jobs..

“This is a great day for Lafourche Parish,” Lafourche Parish President Archie Chaisson said. “Performance Foodservice has been an anchor in the Bayou Blue community, and we are excited they chose to stay and expand here.”

Located at 2324 Bayou Blue Road, the facility’s $25 million expansion will include the addition of a new energy-efficient freezer and additional dry and refrigerated storage space, and the company plans to expand its dry dock space and install 18 additional dock doors. The project will increase the square footage of the facility by almost 60 percent.

“We have been working on this

expansion for several years, and it’s exciting to see it about to begin,” said Ralph Boudreau, President of Performance Foodservice - Caro, which has been in Lafourche for over 55 years. “Lafourche Parish has been a great community to operate a business, and their focus on economic development shows their Commitment to a long-term growth for us and the parish.”

Councilman James Wendell, who represents a portion of Bayou Blue, called Performance Foodservice a staple of the community – creating jobs, contributing to the quality of life and “last but not least, simply being a good neighbor.”

Construction for the Performance Foodservice - Caro expansion is set to begin in 2020 and is expected to be finished in 2022.

“Seeing this expansion happen is proof that Lafourche is a business-friendly parish and confirms our commitment to make economic development and

business retention a priority for this administration,” said Chaisson, who shared the development is personal for him as he worked for Performance Foodservice while in college. “I would Iike to thank Performance Foodservice for your continued presence in and commitment to Lafourche Parish.”

In a year that has seen negative economic effects from the COVID-19 pandemic and multiple Gulf storms, officials believe the expansion’s announcement and efforts being made by the Lafourche Parish Government to make the area more inviting for businesses will persuade more companies to either stay or come to Lafourche.

“I think it’s things like this that provide the incentive and the economic stability that we need here in the region,” said District 52 State Representative Jerome Zeringue, who also touched on the need to diversify and expand the local economy. “ ...Obviously, oil and gas will continue to be

important in this region, but it’s things like this that will help sustain us and continue to grow and help our economy.”

To make the expansion in Lafourche possible, Chaisson said, Lafourche recreated the Industrial Development Board, which is drafting a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PlLOT) lease agreement for Performance Foodservice.

“Now that we’ve created the Industrial Development Board, it’s opened a world of possibilities for us. And since the council approved the creation of that board about three or four weeks ago, we’ve already had several companies reach back out to us that have left and are looking to come back here,” Chaisson said after the press conference. “...Because they either work around Fourchon or they work with another service company in Lafourche Parish, they want to come back here for economic reasons,” he continued. “So I think this is going to be the first of many.”

•

NICHOLLS STATE UNIVERSITY |

BY RAY PETERS, MS, SPHR, SHRM-SCP

LEADERS EAT LAST

E

very time I consider a topic for this bi-monthly column, my mind immediately starts racing through my memory, hoping to identify and select examples from my personal experiences to help “make real” the concepts I present for the reader’s consumption.

In this instance, as I started considering topics for this column, my thoughts were drawn to a U. S. Marine Corps tradition entitled, “Officers Eat Last.”

It is my understanding that this practice is not memorialized in any regulation or code of conduct. It has evolved as an organizational norm over the years, becoming part of the fabric of “The Corps.” As we recently discussed in my leadership class, it has become an integrated part of the culture.

The practice of officers eating last is an excellent example of what is known as Servant Leadership. According to our textbook, Introduction to Leadership by Peter G. Northouse, “Servant leadership emphasizes the ‘caring principle’ with leaders as ‘servants’ who focus on their followers’ needs in order to help those followers become more autonomous, knowledgeable, and like servants themselves.”

Over the years, I have attempted to

Leaders Eat Last.

I am reasonably sure that if those who already enjoyed their meal had known that the steaks were running out, several would have offered to share his/her steak with those not receiving one. However, that is not the point. It was all about honoring those being recognized.

My message to leaders, sure, with rank and position, every subordinate employee around you would never object to their leader “eating first,” but wouldn’t it be a remarkable statement of recognition when you step back and allow them to “eat” first. Leaders Eat Last.

Leaders Eat Last.

On a separate occasion, we were celebrating another group of team members’ recent success. The event was at our corporate office. I immediately recognized that the caterer underprepared for dinner. I shared my observations with my fellow leaders, and we disbursed around the room to socialize with the attendees, not drawing attention to the issue at hand. Sure enough, as the last team members fixed their plates, the caterer ran out of steaks.

How embarrassing would it have been if the honorees did not receive their meals?

Ray Peters is MBA Director & Leadership Instructor at Nicholls State University. He can be reached at ray.peters@nicholls.edu.

•

DECEMBER 2020 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

follow this exact practice, even though, as a senior leader, I was often encouraged to move to the front of the serving line.

Sometimes it is impossible to move the back of the line; nonetheless, I practice it whenever possible.

I vividly recall how upset I became when I witnessed one of my so-called HR leaders jump into a luncheon line ahead of the individuals who were being celebrated at a special event. I was relatively new in my role with that organization and had not begun to establish the norms or standards of conduct for my reports. I assure you, shortly after that, we had the discussion –

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FOURCHON REMAINS RESILIENT

PORT FOURCHON FEELS HEAVY IMPACT FROM 2020 HURRICANE SEASON

BY DREW MILLER

DECEMBER 2020 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

L

14

a. Highway 1 and its connection to activities in Port Fourchon have a daily impact of $46 million to the oil and gas industry and $500 million to the National GDP. Factoring in the 12 times the port had to be shut down for the 2020 Hurricane Season, those estimated negative totals for this year are $552 million and $6 billion, respectively.

Of all the storms the Gulf storms Louisiana has seen in 2020, Hurricane Zeta was certainly the one that affected Port Fourchon the most, forcing the part to go through each of its storm phases, damaging structures and vessels and knocking down utility poles.

“We had some pretty heavy winds.

We had some sustained winds, from what we can tell, about 112 to 115 mph and gusts upwards of 140 mph,” said Chett Chiasson, Executive Director of the Greater Lafourche Port Commission (GLPC). “We had a storm surge but fortunately, not the most devastating storm surge.”

A few dock facilities in the older area of the port took on 3 to 4-feet of water during Zeta, he went on the say. “As we’ve

grown over the years, we’ve built the land higher and higher, so we’re able to expand and be more resilient that way,” Chiasson noted.

Being that it is a safe harbor, Port Fourchon had around 180 offshore supply vessels and 25 fishing vessels at the port to wait out the storm. The vessels remained docked, for the most part, Chiasson said, except for a derrick barge that broke loose and caused some damage to other ships.

In addition to the damages caused by the high winds of Zeta, electricity is still another major factor for the Port at press time around early November, as many electric utility crews could be seen working along La. Highway 1 and other areas of South Lafourche to restore 100 percent of the power in Fourchon.

“I know that power restoration has happened across the state and they’re well above 90 percent in the overall restoration,” said Governor John Bel Edwards Edwards during a press conference at the port on Nov. 6. “There are certain pockets that are more difficult than others because of the severity of

the damage to the infrastructure. Port Fourchon happens to be one of those areas.”

Through with the use of backup generators, Chiasson noted, the port was fully operational by the Saturday following the storm.

Though, Zeta put Fourchon through its worse compared to other hurricanes this season that left little concerns in their wake, several of the Gulf storms caused production in the port to be halted, with water rising over La. 1 being a contributing factor to that.

However, a promising $135 million La. 1 elevation project looks to combat that.

With the federal funds already secured, construction is set to begin for the vital project in late 2021 and take about six years to complete.

“So we have six more hurricane seasons to go through before we have an elevated highway to utilize,” Chiasson said. “That’ll really change the way we do storm prep and storm recovery, as well as storm reaction.”

Chiasson went on to note that the port would still have to be evacuated for

hurricanes, but the timing for the phases would change.

Port officials are also hopeful of the passage of the 2020 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) to up production. The bill, which was passed in the U.S. House earlier this year, awaits approval from the U.S. Senate. If it passes, GLPC will be authorized to deepen Bayou Lafourche and Belle Pass in the port from 24 feet to 30 feet, allowing for larger vessels to navigate the waters.

“A good thing about that is one, we can have more benefit for our current business in the port by having deeper drafts. And two, the material that is going to be dredged will be used beneficially to renourish and rebuild marsh in our area,” Chiasson said. “So that is some really good work that we’re excited about so we can do some better things for our customers and at the same time, protecting ourselves with that material that we’re going to dredge.”

He also touched on the work being done for the coastal wetlands park, which Chiasson said will be interactive, have the ability to attract tourism and “really

highlight how the environment and industry work very closely together and can flourish together in the same location – at Port Fourchon.”

With other projects on the books, such as the airport corridor expansion – which will make travel easier and safer to and from the area – it’s a bright future for Port Fourchon, despite the many challenges

2020 has thrown its way.

“We’re excited about the future. I know we’ve been in a depressed economy, a depressed oil and gas market,” Chiasson added. “But, we’re going to continue to press forward and work with our customers as best we can and be ready for the future.”

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MAIN IRON WORKS

985-876-6302 www.mainironworks.com Mile Marker 50, Intracoastal Waterway, Houma, LA

DECEMBER 2020 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

A leader in the tug construction industry, Main Iron Works offers the building of push boats, tug boats, specialty boats, and fishing vessels for marine transport companies nationwide.

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS |

HEADLINES & ACCOLADES

LOUISIANA LAUNCHES BUSINESS STARTUP PROGRAM FOR VETERANS

DECEMBER 2020 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

GULF COAST ORTHOPEDICS SURGEON SELECTED TO PRESENT AT ANNUAL MEETINGS

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Dr. Sina Pourtaheri, Orthopedic Spine Surgeon with Gulf Coast Orthopedics, was chosen to present at the UCSF adult and pediatric spine course in September 2020. His presentation was titled, “Opiate Use in Spine Surgery, Strategies to Prevent Opioid Dependence.” With the known negative impact of the opioid epidemic on our community it is imperative that providers, especially those who treat painful conditions, continually educate themselves on ways to prevent opioid dependence in their patients.

In October 2020, Dr. Pourtaheri was a guest lecturer at the North American Spine Society annual meeting. His talk discussed the use and trends of intraoperative neuromonitoring during the anterior cervical discectomy and fusion procedure.

He discussed the indications for monitoring intraoperatively, current trends in neuromonitoring and

recommendations for the future.

Dr. Pourtaheri, a native of New Orleans, completed his medical school training at Tulane University. He did his orthopedic residency at Seton Hall and his spine surgery fellowship at Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Pourtaheri is committed to engaging in research and education that will improve the outcomes of his patients. He has authored numerous journal articles and book chapters. He regularly speaks on the national level educating other providers about new surgical techniques, treatment options and the overall treatment of patients with spinal conditions. Dr. Pourtaheri sees patients from all over the Bayou Region in Gulf Coast Orthopedics Houma and Morgan City offices. He is on staff at Terrebonne General Medical Center, Gulf Coast Surgical Center and Physicians Medical Center.

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On November 10, 2020, Louisiana leaders launched an innovative program to hone the entrepreneurial skills of veterans who start a business in the state. Pathway to Assist Veteran Entrepreneurs, or PAVE, is a partnership of the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs, Louisiana Economic Development, the Louisiana National Guard and the Louisiana Small Business Development Center Network.

PAVE begins with three online courses available 24 hours a day. Upon completing that self-paced training, veterans register for a virtual boot camp. Following the interactive boot camp, each veteran receives ongoing support from a designated counselor in the LSBDC Network. The program is open to Louisiana military personnel or veterans who intend to start a business.

“Through service to their nation, our men and women in uniform have gained unparalleled skills, including leadership, management, assertiveness and technical training, all of which suit them for turning business plans into reality,” said Gov. John Bel Edwards. “I am proud to join with state leaders to announce the launch of the Pathway to Assist Veteran Entrepreneurs Program, which will equip our veteran entrepreneurs with the resources they need to see their businesses grow and thrive.”

The initial online training covers three sections: Starting a Business; Securing Financing; and Developing a Sales Strategy.

Participants then take part in a scheduled boot camp for entrepreneurs, hosted by the Louisiana Small Business Development Center Network.

The virtual boot camp is a one-day experience in two parts. Instructors help veterans analyze the feasibility of their business plan and also introduce them to business resources, including tools specific to veteran-owned businesses. Upon completion of the boot camp, veterans are connected with a consultant for long-term business support.

“The PAVE Program is a tremendous addition to resources available for our Louisiana veterans,” said LDVA Secretary Joey Strickland, who is a retired U.S. Army colonel. “I commend Secretary Pierson, a veteran himself, his team at Louisiana Economic Development and also the Louisiana Small Business

Development Center for their hard work.

This comprehensive, hands-on platform will greatly assist our aspiring veteran entrepreneurs in a way that we have not experienced before.”

PAVE is open to active-duty personnel and reservists in good standing, as well as veterans discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. Interested parties may explore the program at OpportunityLouisiana.com/PAVE and apply online with a $15 registration fee.

“Louisiana Economic Development is honored to support the Louisiana small business community, which is a key component of our state’s economy,” said LED Secretary Don Pierson. “I am particularly proud of our efforts to support the entrepreneurs who have served our country in uniform. Through the PAVE Program, we will ensure that these heroic men and women have a strong foundation for successfully operating their own small businesses.”

PAVE is the latest Louisiana program designed for the state’s veterans, joining other programs that include the Veteran Initiative for state procurement opportunities, and the Louisiana Veterans First Business Initiative, which recognizes more than 500 veteran-owned businesses through an online database. Customers may visit LaVeteransFirst.org to search for goods and services and support those veteran-owned businesses. Statewide, the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs assists 277,000 state veterans and their families every day through a network of 74 parish service offices and 26 student veteran centers, as well as five state-operated veterans homes and five state-operated cemeteries for veterans.

“Being able to create and collaborate on a veteran-focused initiative has been an honor for the Louisiana Small Business Development Center,” LSBDC State Director Carla Holland said. “When LED brought this idea to us, we knew we wanted to partner in whatever capacity to bring it to life. Veterans have done so much for us, and it’s an honor to be able to help them reach their goals and bring their dreams of entrepreneurship to reality through this program.”

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AIR CONDITIONING • REFRIGERATION • VENTILATION SYSTEM • HEATING

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148 N. Hollywood Rd. | Houma, LA | 985.873.8739 | juneaumarine.com

DANOS AWARDED SHELL PIPELINE CONTRACT Additionally, Danos has been awarded a significant contract with a midstream services provider to deliver facility upgrades of all automation and control systems for two platforms in the Gulf of Mexico. At the same time, Danos will enhance the human machine interface, which controls facility operations. Work on the project began in August, and pre-installation work is expected to be completed by the end of 2020.

While Danos has been providing automation and instrumentation and electrical services for decades, the company established each as independent service lines in 2014 after Danos acquired a control system company with an extensive 30-year history. Danos’ energy services offerings now include automation, instrumentation and electrical, mechanical maintenance, power generation, and valve and wellhead.

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EMPLOYEE BENEFITS ADVISORS COMMERCIAL INSURANCE | PERSONAL INSURANCE

Chr istian D. Lap ey re, E ld r idg e Ro b ichaux, Ken Stap le s Betty T hibo dau x Re ne T hib o daux Me lissa Hunte r Philip J. H e b e rt 985-360-4862

Co urtne y Brine g ar Sad ie H amb y A shle y A d am s Sk y A costa Natalie H arg is A ng e la Le d e t A lison H ad aw ay

1051 W. Tunnel Blvd.

Houma, Louisiana 70360

bbgulfstates.com

DECEMBER 2020 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

Shell Pipeline Company LP has awarded Danos a contract to provide significant upgrades to its Houma, LA, facility.

Danos’ instrumentation and electrical team will install a new, elevated motor control system for the company. This will control the mainline shipping pumps and associated controls supporting Shell’s commitment to long-term reliability of its assets. Project work began at the end of September and is expected to wrap in late 2021.

“Because we have a long-standing history with Shell Pipeline, our crews are familiar with the work and with the facility. This allows us to provide a turnkey solution for our valued customer,” said Owner Mark Danos.

Danos also supported phase one of the facility upgrades. Approximately 30 Danos and partner employees will be utilized to complete the work in phase two.

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS |

HEADLINES & ACCOLADES

DECEMBER 2020 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

BOLLINGER SHIPYARDS DELIVERS 41ST FAST RESPONSE CUTTER STRENGTHENING DEFENSE CAPABILITIES IN THE ARABIAN GULF

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Bollinger Shipyards LLC delivered the USCGC CHARLES MOULTHROPE to the U.S. Coast Guard in Key West, Florida. This is the 164th vessel Bollinger has delivered to the U.S. Coast Guard over a 35-year period and the 41st Fast Response Cutter (“FRC”) delivered under the current program.

The USCGC CHARLES MOULTHROPE is the first of six FRCs to be homeported in Manama, Bahrain, which will replace the aging 110’ Island Class Patrol Boats, built by Bollinger Shipyards 30 years ago, supporting the Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA), the U.S. Coast Guard’s largest overseas presence outside the United States.

“Bollinger is proud to continue enhancing and supporting the U.S. Coast Guard’s operational presence around the world by delivering the USCGC CHARLES MOULTHROPE,” said Bollinger President & C.E.O. Ben Bordelon. “It is our top priority to ensure that the brave men and women of the Coast Guard stationed in PATFORSWA have the most state-ofthe-art, advanced vessels as they work to build and maintain the necessary regional alliances to ensure maritime security in the region. Building ships for the Coast Guard provides critical assets to bolster our national security and advance America’s interests, both at home and abroad.”

At a PATFORSWA change of command ceremony earlier in the summer, U.S.

Coast Guard Atlantic Area Commander Vice Adm. Steven D. Poulin emphasized the importance of the unit, saying, “During these historical times it is important, now more than ever, that we maintain maritime security operations throughout the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. [PATFORSWA is] pushing forward into the unknown to protect American interests in the region.”

PATFORSWA Commander Capt. Willie L. Carmichael echoed Poulin’s comments, saying PATFORSWA “plays a key role in maritime security, maritime infrastructure protection, theater security cooperation, and counter-smuggling operations.”

PATFORSWA is composed of six cutters, shoreside support personnel, and the Maritime Engagement Team.

The unit’s mission is to train, organize, equip, support and deploy combat-ready Coast Guard Forces in support of U.S. Central Command and national security objectives. PATFORSWA works with Naval Forces Central Command in furthering their goals to conduct persistent maritime operations to forward U.S. interests, deter and counter disruptive countries, defeat violent extremism and strengthen partner nations’ maritime capabilities in order to promote a secure maritime environment.

Bordelon continued, “The FRC hot production line continues to produce and provide stability in the industrial base for the U.S. Government and our Bollinger workforce, assuring economic benefit for

our region, our vendor partners in the 40plus states that support the FRC program, and our country.”

The last 20 weeks of the USCGC CHARLES MOULTHROPE build occurred despite the COVID-19 global pandemic and six named storms impacting the Gulf region, all of which affected Louisiana and two of which made landfall in the state as hurricanes, including Hurricane Laura – a Category 4 storm and the strongest to hit the state since the Great Storm of 1856. Bollinger undertook precautions to ensure the health and safety of employees and maintain its delivery schedule. For the COVID-19 pandemic, Bollinger increased and enhanced sanitization practices across the shipyard, and enacted more liberal leave and remote work policies as well as altered shift schedules to promote social distancing.

Each FRC is named for an enlisted

LORIO FOUNDATION DONATES TO SHAVER GYM RENOVATIONS The Lorio Foundation donated over $175,000 to renovate space on the Nicholls State University campus for more socially distanced classrooms.

The Thibodaux-based nonprofit donated $177,000 for a new heating and ventilation system in Shaver Gym. Named for former Nicholls student Richard Shaver, the gym has undergone a transformation this year to hold classes and St. Thomas Aquinas Mass during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the

summers, Shaver Gym is also used by Colonel Campers.

“This is a historic building on the Nicholls State University campus, and we believe this donation will benefit the university as they work toward their mission,” said Cam Morvant, chairman of the Lorio Foundation. “We are always looking for ways to help make Nicholls a better educational institution for the students.”

For 23 years, the nonprofit named for

former Thibodaux letter carrier Lloyd Lorio has donated more than $3 million to improve facilities on the Nicholls campus.

Projects they have contributed to include the resurfacing of tennis courts, renovating the steps at the Donald Bollinger Student Union, buying a new playground at Little Colonel’s Academy and building a pavilion at Ayo Pool.

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Coast Guard hero who distinguished himself or herself in the line of duty.

Born in Massachusetts in 1873, Charles Moulthrope was a member of the crew of Revenue Cutter Commodore Perry.

Seaman Moulthrope gave his life in the performance of duties in 1896.

Moulthrope had previously performed a heroic deed while serving on the Perry.

Moulthrope rescued four of his shipmates who had fallen into the sea from the cutter’s launch after they had gone to rescue another crewman, Boatswain Alfred Halfell who had fallen overboard.

He grabbed a line and leaped over the side into the freezing water to rescue the four who were rapidly succumbing to hypothermia. Moulthrope worked the line around all four of the sailors and those on board the cutter then pulled the men aboard the Perry.

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THE BEST STOP TO EXPAND WITH OPENING OF WHOLESALE FACILITY After three years of planning and development, The Best Stop is pleased to announce that its $6 million wholesale distribution facility, located at 617 Highway 93 North Scott, La, is scheduled to open for business in early October.

The 15,000-square-foot facility is USDA-certified to distribute a range of wholesale products throughout all

50 U.S. states. Some of these products include boudin, smoked boudin, boudin mix, smoked sausage, andouille, tasso, rice dressing and deboned chicken. At opening, the wholesale facility will employ between seven and 10 employees, with plans to expand operations and create an estimated 20 new jobs for Lafayette parish.

“The City of Scott is very excited about the wholesale expansion project at The Best Stop,” said Mayor of Scott JanScott Richard. “The economic engines of growth are investment and job creation. The investment [The Best Stop] has placed into our community paired with the additional jobs gives us a huge opportunity to showcase our recognition as the Boudin Capital of the World. … We look forward to our continued partnership

with Best Stop and look forward to the added growth they will bring to our city for years to come.”

Fans of Cajun cuisine and loyal customers can expect to begin seeing their favorite The Best Stop products appearing in local and national grocery stores, restaurants and bars beginning in 2021. In the meantime, eager foodies can order The Best Stop products online with national delivery options or in-store at The Best Stop Supermarket in Scott or The Best Stop Express in Duson.

The Best Stop Supermarket, founded

by Lawrence Menard and Robert Cormier in 1986, has served award-winning Cajun specialty meats and cuisine to the Acadiana region for over 30 years. Still a family business at heart, The Best Stop is now run by Robert Cormier’s four children, Dana, Damon, Nicky and Penny, and has since expanded to serve online shoppers in all 50 states.

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ON THE AGENDA CHAMBER SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY POP-UP

BIG MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON

The Bayou Industrial Group welcomes you back to their monthly meetings! This month’s general membership meeting will be held on the 5th floor of the Thibodaux Regional Wellness Center. Reservations are open to members first, then to guests if space allows.

December 14, noon Thibodaux Regional Wellness Center

TFAE PURSES AND PROMISES:A GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT FOR CHILDREN’S GENERAL MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON LITERACY FUNDRAISER The Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce This amazing evening features gently used designer and brand name purses for sale and a silent auction to help raise funds for Terrebonne Foundation for Academic Excellence. Guests can also enjoy shopping pop-up shops from local boutiques and door prizes. Delicious hors d’oeuvres and wine are included with ticket purchase. All proceeds from the event help fund the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library reading program in Terrebonne Parish. Through this program, registered local children receive one age-appropriate book every month until their fifth birthday at no cost to their families. Tickets are $55 per person, $25 of which goes directly to sponsoring a Terrebonne Parish child in the Imagination Library for one year. Tickets must be purchased before the event. Visit tfae.org/purses-promises to purchase.

December 4, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Courtyard by Marriott, Houma

will hold its monthly General Membership Luncheon with guest speaker Louisiana State Treasurer John Schroder.

This special luncheon will also have the presentation of the 2020 Terrebonne Young Achiever Award presented by b1BANK. Payment is required in advance and no payment will be accepted at the event, as well as no walk-ups allowed. Admission is $25 per person with payment required in advance. Pre-pay is available online, mailed in, or by calling the Chamber office.

December 15, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Courtyard by Marriott, Houma All dates and times are subject to change.

DECEMBER 2020 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

Join us at the Chamber Small Business Saturday Pop Up! The Chamber is passionate about our small businesses because they are the backbone of the community. This event is open to the public to come enjoy a day of shopping local.

November 28, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Houma Chamber Office, 6133 Hwy. 311

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WORKPLACE

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DECEMBER 2020 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

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