Moving Forward - BBM January by Rushing Media

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE |

JANUARY 2022 • VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS 04 06 08

GOVERNMENT UPDATE

Local Officials Break Ground on HNC Lock Complex, Announce Completion of Grand Bayou Floodgate

FROM THE TOP

Misty Leigh McElroy

10 12 15

THE GOOD EARTH IS STRONGER THAN EVER MOVERS & SHAKERS Headlines and Accolades

ON THE AGENDA

Business Calendar of Events

PUBLISHER

Brian Rushing ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Mary Downer Ditch EDITORIAL Heidi Guidry CONTRIBUTING WRITER

MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER

CREATIVE Lauren Hemstreet GRAPHIC DESIGNER

DIGITAL MARKETING Carlie Johnson

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.

MOVING FORWARD

’m just so ready for something new in 2022! Does anyone else feel like we’ve just been running in circles on a hamster wheel lately? I started 2021 off with high hopes of business returning to our area after a rough bout in 2020 with Covid-19 closures and such. Then along came Ida to completely turn that on end! Once again, our area was struggling with trying to get back reopened before the holiday season. In January’s issue, we are focusing on the good things that came out of 2021, and taking a look at where our maps are leading us in 2022. Despite the various hardships the people of Louisiana faced this past year, both Terrebonne and Lafourche parish are ready to rise to the challenge of a new year. Our parish presidents sat down and penned columns on what was accomplished and where we are heading moving forward. We also share with you the LSU Center

for Energy Studies 2022 Energy Outlook. Last year’s GCEO addressed COVID-19related uncertainties and how short-term recovery might evolve. The 2022 GCEO addresses several medium- to longerterm recovery issues, including whether temporary operational adjustments implemented by businesses will persist in a post-pandemic world. The report also considers the impacts of the 2020 and 2021 hurricane seasons. This year is sure to be the one for big changes and new, creative ways of doing business. Thinking outside of your comfort zone and past “the way we’ve always done it” will be key in 2022. May the new year bring you and your business much success. MARY DITCH

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GOVERNMENT UPDATE / OIL & GAS

BY MARY DOWNER DITCH

JANUARY 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

ov. John Bel Edwards joined the Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority (CPRA) as well as local and state officials in November to break ground on the Houma Navigation Canal (HNC) Lock Complex and announce the completion of the Grand Bayou Floodgate, two critical components of the Morganza to the Gulf Hurricane Protection System. With the completion of the 147-foot Grand Bayou Floodgate, the Morganza to the Gulf system now has a continuous levee segment stretching 47 miles from Grand Bayou in Lafourche Parish to upper Bayou Dularge in Terrebonne Parish to prevent floodwaters from impacting the region. The newly completed floodgate was named in honor of the late Louisiana Rep. Reggie Bagala, who passed away from complications due to COVID-19 in April 2020. “Today we are announcing two substantial advances in our efforts to provide Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes with 100-year storm surge protection,” Gov. Edwards said. “The Grand Bayou Floodgate will honor Rep. Bagala’s memory while providing improved hurricane protection to the people and place he called home. This project, combined with the soon to begin HNC Lock Complex, are game-changers for the entire Morganza to the Gulf system.” The Morganza to the Gulf system will benefit approximately 1,900 square miles in Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes through flood control, salinity control, and ecosystem restoration. “The road to strengthening the Morganza to the Gulf system and providing the Bayou Region with upgraded hurricane protection has been paved by hard work and collaboration with parish governments and levee districts,” CPRA Chairman Chip Kline said. “We’re thrilled to announce such meaningful progress toward our shared goal of providing a safer and better protected future for those in Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes.” Phase 1 of the HNC Lock Complex project will dredge over 1 million cubic yards of material to prepare the area for the lock complex and create 178 acres of marsh in six areas north of the complex along the navigation channel. Phase 1 is anticipated to be complete in the fall of 2022. The HNC Lock will allow a longer window of opportunity for navigation activities when the adjacent Bubba Dove Floodgate is closed to protect communities from storm

surge or high water events. During gate closures, the lock will allow vessels to travel in either direction on the HNC, enabling officials to close the floodgate earlier and keep it closed longer, benefiting the area’s ecosystem suffering from saltwater intrusion. Terrebonne Parish President Gordon “Gordy” Dove and Lafourche Parish President Archie Chaisson joined the Governor for the announcements and praised the projects for enhancing the Morganza to the Gulf system’s hurricane protection capabilities. “The Grand Bayou Floodgate is a critical link in the Morganza to the Gulf Hurricane Protection system,” Dove said. “We are delighted with its completion and express our thanks to Gov. Edwards and CPRA. In the foreseeable future, the Morganza levee will rise to 18 feet, its full design height, providing both Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes with considerably more storm surge protection. The HNC Lock complex is a companion piece to the ‘Bubba Dove’ Floodgate, and will allow marine traffic to effectively bypass the floodgate when it’s required to be closed to protect against storm surge and saltwater intrusion. Terrebonne Parish has worked very closely with CPRA and the Levee District to bring this project to its long-awaited start.” “The new Grand Bayou Floodgate is another tool to help protect our residents and I’m glad to see construction being completed,” Chaisson said. “This culminates the work of a lot of agencies over many years and will help protect our residents for years to come. Additionally, to see this structure dedicated to Rep. Bagala defines what the people of Lafourche are about. Hard work, dedication, and resilience are three things that Reggie stood for and three words that mean so much to so many in Lafourche Parish.” The HNC Lock Complex is a joint effort of CPRA and the Terrebonne Levee and Conservation District. A tentative bid date for construction of Phase 2 of the lock structure, which will include an 800-foot lock chamber with 110-foot-wide sector gates, is anticipated in spring 2022. Engineering, design, and construction for Phases 1 and 2 of the HNC Lock Complex are funded with money resulting from the damages of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, allocated through the Resources and Ecosystems Sustainability, Tourist Opportunities, and Revived Economies of the Gulf Coast States Act (RESTORE Act). “The completion of the Grand Bayou Reggie Bagala Floodgate in Lafourche Parish truly represents the single-minded focus of our entire region in south central Louisiana because flood waters do not recognize parish boundaries,” Terrebonne Levee and Conservation District Executive Director Reggie Dupre said. “As a native of Pointeaux-Chenes, a small rural two parish community on the TerrebonneLafourche boundary, I am very appreciative of our partners in getting this done. Additionally, the beginning of construction of the HNC Lock Complex is a huge landmark in our efforts for hurricane protection and maintaining sustainable coastal communities. In 2014, then CPRA Chairman Garret Graves, CPRA Executive Director Jerome Zeringue, State Sen. Norby Chabert, and State Rep. Gordon Dove led the charge to use Deepwater Horizon oil spill funds to build the HNC Lock Complex under the direction of CPRA and the Terrebonne Levee District. Our design consultants were able to optimize the Corps’ design of the Lock Complex to provide significant cost savings and a reduction of wetland impacts. The Lock Complex is a perfect example of why we created CPRA in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina; a true integration of coastal restoration and hurricane protection.” Construction of the Grand Bayou Floodgate was funded by $18.5 million in Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA) funds and $1.5 million in capital outlay funds. The project is a collaborative effort of CPRA with the South Lafourche Levee District, North Lafourche Levee

District, Lafourche Parish Government, Terrebonne Parish Consolidated Government, and Terrebonne Levee and Conservation District. “The completion of the Grand Bayou Reggie Bagala Floodgate closes the most efficient path for storm surge waters to enter eastern Terrebonne and North Lafourche east of the Bayou Lafourche Ridge,” South Lafourche Levee District General Manager Windell Curole said. “The commencement of the Lock on the Houma Navigation Canal will lead to flood control with improved navigation and environmental enhancements.” Col. Stephen Murphy, commander, New Orleans District, USACE, applauded the collaboration between CPRA, the parish governments, and the levee districts. “The value of the Morganza to the Gulf system is undeniable as we’ve seen how it’s performed so well during the last two hurricane seasons,” Col. Murphy said. “The State, levee districts, and parishes are to be commended on all the great work they have accomplished and the Corps looks forward increasing our role in this partnership as we advance construction on this critical infrastructure together.” Elected officials from south central Louisiana, including State Sen. Mike Fesi, State Sen. Bret Allain, State Rep. Beryl Amedee, State Rep. Tanner Magee, and State. Rep. Joseph Orgeron, joined the Governor in celebrating the completion of the floodgate and the start of construction on the HNC Lock. “Today is a great day for Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes,” Fesi said. “It marks significant progress on two important components of Morganza to the Gulf, a system that not only provides us with improved hurricane protection, but helps to conserve the ecosystem and salinity level of our vital marshland.” “The continued progress on the Morganza to the Gulf system is always welcomed news for Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes,” Allain said. “These projects ensure the long-term viability of our coastal communities, and as Chairman of the Senate Revenue & Fiscal Affairs Committee, I have fully supported all capital outlay requests concerning this project – it is that important to the people and businesses of our area.” “Rep. Bagala was my seatmate on the House Floor. At the time of his passing, we had only worked together for a short time, but it was already obvious that Reggie had a great love for God, family, coastal Louisiana, and the LSU Tigers,” Amedee said. “It’s comforting to know that by dedicating the Grand Bayou Floodgate in Rep. Bagala’s memory, future generations might come to love our coast with his same passion. I am certain he would share the same excitement as I do for the added protection and preservation the Grand Bayou Floodgate and the HNC Lock will bring to our area, ecosystem and economy.” “This is another important step in flood protection for all of Louisiana,” Magee said. “I’m happy that Rep. Bagala’s name will be associated with it because protecting the people of South Louisiana from flooding was his passion.” “It is an honor to be involved in the dedication of the Grand Bayou Floodgate to my predecessor, Rep. Reggie Bagala,” Orgeron said. “Having been newly-elected at the onset of the construction process, I was amazed to see first-hand how our state entities, like CPRA, and the three levee districts worked in concert with one another to quickly provide this substantial flood protection and coastal resiliency for the people of South Louisiana.” Sealevel Construction, Inc., headquartered in Thibodaux, won the competitively bid dredging contract for the lock site, as well as the contract for construction of the Grand Bayou Floodgate and Receiving Structure.

“THE CONTINUED PROGRESS ON THE MORGANZA TO THE GULF SYSTEM IS ALWAYS WELCOMED NEWS FOR TERREBONNE AND LAFOURCHE PARISHES...THESE PROJECTS ENSURE THE LONG-TERM VIABILITY OF OUR COASTAL COMMUNITIES...”

JANUARY 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

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FROM THE TOP |

QUICK QUESTIONS FOR THE PEOPLE IN CHARGE

JANUARY 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR, FLETCHER TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR WORK:

TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF:

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB? The people. Seeing the difference a small group of people can make and how it ripples throughout the community – especially in a time of need, is amazing. Fletcher cares about its community in ways I have never experienced before.

AS A CHILD, WHAT DID YOU SEE YOURSELF DOING AS A CAREER? I always thought I wanted to be a teacher. Mostly

WHAT IS THE HARDEST? Since I am still new to the job, I find the hardest part is learning all there is to know about what Fletcher offers. This institution offers a lot more programs and learning paths than most people are aware of. IS THERE ANYTHING NEW ON THE HORIZON FOR FLETCHER IN 2022? Oh, so many things! Launching new programs in maritime cybersecurity, global wind training and IT certifications. Expanding nursing and allied health programs, precision agriculture training and adding more online degrees. Also adding new facilities such as workforce, nursing and allied health and precision agriculture. It’s going to be an exciting year for Fletcher.

WHAT’S ONE LEADERSHIP SKILL YOU FEEL EVERYONE MUST LEARN? Listen to understand instead of listening to reply. So often we get caught up in our own thoughts and what we want to say that we don’t truly listen when others are speaking.

because my mom worked at the school board while I was growing up. Then I stumbled upon photography. What started as a hobby turned into a passion. My dad had an old AE-1 that he gave to me for my photography classes in college. He was always the photographer of the family. I enjoyed taking photos and bringing them home for him to look at – it became a bonding experience. Then I got proficient with the camera and ultimately turned photography into a career which led me into the marketing world.

WHAT WAS YOUR VERY FIRST JOB? I worked at Super Suds for a hot minute when I was 15.

WHAT TIME DO YOU WAKE UP AND HOW DO YOU START YOUR DAY? Lately, I’ve been getting up around 7 and starting my day with a cup of coffee and at least two dogs in my lap. Then I head into the office.

WHAT’S ONE THING YOU COULDN’T LIVE WITHOUT? Carbs. I know… I’ve tried.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING IN YOUR FREE TIME? Traveling. My daughter and I have been to all 48 contiguous states. We love taking road trips to anywhere. I also enjoy live music festivals and taking naps.

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FAVORITES/THIS OR THAT: Favorite superhero: I actually have two. My parents. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. They are incredible humans who have gone above and beyond for me and my daughter. Favorite vacation spot: This is a hard question, but I’ll go with Zion National Park – although all the areas in the Southern Utah region are absolutely incredible. How do you like your coffee? In a thermos… everywhere I go. Oh, and with a little bit of Splenda.

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Chocolate or vanilla ice cream? Chocolate – and like four servings worth. Have you seen a serving size? It’s offensive. Pen or pencil? Pen – but I’ve been enjoying writing with my e-ink tablet.

JANUARY 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

Early bird or night owl? Night owl. This wasn’t even remotely a tie.

FROM ARCHIE CHAISSON, LAFOURCHE PARISH PRESIDENT

he five pillars set by President Archie Chaisson as a foundation to move Lafourche Parish forward included local tax reform, economic diversification, drainage and infrastructure improvements, coastal restoration, and recreation expansion. “Local tax reform has never been more important than it is now,” emphasized President Chaisson. “The tax reform process has entered the phase of its evolution towards actionable legislation.” The drainage and infrastructure improvements completed thus far parish-wide have been

tested storm after storm since 2020. However, preparation for the next season always drives more improvements. For the year ahead, over $10 million dollars is budgeted toward drainage and infrastructure improvements. The budget is a combination of grant dollars secured for pump station improvements as well as dedicated tax dollars. As with drainage infrastructure, coastal restoration is paramount to protection. Lafourche Parish Government, Nicholls State University, and the Coastal Protection and

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JANUARY 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

Restoration Authority (CPRA) announced the beginning of the development of the Coastal Center at Nicholls State University. Lafourche Parish Government dedicated $500,000 of the parish’s Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA) funds towards development. “While every effort to move Lafourche forward is important, recreation seems to be the topic most people want to discuss because it’s fun and brings families and communities together. We were excited to unveil our stateof-the-art community center in Lockport this past year, and plan to expand in other districts,” said President Chaisson. “None of our accomplishments thus far or future goals could be met without the support of the entire community. When I said it would take us moving forward together, those words have never rung truer than they do today,” expressed President Chaisson.

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JANUARY 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

ith a 2022 budget of $239.1 Million, Terrebonne Parish stands fiscally stronger than ever. The Parish has 102 pump stations (over 200 pumps), all automated with backup generator systems. The larger 50 pump stations are automated with telemetry & SCADA. As evident in the recent hurricane, there was no flooding for Ida. As Hurricane Ida made landfall wind speeds of over 185 mph were recorded and Terrebonne Parish sustained serious structural damage. Within 12 days electrical power began to be restored, with 97% of all power restored in Terrebonne along with water restoration in 28 days. (Great Job from the Waterworks District!) Now comes the rebuilding of Terrebonne Parish, which is well under way. FEMA has paid $315 Million to the citizens of Terrebonne Parish in the form of grants and loan assistance. Over 800 travel trailers are currently on location at the homes of Terrebonne Parish residents. Sales tax collections for October 2021 were up 43 percent, much of this due to the rebuilding spending. The Parish is diligently working for monies that may be available in the form of FEMA, CDBG, Hazardous Mitigation funding, and others. The economy of Terrebonne Parish is seeing an increase due to oil and gas prices. New housing development has seen a huge increase in the last year. The Morganza Levee system’s first phase with 13 floodgates and two locks is completed, protecting the citizens of Terrebonne Parish more than ever before. Also, a recent monumental groundbreaking of the $420 Million Lock System on the HNC took place, along with advancing the deepening of the HNC (Houma Navigational Canal) to 20-feet navigable (larger vessel access). Next year increased plans to build additional pump stations, retention ponds, as well as the road extension of Valhi to Highway 90 (engineering and design) are all set to begin. Barrier Island restoration will continue. Whiskey Island and Trinity Island are complete, while the work is starting on Timbalier Island. The rock jetty on Island Road was a huge success and withstood Hurricane Ida’s devastating winds and water. Terrebonne Parish’s Emergency Operations Command Center was at its finest during Hurricane Ida. We will continue with concrete panel repairs, asphalt repairs and overlay, as well as drainage, which will always be at the front of issues and will be addressed constantly. In closing, “Job Well Done” to all Department Heads in Terrebonne helping to continue to move the Parish forward. My administration, along with the Council, have faced many challenges, including the COVID-19 Pandemic and Hurricane Ida, but we have continued day-to-day operations with fiscal responsibility and cost saving measures. Terrebonne Parish, the Good Earth, is stronger than ever.

MOVERS AND SHAKERS | HEADLINES & ACCOLADES

MORRISON HIRES WIND & RENEWABLES VETERAN TO SPEARHEAD EXPANSION

JANUARY 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

Chet Morrison Contractors, LLC (Morrison), a leading energy service company for the oil and gas industry, has announced the hiring of Kirk Meche as Director of Renewable Energy. With more than three decades of experience as a thought-leader in the energy industry, Meche is responsible for propelling expansion into the wind and renewables sector. Meche has gained national attention for his role in pioneering the entrance of oil and gas fabricators into the wind energy business. Before joining the Morrison team, Meche worked for over 23 years at

Gulf Island Fabrication, Inc. (Gulf Island), a fabricator of complex steel structures and modules to the industrial and energy sectors. A publiclytraded company with a rich history in oil and gas, Gulf Island was the fabricator for Block Island, the first wind farm to be established in the U.S. Meche served in multiple leadership roles at the company, including board member and President/CEO. Meche also serves as the Executive Consultant to the Vice President of Nicholls State University. “We are extremely proud to have Kirk join our team,” said CEO Chet Morrison. “His vast knowledge of the industry coupled with the strong relationships he has built amongst its key players make him an invaluable asset to oversee our growth in wind and renewables.” Wind is the largest source of renewable power in the United States with offshore energy pipeline development increasing 24% over the past year. Furthermore, the Biden Administration has also announced a goal to produce 30 gigawatts of offshore wind power by 2030. Morrison is committed to remaining an integral part of the supply chain to deliver alternative solutions for sustainable U.S. energy in the coming years. Morrison has over 38 years of experience serving as a preferred contractor and fabricator for many leading energy companies, including Shell, Chevron, ExxonMobil, BP, and others. With fabrication facilities in the U.S., Mexico, and the Caribbean, Morrison is well-positioned to fabricate substations, jackets, and ancillary components for largescale projects. As a highly experienced shallow water shore approach and onshore pipeline installation contractor, Morrison is pursuing opportunities to utilize its experience and proficiency in this area to perform cable lay from substations to the onshore power grid. “We fully understand the necessity to obtain clean and affordable energy solutions,” said Meche. “Morrison is proud to be a part of these efforts and is eager to facilitate a better tomorrow for the future of our nation.” Morrison has also joined the Business Network for Offshore Wind Development to further grow its presence in the industry. The Business Network for Offshore Wind is a nonprofit, educational organization with a mission to develop the offshore wind renewable energy industry and its supply chain. The goal of the supply chain is to create and sustain jobs to benefit local economies and ensure a cost-effective clean energy portfolio.

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LAFOURCHE DA’S OFFICE WINS 2021 LEADERS IN LAW ENFORCEMENT AWARD Lafourche Parish District Attorney Kristine Russell is excited to announce that the Lafourche Parish District Attorney’s Office was selected to receive the 2021 Leaders in Law Enforcement Award by the Community Foundation of Acadiana. District Attorney Russell and her office were selected for the statewide award for their work with the RESPECT U school program and the expansion of the Victims’ Rights Department. “We truly believe that if we can start reaching our children at a young age that we’re going to see a difference in our community in five, ten and fifteen years,” said District Attorney Kristine Russell. “It’s going to be a slow process, but we can do it.” One Louisiana District Attorney’s Office, one Louisiana Sheriff’s Office and one Louisiana State Police Troop was honored at a banquet hosted by the foundation earlier this week in Lafayette. At the banquet, District Attorney Kristine Russell and members of her office were presented with a plaque and a check for $25,000. “These awards are designed to honor those departments who

are making the most impact in their communities with the resources with which they have been allocated,” said Community Foundation of Acadiana President and CEO Raymond Hebert. “Oftentimes, we never hear about the positive interactions. That’s what we’re doing here today. Sharing the positive, sharing all that is right with law enforcement and sharing the good that is going on in our communities.”

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS | HEADLINES & ACCOLADES #IGIVECATHOLIC RAISES OVER $800,000 FOR LOCAL CATHOLIC MINISTRIES IN THE DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX

JASON BERGERON NAMED 2022 RELAY FOR LIFE EVENT CHAIR

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JANUARY 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

Houma Native Jason Bergeron has been named the 2022 Relay for Life Event Chair. Bergeron is an entrepreneur and has been involved in the community for over 20 years. He owns Stratify, a business consulting company; served as the Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce Chairman; Treasurer of the Hache Grant Association where he’s been constantly involved with helping those in need; helped form the local Alzheimer’s group; and has been a part of the Relay for Life event since the 90s, just to name a few. Bergeron said his involvement with the event started in the mid-90s and has been involved on and off since then. He started when it was at Nicholls, as a walk the track event. He’s helped with teams, involved with the Sean Payton and Rob Ryan pie in the face, celebrity waiter with stars from Duck Dynasty, and many more creative fundraising opportunities. The event is personal for Bergeron where he said it’s near and dear to his heart. He lost his mother five years ago to cancer. Her journey included fighting the disease three times. His mother-inlaw is also a cancer survivor. “With a lot of people I know, it has touched their lives in one way or another. I think it’s an important cause,” he said. He is passionate about trying to help the cause of finding a cure or better treatment options for cancer. He said it’s all about having a great team. He said when he is involved with something, he tries to leave it better than what he found it, and make it the best event it can be. “I hope it’s the passion that everyone gets attached to,” he said, talking about the 2022 event. He also attributed his can-do attitude to his experiences growing up. He said his family didn’t have much growing up and it was all about survival. “What’s the worst someone can say? No?” He said he doesn’t see the answer as a no, but rather than a not right now, which highlights his positive outlook when it comes to lending a helping hand to the community he’s so passionate about. Bergeron said our area has something special about it, “It attributes to that resiliency, the dust ourselves off, take care of ourselves, not wait on anyone else mentality we have. I’m honored and fortunate to be able to be a part of the event this year.” American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life in Terrebonne will be April 23, 2022, location still being determined. To donate or to join the relay, visit RelayForLife.org/TerrebonneLA, and follow the local Relay for Life on Facebook for updates.

The results of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux’s #iGiveCatholic are in! With 1,315 donors, a total of $801,517 was raised for our local community during the 24-hour online giving event held on #GivingTuesday (November 30, 2021). The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux raised the second-highest figure of all Louisiana dioceses and was ranked seventh nationally. “I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the dear people of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux for the success of #iGiveCatholic,” said Bishop Shelton J. Fabre. “Thank you to those who prayed for the success of the campaign and for those who were able to financially give. Even with everything we’ve been through this year, for us to raise over $800,000 is quite impressive, and I thank all of you from the bottom of my heart.” Within the diocese, $189,078 was raised for Catholic Charities, a figure which topped the list locally and ranked seventh nationally. Their campaign targeted the support of their mission, focusing on their four service pillars: feeding, clothing, sheltering, and comforting. Nationally, over $15.6 million was raised for 1,614 ministries this week – making this the most successful Catholic crowdfunding event to date. “The Catholic Foundation is proud to host #iGiveCatholic each year for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux,” said Amy Ponson, executive director of the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana. “#iGiveCatholic gives church parishes, schools, and nonprofits the ability to engage the community together as ONE to give back to the ministries that they are so passionate about. While we hope to raise enough funds to accomplish the project each ministry is seeking, our main focus each year is to build community. We want to engage individuals and families together to pray for and gift what they can and this year we were blown away that more than 1,300 families helped give big and give Catholic! Our average gift was $250 to the campaign. “Our Catholic schools this year took that to heart and our top three ministries who engaged the most families were St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School, St. Genevieve School, and St. Mary’s Nativity School. There simply are not enough words to express our gratitude for all who prayed for and made this year such a success even through the most difficult circumstances we could have imagined with Hurricane Ida. I say it often and I will say it again, never underestimate the people of the bayou and this diocese. Our people are the absolute best God has made,” Ponson added. For more information about #iGiveCatholic or to view the full list of results, visit https://houmathibodaux.igivecatholic.org, visit catholicfoundationsl.org or call 985-850-3116.

MOVERS AND SHAKERS | HEADLINES & ACCOLADES STACY WIGGINS NAMED ROUSES REGIONAL VP OF OPERATIONS

JANUARY 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

GULF COAST ENERGY OUTLOOK 2022 RELEASED

On November 17, 2021, the LSU Center for Energy Studies released the 2022 edition of the Gulf Coast Energy Outlook (GCEO). As in previous years, this fifth edition of the GCEO provides a comprehensive overview of the Gulf Coast region’s energy industry outlook for the upcoming year. David E. Dismukes, executive director and professor, and Greg Upton, associate professor, LSU Center for Energy Studies, authored the report. Last year’s GCEO addressed COVID-19related uncertainties and how short-term recovery might evolve. The 2022 GCEO addresses several medium- to longer-term recovery issues, including whether temporary operational adjustments implemented by businesses will persist in a post-pandemic world. The report also considers the impacts of the 2020 and 2021 hurricane seasons. Findings include • U.S. crude oil production is currently below pre-pandemic levels, while natural gas supplies have exceeded pre-pandemic levels. Both oil and gas production are anticipated to increase in the future. • Global crude oil demand growth, along with tight supplies and continued OPEC+ discipline, has put upward pressure on oil prices. Oil prices are anticipated to fall in coming years, converging to approximately $58 per barrel. • While decarbonization initiatives may lead

to near-term challenges for Gulf Coast industrial expansion, they also create opportunities for continued regional capital investment, as manufacturing industries develop products historically derived from fossil fuels with lower, or net zero, greenhouse gas emissions. • Since 2013, U.S. and Gulf Coast power generation-related greenhouse gas emissions are down 20.7 percent and 15.8 percent, respectively, due in part to development of renewable energy and thermal efficiency gains by the region’s utilities. • The 2022 GCEO identifies $155 billion in capital development potential through 2029, with liquefied natural gas (LNG) investments making up over 40 percent of this potential. The relative shift in potential capital investments away from chemical industry activities and toward LNG export facilities is expected to continue into the near future. • Much like last year, long-run energy demand growth is expected to lead to increased U.S. energy exports, especially to the growing developing world. • Texas and Louisiana are anticipated to reach new highs in refining and chemical manufacturing employment over the forecast time horizon, which extends through the end of 2024. The full report can be viewed at: https:// www.lsu.edu/ces/publications/2021/gulfcoast-energy-outlook-2022-online_final.pdf

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Rouses Market recently appointed Stacy Wiggins as the Louisiana-based, Rouses Markets Regional Vice President of Operations. In this role, Wiggins’ will oversee the east region of the company. A U.S. Army veteran, Wiggins is bringing more than 30 years of expertise leading strategy and operations to the company. “We are always honored to hire veterans and provide job opportunities for active military and their families,” says Donny Rouse, CEO of Rouses Markets. As VP of Operations, Wiggins will work closely with Rouse. In a statement to Super Market News, Wiggins says she is optimistic to contribute to the growth and expansion of the company. “We are actively planning for our next phase of growth, which includes opening more stores across the region, and investing in new technology and platforms for our customers who are increasingly relying on our digital services and e-commerce solutions.” “Stacy has leadership experience, retail skills, and proven business results. I know she will help us meet our company’s and customers’ evolving needs,” said Rouse. Beginning her career in the industry as an hourly associate, Wiggins has worn many hats, with an extensive resume in the grocery business. After working in various positions, she rose to district manager. She’s spent over a decade at Ahold USA’s Stop & Shop brand, most recently holding the position of Vice President of E-commerce Operations. In this role, Wiggins focused primarily on the operations, financial performance, and merchandising aspects for 211 stores located in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and all parts of Connecticut. In addition, she was responsible for ensuring the effective execution and roll-out of all company initiatives and the creation and execution of competitive intrusion strategies. Adding to a list of accomplishments earned in the grocery business, she was named one of the Top Women in Grocery by Progressive Grocer in 2011, 2013, and 2016. Rouse says the market looks forward to what she will bring to the company. “It is very exciting to have a leader on our team who has been recognized for the work they are doing and the important and positive impact she’s had on our industry.”

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WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER! The following businesses joined the Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce:

POWFORD CONTRACTORS RED HAMMER GENERAL CONTRACTOR LLC

UNIQUE FINDS AND FURNITURE

SOUTHDOWN EXPRESS

GIRLS ON THE RUN BAYOU REGION

XCLUSIVE AUTO SPECIALTIES LLC

Bayou Industrial Group will host their monthly general membership meeting with guest speaker. Meetings are held on the 5th Floor of Thibodaux Regional Wellness Center.

January 10, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Thibodaux Regional Wellness Center

GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING SCIA will host their monthly general membership meeting with a guest speaker. Admission is $25 per person with payment required in advance.

January 18, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Cypress Columns

92ND HOUMA-TERREBONNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNUAL BANQUET The Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce puts on an Annual Banquet for the community to join a night of fun! The night consists of a delicious dinner, celebrating those who have positively impacted our community, and keynote speakers. The Chamber’s newly installed officers, outgoing officers, and board members are recognized at the event along with the announcements of the Chamber Small Business of the Year, Chamber Large Business of the Year, Chamber Ambassador of the Year, The Courier’s Most Useful Citizen award, the Teenager of the Year, and HTV’s Eugene Folse Outstanding Veteran award. Reserved seating and sponsorships may be purchased by calling the Chamber office at 985-876-5600.

January 26, 6-9 p.m. Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center

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JANUARY 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY

BIG GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

America’s Best in Outpatient Experience Three Years in a Row!

Terrebonne General Health System has been named one of America’s Best Hospitals for KƵƚƉĂƟĞŶƚ ǆƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ ďǇ ƚŚĞ tŽŵĞŶ͛Ɛ ŚŽŝĐĞ ǁĂƌĚΠ͕ ŵĞƌŝĐĂ͛Ɛ ƚƌƵƐƚĞĚ ƌĞĨĞƌƌĂů ƐŽƵƌĐĞ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ďĞƐƚ ŝŶ ŚĞĂůƚŚĐĂƌĞ͘ dŚĞ ĂǁĂƌĚ ƌĞĐŽŐŶŝǌĞƐ dĞƌƌĞďŽŶŶĞ 'ĞŶĞƌĂů͛Ɛ ĞǆĐĞůůĞŶĐĞ ŝŶ ŽƵƚƉĂƟĞŶƚ ĞǆƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ͕ ǁŚŝĐŚ ŝŶĐůƵĚĞƐ͗

ͻ WĂƟĞŶƚ ƐĂƟƐĨĂĐƟŽŶ ƐĐŽƌĞƐ ƚŚĂƚ ĂƌĞ ŚŝŐŚĞƌ ƚŚĂŶ ƚŚĞ ŶĂƟŽŶĂů ĂǀĞƌĂŐĞ͘ ͻ KƵƚƐƚĂŶĚŝŶŐ ĞǆƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ ƚŚƌŽƵŐŚŽƵƚ ƚŚĞ ƉĂƟĞŶƚ͛Ɛ ũŽƵƌŶĞǇ ŽĨ ĐĂƌĞ͘ ͻ KƵƌ ĚŽĐƚŽƌƐ ĂŶĚ ŶƵƌƐĞƐ ĂƌĞ ƌĞĐŽŐŶŝǌĞĚ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞŝƌ ĞǆĐĞƉƟŽŶĂů ƉĂƟĞŶƚ ĐŽŵŵƵŶŝĐĂƟŽŶ͘

tŽŵĞŶ ĂƌĞ ŽŌĞŶ ƚŚĞ ŚĞĂůƚŚĐĂƌĞ ĚĞĐŝƐŝŽŶͲŵĂŬĞƌƐ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞŝƌ ĨĂŵŝůŝĞƐ͕ ĂŶĚ ŽǀĞƌ ϳϬй ĂƌĞ employed. TĞƌƌĞďŽŶŶĞ 'ĞŶĞƌĂů ŝƐ ŚĞƌĞ ƚŽ ŵĂŬĞ ŝƚ ĞĂƐǇ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞŵ ƚŽ ƌĞĐĞŝǀĞ ƚŚĞ ďĞƐƚ ŽƵƚƉĂƟĞŶƚ ĞǆƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ ĂŶĚ ƐŝŵƉůŝĨǇ ƚŚĞŝƌ ůŝĨĞ͘ tĞ͛ƌĞ ƉƌŽƵĚ ƚŽ ŚĂǀĞ ĞĂƌŶĞĚ ƚŚĞ ǁŽŵĞŶ͛Ɛ ǀŽƚĞ ƚŚƌĞĞ ǇĞĂƌƐ ƌƵŶŶŝŶŐ͊

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Terrebonne GENERAL HEALTH SYSTEM

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