PRESORT STD US POSTAGE PAID HOUMA, LA PERMIT NO. 17
When it Comes to Patient Safety When it Comes to Patient Safety
Thibodaux Regional Thibodaux Regional Earns an Earns an
AA
The Leapfrog Group®, a leading healthcare quality and safety organization, grades hospitals the nation theirsafety prevention The Leapfrog Group®, a leadingacross healthcare qualityonand of medical errors andhospitals other harms to patients in on their care. organization, grades across the nation their prevention of medical errors andearns otheranharms to how patients Thibodaux Regional “A” for well in wetheir keepcare. patients safe from errors,Regional injuries,earns accidents Thibodaux an “A”and forinfections. how well we keep patients safe from errors, injuries, accidents and infections.
For more information on this or other awards received, go to: Thibodaux.com/about-us/awards For more information on this or other awards received, go to: Thibodaux.com/about-us/awards
For more about the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, go to: hospitalsafetygrade.org For more about the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, go to: hospitalsafetygrade.org
PUBLISHER’S NOTE |
APRIL 2022 • VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 4
TABLE OF CONTENTS THE TOP 04 FROM Stacey Nichols in Ukrane Has Harsh Effects 06 War on U.S.
OIL & GAS
11
LOGAN BABIN REAL ESTATE & APPRAISALS
12 14 15
BIG MIKE’S BBQ
Small Business of the Year
WOMEN WHO MEAN BUSINESS
07
ANNE MARIE CINNATER NAQUIN
08 09
JENNY PALM
10
MEGAN ORTEGO
Large Business of the Year
MOVERS & SHAKERS Headlines and Accolades
Sylvan Learning Center Realtor®
EDITORIAL
JACKIE DOVE BROUSSARD
Broussard and Dove Attorneys at Law
Bonnie Rushing EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Heidi Guidry CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Yasmeen Singleton CONTRIBUTING WRITER
CREATIVE
Glow The Tanning Boutique
Lauren Hemstreet GRAPHIC DESIGNER
DIGITAL MARKETING Carlie Johnson
Business Calendar of Events
W
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Mary Downer Ditch
ON THE AGENDA
ar. It’s a scary phrase for many, and for so many different reasons. As business owners, we realize the ramifications a war “a world away” has on our country, in particular, on our economy. With our local economy still reeling from Covid shutdowns and hurricane disasters, the last thing we need are higher prices at the pump. In my opinion, we are battling against an administration that is pushing a personal agenda, rather than what is best for our nation as a whole. The White House has repeatedly suggested the private sector can boost oil supply amid surging gas prices, but industry groups have countered that the administration has placed hurdles for new drilling. After a federal judge ordered the Biden administration to halt its attempted ban on new federal land drilling leases, the Department of the Interior has dragged its feet and defied multiple court-ordered deadlines to restart the program. The Interior Department also signaled it would choose not to appeal a recent ruling that prohibited an offshore drilling lease in the Gulf of Mexico the agency facilitated in the fall. According to Bureau of Land Management (BLM) data, there are 4,621 applications for a permit to drill that are pending. Lafourche Parish President Archie Chaisson had strong words for President Biden following his address to the nation regarding the ban on Russian oil and the suggestion that not enough drilling was being done. “For these oil companies, it takes years of investments from the time that they’ve leased these sites, to get them up and running. It’s not like in the blink of an eye or the snap of a finger that the major oil and gas companies can go out there, buy the rig and start
PUBLISHER
Brian Rushing
PHOTOGRAPHER producing energy for our country again. We’ve had years of domestic energy production shutdowns and forces put upon the industry that have made it harder and harder to do business.” “There is nobody in the world that does it better than us here in the Gulf of Mexico. Our emissions are 53 percent less; the number of spills, the number of releases are way less than anywhere else in the world including Russia, China, and the Saudi Arabian countries that are oil producers, so there’s no reason why we cannot do it here in the Gulf of Mexico.” “President Biden talked a lot in his State of the Union address about how we need to focus on made in America products. This is a prime example to give energy independence to our country again, turn LOOP back in from an importer to an exporter as we did several years ago and make this country and the prices and the inflation that we all been seeing in all facets of life come down and make it more reasonable for those of us to live.” “I call on President Biden to come back to Lafourche. Look at what’s happening here, look at the Greater Lafourche Port Commission, and their tenants and the great work that they’re doing down there and see how it’s really done and how we can make America the best it can be again by doing domestically produced oil.” I stand with Parish President Chaisson and challenge President Biden to again visit Terrebonne and Lafourche, to meet with our leaders on a local level, along with our energy sector business owners and employees. Look these proud women and men in the eye and let them explain to you what producing energy really entails.
•
MARY DITCH
Abby Toups Photography Judith Lewis Joe Racoma Tyler Duplantis Channing Candies
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.
RUSHING MEDIA P.O. Box 5013 Houma, LA 70361 985.868.7515 bayoubusinessmonthly.com
Bayou Business Monthly is a free publication. The entire content of this publication is copyrighted by Rushing Media, with all rights reserved. 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.
FROM THE TOP |
QUICK QUESTIONS FOR THE PEOPLE IN CHARGE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF B.I.G. (BAYOU INDUSTRIAL GROUP)
TELL ME ABOUT YOUR WORK:
TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF:
WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB?
AS A CHILD, WHAT DID YOU SEE YOURSELF DOING AS A CAREER? I wanted to be a veterinarian when I was young. I
I love connecting with local business people. My education and most of my professional experience are in human resource management, so dealing with people is something I know well.
WHAT IS THE HARDEST? Juggling all of my roles is probably
APRIL 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY
the hardest. Bouncing back and forth from bookkeeping to event planning to administrative tasks to everything else can sometimes be tough.
4
IS THERE ANYTHING NEW ON THE HORIZON? B.I.G. has a lot of exciting things going on. We’re working very hard to make sure we’re serving our area business members in a way that is relevant and useful in today’s world. We’re currently planning a business networking event and fundraiser with live music to be held on Cinco de Mayo at Foundry on the Bayou where we will announce the B.I.G. Achiever Awards.
WHAT’S ONE LEADERSHIP SKILL YOU FEEL EVERYONE MUST LEARN? In my opinion, communication is the most important skill for any leader. And it’s so important to remember that communication is not a one-way process. I think leaders could learn a lot if they just listened more.
have always loved animals. Instead, I try to support a local non-profit dog rescue group, Hail Mary Rescue, and our local animal shelter as much as I can. Our family even fostered a dog recently and it was a wonderful experience.
WHAT WAS YOUR VERY FIRST JOB?
Since I was old enough to work, I have pretty much always had several jobs at a time. In high school I mostly waitressed and bartended. Fun fact: I met my husband at bartending school when I was 18.
WHAT TIME DO YOU WAKE UP AND HOW DO YOU START YOUR DAY? I wake up at about 5:30 each morning. I’m not really a morning person but I enjoy bringing 5 middle school boys to school each day. By the time I finish that always-interesting “bus route” I’m wide awake and smiling and ready to start my workday. Coffee with lots of sugar and creamer is also a must.
WHAT’S ONE THING YOU COULDN’T LIVE WITHOUT? Chapstick. If you ever sit through a 30-minute meeting with me, you’ll probably see me reapply it at least 3 times.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING IN YOUR FREE TIME? Most of my free time is spent watching our 13-year-old son Cullen play baseball or basketball or following our 11-year-old Quinn to honor band concerts or 4-H events. I love spending time with my family, friends, and dogs.
•
FAVORITES/THIS OR THAT: Favorite food: Anything, because I don’t cook. Luckily my husband Kenny is amazing at it. I think chicken fajitas with homemade guacamole or coconut shrimp with pina colada dipping sauce are my favorites.
Innovation PROUD BANK OF
Favorite vacation spot: That’s a hard one. I love vacations, especially the unplanned kind. Sometimes we just get in the car not knowing our exact destination. We left home with no hotel reservations last year when we headed to Pigeon Forge and again recently for Mardi Gras break when we headed to Disney World. Those spur-of-the-moment trips are some of my favorites
“The hardest part of this journey was finding a bank that would believe in a new type of business. I heard more than once it just wouldn’t work. Jerry at Synergy took the shot that no one else was willing to, and ever since, he’s been our biggest fan.” — Al Hebert, Da Swamp Trampoline Park
How do you like your coffee? With lots of sugar and liquid French vanilla creamer. And it has to be hot, no lukewarm coffee for me. Chocolate or vanilla ice cream? Chocolate for sure. Unless it’s Blue Bell Homemade Vanilla, then I’ll take that. It falls in a whole separate category and outdoes all other vanillas.
Hear more at SynergyBank.com/Story
Custom Fabricated Insulation blankets for the Marine, Industrial, Offshore, and Oilfield Service Industries. Applications include but are not limited to: Heat Exchangers, Valves, Manways, Flanges, Pumps, Nitrogen Units, Engine Manifolds, Engine Exhaust, Exhaust Joints, Exhaust Silencers & Turbines.
24 HOUR SERVICE www.BluewaterRubber.com
LOUISIANA LOCATIONS
HOUMA • BELLE CHASSE • GALLIANO • BATON ROUGE
HOUMA 985-851-2400 • GALLIANO 985-632-4200
APRIL 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY
REMOVABLE/REUSABLE THERMAL INSULATION SYSTEMS
5
OIL & GAS |
APRIL 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY
R
6
STAFF REPORT
ussia’s invasion of Ukraine represents a major threat to the global economy, which has not yet fully recovered from the repercussions of the COVID-19 crisis. High oil prices do not only affect the cost of transportation and heating in their concise picture, but also expand to almost all the sectors in the bigger picture, as the cost of transporting goods by land, sea and air will increase. Global consumption will slow down significantly, which may put the global economy under the weight of slow growth and high inflation. Travel woes will be at an all time high if the military battles continue, with the aviation sector expected to be at the forefront of those negatively affected sectors by the war if it is prolonged. Tourism and travel sectors are still suffering heavy losses due to the repercussions of COVID-19. Consumers are feeling the weight of the war at gas pumps across the nation. We are experiencing the highest gas prices since the 2007-09 financial crisis, with the national gas price average reaching more than $4 per gallon at press time – the highest average to date, according to AAA. Social media is on fire, sharing images of fuel prices at gas stations in California, U.S., with one image from Wednesday, March 9 showing prices at $5.79 per gallon for regular fuel. Locally, gas prices at press time are hovering around $3.89. Gas prices are forecast to
continue to rise, following news of the Biden acknowledged the new ban will ban on Russian oil imports. make prices worse, especially at the pump for Americans. “With this action, WHITE HOUSE BANS IMPORTS OF it’s going to go up further,” he said, RUSSIAN OIL warning companies against exploiting the situation by hiking prices. “Russia’s On March 8, President Joe Biden aggression has cost us all, and it’s no time announced the U.S. will ban imports of for profiteering or price gouging,” the Russian oil. president said. “Today I am announcing the United States is targeting the main artery of LOGA REACTS Russia’s economy. We’re banning all imports of Russian oil and gas and In response to the ban of Russian oil, energy,” Biden said at the White House. natural gas and coal imports to the US, “That means Russian oil will no longer be Louisiana Oil & Gas Association President acceptable at U.S. ports and the American Mike Moncla released the following people will deal another powerful blow to statement: Putin’s war machine.” “Today’s ban on Russian energy imports The U.S. imported about 672,000 barrels is an important step in applying pressure a day from Russia in 2021, according to on Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. figures from the Energy Information It’s clear that the Biden Administration Administration. That amount makes up hasn’t had domestic energy’s best interest roughly 8% of the total U.S. imports of oil in mind thus far. and refined products. Let’s not forget – the price of oil had Most of the country’s crude oil and doubled and the price of a gallon of petroleum imports come from Canada, gas had tripled before Russia invaded Mexico and Saudi Arabia, making the Ukraine’s sovereign borders. U.S. far less dependent on Russian oil That being said, today’s action is a than many of its European partners. positive step that Republicans and After the announcement, oil prices Democrats alike in Congress made started to soar. The price on West Texas possible. Intermediate crude futures, contracts for Fighting against Russian aggression April oil deliveries, hit $129.44 a barrel. shouldn’t be a partisan issue. This is That number was close to the highest something that we can all come together price on oil futures since 2008. The price on.” is expected to still rise.
•
April’s Issue of Bayou Business Monthly places a focus on Women Who Mean Business. Join us as we strive to help ensure that women and girls from all walks of life can be inspired by positive role models and know that success can be achieved. Our special advertising section helps professional women in our area share their business success stories and encourages a new generation to strive for success in their chosen career path.
ANNE MARIE CINNATER NAQUIN
“E
SYLVAN LEARNING CENTER
center from the previous owner and became an entrepreneur in her twenties. In addition to teaching classes at Sylvan, Naquin teaches at Messiah Montessori School. “When it comes to being a female business owner, I’ve had moments where things were difficult. There are a lot of females who are out here doing it, but it’s still very much a man’s world. My advice is to believe in yourself and believe in the power that you have,” Naquin shares. In addition to entrepreneurship and education, Naquin is an active member of the community. She currently serves on the board for the Terrebonne Foundation for Academic Excellence, has served as a board member for the Haven, as well as served the community through years of membership in the Junior Auxiliary of Houma. In honor of her brother, Bradley Cinnater, Naquin partnered with the American Cancer Society to participate in the Princess Challenge at Disney World. The two day 10k and half marathon event earned over $125,000 for ACS, with Naquin’s team earning over $7,000.
APRIL 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY
ducation is the key to success in life” is a quote entrepreneur and educator Anne Marie Cinnater Naquin has lived by over the last twenty years. Naquin has established an astounding career in the education field, making a lasting impact in the lives of children of Terrebonne Parish. Born and raised in Houma, she is a graduate of Vandebilt Catholic High School and attended Louisiana State University, earning a BA in English and BS in Math. “I never really aspired to be a teacher. I personally was failing math in 5th grade and after some tutoring to fill in the gaps, math became my favorite subject. I believe that with a little persistence and belief in yourself, you can accomplish anything,” Naquin explained. Naquin began her role as Director at Sylvan Learning Center, an education program that offers personalized instruction in mathematics, english, science, and reading. After four years as director, Naquin purchased the
•
7
WOMEN IN BUSINESS | SPONSORED CONTENT
APRIL 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY
A
8
JENNY PALM REALTOR®
lthough originally not from Louisiana, local Realtor® Jenny Palm is proud to now call Houma, home. Having lived in 13 states, Palm originally moved to the area on military orders with her husband, who has been serving in the USCG for 20 years. They fell in love with South Louisiana and decided to make it permanent. “We live here by choice, not by default, which I feel speaks volumes about how I feel about Louisiana,” shared Palm. A top Realtor® in Terrebonne, Palm has bragging rights on quite a few different accomplishments. She is the top #1 individual producer for EXP REALTY in South Louisiana 2021-2017 and ranked in the top 3% of Realtors for the Bayou Board of Realtors consistently annually 2021-2016. She is the recipient of: Bayou’s Best of the Best Realtor 2019; EXP Realty Worldwide Best Real Estate Video 2019; Best of Zillow 2019; Icon Award Winner 2021-2017; and Capper Award 20212016. She also boasts the following certifications: Military Realtor Specialist Certification; Pricing Strategy Advisory Certified; Real Estate Negotiation Expert Certified. Palm’s primary goal is to continue to provide her clients the best possible service and advice in today’s rapidly changing real estate market. She enjoys being in real estate, as it allows her to set her own goals and reap the success. “It’s a rare career that allows a woman to create their own destiny,” she shares. “I’m my own boss; I set my own schedule and reap the rewards of my hard work. Make no mistake though, it’s a lot of hard work.” Part of that hard work for any working woman is finding that balance between work and life, especially when it comes to helping to raise a family! Palm smiles as she explains her trick for remaining extremely balanced: “I have a 7-year-old daughter named Cameron and an 8-year-old son named Calder. They’re very active and into all the things kids do at this age. Early on in my career, I learned to schedule everything in my calendar and to be 100 percent focused
on what my responsibility is at that moment. When I’m with my kids, unless I’m negotiating a deal, I’m 100 percent mom. In the morning, I don’t touch my phone until they’re dropped off at school. That’s our time. Then when I start work, I’m full speed ahead. I work as hard as I can for as long as I can. I make the conscious switch back into family mode for those sacred dinner, bath and bed hours. I’m able to rest easy knowing I gave my all to every aspect of my life and that’s a good feeling. “As a military wife, for [Chris and me] there is no balance needed. Having not originally grown up here, we don’t have family or extended family around to lend a hand when needed. I feel that makes us a very strong couple because we are a team, just the two of us. Frankly, there is nothing more attractive than a husband who encourages his wife to follow their dreams.” When it comes to being a Realtor, Palm loves every aspect of her chosen career. “There are so many ‘best parts’ of my job. Purchasing a house is often one of the best days of a person’s life. Having the opportunity to hand my clients a set of keys on closing days is unforgettable. It’s truly a rush, a very unique feeling and I’m honored to be part of that process and lifelong memory.” “The second-best part of my job is consistently having the opportunity to be creative and think outside the box. This market is like no other we’ve ever experienced. There are no linear transactions. Selling a house today is just as strategic as buying a house and requires experience, understanding and knowledge to get to the closing table. I thrive in high pressure situations and love problem solving therefore have been embracing the new market.” With so many career opportunities out there for women, even in traditionally men-dominated fields, Palm offers encouragement for those daring to follow their heart. “Every woman has a passion and sometimes it’s scary to take the plunge to follow your dreams,” shared Palm. “I try to lead by example. I encourage everyone to find that thing that’s interesting to you, challenging, fulfilling and gives you purpose. Then go for it. I was once told, ‘don’t let a good life get in the way of a great life.’ As women we need to encourage each other to step outside of your comfort zone to make a change. We need to straighten each other’s crowns.”
•
WOMEN IN BUSINESS | SPONSORED CONTENT
JACKIE DOVE BROUSSARD I
BROUSSARD AND DOVE ATTORNEYS AT LAW
•
APRIL 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY
nspired by her father who is an entrepreneur, Jackie Dove Broussard says that her career chose her. “My father thought that having a legal background was an invaluable asset in a broad range of professions especially in the business sector, and I couldn’t agree more,” Broussard explains. “I just hit the ground running and haven’t looked back.” Born and raised in Houma, Broussard graduated from Vandebilt Catholic High School, then attended Louisiana State University where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. She continued her education at Loyola University New Orleans where she obtained a Juris Doctor and Master’s in Business Administration. Following graduation, Broussard returned home to start a law firm, and to work in her family’s businesses and in the community. “I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. I love it here. I love the people; I love my family; I love the culture and the food; and I love our way of life,” she explains. As an attorney and owner at Broussard and Dove Attorneys at Law, president and owner of Vacco, Inc., and owner and manager of multiple other family-owned businesses, Broussard has found herself in meetings where she’s the only woman in the room, especially in meetings regarding the oil and marine service sector. “It’s empowering but also intimidating at the same time. It makes me stay strong and focused and show others what women can do,” Broussard explains. Additionally, being a woman allows her to have a more caring attitude. “This helps me relate and better understand my clients which motivates me to better advocate for them,” she shares. It’s no surprise that Broussard & Dove was awarded The Best Law Firm with the Bayou’s Best of the Best 2021. Post Hurricane Ida, Broussard remains focused at Broussard and Dove Attorneys at Law, as they assist countless clients to recover money needed to rebuild their homes and businesses. At Vacco, Inc. and other family businesses, Broussard continues to work on repairing their properties so that their businesses and tenant’s businesses can return to business as usual. As her own boss, Broussard explains that is both the best and worst part of her job. While it provides a flexible work schedule, it also means working a lot of nights and weekends, particularly following Hurricane Ida. Broussard’s love and passion for the community drive her to contribute and serve in multiple capacities. She has volunteered as a Court Appointed Special Advocate, served as board member for the Terrebonne Foundation for Academic Excellence, and as a coach for Girls on the Run. Currently Broussard serves on the board of the Children’s Advocacy Center, is a youth soccer coach for Houma-Terrebonne Soccer Association, and serves as the VIce President of the Gordon Dove, Jr. Foundation. “With the support of the community and local businesses from the Gordon Dove, Jr. Foundation’s annual fundraising fishing rodeo, the Foundation is able to help so many people, to date we’ve donated more than $300,000 to local charities or to local students through scholarships. Doing so in memory of my brother and to know he’s smiling down, makes me proud beyond words.” Balancing her professional accomplishments, and philanthropic endeavors, Broussard’s family and support system make it all possible. Working with her husband and law partner, Sye Broussard, the power couple takes on challenges together. The couple has three children, Sye Joseph, Jolie Clare and their newest addition, Hendricks. Broussard admits the challenge of balancing a career and a family, and says that it’s not easy, but she always makes sure her family knows how much they are loved. She encourages other women and girls to find what works for them and makes them happy. “Where my education, knowledge, and experience can help guide or motivate someone along the way, I’m always happy to share,” Broussard said.
9
WOMEN IN BUSINESS | SPONSORED CONTENT
MEGAN ORTEGO
P
GLOW THE TANNING BOUTIQUE
APRIL 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY
assion turned into entrepreneurship for Houma native Megan Ortego. The wife, mother, fulltime employee, business owner, and student juggles life proving women really can do it all. Ortego worked at Glow since 2013 when it was called Glow Tanning Salon. She purchased the salon in February of 2017, changed it to Glow the Tanning Boutique. The boutique has six tanning beds and a spray tanning room. She praises her girls that help Glow, Leigh Bergeron, Taylor Chiasson, and Heidi Broussard, who she said are the reason they are as successful as they are. She is also a registered nurse, working from home with a position utilizing reviews.The flexibility allows her to be home more often for her salon and family. She said it’s chaotic yet rewarding balancing being a wife, mother, nurse, and running a business. “It almost, in a way, makes me
10
feel invincible because as a woman. I can run a business and do everything a man can do running a business…I just feel empowered being able to have a full-time job, being a full-time mom, keeping the business afloat, and I’m also in nurse practitioner school,” she shared. Having just celebrated the fifth anniversary of Glow, Ortego said they look forward to the years to come. The last five years have not been easy; Glow was forced to close temporarily due to COVID, but the loyalty of customers prevailed. They were busier than ever following the lockdown. Hurricane Ida ravaged the area in August of 2021 however, Ortego shared they were blessed with no damage. Going forward, she is most excited about the growth and being able to maintain her business. She said everything is possible because of her staff along with her loyal customers, and maybe one day, she may spread the ‘Glow’ to the Thibodaux area. “This is my passion, this is me, this is where I can be myself. I love each and every customer that walks through these doors, they’re like my family,” Ortego said.
•
When a customer searches for you, what will they find? Is your information correct? Is your website professional? Will they choose you over your competitor?
LET US OPTIMIZE YOUR ONLINE IMAGE
985-868-7515 reimaginemarketing.com
L
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR visible by working as developers, brokers, consultants, and appraisers in South Louisiana while serving its client base of local families, municipalities, and global corporations. Logan H. Babin, Jr. currently serves as the company’s president and carries on the legacy by serving as the broker, and a Louisiana Certified General Real Estate Appraiser. Logan attended the United States Air Force Academy and was the
“THAT’S THE REAL HONOR – TO HAVE OUR SMALL BUSINESS HELP THEIR LARGE BUSINESSES AND TO HELP THE ECONOMY IN TERREBONNE PARISH.”
fourth graduating class. He went on to fly for the National Guard and had a little stint flying commercial planes. He recalls how his father called him one day and asked if he wanted to make real money because he needed help back in Houma developing land. Logan came home, learned the ropes of the business, and remains active in the firm today. Although he said he didn’t originally plan to jump into the family business, Logan H. Babin, Jr.’s son, Logan ‘Hank’ Babin, III, returned home after earning his education to join the family business. He was in Sports Marketing, however just
like his grandfather did with his dad, Hank said he was called and asked if he wanted to also join the family business. Hank is the third generation of Logan Babin Real Estate & Appraisals and serves as an Agent, Appraiser, and Counselor. “The small business of the year award coming from the Chamber of Commerce is obviously an honor,” he said about winning the Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce 2021 Small Business of the Year Award, ”There are many great businesses within the Chamber of Commerce year in and year out, it’s made of some of the best business people and business minds here in Terrebonne Parish, and it’s an honor.” The father and son duo commented about the honor of large local businesses trusting them to help their businesses grow. “We think of large businesses – some are the largest employers here in Terrebonne Parish right now like K&B Industries – who started off buying one acre from my grandfather on the other side of town back in the late 60s and early 70s,” Hank recalled. “That’s the real honor is to have our small business help their large businesses and to help the economy in Terrebonne Parish.” The Babins both agreed that as our area is made up of mostly small businesses, they are extremely honored to have won the Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce 2021 Small Business of the Year. Hank concluded, “I just want to thank the men, women, and the business people with the Chamber of commerce for all they do for our community. There’s a lot of unseen work that goes on behind the scenes…it’s all for the love of Terrebonne, and to be quite honest, we need more of that.”
•
APRIL 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY
ogan Babin Real Estate has been around for generations, playing a huge part in land development and contributing to the local economy since Logan H. Babin, Sr. started the business in the 1960s. Logan H. Babin, Sr. moved to Houma during the Great Depression to take a job with the Texas Company, which now is Texaco. Being a businessman at heart, he started his own contracting company and electrical engineering company. The real estate side of the business came about naturally when Babin, Sr. decided to start selling window air conditioners and needed a property to bond. From there, he started placing rental properties on land in the area. This led to a new career in real estate development, capitalizing on growth in South Louisiana. Logan Babin Real Estate & Appraisals was founded in 1961 and the legacy continues today. At the start of the business, the Babins contributed to the local economy by purchasing a 10,000-acre development area that changed the landscape of East Houma, seeing a shift from agriculture to oil field services. The business continued to work with investors, from global corporations to mom and pop shops, to assist in building the commercial, industrial, and development market for Houma-Terrebonne. For over 60 years, the Babin family has worked quietly behind the scenes to help shape Terrebonne Parish. They have been instrumental in donations of property to Chabert Hospital, various schools, and the Port of Terrebonne. They have worked on land rights for roads, drainage, levees, utility expansion projects, trying to convert U.S. Highway 90 to I-49 South, as well as longrange recreational projects for Houma. The company is planning to become more
11
LARGE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR APRIL 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY
O
12
ne of the area’s favorite BBQ restaurants started when owner Michael Lewis, “Big Mike,” packed up his Florida life and moved to Houma, his father’s hometown. He wanted to spend quality time with his father and to introduce Houma to his dream restaurant which is a fun gathering place where the community could come together to enjoy great food, drinks, and music. In 2008, Big Mike’s BBQ Smokehouse opened at the corner of Tunnel Boulevard and Barrow Street which was a 12-seat cafe. Lewis had years of experience from manning the pits for his father’s smokehouse, years spent cooking in professional kitchens, and had a Lang barrel smoker, so he fed locals with what they call “fresh is best” style BBQ. According to them, the recipe was simple, rub extra “TLC” into every smoked rib rack, brisket, sausage, pork, turkey, and chicken quarter that they already spent hours to get just right. Since then, they have gained a
reputation for serving tender meats and homestyle sides. Just six months after opening, Hurricane Gustav hit the Houma community and Big Mike’s was heavily damaged. They were able to repair and open two weeks later. That was not the only obstacle the local restaurant had to hurdle. In November 2009, an electrical fire proved to be a much larger challenge than the natural disaster just a year before. The historic building the restaurant was housed in was a total loss, but they shared that every brisket that was smoking that night was still in good shape! This was just an obstacle to owners Mike and Judith Lewis. They continued to move forward and moved the smokehouse to a gas station where they continued to serve their loved meats. They were then able to open a 70 plus seat restaurant on Barrow Street in 2011 and the location remains there today. The Houma location has become a favorite and the demand grew.
They were able to meet the demand by opening a Thibodaux location in 2017. The Thibodaux location allowed them to refine their experience even more by offering traditional and new favorites such as jerk wings and crawfish boudin. They also offer an array of craft beers on tap and have become a community gathering place where families, friends, and the town’s college crowd can catch up at. They are planning to grow even more! The plans are still being finalized for a new location in Houma. “I love our vibe at both restaurants, but I still want to build the place that our community deserves,” Big Mike says. “I want to create a place where the food and the environment match, where you can enjoy a hand-crafted brisket sandwich while hanging out with your family and friends and listening to some great live music. I want to build THAT place in Houma.” Big Mike continues to grow by not only staying busy smoking at his restaurants but also traveling to
“I WANT TO CREATE A PLACE WHERE THE FOOD AND THE ENVIRONMENT MATCH, WHERE YOU CAN ENJOY A HAND-CRAFTED BRISKET SANDWICH WHILE HANGING OUT WITH YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS AND LISTENING TO SOME GREAT LIVE MUSIC. I WANT TO BUILD THAT PLACE IN HOUMA.”
•
EMPLOYEE TS AADV I SORS E MP LOYEEBENEFI B EN EF I TS DV I SO RS
CO M RCI P EERSO NAL CO MME RM CIEA L AL I N SI NSURANCE U R A N CE || P RSO N AILNSURANCE I N S U R A N CE
ChristianD. D.Lapeyre, Lapeyre, RHU Christian RHU Rene Thibodaux Rene Thibodaux Philip J. Hebert Philip J. Hebert 985-360-486
1051 W. Tunnel Blvd.
HEPA FILTERS • ULTRA VIOLET LIGHT • ION GENERATORS Houma, Louisiana 70360 985-360-486
1051 W. Tunnel Blvd. Houma, Louisiana 70360
Coastal Mechanical Contractors Est. 1965
Professional Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical Contracting
Highly effective ways to purify your indoor air and HVAC
876-6187
HEPA FILTERS • ULTRA VIOLET LIGHT • ION GENERATORS
Cleaning air with the speed of light!
APRIL 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY
participate in cook-offs and to visit friends in other states in the same industry. He also shows growth by showing community involvement. The Lewis couple has served on multiple boards of directors in the community including the HoumaTerrebonne Chamber of Commerce, the Fletcher Foundation Board, and the LAT Workforce Development Board. To add to the list, they also saw an opportunity to grow in the food truck industry by spearheading 985 Eats Food Truck Park in Gray. Big Mike said receiving the award was an honor and is a validation of the hard work that was put into the restaurants. He was thankful for the community at large because he said they are the reason they are here and the reason behind the growth. He also gave thanks to his employees and management team, “They are who make it happen because they come in every day and do what it takes to get the job done.” He said it means a great deal to him personally because it means that the community thinks they are doing a good job, and for that, they are humbled by it.
bbgulfstates.com
bbgulfstates.com
13
MOVERS AND SHAKERS | HEADLINES & ACCOLADES
FIREHOUSE SUBS CELEBRATED THE $41,786 GRANT FOR FIRST RESPONDERS Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation hosted a grant acknowledgement ceremony, in celebration of the $41,786 grant awarded to first responders in Terrebonne Parish. Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation announced a $41,786 donation to first responders in Terrebonne Parish. The Terrebonne Parish Fire Department received
$16,857 of the grant, and Little Caillou Fire Department received $24,929 of the grant. The grant will help both departments purchase equipment including a variety of brand new fire hoses for each truck, a rescue boat, a motor, trailers, and accessories to aid first responders in advanced rescue capabilities for land and water emergencies.
•
TERREBONNE GENERAL HEALTH SYSTEM RECEIVES ONLY BIRTH READY HOSPITAL DESIGNATION IN THE REGION
APRIL 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY
Terrebonne General Health System is pleased to announce they are the only facility in the region to achieve the 2022 Louisiana Birth Ready Designation from the Louisiana Perinatal Quality Collaborative. This designation distinguishes that Terrebonne General’s birthing facility is committed to practices that promote a safe, equitable, and dignified birth for all persons birthing in Louisiana. For patients, this means the Terrebonne General Women’s Health Center uses the best evidence-based practices and is
14
highly involved in the quality of our patient’s care. To achieve this designation, Terrebonne General participated in extensive collaboration, evaluation, and consistent healthcare work that includes five designation areas. Each designation level includes five areas of requirement: participation, collaborative learning, health disparity and patient partnership, policies and procedures, structures and education, and outcome and process measures.
MORGAN CITY RESTAURATEURS DONATE $100,000 TO SUPPORT NICHOLLS STUDENT-ATHLETES Morgan City restaurateurs Brenda and Gregory Hamer, Sr. have donated $100,000 to Nicholls State University Athletics which will be used to support the more than 350 student-athletes on campus. As a thank you for their generous support, Nicholls Athletics is naming the Tight Ends Meeting Room after their grandson and former Nicholls Football player, Garret LeBlanc, and their business, B&G Enterprises. The official name is pending approval from the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors.
•
•
ALEXANDER RYAN MARINE & SAFETY OPENS LOGISTICS HUB IN HOUMA THIBODAUX REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEMS OPENS MULTI-SPECIALTY CLINIC IN HOUMA Thibodaux Regional Health Systems opened a new Multi-Specialty Clinic located at 1238 St. Charles Street in Houma. Thibodaux Regional staff and community members celebrated the new clinic with a ribbon-cutting ceremony where CEO Greg Stock addressed the crowd. “It’s a pleasure for Thibodaux Regional to be here in Houma and the surrounding areas,” he said. He commented on the economic impact the health system has on local communities. According to a study in 2020, the research found that Thibodaux Regional had an annual payroll including benefits of $90.6 million for
1,269 employees. Operational spending by Thibodaux Regional in 2020 created $150.6 million in sales at businesses in the parish; $127.5 million in household earnings for Parish residents; 2,192 jobs in the parish; and $8,690,427 in local government revenues from sales and property taxes and other fees, according to the findings. Having a clinic in Houma means the community will see an economic impact due to taxes and job creation. It will strengthen the fabric of the economy and provide highquality care even closer to home.
•
Alexander/Ryan Marine & Safety (ARMS) celebrated its new distribution, service center, and assembly facility for its customized marine safety solutions, as well as distribution to U.S. and international customers. “We will keep on serving the growing needs of our customers and partners across the United States as well as of international markets, now having our main logistics hub in Houma,” said Stavros Lalizas, founder/CEO of parent company Lalizas Group of Piraeus, Greece. “The investment we are making (exceeding $3.5 million) not only will assist us in our further development and growth but will also have a positive impact on Terrebonne Parish, creating new opportunities for the local community.”
•
The following businesses joined the HoumaTerrebonne Chamber of Commerce:
• JONES SPECIALTY FOODS • BEACON LIGHT COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATION • BEACON LIGHT BAPTIST CHURCH OF HOUMA LA • ENROOT, LLC • STARR FIT • BRUSH A BLOW DRY BAR 2 INC • CARE & COMFORT OBGYN
CHAMBER EVENTS • April 14 – Lunch & Learn – Recruiting Loyal Workers – Houma Chamber Office – 11:30 a.m. (Register Online) • April 22 – WBA Luncheon – Plantation Inn Houma, LA – Noon (Register Online) *Date is subject to change • April 26 - General Membership Luncheon – Courtyard by Marriott Houma, LA – 11:30 a.m. (Register Online)
• GATR COOLERS • THIBODAUX & ASSOCIATES BUSINESS SERVICES
CHAMBER EVENTS • April 28 - Employee Appreciation Crawfish Boil & Healthcare Expo - Cut Off Youth Center
The Nicholls Alumni Colonel Golf Classic will host a golf classic to raise funds for scholarships and to fund alumni events. Registration information and commitment forms can obtained by contacting the Office of Alumni Affairs
April 4, 8:30 a.m. Ellendale Country Club
BIG GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING Bayou Industrial Group will host their monthly general membership meeting with guest speaker. Meetings are held on the fifth floor of Thibodaux Regional Wellness Center.
April 11, 11:30 a.m. Thibodaux Regional Wellness Center
at 2 p.m. and 5K tunnel Run at 2:30 p.m. Adult registration is $25 and kids registration is $20.
April 9, 1 p.m. Houma Municipal Auditorium
SCIA GENERAL MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON SCIA will host their monthly general membership meeting with a guest speaker. Admission is $25.00 per person with payment required in advance.
April 19, 11:45 a.m. Cypress Columns
CHAMBER GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING The Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce will hold its monthly General Membership Luncheon meeting with guest speaker. Admission is $25 with payment required in advance.
TERREBONNE 200: GOOD April 26, 11:30 a.m. EARTH, GOOD BUSINESS Courtyard By Marriott, Houma PRESENTATION B.I.G. FIESTA In honor of the Terrebonne Bicentennial Celebration Year, presentations will be conducted throughout the year in celebration of 200 years of prosperity and growth. The first presentation will be Good Earth Good Business and will be led by Kenneth Smith.
April 7, 6:00 p.m. Terrebonne Parish Main Library
Bayou Industrial Group will host a Business Networking Event & Fundraiser in lieu of a formal banquet. Tickets are $60 per person and the deadline to purchase them is Monday, May 2. Festive attire is encouraged.
May 5, 5:00 p.m. Foundry on the Bayou, Thibodaux
TFAE 5K RUN FOR 47TH ANNUAL OVER AND EXCELLENCE AND FOOD UNDER TUNNEL RUN FESTIVAL The Over and Under Tunnel Run is the longest running 5k race in our community. This year’s event will benefit The Foundation for Terrebonne General Health System. One hundred percent of the proceeds from this event will stay in our community. Registration and, pick up for pre registered participants begins at 1 p.m., followed by a one mile kid’s fun run
Terrebonne Foundation for Academic Excellence will host its annual event benefitting local education and long term recovery. In addition to the run, the event will feature an after party with live music, over 30 food booths, a kids corner and more.
May 7, 6:00 p.m. Downtown Houma
•
APRIL 2022 | BAYOU BUSINESS MONTHLY
The following businesses joined the Lafourche Chamber of Commerce:
NICHOLLS ALUMNI COLONEL GOLF CLASSIC
15
Where Medical Science Meets the Art of Caring.
Preventive Care and Clinics: • Internal Medicine Specialists • Pediatric Care • Endocrinology Care • Neurology Care • Pulmonology Care • Wound & Hyperbaric Clinic • Multispecialty Clinic in Gray • Healthy Lifestyles Center
Services:
• Terrebonne General | Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center • Cardiovascular Care • Emergency Care • Women’s Health Center / with a Level 3 NICU • Orthopedics • Drive-thru Center for testing and vaccines • Outpatient Rehabilitation
Terrebonne General Health System is committed to providing the latest advances in medical technology with a gentle, caring touch. This is evident in everything we do. As a trusted healthcare resource we deliver both life-saving, compassionate inpatient services, and life-changing preventive care, while also providing wellness needs and outreach throughout the Bayou Region.
™
Terrebonne GENERAL HEALTH SYSTEM
tghealthsystem.com Modern Technology. Timeless Caring.